Adoption of modern technology in small manufacturing firms: a study of issues and concerns

The manufacturing sector in general, and small manufacturers in particular, are faced with fierce national, regional and global competition. Trade alliances, such as NAFTA, which have been entered into by the USA will add to this competitive burden. Modernisation of manufacturing facilities through the infusion of computerised manufacturing and information processing technology has become imperative in this environment. A body of research is only now beginning to be developed for the identification of the issues and considerations that impede or facilitate modernisation of small manufacturing. This research is an attempt to contribute towards filling the gap in understanding of small manufacturing issues and concerns.