We can understand a digital transformation process as a pyramid whose base is digitization, its second layer is automation and the third, the highest, is integration into a single system.

Digitalization has three distinct phases-the initial phase, when single operations or processes are automated (such as library purchasing); the mid-phase, when related processes are automated and joined together (such as library collection management or supply chain management); and the third, most complex phase, when multiple systems that sup-port business processes and information flows are integrated into library management systems or enterprise management systems (Dobrica Savić, 2019, researchgate.net).

It is essential that managers and executives understand this structure, because it is often assumed that the digital transformation in a business consists only of changing the format of the information, i.e., moving from manual to digital media. This is only the first step, that of digitization. It is then necessary to take all that information and make it work on a system that connects the different parts of the business and the different types of data (this is digitalization). Finally, there has to be a central brain that ensures the proper functioning of the entire operation and integrates everything into a single business model. Only a process that goes through these three stages can be successful:

Successful digital transformation requires a holistic approach with true syncing and alignment across the organization. Teams and leaders must not only coordinate and establish the desired outcome for their part but also understand the outcome for the business as a whole. That’s a lot of moving parts. Companies that fail at digital transformation do so because they neglect one or more of those parts. (forbes.com)

As can be seen, digitization in a business is nothing more than the automation of all the company’s processes by means of the intelligent integration of currently available technology, with which communication and the recording of activities is developed in a significantly more reliable way. This automation, in order to be truly effective and comply with the definition of digitalization, requires the linking of the company’s processes in a system that integrates them all and coordinates them into a single global process, which is the total operation of the organization. This linked operation ensures that customers receive the best response to their requests, and that the company’s services and products have the best possible quality in the demanding market.

That is why Business Process Management software solutions are a highly advisable aid for embarking on the digital transformation. The reason is that from the very beginning of the transformation, they provide a clear picture of what steps the company will take and what it needs for the complete integration to take place. This reduces the probability of failure to almost zero.

Our work with a large number of customers has shown us that process modeling and process design can ensure the success of automation. In addition, we have seen that an easy-to-use tool allows employees to quickly adapt to the technology and not resist digital change in the business. The satisfaction of users, employees, managers and customers thus grows considerably and the quality and competitiveness of the organization increases.