The rapid advancement of digitalization and AI presents significant opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly in manufacturing. However, adoption is often hindered by limited resources, expertise, and scalability issues. This paper introduces an interdisciplinary framework combining engineering, labor sciences, and business informatics to address these challenges. The approach integrates the DMME model for technical rigor, Human-Centered Design for usability, and Action Design
Research for iterative development. Through a series of co-design workshops with SME participants, the framework is validated, emphasizing the need for adaptable AI solutions that align with SMEs' unique operational requirements. The findings underscore the importance of bridging technical, human, and business aspects to develop AI systems that enhance user experience, operational efficiency, and digital transformation. Future work aims to refine the approach and extend its scalability for broader implementation.