Digital transformation and competitiveness of SMEs

Abstract

The paper examines the level of digital transformation among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Slovakia and compares it with Visegrad countries (Czech Republic, Poland and Hungary). Building on current research on digital maturity, technological readiness and the determinants of digitalisation, the article analyses five indicators from the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI): cloud computing, SMEs selling online, ERP-based electronic information sharing, social media use and e-commerce turnover. The results show significant differences in the adoption of digital technologies within the V4 region. Slovak SMEs predominantly adopt low-cost and easily implementable solutions, such as social media, while lagging in more complex technologies requiring higher organisational and financial capacity, including cloud services and ERP systems. Compared to the V4 average, Slovakia achieves lower values in all indicators except social media use, with the Czech Republic emerging as the regional leader. The findings support theoretical arguments on the importance of organisational capabilities, digital skills and infrastructural preparedness for successful digital transformation.