All About Transformation, Not Cost Reduction . These contracting professionals are trying to adjust to a world that is rapidly embracing "digital," and seeking the "transform" at scale. A tough transition for this group that historically has focused on driving productivity / cost reduction.
Beyond RPA. RPA, i.e., replacing bodies with software, has been more an exercise in higher level automation of existing processes. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are now being tested to take process transformation to the next level.
Scaling at Speed . The message was clear that the Global 1000 has moved beyond user experience efforts and proof-of-concepts (PoC) and now is aggressively seeking to leverage the new technology with the IP of legacy systems. Vendors increasingly will need end client knowledge, not just that of the technology.
Still About the People. Biggest headwind to successful Digital Transformation remains attracting / retaining people with the new skills, not the new technology. We heard this message as well at IBM's Think 2019 event last week.
Most Visible Winners . Accenture (ACN), which has the end-to-end capabilities; Genpact (G) and WNS (WNS) that can help move processes into a truly digital world; and ASGN (ASGN) that can deliver the scarce supply of digitally-enabled talent, in our view.