Author: Simon Martin

The introduction of new technologies, innovations and trends forces businesses to make drastic shifts in their operations and business structure to accommodate and leverage new ways of working. The catalyst for change can vary, as we are seeing right now as the impact of COVID-19 on population movement adds urgency to the digitalisation of business processes to enable effective remote working. However, the objective is typically the same - to ensure that the business remains competitive, attractive, customer aligned, operationally fit and of course profitable for its owners. Businesses who do not constantly scan their internal and external environment for opportunities and threats presented by technology will face serious strife when attempting to implement changes.

As a member of CGI's local senior leadership team, I am responsible for business development and client relationship management within the rapidly evolving utilities sector. My goal is to help utility organisations leverage a new generation of information and operational technology solutions to enable them to optimise and revolutionise their businesses in a way that delights their customers and employees.

Keep your finger on the pulse

Every organisation experiences challenges in the face of digital transformation - and managing these challenges effectively is key to success. The main roadblocks organisations face when undergoing digital transformation include:

  • A poor or insufficiently funded change management strategy
  • Lack of an integrated digital strategy
  • Lack of executive sponsorship - the willingness and ability to walk the talk and lead though the transformation by example

Organisations are busy places. Priorities change. Customer requirements shift. Competitors change gears. People move on and new talent arrives. A business without a strong and consistent change focus and vision can cause operational confidence and momentum to quickly evaporate. This can cause transformation efforts to stall, or worse, take a direction that is incongruous with the business case and desired outcome.

Three principles of effective business transformation

  1. Consider the assignment of a change manager to lead the overall transformation rather than running a change stream as part of the programme.
  2. Communicate the strategy clearly, contextually and often.
  3. Be prepared and open to tactical shifts to ensure that the overall transformation strategy remains in alignment with the business and the needs of the customer.

As leaders, to stay at the forefront of our industry we need to work smartly and innovatively by leveraging new and emerging technologies. Regularly ‘taking the pulse’ of different stakeholders is also critical in gauging what’s working and what’s not, how people prefer to consume and provide information and which communication strategies are most effective during times of change.

At CGI, we’re on an exciting journey as we transform information, operational and technology solutions and integrate new capabilities, offerings and customers through acquisitions and investment around the globe.

Interested in joining us on our journey? Find out more about careers at CGI here.