Like Y2K in the late 90s, senior leaders have been warned ad nauseam about the potentially calamitous future they face if they don't fully embrace the power of modern technology. Many companies have been slow to respond. But now, the customer has spoken, rather loudly. This digital revolution has shifted control from the esteemed leadership of corporate America to the consumers of their companies who are demanding (not asking) a role in co-creating their individual experiences. The Industrialist – any organization whose business model is not built around digital software at its core – is at risk of becoming obsolete.

Future success will be driven by the ability of companies to create new models of doing business; importantly, models that authentically partner with younger, more entrepreneurial organizations (think Silicon Valley). A marriage of opposites, and one that will necessitate profound changes in just about every aspect of the organization's operating model.

Good marriages take work – and most would agree, are well worth the effort. The partners of The Clarion Group would be happy to share with you how we are working with our clients to ensure they, and their organizations, remain relevant and poised for continued growth.