Impacts and drivers of SME X.0: Delineating sustainable growth via the X.0 wave framework and transformative 7PS and 9PSG governance for future outlook by fuzzy Delphi analysis

The transition of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to the SME X.0 paradigm marks a shift toward sustainable practices across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. This study integrates Prof. Hamid Mattiello’s X.0 wave theory with the Seven Pillars of Sustainability (7PS) and Nine Pillars of Sustainable Governance (9PSG) frameworks, introducing the 5N.BG.7PS model, which highlights five critical networks—political, technical, organizational, economic, and interdisciplinary community networks—necessary for sustainable innovation and governance. The research addresses challenges like climate change, resource depletion, and technological disruptions by leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and Smart Cyber Governance principles. A mixed-method approach, combining qualitative thematic analysis and fuzzy Delphi techniques with a panel of 69 experts, identifies key drivers such as Edu-Culture 7PS, strategic foresight, and organizational adaptability. Outcomes include improved transparency, social and environmental accountability, and customer satisfaction. The findings emphasize Smart Cyber Governance as vital for fostering innovation, resilience, and societal well-being, providing actionable insights for policymakers and business leaders to support the sustainable growth of hybrid SMEs aligned with global development goals.