With the changing dynamics of business, the rise of newer concepts like cryptocurrency, cloud platforms, SaaS-based applications, and the use of AI and their direct application into business operations are all nudging us towards a digital world.
But what does it really mean to be a digital-first organisation?
“A remote work culture alone doesn’t make your organisation digital per se. Instead, a digital organisation consists of a highly agile environment, thereby enabling remote work. See the difference?”
As such, becoming a digital-first organisation involves using technology and creating a comprehensive structure to support digital activities.
Even before the pandemic, there was evidence of a critical shift towards working from home. Paper-based processes, for instance, have been increasingly seen as restraints on productivity and a source of delays. This creates system bottlenecks, hampering a flexible and independent working environment. For many, the question remains: Why require employees to be physically present for secondary tasks that can be automated? And how can you integrate new changes in a way that helps instead of disrupts?
To answer this question, let’s quickly examine what being a “digital-first” company means.
Understanding digital transformation
Digital transformation is a journey that takes time. An organisation undergoes a series of changes before becoming a truly independent digital entity. The goal is what we call digital maturity or digital transformation maturity—something gained over a period of learning and growth.
“Giving employees mobile apps is a digital solution, but it’s not digital first unless it is part of a comprehensive strategy,” says Stephen Redwood, principal at Deloitte Consulting LLP. “At digital-first organisations, people, processes, and structures are all focused on optimising digital so companies can be more productive.”
Going Digital – Where to Start
On the list of the top things holding back digitization, 36.7% of respondents said CEOs or boards of directors lacked initiative. First, decision-makers must begin the ‘assessment’ phase, where an organisation understands the most critical processes.
For instance, the supply chain is especially prominent in the manufacturing industry, but seamless customer interactions are often the main priority for banking and investment companies.
Your main goal in the assessment stage is not just to reshape your primary processes. In fact, the first step towards digitization will work best if it’s less disruptive. Remember, digitization is not just about making a change; it’s about making the right change at the right time. Everything you do should contribute towards eventual digital transformation.