Digital transformation offers powerful advantages to companies that do it right. But how do you actually do it right—whether you’re working with a digital transformation consultant or going it alone?
How do you cut through the noise, avoid overspending, and create a plan that’s both strategically impactful and achievable?
Enter the digital transformation framework.
A structured approach to digital transformation gives you everything you need to succeed. Here’s our insider perspective after serving 1,000+ clients.
What is a digital transformation framework?
A digital transformation framework is a well-structured methodology for creating and maintaining positive operational change through technology. Of course, digital transformation isn’t a “set it and forget it” initiative. Rather, the best frameworks are designed to function on a continual basis.
The challenge here is that stakeholders may view technology only at the tactical level. A digital transformation framework empowers an organization to elevate technology initiatives to strategic importance. This allows the organization to take charge of their destiny through a highly intentional use of technology.
Is a framework the same thing as a strategy?
Not quite! A digital transformation framework provides a set of principles and best practices to ensure the organization covers all their bases.
A digital transformation strategy, on the other hand, is a specific plan that an organization develops for their own future.
In other words, a framework gives structure to a good strategy.
Key elements of a good framework
From McKinsey to Boston Consulting Group, there are numerous frameworks to choose from as you plan your digital transformation. And while different consultancies may use different terms, ultimately, every good framework has a lot of things in common.
So what goes into a digital transformation framework?
Quite a few things, actually. Here are the key elements that we typically use with our clients. Look for these elements as you’re evaluating a framework to apply at your organization.
1. Digital transformation assessment
You can’t build a plan if you don’t know where you’re at today. A digital transformation assessment allows you to take stock of your current landscape in terms of technology and processes. You can identify strengths and weaknesses—as well as threats and opportunities.
2. ROI analysis
Transformation should always have a positive financial impact. While there are upfront costs to consider as well as ongoing costs, the right transformation project should create lower overall costs, increased revenue, or both. You’ll want to do that analysis ahead of time so you can make an informed decision.
3. Stakeholder alignment process
Once you have the findings of an assessment as well as an ROI analysis, it’s time to bring in other stakeholders. People from different parts of the organization may interpret the assessment findings in wildly different ways. These differing viewpoints are essential to charting your course—which is why stakeholder alignment is a key component in a good framework.
4. Prioritization process
Once you’ve ironed out the kinks and built a consensus among stakeholders, it’s time to decide what to do. A good a digital transformation consultant can guide you through the prioritization process so you start with low-hanging fruit (rather than trying to transform everything in one giant project).
5. Roadmap construction process
As your priorities become clear, it’s time to build out your digital transformation roadmap. This is the sequence of projects that will get you from your current state to your desired state. A smart roadmap may not call for a massive “Big Bang” transformation; rather, look to execute one achievable project after another, breaking down the journey into highly doable steps.
6. Funding allocation process
There’s no such thing as a free lunch… or a free digital transformation. While you’ve already gone through ROI calculations, now it’s time to fund the initiative. With your digital transformation framework filling in essential details (cost, benefit, and so on), you’re well-prepared to work with your financial leaders to get the proper allocations in place.
7. First implementation (and subsequent implementations)
This is where the rubber hits the road. You’re going to launch that new system, undergo that migration, or replace that outdated solution. There will be hiccups along the way, but with the right digital transformation partner on your side, you can navigate the challenges with smart, proactive decisions.
8. Sustaining a culture of transformation
Digital transformation doesn’t end after the first launch (or the second, or the third, or…). Rather, successful transformation requires a culture of continuous adaptation. This really comes down to your people. Are they reaping the benefits of transformation? Are they evangelists of change? Here’s where you’ll see that payoff from involving other stakeholders early. Giving them a seat at the table from the beginning helps build a culture of transformation that can sustain you on every step of the journey.
Moving forward: Filling out your framework
Digital transformation is challenging, but with the right framework and partner at your side, you can absolutely achieve your goals. The key is to adapt the framework to your unique situation and take things one step at a time. Here at Corsica Technologies, we’re passionate about helping companies achieve incredible business outcomes through technology. Reach out to us today to start your journey.
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