The key trends shaping successful business strategies for a post-COVID-19 world

By Girish Ramachandran, President of Asia Pacific, Tata Consultancy Services

Businesses in Australia are assessing the damage wrought by COVID-19, but they are also seeking to learn the critical lessons and embrace any positives that have emerged.

This is a long-term game. In this exceptional human and economic crisis, there are no quick fixes. Unlike previous recessions, there isn’t a rule book or a clear example of best practice. We’re looking at a long-term recovery in uncertain times, compounded by ongoing geopolitical, social and environmental unrest.

Reframing the conversation from a challenge to an opportunity is critical. Most businesses are now seeking to adopt innovative strategies that will enable them not only to withstand, but thrive, should another global impediment strike.

Some countries are starting to refocus on self-reliance, developing sectors crucial for self-sufficiency. In Australia, we've seen a significant shift as crucial sectors like finance, retail and exports all took a big hit. However, we've also seen an adjustment locally toward sustainable practices.

Technology is now at the forefront of national agendas, with the potential to enable smarter cities, smarter citizens and more intelligent workspaces, beyond COVID-19.

Levelling up digital strategy

When COVID forced businesses online, it revealed the lack of genuinely ‘digital workplaces’. For over a decade, Australian companies have celebrated their digital capabilities and mobile offices. However, the reality was that most businesses, including some of Australia's most significant, have been unable to support all their employees working from home digitally.

In the next phase of recovery, while the pressure on businesses from the initial disruption eases, investment in digital solutions that drive mobility is vital. Fully-trained and equipped employees will also be a driving force of this change, as we enter a new phase of the digitally-

'Every country or organisation will look for citizens or employees who are motivated, resilient and adaptable. '

empowered workforce.

Digital inclusion from both governments and businesses is essential. In Australia, we saw a complete shift in almost every sector to online services. COVID-19 has proven that although done in haste and against all the odds - we are capable of a significant digital transformation.

Digital Citizens

COVID-19 has also highlighted that most essential services can be digitised, and to a certain extent, automated. But the key to economic survival is access to technology – assuring that no citizen is left out, whether through expanding and enhancing digital access or promoting digital inclusion by design.

The shift from traditional to digital channels is a win-win proposition for both citizens and governments, providing everything from a better user experience, convenience, and speed, to lower cost of service and greater inclusion.

At the most basic level, while we cannot yet predict the long-term impact of COVID-19, we can be sure that we are entering a prolonged period of uncertainty. Companies that build a purpose-driven workforce, equipped with the skills and tools to be resilient and adaptable, are not only ensuring their survival but also helping communities and economies recover and thrive. ongoing national efforts for digital literacy need to be set in place, with two concessions – providing access to web-enabled devices, and a safety net for those who are unable to keep up with the digital transformation, for example, older Australians.

Every country or organisation will look for citizens or employees who are motivated, resilient and adaptable.

Looking to the horizon

As we emerge post-COVID-19, now is the time for governments, businesses and individuals to reform preconceived ideas and ways of working. While Australia has been able to navigate COVID-19 in a world-leading position, the opportunity should not be lost as a result of inaction or fear of the digital future. Now is the time to bridge the digital divide and provide everyone with the skills and tools they need to succeed.