Using Simulation to Leverage Digital Transformation of SMEs: A European Perspective

Abstract

Digital transformation is one of the main challenges that SMEs face nowadays. Nevertheless, to a great extent, they lack the necessary capacities and skills to introduce and apply technologies that can support digitalization. As a design science approach, researchers from different European countries have carried out the collaborative research project VOIL to collect and scientifically develop resources and tools to support SMEs in building digital skills. In the context of this project, a tool is developed to assess the digital maturity of SMEs. Moreover, a learning journey based on the use of simulators is proposed together with a minimal viable prototype integrating all developed tools to provide a comprehensive learning environment. Lessons learned from the application of said learning online environment in experimental settings are also shared. The project results contribute to the research that has been carried out within the scope of life long learning, proposing the aggregation of pedagogical strategies that allow self-guided learning in the workplace.

Show Me What You Do and I Will Tell You Who You Are: A Cluster Typology of Supply Chain Risk Management in SMEs

“…Thus, even though SMEs perceive the risks imposed by DT they are currently not ready or in the position to respond in an appropriate manner. Hence, specific trainings, DT guidance and financial support are needed to support SMEs for developing (and upskilling) the necessary capabilities [34] and implementing a risk culture. What differs, however, are the respective views on risks in the SMEs studied our study provides an overview of the interdependence of risk behavior and innovation performance.…”

“…As digitalization not only depends on technology adoption, but also on the management within the company, SME owners, among many other things, also need to fill the gap from IT manager to risk manager [33]. SMEs need to quickly adopt to new technologies in order to cope with the market competition [34]. Regarding the shift towards more and more virtual environments, it must also be noted that digitization risks, or knowledge risks resulting from them, may become more and more relevant for SMEs and further increase risk exposure within the company and across its boundaries to a considerable extent [35,36].…”