Digital Transformation Initiatives Research Articles

Guiding Digital Transformation and Collaborative Knowledge Creation in the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Through Action Research

Digital transformation initiatives in supply chain require a sector-level approach, involving multiple stakeholders. This implies the development of new models for successful implementation that move beyond the dyadic relationship level and that fosters collaboration mechanisms in multi-stakeholder and multi-level systems. This study applies an insider action research approach to the implementation of the EU system for product traceability in the pharmaceutical supply chain, the EU falsified medicines directive, focusing on stakeholder orientation's alignment. The study identifies how to overcome obstacles to the effective governance of multi-stakeholder digital transformation in supply chains. It proposes new pre-cycle and monitoring mechanisms to use in AR, highlighting the importance of formal structures to foster informal governance and relationships among different stakeholders and introducing the notion of deliberative capacity. Practical implications for managers of companies and organizations at different levels of the supply chain are discussed, illustrating the practical outcomes of the pan-European project.

Navigating digital transformation in airports : A disciplined approach to project portfolio selection and execution

Airports are undertaking digital transformation initiatives to achieve operations excellence, improve sustainability and enhance competitiveness. While digital transformation offers many potential benefits for airports, including improved insights, efficiencies, streamlined passenger journeys and new business/ revenue opportunities, there are risks associated with not utilising a disciplined approach when building a digital transformation project portfolio. Just as all airports are not the same, digital transformation initiatives are not ‘one size fits all’. Projects to introduce new systems and deploy new technology under the banner of digital transformation need to be in support of the strategic goals of the airport and in alignment with business and operational objectives. Digital transformation initiatives must also fit within the resource and skills capacity of the airport to successfully perform the work and provide the necessary post-deployment support afterwards. This paper posits that a disciplined and analytical approach to evaluating both the likely effort required for successful execution and the potential impact and value generated can assist airports with the selection and timing of projects, with the aim of avoiding ‘digital disappointment’. It concludes that digital transformation projects selected and sequenced on the basis of objective criteria are most likely to address the business and operational needs of individual airports and generate the most value for airport employees, stakeholders and passengers.

Managing digital transformation in a global environment: The role of national culture

In today's fast-changing business environment, digital transformation has become an essential strategic imperative for companies seeking to maintain a competitive edge. However, research on the effect of national culture on digital transformation is lacking. This study seeks to address this gap by investigating the effect of national culture on digital transformation, with a focus on the mediating role of digital competencies and information system management practices, as well as the moderating effect of leadership. 250 managers and employees with digital transformation experience across various industries in Saudi Arabia were surveyed. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze and test the research hypotheses. The findings demonstrate that national culture significantly affects digital transformation, with digital competencies and information system management practices acting as mediators. Furthermore, the study discovered that leadership plays a moderating role in the relationship between national culture and digital transformation. The positive impact of national culture on digital transformation is amplified when there is a transformational leadership style in place. These insights hold significant implications for organizations embarking on digital transformation initiatives, emphasizing the importance of fostering a culture encourages digital innovation and risk-taking, investing in digital capabilities and effective information system management, and nurturing transformational leadership to drive successful digital transformation efforts.

Rating ESG key performance indicators in the airline industry

AbstractThe environmental, social, and governance (ESG) integration finds itself in a transition with rapid developments worldwide, given that the pandemic incentivized companies and investors to focus on other social and governance measures such as ESG ratings. However, the divergence of ratings from the ESG and a lack of transparency lead the companies to report voluntary indicators without standardization. This study aimed to identify the ESG criteria and the most suitable set of key performance indicators (KPIs) in the airline industry after the impact of COVID-19. Furthermore, the second objective was to determine the appropriate weights and ranking of the identified criteria. The multi-criteria decision-making analytical hierarchical process was applied for this purpose. Additionally, the use of intuitionistic variables delivers a comprehensive model for rating the airlines according to their ESG performance. The most relevant criteria found in the study were critical risk management, greenhouse gas emissions, and systemic risk management. Regarding the KPIs, the top-3 weights were the number of flight accidents, jet fuel consumed and sustainable aviation used, and the number of digital transformation initiatives.

Practices and Insights of Digital Transformation in Financial Management Education at Private Universities

This paper aims to explore the practical experiences and insights gained from digital transformation initiatives in financial management education at private universities through case studies. The widespread application of digital technology in the field of education is profoundly altering conventional teaching methodologies. By conducting thorough investigations into the digital transformation endeavors within financial management education at various private universities, this study compiles the key success factors evident in effective cases, such as collaborative efforts among faculty members and increased student engagement. Moreover, valuable recommendations are drawn from these experiences, including suggestions to enhance teacher training and optimize course content. These practical insights and lessons have significant implications for similar disciplines and contribute valuable guidance to the process of digital transformation within higher education institutions.

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PRINCIPLES OF ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE IN THE PROVISION OF DIGITAL PUBLIC SERVICES: EU EXPERIENCE AND UKRAINIAN PRACTICE

The article is devoted to the implementation of the principles of administrative procedure in the provision of digital public services, focusing on the experience of EU countries and Ukrainian practice. The purpose of the study is to analyse the application of administrative procedural principles in the provision of digital public services, to assess the effectiveness of their implementation and to draw lessons for improving digital public services. The subject of the study is the search for ways to improve Ukrainian legislation on the administrative procedure of providing digital government services in accordance with the standards of EU countries. Methodology. The study uses general and special methods of scientific cognition. The method of analysis and synthesis makes it possible to analyse EU legislation and standards, national legislation, data from international official ratings, scientific publications, strategies and expert reviews in order to identify specific features of digital governance systems in EU countries. The comparative legal method makes it possible to see the main trends in the development of digital government initiatives, to outline the main directions and vectors of their implementation, and also to highlight the Ukrainian context of digital transformation and e-government initiatives with EU countries and. The systems method allows for a comprehensive study of the principles of administrative procedure, such as transparency, accessibility, efficiency and user-centredness, in the provision of digital public services in the context of digital governance. The comparative analysis method highlights the specifics of legal regulation of digital innovations in public administration in EU countries as well as in Estonia, Germany and Poland. Results. It has been established that EU countries have made significant progress in integrating the principles of administrative procedures into the provision of digital services, which has led to increased efficiency, user satisfaction and trust in public services. Ukrainian practice shows progress in aligning with these principles, with notable progress in expanding the availability of e-services and increasing automation. However, challenges remain in relation to ethical and legal frameworks, data protection and copyright issues in the use of digital technologies. This study contributes to the understanding of best practices in this area and offers practical recommendations for the further development of digital public services in Ukraine.

Digital maturity and digital transformation in human resources management: Stability vs development

Digital transformation has impacted all areas of life, including human resources management. Studying digital maturity is relevant because it can help organizations adapt to change and improve human resources strategies for successful transformation. This study explored the relationship between digital maturity, transformation, and human resources management and how organizations can use digital technologies to increase maturity and opportunities and cope with obstacles. Complex analysis, synthesis, induction, deduction, and analogy methods were used as methodical tools to analyse literary sources, information, and communication technologies. The importance of digital maturity for human resources management practices and processes and the digital transformation process in management functions was explored. The drivers, challenges, and outcomes associated with digital transformation initiatives were identified, and the impact of digital maturity and transformation on stability was analysed. The study also examined the possible trade-offs between maintaining stability and promoting development through digital technologies. The importance of continuous learning, training, and skill development in human resources management was assessed to achieve and maintain digital maturity. A conceptual framework focused on the relationship between sustainability and development in the context of digital maturity and transformation in human resources management, providing a comprehensive understanding of these dynamics. The research can help manage digital transformation effectively, provide helpful information for academic and practical human resources management applications, and bring a new perspective to the balance between sustainability and development

Accelerating the Digital Transformation in Bank XYZ

In current fast-paced and highly competitive business climate, organizations progressively recognize the necessity of embracing digital transformation. Due to developments in technology and the unprecedented effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the banking sector is one of the sectors that has experienced significant disruptions. Digital transformation has become increasingly crucial for banks to remain competitive, sustain business continuity, and meet shifting customer demands. However, the mere adoption of digital technologies is insufficient. In order to adapt with the digital era, it is essential to assess the effectiveness of digital transformation initiatives. As Bank XYZ started and continued to undergo their digital transformation, the company has measured its digital maturity the prior year and the result leaned toward the “Digital Master” stage. However, there could be indications that the digital transformation has not been implemented optimally. Using the Digital Mastery and the Digital Transformation Compass framework, the research emphasizes the importance of accelerating digital transformation for Bank XYZ through digital maturity and digital transformation evaluation to analyse its digital transformation progress while recognizing areas for improvement. The result shows that the current digital maturity result display the same trend as the year prior that the company has reached the “Digital Master” stage affected by the current composition of senior executives and the availability of strategic agenda that drives the digital transformation within the company. However, when the digital transformation was analysed further, the transformation progress is still in the moderate level. It can be concluded that that while initiatives have been implemented, there are improvements need to be made with the aim of advancing Bank XYZ’s digital transformation process. This research proposes business solutions that focuses on enhancing synergies withing the organization to accelerate the digital transformation.

Classification of Barriers to Digital Transformation in Higher Education Institutions: Systematic Literature Review

Digital transformation of higher education institutions (HEIs) is of paramount importance in today’s technology-driven world. However, there are numerous barriers that hinder the successful implementation of digital transformation initiatives in HEIs. In this article, we identify and classify these barriers based on a systematic literature review. The findings reveal twenty distinct barriers that inhibit digital transformation in higher education. These were then organised into six broad categories, namely environmental, strategic, organisational, technological, people-related and cultural. The study provides a comprehensive understanding of the barriers faced, facilitating the development of effective strategies and interventions. Our analysis provides valuable information for higher education institutions, policy makers and stakeholders involved in digital transformation initiatives.

Orion SysML Model, Digital Twin, and Lessons Learned for Artemis I

AbstractIn 2015 it was recognized by NASA's Orion Chief Engineer that NASA's design insight into the Orion subsystems for Artemis I was not sufficient to provide standard engineering support to flight operations. To address these concerns, provide an opportunity to apply emerging model‐based systems engineering and digital twin methodologies, and provide opportunities for employees across NASA to get hands‐on training, an Orion Digital Twin pilot project was initiated in 2020 as part of the Agency's Digital Transformation initiative. With the increase in complexities of spacecraft, and decreased time to made decisions during missions in critical or emergency situations, digital modeling and integration of design can reduce the time to answer questions by days and the required human resources by an order of magnitude over conventional approaches and was identified to be a critical capability for NASA's future. This paper describes the genesis of the Orion Digital Twin pilot project, efforts undertaken, a reproducible methodology to take available system information from a mature program to create an executable SysML model that supports a link to the physical asset, and associated lessons learned and project deliverables.

Impact de l’alignement stratégique et de la culture digitale sur la réussite de la transformation digitale au sein de l’organisation publique Marocaine

Digital transformation is currently a hot topic and a strategic issue for all public and private organizations, regardless of their size. Having entered the "digital era", organizations are facing unprecedented transformations that disrupt their operations and management systems. However, the concept is new and it is not yet clear what factors influence or boost digital transformation. While previous theoretical and empirical work has allowed us to identify the impacts on the success of Digital transformation of the strategic alignment between the digital technologies implemented and the strategy of the public or private organization. Also, we have revealed that the digital culture is the guarantee of strategic coherence and success of the organization's digital transformation. The aim of this research project is to study the extent to which digital technology deployment projects are strategically aligned with the organization's overall strategy, and the degree to which digital culture impacts digital transformation within the organization. We mobilized a quantitative method by means of a questionnaire. A total of 52 respondents from the central entities of the Caisse Nationale de Sécurité Sociale (CNSS) completed the questionnaire. These were managers and executives involved in digital transformation initiatives. The theoretical model was tested using structural equation modeling. Analysis of the data collected using SMART PLS V4 highlights the crucial role of the CNSS establishment's strategy in value creation and the success of digital transformation. The results also indicate that to fully seize the opportunities and potential of this transformation, it is essential to embed a digital-focused organizational culture. In fine, the two hypotheses mobilized at the outset of the positive impact of strategic alignment and digital culture on the success of digital transformation are validated.

Middle Management’s Resistance to Digital Change

This paper investigates middle managers’ resistance to digital transformation initiatives and suggests strategies for overcoming such resistance using the example of a major Russian transportation company. This study employed a mixed-methods approach to assess middle managers’ values and to identify patterns of resistance behavior. The case studies further illustrate the resistance of middle managers and how the company under study responded to these incidents. The findings reveal a significant relationship between employees’ attitudes toward routine and their resistance to digital transformation. Managers with high scores in tradition, conformity, security, and power values, as well as a strong positive attitude toward routine, were more resistant to change. Conversely, those with high scores in universalism, self-direction, and stimulation values were more open to change. By addressing the values and concerns driving middle managers’ attitudes, organizations can better support them in overcoming resistance to digital transformation. The study also offers practical strategies for aligning digital transformation efforts with middle managers’ values, thereby fostering a more positive attitude toward change and facilitating successful implementation.

The Development of Agile Enterprise Architecture for Digital Transformation in Higher Education Institutions

The rapid evolution of digital technologies has led to significant transformations in various industries, including higher education. This study explores the role of Agile Enterprise Architecture (AEA) in supporting digital transformation initiatives within Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). AEA provides a flexible, adaptive, and iterative framework to manage the complex and dynamic nature of digital transformation. We conducted a qualitative study using a multiple case-study approach, investigating four HEIs that implemented AEA in their digital transformation initiatives. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and participant observation. We employed thematic analysis to identify the key factors contributing to the successful implementation of AEA in these institutions. Our findings revealed that AEA plays a crucial role in facilitating digital transformation by providing a holistic, systematic, and adaptive framework. The AEA approach enables HEIs to effectively manage the complexities of digital transformation, enhance their agility, and respond to changing stakeholder needs. Key success factors include strong leadership, effective communication, a skilled workforce, and a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. The study contributes to the understanding of AEA's role in promoting digital transformation in higher education and offers practical implications for HEIs looking to leverage digital technologies for improved performance and stakeholder satisfaction. Further research is needed to explore the generalizability of these findings to other contexts and industries.

E-Government 3.0: An AI Model to Use for Enhanced Local Democracies

While e-government (referring here to the first generation of e-government) was just the simple manner of delivering public services via electronic means, e-gov 2.0 refers to the use of social media and Web 2.0 technologies in government operations and public service delivery. However, the use of the term ‘e-government 2.0’ is becoming less common as the focus shifts towards broader digital transformation initiatives that may include AI technologies, among others, such as blockchain, virtual reality, and augmented reality. In this study, we present the relatively new concept of e-government 3.0, which is built upon the principles of e-government 2.0 but refers to the use of emerging technologies (e.g., artificial intelligence) to transform the delivery of public services and improve governance. The study objective is to explore the potential of e-government 3.0 to enhance citizen participation, improve public service delivery, and increase responsiveness and compliance of administrative systems in relation to citizens by integrating emerging technologies into government operations using as a background the evolution of e-government over time. The paper analyzes the challenges faced by municipalities in responding to citizen petitions, which are a core application of local democracies. The author starts by presenting an example of an e-petition system (as in use today) and analyses anonymized data of a text corpus of petitions directed to one of the Romania municipalities. He will propose an AI model able to deal faster and more accurately with the increased number of inputs, trying to promote it to municipalities who, for some reason, are still reluctant to implement AI in their operations. The conclusions will suggest that it may be more effective to focus on improving new algorithms rather than solely on ‘old’ technologies.

Developing a strategic planning model for developing, monitoring and evaluating digital transformation initiatives: a soft system approach

PurposeThis research aims to develop a strategic planning model for developing, monitoring and evaluating digital and sustainable transformation initiatives in organizations. The purpose of this model is to provide a useful tool for managers and practitioners in the field of digital transformation.Design/methodology/approachThis research draws on the soft systems literature and combines the reference models of the balanced scorecard and the logical framework approach to develop the model. The model identifies the key dimensions to be considered in the planning, monitoring and evaluation phases of a digital transformation initiativeFindingsThis research makes important theoretical and practical contributions to the literature on digital transformation. This study enriches the literature and proposes a model that is useful both in the strategic planning phase and in the ex-post evaluation. The model identifies the key dimensions to be considered in the planning phase of a digital transformation initiative and describes the dimensions to be taken into account when monitoring the development of the initiative and the final evaluation of the impact achieved.Originality/valueThis model is original in its approach, as it draws on the soft systems literature and combines the reference models of the balanced scorecard and the logical framework approach. The model provides a useful tool for managers and practitioners that has normative and prescriptive value. The research makes important contributions to the literature on digital transformation by proposing a model that considers both the theoretical and practical aspects of digital transformation initiatives.

Short-term Impact of Instagram on Livelihoods of Artisans at Accra Arts Centre

The Accra Arts Centre in Ghana is a physical commercial hub for over eight hundred artisans. However, due to an ongoing construction project, the Marine Drive Project, the artisans' livelihoods are threatened. The Marine Drive Project aims to transform parts of the Accra coastline into a residential business district; hence will demolish the current Accra Arts Centre. Therefore, there is a need to explore sustainable livelihoods – ones that withstand stresses and shocks, such as the Marine Drive Project. Within the sustainable livelihoods framework, socially sustainable livelihoods encompass the economic gain that persons can derive from meeting their needs and affording them a decent living – such as the economic gain the artisans get from selling. To promote this social livelihood and withstand the stress of the project, artisans can use Instagram for commerce due to its visual emphasis, social features and embedded e-commerce platform. The Digital Business Transformation Initiative has taught about 120 artisans how to use Instagram for trade, and this research investigates its impact on the artisans' livelihood. Through the literature reviewed, brand awareness is a step towards increasing the sales volume on social commerce. Therefore, the impact on brand awareness was studied to investigate the short-term effect of Instagram on the artisans' business. The independent variable is the number of followers the artisan has, and the dependent variables are the frequency of posts by the artisan and the number of persons they follow. The findings gained external validity through a comparative analysis against selected African artisans to confirm patterns in the initial data set. Both datasets revealed that artisans could gain brand awareness through Instagram commerce and build their network through literature in the short term. However, other factors, such as the quality of posts and the quality of the artisans' network, play a role in achieving brand awareness. From the literature, the increasing brand awareness due to frequent posting and the quality of the artisans' following can lead to sales and improve the artisans' social livelihoods.

Estimating the potential economic impact of the Wasfaty program on costs of antidiabetic treatment: An initiative for the digital transformation of health

IntroductionThe Saudi health care transformation is taking place through the implementation of many initiatives and programs to serve Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to improve health care services by focusing on digitalization and privatization. This study aimed to evaluate the economic impact of implementing the new digital health transformation initiative (Wasfaty service) on the health care budget using diabetes mellitus as an example. MethodsThis study presents a cost analysis evaluation following the implementation of the Wasfaty program during the period between 2017 and 2021. The study compared the pre-Wasfaty period and the Wasfaty period in terms of direct medical costs. Data sources were the Ministry of Health for pre-Wasfaty data and the National Unified Procurement Company, which runs the Wasfaty program, for Wasfaty data. The study focuses on diabetic medications for outpatients. This health economic evaluation used the cost per visit, and sensitivity analyses were conducted utilizing the cost per patient according to the prevalence of diabetes mellitus. ResultsAfter implementing the transformation using the Wasfaty service, the estimated annual mean cost savings per visit were USD 109.18 (SAR 409.43), and the cost savings per patient with a prevalence of 11% were USD 13.89 (SAR 52.1). The saving costs were USD 11,750,600 (SAR 44,064,750) for human resources and USD 97,473,469 (SAR 365,525,508) for pharmacies’ operation costs without including warehouse expenditures. The savings from the clinical decision support system preventing undesirable medication costs were estimated at USD 9,842,720 (SAR 36,910,201), and savings from the prevention of undesirable adverse events were estimated at USD 137,332,615 (SAR 514,997,308) for a 6% prediction. The total healthcare expenditure savings were USD 258,762,981 to 274,972,971 (SAR 970,361,178 ± 1,031,148,640). ConclusionsImplementing the new digitization and privatization initiatives (i.e., the Wasfaty program) as a result of the transformation in the health care sector had led to a significant reduction in health care expenditures and cost savings with respect to clinical and pharmacy services using diabetes mellitus as an example.

Digital Avatar of Metrology

In the present paper, the digital transformation in metrology is discussed, which is revolutionizing the world and is one of the most interesting developments in science & technology today. The study also discusses, how current technologies like Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, Cloud computing, and more significantly digital twins would become synonymous with digital metrology, thus bolstering the future of manufacturing industries. The basic objective of any digital transformation initiative is to enhance the current processes, while each one will have its own unique set of objectives. As metrology is considered as the main pillar of Quality Infrastructure (QI), the digital transformation of metrology requires a holistic approach for all stakeholders working within the advanced QI of a country or economy.

Strategies for Improving Organizational Efficiency, Productivity, and Performance through Technology Adoption

With an emphasis on digital transformation, this thesis analyzes methods for enhancing organizational effectiveness and competitiveness through the use of technology. There is a growing need for administrators and managers to comprehend and execute digital transformation strategies due to the widespread use of technology in businesses. The research combines different techniques, such as a literature review, in-depth interviews, and a survey of the workforce at one company. According to the research's results, successful digital transformation initiatives require buy-in from the top down, a well-defined path forward, and a culture that prizes creativity and teamwork. Effective change management strategies that address employee concerns and utilize the benefits of digital technologies should also be an integral part of digital transformation strategies. The research also identifies digital transformation's enablers and inhibitors, and assesses how well digital transformation strategies boost productivity, efficiency, and performance in businesses. Researchers and practitioners in the field of management and administration can benefit from the study's valuable insights into the strategies for improving organizational efficiency, productivity, and performance through technology adoption. However, there are caveats to the research that should be taken into account. The results of this study need to be replicated in other settings and with bigger samples.

The Impact of Transformative Digital Leadership on Organizational Innovation: A Case Study of Successful Digital Transformation

The rapid advancement of digital technologies has necessitated organizations to adapt and innovate to remain competitive. Digital leadership, therefore, plays a critical role in driving the successful transformation of organizations. This research paper delves into the impact of transformative digital leadership on organizational innovation through an in-depth case study of a company that has successfully navigated the digital transformation journey. The primary focus of the investigation is to understand how digital leaders influence strategic direction and decision-making processes to foster organizational innovation and agility. To achieve this, the study will examine digital leaders' approaches, practices, and behaviors in the case company. It will also identify the key factors that enable a successful digital transformation and how these leaders can drive organizational innovation. By presenting empirical evidence and insights from the case study, the paper aims to contribute to the academic discourse on digital leadership and its implications for organizational innovation. This research will be precious for organizations seeking to understand the crucial elements of effective digital leadership and how it can be harnessed to stimulate innovation and ensure the long-term success of digital transformation initiatives.