Here’s Where Most Digital Transformation Plans Fail

Enterprises that have adopted technologies like AI, machine learning, analytics, and cloud are leveraging intelligent data and systems to achieve better overall operations while also improving customer experiences – all of which have a positive effect on the bottom line.
Even with all of the factors pointing to digital transformation’s ability to drive success, some businesses report being afraid to take the plunge- or worse, trying and then failing only to revert back to archaic systems and outdated ways.
According to a recent survey report on “Why well-known digital transformation plans fail?” by ITProPortal, “Only 50 percent of companies are successfully executing on their digital transformation strategies.”  The report uncovered another issue with digital transformation with 35 percent of companies saying CEOs understood the need for digital transformation at their company but didn’t properly understand how to put it into practice.
Here’s a closer look at where digital transformation plans fail and tips for overcoming the challenges.

Planning Issues

While digital transformation has been a hot trend for some years now, there’s more to making the migration a success than just diving right in on what’s popular. A well-thought-out plan for digital transformation that answers pain points and helps a business provide more optimal offerings requires time and expertise to put together.
Companies that rush into adding new apps and technologies without thoroughly understanding how they work and if they’ll be beneficial to the company are the same ones running into challenges.
The planning phase should also include the financial aspect of digital transformation.
Since updating technology and systems will require company investment, it’s important to get a full understanding of the scope of a project and costs before beginning.
To avoid running into situations where funding runs out or other pitfalls occur, a phased approach that analyzes and utilizes testing before implementation is the best way to go about digital transformation. With a solid foundation and appropriate financial means, businesses can quickly reap the benefits at their organization.

Implementation Fails

Even with a sound plan in place, businesses can still fall victim to digital transformation failure if the systems in place cannot handle running all the new technologies being implemented.
Legacy technology restriction is one of the largest roadblocks when it comes to digital transformation success.
Having IT resources in place who understand the workings of technology and planning out an implementation that will be future-ready as new technologies emerge are both critical to a successful implementation.
Most organizations will benefit from making the transition slowly versus one major overhaul. Taking this approach offers time to learn new systems, to gain end-user buy-in and eases the sting of investment for companies.

Lack of Follow-through

End-user buy-in isn’t the only thing needed for a successful digital transformation project. In addition to users, management and leadership must all understand the reason for these new changes and solutions being added to their organization and then stand behind the adoption for plans to truly succeed. With top-down confidence in new systems and solutions, it’s been proven to drive uptake and build positive experiences around the latest technologies.
A disconnect in this part of the process can cause friction both internally and with customers as well as leave digital transformation projects behind in the background waiting to fully flourish as intended.
Having clear directives, a plan and a strategic outlook in place that’s communicated across the organization will eliminate resistance, maintain expectations and make a streamlined digital transformation possible.

Get Help with Digital Transformation

Any of the above sound familiar? The time for a digital transformation is right now. Stalling any longer isn’t the right choice.
At VLink, we have years of expertise helping companies to make a smooth and successful digital transformation. In addition to providing needed guidance, we also help businesses optimize their processes to become more agile.
Whether you need help with cloud computing, UX/UI, mobility, big data, analytics, robotic process automation, Agile software development methodologies, and DevOps, we can help.
Get in touch today!