Chapter 1: The Digital Transformation Dilemma

In my local area, and likely beyond, there's an overwhelming buzz around 'digital transformation.' Yet, it raises a question: why now? It's already 2022, not 2015. If organizations haven't embraced this shift yet, they might already be too late.

The digital revolution began long before the last decade. Companies like Google, Amazon, Spotify, Uber, AirBnB, PayPal, and eBay have already reshaped entire industries by turning data into viable business models. They didn't just change parts of the world; they transformed it entirely. The divide between the 'before' and 'after' is stark, and retreating to old ways is not an option. Just as the widespread adoption of automobiles rendered horse-drawn carriages obsolete, the digital shift has irrevocably changed the business landscape.

Prior to this transformation, 'digital' was synonymous with enhancing traditional processes through technology. Now, however, it signifies a complete overhaul of those processes. This shift has brought about new metrics, heightened expectations, rapid changes, and a fundamentally different mindset. It's crucial to distinguish this from mere digitization, which refers to converting analog data to digital formats, or digitalization, which often confuses people. We're speaking about digital transformation. By 2015, it was clear that adopting a 'wait and see' approach was tantamount to inviting failure. The world was engaged in conferences, workshops, and task forces, all aimed at navigating this change.

When the pandemic struck, it presented a fresh array of challenges, but many sectors were somewhat prepared. Without prior digital readiness, we might not have seen the swift development of vaccines, leading to potentially devastating consequences for public health.

However, the healthcare sector was not entirely equipped for this evolution. Yet, it had progressed significantly compared to seven years earlier, especially with suppliers of health services adapting to new realities.

So, why are we still witnessing 'Digital Transformation' conferences in 2022? Did something crucial slip through the cracks? The answer is no; it appears that many individuals missed the train. Those attending these events are likely too far behind to catch up. Even some public sector entities face obsolescence because they failed to adapt. Backed by unions that lack foresight in safeguarding their members' futures, many resist necessary changes out of sheer misunderstanding and collective inertia.

It's disheartening to realize that two capable individuals can accomplish what 500 once did, delivering services exponentially better by today's standards. Or that a simple application can replace entire business lines. I hope these events convey that message, rather than merely offering outdated methods for minor improvements through digital tools. That was the approach of the last century.

The path to success? Embrace the current landscape, grasp the essentials of digital transformation, and take heed of Marshall Goldsmith's profound insight in What Got You Here Won't Get You There. You don't even need to read the book—just understand its essence. In 2022, one year can feel like an eternity.

This is a process of evolution—one that's natural and straightforward. The principle of survival of the fittest implies that those who cannot adapt will inevitably falter. We must let go of businesses and institutions that have failed to evolve over time, and that includes numerous organizations and unions. Their time has passed; we now face a different reality. The disappearance of record stores and traditional news outlets underscores this shift.

This transformation can be invigorating; the act of building, evolving, and innovating is energizing. In contrast, expending resources on propping up failing businesses is counterproductive. The choice is clear, and it's vital not to let emotions cloud our judgment.

For further inspiration, Kevin Kelly's The Inevitable (2017) remains an excellent resource.

The first video, "The X Factors of Successful Digital Transformation," explores the key elements that contribute to a successful shift in digital strategy.

The second video, "No More Digital Transformation... Do This Instead!" challenges conventional approaches and offers alternative strategies for navigating the digital landscape.