ARE YOU THINKING OF SWITCHING TO DIGITAL? LET US HELP YOU WITH STEP BY STEP GUIDE, SO YOU CAN DO IT RIGHT.
But first, let us get clear with the phrase digital transformation.
Think of digital transformation as the integration of digital technology, like systems, applications, and specialized technologies such as AI, into all the areas of a business. Many, if not all, of the business processes, will need to change and adapt to the new technologies. Corporate culture also will likely need to change. This can result in modifying or even eliminating established procedures, experimenting with and adopting new ones, and being prepared for both successes and failures. In short, for the business to achieve success with digital transformation or DX and its many associated elements, new playbooks will need to be created and adopted.
Why is digital transformation important?
The short answer to “Why is digital transformation important?” is survival. As businesses of all types and sizes migrate to DX technologies and resources, they have the potential to increase their competitive position, boost their reputation, enhance customer experiences, improve operational efficiency, increase revenues, and attract new customers and retain existing ones. Businesses that do not embrace the benefits of a DX program do so at their own risk.
Digital recordkeeping can help with setting healthy habits of getting accurate records on schedule every time. For example, having a day and time to do something can increase the likelihood of getting that thing done. It’s not just having a thing to do; it is having it due and scheduled.
We know that hourly checks operate this way, but other tests do not in food production.
Recordkeeping should be done in an accurate, timely, and effective way, in addition to doing it cost-effectively, which advises the use of technology and other tools to create a safer and more traceable food safety process. Once implementation is complete, this new way of operating will create a more responsive, controlled, and standardized system. How? Read ahead for the right approach and steps for digital transformation that works.
STEPS TO DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
1. DO THE RESEARCH AND FIND THE RIGHT DIGITAL SYSTEM
While there are multiple food safety data management software programs on the market – when it comes to selecting which one is best, then accessibility, accuracy, and efficiency should be top priorities.
First and foremost, food safety is about a company embracing a culture of best practices. I frequently tell companies that they need a system that provides appropriate data and that works for their facility and processes.
A company should spend time analyzing what services they need: which logs are required, which records need to be managed, a way to tell the company’s story. You must be comfortable accessing the data you will collect. In the case of an inspection, audit, or product recall, the records you keep could make or break the company’s future.
Read our latest blog here – to read in detail what you need to be careful when you are choosing a digital system.
2. DEFINE STRATEGY, BRIEF SENIOR LEADERS AND STAFF
Prepare additional questions you may have and schedule the presentation call with the chosen provider. Discuss with leaders and staff. Make a decision.
3. IDENTIFY TECHNOLOGY OPTIONS FOR MANAGEMENT APPROVAL AND FUNDING
Identify technology options, like systems, applications, and specialized technologies such as AI, as well as their associated costs for DX migration and other resources and activities for successful digital transformation. Proceed to secure management approval and funding for the digital transformation.
4. APPROVE PROJECT PLAN AND LAUNCH THE PROJECT
Sign the agreement and assemble all sectors of the transformation process, including resources, employees, IT teams, and others, to commence the transition.
5. INVEST IN INFRASTRUCTURE
Think like this, the investment always pays off. Investing in good gadgets and inventory is essential in digitization.
6. DO THE TRAINING
Training for a new digital system is usually short, but it is necessary. Be choosy with the digital system, and choose one that offers online training and has options of a personalized system that adapts your way of work.
7. START WITH DIGITALIZATION AND TRANSITION ACTIVITIES
This is the stage of the DX implementation and transition. It involves technology installation, personnel training, pilot test, output test, marketing & promotions, etc.
8. COMMENCE UPDATED BUSINESS AND PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT
Constantly research if there is something you need to change for proper management of the new system. Also, activities such as performance assessment, personnel management, technology reviews, financial reviews, management reviews, among others, should be constantly carried out. The most important thing is to relax and enjoy your work carefree since from now on, digitalization will do the hard work instead of you.
»AUTOMATION IS THE DRIVER«
Implementing a digital food safety system produces efficiencies that will significantly cut costs from the bottom line. Automating parts of the process not only reduces time and labor but also increases accuracy. But, where exactly does automation come into play?
One of the most critical aspects of choosing a food safety system is its ability to adapt to an organization’s needs. Find one flexible enough to closely mirror current food safety processes (even if it’s a paper process) to limit disruption and reconfiguration requirements. Having a partner who can tailor the solution to a specific operation will have long-lasting success and make ongoing training and implementation more seamless. That aside, whichever digital food safety solution you choose, your organization will be more efficient and one step closer to a more reliable, safer operation.
START SIMPLE AND START NOW
The transition will initially happen gradually since research and innovations are constantly happening to achieve the most efficient digital system.
Change is always a little awkward, but if you take it slowly and investigate what works for your team and your facility, you will find a day-to-day process that works for everyone. You’ll never know what works for your company if you don’t make an effort to try. Remember, this is the future, and being ahead of the curve will be in your best interest.
