What Irish Manufacturers Really Took Away from Digital Transformation Webinar

On May 15th, Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) hosted a webinar designed not to hype transformation — but to demystify it. 

More than 80 business leaders joined live to unpack what digital transformation actually looks like when it’s done well — and what it takes to move from scattered initiatives to scalable results. 

This wasn’t a product showcase. It was a strategic reset. 

The session opened with an idea that echoed throughout the hour: Digital transformation is not about technology first. It’s about aligning purpose, people, and process — then using the right tools to amplify what works. 

Gael Beaulieu, IMR’s Senior Digital Transformation Advisor and certified SIRI Assessor, introduced the structure that guides IMR’s approach:
Plan → Do → Scale. 

First, assess where you are using tools like the Smart Industry Readiness Index (SIRI) — a framework that gives a full-spectrum view of digital maturity across 16 dimensions. Then, identify real opportunities through process mapping and IMR’s heatmapping overlays, which reveal where value creation is most likely. 

“It’s not about tools. It’s about aligning what matters in your business — and scaling what works,” Gael said. 

From there, it’s about focus. Small, time-bound pilots designed to deliver proof in weeks, not years. Not overhauls — outcomes. As Nick Rowe, IMR’s Commercial Director, advised: 

“Start with a pilot you can execute in 8–12 weeks. Not to tick a box — to learn, prove, and build momentum.” 

And finally, scale what works. With the right people trained, the right funding in place, and a clear business case behind every step forward. 

One of the most powerful moments in the webinar came from John Carmody, Senior Manager at Boston Scientific, who shared a real-world reflection of how that structure translated into success. 

He began by pointing out a surprising truth: 

“Digital transformation — those are two words that most businesses say are critical. But if you ask people what it means, you’ll get a number of different definitions.” 

At Boston Scientific, more than half of internal respondents once couldn’t clearly define it. And that, John said, was the first challenge. They didn’t need a new system first. They needed a shared language. Alignment. 

That’s where IMR and the SIRI process played a key role. 

“The IMR and the SIRI process helped not only in speeding up our internal conversations,” he said,
“but also in the actions we’re now taking to make meaningful and tangible impacts to the business.” 

What followed was a journey of practical application — not flashy tech for its own sake, but targeted solutions that fit the process. 

“We didn’t start with the flashiest solution,” John said. “We started with what made the most sense — and scaled what worked.” 

But perhaps most importantly, John reframed transformation as a people issue. 

“Digital is about the tools — even the ones that haven’t been created yet. But transformation is about people, behaviour, and culture. You need both to succeed.” 

It was a moment of clarity that resonated well beyond the case study. 

The webinar also highlighted that funding is available, but impact depends on preparation. IMR supports businesses in translating their strategic roadmap into projects that align with IDA Ireland or Enterprise Ireland funding schemes. Many of the most successful transformations begin with co-funded pilots, giving companies space to learn and scale with confidence. 

Nick summed it up clearly: 

“Don’t let cost be an excuse to delay. There are supports out there — and we’ll help you access them.” 

The tone throughout the session was confident, but grounded. Digital transformation is achievable — not because the technology has become easier, but because IMR brings the clarity, structure, and support that make it actionable. 

For companies who are still waiting for the perfect moment to begin, the message was clear: 

“Don’t wait until things break to get strategic,” Gael said.
“Get strategic to grow.” 

To speak with IMR’s team or explore a SIRI assessment, fill out the form below

Let’s move from pilots to progress — and make digital transformation deliver. 

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