"We're already quite digital" – I hear this often. And just as often, a closer look reveals: self-assessment differs significantly from reality.
This isn't criticism. Digital transformation is complex, and without systematic analysis, it's difficult to objectively evaluate your own status.
Why Self-Assessment Isn't Enough
Common Misconceptions:
- "We have a CRM" = digitized? (No, if nobody uses it)
- "Everyone has laptops" = digitally ready? (No, if processes remain analog)
- "We use cloud software" = transformed? (No, if data sits in silos)
The truth is: digitalization isn't binary. There are degrees, dimensions, and dependencies.
The 5 Dimensions of Digital Maturity
A meaningful assessment examines at least these five areas:
1. Strategy & Leadership
Self-Check Questions:
- Is there a documented digital strategy?
- Is digitalization a C-level priority or delegated?
- Are investments strategic or reactive?
- Are there clear KPIs for digital initiatives?
Typical Maturity Levels:
- Level 1: No explicit strategy, ad-hoc decisions
- Level 3: Documented strategy, limited execution
- Level 5: Integrated digital strategy with measurable goals
2. Processes & Workflows
Self-Check Questions:
- How many core processes still run on paper?
- Are processes documented and standardized?
- Are there media breaks (e.g., print PDF, sign, scan)?
- How much manual effort goes into routine tasks?
Why This Matters: Layering digital tools on analog processes is like trying to fuel an electric car with gasoline. It doesn't work.
Tip: Use our Process Cost Analyzer to calculate the true cost of your processes – including hidden costs from inefficiencies.
3. Technology & Infrastructure
Self-Check Questions:
- How old is your core software (ERP, CRM, etc.)?
- Can systems communicate with each other (APIs)?
- How is IT security positioned?
- Is there a cloud strategy?
Warning Signs:
- Software older than 10 years without updates
- Data manually transferred between systems
- No backup and recovery concept
- Shadow IT (employees using unauthorized tools)
4. People & Skills
Self-Check Questions:
- How digitally savvy is your workforce?
- Are there regular training sessions on digital tools?
- What's the attitude toward change?
- Are there digital champions in departments?
The Uncomfortable Truth: The best technology is worthless if employees can't or won't use it. Skill building isn't optional – it's mandatory.
5. Culture & Innovation
Self-Check Questions:
- Are new ideas encouraged or blocked?
- How are mistakes handled?
- Is there time and budget for experimentation?
- How quickly are decisions made?
An Indicator: If the answer to "Why do we do it this way?" is regularly "We've always done it this way," there's cultural catching up to do.
Maturity Levels Overview
| Level | Name | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Initial | No systematic digitalization, reactive actions |
| 2 | Developing | First initiatives, but uncoordinated |
| 3 | Defined | Strategy exists, implementation underway |
| 4 | Managed | Measurable progress, continuous improvement |
| 5 | Optimizing | Digitalization as competitive advantage, innovation |
Reality in SMEs: Most small and medium enterprises are between levels 2 and 3. This isn't failure – it shows potential exists.
From Analysis to Action
A maturity assessment is only the first step. What comes next is decisive:
Step 1: Identify Gaps
Where is the biggest difference between current and target state? Those are your priorities.
Step 2: Find Quick Wins
Which improvements are possible with minimal effort? Start there.
Step 3: Create a Roadmap
What needs to happen medium and long-term? Plan realistically.
Step 4: Secure Resources
Budget, personnel, time – without resources, it stays at analysis.
Next Step: Use our Automation Check to determine which of your processes are suitable for automation.
Common Mistakes in Maturity Analysis
Mistake 1: Only Evaluating Technology
Digitalization is 30% technology and 70% people and processes.
Mistake 2: One-Time Instead of Continuous
Maturity level is a snapshot. Repeat the analysis annually.
Mistake 3: Comparing to Wrong Benchmarks
Compare yourself to your industry, not tech startups.
Mistake 4: Analysis Without Consequence
A nice presentation means nothing if no actions follow.
Your Free Maturity Assessment
We've developed a free tool to determine your digital maturity level in just a few minutes:
What You'll Receive:
- Evaluation across all 5 dimensions
- Comparison with industry average
- Concrete recommendations
- Prioritized action list
→ Assess Your Digital Maturity Now
Conclusion: Honesty Is the First Step
Admitting you're not as far along as you thought is uncomfortable. But only those who know their actual position can plan the right path.
The good news: Every organization can improve its maturity level. It doesn't require revolution – continuous, targeted steps lead to the goal.
Want to know not just where you stand, but how to move forward? Our AI Adoption Audit provides detailed analysis and a concrete roadmap for your digital transformation.
