THE EMERGENT ERA
As Internet usage continues to experience double-digit growth, the demand for real-time, accurate data is growing at a similar pace. We are sharing information faster than ever and our human ecosystem is shifting to accommodate the transformation. The world on a whole is even moving faster; it is said that we walk 10% faster on city streets than we did a decade ago.
There are currently 3.6 billion people online, and within the next 18 months, another 2.2 billion are expected to join. By summer 2018, more than 80% of the world’s population will be online. From smart grid to "The Internet of Things", data is driving change in our industry and our day-to-day experiences.
Last year, Beth Comstock, Vice Chair and leader of GE Business Innovations, introduced the idea of the emergent era, defined by the rapid exchange of information across digital platforms.
For Hubbell Power Systems, Inc. (HPS), we slowly moved into the digital age and are now progressing into a more customer-focused online presence. We are developing applications, broadening channels of communication and implementing new websites. Behind these tools is a powerful engine known as a product information management (PIM) system that will allow us to adapt information at the speed users require. In our emergent era, our websites, digital tools and applications are becoming more fluid where they were once static.
EMPOWER THE CUSTOMER
Globally, digital consumption is further influencing how individuals choose, how companies communicate and how the world interacts. It is hard to imagine that just a couple of years ago, many thought social media was just a fad; yet here we are, in an age when social media is out-pacing mainstream media as a valid source of news. It’s one of the largest voices on the internet, connecting one in four people around the world. Many businesses have harnessed the power of social media and its vast network to communicate in real time across multiple channels. The electric utility audience is increasingly seeking information through social channels. HPS has adopted followers at a 300% increase since 2010. Every day, our customers are actively engaging with us through social media.
Today, 94% of B2B buyers conduct research online before making a business decision. Therefore, it is critical for companies to provide content and engage to stay relevant, to empower customers with reliable information in the digital channels their customers prefer. By choosing to embrace the emergent era, we empower the decision-making experience.
“It’s only when people have access to real-time data about what is happening and have permission to share it and act on it, that you get the speed and resiliency that characterize emergent structures,” shared Beth Comstock.
HPS is evolving into a broad digital ecosystem that will empower our customers with rich and accurate product data.
The PIM system is a foundational element that powers a better, more personal digital interaction. Think of the PIM system as an engine that enables personalization of each end-users experience by allowing them to sort and filter product information by any number of product attributes and features.
Our digital journey began in the late 90s with the first iteration of our website. Within the last five years, when we began to truly understand our customers’ online experiences, we made more rapid leaps. Based on your thirst for knowledge, need for real-time data and desire for information, we developed apps, opened new communication channels and embarked on a mission to reimagine the way we serve you.
Today, we are preparing to unveil a new digital presence. In 2017, we will streamline your experience, with improved navigation and search ability. You can expect to communicate with HPS more efficiently online through project submittals, requests for quote and more.
It is imperative that we are available to our customers – anytime, anywhere. Our industry is transforming and we are rising to the challenge. Evolving to empower our customers with information and continuously improve your digital experience.