Quantitative analysis of the impact of digital transformation in the competitiveness of SMEs

In the digital era, digital transformation has become a crucial factor for the success and survival of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs). This article presents a descriptive quantitative analysis of the impact of digital transformation on the competitiveness of SMEs, in Peru. To carry out this study, data was collected from a representative sample of SMEs from different industrial sectors, of Peru. The results reveal that a high percentage of participating SMEs have adopted digital technologies in their business processes. It was found that e-commerce was the most used technology, followed by digital marketing and process automation. This trend indicates a clear inclination towards the digitalization of SME operations. Descriptively, it was observed that those companies that implemented digital technologies more widely and effectively showed higher market share, profitability and customer satisfaction rates. These results support the importance of digital transformation as a key strategy to improve business competitiveness. In addition, it was observed that the digital transformation generated positive impacts on the operational efficiency of SMEs. It was found that those SMEs studied that have adopted digital technologies have experienced a reduction in production times, greater precision in processes and optimization of resources. In these companies, digital transformation allowed them to expand their reach and access new markets, through the implementation of e-commerce and digital marketing strategies. Finally, it was found that digital transformation gave the SMEs studied a greater ability to compete with larger companies, possibly by improving the quality of their products and services, offering a personalized customer experience and establishing strategic alliances.