Digital transformation requires more than new technology. It requires people to develop new capabilities and ways of working.
One case in Global Lessons: A Page from Modern Japanese Human Resources Management looks at Hitachi’s transformation in Europe from a traditional engineering business towards digital solutions.
The response included establishing the Hitachi Rail Academy in the UK, bringing together Japanese and European employees for training in digital systems, safety and cross-border teamwork.
Technical development was combined with leadership training covering multicultural negotiation and sustainability.
By 2021, 60% of the leadership pipeline in Hitachi’s European rail business was sourced locally.
The lesson is clear: when business strategy changes, HR needs to help people change with it.
Technology may enable transformation, but people and organisational capability determine whether it can be sustained.
Read more in Global Lessons: A Page from Modern Japanese Human Resources Management.