Digitalization and Cybersecurity in SMEs: A Bibliometric Analysis
This paper presents a bibliometric analysis on the topics of digitalization and cybersecurity in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) using the R tool Bibliometrix. The analysis includes a total of 417 papers. Firstly, our paper contributes to the academic field by identifying four distinct clusters that represent different research areas: Industry 4.0 and Smart Factory, Industry 4.0 and SMEs, SMEs and Cybersecurity, and Digitalization, SMEs, and Entrepreneurship. This classification helps to categorize the existing research and provides an overview of the main research directions in this field.
Secondly, our paper contributes to the existing literature by emphasizing the existing research gaps. One significant finding is that the digital transformation of SMEs entails increased vulnerability to cyberattacks, which can be a determining factor of their digitalization efforts and the future of their businesses. We have identified that this particular aspect has not been adequately addressed, as existing research focuses on these issues individually without establishing connections between them.
Looking ahead, we anticipate that cybersecurity in SMEs will be a particular case of cybersecurity in firms, separated from research on digitalization in SMEs, which addresses issues such as smart factories and Industry 4.0 objectives in these enterprises.
The Effect of IT Security Issues on the Implementation of Industry 4.0 in SMEs: Barriers or Challenges?
In this paper, we investigate the impact of IT security issues on the implementation of Industry 4.0 in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the manufacturing sector. To address this question, we conducted an empirical study utilizing survey data from 3,184 SMEs gathered through the "Flash Eurobarometer No. 486" (European Union). We employed a machine-learning methodology in our analysis. Our study aims to contribute to the existing literature on the obstacles faced by SMEs in their digital transformation efforts by examining the role played by IT security issues in this process.
Firstly, our results demonstrate that IT security issues have a positive influence on the digitalization of SMEs, as they are perceived as challenges that impulse their transformation. Secondly, our study reveals variations in the levels of digitalisation among SMEs. We observed a broad spectrum of digital adoption, ranging from companies integrating complex digital technologies like robots, cloud computing, and smart devices to a group of companies that are in the early stages of developing Industry 4.0 capabilities. Lastly, our research highlights the heterogeneity in the impact of IT security issues, with a parallel relationship observed between the degree of digitalization and the importance placed on IT security.
Overall, our findings shed light on the significance of addressing IT security concerns in facilitating the successful implementation of Industry 4.0 in SMEs, and emphasize the varying degrees of digital maturity across different companies.
Exploring Cyber Security and Resilience in SMEs: A Regression and Machine Learning Analysis
This study aims to examine the management of cyber security in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and its impact on their resilience. While SMEs play a critical role in the economy, previous research has predominantly focused on cyber security management in large companies. In an effort to address the limited literature on cyber security management in SMEs, we conducted an empirical study based on a survey of 214 SMEs in the UK. Our approach involved a cause-effect analysis using the protection motivation theory (PMT) as a theoretical framework. This study provides both theoretical and methodological contributions, offering valuable insights for managers.
Firstly, our findings shed light on the insufficient attention given by SMEs to the management of cyber security. We identified cyber security incidents as the most significant driver of resilience, surpassing the importance of cyber security management itself. Additionally, our study expands the PMT theory by emphasizing the significance of considering the interplay between factors influencing cyber security management in SMEs.
Secondly, this study demonstrates the potential of statistical methods, particularly machine learning techniques, in discerning cause-effect relationships among the factors impacting cyber security in SMEs.
The effect of cyber security standards on the digitalization of SMEs: A Machine Learning and Systems Dynamics approach
This research paper aims to examine the impact of cybersecurity standards, specifically ISO and Cyber Essentials, on the digital transformation of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The existing literature has not sufficiently addressed the interconnectedness of digitalization, cybersecurity, and standards, highlighting a significant research gap in this area.
To provide a theoretical framework for our study, we will employ the Technology Adoption Model (TAM). This model is particularly relevant as it considers the adoption of diverse digital technologies as a crucial aspect of SMEs' digital transformation.
Our research methodology involves adopting the system dynamics approach to analyse how these factors influence the process of digitalisation. Our study is based on a survey of 214 SMEs in the UK and utilizes a cause-effect analysis approach. Additionally, we will integrate machine-learning techniques (ML) with regression models to enhance the accuracy and depth of our findings.
Our research outcomes reveal two noteworthy findings. Firstly, the utilization of cybersecurity standards among SMEs is notably low, suggesting a potential area for improvement in their digital transformation efforts. Secondly, we identified a dynamic interplay among digitalization, cybersecurity systems, and standards, which collectively reinforce the positive impact on the digital transformation of SMEs.
These research findings offer valuable insights for both managers and policymakers involved in facilitating and promoting the digitalization process within SMEs. It is essential to leverage these insights to develop effective strategies and policies that foster successful digital transformation in this sector.