Successful digitalization project — step by step
A digitalization project's success doesn't depend solely on technology choices. It requires a clear plan, committed leadership, change management, and a realistic timeline. We help implement digitalization projects that deliver concrete results.
Why do digitalization projects fail?
According to McKinsey & Company's 'Unlocking success in digital transformations' study (McKinsey, 2018), up to 70% of digitalization projects fail or significantly exceed their budgets. The reasons are typically not technical — they relate to inadequate planning, unclear goals, and neglected change management.
The most common reasons for failure in organizations are: overly ambitious timelines, lack of leadership commitment, forgotten training, and digitalizing old processes as-is without process renewal, as well as IT-led change management without strong business involvement.
Phases of a digitalization project
A successful digitalization project progresses through clear phases. Each phase produces a concrete result, and the next phase builds on the learnings and results of the previous one.
1. Preliminary study and goal setting
Map the current state, identify pain points, and define project goals and success criteria. This phase prevents most later problems.
2. Planning and architecture
Choose technologies, plan integrations, create a timeline, and budget the project. Planning also considers security and data protection.
3. Implementation and piloting
Build the solution in phases and test it in a limited environment. Proof of Concept (POC) and piloting reveal issues before broad deployment.
4. Deployment and training
Deploy the solution systematically and train users. Good training is critical for investment returns.
5. Monitoring and continuous development
Measure results, collect feedback, and further develop the solution. Digitalization is a continuous process, not a one-time project.
Budgeting a digitalization project
Realistic budgeting is a prerequisite for project success. The budget should include consulting, training, change management, and ongoing maintenance costs in addition to technology expenses.
We recommend reserving 10–20% extra for unexpected needs. Phased progress eases budget management: each phase is approved separately.
Risk management in digitalization projects
Every digitalization project contains risks. Identifying and managing them upfront is significantly cheaper than fixing problems afterwards.
- Scope creep: project scope grows uncontrollably → clear boundaries and change management process
- Timeline slippage: phased implementation reduces the impact of delays
- User resistance: early communication and training engage staff
- Technical debt: choose supported and standards-based solutions and design a flexible architecture
- Security gaps: consider security from the planning phase
- Vendor lock-in: avoid solutions that lock the organization into a single vendor without a clear ability to switch solutions and vendors. Ensure data accessibility and portability.
Why Antesto as your digitalization project partner?
- Broad experience in digitalization projects
- Phased implementation model — no big bang risks
- Clear pricing – know what you're paying for
- Support also for the post-project period
Planning a digitalization project?
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