Meaning ● The Stakeholder Value Index (SVI) in the SMB context measures the holistic worth generated for all stakeholders—employees, customers, suppliers, community, and shareholders—through business operations and strategic initiatives. It moves beyond mere profit, reflecting the impact of growth strategies, automation implementation, and operational enhancements on each group. This index provides actionable insights into how these activities support stakeholder well-being. As such, in an SMB, SVI quantifies how efficiently automation creates better jobs or enhances customer service, providing a tangible metric for responsible growth. ● Furthermore, the SVI helps SMBs prioritize investments in technology and workforce development, linking them directly to stakeholder benefits. Evaluating an automation project’s effects, such as improved employee skills and customer satisfaction, becomes integral to the implementation process. ● To illustrate, if an SMB implements a CRM system, the SVI would track not only sales increases but also improvements in customer engagement scores and employee workflow efficiency, revealing the true value created. Overall, the SVI is a vital tool for SMBs committed to building sustainable, equitable, and socially responsible businesses.
