The way businesses operate and make money has undergone a massive shift in the last decade or so. The Internet has changed how we pay bills, buy our groceries, and shop online; mobile devices have changed how we work, socialize, and play; and e-commerce has changed how we do all of our shopping in the first place. In today’s fast-changing world of business, it can be hard to keep up with what’s happening and what trends are worth watching out for in the future.
Breaking News
A recent report from PwC revealed that businesses are becoming more decentralized in decision-making—particularly for small businesses—which means both external factors (e.g., technology) and internal team dynamics (e.g., management styles) are playing an increasingly vital role in how firms operate. This can be both a positive and negative development; a big benefit is that it reduces risk, as companies don’t have to rely on one person or group to make critical decisions. However, decentralization also has its drawbacks. For example, if your firm has multiple decision-makers who aren’t communicating effectively with each other, you could end up with a lot of wasted time and money spent on ideas that aren’t properly vetted. It also creates room for error; if no one takes ownership over something important, there may not be anyone to hold accountable when things go wrong.
Company News
Headlines are full of stories about business deals, management shakeups, organizational changes and other company news. As a consumer, you can benefit from knowing what’s going on in your favorite companies. You should feel comfortable with how they do business so that you can make informed choices about where to spend your money. For example, if you have a penchant for Nike shoes but learn that CEO Mark Parker is encouraging employees to take time off for family vacations instead of working overtime—and that he leads by example—you might choose to buy sneakers from another company. And if Nike’s environmental record doesn’t meet your expectations? You might be more likely to look elsewhere for shoes next time around.
Environmental News
While it may not have a direct impact on business, many corporate executives have expressed an interest in finding ways to reduce their environmental footprint. This can include increased recycling efforts or any number of sustainable initiatives. Moreover, in recent years businesses have become much more aware of environmental risks posed by climate change—which affects everything from supply chains to public policy. These risks are likely to persist for years, so those with a vested interest in keeping their companies afloat need to take climate change into account when making decisions.
Upcoming Events
The number one trend in the world of business today is the emergence of events. Here are some upcoming conferences that you might be interested in learning more about
How Technology Will Change Our Lives
With technology accelerating at such a fast pace, it’s hard to predict how it will change our lives in five years. It may seem obvious that technology will continue to evolve, but keep an eye out for niche uses you wouldn’t have thought of before. Artificial intelligence (AI) could soon be used in any number of ways—from running your house to writing your novels! How might AI affect your business? Could AI replace certain jobs? What are some examples of AI already being used today? And what about robotics? We’re already seeing robots being used in manufacturing; they’re also making their way into warehouses and hospitals. What other industries might they disrupt? How can we prepare for these changes? The best way to stay on top of these trends is by reading industry publications, attending industry events, or joining relevant online communities.
Stock Market Stats
Read any business news site today, and you’ll be hard-pressed to escape a world of jargon. You’ll hear about things like the battle for talent, the rise of big data, mobile payments solutions, and dozens of other terms that are enough to turn off even an otherwise interested business person. But what do these terms mean? And why should you care? In fact, why is it important to know anything at all about the world of business today? Because it can help you make better decisions. It can help you manage your company more effectively. It can help you stay ahead of your competition in ways that make your products and services more desirable than those offered by others.
