The 3 M's Of Digital Transformation
Like any substantial change, the process of digital transformation begins with recognising the problem you want to solve
Like any substantial change, the process of digital transformation begins with recognising a problem.
Are the digital systems in place no longer fit for purpose? Has the business outgrown them? Is the market now demanding more from a product or service?
When the decision has been reached to transform the business through digital, evaluating the positive (and negative) impact this change will bring is vital.
Digital transformation requires investment and change throughout all parts of the business; Structure, process, insight and delivery. It’s at this point we ask ourselves ‘Have we got the money, manpower and minutes to make this happen?’
Money
The business needs to have thoroughly considered and planned for the transformation based on a detailed assessment of costs. Capital expenditure is the most obvious area, but full costs will also include disruption, reduction in chargeable time and the education required to support new developments and processes.
Lack of investment is one of the key reasons digital transformation projects fail to deliver against expectation.
Manpower
Resource requirements can be one of the most challenging areas for a business. A strong approach is to select key people from each department, to represent the priorities of the business effectively. Selecting the right people for the job is important, but the effect on their day to day role needs consideration. Roles and responsibilities also need to be made clear for each project member.
Minutes
Planning timings based on digital transformation and the business calendar are both crucial, so the key milestones can fit around business requirements. Perhaps the most important areas are contingency planning and ensuring that each phase is met before moving onto the next.