Decoding enterprise digital transformation: A multi-theoretical exploration

Abstract

The concept of Enterprise Digital Transformation (EDT) is increasingly capturing the attention of both academic and business communities. Through a critical examination of the burgeoning body of literature on EDT, this paper aims to unearth and delineate future research avenues critical for the advancement of understanding in this domain. Utilizing organizational and social theories as lenses, we systematically categorize and dissect the extant research literature pertaining to the digital transformation process. This approach enables us to comprehensively understand the current landscape of EDT research, thereby uncovering potential research opportunities and directions. Following a contextual discussion on digital transformation, we methodically review recent literature on EDT from a theoretical standpoint. Our analysis particularly focuses on the current research state regarding the drivers of digital transformation, specific practices employed by enterprises during such transformations, and the subsequent performance outcomes of EDT initiatives. Within this review framework, we also spotlight pertinent research questions related to digital transformation that merit further exploration. Furthermore, we illuminate additional theoretical frameworks that hold promise for future inquiries into digital transformation, thus offering a succinct summary of our review.