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Organizational Trauma: A Pathway to Resilience and Growth

08.04.2024 4 Min Read
Tinatin Rukhadze

Managing Partner

Organizational Trauma: A Pathway to Resilience and Growth

Just as individuals retain memories of significant events, organizations too possess a collective memory that shapes their present and future trajectories. Whether marked by triumphs or tribulations, these experiences become ingrained within the organizational psyche, profoundly influencing its evolution. This article delves into the realm of organizational trauma, shedding light on how certain experiences can hinder transformative growth.


Like individuals, some organizations glean wisdom from their encounters, while others remain ensnared by unaddressed trauma. Today, we explore instances where organizational trauma manifests as a barrier to progress and development.

Common Forms of Organizational Trauma:


  1. Partner conflicts: Conflict between partners often catalyzes significant organizational upheaval. At times, this conflict runs so deep that it results in the polarization of employees into opposing camps and eventual separation. Even after the resolution of partner conflicts, lingering traces of discord and mistrust among teams within the organization are not uncommon.
  2. Leadership Transitions: The upheaval caused by changes in leadership can instill fear and uncertainty, impeding both organizational and individual momentum.
  3. Reorganization: Significant structural changes, such as mergers or reorganizations, evoke feelings of instability and insecurity among the workforce
  4. Financial Crisis: It is often the case that companies are grappling with the lingering effects of the financial crisis over an extended period. Despite witnessing improvements in their financial standing, these companies frequently find themselves entrenched in a perpetual 'survival mode,' unable to transition into a proactive 'development mode.' Consequently, their capacity for innovation, product development, and overall business growth is severely hindered.
  5. Workplace Incidents: Tragic events, such as workplace injuries or fatalities, cast a long shadow over organizational culture, eroding psychological safety.
  6. Harassment and Discrimination: Instances of harassment, mockery, violence, and discrimination not only inflict trauma upon the individuals targeted but also sow seeds of fear, conflict, and hostility throughout the organization. Similarly, cases of favoritism can exert equally detrimental effects. Such preferential treatment isn't easily forgotten within organizational settings and frequently permeates across all levels, establishing itself as the norm and fostering the cultivation of a toxic culture.
  7. Leadership misconduct and unethical behavior - Unethical conduct by a leader has the potential to erode trust across the organization, instilling feelings of betrayal among employees. In such instances, not only are the company's values undermined, but also faith in its growth and promising future diminishes. This, in turn, triggers an exodus of valuable employees and fosters profound demotivation among those who remain, ultimately resulting in the degradation of the company.
  8. Critical events that result in significant reputational or financial damage to the organization – E.g. large-scale fraud, negative public reactions towards the brand or its communication efforts, or substantial fines imposed by regulatory bodies - often have a lasting impact on the organization. In such cases stress levels among employees escalate, giving rise to heightened mistrust, mutual accusations, and confrontations. Organizations that struggle to effectively manage crises often adopt a "victim" mentality, fostering pervasive distrust and relying on control and micromanagement as dominant management strategies.

Management within organizations frequently fails to recognize or acknowledge the existence of these traumas. The most effective approach to enhancing organizational awareness, akin to individual introspection, is through regular reflection. Organizations that prioritize self-reflection, possess well-honed analytical and evaluative tools, and foster a healthy organizational culture where "learning from mistakes" is embraced, are adept at identifying significant events associated with traumatic experiences.


In practice, instances occur where the management team's evaluation of different events significantly diverges. For example, decisions such as product discontinuation, company rebranding, the addition of new management personnel, or changes in leadership may be perceived positively by some team members while deemed irreversible mistakes by others. Such contrasting evaluations pose challenges in reaching consensus on future visions and strategies. Therefore, it is essential for the management team to reconcile differing opinions, thoroughly evaluate events from multiple perspectives, and ultimately unite around a singular vision to drive the company's progress.


In summary, much like individuals, organizations are susceptible to traumatic experiences. While it's crucial to prioritize risk prevention, it's also essential to acknowledge that eliminating all potential internal and external risks is practically unattainable. So, what's the solution? We believe, alongside risk mitigation efforts, fostering organizational resilience and a willingness to learn from adversity is paramount.


Every trauma comprises two components: pain and experience. Reactive organizations dwell on the pain, succumbing to prolonged fear and mistrust, whereas proactive entities swiftly rebound from adversity, leveraging their experiences to fuel growth and bolster resilience. By embracing challenges as learning opportunities, organizations can transform painful events into valuable experiences that fortify their foundations and propel them forward.

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27.03.2024

“How could they see anything but the shadows if they were never allowed to move their heads?”
― Plato, The Allegory of the Cave



In the cryptic corridors of Plato's allegory of the cave, where shadows dance upon the walls, lies a profound metaphor for the journey from obscurity to enlightenment. Similarly, in the realm of commerce, businesses embarking on the path of platform models traverse a transformative odyssey, breaking free from traditional silos to sculpt interconnected ecosystems that unveil a spectrum of new opportunities.


The allegory of the cave, in which chained prisoners mistake shadows for reality, resonates in the world of digital transformation. Traditional businesses, siloed and internally focused, often lack understanding of the transformative potential of platform models. This article draws inspiration from Plato's metaphor and explores the complexities of platform success in today's digital landscape.


Delving into the academic realm, the concept of digital platform ecosystems emerges as a cornerstone of modern business dynamics. Unlike traditional linear models, where value is created through the production and distribution of goods or services, a platform business model serves as a facilitator, connecting multiple groups of users to create value for each other. Defined as interconnected networks of producers, consumers, and third-party developers, these ecosystems function as vibrant marketplaces where value creation and exchange flourish. Through the orchestration of data, resources, and services, digital platform ecosystems catalyze innovation, foster collaboration, and unlock new avenues of growth.

Platform-based business models encompass a range of specifications that differentiate them from traditional business models. Here are some key specifications, supported by citations:

Network Effects: One of the defining features of platform models is the concept of network effects. As more users join a platform, the value for all participants increases exponentially. (Parker et al., 2016) In scholarly discourse, network effects are regarded as pivotal for the triumph of platforms, fostering a cyclical pattern of expansion and user involvement.

Multi-sided Markets: Unlike traditional businesses that primarily serve a single type of customer, platform-based models often cater to multiple distinct user groups, known as multi-sided markets. (Evans & Schmalensee, 2016).

Data-driven Insights: Platforms are fueled by data, enabling them to gain deep insights into user behavior, preferences, and trends. This data-driven approach empowers platforms to personalize experiences, optimize operations, and innovate continuously. (McAfee & Brynjolfsson, 2017). Furthermore, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning enable platforms to extract actionable insights, predict user behavior, and automate decision-making processes, thereby delivering unparalleled value and driving competitive differentiation.

Ecosystem Orchestration: Successful platform-based models excel in orchestrating ecosystems of complementary goods, services, and stakeholders. This orchestration involves designing interfaces, establishing rules, and fostering collaboration among participants. (Zhu et al., 2019).

APIs and Openness: Platforms often embrace openness through Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), allowing third-party developers to build upon the platform's infrastructure and create innovative offerings. This openness fosters creativity, accelerates innovation, and expands the platform's capabilities.


These specifications collectively define the essence of platform-based business models, showcasing their unique characteristics and competitive advantages in the digital landscape.


The Journey of Business Transformation through Platform Models


Breaking Free from Silos

Traditional businesses often operate in silos, with little interaction between departments and a focus on internal processes. This can lead to inefficiencies, a lack of innovation, and difficulty meeting the evolving needs of customers. Platform models, on the other hand, are designed to facilitate interaction and collaboration between different groups of users. This creates a more dynamic and innovative ecosystem where businesses can leverage the collective intelligence and resources of their users to create new value.


Finding equilibrium between algorithmic regulation and crafting personalized user experiences.

Unlike the single torchbearer in the cave allegory, successful platforms use sophisticated algorithms as conductors, orchestrating complex user journeys. A prime illustration of this is the implementation of recommender systems, which tailor the user experience and enhance overall satisfaction. Netflix's recommendation engine is perhaps the most well-known and widely used recommender system. It uses an algorithm to analyze a user's viewing history, rating, and search behavior to suggest movies and TV shows that the user is likely to enjoy.

Effectively managing platform dynamics, harmonizing the varied needs of stakeholders, and proactively mitigating risks necessitate astute leadership and strategic insight. Furthermore, fostering trust, transparency, and equity within the ecosystem is imperative for cultivating sustainable growth.

Platforms strive to create seamless experiences for customers, aiming to remove obstacles and optimize interactions to enhance satisfaction and loyalty. However, alongside this goal, there is a need for algorithmic governance. Platforms rely on algorithms to moderate content, manage transactions, and mitigate risks. Yet, excessive use of these systems can worsen the user experience, while insufficient regulation may jeopardize data protection and security. Therefore, platform operators must strike a balance between ensuring security with algorithms and delivering the best user experience. Achieving this balance requires platform developers to consider user needs, legal regulations, and ethical aspects carefully


Designing for User-Centricity

Designing for user-centricity is a pivotal aspect of successful platform models, rooted in the principles of empathy and understanding in the digital era. Just as the allegory of the cave underscores the pursuit of truth and enlightenment, businesses transitioning to platform models must embark on a journey to uncover the profound needs and motivations of their users. By placing users at the core of the design process, businesses can craft experiences that resonate deeply, fostering engagement, loyalty, and meaningful interactions.


Leading the Transformation


In an era defined by technological advancement, the transition from conventional to platform-driven models presents businesses with a definitive route to prosperity and expansion. This strategic evolution necessitates a systematic approach centered on three fundamental components:


  • Embrace a Platform Mindset: The journey towards platform success begins with a fundamental shift in mindset. Organizations must transcend traditional, linear thinking and cultivate an ecosystem mindset where value is co-created by a diverse array of stakeholders. Whether it’s creating new revenue streams, fostering ecosystems, or harnessing the power of data and AI, platform models offer a blueprint for innovation and agility in an increasingly interconnected world. By adopting a platform mindset, businesses can unlock new opportunities, forge deeper relationships with customers, and chart a course towards sustainable success in the digital age.
  • Master Platform Design: A deep understanding of platform design principles is essential for organizations seeking to thrive in the digital landscape. This encompasses the creation of dynamic, two-sided marketplaces that facilitate seamless interactions between producers and consumers. Moreover, mastering the art of incentivization and network effects is paramount for cultivating a vibrant and self-sustaining ecosystem. Through meticulous planning and strategic execution, businesses can unlock the full potential of their platform and position themselves as industry leaders.
  • Become an Orchestration Expert: Effective management and orchestration are critical components of platform success. Organizations must develop the capabilities to navigate the complexities of their ecosystem, balancing the needs of various stakeholders while maintaining operational efficiency and scalability. This involves establishing clear governance structures, fostering trust and transparency, and leveraging data-driven insights to drive informed decision-making. By serving as effective orchestrators of their platform ecosystem, businesses can create value for all participants and drive sustainable growth over the long term.


Platform business models represent a paradigm shift in the value creation equation of the digital economy. Leveraging networks, ecosystems, and data, platforms have the potential to not just drive business growth, but to transform entire industries. However, unlike Plato's cave, the digital landscape is a dynamic ecosystem in constant flux. Platform success isn't a one-time disruption, but a continuous performance demanding constant adaptation.




Rohn D., Bican P. M., Brem A., Kraus. S, Clauss Th. (2021) Digital platform-based business models – An exploration of critical success factors, Journal of Engineering and Technology Management, Volume 60.

Parker, G., Van Alstyne, M. W., & Choudary, S. P. (2016). Platform revolution: How networked markets are transforming the economy--and how to make them work for you. W. W. Norton & Company.

Evans, D. S., & Schmalensee, R. (2016). Matchmakers: The new economics of multisided platforms. Harvard Business Review Press.

McAfee, A., & Brynjolfsson, E. (2017). Machine, Platform, Crowd: Harnessing Our Digital Future..

Zhu, F., Iansiti, M., & Lakhani, K. R. (2019). Competing in the Age of AI. Harvard Business Review Press.

25.03.2024

Marketing inspiration can dry up from time to time. Looking at never-ending data reports or thinking about many other routine tasks can stifle the creativity of even the most experienced marketer. Artificial intelligence (AI) exists for that. Forget dystopian visions of robots taking over your marketing department. AI is not here to replace you; Imagine a tireless assistant that can analyze large amounts of customer data, spotting emerging trends that might escape even the most observant eye. AI can become your powerful and indispensable strategic partner, leveraging human creativity to help you create powerful, data-driven, effective strategies, offer innovative campaign concepts and personalized messaging strategies based on real-time insights.


AI: Performance Enhancer


Imagine a world where the routine tasks that consume your time—analyzing data, planning social media, and creating accounts—disappear into automated obscurity. This is not science fiction; AI can handle the routine, giving you more time to develop strategy and creative campaigns. Perhaps we agree that the number of routine tasks can stifle innovation. Embracing this bold change helps us focus on creating innovative campaigns that resonate precisely with audiences.


From data to insights


AI goes beyond mere automation; It is the best helper in terms of data processing. Imagine a powerful artificial intelligence engine that observes and analyzes massive data, revealing trends. It's not just about key demographics; AI can explore the depths of consumer sentiment on social media, website interactions, and purchasing behavior. Result? A detailed and dynamic portrait of your ideal customer. With these insights, messages and offers can be personalized as much as possible for the best results. This in turn will lead not only to higher conversion rates, but also to a deeper understanding of the ever-evolving customer journey.


Case: Netflix's AI-powered recommendations


Netflix's success story using AI goes beyond simply suggesting shows you might like. It serves as a masterclass in using artificial intelligence to personalize the entire user experience and optimize content creation. This not only personalizes the user experience, but also facilitates content creation by identifying genres and topics that accurately reflect the interests of their users. In more detail:

  • The magic of micro-targeting: Imagine having a crystal ball that shows you what your audience wants - their favorite actors, their preferred genres, and even the times of day they're most likely to watch. This allows Netflix to show you thumbnails (small pictures) and recommend shows you might really like. Netflix uses AI to conduct A/B testing on a massive scale. Various thumbnails, trailers and even descriptions are presented to users and AI analyzes which ones generate the most clicks and views. This data-driven approach enables continuous optimization.
  • Content is King, and AI Knows the Court: Gone are the days when content development depended solely on instinct. Netflix's AI analyzes viewing trends and completion rates, even where scrolling occurred. This gives them the opportunity to create content that caters to specific audience segments and increases engagement. Similarly, AI can analyze consumer behavior and social media sentiment to predict what kind of content will resonate with your target audience, allowing you to develop marketing campaigns that are more successful.
  • Predicting the Unpredictable: Consumer behavior can be erratic, but Netflix's AI is constantly learning and evolving. By analyzing large amounts of data, it can predict which shows are likely to be hits and which ones might not. That same level of predictive power can be incredibly valuable to marketers as well. AI can analyze market trends, competitor strategies, and even social media feedback to help you anticipate customer needs and tailor your communications accordingly.


Adaptation and development in the age of AI


Marketing is constantly evolving, and AI represents a major shift that resistance to can hinder progress. Instead, we should look at artificial intelligence as an opportunity to improve skills to achieve greater success.

Maintaining a positive attitude towards AI is crucial. Focusing on the potential benefits of AI, such as increased efficiency, deeper customer analysis, and the ability to create more targeted and personalized marketing campaigns.

We shouldn't be afraid to experiment with new AI tools and marketing strategies. "Fail fast, learn faster" approach allows for quick adaptation.


The indispensable person: creativity and empathy


Artificial intelligence is a powerful tool, but it lacks the creativity and empathy of humans to develop compelling narratives that resonate emotionally. Understanding people's moods on an emotional level and making real connections with your audience remains your exclusive opportunity. Artificial intelligence cannot replace the human ability to translate data into compelling brand stories. Think about it - who will write an emotional brand story that you can't read without tears? It's you, the creative genius behind the wheel.


A masterpiece of collaboration: humans and AI in harmony


The future of marketing is not a competition between humans and artificial intelligence; It is a masterpiece of collaboration. Imagine: AI builds data-driven insights, uncovering customers' hidden desires and emotional triggers. You then translate this information into compelling brand stories that resonate with your audience on an emotional level. This synergistic approach leads to effective, data-driven marketing campaigns that drive brand loyalty and long-term success.


The future of marketing is collaboration between humans and artificial intelligence. You can discover a new era of marketing efficiency. This future promises not only efficiency and meaningful insights, but also deeper analysis of the customer journey map, allowing for the truly meaningful connections that drive brand loyalty and long-term success.



18.03.2024

No one argues anymore that digital transformation, or at least digitalization, is a strict imperative for business, but what lies beyond this reality? How should businesses navigate their digitalization journey, and what potential obstacles await them? These are the exact questions we address in this article.

Organizations that proactively adopt digital technology and weave it into their workflows and operations stand to gain significant benefits; These include increased efficiency and productivity, enhanced customer service, increased revenue and a stronger competitive edge.

However, the path to digital transformation is not always easy. Many organizations encounter substantial barriers that hinder the dynamic transformation process and often lead to its failure. However, it is encouraging to know that the challenges associated with digital transformation are often similar across industries, allowing organizations to leverage proven strategies to overcome them.


Common barriers to digital transformation and ways to overcome them


The challenges companies face during digital transformation are frequently quite similar and with the right strategies, they can be effectively managed. Fortunately, organizations can "learn from others' mistakes" and plan their own digital transformation journey more efficiently. Let’s explore some typical barriers (and solutions) that businesses encounter on their path to digital transformation. By proactively addressing these common challenges, businesses can build a strong foundation for successful digital transformation.


Lack of clear vision and strategy


Navigating your digital transformation journey without a clearly defined strategy is like walking blindfolded. At such times, businesses find themselves in uncertainty – what technologies should be implemented? How should these technologies be used? And in general, what are these technologies for? This ambiguity and lack of strategic priorities frequently become the primary reasons for failure.

Involving the organization's key stakeholders is crucial in developing a clear digital vision. This strategy should turn into an actionable roadmap, namely:

1. Assessing digital readiness. Analyze your organization's digital readiness to identify strengths and opportunities for improvement. This will help you see what your organization's digital landscape currently looks like and what steps you need to take to achieve your desired goals.

2. Joint workshops. Conduct workshops with key stakeholders from different departments (senior management, marketing, sales, IT, etc.) to generate ideas and define your organization's digital goals.

3. Mapping customer experience (CX). Analyze all key touchpoints in your customer experience to identify digital optimization opportunities that can improve the customer experience.

4. Define success metrics. Define key performance indicators (KPIs) aligned with digital goals that align with your digital vision to measure progress and track your transformation.

5. Develop a step-by-step roadmap. Break down your long-term vision into actionable steps, with clear deadlines and steps for each step. This incremental approach ensures flexibility and adaptability during digital transformation.

 

Resistance to change


Employees accustomed to traditional work styles may find themselves confused and frustrated when faced with new technologies and workflows. This conflict can lead to decreased productivity, which in turn affects the overall performance of the business.

Effective change management techniques are essential. Open communication and active communication of the main purpose of the transformation will help employees understand the need for the process and buy into the transformation. Remember that to create a culture of support for digitalization it is necessary:

1. Communication – clearly explain the purpose of digital transformation, clearly outline the benefits for both the organization and employees. Present this as an opportunity for professional growth and development.

2. Empathy. Focus on emotions and address employee frustrations during change. During change, it is important for people to understand that their feelings and emotions are taken into account, that each employee's point of view is valued, and that the transformation process serves everyone's interests.

3. Support. Involve employees in the decision-making process and encourage feedback. This creates a sense of belonging, motivates employees to participate and increases their contribution to the digitalization process.

4. Constant development. Create consistent training and education programs to keep employees up to date with new technologies. It is important to provide ongoing support and a mentoring system. This will help reduce resistance and develop a culture of learning and adaptation within the organization.

5. Celebrate achievements. Recognize and celebrate individual and team achievements (even small ones) throughout the process. Sharing success stories builds momentum and makes the value of transformation clearer.

 

Inadequate budget and resources


There are often cases when company management clearly states the desire for digital transformation and justifies its necessity, but often this business requirement is not accompanied by appropriate further steps. The process of digital transformation requires investment in technology, increasing the competence of employees and, possibly, the support of external expertise. Ensuring sufficient funding and efficient allocation of resources is often a challenge for many organizations.

Carefully evaluate budget constraints and prioritize areas that align with digital goals and support your business strategy. Properly assessing digital readiness will help define strategic priorities, providing a digital roadmap that must be supported by appropriate budget and resources. To better allocate resources during the digitization process:


1. Digitalization budget. It is necessary to plan the necessary funds to achieve your digital goals for the appropriate period of time, since innovation and digital transformation without financial costs are unfortunately unthinkable.

2. Cost optimization. Optimizing IT costs may include renegotiating software licenses with vendors, merging vendors, or canceling unnecessary subscriptions.

3. Cost-benefit analysis. Analyze the costs and expected benefits of digital initiatives to prioritize initiatives that deliver the most value.

4. Resource distribution. Plan allocation of budget, human capital, and technology resources based on team skills, workload, and upskilling potential of existing employees.

5. Budget flexibility - plan for unexpected expenses or opportunities. Regularly review your budget against your priorities.

 

Inadequate IT infrastructure


Legacy technology systems can create compatibility issues with new digital tools and limit the scalability and flexibility needed for transformation. At the same time, an inadequate IT infrastructure is a serious stress for the team of a company undergoing digitalization and contributes to people's frustration.

Modernizing legacy systems can be an important prerequisite for any digital initiative. Therefore, pay attention to the following aspects:


1. Legacy Infrastructure Assessment - Assess all current hardware, software and applications. Analyze their compatibility with digital goals. Identify critical systems for modernization and phase out non-critical systems.

2. Modernization roadmap. Develop a step-by-step plan that takes into account budget, environmental factors, obstacles, and operational implications.

3. Modernization options - explore replacing existing applications with cloud-based solutions through API integration or the use of virtual environments.

4. Implementation of the cloud. Evaluate migration of legacy systems to cloud systems for scalability, cost-effectiveness, and data archiving or system recovery.

5. Data migration. Develop a secure and efficient data transfer strategy that takes into account data cleansing, mapping, and downtime.

6. Support system – develop a systematic approach to solving employee problems and provide the necessary training module for working in a modernized environment.


Database silos and security issues


Data scattered across different systems can make it difficult to use them effectively. In practice, there are often cases when an organization does not have a unified approach to storing and processing data. We often come across examples where confidential information is stored only on the hard drives of the laptops of different colleagues. Moreover, ensuring data security in a digital environment is of paramount importance and is often one of the least considered aspects of transformation.

Consider the following steps to properly manage your data and reduce security risks:

1. Data comparison. Identify all data sources, formats, and locations to understand the company's current data practices and identify data silos.

2. Data management. Establish data access, access and use policies, and security protocols for responsible data management.

3. Data integration. Break down data silos for integrated solutions to facilitate the seamless flow of information exchange and processing and improve data-driven decision making.

4. Cybersecurity. Invest in robust security tools, conduct regular assessments, and increase employee awareness of data security best practices.

5. Continuous improvement. Continuously monitor, analyze and update management policies and security protocols to adapt to potential threats and regulations.


Lack of digital literacy skills at company level


In addition to the need for specialized technical knowledge, successful digital transformation requires a high level of digital literacy skills within a company's team. This means that employees at all levels—from senior management to front-line staff—must feel comfortable using digital tools and platforms. Lack of these fundamental digital skills can create significant barriers to adoption, potentially leading to failure.

To improve digital literacy skills at the organizational level, it is important to consider the following steps:

1. Analysis of digital skills. Assess digital literacy at the company level, identify areas for improvement and prioritize competency development.

2. Multi-level training system. It is important to develop training programs for people with different levels of digital skills, from basic computer knowledge to complex tools.

3. Microlearning and gamification. Use bite-sized modules and gamification to increase employee engagement, allowing you to develop interactive learning experiences and increase employee enthusiasm and motivation.

4. Mentoring programs. Encourage a culture of knowledge sharing and mentoring to promote collaboration and effective use of the company's team's core competencies.

5. Constant support. Create a digital knowledge base, transcribe the knowledge and skills of the company's team and make them accessible manuals and essential user manuals for digital platforms and systems, providing ongoing employee support at minimal cost.

 

The locomotive of success - The digital transformation team


It is clear that the most common barriers, to one degree or another, contain the problems that your company may face on the path to digitalization. But the most common and perhaps classic mistake is when a company’s team tries to implement digital transformation using only internal resources. The process of digital transformation is complex and requires a holistic approach across the entire organization. Therefore, a transformation team is needed, consisting of people with relevant expertise and cross-industry experience, who have an equal understanding of business goals and technological opportunities.

Remember that a seamless digital transformation requires a clear vision, effective communication and an understanding of responsibility for creating the capabilities your organization needs.

How prepared are you to take that initial step on the path to digital transformation?