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Xiaoshi Kinnunen is is a Postdoctoral Researcher at Aalto University School of Business and holds a PhD in International Business. Her research explores how management practices support innovation and how digital platform organisations build and expand their business models internationally. Outside of research, Xiaoshi has worked on projects with several Finnish companies, helping them innovate and grow through digital platforms.  

This summer, she is running the course Change Management for Digital Transformation at Aalto University Summer School. 

What inspired you to design this summer course around this topic?  

I designed this course based on my 2.5 years of hands-on experience working with seven Finnish organisations to transform their businesses into digital platforms.  

I’ve seen firsthand that platformisation is critical for organisations to scale in today’s digital world, but it’s far from simple and often comes with pitfalls. This course will prepare students to navigate the transformation process, whether it’s moving to a platform model or driving broader organisational change. 

Why is change management such a critical capability for organisations undergoing digital transformation today?  

In today’s digital age with AI, automation, and constant tech disruption, companies face a stark choice: adapt or lose.  

Change management is what turns ambitious digital ideas into real transformation – aligning people, processes, and technology, so your business doesn’t get left behind and stays competitive in the industry. 

What frameworks or tools will students learn to help them navigate and lead organisational change effectively?  

Students will learn frameworks for individuals and teams, like ADKAR and Kotter’s 8 steps, and for the whole organisation, like Lewin’s Change Model and McKinsey 7-S.  

We will explore these topics through real-world examples of firms transitioning from brick-and-mortar operations to digital businesses, focusing on what distinguishes digital platform models, the steps required for successful adoption, and the common pitfalls to avoid during transformation. 

Can you give an example of a case, exercise, or discussion that helps students connect theory with real-world digital transformation challenges?  

We will use a strategy game where you’ll apply key concepts, theories, tools, and frameworks from class to progressive real-life cases, analysing strategic steps for the companies involved.  

In addition, we’ll run role-play simulations that give you hands-on experience in organisational change in a hypothetical business setting, while sharing knowledge and perspectives within the group. Depending on availability, you may also hear from industry experts who share real-world insights and examples.

For whom would you recommend this course?  

The course is designed for university students, working professionals, and anyone interested in understanding transformation and change management, both in traditional organisational settings and in the development and scaling of digital platforms and ecosystems.

The application period for Change Management for Digital Transformation is open 30 January to 31 May 2026.