Hanoi (VNA) 🐻– Digital transformation encompasses more than just the duties of state agencies, businesses, or individuals; it requires holistic involvement from the whole political system.

In recent times, the Government has demonstrated a clear understanding of the critical role played by digital transformation in socioeconomic development and administrative reform. This awareness has been implemented through programmes designed to encourage the participation of organisations in the digital transition.

Leaders must stand ready to make changes

Experts agree that successful digital transformation depends on strong collaboration among ministries, local governments, businesses, and citizens. Therefore, effective implementation of digital transformation initiatives in Vietnam requires strong leadership and active engagement from all levels of political leadership. Minister Nguyen Manh Hung, said at training sessions for department-level managers under the Ministry of Information and Communications (now the Ministry of Science and Technology), said that leaders in the digital transformation era must adopt an open mindset, be adaptable, and embrace change. He highlighted that leaders must stay attuned to emerging trends, make data-driven decisions, and ensure swift execution. Today, digital transformation has become an inevitable trend, not merely a technological concept, but a fundamental shift in how State agencies operate. In particular, within administrative reform initiatives, digital transformation plays a crucial role in improving management efficiency, streamlining cumbersome procedures, and creating more favorable conditions for both citizens and businesses. Take Hanoi as an example, the capital city has emerged as one of the pioneers in implementing digital transformation initiatives, particularly in simplifying administrative procedures.

In recent years, Hanoi has launched a series of crucial initiatives to promote digital governance and enhance the effectiveness of online public services. The city has adopted digital platforms such as the National Public Service Portal, an electronic records management system, and various online services that allow citizens and businesses to complete administrative procedures without having to visit government offices in person. Hanoi has made it clear that digital transformation is not merely about applying technology, but also about shifting mindsets and rethinking how public services are delivered. Moreover, Hanoi is also recognised as a frontrunner in implementing open data platforms and developing a smart city ecosystem with key services such as traffic monitoring, environmental management, smart healthcare, and online education. Hanoi aims to fully digitise 100% of all valid administrative procedures by 2025 and to put comprehensive digital platforms into operation to serve citizens more quickly, conveniently, and effectively. On February 25, 2025, the Hanoi Party Committee issued Decision No. 8258, outlining the list of shared digital transformation applications to be used across all three administrative levels within Party agencies, government bodies, the Vietnam Fatherland Front, and socio-political organizations. According to the 2024 Public Administration Reform Index (PAR Index) of the People’s Committee of provinces and centrally-run cities, announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs on April 6, 2025, Hanoi ranked third, scoring 92.75 points. This result reflects the city’s tireless efforts on practical solutions in administrative reform.

Valuable lessons and experiences

Hanoi’s administrative simplification initiative is just one part of the Vietnamese Government’s overarching national digital transformation strategy. The Government has come to understand that digital transformation goes beyond the simple application of technology to administrative functions, it represents a fundamental change in management models, operational processes, and how public services are delivered. As such, digital transformation has been incorporated into the Government’s resolutions as a core national strategy, backed by robust policies and mechanisms. Notably, Resolution No. 52-NQ/TW of the Politburo on the development of a digital government and digital economy highlights the importance of building a digital public administration—where public services are primarily provided through online platforms, leveraging digital data and modern technologies.

The Government has also introduced policies to encourage investment in information technology, human resource development, and scientific and technological research. For digital transformation to succeed, local authorities must ensure close coordination among State agencies and active participation from the business community and the public. To date, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang have taken the lead in digital transformation and the development of digital government, offering valuable lessons and best practices. Da Nang is a leading locality in digital transformation for administrative management. It has launched smart platforms such as "Da Nang Smart City," enabling citizens to access public services, monitor socio-economic indicators, and track traffic conditions.

Ho Chi Minh City is also a notable example of successful digital government development. The southern metropolis has rolled out various online public services, enabling residents to access services such as driver's license registration, health insurance, and fee payments through digital platforms. The lessons learned from these cities show that successful digital transformation requires a clear strategy, close coordination among government agencies, tech enterprises, and citizens. Localities must also invest strongly in information technology infrastructure, training high-quality human resources, and developing digital applications to serve management and provision of public services./.