The digital revolution is well and truly underway. In France, 98% of companies with more than 20 employees are implementing a digital transformation policy. But is it really effective? What are the tangible benefits of this transformation? Take a look at 12 examples of successful digital transformation, and discover how French and international companies have managed to capitalise on digital technology.
Digital transformation in industry
Sectoral challenges
Industry 4.0, also known as the industry of the future, is revolutionising the industrial sector. It requires the integration of new digital technologies to remain competitive on the international market.
Schneider Electric (France)
A world leader in energy management and automation, Schneider Electric has stepped up its digital development by adopting virtualisation technology. The concept? To create a virtual replica of physical machines in order to improve efficiency, profitability and security.
Results:
- Optimised efficiency
- Minimisation of the risks associated with an ageing physical infrastructure
- Reduced equipment footprint and costs
- Reduced maintenance and engineering effort
- Optimised system availability
- Reduce travel costs
- Reduce redundancy requirements
Siemens (Germany)
To meet the challenges of Industry 4.0, Siemens, a major player in industrial engineering, has integrated the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) into its services. This connectivity aims to improve the performance, competitiveness, but also the agility and cybersecurity of Siemens customers.
Results:
- Increased machine availability
- Optimised production performance
- Reduced energy consumption
- Control of maintenance
- Improved product quality
Digital transformation in retail and distribution
Sector challenges
49% of transactions are carried out via a smartphone. Shoppers are increasingly connected, and sales staff need to adapt to keep pace with changing purchasing practices.
Decathlon (France)
Sports retailer Decathlon has embarked on a major digital transformation to improve the customer experience both in-store and online. Among its flagship initiatives: self-checkouts, as well as mobile applications for product search, customer reviews and booking services.
Results:
- Improved customer satisfaction with a quick and easy shopping experience
- Efficient processes with fewer queues in shop
Amazon (United States)
A global leader in online retailing, Amazon has pushed back the boundaries of digital transition by focusing on artificial intelligence (AI). AI is used at several levels: in logistics management with automated warehouses, to optimise delivery routes and to personalise product recommendations.
Results:
- Ultra-fast delivery (sometimes in just a few hours)
- Personalised shopping experience
- Enhanced customer loyalty
Digital transformation in services
Sector challenges
Digital transformation is making it possible to offer services that are fast, personalised and tailored to customer expectations. Here again, the objective is clear: to improve the user experience in order to build customer loyalty.
AXA (France)
Insurance giant AXA has chosen artificial intelligence (AI) to... humanise its customer relations? That's right! Since September 2024, the insurer has been developing the ‘Unlock the Future’ strategic plan based on artificial intelligence. The aim? To improve documentary research and the drafting of letters, as well as empathy when a claim arises.
Results:
- Significant reduction in processing times
- Solutions adapted in real time
- More empathetic communication
- Improved customer satisfaction
Uber (United States)
Uber has revolutionised the transport sector by offering a completely digital service. The concept is simple: a mobile application that makes it easy to order a vehicle, track its arrival in real time and pay. The revolution has been so far-reaching that the term ‘uberisation’ is now used to describe the direct contact between professionals and customers through the use of technology.
Results:
- Democratisation of urban mobility
- Creation of a disruptive ecosystem
- Improved user experience
Digital transformation in healthcare
Sector challenges
Technological innovations are supporting medical progress by improving access to care and medical data management. Between telemedicine, artificial intelligence and connected solutions, discover two examples of successful digital transformation in this field.
Doctolib (France)
Doctolib is THE benchmark for online medical appointments. Thanks to an intuitive interface, users can check the availability of practitioners, book a slot and even carry out consultations by videoconference.
Results:
- Faster, easier access to care for patients
- A richer patient base for practitioners
Philips Healthcare (Netherlands)
Philips Healthcare is the world leader in medical technologies. Today, it is focusing in particular on artificial intelligence (AI) and connected solutions to
anticipate patients' needs with personalised medical monitoring and early detection of signs of illness. Medicine is thus moving from a reactive to a proactive and preventive approach.
Results:
- Increased operational efficiency
- Support for clinical decision-making
- Better management of patient health
- Patient self-management
Digital transformation in education
Sector-specific issues
E-learning has clearly democratised access to training. The digital learning 2023 barometer published by the ISTF reveals that the proportion of companies offering distance learning has risen by 10 points in one year. We also learn that e-learning is now part of the learning process in 64% of organisations. And artificial intelligence is its best ally when it comes to offering personalised learning paths.
OpenClassrooms (France)
OpenClassrooms is a pioneering e-learning platform in Europe. It offers certified online training courses combining videos, practical exercises and personalised support from mentors.
Results:
- Broader access to education, regardless of location
- Customised courses and flexible pace
Coursera (United States)
Founded in April 2012 by two lecturers specialising in artificial intelligence at Stanford University, Coursera is an American start-up specialising in distance learning. What makes it special? It offers courses from leading universities such as Stanford, Princeton and Columbia.
Results:
The democratisation of higher education, with courses available to millions of learners around the world at lower cost.
Digital transformation in transport and logistics
Challenges for the sector
As we have seen, numerous technological and digital advances have made consumers demanding and impatient. They are now looking for immediacy. And this applies to the transport and logistics sectors.
SNCF (France)
SNCF, a major player in the French transport sector, has invested heavily in digitising its services. Ticket reservations can now be made online via an intuitive application. You can also manage your itineraries in real time and be alerted in the event of disruption.
Results:
- Time saved on bookings
- Smoother traffic flow in stations
- Optimised customer experience (real-time alerts, no need to punch in, etc.)
DHL (Germany)
DHL is also banking on digital technology. It has adopted cutting-edge technologies such as warehouse automation and the use of blockchain to track parcels. These innovations enable greater traceability and real-time inventory management.
Results:
- Increased efficiency
- Reduction in errors
Examples of digital transformation, conclusion
There are many examples of successful digital transformation. Whether in industry, commerce, healthcare, education or logistics, digital technologies are enabling businesses to become more competitive while adapting to constant digital change.
These success stories also show that the key to a successful transformation lies in a clear strategic vision, combined with thoughtful adoption of technologies.
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