Measuring the digital maturity of universities: A literature review and a proposed model for Vietnam

Aim/purpose – This paper reviews existing studies on digital transformation in higher education to develop a digital maturity model for universities in Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach – Content analysis methods were used for a systematic literature review, adhering to the PRISMA approach. Of the 150 records, 50 articles remained following the application of exclusion criteria. Then, the four-stage process, including (1) diagnosis, (2) planning, (3) evaluation, and (4) improvement, was employed to develop the digital maturity model. Focus group interviews were conducted to evaluate the proposed model.

Findings – A digital maturity model was developed and evaluated using several techniques in a sequential research process. The model has seven dimensions and 40 indicators covering a variety of activities in a university, including: (1) Planning, leadership, and management, (2) Digital teaching and learning, (3) Scientific research, (4) Quality assurance, (5) Technology transfer and social service, (6) Human resources, (7) ICT infrastructure and resources.

Research implications/limitations – This model is helpful for universities to self- -evaluate and identify their digital maturity level. Adopting the model will be an initial step in their digital transformation process, which can provide university managers with input for their digital transformation strategy and plans. However, this study has not yet validated the model using quantitative methods, which should be addressed in future research.

Originality/value/contribution – Research on digital transformation and digital maturity in the Vietnamese higher education sector remains scant. This paper aims to fill this void by developing a new digital maturity model applicable to Vietnamese universities.