EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF PRACTICES AND BARRIERS TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF it SOLUTIONS AT RUSSIAN ENTERPRISES IN THE OIL AND GAS SECTOR

Abstract

The relevance of this study stems from the need to objectively assess the actual level of digital transformation in the Russian oil and gas industry in the context of sanctions restrictions and accelerated import substitution. Despite the high practical significance of digitalization in the industry, empirical studies systematizing successful practices and identifying persistent barriers remain fragmented. In this article, the author conducts an empirical analysis of IT solution implementation practices at Russian oil and gas companies, identifies key barriers to digital transformation, and assesses the degree of software import substitution. The study is based on an analysis of public reports and strategies from Russia's largest vertically integrated oil companies, data from the Industrial Competence Center "Oil, Gas, Petrochemicals, and Subsoil Use," and a summary of international digitalization cases. Key areas of digital transformation at Russian companies are systematized, highlighting strategic priorities and stated economic results. A classification of barriers to digitalization is proposed across three categories: information technology, human resources, and financial sanctions. Uneven import substitution across IT system classes is identified. It is established that the Russian oil and gas sector ranks among the top three in terms of digitalization among all sectors of the Russian economy.