1) Clarify who’s in charge
Every business is slightly different regarding service, product, structure, model and culture, but when it comes to migrating to digital, appointing the right person, or people, for the job is critical. While many experts are saying the evolution of the CIO role in terms of both technology and service, will make the CDO role obsolete - this outlook is somewhat linear.
By taking a collaborative approach the CDO and CMO should work with the CIO to help accelerate the digital transformation process, using a collective mix data analytics, technological insights and innovative consumer marketing techniques to help the business thrive in the age of the customer.
2) Address the digital skills shortage
The problem is acquiring the talent to use this cognitive technology to its full potential. According to a recent study, 65% of CIOs state that a skills shortage is holding them back with more than half feeling that developing or acquiring new skills is a priority. That said, to thrive in the modern business world and continue to connect with your customer base on a valuable, meaningful level, today’s business leaders must foster a culture of continuous learning.
By creating open forums in which team members can openly discuss the new technologies being leveraged by the business and how it affects their roles, as well as exchange skills, data and information, the organization can move forward as a cohesive unit. Also, by upskilling your staff with relevant digital courses and giving them the tools, time as well as resources to keep building upon their talents, you will ensure that digital transformation remains at the core of your business strategy.
3) Prepare for big changes
Predictions suggest that while blockchain will not disrupt any industry, those companies that understand its power and potential will continue to invest. What's more, tech leaders will begin to experiment with quantum computing, following in the footsteps of industry leaders like Microsoft, Google and IBM.
By preparing for these changes, business leaders will be able to remain one step ahead of the consumer, retaining the capabilities to form long-lasting relationships that stand the test of time.
The time to strike is now. Acquire the knowledge you need on emerging digital technologies understand how your plan will affect the business as well as the end user, leverage data to your advantage, inspire others to move in the right direction, and you will avoid being left behind.