The times when digital transformation was considered an almost exotic option have long gone, making way for an era where this process has developed into a strategic necessity for any company that wishes to succeed. It is no longer a question of whether or not digital transformation is mandatory, but rather of how quickly it can be implemented, in order to produce its beneficial effects. Thus was born the term “digital acceleration”, which executives and specialists have started to use increasingly often, especially in the current global context.
But for a better understanding of this phenomenon, we should first take a look at what drives digital transformation and the need for a more rapid change by means of digital technologies.
What drives digital change?
For a while now, companies have realized the importance of speeding up digital change in as many areas as they possibly can, and have started to focus much of their attention on their clients, who are the among the main drivers of change.
Customer demands have evolved along with the development of new technologies, and are constantly growing. Consequently, keeping their clients happy has become quite a challenge even for experienced businesses that have already built a loyal clientele. And that’s because with so many options to choose from, customers can be easily tempted to turn to services offered by other companies that, for any number of reasons, have caught their eye.
An accelerated digital change is also driven by new technologies that, for the past few years at least, have taken industries by storm. These technologies have transformed the way customers interact with their vendors and have made it possible for businesses to come up with new, improved, and innovative products that satisfy even the most tech savvy clients. At the same time, technologies such as machine learning, big data or artificial intelligence, have enabled businesses to get to know their clients better. By collecting and analyzing significant amounts of data, companies can offer their customers a more personalized and secure experience, much to their clients’ liking.
However, businesses must move fast, and accelerate digital change as much as possible, because competition is fierce, and keeping up with disruptive technologies and innovation is the only way that they can succeed in such an environment.
How can companies achieve digital acceleration?
Digital acceleration isn’t something that can be achieved by following a fixed number of instructions; but there are however a few steps that should not be skipped.
Before making any decisions, companies must thoroughly assess their situation, see what digital capabilities they possess, and how can they extend or acquire new ones. In this regard, businesses must review their already existing equipment and IT systems, and determine their staff’s capacity and skills. Only after establishing their needs and areas that require updating, can they move on the next phase, which is planning.
Executives that wish to accelerate digital transformation on any level of their company, must set realistic goals and plan accordingly. Surely shooting for the stars is great, but in reality, not reaching the expected heights might be so disappointing that employees’ motivation may drop, along with their productivity. A clear and attainable game plan on the other hand, in which everyone is aware of its roles and responsibilities is more likely to succeed.
And speaking of employees, as soon as changes begin to happen, and even before they start to take place, they must be supported. Preparing internal staff and explaining every phase that the company will go through is essential, as some of them might be reluctant to change. Moving forward, they will have to be provided with training if necessary, and should be encouraged not to be afraid to express their creativity and innovative ideas.
Finally, after new strategies, business models, and tools are in place, companies must monitor their success, or learn from their failure. Internal employees’ feedback is also important at this point, as executives can determine the areas that require improvement, and make more informed decisions. However ultimately, seeing which objectives have been met, which haven’t, and determining why things did not go according to plan will assist companies in their journey towards achieving digital acceleration.
Conclusion
Companies have come to the conclusion that there can be no progress without digital change, and speeding this process can only bring them even more benefits. Successfully juggling new technologies and trying, at the same time, to find ways to accelerate digital change is a challenge, but the reward is equally high.
Digital Transformation with Arnia Software
As a digital transformation company, we are offering a full range of digital transformation consulting services and the opportunity for you and your company to use new technologies, with a faster, better, and more innovative impact. Both people and technology are important pieces in the process of digital transformation. You can gain competitive advantages, increase productivity, attract new customers or retain the current ones, innovate and develop new opportunities for your businesses.