A proposed CMM model for research data management at Vietnamese higher education institutions

Abstract

Research Data Management (RDM) plays a pivotal role in the digital transformation of higher education. While many developed countries have established Capability Maturity Models (CMM) for RDM, Vietnam still lacks a localized reference framework adapted to its practical conditions. This paper systematically synthesizes and analyzes international models and regional experiences, identifying core criteria, gaps, and challenges in the implementation of RDM at Vietnamese universities. On this basis, the study proposes a localized RDM capability maturity model comprising five levels and four pillars (policy, infrastructure, human resource training, and support services), constructed using a bottom-up synthesis and top-down modeling approach. The proposed model contributes to the theoretical foundation, serves as a reference and orientation for universities in developing RDM capabilities, and lays the groundwork for future applied research and practical implementation.