When implementing effective business digitalization, structural changes are necessary, such as: 

1. Organizational structure: Redefining roles and responsibilities to align them with the new tools.
2. Process automation: Reducing time and errors, which improves operational efficiency.
3. Integration of digital platforms: Implementing platforms that connect different areas of the business, such as ERP and CRM systems.
4. Use of emerging technologies: Tools such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data análisis, and cloud computing enhance decision-making.

The long-term benefits of digitization in business facilitate operations and strengthen security. These include: 

• Improved operational efficiency: Reduces operating costs and improves staff productivity.
• Access to new markets: Digital presence opens up opportunities to reach new customers and markets.
• Informed decision-making: Real-time data analysis facilitates decisions based on accurate information.
• Increased competitiveness: Digitized businesses can quickly adapt to market trends.

To achieve a successful digitization of business, several steps are followed to ensure a successful transition: 

Initial assessment: Identifying areas for improvement 

The first step is to analyze the areas of the business that can be transformed. To do this, the following steps should be taken:

• Perform an initial diagnosis to assess the level of digitalization of your business and define objectives with clear and measurable goals.

Resource analysis to determine what investments will be necessary in infrastructure, training, and technological tools. 

Training staff in digital tools 

At this point, it is necessary to offer constant training and foster a culture of innovation to facilitate the transition and generate professional development.  

Implementation of digital tools in logistics and sales 

Digitalization in businesses requires integrating platforms that optimize inventory management, order automation, and shipment tracking. For example:  

• The use of chatbots, virtual assistants, and self-service platforms can improve customer service.
• E-commerce platforms facilitate online sales and improve the customer shopping experience.
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems enable the integration of all areas of the business.
• The use of AI and big data tools helps to predict consumer trends.

Security and data protection in business digitalization 

Cybersecurity is essential to protect data from attack, damage, or unauthorized access. Therefore, it becomes a priority to protect digital assets and ensure continuity of operations. 

Therefore, implementing business digitization with a strategic approach allows optimizing internal processes and opens new opportunities for growth and expansion.

Bibliographic references

Álvarez, F., & Toledo, M. (2022). Digitalization of SMEs in Latin America. CAF. https://scioteca.caf.com/handle//123456789/1970

Briano, C. (2024). The Digital Transformation of Business. Volume 1: Conceptual Notes. http://bibliotecadigital.econ.uba.ar/download/libros/Briano_La-transformacion-digital-de-los-negocios-1-apuntes-conceptuales.pdf

Blackburn, S., Galvin, J., LaBerge, L. y Williams, E. (2021, October 8). Strategy for a digital world. McKinsey & Company. https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/destacados/estrategia-para-un-mundo-digital/es

Bustillos, L. (2024, March 25). How to implement digital transformation in a company in 6 steps. IEBS. https://www.iebschool.com/blog/transformacion-digital-empresa-tecnologia/

Páez-Gabriunas, I., Sanabria, M., Gauthier-Umaña, V., Méndez-Romero, R. A. y Rivera Virgüez, L. (2022). Digital Transformation in Organizations. Rosario University Publishing House. https://simehbucket.s3.amazonaws.com/miscfiles/transformacion-digital-en-las-organizaciones_3vf8ts3e.pdf