The Relationship Between The Application Of Modern Information Technology And The Operational Efficiency Of Food Industry Enterprises In The Upper Northern Region Of Thailand

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between the application of modern information technology (IT) and the operational efficiency of food industry enterprises in the upper northern region of Thailand. The research adopts a quantitative design with a sample of 400 executives selected through stratified random sampling from 1,956 registered food industry enterprises. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering four sections: demographic characteristics, business profiles, IT application, and operational efficiency. The instrument demonstrated high validity and reliability, with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients ranging from 0.793 to 0.964. The results indicate that both IT application and operational efficiency are perceived at high levels across enterprises. Managers emphasized the importance of data resource management, system planning and development, and decision support in their operations. Similarly, efficiency was highly rated in customer service, internal processes, learning and growth, and financial performance, with the learning and growth perspective scoring highest. Regression analyses revealed that IT application positively correlates with overall operational efficiency, though individual IT dimensions did not significantly predict efficiency outcomes. Notably, decision support systems showed a significant positive influence on financial performance. Comparative analyses further revealed no significant differences in IT adoption or efficiency across enterprises with varying organizational characteristics, including size, type, and capital investment. In conclusion, the findings suggest that while IT adoption contributes positively to efficiency, its strongest effects are concentrated in financial outcomes. The study highlights the importance of deepening IT integration into decision-making processes and underscores the need for strategic alignment between digital tools and broader organizational objectives.