The benefits of agile digital transformation to innovation processes

Abstract

Digital transformation drives sustained business value through the use of digital technology. However, there is often confusion regarding what steps organisations should follow to achieve digital transformation, including to benefit innovation processes. In this study, we outline seven steps in a conceptual model – the digital transformation loop – which organisations can adopt for what we call ‘agile digital transformation’. We use the UK health care sector as a case example, which is central to social and economic infrastructures, yet faces continued innovation challenges. Our aim is to offer a compelling and accessible conceptualisation that illustrates challenges faced by the health care sector and poses questions that all organisations need to reflect upon to realise innovation benefits that arise from the agile adoption of digital technology. We argue that agile digital transformation must be part of achieving a clear strategic vision and should drive sustained and demonstrable business value.