The impact of HR digitalization on organizational performance: An empirical study of Moroccan SMEs

Abstract

In a context marked by the acceleration of digital transformation, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly required to integrate digital technologies in order to enhance their competitiveness and organizational performance. Human resource management (HRM) has emerged as one of the key areas affected by this transformation through process automation, the integration of Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS), and the development of collaborative digital tools. While the relationship between HR digitalization and organizational performance has been extensively documented in European and North American settings, few empirical studies have drawn on primary data collected from Moroccan SMEs to examine it; this article seeks to address this empirical and contextual gap by analyzing the perceptions of Moroccan HR actors. The study is based on a descriptive quantitative approach conducted among 85 respondents from SMEs operating in various sectors.

Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings reveal that HR digitalization is perceived by respondents as being associated with improvements in operational (81%), decision-making (83%) and human (86%) performance within organizations. The automation of HR processes, the use of digital tools, and employees' acceptance of technology appear to be major perceived drivers of organizational efficiency. However, several challenges remain, including financial constraints, the lack of digital skills, and resistance to change. The study highlights the strategic role of HR digitalization in SME development and emphasizes the need for organizational and human support to ensure the success of digital transformation.

JEL Classification: M12; O33; L26

Paper type: Empirical Research