Digital transformation strategies in supply chain management for Vietnamese SMEs: A sustainable development approach using SWOT-AHP-TOWS

Abstract

This study focuses on digital transformation (DT) in supply chain management among Vietnamese SMEs, an area that remains underexplored compared to large enterprises. Using a hybrid SWOT-AHP-TOWS framework and evaluations from 20 experts, the study identifies key influencing factors and prioritizes strategic responses. Twelve feasible strategies are identified, with five emerging as top priorities: leveraging government policies and international funding (WO1, weight = 0.014379), developing a skilled digital workforce (WT2, 0.009865), adopting advanced technologies such as AI and IoT (SO1, 0.006036), enhancing organizational flexibility and financial efficiency (ST2, 0.005323), and strengthening system security and operational safety (ST3, 0.005323). These findings offer actionable guidance for SMEs in planning DT while providing evidence-based insights for policymakers to support sustainable and resilient digital supply chains.