MODELS FOR ASSESSING AND ENHANCING SME EFFICIENCY: EXPERIENCE, COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS, AND IMPLEMENTATION FEATURES

This article is dedicated to the review and comparative analysis of international and Russian models for assessing and enhancing the efficiency of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). By defining SMEs as key drivers of economic growth and innovation, the authors underline their importance for employment and the diversification of the national economy. However, despite SME performance metrics comparable to those in the OECD, the share of SMEs in Russia’s GDP at the beginning of 2025 lags significantly behind developed countries (22% versus 50–60%), which frames the core research problem — the search for and adaptation of effective methods for measuring and improving productivity in this sector. The study focuses on both Russian and foreign practices for assessing SME efficiency, with special attention given to the analysis of international models such as the Balanced Scorecard (BSC), the EFQM Excellence Model, and the Baldrige System. The aim is to identify the specific features, barriers, and potential for implementing globally proven models in Russian practice to enhance SME efficiency. The research addresses issues of multi-criteria assessment, integration of self-evaluation, stakeholder engagement, and institutional limitations. The relevance of the topic stems from the need to integrate the best global tools to form a competitive and sustainable SME sector in the Russian economy. The article structures the criteria, advantages, and areas of application of the models, and demonstrates contemporary approaches to balancing financial and non-financial indicators. A detailed comparative analysis with domestic systems is provided, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, along with real cases of implementing international methodologies in Russian organizations. The scientific and practical significance lies in the systematization and comparison of leading efficiency models, demonstrating their successful and problematic aspects of implementation, as well as formulating recommendations for adapting international methodologies to Russian specifics. The materials of this article can be used for developing SME support programs, corporate strategic planning, and improving management and business efficiency assessment systems in Russia.