Today’s customers are becoming more tech-savvy than Doc from Back to the Future. And with emerging technologies effectively becoming the building blocks of the market, staying ahead of the competition means having an effective digital transformation strategy.
It’s no longer enough to simply keep up with the latest trends; companies must be agile and more forward-thinking than a fortune teller to ensure that business operations are nothing short of profitable.
It really doesn’t matter if an organisation is large or small, a transformation strategy is relevant for all businesses. But before we get sidetracked, let’s cut to the chase. In this blog, we’ll go over digital transformations and how to create an effective strategy for them.
What is a digital transformation?
In the information technology (IT) and business worlds, a digital transformation (DT) is a process of upgrading and deploying new technology solutions to innovate business models. Often carried out with the assistance of managed IT service providers (MSPs), DTs are a cultural shift that reward all employees with a deeper appreciation for IT solutions and their role in delivering business outcomes.
It’s a surefire way of making organisations more efficient and effective, ultimately ensuring that employees are more productive and happy when delivering the company’s products and services to customers.
While it may sound like something that only affects the IT department, a DT can be the cherry on top of a comprehensive business strategy. We’re living in the age of the digital business, and it’s a period of time that can be more chaotic than an episode of Fantasy Island. But with a well-planned digital transformation, organisations can reduce the likelihood of finding their business processes stalled.
5 challenges of a digital transformation
We have to be honest. As rewarding as DTs are, they don’t come without their obstacles. 70% of transformations don’t pan out. And in order to develop the most effective DT strategies humanly possible, business leaders need to be aware of what they’re up against.
Challenges can include (but aren’t limited to):
- Reluctance surrounding change – familiarity with IT solutions and processes breeds comfort, making people reluctant to embrace change.
- Unclear vision – a lack of transparency and planning can lead to poor decision-making, slower processes, and other long-term issues.
- Cyber security issues – cyber security is a major concern when it comes to adopting new technologies. When networks transition during DTs, they may be left more vulnerable to cyber threats, both external and internal.
- The feeling of being overwhelmed – changing company technology, procedures, and mindsets can feel like climbing Mount Everest without a harness. And just between us, without a DT strategy, that feeling can exacerbate all other challenges, making everything worse.
- Budgeting problems – without careful planning, digital transformations can be expensive.
What is a digital transformation strategy?
A digital transformation strategy explains how an organisation will carry out its transformation to achieve its goals. It outlines the steps needed to ensure that the business is leveraging and correctly implementing the latest digital technologies and practices without sacrificing the quality of its services.
A DT strategy needs to encompass everything that the business needs or wants, from unified communications services and cloud computing to stakeholder buy-in. The goal is to create a seamless experience for customers and employees, while also increasing efficiency and reducing operational costs. The strategy can serve as an information source for the entire DT, allowing our team members to not lose their footing while their workplace undergoes an exciting makeover.
How to create a digital transformation strategy
Unfortunately, crafting a DT strategy isn’t like creating a new email address. It takes some time, and it often calls for data-driven organisational reflection to ensure that every stone is unturned. But with a strategy more comprehensive than a Saturday morning shopping list, the entire process can be smooth and secure.
To put together a cost-effective, relevant DT strategy, business leaders need to carry out the following steps:
- Assess the current state of the organisation – identify the strengths and weaknesses of the business from a technical and operational standpoint. Consider how this is shaping workplace culture and what IT solutions can be used to enhance the positives while reducing the negatives.
- Identify the desired outcomes – brainstorm and outline the ultimate objectives of the DT. What does success look like? How will the transformation impact revenue and culture?
- Evaluate existing technology – companies can’t upgrade their tools if they don’t know what they are. Analyse existing business technology and processes. Do they align with the strategy’s goals?
- Develop an implementation plan – map out how the business will implement new technologies while still remaining flexible. Include specific tools, peoples’ roles, timelines, etc. When ready (that is, when everyone approves of the strategy and knows what to do with it), put the plan into action.
- Monitor progress – set up milestones and use them to monitor progress.
- When in doubt, acquire the professional services of managed IT service providers – MSPs’ digital transformation services can offer organisations all the support and advice they need to transform seamlessly.
Digital transformation services from Sydney’s best MSP
We can’t lie, DTs can be stressful. But, a digital transformation strategy can help organisations stay agile and innovative no matter what issues arise during the transitionary period. The digital transformation services at Atarix are a top-tier solution for companies that want to enhance their performance but may be struggling with where to start.
With our expertise on IT solutions and solid business ingenuity, you can be sure that your business is on the right track to digital transformation success.