Joel Schlesinger © Postmedia Network Inc.
The digital transformation cuts both ways for many Calgary organizations.
While helping businesses become more competitive, efficient and profitable, the adoption of technologies such as data analytics, artificial intelligence and cloud-based computing can also be daunting.
A recent KPMG in Canada report highlights how those in corporate leadership recognize the opportunity and challenges, with 57 per cent identifying digital transformation as a top priority. But more than 43 per cent of respondents also state that their organizations lack the talent to adopt new technologies and use them to their full potential.
“The biggest constraint companies face is bringing in tech talent that understands their industry,” says JQ Lien, partner at KPMG with the technology strategy and digital transformation group in Calgary. “That’s really the value proposition KPMG offers.”
The global business consulting firm has long had a strong presence in Calgary and recently launched the KPMG Ignition centre located within Platform Calgary — a technology innovation hub. KPMG Ignition assists organizations — from startups to global corporations — in addressing various challenges through design thinking methodologies.
“I facilitate an experience that helps build collaboration and alignment on the challenges faced so that we can identify solutions and opportunities for innovation,” says Kerry Harmer, innovation designer and lead for KPMG Ignition.
Of course, helping companies create organizational change by introducing technologies such as artificial intelligence or augmented reality is one thing; implementing change in the real world is another.
KPMG has ability to do just that, says Nilesh Kujur, partner with the operations and supply chain group.
“My team’s focus is on digitizing field operations — primarily at the producing sites such as mines, refineries and power generation assets,” Kujur says, pointing to ongoing work with an oil and gas company to revamp their assets.
“We looked at their current processes, that have the biggest impact on safety and cost,” he says, adding KPMG then developed a roadmap to bring together operational technologies, data analytics and cloud-based platforms. The initiative was not solely focused on improving efficiency and profitability, but also driven by ESG (environmental, social and governance) goals.
“Greater efficiency leads to lower emissions that result in lower costs,” Kujur explains.
Central to KPMG’s work on these strategic initiatives is its “DE-RISC” approach to digital transformation.
“This essentially refers to developing a plan that is data-driven, operationally ready and considers integration with legacy systems, security focused and mitigates your migration to the cloud,” Lien says. “In short, it’s an established digital transformation playbook.”
KPMG has a diverse and deep ability to help organizations employ new technology to succeed, Harmer adds.
“We leverage a broad network of professionals with extensive skills to guide clients through challenging terrain to be leaders in their industry.”
This story was created by Content Works, Postmedia’s commercial content division, on behalf of Calgary Economic Development.