Dedy Husrizal Syah, Rangga Restu Prayogo, Yanuar Nugroho, Muhammad Masyhuri, Gaffar Hafiz Sagala
Purpose: This study aims to understand the intellectual structure related to the success of digital transformation among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and develop a conceptual framework for the successful digital transformation of SMEs. Design/methodology/approach: This study employs bibliometric analysis for mapping the landscape of research on the digital transformation of SMEs. We use co-citation analysis to identify the root of emerging concepts in older literature and co-occurrence analysis to identify relevant topics discussed in the primary literature. Finally, based on the results of our bibliometric analysis, we constructed the structured framework for the digital transformation of SMEs. Findings: This study found that dynamic capability, resource-based view (RBV) and technology acceptance model (TAM) are the main theories used to investigate digital transformation among SMEs. Those main theories were then operationalized into the various strategies needed for digital transformation among SMEs. Based on those findings, we have proposed a conceptual digital transformation framework for SMEs. Originality/value: We propose a structured SME digital transformation framework based on the leading theory proposed by the most cited articles and significant research findings from the primary literature. Information systems, entrepreneurship and SME researchers could use conceptual frameworks for further investigation. © 2025, Emerald Publishing Limited.
Faculty of Economics, Universitas Negeri Medan, Medan, Indonesia; Department of Entrepreneurship, Faculty of Economics, Universitas Negeri Medan, Medan, Indonesia; Department of Business, Faculty of Vocational Studies, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia; School of Business, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia; Department of Digital Business, Universitas Negeri Medan, Medan, Indonesia
