The responsibility of the digital transformation is divided, with 22% of the respondents mentioning the CFO and the same percentage citing the CTO. “Although 84% of organizations recognize data analytics as important for their digital transformation approach, research highlights complexity and challenges inherent in full realization of digital strategies,” they explain from IFS.
This is highlighted by the latest IFS study, where it is revealed that 82% of them consider artificial intelligence (AI) as essential, but only a fifth (20%) has completed its digital transformation trip.
The main identified obstacles include the inability to accurately measure the value of investments (32%), the lack of clarity on the necessary resources and skills (25%) and the lack of consensus on priorities among leaders (23%).
Another critical factor when offering new services and results as part of digital transformation is asset management. “36% of respondents insist on the importance of guaranteeing reliable and efficient services,” says Gonzalo Valle, IFS manager presals. This approach is driven by aging infrastructure and the growing complexity of assets. Many network components operate under much more severe conditions than were originally designed, and the change towards renewable energies and distributed energy resources adds even more complexity.
Fundamental operational areas
In this context, other operational areas are also fundamental: 39% mention the optimization of resources, 38% highlight the need for a robust client experience strategy and 36% mention the management of field services. Carol Johnston, VP of energy, utilities and resources in IFS, says there is a “critical need for robust management of data and AI capabilities to ensure that companies achieve success in their transformation.”
38% of decision makers are in active search for business platforms that allow companies to combine and implement different software modules. «Componable platforms allow companies to incorporate new functionalities as necessary, offering a flexible approach to digital transformation. This reduces complexity and allows companies to adopt technologies at their own pace, offering a simplified solution that integrates various applications efficiently, ”explains Johnston.
Sustainability as a key lever
Research also reaffirmed sustainability as a priority for companies in the sector. 46% of respondents have deadlines and goals to achieve objectives in this area. However, only 31% have reached their first milestones. The key strategies to meet these objectives include improving the efficiency of assets (43%) and investing in energy efficient assets (42%).
“Sustainability in the sector involves more than simply carbon reduction.
Central themes connection
The study reveals the need to connect four of the central themes of this research: AI, digital transformation, asset management and sustainability. «By taking advantage of AI and digital tools to optimize asset management, companies can more effectively meet the sustainability objectives. This integral approach ensures a balanced and strategic transformation trip, ”concludes Carol Johnston.
