41 cope with fundamental changes. Digital solutions are not upgrades in the usual sense. They also introduce new work concepts for businesses. Creativity, agility, and self-realisation become the determining factors of our work. This in turn has an enormous effect on the organisation as a whole, as well as on company culture. Such profound changes also cause insecurity, which can cause the failure of entire projects. Technology is not everything Technological developments drive the digital transformation – but they are not an end in themselves. Technology must serve the people who use it. These are the people in the company who implement the digital transformation. Their creativity and passion are what give digital tools their power. At the same time, we should not forget that uncertainty is a fundamental human trait. Many people feel overwhelmed or even fear that they will be unable to cope in a new working environment. If the digital transformation is to be successful, these fears must not be belittled or even ignored. It is obvious that technological transformation is a part of a wider context. Technology and new business models can only function if we are aware of the cultural disruption which they cause. Digitalisation is mainly a question of attitude – a commitment to a form of work which focuses on people. This means that the digital transformation is not primarily a technological, but rather a cultural project. The people who drive this change are not simply resources. They are living and creative beings with their own individual aims, desires, and talents. Limits of classical consultancy The central challenge of digital transformation projects has already been stated: People need to be inspired. This is by no means trivial, as it relates to fundamental changes. Hierarchies are broken down, what is familiar is discarded, and many people will need to leave their comfort zone. However, there is not only resistance. You can rely on the fact that people are curious and have the need to personally be a part of important and pioneering issues. Here, classical consulting approaches which relate to projects for the implementation of new technologies and user training reach their limits. The digital transformation is not simply another project or problem to be solved. It is something that is happening to every business. Just as all businesses had to convert to the use of electricity at some point. This does not mean that they need to re-invent themselves immediately. Rather, it means helping businesses to re-discover themselves. Change as part of company culture This means that consulting must reconsider its ideas. The digital transformation of a business requires holistic “Customer Strategy Management” in which technology, a positive vision for the future, further development of the business model and cultural changes interact with each other. Above all, it must be ensured that the organisation as a whole supports the people involved in the development of their creativity and their special talents. This fundamentally changes the role of consultants. Their remit does not primarily involve the implementation of technological or organisational changes. Consultants must show ways in which change itself becomes an integral part of the company culture. This is not a simple task, because the digital transformation, like all fundamental changes, is also a painful process. However, if you can succeed in plausibly explaining why this effort is worthwhile, you will be surprised how much creative energy this releases. COSMO CONSULT Group www.cosmoconsult.com sandler-group.com We have made it our mission to make everyday life more comfortable with our products. In doing so, Sandler nonwovens help insulate, filter, clean, protect and upholster. With over 140 years of experience, we have become one of the world’s leading nonwovens manufacturers. In the construction, household, hygiene, industrial, mobility and wipes sectors, our international customers benefit from the expertise of our nonwovens specialists.
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