Vietnam's technology sector is entering a pivotal phase where effective artificial intelligence (AI) integration is crucial for attracting and retaining tech talent. A recent trend observed by ITviec, the organizer of the annual "Best IT Companies in Vietnam 2026" rankings, indicates that leading firms are not merely adopting AI but are actively transforming into "AI-ready" work environments.

This shift is underscored by data from ITviec's "IT Salary and Recruitment Market Report 2025-2026", which reveals that 96,8% of IT professionals use AI daily, with ChatGPT alone accounting for 77,1%. AI now directly influences the entire software development lifecycle, from coding and debugging to process optimization, signaling its transition from an experimental tool to an indispensable component of the technical landscape.

According to an ITviec representative, as AI becomes the default, the critical question is no longer "whether to use AI" but rather "to what extent and how". This distinction is a key differentiator among businesses in the market.

"The gap between 'having AI' and being 'AI-ready' is increasingly evident. Companies on the 'Best IT Companies in Vietnam 2026' list are advancing more rapidly toward this standard", the representative explained, outlining three defining characteristics:

First, AI is integrated directly into actual workflows, rather than serving merely as a supplementary tool. Yoong, ranked top 2 in the "Best IT Companies in Vietnam 2026" (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises category), exemplifies this by applying AI across its operations, from recruitment and CV analysis to software development, test writing, coding, and documentation support. The company also employs multi-agent models to optimize each stage of its processes, contributing to an average efficiency increase of up to 55%.

At Yoong, AI not only supports work but also forms an operational foundation, helping the company become one of Vietnam's best IT companies. Anh: Yoong

Second, an AI-centric learning and working ecosystem is becoming the "new normal". While AI integration is widespread, ITviec's "IT Salary and Recruitment Market Report 2025-2026" indicates that only about 2,6% of IT professionals fully trust AI. This highlights the ongoing role of engineers in continuous evaluation and adaptation.

GoTymeX, ranked top 2 in the "Best IT Companies in Vietnam 2026" (Large Enterprises category), cultivates an "AI-first" culture. All employees are equipped with the necessary tools, systems, and training to proactively leverage AI in their daily tasks. The integration of multiple models alongside robust data control mechanisms ensures flexibility in experimentation while maintaining quality and security.

At GoTymeX, AI is an operational foundation, helping position the company among Vietnam's leading IT firms. Anh: GoTymeX

Third, a technical culture that balances experimentation with control is essential. Although AI enhances productivity, its accuracy still has limitations, necessitating appropriate control mechanisms within organizations.

Topicus Vietnam, ranked top 3 in the "Best IT Companies in Vietnam 2026" (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises category), views AI as an "assistant" to accelerate work while preserving the engineer's supervisory role. AI supports code writing, testing, and documentation, but output quality is ensured through critical thinking and professional expertise.

A balanced approach between AI and expertise helps Topicus Vietnam maintain product performance and reliability. Anh: Topicus Vietnam

As AI reshapes the technology industry, companies must invest in modern tools and environments. This also includes developing competitive welfare policies, offering continuous training, and adopting flexible work models. Such efforts aim to boost performance while ensuring sustainable balance for their teams.

"From this perspective, the Top IT Companies in Vietnam 2026 list clearly reflects the market's evolving direction in creating work environments that attract IT talent", the ITviec representative added.

Dong Ve