Abstract:
The aim of this study was to use adaptive structuration theory as a tool to come
up with Telecommuting model that can be adopted by SMEs in Kenya. A survey was done to
understand the extent of telecommuting and the available technological tools in the Kenyan
SMEs. Data from this survey indicates that most of the workers have reliable and fast internet
access away from the office and reliable information support team. These employees also
reported improvement in quality and efficiency in terms of service delivery. This was attributed
to the time available to concentrate on their tasks unlike in the office where there could be
interruptions or meetings. A representative microfinance was chosen to understand the
organizational structure and the information technology infrastructure available in a typical
Kenyan SME. Results showed that the SME had both the IT infrastructure and personnel in
place. Based on these findings, an AST derived model was developed and tested. Our study
shows that adoption of the developed AST derived telecommuting model could lead to
increased productivity, efficiency and quality of work. Findings from this study would assist
stakeholders use the available infrastructure and personnel to allow formal telecommuting.
