Digital transformation is a term gaining much currency. But what is digital transformation? In short, it is so much more than just a technology project.
According to Gartner, at its simplest, digital transformation is the use of digital technologies to change a business model and to provide new revenues and value-producing opportunities. Digitisation and digitalisation are similar terms to digital transformation that also apply to the same applications and processes.
Market research firm IDC, expects the percentage of organisations engaged in digital transformation to double to 50% in the next 3 years. However, digital transformation is not just about the changes associated with digital technology and the business sector. Its application is far wider reaching and much more fundamental. It integrates into all aspects of human life and society.
Whilst the non-profit sector is behind the curve, it is certainly not standing against the advance of inevitable change. Forward thinking non-profits are starting to embrace digital transformation. According to The Charity Digital Skills Report 2018, 15% of non-profits reported having been through digital transformation and embed it into their organisation; 45% are aware of how digital trends are affecting their work and plan do something about it; and just over a third (36%) say this change is being led from the top.
For the non-profit sector, digital transformation is seen as the best route to achieving efficiency and cost savings. Digital technology can transform the whole organisation and its relationship with stakeholders. It’s an opportunity for non-profits to reinvent how they can best deliver their vision and mission.
What will stop progress?
Digital transformation can only happen with support from the top and with the buy-in from stakeholders at every level – staff, volunteers, donors, directors and trustees.
Discover more about how to create a culture of digital transformation by reading our article.
All too often, success is hampered by a lack of vision and expertise within the sector. This is highlighted in The Charity Digital Skills Report which cites a lack of digital leadership (28%) as a significant problem; the lack of direction to support more digital products and services (51%); and the generally low level of digital skills at board level (69%).
Ultimately, a well-implemented digital platform encourages innovation and maximises efficiency by seamlessly bringing together people, processes, insights and technology. In these cash-strapped times, that means being able to do much more, much faster, with much less.
To learn more about how you can overcome these barrier and drive digital transformation, download our Not for Profit Whitepaper.