Archivos de Ciencia e Investigación(ADCI)
ISSN: 3068-014X | DOI: 10.33140/ADCI
Mini Review Article - (2026) Volume 2, Issue 1
Digital Transformation and SME Competitiveness: A Quantitative Study in Emerging Economies
Received Date: Dec 07, 2025 / Accepted Date: Jan 02, 2026 / Published Date: Jan 15, 2026
Copyright: ©2026 Cruz García Lirios. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
Citation: Lirios, C. G. (2026). Digital Transformation and SME Competitiveness: A Quantitative Study in Emerging Economies. Arch Cienc Investig, 2(1), 01-02.
Abstract
The digital transformation of business processes has become a key driver for enhancing the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in emerging economies. This study explores the relationship between digital adoption, operational efficiency, and market expansion among SMEs in Latin America. Using a survey-based quantitative approach with 372 respondents across three countries, the results reveal a significant positive correlation between the level of digital integration and competitive performance indicators. The findings suggest that strategic investment in digital infrastructure, supported by public policy, can bridge technological gaps and stimulate economic resilience among SMEs.
Keywords
Digital Transformation, SMEs, Competitiveness, Emerging Economies, Business Strategy
Introduction
In recent years, digital transformation has emerged as a key enabler of business competitiveness, particularly for SMEs operating in resource-constrained environments. Despite financial and infrastructural limitations, digital tools offer scalable solutions that can enhance productivity, customer engagement, and decision-making. However, the pace and success of digital adoption remain uneven across sectors and regions. This paper investigates the extent to which digital transformation contributes to SME competitiveness in emerging economies.
Literature Review
In recent years, digital transformation has emerged as a key enabler of business competitiveness, particularly for SMEs operating in resource-constrained environments. Despite financial and infrastructural limitations, digital tools offer scalable solutions that can enhance productivity, customer engagement, and decision-making. However, the pace and success of digital adoption remain uneven across sectors and regions. This paper investigates the extent to which digital transformation contributes to SME competitiveness in emerging economies.
Methodology
A cross-sectional survey design was implemented using an online questionnaire distributed to SME managers in Mexico, Colombia, and Peru. The instrument included Likert-scale items measuring digital adoption (infrastructure, tools, and training), competitiveness (market growth, cost reduction, client retention), and contextual variables (industry type, firm size, years in operation). Data were analyzed using SPSS v.26, applying descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and regression analysis.
Results
Descriptive statistics showed that 67 percent of SMEs reported adopting at least one digital solution in the past 12 months. Regression analysis indicated a strong predictive relationship between digital adoption and competitiveness (R squared = 0.62, p < .001). Among digital components, customer relationship management systems and online sales channels were most strongly associated with improved market performance.
Discussion
The findings corroborate the hypothesis that digital transformation significantly boosts SME competitiveness in emerging economies. However, the impact varies by sector, with service-based SMEs benefiting more than manufacturing firms. Policy implications include the need for digital literacy programs and infrastructure subsidies. Limitations include self-reported data and a regional sample, which may affect generalizability.
Conclusion
Digital transformation represents a viable pathway for enhancing the competitiveness of SMEs in emerging economies. While barriers persist, especially regarding infrastructure and skills, targeted interventions can accelerate adoption and economic development.
References
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- Porter, M. E., & Heppelmann, J. E. (2015). How smart, connected products are transforming companies. Harvard business review, 93(10), 96-114.
- World Bank Group. (2022). Global economic prospects, January 2022. World Bank Publications.