Archives December 2023

Vitesco Technologies presents comprehensive portfolio for electric drives at CTI Symposium, Berlin

New Delhi,7th December 2023 . Vitesco Technologies, a leading international provider of state-of-the-art drive technologies and solutions for electromobility, will participate in this year’s CTI Symposium in Berlin with a booth and technical presentations. Among the product innovations that the company will present from tomorrow are the Master Controller Premium as well as its overmolded power modules with modern silicon carbide chip technology.

The Master Controller Premium from Vitesco Technologies is a central control system for various area functions, such as the drive, the chassis or the charging. By acting as a functional integration platform for lateral and longitudinal acceleration, thermal and energy management, driving and charging strategy, it supports the highest functional safety level (ASIL-D).

Another highlight of Vitesco Technologies at the CTI Symposium will be the overmold power module: With its modern silicon carbide chip technology it represents a solution example for very deep system competence through joint optimization of power electronics and thermal management. Thanks to long-term collaborations with various semiconductor manufacturers, the company is able to offer its customers a particularly high degree of flexibility.

Cairn Oil & Gas accelerates net zero journey with enhanced focus on nature-based solutions

New Delhi, 7th December 2023 : Cairn Oil & Gas, India’s largest private oil and gas exploration and production company, and a part of Vedanta Group, announced another strategic carbon offset initiative that will support its journey to Net Zero through a focus on nature-based solutions. The company has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Gujarat Forest Department to develop 130 hectares of mangroves, by planting 200,000 mangroves in areas in the vicinity of the company’s operations in Surat. This would lead to a potential carbon sequestration of about 62,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide over a decade.

The partnership underlines Cairn Oil & Gas’ Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitment to protect and conserve biodiversity around its operational areas, striding to achieve no net loss of biodiversity. It contributes to the company’s ESG vision by undertaking impactful initiatives that nurture the environment and create lasting value for the communities it serves. Cairn’s aim is to achieve this transformational impact by planting 2 million trees by 2030.

Mangroves are regarded as the most impactful natural carbon sinks, with studies proving that they sequester nearly ten times more carbon than mature tropical forests, in addition to storing three to five times more carbon per equivalent area.

This new association further builds on the earlier three MoUs signed by Cairn with the state governments of Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh through a mass plantation of 0.75 million trees to accelerate decarbonization which have the potential to sequester 500,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide by 2050 – equivalent to the emissions from about 4,500 Indian households annually. As part of the earlier MoU with Gujarat Forest Department, Cairn has completed development of 60 hectares of Mangrove Forest in the coast of Surat. In addition to the positive environmental impact, the mangrove planting initiative also helps restore local ecosystems and enhance biodiversity by serving as habitats for diverse flora and fauna.

According to Dr. Steve Moore, Dy. CEO, Cairn Oil & Gas, Vedanta, “As India focuses on accelerating decarbonisation and achieving Net Zero goals, we are exploring multiple pathways to contribute to the nation’s aspirations and its energy needs. Nature-based solutions such as mangrove planting are powerful tools to not only sequester carbon emissions but also create lasting value for local economies. Through our MoU with the Gujarat Forest Department, we are further strengthening our carbon offsetting initiatives to achieve Net Zero. Aligned with India’s long-term strategy for emission reduction, the new initiative highlights the spirit of action that underpins our ESG vision of ‘Transforming the Planet.’”

Cairn Oil & Gas has a proven track-record of enhancing biodiversity, having developed 2,830 acres of greenbelt across its operational areas, including 458 acres of mangroves along the coasts of the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. Such positive climate action initiatives aim at contributing to the overall company’s ESG purpose of ‘Transforming energy responsibly for securing India’s energy future’ through the three pillars: Transforming the Planet, Transforming Communities, and Transforming the Workplace’.

Zscaler Survey: 92% of Indian organizations view GenAI tools as potential security risk despite its growing usage

BANGALORE, India, 7th December 2023 –– New research from Zscaler, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZS), the leader in cloud security, suggests that organizations are feeling the pressure to rush into generative AI (GenAI) tool usage, despite significant security concerns. According to its latest survey, “All eyes on securing GenAI” of more than 900 global IT decision makers, although 92% of organizations in India consider GenAI tools like ChatGPT to be a potential security risk, 95% are already using them in some guise within their businesses.

As Generative AI tools take centre stage in India’s digital economy, organizations in their pursuit of staying competitive strategically leverage GenAI to drive innovation and productivity. However, the survey spotlights key challenges such as 100% of respondents considering the lack of resources to monitor the usage and 75% admitting the lack of skills or talent to implement or use GenAI tools like ChatGPT effectively.

“Generative AI has become a technological revolution with unlimited possibilities. Hence the spotlight is on organisations to navigate the intricate balance between innovation and security, said Sudip Banerjee, CTO, APJ, Zscaler. “Our survey underscores the dynamism of GenAI adoption, highlighting the need to sharpen focus on both Zero trust principles and skill development to unlock the full potential of GenAI technology. Therefore, integrating a zero-trust solution can provide full control over technology’s usage per user and application, allowing organizations to maintain a secure and controlled environment.”

Even more worryingly, 22% of this user group aren’t monitoring the usage at all, and 36% have yet to implement any additional GenAI-related security measures – though many have it on their roadmap.

“GenAI tools, including ChatGPT and others, hold immense promise for businesses in terms of speed, innovation, and efficiency,” emphasized Sanjay Kalra, VP Product Management at Zscaler. “However, with the current ambiguity surrounding their security measures, a mere 30% of organizations in India perceive their adoption as an opportunity rather than a threat. This not only jeopardizes their business and customer data integrity, but also squanders their tremendous potential.”

The rollout pressure isn’t coming from where people might think, however, with the results suggesting that IT has the ability to regain control of the situation. Despite mainstream awareness, it is not employees who appear to be the driving force behind current interest and usage – only 3% of respondents in India said it stemmed from employees. Instead, 71% said usage was being driven by the IT teams directly in India.

“The fact that IT teams are at the helm should offer a sense of reassurance to business leaders,” Kalra continued. “It signifies that the leadership team has the authority to strategically temper the pace of GenAI adoption and establish a firm hold on its security measures, before its prevalence within their organization advances any further. However, it’s essential to recognize that the window for achieving secure governance is rapidly diminishing.”

With 75% of respondents in India anticipating a significant increase in the interest of GenAI tools before the end of the year, organizations need to act quickly to close the gap between use and security.

Here are a few steps business leaders can take to ensure GenAI use in their organization is properly secured:

  • Implement a holistic zero trust architecture to authorize only approved AI applications and users.
  • Conduct thorough security risk assessments for new AI applications to clearly understand and respond to vulnerabilities.
  • Establish a comprehensive logging system for tracking all AI prompts and responses.
  • Enable zero trust-powered Data Loss Prevention (DLP) measures for all AI activities to safeguard against data exfiltration.

Additional Resources
“All eyes on securing GenAI” Infographic

Methodology
In October 2023, Zscaler commissioned Sapio Research to survey 901 IT decision makers (ITDMs) across 10 markets [Australia & New Zealand, France, Germany, India, Italy, Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, UK & Ireland, USA]. These ITDMs work at companies of 500+ employees, and across industries.

Sapio Research is a full-service B2B and tech market research agency that helps businesses grow thanks to high quality, efficient, and honest research solutions.

FLOW WFM Wins the “WFM Technology Leader” Award at NXTGEN BPO CONFEX 2023

FLOW WFM

Mumbai, India, 07th December 2023: FLOW, the omnichannel, self-serve workforce management suite, has been awarded the ‘WFM Technology Leader’ award at NXTGEN BPO CONFEX 2023. The solution was recognized for its ability to automate key processes using AI/ML technology for maximizing WFM planning efficiency and boosting CX.

FLOW garnered awe with its unique ability to seamlessly integrate with existing contact center technology, making it a cost-effective and easy-to-adopt solution for any BPO. The solution drastically reduces WFM planning time by 60%, enabling the teams to focus on other core tasks.

FLOW enables organizations to integrate all their data and create a single source of truth, delivering a unified data view across the enterprise. The built-in AutoML capabilities bring about highly accurate forecasts, while what-if-based capacity planning aids WFM teams to be prepared for any scenario. Shift identification, facilitated by rule-based parameters, aids organizations to create shift plans tailored to their business requirements, mitigating leakages. Enabling employees to bid for their preferred shifts helps foster work-life balance and elevate satisfaction. Intelligent rostering brings about higher customer satisfaction by matching the best agent with the right skills for every interaction. Real-time, 360° dashboards assist organizations to derive actionable insights instantly, promoting data driven decisions whilst monitoring key performance metrics with ease.

The NexGen BPO Confex & Awards is a platform where industry experts and other stakeholders come together to gain insights into the latest trends, best practices and innovative strategies in procurement. Attended by CXOs, presidents, directors, heads, managers & executives across various departments like technology, IT, operations, delivery, HR, CX, analytics, etc., the event facilitates professional development, inspiration and staying updated about the latest regulations, compliance requirements and market dynamics.

DoubleTree by Hilton Gurgaon Powers Ahead in Sustainability: Partners with STATIQ for EV Charging Stations

DoubleTree by Hilton

New Delhi, 07th December 2023: DoubleTree by Hilton Gurgaon New Delhi NCR has inaugurated the electric vehicle Charging Stations by General Manager – Rajat Tuli along with Akshit Bansal, CEO & Founder, Statiq as a part of Hilton’s ‘Travel with Purpose’ commitment, demonstrating the hotel’s dedication towards environmental responsibility and innovation. This charging station is equipped with one DC dual gun charger of 60kW, that enables to charge an electric car up to 80% in about 40 minutes only and one AdWall AC charger of 22kW capacity providing for both fast and slow charging services. All types of four-wheelers and two-wheelers with different EV technologies can be charged at this station.

Mr. Tuli added, “This step marks a significant milestone for the hotel, as it aligns itself with the global shift towards sustainable and green practices within the hospitality industry.”

Travel with Purpose: A Commitment to Sustainability

Hilton’s ‘Travel with Purpose’ initiative is a comprehensive commitment to driving positive social and environmental impact within the communities where Hilton operates. It encompasses a range of programs and policies designed to reduce the environmental footprint of Hilton properties and contribute to the well-being of local communities.

The introduction of EV charging stations at DoubleTree by Hilton Gurgaon in collaboration with STATIQ, aligns perfectly with this commitment. Electric vehicles are increasingly recognized as a cleaner and more sustainable mode of transportation, contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. By offering this service, the hotel is not only meeting the growing demand for EV infrastructure but also taking proactive steps to reduce its own carbon footprint.

As part of the inaugural offer, guests can now avail a 15% discount at the hotel’s Food Store while they charge their electric vehicles at the dedicated charging station. This not only promotes sustainable transportation but also encourages visitors to embrace eco-friendly practices while enjoying their stay.

Rajat Tuli, General Manager, DoubleTree by Hilton Gurgaon Delhi NCR said,” The driving force behind this initiative, envisions DoubleTree by Hilton Gurgaon as a leader in sustainable and responsible hospitality. We believe that the introduction of EV charging stations is a testament to the hotel’s commitment towards meeting the evolving needs and preferences of its guests. We are thrilled to become One More Hilton Hotel to offer EV charging Station. Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a way of life. By integrating green practices into our operations, we aim to create a greener, cleaner, and more responsible future.”

” We are indeed delighted to have partnered with DoubleTree by Hilton Gurgaon-New Delhi NCR for setting up this charging station at their prestigious property. This initiative aligns with our commitment to environmental stewardship, offering guests a seamless and eco-conscious travel experience. Our partnership with Hilton reflects a shared vision of innovation and responsible hospitality, setting a new standard for the intersection of luxury and sustainability. The EV charging station at DoubleTree by Hilton Gurgaon-New Delhi NCR is more than a power source; it’s a symbol of our dedication to a greener, smarter, and more connected world.” – said Akshit Bansal, CEO & Founder, Statiq.

Karnataka Tourism: A Cultural Odyssey Unveiled at IITM Hyderabad 2023

Karnataka Tourism

Karnataka Tourism captivated the hearts and minds of visitors at IITM Hyderabad with a mesmerizing display of its rich cultural heritage, exquisite temples, tantalizing cuisine, and breathtaking wildlife. The event, held from 1st to 3rd December 2023, in stand number P7 at People’s Plaza, showcased the diverse beauty of Karnataka, a state renowned for its vibrant traditions, architectural marvels, and delectable culinary delights.

Visitors were transported to the enchanting world of Karnataka through a visual display of Karnataka’s architectural treasures, highlighting the grandeur of its ancient temples, intricate carvings, and awe-inspiring monuments such as the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Hampi, Pattadakal, and Hoysala temples in Belur, Halebidu, and Somanathapur. Majestic forts like the Bidar Fort, and Bellary Fort, tranquil hill stations like Coorg, Chikmagalur, Sakaleshpura, and Kodachadri, vibrant festivals of Ugadi, Dasara, and Makar Sankranti, and a culinary odyssey through Karnataka’s delectable cuisine, including Bisi Bele Bath, Dosa, and Mysore Park. Through interactive sessions and engaging exhibits, visitors were captivated by Karnataka’s historical marvels, scenic landscapes, and cultural legacy.

For those seeking an encounter with the wonders of the natural world, the event showcased Karnataka’s diverse wildlife. Visitors were mesmerized by images and videos of majestic tigers, graceful elephants, and the vibrant birdlife that inhabit the state’s lush forests.

Karnataka Tourism was represented by Mr. Janardhan H P, Joint Director of Karnataka Tourism along with various tourism service providers from Karnataka, such as The Aurum Hotels & Resorts; Tripbanao; Five Santuaries Safari LLP; Hotel Malligi Private Limited; Mysore International Travel Pvt. Ltd; Intersight Tours & Travels (P) Ltd; The Yellow Bamboo Resort (Green Fields); Niraa Wellness; Hotel VBR Grand INN; BookForUs; Turquoise Holidays; SBIT Travels Pvt. Ltd, along with the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation Ltd, and Jungle Lodges & Resorts Limited, accentuating the comprehensive tourism experiences available in the state.

Eminent personalities that visited the Karnataka Stand included Ms. Rakhee Kankaria, Chairperson, Tourism Committee, FKTCCI; Mr. Krupakar Ravipati, India Tourism; Ms. Sujana Kumar, TOAT; Mr. Pawan Jain, Rajasthan Tourism; Ms. Madhumati Rathod, Maharashtra Tourism; Mr. Valmiki Kishan, SKAL; Mr. Monik Dharamshi, SKAL; and Mr. Rajesh Philip, ANTO.

Karnataka Tourism, in collaboration with its key stakeholders, had B2B interactions with a diverse audience of travel enthusiasts, industry professionals, and potential collaborators from Hyderabad. These discussions delved into the intricacies of ecotourism, heritage tourism, adventure tourism, and wildlife tourism, fostering invaluable collaboration and knowledge exchange thereby laying a strong foundation for future collaboration and partnership in the travel and tourism industry.

The successful participation at IITM Hyderabad, served as a colloquy to Karnataka’s commitment to preserving and promoting its cultural heritage, while also showcasing its potential as a premier destination for tourism. The state’s rich history, diverse attractions, warm hospitality, and abundant wildlife make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic and enriching experience.

Get Ready for a Double Dose of Fun as Kanan Gill’s touring in 2024 ft a stand up special and book reading; tickets on Paytm Insider

7th December 2023: Get set to welcome the new year with laughter galore as the popular comedian Kanan Gill embarks on the first leg of his much-awaited India Tour, kicking off this January! Brought to you by the prime destination for top-notch entertainment experiences, Paytm Insider, this tour promises a rollicking good time with 19 shows across 16 cities. Join in for an unforgettable evening of side-splitting laughter and insightful humor as Kanan unveils his newest stand-up special, ‘OK, Bye!’ accompanied by a delightful book reading from his novel ‘Acts of God.’

Picture this – one evening, two incredible events, one-of-a-kind book discussion & reading experience plus a whole lot of jokes, and maybe, just maybe some existential whinging. Grab your tickets exclusively available at Paytm Insider for some laughter therapy with the man who is loved by Indians all around the world.

The first hour of the set is Kanan’s fourth (quite possibly his last) stand-up comedy show ‘OK, Bye’, which will highlight Gill’s extraordinary ability to deliver razor-sharp wit with flawless timing – promising a rollercoaster of hilarious anecdotes that will leave you in splits. Following a breezy 20-minute interval, dive into ‘The Book Experience’ featuring readings, discussions from Kanan’s debut novel “Acts of God”, a casual Q&A, and, of course, some jokes—because why not keep the fun going? And here’s an added bonus: every attendee of ‘The Book Experience’ walks away with a personally signed copy of Kanan’s novel. You can just opt for the stand-up comedy set or go all-in for the complete Kanan Gill experience—the choice is yours! Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in an unforgettable night of laughter and literary charm!

Varun Khare, Business Head, Paytm Insider said, “Kanan Gill’s India Tour promises a stellar fusion of laughter and literary charm that will make you remember why you fell in love with his comic timing in the first place. Paytm Insider always prides itself in the associations we build and are thrilled to present Kanan Gill the comedian and the author. This tour, featuring a new standup set along with anecdotes from his book is a testament to the diverse and immersive entertainment we strive to offer.”

Kanan Gill

Talking about the tour Kanan Gill said, “Thrilled to be touring in a way I haven’t before! Essentially this time I’m doing two different shows in a night. The first hour is my fourth (and maybe last) stand-up comedy special, with silly jokes and stories different from the existential whingeing I normally do. The second hour will be discussing my new Novel, Acts of God. So, in a sense, it’s like a mini-fest with two different performances. People normally do a stand-up tour or a book tour, so I’ve decided to combine both in one! Audiences can book tickets for just the stand-up show, or for both hours (and get a free book too), so whatever you like, no pressure. See you there!”

A YouTuber, actor and stand-up comedian, Kanan is known for his distinctive comedic style and infectious humour, having carved a niche for himself in the comedy and stand-up scene, and becoming a household name. From hosting the hilarious Pretentious Movie Reviews on YouTube to his successful stand-up specials like “Keep It Real” on Amazon Prime Video and “Yours Sincerely” on Netflix, Gill continues to be one of India’s most beloved comedians, with over a thousand shows worldwide and earning a reputation for delivering laughter-packed experiences like no other. So why wait? Snag your tickets and head out with some friends for an evening full of laughs with the one and only Kanan Gill!

India Tour 2024 schedule:

Jan 12 – Kozhikode

Jan 13 – Kochi

Jan 14 – Trivandrum

Jan 19 – Bangalore

Jan 28 – Chennai

Feb 9 – Ahmedabad

Feb 10 – Vadodara

Feb 11 – Surat

Feb 16 – Gurugram

Feb 17 – Delhi NCR

Feb 18 – Delhi

Feb 23 – Bhubaneswar

Feb 24 – Kolkata

Feb 25 – Guwahati

Mar 1 & 2 – Mumbai

Mar 8 – Navi Mumbai

Mar 9 – Vizag

Mar 10 – Hyderabad

Henry Harvin Education is now Great Place to Work certified

Henry Harvin Education

India 07 December, 2023: Henry Harvin Education, a leading provider of professional skill development courses and training is now a Great Place To Work® Certified™ in India. This prestigious award recognizes the company’s commitment to creating an inclusive, empowering, and creative work environment that promotes the growth and well-being of its employees. This accomplishment exemplifies the company’s efforts to foster a culture of trust, respect, and foresight.

Great Place To Work® is the world’s leading authority on workplace culture. Since 1992, they have surveyed over 100 million employees globally and utilized their unique insights to identify what creates a successful workplace: trust. Their employee survey platform provides executives with the input, real-time reporting, and insights they need to make strategic people choices. For more than three decades, the Institute has done groundbreaking research on the characteristics of outstanding workplaces for corporations, non-profits, and government organizations in over 60 countries.

“We are proud to be certified as Great Place to Work, reflecting our unwavering commitment to cultivating an environment characterized by inclusivity, synergy, and individual development. This accomplishment is a credit to our team’s unwavering dedication, which helps to promote a vibrant and thriving workplace. At Henry Harvin Education, we believe that by instilling a sense of worth, support, and empowerment in colleagues, they can do extraordinary things. This certification underlines our idea that we are not only constructing a company but rather nurturing an environment in which each person may flourish and fulfill their full potential. We look forward to continuing on this path, knowing that our people will always be the foundation of our victories.” said Kounal Gupta, Founder and CEO at Henry Harvin Education.

New Launch: Provenance Gift Boutique & Coffeehouse: New outlet in Prabhadevi I Winter Special Menu & Exclusive Christmas Hampers

Provenance Gift Boutique

Just in time for the festive cheer of Christmas and the New Year, Provenance has inaugurated its gourmet gift boutique and café within Ligne Roset, a luxury French home décor store at Prabhadevi in Mumbai.

The curated library of fine foods and gifts, Provenance, shines the spotlight on emerging brands and artisans from India and beyond.

Designed by The Busride Design Studio, the café is spread across 350 square feet which offers an interactive format of browsing merchandise, showcasing the versatile gourmet chocolate collection from Provenance while also enjoying coffee and desserts.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the café features chunky, monolithic, grey terrazzo island tops that look like rocks in a garden. Atop each island is a museum-like wooden cabinet with a display of the world’s best chocolates interspersed with curiosities from across the globe. Reminiscent of the ‘Cabinets of Curiosities’ that used to crown the parlours of the world’s great travellers and explorers, each cabinet is a fine curation of edibles and collectables.

The café and gift boutique’s offerings include one of the largest collections of chocolates and gourmet treats from India and across the world. Think chocolates and cookies by Maxim’s de Paris from France, Willie’s Cacao from the UK chocolates made with 100% natural ingredients, with no preservatives or artificial flavours, Dolfin Chocolates from Belgium, and many more. They have more than 100 variants of chocolates available in their chocolate library.

The café introduces a Special menu which includes mushroom melt, sweet chilli and sweet swirl, Spinach corn and feta Danish, Ham and cheese croissants, along with some winter delicacies, such as strawberry and cream tarts, strawberry eclairs, and more!

Provenance will also offer patrons its signature craft coffee and desserts such as rose pistachio cake, chocolate cookie crunch cake with sea-salt caramel, and gluten-free almond orange cake, along with other gourmet delectables and products meticulously curated from across the world.

In addition to fine chocolates, Provenance also offers several other iconic artisanal gourmet treats, such as Truffle Potato chips by Torres, handcrafted Papabubble candy from Spain, and Maxim’s chocolate and cookies from France. Each brand showcased at Provenance is selected for its authenticity, high quality and focus on craftsmanship. There is something for everyone – chocolate lovers, tea connoisseurs, coffee lovers, fitness enthusiasts as well as those who prefer milk, white, dark, vegan, sugar-free, gluten-free or organic chocolate gift baskets or gift boxes.

Whether you’re feeling indulgent this festive season or need something exciting to send to a loved one – Provenance has curated gourmet Christmas gift hampers, boxes and baskets to fit your gifting needs. The Christmas collection includes Advent Calendars from Maxim’s des Paris and Dolfin, other festive treats from ROYCE’ Chocolate, Willie’s Cacao and a curation of seasonal delights like mulled wine mix, Christmas cookies, candy canes, macaron biscuits and much more! The hampers start at ₹795/- and go up to ₹10650/-

The following are some of the Best-Selling Christmas Hampers:

  • Maxim’s Advent Calendar (24 Assorted Chocolates) — ₹2,524
  • The Winter Wonderland Gift Box — ₹3,775
  • The Christmas Movie Night Gift Hamper — ₹5,665
  • The Christmas Pantry Gift Basket— ₹7,700
  • The ‘MerryChristmas’ Gift Box — ₹10,650

Packed with warmth and love. Provenance Bespoke Gift Hampers are set to redefine festive gifting and can be shipped all over India. Guests can curate a gift as per their budget and preferences and the in-store gift concierge can help you design your hamper — with customised packaging, branded message cards, ribbons, brand logos and colours etc.

The Evolution from Budgets to Annual Operating Plans: A Paradigm Shift in Corporate Planning

In a notable departure from conventional financial planning, businesses are increasingly shifting their focus from traditional budgets to more dynamic Annual Operating Plans (AOPs). This strategic transition reflects a fundamental change in how companies approach their planning processes, aligning more closely with their vision, mission, and the ever-evolving business landscape.

Ujwal Landge

Ujwal Landge, Partner at E.A. Patil & Associates LLP (EAPA), succinctly captures this shift, stating, “In the fast-paced world of business, Annual Operating Plans have emerged as the compass guiding companies through the complexities of today’s market dynamics. It’s not just about numbers; it’s a comprehensive blueprint for success.”

The Rise of Annual Operating Plans

Unlike budgets that often concentrate solely on financial goals, Annual Operating Plans take a holistic approach, integrating both financial and operational objectives. This shift in strategy acknowledges the interconnected nature of financial success and operational efficiency, providing a more flexible framework that adapts to changing circumstances throughout the fiscal year.

“In essence, Annual Operating Plans represent a departure from rigid financial control to a more adaptable and responsive approach,” notes Landge. “They emphasise achieving a balance between financial performance and operational excellence, fostering a culture of agility and innovation.”

Measurables and Benefits

The core of Annual Operating Plans lies in their measurability and tangible benefits. These plans offer a set of clear, measurable parameters that serve as guideposts for stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accountability. From elevated customer satisfaction and enhanced operational efficiency to working capital optimisation and market positioning, AOPs provide a comprehensive roadmap for success.

Sameer Gavli, Partner at EAPA highlights, “Measuring success is integral to any plan’s effectiveness. Annual Operating Plans not only provide a strategic direction but also offer a tangible way to gauge progress and identify areas for improvement.”

Methodology for AOP Development

The methodology for developing Annual Operating Plans involves a systematic approach to identifying challenges, evaluating their impact, benchmarking against industry standards, and integrating best practices. This thorough process ensures that the plan not only addresses routine challenges but also prepares the company to navigate non-routine and unforeseen challenges proactively.

“As businesses evolve, so do their challenges. Annual Operating Plans are designed to be adaptive and forward-looking, fostering continuous improvement and innovation,” affirms Mr. Landge.

As the business landscape becomes increasingly dynamic, the shift from budgets to Annual Operating Plans is a strategic necessity. It’s not about abandoning financial control; it’s about embracing a more nuanced and responsive way of achieving success. In the words of Peter Drucker, ‘The best way to predict the future is to create it.’ Annual Operating Plans empower companies to do just that.”

The transition from budgets to Annual Operating Plans represents a fundamental shift in how companies strategise and navigate the complexities of the modern business environment. These insights underscore the significance of this change, emphasising the need for businesses to not only plan for the future but actively create it through adaptive and forward-looking approaches like Annual Operating Plans.