Digitalization of Businesses with Low-Cost Web and IoT Technologies: A Case Study of a Smart Gym

Sánchez J.B.; Barzola V.E.; López C.Q. · Communications in Computer and Information Science (2026) · DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-08614-3_17

Resumen

Digital transformation is imperative for businesses today, yet many small and medium enterprises face significant budgetary and technical challenges in adopting advanced proprietary systems. This position paper argues that combining low-cost, open-source web technologies with affordable IoT devices provides a viable pathway for digitalizing traditional businesses. We present a general framework for using accessible e-business and e-commerce tools, followed by a case study of a gym that implemented a comprehensive digital platform using WordPress, community and gamification plugins, and a POS system integrated with IoT-based access control. A comparative analysis of major CMS platforms—evaluating market share, ease of use, extensibility, performance, support, cost, and e-commerce integration—demonstrates that WordPress offers an optimal foundation for such solutions. The findings show that these technologies enable gradual, scalable digital transformation with low initial investment and lay the groundwork for future AI-driven enhancements. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2026.

Instituciones: Universidad Continental; Universidad Nacional del Centro del Perú