Embracing Digitization and Business Transformation: Insights from Industry Experts

Arun Karna and Deepali Naair Share Visionary Ideas for Harnessing Technology and Driving Growth at DQ Conclave

The topic of discover, digitize, transform, and grow your business, sparked a lively panel discussion featuring Arun Karna, MD and CEO of AT&T Global Network Services India Pvt Ltd, and Ms. Deepali Naair, Group CMO of CK Birla Group. The discussion was expertly moderated by Prabhu Ram, Head of the Industry Intelligence Group at CMR.

Ms. Naair emphasized that organizations face diverse challenges. It is crucial to determine whether the target audience is B2B or B2C, but the channels to reach them are converging. Technological advancements have brought about dramatic changes, with the past four years accelerating this process. Marketers now need to focus on the convergence of sales and marketing, which has become a point of debate and discussion. Today's marketers prioritize convergence, emphasize the human aspect, and recognize the need to leverage technology for greater business success.

Karna highlighted the role of digital technologies in driving exponential growth. To achieve this, enterprises must build their architecture around digital solutions, comprising three layers: digital cores, digital ecosystems, and digital edge. By pushing compute power to the edge, enterprises can provide differentiated experiences. These components should also be intuitive. Telcos are equipping themselves with the necessary tools for the digital world, such as zero-touch product management, next-gen Internet and intranet platforms, cloud computing and storage orchestration, and more. Telcos have also transformed their roles to become network service providers, investing in core infrastructure to bring agility and flexibility. Composable network elements and standard building blocks enable the provision of customizable services and solutions.

Ms. Naair pointed out the importance of change consultants and the need to select leaders with a high aptitude for learning. Implementations must be taken to the next level, ensuring effective execution.

Karna emphasized that security should be all-encompassing. Attention must be given to the endpoint layer, securing IoT and network devices, as well as ensuring the security of the cloud. Telcos are dedicated to delivering these services while complying with jurisdiction laws.

Ms. Naair acknowledged the transformative impact of the pandemic, which has shifted the focus to work-life balance, the value of life, and mental health. Organizations will now be evaluated based on their sustainability efforts, in addition to their performance. Leaders who have demonstrated empathy have been successful over the past five years.

Karna stressed the importance of acquiring relevant skills for the future. Digital transformation is no longer a distant concept; it is happening now. Continuous learning and upskilling are essential. Seven years ago, academia and industry ecosystems joined forces, resulting in the establishment of a virtual university with a personalized learning engine. This enables individuals to craft their learning paths and models. Furthermore, a digital transformation champions program has been launched to equip people with the necessary skills.