Digital Transformation Isn't Just About Digitising Workflows

Many health organisations misunderstand digital transformation, thinking it's only about automating or digitising current processes. But as Conway's Law tells us: “Organisations design systems that mirror their own communication structures.” Our digital systems often reflect the human-processes (and its limitation & dysfunctions).

The truth is, digital transformation success relies more on understanding your people and your organisational structure than on technology. I also find that many don't align their choice of digital platforms with their long-term business & clinical objectives (are you going multi-site? is the demographics of your region changing? etc). The mistake many make? Trying to digitise broken processes without first evaluating if they’re effective or sustainable.

Before you digitise, simplify and find the roots of the problem (and read the upcoming trends of the demand you are meeting). Streamline your social and communication structures. Remember, technology isn't the star of the show—your people, processes, partners and culture are. Nail that, and the impact of tech implementation will follow.

In health, digital transformation project is an incredible chance to fix deeper organisational issues. Minimise barriers, increase transparency, and build buy-in through thoughtful service design. That’s where the real transformation happens. I love being a part of that transformation!

Read my insight post on LinkedIn.