Digitisation

Digitisation refers to the process of converting analog information into digital format. It involves the conversion of physical records, documents, or processes into digital form, making them accessible, searchable, and easier to store and manage. Essentially, digitisation involves the conversion of data from one format to another without fundamentally changing how it is used or processed.

Digitalisation

Digitalisation, on the other hand, goes beyond mere digitisation by leveraging digital technologies to improve business processes, enhance customer experiences, and drive operational efficiency. It involves the use of digital tools, platforms, and technologies to streamline workflows, automate tasks, and enable new capabilities. Digitalisation transforms traditional analog processes into digital ones, enabling organisations to adapt to the digital age and stay competitive in the market.

Digital Transformation

Digital transformation represents the most comprehensive level of change, encompassing not only the adoption of digital technologies but also the fundamental reimagining of business models, processes, and organisational culture. It involves using digital technologies to fundamentally change how a business operates, delivers value to customers, and interacts with stakeholders. Digital transformation is not just about incorporating digital tools into existing processes; it's about fundamentally reshaping the entire organisation to thrive in the digital era.

So, while digitisation focuses on converting analog data into digital format, digitalisation involves leveraging digital technologies to improve processes and enhance capabilities. Digital transformation, meanwhile, represents a holistic approach to change, encompassing the reimagining of business models and processes to embrace the opportunities presented by digital technologies.

Quite simply, think of digitalisation, digitalisation, and digital transformation as steps on your digital journey:

• Step 1: Digitisation (converting to digital)
• Step 2: Digitalisation (streamlining your processes)
• Step 3: Digital transformation (enacting a holistic change in your business)

What Digital Transformation is not

Digital Transformation isn't just about adopting new technologies without a clear strategy or purpose. It's not simply about implementing the latest digital tools or systems without considering how they align with business objectives and drive value.

Digital Transformation isn't a one-time project or initiative; it's an ongoing journey that requires continuous adaptation and evolution. It's not solely about automating existing processes; it's about reimagining those processes to unlock new efficiencies and opportunities.

Ultimately, Digital Transformation isn't about doing things the same way with new technology; it's about fundamentally changing how business is done to thrive in the digital age.

Next time

In our next exploration of The Strategic Guide to Digital Transformation 2024, in part two, we'll delve into why and how Digital Transformation is Business Transformation and what that means for enterprises.

So, stay tuned as we uncover the proactive ways to ‘explore, evaluate’ and ‘realise’, the key pillars of transformation on the rise through digital maturity.