Title: Multiple-generation involvement in family businesses: an in-depth exploration of the effects on digital transformation process

Authors: Simona Ranaldo; Grazia Dicuonzo; Julio Diéguez-Soto

Addresses: Department of Economics, Management and Business Law, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Largo Abbazia Santa Scolastica, 53, 70124 Bari, Italy ' Department of Economics, Management and Business Law, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Largo Abbazia Santa Scolastica, 53, 70124 Bari, Italy ' Department of Finance and Accounting, University of Málaga, Avda. Cervantes, 2, 29071 Málaga, Spain

Abstract: The topic of digital transformation (DT) in family businesses, although ever-evolving, shows mixed results. In fact, two opposite strands of research emerged. The first argues that traditions and emotional involvement of family members hinder change; the second strand, in contrast, claims that tradition drives innovativeness. Starting from the analysis of determinants of innovation in family businesses, this study aims to explore the relationship between the issue of family involvement - and particularly of multiple generations - and the DT process, through the analysis of a case study. The results show that the involvement of two generations in management, by a culture based on dialogue and cohesion, promotes DT. Another piece of evidence concerns the role of tradition, recognised by the younger generation as a unique and inimitable resource, which, combined with new technological opportunities, encouraged DT.

Keywords: family business; digital transformation; tradition; family cohesion; paradox; case study.

DOI: 10.1504/IJDCET.2024.136865

International Journal of Digital Culture and Electronic Tourism, 2024 Vol.4 No.3, pp.189 - 212

Received: 11 May 2022
Accepted: 30 Jan 2023
Published online: 23 Feb 2024 *

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