Digital transformation (DX, DT) is the integration of digital technology into all areas of a business, changing how it operates and delivers value to its customers. It is a cultural change that requires businesses to continuously research and get comfortable with failure. Seeing that digital transformation is now increasing revenue by up to 10% and saving cost by up to 40% for some businesses around the world, many others are now looking to adopt it, albeit rather blindly.
When digital transformation is done right, it’s like a caterpillar turning into a butterfly, but when done wrong, all you have is a really fast caterpillar. – George Westerman
In this article, I have explained the concept of digital transformation in 10 uncomplicated sentences to help anyone understand and lead conversations that would yield the results they desire because if not done properly, digital transformation can easily become a very frustrating journey.
- Digital transformation is aligning technology innovations with business goals.
- Digital transformation is really more about humans (employees & customers) than digital.
- Digital transformation is leveraging only the technology that adds value.
- Digital transformation is a fundamental company-wide initiative. All employees must embrace it.
- Digital transformation is a long-term process that requires a well-planned strategy.
- Digital transformation is not adopting trendy technologies or gadgets for the sake of using them.
- Digital transformation is not a process only the IT team should drive.
- Digital transformation is not learning Excel macros.
- Digital transformation is not about coding.
- Digital transformation is not a short-term tactic or a one-time fix.
There is no direct, clear-cut path to digital transformation. Each business will have its own unique journey but with the speed at which technologies and solutions are fitting the market, the atmosphere for doing business will soon become very uncomfortable for businesses that have refused to adapt.
