Why are we talking about digital transformation today? And how to navigate it to reap the benefits
Digital transformation is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a business imperative. Companies that successfully integrate technology into their operations respond faster to market shifts, reduce costs, and unlock new revenue streams. But let’s be honest: transformation is rarely easy. Statistics are clear—many initiatives fall short of expectations. Why is that? And what can be done differently?
That’s exactly why digital transformation is the central theme of the Steps to Digital Transformation Excellence 2025 conference. Because today, the question isn’t if, but how.
Why digital transformation?
Picture a well-established company with loyal customers and a strong brand. Suddenly, the market accelerates. Customers expect seamless digital experiences, partners demand system integration, and competitors move faster, cheaper, smarter. The leadership team asks: “What now?”
This is how many conversations around digital transformation begin. Because it’s a response to real challenges:
- Changing customer expectations – personalization, omnichannel, 24/7 availability
- New business models – subscriptions, platforms, product-service ecosystems
- Cost and operational pressure – automation, optimization, efficiency
- Disruptive technologies – AI, IoT, blockchain
According to the Gartner 2025 CIO Survey, only 48% of digital initiatives meet or exceed their business goals. One reason? Too often, companies start with technology instead of strategy.
Transformation is a strategic decision
One common mistake is assuming transformation begins with a new tool. But technology is just the enabler. The real question is: What business change are we aiming for?
Digital transformation is about redefining how a company operates. It’s a strategic, organization-wide effort to modernize processes, create new services, engage customers, empower employees, and drive business value.
When done right, it becomes part of the company’s core strategy—not just a side project. And every organization needs its own tailored approach.
9 steps to building a successful transformation strategy
Creating a solid digital transformation strategy takes methodical planning. Here are nine key steps:
- Define your ambition – start with a clear mission and vision, factoring in future technologies.
- Review your current business strategy – is it ready for tomorrow’s challenges?
- Map products, services, and processes – focus on customer value.
- Identify priority projects – choose one strategic initiative and a few “quick wins” to build momentum.
- Plan skill development – audit competencies, fill gaps through hiring, training, or partnerships.
- Consider partnerships or acquisitions – if internal resources are limited, look outside.
- Set success metrics – KPIs, milestones, and performance indicators.
- Include ethics and governance – address privacy, data security, and responsible tech use.
- Define tech needs last – choose technologies only after aligning goals, projects, skills, ROI, and ethics.
4 pillars of effective transformation
Think of digital transformation through four lenses: strategy, people, technology, and governance.
1. Strategy (why?)
Start with measurable goals. Without KPIs, even the best tech won’t deliver results. Examples: increase conversion by X%, reduce process cost by Y%, shorten customer response time by Z days.
2. People (who?)
Transformation is about changing mindsets and behaviors. You need executive sponsorship, business ownership, communication plans, and training. IT must become a strategic partner, and the whole organization should embrace a culture of continuous reinvention.
3. Technology (how?)
Tech choices should align with goals and existing architecture. Whether you go “best-of-breed” or “end-to-end platform,” base decisions on integration, scalability, TCO, and available expertise.
4. Governance (when and who decides?)
Clear roles, budgets, roadmaps, and monitoring mechanisms are essential. Who approves scope? Who tracks results? Who maintains systems? Lack of ownership is a common reason for failure.
Common pitfalls — and how to avoid them
We have already mentioned them in the previous paragraphs — pitfalls. There are many of them in the digital transformation process, and they can significantly affect the success of the venture. They can be identified and avoided before they derail the project:
- Starting with tech instead of the problem – define the goal first, then choose the tool
- Blurred accountability – assign clear ownership and metrics
- Underestimating integration and data – treat them as separate workstreams
- Ignoring company culture – communication and coaching are vital
- Avoiding iterative approaches – big-bang rollouts are risky; pilot projects work better
ERP: the heart of transformation, not the goal
ERP systems are often called the “digital core” of an organization. They integrate data, streamline processes, and enable scalability. But they’re not the endgame. Success depends on embedding ERP into strategy, integrating it with other systems, and preparing the organization for change. Poorly implemented ERP can disrupt operations. Done right, it becomes a foundation for efficiency and growth.
A real-world example
A manufacturing company wanted to automate production planning to reduce lead time by 20%. They implemented a predictive algorithm—but skipped process mapping and organizational change. Result? The system made recommendations no one followed. Operators didn’t trust it, and processes weren’t standardized.
Once they added workshops, simplified workflows, and defined KPIs, the system worked—and lead time dropped.
Lesson: Technology + Process + People = Results.
Transformation is a journey, not a one-off project
Plan → test → measure → scale → optimize. Transformation is a cycle. A dynamic journey, not a static goal. The key is agility, iteration, and readiness to evolve. It’s not about being 100% digital—it’s about digitizing what brings the most value.
That takes strategic thinking, identifying high-impact areas, and staying committed to your goals while fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability. Learning from market insights and others’ experiences can boost your chances of success in this challenging but essential journey.
Get inspired. Join Us.
Want to turn these principles into action? Join us at the conference. On stage and behind the scenes, invited experts will share real-world case studies, tools, and checklists that work in business.
Save the date, check the venue: November 5, 2025, DoubleTree by Hilton, Warsaw, and register!
Resources:
- Gartner. The CIOs Guide to Digital Transformation. https://www.gartner.com/en/information-technology/topics/digital-transformation
- CIO. What is digital transformation? Ongoing reinvention. https://www.cio.com/article/230425/what-is-digital-transformation-anecessary-disruption.html
- ERP Today. Digital transformation: The shape of things to come. https://erp.today/digital-transformation-the-shape-of-things-to-come/
- Forbes. 9 Vital Steps To Create A Digital Transformation Strategy. https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2023/08/22/9-vital-steps-to-create-a-digital-transformation-strategy/
