Digital transformation is more than just a tech project. In 2025, and in today’s economic climate, it has become a strategic necessity for Quebec companies that want to stay competitive. According to a McKinsey study, 70% of digital transformation efforts fail mainly due to poor planning, lack of alignment with business goals, and poorly managed technology adoption (McKinsey & Company, Why do most transformations fail?, 2021, source).
In this article, we’ll explore the key reasons behind these failures and more importantly, how a well-structured digital transformation plan can help you avoid them.
WHY DO MOST DIGITAL TRANSFORMATIONS FAIL?
1. A Vague Vision of Digital Goals
Problem: Many companies begin digital transformation without a clear idea of what they want to achieve. They invest in technology tools without aligning them with strategic business objectives.
Example: A manufacturing SME implements an expensive ERP system without adapting internal processes. Result: low adoption, productivity loss, and no tangible benefits.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Define a digital transformation roadmap aligned with strategic objectives.
- Prioritize initiatives that deliver measurable short- and medium-term impact.
- Introduce technologies gradually, based on real business needs.
2. Lack of Executive Engagement
Problem: A successful digital transformation isn’t just an IT department matter. If leadership isn’t actively involved, the project is likely to fail.
Example: A sales automation project is launched, but sales teams aren’t trained, and leadership doesn’t track results. Outcome: underutilized tool and missed objectives.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Involve decision-makers from the start to ensure shared vision.
- Maintain clear communication between IT and business units.
- Regularly measure the impact on overall performance.
3. Rushed Technology Adoption
Problem: Many companies roll out digital solutions without a pilot phase or a gradual adoption strategy.
Example: A manufacturer deploys a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) to improve production tracking across multiple sites at once—without tailoring it to local processes or properly training teams.
Result: Operational bottlenecks, system rejection, partial return to Excel spreadsheets, and loss of leadership confidence in the project.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Roll out technologies in phases, starting with pilot programs.
- Provide user training and ongoing support to encourage adoption.
- Gather user feedback before scaling up across the organization.
4. Lack of Employee Training and Support
Problem: One of the main reasons for failure is employee resistance to change—often caused by insufficient training.
Example: A company adopts a new digital collaboration platform, but employees stick to old tools out of habit.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Develop a structured change management strategy, such as:
- Clearly communicating the intent of the change.
- Providing tailored training programs.
- Involving teams in the transformation process.
- Appointing internal change ambassadors.
5. Underestimating Cybersecurity Risks
Problem: Many Quebec companies adopt new technologies without accounting for cybersecurity threats.
Example: An SME adopts a cloud solution without implementing a security plan. Months later, a data breach exposes customer information—damaging the company’s reputation and incurring high costs.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Integrate cybersecurity into the digital strategy from day one.
- Implement robust protocols and regular updates.
- Train employees on data protection best practices.
STRUCTURE YOUR DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION TO SUCCEED IN 2025
Digital transformation isn’t just about buying new tools. It relies on a clear vision, alignment with business goals, and gradual team adoption. A well-structured and realistic transformation roadmap is key.
Best Practices for a Successful Digital Transformation
✅ Define clear priorities and align IT strategy with business goals.
🤝 Engage leadership and teams early to overcome resistance.
🛠️ Roll out technologies in phases and monitor progress.
🔐 Embed cybersecurity into the strategy from the start.
NEED STRATEGIC SUPPORT?
If your organization wants to structure its digital transformation with a strategic and pragmatic approach, Eficio can help plan and execute your IT roadmap.