Digital Transformation in Human Resource Management among Vietnamese SMEs

Digital transformation is reshaping human resource management, yet evidence on how extensively digital technologies are integrated across core human resource management functions in small and medium-sized enterprises remains limited. This study aims to examine the extent of digital transformation in human resource management among Vietnamese SMEs across four core functions: recruitment, training and development, compensation and benefits, and performance management. Data were collected through a structured survey of managers in Vietnamese small and medium-sized enterprises using stratified random sampling. After data screening, 248 valid responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS 28.0. The findings indicate that the overall level of digital transformation in human resource management is relatively high, with an overall mean of 3.816 on a five-point scale. Training and development records the highest level of digital adoption, followed by compensation and benefits and recruitment. Performance management has the lowest level of digital transformation. These findings suggest that enterprises have progressed further in digitizing standardized human resource activities than functions requiring stronger data integration, systematic measurement, and advanced decision support. The study highlights the need for small and medium-sized enterprises to move beyond isolated digital tools toward integrated human resource management systems that connect technology, data, processes, and managerial capabilities. Future research should examine the organizational and technological factors influencing digital transformation and assess its effects on human resource and business performance.