THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL PLATFORMS ON THE ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY OF SMALL BUSINESSES

Digital platforms are reshaping how small businesses acquire customers, process transactions, coordinate delivery and use market information. This paper examines the conditions under which such adoption translates into economic efficiency rather than merely higher online sales. Using a structured analytical review of OECD research and official statistics from Uzbekistan, the study develops a firm-level measurement framework combining platform-use intensity, labour productivity, operating-cost ratios, net margins and customer acquisition costs. Official statistics indicate that small business accounted for 53.8% of Uzbekistan’s GDP in 2023, 53.5% in 2024 and 52.2% in 2025; these are contextual indicators, not estimates of the effect of digital platforms. OECD survey findings illustrate potential benefits but are not representative of Uzbek enterprises. The paper proposes a channel-adjusted profitability indicator, a multidimensional platform efficiency assessment and an empirical design for subsequent testing. The findings suggest that platforms can reduce search and coordination costs, but fees, logistics expenses, digital-skill constraints and intermediary dependence may erode net gains. A phased policy and managerial framework is proposed for small firms in Uzbekistan. The contribution is conceptual and methodological; causal impacts require firm-level validation.