Digital Transformation in Action – Highlights from the 2024 Awards

Welcome to This Month’s Updates!

In this edition, we’re spotlighting the remarkable achievements celebrated at Ireland’s inaugural Digital Transformation Awards. These highlights showcase the innovative strides being made across sectors and underline the critical role digitization plays in organizational growth.

Ireland’s Digital Leap Forward

According to the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI), Ireland is now the fifth-fastest digitizing economy in Europe, with an impressive annual growth rate of 8.5% between 2017 and 2022. These accomplishments were central to the discussions and recognitions at the Digital Transformation Awards.

Martin Curley, Professor of Innovation at Maynooth University, was distinguished with the Digital Transformation Leader Award for his groundbreaking efforts, especially in the healthcare domain. His leadership in pioneering digital health solutions, such as remote monitoring and telehealth systems during the COVID-19 pandemic, has significantly improved health outcomes and sustainability.

Curley stated, “Digital health solutions allow us to leapfrog to a new era of cost-efficient care and delivery."

The Overall Best Digital Transformation Award was presented to a collaboration between Maynooth University, HSE Digital Transformation, and SME Digital Health Ecosystem. Judges praised it for delivering clear, impactful results in improving public health services.

Insights from a Historic Awards Evening

Maria Svejdar, judging coordinator and Head of Marketing at GS1 Ireland, highlighted how the awards’ cross-sector appeal fosters collaboration.

“Often the most inspiring ideas come from outside your own familiar sphere of expertise,” she remarked.

The shift “from paper to glass” emerged as a key theme throughout the evening, with businesses realigning their operations to meet rising demands for efficient and accurate digital data processes.

Why Digital Transformation Matters

Industries worldwide are adopting intelligent automation and AI to remain competitive. The awards underscored that digitization is no longer optional—it's essential for survival, growth, and compliance in the modern economy.

For professionals in the operational excellence industry, this event’s milestones provide actionable takeaways for shaping strategies and driving long-term transformation.

Explore More

Read the full Irish Times article here to gain a deeper perspective on Ireland’s digitization movement and the awards honoring these advancements.

Stay connected for more industry updates and insights!