What is digital transformation?

Digital transformation is the process of using digital technologies to create new — or modify existing — business processes, culture, and customer experiences to meet changing business and market requirements.

Well-implemented digital tools can provide a wealth of benefits for businesses:

Retail: Create an omnichannel retail experience by analyzing and optimizing the customer journey
Manufacturing: Utilize Industrial Internet of Things (IoT) sensors to monitor plant operations, maintain temperature/humidity control and tracking equipment downtime and equipment maintenance
Fleet Management: Adopt technology solutions to gain real-time insights on fleet safety, employee safety, fleet efficiency, and regulation compliance
Banking: Offer a seamless customer experience across channels (portal, mobile, branch, and contact centre) and provide a more personalized account opening experience
Accounting Automation: Move to a more streamlined and efficient AP/AR process that reduces time for data entry and approval processes and limits write-offs

Why is digital transformation relevant to my role/organization?

Rapid digital technological advancements, changing consumer expectations, and unprecedented events like the global pandemic are increasing the demand for skilled talent. Moreover, the rise of automation and artificial intelligence is disrupting or transforming many jobs.

The Digital Innovation and Leadership (DIAL) program, delivered by Simon Fraser University in partnership with the Digital Supercluster, Vancouver Economic Commission, and 40+ consortium partners, was designed to ensure workers have the skills and knowledge required to succeed amid this rapidly changing landscape.

DIAL is focused on bridging the gap between existing skills and digital adoption skills to transform business processes. The program helps businesses drive their growth plans forward in the digital economy; at the same time, it aims to accelerate diversity and support the adoption of practices that improve equity within organizations.

Which stream is right for me?

The Digital Transformation Leadership stream is for middle to senior-level leaders that are either leading or part of a team driving digital transformation decisions in their organizations. Length of program: 11 weeks (4-6 hours per week)

The Digital Transformation Management stream is for early to mid-career-level individuals who want to develop a digital mindset and the capabilities to transform digital ideas into action. Length of program: 18 weeks (4-6 hours per week)

Both programs offer a blend of asynchronous learning modules and once per week (90 mins) faculty-led synchronous sessions where participants engage in peer learning opportunities and activities.

What funding options are available?

These programs help digital leaders understand the current state of digital platform technology and key areas of focus for digital transformation, including new business models, customer experience and operational excellence.

DIAL programs are eligible for funding through government programs, including the Canada Job grant. Additional discounts are available if an organization would like to enroll multiple members of their team. Scholarships and VEC-referred options are also available.