Gearing up for an unpredictable future

Dramatic social, technological, political and economic changes are disrupting the way we do business – and that means there’s an opportunity to rethink traditional borders and business models to deliver better, faster, smarter experiences to customers.

The digital age is an exciting time to do business, but these rapid changes will mean big challenges across every sector. Take the manufacturing industry for example. It’s predicted that by 2018, 3D printing will cost $100 billion every year in intellectual property globally. This is just one of the many far-reaching changes that will impact engineering and manufacturing businesses. As with any massive shift in an industry, of course there will be casualties – the ones that survive and prosper are those who are ready to take advantage of the change. That’s what Vodafone calls being a Ready Business. It’s a term to describe the way successful businesses are operating that will mean they’re ready for the rapid and unpredictable changes facing their industry. But it’s not just new technology challenging the status quo in manufacturing and engineering either. People are also demanding more. They expect immediate service and prompt delivery – especially when an alternative supplier is only a few clicks away. Driven by digital developments such as social, mobile, analytics and cloud, these major trends are forcing businesses to rethink their traditional borders and even their business models. And it’s more than just front line responsiveness that needs attention. Smarter use of technology can help mobilise supply chain, distribution models, front and back office processes and the factory floor. That increased demand from customers was exactly what TransDiesel were facing – they needed to improve their communications system so they could keep up.

TransDiesel – better systems to meet demand

TransDiesel provides parts, equipment and services to the transport, mining, forestry, construction and marine sectors, so when their customers call, they nearly always need urgent help. An out-dated and inefficient communications system had started to make it impossible to respond to them quickly. TransDiesel was in danger of losing business, money, and most worryingly, their reputation. They needed a way to seamlessly connect their 13 nationwide branches with 200+ employees, working on and off site.

Getting ready for anything

Vodafone eliminated unused and unnecessary lines and unified TransDiesel’s communication systems with Vodafone IP Telephony. This improved responsiveness and reduced communications costs by 30%. Calls are now transferred instantly to any available rep. The team can also easily share info or check stock while on the phone to a customer. By eliminating missed calls and increasing the mobility of staff, TransDiesel has protected their profits as well as their reputation.

Are you ready?

So is your organisation ready to make the most of the transformations in your industry? Are you set up to protect against the extra risk that comes with it? These are the questions we ask to help businesses stay one step ahead – and protect themselves into the future.

To read the full story on TransDiesel and find out how Vodafone can help you become a Ready Business, visit vodafone.co.nz/readybusiness