Implementation of Digital-First Strategy on Small Businesses in Responding to Global Market Dynamics

Abstract

Digital first strategies have become a key approach for small businesses in the face of the dynamics of a global, increasingly fast, competitive, and digitalized market. This study aims to evaluate how the implementation of digital-first strategies can increase the competitiveness of SMEs, expand market reach, and encourage business process efficiency. This study uses a literature study method by examining 20 scientific publications that are relevant to the topic of digitization of SMEs and the global market. The results of the analysis show that the digital-first strategy, when implemented in an integrated manner through the use of technology such as e-commerce, CRM systems, and cloud-based platforms, is able to have a positive impact on the performance of SMEs. However, there are still challenges such as low digital literacy, cybersecurity risks, and reliance on external digital platforms. Therefore, cross sectoral support is needed in building an inclusive, secure, and sustainable digital ecosystem. Digital first strategies are proven to be not just a technological tool, but the foundation of small business transformation towards economic resilience in the digital era.