Digitalisierung

/ˌdɪɡɪtaliˈziːʁʊŋ/
digitalization

Die Digitalisierung der Verwaltung soll Prozesse beschleunigen.

The digitalization of administration should speed up processes.


Technology
technical

The process of converting analog information or processes into digital form, enabling computer-based handling and automation.

Die Digitalisierung der Krankenakten verbessert die Effizienz im Gesundheitswesen.

Digitalizing medical records improves efficiency in healthcare.

Durch die Digitalisierung können Unternehmen ihre Abläufe optimieren.

Digitalization enables companies to optimize their operations.

Often used in the context of business transformation, government services, and societal change.

Business
technical

The integration of digital technologies into all areas of a business, fundamentally changing how it operates and delivers value to customers.

Die Digitalisierung hat die Art und Weise, wie wir kommunizieren, grundlegend verändert.

Digitalization has fundamentally changed the way we communicate.

In business contexts, it often implies a strategic shift toward digital-first operations.

formal

The societal transition to a digital economy, including changes in work culture, education, and daily life.

Die Digitalisierung stellt neue Anforderungen an die Bildungssysteme.

Digitalization poses new demands on educational systems.

Refers to broader impacts on society, such as remote work, e-commerce, and digital literacy.

Related Phrases

digitale Revolutionphrase
digital revolution
papierloses Bürophrase
paperless office

Pro Tip

Avoid confusion with 'digitization' vs. 'digitalization'

In technical contexts, prefer 'digitization' for converting analog to digital (e.g., scanning documents). In business/societal contexts, 'digitalization' is more appropriate (e.g., transforming business models).

Gold Rule

Use 'Digitalisierung' for broad contexts

When referring to societal or business transformation, use 'Digitalisierung' as it implies a holistic change, not just technical conversion.

Word Origin

From German 'digital' (from Latin 'digitus', meaning 'finger' or 'toe,' as in counting) + '-isierung' (suffix indicating a process or action). The term emerged in the late 20th century as computing and digital technologies became widespread.

Usage Notes

In German, 'Digitalisierung' can refer to both the technical process of converting data to digital form and the broader societal/business transformation. In English, 'digitization' (technical) and 'digitalization' (broader) are often distinguished, but 'digitalization' is commonly used for both in general contexts.

Word Breakdown

Digital-
relating to digital technology or data
prefix
+
-isierung
process or action of making something
suffix
Deutsch-Englisch Wörterbuch