Meaning ● Platformization, in the context of SMB growth, represents a business strategy where an SMB leverages digital platforms—whether built in-house or adopted from third-party providers—to streamline operations, expand market reach, and create new revenue streams. Automation, a direct beneficiary of platformization, integrates workflows within these platforms, reducing manual effort and increasing efficiency. For SMBs, successful platform implementation hinges on selecting solutions that are scalable and aligned with their specific business needs. These platforms become central to how the business interacts with customers, manages data, and executes core processes, fostering an ecosystem that promotes agility and innovation. The platform’s ability to connect different parts of the SMB creates greater operational visibility, potentially lowering operational costs and enhancing decision-making abilities by centralizing key processes. Integrating various software solutions creates a synchronized approach to managing workflows, enabling businesses to scale operations effectively. Effective data management enables SMBs to tailor services and marketing, building customer loyalty and driving expansion.