In short, Digital Transformation is the process of utilising digital technologies to evolve how businesses operate, grow and communicate with their customers. Increasing efficiency is also a core goal of Digital Transformation and by integrating innovative solutions, businesses are able to make the most of new opportunities and expand into new markets.
Digital Transformation covers a range of activities and can involve virtually every process currently in operation. Some of the key initiatives which stand to deliver the largest gains include:
Cloud Computing: Migrating to cloud platforms such as Microsoft Azure and the Google Cloud Platform.
Big Data: Digital Transformation can help with the collection and analysing of large volumes of data to help determine buying trends and behavioural patterns.
AI & ML: With the introduction of artificial intelligence and machine learning, businesses can automate laborious processes, as well as enhance customer experiences and gain new insights. Through the automation of menial tasks, efficiency can be improved and operational errors reduced.
Hardware & Software : Analysis of hardware setup and current software employed can help determine if teams are operating at peak efficiency.
We've covered some of the main advantages of Digital Transformation here, but it’s also important to touch on the point that the processes involved can be somewhat complex, and carry with them potential challenges, such as security issues and adapting to new workflows. Small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) can benefit from expert professional help to achieve digital transformation, particularly where they lack experience and the knowledge of how to implement the changes.
Professional help from Digital Transformation consultants can help empower SMBs with the correct approach, effective guidance and the tools to implement changes immediately, whilst also providing them with the training to scale up their digital transformation efforts as they grow.
Digital Transformation consultants can also help SMBs to identify areas where they can improve efficiency, reduce costs and improve overall productivity. Additionally, they can evaluate security risks and mitigate against them, whilst imparting knowledge of best practices to ensure that businesses remain protected as they go forward.
Whilst SMBs may understandably be initially hesitant to invest heavily in consultancy services, in the long run any upfront costs are dwarfed by the benefits such services deliver. Digital transformation is more important than ever, no matter the size of a business, as the digital space becomes increasingly competitive.