Rethinking challenges in inclusive digitalizations by SME's considering the mediation effect of women in top management

Purpose The adoption of inclusive e-business is about small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) continually interacting in the market at a reasonable cost and time with all interested stakeholders. As women's efforts are enhanced in top management, firms' digitalization strategies will improve. However, many enterprises in areas with low information technology penetration continue to overlook women's leadership skills, resulting in unnecessary delays and additional costs. Design/methodology/approach The present study examined the influence of conjoint technological and environmental drivers on enterprises' gender-inclusive e-business adoption in 120 SMEs selected through an adaptive sampling method employing a fixed-effects model. Findings Internet compatibility, relative advantages from a technological perspective, government support pressures from competitors and the intensity of information on the environmental side were critical factors influencing e-business adoption by enterprises in areas with low Internet penetration. Originality/value Suggesting a paradigm shift in the enterprise's patriarchal approach to gender equity, the mediation effect of women at the top of the leadership ladder plays a significant role in enhancing gender-inclusive digitalization.