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There is a lot of work to be done before proposing technological solutions to businesses that will enable them to achieve their goals’. We talk about it with Olivier-Don Truong, Digital Transformation Advisor.
In a nutshell, what’s your job and how did you get your expertise?
I am involved in everything related to improving and digitizing business and operational processes through technology integration.
I worked for nearly fifteen years in continuous improvement in a manufacturing plant producing semiconductors for the industrial, medical and scientific sectors. We were always looking for ways to better meet our customers’ needs.
I have always liked helping people, so I listen to my clients to understand their needs and the real issues related to the digital transformation of their business.
What does a typical assignment look like?
For many companies, financial statements are often the first step in digital transformation. They have core software, such as Acomba or QuickBooks, and they want to add digital tools to support business processes so that the systems are interconnected. They want procurement to talk to planning, finished goods to talk to shipping, shipping to talk to billing, etc.
That’s where we come in. We must work with them to see what the best technological tools would be so they can save time by automating certain processes and accompany them in the implementation of these tools.
The introduction of digital technology can be a challenge and may cause some resistance. Throughout the implementation of new technologies, we make sure that everyone really understands the reasons for the changes. We’ll organize training sessions, for example.
What kind of businesses call on your services?
Some are in the early stages of their digital transformation. Others have already integrated systems in their operations. In this case, we will evaluate the possibilities of going further, for example integrating artificial intelligence to monitor statistics on production lines or considering the integration of robots to automate certain tasks to help counter labour issues.
Do business transformation and digital transformation go hand in hand?
Absolutely! Before proposing a digital solution, we’ll make sure that all the processes in place are optimal and make recommendations if this is not the case. As we often say: you can’t digitize chaos! I therefore work in collaboration with different departments within the business transformation team: business strategy, financial performance, operational performance, strategic human resources management and governance.
Is there a strong demand in your field?
Definitely. With the various subsidies and digital transformation measures put in place by the governments and the new, much more affordable technologies, companies are more inclined to make the digital shift.
The labour shortage is also encouraging companies to call on our services. When you’ve been looking for candidates for several months and you realize that a well-designed software program could do half the work of these candidates, it can be very interesting, both for the entrepreneur and the employees, who see their workload decrease.
Another aspect of our work consists of technology monitoring. Companies with a strong technological presence often don’t have the time to keep up with everything that’s going on in their field. This is a much-appreciated service.
What skills do you need to perform this specialization?
We’re looking for people who have studied computer science, engineering and science. It also takes a lot of curiosity, the desire to help entrepreneurs and to collaborate as a team. You have to like working with people.
What do you most like about your job?
I love helping companies that want to move in the right direction and want to succeed in their digital transformation. It is very rewarding to contribute to their success.
Why did you choose Raymond Chabot Grant Thornton to carry on this profession?
What I like about our firm is that we work with SMEs and with talented colleagues. We talk directly to entrepreneurs. Their business is their baby and they want it to work well. SMEs in Québec are the economic drivers of the regions. Helping them to grow motivates me tremendously.