Companies underestimate the lead time and complexity of digital transformation projects, according to the latest findings from the Transformation Study 2024. The study is conducted annually by two companies with Swiss headquarters in the canton of Zurich: the SAP consultancy NTT DATA Business Solutions based in Kloten and Natuvion in Winterthur. The study surveyed more than 1,200 CEOs, CIOs and IT decision-makers from a total of 15 countries during ongoing or completed transformation projects.

According to a statement, 36 per cent of companies cite organisational adjustments as the most common reason for implementing their IT transformation. In the automotive industry, which is undergoing massive upheaval due to the switch to e-mobility, restructuring tops the list of reasons for transformation at 48 per cent. In the life sciences sector, the figure is 38 per cent.

At 27 per cent, the second most frequently cited reason worldwide is the introduction of new technologies such as artificial intelligence. In a comparison of countries, Switzerland and the USA lead the rankings with 47 per cent and 43 per cent respectively. A total of 33 per cent, or five per cent more than in the previous year, cite a lack of transformation knowledge.

“The study clearly shows that a lack of expertise and a shortage of skilled labour are the main factors slowing down the transformation of companies,” Norbert Rotter, CEO of NTT DATA Business Solutions AG and EVP of the Tokyo-based parent company NTT DATA, Inc., is quoted as saying.

Digital strategist and innovation specialist Maks Giordano, one of around 70 speakers at Open-i, will give a talk at the conference in Zurich on artificial intelligence in the real economy. Giordano's Innovation Studio works for medium-sized companies and family businesses such as Viessmann, Festo and Cosnova, as well as global brands including Swatch, Apple, Lego, Mercedes, Lufthansa, BMW, VW, Red Bull and Jägermeister.

Open-i describes itself as the Swiss innovation community and dialogue platform for the economy and the science sector. On 21 and 22 November, the conference will bring together academic and economic experts at Zurich Kongresshaus to secure Switzerland's leading role as an innovative and successful market. Open-i is organised by NZZ Connect, a branch of the NZZ based in Bern. Tickets are available now. ce/mm