management models of digital transformation: analysis and definition of success factors for the development of a management framework

The success of a digital transformation is not a foregone conclusion. A digital transformation, as a highly complex process impacting major areas of an organization, requires a systematic approach that goes beyond individual transformation initiatives. This work analyses and integrates existing approaches to managing and coordinating a digital transformation in order to identify relevant success factors of a digital transformation, serving as a basis for the development of a systematic framework for a management model of digital transformation. The analysis reveals ten success-critical focus areas of a digital transformation, which comprise numerous success factors: ’Vision, goals, and strategies’, ’Leadership’, ’Communication’, ’Digital culture and mindset’, ’Digital platform’, ’Partnership network’, ’Capabilities, talents, and skills’, ’Organization, coordination, and roles’, ’Management methodologies’, and ’Governance’. A systematic framework is proposed that serves as a foundation for the future development of a management model, addressed to executives and experts who are tasked with launching, driving, and sustaining a digital transformation.

KaKatja Wenzel graduated with a master’s degree in ’Information Systems’ from Pforzheim University. She is currently working as an IT consultant in the area of Business Transformation Services, CFO Advisory. Her focus is on supporting and accompanying customers on their digital transformation journey.