Spanish SMEs face digital maturity gap despite high perceived digitalization

Reports from the National Observatory of Technology and Society (ONTSI) and the Gigas Barometer reveal a significant gap between perceived and actual digital maturity among Spanish SMEs. While 74.2% of these companies have reached a basic level of digital intensity—placing Spain above the EU average—only 5.6% achieve a very high intensity level.

A major discrepancy exists in perception: 79% of SMEs believe they are highly digitalized, yet only 9% meet the criteria for true digital maturity, which requires the active use of artificial intelligence, cloud-based critical processes, and advanced cybersecurity.

Óscar Pérez, CEO of Xtremis, describes this as a “digital mirage,” noting that companies often confuse the adoption of generic, everyday software tools with structural technological transformation. The reliance on standard software solutions can lead to operational rigidity, forcing businesses to adapt their workflows to the limitations of the tools rather than using technology to improve efficiency.