THE IMPORTANCE OF MANAGERS IN DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

DİJİTAL DÖNÜŞÜMDE YÖNETİCİNİN ÖNEMİ

Abstract

Digital transformation is the process in which businesses strategically adopt technology to restructure their processes and enhance their competitiveness. This transformation involves not only technological changes but also cultural, structural, and managerial shifts. With the rapid development of technology, businesses must effectively use digital technologies to maintain their competitive advantage. In this context, the process of digital transformation plays a critical role for managers. Managers not only manage technology during the digital transformation process but also play a key role in aligning the organization’s culture with the digital age, motivating employees, and ensuring that they embrace change. The digital transformation enables organizations to become more agile, data-driven, and customer-centric, but the success of this process depends on the strategic thinking and leadership competencies of managers. One of the key roles of managers in digital transformation is to set the digital strategies for the organization and implement these strategies at the operational level. Additionally, managers must make the right decisions to integrate digital technologies, improve business processes, and increase productivity. This process requires strong leadership to foster the development of digital skills in employees and to encourage a positive attitude towards digitalization. One of the biggest challenges in digital transformation is resistance within organizations. Employees may resist change and face difficulties in using digital tools. Managers must overcome this resistance by gaining the trust of employees and involving them in the digital transformation process, which depends on their change management skills. Furthermore, to ensure the sustainability of digital transformation, managers need to adopt strategies to continuously improve and adapt digital technologies at every level of the organization. This article examines the leadership roles of managers in the digital transformation process, the challenges they face, and strategies for overcoming these challenges. It also discusses the impact of digital transformation on organizational efficiency, innovation, and competitive advantage. The success of managers in digital transformation is not only dependent on managing technology but also on effectively managing the organization’s culture and employees.