Exploring Digital Transformation in Organizations: A Typological Perspective

Abstract

Due to its rapid expansion, as well as the numerous implications it has at the organizational level, digital transformation has become an increasingly discussed topic in studies and specialized works. However, it is often treated as a homogeneous phenomenon, leading to a limited understanding of the multitude of forms it can take. This paper aims to address this issue, referring to a specific typology of digital transformation - the one proposed by Hanelt et al (2021). Specifically, it conceptualizes digital transformation as a multidimensional phenomenon, structured into four categories – Technology Impact, Compartmentalized Adaptation, Systemic Shift and Holistic Co-evolution.

From a methodological point of view, the paper has a literature-based approach, supported by the analysis of illustrative examples, for each category, of relevant international organizations. Thus, a better understanding of how the adoption of digital technologies has different impacts at the organizational level is facilitated, from limited effects related to the technological side, to profound transformations of the entire organizational structure simultaneous with those of the external environment.

The main findings highlight that digital transformation is a complex, heterogeneous and context-dependent phenomenon. In other words, similar technologies can lead to significantly different outcomes depending on organizational conditions and specific factors. From a practical perspective, the article is useful for managers and practitioners, who can be supported in the effort to more effectively manage digital transformation processes within the organization, by clearly identifying the type of desired change and the level at which it manifests itself. Therefore, the proposed typological approach facilitates the analysis and observation of different digital transformation trajectories and provides a useful framework for future research.