Case Studies of Successful Digital Transformations: Lessons from Business and Non-Profit Sectors
Author: Dr. Anna Neya Kazanskaia
Publisher: NEYA Global Publishing
Article | NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies
Year: 2025
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0009-5669-1676
DOI: https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-gdtdgttrfm-09
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About the Article
Case studies of digital transformation provide evidence-based insights into how organizations navigate disruption, adopt technologies, and adapt culture and strategy. This article examines examples from both the corporate sector (General Electric, Starbucks, Walmart) and the non-profit sector (Good Shepherd Services, Charity: Water, UNICEF). Corporate initiatives prioritized competitiveness, customer engagement, and operational efficiency, while non-profits leveraged digital platforms, IoT, and data analytics to expand outreach, strengthen transparency, and enhance mission delivery. The analysis identifies shared success factors such as measurable goal-setting, customer and beneficiary focus, data-driven decision-making, and fostering cultures of innovation. At the same time, sector-specific challenges emerge—non-profits contend with financial and capacity constraints, while businesses respond to competitive pressures. The findings underscore that digital transformation is not sector-specific but must be adapted to organizational missions and contexts. These cases provide practical lessons and roadmaps for leaders seeking sustainable and impactful digital transformation.
Key Topics
- Digital transformation
- Case studies
- Business innovation
- Non-profit sector
- Data-driven decision-making
- Stakeholder engagement
- Organizational learning
Suggested Citation
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Case Studies of Successful Digital Transformations: Lessons from Business and Non-Profit Sectors. NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies. Neya Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-gdtdgttrfm-09
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