In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, businesses are constantly seeking ways to stay ahead.
Digital transformation, while a broad term, is at the heart of this evolution. It encompasses everything from cloud services to emerging technologies, all aimed at reshaping business models.
But how can businesses ensure their digital transformation projects stay on track? Here’s a breakdown, inspired by insights from ZDNet’s recent article, on how to navigate the digital transformation journey.
1. Collaboration is Key
Adam Miller, from Markerstudy Group, emphasises the importance of collaboration between IT and other business executives.
Without identifying key requirements together, the digital transformation journey is doomed from the start. Regular communication and alignment with various business units, from finance to marketing, are essential.
2. Embrace Experimentation
Mia Sorgi of PepsiCo Europe believes in the power of experimentation. Her team’s recent project, a gesture-based system at KFC, underscores the importance of innovation.
As Sorgi aptly puts it, “It’s not an experiment if you know how it’s going to work.” Businesses must be willing to take calculated risks to discover new solutions.
3. People Before Tech
Stephen Booth from Coventry University stresses the importance of culture in tech-led business change.
The mantra?
Build the team first. Digital leaders should not only focus on their IT teams but also involve end-users in the transformation process. After all, shiny tech without a supportive culture only leads to superficial change.
4. Navigating Change Management
Daniel Smith of PANGAIA highlights the often-overlooked aspect of change management.
He advocates for techniques like process mapping and fit-gap analysis. Understanding the current state and the desired “to-be state” is crucial for systematic process change.
5. Building Trust
For Craig York at Milton Keynes University Hospital, trust is paramount. A technology team’s reputation for successful digitization can foster trust across the business.
This trust allows IT professionals to work without fear of repercussions, leading to more innovation and progress.
6. Prioritise User Experience
Spencer Clarkson of Verastar reminds businesses that technology is just the starting point.
The real focus should be on the user experience. Whether it’s providing a comprehensive view of customer metrics or other tools, the end goal is to meet new customer demands.
Digital transformation, in Clarkson’s view, is a continuous change process, a platform that supports change and explores future possibilities.
In Conclusion
Digital transformation is not a one-size-fits-all journey. It requires collaboration, a willingness to experiment, a people-first approach, effective change management, trust, and a focus on user experience.
As businesses navigate this journey, these insights from industry leaders can serve as guiding principles, ensuring that their digital transformation projects not only stay on track but also drive meaningful change.
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