Impact of Digital Tool Adoption on Operational Efficiency of Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs) in Abuja (Published)
The adoption of digital tools by SMEs has become essential to drive operational efficiency. Especially within the Abuja Metropolis. This study examined the impact of digital tool adoption on the operational efficiency of SMEs in Abuja, focusing specifically on cloud-based applications, data analytics tools, and automated inventory systems, and their influence on turnaround time. Employing a quantitative cross-sectional research design, the sample size was calculated using Taro Yamane’s formula due to the large nature of the population at a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error. The theoretical framework was anchored on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), developed by Venkatesh et al. (2003), which provides the most suitable framework for examining how digital tool adoption influences operational efficiency of SMEs in Abuja.. Data analysis was conducted using multiple regression analysis. Results indicated a significant positive relationship between digital tool adoption and operational efficiency. The study recommends that SMEs should adopt digital tools to enhance turnaround time and ultimately operational efficiency.
Keywords: Operational Efficiency, and automated inventory systems, cloud-based applications, data analytics tools, digital tool adoption
Data Encryption and Employee Efficiency of Deposit Money Banks in FCT Abuja (Published)
Data encryption is increasingly vital in modern banking to safeguard sensitive information and enhance operational efficiency. This study examines the impact of data encryption practices-Data Security (DS), Access Efficiency (AE), and Encryption Training (ET)-on Employee Efficiency (EmpEff) within Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Guided by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), which emphasizes perceived usefulness and ease of use, the study utilizes a cross-sectional survey research design. Data was collected from 519 employees across selected DMB branches, with multiple regression analysis employed to evaluate the relationships among the variables. Results reveal that DS and ET significantly and positively influence EmpEff, while AE does not show a statistically significant effect. Specifically, DS and ET explain 80.4% of the variance in EmpEff, underscoring the importance of robust security measures and targeted training in promoting employee productivity. These findings indicate that while data encryption practices can substantially boost efficiency, access efficiency requires a more integrated approach for optimal results. The study recommends that DMBs invest in encryption training and enhanced security frameworks to maximize employee efficiency, thereby fostering secure and productive banking operations.
Keywords: Data Encryption, Operational Efficiency, access efficiency, data security, employee efficiency, encryption training