The digital revolution we have been experiencing in recent years is bringing about profound changes in all economic sectors. The need for digitalisation is felt at all levels, not only by large companies or corporations. Process automation goes far beyond office automation. There are now digital tools that enable in-depth analysis of big data for marketing that is ever closer to the customer.
New technologies work both ways:
– the back office to facilitate and optimise the work of your employees,
– more targeted and efficient exchanges with the outside world, customers and suppliers.
This digitalisation, boosted by the Internet, has eliminated the differences between companies. From now on, artificial intelligence or transversal management software (CRM, ERP, CMS, etc.) are within the reach of SMEs, and even VSEs or other craft businesses. Governmental organisations and foundations should also not be forgotten.
In short, digital transformation is affecting all sectors, sometimes profoundly transforming certain professions. Here are a some examples.
Human resources: a new challenge
In a few years, human resources departments have had to adapt to the mass arrival of new technologies and digitalisation. Dedicated software, automation of tasks and ease of exchange have considerably reduced the paperwork involved in personnel management. However, little by little, the HR profession has changed from an office-oriented service to a true advisory service for employers and employees alike. This will be achieved through a fundamental digital transformation of the entire company, of which the HR department must be one of the drivers. You can find more information about this new challenge on this page.
Financial institutions: a revolution
In a short space of time, a true tidal wave has swept through the banking sector. Financial institutions have taken advantage of the advent of digitalisation and the internet, facilitating exchanges and back-office operations. However, institutional banks did not anticipate the importance of the digitalisation and democratisation of smartphones in the sector. Between the 100% dematerialised banks, the technological innovations and the birth of Fintech, the sector has been permanently disrupted. You can read more about a digital transformation that almost went wrong for some on this dedicated page.
Accountants: advice above all
In much the same way as in the human resources sector, accounting in general and the accountancy profession in particular have also been impacted. The parallel with HR is quite interesting, as the two functions have followed much the same path, with one exception: accounting can nowadays be completely managed by software. Simple, or even more complex, accounting entries are automated, in particular by means of suitable online digital solutions. Today, the role of the chartered accountant is above all to provide support and personalised advice. In a short space of time, he or she has become a real co-pilot for the companies that call on it, thanks, among other things, to the analysis of more and more data. Find out more.
The real estate sector: dematerialisation on all fronts
Despite a somewhat “old-fashioned” image, the real estate sector as a whole is in the process, forced or not, of making its digital revolution. The act of purchasing a house no longer involves a first visit to a real estate agency, but rather a visit to Google or an Internet ad site. Sellers were not mistaken in integrating their goods on these same sites. To entice the customer, there are more and more 360° photos and virtual visits of properties for sale. Virtual reality is also making its entry into off-plan purchasing. You can now visit your future home using an augmented reality headset “as if you were there”.
While the ‘real’ visit is still essential, some agencies have digitised all their processes, including their office automation and catalogue management.
Big data management facilitates the search for properties that match the wishes of customers, but also serves property managers, brokers and other builders. They can keep up to date with market trends in real time. More information on this page.
SMEs: catching up
Once the preserve of large organisations, digitalisation has become much more democratic. Nowadays, it only takes a few clicks to set up an e-shop. Gone are the days of prohibitively expensive and esoteric customer journey analysis or human resource management software. SMEs and even small craft businesses now have access to impressively efficient technologies. Nevertheless, there are still obstacles in terms of budget and training.
And yet, SMEs must negotiate the digital shift as quickly as possible or risk being left behind by the competition. Here are a few ideas for consideration.
Administrations: some problematic gaps
The latest health crisis resulting from the coronavirus pandemic demonstrated the weaknesses of digitalisation within the Swiss administration.
Compared to the private sector, federal, cantonal or municipal services are often the poor cousins of the digital revolution. Due to a lack of financial means, training, and a certain lack of legislation, the administrative procedures may seem a little obsolete, and rightly so. While it is possible to download declarations or aid files, for example, it is not yet possible to sign official documents digitally. Jumping on the digital transformation bandwagon is still difficult for Swiss administrative services. Here is an article highlighting the difficulties of the public sector.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whatever the sector, the massive arrival of nomadism and new technologies has profoundly changed the way people work.
And it’s not over yet : every day new software solutions, new practices, new gadgets are born.
It is therefore not easy to keep up with the latest developments in the digital world and, at the same time, to implement a winning in-depth transformation strategy.
Then turn to the professionals at MCA Seed Academy, experts in digitalisation. Request an auditor learn more about our consultants
If you don’t want to fall behind your competition,
If you are aiming for increased efficiency,
If you want to make your employees’ work easier and more efficient at the same time,
If you want to finally take the plunge into this tempting digital world,
So trust us to carry out a complete audit and guide you towards personalised and effective solutions.