• Strategy Simply overlaying technology to automate or digitize existing processes and products isn ’ t the answer . Companies are finding that digitization efforts reduce expenses while enhancing customer engagement at lower costs . For some companies , the plan has shifted from boosting profits to enhancing business continuity , resiliency , and agility .
• Processes Many companies fail to modify business processes or optimize connectivity solutions for broader applications , leaving significant value unrealized . Before technology decisions are made , organizations must review the procedures already in place . Automating inefficient or outdated processes will only lead to the failure of the transformation initiative .
• Technology Technology is perhaps the least complicated aspect of digital transformation after the other elements are in place . Adopting the cloud computing model for enterprise IT helps establish a platform for digital transformation . It pairs with edge computing capabilities through IoT ( Internet of Things ) sensors and rugged mobile devices on factory floors and warehouses that tap into real-time data flows for unprecedented visibility into various processes . The introduction of 5G networks can help companies implement or upgrade robotics and supports bandwidth and speeds to make decentralized decisions on the factory floor . In the space of just a few years , digital transformation has gone from a nice idea to a critical requirement for manufacturers looking to future-proof themselves against unknown challenges and disruption . As the pandemic proved , business leaders that aren ’ t willing to adapt and embrace digital innovation in a timely fashion can quickly find themselves on the back foot when the unexpected happens . For those that haven ’ t done so already , it ’ s time to embrace digital transformation . ■
For a list of the sources used in this article , please contact the editor .
Tom Baldwin www . getac . com / en
Tom Baldwin is Sector Lead for Manufacturing , Transport & Logistics at Getac . Since 1989 , Getac has been providing rugged computing solutions for demanding professionals in extreme environments . Getac serves a wide range of vertical markets including military & defense , law enforcement , public safety , emergency services , utility , natural resources , oil and gas , telecommunications , transportation and industrial manufacturing .
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