May, 20229 supplier and do their research. It's beneficial to look for real-world case studies that are relevant to a firm's specific needs. Analyzing CompatibilityA technology partner may be capable, but will their solution be compatible with a company's existing systems? Organizations should look at factors such as integration standards and request a "roadmap" for how the partner plans to harmonize its solution with their own architecture. This will provide more clarity and save a lot of effort down the line. Evaluating ProcessesAfter capabilities and compatibility comes process. Digital transformation is not a "plug and play" operation. It is often an ongoing process, where every stage of development will likely provide new feedback that will be used to remove any roadblocks.Companies must be aware of how the partner handles periods of uncertainty. Will they only stick to pre-established procedures, or are they flexible enough to go the extra mile ­ even if it lies outside their standard processes? Conducting Upfront Due DiligenceWith the pressures of the pandemic forcing companies toward rapid digital transformation, businesses risk rushing through the due diligence process and selecting the first technology partner that comes along.This is a mistake. Using the services of technology partners is a recipe for successful digital transformations. Selecting the appropriate partner is vital to the entire effort, and companies should not skimp on process. The opposite is the case ­ they should be even stricter.Businesses should ensure that each member of the partnership brings equal value to the table. This is not to be confused with similar expertise. Each partner should have differing areas of specialisation that can combine to create synergy ­ one could have deep industry expertise, while another may possess a cutting-edge technology platform, and another a robust database for analytics.The goal here can be summarised in a common saying ­ the whole should be greater than the sum of its parts.Realism RequiredDigital transformation is powerful, but there is a risk that businesses could see it as an idealistic vision of the future ­ especially with the term having reached "buzzword" status. Given the amount of operational effort required, companies must embrace realism first. Overestimating their internal capabilities and believing it would be quicker to do everything themselves would be an error that will only do themselves a disservice.Our economy is built on the principle of comparative advantage, and the same should apply here. Engaging specialist technology partners ­ while keeping in mind the above guidelines ­ is the most efficient way forward toward a successful digital transformation. BUSINESSES SHOULD ENSURE THAT EACH MEMBER OF THE PARTNERSHIP BRINGS EQUAL VALUE TO THE TABLE243
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