Klaus Schwab who is the founder of the World Economic Forum stated back in 2016 that we were “at the beginning of a revolution that is fundamentally changing the way we live, work and relate to each other”. He even published a book called The Fourth Industrial Revolution to share his theories.
One of his key messages was…
“Together shape a future that works for all by putting people first, empowering them and constantly reminding ourselves that all of these new technologies are first and foremost tools made by people for people”.
1st Industrial Revolution – Steam:
This was the about mechanical innovations using the steam engine, cotton spinning and railroads.
2nd Industrial Revolution – Electricity:
Mass production through assembly lines and advances in electricity.
3rd Industrial Revolution – Digital:
This brought with it mainframe computers, personal computers, and the internet.
Putting People First
The speed at which these changes are now happening is like nothing else in history. Business models of each industry are being transformed, but one thing that is paramount in this Fourth Industrial Revolution is – putting people first and empowering them.
So, basically taking all this tech and using it to empower people.
Now more than ever, in this COVID-19 and post COVID-19 world, it is the strength of the relationships with employers and customers that has made the impact.
Oftentimes, we see businesses asking the question “What technology can we use to improve the Customer Experience for deaf customers?”
Let’s take this one step back and first seek to find out what deaf customers want from your business.
A simple case of taking things back to basics:
- Market
- Message
- Media
In this order! So, don’t start with the technology, start with your market: What do they want? Then in the later stages seek the media or the technology, but only when you can guarantee it’s fit for purpose.
Schwab’s Philosophy states that we must remember “new technologies are foremost tools made by people for people.”
