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“Why do we need them?”: Digital technologies and small and medium-sized enterprises’ performance

Raquel C. Garcia et al.

Annals of Operations Research2026https://doi.org/10.1007/s10479-025-07023-7article
AJG 3ABDC A
Weight
0.50

Abstract

In an increasingly digitalized world, enterprises that neglect to adapt and innovate risk losing their competitive edge and lagging behind industry trends. Recognizing the unique challenges that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) encounter in this transformative process, there is a pressing need for an evaluation system to aid decision-making regarding digital technology factors that can enhance the performance of these firms. This study employs a multiple-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) approach that integrates cognitive mapping and the Best–Worst Method (BWM) to systematically identify evaluation criteria and their intricate interactions. To ensure the relevance and applicability of the research findings, a panel of experts was recruited from among professionals with knowledge and experience in this area, who were able to provide added value to the research. The results include a proposed decision-support model, the practical potential of which was discussed and validated by both the panel members and a project manager from COTEC Portugal—a leading think-and-action network dedicated to advancing technology diffusion and business innovation cooperation. Due to its process-oriented nature, this research contributes to bridging the gap between theoretical insights and practical applications. Its contributions and limitations are also analyzed, offering valuable insights for researchers, practitioners and policymakers alike. Overall, this comprehensive and unique approach addresses the critical need for understanding the nuanced interplay between digital technologies and SME performance in today’s dynamic business environment.

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https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1007/s10479-025-07023-7

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@article{raquel2026,
  title        = {{“Why do we need them?”: Digital technologies and small and medium-sized enterprises’ performance}},
  author       = {Raquel C. Garcia et al.},
  journal      = {Annals of Operations Research},
  year         = {2026},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1007/s10479-025-07023-7},
}

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Evidence weight

0.50

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20
M · momentum0.50 × 0.15 = 0.07
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

† Text relevance is estimated at 0.50 on the detail page — for your query’s actual relevance score, open this paper from a search result.