A decision-aiding procedure for technology selection in the context of digital transformation

Modern companies face the challenge of selecting suitable technologies to support a digital transformation journey. The paper presents a multi-criteria decision-aiding procedure (MCDAP) to support managers in the technology and portfolio selection processes, within a structured and practical decision-making flow. It can be used to develop a technology roadmap or select an innovation portfolio within a digital transformation journey. The Design Science Research strategy supports the paper, and the Cambridge Process Approach is used to operationalise the MCDAP in a structured and holistic process. A triangulation approach is performed for data acquisition and analysis in developing cases. An evaluation of the procedure’s feasibility, utility, and usability was obtained from the staff involved in developing cases, who considered it feasible and useful. However, improvements were recommended to enhance its usability, especially regarding the decision support system. Another relevant finding is the stated and observed need for an analyst with methodological and software knowledge. Because it has been pilot-tested in only two demonstration cases, further field testing and a careful analysis are needed to refine the procedure and apply it in other contexts, requiring a good background from managers, technical specialists, and analysts.