The Impact of Digitalization on the Productivity of Small and Medium Enterprises in the Czech Republic and Its Macroeconomic Consequences in the Third Decade of the 21st Century

This thesis explores the effects of digitalization on the productivity of small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs) in the Czech Republic, along with its broader macroeconomic impacts in the third decade of the 21st century. The theoretical part outlines the concepts of productivity and digitalization, describes key technologies and tools associated with digitalization, the characteristics of SMEs, and the theoretical underpinnings of the relationship between technological advancement and economic growth. Furthermore, it examines the economic context of digitalization, including its impact on the economy and labor market during the first three decades of the 21st century. The practical part consists of qualitative research based on three interviews with managers who successfully navigated the digitalization process, and a quantitative survey conducted through a questionnaire. The objective was to identify the main factors contributing to successful digitalization and to evaluate how digitalization fosters economic growth and changes in market structure. The discussion and conclusions of the results provide answers to the research questions and offer recommendations for future research. The thesis demonstrates that digitalization has a positive impact on increasing the productivity of SMEs and that adapting to digital innovations is critical for maintaining competitiveness in the modern economic environment. This research contributes to a better understanding of the dynamics of digitalization and its impact on the economy, which is essential for both entrepreneurs and the academic community in the Czech Republic.