Effects of Digital Transformation Capabilities on SME Business Performance : The Moderating Effect of Consultant Competency

Purpose This study investigates how the digital transformation (DT) capabilities of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) influence their business performance, and examines whether this relationship is moderated by consultants’ task, management, and common competencies.Methods A quantitative survey was conducted among SMEs in digital transformation support programs. DT awareness, technology acceptance, external response, readiness, and consultants’ competencies were measured. Regression-based moderation analysis examined the interaction between DT capabilities and consultant competencies on performance outcomes.Results The study found that DT awareness and technology acceptance significantly enhance business performance. Among consultant competencies, only task competency had a notable moderating effect. In contrast, readiness, external response, and other competencies showed no significant impact or moderation.Conclusion Effective digital transformation in SMEs requires not only internal commitment and strategic execution, but also the support of skilled consultants. Policy efforts should prioritize expert matching systems that emphasize task-specific competencies to enhance transformation outcomes.