There is no clear path to transformation, and each company has its own. As a guide, we suggest the following six steps.
In the first stage, enterprises continue to operate as usual and maintain the status quo, regardless of changing customer requirements and technological advances. Lack of digital initiatives can make any organization obsolete, so it is imperative to move to the next stage as soon as possible.
In the second stage, enterprises begin to realize the need for digital optimization: they understand the current problems and the need for a digital transformation initiative. Different departments start trying to solve the same problems in different ways. Although this stage is better than the previous one, it shows a lack of focus and unity. Organizations need to find a way out of the initial chaos if they are to succeed in digital transformation.
Digital transformation begins when a business moves to the intent stage. Key digital leaders and change agents are emerging and starting to test new technologies. They seek formal approval from company management for the change. The business culture can be an obstacle at this stage, so management should actively encourage the innovation culture to further transform.
In the fourth stage, the organization achieves cultural change, so individual groups and departments agree to work together. Key stakeholders create a focused strategic plan to achieve successful digital transformation. They plan various aspects of change, such as ownership, research, effort, and investment.
Companies in the fifth stage begin to implement the digital transformation strategy that we described in the previous stage. They have a cross-departmental team of innovators who determine what needs to be done right now and in the coming months for a successful digital transformation. New digital projects, infrastructure and initiatives are beginning to take shape.
Companies that have reached this stage have a digital transformation system at their disposal to meet all future customer requirements. It becomes a way of life and they can easily follow the path of technological innovation. Digital transformation projects are the new normal in the organization in Phase 6.
Align digital transformation with your business goals
The best start-up initiatives can show measurable results in six months or less. It is better to develop initial strategies that will demonstrate a return on investment and secure management support. You can then gradually fine-tune and scale these early prototypes throughout the organization.
Implementing these technologies can dramatically change the way employees work and how customers interact with your organization. You may also need to engage external partners and experts to train your team and empower your organization.
Collect feedback and refine your digital transformation strategy
It is important to include reliable feedback loops in digital transformation project plans. By collecting stakeholder feedback on a regular basis, you can ensure that everyone is learning from the experience and evolving dynamically. Because digital transformation is a journey, adding breakpoints to your schedule gives you the flexibility to make changes as needed.
An example of digital transformation