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5 Digitization trends to help businesses evolve in 2023

To sustain this momentum and push forward, Eastern shares five key digital transformation trends to help Filipino businesses evolve every day in 2023.

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Digital transformation has substantially evolved in recent years, assisting many businesses and industries to recalibrate their operations to overcome the challenges and thrive post-pandemic.

Premier telecommunications company Eastern Communications believes that many companies have started embracing the concept of digitization. This belief is aligned with the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) research which reported that the Philippines improved in terms of competitiveness in shifting to digital technology as a catalyst for economic transformation. Providing increased efficiency and enhanced operations, digital transformation helps businesses drive growth through the pandemic aftermath and unforeseen economic situation.

To sustain this momentum and push forward, Eastern shares five key digital transformation trends to help Filipino businesses evolve every day in 2023.

1. Big shift to cloud computing

As anticipated, businesses are observed to shift more of their data to the cloud. In fact, according to Statista’s research, the revenue in the Philippines’ Public Cloud market is expected to reach ₱46.14-B (US$844.70-M) in 2023.

Eastern Communications encourages cloud computing adoption because it lowers IT operating costs, enhances the time-to-value and agility of business operations, reduces data loss, and fosters better organizational collaboration. The telco recently expanded its cloud portfolio, with Eastern Platform as a Service (PaaS), Eastern Cloud Virtual Router, and SGX Confidential Computing offerings, and it will welcome more cloud advancements in 2023. Discover the latest Cloud offerings from Eastern Communications here.

2. Remote working and hybrid network

The pandemic has enabled businesses to adapt hybrid and remote work setups resulting in location convenience, cost efficiency, and employee flexibility and safety. Thus, requiring more reliable connectivity and hybrid network solution providers to ensure that stakeholders can simultaneously access data across devices and locations.

With the advent of remote work, there is a need for alternative connectivity solutions to cater to far-flung areas across the Philippines. Eastern offers its Teleworker Gateway solution which offers a secure, office-like experience at home with WIFI that is always connected, and its Internet via Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) product, to serve a reliable internet connection wherever you may be via satellite technology.

  3. Enhanced cybersecurity

With the rapid rate of digitization in the country, cyber threats will conversely continue to grow exponentially, incurring the demand for increased cybersecurity protection. According to research by Tessian, cyberattacks aggressively increased over the past 12 months in 2021. Cybersecurity awareness is critical to prevent the onslaught of threats and attacks.

Eastern believes that evolving cybersecurity measures are critical in combating rapidly advancing cyberattacks. From being the first telco provider to offer the all-in-one enterprise and connectivity solution Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) in 2021, Eastern intends to launch more flexible solutions and grow into a stronger Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) in the future.

4. The rise of artificial intelligence

Within the last decade, Artificial Intelligence or AI has become a relevant topic when it comes to technological trends. AI is efficient and effective in creating new business opportunities in the digital age and better services including shorter turnaround time, reduced errors, and personalized AI-to-customer interactions.

As it saw tremendous developments in 2021, AI and machine learning also became huge trends in Software as a Service (SaaS) cloud security services as these facilitated automated threat detection. Based on FinancesOnline, the popular SaaS currently represents the largest world market segment for public cloud service and is expected to reach $623 billion by this year at a compound annual growth rate of 18%. Eastern Communications will continue to develop its SaaS products in the future to assist businesses in adapting to the ever-evolving digital environment.

5. Future in the metaverse

The Metaverse refers to an expansive and immersive future vision of the internet. In particular, the metaverse is the vision of a digital universe that exists alongside and seamlessly blends with our actual universe.

The adoption of the Metaverse enables businesses to take work, recreation, shopping, and socializing to a whole new level. Highlighting several sectors such as finance, real estate, construction, and retail, metaverse can improve employee and client experiences by transforming traditional business processes into immersive ones.

Evolve your business with Eastern Communications

Aside from these five key trends, it is important to note that you should choose a dependable and trusted partner to help you in achieving your objectives and grow your business this 2023. Eastern Communications has been a trusted connectivity and ICT solutions partner for numerous industries for over 140 years. It has grown into a world-class telecommunications and ICT solutions provider, offering an extensive portfolio of services that include Connectivity Solutions, Network Solutions, Security Solutions, Cloud and Data Center Solutions, and Business Applications. With the growing demand for digitalization, Eastern invites local businesses to go beyond their limits and accelerate their digital transformation journey this year.

To evolve your business this 2023, learn more about Eastern Communications’ business-grade products and services by visiting eastern.com.ph or following @easterncommph on Facebook.

Tech & Innovation

Store-specific planogram: AI-driven trend that changes retail space planning

Through advanced tech, retail space planning driven by artificial intelligence is now possible. This is in the form of store-specific planograms. RELEX Solutions, a leading supply chain and retail solutions provider, shares its insights on this emerging trend.

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In the retail industry, customer expectations are straightforward: they want to easily find the products they need and enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience. If a store falls short in these aspects, it risks losing its place as a preferred shopping destination for customers. That is precisely why the foundation of a great customer experience lies in effective space planning.

Commonly referred to as a planogram, space planning involves optimizing a store’s layout and product placement to enhance customer experiences and increase sales. Effective strategies include positioning high-demand and seasonal items near the entrance, ensuring accessibility and visibility in key areas, and adapting layouts based on sales data and customer feedback.

In the Philippines, planogram preparation is mainly a manual process, although retailers use digital tools for sales data analysis. However, for larger retailers dealing with extensive data and numerous products, manual adjustments can become overwhelming. 

Through advanced tech, retail space planning driven by artificial intelligence is now possible. This is in the form of store-specific planograms. RELEX Solutions, a leading supply chain and retail solutions provider, shares its insights on this emerging trend.

“A store-specific or local planogram is one designed for a particular store or location.  Unlike a standardized planogram that may be used for multiple stores, a local planogram takes into account the unique characteristics of a specific store, such as its layout, customer demographics, and sales data,” said Donald “DJ” Felbaum, Head of Sales for the Philippines at RELEX Solutions. “It is tailored to the individual needs and conditions of that particular location to optimize product placement and merchandising to drive sales and improve customer service.”

However, it is often seen as challenging and time-consuming due to the anticipation of lengthy, costly, and uncertain implementation projects. For instance, imagine a retailer with 1,000 stores, each needing weekly updates to five planograms. If one planner creates ten planograms daily, it would require an impractical workforce of 100 planners, along with ongoing training. But the integration of AI and machine learning automation can address these challenges. AI-powered automation can help users configure parameters and apply them across thousands of planograms, saving costs and avoiding additional expenses related to inventory adjustments for layout and local consumer preferences.

The benefits of AI-generated local planogram optimization also include precise store shelf configuration and a one-touch replenishment model. This approach, which enables immediate stacking of incoming stock onto display units, facilitates one-way inventory that results in cost reduction by eliminating the need for staff to transport excess stock to back rooms, enhancing the efficient use of available storage space, and reducing restock frequency of fast-selling products. 

Furthermore, AI and machine learning automation usher in interactive, standardized merchandising reports. These insights unveil concealed issues and provide both macro and micro data perspectives, empowering retailers to proactively optimize product placement, fine-tune pricing, and enhance inventory management. 

Store-specific planograms epitomize the future of space retail planning, optimizing product placement, and enhancing customer satisfaction. Harnessing advanced technology in retail, this tailored approach allows retailers to adapt swiftly to market changes, leading to elevated customer experience, improved profitability, and fostering brand loyalty.

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Tech & Innovation

Concrete tips for effective SEO strategy

SEO is now more important than ever. More consumers are using the internet to research and purchase the products and services they require.

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The digital marketing industry is often clouded by myths and misconceptions, particularly when it comes to Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Geek Certified CEO Scott Wilson, SEO presenter with two decades of experience, is here to set the record straight with valuable insights and actionable tips for businesses looking to improve their online presence.

SEO is now more important than ever. More consumers are using the internet to research and purchase the products and services they require. At this very moment in time, someone is searching online, for the products you sell and the services you offer. Will they find you in the jungle we call the internet or connect with one of your many rivals?

Debunking Common SEO Misconceptions

In an industry rife with “snake oil salespeople” and misleading promises, Wilson emphasizes that despite the daily barrage of emails promising to elevate websites to the coveted number one spot for a fee, SEO is not an arcane art shrouded in mystery. Contrary to popular belief, search algorithms from Google and other search engines are not re-written on a daily or even monthly basis. Instead, updates are methodical improvements to refine the process of organizing global information.

Wilson states, “Search rankings among websites are quite stable. We track our customers’ results and their competitors’ monthly, and while there are fluctuations, the overall landscape remains consistent.” Scott’s team’s monitoring of search results over the past 20 years affirms the stability of search rankings when businesses provide an exceptional customer experience.

Truths About SEO: Stability and Quality Over Gimmicks

The core of Wilson’s message is that the quality of the user experience is paramount. Google and other search engines aim to guide users to the most relevant and valuable web pages for their queries. “If you prove to Google by providing an outstanding customer experience, your ranking results will be stable without the need for constant page reinvention,” Wilson advises.

He outlines three pillars essential for maintaining a robust SEO strategy:

1. Substantial Content

Wilson recommends having at least 1500 words of quality content to ensure depth and engagement on your web page.

2. Receiving Links

Just as social media teams request “likes”, Wilson suggests businesses should ask for links from related web pages within their business networks. Search engines treat each link as a vote of confidence.

3. User Interaction

By examining Google Analytics, businesses can ensure that their web pages facilitate interaction. Providing valuable downloadable content, creating smooth e-commerce experiences, and engaging visitors with videos are all strategies to keep users on your page longer.

Real Tips for Real Results

By following these tactics, Wilson promises businesses can achieve higher search engine rankings and attract more qualified leads. “It’s about building a digital space where users can find value and have their needs met effectively,” he explains.

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BizWiz

Micro-entrepreneur ‘hybrid-sells’ with the help of fiber broadband connection

Rogelia Dasco, a Cebu-based homemaker who buys and sells imported goods from the US, does her trade mostly online.

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The post-pandemic environment demands flexibility and adaptability from everyone but most especially entrepreneurs who are slowly recovering from the pandemic slump. One online Facebook seller is employing her business acumen not just in the virtual marketplace but in real life, as she does “hybrid selling” of her consumer goods.

Rogelia Dasco, a Cebu-based homemaker who buys and sells imported goods from the US, does her trade mostly online.

“The items, like lotions and perfumes, are from the US. My sister sends them, I take a picture of them, and I post them on Facebook Marketplace,” she shares.

However, unlike most online sellers, she doesn’t stop in the virtual world; When she gets to her buyer’s address, she then goes house to house in the community. The strategy pays off – she is able to sell out her goods in one afternoon instead of waiting for online sellers to finish off her inventory.

“When someone buys from me, for example, I go to their house but I bring my other items too. After I deliver to the buyer, I go to the neighbors and offer my other goods. Right now, I’m all sold out. The next shipment will come at the end of the month,” Dasco proudly says.

Supporting this diligent hybrid approach is BIDA fiber, the new mass market offering of Converge targeting the lower C and D income classes.

BIDA fiber is the most affordable postpaid broadband plan in the market today, and the cost savings makes a difference for smaller entrepreneurs.

“It’s so affordable and I’m able to save too. My old plan was priced at P 1,299 with an additional P 200 every month so that’s P 1,499. With BIDA, I’m able to save more than P 500,” said Rogelia Dasco.

The reliable connection – that can go up to 35 Mbps – also makes sure Rogelia keeps her ties with her supplier sister strong as every night they call each other through video. Even with a 3-hour video call, her husband watching YouTube videos, and her son playing Mobile Legends with friends at home, Rogelia’s connection never falters.

“I’ve really maximized my connection. It’s really good, even if we all use the internet at the same time,” she added. BIDA fiber is now available in more than 300 cities and municipalities in the Philippines and has more than 40 partner distributors selling the postpaid plan.

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