Digital Transformation in the Banking Industry: Designing an Operating Model to Support Platform Implementation Strategy

This dissertation explores the digital transformation phenomenon on the economy and business. Specifically, the first part of the document examines the dynamics of digital transformation, seeking to understand the key strategic elements driving change and how business models adapt to support new technological trends. As digitalization of processes keeps on at a steady rhythm, established institutions must remain vigilant for technological innovations that could suddenly revolutionize their industry. It is the case for banking institutions, undergoing impressive changes in their business models and operational frameworks. The results illustrate the key digital technology trends and growth strategies being applied by incumbent institutions in the banking industry. The second part of the dissertation provides a case study on the digital transformation process of Traditional Bank, an incumbent financial institution with multiple international branches. Main objective of the case will be the design of an operating model to support the platform implementation strategy. The process of definition of the single elements composing the operating model will be discussed and represented within several frameworks.