What is the impact of digital transformation on internationalized SMEs?

Abstract

Based on a literature review, this article offers a conceptual research model that aims to answer the following question: what are the digital transformation components and their influences on internationalized SMEs? The model defends the leading role of the digital orientation of SME owner-managers, and a relationship between digital transformation and internationalization as well as the positive feedback loop of internationalization on the digital transformation. This article attempts to complement the international entrepreneurship literature and to clarify the role of digital transformation in internationalized SMEs. From a managerial standpoint, our model allows SME leaders to better prepare their companies for digital transformations based on their orientations and capabilities.