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This study aims to analyze the role of the digital economy in increasing the competitiveness of MSMEs in Medan City. The rapidly developing digital transformation provides opportunities for MSMEs to expand their markets, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen their competitive position. However, the use of digital technology among MSMEs in Medan remains limited due to low digital literacy, limited capital, lack of training, and minimal use of digital platforms such as e-commerce, social media, and Google My Business. This study uses a descriptive qualitative method through a literature review of research conducted in 2024–2025. The results of the analysis indicate that the digital economy plays a significant role in increasing the competitiveness of MSMEs, particularly through digital marketing, technological innovation, and optimization of digital platforms that can increase visibility and interaction with customers. Based on the Resource-Based View (RBV) approach, the competitive advantage of MSMEs is determined by the quality of internal resources, especially digital literacy, innovation capabilities, and technology management. With the support of training and government policies, the implementation of the digital economy has the potential to strengthen the growth and sustainability of MSMEs in Medan City.

This study examines the implications of the micro-shopping phenomenon and omnichannel integration for market structure and competitive dynamics in Indonesia’s retail sector from an industrial organization perspective. The transformation of modern retail is characterized by a shift toward small-value, high-frequency transactions alongside increasing integration between physical stores and digital channels. Employing a descriptive-analytical approach, this study utilizes secondary data on market shares and the number of retail outlets operated by major firms during the 2022–2024 period. Market structure is assessed through market share distribution, outlet ownership ratios, the four-firm concentration ratio (CR4), and the Herfindahl–Hirschman Index (HHI). The results indicate that Indonesia’s retail market exhibits a highly concentrated, network-based oligopolistic structure. The dominance of large retail firms is reflected not only in their substantial market shares but also in their dense outlet networks, which enable the aggregation of dispersed micro-shopping transactions. Furthermore, omnichannel integration reinforces these structural advantages by enhancing logistical coordination and distribution efficiency. Overall, the findings suggest an increasing tendency toward market consolidation and a declining competitive space for small and traditional retailers, highlighting important implications for competition policy and the long-term sustainability of retail market structure.

Teamwork is a fundamental factor in social, organizational, and educational life, because in essence humans are social creatures that require the interaction and involvement of other individuals to meet their needs and achieve life goals. In the context of work, teamwork can be defined as the result of coordinated individual efforts that are able to produce higher performance than if work is done individually, or as a group of individuals working collectively to achieve common goals that are easier to achieve through collaboration. The implementation of teamwork plays an important role in accelerating job completion, improving individual and organizational performance, and being able to prevent overlapping tasks through good synchronization. Through intensive interaction, teamwork can have a positive impact on the overall performance of the group and also improve individual abilities through the process of knowledge and experience transfer between employees. The dimension of teamwork includes active member contributions, interaction and communication, consistency in maintaining focus on goals, quality of work results, and relevance of team members' knowledge and skills. Therefore, the effectiveness of teamwork is seen as the most important competitive advantage in an organization, making it a major factor that influences the increase in work productivity.

The development of digital technology and the Industrial Revolution 4.0 have driven significant changes in marketing activities, including for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The use of e-commerce has become an important digital marketing strategy for MSMEs to increase competitiveness and business revenue. This study aims to examine the role of e-commerce implementation as a digital marketing tool for MSMEs in facing the Industrial Revolution 4.0 and analyze its impact on increasing MSME revenue and competitive advantage. The research method used is a qualitative descriptive approach with data collection techniques through literature studies of various literature sources such as books, scientific journals, and online publications relevant to the research topic. The results of the study indicate that the implementation of e-commerce has a positive impact on MSMEs, including expanding market reach, increasing marketing efficiency, and driving increased business revenue. In addition, e-commerce also plays a role in increasing MSME competitive advantage through product innovation, improving service quality, and strengthening relationships with consumers. However, the implementation of e-commerce in MSMEs still faces several challenges, such as low digital literacy, limited human resources, and minimal technical assistance. Therefore, ongoing support from various parties is needed so that the use of e-commerce by MSMEs can run optimally and sustainably in the digital era.

The digital transformation era demands printing companies to strategically integrate information technology to enhance efficiency and competitiveness. CV Prima Puspasari still faces several challenges in business process management, such as unintegrated workflows, manual record-keeping, and limited utilization of information systems. This study aims to develop an Information Systems Strategic Planning (ISSP) using the Ward & Peppard method as the main analytical framework. The approach analyzes business and technology conditions through four domains: internal and external business environments, as well as internal and external IS/IT environments. The analysis combines SWOT Analysis, Value Chain Analysis, and the McFarlan Strategic Grid to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats, and to determine application priorities. The results produce three main strategies: IS/IT business strategy, IS/IT management strategy, and IT infrastructure strategy. The recommended systems include Inventory Management System, Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Integrated Financial System, Human Resource Information System (HRIS), E-Procurement, and E-Commerce. This strategic planning is expected to serve as a roadmap for CV Prima Puspasari in implementing digital transformation, improving operational effectiveness, and strengthening its competitive advantage in the digital printing industry.

PT Telering Distrindo is a telecommunications distribution and retail company whose operations rely heavily on information systems. As the business expands and transaction volumes increase, higher demands for system security and reliability require a strategic evaluation of information technology (IT) implementation to ensure alignment with business objectives. This study aims to analyze the condition of the IT infrastructure at PT Telering Distrindo and to formulate development strategies using the Ward & Peppard framework. The research methods include literature review, system observation, IT architecture analysis, and interviews with internal stakeholders. The results show that the company has implemented core systems such as aPOSPlus, aBusinessPlus, and the PPOB TR Reload application, which play an important role in supporting business operations. However, several weaknesses remain in system security, integration, and IT risk management. The SWOT analysis identifies strengths in access control and authentication mechanisms, opportunities to leverage security as a competitive advantage, and threats from cyberattacks and high dependency on IT infrastructure. The study concludes that the Ward & Peppard framework provides a comprehensive strategic perspective and serves as a foundation for developing a more structured, secure, and sustainable IT strategy to support business growth.

The integration of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems has emerged as a critical strategy for modern digital enterprises aiming to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. This study examines the impact of CRM-ERP integration on customer satisfaction, personalized service, and organizational responsiveness. By adopting a mixed-methods approach, this research combines quantitative customer data analysis and qualitative managerial interviews to assess the benefits and challenges of CRM-ERP integration. Key findings highlight significant improvements in customer experience, with increased satisfaction and personalized interactions facilitated by a unified view of customer data. Operational efficiencies were also realized through streamlined processes, better alignment of departments, and enhanced decision-making based on real-time, data-driven insights. Despite these positive outcomes, challenges such as system integration complexities, data fragmentation, and resistance to change were identified, which hindered the speed of integration and full utilization of the systems. This study demonstrates that CRM-ERP integration provides a competitive advantage by improving both customer service and business agility, particularly in industries undergoing digital transformation. For digital enterprises, integrating these systems is crucial for maintaining a seamless customer experience across various touchpoints and achieving greater operational effectiveness. The paper concludes by suggesting future research on the long-term impact of CRM-ERP integration on customer loyalty, business growth, and the potential role of emerging technologies like AI and blockchain in further enhancing these systems.

This study explores the transformative role of big data-driven Decision Support Systems (DSS) in global digital enterprises, particularly focusing on their impact on operational efficiency and corporate governance. By leveraging big data analytics, DSS offer organizations the tools to process vast amounts of real-time data, enabling executives to make more informed decisions that optimize resources, improve productivity, and reduce operational costs. The research highlights the integration of predictive analytics, machine learning, and real-time data processing within DSS, which allows businesses to gain strategic insights and anticipate market trends. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the significant role of DSS in enhancing corporate governance, improving transparency, accountability, and compliance with regulations. These systems foster better decision-making processes, which contribute to building trust among stakeholders and ensuring long-term organizational success. However, the study also identifies several challenges in implementing big data-driven DSS, including data management complexities, technological integration difficulties, and the need for skilled personnel. Despite these challenges, the findings demonstrate that big data-driven DSS are pivotal in driving competitive advantage, operational optimization, and governance improvements. The research concludes with actionable recommendations for executives to adopt and implement big data-driven DSS, emphasizing the importance of continuous support, training, and system integration. The study also suggests future research directions, including exploring the integration of emerging technologies like AI and IoT into DSS and assessing their long-term impact on sustainability and corporate governance.

This study examines the impact of IT-driven innovation management on IT service effectiveness and competitive value creation within smart organizations. As digital transformation accelerates across industries, organizations are increasingly leveraging advanced IT solutions to enhance service delivery, responsiveness, and customer satisfaction. While traditional IT service management (ITSM) models focus on efficiency and structured processes, the integration of innovation management introduces new opportunities to improve service quality and operational agility. Through a quantitative research design, this study employs regression modeling to assess the relationship between IT-driven innovation management and two key outcomes: IT service effectiveness and competitive value creation. Data were collected from 100 technology-intensive organizations that actively integrate innovation into their IT service management processes. The results demonstrate that IT-driven innovation significantly enhances service quality, customer satisfaction, and organizational competitiveness. Furthermore, a curvilinear relationship was identified, indicating that while moderate innovation leads to improved outcomes, excessive innovation may have diminishing returns. These findings highlight the importance of balancing innovation efforts with business goals to achieve optimal performance. The study also compares innovation-driven IT service management with traditional models, illustrating how innovation fosters agility, responsiveness, and long-term value creation. The implications for smart organizations are clear: integrating innovation into IT service management is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Future research should explore the long-term impact of innovation management on organizational sustainability and growth, considering external factors such as market volatility and technological disruptions.

In the context of both public organizations and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), inefficient business processes remain a significant challenge. Fragmented information systems often hinder the optimization of these processes, leading to slower decision-making, redundant efforts, and increased operational costs. This study aims to analyze and optimize business processes by utilizing integrated information systems (IIS), providing a comparative analysis between the two sectors. The theoretical framework explores key theories such as Business Process Management (BPM) and the integration of information systems for process optimization. Previous studies highlight the differences in how IIS implementation impacts the public and SME sectors, noting challenges such as data silos, legacy systems, and resistance to change. A case study analysis methodology was employed to assess the effectiveness of IIS across both sectors. Business Process Modeling (BPMN) was used to visualize business processes before and after optimization, and process performance was measured through key metrics such as time reduction, error rates, and cost efficiency. The results show that IIS integration improved business process efficiency by an average of 28%, with reductions in redundancy and faster decision cycles observed in both sectors. Public organizations benefited from enhanced service delivery and better resource management, while SMEs gained competitive advantages through streamlined operations and increased responsiveness to market demands. The comparison reveals that integrated systems had a greater operational impact than traditional isolated process reengineering methods. Public organizations faced more regulatory and governance challenges, while SMEs leveraged their flexibility for faster integration. Recommendations for both sectors include focusing on overcoming barriers such as resistance to change and investing in system modernization. Future research should explore the long-term effects of IIS integration and further sector-specific comparisons.

This study aims to analyze the implementation of business networks in improving operational efficiency in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the outdoor equipment sector. Increasing public interest in outdoor activities has intensified competition among SMEs, requiring them to develop effective collaboration strategies to maintain operational sustainability. This research employs a qualitative descriptive approach with a single case study design conducted at Misala Gear Outdoor, an SME engaged in outdoor equipment rental and sales in Ciwidey, Bandung Regency. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, direct observation, and documentation, and analyzed using descriptive qualitative techniques. The results indicate that the implementation of business networks involving supplier partnerships, outdoor communities, tourism agents, and digital platforms contributes significantly to improving operational efficiency, particularly in inventory management, service delivery, and market reach. Moreover, business networks enable cost control, resource optimization, and service differentiation, which strengthen the enterprise’s competitive position. This study highlights the strategic role of business networks as an operational efficiency driver for SMEs in the outdoor industry and provides practical implications for SME managers in developing collaborative business strategies.

This study aims to analyze the influence of service quality, product quality, and price on customer loyalty at the online shop Patricia Aksesoris. This research is motivated by the increasingly fierce competition in the e-commerce business, which requires businesses to not only attract new customers but also retain existing ones by increasing loyalty. Customer loyalty is a crucial factor because it directly impacts business sustainability and competitive advantage. This study used a quantitative approach with a survey method, distributing questionnaires to customers who had previously purchased from Patricia Aksesoris. The sampling technique used purposive sampling. The collected data were analyzed using multiple linear regression to determine the effect of each independent variable on customer loyalty. The results indicate that service quality, product quality, and price, both partially and simultaneously, have a positive and significant effect on customer loyalty. These findings indicate that responsive and friendly service, products that meet customer expectations, and competitive pricing commensurate with product quality can increase customer loyalty. This research is expected to provide practical contributions to online shop owners in formulating marketing strategies oriented towards customer satisfaction and loyalty.

This study analyzes the competitive advantage of sharia gold investment at Pegadaian Syariah, Blauran Branch, Surabaya, amidst competition from Bank Syariah Indonesia and sharia fintech. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, primary data was obtained through semi-structured interviews with Branch Managers, marketing staff, and customers, while secondary data came from Pegadaian reports, OJK publications, and the World Gold Council. The analysis employed the SWOT framework and Porter's Five Forces. The results show that Pegadaian Syariah's competitive advantage stems from public trust in its state-owned enterprise (BUMN) status, compliance with sharia principles, certified Galeri24 products, and product flexibility starting from IDR 10,000 supported by the PSDS digital platform. There is a significant opportunity from the 135% year-on-year surge in gold demand, but it faces the threat of intense competition and high buyer bargaining power. Competitive advantage strategies are implemented through digital service differentiation, an inclusive market focus, and cost efficiency. The study recommends intensifying PSDS education, strengthening gold investment literacy, and optimizing pricing to increase competitiveness.

The shift in economic structure from a reliance on traditional agriculture to modern industrialization has yielded various competitive advantages for a region. The presence of leading sectors at the local level is a strong indicator of increased added value and high productivity, fueled by a healthy competitive climate among business actors. This phenomenon is closely related to the characteristics of the industrial sector, which possesses very strong forward and backward linkages, making it a primary driver of national economic growth. Progress in the manufacturing sector is not merely a measure of economic success but also serves as a driver of fiscal stability through massive employment absorption and increased foreign exchange earnings. Industrial growth is considered highly strategic because it holds significant potential for future expansion through technological innovation and production efficiency. This condition makes industrial cluster development an instrument for driving sustainable economic growth in Indonesia, while simultaneously strengthening the competitiveness of local products in the global market through the integration of a more organized production system.

Cocoa fruit is one of the crops with a long history in Indonesia. Cocoa powder and chocolate are among the export commodities processed from cocoa fruit. Currently, cocoa product exports fluctuate annually. The challenges faced in cocoa product exports are diverse. This study aims to analyze the performance of cocoa product exports in the global market. The data used in this study was obtained from UN Comtrade and the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) from 2006 to 2024. The methods used in this study include Revealed Symmetric Comparative Advantage (RSCA) and Export Competitiveness Index (ECI). The results show that the export performance of cocoa powder is relatively good, while that of chocolate is not so good. This is based on the RSCA and ECI values of cocoa powder, which are better than those of chocolate. The average RSCA value of cocoa powder is 0.62, while the average RSCA value of chocolate is -0.93. The average ECI value for cocoa powder is 0.95 and the average ECI value for chocolate is 0.97. One of the factors contributing to the good export performance of cocoa powder is that the export value of cocoa powder is higher than that of chocolate. Strict safety standards in export destination countries also pose a barrier to chocolate exports

In the era of globalization and digital transformation, organizations strive to maintain competitiveness through optimizing internal factors such as work culture, business process engineering (BPR), and decision support systems (DSS). This qualitative research based on a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) analyzes the relationship between these three using the Denison Organizational Culture Model, Hammer & Champy BPR, and the Resource-Based View (RBV). It finds that work culture mediates the implementation of BPR and DSS to increase efficiency by 30-50%, employee productivity, and sustainable competitive advantage. Case studies such as the Toyota Production System (TPS) confirm this synergy, resulting in reduced costs, cycle times, and improved service quality. This research also emphasizes the importance of a strong work culture in supporting the implementation of new technologies and methodologies, which in turn strengthens the company's market position. Thus, organizations that are able to integrate these three elements will be better prepared to face the challenges of globalization and dynamic changes in their industry, creating a sustainable advantage and being able to survive in a highly competitive market.

Regional development faces dynamic challenges amid rapid economic growth driven by natural resource extraction. This study aims to identify leading economic sectors, analyze structural economic transformation, and evaluate the role of these sectors in regional development. The research employs a quantitative method with a descriptive approach. Secondary data consist of Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) at constant prices over the past five years. The analytical techniques applied include Location Quotient analysis to identify base sectors, Shift-Share analysis to assess structural changes as well as comparative and competitive advantages, and Klassen Typology to classify sectoral growth patterns. The results reveal a structural shift from primary sectors, such as agriculture and fisheries, toward secondary sectors, including mining and manufacturing. Despite challenges related to development equity, these leading sectors serve as key drivers of regional economic growth. To maximize the contribution of leading sectors to broader regional development, this study recommends that government policies prioritize the strengthening of intersectoral linkages.

The rapidly changing and increasingly uncertain business environment presents significant challenges for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), requiring them to adapt quickly and strategically to survive and remain competitive. This conceptual article examines the role of business models as an effective adaptation strategy for MSMEs in responding to dynamic market conditions, technological change, and shifting consumer preferences. Through a comprehensive review of various business model frameworks and dynamic capability theories, this study emphasizes that business models play a crucial role in shaping organizational flexibility and strategic responsiveness. The findings highlight that adaptable value propositions enable MSMEs to continuously align their offerings with evolving customer needs, while agile resource management allows firms to efficiently reconfigure internal and external resources. Furthermore, continuous business model innovation and renewal are identified as essential mechanisms for sustaining long-term resilience and competitiveness. The article argues that a business model should not be viewed merely as an operational or administrative tool, but rather as a core strategic mechanism that integrates strategic vision, organizational capabilities, and market orientation. By actively leveraging flexible and innovative business models, MSMEs can enhance their adaptive capacity, mitigate environmental uncertainty, and achieve sustainable competitive advantage in rapidly changing business environments.

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.

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.