Digital transformation in the new normal: Where is the central strategy?

Digital transformation in the context of the new normal, what should businesses pay attention to? The following interview with Jean-Christophe Denis, Technology Consulting Partner at KPMG Luxembourg will help you answer the above question.

The current pandemic has reshaped the way we work. An unpredictable new normal - where everything can change, requires businesses to be equipped with the right technologies to increase the speed of action and response - take the initiative.

The following interview between Sophie Dubroca, HR & Transformation manager at KPMG Luxembourg, and her colleague Jean-Christophe Denis, Technology Consulting Partner, will give us a closer look at the challenges of digital transformation. and the key technology strategies companies need to keep in mind in this tumultuous time.

Although the challenges and strategies were mentioned by two Luxembourg experts, the Base team realized that this is also a common problem of many Vietnamese businesses in the digital transformation process, thus implementing the translation. The interview is in Vietnamese with the hope of being able to share useful experiences with business owners.

Original post: Change management in digital transformation: backbone of the new reality? – KPMG Luxembourg

Sophie Dubroca (SD): Jean, we have heard a lot about digital transformation, the keyword that is at the top of the strategic list of companies today. So what are the most important factors for the success of digital transformation?

Jean-Christophe Denis (JCD): Firstly, digital transformation is a journey, not just a "go-live" tool or a new solution. Crucial to this process is the right preparation, to manage expectations, and the actual implementation across the end-user – here, the staff. So of course, taking the time to define your business problem and listen to your people's needs is the first critical success factor. However, not the most important factor.
 

A comprehensive change management strategy to closely follow the transformation process is the most important solution. This includes ensuring that all stakeholders are engaged from the outset, clearly planning the solution to be implemented and its benefits, and establishing internal and public communication plans. future investment. Above all, employee performance monitoring is needed to measure the success and sustainability of digital transformation.
 

Of course, all of this needs to be equated with data security and cybersecurity in order to comply with applicable regulations and strengthen collective trust.

SD: How has the COVID-19 context impacted the change management approach of businesses? What challenges are businesses facing?
 

JCD: The current situation has forced many businesses to accelerate digital transformation. And sometimes we're so focused on modernizing our infrastructure and services that we forget about ensuring the employee experience. It is not enough for a tool to be useful only, to have a permanent place in the organization's work habits, it must also be simple and easy to use.

Today's remote working conditions make it more difficult for employees to connect with organizational changes. Therefore, the various emotions that people naturally experience during digital transformation are also easily exaggerated. If it is a feeling of excitement and excitement, then we have nothing to worry about; but when it comes to anxiety and stress – emotions that are completely normal and understandable – it can be quite complicated to manage. It also becomes more difficult to organize distance learning sessions and ensure that information and knowledge is transferred effectively.

All of the above aspects need to be carefully considered in order to be able to provide an appropriate change management approach and not create additional barriers to the digital transformation process.

SD: What are the most common mistakes related to change management in digital transformation? And how can we solve it?

JCD: Firstly, sometimes people think that because we are adopting technology, change will happen quickly, as if there was a switch to turn on the “Digital Shift” button. This is actually a much longer and more complicated process. It starts long before we decide on a solution and continues long after the solution is implemented.

Second, companies tend to choose the best products in the market. This seems legitimate, but it's not always the right path. What matters most is a solution that fits your culture and really helps your team to be more productive. So again, the key is to focus on defining the business problem and choosing the right feature-packed products to deploy.

Next, while digital transformation affects each department and individual in the organization, businesses tend to see this as an IT project. Digital transformation needs to be emphasized as an organization-wide project to promote collective accountability for the process. And this cannot be done without the participation and push from the top leadership and management levels.

In the end, digital transformation is more than just a technology upgrade. Its deeper essence is a cultural journey to transform itself into a digital enterprise. Therefore, it goes hand in hand with the awareness and behavior of the staff. In short, the bottom line is: Never forget that digital transformation needs to be aligned with corporate culture!

SD: How can an internal communications strategy facilitate end-user adoption?

JCD: Internal communication of digital transformation enables the organization to realize the meaning and importance of this process. For best results, it's essential to clearly distinguish different audiences and reach them through the right channels and times. Only the early and correct awareness of digital tools and its features can really help users to actively accept and use them. Note that the languages used for communication need to be close, common to the recipient and avoid confusing technology terms.

At the outset, designate a representative outside of the IT department –  as a pioneer or transformational ambassador. Having one person spread digital transformation messages in accessible language to everyone is a good way to maximize user adoption. Above all, the ambassador brings a friendly face and is able to connect with even the most reluctant individuals, helping to break the silo mentality in the organization.

SD: Can you summarize in one sentence why change governance in digital transformation is central to the new normal?

JCD: Businesses will continue to adapt to the new normal by pursuing their goal of being a digital business, and simply an appropriate change management strategy will be key to success. sustainability of digital transformation.

Source: base.vn