Taking a holistic view of digitization

On September 26, 2024, the futureSAX Innovation Forum II took place at the “Fabrik der Fäden” in Plauen. Under the theme “The Future of Digitalization,” experts from academia and industry gathered to discuss digital technologies, strategies, and innovative applications for digital transformation. The DigitalStress team from the Institute for Health, Ageing, Technology (GAT) at the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences was also actively involved.

The DigitalStress team participated in the following thematic workshops:

1. Skills Development for the Digital Workplace
   David Sauer gave a presentation on the use of digital tools for recruiting skilled workers, skills development, and knowledge management. The focus was on the difference between qualifications and competencies, as well as the changing demands placed on the modern workforce. A key finding was the importance of continuous learning and creative problem-solving in digital transformation. In addition, the potential of mentoring to specifically promote competencies within companies was emphasized.

1. Innovative Business Models and Digital Administrative Processes
   Tino Schmidt examined the emergence of new business models driven by digitalization, particularly in the context of the circular economy and the energy sector. He outlined the factors that distinguish the few successful AI startups from the many that are not. Building digital resilience—particularly by adapting software to organizational requirements—was highlighted as the key to successful digitalization. A SWOT analysis of the workplace, combined with a workplace environment analysis (e.g., BASA) and a skills assessment (e.g., KODE), helps companies identify meaningful digitization opportunities and implement them in a targeted manner.

1. Sociocultural Integration in Digital Transformation
   David Sauer used a short mini-game to introduce the challenges of sociocultural integration in the context of digital transformation. The focus was on generational change, differences in competencies, and the acceptance of digital technologies within the team. The role of leaders—who should actively model the change and create space for learning processes—was identified as crucial to the success of change processes.

The futureSAX Innovation Forum II impressively demonstrated how important it is to take a holistic view of digitalization - from technological to social aspects - in order to make companies successful in the future. The DigitalStress team made a valuable contribution to the discussion and further development of solutions.

A more detailed summary of all themed workshops can be found here.