Evaluating digital transformation preparedness among Vietnamese enterprises

Thuan Nguyen; Ly Thi Thao Dang

doi:10.46223/HCMCOUJS.econ.en.15.3.3349.2025

Abstract

Amid Vietnam’s ongoing digital transformation, this study evaluates the readiness of Vietnamese enterprises for comprehensive digital change, identifying a significant gap in their preparedness for Industry 4.0. The research employs a mixed-methods approach. Initially, in-depth interviews with 10 enterprise leaders uncover detailed perceptions regarding digital capacity and transformation management capabilities, aiming to provide nuanced qualitative insights into the specific challenges and opportunities faced during digital transformation. Following this, a survey of 352 enterprises quantitatively assesses their digital transformation maturity, focusing on digital and transformation management capabilities. The survey’s data analysis identifies trends and patterns across different sectors and enterprise sizes. Specifically, it reveals that Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in services are at an early stage of Digital Mastery, while those in manufacturing remain beginners; Private Large Enterprises (PLEs) are early-stage Digital Masters but lag behind Foreign-Invested Enterprises (FIEs). These findings, analyzed through established transformation management theories, highlight the need for targeted strategies to enhance digital readiness, foster innovation, and implement supportive policies to ensure sustainable growth and competitiveness in the digital era.

JEL codes

C33; E00; O30; R11

Keywords

digital maturity; digital transformation; digital capacity; foreign-invested enterprises; transformation management capability; private large enterprises; small and medium-sized enterprises; state-owned enterprises; Vietnam

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.46223/HCMCOUJS.econ.en.15.3.3349.2025

15(3)2025