The key to success in a digital transformation process does not lie in the technology but in focusing people on the benefits that will be achieved by changing how they do things.

To achieve these benefits, informal leadership beats formal leadership that flows through hierarchical lines.

So what is informal leadership?

Indeed.com defines it as "Informal leadership is when an individual does not have official status as a group's leader, but other group members see them as and consider them to be a leading force."

And why is it paramount for transformation initiatives?

Here are three reasons:

1. Informal leadership creates more relationships throughout an organisation than formal leadership. Formal leadership only focuses on reporting lines and peers on the same hierarchy level. But it is across these reporting lines that knowledge and innovation lies.

2. In informal settings, the collaboration focuses on tasks rather than politics. This also leads to more collaborative decision-making and more engagement.

3. Reporting lines, organisational setups and leaders change. Informal leadership and the connections and collaborations created thereby make it sustainable.

"Leadership is influence", wrote John Maxwell.

I can't wait to read your feedback, comments, questions, shoutouts and suggestions.

And give some thought to the following: Were you acting under formal or informal leadership when you were most successful?