From Tradition to Transformation: Development of an Approach for Business Model Adaptation in Automotive Supplier SMEs-Scilight

Digital Technologies Research and Applications

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From Tradition to Transformation: Development of an Approach for Business Model Adaptation in Automotive Supplier SMEs

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https://doi.org/10.54963/dtra.v4i2.1190
Anello, M., Kölmel, B., & Waidelich, L. (2025). From Tradition to Transformation: Development of an Approach for Business Model Adaptation in Automotive Supplier SMEs. Digital Technologies Research and Applications, 4(2), 142–167. https://doi.org/10.54963/dtra.v4i2.1190
Volume 4 Issue 2: September (In Progress)
Copyright (c) 2025 Marco Anello, Bernhard Kölmel, Lukas Waidelich
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Authors

  • Marco Anello

    School of Engineering, Engineering and Management, Pforzheim University, 75175 Pforzheim, Germany
  • Bernhard Kölmel

    School of Engineering, Engineering and Management, Pforzheim University, 75175 Pforzheim, Germany
    ISM International School of Management, Chair Strategic Technology & Innovation Management, 75007 Paris, France
    McCoy College of Business, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA
  • Lukas Waidelich

    School of Engineering, Engineering and Management, Pforzheim University, 75175 Pforzheim, Germany

Received: 23 April 2025; Revised: 17 June 2025; Accepted: 7 July 2025; Published: 30 July 2025

The automotive industry is undergoing a profound transformation driven by electrification, digitalization, and evolving value chains. Small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) in the supplier sector face particular challenges in adapting their business models to these changes. This study addresses this issue by developing the PIC approach, a structured process model consisting of three phases: Preparation, Implementation, and Control. Based on a systematic literature review, the model integrates theoretical insights with practical tools tailored to SMEs. A fictitious case study demonstrates the applicability of the approach and illustrates how companies can use it to assess their current state, define a strategic direction, and manage the transformation process. Continuous improvement is supported through the integration of continuous improvement process principles. While the PIC model is conceptual in nature, it offers a promising foundation for practical application. The objective of this approach is to support successful adaptation, helping users address challenges and mitigate risks arising from ongoing changes in the automotive sector. This work is carried out within the TraFoNetz project—a regional initiative in Germany’s Northern Black Forest that supports the transformation of SMEs in the automotive supply industry. Future research will focus on validating the approach in real‑world settings and refining it further.

Keywords:

Digital Transformation Automotive Industry SME Process Model Business Model Adaptation Automotive Supplier

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