Futurescape: Trajectories for tomorrow
This introduction to a study by frog, a global creative consultancy, puts forward a compelling case for the shifting nature of the world as we grapple with the dual challenge of balancing profitability with planetary preservation. Each of the five shifts put forward are important to consider as organisations all around us reinvent themselves by making the most of the technology available without compromising their humanity.
Shift 1: Digital fictions bend new realities
In the near future, delivering customer experience excellence will require that we revisit established practices, while making sure that new (tech-driven) customer touchpoints feel trustworthy. This shift comes naturally for Kyocera as we’ve always highlighted the use of technology to enhance, not replace, human function. Our solutions are designed to aid operational efficiency through reliable printing solutions that streamline workflows without compromising on speed, quality or the human touch.
Shift 2: Technology as cure and condition
As technology becomes increasingly prevalent, organisations will need to find a way to use data and devices that boost efficiency, but which allow time and space away from technology to maintain good mental health. Kyocera believes in a balanced approach, where technology doesn’t consume us, but is used as an aid to speed up processes, freeing up time for person-to-person relationships.
Shift 3: Humanising AI and mechanising humanity
According to the report, generative AI based marketing initiatives need to consider data safety ethics and the role of human creativity. As an early adopter and innovator of future ready technologies, Kyocera was built on the pioneering spirit of our founder Kazuo Inamori, a man who wasn’t afraid to venture into uncharted territories, but also one who believed we are nothing without our humanity. Technology is a wonderful tool that should only be used to help us progress responsibly.
Shift 4: Emerging solutions to the sustainability imperative
When developing new products, companies need to ask themselves do we (people and the planet) really need this or how can we reuse things? Businesses need to explore how they can be a part of the circular economy. Kyocera’s journey towards sustainability started in the early 2000s with the toner recycling programme, which was among the first initiatives in the industry to encourage the circular use of consumables. The programme reflected the company’s belief that environmental responsibility is not an optional add-on but a core business strategy. This journey will be evergreen (pun intended).
Shift 5: How can leaders deliver in an ever shifting and varied cultural landscape
Organisations need to cut through the fog and use the tools at their disposal to tune into developments in the cultural landscape — adapting everything from offerings to operations. Today we find ourselves at an important crossroad. It’s time to make choices that will have lasting impact on how we live and work.
As I said in the media at the end of 2023 looking forward into 2024, despite rapid industry changes and a challenging fiscal environment, Kyocera continues to show resilience and determination through the proactive investment in expanding production capabilities. There is clearly a focus on long-term growth and readiness to capitalise on market recovery while at the same time watching how the future unfolds.
Paul Wendlandt - General Manager - KYOCERA Document Solutions South Africa
