One Strategic Step at a Time: Unlocking Digital Growth

Q: How did XalDigital evolve from its origins in big data to offer comprehensive, customized technology solutions?

A: We started as a traditional big data company, focused on data collection and analysis, but customer demand led us to evolve toward more complex and useful solutions. Instead of simply providing data visualization tools, such as static charts, we started to develop applications that allowed our customers to make decisions in real time. This meant focusing on the value that data could bring to the business, making it easier to improve customer relationships and solve operational problems.

We specialized in generating use cases from data, using advanced technologies such as IoT, generative AI, and machine learning, among others. We tailor our solutions to the specific needs of each client, from large projects with companies such as Palacio de Hierro, Aeroméxico, and the largest bakery in the world, to smaller, but equally customized solutions for clients like Pierre Fabre and Ventura Entertainment.

Q: What differentiates XalDigital from its competitors when it comes to offering customized technology solutions?

A: Our vast experience working with global clients and large companies sets us apart. We have developed technological solutions in multiple languages and for diverse cultures, serving clients in Mexico and internationally in more than 140 locations, with varying levels of technological maturity, allowing us to adapt to each client's unique situation. This experience has allowed us to understand and solve both technological and human challenges, a process that is essential for a successful digital transformation.

During the pandemic, we reinvented ourselves to work remotely, which included developing our own hardware to connect factory machines to the cloud. This ability to adapt quickly to new circumstances is one of our greatest strengths. All of our capabilities and knowledge are centralized in Mexico, allowing us to offer comprehensive technology solutions with a local focus and global expertise.

Q: How does XalDigital facilitate the digital transformation of Mexican SMEs?

A: We stand out for our focus on Mexican SMEs, as we offer tailored solutions that combine adaptability and cost-effectiveness. For example, we have developed customized loyalty applications and e-commerce platforms, eliminating the need for costly off-the-shelf systems. Likewise, integrating our solutions with existing client tools, such as simple Excel spreadsheets, ensures a smooth and efficient transition to digitalization.

We have implemented digitization processes to simplify and optimize daily work, benefiting both small and large companies. From basic projects starting at US$20 per month to solutions costing thousands of dollars, we adjust our rates according to the client's specific needs and usage. This approach reduces financial risk for SMEs, easing their transition to digitization. This “incremental steps” philosophy, addressing the most critical issues first and ensuring a clear return on investment, has allowed us to maintain long-term relationships with clients, which value our ability to adapt to their changing needs and circumstances.

Digital transformation in Mexico does not require giant leaps, but rather strategic and consistent steps. Inaction is no longer an option. It is essential to avoid blindly following technology trends and focus on what really matters for each organization. Experimentation is fine, but always with budgetary control and the awareness that many decisions are reversible.

In this context, flexibility and the pay-per-use model are crucial. Mexico has the opportunity to lead this change, taking advantage of its creativity and adaptability. It is time for companies and individuals to embrace the digital challenge with determination, preparing for a more connected and prosperous future.

Q: What are the main challenges that Mexican companies face when adopting digital transformation solutions and how does XalDigital address them?

A: The main challenge is the lack of data. Despite the growing interest in advanced technologies such as AI, many companies still rely on basic tools such as Excel. This prevents a smooth transition to more sophisticated solutions, as these systems require structured, quality data to function effectively.

Another major challenge is the tendency to follow technology fads without having a clear plan or a defined roadmap. Many companies attempt to implement advanced solutions without first consolidating their technological foundations, which can result in inefficient investments and frustration.

On the other hand, there is also a fear of trying new technologies due to the perception of high costs and complexity. This fear is linked to a business culture that often prefers large upfront investments and locked-in pricing, rather than adopting pay-per-use models and scalable solutions.

Q: How does XalDigital ensure a smooth and successful transition for customers amid these obstacles?

A: We propose a strategy of incremental steps, starting with easy-to-implement solutions that generate tangible benefits quickly. This approach allows companies to see immediate results, which reduces fear of change and facilitates acceptance of new technologies. Our experience shows that starting with small wins helps build confidence and justifies larger future investments.

We also educate our clients on the importance of a gradual and well-planned digital transformation. We help them identify their priority battles and choose technologies that offer a clear return on investment, avoiding large, costly projects with no immediate benefits.

Q: What emerging technologies does XalDigital anticipate will have the most significant impact on Mexican companies in the coming years?

A: Generative AI (Gen AI) will have the greatest impact on Mexican companies in the coming years. Although it is not as disruptive as some present it, it has great potential to improve the productivity of companies in several areas. For example, it can optimize the creation of marketing content and personalize campaigns efficiently. However, Gen AI must be used with human oversight. While it can reduce workloads, it does not completely replace the need for human intervention to ensure the quality and relevance of the content generated.

In the short term, this technology is not expected to bring about a radical transformation in the industry or the creation of new markets: its main benefit lies in improving the productivity and efficiency of existing processes. However, the rapid evolution of this technology could change this picture in the coming months.

A major challenge associated with the implementation of Gen AI is the moral and social impact, especially in terms of employment. The automation of processes, such as customer service centers, raises the question of what to do with workers whose roles are being automated. This is a challenge that companies, and society in general, will need to address to balance technological benefits with human and labor needs.

Q: What collaborations has XalDigital undertaken to promote digital education and training?

A: We have established agreements with universities where we have taught classes on big data. These collaborations allow us to provide hands-on learning opportunities to students who might not otherwise have access to this training in emerging technologies. We have provided job opportunities to young people who are just starting their careers, allowing them to participate in real projects early on and gain valuable experience in the field. Our policy is to provide opportunities for young, motivated people to enter the job market and contribute in a meaningful way from the beginning. It is not just about offering them employment, but about providing them with a learning and professional development environment where they can grow and prosper.

We are looking for partnerships with other companies and organizations to expand our digital education efforts. We want to collaborate with institutions similar to ours to offer training programs and workshops on the use of digital tools, with the goal of preparing people for the challenges and opportunities of the digital future.

Q: How does XalDigital plan to expand its business within Mexico and Latin America?

A: We will leverage our talent, strengths and capabilities to unlock growth opportunities within the Mexican and Latin American markets. Although the macroeconomic and political environment, there is a big investment trend within LATAM, particularly in Mexico and Caribbean region driven by nearshoring initiatives. This will require further development behind digital agendas as well as automation and innovation. And there is where XalDigital plays a pivotal role providing the capabilities, expertise and infrastructure to enable it.

We are also considering expanding into other Latin American countries. We believe there is a great opportunity in the region due to geographic proximity, shared language, and cultural similarities. We are interested in sectors such as manufacturing, retail and consumer goods, automotive, and media and entertainment, where our customized solutions can have a great impact. Our expansion strategy is based on leveraging our strengths and experience in the Mexican market to replicate our success in other countries. We want to continue to grow in a sustainable manner, maintaining a focus on quality and customer satisfaction in all our operations. We are open to collaborations and strategic alliances that will allow us to grow and prosper in new markets.

XalDigital uses AI and emerging technologies to develop applications that allow businesses to make better decisions in real time.