Organizational Change in the Digital Transformation of SMEs

This thesis explores the relationship between Organizational Change and Digital Transformation within Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), focusing on how Change Management strategies are implemented in said contexts. The research focuses on a single case study of Masiero Confezioni Srl, an Italian textile company specializing in custom-made men's suits. Using an inductive case study methodology, data was collected through semi-structured interviews with the company’s stakeholders. This approach facilitated an in-depth understanding of the strategic and technological challenges faced by SMEs in their digitalization efforts. The study highlights the critical role of key factors such as communication, employee involvement in decision-making, tailored training programs, and strong leadership. The findings suggest that SMEs benefit from personalized communication strategies and direct employee engagement, which help mitigate resistance to change. Unlike larger corporations, SMEs can leverage their flatter organizational structures for more effective Change Management, including frequent and shorter training sessions tailored to employees' specific needs. The study also identifies strong leadership as crucial in guiding Digital Transformation initiatives and fostering a culture of adaptation. Despite the limited sample size, this research provides valuable insights into the Digital Transformation processes of SMEs and serves as a steppingstone for highlighting the potential for future research on the effectiveness of Change Management strategies. The study contributes to the existing literature by filling the research gap concerning the application of Change Management in the Digital Transformation of SMEs, offering insights into closing the gap between theory and practice in traditional sectors.