Summary In the contemporary business environment, digital procurement is becoming increasingly popular and sought after by businesses around the world. The relationships …
Digital ethics in business: A priority or a PR stunt for the digital transformation manager?
Are businesses genuinely committed to digital ethics, or is it merely a PR stunt designed to protect their image? Let’s explore.
What are digital ethics in business?
Ethics focus on ensuring that digital innovations—such as AI, big data, and automation—are used in ways that respect human rights, promote fairness, and maintain transparency. As technology becomes more embedded in everyday business practices, the ethical implications of its use are increasingly being scrutinised by consumers, regulators, and other stakeholders.
For digital transformation managers, ethical considerations are not just a regulatory or reputational issue—they are integral to the success and sustainability of digital transformation efforts. As organisations adopt new technologies, digital transformation managers are responsible for integrating ethical frameworks that guide the development, deployment, and ongoing use of digital solutions.
By prioritising digital ethics, managers can:
Build trust with consumers and stakeholders by ensuring technology is used responsibly and aligns with their best interests, fostering long-term loyalty and confidence.
Future-proof your organisation by complying with evolving laws and regulations on data use, AI, and privacy, ensuring responsible and ethical digital transformation.
Create a competitive advantage, as businesses with strong ethical practices are more likely to attract and retain stakeholders who value transparency and responsibility.
Ultimately, digital ethics are not just a “nice-to-have” but a critical element of responsible digital transformation.
What role does a digital transformation manager play?
Did you know that only 35% of organisations’ digital transformation efforts are successful? Digital transformation managers play a critical role in ensuring that ethical practices are woven into the fabric of technology adoption and innovation. As leaders of change, they are responsible for integrating ethical considerations into every stage of the digital transformation process, from strategy development to execution.
Managers in digital transformation are uniquely positioned to influence the ethical direction of a company’s technology initiatives. They act as the bridge between technical teams, business leaders, and external stakeholders, ensuring that ethical concerns—such as data privacy, AI fairness, and transparency—are addressed at each step.
By setting clear ethical standards, fostering collaboration across departments, and leading by example, managers in digital transformation ensure that innovation doesn’t come at the cost of responsibility.
64% of organisations say they need to build new digital businesses to stay competitive. Managers in digital transformation are essential in driving ethical innovation. By aligning technology with ethical principles and setting a strong example, they can ensure that digital transformations not only meet business goals but also serve the greater good. Ethical innovation is not just about compliance—it’s about creating technology that benefits all stakeholders and fosters long-term trust.
Signs that ethics might be a PR stunt
Around 60% of mainstream companies will list becoming a composable business as a strategic objective. The emphasis on digital ethics is stronger than ever, with companies eager to demonstrate their commitment to responsible innovation. However, not all ethical promises are backed by meaningful action. In many cases, what appears to be a genuine focus on ethics may be a well-crafted PR stunt designed to placate consumers and stakeholders.
In this section, we’ll explore some key indicators of superficial ethics and how they can harm a company’s reputation and trust.
Vague policies
When companies issue broad, vague statements about ethics without providing clear actions or frameworks, it signals a lack of genuine commitment to ethical practices.
Lack of funding
Ethical initiatives require investment in technology and monitoring. If there’s little to no budget allocated for these initiatives, it signals a lack of commitment.
Reactive, not proactive
Addressing ethical concerns only after public backlash or regulatory pressure rather than embedding ethics into the digital transformation process from the beginning.
Absence of accountability
Without mechanisms or KPIs to measure practices, it becomes difficult to assess progress or enforce standards, undermining the effectiveness of ethical initiatives.
One-time campaigns
When ethics are treated as a one-off PR campaign instead of an ongoing part of the company culture, it shows a lack of genuine commitment to responsible practices.
Discrepancy between words and actions
When a company’s ethical statements contradict its actions, such as promoting ethical causes while engaging in unethical practices, it undermines trust and credibility.
How to make digital ethics a genuine priority
74% of organisations consider digital transformation a top priority. Making digital ethics a genuine priority involves taking concrete actions to integrate ethical principles into the company’s technology initiatives.
Establish governance frameworks
Create clear, actionable governance structures to guide ethical decision-making throughout the digital transformation process.
- Defining ethical principles that align with both business objectives and societal values.
- Forming ethics committees or task forces to review digital initiatives for compliance.
- Ensuring that these frameworks are adaptable as technology and ethical standards evolve.
Measure and report ethical performance
It’s crucial to track the effectiveness of ethical practices and report progress to internal and external stakeholders.
- Develop KPIs on AI transparency, data protection, and employee satisfaction with ethics.
- Conduct regular audits to assess ethical adherence and identify areas for improvement.
- Share findings publicly through sustainability or annual reports to build consumer trust.
Foster an ethical culture through training and transparency
An ethical culture begins with leadership and should permeate all levels of the organisation, guiding decisions and actions.
- Offer regular ethics training to help employees contribute to responsible technology use.
- Encourage transparency by discussing ethical dilemmas and decisions openly within the company.
- Promote open discussions on the ethical impact of technology, ensuring broader understanding.
Embrace ethics with Kronos Group
Embrace ethics with Kronos Group’s digital transformation solutions, ensuring responsible and transparent innovation.
Embracing ethics is not just a choice—it’s a responsibility. With Kronos Group’s digital transformation solutions, your business can lead with integrity, ensuring that technology serves both innovation and the greater good. Our approach integrates ethical principles into every stage of transformation, from AI fairness to data privacy, fostering trust and long-term success.
By prioritising ethical practices, you not only comply with regulations but build a sustainable and transparent future for your organisation. Choose Kronos Group to champion a digital transformation that’s both innovative and ethically sound.
Empower your procurement management with Kronos Group
With the right strategies and tools, we enable your business to make smarter decisions, reduce risks, and accelerate growth. Let Kronos Group help you unlock the full potential of your procurement function.
Fighting the effects of inflation with sourcing and procurement consultants
Stay up-to-date on the latest insights on procurement, finance, and project management.
Summary Strategic procurement has become a necessity in today’s business world and organisations try to remain competitive. Having the right procurement strategies …
Summary The world of consulting has been undergoing a massive transformation and management consulting jobs are experiencing the impacts of these changes. …
FAQ
- Customer experience: Improving interactions and personalisation.
- Operational processes: Streamlining workflows through automation.
- Business models: Adopting new digital business models.
- Culture and leadership: Fostering a digital-first mindset.
A transformation manager leads digital initiatives, ensures alignment with business goals, manages resources, and addresses challenges.
They assess current systems, develop transformation strategies, implement digital solutions, manage change, and track performance.
