Opinion
Redefining ‘Norm’ for Organizations Post-COVID-19
Look at the date on your phone, it might as well be 1920 and COVID-19 might as well be the Spanish Flu, humans are still helpless. Forget the technology, right now you just need four walls, soap and water and if you dare venture outside, a piece of cloth covering your nose and mouth.
While it’s hard not to feel the despair and fear all around us now, everyone around the world is finally coming to the realization that regardless of when and how this situation will end, the world we know is never going to be the same.
World War II, 9/11, and most recently, the global financial crisis in 2008 were major incidents among others that have reshaped how the world functioned both socially and economically creating new power balances and affecting how people lived and worked. COVID-19’s impact is arguably more than anything the world has experienced since WWII, according to McKinsey & Company as it is expected, according to financial forecasts, that the EU would see a drop average in GDP from -9.5% to -12.2% and the US from -3.9% to -8.0% by the end of 2020.
A New Normal – not so new!
“For some organizations, near-term survival is the only agenda item. Others are peering through the fog of uncertainty, thinking about how to position themselves once the crisis has passed and things return to normal. The question is, “What will normal look like?” Ian Davis quoted this from McKinsey & Company amidst the financial crisis in 2009.
However, in many ways, the new Normal is being redefined as I write these words right “Now”, from new “social norms” to some jobs, skills, and tasks becoming obsolete within days, you can easily now notice how you, your family, your company or even your government have taken serious steps and have implemented processes to ensure “continuity”. At least I hope you have.
Life Continuity
The operative word for the rest of your life, post-COVID-19, is continuity. And here is why, as you probably have heard by now, some of the world’s largest organizations and enterprises are laying off more people than ever (regardless of how considerate and humane they are about it).
Top Technology Company Lay-Offs to date:
- Groupon has laid off 2,800 employees
- Airbnb has laid off 1,900 employees
- Uber has laid off 6,700 employees
- Lyft has laid off 982 employees
- TripAdvisor has laid off 900 employees
- Brex has laid 62 off 473 employees
Source: Business Insider
Source: Business Insider
This still means the business map is changing because what used to matter most no longer matters at all. So now, as a career person, you are wondering, is everything meant to last? And if so, how will it exactly ‘ continue’?
Right now the CEO may not matter much, your next-door nurse neighbor is now more important in the grand scheme of things, just for life to continue. And that sole fact is exactly how you should re-evaluate your career, your business if you are an owner- or even your family’s priorities. Are the fixtures of your lives continuity-ready? Can it all endure the next phase of re-evaluations and re-definitions?
PIVOT, PIVOT, PIVOT
Reading this might start making the view dark and twisted, but not really. It is an act of god that forces us to re-evaluate every piece of information that we have taken for granted. What we have been taught and what we have practiced for yours no longer apply.
Your team will not be healthy because it participates in Team Building activities or goes out for beers or coffee once a month “on a casual basis” your HR director won’t have the same powers anymore if you thought your company was super cool to allow 1 working day from home per week, it now may as well be the norm for the rest of your career to be remote.
Your company isn’t the same; some employees will have to step up to the plate and prepare for new job descriptions and new expectations.
That means a healthy workforce will not be the group of people bonding by the water cooler every morning, instead, a healthy workforce will be a workforce that actually works together and communicates well without ever having to meet personally, ever.
In my experience leading an organization for almost 20 years now, this is the core of business continuity post-COVID-19; businesses should be all about change management instead of crisis management. With such change comes a large responsibility and enough awareness from founders and managers to contemplate adapting the company’s core values, workplace dynamics, and in some cases, the entire business model.
It is time to consciously pivot your company’s mindset, gearing it to be more aligned with the new norm as opposed to a company struggling to keep its- now virtual- doors open.
According to Mckinsey’s report titled “Beyond Coronavirus: the path to the next normal”, there are five stages to surviving the current status quo and moving into the next World E-Order, and it all falls on the shoulders of management and leadership. Your focus is to Resolve the current crisis and keep your business’s Resilience because “this is a marathon, not a sprint,” in the words of Fady Younan, Extreme Solution’s GM; return your business to ‘functioning cash-positive (if possible) state the soonest all the while focusing, planning and aiming towards the final two stages Reimagination and Reform; which are self-explanatory by definition.
Finally, If you are a business leader, executive, or manager and you are trying to figure out how to navigate the waters of the “New Norm” to sail your ship into safety, my advice would be to start planning and executing a transformation strategy. Change management, workforce modernization, and digital transformation are different stages to ensure your business and workforce are equipped for the “New Norm”.
If you’re ready to take your filmmaking to the next level, it’s time to invest in a top-notch camera that will capture your creative vision in stunning detail. Whether you’re a budding director, a passionate documentarian, or a visual storyteller, we’ve scoured the market to bring you the crème de la crème of cameras. Get your director’s chair ready as we unveil the best cameras for digital filmmakers.
1. Sony A7 III
The Sony A7 III is a powerhouse camera that combines exceptional image quality, superb low-light performance, and incredible dynamic range. With its 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor, 4K video capabilities, and impressive autofocus system, this camera is now a favorite amongst vloggers and serious filmmakers.
Price: $1,998.
2. Canon EOS R5
This beast of a camera boasts a 45-megapixel full-frame sensor, 8K video recording, and advanced image stabilization. With its lightning-fast autofocus and superb color reproduction, it’s a dream come true for filmmakers seeking unrivaled quality.
Price: $3,899.
3. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K
This compact camera punches well above its weight class. With its Super 35mm sensor, 6K resolution, and wide dynamic range, it delivers breathtaking footage that will make your audience sit up and take notice. The camera’s versatility and robust color-grading capabilities make it a top choice for filmmakers on a budget. For the size, it’s superb.
Price: $1,995.
4. Panasonic Lumix GH5
The Panasonic Lumix GH5 is a mirrorless camera that packs a punch. With its 20.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, 4K video at 60fps, and impressive image stabilization, it’s a reliable companion for filmmakers on the go. The camera’s rugged build and extensive video features make it a favorite among adventurous filmmakers.
Price: $1,497.95.
5. RED Komodo 6K
Ready to make a blockbuster? The RED Komodo 6K is a professional cinema camera that delivers stunning image quality and flexibility. With its compact form factor, global shutter, and 6K resolution, it’s a favorite among filmmakers aiming for cinematic perfection. While it comes with a higher price tag, its capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for severe digital filmmakers.
Price: $6,000.
With these top cameras in your arsenal, you’ll be ready to bring your cinematic visions to life. From Sony’s excellence to Canon’s innovation and Blackmagic’s affordability to RED’s unmatched quality, there’s a camera for every budget and filmmaking style. So, grab your director’s chair, gather your crew, and let your creative genius shine on the silver screen.
[Note: Prices mentioned here are approximate and subject to change. Please refer to the manufacturer’s websites for the most up-to-date pricing information.]
There’s been a disturbance in the force. In a world of constantly evolving social media platforms, a new contender has burst onto the scene, capturing the attention of millions and leaving a trail of excitement in its wake.
Threads, Meta’s Twitter rival, has taken the digital realm by storm, offering a refreshing and dynamic experience for users growing weary of Muskian meddling and looking for a unique social media adventure.
Let’s delve into the exhilarating launch of Threads, explore the number of users who have flocked to the platform, and discover the types of individuals we think it might attract.
A Diverse User Base Flocks to Threads
Threads has become the talk of the town. Since its much-anticipated launch, the platform has amassed 30+ million registered users worldwide, 5m reportedly arriving in the first 4 hours of operation. Industry experts predict his rapid growth will position Threads as a significant player in the digital realm, rivaling established giants such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Threads: A Haven for Digital Mavericks and Creatives
One of the most intriguing aspects of Threads is its potential to attract a diverse range of users. The platform’s unique features and captivating interface appeal to people of all ages, interests, and backgrounds. From Gen Z trendsetters to seasoned professionals seeking a fresh networking platform, Threads offers something for everyone.
Threads will quickly become a haven for digital mavericks who yearn for a distinct online experience. These early adopters thrive on innovation, eagerly embracing new technologies and platforms. Their active presence on Threads will result in a vibrant and cutting-edge community that in turn will attract more thrill seekers.
The platform will also be a magnet for creatives, drawing in artists, designers, photographers, and writers. The platform’s visually immersive nature allows users to showcase their talents and connect with like-minded individuals. We guess. Threads will become a hub of inspiration and collaboration for global artists.
Threads: The Go-To Platform for Networking Professionals
For professionals searching for fresh networking and career growth avenues, Threads will emerge as the go-to platform. Its interactive and intuitive interface enables users to build meaningful connections, exchange ideas, and explore job opportunities. The platform’s focus on fostering professional relationships differentiates it from traditional social media networks.
Amplifying Voices and Effecting Positive Change on Threads
Threads is not just about self-expression; it will also attract passionate individuals who want to make a difference. Users dedicated to social causes and activism can find a home on the platform, utilizing its extensive reach to raise awareness and mobilize communities. Threads will prove a powerful platform for amplifying voices and effecting positive change.
Setting Threads Apart: Seamlessness, User Experience, and Privacy Measures
What sets Threads apart from its competitors? Its appeal lies in combining seamless functionality with a seductive user experience. The platform’s innovative features, including dynamic threads, immersive multimedia integration, and intelligent algorithms that tailor content to individual interests, have proved a real draw. Moreover, Threads’ commitment to user privacy and data security has provided a real draw. Threads app offers fresh air in an era of data breaches and privacy concerns by prioritizing transparency and implementing robust privacy measures.
The Impact of Threads: A Force to be Reckoned With
Threads has unquestionably ignited the social media landscape. With its explosive launch, staggering user numbers, and diverse user base, the platform has proven it will be a force to be reckoned with. Whether you’re a digital maverick, creative connoisseur, networking ninja, or cause champion, Threads promises to be the reactive social media platform of choice, and its impact on the digital landscape is only set to grow. Stand by for a new world order, one connected by threads.
Swvl, an Egyptian ridesharing company, has seen a significant decline in value due to financial struggles, resulting in a 99% drop in stock price year-to-date (YTD), hovering around $0.10 and a market capitalization of less than $15 million. Reported Bloomberg.
Swvl was founded in Egypt in April 2017, by Mostafa Kandil and two of his school friends, Ahmed Sabbah and Mahmoud Nouh.
The company was initially funded with $30,000 from the founders. Four months later, Swvl received an additional $500,000 in funding from the ridesharing company Careem. Originally, the company developed an app to address traffic congestion in Cairo but later shifted its focus to creating a platform for booking affordable bus trips in the city.
In 2018, Swvl completed two rounds of funding: a Series A game that raised $8 million and a Series B round between $25-35 million.
The company was valued at around $100 million during these funding rounds, which were co-led by BECO Capital, DiGAME, and Silicon Badia.
Why is Swvl falling?
Since its inception, Swvl has operated by renting buses with drivers for a monthly fee and then using them to run on fixed routes. Unlike the Uber model, which relies on marketing as it offers a marketplace to match drivers who own the cars to users who use the mobile app – they make a profit by getting a cut from the ride.
On the contrary, Swvl’s model owns the entire operation (renting the bus in advance, drivers’ salaries, and marketing for the app). This puts more cost on the company while its revenues are fixed or, most of the time, less because no bus will go complete all day, all routes.
Without going through the exact numbers, it’s evident that Swvl cannot profit with the current business model, and it’s a matter of time before the company’s cash dries out.
How can Swvl recover? Tell us in the comments below.
Inspired by: a Linkedin post by Zubair Naem.
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