Technological progress and workforce development : the new work organizational processes as challenges and opportunities for micro-enterprises

(1) Background/Purpose: Our research focuses on stakeholders' attitudes in the Slovak SME sector, which we assessed through a questionnaire. The ability to evolve and adapt continuously is critical for micro-enterprises in competitive markets. (2) Study Design/Methodology/Approach: The primary objective of our research is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the new work organization processes in SMEs operating in a rapidly changing economic environment. Our research employed a single-sample cross-sectional sampling method, wherein respondents completed a questionnaire within a defined time frame. The primary data collection was carried out using a questionnaire containing closed questions. The research assesses the opinions of the respondents regarding the problem under study over a given period of time. The survey was conducted online. (3) Findings: 31% of the companies surveyed considered that introducing new work organization processes would make the company more adaptable to the changing economic environment. Only one-third considered involving employees in the processes the most important means to achieve this. Higher employee satisfaction is reported as a positive by 24% of companies. However, only a quarter of them believe the best way to achieve this is to involve employees in processes. For micro-enterprises, limited resources and smaller staff prioritize effective communication, and gaps can cause significant difficulties. Regarding the sample examined, among the hypotheses based on the literature background, we were only able to accept hypothesis H3 with modifications, which states that the biggest challenge for micro-companies in the industrial sector in a competitive market is understanding new technologies when improving employee skills. (4) Originality/Value: The research shows that micro-enterprises are particularly sensitive to the challenges associated with new technologies, which can be important information for designing training programs and developing support strategies for enterprises.