ITS Time for Digital First Thinking

BY Bernard J Marrast

In today's fast-paced world, technology is advancing at an incredible rate. As a result, businesses need to keep up with the digital revolution in order to stay competitive. The concept of digital-first has become increasingly important, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of digital-first and its importance in today's world.

What is Digital-First?

Digital-first is a concept that puts digital at the forefront of a business's operations. In other words, it means that businesses should prioritize their digital presence and capabilities over their physical ones. This is because consumers are increasingly turning to digital channels to interact with businesses and make purchases.

Digital-first doesn't mean that businesses should abandon their physical operations altogether. Rather, it means that they should prioritize their digital capabilities in order to better serve their customers. This could include things like offering online ordering and delivery options, having a strong social media presence, and using digital marketing to reach new customers.

Why is Digital-First Important?

There are several reasons why businesses should prioritize their digital capabilities. First and foremost, consumers are increasingly turning to digital channels to interact with businesses. According to a survey by Salesforce, 58% of consumers say that COVID-19 has increased their expectations for businesses' digital capabilities. This means that businesses that are not able to meet these expectations risk losing customers to competitors who can.
In addition to meeting customer expectations, digital-first also offers several other benefits. For example, it allows businesses to reach a wider audience by leveraging digital marketing channels. It also allows businesses to reduce costs by automating certain processes and offering self-service options to customers.

How to Implement Digital-First

Implementing a digital-first strategy can be a daunting task, especially for businesses that have relied heavily on physical operations in the past. However, there are several steps that businesses can take to make the transition smoother.

First and foremost, businesses should conduct a thorough analysis of their current operations and identify areas where digital capabilities can be improved. This could include things like offering online ordering and delivery options, improving their website's user experience, and implementing a social media strategy.

Once areas for improvement have been identified, businesses should develop a roadmap for implementing digital-first. This roadmap should include specific goals, timelines, and budgetary considerations. It should also take into account the needs and preferences of customers, as well as the capabilities of existing systems and technology.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the concept of digital-first has become increasingly important in today's world. Businesses that are able to prioritize their digital capabilities are better positioned to meet the expectations of customers and remain competitive in the long term. While implementing a digital-first strategy can be challenging, it is a necessary step for businesses that want to thrive in the digital age.
Contact us for a road map discussion Mobile 613-203-5481 or Bernard.marrast@marrast-Group.com