Vikram Sharma, Operating Partner at S2G Investments, brings a wealth of experience in business strategy and technology. He discusses the vast opportunities for innovation in low-digitized industries that make up 80% of the U.S. GDP. With a focus on the importance of combining ROI with compelling storytelling, he emphasizes how technology can empower legacy sectors like agriculture and retail. Sharma also highlights the transformative potential of AI and advocates for collaboration to foster industry growth and creativity.
Legacy industries, which represent 80% of U.S. GDP, offer vast opportunities for digitization and innovative technology integration.
Marrying quantitative ROI with compelling storytelling is essential for inspiring stakeholders and driving successful investment and transformation.
Deep dives
Opportunities in Legacy Industries
Legacy industries represent significant opportunities for digitization, accounting for about 80% of U.S. GDP. Sectors like agriculture, construction, and mining often lack technological advancements, presenting a chance for transformation. For example, a portfolio company called Sentara uses advanced machine learning and data from drones and IoT sensors to enhance agricultural productivity by providing vital information such as plant health and weed pressure. The potential for innovation and improved outcomes in these traditional sectors is vast, as they remain heavily reliant on outdated practices.
Technology as an Enabler, Not an Enemy
Technology should be viewed as an enabler rather than a threat, particularly in industries facing labor shortages and inefficiencies. For instance, Corvus Robotics has developed an unmanned warehouse inventory system that autonomously manages stock, enhancing efficiency and reducing the manual labor required. This example highlights how technology can address unmet needs and improve workflows, allowing workers to focus on more complex tasks. As industries continue to integrate these advancements, they can empower workers by making jobs less monotonous and more fulfilling.
Merging Quantitative and Narrative Insights
Successful investment and transformation require a combination of quantitative analysis and compelling storytelling. Companies must not only demonstrate their potential returns on investment (ROI) but also share engaging narratives to inspire stakeholders and drive support. An example is Moliere, which utilizes nanobubble technology to improve water quality in lakes, successfully sharing their story on social media to engage an audience. By marrying math and meaning, organizations can create compelling visions that resonate with investors and consumers alike, promoting growth and innovation.
Vikram Sharma, Operating Partner at S2G Investments on the massive opportunities of new technology for digitization and legacy industries. The former division president of Information Resources, or IRI, and former CEO of Shop Local says that 80% of US GDP comes from low-digitized industries, presenting significant opportunities for innovation. An extraordinary combination of businessman, strategist and technologist, he argues that technology, while it might be scary, is coming to enable us. He says that in both the real world and the investment world, it’s important to marry math and meaning, and that ROI with storytelling can inspire and drive transformation.
#Business #Innovation #Technology
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