National Stadium, SG60 — a quiet kind of roar. Last night, many cried at Singapore’s 60th Birthday. Not for fireworks, but for “we.” For hours at SG60, strangers felt like neighbours. Strollers, flags, old songs, soft smiles; the simple things we keep forgetting. Maybe that’s the point: do we really need more "bigger", or just closer? It feels that, a rare feeling returned. And it did move many to tears. Singapore as 1 It’s 2025. Kampong is gone, neighbourliness mostly gone too. For that few hours, we tasted it back & remembered how it felt. Shared vulnerability, common challenges, a small “we” in an efficient world that keeps saying “me”. Tears aren't weakness, sometimes they’re a quiet yes. Yes to what we’ve lost, yes to what we still want. We’re human, after all. Stuck in sameness? We help shape value people can feel. The hamster wheel doesn’t stop Asia still does much of the world’s farming & factory work. Many never chose the system they’re in. Closer to home, many of us didn’t choose this kind of pace either. Bills don’t pause, parents still need care, kids still need attention. So we run nonstop, on the 24/7 treadmill. We carry on, together, even when it doesn’t feel like it. Bills don’t pause. Kids & parents don’t either. We carry on — together. Today, some send 300 CVs & get no reply. Some businesses look fine on social media but not in the books. Some do 2 jobs, some care for 3 generations. Most of us are just trying not to drop what we’re carrying. We say “ok lah” even when it’s not ok. It keeps the peace, but not the progress. It’s a cultural challenge many of us face. It’s hard & it’s real. Since we can’t out-exam, what now? There was a time when grades could easily guarantee a future. Machines now fetch facts faster than any of us. If our work is still mostly “crawl & retrieve”, from textbook solutions, we lose. To the world, NUS & NTU rank high; at home, many feel same-same. Heads down, on machines & keyboards. That pat on the back is not coming. Do different. Try new. More & more towkays remind me: the old playbook is dead. In business, there’s only 1 winner. For the job or that tender, the same textbook answer may no longer work. Unlike school, there isn’t one “correct”. Increasingly, the way forward will rely on skills we had as kids (before we learnt to overthink, as adults). Creativity, from curiosity. Play. Making things. Trying, then trying again. Out-innovate, not out-memorise. Out-care, not out-show. Be a little different. On their minds, in the markets. Come say hello on LinkedIn. Ordinary hopes, require initiative Most of us don’t need a yacht or GCB. We want a home that feels safe, a job that gives meaning, a weekend that isn’t swallowed whole. We want time to walk, to eat with people we love, to sleep without worry. Many friends of mine in other global financial centres want the same too. 2 pages, 2 clocks. Don’t wait to live. We bought the Straits Times right after National Day, as a memento. The Life section juxtaposed parties by the crypto bros & palliative care for the dying. 1 headline shouts cool clubs; the next page shows “one last party” meals — durian, beer, KFC, even chilli crab. 2 parties, different clocks. Sometimes we’re shy, sometimes just busy to try anything new. Till, it's too late. Don’t wait to live. Gentle moves, for the next 60 Days, not years. Perhaps, we all can, take tiny initiatives, to be clearer & kinder: say hello to a neighbour, text a sibling, finally book the kopi we keep postponed. Can or not? Wait again? Try swapping 1 “must-do” for 1 “choose-to-do” & keep it for 30 + 30 days. Our monthly courage: try 1 new thing each month — small, cheap, human. Simple isn’t easy. Simple is earned. Before we go Not everyone had a choice; many still don’t. All the tears at SG60 could be that nudge , or maybe even a wake-up slap, to act while we can. If we can’t out-exam anymore, maybe we out-imagine, out-listen, out-help. 1 step, then another, until it looks like a path. The old playbook is dead. Do same thing, get same results, heard before? So, we write a smaller one we can keep: 1 page of curiosity, 1 page of courage, 1 page of kindness. Tomorrow we add another. We’re human, after all. Real neighbours, if we choose to be.

Balancing boardrooms & bedtime stories, Huiying’s story shows that digital transformation exports resilience. Her journey—Singaporean mum, leader across six countries—is a reminder that human grit matters, even in corporate corridors. Originally shared on LinkedIn . Feel free to join the original conversation. Celebrating the grit and grace, of 21st century women. “Professional accolades define us at work, but at home, my children remind me of my other role - a mother. They aren't interested in my achievements; they just wanted their mum.” Huiying Tan, a fellow Singaporean who gracefully juggles her roles as a corporate leader, mother and spouse, personifies the resilience of 21st-century women. Her story today is a testament to the universal experiences and challenges mothers everywhere face. Family trip to Taiwan during the 2023 June school holidays. In this first edition of 'Conversations with Whizzard’, we express our gratitude to the self-described introvert while celebrating her courage in unveiling her world of vulnerabilities and disruptions, a journey characterised by a remarkable tenacity in seeking knowledge and support. To aspiring mums, Huiying's story offers a candid look into the beautiful balancing act that lies ahead. Huiying, a Raffles alumna and Group Director at SGX-listed Cordlife Group Limited, manages Quality and Operations across 6 countries. At home, she cherishes the time spent with her two young sons, aged 6 and 9, their innocence a constant reminder of life's simplicity. "Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time." - Marthe Troly-Curtin Boardroom to Living Room Transitioning between professional and personal spaces is challenging for Huiying, yet she faces this head-on. Despite her schedule, she prioritises 'quality time' with her children, savouring homely activities and finding joy in the simplest of things. “I recently discovered my elder son’s surprising initiative and congeniality with peers at a Parents-Child-Teacher conference, despite his introverted nature,” she candidly shared. Yet, the familiar guilt of a working mother surfaces, as she only got to learn this from his teacher. Which is more challenging – leading teams across 6 countries or shaping the future minds of her 2 boys? Interestingly, Huiying finds her work and home roles intersect and enhance each other, a beautiful interplay of learning, unlearning and relearning, extracting wisdom from unlikely places. Her children's creativity sparks her problem-solving at work, while her professional experiences in turn refine her parenting. Not yet on Linkedin. Superpowers; balancing, questioning assumptions, teamwork. Finding Balance in Chaos Huiying's harmonious work-life equilibrium is attributed to a reliable and agile support network at home. Her husband steps up to shoulder shared parental duties, engaging in school activities during her travels while parents assist with after-school pick-ups. She has learnt to ask for help when needed, as no one can shoulder this alone. Also, she sees her occasional absence as a growth catalyst for her sons, this somewhat counterintuitive approach helping build their resilience, independence and responsibility. Bridging Borders and Cultures At work, Huiying champions empathetic leadership, viewing each team member as an individual with unique aspirations and challenges. She devotes time in understanding these personal dimensions, thereby cementing interpersonal bonds that fuel Cordlife's team dynamics. In this digital era, she emphasises the irreplaceable value of human touch, embodied in her regular trips to interact with colleagues and partners in person, in that way highlighting the importance of authenticity and balance in an increasingly automated world. Self-care: Recharging Mind and Body Following a 6-year break since her son's birth, Huiying has rekindled her passion for yoga as part of her priorities for rest and rejuvenation. Yoga helps her reduce stress, sharpen focus and cultivate a sense of much needed inner peace. Before becoming parents, she and her husband led an active lifestyle, diving and travelling often. They now enjoy and engage in simpler shared activities such as cycling and playing badminton. The time together strengthens their bond amidst the flurry of work and parenthood, ensuring she retains the stamina and resilience necessary to keep pace with her dynamic career and energetic boys. Echoing the sentiment of Michelle Obama, the self-care advocate asserts, "We need to do a better job of putting ourselves higher on our own 'to do' list" Cordlife's dual-accredited laboratory in Singapore. Mentorship: Growth in Self and Others Huiying attributes her growth to insights gained from leaders in diverse domains, extending beyond her superiors to include MBA peers and close friends from professional corridors. These rich and varied perspectives empower her to reframe challenges and come up with novel solutions. She emphasises the importance of seeking guidance because nobody knows everything. She encourages everyone, particularly the introverted and younger ones, to bravely ask for help. "Help is more accessible than you might think. The key lies in overcoming your hesitation and asking for it." Beyond Material Success When asked about the legacy she hopes to leave, Huiying shares a vision rooted not in material success, but rather in the lasting and meaningful impact she can have on her team at Cordlife, her family and the broader community. This sentiment urges us to reassess our priorities and redefine success, mirroring the wisdom of Fight Club, "The things you own end up owning you." From feeling overwhelmed to seeking joy in the ordinary, her journey showcases the struggles between control and chaos, work and home, leading and following. Each a testament to the resilience and grace of fellow mothers and modern women worldwide. Continuing the Conversation Huiying's journey invites us to embark on a collective path of vulnerability and strength, learning and unlearning. In her parting words, she encourages the introverts and silent observers to interact more, even here. This includes the dedicated men and fathers. After all, like life, work and LinkedIn can include relaxed and fun moments too. How about sharing an Emoji or hitting Follow? 😜 We might be shy, but we can try. Make a new friend. Add. Connect. Chat. Stay tuned for more exciting voices, including familiar names, in the 'Whizzard Conversations' series – a place for growth and of course, fun. "Finding Better Angles Crafting Better Stories"

Singapore’s SMEs carry the load; jobs, families + neighbourhoods. Digital tools help, but grit + craft do more. This is a simple look at how small businesses in Singapore grow with focus: clear offers, tight costs, steady trust. Small + steady wins. Key Takeaways Differentiate or discount Storytelling and emotional connections are especially crucial today for SMEs to stand out in a competitive market. Branding attracts talents A compelling employer brand increases odds of appealing to top talents, which in turn can improve company performance. Magic of Retention A 5% increase in customer retention rates can result in increased profits ranging from 25% to 95%, a famous study shows. Perception Matters Singapore has long been recognised as a thriving business hub in Asia with tons of global accolades but many SMEs here still struggle to stand out in a sea of sameness. As of 2023, a staggering 99% of the 409,000 ACRA-registered firms here are small businesses, with 80% earning less than S$1m per year. In the world of business, it is a common misconception that the best product will always come out on top. How do they really see you, you sure? Quality is still a crucial factor. However, perception is quite everything in today’s experience-driven world. Your customers are swayed not just by product quality, but by intangible factors like branding and reputation. This makes it challenging for small businesses to attract new customers and grow, without a strong brand image. Breaking Free from the Vicious Cycle Without it, businesses easily sink into the vicious cycle of commoditisation and price wars, leading to limitations in talent and returning to old ways of working. If we continue to do the same things , we will continue to receive the same results. SMEs can achieve success by using automation and creativity to differentiate ourselves. Someone in the company needs to initiate change to break free from this deadly "me-too" cycle. If we think small , we are more likely to be bullied. The power of our thoughts cannot be understated, as leaders' directions influence the whole team’s actions and words. It is the responsibility of leaders to facilitate change, but someone MUST initiate action. To win in business, we need to keep finding better angles and focus on creating a compelling story that sets us apart. We’ve won multiple tenders against much larger competitors with our creative positioning, storytelling and emotional connections with customers. It is indeed possible and even addictive. In the game of tenders, just like in business, there's no room for 2nd place. But how do you ensure that you're the one coming out on top? How do your clients perceive you? When done well, your customers will be more willing to stick to you, even if you’re not the cheapest. Think about how you are different and better, in 1 line. Think of branding as a secret weapon that gives you a competitive edge. An emotional connection with your audience can retain existing customers and secure new ones, with a renewed loyalty translating into increased sales and profitability. There are tons of famous quotes out there on how vital branding is and its impact on selling and even survival. According to Steve Forbes, " A brand is the single most important investment a business can make ." However, building a strong brand can be a daunting task, particularly for companies with limited budgets or in-house talent. The risks of falling behind and becoming irrelevant is real and require a creative rethink on new ways of working, leveraging new tools and people. Collaborating with top quality third-party providers can offer a cost-effective solution to overcome these challenges. In such cases, this can be a game-changer. Superior partnerships can help you tap into expertise and resources that may not be available internally, allowing you to create a more compelling brand and grow your business. Be curious, go find out what’s possible, invest 30% of your time on social media here. New tools, new ways, new you. Bounce and Conversion In today's digital age, the neglect of branding can result in high bounce rates and low conversion, ultimately costing your business money and customers. With weak differentiation, potential customers may likely perceive your business as a "cheap" option, perpetuating a vicious cycle of competing on price. It is only natural. High bounce rates mean that people leave your site soon after visiting it —— usually within 8 seconds, without interacting or exploring further. It's like customers going to your physical store and leaving immediately without looking around or buying anything. Low conversion rates mean that visitors are not taking the desired action —— such as clicking that button to buy, fill forms, or sign up. A healthy conversion is between 2-5% depending on industry. SMEs we spoke with needed 10x to 50x more visitors to get that same number of clicks. Google Analytics doesn’t lie. Some even needed 100x, this for real. Cheap is costly. Primitive 'More of the Same' templates in today's world will quickly lose eyeballs, naturally. Branding as the pillar, to hold onto hearts, minds and then, wallets. Evolution of Branding When branding is done for the sake of it, clients can smell it even. Looking more of the same not only drives your prices down but also leads to reduced engagement and detachment from potential customers, a return to that vicious cycle. The traditional elements of branding, such as logos and taglines, may work in 1990 but are no longer enough to engage with today's customers. Instead, Customer Experience (CX) and User Experience (UX) are crucial aspects of branding that must be considered . This includes elements such as short videos and gamified loyalty programs that appeal to younger audiences and helps you stay top of mind. Additionally, it may be necessary to transform your brand personality, tone of voice and visual identity to communicate your unique value proposition, to better resonate with your target audience of today and tomorrow. “When You Do It Because That's What Everyone Does, Clients Can Tell" From Unknown to Trusted Customers are willing to pay more for products or services from a brand they know and trust. Further, it can also help SMEs expand into new products and services and even venture into overseas markets with confidence. On the other hand, they are also often sceptical of new and unknown brands, we are like that as customers, right? It’s a very human thing. This is especially true in industries where quality control and customer service are vital, such as healthcare and hospitality. In a world where first impressions matter, looking different and better can make all the difference between a successful SME and a struggling one . A Compelling Employer Brand On building a strong team, many SMEs overlook the importance of branding when it comes to attracting and retaining top talents. However, just as customers are more likely to trust and pay a premium to well-branded SMEs, that top talent is also more likely to consider an employer that has a strong and distinctive brand image. Yes, easier said than done, but do we do something, or wait and see? Creative branding helps improve quality of candidates who apply. Don't be afraid to embrace the quirks and idiosyncrasies of your team members. Instead, use them to your advantage. It’s a great form of differentiation and authenticity. You are not expected to be flawless. By showcasing your unique strengths and values, you can create a compelling brand that resonates with young talents. This step is often assumed away, which can lead SMEs back into the cycle of competing on price and a race to the bottom, with no good people to help raise standards or perception. By forming a strong team that sets you apart, you can break free and establish a unique identity in the marketplace. The Power of 5% In today's market, it's crucial to retain customers to sustain business viability and even attract potential investors. Loyal customers who value your brand are more likely to become repeat customers and recommend your products or services to others. A famous study by Bain and Company has shown that a mere 5% increase in customer retention rates can result in significant increase in profits ranging from 25% to 95%. Make them return and refer . Not only is customer retention crucial for profitability but it's also more cost-effective than winning new ones. Acquiring new customers can cost up to 20x more than retaining existing ones (many reports on this), not forgetting today's skyrocketing platform fees. While buying eyeballs may be easy, converting them into loyal customers is not. Hence, customer retention is not only cost-effective but also essential for the longevity of any business. Without repeat customers , businesses risk being deemed unviable, in the eyes of investors. By focusing on customer retention, SMEs can create a loyal customer base and improve their profitability. So, take advantage of the power of 5%. Go Google; CRM and Loyalty Programs. Fusing Artificial with Human Intelligence Automation; Work Smarter, Not Harder SMEs often face resource constraints when it comes to daily operations. However, automation tools like Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and AI can help alleviate this. RPA has been around for a decade; it can handle repetitive tasks such as data entry and inventory management while Modern AI tools can conduct market research and even generate insightful reports. Moreover, with low-cost SaaS tech tools and grants from the Singapore government, SMEs can initiate change and take the first step to avoid falling behind. Adopting automation not only saves time and resources, but also improves accuracy and product quality, leading to happier customers and increased revenue. This was further highlighted in our recently concluded 4-month long Digital Growth and Innovation course, a pioneer SkillsFuture Queen Bees (SFQBs) project in partnership with Boston Consulting Group (BCG). Here at Whizzard, we have kickstarted proof-of-concepts and readied 2 MVPs on several fronts to "scale and automate to the extreme." Automation may not be flawless, but it is crucial for driving our processes, systems and products. To avoid common pitfalls and deliver value, SMEs must stay updated with industry trends and gather feedback from customers, to simply keep up. As Davids taking on Goliath, we need to think smart and band together to take advantage of new tools and new ways to partner. To enhance our efficiency and to remain competitive in today's exciting market. “I’ve never seen this level of business subsidy anywhere else in the world.", a seasoned globetrotting management consultant recently told us. Now is the time to deploy modern tech tools and talents at low cost with high impact. Embracing automation can enable SMEs to work smarter, not harder. Time is precious, spend more time with your loved ones, clock that 7,000 steps and drink more water. Memorable Uniqueness You know why luxury brands evoke such strong emotions and drive people to pay exorbitant prices? It's all about the perception of scarcity, which creates exclusivity and desirability. But how can small businesses break out of this never-ending cycle of price competition and create their own memorable uniqueness? Customers can easily tell if a brand is just going through the motions. Authenticity is key. It's not just about the product or service, but the story behind it that can create an emotional connection with customers. By finding your unique characteristics and showcasing them authentically, you can stand out in a crowded market. Creative angles and partnerships with the right people can help businesses unlock their own secret to success. In this digital age, perceived value matters as much as product features. Emotional Connection Storytelling helps SMEs build emotional connections with customers, but many prioritise short-term marketing over branding, which can often be limited by high bounce rates and low conversion rates. To compete with bigger brands, SMEs need to start to prioritise targeted messaging, storytelling and new technologies to break the cycle of commoditisation and to keep customers coming back. To convert eyeballs into share of mind and share of wallet, we all need to keep finding better angles to our stories. Winning Combination No, we don't have the winning numbers to this week’s Toto. Branding is a complex process that involves both art and science. Investing in branding is crucial for SMEs to create a memorable and engaging experience that keeps customers coming back for more. By creatively utilizing available tools and partners, small businesses can stand out from competitors, go beyond short-term gains and sometimes, beat the big boys.

Summary Digital transformation looks like tools + timelines. But success in Singapore is mostly human. People change slower than platforms. In SMEs, trust, training + small wins decide if new systems stick. Tech enables; people adopt, teach + keep it alive. D igital transformations are crucial for businesses to stay competitive but above 70% of them fail, primarily due to human factors. For Singaporean SMEs to succeed in this digital age with limited resources, we must adopt human-centric approaches that prioritise understanding behaviour, leveraging incremental progress and avoiding tech hype. A majority of successful transformations, 80% of the 30%, incorporated key elements like prioritisation, effective monitoring and modular technology deployment, which are all people-centric. Breaking down solutions into smaller, manageable chunks minimises risks and allows for quicker, more effective implementation, wouldn’t you agree? Sources: IMDA DAI Study, 2019-2021. Flipping the Odds of Digital Transformation Success, BCG, 2020 People-Centric Elements of Success Communicating simply Maintaining momentum Celebrating small victories Each and every one of these 3 are vital for morale and guard against human tendencies to falter in the face of setbacks. Easy to assume, tough to implement. Even after securing buy-ins of those sceptics, early supporters may also lose steam or become disillusioned. SMEs especially should pilot experimental projects with proof-of-concepts (POCs) and minimum viable products (MVPs), popularized by science and tech but applicable to all industries. Imagine baking a cake for the first time. A Proof-of-Concept is like a mini cake test run, checking if the recipe works. If successful, you move to a Minimum Viable Product – a simple, unfrosted cake to gather feedback and refine before creating the final masterpiece. POCs and MVPs help innovators test ideas efficiently and break down transformation efforts into manageable projects. Transformation Leaders of Today As Chief Transformation Officers (CTOs) of today, we must ‘skilfully navigate delicate situations and handle people with tact’. Use storytelling to motivate and lead a movement. To rally leaders, inspire dialogue, empower risk-takers & our fav – unite change champions for a culture of bold growth. Branding elements like good positioning and storytelling are crucial in successfully getting across the vision, objectives and expected benefits, to secure buy-ins week after week in the iterative journey. Managing Change Capability building and change management make up 70% of successful transformations, with IT only contributing 20% and strategy accounting for the remaining 10%. Businesses should view tech tools as a means to achieve more victories rather than the core purpose of their operations. Technology remains the HOW and not the WHY we are in business. Businesses that resist change also risk becoming obsolete. As a case in point, 52% of Fortune 500 companies in 2000 have vanished from the list. They have either gone bankrupt, been acquired or ceased to exist. This sobering statistic was revealed by then Chairman and CEO of Accenture at the World Economic Forum in January of 2016. Cool Tools and Moves of 2023 Graduation Day at the BCG Singapore Office, Mar’23 A First Just last week, we graduated as the pioneering batch of the 16-week Digital Growth and Innovation (DGI) course, a collaboration between SkillsFuture Queen Bees (SFQBs) and Boston Consulting Group’s (BCG) RISE for Business curriculum. It’s a dynamic mix of Zoom lectures, group discussions and presentations, providing SMEs and MNCs here with the knowledge and tools to better differentiate and compete. A seasoned, globally-travelled external consultant also recently commented, 'I've never seen such (90%) subsidies and support from any governments in the world. Key Takeaways • Adopting new habits and Rapid experimentation • Clarifying opportunity spaces and Recalibrating segment-specific pricing While balancing course commitments with day-to-day business demands can be challenging, we feel the long-term benefits of digital transformation is well worth it. We acquired good shortcuts to the necessary tools, strategies and mindset to thrive in this exciting digital age. There are lots of wisdom and expertise (usually reserved for ‘big companies’) sprinkled across the twice weekly 4-hour Zooms. We share some here. Knowledge-Sharing The process of change can be a frustrating and lonely one. The DGI course embraces this challenge by nurturing a culture of collaboration and knowledge-sharing among participants. As fellow SME owners and professionals share their experiences, we gain valuable insights and inspiration, allowing us to make smarter decisions and learn from each other's mistakes. This sense of camaraderie and shared purpose also provides much-needed reassurance that others face similar challenges. It’s both precious and heart-warming. SMEs at different stages of digital maturity are encouraged to embrace new approaches, redefine their vision and cultivate a strong digital mindset and agile culture. By connecting with diverse perspectives and experiences, SME owners can gain a fuller understanding of the reasons behind slow change and explore creative ways to overcome obstacles. Networking events such as meetings at the BCG office complete the course experience. We gained diverse perspectives and further strengthen connections. Course mates include senior folks from a listed company, MNCs and President of a large association. Also, we are meeting again for a beastly Korean BBQ soon. Maybe a blog post on food next week? Creative Approaches The era of "business as usual" is long gone. With resource limitation, we SMEs must find and adopt creative approaches to problem-solving and growth. We also appreciate the supportive DGI community focused on collaboration, knowledge-sharing and networking. By leveraging the collective wisdom of the group, both SME owners and professionals can overcome challenges, embrace innovative solutions and drive our businesses forward. Interesting quote: The personable Mariam Jaafar, MD and Partner at BCG gave us a little motivational nudge at our DGI graduation; “If you think small, you remain small”. Thinking drives doing and prioritization is key, this we heard are part of BCG’s secret sauce for tackling problems. Embrace the power of digital growth to outperform your peers, but don't be afraid to ask for help or rely on others for support. That’s what we did. Embracing vulnerability in the transformative journey fosters authenticity too. Small Steps to Big Impact Question; “How did David win against Goliath?” Answer; “Drastic transformation is moved by small changes.” This came from one of our favourite slides, right at the start of the DGI course. Now we’ve a question for you too; are big boys better at small changes? It's not about size, but agility and adaptability. Access to powerful tools is available to all now, take some initiative today. What do you think? Mindset Change Adopting a mindset change, building capabilities and reducing risks through human-centric design are vital components we learnt to navigate the complex world of stakeholders and priorities. We start to adopt best practices of digital champions (proven track records) to Reframe problems and Challenge inherent beliefs Prioritize innovative solutions, to channel firepower Become both a robust change agent and dynamic facilitator Like you, we face multiple stakeholders, often with differing interests. One good approach to align stakeholders is to co-create with them, starting with a tiny little project or POC. Find ways to celebrate small wins. The structured ways to reframe problems and challenge inherent beliefs also brought us creative approaches to apply to our business. When Starbucks was just starting out, as an SME they were concerned if; Coffee being an everyday drink, customers may not be willing to pay higher. It helps to ask; “are we asking the right question?” Once we reframe the problem it brings new perspectives. Redefining customer experience brought in long queues for Starbucks the SME. Addressing inherent assumptions helps all of us better identify alternative solutions to old problems. When was the last time you applied creativity? Hybrid Intelligence Given that challenges of hiring will not go away anytime soon, we found new affordable ways to scale and automate processes using cutting-edge technologies like cloud adoption, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). Capability building is crucial for success with 70% of it coming from managing change itself. With a digital-first mindset and optimization of processes, systems and products, we SMEs can then have a chance of intelligently achieving increased revenue and market share, while waiting for that dream hire. Another precious insight is reducing risks through human-centric design and feedback loops. By implementing a customer-led approach and refining offerings based on gathered insights, we can enhance customer satisfaction and minimize potential risks. Your customers may not really want what you think they need. Mother’s Day is coming, you think you know what Mum wants. But that surprise gift can end up in the storeroom collecting dust, just like past years. Never? We think we know them, but our assumptions may no longer be correct. New tools and new ways help us better understand our audience. They can be low-cost and high impact too. Embracing Change. Reaping Rewards. Empowering Davids Embracing disruptive technologies such as ... Software as a Service (SaaS) —— easy setup, cloud-based, pay-as-you-go No-code Platforms —— non-techie user-friendly, often drag and drop AI —— ultra efficiency, amazing shortcuts ... empower both individuals and organizations to challenge established norms and foster innovation. It can also enhance overall satisfaction for both our employees and partners. The explosion of data has also led to the development of new algorithms and AI systems that help us manage and analyze information. Industries like logistics, healthcare, media and finance stand to benefit significantly from these advancements. However, it is crucial to remain mindful of the potential risks as well. Cloud-driven no-code platforms enable widespread adoption by making technology accessible to non-experts. These user-friendly tools have led to increased efficiency, happier employees and more robust partnerships. Of the 6 disruptive technologies reshaping our world , Whizzard is leveraging 2 of them to raise our game. Pay-per-use, on-demand and fast deployment are some key characteristics of cloud services we really appreciate. We also started about 2 months ago to utilize no-code platforms and AI to reshape the way we work and it amazed everyone around us. (We are talented too lah of course) The disruptive technologies of today, such as advanced processing power and robotics, have levelled the playing field for those who dare to challenge the status quo. As more Davids triumph over Goliaths, besides tech unicorns, it becomes evident that curiosity and risk-taking are driving forces in this new era of innovation. Some of us in DGI have started playing with SaaS, taking up free trials or subscribing to Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and AI tools. We have started to harness the power of low-cost, high-impact technologies to drive success. Sometimes we just need a nudge to start trying. It takes about 60 days to form a new habit and we are encouraging each other to keep at it. It's like nurturing your own child's growth; encourage experiments, fail faster, learn and never give up. Automation has clear benefits For example, sales teams spend only 28%-33% of their time actually selling, while automation technologies from a global CRM leader save businesses over 100 billion hours every month. With the right solutions, efficiency and output quality can soar. It's exciting times, more to come. New Dawn What we just shared is just the tip of the iceberg. By implementing just some from the veritable treasure trove of insights and practical guidance from DGI is already a very good start. Adopting novel approaches, enhancing capabilities and learning from the experiences of others can truly unlock achievements - soaring revenues, delighted customers and efficient operations. Change is not just a flashy move; it's an essential step toward securing a competitive edge in today's fast-paced digital world. Like some, we started sceptical yet here we are. As Whizzard embark on the adventurous journey of 2023, we'll embrace an iterative mindset, automate processes and minimize risks through customer-centric design and feedback loops. Not forgetting the new pillars of support through alliances forged with fellow course mates as we overcome challenges. We discovered; small steps can really lead to big impact. Next step? Korean BBQ. Digital transformation helps do things better while branding transformation helps show things better. One provides the infrastructure and tools to deliver a better customer experience, the other ensures that the customer experience is compelling and differentiated. They’re highly interconnected and we ace the latter. Be a friend, stay in touch, cya on Linkedin.

1st shared with our LinkedIn community in August of 2023. Reposted here for wider reflection. In December 2020, hours after surgery for 4 blocked arteries, Lee woke up gasping for air, unable to breathe—it was a life-altering moment that forced him to re-evaluate life and priorities. Great World Amusement Park, Singapore The Inclusive Playground—Nobody Plays Alone "Thanks to our good doctors and nurses, I'm fine now," Lee Woon Chiang—better known as Uncle Ringo—begins our chat. So, what sparked Uncle Ringo, a brand now synonymous with joy and childhood? Rewind to 1984: "As a 1st-time father, the birth of my child inspired me to create a world where no one plays alone—a physical metaverse you could say.” From Humble Beginnings: From a small carnival with just a few rides, Lee has broken geographical and cultural boundaries, enriching lives across borders, in schools and places of worship too. He is also the only Asian recipient of the Golden Pony Awards then—often considered the Oscar for Carnivals. Past. Present. Future. Beyond the Carnival As Uncle Ringo's influence grew, so did its mission. It wasn't just about fun anymore; it was about fostering a kinder, more inclusive society. Schools: Its 'Kampung Spirit' has enriched over 100 schools, from the heartlands to international and private schools, with celebratory events like Family Days and milestone Anniversaries. Faith Communities: Religious centres from churches to mosques to temples and even synagogues have adopted Lee's vision into their community outreach and fundraising events too. Uncle Ringo's reach has extended beyond carnivals, proving that joy and community can be cultivated in various settings. The Kindness Movement Uncle Ringo has powered over 1,000 events, advocating kindness and inclusivity. Some recent milestones include; Marina Bay Singapore Countdown 2023: Singapore’s largest New Year countdown event, in partnership with Trip(.com) SG Cares Giving Week 2022: Above 1,500 attended, including children from vulnerable families, for an afternoon of free rides and food. When a brand transcends its commercial origins to become a movement, it has the power to touch lives in profound and unexpected ways. Lee, the old Victoria boy, has done just that, partnering with and giving to the likes of Singapore Kindness Movement (SKM), Willing Hearts and SG Cares to make a broader impact —all while keeping a low profile, seldom appearing in the limelight. Dr. William Wan, the esteemed leader and head honcho of SKM acknowledged, “We're very fortunate to have Mr Lee’s generous contribution for so many years.” His Journey and Challenges But even as Uncle Ringo was changing the world, Lee realised he had some personal changes to make as well. Lee's tireless dedication is well-known, but it came with a price. "I missed out on my daughter Joyce's growing years," he admits. The pandemic, however, offered a rare pause, a chance to reconnect. "It's brought me closer to my family," he shares. Tikam time, with wife and grandkid. Regrets and Resets He’s learnt to slow down. Sometimes life throws you a curveball to help you find your way back home. The pandemic was Lee's reset button, a stark reminder of life's true priorities, bringing him closer to family. "Our kids are losing their eyesight to screens," Lee warns, concerned about digital obsession among youth. He's particularly worried for his 2 preschool grandkids, aged 2 and 4, as Singapore's digital age faces a vicious cycle. The Domino Effect—Digital's Dark Side Myopia Crisis: Singapore leads the world in childhood myopia. Over half of kids here develop myopia by 12, reaching 80% by 18. (NUHS) Health Fallout: Excessive screen time also fuels obesity and mental health problems, leading to further complications. (WHO) Lee hopes for a collective effort with young parents to balance digital convenience with real-world experiences, especially for the youngest among us. "If my heart fails me again," he adds, "I hope they grow up to communicate well with humans, not just machines." Machines and human, in harmony. The Future and Beyond In a tech-driven, isolated world, where does Uncle Ringo fit? "We must evolve without losing our essence, the future involves blending AR and VR to enrich, not replace, real-world interactions." Joyce asserts as they explore collaborations with tech leaders and startups to create fun experiences. Playing in moderation too, of course. In this digital age, the craving for community transcends race and religion. Tikam time—add some fun to your day! Win Uncle Ringo Gift Cards worth hundreds—just follow us! Double your odds by commenting or reposting. Triple the fun and chances by doing both! 5 winners will be randomly selected by 7th September 2023. East Meets West Meets East As Uncle Ringo celebrates its 40th year and adapts to the digital age, it's also setting its sights on exciting new projects, both technological and geographical. Lee and daughter are seriously looking at SEA and rest of Asia. "It's a land of endless possibilities," Lee notes, expecting a conservative 150% growth in the next 2 years as they scale new heights in a global playground. China's booming middle class and openness to Western entertainment make it a natural market. With Lee's prior major projects across Shanghai and Jiangsu, Uncle Ringo is poised for untapped potential post-Covid. China’s Potential Huge Middle Class: of 500M, mostly in lower-tier cities, is eager for new experiences and willing to spend on leisure. It's also the world's No.1 tourism market with RMB 2 trillion (S$370 billion) revenue in 2022, driven almost entirely by domestic travel. “We're exploring partnerships with the best of East and West in related fields, to better modernize and integrate with both the young and the new.” says Joyce. Expansion goes beyond scaling with software, there’s also cultural integration. Seats available, join us for the next conversation. Let Kids Be Kids Entering its 40th year, Lee's mission to bring joy to children remains unchanged. "Let children be children, no one can buy back childhood," Lee concludes. As this conversation ends, that new journey of a thousand miles begins, with a single step. Isn't it time we adults do something about it, together? 🏷️ #Singapore #SMEs #Branding #WhizzardTalks 🌟Journey With Us 🌟 What's Next: Our Whizzard Conversations Series is cooking up exclusives with fellow 'transformers' and business visionaries. Connect, subscribe and join our tribe—for growth and fun. Towkay's Challenge: Many business owners ask, "When can we stop competing on price?" In today's world, how they see you is often more important than what you sell. But where to start, who to trust? Who We Are: We're the quiet masterminds behind standout brands, from industry leaders to VC-backed start-ups by Forbes 30 Under 30s. Mastering touchpoints that matter, online and offline. We are different and better. So are you. In the pursuit of collective progress, by Wilkie Soh, founder & CTO of Whizzard Asia. Article powered by his team of whiz-kids and wizards.