Abstract:

Digital transformation is a must for the business environment to maintain market share. Among small businesses exists a trepidation regarding this change, being a desired change and at the same time a panic-striker. The advantages of digitalization are acknowledged, but it represents results after many years of struggling to overcome barriers. Analysing a case study of a small family business owning a boutique hotel, it is confirmed that dedicated engagement to change on long-term generated performance business results. A step-by-step approach, it allows business owners to combine self-adjustment with people engagement to adopt digitalization, balancing the financial resources needed during the process. This research proves that the widely spread panic to change is an obstacle that any company can manage, no matter their dimension and existing resources. Meanwhile, exploring this case study is a benchmark opportunity for researchers and businesses contributing to the more and more demanding world to have personalised and unique services.