Today, many business managers are facing processes of digital transformation and choosing to prioritize the technological tools they want to include in order to tackle digitalization. However, they’re forgetting to set the focus on the people who will be using these new tools, and to transform the business culture so that the change is effective and makes sense. In any business transformation—including digital—the key is always the human aspect, and for the process to be successful, everything should begin and end with people.
The path towards digital transformation has a series of fundamental requirements that can be compared to the challenges that Asterix and Obelix face in the movie The Twelve Tasks of Asterix.
During the first challenge, the main character proves his ability to run faster than Merinos, the undefeated Olympic champion. Despite possessing a magic potion, Asterix also relies on his ability and preparation in order to achieve this. Similarly, in digital transformation, it’s not enough to rely exclusively on advanced technology if the organization lacks a team of committed, capable, and prepared people.
In the second challenge, Obelix must throw a javelin farther than Kermes the Persian. Though Kermes’ javelin reaches North America, Obelix manages to maintain a stable orbit and chases Kermes around the world. This challenge proves that, though we may be tempted to believe that all new things are better, it’s important to rely on the strengths we already possess.
The third challenge involves defeating Cilindric the German, who quickly defeats Obelix using an unknown wrestling technique. This time, Asterix intervenes and asks him how he does it, leaving Cilindric trapped. This shows the importance of taking time to listen, learn, and incorporate new skills when facing difficult challenges.
The fourth challenge involves crossing a lake, where they come across the Isle of Pleasure, which is home to beautiful sirens. Obelix is distracted by their beauty, but finally manages to overcome their temptation and cross the lake. This teaches us the importance of setting the focus on our objectives, even when distractions or problems arise, such as incorporating new tools or technologies that may not be aligned with the organization’s objectives.
During the fifth task, Asterix must survive the hypnotic gaze of Iris the Egyptian. In order to achieve this, he distracts him, causing Iris to hypnotize himself. Here, we can take away the importance of creativity and innovation, which is crucial for thinking outside the box and discovering innovative solutions.
The sixth task involves finishing all of Belgian cook Mannekenpix’s meals. Similarly to the adaptation of new processes and digital tools, it can be overwhelming at first. This is why it’s important to keep in mind that technology isn’t the ultimate goal, but rather a means for achieving our objective, and improving productivity and efficiency. Being too slow is as dangerous as going so fast that the organization doesn’t have time to digest these changes.
The seventh and eleventh tasks are about enduring the Cave of the Beast and a plain haunted by ghosts. This could be compared with the challenge of facing the fear and resistance that change often brings about. Employees may feel intimidated or insecure about change, making it crucial to create a secure environment and net of support to help them overcome these obstacles.
The eighth task is about finding the permit A38 in The Place That Sends You Mad, which could be compared to dealing with an organization’s bureaucracy or obsolete processes. Businesses should be aware of the fact that digital transformation isn’t only about adopting technology, but also simplifying and optimizing existing processes to improve efficiency and reduce costs. It’s important to include employees in this process and encourage them to suggest their own ideas for improvement.
The ninth challenge involves crossing a ravine filled with crocodiles using an invisible rope. Businesses should find a balance between innovation and stability. Though being innovative and adopting new technology is important, keeping a solid, stable ground for the organization is also necessary. Businesses should constantly keep their final objective in mind and take the necessary measures in order to mitigate risks.
The tenth task is to answer a riddle by the Old Man of the Mountain after climbing to meet him. This challenge can be compared to keeping our focus on long-term business objectives, instead of exclusively concentrating on short-term benefits. These clear and realistic goals should be closely worked on with employee collaboration.
The last test is about surviving the Circus Maximus in Rome. In the world of business, this could represent the need to adapt to new circumstances and compete with larger, more technologically-advanced companies. In order to survive, businesses should be agile and flexible, and willing to change strategies if necessary. More importantly, they need to create a sense of teamwork and belonging, which will allow them to overcome difficult situations.
Ultimately, though digital transformation might represent a challenging task, it plays an essential part in keeping up with the competition in an increasingly technological world. Like Asterix and Obelix, businesses need to be willing to face new challenges and adapt to changing circumstances in order to survive and succeed.
By Oscar Velasco Partner and Director of transformation at Olivia in Spain
Read original articule from Equipos&Talento here