What Comes Next? 3 Ways Your Business Must Adapt For the "New Normal" Ahead

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented challenges for businesses across all industries. We all had to find new ways to engage our customers and adapt creatively to survive the economic disruption.

But what comes next? What happens after the initial crisis phase, where safeguarding your people and securing your finances are the top priorities?

The next horizon to focus on will be how to adapt your operations for the “new normal.” Many behavioral changes will outlive the crisis — like how we spend, save, shop, work, etc. These permanent changes will change the way individuals live, and therefore, how businesses operate.

Below we’ve put together a short glimpse into what the next phase will look like, and how you can prepare for it today.

COVID-19: How to Adapt Your Operations for the Next Phase Ahead

1. It’s time to go digital.

Technology and digitalization can enhance your business if you let it. That has always been our motto and outlook here at MGA. However, now, it’s no longer going to be an option. To survive, you must adapt.

People around the country are doing business and interacting via video calls, even doctors via telehealth programs. Others have automated their processes to speed up operations so they could handle the pandemic's increased workload. You can use software to electronically sign documents, or you can use secure portals to upload and send sensitive data to and from your clients when being together in person is not an option.

There are numerous ways to digitize your operations in today’s world and employ efficiencies. If you want some advice, our technology consulting team would love to help evaluate your needs.

2. The future of work is flexibility.

The key to the future is flexibility. While this is nothing new, businesses no longer have a choice. They must adapt. More than ever, employees are requesting and needing more flexibility, and perhaps even on an ad-hoc basis. This goes far beyond just saying yes.

It will require:

• More robust IT systems and support — hardware, software, and security
• Setting metrics to measure productivity
• Rules for external and internal communication
• Team building and motivation tactics
• Restructuring of responsibilities and roles
• Training on how to work remotely and how to manage remote team members

3. The business world will likely be more collaborative.

Through this crisis, companies around the world have shown exceptional leadership and collaborative efforts. People have expanded their services and offerings to respond to the needs around us. Clothing companies started making masks. Car companies began making ventilators. Big tech organizations implemented platforms for contact tracing.

Actions, as such, can help businesses improve resiliency and even create higher consumer loyalty by showing their care for the greater good and commitment to their social responsibilities. It’s time to think outside of the box — how can you collaborate with other markets?

Let the MGA Team Be Your Sounding Board

The effects of the COVID-19 crisis will change the way we live and work. As a business, it will be imperative to adapt to the changing environment. We are here to be your sounding board. Sometimes within an organization, it’s hard to see the bigger picture of what your company could become because all you can see is what you are now. Our experience expands across many industries and many different types of businesses, giving us a new lens and fresh perspective to help you plan.  

We are here for you as you work through these uncertain times. If we can help you through this business recovery phase, or even help you plan for the future, please reach out to us.

Our goal is always to make the complex simple.

Let’s talk!