Abstract:

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face increasing pressure from technological, economic, and environmental shifts. This study explores the alignment between academic research objectives and practical tools supporting the transformation of manufacturing SMEs toward future readiness. Framed within the SMERF (SME Ready for the Future) project, the research identifies three core transformation areas: Digital Manufacturing (DM), Open Innovation & Sharing Economy (OI & SE), and Green, Circular Economy & Sustainability (GE, CE & SU). A structured three-stage methodology was employed: (1) defining transformation areas and associated research objectives, (2) assessing existing tools and methodologies, and (3) analysing interconnections between tools and research objectives. Results indicate that selected tools (maturity models, self-assessments, qualitative methods) effectively assess SME awareness, adoption, implementation, and barriers across all transformation areas. These tools consistently integrate organisational culture and mindset and often identify strategies, business models, enablers, and external factors. This comprehensive assessment supports the development of a transformation support tool tailored to SMEs, reinforcing their role as drivers of Europe’s industrial resilience and sustainability.