How to Implement a First in Digital, Digital First Strategy
Technological advancements and digital transformations are a modern business necessity to access a wide range of benefits. This can either be to improve business-wide productivity, connect and collaborate with global staff, or to gain a competitive edge in an oversaturated market. Yet, some businesses take this a step further by having a first in digital, digital first strategy. However, what does this mean, and how does this strategy impact daily operations and the people they employ?
Becoming a Digital-First Business
Digital-first businesses integrate digital solutions into each product, process, and customer interaction. Such companies also use technology for more than just to elevate existing workflows but reimagine how businesses operate from a completely digital point of view.
However, at its core, digital-first businesses promote a culture of open communication and trust. Businesses that follow a digital-first approach also provide access to global talent, promote an ownership mindset, flexible working hours, and decision-making based on management by objectives (MBO). It also emphasises data-driven decisions, tolerance for mistakes, and learning.
Digital-first businesses operate primarily through digital channels, utilise robust cybersecurity frameworks and utilise AI-based tools. These businesses also deliver online products and services to engage with international customers through virtual platforms. They often operate entirely in the digital world. Take G2A.COM, for example – no physical goods, no shipping, no carbon footprint. Everything is eco-friendly, fully digital, and delivers the best offers instantly and efficiently. Doing so unlocks new opportunities that would otherwise be inaccessible, such as helping companies connect with international talent.
These innovations enable companies to adapt to rapidly changing market trends and reach global audiences efficiently. This not only attracts new customers but also retains existing ones, by delivering unique and personalised experiences. And when combined with diverse teams and broader market research, this creates a strong foundation for sustainable operations and long-term growth.
This isn’t a new concept as there are numerous businesses which follow similar strategies. In fact, companies which follow a digital-first strategy can experience increased interest from their customers surrounding AI-powered solutions. In response, businesses should consider implementing AI tools which streamline operations or even include subscriptions into their portfolios. This dual focus – of enhancing internal productivity while meeting emerging consumer needs – highlights how digital-first thinking can create both operational efficiency and new revenue opportunities.
Implementing A Digital-First Approach
The concept of “First in Digital, Digital First” is a deliberate approach to building a high-performing, scalable organisation in the digital era. It prioritises trust, autonomy, and outcomes over control, leverages AI, and empowers teams globally. The result is higher engagement, innovation, and business performance, proving that remote, digitally native companies can thrive without traditional office-centric control.
Advanced technologies, particularly AI-powered tools, are already proving their business value simply by lightening staff’s workloads to focus on more important tasks. Therefore, it is important to emphasise how digital tools can unlock employees’ potential, not take away from them.
However, it is equally as important for business leaders to monitor and strengthen employee connections by creating a friendly environment where they can be productive and feel seen. This results in more motivated team members with a sense of belonging and community, despite not being in-person.
Shifting to digital-first also prioritises cybersecurity and data protection for businesses, which is particularly critical for remote teams. As the risks of data breaches, hacks, and other cyberattacks continue to grow in severity, following the most recent cybersecurity best practices and establishing cyber policies should always be top of mind.
Ultimately, for businesses, where seamless communication and online project management are critical to daily operations, using digital tools responsibly should be highly prioritised.
The Next Phase of AI In A Digit-First Business
The next stage of AI and digital innovation won’t be about automation, but deep understanding. Businesses are moving beyond just speed and scale, and towards systems that truly listen, interpret, and respond. Therefore, the future of AI lies within deep personalisation and emotional intelligence, adapting to what users do and feel.
Increasingly, users are engaging with AI systems out of curiosity rather than necessity. This is a sign that technology is becoming part of how people explore, learn, and interact. And with this, signals a major opportunity to design AI that can both provide information and builds relationships. However, importantly, AI should never replace employees, but compliment them, automating simpler tasks for people to focus on strategy, creativity and innovation. This partnership, between people and intelligent systems, is what truly drives progress.
Yet, the true value of AI lies in it becoming it feel more human. Emotional intelligence in AI means understanding tone, intent, and context to deliver responses that feel respectful yet personal. With that, the next phase of AI will be able to recognise frustration, empathy and satisfaction, and respond in ways to deepen trust.
However, transparency, security, and ethics are equally as essential. As AI becomes increasingly embedded in everyday interactions, businesses will need to prioritise responsible implementation. This ensures that users – such as staff and customers – understand when they’re engaging with AI, and that their data is handles securely. In this world where digital interactions becoming more frequent, trust need to be the ultimate differentiator.
Ultimately, a digital-first strategy requires a significant shift in both culture and operations. From remote work and cybersecurity, to fostering trust and engagement within teams, digital-first businesses must adopt the right approach to thrive in a digital world. While digital tools are here to assist employees, success lies in implementing them at the centre of a business’ operations.
About the author
Dorota Wróbel is General Manager at G2A.COM, the global digital marketplace for video games, digital items, and software. She leads strategic business development, customer-centric initiatives, and international marketplace growth for the company.