Digital Transformation and Organizational Readiness: Evidence from Technology Adoption and Digital Culture

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31637/epsir-2026-2933

Keywords:

digital transformation, SMEs, business digitalization, technological infrastructure, digital culture, process automation, digital maturity

Abstract

Introduction: Digital transformation is a key driver of organizational competitiveness and sustainability, particularly in micro and small enterprises (MSEs), where technological adoption influences operational efficiency, innovation, and knowledge management. This study analyzes the level of digital transformation in MSEs in northern Peru from a multidimensional perspective. Methodology: A quantitative, descriptive-correlational study with a non-experimental cross-sectional design was conducted. The sample consisted of 34 MSEs. Data were collected through a 25-item questionnaire structured into five dimensions: technological infrastructure, process automation, digital culture, technological strategy, and digital security. Statistical analysis was performed using Jamovi, applying reliability tests, descriptive statistics, and correlation analysis. Results: The findings showed adequate levels of internal consistency across all dimensions (Cronbach’s alpha between 0.815 and 0.895). The overall digital transformation index reached a mean of 3.50, indicating a moderate level of digitalization. Additionally, strong and significant positive correlations were identified among the dimensions, particularly between technological infrastructure and process automation, as well as between automation and the overall index. Discussion and conclusions: The results confirm that digital transformation in MSEs is a multidimensional and interdependent process. Although companies have initiated digitalization efforts, limitations remain in strategic planning and the integration of digital capabilities, highlighting opportunities to strengthen innovation-oriented and sustainable development.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

References

Bouwman, H., Nikou, S., Molina-Castillo, F. J. y de Reuver, M. (2020). The impact of digitalization on business models: How SMEs benefit from digital transformation. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 155, 119-120. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techfore.2019.119173

Chatterjee, S., Chaudhuri, R., Vrontis, D. y Thrassou, A. (2021). Digital transformation and entrepreneurship process in SMEs: Implications for innovation and competitiveness. Journal of Business Research, 124, 379-390. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2020.11.045 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2020.11.045

Kraus, S., Durst, S., Ferreira, J., Veiga, P., Kailer, N. y Weinmann, A. (2022). Digital transformation in business and management research: An overview of the current status quo. International Journal of Information Management, 63, 102466. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijinfomgt.2021.102466 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijinfomgt.2021.102466

Li, F., Nucciarelli, A., Roden, S. y Graham, G. (2020). How smart cities transform operations models: A new research agenda for digital transformation. Production Planning & Control, 31(2-3), 129-149. https://doi.org/10.1080/09537287.2019.1631467 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/09537287.2019.1631467

Matarazzo, M., Penco, L., Profumo, G. y Quaglia, R. (2021). Digital transformation and customer value creation in Made in Italy SMEs: A dynamic capabilities perspective. Journal of Business Research, 123, 642-656. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2020.10.033 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2020.10.033

Nambisan, S., Wright, M. y Feldman, M. (2022). The digital transformation of innovation and entrepreneurship: Progress, challenges and key themes. Research Policy, 51(2), 104-118. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.respol.2021.104321 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.respol.2021.104321

OECD. (2021). The digital transformation of SMEs. OECD Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1787/bdb9256a-en DOI: https://doi.org/10.1787/bdb9256a-en

Verhoef, P. C., Broekhuizen, T., Bart, Y., Bhattacharya, A., Dong, J., Fabian, N. y Haenlein, M. (2021). Digital transformation: A multidisciplinary reflection and research agenda. Journal of Business Research, 122, 889-901. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2019.09.022 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2019.09.022

Vial, G. (2021). Understanding digital transformation: A review and research agenda. The Journal of Strategic Information Systems, 30(2), 101-114. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsis.2021.101684 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsis.2021.101684

Warner, K. S. R. y Wäger, M. (2021). Building dynamic capabilities for digital transformation: An ongoing process of strategic renewal. Long Range Planning, 54(3), 102-123. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lrp.2020.102034

Published

2026-04-22

How to Cite

Costa Balarezo, E., & Costa Seminario, O. (2026). Digital Transformation and Organizational Readiness: Evidence from Technology Adoption and Digital Culture. European Public & Social Innovation Review, 11, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.31637/epsir-2026-2933

Issue

Section

Cover articles