FACULTY OF TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY | Lecture
Associate professorship lecture –Sven Packmohr

Demystifying Digital Transformation: Drivers, Barriers, and Countermeasures

Digital transformation (DT) has become a buzzword across industries. However, beyond the hype, DT is a crucial enabler of efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness in companies, non-profit organisations, and educational institutions. By leveraging digital technologies, organisations seek to enhance operational effectiveness, foster closer customer and stakeholder engagement, and develop new or improved business models. Yet, realising these benefits is far from straightforward.

Many institutions struggle to grasp the full potential of DT, and its implementation is often met with significant barriers. The adoption, diffusion, and development of re-engineered and digitalised processes are frequently hindered. As a result, organisations may underestimate the resources, commitment, and shifts necessary to drive meaningful transformations. Without acknowledging and addressing these challenges, institutions risk failing to achieve their DT objectives.

This lecture will critically examine the key drivers and barriers shaping digital transformation from multiple perspectives. Furthermore, it will explore measures to overcome these obstacles. It aims to provide insights into the complexities of digital transformation and the approaches needed to navigate its challenges successfully.