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Business
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Riding the Digital Transformation Wave

By
Ava Lais for Distilled Post

The rapid pace of digital transformation is reshaping industries and redefining how business is done. Companies that want to survive and thrive in the digital era need to actively embrace emerging technologies and adapt their business models.

According to a recent IDC survey, by 2022 over 50% of global GDP will come from digitally transformed enterprises. Companies across all sectors are investing heavily in digital transformation initiatives like cloud, mobility, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things and big data analytics. Their goal is to boost efficiency, increase agility, deepen customer engagement and unlock new revenue streams.

The financial services sector is undergoing massive disruption as fintech innovations challenge traditional banking models. From mobile payments to robo-advisory services, financial institutions are having to digitise legacy processes to retain and grow their customer base. The healthcare sector is also ramping up its digital transformation efforts to provide virtual care options, leverage health data through analytics and enable patient engagement via mobile apps.

Across manufacturing, transportation, retail and other sectors, companies are reconceptualising business operations around connected, intelligent technologies. As 5G and edge computing unfurl, the opportunities for transformative applications will grow manifold. 

However, the road to digital transformation is filled with cultural and organisational challenges. A legacy mindset, siloed operations and poor data integration can hinder progress. Companies need strong leadership commitment, strategic roadmaps and change management skills to drive transformation. Those who succeed can gain sustainable competitive advantage.

The takeaway is clear - in today's digital economy, innovation-led disruption is the norm. Incumbents can either embrace digital transformation or risk irrelevance. By harnessing emerging technologies intelligently, companies can delight customers, empower employees and create lasting value. The digital winners will be those who continuously adapt and skate to where the puck is heading.