Logo image
Digitization's Influence on Organizational Processes
Conference proceeding

Digitization's Influence on Organizational Processes

V.K. Narayanan and Srivardhini Jha
2024 Portland International Conference on Management of Engineering and Technology (PICMET), pp 1-4
04 Aug 2024

Abstract

Artificial intelligence Interviews Manufacturing Organizations Supply chains Vocabulary Data Analysis
In this study, we examine the organizational arrangements adopted by legacy firms in the manufacturing sector as they confront the challenges of digitalization. Our conclusions are based on five intensive case studies, developed out of interviews with C-suite executives (primary data) of each firm, and supplemented by documentary evidence. The interviews suggest that firms do not yet share a common vocabulary for digitalization, although data analytics and artificial intelligence form the centerpiece of each firm's view of digitalization. The firms have developed their own mind maps of what digitalization comprises, and it typically encompasses five distinct yet inter-related aspects of the organization beyond traditional IT: Product/Technology management, Process efficiencies in supply chain and manufacturing, Efficiencies in support functions, Customer facing processes, and new business model exploration. Because our sample consists of legacy firms, there is significant appreciation of the organizational change effort required for digitalization to work, and some recognition of the competitive threat presented by born digital firms in their market space. The interviews also underscored the transitory nature of organizational arrangements, the significant interfaces with all other functions in the organization, and the need for CEO engagement for digitization projects to be successful.

Metrics

1 Record Views

Details

Logo image