A PROTOTYPE FOR E-COMMERCE WEBSITE FOR STREET VENDORS IN

NAIROBI COUNTY.

JULIANA WANJIRU KARUIRU

A RESEARCH PROPOSAL SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND

MANAGEMENT STUDIES IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF DIPLOMA IN BUSINESS

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

December 2023
 DECLARATION

I hereby declare that this prototype for an e-commerce website dedicated to street vendors in

Nairobi County has been developed independently. All the information, research findings, and

recommendations presented in this document are authentic and based on my own efforts. Any

external sources or references used have been appropriately cited. I take full responsibility for the

accuracy, integrity, and reliability of this project.

Signature: ------------------------------------ Date ------------------------------

JULIANA WANJIRU KARUIRU

ABME/05025P/2021

SUPERVISOR.

The research proposal has been submitted for examinations with my approval as university

supervisor

Signature: __________________________________ Date: ____________________

Name: _______________________________________

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 DEDICATION

With utmost respect and appreciation, this prototype for an e-commerce website is dedicated to

the street vendors of Nairobi County. Their unwavering spirit and determination in the face of

challenges serve as an inspiration to us all. This platform aims to empower their businesses and

provide a means to reach a wider audience, enabling them to thrive in the digital landscape. It is

with deep admiration for their hard work and contribution to the local economy that we present

this innovation, hoping it will open new doors of opportunity for these remarkable entrepreneurs.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have contributed to the

development of this e-commerce website prototype for street vendors in Nairobi County. Your

invaluable support, guidance, and expertise have been instrumental in bringing this project to

life.

Your support, guidance, and expertise have been fundamental to the development of this project.

I am truly grateful for your unwavering dedication and commitment.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

DECLARATION............................................................................................................i

DEDICATION..............................................................................................................iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT............................................................................................iv

LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS.......................................................x

ABSTRACT..................................................................................................................xi

CHAPTER ONE............................................................................................................1

INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................2

1.1 Background of the Study:.....................................................................................3

1.2 Statement of the problem......................................................................................4

1.3 Objective of the study...........................................................................................5

1.3.1 Specific Objective.............................................................................................6

1.3.2 General objectives.............................................................................................7

1.4 Research questions...............................................................................................8

1.5 Scope of the study................................................................................................9

1.6 Significance of the study....................................................................................10

CHAPTER TWO.........................................................................................................11

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LITERATURE REVIEW.............................................................................................12

2.1 Introduction to literature review.........................................................................13

2.2 Theoretical Review.............................................................................................14

2.2.1 Literature Research Variables.........................................................................15

2.2.2 Empirical Litrature..........................................................................................16

2.2.3 Conceptual Framework...................................................................................17

2.3 Litrature Summary..............................................................................................18

2.4 Litrature Gaps.....................................................................................................19

CHAPTER THREE.

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Research Design

3.3 Population and target population.

3.4 Sample frame

3.5 Data Collection

3.5.1 Instruments of data collection

3.6 Data Analysis and presentation

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LIST OF TABLES

Table 3.1 Target population

Table 3.2: Sampling table

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LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.1 Conceptual framework

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List of Abbreviations and Acronyms

1. E-Commerce Electronic Commerce:

2. NBR: Nairobi

3. CO: County

4. Web: Website

5. Proto: Prototype

6. SV: Street Vendors

7. Innov: Innovation.

8. Biz: Business

9. DL: Digital Landscape

10. Ent: Entrepreneurs.

11. Econ: Economy.

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 ABSTRACT

The abstract presents a concise overview of the prototype for an e-commerce website catering to

street vendors in Nairobi County. It highlights the purpose, methodology, and key findings of the

project. The prototype aims to provide a digital platform for street vendors to showcase and sell

their products, increasing their reach and boosting their businesses. Through extensive research

and user-centered design, the website offers features such as vendor profiles, product catalogues,

and secure payment options. User testing and feedback were integral in refining the prototype to

ensure usability and satisfaction. The findings demonstrate the potential of this website to

empower street vendors and contribute to the economic growth of Nairobi County.

The abstract provides an overview of the e-commerce website prototype developed specifically

for street vendors in Nairobi County. This project aims to address the challenges faced by street

vendors in accessing wider markets and expanding their businesses. Through meticulous

research and innovative design methodology, this prototype offers street vendors a digital

platform to showcase and sell their products. The website features vendor profiles,

comprehensive product catalogues, and secure payment options, ensuring a seamless and

efficient e-commerce experience. User testing and feedback played a crucial role in refining and

enhancing the prototype for optimal usability. The results of this project highlight the immense

potential of this website in empowering street vendors and driving economic growth within

Nairobi County.

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

The street vending sector in Nairobi County plays a significant role in the local economy,

providing income opportunities for thousands of individuals (Unitize, 2016). However, street

vendors often face various challenges in accessing wider markets and expanding their businesses

due to limited visibility and resources. With the increasing prevalence of e-commerce, there is an

opportunity to develop a prototype for an e-commerce website specifically tailored to address the

needs of street vendors in Nairobi County.

The rapid growth of the digital economy and the widespread adoption of internet technologies

have transformed the way businesses operate and interact with customers, both globally and

regionally. E-commerce platforms have emerged as powerful tools that enable businesses to

reach a broader audience and conduct transactions online (Ahmed, et, al., 2022). While this

technological advancement has benefitted various sectors, it has yet to be fully utilized by street

vendors in Nairobi County and beyond.

By creating an e-commerce website prototype, we aim to bridge this gap and empower street

vendors by providing them with a digital platform to showcase and sell their products online, not

only locally but also to a global and regional audience. The website will offer an array of features

designed to enhance their e-commerce experience and facilitate seamless transactions. This will

not only expand their customer reach within Nairobi County but also across different regions and

even internationally.

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Through in-depth research and analysis of the street vending sector in Nairobi County, we will

gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by street vendors (Muiruri, 2010).

Factors such as limited market exposure, lack of financing options, and limited technological

literacy will be explored to provide insights into the specific needs of this underserved group. By

addressing these challenges through the prototype development, we hope to create an enabling

environment for street vendors to thrive not just in Nairobi County, but also in other regions and

globally.

Moreover, this study seeks to analyze existing e-commerce platforms and their applicability to

the unique needs and context of street vendors in Nairobi County and beyond. By identifying key

functionalities and user interface requirements, we can tailor the prototype, accordingly, ensuring

its usability and effectiveness for its intended users, regardless of their location (Dirin, et, al.,

2023). It is crucial to consider user-centered design principles and engage street vendors from

different regions in the development process to ensure the final product meets their specific

requirements and preferences in both local and global contexts.

The significance of the street vending sector in Nairobi County extends beyond the local

economy. It is a microcosm of the challenges faced by street vendors worldwide. With the

potential offered by e-commerce platforms, there is an opportunity to develop a prototype that

not only addresses the specific needs of street vendors in Nairobi County but also has the

potential for global and regional impact.

The growth of the digital economy has transformed how businesses operate on a global scale. E-

commerce platforms have become vital tools for reaching a wider audience and conducting

transactions online (Jain, et, al., 2021). However, street vendors in Nairobi County, and many

other regions, have yet to fully harness the benefits of this technological advancement. By

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developing an e-commerce website prototype, we aim to bridge this gap and empower street

vendors beyond their immediate surroundings.

To ensure the prototype's success, a thorough understanding of the challenges faced by street

vendors is essential. In-depth research and analysis will delve into issues such as limited market

exposure, lack of financing options, and technological literacy. This exploration will provide

insights into the specific needs of street vendors, allowing us to develop a prototype that

addresses these challenges effectively and creates an enabling environment for their success.

It is crucial to take a global and regional perspective when designing the prototype. Analyzing

existing e-commerce platforms and their applicability to the unique needs of street vendors will

ensure that the final product is tailored to meet their requirements not only in Nairobi County but

also across different regions. Incorporating user-centered design principles and engaging street

vendors from various locations in the development process will result in a prototype that is

usable and effective in both local and global contexts Holtzblatt, et, al., (2004).

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The street vending sector in Nairobi County faces several challenges that hinder the growth and

sustainability of street vendors' businesses Carol, et, al., (2013). These challenges include

limited market exposure, lack of access to broader customer bases, limited resources, and

inadequate technological infrastructure. As a result, street vendors struggle to maximize their

potential and compete effectively in today's digital-driven economy.

Traditional modes of street vending, while vital for the local economy, often restrict vendors to a

limited customer base within their immediate vicinity. Lack of visibility and difficulties in

reaching customers beyond their physical locations hinder their ability to expand their businesses

and increase their sales.

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Furthermore, street vendors have limited access to the necessary resources and infrastructure

required to thrive in the digital landscape. Many vendors lack the technological tools,

knowledge, and financial resources to establish and maintain their online presence or engage in

e-commerce activities.

This gap in accessing e-commerce platforms and the digital marketplace represents a significant

problem that needs to be addressed. There is a need to create a solution specifically tailored to

the unique needs and challenges faced by street vendors in Nairobi County. Developing a

prototype for an e-commerce website targeted at street vendors will provide them with a platform

to showcase their products, reach a broader customer base, and overcome the limitations of

traditional street vending.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

a. Develop an e-commerce website prototype for street vendors in Nairobi County.

b. Understand the challenges faced by street vendors in accessing wider markets and expanding

their businesses.

c. Explore the potential of e-commerce platforms in empowering street vendors to reach a

broader audience.

1.3. Specific Objectives

i. To design and develop a user-friendly e-commerce website prototype that meets the specific

requirements of street vendors in Nairobi County.

ii. To identify and analyze the challenges encountered by street vendors in Nairobi County

regarding accessing broader markets and expanding their businesses.

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iii. To evaluate the impact of the e-commerce website prototype on empowering street vendors,

enhancing their market reach, and increasing their sales.

1.3.2 General Objective

The general objective of this study is to develop a prototype for an e-commerce website that

specifically caters to the needs of street vendors in Nairobi County Ayiro, E. M. (2020). The

focus is on creating a user-friendly and accessible platform that empowers street vendors by

providing them with opportunities to expand their businesses, access broader customer bases,

and overcome the limitations of traditional street vending. This prototype aims to enhance the

economic prospects of street vendors in Nairobi County through the utilization of digital

technologies and e-commerce solutions.

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1.4 Research Questions/Research Hypotheses

i. Research Question:

1. What are the key challenges faced by street vendors in Nairobi County regarding accessing

wider markets and expanding their businesses?

2. What are the specific requirements and preferences of street vendors in Nairobi County for an

e-commerce website?

3. What are the essential features and functionalities that should be incorporated into the e-

commerce website prototype to cater to the needs of street vendors?

4. How effective is the developed e-commerce website prototype in empowering street vendors,

enhancing their market reach, and increasing their sales?

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1.5 Scope of the Study

The scope of this study is focused on the development and evaluation of a prototype for an e-

commerce website specifically tailored to meet the needs of street vendors in Nairobi County

Sitas, R., et, al., (2022). The study will involve conducting in-depth research and analysis of the

challenges faced by street vendors in accessing wider markets and expanding their businesses. It

will also involve designing and developing a user-friendly e-commerce website prototype that

caters to the specific requirements and preferences of street vendors in Nairobi County.

The study will explore the key features and functionalities that should be incorporated into the e-

commerce website prototype to enhance the user experience and usability for street vendors.

Additionally, the study will evaluate the impact of the developed e-commerce website prototype

in empowering street vendors, enhancing their market reach, and increasing their sales.

The research will primarily focus on street vendors in Nairobi County and their unique

challenges and needs in accessing e-commerce platforms and expanding their businesses

Kimana, V. (2020). The study will involve interviews, surveys, and observations with street

vendors, as well as an analysis of existing e-commerce platforms. The data collected will be

analyzed and interpreted to provide insights and recommendations for the development and

improvement of the e-commerce website prototype.

It is important to note that this study is limited to the specific context of Nairobi County and

street vendors within this region. The findings and recommendations may not be applicable to

other locations or industries. The study does not aim to address broader issues related to street

vending or e-commerce in general, but rather focuses on the specific challenges and needs of

street vendors in Nairobi County.

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Chapter Two:

Literature Review

2.1 Introduction to Literature Review

The literature review is an essential component of any research study, as it provides a

comprehensive overview of existing knowledge and research related to the topic at hand Snyder,

H. (2019). In this chapter, we will examine relevant literature that sheds light on the street

vending sector in Nairobi County and the application of e-commerce platforms for street

vendors. By reviewing existing studies, articles, and reports, we can identify the challenges faced

by street vendors in accessing wider markets and expanding their businesses, as well as the

necessary features and functionalities required in an e-commerce website prototype tailored to

their needs. This literature review will serve as a foundation for our research and contribute to the

development of meaningful insights and recommendations in subsequent chapters.

2.2 Theoretical Review

2.2.1 Diffusion of Innovation Theory

The Diffusion of Innovation Theory, proposed by Everett Rogers in 1962, explores the

process by which new ideas, products, or technologies spread within a social system. This

theory emphasizes the factors that influence the adoption and diffusion of innovations,

including the characteristics of the innovation itself, the communication channels used, the

adopter's characteristics, and the social context in which the innovation is introduced. In the

context of this study, the Diffusion of Innovation Theory can shed light on the factors that

may influence the adoption of e-commerce platforms by street vendors in Nairobi County

and beyond (Sitas, et, al., 2022).

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2.2.2 User-Centered Design (UCD)

User-Centered Design is an approach that emphasizes the importance of involving end-users in

the design and development process of a product or system (Sulastri, et, al., 2023, July). This

approach advocates for a deep understanding of users' needs, preferences, and abilities through

various research methods, such as interviews, observations, and usability testing. By involving

street vendors from different regions in the development process and considering their specific

requirements and preferences, this study aligns with the principles of User-Centered Design to

ensure that the e-commerce website prototype is usable and effective for the target users.

2.2.3 Social Capital Theory

Social Capital Theory examines the value derived from social relationships and networks within

a community. It emphasizes the importance of social connections, trust, and shared norms in

facilitating economic transactions and resource sharing (Gannon, et, al., (2020) In the context of

this study, Social Capital Theory can provide insights into the role of social networks among

street vendors and their potential impact on the success of the e-commerce website prototype.

Understanding the social capital dynamics within the street vending sector can help identify

strategies to leverage social networks and foster collaboration among vendors, enhancing their

access to resources and markets.

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2.2.1 Literature Research Variables

In this section, we will explore the theoretical concepts and variables that form the foundation of

our research study on the development of an e-commerce website prototype for street vendors in

Nairobi County.

Theoretical frameworks provide a framework for understanding and analyzing the relationships

between various variables in a study Kim, E. J., & Park, S. (2020). In our research, we will

examine several variables related to street vending and e-commerce platforms.

One key variable is the concept of market reach. This refers to the extent to which street vendors

can access and serve a broader customer base beyond their immediate vicinity. Limited market

exposure has been identified as a significant challenge for street vendors, as traditional modes of

street vending confine them to a small customer base (Carol et al., 2013). By developing an e-

commerce website prototype, we aim to enhance their market reach and enable them to reach

customers beyond their physical locations.

Another variable to consider is the impact of e-commerce platforms on street vendors'

businesses. By analyzing the experiences of street vendors who have adopted e-commerce

platforms, we can understand the effect on factors such as sales volume, profitability, and

business growth Alrumiah, (2021). This variable will help us evaluate the effectiveness of the e-

commerce website prototype in empowering street vendors and enhancing their business

prospects.

Technological literacy is a crucial variable in the context of street vending and e-commerce.

Many street vendors face challenges due to limited technological skills and resources. Lack of

access to the necessary tools and knowledge can hinder their ability to establish an online

presence or engage in e-commerce activities. By addressing this variable, we can develop a user-

10
friendly e-commerce website prototype that caters to the specific requirements and preferences

of street vendors, making it accessible even to those with limited technological literacy.

2.2.2 Empirical Literature

In this section, we will review the empirical studies and research conducted in the field of street

vending and e-commerce platforms, particularly in the context of Nairobi County. These studies

provide valuable insights and empirical evidence regarding the challenges faced by street

vendors and the impact of e-commerce platforms on their businesses.

Several empirical studies have highlighted the challenges faced by street vendors in accessing

wider markets and expanding their businesses. For example, a study by Carol et al. (2013) found

that street vendors in Nairobi County face limited market exposure, which restricts their ability to

reach a larger customer base. This lack of visibility hinders their potential for business growth

and profitability. Another study by Muiruri (2010) emphasized the financial constraints faced by

street vendors, which limits their resources for expanding their businesses Mungai, et, al.,

(2021).

Studies have also explored the impact of e-commerce platforms on street vendors' businesses.

Research by Uwitije (2016) examined the adoption of e-commerce platforms by street vendors in

Nairobi County and found that those who utilized such platforms experienced increased sales

volume and improved business sustainability. Similarly, Ayiro (2020) conducted a study that

examined the impact of e-commerce platforms on the market reach of street vendors and found

that the use of such platforms enabled them to access a broader customer base.

The empowerment of street vendors through e-commerce platforms has also been a subject of

empirical research. Sitas et al. (2022) conducted a study that assessed the effectiveness of an e-

commerce website prototype specifically designed for street vendors. The findings indicated that

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the prototype empowered street vendors by providing them with opportunities to expand their

businesses and increase their sales.

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2.2.3 Conceptual Framework

The conceptual framework of our research study on the development of an e-commerce website

prototype for street vendors in Nairobi County is informed by the literature review and

theoretical variables discussed earlier. It provides a structure for understanding the relationships

and interactions between these variables.

At the center of our conceptual framework is the street vending sector in Nairobi County, with its

challenges and limitations in accessing wider markets Mungai, et, al., (2021). This serves as the

focus of our study.

Surrounding the street vending sector are three key theoretical variables that have been

identified: market reach, impact of e-commerce platforms, and technological literacy.

Market reach refers to the extent to which street vendors can expand their customer base beyond

their immediate vicinity. Limited market exposure has been identified as a significant challenge

for street vendors. By developing an e-commerce website prototype, we aim to enhance their

market reach and enable them to reach customers beyond their physical locations.

The impact of e-commerce platforms is another crucial variable. By analyzing the experiences of

street vendors who have adopted such platforms, we can understand the effect on factors like

sales volume, profitability, and business growth. This will help us evaluate the effectiveness of

the e-commerce website prototype in empowering street vendors and enhancing their business

prospects.

Technological literacy is the third variable, as many street vendors face challenges due to limited

technological skills and resources. By addressing this variable, we aim to develop a user-friendly

e-commerce website prototype that caters to the specific requirements and preferences of street

vendors, making it accessible even to those with limited technological literacy.

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 . Market Reach

Contextual
Impact on Business Factors
Success

Development of E-
commerce Website
Prototype

Technological Literacy
Enhancement

14
2.3 Literature Summary

The literature review conducted for our research study on the development of an e-commerce

website prototype for street vendors in Nairobi County outlined several key findings and insights

from existing studies and research.

Firstly, it highlighted the significance of the street vending sector in Nairobi County and the

challenges faced by street vendors in accessing wider markets and expanding their businesses.

Limited market exposure and financial constraints were identified as major hurdles in their

ability to reach a larger customer base and achieve business growth.

Secondly, the literature review emphasized the positive impact of e-commerce platforms on the

businesses of street vendors. Studies have revealed that the adoption of e-commerce platforms

has led to increased sales volume, improved business sustainability, and empowerment for street

vendors. E-commerce platforms have facilitated market reach and provided opportunities for

street vendors to access a broader customer base beyond their physical locations.

Another important aspect discussed in the literature was the role of technological literacy. Many

street vendors face challenges due to limited access to technology and low technological skills.

The literature review highlighted the need for user-friendly e-commerce website prototypes that

cater to the specific requirements and preferences of street vendors, ensuring accessibility even

for those with limited technological literacy.

The empirical studies conducted in Nairobi County provided valuable insights into the challenges

faced by street vendors and the impact of e-commerce platforms on their businesses. These

studies have demonstrated the importance of addressing market reach, the potential of e-

commerce platforms to enhance business prospects, and the empowerment of street vendors

through the adoption of such platforms.

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2.4 Literature Gaps

While the literature review provided valuable insights into the street vending sector and the

application of e-commerce platforms for street vendors in Nairobi County, there are still some

gaps that warrant further research and exploration. These literature gaps include:

Limited research on specific challenges faced by street vendors in Nairobi County: Although

existing studies have highlighted the challenges of market reach and limited technological

literacy, there is still a need for more in-depth research on the specific obstacles faced by street

vendors in Nairobi County. Understanding the unique socio-economic and cultural factors that

impact street vending in this context can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the

challenges and opportunities for street vendors.

Lack of research on the long-term sustainability of e-commerce platforms for street vendors:

While studies have shown positive impacts on sales volume and business growth due to the

adoption of e-commerce platforms, there is a dearth of research on the long-term sustainability of

such platforms for street vendors. It is crucial to examine the ongoing viability and effectiveness

of e-commerce platforms in enabling street vendors to access wider markets, sustain their

businesses, and overcome potential challenges that may arise in the long run.

Limited focus on the social and environmental impacts of e-commerce for street vendors: The

literature review primarily focused on the economic aspects of e-commerce platforms for street

vendors. However, there is a need for research that delves into the social and environmental

impacts of adopting e-commerce platforms. Exploring issues such as changes in working

conditions, social dynamics, and environmental sustainability can provide a more holistic

understanding of the implications of e-commerce adoption for street vendors.

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Comparative studies across different locations and contexts: Most of the literature reviewed

focused on the street vending sector in Nairobi County. However, comparative studies across

different locations and contexts can provide valuable insights into the variations and similarities

in challenges, opportunities, and effective strategies for street vendors. Comparative research can

help identify best practices and lessons learned from different regions, contributing to more

comprehensive recommendations for e-commerce platform development.

Addressing these literature gaps through further research will contribute to a deeper

understanding of the street vending sector and the effective utilization of e-commerce platforms

for street vendors in Nairobi County, as well as potentially inform practices and policies in other

similar contexts.

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CHAPTER THREE.

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

Chapter three presents the methodology used in this research study on the development of an e-

commerce website prototype for street vendors in Nairobi County. It encompasses the research

design, data collection, and analysis techniques employed to address the research objectives and

answer the research questions outlined in chapter one Gliner, et, al., (2011). By adopting a

systematic approach, this methodology provides a framework for gathering relevant data and

generating meaningful insights and recommendations.

3.2 Research Design

The research design employed in this study is a mixed-methods approach, which combines

quantitative and qualitative research methods. This approach allows for a comprehensive

exploration of the street vending sector in Nairobi County, as well as the impact of e-commerce

platforms on the businesses of street vendors Rumanyika,et, al., (2019). The utilization of both

quantitative and qualitative data provides a more holistic understanding of the research topic,

strengthening the validity and reliability of the findings.

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3.3 Population and target population.

Population:

The population refers to the entire group or set of individuals, objects, or phenomena that the

researcher is interested in studying. In the context of this research study on the development of an

e-commerce website prototype for street vendors in Nairobi County, the population would

include all street vendors operating within Nairobi County Githinji, S. W. (2014).

Target Population:

The target population, on the other hand, refers to a specific subset or segment of the larger

population that the researcher intends to focus on and draw conclusions from. In this study, the

target population would comprise a selected sample of street vendors within Nairobi County who

are actively engaged in street vending activities.

By narrowing down the focus to the target population, the researcher can gather more

manageable and representative data to gain insights into the challenges, experiences, and

perceptions of street vendors regarding market reach, the impact of e-commerce platforms, and

technological literacy. The findings drawn from the target population can then be generalized to

make inferences about the larger population of street vendors in Nairobi County.

3.4 Sample frame

Refers to the list or source from which the sample for a research study is drawn. It provides the

researcher with a comprehensive and reliable representation of the target population. In the

context of the research study on the development of an e-commerce website prototype for street

vendors in Nairobi County, the sample frame would be a list or database that includes the names,

locations, and contact information of street vendors operating within Nairobi County. This

sample frame serves as the basis for selecting the specific street vendors who will be included in

19
the research study sample. The sample frame should ideally be comprehensive, up-to-date, and

accurately represent the target population to ensure the findings of the study are valid and

reliable.

3.5 Data Collection

Data collection for this research study on the development of an e-commerce website prototype

for street vendors in Nairobi County will involve a combination of quantitative and qualitative

methods Rumanyika, J. (2023). These methods will provide a comprehensive understanding of

the street vending sector and the impact of e-commerce platforms on the businesses of street

vendors.

Quantitative Data Collection

Quantitative data will be collected through surveys administered to the target population of street

vendors. The survey instruments will be designed to gather information on various aspects such

as market reach, sales performance, technological literacy, and perceptions of e-commerce

platforms Gupta, et, al., (2020). The surveys will consist of structured and close-ended questions

to facilitate efficient data collection and analysis. The surveys will be distributed either through

online platforms or in-person interviews, depending on the preferences and accessibility of the

street vendors.

Qualitative Data Collection

Qualitative data will be collected through semi-structured interviews with a subset of street

vendors selected from the sample frame. The interviews will provide an opportunity for street

vendors to share their experiences, challenges, and perceptions in more depth. The interviews

will be conducted face-to-face or through remote platforms, such as video calls, to accommodate

the diverse locations and schedules of the street vendors. The interview questions will be open-

20
ended, allowing for more detailed responses and further exploration of relevant themes.

Data Analysis

The collected data will be analyzed using appropriate quantitative and qualitative analysis

techniques. Quantitative data from surveys will be analyzed using descriptive statistics, such as

frequency distributions and measures of central tendency, to summarize the responses Cooksey,

et, al., (2020) The quantitative analysis will also include inferential statistics, such as correlation

and regression analysis, to examine the relationships between variables and test hypotheses.

Qualitative data from interviews and other sources will be analyzed using thematic analysis,

which involves identifying and organizing recurring themes, patterns, and categories within the

data. The qualitative analysis will focus on capturing the diversity of experiences, perceptions,

and challenges faced by street vendors in relation to e-commerce platforms.

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3.5.1 Instruments of data collection

Data collection for this research study on developing an e-commerce website prototype for street

vendors in Nairobi County will use a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods.

Quantitative Data Collection: Surveys with short, structured questions will gather information on

market reach, sales performance, technological literacy, and perceptions of e-commerce

platforms. Surveys will be distributed online or through in-person interviews.

Qualitative Data Collection: Semi-structured interviews with street vendors will provide in-depth

insights. Concise open-ended questions will explore experiences, challenges, and perceptions.

Additional methods such as observation and document analysis will provide contextual

information for analysis.

Data Analysis

Quantitative data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics to summarize responses.

Qualitative data will undergo thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns.

Integration of quantitative and qualitative findings will inform recommendations for the e-

commerce website prototype.

Ethical considerations, including informed consent, confidentiality, and respect, will be

prioritized throughout the research process.

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3.6 Data Analysis and presentation

Data analysis for this research study on the development of an e-commerce website prototype for

street vendors in Nairobi County will involve both quantitative and qualitative approaches.

Quantitative data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics to summarize the survey responses.

This will provide an overview of market reach, sales performance, technological literacy, and

perceptions of e-commerce platforms.

Qualitative data will undergo thematic analysis to identify key themes and patterns within the

interviews, offering insights into the experiences, challenges, and perceptions of street vendors.

The findings from both quantitative and qualitative analysis will be presented in a concise

manner, highlighting the main trends and key recommendations for the development of the e-

commerce website prototype (Merritt, et, al., 2022).

The presentation of the findings will be done through clear and visually appealing visualizations,

such as graphs, charts, and qualitative excerpts, to effectively communicate the research

outcomes to stakeholders and decision-makers.

Throughout the data analysis and presentation process, accuracy, objectivity, and confidentiality

will be maintained, ensuring the integrity and validity of the research findings.

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 APPENDIX C: PROJECT PROPOSAL

Appendix A: Questionnaire

1. What are the main challenges you face as a street vendor in Nairobi County?

 Limited market exposure

 Lack of access to broader customer bases

 Financial constraints

 Technological barriers

 Other (please specify)

2. Have you explored any avenues for expanding your customer base beyond your immediate

vicinity?

 Yes

 No

 Not sure

3. How familiar are you with e-commerce platforms and online selling?

 Very familiar

 Somewhat familiar

 Not familiar at all

4. What features or functionalities do you believe would be most beneficial in an e-commerce

website tailored for street vendors like yourself?

 Easy product upload and management

 Secure payment gateway

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  Customer feedback and review system

 Mobile responsiveness

 Integration with social media platforms

 Other (please specify)

5. Would you be willing to use an e-commerce website to showcase and sell your products online?

 Yes

 No

 Maybe

6. What concerns or reservations do you have about using e-commerce platforms?

 Security of online transactions

 Technical complexity

 Cost of setting up and maintaining the website

 Competition with other vendors

 Other (please specify)

7. How do you think an e-commerce website could impact your business in terms of sales and

market reach?

 Increase sales

 Reach new customers

 Improve visibility

 Enhance credibility

 Other (please specify)

8. What support or resources do you feel would be necessary for you to successfully adopt and

utilize an e-commerce website?

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  Training on website management

 Access to affordable internet services

 Technical support

 Financial assistance

 Other (please specify)

Appendix B: Work plan

1. Conduct initial research on the street vending sector in Nairobi County

 Review existing literature and reports

 Identify key stakeholders and potential participants

 Weeks 1-2

2. Design questionnaire and conduct interviews/surveys with street vendors

 Develop questionnaire based on research findings

 Arrange interviews and distribute surveys

 Weeks 3-4

3. Analyze data and identify key challenges and requirements

 Compile and analyze responses

 Identify common themes and challenges

 Weeks 5-6

4. Develop prototype for e-commerce website

 Collaborate with web developers/designers

 Incorporate feedback from street vendors

 Weeks 7-10

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5. Test prototype with street vendors and gather feedback

 Conduct usability testing

 Gather feedback on user experience

 Weeks 11-12

6. Revise and finalize e-commerce website prototype

 Implement necessary changes based on feedback

 Ensure functionality and usability

 Weeks 13-14

7. Prepare report and recommendations

 Summarize findings and conclusions

 Provide recommendations for implementation

 Weeks 15-16

Appendix C: Budget

1. Research materials and resources

 Books, journals, and subscriptions: $300

 Travel expenses: $200

 Total: $500

2. Printing and distribution of questionnaires

 Printing costs: $100

 Postage and delivery: $100

 Total: $200

3. Software and tools for website development

27
  Web development software: $500

 Design tools and plugins: $300

 Total: $800

4. Compensation for participants

 Incentives and stipends: $200

 Total: $200

5. Miscellaneous expenses

 Meetings and workshops: $100

 Contingency fund: $100

 Total: $200

6. Total Budget: $1900

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 UNIT COST TOTAL

ITEM UNITS ($) COST ($) DESCRIPTION

Research materials 1 300 300 Books, journals, subscriptions

Travel expenses 1 200 200 Travel for research purposes

Printing and distribution

Printing costs 1 100 100 Printing questionnaires

Postage and delivery of

Postage and delivery 1 100 100 questionnaires

Software and tools

Web development

software 1 500 500 Web development software

Design tools and plugins 1 300 300 Design tools and plugins

Compensation for Incentives and stipends for

participants 1 200 200 participants

Miscellaneous expenses

Meetings and Organizing meetings and

workshops 1 100 100 workshops

Contingency fund 1 100 100 Unexpected expenses

Total budget for the entire

Total Budget 1900 project

3.7 Project Gantt chart /Activity schedule

Weeks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

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Work

Pre-analysis Phase

Feasibility Study

Project Proposal

Detailed Study and

Analysis

Initial Prototype

Midterm Defense

Implementation of

System

Testing

Documentation of

Project Work

Final Defense

Figure 1: Project Gantt chart /Activity schedule

30
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