Why Every Business Needs a Digital Strategy Now – Your Future Depends on It

By Kash Khan

After more than 15 years of experience with global companies like Yahoo!, LG Electronics, Xerox, and Total, and traveling to over 25 countries, I’ve seen one thing clearly:

Businesses that fail to evolve digitally eventually fall behind.

Armed with an MBA, a Master’s in Economics, and a Master’s in Digital Media Marketing from IE Business School, I’ve dedicated my career to guiding companies—whether multinational firms or emerging startups—toward their digital future.


Step 1: Recognize the Tipping Point

We’re living in a time where digital transformation isn’t optional—it’s existential.

According to McKinsey, companies that digitize early and strategically are nearly twice as likely to see above-average revenue growth.
But still, 70% of transformations fail—why?
Because most businesses:

  • Lack alignment between business and digital goals

  • Have fragmented execution

  • Maintain legacy mindsets at leadership levels

Whether you’re based in Nairobi or Ontario, the message is clear:

You need a clear and connected digital strategy—now.


Step 2: Understand Digital Beyond Tech

Digital transformation isn’t just about launching a website or automating one process.
It’s about rewiring your business to compete in a world driven by:

  • AI & Machine Learning

  • 5G Connectivity

  • AR/VR Experiences

  • Cloud Infrastructure

  • A globally aware, real-time customer base

Let’s be clear—digital is not a tool.

It’s a mindset.


Step 3: Learn from Global Success Stories

Here’s what leading companies are doing right:

  • IKEA used Augmented Reality to allow customers to visualize furniture in their space—turning imagination into conversion.

  • Reliance Jio, using 5G and cloud platforms, connected 400 million people across India—redefining digital access and inclusion.

These aren’t just cool stories. They’re strategic milestones that reshaped markets.


Step 4: Follow the Six Success Factors from BCG

According to Boston Consulting Group (BCG), these six elements dramatically increase your chances of transformation success:

  1. Integrated Strategy with Clear Goals
    Digital must align with business outcomes, not tech fads.

  2. Leadership Commitment from the Top
    If your CEO isn’t driving it, don’t expect results.

  3. High-Caliber Talent Deployment
    Your transformation deserves the best minds, not just available ones.

  4. Agile Governance & Execution
    Build cross-functional squads, iterate fast, and act on feedback.

  5. Effective Monitoring of Progress
    Use real-time dashboards and KPIs to stay on course.

  6. Modular Technology & Data Platforms
    Invest in scalable, cloud-first infrastructure for long-term agility.

Whether you’re in a startup in Lagos or a boardroom in Toronto, these principles apply universally.


Step 5: Know Where to Begin

Transformation starts with awareness.
Your path forward should include:

  • A digital audit of your current systems and teams

  • A clearly defined digital North Star

  • A road map rooted in execution and culture

Don’t wait for a crisis to take action.

Start building your digital readiness today.


Final Thought: The Future Doesn’t Wait

The world is moving—fast.
And those with a clear digital strategy are already leaving others behind.

It’s no longer a question of if you’ll transform—but how soon.

So whether you’re a local business or an international enterprise

This is your call to step into the future—with confidence.


Kash Khan
Founder – The Black Bear Canadian Immigration | Digital Transformation Advocate | Global Marketer