Design of a Software Tool Supporting Orientation in the Context of Digital Transformation

Abstract

The digital transformation is a continuous and complex but indispensable endeavor. Because practice and academia regularly develop new digital technologies, companies face difficulties in selecting appropriate technologies to innovate their business model. Step-by-step instructions may guide companies to identify, evaluate, and select potential digitalization ideas. Software tools can support these activities in a structured way. Thus, the research objective of this paper is to design a software tool supporting the orientation phase of a company's digital transformation. To reach this objective, we conduct an action design research approach in cooperation with three companies. As an evaluation step, a focus group discussion with practitioners and end-users is carried out. The final tool design comprises 18 design principles that serve as the basis for a set of visual mockups and a prototype implementation of the intended tool.