Digital Transformation Workforce Evolution

Digital Transformation Workforce Evolution

Currently, many companies view digital transformation as being technology-driven. Machine learning, cloud architecture, microservices, augmented reality, and IIoT platforms are just some of the technologies driving endless discussion among end users as well as fierce competition among solution providers. Often missing from these conversations is a focus on the human element of digital transformation.  Where do people fit in? What changes will occur in the digital transformation workforce?

Digital Transformation Workforce Impact

The changes that digital transformation will have in the workforce are likely to be the most far-reaching and sustained effects.  Not only will digital transformation change the number of people needed to do work, it will rewrite how that work gets done. As such, those planning or going through digital transformation quickly realize that managing the human element successfully can be the most difficult aspect of the journey. That makes sense, as machines don’t “push back” when it comes to change, but people often do.

Organizations need to apply as much, if not more, energy to managing workforce and culture change as they do technology improvement. This focus needs to start in the initial discovery phase. As the organization outlines short- and long-term objectives, it must ask human-centered questions, such as:
•    What roles and resources are needed to begin digital transformation and how do those shift over time?
•    What skills are high-value in an increasingly digital and data-driven organization?
•    How will knowledge management change? 
•    Will the expectations for leadership evolve? If so, how?

Digital Transformation Workforce Maturity Model

The digital transformation maturity model ensures those workforce questions stay front-and-center. ARC classifies this workforce maturity in five stages: Discover & Inform, Pilot & Improve, Identify & Transition, Blend & Extend, and Transformed.

ARC Advisory Group Digital Transformation Workforce Maturity Model

ARC clients that wish to view the full strategy report containing this maturity model, as well as explanations of each stage, can do so via the ARC Main Client Portal or at ARC Office 365 Client Portal.

 

This article was written by Michael Guilfoyle and originally was published here.