Learning outcomes By engaging with this case, learners will analyze the role of digital transformation in enhancing micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) competitiveness, evaluate technology-driven operational strategies and identify challenges such as employee resistance and cybersecurity threats. They will examine enterprise resource platforms’ (ERP) role in process integration, recognize the importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding operations and data, propose preventive frameworks and appreciate leadership’s role in driving change, fostering innovation and ensuring continuous employee learning and adaptation. Case overview/synopsis MSMEs are the engines of productivity, competitiveness, skill development and employment generation in India. As the backbone of the economy, they enjoy sustained policy attention while simultaneously being propelled by the twin engines of globalization and the digital revolution. This case study examines the digital transformation of Euro Safety Footwear India Limited, a leading safety footwear manufacturer, under the leadership of its chief executive officer (CEO). The company pursued technological solutions to enhance efficiency, customer satisfaction and global competitiveness, while confronting challenges such as employee resistance, skills adoption, cybersecurity threats and market volatility. The study highlights the CEO’s dilemma in balancing digital transformation with organizational readiness. It underscores digital transformation and robust cybersecurity as essential for MSME resilience, growth and sustained competitiveness in an increasingly globalized digital economy. Complexity academic level This study is suitable for postgraduate or executive education level. Supplementary material Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS 7: Management science.
Srivastava et al. (2025) studied this question.