2020 DXC – Case Study: Digital Transformation at BASF

Digital transformation has the power to disrupt traditional ways of working and unlock new capabilities and opportunities in practically any industry sector. In this case study, we examine the digital transformation journey of BASF, one of the world’s largest chemistry companies.

Research and development (R&D) has been a key growth driver of BASF’s more than 150-year history. This case study focuses on the digital transformation within BASF’s R&D organization, rather than the entire corporation. BASF’s purpose is to create chemistry for a sustainable future. Products and solutions are designed to make the best use of available resources and help overcome challenges. BASF has turned these challenges into opportunities by leveraging innovation competency and building a digital framework.

This case study highlights several factors, many of which are still ongoing, that have contributed to BASF’s digital transformation successes thus far:

• Digitalization within R&D: The central tenet of BASF’s digitalization journey is the effectiveness of applying digital capabilities within R&D. At BASF, prioritizing digitalization in everyday R&D operations improves effectiveness of research, increases efficiency, and opens up new innovation opportunities.
• Collaboration with External Partners: Academic partners and startups have helped drive digitalization of R&D by improving efficiency in better decision-making, increasing accessibility, reducing cost, and providing access to new capabilities and expertise.
• New Business Opportunities: Tapping into digital technologies in R&D enabled the development of new solutions more quickly, complementing existing business and unlocking new opportunities for growth.

View the full case study.

Acknowledgements: RTI greatly appreciates the time and insights provided by BASF’s R&D digitalization leadership. Many thanks to Toralf Senger, Brian Standen, and Richard Trethewey.