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Opening the Black Box of the Digital Transformation Process — Evidence from Colombia

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  • Oscar Andres Galindo-Rodriguez
  • Mariano Gentilin

Abstract

Objective: this article explains how the process of digital transformation (DT) occurs, which constitutes a fundamental change in organizations. Theoretical approach: to this end, qualitative research was carried out based on in-depth interviews with 10 DT leaders from companies in Colombia and two consultants specialized in the subject. Method: the methodology proposed by Gioia was used to analyze the results. Results: the findings show that DT is a continuous, complex, and emerging process that transcends technology, is multidimensional, and involves the entire organization. Conclusions: this work contributes to unraveling the nature of DT by opening the black box and proposing a dynamic and iterative scheme of three key moments: initiation, implementation, and capitalization, which in turn is permeated by multiple emerging aspects. Additionally, a contribution is made to the dominant literature that presents digital transformation as a technological issue, a matter of process digitization, and as a fixed, homogeneous, and stable phenomenon. It is concluded that digital transformation is a process that corresponds to organizational and strategic change.

Suggested Citation

  • Oscar Andres Galindo-Rodriguez & Mariano Gentilin, 2026. "Opening the Black Box of the Digital Transformation Process — Evidence from Colombia," RAC - Revista de Administração Contemporânea (Journal of Contemporary Administration), ANPAD - Associação Nacional de Pós-Graduação e Pesquisa em Administração, vol. 30(Vol. 30 N), pages 250332-2503.
    • Handle: RePEc:abg:anprac:v:30:y:2026:i:3:1748
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Abayomi Baiyere & Hannu Salmela & Tommi Tapanainen, 2020. "Digital transformation and the new logics of business process management," European Journal of Information Systems, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 29(3), pages 238-259, May.
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