Roadblocks to Going Digital

30-09-2021 09:58 AM Comment(s) By Marsya

Roadblocks to Going Digital



Malaysia has begun integrating digital technology in many areas of the economy. Although plenty of initiatives have been introduced to promote digital transformation amongst large corporations and SMEs, some business owners remain skeptical towards the idea. 

If it's not broken, why fix it? Is there a need for a new system? Why change the process when there is absolutely nothing wrong with it? And the questions go on and on. What are some possible roadblocks which make this group of individuals resistant to digital transformation? 



Cost
Well, we're always careful in making decisions especially when big funds are involved. So, implementing new systems in my business - What is my ROI? What do I get in return? 

Let's face it, technology does not get cheaper. Thus, you will definitely need to spend a little to have them in your business. View it this way, yes you will need to fork out some funds but, wouldn't you want to see your business run smoother? On top of that, wouldn't you lose out with your competitors ten years down the road when traditional processes become irrelevant?

Change
"But things are running well, so why change?". Digital transformation = interruption. Ahhh, interruption? That's the last thing we want for our business processes. 

Cloud systems, AI or even automation - all these require us to interrupt our long-time practiced processes. To some, this can be tough and time-consuming. After all, we have other tasks and duties to settle, why add more to our plate? Then again, as excellent as your current processes may look, they will become obsolete. At that point of time, you'd wish that you had adopted digital at an earlier stage. 

Failure
You're not entirely against the idea of digital transformation, but because you have tried before and it didn't turn out as you expected - you don't feel like doing it any longer. 

Failure is a part of running a business. Yes, you are allowed to feel down but it shouldn't discourage you from accepting new changes. If you wish to see your business strive, you mustn't hide behind your failed experiences. Adopting digital is a critical step in improving your business operational efficiency as well as creating new growth opportunities. 

In an article by The Edge Markets, Chow Sang Hoe, consulting managing partner of Ernst & Young Advisory Services advice businesses that have not begun digitalization to look at tech infrastructure. 

"Consider a revamped operating model while avoiding incurring heavy investment to ease into the new norm. Apply a two-pronged approach where the existing business model continues as your business gradually digitalize". 

What say you, up for digital transformation? It's never too late to get started. You know what they say, better late than never. 

People think these system will cost an arm/ leg - Why do we need such a system in the company? Why can't things be done manually then why change it? - If things don't break why change them?

COST- How much would I spend on this system? What is my ROI? How much will I get in terms of return? 

It's all about the idea to have things run faster and smoother.  Y es, you need to for out money, but things can be done in a more smoother and hassle-free manner, routine jobs can be automated and employees can shift focus on other duties and tasks. 

I want to expand and grow my business, but still do things manually. Going DT at a later stage isn't a problem, its never too late to start anything. One thing you have to take note, the more we delay the transformation, more dirty data will be accumulated and that It will make it harder for any migration (so make the change now).

When something new is to be introduced to the company, especially when it involves a change in style of getting work done, there must be a proper change management process in place

✔ Support from the top committee, business owners need to have that mindset 

✔ Communicate well with the employees on why such change needs to happen, why is this happening and what are the objectives

✔ Have a champion within the organization (can be the management or anyone dedicated, project manager to drive this transformation) 

✔ Seen companies doing internal campaigns to raise awareness / advocate change (posters in lifts/noticeboards)

✔ Any change process needs to have a buy in from the employees. many owners syok sendiri want to do this and that but they don't get the support, so investment unsuccessful 

✔ Adaptivity among employees since they range from different age groups so change may be difficult to instill (will they use the software you instill?)
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Marsya

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