How digital business development creates value – Infor’s framework for success

Many companies are investing heavily in new technology but are not seeing the results they expected. Despite promising innovations in AI, automation, and cloud-based solutions, organisations often find that there is a gap between the potential of technology and the actual business gains.

To understand what distinguishes successful digital initiatives from less successful ones, Infor has conducted a comprehensive global industry survey with 3,600 decision-makers from 15 countries and seven industries. The survey identifies four critical factors that companies can use as guidance to maximise the value of their technology.

Why doesn’t digitisation always deliver the expected results?

According to Infor, 75% of companies expect their productivity to increase by at least 20% within three years, but many struggle to achieve these results in practice. Four common challenges prevent companies from fully benefiting from their technology investments:

Financial constraints

Technological investments require capital, and in uncertain times, short-term cost savings are often prioritised over long-term efficiency. Many companies hesitate to implement new solutions until they see clear results from others – but those who take the initiative early often gain the greatest competitive advantage.

Increased customer expectations

Today’s customers expect fast, personal, and seamless experiences, whether they are purchasing a product, booking a service, or contacting customer support. Companies that do not invest in digital customer solutions risk quickly falling behind.

Technical complexity and misinvestments

The number of digital solutions is growing rapidly, making it difficult to know which investments yield real results. Many companies are attracted by new technologies but fail to adapt them to their existing systems and processes. The result? Fragmented systems, duplicated efforts, and inefficiency.

Outdated working methods and culture

Technology itself is never the solution – it’s about how it is used. Companies that do not adapt their internal processes or change their culture risk getting stuck in old ways of working, even when they invest in the latest technology.

Four common factors among the most productive companies

To succeed with digital transformation, more than just new tools is required. A strategy based on the actual business benefits of technology is essential. In Infor's global industry survey, four key factors that distinguish the most productive companies were identified. These are referred to as Vectors to Value – guidelines that demonstrate how technology can create real business value.

1. Efficient processes and systems

Productive organizations have a clear strategy for how technology can improve workflows. By digitizing and automating routine tasks, they reduce errors, free up time, and create a more flexible organization.

Examples:

• AI-driven analytics tools are used to identify bottlenecks and optimize resources.
• Automation of administration and reporting frees up time for strategic work.
• Cloud-based systems ensure that all employees have access to the right information in real time.

2. Adaptability and future readiness

Successful companies view technology as a dynamic resource rather than a one-time investment. They continuously evaluate, adjust, and enhance their digital solutions based on changing needs.

Examples:

• Decision support systems are used to quickly identify market trends and adjust strategies.
• AI and automation help companies scale up or down as needed.
• Organizations test and implement new technology iteratively, rather than committing to large, risky IT projects.

3. Data-driven insights that lead to action

For technology to create value, the right people must have access to the right data at the right time. Companies that foster a data-driven culture make faster and more informed decisions.

Examples:

• AI is used to forecast demand and optimize inventory management.
• Real-time analysis of customer behavior allows for rapid adjustments in marketing and offers.
• Data is collected and analyzed on a common platform, rather than being spread across different systems.

4. Customer value at the centre

Technology should not only streamline internal processes – it should also enhance the customer experience. The most productive companies tailor their digital solutions to meet customer needs.

Examples:

• Automated customer service solutions reduce wait times and improve service.
• Personalization allows for relevant offers and content for each customer.
• Smart self-service solutions make it easier for customers to find answers and manage their own cases.

For a deeper understanding of how these factors are applied in the food industry, see Infor’s analysis based on insights from 500 food and beverage companies.

How companies invest in technology to create business value

To realise true value from digital transformation, thoughtful investments in both technology and the business's working methods are required. According to Infor's survey, companies worldwide agree on the significance of technology.

For these investments to yield results, more is required than just new tools. The most successful companies find a balance between choosing the right technology, optimising their processes, and building a flexible organisation that can embrace innovation as new opportunities arise. It is about creating a sustainable productivity advantage, where technology is used to improve both business outcomes and customer experiences.

How companies create real value with technology

The industry survey shows that the most productive companies do not just invest in technology – they use it correctly. They ensure that their processes and systems are optimised so that technology truly enhances the way they work. They have a flexible and adaptable organisation that can quickly adjust course when new needs arise. They let data drive decisions, which means they act on insights rather than gut feelings. And above all, they use technology to create real customer value, not just internal efficiency.

The possibilities of technology are vast, but without a clear strategy, it becomes just a cost. Companies that succeed best are those that see technology as part of the whole – a tool for creating growth, innovation, and better customer experiences.