Technology is spreading a scare called ‘disruption’ everywhere. And the only antidote for organizations is to go ‘digital’ in order to prevent becoming obsolete. Over the past few years, many organizations have attempted to go digital by developing mobile apps, launching e-commerce platforms, and creating incubator/accelerator programs. But with these initiatives, organizations have just scratched the surface. 

 

True digital transformation is possible only when digital is embedded in the organizational culture, mindset and operations. This requires a series of change processes at all levels and technology champions are at the center of this change. 

 

Nowadays, many tech leaders are called upon to improve operating performance, boost productivity through technology, shape corporate strategy, and influence product development. IT departments today are not just traditional cost centers or technology facilitators, but crucial revenue generators.

 

This doesn’t mean that the traditional role of IT is fading away. But rather, within IT, the emphasis is increasing on business technology projects that use innovative technologies to improve business outcomes.

 

This is a good opportunity for IT leaders to reinvent the role of IT departments in organizations and become strategic business partners. For this, IT leaders will have to engage with business peers to rethink business models. They will have to develop a deep understanding of various departments and collaborate with them to support their various technology requirements/initiatives.  

 

The onus is on the IT leaders to see that their team continues to serve the business in terms of skillsets, agility, and willingness to experiment and innovate. Besides enhancing technical acumen of their staff, it will becoming increasingly important to focus on softer skillsets such as ability to understand business goals, communicate clearly, and translate complex technical projects into simple to follow steps for non-technical people.

 

The IT department will have to act as the change agent that blends the digital and physical worlds to bring about a digital transformation and help organizations stay competitive. Are you ready to bridge the divide between technical and business environments?