THE INFLUENCE OF TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS ON THE CONTROL AND STANDARDISATION OF MANAGEMENT IN SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMES) A DIGITAL TAYLORISM

Abstract

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in driving economic growth and innovation. As engines of job creation and contributors to GDP, SMEs form the backbone of many economies worldwide. In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, technological advancements have emerged as a transformative force with the potential to reshape various aspects of organizations, including their management practices. The objective to carry was to firslty, examine the current management practices in SMEs and identify areas where technological advancements have been implemented. Secondly, analyze the influence of technological advancements on control mechanisms within SMEs, such as monitoring, performance measurement, and reporting. To assess the impact of technological advancements on standardization processes within SMEs, including workflow optimization, quality control, and knowledge management. Thirdly, to explore the benefits, challenges, and potential risks associated with the adoption of a Digital Taylorism approach in SMEs. This study will employ a qualitative research design to gain an in-depth understanding of the influence of technological advancements on the control and standardization of management in SMEs, specifically adopting a Digital Taylorism approach. Data will be collected through in-depth interviews with selected SME owners, managers, and employees. The interviews will be semi-structured, allowing for flexibility while covering key areas of interest. The sample size will be determined based on the principles of saturation, where data collection continues until no new information or themes emerge