Digital transformation usually forms part of a business strategy. It is a continuous process where businesses replace and update manual and legacy systems/processes with more modern digital alternatives. Digital transformation enables a business to harness technology and data to increase its capabilities, improve efficiency and enhance customer experience.
It can be applied to all areas of your business: systems, processes, software and machinery. Digital Transformation is aligned with Continuous Improvement and Change Management business principles.
Digital adoption is the process of embracing and effectively utilising technology, digital tools and data within a business. A culture of digital adoption is vital to achieve the goals and objectives set out within a Digital Transformation strategy. Digital adoption often requires a cultural shift within a business because people can sometimes be sceptical about the benefits or feel threatened by some aspects.
The ultimate goal is to reach Digital Maturity – where the application of technology is central to the organisation and all business operations are aligned to appropriate digital tools. Technology is evolving at a faster pace than most businesses can naturally adapt to – so in reality, very few businesses reach full digital maturity. But that’s OK! The key to impactful digital transformation is to set out an achievable and realistic roadmap that increases your digital maturity over time.
Also known as IDT 4.0 or the 4th Industrial Revolution. Digital Transformation in the Manufacturing Sector is generally referred to as Industry 4.0.
Example Industry 4.0 strands:
The goal of D4M is the same as Made Smarter – to support manufacturers with digital adoption. The way D4M is delivered is different to Made Smarter and is currently exclusively delivered in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly in partnership with University of Cambridge and their Institute for Manufacturing.
Businesses wishing to join the D4M programme must meet some simple eligibility requirements. Factors such as location, business size and sector will play a part in determining if your business is eligible for fully-funded support from the D4M programme. If you have any questions please get in touch via email at info@d4mcornwall.co.uk.
D4M support is fully-funded, meaning you don’t pay for our service, but we do ask for an investment in your time and energy. In exchange we offer full support, introducing you to a host of specialists working hands-on alongside you to develop and grow your manufacturing business.
If you choose to utilise some of the Shoestring solutions, you might need to buy some basic equipment which costs under £200.
No! The programme has been designed to enhance skills and confidence for non-technical people who work for manufacturing businesses.
Research has shown that digital transformation amongst SME manufacturers is slower because it is perceived to be:
Our role at D4M is to help businesses de-mystify these perceptions and support them to embark on an achievable and effective roadmap to drive accelerated growth, improved efficiency and productivity.
If your business is eligible and suitable for support, the amount of support will depend on your business digital maturity and the identified business needs. Support can range from 3hrs to 40hrs.
The D4M programme is currently running until the end of March 2025.
The D4M programme has been Commissioned by the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme and delivered on behalf of the Growth Hub. It is fully funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The D4M programme has been designed & delivered by Oxford Innovation Advice in partnership with the University of Cambridge and the Institute for Manufacturing.