In essence, we see now how digital transformation works, but how exactly does it impact on a bigger scale, such as its ripple effect in the global economy? Let’s go back to 2020, when the COVID-19 global pandemic happened. Due to the pandemic, most business operations were halted, delayed, or, in the worst-case scenario, shut down for good. Some organizations managed to adapt and apply their business continuity plan. However, the uncertainty during that period made business leaders and decision-makers seek reassurance by changing their business modules and plans. Industries like Telco and BPO are among the least affected by the global crisis, and some companies have thrived and taken advantage of the opportunity to grow even better. Meanwhile, other industries such as F&B, Manufacturing, and Travel and Tourism were most affected by the pandemic, simply because it requires actual interaction with people.

Also read: Industry 4.0: The Future for Manufacturing Companies

It was a wake-up call for many organizations to be future-proof ready when calamities and global crises happened— and that’s the peak where they started to seek solutions where technology can be a tool to achieve their business goals. In the McKinsey & Company survey, they revealed that the pandemic “has pushed companies over the technology” investing and incorporating digital technologies in their businesses. “During the pandemic, consumers have moved dramatically toward online channels, and companies and industries have responded in turn. The survey results confirm the rapid shift toward interacting with customers through digital channel. They also show that rates of adoption are years ahead of where they were when previous surveys were conducted—and even more in developed Asia than in other regions,” they said.