Authors: Luu Tien Thuan 1, *, Nguyen Thi Tam 1, Nguyen Thu Nha Trang 1, Le Thi Thu Trang 1, Khuu Ngoc Huyen 1, Nguyen Thu Huong 2
Affiliations:
1School of Economics, Can Tho University, Can Tho City, Vietnam
2Department of English Language, Lac Hong University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Digital transformation is increasingly recognized as a key driver of sustainable business development and effective change management in today’s economy. This study examines the factors influencing digital transformation decisions among trade and service firms in Can Tho City, a major economic hub in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. By combining the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework and the Diffusion of Innovations (DOI) theory with principles of sustainable business, the study adopts a quantitative approach using survey data from 187 enterprises. The results identify seven key factors affecting digital transformation: relative advantage, organizational readiness, competitive pressure, government support, compatibility, managerial support, and pressure from partners and consumers. Among these, relative advantage is the most influential driver, while partner and consumer pressure have a negative impact, reflecting the challenges small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face in adapting to change with limited resources. This study contributes to both theory and practice by offering a comprehensive framework for understanding digital transformation in the context of sustainable development. It provides valuable insights for policymakers and business leaders in emerging economies, emphasizing the importance of aligning technological change with sustainable business practices through effective change management strategies.
Digital transformation, Sustainable development, Emerging economies, Technology adoption, Change management
https://doi.org/10.21833/ijaas.2025.06.022
Thuan, L. T., Tam, N. T., Trang, N. T. N., Trang, L. T. T., Huyen, K. N., & Huong, N. T. (2025). Digital transformation and sustainable business growth: Evidence from SMEs in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. International Journal of Advanced and Applied Sciences, 12(6), 223–233. https://doi.org/10.21833/ijaas.2025.06.022