Overview
Nokia used to be a pioneer in the marketplace due to its use of feature phones. Still, one of the primary reasons it failed back in 2007 was due to the entrance of Samsung and Apple in the marketplace and its failure to realize that smart phones would be the future (Pepper, 2022). The failure to adapt and add new features in its portfolio, instead continuously re-launching with new models with different designs but without the backing of the Android UI interface, ensured that the marketplace moved on without Nokia, ultimately being acquired by Microsoft in 2014 (Pepper, 2022). Nokia became essentially part of the Windows OEM by completely focusing on the Windows Phone, and then started focusing more on mobile infrastructure, first by researching and focusing more on the Internet of Things (IoT) (Gillis, 2022), and then started diversifying towards digital healthcare while selling off its brand name towards HMD Global such that the Smartphone market would still have the Nokia name, if not the Nokia mainframe (ZDNET, 2016).
But the bullishness of Nokia towards focusing on anything but the smartphone or the mobile phone business is one they are intent on sticking to. The focus right now is on the Internet of Things, which is defined as an integrated connection of systems (IoT ecosystem). The IoT ecosystem works by connecting sensors or devices towards any form of the system – be it a smartphone, CX analytics or even backend systems of separate programming software. The connectivity is done via an IoT gateway or IoT hub, which is used for collation and data transfer. IoT is conceptual and generalized enough that even Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning could come and realistically integrate themselves within its purview. All of Nokia’s other experimentations might have failed, but Nokia’s focus on IoT is in line with how the world is going through what is termed “Industry 4.0”.
Making Use of Emerging Market Technologies
Due to emerging IoT trend of increasing smartphone usage and automation, Industry 4.0 or 4IR (Bai et al., 2020) a brief recap, the first Industrial Revolution marked the emergence of industrial machines through steam and water implementation. The second industrial revolution concerned itself with installing the telegraph and railway, enabling faster connections and shortening the time between lengthening distances. The third industrial revolution occurred in the late 20th century with the advent of the first computer system after Second World War II for higher and faster computation. The current industrial trend, or Industry 4.0, is shifting towards automation and interconnectivity, focusing on intelligent computer systems governed by complex algorithms (Pedota and Piscitello, 2021). One of the few ways which distinguish the fourth Industrial Revolution as something significantly unique than simply a continuation of the digital revolution is:
- The speed, which now is always expected to be incrementally higher at every instance
- The impact this has had from an industrial perspective and the sheer number of sectors it has affected overall
- An acknowledgement in policy-making with regards to technology by certain governments of the world to ensure that the shift and thus the “revolution” truly stand out and become global.
A couple of important points about Industry 4.0:
- Machine learning and high computational power enable these machines to combat highly complex tasks, with a heavy focus on decentralization and transparency of information.
- The Smart Factory, also known as the intelligent factory, is based on cyber-physical systems that communicate with one another via the IoT. The interchange of data between the product and the production line is essential to this process. The Supply Chain may be connected considerably more effectively, and any production environment can be better organized (Padovano et al., 2018).
- Smart sensors, the bedrock of IoTs, provide data and enable additional functionality, such as self-auditing and self-configuration, as well as condition monitoring of intricate operations. They greatly simplify installation work by integrating wireless communication capabilities into a dense sensor array.
- 4IR is also heavily reliant on 3D printing technology because 3D printing can create a wide variety of geometric forms and streamline the product design process, benefitting industrialization as a whole. Additionally, it is comparatively eco-friendly. It can help reduce lead times and overall production costs in low-volume production. Additionally, it can improve flexibility, lower storage expenses, and assist the organization in adopting a mass customization business plan. 3D printing is also incredibly helpful for printing and installing local parts, decreasing reliance on suppliers and the wait time for supplies (Yin, Stecke and Li, 2017).
- Augmented reality (AR) is a system that combines the real and virtual, allows for real-time interaction, and accurately registers 3D models of virtual and real items. This experience is so completely integrated with the real world that it appears to be a realistic component of the setting (Rosenberg, 2019). The superimposed sensory information may be either beneficial—adding to the natural environment—or harmful—masking reality (Rosenberg, 2019).
For a company like Nokia, which has already shifted to mobile infrastructure and a centralized focus on the Internet of Things, it is uniquely positioned to lead at the forefront of the 4IR age. Monitor the rival company’s social media channels and analyze their branding strategies and customer engagement tactics. Social monitoring software such as Hootsuite can be utilized to keep track of the competitors’ posts. Furthermore, it enables the organization to establish streams utilizing hashtags.
In this current modern era, what Nokia truly requires are a couple of key inclusions:
- To ensure that our operations remain streamlined and elegant, we would require a privatized 5G network, as 5G’s unification and integration mission statement with the help of IoT is critical for our services (Qualcomm, 2017).
- A wifi layer would be required for non-operational purposes and to strengthen our privatized wireless connectivity.
- Using industrial devices like smartphones, workplaces, field routers, and hotspots to act as connectors while utilizing dongles in smart robotic appliances and Augmented Reality devices would give an industrial edge overall, leading to ease of access.
- Accelerated digitalization will be achieved if we shift completely towards industrial applications with an increased emphasis and focus on integration and connectivity. It would also ensure heightened security for data storage.
Planning for the Future
There are, of course, key incidences needed to be planned for the foreseeable future because, as a company, evolution could only be possible if a company chooses to remain ahead of the curve and combat the challenges. As an organization, Nokia needs to focus on the machine to machine connectivity (M2M) and ensure that the reliability and stability of the communication are maintained while also ensuring that the speed of latency would not be sacrificed. Security concerns in IT processes need to be addressed, especially because as more and more industrial sites are opened to house servers and other industrial appliances with increased connectivity for faster integration, security should be an equivalent concern because industrial secrets should also be kept under high privacy. They want more accountability and cost efficiency. Once the digital transformation is complete, companies will take a more structured approach to capital allocation and invest wisely in the areas in which the company chooses to compete. With the help of Google Alerts, corporations can monitor the advancements of competitors’ content with ease. Businesses should set reminders based on the most popular keywords and pay attention to what appears frequently on the list.
Deploying complete systems by smart sensors is constrained by time synchronization errors, data loss, and handling vast amounts of gathered data. Implementing additional features would sacrifice battery power, which needs to be addressed to ensure a balance between newer features with large amounts of data and battery charging speed. Smartwatches could be seen as a proto-model for crafting a balance of battery power and data computation. Providing ample education towards the workforce so that the transition towards Industry 4.0 is made smoother, as automation, while inevitable, still requires a knowledgeable and highly skilled human touch to manoeuvre and produce the required job up to the company standards. It would also help theoretically advance towards one of the core tenets of Industry 4.0 – focusing on the knowledge economy such that technical advancement be accelerated even at the cost of older devices and products being left to dust (Calcalistech, 2020). Digital transformation revolves around automating operations and changing the company’s digital technology. Nokia will be implementing a three-phase strategy that will help Nokia to better position itself in the market and will try to meet customers’ needs.
Intensive research is to be provided in implementing Augmented Reality such that digital manuals could be applied in the manufacturer’s field of view instead of older paper manuals. This would increase efficiency and reduce comprehension effort (Mourtzis, Zogopoulos and Xanthi, 2019). It will also make machine maintenance more efficient because the handlers would have direct access to the maintenance history of the appliances while also helping machines and, consequently, their handlers more easily adaptable, as newer instructions would be easier to add or obsolete instructions easier to subtract from a digital manual, than waiting for a physical manual to come from a machine which had been ordered from the supply chain (Mourtzis, Zogopoulos and Xanthi, 2019). It would also help in easier dealings with the supply chain. The digital use of AR would also help increase operator safety because the instructions to handle the machinery would already be present over the working area, with information about the nitty gritty of the machinery and which sections of the machinery requiring careful handling already fed to the operator (Mourtzis et al., 2018).
Making Fast Decision
The telecommunication and information technology sectors have consistently competed to meet the evolving expectations of consumers. In the present time, only those companies that have adjusted to the shifting business landscape will thrive. Although Nokia failed to conform to the changing requirements of its customers, as stated by its CEO, “We didn’t do anything wrong, but somehow we lost.” Thus, making prompt and efficient decisions when confronted with environmental changes is crucial. The previous era’s technology was not eternal, but it will eventually become obsolete and be substituted by the subsequent trend. Nokia’s rivals prioritized software and this should also be the primary focus of Nokia.
Nowadays, people desire to preserve their data, so they require a phone with sufficient storage capacity and a sizable screen. Nokia must adjust to this growing consumer demand and manufacture phones with the necessary built-in characteristics to meet their customers’ needs. Arrogance in the corporate world or we could say Corporate Hubris occurs when a company’s CEO has an inflated ego and excessive self-importance, leading them to take on risky endeavors. Nokia, for instance, should have prioritized software over hardware. Nokia must adapt its leadership approach to keep up with the latest advancements to avoid falling behind. Rather than being overly proud, the company must prioritize the customers’ needs above all else. Unfortunately, due to corporate arrogance, Nokia made the error of partnering with Microsoft instead of utilizing Android.
Digital Ready Culture
The process of digital transformation commences with an external approach where leaders recognize the shift in the competitive market and strive to capitalize on the opportunities presented before their rivals. Thriving digital enterprises strive to achieve all their objectives by creating a modern workspace that revolutionizes the current technological procedures and alters the work culture within the organization. However, irrespective of the significance of technology or the digital revolution, the commencement of change is from individuals.
Before initiating the massive transformation, the leaders must guarantee the progression of the company’s culture and equip employees with the appropriate competencies to steer digital advancement. The initial step of the leaders should be to devise a fresh approach for the workforce, enabling them to execute their duties proficiently. Encourage the staff, since alterations can generate apprehension within them and hamper their morale. Rather, enlighten the employees about how technology enables individuals, lessens their workload, and contributes to the growth of the enterprise. Effective time management needs to be implemented in the company. Persuade individuals to embrace the innovative technology that can be achieved through a leader’s investment of time and resources.
Selecting Leader
To ensure the success of a corporation, it is crucial to execute an effective management plan. A corporation requires an exceptional commander to steer the entire staff and take critical judgments to ensure the company’s continuous progress. Hence a good leader is a must. The essential qualities and conduct that a leader must possess are as follows:
Integrity
The top-level executives and leaders within the organization ought to demonstrate this trait since they are accountable for making consequential judgments.
Effective communication
The correlation between efficient leadership and efficient communication is undeniable. It is imperative for a leader to effectively disseminate information to their subordinates. Additionally, a leader must be willing to attentively consider the perspectives of their colleagues. Successful implementation of effective communication can propel a business toward unparalleled achievements.
Ability to delegate
One of the primary responsibilities of a leader is to possess the authority to assign tasks. Assigning tasks to employees in an effective manner can be quite challenging. To delegate effectively, a manager must establish a trustworthy relationship with the employees.
Monitor progress
A leader should consistently establish objectives for the team. A leader should accept feedback and comprehend where enhancements are required.
Be accessible
The primary responsibility of a leader is to collaborate with the employees to achieve the organization’s goals and objectives. It is crucial to exhibit to the employees that the leader is readily accessible. This provides the employees with a sense of motivation, and they communicate their thoughts and suggestions with the leader.
Demonstrate flexibility
The sphere of mobile technology is in a state of constant flux, with novel advancements continually emerging in the market. To effectively navigate the challenges and shifts within the business environment, leaders must exhibit adaptability.
Conclusion
The objective of the document was to emphasize the measures Nokia needed to take to undergo a digital transformation and struggle with its emerging rivals. Despite being a complex procedure, by executing the tasks provided in the report proficiently, Nokia can overcome this challenge with ease. A proficient leadership tactic is essential to digitalize the company effortlessly. One of the major benefits of digital transformation is the elimination of redundant tasks. Once digital technology is integrated, Nokia can exploit software to execute tasks expeditiously. Despite the numerous benefits of digital transformation, Nokia must bear in mind its business goals.
References
Pepper, T. (2022). How and Why Did Nokia Fail? [online] www.peppercontent.io. Available at: https://www.peppercontent.io/blog/how-and-why-did-nokia-fail/.
Gillis, A. (2022). What is IoT (Internet of Things) and How Does it Work? – Definition from TechTarget.com. [online] IoT Agenda. Available at: https://www.techtarget.com/iotagenda/definition/Internet-of-Things-IoT.
ZDNET. (2016). ‘Mobile phones are our history, not our future’: Nokia on where next for hardware. [online] Available at: https://www.zdnet.com/article/mobile-phones-are-our-history-not-our-future-nokia-on-where-next-for-hardware/
Bai, C., Dallasega, P., Orzes, G. and Sarkis, J. (2020). Industry 4.0 technologies assessment: A sustainability perspective. International Journal of Production Economics, 229(229), p.107776. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpe.2020.107776.
Pedota, M. and Piscitello, L. (2021). A new perspective on technology‐driven creativity enhancement in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Creativity and Innovation Management. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/caim.12468
Qualcomm (2017). What is 5G | Everything You Need to Know About 5G | 5G FAQ. [online] Qualcomm. Available at: https://www.qualcomm.com/5g/what-is-5g
(Calcalistech, 2020). A “new” tech revolution is coming and the winds of change will hit the U.S. first . [online] Calcalistech. Available at: https://www.calcalistech.com/ctech/articles/0,7340,L-3878571,00.html
Yin, Y., Stecke, K.E. and Li, D. (2017). The evolution of production systems from Industry 2.0 through Industry 4.0. International Journal of Production Research, 56(1-2), pp.848–861. doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/00207543.2017.1403664.
Padovano, A., Longo, F., Nicoletti, L. and Mirabelli, G. (2018). A Digital Twin based Service Oriented Application for a 4.0 Knowledge Navigation in the Smart Factory. IFAC-PapersOnLine, 51(11), pp.631–636. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ifacol.2018.08.389.
Rosenberg, L.B. (2019). The Use of Virtual Fixtures as Perceptual Overlays to Enhance Operator Performance in Remote Environments. [online] Dtic.mil. Available at: https://apps.dtic.mil/docs/citations/ADA292450.
Mourtzis, D., Zogopoulos, V. and Xanthi, F. (2019). Augmented reality application to support the assembly of highly customized products and to adapt to production re-scheduling. The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, 105(9), pp.3899–3910. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s00170-019-03941-6.
Mourtzis, D., Zogopoulos, V., Katagis, I. and Lagios, P. (2018). Augmented Reality based Visualization of CAM Instructions towards Industry 4.0 paradigm: a CNC Bending Machine case study. Procedia CIRP, 70, pp.368–373. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.procir.2018.02.045.
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