Key activities of digital business transformation process

Abstract

Background: Digital transformation is by itself a fragmented area, due to different perspectives encountered in the literature. The research problem addressed in this paper is a general lack of consent on the content of digital transformation and the lack of a comprehensive framework for implementing digital transformation initiatives.

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to identify distinct key activities of digital transformation through a systematic literature review, and in doing so contribute to defining the scope of digital transformation and the structure of digital transformation as a process.

Study design/methodology/approach: This research was conducted by means of a systematic literature review, with the aim to ascertain the general structure of the digital transformation process through identification of its key activities.

Finding/conclusions: A total of 19 items were identified as activities of digital transformation, which were subsequently distributed among the 6 distinct stages of the digital transformation process, in an effort to advance the understanding of the notion and the scope of digital transformation through clarification of its content.

Limitations/future research: The results of this research should be instrumental for the future research aimed towards developing generic, universal guidelines for companies seeking to embark on digital business transformation journeys.