Introduction
What is DX?
DX (Digital Transformation) refers to the use of digital technologies like AI, IoT, cloud, and big data to radically transform business models and internal processes, creating new value and gaining competitive advantages.
Digitization vs. Digital Transformation
- Digitization: Converting analog processes into digital ones (e.g., turning paper documents into PDFs or using a software to manage customer data).
- Digital Transformation (DX): Using digital technology to create new ways of doing business, such as a video rental store starting an online video distribution service.
The Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry defines DX as "using data and digital technology to transform products, services, business models, and the corporate culture, creating a competitive advantage."
Why DX is needed now?
The 2025 Gap
The Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry warned about the “2025 Gap”: if companies fail to advance with DX, they could face economic losses of up to 12 trillion yen per year starting in 2025 due to outdated systems.
Responding to Rapid Change
In today's fast-moving world, businesses need to constantly adapt to consumer needs and technological innovation to survive. DX is the key strategy to achieve this adaptation and create new business opportunities.
How to Become a DX Talent?
To promote DX, it is crucial to have DX talent with specific skills and mindset. Below are the essential steps to becoming a DX talent.
Step 1: Understand the DX Mindset and Overview
The first step is to get a complete view of what DX is, its purpose, and success stories that can inspire you.
Learning
- Basic knowledge of DX: Learn about its definition, objectives, and success stories from other companies.
- Transformational mindset: Develop an open mindset to change, without fear of failure.
- Logical thinking and problem-solving: Learn to identify and logically analyze complex issues.
- Design thinking: Focus on the user perspective and create solutions based on empathy.
Experience
- Participate in DX seminars, webinars, and events.
- Get involved in internal DX projects, even if they are small, and learn about data usage and digital tool implementation.
Certifications
- DX™ Certification: Official exam that assesses your knowledge of business and technology related to DX.
- Digital Transformation Certification: Provides structured knowledge about DX and commercial trends.
- IT Passport: A certification that demonstrates your IT literacy, essential for supporting digital transformation.
Step 2: Master Basic Digital Technology Concepts
While it's not necessary to be an expert, it’s crucial to have a strong understanding of digital technologies and how they apply to business.
Learning
- Basic IT knowledge: Get familiar with IT infrastructure, networks, security, databases, etc.
- Cloud services: Learn about major cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and GCP and how they are used in business.
- Data analysis concepts: Learn how to collect, organize, analyze, and visualize data using tools like Excel and BI tools.
- Basic AI and machine learning: Study AI concepts and machine learning types (supervised, unsupervised learning, etc.).
Experience
- Take courses on Coursera, Udemy, and Dotinstall.
- Try data analysis tools like Google Analytics and Tableau Public.
- Develop small projects using Python for data processing and automation.
Certifications
- G Test (Generalist Test): Evaluates basic knowledge about AI and commercial applications.
- Python 3 Basic Certification: Assesses Python fundamentals, useful for data analysis and AI development.
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner: A certification that demonstrates your knowledge of AWS cloud services.
Conclusion
Becoming a DX talent requires not only technical knowledge but also a mindset of continuous change and openness to innovation. Digital transformation is reshaping how businesses operate, and being part of this shift is a great opportunity for professionals looking to stand out in the future job market.
At Meetlabs, we support the development of DX talent in businesses, offering solutions that drive digital transformation.
