EFFECT OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY ON PERFORMANCE OF SMALL BUSINESS IN CALABAR MUNICIPALITY.

ABSTRACT:

This study examined the effect of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on the performance of High-Quality Bakery Calabar in Calabar Municipality, Cross River State. The study specifically focused on three ICT components: hardware, software, and technological change, and their influence on business performance. A survey research design was adopted, and data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to 38 employees selected from a population of 42 staff using simple random sampling. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as mean and standard deviation. Findings from the study revealed that ICT has a significant positive effect on the performance of the bakery. Hardware such as computers and point-of-sale machines improved operational efficiency and sales accuracy. Software applications such as accounting and inventory systems enhanced record keeping, decision-making, and stock management. Technological change also contributed to improved efficiency and productivity, although some level of resistance to new technology was observed among employees. The results showed high mean values across all variables, indicating strong agreement that ICT enhances business performance. The study concluded that effective adoption of ICT significantly improves productivity, efficiency, and overall performance of small businesses. It recommended continuous investment in ICT infrastructure, employee training, and proper integration of software systems to maximize performance benefits.

Keywords: ICT, Hardware, Software, Technological Change, Small Business Performance, Productivity, Efficiency, Digital Transformation, High-Quality Bakery Calabar.