Global CxO Institute brought together top technology leaders from across the UK to discuss the most pressing topics in the tech sphere, encompassing cutting-edge realms of AI, digital transformation, cyber-security, and leadership.

Airwalk Reply Partner Alex Hammond hosted a round-table to discuss the benefits organisations can achieve when they consider Technology as the most significant strategic enabler for their business, and some of the fundamental areas one should focus on to implement a successful digital transformation.

1. Alignment between business and technology

The central theme of the round-table discussion highlighted the importance of closely aligning technology functions with broader organisational goals. Successful organisations view technology as a strategic part of their operations, resulting in increased return on investment. Strategies discussed included adopting a product-led approach, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and emphasising robust business cases that focus on overall business outcomes.
 

How closely aligned are you and your tech functions with the broader business and what measures can you take to drive closer alignment?
 

2. Modernising your technology operating model

The second key theme emphasised the modernisation of technology operating models. While there has been significant progress in technology adoption (cloud, data analytics, AI), true benefits are only realised through fundamental changes in how technology functions operate. This includes pursuing automation, restructuring teams for modern ways of working (e.g., DevSecOps), and incorporating automated controls and guardrails into the IT estate.
 

Alongside major technology changes, have you made or planned substantial changes to the way your function and teams are structured and operate?

3. Prioritisation and commitment

Acknowledging the limitations of finite resources, the discussion focused on the challenge of balancing the need to maintain existing operations with the imperative to drive strategic, transformative change. Participants explored strategies for managing change agendas, including effective prioritisation and commitment to initiatives that deliver maximum value.
 

How do you currently manage your change agenda? What drives your prioritisation and does it ensure maximum value delivery?

4. Building teams and capabilities

The final theme addressed the critical challenge of developing teams and capabilities in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Skills shortages and the fast-paced nature of the industry make addressing capability gaps a formidable task. The discussion covered recruitment challenges, the potential expense, and difficulties associated with training and upskilling.
 

How have you approached the challenge of developing your people and capabilities? What strategies have proven effective, and what has been most challenging?

In conclusion, the round table provided valuable insights into the intricacies of leveraging technology strategically. We encourage you to reflect on these discussions and should you need help in implementing these insights into your organisation, please don't hesitate to reach out.
 

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