Computer 1 urges businesses to embrace digital transformation

Fiji's business community is being urged to embrace digital transformation as the country prepares for a future where data, artificial intelligence (AI), automation and cybersecurity will play a central role in economic growth and business resilience.

Business leaders, government representatives and industry stakeholders gathered at a digital transformation awareness event hosted by Computer 1 last Wednesday at Tanoa Plaza in Suva.

The event formed part of Computer 1's corporate social responsibility initiative to educate businesses on the benefits of digitalisation and the practical steps needed to begin the journey.

Computer 1 managing director Avinesh Krishna said digital transformation was no longer an option but a necessity for organisations that wanted to remain competitive in an increasingly digital world.

"As part of our corporate social responsibility, it was our pleasure to host this digital transformation awareness event to explain how businesses can take a step-by-step approach towards preparing for the digital future.

"The focus was on AI, cybersecurity, automation, business resilience and digital transformation. Organisations throughout Fiji and the Pacific are being encouraged to move beyond paper-based processes and adopt digital platforms to improve efficiency, security and business growth.

"Data is one of a company's most valuable assets. Businesses that continue relying solely on paper records risk inefficiency, data loss and slower customer service. Digitalising data through solutions such as Therefore Document Management enables organisations to work smarter, more securely and more competitively in today's digital economy."

As businesses increasingly rely on technology to manage operations, customer information and financial records, experts say digital data management has become essential for long-term sustainability.

Digital document management systems not only safeguard valuable information but also enable employees to access records more quickly, improve collaboration and reduce operating costs.

Mr Krishna warned organisations that delayed digital transformation exposed themselves to significant operational and financial risks.

"If data is not digitalised, businesses face risks such as data loss, security breaches, higher costs, slower operations, poor disaster recovery, compliance challenges and reduced competitiveness.

"Digitalisation transforms information into a secure, accessible and valuable business asset that supports growth and long-term success. Organisations that continue to rely heavily on paper-based records and manual processes face significant risks, including loss of information, security vulnerabilities, poor disaster recovery and having no foundation for AI and automation."

He said several organisations had already begun benefiting from digitisation through Computer 1's expertise.

"Companies such as Fiji Development Bank, the Fiji Meteorological Office, the Public Rental Board and the Sugar Cane Growers Fund are among organisations benefiting from and moving towards digitisation."

Artificial intelligence also featured prominently during the discussions, with businesses encouraged to understand both its opportunities and limitations.

While AI is transforming industries worldwide by improving efficiency and automating repetitive tasks, Mr Krishna said trust in AI depended largely on transparency and the quality of the data supporting it.

"People don't distrust AI itself; they distrust AI when they don't understand how it works, where the data comes from or how decisions are made. Trust grows when AI is transparent, secure and supported by accurate digital data and human oversight.

"This is one reason why data digitalisation is so important. AI is only as good as the quality, security and accessibility of the information it uses. Without well-organised digital data, AI cannot deliver reliable business value.

"If you use open AI, it can make mistakes and it can be a privacy and security concern when you put your data into public platforms."

Cybersecurity was another major focus of the event as cyber threats continue to evolve across the region.

Mr Krishna said raising awareness about cybersecurity, AI and digital data management was essential as Fiji continued its digital transformation journey.

"As Fiji continues its digital transformation journey, awareness about data storage, AI and cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important for businesses, government agencies and individuals. Regional technology forums and industry events have highlighted these topics as key priorities for building a resilient and competitive digital economy."

He said without greater awareness:

● Data may be lost or underutilised.
● AI may be misunderstood or misused.
● Cyber threats may go undetected until damage occurs.

Mr Krishna said businesses that embraced digitalisation would be better positioned to compete and grow.

"With greater awareness and digitalisation, Fiji's businesses can operate more efficiently, securely and competitively while preparing for the future digital economy."

As Fiji accelerates its digital transformation agenda, experts believe businesses that invest in secure data management, employee awareness and digital technologies today will be better positioned to compete, innovate and withstand future challenges.

For many organisations, the journey begins with a simple but significant step — transforming paper records into digital assets that can power smarter decisions and sustainable growth.

Therefore Document Management

Computer 1 says its Therefore Document Management solution helps organisations securely capture, store, manage and retrieve business information digitally.

The system enables faster access to information, stronger security, reduced costs and more efficient business operations.

By implementing Therefore Document Management through Computer 1, organisations can:

● Reduce paper storage costs.
● Improve productivity.
● Enhance data security.
● Speed up business processes.
● Improve customer service.
● Support compliance requirements.
● Prepare for AI and digital transformation initiatives.