Abstract
Objective: This study examined the relationship between digital transformation and business management in micro-enterprises in the hardware sector in Juliaca, Peru.
Methodology: This research followed a quantitative, correlational, and non-experimental design. A non-probability sample of 42 hardware stores was selected using convenience sampling. Data collection was carried out using a 26-question instrument organized into two variables: Digital Transformation and Business Management, the latter subdivided into the dimensions of Sales Management and Benefits of E-commerce. Statistical processing was performed using SPSS v26, applying descriptive and correlational analyses using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient.
Results: Statistically significant positive correlations were identified between digital transformation and business management (ρ = 0.882, p < 0.01), as well as between digital transformation and sales management (ρ = 0.887, p < 0.01), and between digital transformation and the benefits of e-commerce (ρ = 0.783, p < 0.01). Hardware stores with a higher level of digitalization showed better business performance and greater benefits derived from the use of digital platforms, such as social media, electronic payments, and online catalogs.
Conclusions: It is concluded that digitalization strengthens the competitiveness of micro-hardware stores by optimizing business management and improving customer satisfaction. However, limitations related to training and technological infrastructure still exist and must be addressed to consolidate the benefits of e-commerce.