WORKSHOP

Exploring Digital Transformation at Heriot-Watt

Educator Cards
Ali Owji
Ali Owji, M.Sc.
Founder of Trustline

Unpacking the Strategic Foundations of a Digital Future

As part of our continued collaboration with Heriot-Watt University, we delivered a high-impact guest workshop focused on Digital Transformation. The session introduced students to the critical frameworks, technologies, and cultural shifts shaping how businesses operate in the digital age. 

Rather than focusing solely on technology, this workshop explored digital transformation as a holistic process, one that encompasses leadership, customer-centricity, data, and change management. Through industry case studies, interactive discussions, and a transformation simulation, students gained a strategic understanding of what it takes to drive innovation and digital growth within organizations. 

Key Learning Points

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What we covered during the workshop

What Is Digital Transformation & Why It Matters

We opened by defining digital transformation as more than the adoption of new tools. It is a business-wide evolution requiring culture shifts, leadership alignment, and strategic vision. Companies like Amazon, Netflix, and Zoom were highlighted as examples of businesses that disrupted traditional models by placing digital experiences at the core of their operations.

Students then explored the urgency behind transformation through real-world drivers: rising customer expectations, technological acceleration, and the risks of market irrelevance. We used real-life examples to show what happens when companies fail to adapt.

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Pillars, Strategy & Measurement

We introduced students to the core pillars that support successful transformation. These foundational concepts helped them understand how digital change is more than just adopting tools—it’s about aligning people, processes, leadership, and strategy to drive meaningful innovation. Real-world examples brought these concepts to life and illustrated how businesses can successfully evolve when these elements work in harmony.

To further deepen their understanding, we introduced models like Kotter’s Change Management Framework and the ADKAR model to show how change is driven within organizations. We also reviewed how to measure success using transformation-specific KPIs like customer churn rate, automation success rate, and digital revenue growth.

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Experiencing and Envisioning the Future

To bring the concepts to life, students took part in an interactive group exercise where they were challenged to digitally transform a traditional business. Drawing from the frameworks and case studies discussed earlier in the session, each team worked collaboratively to propose solutions that addressed inefficiencies, integrated digital tools, and aligned with broader transformation goals. The exercise sparked creative thinking, encouraged practical application, and gave students a chance to experience what it’s like to lead transformation from the ground up.

To close the session, students explored where digital transformation is heading. From generative AI to quantum computing, AR/VR, and the metaverse, we encouraged students to think critically about how innovation will continue to reshape industries.

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This session empowered Heriot-Watt students to think beyond tools and platforms, instead understanding transformation as a strategic, people-driven process. With real-world examples, group activities, and future-forward discussions, they walked away with a broader perspective on how to lead and adapt in digitally evolving industries. 

We’re proud to help prepare students for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to our continued engagement with Heriot-Watt University

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