New research has revealed that legacy technology is the biggest barrier to digital transformation, while leadership and vision are large contributors to failed digital transformation projects
Today, Nimbus Ninety , the UK’s independent research community for disruptive business and technology leaders, have released their latest research into digital transformation in partnership with Ensono , a cloud solutions and Hybrid IT services provider.
The report interviewed 251 senior stakeholders responsible for digital transformation initiatives and found that 36% view increased competition from digitally driven companies as a challenge, yet more than half (52%) of respondents rated their organisations’ progress toward achieving their digital ambitions as adequate or poor.
The report, which reviews forces and barriers to digital transformation, revealed that 30% still do not feel well-equipped to seize the opportunities presented by digital.
Conversely, 46% stated their organisation has significantly transformed over the past 12 months, suggesting a widening gap between those who are embracing digital transformation and those who have yet to start.
The report also measured barriers to digital transformation, with legacy systems taking an overwhelming lead in blocking progress.
Barriers to digital transformation
Responding to the legacy issue, Simon Ratcliffe, principal consultant at Ensono said: “Although legacy systems are often cited as a barrier to transformation, they are, in fact, an enabler. Legacy systems need not be replaced to achieve transformation, they need to be factored into the execution. Progressive organisations are building new, transformational solutions in parallel with their legacy systems and slowly switching business operations across. Legacy IT and modern cloud-based solutions can co-exist and ignite the transformational journey.”
The research also found that 39% of respondents are still in the process of developing their digital strategy compared to only 29% having one in place.
