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Navigating Digital Challenges for SMEs: A Two-Tier Approach to Risks Mitigation and Sustainability

Author

Listed:
  • Arnesh Telukdarie

    (Johannesburg Business School, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, Johannesburg 2092, South Africa)

  • Thabile Dube

    (Johannesburg Business School, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, Johannesburg 2092, South Africa)

  • Megashnee Munsamy

    (Johannesburg Business School, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, Johannesburg 2092, South Africa)

  • Khuliso Murulane

    (Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, Johannesburg 2092, South Africa)

  • Regionald Mongwe

    (Johannesburg Business School, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, Johannesburg 2092, South Africa)

Abstract

The global significance of SMEs has traditionally been recognized as a key driver of economic growth and sustainability. The emergence of digital technologies and Information and Communication Technology for Development (ICT4D) holds significant potential to further enhance this impact. However, SMEs in developing countries have faced challenges in adopting sustainable, resource-intensive digital systems. Factors such as limited skills, financial constraints, and the alignment of suitable solutions hinder this adoption. To address these challenges and promote sustainable digital transformation, this study proposes a two-tier approach. The first prong employs Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques, including Word2Vec, for global analysis and digital systems identification. The second prong involves a country-specific analysis of SMEs’ digital requirements. This two-tier analysis aims to uncover the actual digital needs of SMEs while shedding light on high-intensity global SME activities that, if integrated through ICT4D, could effectively address the risks and challenges SMEs face in adopting, implementing, and maintaining digital systems. In addition, the study develops systems required by SMEs to optimize their business processes and production, thereby promoting their growth and sustainability in the digital era. The results of this study demonstrate the effectiveness of these proposed methods in addressing digital challenges for SMEs and fostering sustainable development.

Suggested Citation

  • Arnesh Telukdarie & Thabile Dube & Megashnee Munsamy & Khuliso Murulane & Regionald Mongwe, 2024. "Navigating Digital Challenges for SMEs: A Two-Tier Approach to Risks Mitigation and Sustainability," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(14), pages 1-19, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:14:p:5857-:d:1431916
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    Keywords

    SMEs; MMEs; ICT4D; digital technologies; digital risk; sustainability; NLP;
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