If you want to stay competitive in the long term, there’s no way around digitizing your core value-adding processes — most companies have already realized that. But what’s often overlooked is the massive potential that lies in digitizing business processes beyond the value chain.
Here are 5 compelling reasons why digitizing all your processes is worth it:
1. Digital processes are crisis-proof
The COVID-19 pandemic has made one thing clear: Business continuity is critical. Digitized processes ensure that your team stays operational — regardless of location. With centralized access to information and no media disruptions, your business stays agile, even in times of crisis.
2. Digital processes are user-friendly
When everything runs through a central tool, processes are easier to execute, update, and find. Keyword searches and intuitive filters help users find exactly what they need in seconds.
3. Digital processes are fully traceable
Requirements like structured documentation, audit trails, and compliant archiving? Digitized workflows handle these automatically — no extra effort required.
4. Digital processes increase process compliance
Automated workflows clarify responsibilities and guide team members step by step. Built-in notifications ensure nothing falls through the cracks — keeping information flowing and processes on track.
5. Digital processes are the ideal foundation for optimization
With usage data captured automatically, you can analyze things like:
This data gives you everything you need to identify and remove friction points.
The Quick Check: Where Should You Start?
Digitalizing everything sounds great in theory — but where do you actually begin? That’s where the Digitization Quick Check comes in. Developed jointly by RWTH Aachen and Modell Aachen GmbH as part of the ProMiDigit research project, this tool helps you determine which processes to tackle first. The project is funded by Germany’s Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).
The Digitization Quick Check is a key part of your overall strategy. It gives you a clear framework to prioritize actions and build momentum for faster, more efficient, and higher-quality workflows.
The 5 Steps of the Digitization Quick Check
Step 1: Identify all processes
If you already have a documented management system, great — you’re halfway there.
If not, start by:
You’ll likely uncover more processes as you go — the deeper you dig, the more you’ll find.
Step 2: Assess your current digital maturity
Are processes still paper-based? Partially digital? Or fully integrated into digital workflows? This evaluation reveals where the biggest gaps — and opportunities — lie.
Step 3: Weigh costs against benefits
Evaluate process relevance using both qualitative and quantitative metrics:
Include direct costs (like implementation) and indirect ones (like training or support).
Step 4: Prioritize your processes
With costs and benefits on the table, it’s easier to see which processes should be digitized first.
Step 5: Start digitalizing — but don’t overdo it
Choose a manageable number of processes to start. Focus on quality over quantity. And don’t forget: your Quick Check should be a living document. Update it regularly to track progress and adjust priorities.
Digitizing your processes isn’t just about going paperless — it’s about creating smarter, faster, and more resilient operations. And the sooner you start, the sooner you’ll unlock the full potential of your organization.
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