Thinking of... Digital Transformation from the Director's Perspective? Ask the Smart Questions

The rate of business and environmental change is increasing to unprecedented levels, resulting in organisations having to constantly respond to both opportunities and threats. In my industry for example this include area such as: Deregulated markets A move away from a government funded allocation paradigm A move towards a competitive market paradigm which sees increased customer choice and stronger competition As Directors and executives, we are all endeavouring to ensure that our organisations are strategically positioned to maximise opportunities as they arise, as well as effectively managing significant future disruption. In my various roles, one as an executive and the other as a Board Director, it is my objective to ensure, from a strategic perspective, I understand the key and 'fresh' questions I need to ask in order to perform each of these roles appropriately by adopting a different lenses when reviewing strategy. The first two Chapters of this book cover various aspects of transformation, disruption and change management as well as more importantly, providing clarification of the terms, Digital and Business Transformation. I believe for many people there is confusion about these terms and they are often used interchangeably when referring to different aspects of transformation. The examples provided offer a good insight into how organisations have understood and employed critical technology and key business drivers to maximise opportunities and bring disruption to the market. Chapters Five through Seven are a 'breath of fresh air'. They provide in an easy to read format, realistic insights into the questions to be asked from an internal, external, and technological perspective. The introduction of the concept of 3 'R's being reinforce, remind and reveal, provide a relevant prompt for readers to review previous or new insights. The thinking that underpins the suggested questions allows readers to gain a better understanding of the crux of many of the problems requiring resolution. In summary, a very good read which is highly recommended for executives and board directors, who are developing and responding to rapid change through strategy, within this current challenging and transformational environment (i.e. all of us). Dione O'Donnell MBA GAICD Executive Director Corporate Services, Mayflower Brighton Board Director - Windana Drug & Alcohol Ltd