Thriving in the Digital Age: Ismail Oyewole on Building a Digital-First Culture & Mindset

 
At the Oil & Gas Automation & Digitalization Conference 2022, Ismail Oyewole, a seasoned IT professional with over 8 years of experience, took the stage to explore a topic central to modern business transformation—“Building a Digital-First Culture & Mindset.” His talk offered practical insights into what it truly means for an organization to think and act digitally from the ground up. 
 

What is a Digital-First Culture? 
Ismail broke it down simply: a digital-first culture is one where technology isn't an afterthought—it's the foundation of how a company operates, makes decisions, and engages with customers. It's about being enthusiastic and strategic in using digital tools, staying curious about innovation, and always seeking ways to improve both internally and externally. 
 

Core Principles & Strategies 
He emphasized that building this culture starts at the top. Leadership must model the mindset, champion continuous learning, and create an environment where experimentation is encouraged. It’s not just about having the right tech—it’s about empowering people across the organization to understand and leverage that tech effectively. 
 

Why It Matters 
According to Ismail, the payoff is significant: 

• Greater customer satisfaction 

• Cost efficiency and smarter operations 
  In an industry as dynamic as oil and gas, being digitally adept is no longer optional—it’s a strategic necessity. 
   

Key Topics Covered: 
 

• What defines a Digital-First Culture and Mindset 
• The components of a successful digital-first strategy 
• Steps to build a digital-first culture within your organization 
• Benefits: from cost savings to stronger customer engagement 
• The critical role of leadership and digital literacy