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Digital transformation is no longer an option, but an imperative. The risk is not getting left behind, but being eliminated altogether, it is not just about technology.

Most organizations need a shift in focus, and do more than just implement #technology. Leaders must inspire and empower the entire organization to re-imagine work environment, customer needs, product offering, and even the purpose of the enterprise.

Organizations navigating the challenges of #digital #transformation should focus on four key principles:

1. Digital transformation is not the same as innovation.

With the advanced technologies available today, such as robotic process automation, machine learning, and so much more, it’s easy for leaders to get lost. But digital transformation isn’t about #innovation, it’s about achieving better business outcomes.

That’s why organizations should start by asking business-related questions, such as “How could we better serve our customers through faster, more flexible technology?”. Once you identify business goals, you can work your way back to the technology decisions.

2. You need to enlist the enthusiasts.

The first thing that every transformation must face is resistance. However, in any organization there are always pockets of enthusiasm that can be identified and leveraged. You always want to start in an area where enthusiasts are in the majority.

3. Start with a keystone change.

Every transformation is driven by a sense of vision. Change leaders can try to articulate that vision, but it’s often difficult for people to internalize the potential enough to overcome their innate bias for loss aversion. Many will need to see the idea achieve some success before they are willing to buy in.

That’s why leaders should start with a keystone change that can pave the way for greater transformation.

4. Leverage digital transformation to re-imagine the enterprise.

Technology is not an end in itself, but a means to an end. It should be in the service of the enterprise, not the other way around. The real value of digital transformation cannot be achieved in one particular initiative or another. The ultimate goal should be a full-scale reinvention of the business that transforms how the organization creates, delivers, and captures value in the marketplace.

In the final analysis, the most powerful use of digital tools is not to cut costs, create efficiencies, or move faster, but to ask different questions. It is through exploring these new possibilities that we can solve complex problems and make more meaningful impacts for customers, employees, and the communities we serve.