By Piyush Jha
You’re in the driver’s seat of a 1960’s classic Ford Mustang. It’s timeless craftsmanship; an absolute gem – vintage, powerful, and iconic. But against the latest Tesla Model your Mustang may look like a relic from the past. Complex circuitry, automated systems, and cutting-edge technology offer the Tesla, all the features it needs to succeed today. The Mustang, for all its charm, simply doesn’t stand a chance.Why, you ask? Technology running a business in this digital age is no different.
Welcome to the race of our lives, where clinging to antiquated systems — or ‘Jurassic Tech’, as I like to call it — is like racing a Ford Mustang against a Tesla. And the finish line? It’s survival.Modern businesses are embracing ‘digital transformation’. But what does it really mean? Simply put, it’s the integration of digital innovation into all areas of a business, fundamentally changing how you operate and deliver value to your customers. It is the resilience to leave behind and move at pace to deliver enhanced customer experience.
It’s also a cultural shift that requires organisations to continually challenge the status quo, experiment, and get comfortable with failure in the process.The ‘Why’ behind the imperativeSpeed and efficiency: Today’s business landscape is like a high-speed autobahn. Everything moves fast, and if you don’t keep pace, you’re at risk of being left behind. Adopting digital tools can streamline your operations and make your business more agile and efficient.
Customer expectations: Modern customers demand more – they want personalised, seamless, and on-demand experiences. Businesses like Netflix and Spotify use complex algorithms to provide tailored recommendations, raising the bar for personalisation.Innovation and opportunity: Digital transformation not only keeps you in the game but also opens up a world of innovation and unseen opportunities.The question then arises, “Can businesses survive without digital transformation?” In theory, yes. But in practice, it’s a risky gamble. Take the example of Nokia. When smartphones stormed the market with their advanced features and slick operating systems, Nokia, which clung to its traditional models, was left in the dust.These examples are a stark reminder that survival in today’s business landscape isn’t about size or legacy; it’s about adaptability and agility, about becoming a T-Rex in a world of digital opportunities.
Gear up for the digital race If we’ve learned anything from Jurassic Park, it’s that life — and business — finds a way. Digital transformation is a survival imperative for businesses wanting to stay relevant and competitive in this ever-evolving landscape. Your business journey might be bumpy with twists and turns, but refusing to evolve is not an option. It’s time to trade that charming but outdated Ford Mustang for a Tesla and join the race.
The author is MD, head, India and APAC, GlobalLogic
