The proposal of a comparative framework to evaluate e-business stages of growth models

This study proposes a comparative framework for contrasting e-business growth models within the context of small and medium enterprises. Growth models act both as a mechanism for understanding e-business growth and as an aid to implementation and policy development. This study reviews the performance of 65 e-business growth models, which are identified via perspective, stages and content. Furthermore, the study provides a narrative of the identified models appraising layout, characteristics, number and purpose of stage. A comparative framework is presented illustrating perspective, development, emphasis, empirical verification, focus, source and barriers to growth. The review of literature revealed that existing research was limited in scope and rigour and existing models do not accurately portray e-business growth. Models were identified as lacking empirical verification, not considering alternative perspectives or barriers to e-business growth. The paper concludes by identifying the need for a representative and empirical model and the appropriate methodology to attain this outcome.