New invoicing and traceability obligations—led by Royal Decree 254/2025 and Law 18/2022 "Crea y Crece"—are accelerating the digitization of the supply chain. The Royal Decree adapts the requirements for invoicing programs and extends deadlines, but confirms the requirement for integrity, traceability, and electronic submission of records. At the same time, the law establishes that companies with a turnover of more than €8 million must work with electronic invoicing starting in 2026, and the rest will do so in 2027.
Common Challenges
In today's business environment, SMEs face a series of common challenges that can affect their efficiency and competitiveness. These challenges range from managing manual processes to regulatory compliance and a lack of critical data for decision-making. Below are some of the most common challenges, their impact on SMEs, and initial advice for addressing them effectively.
|
Challenge |
Impact on SMEs |
Initial advice |
|
Manual processes (email, Excel) |
Errors and lack of visibility |
Centralize information in a supplier portal |
|
Regulatory compliance (e-Invoice, Verifactu) |
Risk of sanctions and loss of aid |
Choose approved software and update internal policies |
|
Lack of data on ESG or financial risks |
Poorly informed purchasing decisions |
Activate automatic evaluation and scoring modules |
|
Connectivity in rural areas |
Makes real-time work difficult |
SaaS solutions with offline mode or delayed synchronization |
Benefits of digitalization
- Time savings in approvals and reconciliations.
- Data-driven negotiation (price history and incidents).
- Reduction in fraud and late payments thanks to structured invoicing and automated controls.
- Preparation for ESG audits and future due diligence requirements across the value chain.
Platform Landscape (2025)
In 2025, the business management technology platform landscape presents a wide variety of solutions tailored to different segments and needs. From comprehensive spend management suites to cloud ERPs for SMEs and vertical industrial solutions, each platform offers unique features that can boost business efficiency and competitiveness. Below, we highlight some of the most relevant platforms in each segment, their strengths, and tips for effective implementation.
|
Segment |
Featured Platforms |
Strengths |
|
Global Spend Management Suites |
SAP Ariba and Coupa (4.0 ★ average on GetApp) |
Complete P2P workflow, integrated marketplace, and advanced analytics |
|
Cloud ERP for SMEs |
Holded: new multi-SKU field per supplier for more precise orders |
Rapid implementation and subscription rates |
|
Industrial Vertical Solutions |
Ibernova Manufacturing Platform: 3DEXPERIENCE connectors and proprietary MES |
Unified data from engineering to plant |
Tip: Start with a supplier portal and e-invoicing module; then expand with expense analytics or ESG.
Best practices for successful implementation
- Map the P2P cycle (request-order-receipt-invoice-payment) and eliminate duplication.
- Define key indicators (average payment term, % of invoices without incidents).
- Integrate e-Invoice from day 1: Facturae/UBL format and connection with the AEAT (Tax Agency).
- Train your suppliers: short webinars and an integration manual.
- Assess cybersecurity (encryption, access controls, backups in the EU cloud).
How does DIGIS3 help you?
- Free digital maturity and regulatory compliance assessment.
- Workshops and supply-demand meetings to connect with suppliers and local success stories.
- Financing advice: regional, national, and European aid.
- Access to the innovation ecosystem and networks.
Write to us at info@digis3.eu.
