Digital transformation in Vietnamese SMEs: managerial implications

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the implementation of digital transformation in small and medium-sized enterprises in Vietnam.Design/methodology/approachThe research features in-depth personal interviews with SME executives and managers.FindingsThe findings of this study may be summarized into five main areas: (1) multi-tasking role and scarcity of resources; (2) risk; (3) data-driven decision-making processes; (4) efficient communications; and (5) strategic issues. These categories emerged from the content analysis process.Research limitations/implicationsQualitative research provides a good explanation for situations in actual firms but may not always be generalizable.Practical implicationsMeans of overcoming problems with implementing digital transformation in Vietnamese SMEs are provided.Originality/valueMost studies of Vietnamese companies focus on intensive manufacturing and membership in supply chains. Few studies consider the emergent service and technology sector.