Business Transformation in the Digital Age

With levels of change in business (and everyday life) at levels rarely seen before, it is hardly surprising that business transformation is the focus for many organisations and business leaders.

Even before the pandemic hit, the business landscape was being disrupted in ever greater levels, particularly digital technology which has impacted almost all industries and transformed the way we live our lives at home and at work.  This level of disruption is unlikely to decrease significantly, even after the pandemic is under control, so it is imperative that businesses understand how to manage transformation in the digital age.

Many of our Transformation Talks speakers have outlined the key aspects of carrying out a successful change process (you can read our latest post-event write up featuring Jason Borstal of J&J Denholm here).  Here we summarise some top change and transformation tips.

Focus on your People

Getting your team on board is key for successful transformational change.  Without focusing on change at the individual level, you are unlikely to achieve what you set out to do.  By building your transformation model around your workforce, informing them as to what you hope to achieve, and providing them with the skills and knowledge to play their part, you are on your away to successful transformation.

Put a Structure in Place

Successful business projects require structure and planning, and transformational change is no different.  A well-managed, well thought out programme will produce improved outcomes more efficiently.

Understand the Risks

With any transformation process, there are risks.  However, if as part of your planning and strategy you work to assess and understand these risks in advance, you will be able to include strategies to mitigate these risks, thus increasing your chance of success.

In addition to these key transformation principles, in this digital age there are a number of tools available that when used appropriately can improve business efficiency and aid the transformation process, particularly in larger organisations.  Key tools to look out for include:

Data and Analytics Monitoring Tools

Many of our transformation experts have discussed the importance of using data to monitor the effectiveness of a change programme, but these tools can be used to monitor and provide evidence on all areas of a business to achieve better understanding of its processes.

Key to the use of these is adoption by employees, backed up with robust training programmes to ensure they are used to their best advantage.

Digital Adoption Platforms (DAPs)

DAPS are tools for effectively teaching employees how to use digital resources in a way that works for them, while minimising time and resource spent on in-person training.  These tools can be used to streamline digital adoption, digital transformation, software onboarding, and other processes that are key to successful business transformation.

HCM and ERP platforms

Human Capital Management (HCM) platforms and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platforms can be essential tools for sizeable organisations. These platforms offer an extensive set of resources that can be used by finance and HR to manage recruitment and talent, allocate resources, support with financial forecasting, and much more.  All of these functions have an essential role to play in planning and executing successful business transformation.

It is clear that digital tools, coupled with the right digital adoption strategy can go a long way to improve the success of an organisations’ transformation process, a real bonus of living in the digital age.

To discuss your transformation and change recruitment needs contact [email protected].