The Key to Providing Value in a World of Constant Change
John Lawson is Principal Consultant and Director of Lawson Williams Consulting Group Ltd.
I found the recent NZIFST conference excellent but at the same time somewhat unsettling. There was plenty of discussion about the future and the wave of change coming our way. There is plenty of excitement and opportunity and some trepidation.
It was obvious however that we struggle to fully verbalise what it might mean, to understand how it will impact us, how we will work in the future and what work we will do?
In the final plenary session, Chris Kane and Melody Taylor gave us some valuable insights into how Fonterra are approaching AI. They talked about some obvious opportunities which are available for all businesses, however I think Chris gave us all some important insight into the future by saying.
It’s not about having the answers, it’s about learning to ask the right questions!
Let’s face it—Industry 4.0 is like tackling the most complex jigsaw puzzle you’ve ever encountered. We’re talking about every piece of modern business innovation: artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, big data, automation—the list goes on.
But no one—no single company or individual—holds all the pieces. There are simply too many moving parts. Technologies evolve, processes shift, and best practices transform faster than ever before. It’s chaotic, but that chaos presents immense opportunities for those willing to navigate the unknown.
What you can do now, what you should learn?
1.Learn to ask the Right Questions:
In this fast-evolving landscape, the ability to ask the right questions is essential. To develop this skill, focus on building curiosity and critical thinking. Begin by breaking down complex problems into manageable chunks. Ask questions like: What’s the real issue we’re trying to solve? What are the potential solutions? Learn to question assumptions and challenge the status quo.
Engaging in interdisciplinary learning—by exploring subjects like business strategy, technology, and data analytics—will also sharpen your ability to frame questions that drive innovation.
2. Manage Change: Developing Skills to adapt and remain valuable
The only constant in Industry 4.0 is change. To stay valuable, you must not only adapt but lead change. Develop agility by embracing continuous learning. Upskilling in emerging technologies like AI, automation, and data analysis is crucial, but equally important is mastering soft skills like communication, leadership, and change management. These skills help you guide your organization through the disruptive waves of innovation. Engage in training, seek mentorship, and stay connected to industry trends to prepare yourself—and your employer—for whatever comes next.
Embracing the Future of Work
The leaders of Industry 4.0 aren’t just those who adopt the latest technologies; they are the ones who understand how to blend curiosity, adaptability, and leadership to ask the right questions and guide change. Data scientists, cybersecurity experts, and change management professionals are just the tip of the iceberg—anyone can provide value in Industry 4.0 by staying curious, developing new skills, and embracing the mindset of lifelong learning.