The Impact of Digital Transformation on Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya

Naftary Kahiro Mwangi, Ruth Nyambura Njiraini , Moses Kamau Waweru — Mon, 22 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Aims: This study examined the impact of digital transformation on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya. Specifically, it sought to assess the level of digital transformation adoption among Kenyan SMEs, explore the benefits, challenges, and opportunities associated with digital transformation, and examine the relationship between digital transformation and business outcomes.

Methods: A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis techniques. A sample of 150 SMEs in Kenya was surveyed using structured questionnaires to gather quantitative data on digital transformation adoption and business outcomes. In-depth interviews were conducted with SME owners, managers, and industry experts to collect qualitative data on the benefits, challenges, and opportunities of digital transformation. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, regression analysis, and thematic analysis.

Results: The quantitative analysis revealed that 68% of the surveyed SMEs had adopted digital transformation initiatives to some extent, with mobile applications, cloud computing, and data analytics being the most commonly adopted technologies. Higher levels of digital transformation adoption were found to be significantly associated with improved revenue growth, enhanced operational efficiency, and increased customer satisfaction. The qualitative analysis identified benefits such as improved customer engagement and decision-making, but also highlighted challenges such as limited access to financing and digital skills gaps.

Conclusion: Embracing digital technologies can lead to improved business outcomes and enhanced customer experiences. However, challenges related to financing, digital skills, and infrastructure hinder the successful adoption of digital transformation in SMEs.

Recommendations: To support Kenyan SMEs in their digital transformation journey, Kenyan government should enhance access to financing, foster digital skills development, strengthen digital infrastructure, facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing, promote awareness and foster public-private partnerships.

Resource Planning, Innovation and Organizational Growth: A Review

Frank Mensah Owusu — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Aim: The effective allocation and management of resources, including human, financial, and material assets, are crucial for driving innovation and growth in organizations. This study aims to examine the role of resource planning in fostering innovation and supporting organizational growth strategies.

Methods: This literature review was conducted using desktop methods, relying on electronic databases, online resources, and digital sources to gather relevant scholarly articles and publications. Multiple electronic databases, were searched using keywords such as [insert keywords here]. The search was limited to articles published in peer-reviewed journals written in English language. After an initial screening of titles and abstracts, the selected articles were further assessed for their relevance. The selected articles were carefully read and analyzed to extract key findings, research methodologies, and theoretical frameworks.

Results: The reviewed studies indicate that effective resource planning plays a significant role in fostering innovation and supporting organizational growth. The studies highlight that resource planning, when aligned with organizational goals and objectives, can promote a culture of innovation and facilitate the implementation of growth strategies. This includes efficient allocation of resources, identification of potential opportunities, and prioritization of projects.

Conclusion: By aligning resource allocation with strategic goals, organizations can create an environment that promotes innovation, encourages collaboration, and maximizes the potential for growth.

Recommendation: Organizations should develop comprehensive resource planning strategies that are aligned with their strategic goals and objectives. They should do this by prioritizing projects, allocating resources efficiently, and identifying potential opportunities for innovation. Fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration will help organizations achieve their growth strategies and maintain a competitive advantage.

International Journal of Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Business Strategies

The Impact of Digital Transformation on Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya

Resource Planning, Innovation and Organizational Growth: A Review