Perspectives — digital & 4IR technologies

Using trend intelligence to inform innovation

March 12, 2017 • digital & 4IR technologies • human experience • strategic foresight • value creation

A critical capability within an innovators DNA is to be able to interrogate and identify the nascent trends arising from innovation at the edge; understand the new expectations these are creating for customers and citizens; and apply these to better serving the needs of your customers, stakeholders and society.

Reducing Friction in Human Computer Interaction

October 25, 2016 • digital & 4IR technologies • human experience • value creation

When designing for improved experience, removing friction from the interaction is a key goal. As we move towards the age of the ‘internet of things’, human computer interaction will evolve towards increasingly natural behaviours. And what could be more natural that speech, which we humans have relied on for millennia.

Design, Digital and Innovation: Driving Profitability and Productivity

September 27, 2016 • design insight • digital & 4IR technologies • strategy

Design is what links creativity and innovation. And any economist will tell you innovation drives productivity and thence profitability or prosperity. Developing an organisational culture that embraces design thinking, and systemic capability in design methods, is critical to driving prosperity in the digital era.

Ready to Wear Now: Leading a Luxury Retail Revolution

February 23, 2016 • digital & 4IR technologies • human experience • value creation

Delivering a superior customer experience doesn't always require digital innovation, but it does require a clear and constant focus on the needs and rapidly changing expectations of your primary customer. Iconic British luxury brand Burberry has undergone a complete transformation within the last decade. In the mid 1990's, it was synonymous with high quality trenchcoats beloved of a wealthy but conservative clientele. I never anticipated much change from year to year when I visited Burberry's Head Office in East London to review and select pieces from the next season's ranges. As the new millennium dawned, its signature check was heavily counterfeited and became the uniform of an entirely different market sector, the 'chav'. Then in 2006, Burberry, under...

Distinguishing Disruptive and Sustaining Innovation

December 22, 2015 • business models & platforms • digital & 4IR technologies • strategic foresight • strategy

An organisation's capability to understand and anticipate disruption is critical. Success can be achieved through being either a leader or a follower when it comes to delivering sustaining innovation, but first mover advantage is undeniable at that point when the basis of competition turns, when disruption occurs.