Bartłomiej Wójtowicz, Comarch’s business consulting director, talks to the BPCC’s Michael Dembinski about the next steps facing companies as digitalisation pushes further and further into every business process
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Poland’s largest tech firm is playing a major role in digitalising the country.
Bartłomiej Wójtowicz, Comarch’s business consulting director, talks to the BPCC’s Michael Dembinski about the next steps facing companies as digitalisation pushes further and further into every business process.

I’d like to start with the big-picture overview of the digitisation of business as a whole. We’ve gone a long way since the first word processors, databases, and spreadsheets began to revolutionise the way business was conducted half a century ago. Every subsequent step has streamlined business processes and, in theory at least, is continually improving productivity. Where do we stand today? How much is there still to digitalise? How are AI and cloud computing affecting productivity? What do you see as the next big thing?

At Comarch, we’ve witnessed the digitisation journey of businesses change so much over the years, and we are now at a pivotal moment where this transformation is accelerating faster than ever. From the early days of basic word processors and spreadsheets to today’s more sophisticated systems, nearly every aspect of business operations can now be automated and optimised. However, substantial progress has still to be made in fully leveraging emerging technologies such as AI, cloud computing, and blockchain to achieve maximum efficiency and connectivity.

AI and cloud computing, in particular, are influencing the way businesses handle data and processes. The switch to cloud platforms has allowed businesses to access powerful tools without heavy infrastructure investments, offering real-time data access, scalability, and improved collaboration across borders. When applied to EDI and e-invoicing, cloud technology streamlines processes, making it easier to onboard new partners, comply with regulatory requirements, and enhance data security. AI-driven solutions are also transforming repetitive tasks, identifying patterns, and generating insights that were once impossible. For example, AI-powered invoice processing can automatically extract and validate data, predict payment schedules, and greatly reduce manual errors—freeing up staff to focus on more value-added tasks.

Despite this rapid advancement, many businesses continue to operate in a hybrid model, blending manual processes with digital tools. In areas such as e-invoicing and electronic data interchange, adoption has grown considerably, yet significant gaps remain. E-invoicing, for instance, has been a game changer in driving efficiency and reducing errors, while EDI has enabled the seamless exchange of business documents such as purchase orders and invoices. However, some industries still rely on outdated paper-based systems or legacy technologies that aren’t fully integrated into modern workflows.

At Comarch, we understand that every business is unique. That’s why we tailor our e-invoicing and EDI solutions to the specific needs of our clients, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems such as ERP. This customisation is one of the reasons we’re recognised as a global market leader, according to IDC reports. Our solutions not only help businesses transition from manual to fully digital operations, but also streamline workflows, improve coordination across platforms, and enhance collaboration between partners.

One example of such a project is the successful implementation of Comarch EDI for BP Polska. Our platform was enhanced with additional modules to process documents from BP’s system, leading to the launch of the EDI system after thorough testing with a selected partner. By 2008, the project was fully integrated into BP’s logistics chain using standard modules. To facilitate effective collaboration and manage service-level agreements, the Comarch Tracking module was developed, providing real-time visibility into order placements and document transmissions.

Another example of Comarch providing tailored solutions is our project with Diageo, where we proposed the Comarch Mobile Sales Force system to quickly facilitate the execution of the Eight Steps Call standard. The implementation utilised the latest market equipment, featuring a capacitive touch screen that supports gesture control for the device and the Comarch Mobile Sales Force applications. The solution was upgraded to be compatible with smartphones and tablets running the Android operating system.

We also see untapped potential in several areas:

  • B2B transactions: While digital tools are being adopted, many B2B transactions still happen through outdated methods like email or fax, with EDI and e-invoicing adoption lagging behind.
  • SMEs: Large enterprises have embraced digital transformation, but many SMEs face budget constraints or lack awareness. Making these technologies accessible to smaller businesses is crucial for broader digitalisation.
  • Cross-border and interoperability: The challenge of harmonising standards across regions still exists, and overcoming this will enable even greater advancements for global digital business processes.

The digital transformation of businesses is far from complete. Technologies such as AI, cloud computing, blockchain, and hyper-automation are driving efficiency and opening many new opportunities. Moreover, regulatory frameworks, particularly in e-invoicing, are further pushing businesses toward digital solutions.

Comarch is very much seen as a Polish champion when it comes to IT, the first home-grown brand to have gone global. How do you see your place in the global IT market? How do you see your responsibilities that come with being an ambassador for the Polish IT sector?

Comarch has indeed established itself as a Polish champion in the IT sector, and we’re proud to be recognised as one of the first home-grown brands to achieve global success. Our journey from a local IT company to a global player has positioned us uniquely in the international market, and with that comes both opportunities and responsibilities.

We see ourselves as a versatile and innovative company that can stand shoulder to shoulder with the rest of the world’s leading IT firms. Our broad portfolio, which spans from e-invoicing and EDI solutions to advanced ERP systems, telecommunications software, and financial services, enables us to compete across diverse sectors and industries. What sets us apart is our ability to adapt to the specific needs of different markets, offering customised solutions while maintaining high-quality standards. This flexibility has allowed us to establish a presence in over 100 countries, working with clients ranging from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies.

Poland’s reputation as a location in which to do tech projects has risen rapidly over the past decade, with major global players opening IT hubs here or outsourcing tech work to Poland. How has this affected supply and demand for IT skills in the Polish labour market? Is Poland sufficiently effective at attracting tech workers from abroad to work here? Is there a worry that Poland might be running short of talented people for the sector?

Poland’s growing reputation as a prime location for tech projects has indeed had a significant impact on the supply and demand dynamics of the Polish labour market.

The influx of international companies has certainly increased the demand for skilled IT professionals. As a result, there’s a high level of competition for top talent, with companies offering attractive salaries, benefits, and opportunities for career growth to attract the best candidates. This has been positive in many ways, as it has encouraged Polish professionals to upskill, specialise, and pursue advanced education in technology-related fields. Moreover, the quality of IT education in Poland, combined with access to a strong talent pipeline from universities, has kept the supply of skilled workers relatively steady.

However, with the growth of the sector, the demand is beginning to outpace the supply. Specialised skills in areas such as AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data science are particularly sought after, and finding candidates with experience in these fields can be challenging. Also, Poland has made significant strides in attracting tech workers from abroad, but there’s still room for improvement.

This is where companies such as Comarch play an important role. As a company that originated from AGH University of Science and Technology, one of Poland’s leading technical universities, collaboration with academic institutions is in our DNA. Comarch was founded by Professor Janusz Filipiak, who recognised early on the importance of building strong links between the academic world and the business sector. This legacy continues today, with Comarch actively engaging in partnerships, research projects, and internship programs with universities across Poland. By doing so, we help nurture the next generation of IT professionals, ensuring that they are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing tech landscape.

The possibility of a talent shortage is a genuine concern. As more international companies set up operations in Poland and domestic tech firms continue to grow, the pressure on the labor market is intensifying. The pace of technological advancement also means that the skills required are constantly changing. To mitigate this, it’s crucial for the industry, government, and educational institutions to work together. Additionally, creating more partnerships between universities and tech companies can help ensure that graduates are equipped with the skills that are in demand.

Britishness is what links us as a chamber; how does Comarch view the UK market? Do you also see the UK as a springboard to global markets in North America, the Far East, the Middle East and Africa? Are you tapping into the UK financial markets, for example, to help finance your global expansion? How do you manage cultural differences across an organisation that spans so many countries?

The UK market is of strategic importance to Comarch, and we see it as a key player not only within Europe but also as a gateway to the North America, the Far East, the Middle East, and Africa. The UK’s global influence, strong financial sector, and reputation as a business hub make it an ideal springboard for our international expansion, especially in sectors where we have deep expertise, such as e-invoicing and EDI.

A prime example of Comarch implementing solutions for British companies is our collaboration with Unilever. As one of the pioneers in using electronic documents to streamline cooperation with retail chains, Unilever has partnered with Comarch to facilitate electronic document circulation with retail partners through the Comarch EDI platform. This integration allowed for efficient order management directly within Unilever’s ERP system, enabling partner companies to swiftly access product information and place orders through a dedicated web portal. Recognising the benefits of EDI technology in optimising document preparation and enhancing operational efficiency, Unilever further automated information exchange with their logistics operators, aiming to reduce manual processing time and improve accuracy in their warehouses.

We are investing heavily in the growth of our local presence in the UK, with a particular focus on expanding our team of specialists in e-invoicing and EDI. Recognising the demand for advanced, reliable, and compliant solutions in this market, we have been actively recruiting top talent to strengthen our UK team and ensure that we can offer the highest level of service to our clients. By doing so, we aim to not only cater to the needs of businesses within the UK but also leverage our expertise to support multinational companies looking to streamline their operations across multiple regions.

When it comes to financing our global expansion, the UK’s financial markets are certainly on our radar. The UK’s established and dynamic financial sector provides various opportunities for investment, partnerships, and funding, which can support Comarch’s ambitions for growth. As we continue to scale our operations, we view the UK not just as a market in itself but as a valuable resource for driving our broader international goals.

The UK government plans to adopt countrywide e-invoicing as part of its Digital Transformation Roadmap, which was announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves. This is a broader reformation of the Digital Transformation Roadmap.

It will successfully simplify financial processes for businesses and improve tax compliance across the country. Right now, feedback from businesses is being gathered, and then a public consultation will be launched. This initiative is set to roll out in spring 2025.

Comarch is prepared for these changes and is eager to provide compliant e-invoicing solutions in the UK, ensuring that businesses can quickly adapt to the new regulations.

We’re excited about the opportunities ahead. Whether you’re planning expansion, development, or digital transformation, Comarch is here to support businesses not only in the UK but globally, every step of the way.