Realize FIVE: Digital Transformation with Accenture

Embracing Digital Transformation

In our fourth episode of the Realize FIVE podcast, Magnus Edholm sat down with Vivek Kaushik, the Managing Director and Global Head of the Accenture Siemens Business Group (ASBG), to discuss the intricacies of digital transformation in the manufacturing industry. You can read more about the partnership here. The conversation sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that come with transforming traditional manufacturing processes into digital enterprises.
Listen to Vivek Kaushik on Digital Transformation here
Understanding Digital Transformation
Digital transformation is not just about adopting new technologies but also about changing the way companies operate and deliver value to their customers. Vivek shares his insights, and you can hear in the audio how his approach to digital transformation is holistic and includes technology, processes, and people.
Challenges in the manufacturing industry
Vivek shared his experiences on the most common challenges faced by manufacturing companies in their digital transformation journey. He pointed out that companies are often under immense pressure to produce more personalized and complex products while maintaining cost efficiency and reducing time to market. Additionally, many companies struggle with legacy toolchains that hinder their ability to innovate and respond quickly to market demands.
The role of digital threads
Magnus raised the concept of digital threads, which are essentially interconnected data flows that span across different stages of product development, production planning, and beyond. Vivek explained that digital threads enable companies to have a comprehensive view of their operations, allowing for better decision-making and improved efficiency. He emphasized that having a clear end goal in mind is crucial for a successful digital transformation.
Sustainability and AI-driven efficiency
The conversation also touches on the role of sustainability in digital transformation. Vivek highlighted that data and AI play a pivotal role in creating sustainable products and optimizing the entire value chain. By leveraging data, companies can forecast better outputs, improve operational efficiency, and achieve their sustainability goals.
Success stories and the outlook
Vivek shared a success story of a US-based consumer products client where Accenture and Siemens collaborated to implement the Teamcenter suite and transform the client’s engineering processes. This resulted in a 20% reduction in time to market and a 30% reduction in engineering costs. Looking ahead, Vivek expresses optimism about the future of digital transformation, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in staying ahead of the curve.
Hear live from Accenture
You can hear live from Vivek at Realize LIVE Americas on the Accenture booth in the Solutions Center, in addition Accenture will be presenting in these sessions:
Driving the future: accelerating automotive innovation with a scalable SDV framework
Accelerate CPG innovation & sustainability with digital transformation
Accenture – Generative AI on engineering: transforming roles and delivering value
Transforming into a software-defined vehicle business with Siemens, Accenture and AWS
Teamcenter journey continues: CAD-part separation & product configuration
Accenture will be presenting at Realize LIVE Europe: Transform into an SDV business
Realize FIVE podcast series
Episode 1: Spinnova’s revolutionary sustainability approach 
Episode 2: Siemens Healthineers leading in the future of healthcare
Episode 3: Leveraging Digital Twin technology, insights from Optime Subsea
Episode 4: Digital Transformation with Accenture
Episode 5: AI and Agentic AI
