Maturity model for determining the degree of digitalization of manufacturing SMEs

Abstract

The rapid advancement of digital technologies has brought significant transformations in various industries, including manufacturing. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing sector are increasingly adopting digitalization strategies to enhance their operational efficiency, competitiveness, and innovation capabilities. However, there is a lack of frameworks tailored to the unique characteristics of SMEs for assessing their digitalization maturity. This master's thesis presents the development and application of a Maturity model designed to evaluate the digitalization levels of manufacturing SMEs. Based on the combination of the literature and industry experience, a new Maturity model is proposed, with key dimensions and stages of digitalization maturity. The model considers the specific challenges and resources of SMEs and offers a structured approach for assessing their digitalization progress. To validate the proposed Maturity model, a case study was conducted in collaboration with a manufacturing SME the academic partner of TU Wien. The evaluation phase not only validated the applicability of the model but also generated valuable recommendations for the company's future digitalization development.