Cloud transformation, machine learning, GPT, HMI, generative AI, responsible AI, ODBC - as a business owner, do I need to know all these concepts?
- Yes and no. You can't possibly understand everything, but you need to be aware that developments are moving fast and present both opportunities and risks for your business," says Patricia Eresjö, digitalization coach at Dalarna Science Park.
Every week, Patricia Eresjö and her colleague Stefan Rodheim meet with companies that have turned to Dalarna Science Park for advice on digitization and digital tools.
- Some are just starting their digital journey, while others have come a long way and are thinking about the next steps. "Sometimes it's about specific tools, sometimes it's about funding," says Stefan Rodheim.
The advice is free and open to all companies and organizations in Dalarna.
- In addition to being able to answer many questions ourselves and our colleagues, we are connected to experts in several national and international networks. So there is everything to gain and nothing to lose by booking a first meeting with us," says Patricia.
Nine questions on digitalization - and the experts' answers
What do we really mean by digitization?
- It has become a rather vague term now that so much has been modernized and digitized, from car engines to healthcare contacts. That's why we prefer to use the term digital transformation, which means developing your business with the help of digital technology.
What characterizes digital transformation?
- Digital transformation is not a finished project, but an ongoing process. We usually say that digital transformation is 80-90% about people and human behavior, while technology accounts for 10-20%.
What does it take to succeed?
- Willingness and curiosity are key drivers. It also requires an awareness that the company's data is a valuable asset that is the basis for all digital transformation, so it is really important to have structure and order in all data to be able to take advantage of all the new opportunities that exist. And, as in any other form of change management, leaders need to set clear goals, enable the shift and be good communicators.
What can SMEs gain from working strategically on digital transformation?
- They can often become more efficient, freeing up time that can be used to develop the business. The results can range from new services and products to more creative tasks and less stress. But perhaps most importantly, it makes the business more resilient - stronger and more adaptable to economic cycles, technological developments and the like. In other words, better able to take on both opportunities and difficulties.
What do you want to say to those who are skeptical about AI?
- That many people feel the same way and that it is not so strange. AI development is moving very fast and it can be disruptive and a little scary. The media also talks and writes more about the risks of AI than the opportunities. At the same time, we already live with AI in our everyday lives, for example in our mobile phones, without thinking much about it.
As a business owner, do I have to keep up with developments and is it even possible?
- Almost all organizations need to work on digital transformation for their survival. But that's not the same as jumping on all the news and pushing for change. Each company and organization should of course start from its own conditions and its own goals.
Can remaining outdated and not digitizing at all be a competitive advantage?
- Possibly if you have a craft profession and only a few, local customers. But you are still part of a digitalized society, so some degree of modernization is still a must.
Is digital transformation leading to staff cuts?
- This can be the case. But a business can also evolve in a way that requires more people to be employed. What we do know for sure is that digital transformation is affecting societal development and the labor market, both today and tomorrow. Uncertainty can be uncomfortable, but we need to embrace it. We cannot bury our heads in the sand.
My organization needs to get better at digital tools and AI - how do we take the first step?
- Get in touch with us at Dalarna Science Park, and we can assess your digital maturity and propose a plan. There is no charge.
