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Economic empowerment of rural communities through the strengthening of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) is a crucial pillar in achieving national economic independence. One of the fundamental obstacles faced by MSMEs in rural areas is financial exclusion due to low digital literacy and dependence on conventional cash transaction systems. The Community Service Program (KKN) of students from the State Islamic University of North Sumatra (UIN SU) in Pematang Tengah Village was designed to bridge this gap by optimizing the Indonesian Standard Quick Response Code (QRIS). Through an intensive participatory mentoring approach, students acted as agents of digital transformation who educated, trained, and facilitated 10 local MSME actors in adopting non-cash payment technology. The results of the program show a significant shift from digital skepticism to digital trust. The implementation of QRIS has been proven to increase operational efficiency, financial management accuracy, and strengthen the image of business modernity in the eyes of consumers. This article emphasizes that the role of students is not merely as information deliverers, but as catalysts of social capital that is crucial for the sustainability of digitalization at the village level.

This study examines the utilization of social media in improving the competitiveness of cassava chips and lidah manis SMEs in Pematang Serai Village, Tanjung Pura District, Langkat Regency, North Sumatra Province. The rapid development of information technology has encouraged SMEs to shift from conventional marketing methods to more effective and efficient digital marketing practices. This research employs a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collected through field observations, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving SME actors. The results indicate that the use of social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram is able to expand market reach, increase product visibility, and strengthen relationships between business owners and consumers. Attractive promotional content, consistency in posting, and responsive communication are proven to influence consumer buying interest and trust. However, SMEs still face challenges, including limited digital literacy, time management constraints, and the lack of structured marketing strategies. Therefore, continuous training and assistance are needed so that SMEs can optimize the use of social media more effectively. This study is expected to serve as a reference for the development of digital-based SMEs in rural areas.

Distribution is the process of moving, managing, and storing goods from suppliers to customers in the supply chain. This process includes not only the delivery of raw materials from suppliers to manufacturers, but also the distribution of finished products to the end consumer. Distribution plays an important role in a company's profitability because it affects operational costs, delivery efficiency, and perceived value by customers. Successful well-managed distribution will increase customer satisfaction and strengthen the company's competitiveness in the market. PT. XYZ is one of the LPG distributors that provides 3 kg cylinders. This company serves a variety of consumers, ranging from households, small businesses, to retailers, with a coverage of distribution areas in Serang City. The distribution process is carried out based on sales orders and needs in 14 bases, where each base has a different level of demand according to consumer needs. However, PT. XYZ faces obstacles in achieving the optimal level of service, where the average service level only reaches 97.40%. An imbalance between inventory and demand at the base often leads to an oversupply or understock, resulting in backorders on some demands. This condition has a negative impact on customer satisfaction and overall distribution effectiveness. To overcome this problem, PT. XYZ developed a distribution dashboard by applying the Distribution Requirements Planning (DRP) method. Through this approach, distribution planning becomes more systematic, base needs can be met appropriately, and stocks can be managed more effectively. This dashboard also supports delivery scheduling and more coordinated marketing activities. The results of the implementation of the DRP dashboard in 2023 show a significant increase with a service level that has successfully reached 99%, minimizing backorders, and increasing customer trust and satisfaction.