Towards the Definition of an Impact Level Factor of SME Features Over Digital Transformation

Abstract

Companies are experimenting change at a fast pace in the business environment due to the evolution of technology. As a result, they require solution approaches designed to guide their Digital Transformation (DT) efforts. However, several factors must be considered in their design, notably how the particular features of companies impact positively or negatively their DT. In the case of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in manufacturing, this is particularly relevant, as their vulnerabilities, such as the lack of resources, seem to have a significant impact over the success of DT initiatives. Defining this impact as an indicator of this effect will provide valuable information to control the DT to better achieve its objectives. For this reason, the aim of this paper is to introduce the impact level performance indicator for the specific scenario of manufacturing SMEs’ DT. An Impact Analysis is presented with this purpose using a qualitative approach. Conclusions of this work lead to further develop the Impact Level indicator using a quantitative approach that enables its use in the control of the DT process.