The Tech Strategy Podcast

Discover insights from a visit to a leading online travel agency, revealing their innovative strategies that fueled a remarkable rebound after COVID. Explore how personalization and new content-sharing initiatives are reshaping the travel experience. The discussion also touches on the intriguing implications of generative AI for the industry. Plus, dive into a bold proposal for Canada to become the 51st state of the U.S., analyzing the potential benefits and deeper relations that could stem from such a move.

Explore the rivalry between Threads and Twitter, analyzing how Threads has rebounded after a wobbly start. Discover the vital role of product quality and cross-promotion through Facebook in driving user engagement. Delve into the advantages of Threads' complementary business model, leveraging economies of scale for wider user acquisition. Examine the evolving communication platform landscape and the importance of video content and payment features. Reflect on external influences impacting social media, including technology trends and political pressures.

This week’s podcast is about my interview with Dongliang Guo, Head of International at Alibaba Cloud.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.Here are my 3 take-aways:Take-Away 1: Alibaba Cloud is Focused on the Infrastructure and Model Layers. It Is Differentiating its GenAI with an Open-Source Ecosystem (i.e., ModelScope) and Model Building Tools.Take-Away 2: Southeast Asia Cloud Computing is Being “Fixed”. And Also Reshaped for GenAI.Take-Away 3: GenAI Has Surprising High Impact Use Cases Everywhere.Cheers, Jeff-------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

This week’s podcast is my playbook for Extreme Personalization. And how generative AI can supercharge never-ending customer improvements.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.Here is more on 4 stages.Unlock the Secret to Customer Obsession: The Extreme Personalization Playbook (1 of 3) (Tech Strategy)Extreme Personalization Playbook Stage 2: Build Your Repeat and Retain Machine (2 of 3) (Tech Strategy)————-I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

Discover the rapid evolution of e-commerce in China as AI-generated content reshapes consumer engagement. Learn about the booming cross-border e-commerce market, led by Chinese brands seizing opportunities. Discounts and promotions reign supreme, with companies like Ctrip excelling in driving sales. Explore Shanghai's innovative retail landscape, featuring brands like Miniso that prioritize immersive experiences and customer interaction. Uncover key strategies that enable retailers to thrive in a fiercely competitive environment.

Dive into the world of smart logistics as a major player expands internationally. Discover how innovative strategies in delivery and supply chain management set them apart from global competitors. Learn about the magic of economies of scale and how technology, such as automation and machine learning, revolutionizes warehouse operations. It's a fascinating look at where logistics is heading in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape!

Discover the magnetic world of beauty e-commerce where consumer behavior reigns supreme. Dive into the psychology behind beauty consumerism as societal pressures shape buying choices. Explore how digital technology is revolutionizing the beauty landscape, particularly in the vibrant markets of Asia. Personal travel tales from the Middle East highlight the unique blend of culture and innovation in beauty tech. With a focus on premiumization and the influence of social media, this narrative reveals the exciting future of beauty in the digital age.

This week’s podcast is about personalization and never-ending customer improvements. This is a key operating activity. And sometimes it is a digital marathon that can create an operating advantage.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.Here are the 4 steps to start personalizing.Step 1 is DOB3 (Digital Core) and DOB 6 (people, culture, teams). Do organizational change.Step 2 is to identify 3-4 Use Cases:These will impact different functions differently.Step 3 is to have an ROI within 6 months.Step 4 is to get the process to 5-7 days.Here are the 6 types of customers (from BCG).Brand advocatesMulticategorySingle-category regularsDeal seekersDisengagedLapsedHere are the 4 stages of extreme personalization and customer improvements.Stage 1 - Personalization MarathonStage 2 - Repeat and Retain Machine.Also move beyond just sales transactions. Do experience management.Stage 3 - Surround Customers with Value. Add complementary services. Bundles. Consumption ecosystems.Including AI services. This is where the Rate of Learning Marathon really matters. Watch for machine learning operating flywheels.Stage 4 - Build a Moat————–I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

This discussion uncovers how digital tools amplify consumer behavior and emotional engagement. It highlights the transformative power of community and identity in shaping brand loyalty. The impact of tribal and belief systems on consumer dynamics is explored, revealing increased retention and network effects. Lastly, the conversation touches on the intertwining of politics with everyday digital interactions, raising important questions about societal implications. Trendy and insightful, this talk dives into the sophisticated nature of modern consumerism.

Discover the fascinating world of network effects and their significant impacts on business models. Learn about four crucial questions to assess network dynamics and how these effects can amplify both user value and economic returns. The discussion dives into competitive advantages that arise from demand-side economies of scale, showcasing examples like Coca-Cola and the ride-sharing market. Uncover the potential barriers that network effects create for new entrants, along with valuable insights on tracking these dynamics as key performance indicators.