Category: Featured Leader

The global Customer Experience (CX) Enterprise Software Market size was valued at USD 11.05 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 22.08 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 10.5% during the forecasted period from 2024 to 2030.

UnfoldLabs, a SoftClouds Company is an innovative and leading technology and CX solutions provider based in San Diego, California. The company specializes in helping organizations maximize their Salesforce CX implementations, technology, and solution development services. “We offer a full suite of solutions and services ranging from architecture and development to integration, implementation, and support in the areas of CX, cloud, and mobile technologies,” Asokan Ashok, CEO, UnfoldLabs.  

Our Services

UnfoldLabs provides a wide range of innovative technology solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of businesses & individuals that can make an impact globally. We are committed to delivering high-quality, reliable, and innovative solutions that empower clients to stay ahead in today’s fast-paced digital world. The company’s services include:

• Technology-Driven Innovative Products: Team UnfoldLabs uses technology to specialize in developing advanced, cutting-edge products aimed at enhancing user experiences and pushing the boundaries of digital transformation. With a keen focus on mobile and cloud technologies, we are at the forefront of creating dynamic products that incorporate the latest in AI, machine learning, and data analytics. Our commitment to innovation is evident in our approach to tackling complex technological challenges and turning them into accessible products and solutions.

• Digital Transformation: Among our array of products, UnfoldLabs has products that range from mobile/software platforms to sustainable & scalable cloud infrastructures. Notably, our mobile products stand out by offering innovation, seamless integration capabilities, and enhanced user interfaces, with usability. By continuously exploring new horizons and applying groundbreaking technologies, we are truly setting a benchmark for innovation and customer-centric solutions in the tech industry.

• Next Generation Experiences: TeamUnfoldLabs is at the cutting edge of reshaping customer and user experiences through next-generation technology products & solutions. Leveraging technologies like advanced AI, our products offer intuitive interfaces and personalized interactions that anticipate user needs and preferences. With a focus on real-time responsiveness, UnfoldLabs enhances user satisfaction & engagement across various digital & tech platforms, setting new standards for innovation in user experience. We are committed to future-ready and customer-centric innovations.

The Differentiating factor

UnfoldLabs sets itself apart from competitors through an unwavering commitment to innovation and a customer-centric focus. “We prioritize exploring the latest technologies to deliver cutting-edge solutions, ensuring that our clients benefit from the most advanced offerings on the market. Our tailored approach involves understanding each product & client’s unique needs and goals, resulting in bespoke solutions that consistently exceed expectations.

With a team of highly skilled professionals and years of industry experience, UnfoldLabs brings unparalleled expertise to every product & project. We pride ourselves on our agility and adaptability, enabling us to pivot as needed to stay ahead of market demands. Our dedication to quality and collaborative partnerships fosters strong, long-lasting relationships with our clients,” added Ashok.

The Clientele

UnfoldLabs serves a diverse and prestigious clientele across various industries, ranging from startups to established enterprises. “Our clients value our innovative approach and our ability to deliver tailored technology solutions that drive their business forward. We partner with companies in sectors such as automotive, education, finance, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, and telecommunications.

Our strong reputation for quality and excellence has attracted clients who seek cutting-edge technology solutions & CX services to address complex challenges and improve their operations. Through close collaboration and a deep understanding of their unique needs, we have established long-term relationships with our clients, earning their trust and becoming a trusted partner in their growth and success.”

The Future Roadmap

“Our roadmap is centered around continuous innovation and growth, with a focus on emerging technologies and expanding our products & solutions. We aim to integrate cutting-edge technologies with innovation into our solutions. By staying at the forefront of these advancements, we can deliver transformative products that drive significant value to our products & solutions. Our plan includes expanding our global footprint by entering new markets and forming strategic partnerships, allowing us to serve a broader range of industries and clients worldwide,” concluded, Ashok.

Visit Asokan Ashok – LinkedIn Profile

Visit Website –https://unfoldlabs.com

The global advisory firm landscape is characterized by intense competition, with firms continuously innovating and expanding their service offerings to meet the evolving needs of clients in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. TOUGHLOVE is a homegrown advisory firm based out of Dubai, UAE, and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. “We aim to make business advice accessible to those who do not have the people, capability, capacity, or knowledge to manage this growth or even the time or funds to experiment with theories and best practices. We commit to telling these businesses what they need to hear, not what they want to hear, in a peer-to-peer approach that is driven by co-creating solutions that are market-ready. We recognize that often these assignments leave businesses vulnerable during implementation, and we are prepared to continue partnering with them throughout that phase,” says TOUGHLOVE, Khaled M. Ismail, CEO.

Our Services

TOUGHLOVE offers a modern business advisory service to guide & shape your business. “We recommend agile & scalable solutions for the best business outcomes. We partner with businesses to unlock their potential & deliver creative hands-on solutions without sizeable overhead. We help clients identify blind spots, support them in co-creating solutions, & help them develop internal skills & capabilities to overcome your challenges.”

The differentiating factor

“There is no other advisory firm with this amount of collaborative hands-on experience in the market. At TOUGHLOVE, we tell our clients what they need to hear, not what they want to hear, so we can effectively help them and their businesses. We have witnessed first-hand the dire need to engage with real-life practitioners who are about developing practical, tailor-made solutions based on their own experiences, as opposed to sharing theoretical best practices. We want businesses to know that there is a different way to get help, and that is the TOUGHLOVE say,” adds Ismail.

Mission and Vision

We focused on our experience rather than theory to advise our clients, but the trigger is our approach. Straight-talking, jargon-free, and honest approach. We tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear. You will understand what we recommend to you. So, we do things differently.

• Sophisticated NOT condescending
• Trustworthy NOT fluffy
• Inspiring NOT preachy
• Progressive NOT buzzword bingo
• Ambitious and Driven NOT antagonistic
• Provocative NOT imposing
• Confident NOT Arrogant
• Supportive NOT transactional
• Direct NOT Blunt

Shaping the business landscape in the Middle East

“TOUGHLOVE partners have acquired most of their learnings from hands-on, real-life experience in prominent leadership positions and by working with, and on some of the region’s more prominent and successful brands and organizations over the past few decades.  As individuals, we have consistently been tasked with challenging and highly demanding agendas in the region that have been pegged as a growth potential for the past couple of decades.  Today, SME and family-owned businesses, which contribute to the vast majority of the economy as well as employment in most countries, must compete with the scale, financial power, and broad expertise of international organizations and brands. We collaborate with them via a straight-talking, tried-and-tested approach that brings real-life, fit-for-purpose solutions that are devoid of theory. Arguably, this formula might not appeal to all, but that’s OK. Growth and progress often require TOUGHLOVE and that is in our DNA. So, those who do seek support and advice will value the journey with us and the results it will enable them to achieve,” elaborated Ismail.

The success story   

“Over the past two years, we have worked with many local, regional, and international clients taking on a variety of assignments, from refreshing the company’s brand and positioning, assisting clients with their go-to-market strategies, restructuring marketing departments, setting marketing and business strategies, implementing plans, and always working closely with our clients. We have also been asked to take on assignments for developing and shaping internal company cultures and taking on interim CMO positions.”

Why TOUGHLOVE?

“TOUGHLOVE originated from a business insight that traditional consulting models can be improved to better serve the needs of new-age businesses. Sharing this view, our founding partners of senior practitioners joined forces to form a group that offers companies a fresh perspective for solving the problems that we had experienced ourselves. We help companies facing organizational, commercial, and operational challenges that limit their growth and performance,” concluded Ismail.

Visit Website –https://tlapartners.com

Visit Khaled M. Ismail  –  LinkedIn Profile

Amidst my studies at the esteemed Sport Institute of Finland, a captivating journey unfolded—a journey that would sow the seeds of Vilike’s inception. Engaged in conducting the APM Inventory—a method devised to assess motor and perceptual skills in children aged 3-6—I found myself deeply intrigued by the intricacies of early childhood development.

As a devoted mother and a semi-professional football player, the evolution of motor and perceptual skills in young children held a profound fascination for me. However, amidst the meticulous data collection using pen and paper, a pivotal moment of frustration ensued—the loss of essential assessment papers. It was a moment that sparked a revelation, igniting the spark of innovation.

Simultaneously pursuing studies in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) at Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences, I found myself at the nexus of opportunity and ingenuity. Inspired by the potential of technology to revolutionize traditional paradigms in early childhood education, I ventured into discussions at our university’s startup incubator.

It was within this dynamic environment that the seeds of Vilike were sown—a vision to harness technology for the advancement of childhood development. Thus, from the convergence of passion and innovation emerged Vilike—a testament to the power of perseverance and the boundless possibilities of merging technology with education.

As we embark on this transformative journey, Vilike stands poised to redefine the future of childhood development, one technological innovation at a time.

Navigating the Challenges: Vilike’s Journey of Resilience

In the early days of Vilike, the road to innovation was fraught with challenges, yet each obstacle became a stepping stone towards progress. Securing adequate funding was a formidable hurdle, but with the support of the Finnish Invention Foundation and the fortuitous hiring of a development company, we forged ahead. As fate would have it, my final thesis and work placement led me to collaborate with the same company, resulting in the development of Vilike’s inaugural digital version of the APM Inventory in 2014.

Transitioning into the role of a solo entrepreneur after graduation presented its own set of challenges. Despite my earnest efforts to introduce Vilike’s digital solution to daycares, the concept was met with limited understanding. However, a serendipitous encounter with Riikka Luoto from the UKK Institute in 2015 breathed new life into our vision. Collaborating on Motor Skill Master events, we successfully collected data from over 200 children using Vilike’s digital solution.

Yet, amidst our triumphs, adversity struck once more when an integer mistake in the backend rendered our collected data unusable for scientific research. It was a devastating setback that led to a period of burnout. However, with resilience and determination, we regrouped and embarked on a journey of redemption. Joining the Boost Startup Journey accelerator, we found renewed inspiration in collaborating with Haaga-Helia students and digital artist Jenni Nadin.

The culmination of our efforts materialized in Vili’s Playbook: Active Adventure—a testament to our perseverance and commitment to innovation. In 2018, at the Junction Hackathon, we forged a pivotal partnership with computer vision specialist Sarthak Tripathi, enabling Vilike to integrate AI technology into our assessments. Recognized as the most promising startup at the HYPE sports tech accelerator in 2020, Vilike has emerged from a decade of development with a solid founding team and a bright future ahead.

As we prepare for our re-launch, we remain guided by our unwavering dedication to our mission and bolstered by the invaluable support of our peers. The journey ahead may be fraught with challenges, but with a holistic approach and a resilient spirit, Vilike is poised to redefine the landscape of childhood development for generations to come.

Fostering Curiosity, Igniting Growth: Vilike’s Mission and Vision

At the core of Vilike’s ethos lies a commitment to harnessing the transformative power of technology to enhance childhood development. Our mission is rooted in the belief that technology should serve as a catalyst for growth, igniting curiosity and fostering holistic well-being.

In a world inundated with digital distractions, Vilike envisions a future where technology becomes a facilitator of movement and learning, rather than a passive observer. Rejecting the notion of excessive screen time and linear user experiences, we are dedicated to leveraging the power of AI to create immersive solutions that inspire children to explore, discover, and move.

Central to our vision is the recognition that the journey of childhood development is not confined to a single moment, but rather a lifelong process. With this in mind, Vilike assumes full responsibility for the entire product lifecycle, ensuring that our digital offerings not only entertain but also nurture the growth of young minds.

As we embark on this journey of innovation, Vilike remains steadfast in our commitment to empowering children to thrive in the digital world, fostering happiness, health, and holistic development along the way.

Empowering Play, Inspiring Growth: Vilike’s Services

Vilike is proud to offer a range of innovative services designed to enhance childhood development and empower educators. Our flagship product, Vili’s Playbook: Active Adventure, is a groundbreaking digital experience that seamlessly blends physical movement with motor skills assessment and analysis. Through interactive gameplay, children are inspired to explore and engage in active learning, while our cutting-edge technology provides valuable insights into their developmental progress.

In addition to our pioneering product offerings, Vilike is committed to fostering collaboration and innovation within the education community. We will soon launch a digital community platform where educators can connect, share ideas, and develop similar solutions tailored to their unique professional needs. By providing a platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange, Vilike aims to empower educators to create impactful learning experiences for children and youth across diverse settings.

With a focus on harnessing technology to inspire growth and facilitate lifelong learning, Vilike is poised to revolutionize the landscape of childhood education. Join us on our journey as we empower the next generation to thrive in a digital world filled with endless possibilities.

Redefining Childhood Development: Vilike’s Unique Approach

Vilike sets itself apart by prioritizing children’s natural growth over entertainment. Our interactive games engage, educate, and promote holistic development. Unlike competitors, we tailor experiences to diverse learning styles, ensuring every child thrives. Vilike also champions responsible technology use, inspiring movement alongside digital exploration. Join us in reshaping childhood education for a brighter future.

Connecting with Vilike’s Clientele: Empowering Partnerships

Vilike’s clientele spans from renowned institutions like the UKK Institute to forward-thinking daycares. As we prepare to launch Vili’s Playbook via vilike.fi, we’re eager to forge co-creation partnerships with schools and academia. Our focus is not just on transactions but on collaborative relationships, where together, we tailor solutions to meet unique educational needs.

Through early access to Vili’s Playbook, stakeholders can experience firsthand the transformative potential of Vilike’s offerings. Our goal is to empower educators and caregivers, fostering holistic growth and innovation in childhood education. Join us as we shape the future of learning, one partnership at a time.

Vilike’s Collaborative Work Culture: Empowering Innovation

At Vilike, collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. With a commitment to holacracy, every team member’s input is valued equally, fostering an environment where innovative ideas thrive. Transparency and open communication are key, ensuring everyone is informed and empowered to contribute meaningfully.

We celebrate diversity of thought, encouraging all team members to share their insights freely. This inclusive culture extends to our partnerships, where we collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations to drive positive change in childhood education.

Our work culture is defined by a spirit of openness, respect, and shared purpose. Together, we’re reshaping the future of childhood development through technology and education, one collaborative effort at a time. Join us as we empower children to learn, grow, and thrive.

Client Testimonial: Vili’s Playbook in Action

Saara Viteli of Boutique Fun Learning Kindergarten Metsäpirtti, Finland, praises Vili’s Playbook for its simplicity and effectiveness in evaluating physical activity. Children thoroughly enjoy the engaging storyline while their physical skills are seamlessly documented and evaluated. Saara commends the product’s ease of use, highlighting the quick preparation for educators and the added charm of Panda plush toys enhancing outdoor activities. Inspired by their experience, Saara expresses interest in further digital documentation and database creation for outdoor-focused kindergarten groups. She enthusiastically recommends Vili’s Playbook to other early educators and primary education setups, affirming its value in promoting active learning experiences.

Visit Kirsi Ekberg – LinkedIn Profile

Visit Website – https://vilike.fi/

Although it started with students at first, when social media arrived on the professional scene it took off quickly.  Clients became curious then distracted before getting overwhelmed with the growing number of platform options from Facebook to Twitter/X, Insta, Snap, Pinterest, TikTok and then there were blogs too.  I was getting questions about what to do, where to be and how to do it without wasting a lot of time and energy. Even if we have not mastered the latest online tools and communities many of us have made peace with social media by picking one or two that work for us and focusing our attention.  For me and my business LinkedIn matters most.

The Metaverse started to get a lot of attention during the pandemic as the whole world migrated online but it seems to be cooling off a bit now that Artificial Intelligence or AI has moved to the forefront.  Media stories abound about ChatGPT being able to replace doctors, lawyers, MBAs, you name it.  Robots took away factory jobs years ago and now this.  Many people have asked me lately about whether I am worried that AI is going to replace marketers too.

Newspapers, radio, and television all had to adjust as technology has evolved with computers, cell phones, streaming, etc.  The marketing fundamentals will continue to be relevant – understanding what motivates your target audience to buy your products or services never goes out of style.  We will continue to help clients find the right words and pictures to tell their stories that educate, inform and/or entertain using AI but I’d argue the real killer application today is Authentic Interactions not Artificial Intelligence!  While your competition generates robotic copy that sounds generic you can stand out and break through the sea of sameness with personalized thoughtful content serving their specific needs. So don’t get distracted by the latest shiny object, to win today authenticity is what people remember.  Building connections and relationships with your audience is more important now than ever!     

I have found a nice framework for evaluating whether or not ChatGPT (or any AI) is appropriate for your task is to consider:

• Is the task high or low stakes?
• Does the task require high accuracy or high fluency? If your task is low stakes, high fluency (i.e. writing a birthday poem), conversational AI is likely a good fit for the task. If your task requires high stakes and high accuracy (i.e. making a business investment), conversational AI is most likely a bad fit for the task.

There are thousands of tasks that fall somewhere in between these two extremes so you need situational awareness and subject matter expertise to get the most out of this (or any) technology.

In my experience, the human touch always wins.  We’ve seen the push and pull between campaign automation and human-driven approaches, and human wins every time. When influencer marketing first began, every aspect of a campaign was done manually. This was by necessity since we were essentially building the playbook and executing this new marketing tactic simultaneously. Those early days required a strong foundation of brand marketing experience, smart instincts and a whole lot of grit.  Successful influencer marketing requires building relationships with influencers, crafting personalized campaigns and creating authentic content that resonates with the influencers’ audiences. These tasks require a tailored approach for every client, as well as the ability to understand the nuances of influencer marketing, specifically the unique nature of working with content creators.

Any smart marketer will tell you that technology can help streamline aspects of a campaign, but you won’t find an experienced strategist who will recommend relying solely on automation for influencer marketing.  The best influencer marketing approach is a hybrid one: human-driven campaigns enhanced by technology.  With ChatGPT generating text with just the click of a few buttons, I can see why many are questioning whether this new language model will replace content creators. If AI is so good at natural language processing and personalization, it could seem like a worrisome proposition but don’t sound the alarms yet.  Effective influencer marketing relies on the ability to create genuine and engaging content that resonates with the creator’s audience, and this requires creativity, empathy and a personal touch that is difficult for AI to replicate.  We need to keep tabs on AI developments, but I am confident that authenticity will continue to reign supreme. Influencer marketing requires experienced professionals with real—not artificial—intelligence to use tools in a smart way to engage creators who ultimately connect with and influence their followers on a personal level. Tools can enhance but cannot replace that human touch.  Technology does not have to be isolating it can be used to build our real world communities and relationships too!  

Here is my bio:   Paige Arnof-Fenn is the founder & CEO of global branding and digital marketing firm Mavens & Moguls based in Cambridge, MA.  Her clients include Microsoft, Virgin, The New York Times Company, Colgate, venture-backed startups as well as non profit organizations.  She graduated from Stanford University and Harvard Business School.  Paige serves on several Boards, is a popular speaker and columnist who has written for Entrepreneur and Forbes. 

In today’s fast-changing business landscape, companies are looking for effective strategies to accelerate sales and drive growth. Hiring a full-time Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) has traditionally been the go-to approach when a company reaches a certain size. The primary reason CEOs hire an experienced Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) is to add strategic leadership skilled at building and scaling the company’s sales efforts and to drive revenue growth. An experienced CMO possesses the expertise to develop a comprehensive marketing strategy that aligns with the company’s vision, goals, and objectives, effectively communicates the brand’s value proposition, and identifies and capitalizes on key market opportunities to increase revenue.

Prosh Marketing is a collective of Marketing leaders with decades of experience, passionate about helping entrepreneurs access senior-level marketing talent, affordably. Prosh Marketing is led by Roshni Wijayasinha and supported by a network of partners and expert consultants.

Our Services

Prosh Marketing helps CEOs, Startup Founders, and Marketers to maximize their potential with proven marketing leadership that has helped companies attain nine-figure exits and launch over 50 products and brands in worldwide markets. Leveraging over 15 years of experience and a wide network of specialists, Prosh Marketing has designed cost-effective programs that are built to deliver an ROI and use a sustainable approach by building up internal marketing resources and capabilitieswith flexible team integration, hands-on training, and knowledge transfer.

Fractional CMOs

• Help with collaborative goal and strategy definition with leadership.
• Design and build the marketing engine, including the team, vendors, programs, processes, tools and partnerships.
• Manage Marketing implementation and operations with hands-on mentoring of marketing staffand / or vendors to deliver KPIs.

PT Marketing Directors

• Help with implementing the marketing plan ensuring timely execution of marketing activities and budget management.

The Inspiration Journey

“I saw an opportunity for growing businesses to tap into senior marketing leadership more affordably with a part-time model. This differed from consultants because our marketing leaders would not just create strategy but also help implement and build infrastructure inside organizations. This differed also from agencies who did everything for their clients but left them with no knowledge or systems in place internally. This Fractional CMO model was perfect for smaller businesses that couldn’t afford or didn’t need a full-time head of marketing and were trying to maximize their growth by leveraging junior employees. Here, they could afford seasoned marketing leaders on demand,” added Roshni Wijayasinha, CEO, Prosh Marketing.

Beating the odds as a women

“As a woman marketing in the tech field, there were not many of us in the early days. In addition, most of the founders who were funded and could afford our services were men. I find that focusing on my unique strengths has allowed me to feel more at home in a room that might be completely different from mine, and also focused on really understanding my target audience, their needs, and pain points so I could relate, regardless of gender,” says Roshni.

The work-life balance

“I try to carve out weekends for self-care, and time with family and friends. I will prepare for my week on a Sunday night but the rest of the time, I do not open my email. Having a clear boundary on my weekends is also necessary because I work late on weekdays and our clients sometimes reach out during the week at various times because they are across a variety of time zones,” elaborated Roshni.

Women, Leadership and Business

“Many of the women leaders I’ve met are strong communicators and can lean into emotional intelligence to truly connect with people. This has not only translated into success from a marketing perspective connecting with target audiences and customers but also helped them inspire and engage their teams. This has created strong work cultures where they can attract and retain great talent, as well as support their staff and partners to maximize their success. I think more women will rise to leadership positions shortly.They will have more role models and more funding available to them as well. I also foresee social norms and educational opportunities will drive more women into STEM careers and entrepreneurship. I believe that this will inspire more innovation for women, as well as businesses that service women’s needs.”

The Work Culture

“At Prosh Marketing, we have a diverse roster of Fractional CMOs from across the world. We value and hire for this diversity as it allows us to appeal to a broader client base and also have a broader range of skills and experiences to draw upon. This also means we celebrate a variety of holidays across different cultures, use inclusive language when we speak to our collective as well as our clients, and collect feedback from our stakeholders to ensure we’re including their opinions. I’m also an angel investor with The Firehood, a group that invests in women founded businesses to help them access capital and resources to build and grow their companies.”

But how?

As we enter the quiet and reflecting days towards the end of the year and just in time for making some New Year resolutions in a week, I wanted to write about ways how we can get to know ourselves (and with it, each other) better.

The subtle art of self-analysis is en vogue since the practice of mindfulness became a popular movement a few years ago. However, whether you are venturing into deep meditation or simply want to look inward before making certain decisions, many people struggle when it comes to the reality of self-knowledge.

No wonder. Much of our modern society is built upon reacting first and reflecting later. That is why before asking a question of the Gods, the Oracle of Delphi kind of forced its travelers to investigate themselves to “Know Thyself.

As simple as the demand sounds, as hard as it is to fulfill. Those interested in a more holistic form of self-inquiry therefore may also need to question the factors that contribute towards such. Indeed, the times we live in would do well with a few more of us challenging our collective and individual self-integrity by trying to better understand each other’s context of truth.

“Whosoever looketh into himself, and considereth what he doth, when he does think, opine, reason, hope, fear, etc, and upon what grounds; he shall thereby read and know, what are the thoughts, and passions of all other men” — Thomas Hobbes

Knowing who you are does not only help you, it helps to understand others as well. Also, the strength of one’s integrity stems not only from our habits, behaviors, and attitudes (collectively called “character”), but also from those not yet discovered features and abilities we all carry within, that we are seldom aware of, and which can only be unveiled by a so-called “potential analysis” or coincidentally be triggered by a pivotal, often unique and unexpected event in life that we have little or no control of.

Personality Tests and (Indirect) Self-Learning

Maybe you have come across various personality tests already, e.g. during school or study times, while trying to pass the odd recruitment interview, or perhaps you have taken one online simply out of curiosity.

Some of them include:

• the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (see also Truity and Crystal), or
• the IDRlabs Enneagram.

These tests are great for serving specific purposes at times. However, there are many ways to learn about yourself indirectly, thereby uncovering aspects of your personality you may not yet have had on your radar.

One such approach is by learning about the factors that influence your health and well-being and that determine your “constitution” e.g. by understanding the ancient art and science of Pulse Diagnosis (and with it the Tridoshas “Vata, Pitta, and Kapha”):

The Virtual Reality (VR) Market size is estimated at USD 67.66 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 204.35 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 24.74 percent during the forecast period (2024-2029). Virtual reality technology, a computer-simulated reality creating an artificial environment, is increasingly used in sectors like cinema, education, gaming, and AI applications. In India, it all started with Raja Harishchandra (1913), India’s first feature film, which tells the story of a righteous king and showed a brilliant understanding of Indian audiences by the film’s director, Dadasaheb Phalke (the Father of Indian Cinema).

Phalke, and the other filmmakers of his generation, knew they could instantly win vast audiences by rooting cinema in Hindu mythology with stories of religious and divine characters. By the late 1930s, films were being produced in every major city and every major language. The ancient epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata influenced the narratives of Indian cinema. This influence includes the techniques of a side story, a back story, and a story within a story.

Founded in November 2015 by Arvind Ghorwal, Elysian Studios has embarked on a unique and in-depth approach to virtual reality storytelling, crafting blissful VR experiences that transport audiences to spiritual places, fostering growth, evolution, and transformation. “Virtual Reality is a technological masterpiece that does not just show stories but immerses us in them. The screen moves from being in front of our eyes to surrounding us, offering a 360° view of a world that mirrors reality. It is not just watching it is living the story, becoming the star, and influencing the narrative through your own decisions, just like in the real world,” says Mr Arvind Ghorwal, Founder, Elysian Studios.

The bigger picture

“Our viewers are transported to some of the most ancient, blissful, and energetic lands on Earth. From the mystical city of Kashi, dedicated to Lord Shiva, to the serene Bodh Gaya, where Buddha found enlightenment, and the yoga capital, Rishikesh.” Elysian Studios weaves narratives that transcend time and space. Elysian Studios VR films have not only captured the hearts of viewers worldwide but have also garnered acclaim in prestigious international arenas.
“Our creations have been officially selected at renowned film festivals. Elysian Studios is captivating audiences with its immersive VR experiences.” It remains at the forefront of the ever-evolving VR landscape. With their innovative storytelling and dedication to spiritual exploration, they inspire viewers to embark on a transformative journey. Elysian Studios is shaping dreams, creating bliss, and offering a glimpse into the incredible, transformative power of India’s ancient wisdom. As the world adapts to this new reality, Elysian Studios is reminding everyone that the journey of storytelling has only just begun, and the best is yet to come. As the world immerses itself in the wonders of virtual reality, Elysian Studios represents India’s rich cultural heritage and its limitless potential.

The wave of change

Today, Virtual Reality presents new possibilities for human connection and transcendence. Where technology meets spirituality through the transformative power of VR, Elysian Studios has emerged as a pioneer, a divinely inspired entity, and a growing force beyond entertainment. Elysian Studios is inviting all to embark on a spiritual odyssey through uniquely crafted experiences.

“When India became independent in 1947, it already had a blossoming film industry that had been going from strength to strength since its birth. Then comes the golden age of Indian cinema (late 1940s–1960s), the movies that made it to the list of best films ever created in the history of Indian cinema- Guru Dutt’s Pyaasa (1957) and Kaagaz Ke Phool (1959), Mehboob Khan’s Mother India (1957), Raj Kapoor’s Awaara (1951) and Shree 420 (1955), K. Asif’s Mughal-e-Azam (1960), Satyajit Ray’s Pather Panchali (1955) and many other such classics. The most iconic songs from the golden era- Pyar Hua Iqrar Hua (Shree 420), Jab Pyar Kiya toh Darna Kya (Mughal-E-Azam), Jaane Kahan Mera Jigar Gaya Ji (Mr. & Mrs. 55), Lag Jaa Gale (Woh Kaun Thi?), Awara Hoon (Awaara), Udein Jab Jab Zulfen Teri (Naya Daur) are still played in India. They fill the hearts with joy and bliss,” adds Mr Ghorwal.

The man behind the curtain

Mr Arvind is a visionary entrepreneur whose belief in the potential of VR technology was strengthened by the awe and wonder he witnessed in the faces of people experiencing VR for the first time. His passion for merging spirituality with cutting-edge technology laid the foundation for Elysian Studios’ exceptional journey. Arvind is an alumnus from IIT Mumbai who embarked on this path with a vision to shed off the Western influence that has clouded our understanding of ancient Indian wisdom.

The gift of 21^st century

Although VR seems extremely futuristic, its origins are not as recent as we might think. Many people consider that one of the first Virtual Reality devices was called Sensorama, a machine with a built-in seat that played 3D movies, gave off Odours, and generated vibrations to make the experience as vivid as possible. The invention dates back as far as the mid-1950s. Subsequent technological and software developments over the following years brought with them a progressive evolution both in devices and in interface design.

This immersive multimedia offers a 3D virtual world, enhancing learning experiences and gaming environments. AI integration further enriches the virtual environment. The development of the metaverse, a collective shared space combining VR, augmented reality, mixed reality, and brain-computer interface, promises an interactive virtual reality experience. The VR market, segmented by hardware, end-user, and geography, is dominated by the gaming sector, with North America leading due to numerous startups focusing on computer-generated reality technologies.

VR and the future

“With the extended reality (XR) revolution already underway, it is easy to envision a future in which the lines between the real world and the virtual world become even more blurred than they are today. Virtual reality is not an entirely new concept, but recent advancements in technology have made it more accessible and immersive than ever before. VR allows viewers to step into the story, providing a sense of presence and interaction like never before. With VR headsets becoming more affordable and user-friendly, filmmakers can now create fully immersive experiences that transport audiences into fictional worlds or real-life events. This technology opens endless possibilities for storytelling, breaking the boundaries of traditional filmmaking and giving rise to a new form of cinematic experience,” concluded Mr Ghorwal.

As of 2022, the global Digital Marketing Agency Service market was estimated at USD 13729.24 million, and it is anticipated to reach USD 30477.99 million in 2028, with a CAGR of 14.22 percent during the forecast years. Running successfully as a digital marketing agency for a decade Knowledge Hub Media is an adept digital marketing agency primarily anchored in the B2B advertising domain. “We’ve carved out our niche by specializing in lead generation often referred to as demand generation or content syndication within our industry circles. Our methods leverage innovative multi-channel content syndication to generate highly targeted leads,” says Paul Guenther, Founder, Knowledge Hub Media.

The Journey Towards Success

Established as “IT Knowledge Hub” in 2009, Knowledge Hub Media was incepted to become a game changer in the digital marketing industry. The foundation was laid with the realization that there was immense potential in leveraging web-based content to drive sales leads.

“There have been several pivotal milestones in our journey. Notably, the evolution from IT Knowledge Hub to Knowledge Hub Media marked an expansive shift, broadening our services and market reach. Then followed accolades that acknowledged our growth and innovation such as making it to Inc. 5000’s list for three successive years and being honoured as one of Entrepreneur Magazine’s Entrepreneur 360 companies. Another defining achievement has been our entry into the realm of intent data analytics, with the creation of our Intent Data Cloud service – asserting our place as an authority in the B2B tech space. These milestones each represent a chapter in our continuing narrative, a saga of striving for unwavering quality, service, and innovation,” adds Mr Guenther.

Embracing the Digital Era

“Our flagship service encompasses demand generation and content syndication that is custom-tailored to generate and deliver highly targeted, sales-ready B2B leads. We excel in promoting our clients’ white papers, eBooks, and webinars, underlining the importance of timely, relevant content in attracting buyers. We pride ourselves on employing a multi-channel approach that engages prospective clients through impactful online advertising and meticulously curated content, ensuring every campaign is appropriately aligned with the client’s unique selling propositions and target audiences. One of the key features of our services is the incorporation of big data analytics and intent data, which allows us to understand and target companies actively in the buying cycle for the types of solutions our clients offer. Intent Data Cloud – our proprietary in-house intend data analytics system – puts us in a strategic position to deliver insights that inform more targeted and successful campaigns,” elaborates Mr Guenther.

The Big Picture

The firm’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction ensures that the clients achieve exceptional marketing and sales results, with Knowledge Hub Media as their driven advertising technology partner.

The benefits are quite manifold:

Lead Quality: Internal analytics guarantee high lead quality, ensuring that the leads are data-rich and ready to engage.

Customization: Every campaign is tailored to meet the client’s specific requirements, allowing for a level of customization in targeting and delivery that sets us apart.

Responsiveness: Providing immediate and insightful responses to the clients, keeping them informed and satisfied throughout every stage of a campaign.

Client-Centric Services

At Knowledge Hub Media, the cornerstone offering revolves around demand generation and content syndication services that are meticulously engineered to not only capture but also nurture highly qualified B2B leads. The strategy hinges on amplifying the reach and impact of the client’s intellectual assets white papers, webinars, and case studies to curate interest among a concentrated demographic of professionals. This serves to enrich the clients’ sales pipelines with leads demonstrating a marked propensity for their technology solutions.

The suite of services is distinguished by several key features. The agency prioritizes precise targeting, utilizing intent data analytics to identify and engage entities within the buying cycle specific to the client’s offerings. Across the board, customization stands as a calling card the ability to tailor campaigns down to granular specifics is instrumental in delivering quality leads.

Sailing Against the Waves

The ubiquitous challenge within B2B marketing is the saturation of marketplaces and the increasing sophistication of decision-makers. Businesses today are inundated with options, making the cut-through necessary to capture attention and engender trust progressively intricate. In this context, Knowledge Hub Media has innovated by creating rich pools of intent data and by fine-tuning content syndication methodologies. The organization has sustained an aggressive stance on staying ahead of market trends, perpetually iterating on the approach to keep pace with evolving expectations and technological frontiers.

“Our services culminate in addressing a problem that is fundamental yet profound—the alignment of sales offerings with genuine market demand. By doing so, we alleviate the inefficiencies inherent in broad-spectrum marketing approaches, budget wastage, diluted messages, and the prolonged gestation of sales qualification. Our approach ensures that sales endeavours are precursive, targeting individuals whose behavioural cues indicate a pre-existing interest in similar solutions, thereby elevating the probability of sales success and accelerating the sales cycle efficacy. In summation, we are not simply providers. We are partners to our clients, vested in their market traction, and committed to fuelling their growth trajectories with actionable leads and insightful market interactions,” says the Founder, Knowledge Hub Media.

Going With the Flow

Knowledge Hub Media thrives at the forefront of B2B advertising and demand generation areas inherently tied to continuous change. The firm fosters adaptability by embracing a mindset of perpetual innovation, influenced by technological advancements and client needs. The industry necessitates a constant pulse on emergent trends, and the organization facilitate this by investing in ongoing training for the team and leveraging internal data analytics through platforms like Intent Data Cloud. This arms Knowledge Hub Media with real-time insights, enabling it to promptly pivot strategies and capitalize on fresh opportunities.

There are several, but a particularly poignant instance would be the navigation of the COVID-19 pandemic. While many industries were deeply affected, the firms prior adoption of a flexible, partly remote work system allowed Knowledge Hub Media to transition to fully remote operations seamlessly. This adaptability not only allowed the organization to continue without disruption but also gave a surprising edge. The agency managed to assist its clients in rapidly digitizing their operations, thus fostering growth even in turbulent times.

The Global Effect

“Our products and services center around the fusion of cutting-edge technology with nuanced market understanding. For instance, our global reach can target nearly every country combined with our ability to conduct campaigns in various native languages, exponentially enhancing the accessibility and effectiveness of our clients’ marketing efforts. As we continue to refine these capabilities, I see us shaping a more interconnected and efficient global B2B marketing landscape that transcends cultural and regional barriers.

We boast a tapestry of international success stories. One partnership that stands out is our multi-year endeavors with not just North American partners, but also, EMEA and APAC/APJ enterprise software providers. Through tailor-made demand generation and content syndication campaigns, we assisted them in breaking into the North American market, significantly expanding their global footprint, and contributing to a marked increase in their international sales volumes,” adds Mr Paul.

Beating the odds

“Challenges are both inevitable and manifold. Yet, a significant challenge for me was cultivating an atmosphere where innovation is not just encouraged but is the baseline expectation. This has meant steering the team away from resting on our laurels and instead continually pursuing new opportunities. Balancing aggressive growth while maintaining the company culture of “never losing an employee” is another challenge that tests my leadership daily.

From these challenges, I have learned that leadership is not about imposing authority but about empowering your team. Transparency, fostering an environment of trust, and keeping the lines of communication open are essential. Keeping clients and employees at the forefront of every decision has been a cornerstone of our practice. And personally, ensuring that I remain involved in virtually all facets of the company helps me to stay grounded and lead by example,” Mr Paul.

By Ken LeBlanc, CEO of PropertyGuys.com

The Real Estate market in North America is expected to reach a value of US$132.90tn by 2024. Residential Real Estate holds the largest share in the market, projected to reach a market volume of US$104.30tn in 2024. In an era of unprecedented change and innovation, the real estate industry is undergoing a transformation that challenges traditional norms and empowers both agents and consumers alike. The landscape is shifting, and as we navigate through these changes, one cannot help but acknowledge the growing discontent with the conventional commission-based model that has long been the cornerstone of North American real estate.

“I have witnessed firsthand the changing dynamics of the real estate industry and the need for a paradigm shift. Our unique approach, driven by a commitment to empowering both agents and consumers, positions PropertyGuys.com as the future of real estate in an industry hungry for change, Ken LeBlanc,” CEO of PropertyGuys.com.

About Ken LeBlanc

Ken LeBlanc is a visionary entrepreneur and the President and CEO of PropertyGuys.com, a pioneering real estate marketing franchising network in North America. With a career spanning close to 25 years, Ken has not only challenged established industry norms but has also dedicated himself to fostering entrepreneurship and business growth in Canada and beyond.

In 1998, Ken, along with a classmate, recognized the potential of helping homeowners sell their properties privately using the Internet. With an initial investment of less than a hundred dollars, they founded PropertyGuys.com, creating a real estate marketing program that has since become the largest of its kind in North America. The company has consistently remained at the forefront of industry change, franchising leadership, and technological innovation.

The Wave of Change

The traditional commission structure in North America has come under fire in recent years. Consumers are increasingly questioning the value they receive in exchange for hefty commission fees. This growing dissatisfaction has paved the way for alternative models that prioritize transparency, choice, and fairness. PropertyGuys.com is at the forefront of this revolution, offering a solution that challenges the status quo.

Beating the Odds

One of the key challenges faced by agents in the industry is the pressure to justify their commission rates. In an age where information is readily available online, consumers are becoming more informed and discerning. They are questioning the traditional model that often results in high costs without corresponding benefits.

PropertyGuys.com franchisees provide a compelling solution for agents who want to remain in the real estate business while offering more choices to consumers. Our model allows agents to break free from the constraints of the traditional commission structure, providing them with the flexibility to adapt to the changing needs of their clients. By aligning our interests with those of our agents, we create an environment where success is shared and fairness prevails.

Juxtaposing Authenticity & Quality

Moreover, our real estate platform is designed to empower consumers by providing them with the tools and information they need to make informed decisions. Through our innovative technology and user-friendly interface, PropertyGuys.com and our licensed partners facilitate direct communication between buyers and sellers, minimizing the need for intermediaries and unnecessary fees. This shift towards a more consumer-centric model is not only in line with current trends but also positions PropertyGuys.com as a pioneer in the industry.

As we move forward, agents must recognize the changing expectations of consumers and adapt accordingly. PropertyGuys.com offers a future-proof solution that aligns with the evolving dynamics of today’s real estate market. We believe that we are advocates for change, ambassadors of transparency, and champions of fairness.

The Future Ahead

In our quest for dynamic innovation, we are actively seeking “Dynamic Duos” as franchisees. Whether it is partners, husband and wife teams, brothers, or sisters, these duos embody the ideal franchisee for PropertyGuys.com. The synergy and collaborative spirit of Dynamic Duos perfectly align with our values and vision for the future of real estate.

Dynamic Duos bring a unique blend of skills, perspectives, and shared commitment to our mission. Their partnership fosters a strong foundation for success, allowing them to navigate the challenges of this uber-competitive industry together. PropertyGuys.com believes that by empowering Dynamic Duos, we not only enhance the effectiveness of our franchise model but also contribute to a more diverse and dynamic real estate landscape.

Conclusion

The traditional commission-based model is under scrutiny, and consumers are demanding more value for their money. PropertyGuys.com provides a forward-thinking solution that empowers agents to adapt to these changing demands while offering consumers a fair and transparent alternative. The future of real estate lies in choice, transparency, and fairness, and PropertyGuys.com is leading the way in shaping this future, particularly with the Dynamic Duos who bring a new dimension to our innovative approach.

Awards and Recognitions

2019 – 2022:

•          Canadian Franchise Association – Chairperson, Emeritus Committee

•          Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award – Atlantic Finalist

•          CFA – Franchisee Choice Award – 12 Years Running. One of only 7 Brands nationally to receive this recognition.

•          VENN Innovation – Board of Directors – Chair•          CFE – Certified Franchise Executive