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IMPACT OF DIGITAL FORMATION ON SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMES): CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES | International Journal of Advances in Business and Management Research (IJABMR)
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Articles
Published: 2025-11-11

IMPACT OF DIGITAL FORMATION ON SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMES): CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Aristotle PG College, Moinabad, 501504 Telangana, India
Business Performance Digital Transformation Mixed-Methods Research Small and Medium Enterprises (SME’s) Technological Adoption

Abstract

Digital transformation (DT) has become a serious factor for businesses worldwide, enabling them to enhance operational efficiency, improve customer engagement, and gain an inexpensive edge. However, for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), the journey of adopting and integrating digital technologies often remains fraught with challenges. This research investigates the impact of digital transformation on SMEs by employing a mixed-methods approach. A combination of qualitative interviews with SME owners and managers and quantitative surveys across a larger sample of SMEs provides a complete understanding of the drivers, blocks, and outcomes of digital implementation. The study explores the inspirations behind digital transformation, the challenges faced during the implementation process, and the apparent benefits SMEs derive from implementing digital technologies. Results indicate that while SMEs face resource constraints and resistance to change, digital change leads to significant improvements in operational efficiency, market expansion, and customer satisfaction. The findings offer helpful details about the strategies SMEs can adopt to navigate the digital transformation process successfully. This research contributes to the growing body of information on digital transformation in SMEs and offers practical recommendations for businesses looking to enhance their digital capabilities.

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Metrics

Article Contents

Indexed In

 

Journal title

International Journal of Advances in Business and Management Research (IJABMR)

ISSN (online)

2584-1718

Publisher's name

Swami Vivekananda Global Academy, India

Established Since

2023

Email Id

info@ijabmresearch.org

DOI Prefix

10.62674/ijabmr

Peer Review

Double Anonymous Peer Review

Licensing

CC BY-NC-ND

Open Access

Yes

 

Indexed In








Score: 6.038









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