Digital transformation poses different challenges from traditional change management.

Digital transformation has become essential to doing business in many industries. And that influence is only growing. More than 68% of executives say their CEO is a champion for digital, compared to 33% in 2007. If your company isn’t already operating in this digital world, is it too late? Are you doomed to be left behind?

Not at all. But pulling off a digital transformation is no small task.

Think it’s just about purchasing the latest technology and software for your company? Think again. Digital transformation does involve technology and data, but it’s so much more than that. It’s a shift in every area of your business, from product development to customer service. Digital transformation is about advancing a love of learning, and growth. It’s about opening data and tearing down walls, providing your customers the most value with the best experience possible. And making your business more efficient and profitable while doing so. It’s internal and external, subtle and obvious, immediate and long-term. But still, digital transformation poses different challenges from traditional change management.

Digital is different

• It’s intangible. “Digital” means different things to different people. What does it include or exclude? It’s difficult to put a fence around. And so, it’s hard to assign value to it.
• It’s new. There’s no roadmap to follow, and no established model for success. Because of this, digital is constantly changing as new technologies, platforms, apps, and connections emerge. Often, companies have to blaze the trail as they go.
• It’s complex. Digital is both internal and external. It can transform how your business works, helping you find efficiencies and cut costs. It can also let you provide new offerings and services, generating new revenue.
• It’s a big investment. Going digital requires hiring people, changing processes, and using new tools. It impacts the entire organization and depends on coordination.

In the end, successful digital transformation requires buy-in from across the organization, at all levels. Everyone has a role to play. You can only get that buy-in if you can relay the value of taking on this digital transformation in a way that connects with your cohort.

Download this illustrated white paper for 5 tips to help you craft the materials that will support your digital transformation.