This study undertakes a systematic literature review of the impact of remote and hybrid work models on the productivity of small and medium-sized enterprises in the post-COVID-19 environment. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses procedure, data were collected from Scopus and Web of Science, resulting in a final sample of 12 peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2024 that were studied across diverse global contexts. The review finds that flexible work arrangements generally improve productivity by increasing employee satisfaction, reducing commuting time, and supporting work–life balance. Hybrid models emerged as the most effective, as they combine the independence of remote work with the collaborative advantages of in-person interaction, while also highlighting persistent challenges, including inadequate digital infrastructure, communication issues, and increasing cybersecurity risks in small and medium-sized enterprises. This study provides a comprehensive suggestion of critical success factors for small and medium-sized enterprises adapting to hybrid work models, offering valuable insights that can guide both small and medium-sized enterprises and policymakers. Overall, the review suggests that hybrid work models offer a sustainable path to improve productivity and flexibility, although further research is needed to evaluate long-term effects and regional differences.

In the period of sustainable development, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting has turned a critical practice for enterprises. However, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) look unique challenges in ESG compliance, particularly in tracking and transparency. This paper explores how digital technologies such as blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and AI enable ESG traceability and monitoring within SMEs. Throughout a structured review of recent 50 literature, the study investigates how digital ESG systems support regulatory compliance, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable development. We propose a framework for implementing digital ESG monitoring in SMEs and highlight practical challenges and opportunities. This review offers insights into scalable strategies and digital toolkits that SMEs can adopt to meet growing regulatory and societal expectations.

This systematic review examines the impact of flexible work arrangements and hybrid work on small- and medium-sized enterprises, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 framework. A total of 35 peer-reviewed studies published between 2016 and 2025 were analyzed from Scopus and Web of Science databases to identify global patterns, enabling factors, and organizational outcomes of workplace flexibility in small- and medium-sized enterprises. The findings reveal that flexible work arrangements and hybrid work have evolved from temporary responses during the COVID-19 pandemic into long-term organizational strategies in many contexts. Three key themes emerged from the analysis: workplace flexibility and employee outcomes, digital transformation as an enabling capability, and leadership as a driver of organizational resilience. Overall, the reviewed studies indicate that flexible work arrangements are generally associated with improvements in productivity, employee well-being, innovation, and organizational adaptability. However, these outcomes vary significantly across regions and are strongly influenced by digital readiness, leadership practices, and institutional support. Small- and medium-sized enterprises in developed economies demonstrate higher levels of digital maturity and more structured hybrid work adoption, while those in developing economies face constraints related to infrastructure, skills, and resources. The study concludes that flexible and hybrid work should be understood as integrated organizational strategies requiring strong digital capability, adaptive leadership, and supportive policy environments to ensure sustainable performance in small- and medium-sized enterprises.