Digital Accounting Adoption and Strategic Decision-Making in SMEs: The Role of Financial Technology Integration

Abstract

This study aims to explore the adoption of digital accounting and the integration of financial technology (fintech) in supporting strategic decision-making within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Using a qualitative case study approach, the research examines how SME actors experience, interpret, and utilize digital financial systems in their business practices. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and documentation involving eight SME actors selected through purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The findings reveal that digital accounting enhances financial visibility and control, enabling more structured and data-informed decision-making. However, decision-making remains hybrid, combining digital data with experiential knowledge. The study also identifies key challenges, including limited digital literacy, technological uncertainty, and a gap between data availability and interpretive capability. Furthermore, external support such as training and ecosystem facilitation plays a crucial role in accelerating technology adoption. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of digital transformation in SMEs by emphasizing its contextual and experiential nature. The study concludes that effective digitalization requires not only technological implementation but also capacity building and ecosystem support. Future research is recommended to expand the scope across different contexts and integrate mixed-method approaches to enhance generalizability