The Journey is the Reward. A digital transformation procedure model for German small and medium-sized enterprisesmodel for German small and medium-sized enterprises
TL;DR
The study concludes that the model provides the flexibility needed to adapt it to SMEs’ various circumstances and integrates the role of external digital innovation units and helps SMEs initiate and advance their digital transformation.
Abstract
The abundance of digital technologies poses a challenge for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), which must identify, select, and implement appropriate solutions to innovate their business. Digital transformation requires SMEs to undertake a continuous digitalisation process, but a lack of guidance has led to many SMEs’ failures to embrace the potential of digital technologies. To meet this challenge, IS research has developed procedure models that structure the digital transformation process. The literature suggests that such models should have a reasonable level of flexibility and should integrate external digital innovation units to support SMEs. Research provides a promising basis for developing procedure models that meet these requirements, but extensive evaluations of these models in a naturalistic setting remain to be explored. The present study addresses this gap by developing a procedure model following the Design Science Research based on eight digitalisation projects with industry partners. The study concludes that the model provides the flexibility needed to adapt it to SMEs’ various circumstances and integrates the role of external digital innovation units. Thus, it helps SMEs initiate and advance their digital transformation. The results contribute to the body of knowledge concerning reference modelling, digital transformation, and innovation.