What is Digital Transformation Measurement?

Digital transformation measurement is the process of assessing the progress of a government’s digital transformation efforts. It helps to identify areas where the government is doing well and areas where it needs to improve.
Digital transformation is the process of using digital technologies to improve business processes, products, and services. Governments around the world are increasingly embracing digital transformation to improve efficiency, transparency, and citizen satisfaction.

The Difference Between the 10th and 11th Digital Transformation Measurement in Saudi Arabia

New Criteria Added to the 2024 Digital Transformation Measurement

The 11th Digital Transformation Measurement (DTI) in Saudi Arabia introduced 14 new criteria, bringing the total number of criteria to 125. These new criteria were added across seven dimensions to comprehensively assess the digital maturity of government agencies in Saudi Arabia.

• Government Websites:
  • Mobile Responsiveness: Assesses the website’s ability to adapt and display effectively on various mobile devices.
  • Accessibility Guidelines Compliance: Evaluates the website’s adherence to accessibility standards to ensure inclusivity for users with disabilities.
  • Data Analytics for Website Performance Improvement: Examines the use of data analytics to identify user behavior patterns, optimize website content, and enhance overall website performance.
• Business Continuity and Risk Management:
  • Disaster Recovery Planning: Assesses the existence and comprehensiveness of disaster recovery plans to ensure business continuity in the event of disruptions.
  • Risk Assessment: Evaluates the effectiveness of risk assessment procedures to identify, prioritize, and mitigate potential threats to business operations.
  • Incident Response Procedures: Examines the adequacy and timeliness of incident response procedures to address security breaches, data loss, or other operational disruptions.
• Open-Source Software:
  • Open-Source Software Policies: Assesses the existence and implementation of clear policies governing the use of open-source software within the agency.
  • Adoption of Open Standards: Evaluates the adoption of open standards and protocols to ensure compatibility and interoperability with other systems and applications.
  • Participation in Open-Source Communities: Examines the agency’s involvement in open-source communities, contributing to software development and sharing knowledge.
• Connection to Shared Systems and Services:
  • Shared Services Governance Effectiveness: Assesses the effectiveness of governance mechanisms for shared services, ensuring efficient resource allocation and service delivery.
  • Integration of Shared Services with Other Systems: Evaluates the seamless integration of shared services with other internal systems to provide a unified user experience.
  • Use of Cloud-Based Shared Services: Examines the adoption of cloud-based shared services to enhance scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.
• Cloud Computing:
  • Cloud Security: Assesses the implementation of robust cloud security measures to protect sensitive data and infrastructure in the cloud environment.
  • Cloud Governance: Evaluates the existence and effectiveness of cloud governance frameworks to manage cloud resource allocation, access controls, and compliance.
  • Use of Cloud-Based Services for Innovation: Examines the utilization of cloud-based services to facilitate innovation, experimentation, and rapid development of new digital solutions.
• Quality of Digital Services:
  • Service Performance: Assesses the performance of digital services in terms of speed, reliability, and responsiveness.
  • User Satisfaction: Evaluates user satisfaction with digital services through surveys, feedback mechanisms, and user analytics.
  • Use of Digital Service Design Principles: Examines the application of digital service design principles to ensure user-centered design, accessibility, and intuitive navigation.
• Service Delivery Channels:
  • Availability of Online, Mobile, and In-Person Channels: Assesses the availability of multiple service delivery channels, including online portals, mobile apps, and physical offices, to cater to diverse user preferences.
  • Integration of Channels: Evaluates the seamless integration of service delivery channels to provide a consistent user experience across different channels.
  • Use of Emerging Technologies for Service Delivery: Examines the adoption of emerging technologies, such as chatbots, virtual assistants, and augmented reality, to enhance service delivery and accessibility.

Key Indicators for Measuring Digital Transformation in Saudi Arabia

1. Digital Infrastructure:
   • Availability of High-Speed Internet: Assess the percentage of households and businesses with access to high-speed internet connections, such as fiber optic or broadband.
   • Wireless Network Coverage: Evaluate the extent of wireless network coverage across the country, including both urban and rural areas.
2. Research and Development (R&D) Investment:
   • R&D Spending as a Percentage of GDP: Track the proportion of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) dedicated to research and development in the technology sector.
   • Number of R&D Centers and Projects: Monitor the establishment and growth of R&D centers and initiatives focused on digital technologies and innovation.
3. Digital Education and Skills:
   • Digital Literacy Rates: Assess the percentage of the population with basic digital literacy skills, including internet usage, computer proficiency, and online communication.
   • STEM Education Enrollment: Evaluate the enrollment rates in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields at various educational levels.
4. E-commerce Growth:
   • E-commerce Sales Volume: Track the annual growth of e-commerce transactions, including both business-to-consumer (B2C) and business-to-business (B2B) sales.
   • Number of E-commerce Businesses: Monitor the growth in the number of businesses registered and actively participating in e-commerce platforms.
5. Technical Innovation:
   • Patent Applications and Grants: Evaluate the number of patent applications and granted patents related to digital technologies and innovative solutions.
   • Adoption of Emerging Technologies: Assess the level of adoption of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT), by businesses and government agencies.
6. Cybersecurity Readiness:
   • Cybersecurity Spending: Track the government’s and private sector’s investments in cybersecurity infrastructure, tools, and training.
   • Cybersecurity Regulations and Policies: Evaluate the implementation of robust cybersecurity regulations, policies, and standards to protect data and systems.
7. User Satisfaction:
   • Citizen Satisfaction with Digital Services: Conduct surveys and collect feedback to measure citizen satisfaction with the quality, accessibility, and effectiveness of government digital services.
   • Business Satisfaction with Digital Platforms: Evaluate the satisfaction of businesses with the ease of use, functionality, and support provided by digital platforms for business operations.

Role of Experts Vision Consulting (EVC) in Measuring Digital Transformation in Saudi Arabia

Experts Vision Consulting (EVC) plays a significant role in measuring digital transformation in Saudi Arabia. As a specialized consulting firm in the field of digital transformation, EVC possesses extensive expertise in providing services and consulting to both the public and private sectors in adopting and measuring technology and digital transformation.

Key Contributions of Experts Vision Consulting (EVC):

1. Comprehensive Digital Transformation Measurement Services:EVC offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to measure digital transformation. The firm employs the latest methodologies and technological tools to assess the impact of digital transformation on operations and economic performance.
2. Expert Guidance and Support:With its team of experienced professionals, EVC provides expert guidance and support to government entities and businesses throughout their digital transformation journeys. The firm’s consultants assist in defining digital transformation strategies, implementing initiatives, and evaluating outcomes.
3. Tailored Solutions for Diverse Needs:EVC recognizes the unique needs and challenges faced by different organizations in their digital transformation endeavors. The firm tailors its solutions to address the specific requirements of each client, ensuring that the measurement process aligns with their strategic objectives.
4. Data-Driven Insights for Informed Decision-Making:Leveraging data analytics and business intelligence tools, EVC extracts valuable insights from the digital transformation measurement process. These insights empower clients to make informed decisions regarding further investments in digital transformation initiatives, resource allocation, and performance improvement strategies.
5. Contribution to National Digital Transformation Goals:EVC’s contributions to measuring digital transformation extend beyond individual organizations. The firm’s work aggregates data and insights across various sectors, providing valuable input into the overall assessment of Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation progress.
6. Enhancing Digital Maturity and Competitiveness:By supporting organizations in effectively measuring and optimizing their digital transformation efforts, EVC plays a crucial role in enhancing the digital maturity and competitiveness of Saudi Arabia’s economy.

In summary, Experts Vision Consulting (EVC) serves as a trusted partner in the digital transformation landscape of Saudi Arabia. The firm’s expertise, tailored solutions, and data-driven insights empower organizations and contribute to the nation’s overall digital transformation journey.