University of Twente Student Theses
Exploring Digital Leadership Competencies and Their Impact on Digital Transformation Maturity : A Study of German Retail SMEs
Schipmann, E. (2024) Exploring Digital Leadership Competencies and Their Impact on Digital Transformation Maturity : A Study of German Retail SMEs.
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| Abstract: | In today’s rapidly digitizing business environment, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the retail sector face increasing pressure to adopt digital transformation strategies to stay competitive. However, little is known about the specific digital leadership competencies required for successful transformation, particularly in German retail SMEs. This exploratory study addresses this gap by investigating the relationship between digital leadership competencies and digital transformation maturity. Six key competencies—tech-savviness, digital strategy, agility, networking, innovation, and empowerment—are identified through a literature review as potential drivers of digital transformation maturity. Using a quantitative approach, data from German retail SMEs is analyzed to explore how these competencies impact digital maturity levels. The findings reveal that competencies like tech-savviness and empowerment are strongly linked to higher digital transformation maturity. This study contributes both theoretically to digital leadership research and offers practical recommendations for SME leaders to develop these competencies to successfully drive digital transformation. Future research is encouraged to further explore leadership dynamics in the digital transformation context, providing actionable strategies for enhancing digital readiness. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 85 business administration, organizational science |
| Programme: | Business Administration MSc (60644) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/103783 |
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