How does a global industrial group consistently manage to stay ‘one step ahead’? In this interview, Markus Schaal, CIO of the international steel and technology group voestalpine, explains why he believes that digital excellence stems from a combination of stable IT, innovative technologies, and clear business benefits. He discusses the art of combining centralised structures with decentralised entrepreneurship, why data governance is often underestimated in the AI hype, and how the group systematically prioritises digital initiatives according to their measurable value contribution. A conversation about pragmatism, real value creation – and a digital strategy that is a tool, not a vision.
When it comes to digitalization, voestalpine describes itself not only as “state of the art,” but also as “one step ahead.” How would you rate the level of digital maturity in your company? :
SCHAAL At voestalpine, the claim to be “one step ahead” applies to the entire value chain, from purchasing and production to customer relations. The aim of digitalization and IT is to provide the best possible support for our operating business. We are on track to consistently develop and improve this further. Our focus for the coming years is on strengthening and securing our digital foundation and more closely integrating existing technological capabilities with business requirements in order to generate real added value.
What roles do digitalization strategy and successful implementation play in achieving corporate goals? :
SCHAAL For us, the digitalization strategy is not an isolated concept, but an integral part of our overarching corporate and business strategy. It follows the principle of decentralized entrepreneurship that characterizes the Group and is supported by a flexible, scalable IT architecture. Digitalization serves specifically to effectively support the strategic goals of the individual business areas, and not vice versa.
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