Title: Assessing the impact of digitalisation on the export performance of Iranian SMEs: the mediating role of export readiness

Authors: Ashkan Goldooz; Amir Zakery

Addresses: Management, Economics and Progress Engineering Faculty, Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST), Tehran, 00982, Iran ' Management, Economics and Progress Engineering Faculty, Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST), Tehran, 00982, Iran

Abstract: This study aims to explore the influence of digitalisation on the export performance of Iranian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and investigates extra effects of digitalisation that may stimulate export through improving export capabilities and readiness. An empirical approach was employed to test the research hypotheses. A survey was conducted among 70 Iranian exporting SMEs, and their responses were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) to explain the theoretical model and assess the research hypotheses. The study revealed that digitalisation exerts both direct and indirect effects on the export performance of Iranian SMEs. Notably, the indirect effect mediated by export readiness was found to be more substantial than the direct effect. This suggests that SMEs can significantly enhance their export performance by embracing digital technologies. The results underscore the significance of SMEs' readiness in realising the full potential of digital technologies to achieve export targets.

Keywords: digitalisation; export readiness; internationalisation; performance; SME; Iranian SMEs; digital technologies; SEM; structural equation modelling.

DOI: 10.1504/IJGSB.2024.138681

International Journal of Globalisation and Small Business, 2024 Vol.14 No.1, pp.86 - 106

Received: 14 Aug 2023
Accepted: 10 Jan 2024
Published online: 23 May 2024 *

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