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Chief operating officers (COOs) are seizing growth opportunities using lessons of the past few years to inform their next moves. This often means taking a long view, which isn’t easy for a role that involves managing a multitude of immediate issues. But imagine the ingenuity and operational agility that’s possible if you could fuse your current capabilities with new initiatives — from advancing digital capabilities to rethinking entire processes. This is where innovation can thrive.
Our latest Pulse Survey shows that COOs are moving fast — accelerating digitization and rethinking operations with technologies like digital twins and supplier diversification. To manage talent gaps and tariff pressure, they’re using dual-track plans for short-term continuity with long-term transformation. The key? Fostering cross-functional collaboration and shared data access, bridging gaps between operations, finance and supply chain teams to drive innovation.
87% of COOs say they’re increasing digitization of their operations because of tariffs and are investing more in scenario planning
Source: PwC Pulse Survey, May 2025
Digital transformation is seldom easy, and a solid foundation is critical. Embedding key technologies across operations can help build an intelligent digital ecosystem. For instance, in consumer markets, connected supply chains can enable a retailer to offer customers the ability to buy items with flexible delivery and pickup. In manufacturing, smart factories combine the power of robotics and automation, providing data-driven insights and better decision-making.
Beyond improving efficiency and cost control, digital systems can unlock value and help drive long-term growth. Connected supply chains can expand delivery channels and help attain sustainability goals. A robust data ecosystem can position your organization to implement AI solutions responsibly that can help reinvent processes and ultimately business models.
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