Digitalization: How to start and what 3 things not to forget

Digitalization isn’t a buzzword. In today’s fast-changing business environment, it’s no longer a competitive advantage—it’s a necessity. Companies that use modern technologies effectively keep pace. And it’s not just about ditching paper binders. You need to change the mindset completely.

It’s like asking a colleague to grab lunch—do you write a letter or open a chat? Exactly. Digital, automated processes are already standard for many companies, and for those that haven’t started, time is running out. But how do you begin, and what should you not forget? Here are a few key steps.

How should you start the digitalization process?

1. Define SMART goals

Before you begin, be clear about what you want to achieve. Do you want to improve customer experience, boost efficiency, or reduce costs? Clear goals help you focus on the right areas. When everyone—from the CEO to IT—understands why the transformation is happening and the benefits it brings, your chances of success increase.

But “improve efficiency” alone isn’t enough. Make each goal as specific as possible—lean on the SMART framework. Your digital goals should be:

• S (specific)
• M (measurable)
• A (achievable)
• R (relevant)
• T (time-bound)

You can even go further with SMARTER goals, where E stands for “evaluated” and R for “rewarded.”

Your strategy should align with overall business objectives. Microsoft Dynamics 365 offers a wide range of tools that we at Blue Dynamic tailor to your specific needs. The key is choosing the right ones and using them effectively. For example, the customizable ERP Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central lets you assemble exactly the modules you need—so you only pay for what you actually use. And the same applies across other MS D365 products.

2. Choose the right tools and partners

Rome wasn’t built in a day—and neither is digitalization. Selecting the right technology is critical (and far from trivial), not to mention implementation. We recommend choosing a reliable partner who stands by you from the first steps through to successful operations. Support after go-live is just as important as delivery—we stand firmly behind that.

The right partner helps with technology and change management alike, including employee training. Which brings us to the third point…

3. Invest in change management and employee training

Technology alone isn’t enough. The human factor plays a huge role. While many people love new tech, others resist it—some fear tools like AI will take their jobs; others find learning new systems overwhelming. What to do?

We’re already talking about the fifth industrial revolution—Industry 5.0. Beyond “smart” technologies, it’s essential to enable collaboration between people and machines. Seek balance, support creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. Show employees they matter and that you count on them. Successful transformation requires people who are ready for change and know how to use new tools effectively. Investing in training and support is crucial. When employees understand the systems and see how they make work easier, adoption is far smoother.

Change management should include clear, ongoing communication. Employees must know why changes are happening, the benefits they bring, and how they’ll be affected. Give them time and resources to get comfortable with new tools.

Don’t settle for one modernized process—digitalize the entire company

The goal of digitalization is higher efficiency and the elimination of unnecessary, repetitive complexity. It shouldn’t stop at switching paper invoices to PDFs with QR codes. Modernizing a single process may help a few people, but your ambitions should be bigger. True digital transformation means saying a final goodbye to paper-based data.

If you’re unsure whether digitalization makes sense for your business—or you’re considering it but don’t know where to start—let’s talk. The Blue Dynamic team will review digitalization in the context of your business, help select suitable technologies, outline step-by-step implementation, and estimate timelines and costs. Get in touch to book a free consultation.