Digital transformation is a hot topic. Especially in our changing economy. But are we discussing digital transformation in the right way? In this post, we’ll define digital transformation but look at how we should shift our focus to how it affects people.
When we say people, we don’t just mean customers or users. We mean everyone that is affected by the transformation process. Which, of course, includes “users”, but also includes internal teams.
Let’s take a look…
What is digital transformation?
Digital transformation is the use of digital technology to improve, modify or create new products, processes or customer experiences.
But, as every business is different, this integration can take many forms. What works for one company, may not work for another.
The digital transformation process also involves cultural change. A business looking to transform must be brave and willing to push the status quo. The transformation process demands a commitment to a new culture of experimentation, optimization and challenge.
Why should businesses digitally transform?
It may seem obvious in 2020 that all businesses should undergo a process of digital transformation. But is that really the case?
Transformation can be risky. It’s a challenge to the day-to-day status quo of a business. This is even more likely in the case of a large corporation. So why would a company look to transform?
The answer lies in the world around us.
We live in a time of unprecedented technological change. Our daily lives have changed since the mass adoption of high-speed internet. Although most people still do not have access to a fixed high-speed broadband line at home; many do have access to 3, 4 or 5G networks through a smartphone.
Connectivity has changed every aspect of our lives. Almost every interaction we have with each other, and with the world, has changed. Connectivity has changed the way we interact with businesses and also how we work. Connectivity has created brand new businesses and corporate giants. And there are no signs that the pace of change is going to slow down. In fact, it may increase.
So how do businesses deal with this period of volatility? How can they adapt and evolve?
This is why even established businesses need to think about digital transformation.
Digital transformation helps to keep an organization ahead of the competition. And by having a clear digital strategy, they will also meet the needs of their customers. But transformation takes many forms. It’s not just customer experience journeys, or the sales funnel that can benefit from transformation. Nearly every process within a business could improve with a full transformation strategy.
Don’t forget people!
Digital transformation can only succeed when people are involved in the process.
When a business considers digital transformation, they tend to focus on external customers. But staff are the lifeblood of a business. It’s essential that they’re involved and consulted during the digital transformation journey.
Any transformation, even if it’s focused on external customers, affects internal teams. Businesses may need to change their organizational structure to apply their transformation strategy. So engaging people is vital to the success of the process.
True digital transformation also changes the culture of an organization. To continually improve, your business needs to embrace experimentation. This will help your company to embrace change and stay competitive in changing market conditions.
How can I measure success?
When embarking on a digital transformation process, it’s important to establish what success looks like. Having goals in mind at the start of the journey can help you define the scope of the project.
Exact measurement of success depends on the type of project you are embarking on. For example, if you are evolving a customer experience for an e-commerce business, then there are a lot of metrics you can use to measure success.
Embracing agile experimentation can also help to ensure successful outcomes. This will help your business to assess how they can continually improve their new product or process over time.
Digital transformation can have an impact on strategy, operations and costs. So measuring impact on these 3 areas is a good place to start thinking about KPIs for your transformation project.
What are some upcoming trends in digital transformation and technology?
2020 is shaping up to be a year of tremendous cultural and technological change. Businesses are embracing innovative technology and seeking to change how their teams work.
The use of AI and machine learning will have a massive impact on many businesses and their people. AI and machine learning can be used to automate mundane processes, so internal teams have more time to be creative and help evolve their business.
Cloud computing is also pushing businesses forward. Working in the cloud frees staff up to work remotely from anywhere they choose. This has been revolutionary for many companies, helping to decrease costs. But also for many employees, as it helps to free them up to work from home or anywhere they choose.
How can MAQE help my business transform?
We have several programs that can help your business to start, or improve, a digital transformation project.
- Our “Discover” program will help you see the benefits to transformation
- Our “Define” program will create a roadmap to help you make your ideas a reality
- Our “Create” program will build your vision and help create your new digital experience
- Our “Improve” program will provide you with a dedicated team to continuously evolve your product
Each program takes a human-centric approach to digital transformation. We put people at the heart of every collaboration and we’ll guide you every step of the way
Meet us for a coffee to discuss your business needs, or just for a chat!
We love to meet new people.