Building Data-Driven Resilience in Small Businesses: A Framework for Operational Intelligence

• Author(s): Azubike Collins Mgbame ; Oyinomomo-emi Emmanuel Akpe ; Abraham Ayodeji Abayomi ; Ejielo Ogbuefi ; Oluwatobi Opeyemi Adeyelu
• Paper ID: 1708218
• Page: 695-712
• Published Date: 31-03-2022
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 5 Issue 9 March-2022

Abstract

In an era marked by rapid technological change, economic uncertainty, and increasing market competition, small businesses (SMEs) face mounting challenges that threaten their sustainability and growth. Traditional operational models often lack the agility and predictive capacity required to navigate these volatile conditions. This paper proposes a comprehensive framework for building data-driven resilience in small businesses through the strategic implementation of Operational Intelligence (OI) systems. Operational Intelligence refers to the real-time collection, analysis, and application of data to inform decisions, mitigate risks, and enhance business agility. While large enterprises have long embraced such technologies, SMEs often lag due to financial, technical, and human capital constraints. This study explores the integration of cloud-based analytics, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, and business intelligence dashboards as affordable and scalable tools for small businesses. The framework presented emphasizes proactive monitoring, anomaly detection, and continuous feedback loops to support adaptive operations. By embedding resilience metrics—such as customer churn, supply chain delays, and financial fluctuations—into operational workflows, the model empowers SMEs to make data-informed decisions that preempt disruption and optimize resources. The paper also examines enablers and barriers to OI adoption in the SME context, including digital literacy, leadership commitment, and data governance. Using real-world case studies and survey data, the research highlights successful applications of OI in improving operational performance, customer responsiveness, and crisis recovery. The proposed framework aligns with global priorities such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). This work contributes to both academic and practical discourse by addressing a critical gap in SME digital transformation research and offering a replicable model for resilience building. Ultimately, equipping small businesses with operational intelligence capabilities is not just a competitive strategy—it is a necessity for economic stability, innovation, and inclusive growth in the digital age.

Keywords

Operational Intelligence, Small Businesses, Data-Driven Resilience, Business Agility, Real-Time Analytics, Digital Transformation, SME Sustainability, Predictive Monitoring, Cloud-Based BI, Crisis Management.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Azubike Collins Mgbame , Oyinomomo-emi Emmanuel Akpe , Abraham Ayodeji Abayomi , Ejielo Ogbuefi , Oluwatobi Opeyemi Adeyelu "Building Data-Driven Resilience in Small Businesses: A Framework for Operational Intelligence" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 5 Issue 9 2022 Page 695-712

IEEE:
Azubike Collins Mgbame , Oyinomomo-emi Emmanuel Akpe , Abraham Ayodeji Abayomi , Ejielo Ogbuefi , Oluwatobi Opeyemi Adeyelu "Building Data-Driven Resilience in Small Businesses: A Framework for Operational Intelligence" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 5(9)