Digital transformation in Greater Manchester: determinants of technology adoption and implications for firms’ performance
Abstract
This study provides firm-level evidence of the adoption of advanced digital technologies (DTs) in Greater Manchester. Examining the drivers and impact of six technologies, namely AI, Big Data, Cloud Computing, 3D-printing, IoT and Robotics. Using random forest models, a predictive machine learning technique, the findings suggest that a disaggregated approach is necessary to analyse and understand DT adoption. This paper argues that while firms’ contextual factors, which include size, age, and turnover, are important for successful digital transformation, firms must combine the adoption of DTs with relevant digital skills to allow companies to turn technological investments into productivity gains.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Smart Cities and Technologies
Digital Transformation in Industry
Consumer Retail Behavior Studies
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Spatial Economic Analysis
- Publisher
- Informa UK Limited
- Volume
- 21
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 495–511
- Publication date
- 19 May 2026
- Language
- EN