Blog
7 steps to an effective digitization strategy
Successful transformation through a targeted approach
A digitization strategy remains an important part of any business plan, especially in today's digital world. A well-thought-out digitization strategy can help increase the company's efficiency, productivity and profitability.
1. identification of the core processes
The first step in developing a digitization strategy is to identify the company's core processes. This includes the processes that are essential to the company's core business and have a direct impact on the company's profitability and success. Identifying these processes is a crucial step, as the digitization strategy should focus on optimizing and automating these processes. For this to succeed, it should be done in close coordination with the business.
2. analysis of the current IT systems
After identifying the core processes, an analysis of the current IT systems should be performed. This includes an assessment of the existing IT infrastructure, applications, databases and interfaces used for the company's core processes. This analysis helps identify weaknesses and bottlenecks in the current IT infrastructure and indicates which systems need to be optimized or replaced. Central systems that are required for several core processes and "customer facing" applications are to be prioritized.
3. definition of IT goals
After the analysis, clear IT goals should be defined that are aligned with the core processes. These goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound (SMART). Examples of IT goals may include reducing downtime (resilience!), improving data quality, automating processes, and increasing efficiency and productivity.
4. development of a digital transformation model
The goal of digital transformation is to improve efficiency and agility and create new business models that meet the changing needs of customers. This includes technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics to create new products and services that strengthen customer loyalty and improve operational processes.
The digital transformation model requires a redesign of business processes, customer relationships and organizational culture, which should be closely aligned with the identified core processes. The digital transformation model provides information about the direction in which the company wants to develop and is therefore central to the digitization strategy.
5. development of a digitization strategy
Based on the analysis of the current IT systems and with regard to the digital transformation model, a digitization strategy can now be developed. This strategy should be as precise and comprehensive as possible and include all the steps required to achieve the defined IT objectives. The digitization strategy should also take into account the expenditures for implementing the strategy and ensure that the expenditures are in line with the corporate objectives.
6. implementation of the digitization strategy
Once the digitization strategy has been developed, it is time to implement it. Implementation should be carried out step by step on the basis of the prioritization that has taken place and in close collaboration with the departments and employees concerned. It is important that the implementation of the digitization strategy is closely monitored to ensure that the defined IT goals are achieved. Implementation should also include training for employees and the introduction of new IT systems and processes, and may also require restructuring of the organization.
7. review and adaptation of the digitization strategy
Reviewing and adapting the digitization strategy is a continuous process. It is important to conduct regular reviews of the IT systems to ensure that they meet the company's requirements. Based on the results of these reviews, adjustments should be made to the digitization strategy to ensure that it is always aligned with the current needs of the business. At best, you should validate the digitization strategy annually.
Conclusion
A well-thought-out digitization strategy that is aligned with the company's digital transformation model can help to increase the company's efficiency, productivity and profitability. The above steps can serve as a guide for developing a digitization strategy.
However, it is important to note that the digitization strategy should not be viewed in isolation from other business strategies and should be closely aligned with corporate goals and strategies. Successful implementation of a digitization strategy also requires the full support and participation of all relevant departments and employees in the company.
