March 2019

Digital transformation is best explained as implementation of new technology to accelerate operations, sales, customer service, back office productivity and business growth. Each organization has its own processes and supply chains. Management of this supply chain has improved, due to advancements in:

• Logistics
• Infrastructure
• Communications
• IT

Source: https://www.scmr.com/article/preparing_the_supply_chain_for_digital_transformation

Digital technology is enabling companies to improve performance at a modest cost. This technology is being integrated into all aspects of business from backend payroll to production management and even security. The appeal of these technologies has led to many companies hastily implementing changes and new projects.
In all honesty, companies would fare better and reap greater benefits if they create a vision and a comprehensive plan prior to undertaking a digital transformation. A long term road map would need to be outlined and accordingly implemented. ​

Supply Chain and Digital Transformation

Industry boundaries are blurring and new business models are emerging to help companies succeed in this ever-evolving digitized landscape. Ultimately the strategic goals of a company matter and play a pivotal role in this digitized economy. When creating a roadmap for digital transformation, a company needs to focus on:

• Competitive strategies
• Trends influencing the market
• Customer expectations
• Company outlook

Businesses which apply these approaches to the supply chain transformation are better equipped to utilize the full value that digital technology can provide.
For the supply chain industry, the vision provides a company the necessary assessment of the business and technical requirements and capabilities. It also recognises that supply-chain transformation focuses on both technology as well as operations, hence effectiveness of the transformation depends on the future vision of the supply chain.
Thanks to digitization consumers can now do more research and educate themselves regarding products or services they desire before even engaging with a company. Hence companies in the supply-chain business need to match up with the agility and digital competence at every stage and level. Let us look at some key technologies which will help the supply chain industry:

Real Time Updates
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Supply chain managers have more control in providing the customer with transparency, where they can track shipments and products in real-time. They get automatic notifications in case of delays or even issues which might come up. This also helps build consumer loyalty as it increases customer engagement.
Cloud based shipping and tracking technologies provide real time visibility across the supply chain. These tools help track and consolidate all data while eliminating time and resources spent on shipping, receiving, tracking and compiling order data.
Source: https://www.supplychaindigital.com/technology/supply-chain-management-amidst-rapid-digital-transformation

Data Capturing and Management

Big data analysis helps guide decisions as the data analytics and reports can keep track of sales patterns, identify cross selling opportunities, eliminate the need for guesswork and even resolve potential issues before they escalate. This technology is now simple and user-friendly which means navigation and interpretation of information has never been simpler and clearer.

Automation

Automation of processes not only helps eliminate human error but also saves on manpower and skills. Instead of manually updating data or spreadsheets, employees can focus on other more sensitive areas which would help companies maximize profits. Software applications can now update the necessary data in real time.

E-Commerce
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E-commerce helps sellers sell directly to the end consumer and sometimes this can pose a threat to supply chain intermediaries. However if the companies adapt and find a way to add value in the face of it, they will be able to increase their market reach and client database. 
For example, drone deliveries are gaining popularity and are being used by Amazon Air to ensure customers get their parcels quicker.
All companies in the supply-chain have something to gain from digital transformation provided they are open and willing to adapt. 

Transforming to a Digital Supply Chain

The transformation into a digital supply chain is a process which yields significant performance improvements. Combining digital capabilities, targeting specialist recruitment, implementation of the changes and creating an agile working environment are crucial for rapid development.
In order to meet the challenges of today’s digital economy, where customers demand quicker and more personalized services, the organizations fundamental business process with the digital supply chain needs the following enablers:

Customer Centricity
Customer engagement and centricity is vital for any business to survive. It must be integrated with digital supply chain capabilities to serve segments of the business. Automation of processes helps achieve this along with real-time updates. Focus needs to remain on customer first.
Forecasting and accurate analysis helps capture the necessary demographic and increase profits. Marketing via social media, mails and texts are easier with the predictive algorithms. These improved processes enable companies better manage collaborations and more effectively handle bulk orders.

Predictive Analysis
Digital technology makes it possible to address issues before they become major concerns. Machines can be serviced and fixed before they break-down. Shipments can be routed through areas with no traffic or threats.
The internet of things sensor data and make it possible for companies to benefit from their analysis. This would only be beneficial if companies integrate and use these technologies as part of their core processes.
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Visibility
Automation, responsiveness and individualization is required to succeed in this digital world. Real-time visibility goes a long way to help mirror the digital side of business. Everything is monitored:

• Movement of goods
• Transit
• Demand signals
• Relevant data
• Sale systems

Modern supply chain extends beyond the organization and the need for flexible coordination and collaboration across business networks is important to improve sustainability and streamline transactions.
Source: https://www.digitalistmag.com/digital-supply-networks/2018/04/11/4-supply-chain-strategies-to-drive-digital-transformation-06079557

In Conclusion
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Today, technologies have enabled organizations to transform their existing supply chain capabilities and be more flexible, agile, open and collaborative. They make it possible for companies to transform by employing analytics, artificial intelligence, robotics, the Internet of things and many more advanced technologies to collect and process the necessary information to aid business development.
A supply chain digital transformation is about establishing a balance with digital applications, services, cost and processes to drive operational excellence. The burst of innovation has given the market technologies which enable companies to enhance their practices and make greater improvements in supply-chain performance.
If you would like to discuss this further you can contact our App Scoop mobile app developers on https://app-scoop.com/contact-us.html.  

Evolution and change is a part of daily life. It is essential for survival and for progress. Since the invention of the internet, nearly 30 years ago, there has been rapid and significant development in the digital world. We live in a world where, what was once science fiction is now a part of our daily life. For example;

• Artificial intelligence
• Robotics
• Internet of things
• Cloud storage
• Self-driving cars
• Cyber security

Digital transformations have impacted everything from daily life, everyday tasks, social behaviour, business opportunities as well as education. The digital wave has not only changed how people get tasks completed, but their outlook towards the experience and expectations as a consumer have drastically changed as well. 

Importance of Digital Transformation in Education

“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” – Benjamin Franklin
As mentioned earlier, innovation is a prerequisite for survival in this digital world. It is no longer viable for any business, educational or otherwise, to sit back and see where this digital train goes. Core systems need to be upgraded and digital transformation needs to be incorporated in the educational sector.
Education today has become more competitive and digital alteration is needed for institutions to survive. However survival in this digital age would also mean the educators need to adapt to and accept the technologies and various changes which come with it.
One fundamental element to keep in mind is that education is not only for the young people. It does not begin and end with school life. Education and learning is a continuous process and continues well into adult life.
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Source: https://www.digitalistmag.com/improving-lives/2017/10/05/education-digital-transformation-new-societal-challenge-05404388
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The educational sector has seen a lot of technological changes in the past few decades where new systems, new platforms and applications have made their way into the learning process. New technologies are emerging daily and they impact the educational landscape on every level. 

Schools today have technologies which help educators teach better and help students grasp concepts better. For example, digital whiteboards, digital textbooks, mobile learning applications, tablets, etc. These are now regular tools which are used in a classroom as opposed to the traditional methods of teaching.
Students today are digital natives. Their approach to learning is very different from the previous generations. They have a plethora of technology which they are exposed to since birth and this technology is important to help bridge gaps between students and education. It also helps students with special needs to learn, understand and grasp matter in a style most suitable to them.

Technologies used in the Educational Sector
Digital transformation is allowing schools to provide anopulent educational experience that supports deeper understanding and learning to all its students. Let us have a look at a few technologies and how they are impacting the educational sector:
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Internet of Things              
Many institutions are adopting IoT to enable anytime, anywhere learning. Devices connected to the internet make it possible for important information to be passed on to the students. For example,

• School activities
• Homework reminders
• Group study locations
• After-school activities
• Use of digital whiteboard to pass information to student devices
• Automatic tracking of assignments
• Tests being graded and results shared in real time

Personal learning devices can also be connected to a cloud, where it becomes easier for teachers to monitor and analyse which students need help in which area. 

Security
Teachers, admin, students as well as parents can benefit from the added security measures in case of emergencies. Facial recognition, weather updates for storms and criminal activity on campus can be identified and necessary actions can be taken as needed. For example, gun violence is a rising threat and having large gates is not as effective as metal detectors to keep students safe.
Potential threats can also be monitored easily with new technology. There will be discrepancies in the type of technology being used in the various institutions, depending on budgets and other factors, however 2019 will see a lot of advancements which will be more universally acceptable.
(Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/danielnewman/2018/11/13/top-5-digital-transformation-trends-in-education-for-2019/#266b1e705d4d)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data
Testing is an important aspect to help educators gage a student’s performance. However, there are many other factors which can be looked into and analysed before a single score can determine a student’s abilities.
This kind of analysis is now possible with Big Data software. An individual teacher would not need to pour over endless reports or tests. Human error will also be negated in such scenarios. Unprecedented capabilities and software applications have been created for the educational industries. For example,

• E-Learning courses
• IT tools
• Chatbots
• Online tutoring
• Online enrolment and admissions

These software’s and devices make it possible for the teaching staff to focus on intricate or sensitive matter. Resources can be diverted for tasks which are of higher priority and at the same time automate the admin services being offered to students.

Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality
AR and VR technology is beneficial as students get to experience and not just hear about or read about a subject. Similar to audio-visual stimulation, AR and VR make it possible for better understanding, knowledge and retention.
Students can take field trips to different countries without actually leaving the classroom. Everything from history to science to astronomy can come to life within the class itself. This not only helps ensure students are engaged but also look forward to the educational experience.
Smart devices significantly enhance learning experiences and academic content becomes more immersive and enjoyable. For example,
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• 3D rendering of a historic relic
• Walkthrough a museum
• Studying human DNA
• Personalised learning modules
• Adaptive gamification to make learning fun

Source: https://www.innovify.com/blogs/7-edtech-trends-impacting-digital-solutions-for-education-industry

Why Go Digital?
In order to drive innovation and survive in a digital-centric world, it is imperative that educational institutions operate with a digital-first mindset. The millennial generation is mobile focused and within the next 5 years, more than 30 million people will use smartphones in Canada alone. Hence it is important to focus on growing digitally as the benefits far outweigh the costs.
Source: https://www.statista.com/statistics/467190/forecast-of-smartphone-users-in-canada/

Technology helps promote a feeling of independence, empowers creativity, aides in problem solving and helps teach perseverance. In the job markets today, being digitally sound is as important as being knowledgeable. Students who embrace technology automatically get a leg up and are better equipped to succeed in today’s world.
Educators need to embrace the new technology and devices as they are becoming increasingly valuable for education today. If you would like to discuss how digital transformation is the next phase in the educational sector, you can contact the App Scoop Vancouver mobile app developers team on: https://app-scoop.com/contact-us.html.  

​Ever since the wheel was first invented, technology has been impacting every person in every part of their life, right from home to work to socially and even financially. Today, this tech revolution, has reached a point of digitizing our ways of life. Everything is taken care of by a few clicks of a button or is the process of being digitally transformed.
Now digitization, is part of most businesses and ensures companies benefit from integrating technologies and transforming their core processes and systems, while getting an edge up over the competition 

Digital Transformation in Real Estate
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“For example, if I make money, I put it in real estate. I always did very well. Location, location, location.” – Ivana Trump
Real estate has always been one of the preferred methods of investments as the returns would be just as fruitful. Just like other businesses, the real estate markets also face their ups and downs depending on the prevailing economic conditions. In 2018, the Canadian real estate market did take a hit with a drop of almost 5% in prices.
Source: https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/crea-housing-prices-canada-real-estate-1.4978545

​Digital technology is now involved in the real estate business and is in the process of transforming it. This change is global and definitive as it concerns all aspects of this industry like:

• Construction
• Property management
• Marketing
• Sales
• Environment

The future of real estate is aligned with technology trends like blockchain transactions, predictive analysis and virtual reality which help the industry leaders navigate this uncertain market. 

Accepting the Change
The disruptive trends and changes brought about by technological innovations are dimmed by the benefits to a company as it helps meet the ever growing customer expectations. Most companies have realised that business models need to evolve and digital strategies need to be incorporated at every level.

Implementing the Change
Digital transformation, in this century, has been a game changer ever since its inception. It has changed how people live, behave and their outlook towards things including expectations as a consumer. This industry still has a long way to go to catch up with this age, however it is well on its way.
“Location, location, location” – This old adage started being used in the 1920’s with regards to real estate. While it is still an important aspect, it is not equally important to innovate and provide additional relevant information to the customers.
Let us have a look at a few factors which help accelerate digital transformation in the real estate industry:

Real Estate and the Internet of Things
The Internet of Things have started playing an important role in real estate as the connected equipment and devices can be used to make predictions and create models for new buildings. Big data analysis ensures accurate planning with minimal fall out and also helps maximise profits.
Informed decisions ensure accurate forecasts and management processes get smoother in the bargain. Integration of devices and censors also helps giving a frictionless, seamless and hassle-free experience to the customers. Smart spaces or home automation also allows environments to be controlled remotely.
These devices also help collect data which can track patterns and make recommendations for maintenance and security checks as required. Behavioural analysis also helps designers create and plan as per the buyer’s psychology.

Smart Meters
Smart meters are devices which help regulate data used for saving energy and finally the reduced operating costs which are beneficial in the real estate ecosystem. For example, motion detectors which regulate the heat or air conditioner settings in the house when a person enters or leaves. Owners, buyers and service providers benefit from this energy management and optimization of technology.
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Direct Market Access
Today all buyers do a thorough research online before making any decisions on what and where to purchase things. Real estate is no different. Research begins online whether they are buying, selling or renting. Here buyers and sellers can even make direct contact with each other.
The competitive nature of this market has not changed and now it is up to the digital teams to create ways of attracting people with the right first impression. For example, websites and apps go a long way when they are user-friendly, provide all the relevant information and provide deals. 

Building Information Modelling
BIM manages the lifecycle of a building with the help of technology. It also covers the entire project from designing to optimization. For example, using a 3D representation of a building to know location of equipment and how best to make use of the space.
This collaboration between digital software and construction agencies helps from the operations to maintenance and even ensures the smooth running of a property. It is a great way for companies to ensure the project is budget friendly, saves energy and provides an enjoyable experience to the customer.
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Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality
Apart from Big Data, the visual component of real estate just got bigger and better. Marketing can now use unique methods like virtual and augmented reality to help customers experience properties without physically being there. For example, drone technology can be used to allow customers to view complexes and properties from the comfort of their own home
3D renderings of walk-throughs help give a better understanding of the space and what can be expected. Designs projections are given life with these technologies, helping buyers see the end result. In this way the customer doesn’t only see a concept but what the final product would be. 

What does the Customer Expect?
There is a level of uncertainty in the market and the story of Canadian real estate keeps shifting economic fortunes and changing trends. One of the main trends is about navigating uncertainty and as technological changes transform how people live, the real estate sector is facing pressure to respond to new ideology and demands.

Understanding a customer’s shifting needs, helps gain insight and create strategies accordingly as their expectations have a drastic effect on how real estate needs to be planned and developed. Accelerating digital transformation, being more innovative in marketing and the approach to changing business strategy and models and finally embracing the shifting environment to grow with confidence is one of the only ways for the industry to meet the more sophisticated customer demands.
Source: https://www.pwc.com/ca/en/industries/real-estate/emerging-trends-in-real-estate-2019.html
To sum up, we know that the new technologies bring opportunities as well as challenges with them. We are still only experiencing the beginning of a large scale digital transformation and these digital changes are not only changing how buyers look at real estate but the entire sale and leasing process is evolving.

Contribution of technology is now a game changer for any business and its model where the benefits outnumber the setbacks. The transformation could be slow, but cannot be escaped and if you would like to discuss it further, you can contact our App Scoop mobile app developers Vancouver development team on https://app-scoop.com/contact-us.html.

​Technological change has been sweeping the world for over a century now. Today, digital technology is part of everyday life and handles daily menial tasks like ordering groceries, making payments, checking the news and even business tasks like accounting and data analysis. At this stage of the digital wave, it is nearly impossible to imagine life without these tools. 

Why the Oil and Gas Industry?

“A century ago, petroleum – what we call oil – was just an obscure commodity; today it is almost as vital to human existence as water.” – James Buchan
Digital technology is used to draw new boundaries and drive productivity in businesses all around the world. The implications of these changes and the advancement of technology can lead to a disruptive trend and hence it is important to adapt and evolve with the new ideas to stay ahead of the curve in the market.
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The oil and gas sector has been on the forefront of several technological advancements like:

• Supercomputing techniques for reservoir modelling
• Seismic imaging for drilling and planning
• 3D imaging for drilling and project development
• Accurate forecasting
• Enhanced oil recovery
• Predictive maintenance

Source: https://www.ogj.com/na/ifs/digital-transformation-and-og.html

Most businesses have gone digital or are in the process of transformation, in order to compete with or stay industry leaders. The technological change is introducing new ways of working in the oil and gas industry and the only way to ensure a company does not get left behind is by keeping up with the these advancements. For example,

• The depth a company can reach, while drilling, is deeper than ever and was earlier impossible to even consider, due to safety constraints.
• Tasks get completed in less than half the time it used to take earlier.

​In order to look at a full digital transformation for the oil and gas industry, a company would need to look at soft and hard automation technologies. Agile ways of working need to be adopted to transform operations and create a new business model which incorporate the use of latest digital technologies and sufficient manpower training to ensure a smooth transformation process. 

Benefits of Digital Transformation in Oil and Gas Sector

New emerging technologies provide significant opportunities to evolve various aspects of the business operations, core processes and the overall business model to maximize profits. These technologies often require significant investments, however in order to be an industry leader, the organization would need to look into these costs and weigh them against the far greater benefits.
Let us have a look at how a streamlined and digitally abled operation, benefit from adopting the change as opposed to their counterparts:

Health, Safety and Environmental Performance
Advanced analytics help ensure a high safety record and also identify rick factors based on operational choices made. Robotics will soon replace humans in hazardous environments, thus ensuring an increase in wellbeing of significant and skilled manpower.

Better Planning
Big data or Smart data platforms help in improving subsurface planning as it provides necessary data about the terrain and how best to proceed with oil mining. This also significantly helps lower the costs and leads to better productivity.
 
Automation
Digital technology helps reducing the numerous interfaces and handovers, among other backend tasks. Some operations from the designing to the execution stage can take weeks or months, but digital data can help reduce that time and even predict outcomes before the project commences.

Off-shore Operations
Using advanced language processing makes the functioning and performance of an off-shore operation a lot smoother. Moving off-shore operations back would also be beneficial provided other factors match up. In the United States alone, about 65 percent of producing oil wells are marginal oil wells, producing less than 10 barrels per day (bpd) of oil.
Source: https://www2.deloitte.com/insights/us/en/industry/oil-and-gas/digital-transformation-upstream-oil-and-gas.html
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More Efficient and Lower Supply Cost
Digital logistics planning makes it possible for faster deliveries without errors in consignment and there is also reduced documentation and better monitoring. Additionally, the reduced costs help with more funds for research and development and creating new business models for the changing markets. 

Digital Trends in the Oil and Gas Industry

Digital ways of working go above and beyond the mere functioning and operations of teams and systems. There is better use of cross-functional teams and knowledge which lead to quicker and more favourable results. Let us look at a few key trends which are helping the oil and gas industry flourish:

Agile Way of Working
Despite a certain degree of centralization, an agile approach is most favourable to help establish control centres which look into remote operations while making the most of the digital revolution. This also ensures the need for lesser teams and a smooth transition period.

Automated Core Processes
Machines were invented to make life simple and the same applies for technology today. Process automation leads to a reduction in manual costing. This also means skilled labour can be utilized for more supervisory, intricate and sensitive matters. This means work gets done with greater speed and accuracy like in the logistics and planning department.

New Talent Profiles
With the automation of tedious tasks, new talent capabilities can be tapped. Agile coaching, data science and advanced technology are courses which will help trained and skilled employees excel while evolving and helping the organization increase its profits.
Endorsing Standardization While Maintaining a Competitive Edge
Bringing together suppliers, partners, and technology providers to develop open platform solutions in areas with high value creation potential and minimal competitive edge is also something to look forward to in the coming years.

How Digital Have You Become Today?
“The oil and natural gas industry is a key driving force in the Canadian economy, accounting for 7% of Canada’s gross domestic product and employing upwards of 500,000 countrywide…Thanks to cost leadership and adoption of emerging technologies, U.S. manufacturers hold a significant advantage over competing regions.”
Source: https://www.export.gov/article?id=Canada-Oil-and-Gas

Despite the digital advancements, oil and gas companies have been reluctant to seize the opportunity. The benefits of going digital are clear, yet companies are unsure of the costs and major modifications required to their systems.

Typically digital thinking and narratives stop at data analysis and insights provided, however to become a digital leader the company needs to make a change in its core processes by modernizing its assets. A roadmap would make it easier for you and if you would like to discuss the same, you can contact our App Scoop mobile app developers Vancouver team on: https://app-scoop.com/contact-us.html.