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Predrag Stojkovski: Digital Transformation – A Positive Trend in the Business Sector

If we highlight a trend defining the business sector in 2024, it’s undoubtedly Digital Transformation. We discuss this with Predrag Stojkoski, director of Nova Solutions and a certified digital transformation expert.
In the past two years, no business conference, seminar, or event has excluded the topic of digital transformation. It feels like a fast-moving train you must board quickly or risk falling behind.
Indeed, digital transformation has become an unavoidable topic, evolving since the creation of the microchip by Nobel laureate Jack Kilby in 1958, marking the start of a societal evolution culminating in this decade.
However, digital transformation isn’t a recent trend; it has been relevant, especially in the business sector, for the past seven years. The COVID crisis only accelerated this process, now extending to every aspect of society, beyond just the business world.
So, what exactly is digital transformation?
Simply put, it’s the integration of digital technologies into all areas of operation through a digital business model.
While predominantly tied to the business sector, digital transformation also applies to government, NGOs, sports organizations, and essentially every type of organization. Businesses take the lead by implementing positive trends first.
Can you give an example of digital transformation in practice?
Consider the many sports equipment stores with online shops: payments are processed electronically, customers receive electronic invoices, and inventory software synchronizes with the website. Every phase of this process is digitized, making it faster, reducing operational costs, and improving user experience.
If any phase wasn’t digitalized—like having an online shop not linked to inventory software—the process wouldn’t qualify as digital transformation.
Does digital transformation also involve human participation?
Absolutely. Digital transformation isn’t just technical; it requires actively engaging employees. A company may invest in software and systems, but without trained staff, transformation efforts fail.
Change management plays a key role. If employees don’t understand why changes are made or perceive them as pressure instead of opportunities to simplify tasks, resistance to transformation is inevitable.
The goal of change management is fostering a culture that embraces new ways of working and alternative solutions. Communication is crucial—it explains changes and enables employees to become active contributors by sharing ideas and feedback.
How digitally transformed are Macedonian companies?
Macedonian companies and even the government recognize the necessity of digital transformation. While financial resources remain a hurdle, the lack of effective change management also limits progress.
Are there state or organizational supports for digital transformation?
The establishment of a Ministry of Digital Transformation highlights a deeper commitment to this process. Efforts focus on transforming the public sector, which will benefit businesses as well.
Additionally, organizations like GoDigital, the Fund for Innovation and Technology Development, and the Development Bank of North Macedonia provide support for implementing digital transformation in companies.