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10/08/2016

The fundamental elements for a successful digital transformation

Digital transformation is a whole-scale change to the foundational aspects of a business – from the business operating models to infrastructure – through the application of digital technology. This process is not always smooth, but there are elements that help form the basis of a rewarding relationship with digital.

Digital transformation has got all the right intentions but is often a significant disappointment when it comes to results in the boardroom in the face of the technological and organisational ‘baggage’ that exists in most big businesses.

Nonetheless, the allure of digital is strong. And its certain appeal lies in an ability to provide key features to any business transformation programme. It’s clear that digital affords organisations to move with pace. Digital also offers flexibility. The iterative nature of agile development methods and the adaptive architecture of digital solutions are deliberately conceived to enable a project to ‘pivot’. Through digital, organisations can build scale rapidly and easily.

At face value, it’s no wonder that digital is so attractive. But according to research by Sopra Steria, it is not necessarily a determinant of success – 84% of organisations confess they could be better exploiting digital. This is because many organisations still lack the in-house IT skills to properly deploy digital solutions. However, it also reflects the need to quickly access key skills and developed governance frameworks in order to demonstrate return on investment.

There are four intelligent elements that form the basis of a rewarding relationship with digital:

• ‘Deep thinking’ about the business context: This will always be the best foundation for any complex programme. Always make sure you have a clear understanding of the business goals you are pursuing.
• Commitment to ‘sustained value’: This will carry you through even the toughest of times, so make sure you deliver results – however minimally viable – early and keep focusing on building outcomes forever. There is no steady state.
• Rely on ‘networked knowledge’: You won’t – and shouldn’t pretend to – know it all. The beauty of digital is that it is pathologically oriented to collaboration. Rather than try to own every aspect of your programme, build a platform of partners that will enable you to get the best help when you need it.
• See your relationship with digital in terms of building a ‘fluid enterprise’: A successful digital venture is agile, lean and able to adapt to the future demands of business change.

Source: http://www.information-age.com/it-management/strategy-and-innovation/123461755/4-intelligent-elements-successful-digital-transformation