Building Metaverse‐Ready Businesses: Insights From Global Literacy Trends

ABSTRACT Why are some countries better equipped than others to benefit from digitally immersive environments like the metaverse? Analyzing data from 30 OECD nations, we find that education is the strongest predictor of digital readiness, particularly in countries where it is centrally managed. Using the Capability Approach, we define readiness as the capacity to engage meaningfully with digital tools across work, learning, and community. Through cluster analysis, we identify three readiness types, categorized as Integrated, Constrained, and Asymmetric, and introduce the Digital Readiness Market Model to guide management strategy and business leaders. The findings suggest that successful digital transformation requires solutions that turn technology access into ability. For policymakers, the implication is that future‐ready markets will be shaped by how well national institutions support digital skill development, particularly through education. For business leaders, supporting employee and community training can accelerate digital engagement and accelerate readiness.