Digital transformation in SMEs: Why relationships matter as much as technology

Digital transformation is a game changer for businesses and economies. But SMEs, which play a major economic role, lag behind larger firms in developing digital capabilities. In this episode, Drs Alex Kevill, Mariana Estrada-Robles (Leeds University Business School) and Selen Kars-Unluoglu (University of the West of England), discuss how digital transformation is not solely a technical challenge, and how companies need to focus on people and relationships to effectively integrate technology into their organisations. 

This episode was recorded on 21st November 2024. If you would like to get in touch regarding this episode, please contact research.lubs@leeds.ac.uk. A transcript of this episode is available.

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The research discussed in this episode is funded by the BA Leverhulme Small Research Grants scheme. 

About the speakers:  

Dr Alex Kevill is a lecturer in enterprise at Leeds University Business School. He has a keen interest in capability development in entrepreneurial firms, and how knowledge developed from entrepreneurial learning interventions influences entrepreneurial cognition and behaviours.   

Dr Mariana Estrada-Robles is also a lecturer in enterprise at Leeds University Business School. She is a researcher in the field of entrepreneurship and family business. She is also interested in examining particular challenges faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and highlighting their importance in countries like the UK, Mexico and the global context.  

Dr Selen Kars-Unluoglu is an associate professor in organisation studies at the University of the West of England. Her research focuses on understanding the ways organisations and entrepreneurs develop and deploy their intangible resources, such as knowledge, capabilities, and networks to generate growth and achieve learning.