Behind the complex codes and systems, lies the key to a company’s future success or failure. “Transform or die, stagnate and perish.” This has become the harsh reality for 70% of companies today.
In this silent war, a new department—the Digital Transformation Department—is quickly rising in many organizations. From traditional manufacturing to internet giants, from state-owned enterprises to universities, the wave of digital transformation is sweeping across every corner of the business world. So, what exactly does this department, which could determine a company’s future, do? And what does it mean for professionals considering a career shift?
What Does the Digital Transformation Department Do?
In the tide of digital transformation, the Digital Transformation Department plays the role of a “translator” within companies. It converts digital technologies into business value, bridging the gap between technology and business. The core responsibilities of this department can be categorized into three key areas:
1. Strategic Level
At the strategic level, the department is responsible for creating the top-level design of the company’s digital transformation. For example, the Digital Transformation Center of the Sinomach Group participated in creating the group’s 3-5 year digital transformation strategy, laying out a specific implementation path and roadmap.
2. Tactical Level
At the tactical level, the department leads the implementation of specific digital transformation projects. For instance, CNC Heidway‘s digital transformation department spearheads pharmaceutical production digitization, supporting the automation and intelligent upgrades of production processes.
3. Execution Level
On the execution level, the department ensures the stable operation and continuous optimization of systems. China Mobile’s Digital Transformation Department focuses on strengthening smart operations, AI applications, data empowerment, and security, injecting robust power into the company’s digital transition.
Despite variations in different companies, the key mission of all digital transformation departments remains the same—using cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to drive comprehensive organizational digitalization.
What Skills Does the Digital Transformation Department Need?
As these departments continue to grow, the demand for digital transformation talent is also changing. From the job requirements across several companies, we can identify common characteristics in the talent they seek.
High-Quality Professional Background: A majority of roles in the digital transformation space require candidates with a master’s degree or higher, typically in fields such as computer science, automation, smart manufacturing, and data science.
Complex Skill Sets: Digital transformation professionals need to blend both technical understanding and business insight, making them well-rounded in handling the intersection of technology and organizational needs.
Salary Expectations: Digital transformation talent commands a premium in the job market. Professionals holding certifications like the Digital Transformation Engineer certificate issued by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology can expect salary increases of up to 50% when switching companies. Major tech companies such as Alibaba Cloud and Huawei offer specialized recruitment channels for these skilled professionals.
How Can Instrumentation Professionals Embrace the Digital Transformation Wave?
For instrumentation professionals, the digital transformation journey presents both challenges and opportunities. From a career development perspective, transitioning to a Digital Transformation Department offers unique advantages, though it does require overcoming some challenges.
One instrumentation professional shared that after transitioning to the digital transformation department, they found themselves forgetting much of the on-site professional knowledge.
Advantages for Instrumentation Professionals
Solid Foundation for Transformation: Instrumentation professionals have long dealt with data collection and control systems, which gives them a deep understanding of enterprise data flow and operational processes. This foundation is critical in digital transformation work.
Potential Career Pathways for Instrumentation Professionals
Transition to Smart Manufacturing: Instrumentation professionals’ understanding of automation equipment and smart sensors closely aligns with core technologies such as industrial robots, industrial big data, and digital twins required in the smart manufacturing space.
Move Towards Data Governance: Professionals with experience in data collection can pivot to data governance roles. With additional knowledge of governance methodologies and tools, they can evolve into data governance specialists or experts.
Shift to Product Management: Developing hybrid skills in areas like AI product management can be a great path forward. These roles require both technical and business understanding, making instrumentation professionals uniquely suited for such positions.
Skills Development for a Smooth Transition
Enhance Programming and Data Analysis Skills: Learning tools like SQL, Python, and developing proficiency in statistical analysis and machine learning models will be key for adapting to the demands of digital transformation.
Expand Business Vision and Develop Architectural Thinking: Move beyond single devices or systems and focus on understanding entire business processes and value chains.
Engage in Digital Transformation Projects: Actively participating in digital projects will provide invaluable experience and knowledge, crucial for career growth.
The Core Shift: Adopting Digital Transformation Thinking
For instrumentation professionals considering a transition into the Digital Transformation Department, the most significant change isn’t just learning new technical skills, but evolving their mindset—from a “tool-oriented” perspective to a “value-oriented” approach.
Mental Shift
Adopt Digital Thinking: Understanding that digitalization forms the foundation, while digital transformation represents the superstructure.
Methodological Shift
Master Digital Business Implementation: Learn and apply scientific implementation methods for digital business transformation, following a five-step approach:
Find Experts and Evaluate the Big Picture
Raise Awareness and Prioritize
Set Clear Objectives and Build Teams
Create Pilots and Correct Mistakes
Define Goals and Scale Up
Product-Level Shift
Understand Layered Product Design: Learn to design digital products in layers, with products supporting monitoring, analysis, and diagnostics at different levels.
Conclusion: Embrace Change to Lead the Future
It’s expected that in the future, Digital Transformation Departments will become a standard feature in every organization. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a seasoned instrumentation engineer, the digital transformation wave will offer new possibilities for career development.
Professionals who can understand the essence of business while mastering digital skills will be the most valuable asset to any company. After all, in the digital era, only those who embrace change can lead the future.