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Systematic literature review on technological transformation in SMEs: a transformation encompassing technology assimilation and business model innovation

Author

Listed:
  • Camila Silva Mattos

    (Wageningen University and Research)

  • Giustina Pellegrini

    (Wageningen University and Research)

  • Geoffrey Hagelaar

    (Wageningen University and Research)

  • Wilfred Dolfsma

    (Wageningen University and Research)

Abstract

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are pushed to introduce new technologies due to different requirements and changes in the business setting. The SMEs' transformation to exploit new technologies is challenging given their lack of resources and the complexity of technological transformation, which encompasses technology assimilation and business model innovation (BMI). Although studies recognize the complementarity of technology assimilation and BMI for benefiting from technology, the literature is fragmented, and the technological transformation phenomenon remains abstract, especially in the SMEs' context. To improve understanding of technological transformation in SMEs, a systematic literature review was performed on 165 peer-reviewed papers published from 1999 to 2022, building upon BMI and technology assimilation constructs. The descriptive analysis outlines the field's evolution in terms of research and technological trends. The content analysis shows that: most papers focus on factors; the literature falls short of providing theoretical conceptualization and guidelines for the technological transformation process; only a few studies are dedicated to assessing the outcomes of technological transformation in SMEs; and the papers suggest that SMEs present a low transformation level. Finally, we inductively built a framework for technological transformation and suggest five research avenues.

Suggested Citation

  • Camila Silva Mattos & Giustina Pellegrini & Geoffrey Hagelaar & Wilfred Dolfsma, 2024. "Systematic literature review on technological transformation in SMEs: a transformation encompassing technology assimilation and business model innovation," Management Review Quarterly, Springer, vol. 74(2), pages 1057-1095, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:manrev:v:74:y:2024:i:2:d:10.1007_s11301-023-00327-7
    DOI: 10.1007/s11301-023-00327-7
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Technological transformation; Technology assimilation; Business model innovation; SMEs; Technological innovation; Systematic literature review;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • M10 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - General

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