Getting started with your digital transformation strategy

Starting your digital transformations by focusing on technology solutions first is comparable to planning a vacation based on the mode of transportation.

Most of us begin planning our vacations based on our objectives. For example, if we want to relax, we might choose a beach or spa resort, then look into different possible destinations before deciding how to get there.

However, as we live in a time of rapid technological advancement, it is easy to become overwhelmed by the possibilities and challenges that these can bring to our customers, organizations, and the people we work with.

While speed and bias for action can be advantageous, embracing the latest technology trends without a clear goal in mind can be detrimental because we may be wasting resources: time, money and talent.

Good technology investment is always associated with business outcomes, which result from meeting customer needs, which again is accomplished by providing employees with the necessary resources and purpose to do their jobs.

So, here's a simple framework for leaders to consider when planning their digital transformation.

1. Begin with your customer's needs. Specifically, what outcomes would you require to meet and exceed their expectations?

2. How would you be measuring performance and progress toward desired outcomes?

3. Who would you require to complete tasks? What people and skills are required? Who are the stakeholders who could assist you in obtaining organizational buy-in and which ones would need to collaborate to get things done?

4. What processes would be affected (existing or potentially new ones)?

5. What technologies could assist you in accomplishing this?

And yes, more could be considered but answering the above will help you shape your idea, the investment plan and articulate the benefits, from the beginning.

Simply put, always begin with your customers' needs and convert them into measurable outcomes before moving on to people and technology that can enable the necessary processes to deliver the required services and goods.

Note: With this post I finish, for now, the digital transformation series.

Stay tuned for the next series!