Navigating digital transformation: How to prepare for what's next

Experts from Tripartite Alliance for Fair & Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP) reveal three ways to navigate through a digital transformation.

Digital transformation is rapidly changing the way we work today. Machine learning and artificial intelligence are just some of the myriad technologies emerging today, looking to proliferate across global workplaces in the future.

Yet, moving away from a traditional, rigid structure to one that is more flexible and agile in response to these changes is no easy feat. It not only involves the adaptation to new technologies and equipment, but also a transformed business culture and employee mindset.

Here are some ways to navigate your business through a digital transformation.

Understanding your talent

Human capital is one of the most powerful forces when it comes to achieving business goals, and plays a key role in preparing your business for what’s next. In today’s highly uncertain and dynamic work environment, businesses need to evolve in the types of skills you look for in employees, as well as the ones you aim to develop.

One way to identify the skills that will enable your workforce to thrive in the digital age is by analysing future demand to bridge the gaps. Create tailored career tracks that enable them to upskill in these areas and build the capacity to “learn to learn” new skills, so as to build a workforce that is flexible and adaptable to changes.

Address resistance

Change does not happen overnight. To help your employees embrace digital transformation, it is important to communicate the intent of any changes you make and how it can benefit them. Share your plans to address the skills gaps and focus on the fact that their contribution is valuable and needs to be fully integrated with the rest of the organisation. Clear communication of the organisation’s plan and vision is just as important as coming up with the strategy.

Define and foster new cultural characteristics

Consider characteristics that align with your transformation, and focus on the behaviour that shifts the culture. Some characteristics commonly found in organisations that embrace digitalisation include: collaborative, where people are empowered to execute via cross-functional and connected teams; agile, where people are adaptable and comfortable with change; and innovative, where the work environment encourages out-of-the-box thinking.

Reward behaviours that exemplify such characteristics. For example, reward employees for their collaborative practices as much as individual contribution and achievement, or those who proactively seek opportunities to grow and expand their knowledge base.

Ready or not, digital is your new business imperative. It is a critical time for businesses of all sizes across industries to think about how digital transformation can not only create more efficient business processes, but also helps your business meet the growing demands of digital consumers.

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TAFEP holds regular workshops to help employers and HR professionals keep abreast of HR best practices. Visit tafep.sg to find out more.

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