The Digital Inflection Point: From Pilots to Performance
MIT SMR CONNECTIONS
At MIT SMR Connections, we explore the latest trends in leadership, managing technology, and digital transformation.
ABOUT THIS EDITION
Digital transformation in the Middle East is no longer a question of ambition—it is a question of execution. Organisations must align strategy, technology, and operations to deliver measurable outcomes, while navigating barriers such as fragmented data, legacy systems, and uneven AI adoption. At the same time, rising expectations for seamless, personalised experiences are redefining what leadership success looks like in the region.
This roundtable brings together senior leaders to examine how organisations are translating digital strategy into business performance. The discussion will focus on strategic priorities: unifying data to drive insight, scaling AI responsibly, delivering personalised experiences at scale, and embedding robust measurement frameworks that link initiatives to growth.
Rather than celebrating innovation in abstraction, the conversation will explore the trade-offs, organisational decisions, and governance choices that determine whether digital initiatives deliver sustainable impact. By highlighting both progress and persistent challenges, the session aims to provide leaders with a clear, actionable view of how to convert digital vision into enduring business advantages.
digital economy.
Briefing Points
- Building Cohesive Customer Strategies – How leadership can bridge silos across business units to ensure a single, enterprise-wide vision guides customer experience.
- Scaling Personalisation Responsibly – Addressing the tension between delivering deeply relevant experiences and maintaining efficiency, governance, and trust.
- AI as a Strategic Asset – Moving beyond pilots to embed AI at the enterprise level—requiring executive stewardship to manage risk, adoption, and measurable outcomes.
- Redefining Digital ROI – Reframing how boards and leadership teams assess the value of digital investments, linking customer outcomes directly to business growth.
