From Hype to Reality: How Big Pharma Can Transform by Embracing a New Digital Mindset
- Luis Miranda
- Feb 28
- 3 min read
By Daniel Guedelha and Luis Miranda
Rethinking Digital Transformation: More Than Just Tech
Digital transformation refers to the application and integration of technology into all aspects of a business in such a way that it fundamentally changes how it operates and delivers value. As such, it is much more than technology adoption.
This applies to all industries, including pharmaceuticals. Digital transformation in the pharmaceutical sector goes beyond just implementing AI or big data; it's about transforming people, processes, and mindsets. The true challenge lies in fostering a culture of curiosity, innovation, and agility that aligns with the overall organizational strategy. Transformational journeys, as one would expect, should always begin with a clear aspirational goal, problem, or opportunity that the organization wishes to address. That is, an answer to the question "why are we doing this?" that everyone in the organization and even outside of it (for example, customers and investors) should be able to relate to and understand.
Many leading pharmaceutical organizations recognize this and have embarked on digital transformation journeys aimed at accelerating R&D timelines, streamlining processes, and improving patient outcomes. Companies like Novo Nordisk, Moderna, Roche and others have made digital transformation a core part of their strategy by creating digital hubs, driving data and AI initiatives, building new internal capabilities, forming external partnerships, and upskilling employees to encourage experimentation and foster new ways of working. (A)
Moderna a, for instance, is using data and AI to transform drug discovery by speeding up the development of new drugs and vaccines, reducing costs, and improving accuracy through efficient analysis of large datasets. This advancement marks a significant step toward innovative healthcare solutions. (B, C)
Similarly, Novo Nordisk k is integrating AI into their R&D for chronic diseases, enhancing external innovation capabilities and exploring new therapeutic areas. Their goal is to improve efficiency and outcomes across their R&D processes, aiming to address complex health issues effectively and transition from treating to curing diseases. (D, E)
Roche is aiming to improve healthcare with digital solutions, using data and technology to enhance patient care and efficiency. They focus on digital diagnostics and personalized tools to support patients and providers.(F)
In essence, digital technologies such as AI have come to stay and bring great opportunities for both companies and patients, However, their adoption should serve a purpose and follow a strategy. Simply stating the use of cutting-edge technology and "working agile" is insufficient, and in many cases can result in unintended consequences. Technology provides tools that enable people to do things that were unthinkable only a few decades (or even years) ago, but these are tools, not outcomes. To continue its success, pharma needs to rethink digital transformation as a comprehensive strategy rather than isolated tech initiatives. It requires breaking down silos, investing in talent, and cultivating a mindset where technology enables — not replaces—human potential. Ultimately, the goal is to create an environment where digital tools amplify the capabilities of people and processes, leading to sustained innovation and growth and improved business outcomes.
References:
C - Moderna Highlights its Digital and AI Strategy and Progress at Second Digital Investor Event (modernatx.com)
By Daniel Guedelha and Luis Miranda
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