digitalizations

Digitalization refers to the process of converting information into a digital format. This involves taking analog data, such as paper documents, photographs, or audio recordings, and transforming it into a sequence of discrete values that can be stored, processed, and transmitted by computers. The core of digitalization lies in sampling and encoding, where continuous signals are broken down into discrete points and assigned numerical values. This digital representation allows for easier manipulation, duplication without degradation, and efficient distribution through electronic networks.

The term digitalization is often used interchangeably with digitization, though some distinguish between them. Digitization is the technical act of converting analog to digital. Digitalization, in a broader sense, encompasses the strategic and organizational changes that leverage digital technologies to improve processes, create new business models, or enhance customer experiences. It is about fundamentally rethinking how an organization operates and delivers value in the digital age, often building upon the foundation laid by digitization. Examples include moving from paper-based customer service to online portals, or from manual inventory management to automated digital tracking systems. The widespread adoption of digital technologies has made digitalization a key driver of economic and societal transformation.