Useful insights that stand the test of time

Expert Insights

Going digital: a golden opportunity

We’ve all seen how digital has transformed the consumer experience. But what about in the B2B world? Henry Boyden specialises in helping organisations capitalise on the potential of digital business. He tells us how B2Bs who haven’t undertaken significant digital transformation, are in danger of leaving it too late.

How to make innovation business as usual

Although Britain’s economy expanded 2.8% in 2014, productivity has fallen for the third successive year. In response, the CBI has called for businesses to become more innovative and raise their performance. Many companies already describe themselves as ‘innovative’, but how many implement a solid model to ensure it’s embedded in everyday business? We spoke to growth and innovation expert Dennis Pannozzo to find out how he helps companies build sustainable innovation capability.

Are you really listening to your customers?

Over the past decade the likes of Amazon and Apple have transformed the way we buy and use products. The key to their success has been a complete focus on the needs and experiences of their customers. So could B2B organisations learn from their B2C cousins and do more for their customers? Peter Fisher, an expert in customer focus, believes so.

Be brave and make TUPE work for everyone

Protection of employment rights during a transfer – known as TUPE – can be a minefield. Get it wrong and it can make your acquisition completely unprofitable, but with a little bravery you can seize the opportunity to vary employee terms and conditions for the benefit of everyone. TUPE expert Ruth Gawthorpe offers some useful advice.

6 ways to make your change programme a success

When it comes to change programmes, companies often make the same mistakes. So what are they
and how do you avoid them? Author, coach and successful change management expert Brigitte Cobb
offers her tips to staying on track.

SSCs: are companies missing the bigger picture?

Shared services centres (SSCs) have been used successfully by businesses to streamline back office functions and save money. But could they do more? Could the SSC extend its portfolio to wider business services to drive performance and growth? Business services design and management expert Phil Lambert believes so.

Towards a new style of management

The financial disaster of 2007-08 was not just a failure of economic policy, but also a failure of corporate management as we know it. So argues Julian Birkinshaw, Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship at London Business School, and author of several books including Reinventing Management. We spoke to him about why he believes current management is flawed and what companies can do to inspire the ‘Google generation’ of future leaders.

Sales or marketing? Which is the priority for optimum growth?

With the UK out of recession, many UK businesses are bullish about growth in 2014. But what’s the best way to achieve it? Should your focus be sales or marketing? David Baldwin-Evans, an experienced interim sales and marketing leader, shares his thoughts.

Complex change is easy…

Complex change is easy so long as you have a clear plan, the skills to deliver it and the ability to engage with people at all levels and bring them along. Highly experienced interim transformation programme director Tony Martin lists a few simple rules to make effective change easier.

A fresh look at China

Although China’s astonishing rate of economic growth over the past 30 years has slowed, there are still plenty of opportunities for companies looking to do business in the world’s most populous country. One businessman with considerable experience of working in China is strategic brand expert Jonathan Geldart. He’s now co-authored a new book that captures the insights of Chinese business leaders and provides a practical guide for Western companies.

Protecting the value of your acquisition

The recent series of major mergers and acquisitions (M&A) is a strong indication that we’re moving towards economic recovery. With companies apparently more confident to spend cash stockpiled during the depths of the recession, and private equity firms sniffing out good investments, we spoke to post-acquisition integration expert Philip da Silva about the importance of a well-planned integration.

Making change faster and stickier

When a company undergoes major change, it can be an uncertain time for its employees. Effective communication will not only help your people understand what’s happening and why, but it will also help you understand their views and concerns. As experienced change communications expert Phyllida Barr tells us, communication plays an important role in building trust and making change stick.

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