Digital Transformation Is Stupid. Say What?
Key Points:
- Buzzwords and trendy terminology never stop confusing buyers.
- If you can’t picture this in your mind, why trust your business to it?
- Where is the disconnect between your business and technology?
- Is spending a dollar on getting five back a good investment?
Nothing is more frustrating than having your IT person use the latest buzzwords to beat around the bush or sound knowledgeable. Or discovering they do not know the true definition of what they’re saying and try to persuade you on the best steps they think you should take.
Unfortunately, trendy terminology is no stranger to any industry and has confused many for years. In today’s video, Nick Martin, Director of Managed Services at MainStreet IT Solutions, and Dave Sobel, Owner of MSP Radio, argue that the term “digital transformation” is stupid.
Is The Term Digital Transformation Stupid?
According to Techopedia, “The consulting firm Capgemini (in partnership with MIT) coined the term “digital transformation” in 2011. They defined the phrase as: “the use of technology to improve performance or the reach of businesses radically.” The phrase went viral after it was coined, and thousands of organizations used it to describe their strategic plan.”[1]
When you search Wikipedia, the definition is this: “Digital transformation (DX) is the adoption of digital technology by an organization to digitize non-digital products, services or operations. Its implementation aims to increase value through innovation, invention, customer experience, or efficiency.”[2] Depending on who you ask, you’ll get multiple and confusing answers like these.
Simply reading the phrase “digital transformation” provides no mental picture. You can’t visualize how it connects your business, existing technology, and your organization’s direction in the next 5, 10, or 20 years. In fact, back in 2015, scores of people began voicing their opinions and opposition to using this buzzword.
What Are They Trying To Tell You?
IT Consultants or Managed Services Providers will often label their strategic plan for your business as a Digital Transformation. However, the underlying meaning is that your company, equipment, and policies are outdated and need replacing.
Simply put. If you want to achieve a particular business or financial goal on a timeline you’ve set, using your existing technical setup and what the consultant uncovered, you’ll miss that deadline. And some business owners and decision-makers get greatly offended because now they have another expense to consider.
Instead of trying to impress you with buzzwords, trendy terminology, and industry jargon, you want straightforward answers and directions that will boost your company’s profits. So the long and short of it is this, there is a disconnect between your existing technology and moving your business forward.
What Do We Mean?
For your business or organization to compete in today’s market, you must understand your technology will determine how quickly you reach your business or financial goals. For instance, if you’re still using Windows 8, your version’s support ended on January 12, 2016. If your operating system goes down, there’s no help, and updating is costly, slowing productivity.
And we do agree having to update your software and technology is an expense we want to avoid paying. However, suppose every dollar you put into that new investment returns five dollars. In that case, that updated technology generates a greater profit than your existing technology, and productivity remains steady and uninterrupted.
It all comes down to these three options:
- Stay where you’re at
- Update to remain current
- Only use cutting-edge technology
And finally, a day you’ll want to exit your business is coming. Determining the right time to sell your company and if the proceeds will fund your next adventure is more than a critical decision. Whatever you decide will define your company’s profitability ceiling.
MainStreet IT Solutions Spells It All Out
There’s one thing for sure. You’re in business to provide your customers, clients, or patients with the best products and services. However, understanding how the latest technology can streamline your process and make you more profitable is also of great interest to you.
MainStreet IT Solutions is not in the business of confusing others with useless words. Contact us today or call (717) 354-8385 to meet and discuss where you want to see your business in 5, 10, or 20 years. We’ll tell it like it is so you can make an informed decision.
[1] https://www.techopedia.com/why-saying-digital-transformation-is-no-longer-right/2/34652
