Identifying critical digital drivers for the sustainable transformation of vocational education management: A fuzzy DEMATEL approach

In the digital era, vocational education management is under increasing pressure to achieve sustainable transformation. Traditional models often fail to keep pace with rapid technological advances and evolving labor market demands, yet empirical evidence on the role of digital technology in facilitating such transformation remains scarce. This study addresses this gap by examining how digital technology can act as a catalyst for sustainable transformation in vocational education management and by identifying the Critical Success Factors (CSFs) involved. To this end, we conducted a systematic review of the literature, carried out expert interviews, and applied the fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method in collaboration with vocational education management experts, ultimately identifying twelve key CSFs that support sustainable transformation. The findings highlight the pivotal roles of the Digital Education Innovation and R&D Center, the Digital Teaching Resource Library, and Cloud Computing Services as essential drivers of change. This study contributes to the theoretical advancement of sustainable transformation in vocational education management and offers practical guidance for education administrators, while also providing stakeholders with actionable insights for developing digital strategies that enhance efficiency and environmental adaptability within vocational education systems.