Amity Institute Of Training & Development

January 6, 2025, Supply chain management (SCM)  is all about strategic coordination with regard to sourcing, production, and delivery of activities. It forms the backbone to keep a business from running smoothly. Efficiency, cost cuts, and happier customers are all framed through SCM. Logistics constitutes a great deal of SCM in that it refers to the moving and warehousing of products. This ensures timely arrival to the customer. The understanding of the above is important in that logistics form part and parcel of SCM. Studies have shown that firms with effective SCM are 23% more profitable. This points out the essence of having a strong supply chain strategy within the new marketplace. This blog discusses how real-time data and smart logistics strengthen the supply chain. They help businesses when the going gets tough. Key Takeaways Real-time data keeps track of what you have. It makes superior supply chain decisions. Smart logistics uses new tech like cloud computing for giving an individual more efficient and responsive supply chains that catch up on market needs fast. Efficiently managed supply chains lead to cost-cutting measures and merry customers, so profits increase. Logistics plays a very important role in SCM as it includes the timely procurement of goods from one place and delivered to another. AITD is a very good logistics career and logistics and supply chain management jobs. What is Supply Chain Management? SCM is planning, controlling, and executing the flow of products. According to CSCMP, SCM integrates supply and demand management along companies. It ensures that all work together to deliver value to the customer. What Does Supply Chain Management Meaning in Today's Business Landscape? Supply chain optimization is even more expansive. It is not only the transaction of products but also a plan and implementation of procedures to enhance the movement of materials, information, and finance. Through this, companies will be able to keep expenses in check while competing with the market demand. Supply Chain Management Process: Integrating Smart Logistics for Efficiency There are several steps in the process of supply chain operation, which are as follows: Planning: Building a plan to meet customer requirements with proper utilization of resources. Sourcing: Finding the best suppliers of raw materials. Manufacturing: Transforming raw materials into finished goods. Delivery: Logistics management for timely delivery of the products. Return: Proper handling of the defective and extra products. (Source: IBM) The Importance of Real-Time Data in SCM Real-time data refers to the information available immediately. For SCM, it views the inventory, orders, and market demand in real-time. With real-time data, there is a basis for quick and informed supply chain decisions. Improved Visibility. Real-time data analytics allows for continuous follow-up tracking of your company's supply chain processes. Visibility into potential bottlenecks lets them get noticed and addressed before they become a major issue. Enhanced Decision Making: With real-time data, managers would rely less on the old and perhaps erroneous forecasts regarding demand and supply chains. Practically speaking, they can be very responsive to an abrupt change in the demand or supply chain. Problem Prevention: This will allow companies to know the condition of goods being moved through real-time information regarding temperature and humidity levels and receive advance warnings for potential problems before they become actual problems. (Source: Gartner) DO YOU KNOW? Organizations implementing smart logistics technologies have a 25% delivery performance rate, Gartner reports. Supply Chain Logistics Strategies for Business Continuity and Resilience Smart logistics introduces a total transformation in Supply chain framework by integrating the most advanced and recent technologies available nowadays such as IoT, AI, and ML. By these, it enhances supply chain logistics in several ways: High Efficiency with Automation: Smart logistics incorporates automation to allow for accurate and high-speed processes without error. Order fulfillment, inventory management, and warehousing increase the efficiency for companies through smart logistics. This allows companies to work on the strategic plans within their supply chain metrics. Optimization of Transportation Routes Helps Save Cost: AI finds the best route options. This minimizes the quantity of fuel used during transportation. Delivery time is also enhanced. Therefore, it is essential to understand between supply chain and logistics in order to optimize performance. Improved Response to Change Over Quickly Improving data analysis in real-time helps organizations alter or align their operations with demand changes or disruption. Smart logistics makes adaptability easier without losing competitiveness (Source: Deloitte) DO YOU KNOW? According to Deloitte, nearly 80 percent of the businesses which have high-functioning supply chains outperform other businesses. How Can Businesses Leverage Technology for Supply Chain Resilience? There are several technologies that businesses can avail to make their supply chains resilient: 1. Blockchain Technology Blockchain technology also enhances the transparency and traceability of supply chains. In this case, an immutable record of transactions is provided where the parties can view the status of the product. Such help with problems on issues such as counterfeiting, as well as compliance issues. For example, Nestlé uses blockchain to enable its customers to trace their food back to its origin: whereby it's authentic and sourced ethically. As consumers grow in confidence, this should make operations more efficient. 2. Advanced Analytics Advanced analytics uses big data to uncover patterns and trends in the supply chains. This helps businesses stay much more informed and, therefore, make better decisions. They can improve efficiency and shorten response time. 3. Cloud Computing Cloud computing improves teams' collaboration. It ensures that everyone gets the latest information irrespective of where they are located. This is quite important during disruptions. Everyone is in a better position to make prompt decisions. What Are the Challenges in Implementing Real-Time Data Solutions? There are so many benefits related to real-time data solutions, but of course, there are also challenges: 1. Challenges Challenges in integration issues, difficulty in adding new technologies in the old systems, and time consumption of much time. It is difficult to get all the data to work together harmoniously. This can make it hard to see the bigger picture. 2. Data Security Concerns The bigger the data, the bigger the security against data. it is very important that you lock away your data from hackers. Good security and rule following guarantee data safety. Such a thing is important in logistics where data safety is crucial. 3. Change Management Change is another massive obstacle. Some may refuse new technologies or techniques. Employees have to be trained and backed up very well. logistics and supply chain management courses would help the employees get accustomed to things. How Do Real Time Data and Smart Logistics Work Together? Real time data and smart logistics are a great team. Both can help businesses make smart choices and run better Data-Driven Decision Making: Real-time data helps to advance the plan of logistics. This will ensure that products get to customers on time, and everyone is happy. Predictive Analytics: Real-time data helps see problems before they happen. That is, they help companies get ready for issues such as natural disasters. Efficient Collaboration: All the related data between the partners enhances better collaboration. This, in turn, results in smoother processes and stronger supply chains. Real time data and smart logistics create a supply chain that is stronger. Companies that majorly emphasize these two go great in bad times. Training programs, such as AITD, ensure that these supply chains become even stronger. "A Systematic Literature Review of Organization Resilience, Business Continuity, and Risk: Towards Process Resilience and Continuity", by Bakhtiar Ostadi et al., 2023, revealed how crucial resilience, business continuity, and risk are in organizational contexts. It analyzed the 22 key points for frameworks which identified the areas and brought out the resilience importance in business continuity planning. What is AITD Role in Enhancing Supply Chain Management Resilience? SCM is a vital aspect of business operations that may be seeking efficiency and resilience. AITD gives resources meant for SCM best practices. AITD offers logistics and supply chain management courses  to the companies to develop relevant skills. Operations and Supply Chain Management: AITD's Impact on Industry Standards AITD delivers education on logistics and supply chain management through specialised courses. These logistics and supply chain management courses prepare the professionals and help them to make their operations better. AITD is focused on using real-time data and smart logistics in order to enhance the resilience of the supply chains. Logistics and Supply Chain Management Courses: These courses focus on the basic issues of SCM and using real-time data. Training and Supply Chain Operations: AITD teaches different risk management methods to enhance its operative efficiency. Advocate for Best Practices: AITD teaches the differences between supply chain and logistics, thereby leading to clear operations. DO YOU KNOW? Organizations using AITD's training experience up to 30% greater operational performance, a survey reveals. Boosting Business Continuity Resilience with AITD's Supply Chain management Courses Benefits from Training with AITD for SCM. Learners are advised by practical people in operations and supply chain network for them to bridge the gap between theoretical parts and the 'in practice' service that the learners will receive in tackling real-world challenges. Pragmatic Knowledge AITD's courses give insight to real-world settings for supply chain logistics. It focuses on the supply chain management system teaching how to implant efficient plans to attain high efficiency and quality performance. Networking Opportunities Training through AITD would allow the exposure to other professionals; therefore, it is an opportunity to collaborate or seek employment in logistics and supply chain management jobs. Organizations can enhance their skills in supply chains by training with AITD for future challenges. Contributing of AITD towards Sustainable Practices AITD advocates sustainability in SCM, so that companies reduce carbon footprints and improve logistics. Sustainable SCM improves the environment but also enhances brand positioning in the presence of these eco-conscious consumers. AITD supports businesses in the development of the right skill set to handle this complex area.

January 6, 2025, Businesses in the modern world require sustainable supply chain management. This will enable them to minimize damage to the environment while still being efficient. Green supply chain management assists in making logistics and operations environmentally friendly, which ensures sustainability at all times. A good example is Patagonia, where it demonstrates its use of recycled materials and sustainable packaging. The importance of sustainable supply chain management is clear. Supply chains can be up to 11.4 times more polluting than direct emissions. Hence, such green initiatives are important to reduce carbon footprints. Patagonia is a fantastic example of one such company that uses recycled materials and stands for a circular economy. This blog will look into Green Supply Chain Management, practices, and why sustainable logistics is the way to environmental goals. What is Green Supply Chain Management? Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) includes sustainable environmental processes in conventional supply chain operations. It ranges from getting raw materials up to distributing products. The whole aim is to decrease waste, emissions, and resource utilization in the supply chain. Key principles of green supply chain management are: Reduce: Reduce waste and resource consumption. Reuse: Find a way of using material again instead of discarding them. Recycling: Start recycling programs so as to manage waste effectively. Recovery: Getting valuable materials from waste Degradable: Products must be degradable; hence, they are easy to dispose of or break down. (Source: McKinsey & Co) DO YOU KNOW? Reducing material waste can lead to an increase in business profits up to 60% according to the report by McKinsey & Co. The Importance of Sustainable Supply Chain Management in Today's Business Landscape A very heavy role is played by sustainable supply chain management. It meets all legal requirements for those companies which consider sustainability. At the same time, they attract the attention of those customers who care about the earth. They also save a handsome amount of money, as it helps them become more efficient and wasteful to some extent. Key Benefits of Sustainable Supply Chain Management 1. Cost Savings Sustainability in logistics and supply chain management saves a lot of money. Wise usage of resources reduces costs. For instance, logistics can reduce transport cost and waste that effectively contribute to the bottom line. 2. Compliance with Laws Compliance with environmental laws is significant to avoid fines and maintain a good image. Companies with the policy on sustainable supply chain are likely to be following such laws. 3. Improved Brand Image They appear to invoke more loyalty and trust among their consumers in the hands of environmentally responsive brands. The consumers are increasingly realizing the implications of their choices that affect the planet. They choose those brands that source responsibly as well as use the resources sustainably . “The fast pace of technology and artificial intelligence has opened new paths toward sustainability; thus, these competencies are key to the future leader: this track is a response to the great challenge of today, regarding the environmental issues and societal transformations, preparing students for innovative and business leadership about sustainable development”. Marco Tavanti, Professor MIM at the University of San Francisco (Source: dhl) DO YOU KNOW? In DHL's 2023 Global Online Shopper Survey, more than 70% of respondents said sustainability is important to them while shopping online, and nearly half would be willing to wait longer for goods if it would benefit the environment. Green Supply Chain Management Practices: Key Strategies for Sustainable Logistics Effective green supply chain management practices are the keys for companies that want to be green and stay competitive. These practices include strategies for sustainability throughout the supply chain. Here are the main parts: Sustainable Sourcing: This implies selecting suppliers who care for the environment. Companies look for suppliers who use eco-friendly practices. Energy Efficiency Operations: The adoption of new technologies that consume much less energy is a must. This would eventually reduce the companies' carbon footprint. Minimization of Waste: Recycling and packaging waste reduction are of paramount importance. These will take care of the principles of the circular economy. Transportation Optimization: The use of fuel-efficient vehicles and better delivery routes save on emissions. It also saves money and reduces logistics costs. These practices help companies in complying with the environment-related regulations and enhance their market share. DO YOU KNOW? The global green logistics market is expected to be $1.3 trillion in 2022, and it will rise to $2.9 trillion by 2032 with a CAGR of 8.3% from 2023 to 2032. Sustainable Logistics vs Supply Chain Management: A Comprehensive Overview Logistics and supply chain management are often mixed up, but they're not the same: AspectLogisticsSupply Chain ManagementFocusMovement and storage of goodsOverall network from supplier to customer.ScopeTransportation, warehousingIncludes procurement, production, and distribution.ObjectiveEfficiency in deliveryValue creation through collaboration. Sustainable Supply Chain Meaning: Integrating Green Logistics Practices A sustainable supply chain is defined as a supply chain that utilizes green practices in all the steps towards getting the raw materials, making the products, and distributing and disposing of them. It is intended to cause minimal harm to the environment and provide value to the stakeholders. Did You Know? AITD's course reported that companies that had implemented the training of green supply chain practices found a rise of as much as 30% in employee engagement toward sustainability initiatives. Leading Examples of Sustainable Supply Chain Companies and Their Green Practices Many companies are doing great logistics and supply chain management jobs with sustainability: Patagonia: Known for utilizing recycled materials and supporting a circular economy. Nike: Is very stringent with the policies it holds for the vendors to ensure that the manufacturing process is green and responsible. Unilever: Is working hard to source material sustainably as well as reduce their carbon footprint. It explains how a focus on the planet makes them better competitors. (Source: USFCA) DO YOU KNOW? Companies that care about the planet can increase their sales and develop new markets. They can continue to charge more on green products up to 30 percent higher than usual. They can save a lot of money by having energy and managing resources better. How Do Companies Measure Their Sustainability Efforts in Sustainable Supply Chain Management? True understanding needs a corporate plan to see how well a company is doing in terms of green efforts. Companies need to set KPIs. These KPIs view vital areas to see whether their green efforts are working. Here are some key things to watch: Carbon Emissions: Track greenhouse gas emissions in the supply chain and know how they are impacting the environment for meeting the green goals. Energy Used: Watching how much energy is used in making, moving and storing the products is the way to do it. Energy conservation will save money and the earth feels better. Waste Produced: Counting how much waste is made at every stage can help find ways in which to reduce and recycle waste. This fits with green supply chain practices. Supplier Sustainability Ratings: It gives the process of following up on the green practices by suppliers, in a positive influence that ensures they will contribute towards the achievement of the company's green goals. This is part of a sustainable supply chain policy. These KPIs give a comprehensive picture of the green efforts exerted by a company. They find areas to get better through such KPIs; and so, making the sustainable supply chain meaning real. Challenges of Implementation of Green Supply Chain Practices Although green supply chain practices are attractive, companies have encountered several challenges: 1. Cost Aspect Initial Investment: The first major challenge is the cost aspect of becoming green. One has to admit that the introduction of technologies or processes involved in going green is expensive. But if seen as investment for the future is how companies can solve it. Maybe it would help them cut substantial costs and be efficient in the long term Financial Gains: While onboarding expenses are prohibitively high, green practices decrease the consumption of resources and waste. This could result in a business making better profits. Companies adopting green logistics and supply chain management would save money by using energy better and wasting less. 2. Consistency of Suppliers Ensuring Adherence: Adhering to sustainability standards by the suppliers is another major problem. It is a sure shot checking and regular monitoring of practices undertaken by them. This ensures that they meet a sustainable supply chain policy. Development of Standards: Success in the development of standards would also increase through the avoidance of compliance issues. Companies should make choices based on the green commitment in suppliers. It is one of the keys to any sustainable business model. 3. Resistance through Culture Internal Resistance: Cultural resistance blocks the green practices in a firm. Employees will resist new processes from fear or misunderstanding, and this will limit sustainable supply chain management. Leadership and Communication: Leaders can use proper communication and eliminate resistance. Educating and involving the workers with change will enable them to create a culture that embraces new ideas. Kaczmarek and Matusiak, in a research paper titled "Green logistics practices: The antecedents and effects for supply chain management in the modern era," studied how green logistics affects issues. They have found that green practice improves environmental performance and efficiency. They also insist that a sustainable supply chain strategy is essential for sustainable results in the long term. Key Takeaways Sustainable supply chain management allows for the mitigation of adverse effects on the environment and at the same time provides for maximum efficiency in operations. Green supply chain management practices constitute integrating eco-friendly principles along the supply chain to ensure sustainability objectives are realized. In Green logistics, protection for the environment is enhanced through green logistics on carbon footprint reduction. Examples of these include optimized routes as well as use of renewable forms of energy. Companies such as Patagonia and Nike are examples of companies that have so far been extremely effective in implementing successful sustainable practices in their business operations. A sustainable supply chain policy strongly leads organizations to meet environmental-related targets. Courses provided by AITD to equip professionals for the work that will lead them toward sustainability in an organization. How Can AITD Help Companies Attain Sustainable Supply Chain Success? The business scenarios of the present time are under rapid change. An extremely important aspect of this fast-changing scenario is the management of supply chains in a sustainable way. The courses offered by Amity Institute of Training & Development (AITD) enable professionals to embrace green supply chain management. DO YOU KNOW? AITD programs are contributing comprehensively to reducing the carbon footprint of companies through green supply chain practices. Contributions by AITD to Promote Sustainable Supply Chain Management Practices A variety of key green topics in supply chain management is taught through AITD courses including the following ones. 1. Implementing Green Supply Chain Management Practices You will learn GSCM to go green in your supply chain. Training on the definition of green supply chain management and its importance today is conducted. 2. Understanding Regulations Concerning Sustainability Learn the regulations regarding sustainable practices. This will save you from getting charged as well as keep your operations spick and span. 3. Operations Efficiency through Innovative Logistics Solutions With AITD, discover how logistics can make your supply chain shine. You will be taught new ways to reduce waste and increase efficiency. This will be useful for proper environmental performance and meeting the legal requirements. The Future Supply Chain: Sustainability with AITD Get ready to go green for your business by checking out AITD programs. Become part of the shift towards a more sustainable future. With AITD, your company will lead in sustainable supply chain companies.

January 6, 2025, This is where the logistics industry is now standing on the brink of a huge change very substantial one AI and automation, which promises to unlock the gateway to meeting the challenges of the global supply chain of tomorrow as the landscape looks toward evolving patterns of what people buy and what they expect. According to the studies, 56% of logistics firms consider AI to be a major part of their digital change. The companies are assured that AI is going to revolutionize the way they will work and serve their customers. By using AI, the companies can make things faster, cheaper, and more accurate for their success. The sector will also undergo massive growth in employment opportunities in logistics and supply chain management to meet the new needs. With a growth rate of over 14.08 trillion USD by 2028, the future of logistics is full of new chances for growth and green practices. This blog discusses the future of logistics, mainly by talking about the way AI and automation are changing it. It backs its points with interesting stats and trends. Key Takeaways AI technology advancements have a lot to offer to the future of logistics. Sustainability is coming to play an increasingly important role in setting the rules of the game in logistics practices. Changing future patterns of the logistics business demands agile practices and innovative solutions that meet changing consumer demands. Demand for skilled professionals continues to rise in logistics and supply chain management jobs. Such training from organizations like AITD are essential and necessary because these help in inculcating the skills that are expected to be used in the industry now. To stay competitive in the world markets, companies should adopt digital transformation What is the Future of Logistics? The future logistics will be based on AI and automation. The companies opt for such technologies for making the supply chain more visible, creating value for customers, and reducing costs. AI helps track shipments in real time, predict demand, and run systems 24/7 without getting tired. DO YOU KNOW? Logistics will be green in 2030. By then, companies are expected to use zero-emission vehicles and circular supply chains. Sustainability is included in the training offered by AITD. Future Logistics Trends and Statistics: A Comprehensive Overview (Source: Adecco group) The future of logistics is bright, and big growth is expected in the industry. The global logistics market is expected to hit above $14 trillion by 2028. The increased growth in the market is mainly because of more online shopping and changing consumer habits. TrendStatisticAI Market GrowthExpected to reach approximately $549 billion by 2033, growing from $12 billion in 2023.Automation AdoptionAbout 50% of logistics companies plan to automate their warehouses by 2024.Predictive Analytics UsageApproximately 45% of firms will utilize AI for risk fortification by end of 2024.Cybersecurity MeasuresMore than 70% of AI platforms will feature advanced security by 2024.(Source: DC velocity) These stats show how urgent it is for logistics companies to invest in tech and training to stay competitive. Do you Know? The demand for skilled labor in Logistics is growing due to labor shortages from rising E-Commerce activities. Training programs offered by AITD would be necessary in order to keep the individuals abreast of skills that may help it survive the changing job markets. Shifting Patterns in the Future of the Logistics Industry: What You Need to Know What people want is exactly the direction the logistics industry takes. Speed in delivery and fast shipping are keys that have increased with online shopping. Companies getting up with these changes will be ahead. 1. Increased Demand for Speed Consumers Are Demanding Rapid Deliveries: Today, people want their orders as fast as they can be delivered. This has led to making logistics companies better and faster than before. Impact on Logistics Operations: To fulfill this requirement, businesses are now implementing new technologies and upgrading of systems. Companies are developing automated warehouses and employing software for the optimal route to be devised for delivery. 2. Focus on Sustainability Prioritizing Environmentally Friendly Practices: Companies are focusing on making sustainability their number one priority. Companies go green by using eco-friendly packaging, electric vehicles, and circular supply chain practices. Long-Term Benefits: Being environmentally friendly fulfills only the needs of environment-sensitive customers. In the long run, it saves money 3. Use of Technology Implementation of AI and Automation Technologies: AI and automation form the core for better working. It helps manage stock, routes, and even customer satisfaction Real-Time Data Analysis: Companies use data analytics to know what customers are asking for. That helps the companies take speedy, intelligent decisions. (Source: DC velocity) DO YOU KNOW? By the end of 2024, nearly about 45% of logistics firms are likely to use AI in risk-proofing their supply chains. Logistics vs Supply Chain Management: AI as a Game Changer in Supply Chain Management AI is essential in solving logistic-related problems. It aids in the optimization of routes and management of warehouses. For example, AI can determine the shortest route for deliveries due to considerations of traffic patterns and weather conditions. This will save time in deliveries and fuel. For any delivery in the future, it has to be timely and efficient. (Source: serogroup) DO YOU KNOW? Some 34% of shipping and logistics firms do not have a digital strategy in place. This gap presents a significant opportunity for those willing to invest in digital transformation. AI also makes supply chain visibility better by giving real-time updates on inventory and shipments. This lets the companies deal with issues quickly, keeping their operations smooth. The companies who use AI are better at dealing with these challenges. AI is critical to the solution of supply chain problems that affect the rest of the world since it increases visibility, speed, and efficiency in the following ways: 1. Automation AI automates work such as data entry and other work pertinent to inventory management. In this way, errors are reduced and made faster. Freeing up firms from routine jobs leaves them free to identify ways to strategize on growth. 2. Predictive Analytics Demand Forecasting. AI applies the trends in previous data to estimate future demand and therefore handles inventory correctly. This means businesses are aware of changing future trends in logistics, which they act on in a timely manner. 3. Route Optimization AI determines the optimal routes to follow by analyzing real-time traffic and weather conditions. It saves costs and reduces time taken to deliver. It is an essential requirement to keep competitive. 4. Inventory Management It automates inventory tracking and order fulfillment, hence making them better. It boosts accuracy and ensures the companies meet customer needs within the shortest time possible. It, therefore, enhances overall service quality. The future of logistics looks bright with AI. It is what is driving innovation and making supply chains more efficient. Businesses that remain updated with new demands and tech will stay ahead. Investing in training like what Amity Institute of Training & Development (AITD) offers will help keep the workers up. (Source: IJIS) During 2024, one of the AI in logistics studies tittle”AI Applications for Improving Transportation and Logistics Operations”was seen to provide very significant elevations. AI enhances supply chain efficiency and reliability as well as planful activity. AITD supports demand forecasting, routing of deliveries, cost minimization, and service improvement. How AITD Can Help Shape the Future of Logistics Training? AITD  is an integral part of the logistics formation process. It is in the best position to enable its practitioners with skills for the future. New trends and tech are changing at a rapid pace. Logistics and Supply Chain Management Jobs: Key Areas of Focus for AITD 1. Development Of Digital Skills Digital skills form a core part of AITD, including AI, data analytics, and automation. Some of the most prominent skills relating to the future of logistics revolve around AI. AI will handle mundane, time-consuming tasks, allowing professionals to create strategies. 2. Leadership Development Logistics leaders of the future will be dealing with completely different environments. AITD delivers training for leadership readying them to face these differences. They will be prepared to work with new technology, among other things, and work under a worldwide team. 3. Sustainable Practices Sustainability is now very important in logistics. AITD trains the companies on how to be green. Companies that care about sustainability will flourish in the future. Future of the Logistics Industry and Statistics:  AITD's Response to Emerging Trends 1. Emerging Technology Workshops AITD offers seminars and workshops on AI in Logistics. It gives an explanation of the fact that how AI makes operations better. AI is important for the future of logistics, making tasks more efficient and judgments better. 2. Research-Driven Insights AITD understands deep research and understanding of logistics trends. It provides insights into developing smart strategies for logistics. This includes market growth and tech development. 3. Development of Future Skills Required The logistics industry is changing, so are the skills. AITD emphasizes data analytics and supply chain optimization skills that will be most valuable in helping you make better decisions and improve operations. AI and IoT are going to play a major role in those changes. Did You Know? More than 10,000 professionals have benefited by training through AITD, so you can stay ahead of the curve. Embracing Change toward a Sustainable Future: How AITD Equips You for Industry Shifts Logistics has entered a phase where growth occurs at a double-digit rate. Changes in consumer demand and new technologies in the market bring various challenges to such industries. Thus, all resources should be utilized to know the trends and maintain a competitive edge in such changing scenarios. Training and development will be the vital initiative that helps to face challenges and grow sustainably in logistics.

December 26, 2024, In today’s increasingly digitised and interconnected world, boundaries are blurred, collaborations are more fluid and the pressure on businesses and organisations to be agile is immense. Digital transformation is affecting every aspect of business from how we communicate, do our work or lead our teams. Current times are forcing leaders to redefine what leadership is about. It’s time for organisations to think of new ways of connecting, collaborating and to embrace technology in every component of their business. According to statistics, new leaders fail in as high as 50% within the first 18 months, basically because they lack the necessary skills and support. This blog looks at the core qualities, styles, and skills relevant to success in the digital world. We explain why it is essential in management, its characteristics, and the influence on organisational culture. Do you know ? the concept of Leadership 4.0 has emerged as a response to the fourth industrial revolution? It stresses the importance of agility, networked thinking, and emotional intelligence as it shifts the focus away from traditional hierarchical structures. Understanding Leadership in the Digital Age As defined by the ability to influence and guide individuals or groups toward the achievement of common goals. However, been broadly referred to in this digital age as a means of successfully playing with the potential offered by technology while engaging in kinds of innovations that help adapt to shifting demands. The hierarchical models have found a replacement in more collaborative and agile frameworks.  (Source:Muse) "Work takes on new meaning when you feel you are pointed in the right direction."--Tim Cooknment. The Leadership Importance in Management Effective management in the current digital age requires strong vision. The leaders themselves thrust their respective organisations into digital transformations and make sure that all teams are skilled up and equipped to flourish. In the Deloitte survey, 57% of CEOs were planning to use new technologies in pursuit of new growth opportunities. No wonder this call to action for leaders to become more active in embracing digital transformation. (Source: vantagecircle) DO YOU KNOW? According to Gartner, 91 percent of business organisations are engaged in some sort of digital initiative, while 87 percent of senior business leaders stated that digitalization is their priority. 89% of all companies have already adopted or plan a digital-first strategy for business. Leadership Good Qualities: What Makes a Great Leader? The phrase "From Vision to Action" encapsulates the journey leaders must undertake to translate strategic goals into tangible outcomes. To develop leaders for the digital era a new set of knowledge, skills and abilities are needed. In this paper we will discuss the competencies required and how organisations can foster future leaders. 1. Lead with digitisation Organisations need leaders who understand the impact digital technology can have on their business. Leaders should be able to foresee possibilities to incorporate and extract value from technology in work. They should pioneer digital transformation in all areas of business. (Source: Stevenson) DO YOU KNOW? According to a Right Management study, 91 percent of HR hiring managers responded that adaptability ranked as an important factor in their hiring decisions. 2. Adaptability It is the acceptance that change is constant and changing our mind is quite natural and acceptable. Ability to adapt is critical in a complex changing environment. Leaders need to be quick learners and change their minds in the face of emerging information. At the organisation level adaptability means being able to innovate and react to opportunities and challenges. Adaptability helps leaders respond to fluid environments and change course if technology and market environments evolve in unanticipated ways. 3. Visionary It implies having a clear sense of long-term direction, even in the face of short-term uncertainty. Leaders must have a clear vision for the future of their organisation, setting course and moving in that direction even if there is ambiguity in execution. Vision becomes even more important during disruptions and when opportunities are emerging. Leaders need vision to motivate and inspire, whilst at the same time adapting rapidly to current, contextual business situations. 4. Engaged leaders listen, interact and communicate with internal and external stakeholders combined with a strong sense of interest and curiosity in emerging trends. Leaders in the digital era need to be always engaged, whether with customers, partners, suppliers or team members. They must break down silos and get people to work together to solve problems. 5. Fostering Digital In the digital era organisations need a new breed of leaders and revamp their internal management programs to build new leaders that have interdisciplinary skills, with an understanding of different business functions, industries and technologies. Most Effective leadership styles in the Digital Era. Transformational leadership : It encourages a culture of innovation and change in order to turn the employees into inspired people who produce great performance. The individual inspires people at work by bringing responsibility from team members to be pliable in their thinking and to take up responsibility in their work. Servant leaders focus on serving the needs of their teams; they empower and support them. This style of management enhances collaboration and trust, which are the two important characteristics required to overcome the complexities of the digital environment. E-leadership is the art of leading a team using online platforms and digital tools to perform various duties, especially when team members work remotely or in a hybrid system. Such kinds of call for one to be tech-savvy and well conversant with the use of digital communication tools. (Source: Deloitte) The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership Emotional intelligence would rank as a critical element of stewardship in the digital age. Leaders with a high EI would be more intuitive and better attuned to how they feel and, importantly, to the feelings of their team members, thereby resulting in more meaningful relationships and better communication. With good emotional connection comes trust and coordination in organisations, which are the essentials to drive success nowadays in an increasingly changing world. The Role of Leadership Thoughts in Shaping Company Culture Here are some of the ways through which an organisation can create a new breed of digital leaders: Identify critical Stewardship roles and assess the readiness of their talent to embrace and pioneer digital transformation. Rethink your competency framework to include emergent knowledge and skills to focus on development. Develop digital accelerator immersion programs to build both technical and capabilities. Cultivate a culture of experimentation to enable leaders to think like innovators, try new things and learn. In the context of "Leadership in the Digital Era," the research paper by (Hill, L. A., Le Cam, A., Menon, S., & Tedards, E. ,2020), Leading in the Digital Era: A Curated Collection of Research Articles from Harvard Business School Faculty, sets the stage for how governance is changing against the backdrop of digital change. The paper articulates key competencies and traits which leaders must develop if they are going to survive an increasingly complex and fast-moving environment. How Can AITD Strengthen Management in the Digital World? In the digital world is a playing field of unprecedented opportunities and challenges that an organisation has to face. Amity Institute of Training & Development (AITD) has taken the lead under the emerging landscape, making it a leader in equipping leaders with the needs of modern times leadership skills and qualities. Mentorship Development at AITD The AITD emphasizes a comprehensive approach to effective leaders: 1. Workshops and Seminars AITD centers content through workshops that create an opportunity to develop leadership skills through the application of practical actions and daily situations. 2. Mentorship Programs The result of connecting potential leaders with experienced executives also fosters development and allows them to learn valuable information related to leadership functions. 3. Conflict Management Training AITD includes modules on conflict management to assist leaders with strategies on constructive management of disputes. How AITD Empowers Leaders to Navigate the Digital Era Partnership with AITD gives leaders the power of cutting-edge training, resources, and support that navigate the challenges within the digital landscape and help lead their teams successfully. According to a Deloitte report, 94% of its chief executives believe that developing leaders is the basis for organisational success. Such statistics make it important to invest in such management programs such as those offered by AITD. The Future of Leadership Development at AITD With these unprecedented digital-era challenges, leading organisations more than ever rely on effective management . AITD is at the front of this change, offering programs tailored to enhance qualities, styles, and leadership skills . Organisations can ensure they have the right leaders in place with their navigation of today's business complexities when they invest in mentorship programs with AITD.

January 21, 2025, The novel coronavirus has dramatically changed Indian business models. Companies were forced to respond quickly to unprecedented challenges that obliged them to change rapidly, mostly in an oscillating manner between struggle and innovation across all sectors. More than 82% of small Indian firms suffered from adverse pandemic effects; manufacturers were even more disturbed. 70% of firms feel it would take them at least a year for recovery to revert and demand come back like earlier. The trade impact for India is likely to be $348 million for exports and about $150 million for imports. For the survival of businesses, there is a reassessment of models; digitization, innovative offerings, and changes in strategies according to shifting market requirements. This blog explores the deep influence of pandemic starting with COVID-19 deaths, there have been lockdowns because of global health crisis and even COVID-19 cases in India. Then the blog discusses how businesses innovate in the face of these challenges. Understanding COVID-19 Impact on Indian Business India has experienced staggeringly high COVID-19 statistics throughout the pandemic. Until now, it has recorded over 44 million cases of corona and nearly 530,000 deaths in its country. The sudden jump in how the disease spread saw massive nationwide lockdowns across the country; this resulted in greatly disrupting the economic activities in every sector. Do You Know? The pandemic has encouraged the positive acceleration of digital transformation in India, with several businesses accelerating their turn towards digitization by using online tools and e-commerce platforms to reach customers. The Early Impact: Lockdowns and Economic Disruption March 2020 added only a great shock to the Indian economy, witnessing the first lockdown. According to Dun & Bradstreet, more than 82% of small firms reported that they had been affected in one way or the other due to coronavirus. Manufacturing has been the most affected area as nearly 87% of those firms have been severely impacted. COVID-19 Death Toll Statistics COVID-19 Deaths: India saw over 500,000 deaths till the middle of 2021. COVID-19 Cases in India: The country saw millions of verified cases. The summits came during the second wave in April and May 2021. Economic Contraction: India's Gross Domestic Product declined by 7.3% in FY 2020-21, at which time it experienced its worst performance since gaining independence. These numbers describe how things were pretty bad and had further implications in various sectors. Impact of COVID-19 Slowing Economic Growth and Declining Cash Flows Asian Development Bank (ADB) has said in its FY 2020-21 Outlook on 5th April 2020 that Indian economic growth is likely to slow down to 4% this fiscal on the back of the current global health emergency. Growth in India will remain subdued after the country suffered a sharp slowdown last year from 6.1% in fiscal 2019 to fiscal 5% as a credit crunch that originated in the NBFC sector severely hampered banks’ lending. Impact on Operations and Cash Flows In the wake of the pandemic outbreak over 50% of Indian companies see the impact on their operations and nearly 80% have witnessed a decline in cash flows as per FICCI Survey. Sectors such as tourism, hospitality, aviation, retail, and entertainment were hit directly, and operational challenges were put forth before the manufacturing and service firms. It also fast-tracked digital adoption and innovation in the Indian business landscape. How COVID-19 Lockdowns Reshaped Indian Travel and Hospitality The tourism and hospitality sectors have fared the worst, perhaps. With international borders shut and domestic travel drastically reduced, the number of visitors to shopping complexes and cinema theatres has drastically decreased. This has hence affected the retail sector, leading to the reduced consumption of both essentials and non-essentials. DO YOU KNOW? Regarding the history of COVID-19 vaccination in India is that as many as 4.2 million COVID-19 deaths were averted there in 2021, according to a 2022 modeling study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases journal. Future of Healthcare and Medical Supplies: Lessons Learned from SARS-CoV-2 It has also brought to light the very fact that the country needed a strong healthcare infrastructure. The second-born wave of the pandemic had already plunged the country into serious trouble with many shortages of vaccines, hospital bed tents, oxygen cylinders, and other medical supplies. On the other hand, this gives great importance to stepping up public health surveillance and controlling the spread of this infection. In this regard, very quick innovation was experienced in the healthcare sector as companies opted to manufacture essential medical supplies such as PPE kits and sanitizers. This did not only fill some urgent needs but also opened new revenue streams for businesses as well. Supply Chain Disruptions and Lockdown Challenges (Source: dun & Bradstreet) Reduced cash flow is having an impact on all the payments including those for employees, interest, loan repayments, and taxes. The survey says that more than 60% of the respondents have felt an influence in their supply chain and expect it to deteriorate further. What Are the Financial Challenges for Indian Business Tycoons During the Pandemic? (Source: dnb& bradsheet) The businesses in India faced various issues during the COVID-19 crisis. Access to Market: Access to the market has emerged as one of the major hurdles to growth so far reported by 42% of the responding businesses. Productivity Improvement: As many as 37 percent of respondents said that they were finding it difficult to improve productivity amid the pandemic. Availability of Finance: Almost 34 percent of the respondents reported that they were facing difficulties in accessing credit and finance. Compliance Issues: Compliance-related problems plagued 31% of the manufacturing firms. Unfavorable Domestic Market Conditions: 30% of service firms were influenced by unfavorable market conditions within India. Aviation and tourism: were perhaps the worst affected, along with an estimated 38 million job losses, which is around 70% of the total workforce. Demand for transport fuels by the oil and gas industry came down drastically when both manufacturing, along mobility, came to almost a standstill during the lockdowns. Despite all these challenges, some organisations adapted and found innovative ways of carrying out their business. First, companies started to look at new Indian business ideas and shifted their offerings to meet the mutated consumer demands. (Source: aima) DO YOU KNOW? The estimated trade impact of the coronavirus epidemic is around $348 million for India. Indian Business Tycoons Response Indian business leadership luminaries have also come forward to emphasize the need for strategic investment in technology and infrastructure to tackle the challenges of the post-pandemic world. A collective push from their insights creates a call for resilience and innovation within the business community. Workplace Safety Guidelines Post-COVID-19: Ensuring Employee Well-being At least 40% of the Indian companies have put in place stringent checks on people entering their offices and disinfection while nearly 30% have already put in place work-from-home policies for their employees. The National Lockdown is in place since 25th March and is expected to remain till 14th April 2020. DO YOU KNOW? As a part of the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India) initiative, the Indian government has been urging the industry to promote local supply chain networks. COVID-19 Deaths and Economic Impact: The Need for Government Action The economic package announced by the Central Government may accord a momentary glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel. But industry leaders know that once the storm is over, it will be a hard road to recovery, and it will take far more than building greater competencies in the domain of technical skills to get the job done. The Indian government undertook various measures to assist organisations in distress. It assisted the MSMEs with several cash flow relief schemes designed to stabilize the operations. For most such businesses, access to an Indian business loan became critical in the quest to recover from the financial strain resulting from the pandemic. Furthermore, the pandemic has highlighted financial resilience. Many companies are now looking for Indian business loans in a bid to strengthen their liquidity and stay afloat during the financially tough period. (Source: aima) A FICCI survey reveals that 53% of the Indian businesses have felt a significant impact right from the early stages of the pandemic and 73% have witnessed huge downturns in both their orders and inventories. Other areas have been cash flow, supply chains, and employee policies, which were impacted and most people hope for improvements over the next six months. Innovative Indian Business Ideas Emerging from Social Distancing Practices Many e-commerce platforms allow businesses to maintain sales directly, with social distancing measures in place. Growth opportunities increased further and motivated various firms to start searching for innovative Indian business ideas related to technology, such as online services, remote work solutions, and other such technological ideas. The need for social distancing has brought down all manufacturing and service industries. Both demand and supply have been affected. It has also increased fear of loss of jobs and income. Working from home has provided a certain degree of business continuity for some companies where WFH is possible. The lockdown has disrupted supply lines in the country at interstate checkpoints where road transport is held up. (Source: designnbuy) DO YOU KNOW? The pandemic made retailers turn to online operations, with Flipkart and Amazon joining local kirana stores retrofitting to deliver goods safely. India's e-commerce market will grow to $111 billion by 2024. Looking Ahead: The Future of Indian Business Post COVID-19 21-day lockdown is a first step that buys India time to improve its preparedness. Countries will have to significantly increase the number of novel coronavirus tests to reduce the fog of uncertainty as regards where hotspots are. India would now plan for what happens after the lockdown if the virus is not defeated. It will have to restart certain activities in certain low-infection regions with adequate precautions. India will have to ensure that in the meantime poor and non-salaried lower middle class who are prevented from working for longer periods can survive. Direct transfer to households may reach most, but not all, and the quantum of transfer seems inadequate to see a household through a month. How COVID-19 Guidelines Affect Support for Poor Communities in India India will have to ensure that the poor and no salaried lower middle class, who are forbidden from working longer, can survive. Direct transfers to households could reach most, but not all, and the quantum of the transfer does seem quite inadequate to see a household through a month. The Road to Recovery: Navigating the Impact of COVID-19 on Indian Business (Source: economic times) Almost all sections of India's business have been disrupted by coronavirus. If the lockdown is extended after 14 April and partial restart of economic activity is permitted in less affected areas, it will send a positive signal for both demand and supply. If India can contain the impact of pandemic it may be possible to restart economic recovery from June-July 2020. Hopefully, Indian businesses can look at recovery with effect from October 2020 and business as usual by 4th quarter of this fiscal. The COVID-19 pandemic had severally impacted Indian industries to a great extent, resulting in a contraction of the GDP and decline of corporate revenues. The aviation business suffered from an enormous decline of 90.8%. The pandemic accelerated digital transformation, innovation, and adaptations for business in the post-COVID-19 scenario. How AITD May Assist Companies Rethink Business Models In an effort to scale up its solutions to help companies face the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Amity Institute of Training and Development offers integrated solutions. AITD is in a position to offer multidisciplinary expertise in many fields among them 1. Conflict Management AITD equips an organisation to spot and resolve any potential conflicts that might come to the fore while doing business, such as supplier, employee, or customer quarrels. Due to the provision of mediation and negotiation service support, AITD assists organisations in finding mutually beneficial solutions. 2. Change Management The institute assists them in managing organisational changes needed for the post-COVID-19 landscape. AITD enables organisations to develop and execute strategies for communication, employee engagement, and cultural change. 3. Digital Transformation  AITD aids businesses in speeding up their digital initiatives by providing training and consulting solutions that are apparently helping the organisations use the technology for efficiencies, customer experience, and cost savings. Commitment of AITD to Business Recovery AITD helps businesses bounce back from the shock of the pandemic because it provides personalized training to the type of needs faced by organisations today, and from which companies can more easily regain strength, and foster innovation in operations. Pandemic As a Change Enabler for Indian Businesses Despite the tremendous challenges created by the pandemic, this situation has triggered change in Indian businesses. This situation has tried to open many doors for innovation and transformation with the internet and related digital tools and adaptational strategies and, most importantly, seeking support from organisations such as AITD.

December 26, 2024, Balancing the perception in the current world will provide a fair and equal situation. An unbiased person is one who approaches things without favoritism and misunderstanding to ensure unbiased judgments and feedback are provided. These matters should always be handled carefully and emphatically with such areas like hiring practices where biased selection leads to missed opportunities for qualified candidates. Statistics show that diverse teams usually outperform groups compared to homogeneous teams, though bias blurs the judgment made in organisations. Therefore, for instance, research indicates that diverse teams are 35% more likely to perform than their competitors. Thus, eliminating bias requires structured decision-making frameworks and a conscious awareness of unconscious biases. In an unbiased society same people are promoted, practicing non-gender biased practices. Therefore, unbiased judgments will make sure that society becomes more equitable. In short, this blog will talk about the meaning of being unbiased, the types of bias, and overcoming them in daily life. Did You Know? The term "bias" originates from the French word "biais," which is the term meaning "oblique" or "slanted." This, too, explains how bias alters our perception of the world. Definition of the Term "Unbiased" The term unbiased means that nothing is left or right or subjective. He who is unbiased always tends to judge people or situations objectively, without being influenced by one's opinion. Being unbiased simply means not having an unfair tendency or attitude in believing people or ideas are better than others, according to Britannica Dictionary. The Importance of Unbiased Research in Today’s Society My first reaction to this notion that we all have biases was, “Certainly not I!” After all, I grew up in a family where diversity and inclusion were part of our basic values. All of us, even the most open-minded and with the best of intentions, are not free from unconscious bias. It is a result of how our brains are developed. Bias often occurs without malevolent intent. Our thoughts and actions are influenced by both our instinctive feelings as well as our rational thought processes.  Bias manages to penetrate decision-making activities in many fields, including recruitment, rankings of universities, and other social relationships. For instance, biased selection in the recruitment process results in less diversity within the organisation, which eventually will suppress innovation and growth. Of course, one such strategy is implementing plans of unbiased research and decision-making. How Does Unbiased Research Help Identify Different Types of Bias? Bias takes many forms: Confirmation Bias: People support information that confirms what is believed, even discounting disconfirming evidence. Attribution Bias: We attribute others' actions based on our preconceived notions about what ought to be taking place, not based on objective facts. Conformity Bias: The compulsion to fall in line with the views of a group, usually leading to the strange phenomenon of groupthink. Knowledge of these biases is important for forming plans to counter such psychological operations. Everyone has biases. It is true. It is deeply ingrained. At about three months, babies develop “a preference for people of the same color as [their] own parents,” says Mahzarin Banaji, Harvard psychologist and author of Blindspot: The Hidden Biases of Good People. However, she notes, “Ethiopian Jews who moved to Israel and had a mixture of people taking care of the babies showed no preference at all, suggesting that this is very much learned. “For most of us, though, preferences and prejudices become more deeply rooted as we grow older. Having a bias does not make you a bad person, however, and not every bias is negative or hurtful. It is not recognizing biases that can lead to bad decisions at work, in life and relationships. Do You Know? Cognitive biases are systematic errors in thought that in one way or another taint decisions and judgments we make daily. Of these, the most known biases are confirmation bias, anchoring bias, and availability heuristics. According to a July 2022 survey, 45% of Americans reported bias in major news sources like CNN and The New York Times. The Kirwan Institute defines such biases as capable of affecting the decision-making, actions, and relationships, thereby sometimes leading to harassment, hostile work environments, and discrimination lawsuits. Providing Unbiased Feedback: Best Practices for Constructive Criticism Let us explore together and figure out how we can overcome them. 1. Experience your experiences through a new filter Pretty much all your life experiences can help you gain new perspectives if you are looking for them. Look for situations you do not understand or surprise you and be curious. Think about things that happened and things you hear through the filter of your current challenge or problem.  Notice things and compare them to the issues you are contemplating. Consistently and consciously thinking about seeing new perspectives will make all the difference. Once you have developed a habit of looking at the things, events, and people with a fresh and different perspective, you shall be in the habit of being aware of your thoughts when biases creep in and help you to minimize the same. 2. Listen to people you disagree  Shut up and listen. You already have your perspective about the whole world around, which you likely will not change very much if you keep talking.  Listen to what others have to say, how they see the world and the situation. Not only will you learn something and gain a new perspective, but you will also build your relationship with the other person at the same time.  Listening well also helps you to develop empathy – a rare and great quality to have. As Simon Sinek puts it very crisply and aptly – “Hearing is listening to what is said, listening is hearing what isn’t said.” Listening helps you to broaden your perspective and helps you to have a wider view. Listening helps you not to shrink yourself in your world with your fixed set and pet notions, prejudice, and biases. (Source: Monica B. Vela) DO YOU KNOW? A survey of 4,500 first-year medical students revealed 74% and 67% implicit and explicit weight bias, similar to racial bias. This study highlighted pervasive bias in medical education. 3. Read, Read, and Read It's not uncommon for people to say that a book has changed their life, but did you know reading a novel can change the brain? Researchers at Emory University's Center for Neuropolicy have found that reading a narrative can cause changes in the brain, not only while participating in the activity but in resting-state connectivity, too.  According to the study, when we read, the connection between the left temporal cortex of the brain - the area associated with language reception — is heightened. What is more, that heightened activity continues for several days following the reading. According to the same study by Emory University, reading not only heightens the connectivity in the temporal cortex, but it also increases activity in the central sulcus of the brain, or region responsible for the primary sensory-motor activity. When we read, neurons in this area of the brain activate to create a sensation of not just reading about the action of the book but experiencing the sensations it is describing. For example, if you are reading a passage from Harry Potter where he is running away from the Dementors, the neurons associated with the physical act of running are activated. A phenomenon known as grounded cognition, reading does not only figuratively put you in someone else's shoes, it does that through the biology of the brain. Empathy as stated above in turn helps you to curb your judgmental streak and minimize the biases. So, go ahead and read new authors, new genres, new magazines, blogs, and websites. All reading is helpful, but if you only read in your industry or only read your favorite author, or only otherwise monochromatically, you are hampering your perspective-building opportunities. 4. Knowing the rational reasons “Make sure you know the rational reasons why you made a given decision” says Mahzarin Banaji, Harvard psychologist and author. The rational decision allows for an objective approach that is based on scientifically obtained data to reach informed decisions. This reduces the chances of errors, distortions, and assumptions, as well as a manager's emotions, that might have resulted in poor judgments in the past. Rational helps to make us aware and transcend our biases in decision making. It helps to decide based on “What is “rather than “What I feel or think”. In a recent study, "What Steps can be Taken to Reduce Unconscious Bias in the Workplace”,( Bingman Zhu) structured training programs, increasing diversity in hiring, and developing an inclusive culture in the workplace are highlighted as key strategies for reducing unconscious bias. This will yield better decision-making techniques and generally improve organisational performance. How Can AITD Help in Promoting an Unbiased Environment? Organisations such as Amity Institute of Training and Development (AITD) are leaders in the not biased society quest. AITD is specifically designed for conflict management and gives training to people so that they may learn how and when they must acknowledge their biases, thereby minimizing the same.With this unbiased definition of fairness, AITD can lead into producing unbiased people who behave accordingly in complex social situations. Strategies AITD Offers for Overcoming Bias 1. Training Workshops AITD provides workshops that focus on understanding biased selection, and biased information. Such a workshop will enable the learner to use various tools for identifying and eliminating biases from his/her decision-making process. 2. Conflict Management Solutions The AITD has solutions unique to every organisation seeking a solution to their issues resulting from biases. The programs AITD conducts would support an inclusive culture which proactively appreciates and values diverse viewpoints and would ensure a non-gender-biased workplace. 3. Feedback Mechanisms Implement systems For unbiased feedback-the means for growth. AITD has methods to set up the feedback loops that would allow honest and candid communication without fear of bias. 4. Research and Resources  AITD affords the opportunities for unbiased facts and finding of research, which would help organisations make informed decisions on direct data or objective findings instead of unsubstantiated opinions. Becoming an Unbiased Person: AITD’s Approach to Leadership Development AITD develops and delivers mentoring and sponsorship programs to sponsor the career development of the underrepresented groups. The employees would then be paired with a more experienced mentor or sponsor that can lead, guide, and advocate for them at needed points in their career. This way, the programs seek to overcome unbiased person in selection and in information. Adoption of Unbiased Practices through AITD A partnership with AITD will make any organisation understand bias and create an overarching system to overcome it. In committing themselves to a bias-free environment, companies will have better decision making, enhance the sense of job satisfaction from their employees, and propel their organisation to success.

December 26, 2024, Leading in 2021 means carving a new path through an epic commotion triggered by the pandemic, which has become a global shared adversity. These unprecedented times have spawned health, economic, and social crises that have rendered the best-laid plans useless. With no road map for the appearing long haul ahead, navigating through these times is a test of agility. Together, the organisation will have to experiment, execute, and learn from successes and failures to invent its future. An Evolving future, Embracing the change While specific future developments are increasingly difficult to foresee with certainty, we can be sure about two deep trends: the pace of change will continue to increase, and the level of complexity and interdependence will continue to grow. Leadership matters now more than ever - it is about leveraging, not reacting to, the turbulence around. How can you as a leader empower your team to solve problems deftly and resourcefully when circumstances are in constant flux? How can you create the conditions for your organisation to work effectively and steer well out of this world over chaos? How do you create new ways of engaging with team members when they are all under pressure and resources are scarce? And how do you cultivate your capacity to cope with the imponderables that lie ahead? Did you know? The idea of self-leadership goes all the way back to ancient philosophy, especially through Lao Tzu, who focused on the importance of mastering oneself? Role of Agility in Leadership To develop teams and organisations with the level of agility demanded by today’s turbulent business environment, companies need leaders who embody a corresponding level of agility. It is no wonder, then, that senior executives say that agility is one of the most critical leadership capacities needed in their companies today. Meaning of Leading with Agility In essence, leading with agility is the ability to lead effectively under conditions of rapid change and high complexity. Because change and complexity now affect managers at all organisational levels, this is a competency that is increasingly needed not just in the executive suite but throughout the company. Let us together explore what it takes to develop this agility to lead through the constant flux. What is Self-Leadership? "Mastering others is strength. Mastering yourself is true power." - Lao Tzu. All human beings are self-leaders; however, not all self-leaders are effective at self-leading (Manz, 1983). That is the bad news. The good news is that self-leaders can become better at leading themselves. Self-leadership is about constantly developing the 'inner game' of intention, self-awareness, self-confidence, and self-efficacy to achieve personal mastery. When our inner game is good, our game becomes more efficient and effective through influence and impact. Did you know? Such a reflective action in leadership gives one the opportunity to discover hidden opportunities and solutions, usually masked by the rush of daily activities. How to Develop Reflective Action? In leading with agility, one needs to step back from their current focus or procrastination in a way that allows them to make wiser decisions and then fully engage in what needs to be done next instead of procrastinating. Reflective action is both the essence of leading with agility and the best way to develop it. The easy way to develop reflective action is to scan your environment and determine what issues (problems or opportunities) need your attention. How to Cultivate Single-Pointed Attention?  Reflection is a mental process that allows you to recall and think about previous thoughts, feelings, and behaviours after they have occurred. At any level of leadership development, reflection can be a powerful ally. Its key limitation is that it always takes place after the fact. As a leader, you can act or you can reflect, but you cannot do both at the same time. The drawback of reflection can be mitigated by cultivating single-pointed attention. Did you know? Single-pointed attention can, like mindfulness practice, lead to greater calm and clarity amidst high-pressure situations. Interested in Learning more about the topics, here are a few links to relevant researches and studies conducted: Learning agility and the changing nature of leadership: Implications for theory, research, and practice. The impact of agility: How to shape your organization to compete The organisational impact of agility: a systematic literature review Conclusion The journey to leading with agility is an ongoing process of self-mastery, reflective action, and cultivating attention. By developing these skills, leaders can navigate through the complexities and rapid changes of today's business environment, empowering their teams and organisations to thrive amid uncertainty. As Albert Einstein wisely said, “The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.” Embracing this mindset of continuous inquiry and adaptation is the key to successful agile leadership. Key Learnings Adaptability is crucial:  Successful leadership in the present environment requires high flexibility to ply through all changes and uncertainties. Importance of Self-Leadership:  Basically, self-leadership would encompass self-awareness, self-regulation, and empathy, which would further become very significant in the development of an individual at both personal and professional fronts. Reflective Action:  Leaders must exercise reflective action through situation analysis, causality understanding, and the implementation of reflective solutions. Single-Pointed Attention:  Leaders cultivate single-pointed attention and thus remain focused and present. This could help to bring improvement in decision-making and resilience. Continuous learning and experimentation:  A firm should experiment and learn from the successes and failures in order to invent its future.

December 26, 2024, Thinking big picture is part of the cost of being strategically successful in today's fast-moving business environment. The leadership can focus on long-term goals and opportunities as it shifts its perspective from just the task at hand. It means realizing where the different elements interconnect to create an overall scheme within an organisation, which then presents solutions and aids decision-making. Among the studies conducted, entrepreneurs who embrace thinking big picture are more probable to be successful at 30-48%; hence, it is very crucial in leadership and business strategy. This can be achieved through brainstorming, allowing more out-of-the-box thinking to generate ideas and engagement from cross-functional departments. Ingrid has always ensured that can enter her organisations and, in doing so, encourages her team members to move towards more overall goals, which leads to growth and success. In the blog, we want to discuss the concept of thinking big picture or big picture leaders: what it implies, why it is crucial in business leadership, and how to practice it. Did You Know? Thinking big picture is often characterized by the ability to view the "forest for the trees," in which one's consciousness can capture the gestalt rather than being lost in minute details. It has been implicated as a determinant for creativity and creative problem-solving.  Understanding the Framework of "Why" Richard Phillips Feynman, American theoretical physicist who was widely regarded as the most brilliant, influential, and iconoclastic figure in his field in the post-World War II era said, “When you explain why, you must be in some framework that you allow something to be true. Otherwise, you're perpetually asking why … You begin to get a very interesting understanding of the world and all its complications. If you try to follow anything up, you go deeper and deeper in various directions. … You have to know what it is that you're permitted to understand and allow to be understood and known, and what it is you're not." "Why" is an altitudinal question. It gives the perspective about a situation from a higher ground … above 10000 feet! It helps one to have an eagle-eye view of the situation and can be used effectively to have a detached view of things. What is Big Picture Thinking? Big picture thinking meaning refers to the style of cognition that brings to the forefront the center and the effort put into fully understanding the larger contexts in which situations occur. It is thus comprises the ability to recognize a pattern, trend, or connection that is useful in the decision-making process. Such individuals are often considered visionary thinkers when it comes to anticipating future challenges and opportunities for action. Big Picture Thinking Definition The term implies strategic thinking that draws long-term implications instead of concentrating on direct matters to hand. This enables the question "What if? Engaging in Big Picture Thinking Activities for Team Development Participating in specific big picture thinking activities that fosters this way of thinking among teams: Brainstorming Sessions: Organise regular brainstorming sessions in which the team members can pour their ideas with no judgment being passed. Mind Mapping: Extract ideas around the central theme or goal with the help of mind maps. SWOT Analysis: Do SWOT analyses to determine the position that your organisation has in the market through analyses of Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, and Threats. Scenario Planning: Using current trends, build different alternative scenarios for the future to prepare oneself for potential challenges ahead. (Source: asap) The Importance of Big Picture Thinking Skills in Leadership The effective leader must know when to balance the minute, nitty-gritty tasks with the big picture strategy. These are those leaders who inspire teams by tying the daily responsibilities to overall organisational objectives. This ability to attach tasks to a larger good of the organisation will ignite the hearts of team members, making them feel vital to an even larger purpose . Characteristics of Big Picture Thinking Leader Visionary Mindset: He can anticipate long-run trends and opportunities. Risk Tolerance: He accepts calculated risks given his broader understanding of the market. Effective Communication: He articulates his vision clearly, motivating people to work towards the achievement of organisational goals. (Source: better up) DO YOU KNOW? Coached sales managers had 11% more attainment of sales goals than non-coached teams, translating into $10 million in incremental total bookings on a per-team basis. The Importance of Macro-Management: Embracing Thinking Big Picture for Strategic Success Dr. Elsbeth Johnson is a Senior Lecturer at MIT's Sloan School of Management and a Visiting Fellow at the London School of Economics shares "Every leader knows that they shouldn't micromanage — even if some of us still do. But while we understand the downside of micromanaging and take action to avoid it, we still haven't sufficiently embraced the upside of not micromanaging. Time and effort spent on macro-management enable leaders to be clear, decisive, and disciplined on the big strategic questions the organisation is facing." The leaders should be spending time on thinking big picture. (Source: masterclass) Research conducted by MIT Sloan Management Review has evidenced that organisations are 30% more prone to having the best cohesion and mutual alignment in the workforce if the focus is on macro-management than if the same focus is on micromanagement. According to Dr Elsbeth, the big strategic questions that leaders aren't spending enough time on or aren't answering are: Why does the organisation exist and what its purpose is? What does it offer (and does not offer) to its customers, and how and why does this offer deliver value to these customers? What does this produce for society and for shareholders? How the people within the organisation should behave — towards their communities, customers, other stakeholders, and each other. (Source: Atlassian) In a recent study,( Gorick Ng,2023) identifies big-picture thinking as the supreme skill for any professional, to help in the identification of long-term opportunities and improvement in organisational efficiency. According to Ng, professionals possessing a strategic mindset face challenges better and are better elicitors of innovation from teams. The study thus substantiates the development of big-picture thinking for long-term success in this fast-moving work environment. Real-Life Applications of Big Picture Thinking 1. How Did Elon Musk Revolutionize Space Travel? Elon Musk is a CEO of SpaceX-the very best instance of big-picture thinking in business. He has conceptualized the possibility of travelling to space at a reduced price or even colonize Mars. Laying his eye on long-run results, Musk has resulted in inventions of reusable rockets which reduce the cost of space mission by a huge percentage. 2. What role did Steve Jobs play in bringing Technology? Steve Jobs was actually one of the co-founders of Apple Inc. He is a really good big-picture thinker. His vision was that technology can very easily be weaved into life. This vision has resulted in some of the most revolutionizing products in history: the iPhone and iPad. These products are changing how people relate to technology as well as one another. 3. How did Amazon change retail? Therefore, Amazon was launched by Jeff Bezos with a very giant picture because the focus has been on customer experience and convenience based on how it was developed. He could see such a future time that internet shopping will dominate the world made, not just to sell a product but to create services like Amazon Prime and AWS. (Source: Mario) DO YOU KNOW? One study showed that those businesses having a long-run vision and a definite plan are 30% more probable to gain sustainable growth than those concentrating on short-term gains. How Can AITD Help You Develop Big Picture Thinking Skills? Amity Institute of Training and Development (AITD) will certainly help you develop big picture thinking skills when you allow integral solutions into individuals or organisations. With the application of their experienced leadership development and strategic planning skills, AITD will assist you in developing an easy way out through bigger thinking to achieve larger goals. Application of Big Picture Thinking in Business with AITD Big picture thinking is what leads to business success. Solutions offered by AITD respond to that need of those organisations that want to create a culture of strategic thinking and innovation. AITD supports companies: Align Big Picture Thinking with Business Goals: The efforts should be close aligned to the organisational objectives and vision at the initiation levels. Develop Big Picture Thinking Leadership: Teach leaders how to motivate teams, deliver a compelling vision, and make bold decisions based on long-term considerations. Implement Big Picture Thinking Strategies: Help build roadmaps and action plans to bring the big picture ideas into their tangible effects. AITD's Solution is Positive in nature on the scale of Thinking big picture Solutions by AITD have been invaluable in unlocking both the abilities of individuals and organisations through thinking big picture over the years. It has helped companies increase innovation by 25% and staff engagement by 20%, according to research conducted by AITD. The embrace of the thinking big picture in an organisation brings immense success. Equipped with such resources, AITD encourages the creation of a culture that fosters strategic thinking of business challenges and opportunities. Remain proactive today: let transform your organisation's tomorrow!

December 26, 2024, Why do some people suffer real adversities and not falter? Why do some people buckle under pressure? And what makes some people bend and ultimately bounce back? It’s a question that has fascinated me ever since I first learned about the survivors of holocaust when I saw the movie “The Escape from Sobibor” which was based on Richard Rashke's 1983 book by the same name, along with a manuscript by Thomas Blatt, "From the Ashes of Sobibor", and also references from the book by Stanislaw Szmajzner, Inferno in Sobibor. Did You Know? Resilient employees are more likely to stay motivated and perform well under pressure. The Puzzle of Human Resilience My further personal exploration has taught me much about resilience, although I feel that none of us will ever understand fully as it is one of the greatest puzzles of human nature - like metaphysis or the religious predisposition. But in examining through psychological research and in reflecting on the many stories of grit or resilience that I’ve heard over the years, I have tried to see a little more deeply into the minds of people, in doing so, looked more deeply into the human essence as well. Defining Resilience: More Than a Resume Buzzword What is resilience? While going through a lot of resumes of entry-level candidates who had applied for various posts in my last organization, I happen to often come across candidates mentioning grit and resilience as their strengths. But frankly speaking, candidates at the entry-level in the organization are just too young to know that about themselves. Resilience or grit is something you realize you have after the fact. It is realized and recognised by reflecting on life’s various adversities and challenges taken in stride and faced them … well. Facing Modern-Day Adversities: The Role of Resilience Current times are dark days: people are losing jobs, taking pay cuts, not able to pay their liabilities. Some of them are giving up, getting into depression or suffering loss of confidence. As they say this world is an epitome of contrast and contradictions – there are others who are bouncing back with a bang and many are taking advantage of layoffs to build a new career or exploring the hidden potential and building on the same. What makes these people look at the brighter side? What carries them through tough times? It’s nothing but – Resilience. Resilience: Innate Trait or Developed Skill? A large number of the early hypotheses about resilience focused on the function of hereditary qualities. There's some fact to that, obviously, yet an expanding group of observational proof shows that flexibility—regardless of whether in kids, overcomers of death camps, or organizations back from the verge—can be developed. Most of the research that I have gone through, shares an overlap of four characteristics that resilient people have: Acceptance of the problem being faced, deep faith and purpose in life, recognising the “natural equilibrium” and re-inventing themselves. Let’s explore how we can build resilience. Acceptance: The First Step Towards strategizing to build Resilience Acceptance: As Stanly Cohen states in his book - States of Denial: Knowing about atrocities and Suffering - Blocking out, turning a blind eye, shutting off, not wanting to know, wearing blinkers, seeing what we want to see ... these are all expressions of denial. He goes on to state that denial is always partial. Some information is always registered. This paradox of doubleness – knowing and not knowing – is the heart of denial. This paradox leads to what Wurmser states as “pseudostupidity” - tendency to overlook the obvious and inability to make appropriate choices. Facing reality is a tough job. It is indeed an unsettling, grueling, unpleasant and can even be emotionally draining. But the fact is that when we truly look at the reality the way it is and accept the same, we automatically prepare ourselves to act in a way that would help us to endure and survive the adversity. Acceptance of the magnitude of the problem helps us to prepare us mentally and emotionally to undergo the problem at hand. Deep Faith and Purpose: Finding Meaning in Adversity Deep Faith and Purpose: Many of us when faced with adversity have a natural reaction of – Why me? Why does this only happen to me only? Why am I always on the receiving side? Why does the whole cosmos conspire to take away my peace of mind, every time? Such people see themselves as victims, and living through hardship carries no lessons for them. But resilient people devise ideas about their suffering to create some sort of meaning for themselves and others. They take it as an opportunity to learn and explore more about themselves and the world on the whole. There is a deep sense of faith that this adversity is for a better reason and they derive a purpose out of it. We have seen many great people in history who were able to derive their purpose of life when they faced adversity – Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King to name a few. (Source: adpri) Recognising the “Natural Equilibrium”: The Balance of Life Austrian psychiatrist and Auschwitz survivor Victor Frankl (Author of Man in Search of Meaning) realized that to survive the camp, he had to find some purpose. He did so by imagining himself giving a lecture after the war on the psychology of the concentration camp to help outsiders understand what he had been through. By creating concrete goals for himself, he rose above the sufferings of the moment. Research by Charles S. Carver and Michael F. Scheier note that thinking about a future goal in more abstract and general terms may inculcate resilience and perhaps even aid recovery and success in achieving it. Instead of focusing on replacing the specifics of what’s been lost, thinking about it generally opens up many more ways of achieving the goal you have. Did You Know? Reduces Burnout: Resilience helps mitigate stress, leading to lower levels of burnout and increased job satisfaction. Reinventing Yourself: The Power of Adaptability Recognising the “Natural Equilibrium”: The more we mature in life, the more we understand that life is nothing but a series of experiences. These experiences are as per our expectations then they appear pleasant to us. If these experiences are not as per expectations then they appear unpleasant to us and then we have a set of experiences which are neither pleasant nor unpleasant and we are neutral in such situations. (Source: Better up) Out of personal experiences that I have had of adversity of some decades in this human life, I have come to a conclusion that we can never undergo pleasant experience or happiness at all times and we can neither be sad or unhappy most of the time. I recognised this fact during the loss of a near and dear one. On hearing the death news, the world was shattered and was very sad to an extent that had expressed my grief outwardly, but I observed that after some hours, there was something in me that was pushing me towards a normal state. This observation went on during the entire period of mourning and thereafter. It helped me to recognise that there is a “natural equilibrium” which we are automatically pushed into whenever we face any extreme situation of happiness and sorrow. Recognising and nurturing this sense of “natural equilibrium” helps to get out of adversity and makes one prepared to face the next one better. As they say … This  too shall pass! (Source: Catherine Twiss Consulting) The Art of Reinventing Yourself in Adversity Reinventing: Reinventing here can be defined as a kind of inventiveness, an ability to improvise a solution to a problem without proper or obvious tools or materials. It is the ability to make do with whatever is at hand. French anthropologist Claude Levi-Strauss termed this knack as bricolage. In his words - “In its old sense, the verb bricoler . . . was always used with reference to some extraneous movement: a ball rebounding, a dog straying, or a horse swerving from its direct course to avoid an obstacle.” When circumstances unravel, bricoleurs jumble through, imagining possibilities where others are perplexed. (Source: John thurman) We all have heard a lot many stories about people around us who reinvented themselves and were able to survive against all odds. Such is a case of Major D.P. Singh. He was injured on 15 July 1999 at LOC in Akhnoor sector while fighting for India during the Kargil War. He was 80 meters from a Pakistani Army post when a mortar fell within 1.5 metre of where he was; the shrapnel injured multiple parts of his body. A part of his right leg was amputated as it had developed gangrene. After his amputation, he gradually started running using a prosthetic limb and has run in 26 half marathons in his running career. This includes three marathons of extreme high altitude as high as 11700 ft in Leh. He has successfully reinvented himself as India's first blade runner. He is also a writer, motivational speaker and a social worker. Resilience: The Core of Human Strength Resilience is a reflex—a method of confronting and understanding the world—that is profoundly carved into an individual's psyche and soul. Tough individuals and organizations face reality with steadfastness, make the importance of difficulty as opposed to shouting out despondently, and improvise solutions from meager resources they have. Did You Know? Enhances Problem-Solving: Resilient workers can adapt to changes and challenges more effectively, improving their problem-solving skills. Interested in Learning more about the topics or would like to know more ways to build resilience, here are a few links to relevant : Road to resilience: a systematic review and meta-analysis of resilience training programmes and interventions Biological and Psychological Perspectives of Resilience: Is It Possible to Improve Stress Resistance? A theoretical review of psychological resilience: Defining resilience and resilience research over the decades Conclusion Resilience is not something that one has, but rather a process involved with such elements as facing reality with strength, finding meaning in adversity, and reinventing the self-amidst turbulence. With acceptance, deep faith, and understanding of life's natural balance, one develops the strength to endure and thrive despite all odds. The stories and research point out that this quality can be developed, allowing people to survive but find meaning and growth in the very toughest of situations. Key Learnings Acceptance of Reality:  The facing and acceptance of reality, however difficult, can mentally prepare one's mind to face or endure difficulties. Deep Faith and Purpose: In doing so, in the wake of miseries, one is able to convert that very suffering into an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Natural Balance: It helps one to hold balance and perspective in those times, as one realizes that life is a series of agreeable and disagreeable experiences. Reinvention and Adaptability: The capacity for reinvention of self and improvisation of solutions from available resources as a means to navigate and survive hostile situations. Resilience as a Reflex: Resilience is a very deep-seated way of approaching and making sense of the world, characterized by steadiness, meaningfulness, and resourcefulness.

December 26, 2024, “Thank you for your insightful questions!” said the host at the end of the event. That was a rarity to hear in my growing up years. So, despite being excited about being a part of the audience in a coveted event in my firm, when the mic was being passed around to the audience, I let it pass. That was not a first, but one of many times. Thank you for asking questions is a phrase we often hear, but how often do we use it to engage deeper with the world around us? Did You Know? Questions as a Learning Tool: Studies show that children ask around 300 questions a day, highlighting the natural human curiosity that drives learning from an early age. Barriers to Asking Questions Perhaps mental conditioning, fear of sounding stupid or ignorant, or just an inability to frame my thoughts into a question were my blockers then. But I knew I was missing an opportunity to learn, even if I would have said thank you for asking though and left the mic behind.. Answers are rewarded... questions are… well, questionable. In a world of here and now, tolerating questions itself is rare, forget about encouraging them. “Don’t come to me with questions—come to me with answers,” Who has the time?, I am superior—I know it all?, Why disrupt? And the list is endless….Even in social scenarios, such as when someone says, 'Thank you for asking me out,' it demonstrates the importance of valuing curiosity and genuine interest. The Journey to Embracing Questions It took quite a few years and mentoring from some of my mentors for me to ditch that hitch and embrace asking questions, and to encourage them too. The motto was: Better to ask and risk appearing stupid than to continue on your ignorant way and make a stupid mistake. But no one should actually need help in asking questions… right? I mean, is it not like an elementary aspect we are born with! That’s what most people may think. While human beings may be the only primates gifted with the ability to learn and exchange information, it indeed is a skill that needs to be grown, encouraged, and honed. Did You Know? Historical Innovations: The Polaroid instant camera was invented after Edwin Land's daughter asked why she couldn't see the photo he had just taken immediately, showcasing the power of a simple question in sparking innovation. The Role of Questions in Human Connection Among the myriad doctrines of questioning, the fundamental one is human connection. Whether it is with a child or an elder, or in general with other humans in personal and professional worlds, asking questions displays a genuine desire to know about others or learn from others, which builds empathy. Asking a friend about how they are or what happened helps deepen the bond. In a group with strangers, questioning can build rapport and relationships. In learning setups, questioning aids learning, knowledge gain, and sharing perspectives. In workspaces as well, it is the central nervous system in many ways.A common question people ask is, 'How do you say thank you for asking?' Acknowledging a thoughtful question not only encourages deeper engagement but also builds stronger human connections.  Our work depends on answers to questions all the time. “What do you think about this?” is such a question—when my senior asked me this, it defined ownership, building competence, confidence, empowerment, and so much more for me. When leaders ask the team for ideas or opinions, it builds trust and empowerment and spurs growth. It also helps avoid many blind spots and snares. The Scientific Basis for Asking Questions The scientific premise behind asking questions is simple: curiosity about how things or the world works, and what happens if things are done differently—this can be termed as gaining or deepening knowledge. Better ways to do things, new ways of solving problems, and creativity all erupt from the volcano of questions if it’s allowed to open. Of course, there is as much weight in doing it right or wrong. A wrong question or a wrong way of asking could change the whole course of things too. The Art and Science of Questioning There is a whole lot of research and science behind the art of asking questions or asking the right questions. It is not one particular theory or one way to do it. It is learned by first opening up and accepting the idea and then observing and practicing. If one is a shy person by nature, even answering questions is not easy, so asking questions is a far cry. But knowing some tactics is a sure help to grow the mindset of asking questions. A simple and popular method is Warren Berger’s three-part system of inquiry. Expressions like 'Thank you for asking me out' are simple yet powerful examples of how questions shape our social interactions. The meaning goes beyond politeness; it reflects appreciation for someone’s curiosity or interest. Did You Know? Cognitive Benefits: Regularly engaging in asking questions can enhance cognitive flexibility, which is the brain's ability to adapt to new, changing, or unexpected events, crucial for strategic thinking. Warren Berger’s Three-Part System of Inquiry Warren Berger calls it The Why, What If, and How of Innovative Questioning. Why: Asking "Why" helps us understand the core problem or challenge—why it exists, why it hasn’t been solved already, and why it might be worth tackling. What If: “What if” questions are used to explore new ideas for improvements or solutions to the problem from a hypothetical standpoint. How: When it’s time to act on those ideas, the most effective questions are practical and action-oriented—how to give form to ideas, how to test and refine them, and how to transform possibility into reality. This cycle of inquiry can be seen in many stories of recent innovations by companies such as Netflix, Pandora, Square, Nest, and Airbnb. Or, for a more timeless example, consider the invention of the Polaroid instant camera. Conclusion: The Value of Continuous Inquiry In summary, ‘WHY’ can be the game changer. ‘What if’ possibilities are the seeds of innovation. ‘How’ is the action stage of inquiry. But this isn’t a master key—there should not be one. The idea is to first be open to asking and encouraging others to ask, and using inquiry to progress. Thank you for asking anyway, because as Albert Einstein said, “The important thing is not to stop questioning..." Interested in Learning more about the topics, here are a few links to relevant researches and studies conducted: The Art of Asking Good Questions in the Classroom: A Phenomenographic Study of Teacher Educators’ Recommendations A Mirror to Human Question Asking: Analyzing the Akinator Online Question Game It Doesn’t Hurt to Ask: Question-Asking Increases Liking Key Learnings Embrace Curiosity:  Ask questions to enable a greater understanding of the world and to encourage continuous learning and growth. Overcome Fear:  Realize and overcome limiting factors, such as the fear of sounding ignorant; take on mentorship and practice asking questions to build confidence. Build Human Connections:  Questions reveal genuine interest in others, in turn building empathy and fostering personal and professional relationships. Enhance Leadership: Effective leaders use questioning to empower teams, create trust, cultivate ownership, and drive innovation. Follow a Structured Approach:  Follow frameworks, such as Warren Berger's Why, What If, and How to solve problems and explore solutions in a systematic way.