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55,485 articles from 432 journals · 1,579 citations tracked

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Emilianus Eo Kutu Goo; Sahrul Hidayat; Nelci Elvida Klega; Asdianti Asdianti; Yusliani Julein Wole +1 more

Jurnal Pengabdian dan Solidaritas Masyarakat 2026 Lembaga Pengembangan Kinerja Dosen

This community service activity aims to strengthen the marketing strategy of FUNN Maumere as a culinary business operating in an increasingly competitive market environment. The program was conducted using a qualitative descriptive approach through field observations, interviews with business owners and employees, and direct mentoring in implementing more effective marketing strategies. The results indicate that FUNN Maumere has applied a combination of traditional and digital marketing strategies, including brochure distribution and active promotion through social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. The mentoring activities focused on optimizing digital marketing, improving service quality, and strengthening brand consistency. These efforts contributed positively to increased brand awareness, customer interest, and wider promotional reach. However, sales performance remains fluctuative due to external factors, such as weather conditions and differences in outlet location characteristics. Therefore, this community service emphasizes the importance of continuous product innovation, enhancement of customer experience, and optimization of digital marketing strategies to reduce dependency on external conditions. This activity is expected to serve as a practical reference and mentoring model for other culinary MSMEs in developing adaptive, innovative, and sustainable marketing strategies to improve competitiveness and business continuity.

Kennedi Turnip; Anabel Yocelyn Ariella Sianturi; Hawila Manik; Jhensi Echa Flora Hutasoit; Dionisius Sihombing +1 more

Jurnal Manuhara : Pusat Penelitian Ilmu Manajemen dan Bisnis 2026 Asosiasi Riset Ilmu Manajemen Kewirausahaan dan Bisnis Indonesia

This study aims to analyze the contribution of business innovation in increasing repeat orders in micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), with a case study on Nelzz Juice operating in MMTC, Medan City. The research employs a qualitative case study approach, combining in-depth interviews with the owner and staff, direct observation of business operations, and documentation analysis related to business strategies and sales data. The findings indicate that the innovations implemented by Nelzz Juice cover several aspects, namely product innovation, service innovation, and digital marketing strategy innovation. Product innovation is carried out through the selection of fresh and high-quality ingredients, the development of creative menu variations tailored to consumer preferences, and appealing product presentation. Service innovation is reflected in the improvement of service quality, faster order processing, and enhanced friendliness and interaction with customers. Meanwhile, digital marketing innovation has proven effective in expanding consumer reach, increasing engagement, and promoting customer loyalty. The study confirms that the consistent and sustainable application of innovation not only enhances customer satisfaction but also directly contributes to an increase in repeat order frequency. Therefore, business innovation can be considered a key strategy for MSMEs to face market competition, maintain business sustainability, and support sustainable economic growth.

Nada Salsabila Khansa; Ocha Dwi Palusi; Riani Efna Sari; Veliana Dian Maryasari; Ito Setiawan

Merkurius : Jurnal Riset Sistem Informasi dan Teknik Informatika 2026 Asosiasi Riset Teknik Elektro dan Informatika Indonesia

The rapid growth of the culinary industry in Purwokerto has led to the emergence of numerous coffee shops with unique and competitive concepts. La Puerto Coffee & Eatery stands out as one of the leading businesses by implementing a green building concept and modern industrial design. This study aims to analyze the business processes of La Puerto using the SWOT and Value Chain methods to identify its strategic position and sustainable development opportunities. The research adopts a descriptive qualitative approach through direct observation, interviews with management and customers, and literature review. The results show that La Puerto’s main strengths lie in its eco-friendly concept, strategic location, and high-quality service, while its weaknesses include limited digitalization and underdeveloped marketing strategies. The Value Chain analysis reveals that most primary activities are effective; however, digital integration needs improvement to enhance efficiency and value creation. Overall, the combination of SWOT and Value Chain analyses provides a comprehensive understanding of business potential, suggesting that digital transformation, service innovation, and community-based marketing are key strategies for sustaining La Puerto Coffee & Eatery’s competitiveness in the dynamic culinary industry.  

Budi Harianto; Feby Nurhalizah Siregar; Lathifah Ananda Putri; Rini Andriansi; Vany Fadilah Bastian

Jurnal Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

The digitalization of the creative economy has opened up significant opportunities for the community to create innovative products that have high sales value and are environmentally friendly. One interesting innovation is the use of used cooking oil as a raw material for making aromatherapy candles. Used cooking oil, which is usually discarded and pollutes the environment, can be reprocessed into products with economic value, thus supporting the principles of a circular economy. This study aims to examine the potential of processing used cooking oil into aromatherapy candles, analyze digital-based marketing strategies to increase product competitiveness in the market, and examine the meaning of transforming waste into innovative products from the perspective of Immanuel Kant's philosophy of reality. The research methods used were literature studies and field observations of used cooking oil processing practices by the community. The results show that used cooking oil-based aromatherapy candles have good business prospects, especially when combined with digital promotion through social media and marketplaces. Digitalization helps expand marketing reach, create brand identity, and attract consumers who care about environmental sustainability. From the perspective of Immanuel Kant's philosophy of reality, the transformation of used cooking oil into aromatherapy candles can be understood as a phenomenon, namely a reality that is visible in the practice of the digital creative economy. Meanwhile, the values ​​of sustainability, ethical awareness, and social meaning contained therein reflect noumena, namely the deepest reality that is not directly visible but provides direction and meaning for human actions.

Ainun Ganisia; Karmanis Karmanis; Sugiyanto Sugiyanto

Public Service And Governance Journal 2026 Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Semarang

This study aims to analyze the marketing of health-based local products in Plenen Village as a buffer village of the Batang Integrated Industrial Estate and its implications for community welfare. The identified problems include limited human resource capacity, restricted market access, and limited understanding of modern marketing strategies among micro and small business actors. This study employs a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study design. Primary data were obtained through in-depth interviews and field observations, while secondary data were collected from official documents, development reports, and related publications. Data analysis techniques included data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions using source and method triangulation to ensure validity. The results indicate that the people of Plenen Village have diverse potential in health-based local products, including healthy processed foods and herbal products. The marketing strategies applied include direct marketing, digital marketing, and partnerships with local communities, which significantly improve community income and welfare. Major challenges still include limited product innovation and human resource capacity. This study concludes that marketing health-based local products can be an effective strategy to enhance the welfare of buffer village communities around industrial estates, provided it is supported by empowerment, innovation, and adequate policies.

Kholidah Hannum Hasibuan; Yusrina Gultom; Silvia Anggraini Hsb; Reyhan Hidayat; Zulhimma Zulhimma

International Journal of Economics, Commerce, and Management 2026 Asosiasi Riset Ekonomi dan Akuntansi Indonesia

Strengthening family-based microenterprises is one strategic approach to improving the economic resilience and independence of local communities. Family microenterprises not only serve as a source of income, but also as an important instrument in maintaining the social and economic stability of households. This study aims to describe the conditions of family-based microenterprises, identify obstacles to their development, and formulate strategies for optimizing family economics in Neighborhood I of Padangmatinggi Village, Padangsidimpuan City. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach with data collection techniques through in-depth interviews, field observations, and documentation studies. Research informants include family micro-business actors, village officials, and other related parties. The results show that family-based micro-businesses have a real contribution to increasing household income and meeting basic family needs. However, business development still faces limitations in capital, low financial literacy, limited product innovation, and minimal marketing access. Therefore, an integrated development strategy is needed that includes increasing human resource capacity, facilitating access to financing, utilizing digital technology, and institutional support from the local government to realize the sustainability of family micro-businesses.

Edduar Hendri; Agus Mulyani; Yasir Arafat; Ilhamsyah Ilhamsyah; Heryati Heryati +4 more

Jurnal Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

This Community Service activity aims to increase the understanding and motivation of SMA Negeri 1 Payaraman students in utilizing digital media for entrepreneurship. The program was held on November 18, 2025 and was attended by grade XII students. The methods used include interactive lectures, entrepreneurial motivation, discussions, and evaluation using the Likert scale questionnaire. The material was delivered by eight speakers from the Faculty of Economics and Business, University of PGRI Palembang, including the introduction of digital business, online marketing strategies, business plan preparation, product innovation, and entrepreneurial ethics. The results of the evaluation showed that the participants had a good understanding of the concept of digital entrepreneurship, with an average score in the range of 4.0–4.4. The majority of students were in the category of agree to strongly agree with all evaluation statements, indicating that the activity was effective in fostering digital entrepreneurship literacy and motivation. This program is recommended to be continued through more in-depth applicative training.

Lailan Syakira Taufan; Putri Ramadani; Putri Wahyuni; Ruth L. Sitakar; Rahmad Efendi

Jurnal Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

This study examines the role of KKN students in supporting the economic development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through bazaar activities in Selayang Village. The bazaar programs facilitated by KKN students proved effective in improving product marketing, expanding business networks, increasing public awareness of local products, and ultimately raising the income of MSME actors. In addition to their economic impact, the bazaars functioned as promotional platforms and spaces for social interaction that strengthened relationships between community members and local entrepreneurs. Despite facing internal challenges such as limited funding, inadequate human resources, and a lack of product innovation, the initiative demonstrated positive outcomes. Collaboration among KKN students, local government, and the community is considered essential to ensure the sustainability of such empowerment programs. Overall, the findings indicate that bazaar activities represent an effective strategy for rural economic empowerment, contributing to the long-term competitiveness and growth of MSMEs while fostering community participation and local economic resilience.

Erwan Aristyanto; Agus Sarwo Edi

Proceeding of the International Conference on Economics, Accounting, and Taxation 2026 Asosiasi Riset Ekonomi dan Akuntansi Indonesia

This research aims to formulate a strategy to enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of SMEs in East Java, supporting their independence. Using a descriptive qualitative method, data collection involved observation, interviews, and documentation. Key informants included SME actors, relevant agency officials, representatives from SME Banks in East Java, and academics. The analysis revealed that the strategy for enhancing competitiveness focuses on adopting digital marketing, product and process innovation, and strengthening partnerships with government, financial institutions, and large companies to expand market access and resources. Sustainability is supported by effective financial management, compliance with legal requirements, and potential circular economy practices for resource efficiency. The strategy for independence emphasizes entrepreneurship training, mentoring, easier access to capital, and facilitating business matching and exhibitions for market expansion. The government and supporting institutions play a vital role in creating a conducive ecosystem. The relationship between competitiveness, sustainability, and independence is synergistic: increasing competitiveness enhances sustainability, which in turn stabilizes the business environment. Independence allows SMEs to be proactive in achieving both competitiveness and sustainability. With sustained support, East Java's SMEs have significant growth potential, contributing to the economy, but policies, empowerment programs, and resource access facilitation will be crucial to realizing their full potential.

Erwan Aristyanto; Edi, Agus Sarwo

Prosiding Seminar Nasional Ilmu Ekonomi dan Akuntansi 2026 Asosiasi Riset Ekonomi dan Akuntansi Indonesia

The purpose of this research is to formulate a model for the Strategy to Enhance Competitiveness and Sustainability of SMEs in Supporting Independence in East Java. The research method is descriptive qualitative. Data collection techniques include observation, interviews, and documentation. Data analysis techniques use 1) Data reduction, 2) Data display, 3) Data triangulation, 4) Data verification. The informant determination technique uses indepth interviews with key informants such as SME actors, relevant agency officials, representatives from East Java's SME Banks, and academics. The results of data analysis and literature review indicate that the Strategy to Enhance Competitiveness of SMEs in East Java focuses on the adoption of digital marketing (utilization of social media, marketplaces, and e-commerce), product and process innovation (development of unique and quality products, production efficiency), as well as strengthening partnerships and collaborations with various parties (government, financial institutions, large companies) to expand market access and resources. The strategy for enhancing the sustainability of MSMEs in East Java heavily relies on prudent financial management practices (cash flow management, access to affordable financing such as Prokesra and Dagulir), compliance with legal and certification requirements (PIRT, halal, BPOM), as well as the potential implementation of circular economy concepts for resource efficiency and waste reduction. The strategy supporting the independence of MSMEs in East Java focuses on a comprehensive empowerment program, including entrepreneurship training and intensive mentoring for capacity building, ease of access to capital, and facilitation of business matching and exhibitions/bazaars for network and market expansion. The active role of the government and supporting institutions is crucial in creating a conducive ecosystem. The relationship between competitiveness, sustainability, and independence of SMEs is synergistic and mutually reinforcing. Increasing competitiveness directly contributes to economic sustainability. Sustainability creates stability that allows SMEs to continue innovating and enhancing their competitiveness. Meanwhile, independence empowers SMEs to be proactive in achieving competitiveness and sustainability, with the ability to make strategic decisions and adapt to changes. Overall, SMEs in East Java have great potential to continue growing and contributing to the economy. However, sustained support through appropriate policies, relevant empowerment programs, and facilitation of access to essential resources will be key to realizing SMEs that are not only competitive and sustainable but also fully independent.

Sherly Malini; Abdul Rahman; Juli Anggraini; Muhammad Hairul; M. Bambang Purwanto

Karunia: Jurnal Hasil Pengabdian Masyarakat Indonesia 2025 Fakultas Teknik Universitas Maritim AMNI Semarang

This community service program aims to enhance the capacity of traditional clothing UMKM in Palembang through product innovation and business management training in order to support the development of local fashion tourism. UMKM engaged in producing songket, jumputan, and Palembang batik possess significant economic and cultural potential; however, they face various challenges, including limited design innovation, weak business management skills, and insufficient utilization of digital technology for marketing. Through collaboration between the lecturer team of Politeknik Prasetiya Mandiri and the Palembang City Tourism Office, the program was implemented through workshops, business mentoring, and digital marketing training involving UMKM actors, students, and the local community. The results show improvements in participants’ knowledge and skills in developing creative product designs, enhancing production quality, and managing their businesses more professionally. Participants also gained a deeper understanding of digital marketing strategies as an essential tool to expand market reach. This program has contributed positively to strengthening local cultural identity while creating opportunities for creative economic growth through fashion tourism. The implementation of this initiative is expected to serve as a sustainable effort to improve the competitiveness of UMKM and support the economic development of Palembang.

Rahma, Daniar Wulan Aura; Prastiyas, David Indra; Makatita, Tegar Fajar Ramadhan; Cahyarani, Dyah Mita; Nugroho, Gwenda Vania Putri +1 more

Jurnal Bisnis Kreatif dan Inovatif 2025 Asosiasi Riset Ilmu Manajemen dan Bisnis Indonesia

The objective is to analyze the competitiveness of modern retail through the integration of SWOT analysis as a basis for formulating more targeted strategies using qualitative descriptive methods. This paper identifies the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that drive the performance of modern retail based on literature and empirical findings from various previous studies. The results of the analysis show that the main strengths of modern retail lie in product completeness, competitive prices, strategic locations, and operational efficiency. Meanwhile, weaknesses arise from suboptimal digitization, minimal online promotion, limited service innovation, and outdated inventory management. Meanwhile, opportunities arise from changes in digital-based shopping behavior, while threats emerge from the dominance of large retailers, e-commerce competition, and economic fluctuations. Based on the SWOT integration, a strategy is formulated that includes strengthening digitalization, optimizing online marketing, improving service quality, and modernizing operational systems to support long-term competitiveness.

Mazaya Khalda Fachri Berutu; M. Luthfi Lubis; Mhd. Aldri Syahputra; Zainarti Zainarti

Jurnal Bisnis Kreatif dan Inovatif 2025 Asosiasi Riset Ilmu Manajemen dan Bisnis Indonesia

This study explores the roles of innovation and perseverance as critical success factors for young entrepreneurs in the fried chicken business through an in-depth case study of Fried Chicken Smile, located in Medan Tembung Subdistrict. The research focuses on how young entrepreneurs are able to survive and grow in a highly competitive culinary market dominated by global brands such as KFC. Using a qualitative research approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews with business owners and employees, direct field observations, and documentation analysis. The study is supported by several theoretical perspectives, including Grit Theory, which emphasizes perseverance and passion for long-term goals; Entrepreneurial Behavior Theory, which explains proactive and adaptive business behavior; and Schumpeter’s Innovation Theory, which highlights innovation as a driver of competitive advantage. The findings indicate that business success is influenced by continuous product innovation, particularly through adapting menu flavors to local tastes, maintaining consistent operational quality, and implementing effective digital marketing strategies via social media platforms. In addition, strong social support from family, peers, and local communities plays a significant role in sustaining entrepreneurial motivation. Overall, the study demonstrates that the combination of innovation, persistence, and social capital enhances competitiveness and supports the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). These findings provide valuable insights for the development of young entrepreneurship in Indonesia’s dynamic culinary sector.

Febrian Danar Wijaya

Proceeding of the International Conference on Economics, Accounting, and Taxation 2025 Asosiasi Riset Ekonomi dan Akuntansi Indonesia

This study investigates the strategic strengthening of the rambak cracker industry as an instrument for local economic development in Penanggulan Village, Pegandon District, Kendal Regency. Rural agro-processing enterprises have increasingly been recognized as territorially embedded production units capable of generating value-added outputs and absorbing surplus labor within localized economic systems. Field-based empirical observations reveal that rambak production in the village operates through household-managed processing systems characterized by traditional production techniques, informal managerial practices, and limited digital marketing adoption despite contributing significantly to community income generation. Data obtained from expert respondents were analyzed using the Analytical Hierarchy Process to identify strategic priority determinants influencing industrial competitiveness and sustainability. The results indicate that product innovation and quality improvement constitute the primary strategic priority, followed by digital marketing development and institutional partnership strengthening, while production capacity expansion remains comparatively less influential in enhancing market competitiveness. These findings suggest that adaptive innovation and digitally enabled commercialization pathways function as critical mechanisms for improving value-chain integration and expanding market accessibility among rural food-processing industries. Strengthening innovation ecosystems within the rambak sector may therefore contribute to employment creation, income diversification, and sustainable community-based economic transformation in rural production clusters.

Bobby Hartanto; Rika Surianto Zalukhu; Suci Etri Jayanti S; Rapat Piter Sony Hutauruk; Suwadi Suwadi +8 more

Jurnal Pelayanan Masyarakat 2025 Lembaga Pengembangan Kinerja Dosen

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in rural areas still face various challenges in improving product competitiveness, particularly related to the utilization of digital technology and professional product presentation. One of the main issues encountered by MSME actors in Silau Rakyat Village is the limited understanding of digital branding and the lack of innovation in product packaging, which hinders their ability to compete effectively in the digital market. This community service program aims to enhance MSME competitiveness through training and mentoring in digital branding and product packaging innovation. The program was implemented using a participatory and applicative approach through several stages, including preparation, training, and hands-on practice. The main materials delivered focused on MSME digital branding strategies and product packaging innovation as efforts to increase product value. The results indicate an improvement in participants’ knowledge, skills, and awareness regarding the importance of brand identity, the use of digital media, and attractive and informative packaging. In addition, MSME actors began to apply more professional packaging designs and demonstrated a more adaptive attitude toward digital marketing. This community service activity is expected to support the sustainability of MSMEs and strengthen the local economy in Silau Rakyat Village.

Alfina Sitangganga; Darwin Lie; Robet Tua Siregar

Proceeding of the International Conference on Management, Entrepreneurship, and Business 2025 Asosiasi Riset Ilmu Manajemen Kewirausahaan dan Bisnis Indonesia

This study seeks to investigate a consumer behavior model by evaluating the impact of interactive technology-driven digital innovation and perceived value on digital engagement, with customer behavior serving as a mediating variable within the retail sector in Jambi Province. A quantitative research design utilized a survey method with 150 retail consumers as participants. We used Structural Equation Modeling–Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) to look at both the measurement and structural models. The findings of the measurement model show that all indicators match the requirements for convergent validity. The outer loading values are all over 0.70, which means that the construct is reliable and valid. The evaluation of the structural model indicates that perceived value exerts a positive and significant influence on both consumer behavior and digital engagement. Also, how people act as consumers has a big effect on how they contact with and participate in digital media. This means that people who think retail services are more valuable are more likely to interact with and participate in digital media. Nevertheless, interactive technology-driven digital innovation does not exhibit a substantial direct impact on customer behavior or digital engagement. These findings suggest that value perception is more influential than technology innovation in determining consumer responses inside digital retail environments. This research enhances the body of knowledge regarding consumer behavior and digital marketing by highlighting the strategic significance of perceived value in augmenting consumer involvement within digital retail contexts.

Nabila Fajrina; Andriyanto Andriyanto; Rabi'ah Adawiyah; Muhammad Firdaus Isfandi

Proceeding of the International Conference on Management, Entrepreneurship, and Business 2025 Asosiasi Riset Ilmu Manajemen Kewirausahaan dan Bisnis Indonesia

In response to the escalating challenge of packaging waste in the beauty industry, The Body Shop Indonesia has implemented a Green Marketing Mix through its Bring Back Our Bottles (BBOB) and Refill Station programs. This study aims to analyze the strategic implementation of this approach, assess consumer perceptions and engagement, and explore the inherent challenges and opportunities for future development. Employing a qualitative case study approach, the research collected data from five respondents who are The Body Shop consumers with prior participation in either the BBOB or Refill Station programs. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, observation, and a comprehensive literature review. Thematic analysis was subsequently performed, with findings validated through source and method triangulation. The results indicate that The Body Shop’s Green Marketing Mix has been effectively implemented, particularly in the elements of product (environmentally friendly packaging), promotion (campaigns via digital and print media), and physical evidence (store design that promotes a natural ambiance). Despite positive consumer responses and a strengthened brand image, persistent obstacles were identified, including limited access to program locations and insufficient information dissemination. The programs were found to be effective in enhancing customer loyalty and hold significant potential for expansion, particularly through targeted education and collaborative initiatives with youth communities. This study recommends expanding the programs’ geographical coverage, strengthening digital communication, and establishing strategic community partnerships. The findings are expected to make a meaningful contribution to the development of sustainable green marketing strategies within the beauty industry.

Alvazaki Ikbar Maulana; Muhammad yasin

Jurnal Publikasi Ekonomi dan Akuntansi 2025 Asosiasi Riset Ekonomi dan Akuntansi Indonesia

This study aims to analyze the factors determining the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia through a literature review approach. MSMEs make a significant contribution to the national economy, but their growth still faces various structural barriers. Based on the results of the literature review, it was found that access to capital, human resource quality, managerial capacity, innovation, digitalization, marketing strategies, and government policies are the main factors influencing MSME growth. Limited capital and low financial literacy are dominant obstacles that hinder business expansion. Furthermore, weak managerial capacity and digital competency prevent many MSMEs from optimally exploiting market opportunities. Innovation and the use of digital technology have been proven to increase efficiency and marketing reach, but the adoption rate remains low. External factors such as government regulations, simplified licensing, and support from empowerment programs also play a significant role in creating a conducive business climate. This study emphasizes that MSME development requires a comprehensive approach that integrates internal aspects of business actors and structural government support. The research results are expected to serve as a reference for academics, policymakers, and MSME actors in formulating more effective development strategies.

Anju Andini; Eka Kristina Waruwu; Yusuf Adzka Tarigan

Jurnal Bisnis Kreatif dan Inovatif 2025 Asosiasi Riset Ilmu Manajemen dan Bisnis Indonesia

This study aims to analyze the role of innovation in enhancing the competitiveness of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Medan City. The research employs a qualitative approach through direct interviews with several MSME owners from various business sectors. The results reveal that innovation plays a significant role in strengthening business competitiveness through product development, digital marketing strategies, and improvements in production processes. Product innovation among MSMEs includes changes in design, quality enhancement, and product diversification based on market demand. Meanwhile, marketing innovation is achieved through the utilization of social media and digital platforms to expand market reach and improve customer engagement. However, MSME actors still face challenges such as limited capital, low digital literacy, and lack of access to training and mentorship. Therefore, collaboration between business actors, government, and supporting institutions is essential to build a sustainable innovation ecosystem that strengthens the competitiveness of MSMEs in the digital era.

Eko Alamsyah; Sudarmiatin Sudarmiatin; Agus Hermawan

International Journal of Management Science and Business 2025 International Forum of Researchers and Lecturers

This study aims to examine the influence of product innovation, digital marketing, and business networking on the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with customer engagement positioned as a mediating variable. Employing a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, thirty Scopus-indexed articles published between 2020 and 2025 were analysed to synthesise theoretical and empirical insights related to SME competitiveness in contemporary digital and urban business environments. The findings indicate that product innovation, digital marketing, and business networking each play a significant role in strengthening SME competitiveness, particularly within markets characterised by rapid technological change. Customer engagement emerges as a critical mediating mechanism that connects these strategic variables to sustainable competitive advantage. It enhances the impact of innovative and digital strategies by fostering stronger emotional, behavioural, and participative interactions between SMEs and their customers. The review also highlights that SMEs adopting integrated digital management practices, such as the utilisation of human-resource information systems (HRIS) and data-driven decision-making tend to demonstrate greater adaptability, market responsiveness, and long-term performance. The study contributes theoretically by integrating resource-based and dynamic capability perspectives, offering a holistic understanding of how digital and relational capabilities interact to elevate competitiveness. Practically, the findings provide strategic guidance for policymakers, SME managers, and practitioners in designing innovation-oriented and digitally enabled initiatives that support sustainable SME growth in the digital era.