HBR On Strategy

How a Multinational Publishing House Pivoted to Digital

7 snips
Sep 20, 2023
Discover how Wolters Kluwer successfully transitioned from a publishing house to a digital information services company. CEO Nancy McKinstry shares insights on strategy execution, leadership, and innovation. The importance of patience in the digital transformation journey is also emphasized. Other topics discussed include the power of diversity in driving growth and advice for aspiring CEOs.
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ANECDOTE

First Non-Dutch CEO Drives Change

  • Nancy McKinstry became the first non-Dutch CEO of Wolters Kluwer in 2003.
  • Her outsider status helped her drive change faster than a typical insider could.
INSIGHT

Digital Shift Enlarges Profit Pools

  • The shift from print to digital initially shrunk profit pools and required heavy investment.
  • The second wave, combining expertise with technology, is expanding profit pools and delivering greater customer value.
ADVICE

Dual-Track Investment Strategy

  • Invest in both existing on-premise products and new SaaS offerings simultaneously.
  • Help customers transition gradually while aiming to be first to market with next-gen solutions.
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