Model Innovation and Path Optimization in the Digital Upgrading of “Specialized, Sophisticated, Distinctive and Innovative (SRDI)” Enterprises

Abstract

This paper investigates the digital upgrading of China’s specialised and sophisticated small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the context of global supply-chain restructuring and techno-strategic competition. Integrating the resource-based view, dynamic capabilities theory and the technology–organisation–environment framework, it develops a configurational model of how technological readiness, organisational capabilities and environmental support jointly shape digital-transformation outcomes. Using fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis and illustrative cases, the study identifies three high-performing paths – technology-driven, organisation-centred and ecosystem-collaborative – and shows that multiple configurations can lead to successful upgrading. The analysis further highlights the enabling role of industrial internet platforms, data assetisation and digital inclusive finance in alleviating resource constraints and expanding financing channels. Overall, the findings underscore that the risk of non-transformation now exceeds the transitional risks of digital upgrading for these strategically important firms.