CYBER AND CLOUD
How generations colliding is great news for digital transformation
Any organisation looking to transform should celebrate the fact that we have four generations in the workplace right now , all with different experiences and expectations that can help make projects both innovative and successful . One caveat : It ’ s important to recognise that skills and interests often transcend age barriers , but for this purpose we ’ ll make use of the generational model as it can be useful .
The Gen-Zers now entering the workforce were 12 years old or younger at the launch of the iPhone , making them mobile first , with the expectation that technology will work seamlessly , change rapidly , and anticipate changing needs . By contrast , Boomers are less likely to look for purely technological solutions to problems , having decades of experience where tech solutions failed to deliver on promises .
The one thing that makes a successful digital transformation – whether we ’ re talking about cybersecurity , the customer journey , or the employee journey – is proper understanding of the business processes that underlie any employee or customer interaction with your organisation . With different generations at the table , you ’ re gifted with an array of perspectives on how any process should be modelled , executed , and optimised .
For example , look at the process changes forced upon supermarkets and other retailers due to COVID-19 . Gen-Z and Millennials are the most likely to push for a 100 % online experience , easily executable from a phone . That doesn ’ t work for everyone and it may be the Gen Xers and Boomers who remind you of that , forcing the adoption of ‘ hybrid ’ models like ordering online , pick up and return in-store .
In addition , Gen X and Boomers understand the technology currently in place and the importance of integrating past data and applications into new processes , and their deep experience can help teams avoid unintended consequences when changes are made .
When a diverse group has access to the necessary data , modelling , and collaboration tools needed , they can drive a deeper and more inclusive transformation that builds on the skills and experience of the entire team .
Gero Decker , General Manager SAP Business Process Intelligence and Co-founder of Signavio .
70 March 2022