Digital Transformation Superhero
Let’s stop expecting superhero feats from our Chief Digital Officers!
According to Foundry, 89% of all companies have already adopted a digital-first business strategy or are planning to do so.
The digital-first approach is swiftly becoming the norm, but it's fascinating to see how varied the journey can be across different organizations. While some companies rely on the visionary zeal of their CEOs to steer the digital helm, others look to the technological savvy of their CIOs to lead the charge. There are also those who carve out a new frontier by appointing a Chief Digital Officer (CDO), a role dedicated entirely to navigating the complex waters of digital transformation. Typically, companies that opt for a specialized Chief Digital Officer tend to be those that recognize the immense scope and scale of digital change, requiring a focused effort that is separate from traditional IT or operational leadership roles.
I’ve noticed a worrying trend where companies treat their CDOs like they’re supposed to have superhero capes hidden under their business suits. As cool as that sounds, it's an unfair and unrealistic expectation.
Here’s the deal: digital transformation isn’t a one-person show. Expecting your CDO to single-handedly revolutionize your company’s digital landscape is like asking a chef to run a restaurant without a team—they need sous chefs, servers, and dishwashers to make the magic happen!
The role of a CDO is crucial—they strategize, oversee tech implementations, and ensure that digital initiatives align with business goals. But here’s the kicker: Digital Transformation is a company-wide endeavor. It needs to be fueled by the collective effort of all departments, with clear leadership from the CEO. After all, the CEO sets the vision and culture that makes such transformations possible.
Here's a better approach
Empower your CDO:
Provide them with the necessary tools, resources, and budget.
Ensure they have the authority to make strategic decisions and to influence other departments.
Support from other executives is crucial; the CDO should have a direct line to the CEO and a strong relationship with the CIO and other senior leaders.
Set realistic expectations:
Recognize that digital transformation is a long-term journey, not a quick fix. It involves ongoing trials, learning from errors, and continuous evolution.
Define clear, achievable goals and metrics to track progress without overwhelming your digital team.
Foster a collaborative digital culture:
Digital transformation isn’t just about technology; it's about people. Cultivate a culture that encourages innovation and values digital advancements.
Make digital literacy a cornerstone of employee development programs. Encourage departments across your organization to engage with digital initiatives actively.
Celebrate small victories and learn from setbacks to keep the team motivated and engaged.
References:
Foundry - Digital Business Study 2023: https://resources.foundryco.com/download/digital-business-executive-summary
