Introductory description

This module provides executives with the essential concepts, frameworks, and tools needed to understand and manage digital transformation in organisations. It explores how various digital technologies, such as enterprise resource systems and AI, when entering an organization, reshape and also require changes to structures, processes, and ways of working. We examine the key phases, decisions, challenges, and opportunities involved in transformation journeys. Students will gain both theoretical insight and practical handholds for digital transformation through the study of diverse teaching cases to which theoretical frameworks are applied, as well as valuable insights from guest lecturers who have experienced digital transformation in their organisations.

Designed for managers across commercial firms, public sector organisations, and NGOs, the module develops the critical and applied understanding required to evaluate technologies, lead organisational change, and design effective plans for the initiation and maintenance of digital transformation inside organisations. The module is well suited to professionals with both non-technical and technical backgrounds.

In sum, students will leave the module with knowledge of concepts and frameworks that can be directly applied to guide a digital transformation in an organization (i.e., practical materials, no fluff).

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

This module will cover a selection of the following topics:

• Digital transformation

• Technologies: ERP, artificial intelligence / machine learning, platforms and ecosystems, robotics, blockchain

• Business use of data analytics

• Platform business models

• Ethics and regulation

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate critical understanding of digital transformation as it cuts across new business models, digital platforms, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, analytics, and so on.
• Demonstrate critical understanding of organisational consequences and required changes as a result of digitial technology emergence.
• Demonstrate critical understanding of the nature of artificial intelligence and its effects to digital transformation
• Appreciate the key differences between DT changes (and its challenges and leadership requirements) and other changes in the organisation
• Demonstrate coherent lines of argument
• Critically evaluate the impact of changes digital transformation brings to work, groups, organisations, and business ecosystems

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Research element

Demonstrate research skills - effectively search, gather and utilize information.

Subject specific skills

Apply specific digital leadership concepts to case situations.
Apply concepts, theories, and frameworks to designing and leading impactful DT initiatives in organisation
Demonstrate research skills - effectively search, gather and utilize information.

Transferable skills

Demonstrate problem-solving skills.
Demonstrate written communication