Digital website application for traditional markets: Case at Ba Hoa market, Ho Chi Minh City

Abstract

In this study, a unique web platform was designed, built and piloted to digitize
the operations of traditional markets, with the typical case of Ba Hoa market in Ho Chi
Minh City. The study identified the main problems of the traditional market ecosystem
through on-site observations and in-depth interviews. From there, the system was designed
to be able to manage stalls, orders, electronic payments, quality monitoring and an easy-touse interface for the elderly. To ensure the availability and acceptance of traders, the
implementation process used a modified Agile model and was field-tested. The pilot results
showed that the platform improved transparency, supported traders to reach customers
more effectively and increased the management efficiency of the Market Management
Board. The study provides a feasible experimental model for digital transformation of
traditional markets in Vietnam and provides advice for expanding and developing this
model sustainably. In addition, the study also analyzes the socio-economic impact of the
digital market model on small traders, including: the ability to expand the market, reduce
operating costs, limit revenue loss, and increase customer access efficiency.