Making sure you don’t finish
Putting the groundwork in is essential but so too is introducing the concept and theory of digital transformation so that it becomes embedded within company culture. This might sound strange coming from a consultant, but you can’t just buy in a third party to deliver your digital transformation. Consultants can guide, advise and facilitate but there must be understanding and enthusiasm for the process at all levels in an organisation if it’s to succeed.
In order to ensure a state of constant incremental improvements in the way systems operate, top management must be the driving force behind the process. C-level ownership ensures that the hard choices can be made, if necessary, obstacles removed, and the process escalated or adjusted as required. This is not to say that digital transformation can be imposed by a top-down management approach just that without commitment at the highest levels, efforts to reform legacy processes or systems will founder.
As well as a big picture commitment from those at the top, successful digital transformation requires that everybody involved in the process or who might be affect by the changes has a comprehensive understanding of both the theory and the practical side of the process. Without grasping the ultimate ambition of digital transformation those tasked with delivering it won’t fully commit to the process – and without practical ‘how to’ guidance even the most enthusiastic advocate might struggle to take the first step.
By ensuring buy in at all levels, a solid understanding of both the theory and the practical side of the business transformation process, organisations can lay the foundations for a long-term cultural shift. So that next time the world stops, their data-driven business is ready.
Marc Beijen is the founder of and partner in
Novius, a company of Royal HaskoningDHV. He’s also the author of new book: Successful Digital Transformation, A Survival Guide for Managers and Executives.
To find out how Marc can help with your digital transformation get in touch via the form below.