In 2019, Digital Transformation was spoken about by many organizations seeking to change at a rapid pace. In 2020, there has been little time for talk – people have just had to get it done. So maybe it’s worth stepping back to reflect on what Digital Transformation is and what it entails for People?
People need to comprehend what is meant by Digital Transformation
The word ‘Digital’ in Digital Transformation may lead you to think that it is all about transforming the Technology. Well it is not that simple. While Technology is a key ingredient in Digital Transformation, People are most central. Rather than simply digitalising a paper process, ‘Transformation’ requires a fundamental rethink on how core business products and services can be accessed, enabled, leveraged and imagined through the power of digital solutions.
People need to change & commit
Digital Transformation is difficult because it requires people to change at a fundamental level. People find change difficult – it’s uncomfortable and there is uncertainty about whether it will work. This change is doubly difficult when it comes to changing the core of your business by leveraging sometimes unproven technology.
The ‘commit’ is the biggest challenge with Digital Transformation. It requires a sustained (long term) commitment across the entire organization. It is not something that will be achieved in 3-months or 6 months and then “return to normal”. It is making a commitment to change what you do and how you will do it – forever.
Some companies behave like a child who is keen to get a new pet but does not have the commitment to care for and exercise that pet every day for the rest of their lives. Embarking on a Digital Transformation is like deciding to build a zoo – you will have to keep feeding and exercising those beasts.
People need to ‘lose’ Control
Digital Transformation requires people to share control where we have many rather than one leader delivering. Transforming the core business needs business owners to take the lead, owning the innovation but delivering the results needs a strong cooperation with delivery experts such as an agile Project Managers. An Agile PM will help a company shape innovative ideas into deliverable plans and onwards to great outcomes. In, short you need the facilitators as much as the innovators.
In summary, these approaches I call the 4Cs People-focused Digital Transformation Model: Comprehend, Change, Commit, share Control – reinforces the fact you are fundamentally changing your company to have the capability, resilience and enthusiasm to continually innovate and wow your customers.
Done well, Digital Transformation goes viral amongst your people, ensuring the success of your company into the future. Everything digital, at the speed of a click!
For all your Digital Transformation and Agile Project needs contact Aspira.
Author: Peter Ryan, MD Aspira Europe