By Malcolm Lowe, CIO at Transport for Greater Manchester
It’s safe to say that technology is the lifeblood of modern business.
Nearly every function within an organisation is powered by digital innovation, enabling businesses to enhance customer experiences, drive efficiencies, reduce costs and unlock new revenue streams.
Yet, despite the rapid pace of digital transformation, many business leaders still perceive technology as a separate entity, an isolated function, rather than an integral part of their strategic vision.
It’s time for this outdated mindset to evolve.
Technology is not just an operational enabler; it is the foundation of an organisation’s success, influencing everything from competitive advantage to long-term resilience.
For decades, organisations have struggled with the notion of aligning technology with business objectives. But as technology increasingly forms the backbone of business, this outdated perception must move forward.
Technology is not an external force that needs to be reconciled with corporate goals, it is the foundation of modern enterprise. Unlike finance or HR, which are universally recognised as intrinsic to an organisation’s structure, IT is too often relegated to a supporting role.
This perception must change.
The conversation is no longer about IT alignment; it is about acknowledging that business and technology are one and the same.
Leaders who recognise this shift will be the ones who drive meaningful transformation. They must champion a business-first approach while deeply understanding technology’s role in shaping growth, innovation and customer value.
Success in this digital era depends on a leader’s ability to communicate the value of digital initiatives, foster cross-functional collaboration and cultivate a culture of adaptability.
Digital transformation should not be viewed as an IT-led project, it is an enterprise-wide initiative impacting every department, every employee and the entire organisation.
As technology becomes as ubiquitous as electricity, the next generation of leaders, those who have grown up in a digital-first world, will no longer see a distinction between business and technology. The idea of alignment will be obsolete because the two will be seamlessly integrated.
Ultimately, thriving in the digital age is not just about adopting the latest technologies; it is about fostering an agile, purpose-driven and human-centric approach to leadership.
True innovation lies at the intersection of people, principles and purpose. By embedding these values into corporate strategy, organisations will not only keep pace with technological advancements, but also lead with confidence, resilience and integrity in an ever-evolving digital world.
At this year’s DTX Manchester, I will be joining two panel discussions to explore how leadership teams can break down the traditional silos between business and technology, ensuring that digital transformation is not just a goal, but a fundamental aspect of business success.
PANEL: Leading with purpose, trust and integrity: What type of leader will thrive in today is fast-paced, AI-driven era?
Main Stage: 12:30PM - 1:15PM - Wednesday 2nd April
- What steps can leaders take to better align technology and business roadmaps for accelerated digital transformation?
- How to shift mindsets and bring people with you on your digital journey?
- How to lead through times of change whilst navigating the evolving nature of the workplace?
Speakers:
- Amelia Bampton, Engagement Manager at Equal Experts
- Farhin Khan, Head of Data & GenAI/ML GTM at AWS
- Paul Oliver, Architecture Director at BT
PANEL: Why are organisations still struggling to align technology and business goals. How to move the dial?
Digital Strategy & Operations Stage: 11:50AM - 12:35PM - Thursday 3rd April
- What is holding back companies from effectively aligning tech and business roadmaps?
- How to integrate tech decision-making into business strategies, rather than making isolated, operational choices?
- Have you got the right approach to tech talent to meet business goals? How to identify skills gaps and align training with strategic objectives?
Speakers:
- Dr Maria Kutar, Director of UG Business at The University of Salford
- Jon Burt, Head of Enterprise Architecture at Manchester City Council