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Lessons in managing digital transformation: telecom experts share their experience
George Petersen
Head of Telco-enabled Projects
Ellen Snesar
Content Manager
November 15, 2024
Digital transformation in telecom goes beyond upgrading technology—it requires thoughtful, people-focused management. At this year’s Telco Growth conference, telecom leaders from TPG Telecom and Telstra explored how to guide companies through these transitions, emphasizing effective communication, team engagement, and skill development. Here’s a short practical guide based on their insights.
To start any transformation, setting a clear vision is essential. A well-defined vision helps employees understand the purpose of their work within the larger goals of the company. When speaking on transformation, one of the experts highlighted the importance of making change relatable to employees:
A clear and compelling vision is vital for getting teams on board. By communicating the ‘why’ behind the transformation, leaders help employees see how their efforts align with the broader mission and drive the company forward.
Involving employees in the transformation process means actively connecting the company’s broader objectives with their daily work. When employees understand how their tasks contribute to larger goals, they become more invested in the transformation’s success.
Different ceremonies and KPIs can be used, like NPS and employee surveys to understand their frustrations. It’s also possible to use blogs, podcasts, and other ways to engage and celebrate their wins.
Celebrating accomplishments and showing appreciation regularly fosters a sense of ownership, which in turn motivates teams to take an active role in the transformation journey.
Maintaining open lines of communication is essential for transformation. One of the speakers shared the “4 W’s” framework—What’s happening now? What's going to happen next? What’s going to be different? Why?—as a tool to keep employees informed and involved.
Instead of using a single method for everyone, feedback should be customized for each team, so leaders can focus on the questions that matter most to them. This approach makes sure that each team’s specific needs are addressed, helping employees feel more connected and responsible for the success of the transformation.
To retain talent and foster engagement, create opportunities for employees to build new skills that contribute to the company’s transformation goals. Successful initiatives are aimed at bridging skills gaps within their organization:
Programs like digital academies empower employees to develop new skills, keeping them motivated and engaged in the transformation process.
The four actions covered above will lay the groundwork for the transformation. If you want to go further, use these quick additional tips:
If you want to learn more about the ways to implement the digital transformation project in your telco organization and move from telco to techco, read our free Telco-to-Tehco guide.