Towards a successful digital transformation: The key role of managerial innovation in SMEs

Abstract

In a context marked by the acceleration of digital transformation, companies, particularly SMEs, face major challenges in integrating new technologies. While digitalization is often viewed through a technological lens, this study highlights the crucial role of managerial innovation as a strategic lever for ensuring the success of digital initiatives. Through a systematic literature review, this research identifies the key barriers hindering SMEs’ digital transformation, including organizational resistance, financial constraints, and a lack of digital skills. In response to these challenges, we propose an integrated approach, the 5C Model, based on five strategic pillars: (1) developing an agile organizational culture, (2) reconfiguring dynamic capabilities, (3) fostering effective collaborations, (4) establishing participatory cohesion, and (5) enhancing digital skills. This model articulates the synergies between managerial innovation and digitalization, offering SMEs a structured solution to fully leverage digital opportunities. This study provides a theoretical and managerial contribution by shedding light on the interactions between managerial innovation and digital transformation while opening avenues for future research on the concrete impact of these synergies across various industries.

Keywords: Managerial innovation, digital transformation, SMEs, organizational adaptation, agility, competitiveness.

JEL Classification:  O30, O33, D21, M10.

Paper type: Systematic review.