In this recent blog post (well worth a read) IDC’s Marianne Kolding identifies the challenge faced by organisations looking to accelerate their Digital Transformation programmes in the face of ever-increasing competition. Digital skills are not keeping up with demand with IDC research showing that this will lead to $90 billion lost revenue in Europe in 2020. There is evidence that data science and machine learning expertise will be in the greatest demand.
Organisations thinking of joining the battle for this talent should beware using their traditional methods – digital transformation programmes are not a one-off event after which a company suddenly achieves “digital” status. Working in a digital world requires a constantly evolving toolset and a different approach to the skills you need. Many people who work with these emerging technologies have the networks and abilities to work with organisations of many kinds. They don’t necessarily want to engage with your management hierarchy and HR evaluation process. They are to be found working for boutique consultancies, software development shops, start-ups and as freelancers.
If you expect to be able to hire all these people and have them in your team over the long term of a digital transformation programme, the chances are you will be disappointed. Rather, take the time to understand how to blend your skill base depending on your needs using permanent, contract and people from third party suppliers. Make sure that when people leave your teams they do so having been able to deliver unencumbered by politics and bureaucracy, as part of a team that is focused on successful outcomes, not corporate snakes-and-ladders. They will go out to their networks and tell the stories of how they had a great time working with you and their peers will want to come to you too. Be the kind of place your target talent wants to work, whether that’s a short term gig or something more substantial.
In September I’m speaking at the 2019 IDC CIO Summit in Bratislava, Slovakia – where we will explore the strategic choices that will shape the future at the confluence of technology and business. Forward-looking CIOs, executives, industry leaders, and IDC experts will reveal strategies, tactics, and technologies that make the difference.