How big data impacting CSR application in listed companies in emerging countries: evidence from Vietnam

PurposeThis study aims to use the SmartPLS method for empirical analysis and explore the impact of various factors on the enhancement of corporate social responsibility (CSR) application among listed companies in Vietnam. With the increasing scrutiny over CSR disclosures and the pivotal role of internal and external factors, the research seeks to uncover how factors such as management's perception, big data application, firm characteristics, organisational culture and stakeholder pressure significantly influence CSR application.Design/methodology/approachThe research assesses the relationships among these factors by drawing on a sample of 255 listed Vietnamese companies across various sectors. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (SmartPLS) is applied to analyse the data and uncover the impact of the identified factors on CSR application.FindingsThe findings demonstrate that big data applications, organisational cultures and firm characteristics significantly impact CSR applications. Additionally, management's perception, directly and indirectly, influences CSR applications through its effect on big data applications.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited to listed companies in Vietnam, which may affect the generalizability of the findings to other contexts. Further research is needed to validate these findings in different markets and settings.Practical implicationsThese results provide valuable insights for corporate governance practitioners in Vietnam and similar emerging markets. By highlighting the critical role of big data applications in CSR practices, the study suggests pathways for enhancing corporate governance frameworks to improve CSR applications.Social implicationsImproved CSR practices driven by the factors identified in this study can lead to more sustainable and socially responsible business operations.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the existing literature by using the SmartPLS method to analyse the impact of various factors on CSR applications in an emerging market. It emphasises the importance of big data applications in shaping effective CSR practices and offers valuable recommendations for corporate governance enhancements.