FTMBA 2023_I Transformation & Innovation in a Digital Age

The rise of digital technologies has further increased the need for transformation in a wide variety of industries. These changes do not only imply challenges, but also create opportunities for companies to innovate in terms of novel products, processes and business models. In this course, we provide a comprehensive overview of how companies can successful manage transformation and innovation in the digital age. To do so, we offer insights, tools, and practices from a strategic, organizational as well as innovation perspective.From a strategic perspective, we will address questions such as (i) How to identify valuable digital transformation opportunities? (ii) What is the role of internal and external strategies in implementing digital transformation? (iii) How can I create and appropriate value from digital transformation? From an organizational perspective, we will discuss issues such as (i) Do we need to generate a separate digital transformation unit or should digital transformation activities be fully integrated? (ii) How to structure teams that are responsible for digital transformation?From an innovation perspective, the following topics will be addressed: (i) The role of open innovation in digital transformation, (ii) the need for novel business models to address digital transformation, (iii) the role of agile new product development in digital transformation.In the lectures, participant will get advanced and state-of-the art knowledge on these issues. To do so, we rely on recent academic insights and case material. Moreover, participants will actively use novel tools and methodologies (e.g. Serious Lego Play, Business Canvas Model, Lean Start-Up Approach) to execute assignments on how to successfully innovate for digital transformation.

Structure of the Course

The course consists of six half-day modules
Module 1: Digital transformation and innovation: Core concepts and insights
Module 2: Digital transformation and business model innovation
Module 3: Digital transformation and platforms
Module 4: Digital transformation and organizational innovation
Module 5: Digital transformation and open innovation
Module 6: The human side of innovating for digital transformation

(i) understand the core challenges and opportunities of digital technologies for innovation wihtin different types of firms and industries

(ii) be able to apply particular tools to formulate alternative business models and innovation strategies to address digital challenges and opportunities

(iii) be able to reflect on the implications of digital transformation for the implemention of innovation within and between organizations