Digital Transformation $-$ final individual written exam

MSM Kuwait intake $16$

Instructions: Carefully read the case study and the questions. Answer the questions using the concepts learned in the classroom, and provide proper citation if necessary.

You have been appointed to lead Al Zahra Textiles' digital transformation process and are currently working on your digital transformation plan aimed at reimagining and reinventing the business.

Company Background:

Name: Al Zahra Textiles

Industry: Textile Manufacturing

Location: Kuwait

Year Established: $1995$

Background: Founded over two decades ago, Al Zahra Textiles started as a small family$-$run business. Over the years, it has grown into a well$-$respected medium$-$sized enterprise known for its quality and uniqueness of its textile products. Al Zahra Textile currently operates in the Gulf Cooperation Council $($GCC$)$ region $($Kuwait$,$ Qatar, Saudi Arabia, The United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Oman$).$

Employees: Al Zahra Textiles, with its $250$ dedicated employees, embodies a diverse range of skills essential to its operations.

The production staff, numbering $180,$ includes skilled artisans celebrated for their traditional craftsmanship, machine operators proficient in handling the semi$-$automated production processes, and quality control personnel committed to upholding the high standards of the company's products.

In supporting and administrative roles, the company employs $30$ administrative and support staff, who are vital in managing finance, human resources, and other administrative duties, ensuring the smooth running of daily operations However, among these $30$ employees, only one person is responsible for handling IT$-$related tasks on a daily basis.

The sales and marketing team, comprising $20$ members, plays a pivotal role in $Al$ Zahra Textiles' business strategy. They are responsible for direct sales, building and maintaining customer relations, and exploring new market opportunities, contributing significantly to the company's growth and market expansion.

Additionally, the research and development team, consisting of $10$ individuals, focuses on new product development and innovation. This team is crucial in keeping the company at the forefront of the textile industry, continuously seeking new ways to enhance product quality.

The management and executive staff, a team of $10,$ forms the core decision$-$making body of the company. This group is instrumental in steering Al Zahra Textiles towards its strategic goals, navigating the challenges of the industry, and ensuring the company's continued success and growth.

Management Structure: AI Zahra Textiles is steered by a structured management team that plays a crucial role in the company's operations and strategic direction.

The Board of Directors, composed of a select group of individuals including the founders and key investors, oversees the strategic direction of the company, ensuring that its longterm objectives and vision are consistently pursued.

At the helm of the company's executive management is the Chief Executive Officer $($CEO$),$ who is responsible for the overall management and decision$-$making. The CEO's role is integral to shaping the company's trajectory and ensuring that all departments align with the broader corporate strategy.

The Chief Operating Officer $(\frac{C}{O}O)$ manages the day$-$to$-$day operational activities of the company, reporting directly to the CEO. This role is pivotal in maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of the company's operations, ensuring that production and other operational processes run smoothly.

The Chief Financial Officer $($CFO$)$ oversees the company's financial planning, risk management, and record keeping. The CFO's expertise is crucial in ensuring the company's financial health and in making strategic financial decisions that support its growth and stability.

The Chief Marketing Officer $($CMO$)$ leads the sales and marketing team. This role involves responsibility for market expansion and customer engagement strategies, playing a key role in driving the company's revenue and enhancing its market presence.

The Human Resources Manager heads the administrative and support staff, focusing on optimal employee relations and maintaining an effective organizational structure. This role is critical in fostering a positive work environment and ensuring that the company attracts and retains talented individuals. The Production Manager leads the production team and is responsible for overseeing all manufacturing processes. This role is central to ensuring that the production of textiles meets the company's high standards of quality and efficiency.

Lastly, the Research and Development Head drives innovation and new product development. This role is aligned with the company's objectives for growth and quality, focusing on introducing new products and technologies that keep Al Zahra Textiles at the forefront of the textile industry.

Business