In this episode, I talk with Bob Cotton, independent consultant, executive coach, and chair of The Anne Robson Trust, about how organizations can integrate digital tech for business success, the challenges SME boards face, and the role of digital innovation in healthcare.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Bob:
- How can organizations adopt and use digital technology effectively to get the most value from it?
- What challenges do SME boards face with digital technology, and how can they overcome them?
- How can organizations encourage a culture of innovation to stay competitive?
- How does focusing on the customer help make digital technology initiatives successful, and how can companies ensure they provide value through technology?
- How do you build and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure project success?
- What do organizations need to do to get the most value from their tech investments, and what strategies help maximize returns?
- What final piece of advice would you give engineers and tech professionals who want to excel in their careers by using digital technology to drive change?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Integrate Digital Tech for Business Success:
- Organizations focus on aligning digital technology with clear business objectives. They understand both the potential of technology and the specific changes it can drive within their current resources.
- SME boards often face challenges due to limited resources, but by aligning technology with business goals and understanding its operational impact, they can overcome these hurdles. Engaging stakeholders early and focusing on measurable outcomes is key.
- Organizations promote innovation in digital technology by starting with small, impactful projects that deliver quick wins. This approach builds momentum, demonstrates value, and strengthens relationships with clients, vendors, and partners for long-term success.
- Focusing on the customer ensures that digital initiatives address real needs and provide value. Companies align their technology goals with customer outcomes and maintain strong, collaborative relationships to drive success.
- Strong relationships come from collaboration, clear communication, and shared goals. Successful stakeholder management creates a sense of partnership, helping organizations work through challenges and achieve common objectives.
- To maximize returns on digital technology investments, organizations establish a clear strategy with measurable outcomes and implement a solid risk management process. Involving stakeholders from the start and regularly reviewing progress ensures projects stay on track and deliver value.
- Engineers and tech professionals must prioritize achieving business outcomes, actively seek support when necessary, and cultivate strong, collaborative relationships. Successfully leveraging digital technology demands a clear understanding of its role in driving meaningful organizational change.
More Details in This Episode…
About Bob Cotton
Bob Cotton is a seasoned consultant and executive coach with a passion for leveraging technology to drive business success and societal impact. With decades of senior leadership experience in international technology and consulting firms, Bob specializes in guiding global executives, leaders, and managers through the challenges of integrating technology effectively within their organizations.
As a consultant, Bob works closely with clients to overcome obstacles, unlock potential, and achieve both personal and business goals. His expertise extends to advising private equity organizations on the technology market and assisting SME boards in navigating growth and development strategies.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Bob serves as the chair of The Anne Robson Trust, where he plays a pivotal role in providing compassionate end-of-life support to individuals and families across the UK.
About the Host: Nick Heim, P.E.
Nick Heim, P.E., is a civil engineer with six years of experience in the repair and restoration of existing structures, and host of the AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast (AECTECH), where he brings valuable insights and expertise to listeners worldwide.
Nick’s interests lie at the intersection between the built world and technology, and he can be found looking for the ever-changing answer to the question, “How can we do this better?” Nick can be found on LinkedIn, producing content about use of technologies in his civil engineering career and small business.
Sources/References:
Bob Cotton Coach Program
Oracle
Connect with Bob Cotton on LinkedIn
We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you can share on how to integrate digital tech for business success.
Please leave your comments, feedback, or questions in the section below.
