Enterprise Digital Transformation using a Sociotechnical System Approach

Abstract

AbstractDigital transformation is gaining increased attention due to its potential to change the way companies operate and unveil new business strategies. In consideration of the fact that digital transformations occur under specific sociotechnical environments and with particular intentions, success highly depends on the ability of companies to explicitly characterize their sociotechnical context and intended transformation. This paper sheds some light on how companies might approach digital transformation efforts through an enterprise‐level sociotechnical system approach that centers on digital twins and model‐based methods. Research findings and intervention strategies are derived from observations and interviews on ongoing projects, supplemented by findings from the literature. Core systems engineering analysis methods such as Concept of Operations analyses are part of such strategies given their potential to accelerate the sociotechnical system redesign cycle and generate actionable decisions toward digital transformation. A sociotechnical system analysis framework intended to guide organizations in developing their strategic approaches for adopting digital twins as transformation strategy is also shared. This framework and the entire paper assert the importance of taking a sociotechnical system perspective in defining, designing, and implementing a digital transformation.