Digital Transformation Barriers in U.S. Small Businesses: Key Chanlenges
Ruotong Wu
College: College of Business and Public Management
Major: BS.FINANCE
Faculty Research Mentor: Kocoglu, Ipek
Abstract:
Title: Unpacking Digital Transformation Barriers: A Study of Small Business ChallengesAuthor: Ipek Kokoglu, Department of College of Business and Public Management, Kean UniversityThis study addresses the critical gap in understanding the obstacles that small businesses face when adopting digital tools and technologies, such as e-commerce, automation, and cloud computing. As digital transformation becomes essential for competitiveness, identifying these challenges is vital to supporting small business resilience and growth in an increasingly digital economy.The research uses a survey-based approach to collect data from small business owners and managers across various industries. The survey captures their experiences with digital adoption, focusing on perceived barriers like financial constraints, lack of technical expertise, and resistance to organizational change. The analysis identifies the most prevalent challenges and compares trends across different sectors.The study expects to reveal that financial limitations, limited access to digital expertise, and employee resistance to new technologies are the primary obstacles to digital transformation for small businesses. These barriers often disproportionately affect enterprises in resource-constrained sectors, hindering their ability to modernize operations and compete effectively.By systematically identifying and analyzing these challenges, this research provides actionable insights for policymakers, business support organizations, and small business leaders. The findings can inform targeted strategies, such as subsidized training programs and flexible funding options, to help small businesses overcome barriers and fully leverage digital tools for sustainable success.Keywords: Digital Transformation, Small Businesses, Technology Adoption, Financial Constraints, Organizational Change