Hope and imagination key to surviving past "Nike-shaped" Covid-19 recovery

Extract from Author

Covid-19 is currently proving to be tortuous and long-drawn affair with highly uncertain economic outcomes. However, some observers are holding out for a rapid V-shape recovery when the pandemic draws to its eventual conclusion. "At the moment, the story looks very good. We're set for a V-shaped recover," White House adviser and National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow said as recently as June 30.

Author’s Reflection

What is your personal takeaway from your SOAP story?
Covid-19 is not just a time of crisis, but one of opportunity as well. It is the opportunity for businesses to upgrade themselves for a new digital economy in order to realise new productivity gains in the post-Covid-19 world. Mindset change is key to kickstarting this process of transformation.

Now that your story has been published for some time, do you have any reflections to share post-publishing?
Digital transformation is an essential process that is often easier said than done. Many traditional businesses may theoretically understand the need for transformation but don't know where to start. There remains much room for the government, business community and society to support traditional businesses looking to embark on this process so that their firms can stand the test of time.

What did you hope to convey to readers through this story?
I hope to convey that readers should never waste a good crisis. Businesses can take this period of disruption to reflect on their current processes and a world forever changed. This is the first step towards reimagining their businesses, opening new pathways that will unleash never seen before opportunities.

How do you feel for being recognised for your work?
I feel pleasantly surprised and very grateful for the award. I am glad that readers may have gotten something out of the piece.

Written by
Ng Qi Siang,
The Edge Singapore

Monday,
10 August 2020

Merit Award, Commentary