Systematic literature review on technological transformation in SMEs: a transformation encompassing technology assimilation and business model innovation

Abstract

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are pushed to introduce new technologies due to different requirements and changes in the business setting. The SMEs' transformation to exploit new technologies is challenging given their lack of resources and the complexity of technological transformation, which encompasses technology assimilation and business model innovation (BMI). Although studies recognize the complementarity of technology assimilation and BMI for benefiting from technology, the literature is fragmented, and the technological transformation phenomenon remains abstract, especially in the SMEs' context. To improve understanding of technological transformation in SMEs, a systematic literature review was performed on 165 peer-reviewed papers published from 1999 to 2022, building upon BMI and technology assimilation constructs. The descriptive analysis outlines the field's evolution in terms of research and technological trends. The content analysis shows that: most papers focus on factors; the literature falls short of providing theoretical conceptualization and guidelines for the technological transformation process; only a few studies are dedicated to assessing the outcomes of technological transformation in SMEs; and the papers suggest that SMEs present a low transformation level. Finally, we inductively built a framework for technological transformation and suggest five research avenues.

Dynamic capabilities and digitalization as antecedents of innovation and sustainable performance: empirical evidence from Vietnamese SMEs

“…The benefits of digitalization have been extensively studied, and prior research has indicated that SMEs can leverage digital technologies to improve their value-creation activities, thereby enhancing their digitalization efforts (Broccardo et al , 2023; Sengupta et al , 2021; Warner and Wäger, 2019). BMI has emerged as a critical dimension of how firms create value based on available resources and capabilities in intra- or inter-organizational processes ( de Mattos et al ., 2023; Clauss, 2017). Thanks to digitalization, SMEs have benefited from a more integrated perspective of BMI (Xie et al , 2022).…”

The Digital Evolution Strategies for Overcoming Cybersecurity and Adoption Challenges in French SMEs

“…This governance framework is critical because it provides a disciplined way to incorporate cybersecurity into all parts of digital operations, ensuring that security considerations are entrenched throughout the technology adoption and deployment process. The literature also emphasizes the importance of incorporating risk management into digital planning, such as completing comprehensive risk assessments and strategic planning to manage and mitigate security threats [48]. Risk management procedures are critical for recognizing potential vulnerabilities and taking proactive steps to remedy them before they are exploited.…”

“…Such an institute would serve as a centralized entity, providing SMEs with resources, training, and assistance to improve their cybersecurity infrastructure. Offering specialist advice and facilitating access to cutting-edge technologies could help SMEs adopt best practices and implement effective security processes, thereby reducing the risks associated with cyber threats [48]. This policy would ensure that SMEs, which often need more knowledge and resources to develop comprehensive cybersecurity policies independently, receive the support they need to protect their digital assets effectively.…”

Digital Transformation and Risk Management for SMEs: A Systematic Review on Available Evidence

“…Since the research focuses on development and the state of the art of risk management in SMEs under the digital transformation, the author presents the research gap by exploring literature related to digital transformation, SMEs and risk management (as depicted in Figure 1). Digital transformation can be viewed as an organizational transformation process for SMEs due to investing or adopting advanced technology [22]. For instance, SMEs would adopt digital technology in functional activities such as engineering, marketing and supply chain, developing digital service or products, using apps, platform to connect with customers, and redesigning business model based on advanced technology.…”