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DIGITAL transformation is one of the most common phrases in today’s business environment and it can mean different things to different people.
4IR Simplified
John Tseriwa
But what does it mean, and why is it important? In this article, we will explore the concept of digital transformation and why it matters.
We may need to distinguish between digitisation and digitalisation before we proceed.
Digitisation is the process of converting information from the analogue or manual form into the digital format. Scanning a paper document and saving it as a PDF is an example of digitisation.
Digitisation makes information easier to store, access and share.
On the other hand, digitalisation is applying digital technology and capabilities to do many things we regularly do in new and better ways that improve our outcomes. Using an online platform to book a flight or a hotel is an example of digitalisation. Digitalisation makes processes more efficient, convenient and customer-friendly.
Digital transformation uses technology and capabilities to fundamentally change how we do business, create value and compete in the market. Digital transformation covers various technologies, including software and applications, network capabilities, artificial intelligence, machine learning, augmented and virtual reality, the internet of things (IoT), sensing technology, video-based analytics and the cloud.
Digital transformation is crucial in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) because it takes a customer-driven, digital-first approach to all aspects of a business, from its business models and customer experiences to processes and operations.
There is no denying that today’s customers are more informed and have higher expectations.
No wonder customer expectations are among the main drivers of digital transformation. Digital transformation was born when new technologies enabled new kinds of information and capabilities to be accessed in new ways.
Some of the technologies that drive digital transformation are mobile devices, social media, cloud computing and IoT.
These technologies allow customers to interact with businesses anytime, anywhere and on any device. They also enable companies to collect and analyse data, improve processes, enhance customer experience and innovate products and services.
Did the Covid-19 pandemic accelerate digital transformation?
The answer is yes.
The pandemic revealed the state and progress of most organisations’ digital transformation efforts and initiatives.
Manufacturers discovered how fast and effectively they could bring new products to the market. Retailers adapted to providing customers with new and safer ways of shopping. Employers implemented or expanded technologies that enabled employees to work from home.
To achieve successful digital transformation, you need to understand the needs of your customers and users deeply.
This understanding will guide you on what and how to transform your business.
Below are some tips from those who have successfully made the journey to help you make the right changes to meet those needs.
You need to ask for feedback from your customers and employees. The only way to know how you can meet their needs is to engage with them continuously and listen to their opinions and suggestions.
Based on the feedback, identify the problems that need to be solved. Once you know what your customers and employees expect from you, you can evaluate what you need to do differently or better.
Design a strategy that turns problems into exceptional experiences. After defining your challenges, develop a strategy that simplifies and enhances the experiences you deliver, empowers your customers and employees, and satisfies those you serve.
Use cloud technology to keep up with your customers’ and employees’ changing needs and wants. Look for technology that allows you to reimagine your business from end to end, and adapt to change.
With cloud technology, you can stay ahead of your customers’ and employees’ needs and wants, and leverage on the latest technology as it becomes available.
Digital transformation is reshaping how people work, play and live, and this process shows no signs of slowing down.
New business opportunities to create value for customers and improve people’s lives emerge as digital technology evolves.
The future is likely to bring more innovative technologies to help achieve transformational goals. Implementing a digital transformation that addresses your current business challenges and strategic objectives is essential for the success of your business.
Every enterprise and any other organisation must embrace digitalisation as a strategic priority to stay competitive and serve their customers better.
In this effort, the most important thing to remember is that the power of digital transformation comes from defining your use cases and then selecting the technology, path and partners that can turn those use cases into seamless, interconnected experiences that drive your business forward.
John Tseriwa is a tech entrepreneur and a digital transformation advocate focusing on delivering business solutions powered by 4IR technologies. He can be contacted at: [email protected] or +263773289802.
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