Many traditional companies still see digitalization as something distant or unnecessary, but the scenario has changed. Businesses that do not adapt end up losing customers to more agile and connected competitors. Just look at consumption: more and more people are searching for products online, they shop on their phones and expect quick service in messaging apps. Who has not yet entered this world, is being left behind
A survey by the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) showed that 58% of large companies in Brazil have started digitalization processes. But the striking fact is that only 29% managed to implement these changes successfully, which shows that many still face difficulties in adapting.
ToThiago Finch, entrepreneur and CEO of Holding Bilhon, the mistake of many companies is seeing digitalization only as an expense, without understanding the real benefits. Digital transformation is not just about technology, it's about efficiency and new ways to sell and connect with customers. Today, whoever does not invest in this is throwing money away, because it fails to reach a huge audience that is already expecting this type of experience, signals
What companies gain by migrating to digital
Digitalization allows traditional businesses to reach more customers without needing to invest in large physical structures. With an e-commerce, for example, a neighborhood store can sell to the whole of Brazil. A restaurant that adopts online orders gains more convenience and reduces queues. A small business that uses social media for customer service can sell more without relying solely on customers who walk by the door
Furthermore, automating internal processes saves time and money. Management systems help organize inventories, control sales and even prevent waste. Payment platforms make transactions faster and more secure. All of this improves the customer experience and brings direct results for revenue
Another important point is data collection. Digital tools allow for a better understanding of customer behavior, what helps to offer products and services more aligned with what they really want. "Instead of trying to guess what might work", companies start to make decisions based on concrete information, Thiago Finch points
Why some companies still resist digitalization
Even with so many advantages, many traditional companies still avoid this change. The main reason is the fear of the unknown. Many entrepreneurs are afraid of making mistakes, spending money without return or simply don't know where to start
Another factor is the company culture. Family businesses or companies that have operated the same way for decades may struggle to convince the team and managers that digitalization is worthwhile. The challenge is not just in technology, but in changing the mindset of those who are used to doing everything manually
Finch explains that this barrier needs to be overcome for the company to remain competitive. "The market does not wait". Today, if the consumer finds a competitor that offers more convenience, he changes suppliers on the spot. It doesn't matter how traditional or well-established the company is, if she doesn't make the customer's life easier, will lose space. This goes from simple things, how to accept credit card payments, up to more advanced facilities, how to anticipate consumer desires, exemplifies the CEO
How to get started with hassle-free scanning
For those who want to take their first steps without great risks, the ideal is to start small. A restaurant can test online orders before creating its own app. A store can sell on Instagram before launching a complete e-commerce site. Small adjustments already make a difference in operations and in customer perception
Investing in team training is also essential. Many employees may resist change because they do not feel prepared to use new tools. Training and internal support help make this transition smoother and more efficient
Furthermore, counting on specialized partners can speed up the process. Technology companies offer ready-made solutions that facilitate digitalization without requiring large initial investments and with intuitive interfaces. The important thing is to start and adjust according to the needs of the business
For Thiago Finch, the mistake is thinking that this change can be postponed. "Those who have not taken this step yet need to act now". "Digitalization has ceased to be a trend and has become the only way to ensure growth in the coming years", emphasizes
