Readiness of Ukrainian business for digital transformation: drivers and barriers

Abstract

The article presents the results of a study of Ukrainian business readiness for digital transformation. It is determined that digital changes are inevitable, and in order to choose the right direction of transformation, it is necessary to assess the level of readiness of the enterprise for such changes. An analysis of company cases, as well as research and surveys, has identified the key factors that drive transformation, as well as barriers to its implementation. One of the main areas of transformation is organizational change, which, unfortunately, is often underestimated by companies that focus more on technological aspects. Organizational transformations include digital culture, leadership and leadership competencies, business models, strategies, management, human resources, and communications. Studies have shown that most Ukrainian enterprises are not ready for disruptive digitalization, and the main reason is the mismatch between strategic goals and current tasks of companies, as well as between the organizational structure and business model that do not meet the requirements of digital change. Assessments of the digital readiness of enterprises in Ukraine often do not coincide with user assessments, which indicates the imperfection of existing assessment methods and points to the potential for development. It was found that Ukrainian enterprises are not aware of the global opportunities for digital transformation and are not ready to integrate into the international digital space. The key reason for this is their lack of readiness for open innovation, which is the basis of digital change. The results obtained are of scientific and methodological importance and will help to clarify and expand the base of methods for assessing the digital readiness of enterprises, and from a practical point of view, will help to choose the directions of digital transformation and develop strategic plans.