Derwent recently rounded out its National executive forum series “Digital Growth – It’s a People Thing” in Perth with guest speakers Jenny Bryant and Colin Nexhip , following the success of the series in Melbourne and Sydney earlier this year. Organisations that succeed in driving growth and transformation are the ones that get the people strategies right. There are critical people elements to consider when leading growth and a more sustainable digital future – these include developing the right operating model, organisational structure, aligning the right capability to the structure, and establishing optimal ways of working. Facilitated by Lindsay Every , Derwent’s Group Managing Partner and Digital Practice Lead, Jenny and Colin shared their perspectives and insights on the strategic imperatives for digital growth and transformation, and the role that talent plays in driving this change. Key takeaways from the discussion included: The technology landscape is characterised by constant change, with no periods of stability. This ongoing evolution demands that organisations remain adaptable and proactive in their technology strategies. Across industries, digital transformation has emerged as a recurring top priority. Companies recognise that leveraging digital technologies is essential for maintaining competitive advantage and driving innovation. Organisations are increasingly looking to technology as a catalyst to turbocharge their transformation efforts. This means not only adopting new tools, but also rethinking processes and strategies to maximise the benefits of digital advancements. It is crucial to view technology in the context of the workforce and organisational culture. Successful digital initiatives require alignment between the tools and the people who use them, fostering an environment that supports innovation and collaboration. Companies are focused on utilising technology to improve productivity levels across their operations. This includes streamlining processes, enhancing communication, and fostering collaboration among teams. Balancing technology investments Organisations face a turbulent landscape when balancing short-term and long-term investments in technology. The need to respond quickly to market demands can conflict with the need for sustainable, long-term planning. Companies are learning how to bridge the gap between “digital natives” – employees who have grown up with technology – and those who may find it more challenging. This integration is crucial for fostering a cohesive work environment that maximises the strengths of all employees. Security versus speed One of the key challenges for companies is establishing robust security, governance, and risk management frameworks without hindering the speed of technological advancement. Striking this balance is essential to protect sensitive data while promoting innovation. The urgency to bring new technologies to market poses significant challenges for organisations. Companies must develop strategies to expedite deployment while ensuring that the solutions are effective and secure. Agility can be a game changer. Adopting agile working practices has proven to be transformative for many organisations, allowing them to embed new thinking and innovative approaches throughout the company. This agility fosters responsiveness to change and enhances problem-solving capabilities. Talent and value exchange The technology function is facing challenges in attracting and retaining top talent, given the competitive nature of the market. Companies must develop compelling value propositions to draw skilled professionals who can drive digital initiatives forward. Companies need to strike the balance of “give versus get” to create a mutually beneficial environment where both the company and individual employees feel they are gaining value. This could involve offering professional development opportunities, flexible work arrangements, and a supportive culture that promotes growth and innovation. Sustainability concerns: As technology continues to advance, the sustainability of energy resources required to support these innovations becomes increasingly important. Companies must consider the environmental impact of their digital strategies and seek ways to minimise energy consumption while meeting growing demands.