Breakthrough: the human side of digital transformation

Digital transformation doesn’t just happen, people make it happen - which means people must be included and empowered in the processes in order to be ready for digital change.?

In other words, investing in technology-based but people-centric solutions is the way forward. An employee-driven culture should permeate everything. Our latest study, dubbed “Breakthrough,” suggests that: the path to profound and lasting change is located in the intersection between people and technology.?

We interviewed more than 10,500 people, including leaders and employees involved in digital transformation programs, from more than 40 countries. The study indicates that to form a more empathetic, inclusive, and healthy workforce, it is imperative to pay attention to a few points. For example, half of the respondents don’t believe their organization knows what it takes to transform the workforce. Nearly 70% believe their organization underestimates “people requirements” when planning transformation programs.?

Another area where we must direct our efforts is “connectivity.” We have already established that work isn’t a location but what we do together. Therefore, organizations must provide the tools and infrastructure for the team to collaborate from wherever each member is as well as ensure their free time, which is essential for health, well-being, and creativity.?

This is also a way to democratize work for people with different needs, interests, and care responsibilities. To give you an idea, 80% of respondents say that the shift to distributed work can create a more inclusive working environment. However, despite working remotely these past two years, 58% of respondents are not yet experiencing a better work-life balance. Evidently, there is a lot of potential for improvement.?

Last but not least is “productivity.” Optimizing people’s time is more relevant when faced with demanding routines. Not only for their well-being but also to enable them to focus on strategic activities that depend on creativity and human skills. Only 37% of workers today say they are currently experiencing mentally stimulating, non-repetitive work.

At the end of the day, digital transformation is for people. They are the recipients and the bearers of progress. We must undergo a cultural change to enable and build a diverse, healthy, and productive workforce. Listen actively to the team, consider their needs, help develop their skills, and engage them in transformation programs. That’s how we achieve a significant breakthrough.?