“The biggest part of our digital transformation is changing the way we think.” — Simeon Preston, Bupa.
Digitalisation is no longer an option for business. It’s a necessity. COVID-19 has accelerated the thought processes of all companies regarding the way they operate.
Seeing some companies wrap up business and others flourish with the challenges of the pandemic has changed the business landscape. One thing that all businesses have embraced is technology, whether with open arms or through necessity.
Resistance to change is part of the human psyche. To some extent, we fear change, and we fear technology. Many still dream of retiring and going off the grid or reminiscing of a past where we had it ‘easy’ before technology came along and somehow made us busier and more anxious.
So, what scares us about digital transformation? And, how do we need to address doubts and embrace the change?
What you may think: Current processes will be disrupted.
If the day-to-day work is being managed, then taking time to bring in a digitalisation project can be time-consuming and appear too challenging to manage and implement. Resistance from employees is not a small thing either. People are usually happy with the way things work until you show them otherwise.
What you should think about: It’s significantly better in the longer run.
Even if processes are working, it’s also time to accept that current processes will be outdated and obsolete quicker than we think. As the saying goes, time waits for no one. It’s a ticking clock! To avoid huge disruptions in the future, it is feasible to introduce simple changes such as automation or basic artificial intelligence to some processes. Another critical point is that all processes can be further optimised for improved efficiency. This will allow processes to keep up with changes that you may not foresee.
Digital transformation cannot be a one-time project as technology is rapidly being updated. Think of any change and recall how it takes time and has stages with definable milestones. So, no one should be worried that digitalisation is a complete take-over and change that is not manageable.
Getting employees on board with new processes is possible when they can see the benefits of automation in freeing them up for the more important human tasks. This is, of course, a significant advantage of digital transformation. Testing new applications and solutions in a collaborative environment removes a lot of fear. It lets you map out the processes you want to incorporate and what you can easily do without.
Take a look at all the partners in the change, whether it is employees or customers and remove their fears, and you will fight your own doubts.
What you may think: We don’t know if digital transformation is really worth it.
What you should think about: What are the current trends? Can you risk falling behind?
Innovation and forward planning make market sense significantly since disruptions are predicted in terms of global pandemics in the future.
It may seem like uncharted territory for some organisations, but many technologies are actually tried and tested. When embarking on the journey to digital transformation, seek out a company that knows its tech, knows what it is doing and can provide tailor-made solutions and support. A little hand-holding is not wrong and can remove a massive fear if you feel unsure.
To get everyone on board, future projections ‘without digital transformation’ versus ‘with digital transformation’ can easily show the benefits since current trends are showing that digital transformation is the need of time. Employees and the company\’s future will be far more stable with new skills and systems that ensure better output and customer satisfaction.
What you may think: You have been here before, and it’s not been worth your while.
What you should think about: If it wasn’t worth my while, why is everybody else doing it?
Investing your time and your money for digital transformation will be a huge commitment and needs your confidence. New technology works along with your systems and processes. There are technological tools that every business will benefit from but need to be evaluated. Yes, there will be an initial investment, but it will pay back if the benefits are exponentially worth it. Here a risk assessment will provide insight into the steps needed.
Anxiety about investments needs to be understood. Were previous decisions informed? Why did the investment not pay off? Taking on change needs collaboration with a partner who can guide and support your investment. Training staff is also a key factor to consider.
At times organisations want the return on investment to be quick or even immediate. It is essential to be ready for the long haul, see digital transformation as a journey, and see the big picture. Automation is not a once-in-a-lifetime process. Not keeping up with technology has seen the downfall of many giants. Where is Nokia today? What about Kodak, Blockbuster and many of the big chain stores on the High Street? Tech came and changed the world and will carry on doing so. By keeping up with trends in digital transformation, such as the uses of AI and automation for an organisation, there will be a greater return for the initial investments made.
Aside from technology, it is worth looking into each area of the organisation, from teams to processes, to structures and see if there are other gaps aside from digital transformation and address those too.
On a final point, doubt should not be a reason for anyone to miss out on new opportunities. Digital transformation will save time and money in the long run. It also provides clear direction for a business on where to utilise current resources and workforce. Businesses have to focus on their customers and improve customer experience. The journey to digital transformation can be short, long, fast, slow- this is all possible and should be considered to keep up with the rapid changes to how businesses operate now and in the future. Forging a partnership with a technically skilled and agile partner will assist any organisation ready to take on the challenges ahead.
