In his presentation 'Building blocks for success: digital skills of people and organizations', Theo Ockhuijsen shows how digital chain cooperation in the design, construction and engineering sectors can be strengthened. For a successful implementation of digitalization, attention only to technical skills and the process side is not enough. Behavior plays a crucial role in change. High time to recognize that and include it.
When we talk about digitization, the conversation usually centers on the process and technology aspects. We know that processes need to be adapted, and we believe it’s very important to make the right choice when it comes to software or programs. So that’s where the focus lies.
“But what not everyone realizes—and certainly not in our industry,” says Ockhuijsen, “is that those ‘hard’ aspects (processes and technology) account for only 30% of the likelihood of success. The remaining 70% comes down to the people. It’s very important to pay attention to that. Digitization is something you do organization-wide, so everyone has to be on board. The digital transition requires, on the one hand, knowledge and content, but also the skills to convey that knowledge and content to everyone within the company and ensure that it’s properly “taken on board.” To make that happen, different skills are needed. We refer to this as the “upper stream” (technology, processes, content) on the one hand, and the “lower stream” (the human side, culture, attitude, behavior) on the other. You can’t have one without the other.”
Readiness for Change
At many companies, a subject matter expert is put forward to ensure that digitization gets off the ground. This is usually a man who already has extensive knowledge of the software and understands the company’s processes. “That’s great,” says Ockhuijsen, “but a successful transition requires more than that.” Generally speaking, people aren’t eager for change. And digitization is quite a change! You can purchase the best software package available, but if there’s resistance within the organization, you won’t be able to get the most out of it.”
Resistance can arise if there’s no clear direction for development. Or if someone who asks a question is seen as a nuisance, and so others are hesitant to ask anything else. The trick, then, is to turn resistance to change into a willingness to change. There are external consultants who can help with this, but there’s another (and better) way.
In-House digiCoach
Ockhuijsen explains: “digiGO developed the digiVaardig program. This program helps with the implementation of digitization. The digital world is evolving so rapidly, and its impact is so significant, that you have to stay on top of it constantly. It’s all about insight and a plan of action; it requires leadership and energy. That’s why an outside consultant isn’t the best fit—you want to handle this ‘in-house.’ One of the components of the digiVaardig program is therefore training an employee from within the organization to become a digiCoach. With a digiCoach—someone who works at the company—there is continuity. As a result, the transition proceeds not only faster but also more smoothly.”
Such an internal digiCoach has multiple roles, including exploring tools and new systems, facilitating change based on a plan, and mentoring employees who are struggling to keep up with the digital transformation. Within the company, the internal digiCoach contributes to the successful implementation of the new systems, ensures digital coordination with supply chain partners, and inspires employees while helping them embrace the change.
Practical Examples
There are various programs designed for different levels. Ockhuijsen explains: “The basic program is for organizations that want to learn how to shape the transformation toward more digital ways of working. In the training, we cover, among other things, instruments and tools they can use for supply chain collaboration. The growth program helps organizations that already work with more complex IT systems to exchange digital data with supply chain partners. The supply chain program is intended for collaborating supply chain partners. By following the program together, they can work toward even better (digital) data exchange.”
Ockhuijsen has noticed that a surprisingly large number of people enroll in the basic program, even though they often already know a great deal about digitization. “It certainly has to do with that ‘undercurrent,’” he says. “We hear from participants that they’ve actually never really thought about it that way, which is why they want to start with the basics. We work extensively with real-world examples and do so in an interactive way. The participants really get to work on their own. Among other things, they create a plan for a digital transition that’s relevant to their own organization. After completing the training, the digiCoach has the necessary knowledge about the human side of such a transition, and that’s absolutely indispensable!”
Visit DigiBouw! View the programhere and order your ticket.
