Utilizing a variety of the same tools and services which I have been exploring – a “virtual version” of this dissertation document hosts various perspectives of info presentation (aimed at examiner, general public and SMEs equally), group functionality, hosted through a number of providing forums, quiz and “interact” activities which effectively collect further data for research consideration as well as a “wiki” which acts as a glossary to support and supplement this where efficiencies of space limited them being addressed here. It is hoped this approach will create impact that is threefold; firstly demonstrate to academia and fields of research, that the limits of models and approaches which still impose process and form are an ineffective replication or representation of reality). 

 Furthermore, in an attempt to potentially influence the minimization of the misconceptions within micro and small businesses specifically, taking example from many Eastern religions, the concept of balance cannot be stressed enough. Too often we lean either side of a There is the broad perception and influence of some imagined wall between IT and regular business function. That small businesses may not have the same access to resources as larger ones is of significantly reduced relevance in a digital environment. In fact the size of the small business can even be an advantage in a SNS environment. (NZ Business, 2004).

Largely, we are not really sure what this “social network site” buzz will eventually mean for societies – but it will change them. Many of us have not really actively been thinking about it at this stage, and those who are considering what possibilities SNSs may have for them, are largely preoccupied by Facebook, LinkedIn or the “social media” camp who have made some incredibly innovative uses of it in advertising and marketing.

As this review attempts to collate and integrate many disparate and varying perspectives, bases of understanding and accepted realities, it is expected that some criticism may be experienced. The main limitations experienced in this review were actively considered and managed in an attempt to minimize their potential effects. By adopting a multifaceted, integrative approach to reviewing SME ownership, entrepreneurship and SNSs in a NZ context, this has uncovered some interesting inconsistencies which demonstrate rather unexpected findings.

Unfortunately, each of these review topics was only able to be touched upon in brief review. While more is available online, there are almost unlimited opportunities in and of themselves for the potentially most beneficial or effective use of SNSs. Sites such as Kiva[i], and local initiative Ooooby,(outlines of which have been included online) both demonstrate initial insights into such benefits, but realistically we remain unclear and ambiguous about what impact and influence these will have on the world, all we really know at this stage is that these are big and will matter. More cross comparative integrated review would potentially highlight areas where we should focus. 

There has been some criticism for the use of stages in the lifecycle of SME’s, arguing that a focus on their considerations and strategic focus, there has been some cross over when considering this breakdown of the lifecycle of small businesses which has been included in this breakdown. Ideally you would best enlist the most appropriate perspective from that industry or angle and utilise responses, to be tried and tested for feasibility. There is also potential to extend framework beyond the SME aspect or even further than the NZ context. The framework structure itself and process of defining and exploring the aspects independently before reviewing them together through overlapping and integration could ultimately be applied to many aspects and uses throughout.

Alternatively we could further extend the areas research and review developed by focusing and narrowing areas of consideration. This may potentially hold further valuable insight, acknowledging that standards and models used in this review are limiting. One example which was considered useful and has already explored such connections in at least some aspects demonstrated by taking specific industry focus.  Finally, the outcomes and concepts of this review could ultimately form the basis for any further postgraduate research. Though the context and perspectives which form review and frameworks, context are massive, their accuracy and appropriateness could best be explored through testing them.

It appears that security is clearly still the biggest concern for many (Pew, 2010). From my own personal experience I have also found this to be true. Yet what needs to be clear, not only to academia and government but also to the public at large, is the reality of the our future contexts where we will have a “profile” registered through which all interactions with government would be facilitated (more on this can be found at their website e.govt.nz). Further with recent concerns over Facebook privacy settings, the awareness of individuals is hopefully changing. The reality is now anyone can share your information; insert a is a comical example of this reality, from theoatmeal.com . With the intention to advise rather than shock readers, I will just say that with little technical knowledge and some internet savvy there is very little that is truly private online. And realistically you may be shocked at what is already out there (if you are interested try Google People Search, and see virtual version for more). Which begs the question, why disadvantage yourself by not being involved if you are as a result no more protected?

But there are changes that we will require to navigate the turbulence of such ongoing and fundamental changes. This review hopes to provide key insights into the current state of play of SNS in New Zealand SMEs, outline some of the most relevant trends within and across these fields, and highlighted yet a few of the areas which, with further consideration, may have considerable value to afford to SMEs. Furthermore, on a more fundamental level, this review aims to highlight both the need and potential for alternative interpretations of the legacy criteria, processes and structures broadly within society, but more specifically within and across research and broader academia, business and government policy and the general community.  

By making effective and efficient use out of the readily and freely available tools and resources online, there are potentially unlimited possibilities. Rather than encouraging the “time wasting” Facebook branded version of SNS in and among our societies, the ongoing exploration and experimentation of the application and implications of ongoing SNS development could afford the “tester” a range of efficiencies and values at a potentially limitless level and variety. We are only just beginning to grasp what potential there could be initially. It appears by all accounts at the present time, New Zealand is in an incredibly unique and fortunate position. 

Our government is leading the world in e-government developments, we already know our culture is highly responsive to ICTs, considering we still have one of the highest rates of Eftpos penetration in the world, 22 years after the trial of the new technology here was carried out.(Paymark, 2010). We for all intents and purposes have little in the way of practical barriers (capital access good for credit worthy ideas, low barriers to ownership, generally adequate ICT skills) (MED,  2000), and the government is trying to ensure we are enabled to do so. It is now at the end of the day, all up to us. After all we are the ingredients of society and while not one of us will change the result alone, yet the little changes we make as a collective has influence.

Small business owners, entrepreneurs and individuals working to proactively consider and influence their own futures by exploring the unlimited and adaptable efficiencies afforded by SNS innovating their “online site”, should contact me. I have expansive data which was not able to be included, and for future interest readers are invited to view my monthly blog at http://jezzieann.qapacity.com/