Usage of the AHP method for evaluation of E-Commerce tools to increase the competence of SME specialists in Latvia

Abstract

The use of e-commerce for sales and promotion of products and services has a positive influence on the development of any business. Statistical data show very low usage of e-commerce in the Latvian small and medium-sized business sector. The paper presents an analysis of reasons for low usage of e-commerce for business development in the SME sector and suggests the most effective methods for increasing entrepreneurs’ competence in new technologies in the digital environment. A survey of SME management and the analytic hierarchy process method were used in an analysis of the best methods to improve the lack of knowledge in this sector and factors influencing decision-making for lifelong learning among specialists in the digital environment. The findings of the research show that electronic courses in the digital environment with interactive presentations and video files can have a positive impact in solving this problem. The research results reveal serious factors influencing the decision to study e-commerce: it is the policy of local and central governments and European Union institutions. The results of the research have practical significance in improving the situation with e-commerce usage for business development in the SME sector. The article contains recommendations for involved parties and institutions influencing the process of entrepreneurs’ increase in competence to positively accelerate the economic situation. The study offers a new perspective on the use of e-commerce solutions.