The ambition of ‘digital transformation’ is to use data to change how the enterprise interacts with its ecosystem of staff, customers and suppliers.

This report is based on findings from surveys, interviews and focus groups conducted between 2019-20 with middle- to senior-level managers at state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in Vietnam (n=180).

The digital transformation of SOEs appeared to be more focused on internal processes to optimise efficiency, while SMEs were more externally focused on engaging customers to maximise cashflow. SOEs and SMEs from the secondary sector (e.g. manufacturing, construction) did not appear to be as ready for digital transformation as the primary and tertiary sectors.

Secondary sector responses indicated:

  1. An inconsistent and/or poorly oriented digital transformation strategy within the enterprise.
  2. The lowest level of interaction around digital transformation within the enterprise.
  3. A somewhat negative perception of data-oriented technology investment by the enterprise.
  4. A strongly negative perception of the digital competencies of staff across the enterprise.

 

 

Publication Date: September 2021

Your Authors
Jerry Watkins
Jerry Watkins
Centre of Digital Excellence, RMIT University Vietnam
Nguyen Quang Trung
Nguyen Quang Trung
School of Business & Management, RMIT Vietnam
Mathews Nkhoma
Mathews Nkhoma
School of Business & Management, RMIT Vietnam
Vo Khanh Thien
School of Business & Management, RMIT Vietnam
Nguyen Le Hoang Long
RMIT Vietnam