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Stakeholder Management for CFOs: Business Communication and Soft Skills

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

Stakeholder management refers to the process of classifying, assessing, and supervising the team of stakeholders of a business organisation. It is crucial to engage in stakeholder management for successful capital budgeting in every financial year. 

Stakeholder management is a key factor of product and service management as each stakeholder plays a substantial role in the life of the products and services offered by a company. It is the responsibility of the product manager of every company to identify the stakeholders for the establishment of pivotal stakeholder relationships with the company. A company is generally associated with both external and internal stakeholders.

chief financial officers course

The stakeholders of a business organisation include shareholders, employees, suppliers, clients, customers, governmental bodies, and communities. Read on to gain a deeper insight into the soft skills required to engage in fundamental stakeholder management in a company.

Requisite skills for efficient stakeholder management

1.       Communication

It is important to be skilled at communication for the smooth flow of information among stakeholders. Being communicative helps in building firm relationships with stakeholders, which in turn, is useful in creating a positive image of the company. Effective communication not only establishes credibility, respect, and trust in the company but also ensures the well-organised execution of projects.

2.       Stakeholder assessment

Stakeholder assessment refers to the process of categorising and analysing stakeholder interests. Stakeholder assessment is vital as it helps in identifying the stakeholders and understanding their interests. The information, thus obtained, helps in the development of strategies for managing stakeholder potentials, avoiding discord, and attaining their support for important business decisions.

3.       Dispute resolution

One of the most imperative skills for efficient stakeholder management is dispute resolution. A thorough understanding of the conflict helps in preventing or resolving friction among stakeholders. Quick and fruitful resolution of disagreements can help in improving relationships among stakeholders within the business organisation. Conflict resolution involves the active implementation of the skills of intervention, conciliation, compromise, and mediation. The resolution of conflicts requires one to detect the root causes of the conflict to reach a settlement that is acceptable to the parties to the conflict.

4.       Project Management

Project management refers to the process of slating, accomplishing, and administering a business project from the beginning to the end. The skill of project management involves the development of business objectives, the creation of a timeline, the allocation of tasks to resources, and the supervision of progress. Project management also involves the close collaboration of the project manager with stakeholders who have a vested interest in the particular project.

5.       Business analysis

Business analysis refers to the scheme of comprehending the objectives of a project in order to chalk out a course of action. For efficient business analysis, the CFO needs to collect and assess information, identify positive and negative aspects, and offer propositions for the improvement of the business. The business analyst works in close cooperation with the stakeholders to make sure that the organisation is employing its resources effectively for the smooth execution of projects.

6.       Relationship management

Relationship management refers to the approach of establishing and maintaining flourishing relationships with a company’s stakeholders. It is not only effective for fruitful dispute resolution but also for building confidence and credibility, gaining support, and acquiring sponsorships for projects or any other business initiative. It is important to focus on being proactive, instead of reactive, for the successful formation of relationships with stakeholders. For effective relationship management, the relationship manager needs to anticipate and resolve potential conflicts and analyse the needs and interests of stakeholders.

7.       Negotiation

It is pertinent to be skilled at negotiation to reach an agreement that is acceptable to every party involved. Effective negotiation helps in the quick resolution of disputes which is essential for the smooth accomplishment of business goals. For effective negotiation, it is important to assess the interests and needs of every party in order to find a common ground for the resolution of issues. Clear negotiation also requires one to be passively assertive and agreeable to compromise.

8.       Requirement gathering

Requirement gathering is a critical stakeholder management skill that helps in understanding the needs and wants of stakeholders in association with a project. The information helps in developing project goals, extent, and timelines. Requirement gathering also helps in identifying potential risk factors, which in turn, aids in ensuring that the stakeholders’ needs in relation to the project are duly met. It involves regular conferences with stakeholders to understand their needs and expectations. Business organisations employ interviews, surveys, and focus groups to collect information from the stakeholders.

9.       Change management

Change management refers to the methodology of outlining, performing, and supervising changes for the successful implementation of the changes in the projects. It makes sure that the stakeholders are aware of the changes made to the project. Change management is crucial for affirming that the changes executed are in alignment with the business goals of the company. The whole approach of change management helps in preventing resistance to the changes and also guarantees that the changes are compatible with the company culture.

10.   Influence

Influencing is another stakeholder management ability that allows one to exert influence on the decisions pertaining to the key stakeholders of the company. Influencing stakeholders helps in making communication more effective and also makes the stakeholders more receptive towards recommendations related to capital budgeting, resource allocation, and other business aspects, made by project managers.

Conclusion

Stakeholder management skills play a crucial role in the smooth functioning of a business organisation. It is of the utmost importance to understand the interests and needs of stakeholders and assess their power levels in order to design a stakeholder management plan. If you seek to create and implement a stakeholder management plan then you may enrol in the Chief Financial Officer course offered by Imarticus.

The Chief Financial Officer is one of the prime stakeholders of a company. The CFO is vested with myriad soft skills that aid him in adding extensive strategic value to the products and services of the company. Such soft skills include communication, negotiation, business assessment, change management, and many more. Enrol in the Chief Financial Officer course right away to understand the nitty-gritty of stakeholder management.

What are Cloud-driven Financial Services?

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

Cloud Computing has significantly gained popularity in the world of IT. However, several sectors such as the banking sector have gleaned the benefits of cloud computing to their advantage as well.

Financial institutions have been striving to serve their clients better and offer stellar customer service. Hence, most organisations have deployed new-age technology for optimising customer experiences as well as overall costs. By incorporating cloud-driven services, they have streamlined data collection and processing from multiple sources.

The recent Gartner report in 2022 says that 70% of global financial institutions have adopted cloud-based investment and banking leading to an increase in overall cloud spend. In this article, you will learn in detail about the importance of the cloud in the enhancement of business transformation of banking, how they operate and the prospects it holds.

How Cloud Computing is Applied in Banking

Fintech course

Cloud computing is a well-sought-after service that offers access to resources, storage or applications shared via the Internet. It enables banking institutions to store and process data in remote servers instead of local systems. Cloud computing offers various benefits to banking institutions including enhanced security, processing speeds, and optimised costs. 

While the financial industry has been slow to adopt new technology due to concerns related to data privacy and regulatory compliance, it has quite steadily warmed up to the idea of implementing cloud computing to optimise performance and meet business objectives.  

How Banks Use Cloud Computing

Financial institutions tend to avail of services provided by external providers to manage and maintain their clouds and outsource products. However, Gartner’s 2021 survey has indicated that more and more banks are investing in internal IT teams to keep cloud activities strictly within the company. For instance, many institutions have established private clouds where they host computing resources on a network that only one organisation uses and can be accessed within their own data centre.

Cloud computing is used in banks for a variety of purposes, including:

  • Fraud Detection: Cloud systems are extensively used by banks to detect and prevent suspicious activity and fraudulence by analysing large volumes of data extracted from numerous sources. 
  • CRM (Customer Relationship Management): Cloud-based CRM systems are used by banks for efficient data management and monitoring of customer interactions irrespective of location and time. It is important for financial service providers to have the best cloud strategies to offer services customised to fit customer needs. 
  • Data Analysis: Cloud financing is widely used for advanced analytics. It helps keep track of patterns and trends related to customer behaviour. By gaining insight into customers’ interactions with financial products and services, banks are able to come up with successful strategies and offerings suited to the needs of their clients.

6 Benefits of Using Cloud Technologies in the Banking Sector

Some of the most important benefits of using cloud-driven financial and banking services have been listed below:-

  • Enhanced customer experience: Cloud-based financial services provide customers with a better and more reliable banking experience since they offer access to their services anytime and anywhere. 
  • Optimised costs: With the help of the cloud, banks can cut down on added costs by transferring all their data and applications into the cloud. Public cloud systems usually have a pay-as-you-go pricing model which is highly convenient and affordable. 
  • Faster processing and operating speeds: Users of cloud-based systems can enjoy fast performance and good operational efficiency because they are designed to do so. They are built to manage and process large data volumes in a fraction of the time spent parsing through them manually. Banks can hence improve their speeds of transaction processing and avoid latency problems. 
  • Enhanced security: Public cloud systems offer a safe and secure environment, unlike on-premises systems. With multiple layers of protection, cloud-driven banking systems can easily safeguard themselves against data breaches and various attacks. 
  • Better scalability: Cloud platforms are flexible and can be scaled up or down as per the requirement. This gives banking institutions the ability to serve their customers in the best way possible. 
  • Regulation compliance: Cloud platforms help financial institutions maintain compliance with the latest regulations related to the financial industry.

Challenges that Come With Cloud Computing in the Banking Industry

Despite the numerous benefits that finance-based institutes can reap from cloud technology, it is no stranger to challenges. Cloud adoption has become a steady phenomenon in the finance sector which has also caused it to lag behind different industries. Some of the primary problems faced by financial institutions after cloud adoption are as follows:-

  • Privacy and security of data: Data security and privacy are of utmost importance for financial institutes. Banks need to stringently maintain the safety of data and ensure that it is secure while being stored in the public cloud. In addition to this, they have to ensure that their systems adhere to the regulations related to data privacy. 
  • Regulatory compliance: Banks are obligated to adhere to the regulations relevant to the financial industry. Most of them require certain procedures specific to customer data management. Most banks can find it challenging to meet every single requirement when they host their systems in the cloud. 
  • Loss of control: Although public cloud systems boast security, financial institutions still run the risk of losing a part of their control when they move their data to the cloud. 

Conclusion

Although the financial industry has taken quite some time to adapt to new tech, studies have shown that they are steadily doing so to streamline customer service and enhance the experience. With cloud computing, they have become more efficient when it comes to serving customer demands. 

Public clouds have also been used by financial service firms and the banking sector for quick deployment of applications, ease of maintenance and upgrades, and overcoming multiple issues. With more and more innovations being integrated into this field, a significant amount of opportunities have opened up for potential candidates. However, to become a fintech expert, you will need to have in-depth knowledge about its inner workings and applications. A professional Fintech certification course from Imarticus can help you kickstart your journey in your career.  

7 proven ways to build a great content marketing strategy in 2023

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

Digital marketing has become an important part of the success of any business. It is the best way to reach customers and promote products and services with the increasing popularity of the Internet and social media. The Advanced Certification in Digital Marketing and MarTech from IIT Roorkee is a great choice if you want to take your digital marketing skills to the next level.

The goal of this course is to give people the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in the fast-paced world of digital marketing. The course covers a wide range of topics, such as

Content marketing

Search engine optimization (SEO) and affiliate marketing

Social media marketing

Email marketing

Marketing analytics.

Overall, this digital marketing course with placement is best for digital marketing aspirants who want to learn the fundamentals of digital marketing including social media. The course from a premier institution, along with the immersive curriculum, gives students a valuable learning experience that can help them reach their career goals.

What Is Digital Marketing and MarTech?

Digital marketing is the process of promoting products or services through digital channels like search engines, social media, email and mobile apps.

MarTech, on the other hand, is the use of technology to improve marketing efforts and customer experience. Businesses can use MarTech tools to automate marketing tasks, customise content and analyse data to make better decisions.

Why Do Companies Need Digital Marketing and MarTech?

best digital marketing courses in India

Companies need strong digital marketing and Martech strategy to stay competitive in the present digital age. With these tools, businesses can reach and engage their target audience, gather information about how that audience reacts and improve the results of their marketing efforts. If a company doesn’t spend money on digital marketing and MarTech, it could fall behind its competitors and lose its market share.

7 Ways to Build a Successful Content Marketing Strategy

Use data to guide your strategy – Tools like Google Analytics can help you figure out what content your audience likes and how to change your strategy to fit.

Use stories to connect with your audience – People remember stories. So, make content that tells a story and makes an emotional connection with your audience.

Use user-generated content – Ask your audience to make and share content about your brand. This can help build trust and brand loyalty.

Use your content in different ways – For example, you could turn a blog post into a video or an infographic to reach a larger audience.

Build relationships with influential people in your field – Work with them to expand your audience reach.

Optimise for search engines – Write content that is optimised for search engines to make your website more visible and get more organic traffic.

Test and improve your strategy all the time – Try out different strategies and tactics to see what works best for your audience. Keep improving your strategy to get better results.

What is Imarticus Learning Advanced Certification In Digital Marketing And MarTech By IIT Roorkee

IIT Roorkee’s Digital Marketing and MarTech course is available through Imarticus Learning. It is meant to give students the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the fast-paced world of digital marketing. Some of the most important features of the course are:

Curriculum that is relevant to the industry: The course curriculum is made by experts in the field. It covers the latest tools, techniques and strategies used in digital marketing and MarTech.

Hands-on training: The course includes hands-on training and practical assignments that help students apply their skills to real-world situations.

Expert instructors: The course is taught by instructors who have worked in digital marketing and MarTech and can give students valuable advice and tips.

Placement help: Imarticus Learning helps learners find jobs by giving them access to a job portal. We help the students prepare for interviews and put them in touch with industry professionals.

IIT Certification: When learners finish the course, they get a certificate that is recognised by industry leaders. This certification can help them stand out in a competitive job market.

Summing Up

To make a good content marketing strategy, you need to plan carefully, know your audience well and be willing to try new things. By following the tried-and-true tips in this article, you can create a content marketing strategy that connects with your audience, drives traffic and conversions and helps you reach your business goals.

Imarticus Learning has a course that covers all the latest tools, techniques and strategies used in digital marketing and MarTech. This IIT digital marketing certification course is for people who want to get the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in these fields. IIT Roorkee’s Advanced Certification in Digital Marketing and MarTech is a well-rounded course that gives students the skills they need to be successful in the field.

For any queries, do not hesitate to Contact Us or drive to any of our training centres in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Chennai, Gurgaon, Delhi or Ahmedabad.

Corporate Learning Solutions – Breaking The Barrier

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Every year corporations dedicate a significant budget to hiring fresh recruits to bridge the skills gap. As technology and digital transformation continue to influence products, services, processes, and lifestyles, the skills gap will continue to grow. This survey indicates that over 87% of companies expect to encounter a skills gap within the next few years.

corporate training

The amount spent per new hire by companies will also keep increasing unless they find a more sustainable model to bridge the skills gap. Rather than continuously seeking fresh recruits, companies must consider investing in high-quality corporate learning solutions, which can upskill existing employees. In this blog, we explore the challenges and benefits of building sustainable corporate learning solutions.

1. Corporate Learning And the skills gap

It is a well-established fact that productivity reduces when employees are unable to bring efficiency and the right skill set to the tasks at hand. They may eventually lose motivation and consider leaving the company to pursue a job they can excel at. On the other hand, companies that build a culture of corporate learning can retain employees and build a foundation where they can perform to the best of their abilities.

As employees grow in their skill sets and knowledge, they can also be groomed for the leadership pipeline. However, companies may still face challenges when implementing corporate learning solutions.

2. Current challenges 

Training and upskilling are extremely specialised functions. They need to be delivered in a way that engages employees and motivates them to continue learning. However, companies do not have the infrastructure and know-how to build and deliver professionally-run, measurable corporate learning solutions. Both engagement and measurability are important pillars of successful corporate learning initiatives.

The traditional style of lecture-based instruction is not sustainable in a world where companies are shifting towards work-from-home and hybrid work modes. Corporate learning initiatives that are conceived and delivered in-house by corporations may start with enthusiasm. However, sustaining learnability and a culture of learning can prove to be a challenge. Lack of access to data is another lacuna, which makes it difficult to measure the success of the initiative.

3. How E-Learning makes a difference 

The growing usage of e-Learning in corporate upskilling initiatives is helping to bridge learning gaps. E-Learning offers flexibility, measurability, and engagement as key advantages to traditional learning methods. The automation of several processes and access to on-demand resources enables employees to learn at their own pace, and learn in smaller doses, thus making it sustainable.

On-demand resources are available in several formats – videos, audio presentations, infographics, ebooks, and animated content. The introduction of gamification also makes the learning process an engaging, rewarding one. It also nudges employees to keep learning, making practice an addictive process.

4. Impact of high-quality corporate learning

The introduction of e-Learning as a vehicle for upskilling is nudging employees around the world to become more motivated toward upskilling and career growth. As employees upgrade their skills and knowledge, they are better equipped to perform their roles. Attrition rates will come down, and productivity will rise. Corporations can also leverage corporate learning solutions to further build on the employee value proposition.

Conclusion

It is also a well-established fact that the skills for businesses to stay competitive will keep evolving in a technology-driven world. The culture of upskilling existing workforces is going to become a best practice in the future. Companies just do not have the resources to continuously seek fresh talent. Those who invest in building a culture of high-quality corporate training solutions early on will be able to upskill and retain their workforce. These shifts will have a definitive impact on the sustainability, and profitability of the business.

If your business is looking to invest in delivering high-quality corporate training solutions for your workforce, connect with us at Imarticus to start a conversation. We will help get your Learning & Development function up to speed.

Why your business should care about Power BI certifications

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

Businesses must leverage analytics to make informed decisions in today’s data-driven world. Power BI is a popular business intelligence tool that enables organizations to analyze, visualize, and share data. With Power BI certifications, businesses can upskill their employees to become proficient in using the platform. It can lead to improved data analysis and better collaboration. It can also be more helpful in efficient decision-making processes.

What is Power BI certification?

Power BI certification is a program offered by Microsoft. It is proof of an individual’s skills and knowledge in using Power BI. These certifications are designed to help individuals share their ability in using the platform. It also enables them to showcase their expertise to potential employers.

Benefits of Power BI certifications

Power BI Certifications can improve the data analysis capabilities of the team. It can also increase collaboration and communication. The use of this platform can unlock new insights. Power BI certifications benefits are as follows:

  1. Improved data analysis skills

Power BI certifications provide employees with in-depth training on how to use the platform effectively. It can improve their data analysis skills. This can lead to more informed decision-making and better insights. It can also develop a competitive edge for the business.

  1. Ability to create more effective visualizations

With these certifications, employees can learn how to create more effective data visualizations. These visualizations can help understand complex data sets. It is useful in making more informed decisions. The understanding of the platform provides the right foundation.

  1. Increased efficiency in data management

Power BI certifications can help employees learn how to manage data more efficiently. It includes how to clean and transform data, connect to different data sources, and automate data refreshes. It can save time and reduce errors in data management processes.

  1. Enhanced collaboration and communication within teams

It is a collaborative tool that enables teams to share data and insights easily. The certifications provide employees with the skills and knowledge they need to collaborate effectively. It can improve communication and teamwork within the organization.

  1. Increased credibility and marketability for the business and its employees

Power BI certifications are recognized by industry leaders. It can help increase the credibility and marketability of both the business and its employees. This can lead to new projects, promotions, and career growth.

How businesses can invest in Power BI Certifications?

Businesses can invest in Power BI certifications following various routes. Some of the popular ways are as follows:

  1. Encourage employees to pursue certifications

Businesses can encourage their employees to pursue Power BI certifications. the business can provide study materials, training courses, and exam vouchers. Additionally, they can offer incentives or promotions to employees who obtain certifications.

  1. Provide on-site training

Businesses can provide training to their employees. It can be done by assigning them projects that require the use of Power BI. This will give employees practical experience in using the platform. It will also allow them to gain knowledge and skills that can be applied to obtaining certifications.

  1. Partner with training providers

Businesses can partner with training providers like Imarticus Learning. It can help offer employees access to training courses and certification programs.

Conclusion

Power BI Certifications can play a vital role in accelerating the data transformation of an organization. With these certifications, an organization can help employees upskill and handle data with ease.

The Postgraduate Program in Data Science and Analytics from Imarticus Learning can help cover data visualization. It includes Power BI and other such tools. A business can consider this course for its employees for an in-depth learning experience

Neo-Banks: The New Era of Banking

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

The rise of Neo-banks, also known as digital banks or challenger banks, has disrupted the traditional banking industry. These banks offer a modern, convenient, and cost-effective alternative to conventional banks, thanks to their advanced use of technology, particularly cloud computing and fintech in banking and finance. 

To succeed in this evolving industry, professionals need to deeply understand these topics, making an MBA in Fintech an excellent option for those seeking to advance their careers in MBA.

What Is a Neo-Bank?

Neo banks are the latest iteration of banks, designed to be mobile-first and fully computerised. Traditional banks and service providers in India have joined forces to create digital banking platforms allowing customers to bank via mobile devices. 

Neo banks are ideal for tech-savvy individuals who prefer digital banking. They offer numerous features and a user-friendly interface for everything from online payments to saving and investing. 

Although still in their early stages in India, neo-banks represent a cost-effective, accessible, and efficient method of delivering financial services in the digital age.

How Neo-Banks Work

Most neo-banks are not chartered, unlike traditional banks, but partnerships between neo-banks and chartered banks are widespread. Your deposits may be protected if your bank is affiliated with a chartered institution.

Most neo-banks provide early deposit access and low or no-charge structures to serve all customers, whether they need financial assistance. Its strategy is entirely digital, and it includes user-friendly websites and intuitive mobile apps. 

Neo-banks work to provide the ease, flexibility, and transparency that today’s banking customers are increasingly looking for.

How Do Neo-Banks Differ From Traditional Banks?

Neo-banks differ from conventional banks in numerous ways, the most obvious of which is the absence of physical branches. 

Neo-bank users use an app or website to deposit checks or send money instead of going to a physical location to complete banking activities.

Neo-banks naturally offer a modern, technologically advanced experience because technology businesses manage them. Several Neo-bank clients take advantage of extra privileges and perks like cheap or no fees, better interest rates, or early access to salary funds.

How Do Neo-Banks Differ From Online Banks?

Although both organisations let consumers create financial accounts and manage money online, neo-banks and online banks are sometimes mistaken for one another. However, there are significant distinctions between these two institutions.

Online banks generally move offline banking services online by digitising the conventional online banking experience. Neo-banks, in contrast, are managed by fintech firms and provide services similar to those of banks but not actual banks.

What Should Customers Consider Before Depositing Money in Neo-Banks?

Neo-banks are more similar to technology firms with banking partners than traditional banks.

  • Neo-banks are fintech firms that the RBI indirectly governs. Customers risk facing legal repercussions because the RBI does not recognise neo-banks as “banks” in the event of a problem.
  • Neo-banks only provide some of the services provided by banks and only offer a few items, such as savings accounts, minor loans, debit cards, etc.
  • Clients may need access to a personal banker and must conduct all banking on their mobile devices.

Pros of Neo-Banks

Neo-banks, also known as digital banks or challenger banks, offer several benefits to consumers, including:

Easy access

Neo-banks enable customers to handle most of their banking needs online or via a computer app, around the clock, without needing to go to a branch. High-rated apps from some top neo-banks may be found in app stores.

Applying for a neo-bank account might be more straightforward than a conventional institution. For instance, certain neo-banks don’t look at banking history, so if you’ve previously had accounts cancelled, your account is more likely to be authorised.

Lower fees, competitive rates

Neo-bank providers, like internet banks, don’t have to spend to maintain branches, and some providers pass the savings to clients. Low or no monthly service fees and the opportunity to earn high-interest rates are two ways the savings might be realised.

But be sure you are familiar with the provider’s rules. Some neo-banks charge a fee for premium services, while others require a certain amount of monthly transactions to receive the most effective interest rates. 

Before registering, examine the offer to see if it aligns with your spending patterns and financial objectives.

Better rates, easy account opening

Neo-banks often offer better rates on savings accounts and loans than traditional banks, as well as faster and more convenient account opening processes, allowing customers to open accounts and use their services within minutes. 

These benefits make Neo-banks an attractive alternative for consumers seeking a more modern and cost-effective banking experience.

Cons of Neo-Banks

While Neo-banks have several benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider, including:

Limited customer service

No branches mean little personal assistance. Several companies provide customer care over the phone or via social media. Moreover, they might offer online chat.

For simple banking queries, those alternatives can be helpful. But, if your account is blocked or closed due to fraud suspicion, you might have trouble contacting someone who can help you fix the issue.

Fewer account services

Although many neo-banks lack broader banking alternatives, such as the capacity to send wire transfers or conveniently take cash deposits, they do provide some digital banking services. They might also offer fewer accounts. 

As indicated, a neo-bank might give a checking account but not provide loans, certificates of deposit, or other investment opportunities.

Unproven history

Neo-banks don’t have long track records. Many have opened only within the last few years, and they could fail, like any other startup.

Conclusion

Due to needing physical branches, Neo-Banks’ success in the fintech sector rests on developing client trust and offering top-notch customer service through digital channels. Understanding cloud computing and fintech in banking and finance is crucial for anyone in this industry.

Imarticus Learning’s MBA in Fintech by KL University is a program that covers these critical topics, preparing professionals to excel in the fast-paced fintech industry. 

With a practical emphasis on real-world applications, the programme gives the practical experience and expertise required to meet the opportunities and difficulties presented by the developing fintech sector.

A Beginner’s guide to what is Kubernetes

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

Are you interested in learning Kubernetes from scratch? Kubernetes is a well-known container orchestration system. Understanding it is important for DevOps and full stack web developers.

This comprehensive guide will take you through the basics of Kubernetes and help you become an expert. This guide will mention the importance of learning Kubernetes in the current job market and how it can benefit you. So, let’s get started!

What is Kubernetes?

Kubernetes is an open-source container orchestration system that enables automated deployment, scaling and management of containerised applications. Developed by Google, it was later donated to the Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF).

Why Learn Kubernetes?

Kubernetes has become a sought-after skill in today’s job market, presenting lucrative opportunities for DevOps Developers and Full Stack Web Developers. Acquiring knowledge in Kubernetes can propel one’s career, as it simplifies application deployment and scaling processes, facilitating management.

Getting Started with Kubernetes

To start using Kubernetes, you must first understand containers and containerisation. Software programmes and supporting components can be packaged effectively using containers. This prevents conflicts from arising when many instances of an application are running on the same host.

Before learning about Kubernetes, it is important to understand how a cluster is built. A central node and a variety of worker nodes make up this cluster. The cluster’s state is managed by the principal node, which also schedules programmes to run on the worker nodes.

It is necessary to understand Kubernetes objects, which form the core of a Kubernetes programme. The desired state of your application, including the number of replicas you intend to run and the resources you seek to distribute among each replica, is defined using Kubernetes objects.

Creating a Kubernetes Cluster

Once you fully comprehend Kubernetes, you can start constructing your own Kubernetes cluster. You can use tools such as Minikube or Kind to build a local Kubernetes cluster on your device. You can also use cloud providers such as Google Cloud Platform or Amazon Web Services to create a production-standard Kubernetes cluster.

Deploying Applications on Kubernetes

Application deployment on Kubernetes requires the creation of Kubernetes objects. These define the desired status of the application. YAML files describe these objects. The kubectl command-line tool can be applied to the Kubernetes cluster.

Managing Kubernetes Resources

The key to maintaining a Kubernetes cluster is to manage the resources allotted to your apps properly. Thankfully, Kubernetes provides a number of practical resource management capabilities to help with this effort, including resource demands and restrictions.

Scaling Kubernetes Applications

Applications built with Kubernetes need to be closely watched and managed to perform at their best. To expand applications in response to shifting demand, Kubernetes offers technologies like vertical pod autoscaling and horizontal pod autoscaling.

Kubernetes Monitoring and Logging

Kubernetes cluster management includes crucial elements like monitoring and logging. You can monitor your Kubernetes cluster to help you spot any issues or anomalies. This is to ensure that your applications are running properly.

You can also store and review the logs generated by your Kubernetes-based apps using logging. With the numerous monitoring and logging features that Kubernetes provides, you can keep an eye on the health of your cluster and apps.

You can use Grafana for visualisation and Prometheus for monitoring, for instance. You may also utilise programmes like Elasticsearch, Fluentd and Kibana (EFK stack) for centralised logging.

Kubernetes Security

A number of security capabilities are offered by Kubernetes to assist protect applications running on the platform. While administering a Kubernetes cluster, security is of the utmost importance. You must make sure your apps are secure and adhere to industry standards.

Kubernetes features, such as Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), network policies and container security, offer robust application protection. Tools like Istio and Calico can also provide additional security measures such as traffic management and encryption.

Final Words

Learning Kubernetes is essential for anyone looking to become a DevOps Developer or Full Stack Web Developer. It’s a highly sought-after skill in the current job market. Many job opportunities are available for those with expertise.

If you’re interested in learning Kubernetes, Imarticus Learning’s Full Stack Developer Course is an excellent option. With hands-on experience and career services, you’ll be well-prepared to start your career as a Full Stack Developer. So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey towards becoming a Kubernetes expert today!

Disaster Response and Recovery in Supply Chain Management

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

In today’s world, supply chain disruptions caused by natural disasters, political instability, and pandemics are becoming more frequent, emphasising the need for a robust disaster response and recovery plan in supply chain management.

best supply chain management and analytics training

Professionals with a certification in supply chain management, mainly those trained in supply and operations planning, play a crucial role in ensuring that businesses are prepared for potential disruptions and can recover quickly. 

With their expertise, they can help organisations navigate challenges and minimise the impact of disasters on supply chain operations.

Importance of Disaster Preparedness in Supply Chain Management

Supply chain disruptions caused by natural disasters, geopolitical events, and other unexpected circumstances can significantly impact businesses, causing delays, shortages, and loss of revenue. 

Some of the importance of disaster preparedness in the supply chain is as follows:

Risk Mitigation

Disaster preparedness aims to reduce the risk of supply chain disruptions caused by natural disasters, accidents, or other unexpected events.

This includes identifying potential risks and developing strategies to mitigate them, such as:

  • Conducting risk assessments and mapping out potential supply chain disruptions
  • Identifying critical suppliers and developing backup plans for alternative sourcing
  • Creating redundant systems to ensure continuity of operations in case of a disruption

Cost Savings

Preparing for disasters can save supply chain managers high costs in the long run. This includes:

  • Avoiding stockouts and lost sales due to disruptions
  • Minimising costs associated with rush shipping or expediting production to catch up on lost time
  • Reducing the need for emergency response services or additional labour to handle disruptions.

Reputation Management

Supply chain disruptions can also damage a company’s reputation, particularly if it cannot meet customer demands during or after a disaster. By being prepared, companies can:

  • Maintain a positive image by ensuring business continuity and customer satisfaction
  • Demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility by minimising the environmental impact of disruptions.

Key Elements of an Effective Disaster Response Plan for Supply Chains

An effective disaster response plan is essential for minimising supply chain disruptions caused by natural disasters, accidents, or other unexpected events. 

Here are some key elements that businesses should include in a comprehensive disaster response plan for supply chains:

  • Risk Assessment: A risk assessment should identify potential risks and vulnerabilities in the supply chain network. This includes mapping out potential supply chain disruptions, identifying critical suppliers, and assessing the impact of disruptions on business operations. 
  • Business Continuity Plan: A business continuity plan should ensure critical business functions can continue during a supply chain disruption. It includes identifying alternative sourcing strategies, developing redundancy plans, and establishing communication protocols and emergency response procedures for all stakeholders in the supply chain. 
  • Technology: Technology can be critical in disaster response efforts, including real-time supply chain operations monitoring and data analytics to identify potential disruptions. 

By including these key elements in a comprehensive disaster response plan, supply chain managers can be well-prepared to navigate unexpected events and minimise the impact of disruptions on business operations.

Role of Technology in Supply Chain Disaster Recovery

Technology is critical in supply chain disaster efforts by enabling real-time monitoring, data analytics, and supplier communication. Here are some specific ways technology can support disaster recovery in the supply chain:

Real-time Monitoring: Technology enables real-time monitoring of supply chain operations, helping managers quickly identify disruptions such as weather conditions and traffic patterns. This allows for prompt action to minimise the impact on the supply chain.

Data Analytics: Data analytics can identify potential disruptions in the supply chain, allowing managers to adjust their operations proactively and avoid potential issues, such as changes in demand or disruptions in logistics.

Communication: Cloud-based supply chain management systems use technology to communicate with suppliers, track shipments, and manage inventory levels. Real-time visibility into operations allows managers to make informed decisions and respond promptly to potential disruptions.

Automation: Automation is a valuable tool for streamlining supply chain operations and minimising disruptions caused by human error. Businesses can achieve it through automated warehousing systems, autonomous vehicles, and other technologies that enhance speed and efficiency.

By leveraging technology in these ways, supply chain managers can improve their disaster recovery efforts and ensure that their operations are resilient to potential disruptions.

Best Practices for Managing Supply Chain Disruptions During a Disaster

Disasters such as natural calamities, cyber-attacks, and geopolitical issues can cause significant disruptions to global supply chain networks. 

Here are some best practices for managing supply chain disruptions during a disaster:

Collaboration

Collaboration is key to managing supply chain disruptions during a disaster. Supply chain managers should work closely with suppliers and customers to identify alternative sourcing strategies and develop contingency plans.

Redundancy

Redundancy is critical to ensuring business continuity during a disaster. Supply chain managers should identify critical suppliers and establish redundancy plans to ensure that essential products and services can continue to be delivered.

Flexibility

Flexibility is essential during a disaster, as disruptions occur quickly and unexpectedly. Supply chain managers should adjust their plans and operations to respond to the changing situation.

Risk Assessment

A risk assessment should identify potential risks and vulnerabilities in the supply chain network. It includes mapping out potential supply chain disruptions, identifying critical suppliers, and assessing the impact of disruptions on business operations.

Contingency Planning

Companies should develop a contingency plan to ensure critical business functions can continue during a supply chain disruption. 

Contingency planning includes identifying alternative sourcing strategies, developing redundancy plans, and establishing communication protocols and emergency response procedures for all stakeholders in the supply chain.

Testing and Training

Regular testing and training ensure that the disaster response plan is effective and that all stakeholders respond to potential disruptions. 

Testing and training include conducting tabletop exercises, reviewing emergency response procedures, and providing training to supply chain employees.

Case Studies: Lessons Learned from Supply Chain Disasters and Recovery Efforts

There have been several high-profile supply chain disasters over the years, which have provided valuable lessons on how to manage supply chain disruptions and recovery efforts. Here are a few examples: 

The 2011 Thailand floods disrupted the hard disk drive supply, causing a global market shortage. Companies that had diversified their suppliers were better able to weather the disruption.

Companies that relied on a single supplier scrambled for alternatives and paid a premium for scarce inventory. The floods highlighted the importance of supply chain risk management and the need for redundancy.

The 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan disrupted the supply of electronic components, semiconductors, and automotive parts. Companies with a detailed understanding of their supply chain networks were better able to respond to the disruption.

Many companies implemented contingency plans and alternative sourcing strategies to minimise the impact of the disruption. The disaster highlighted the importance of supply chain visibility and the need for agile response capabilities.

Conclusion

Effective disaster preparedness and management are crucial for maintaining a resilient and efficient supply chain. With the help of technology and automation, supply chain managers can better monitor and adjust their operations, minimise the impact of disruptions, and prepare for potential disasters. 

Data analytics can provide valuable insights for identifying weaknesses and improving processes.

If you want to advance your supply chain management and analytics career, consider enrolling in Imarticus Learning’s Professional Certification in Supply Chain Management & Analytics.

This program provides a comprehensive understanding of supply chain management concepts and tools, including the role of a Supply and Operations Planner. Visit Imarticus Learning for more information.

Transparency and Discolure in Investment Banking

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

The modern era is also considered to be the era of economic bloom whose main propulsion is to maintain the accessibility of capital. Various leading banks mainly execute this procedure all across the world. This can be easily achieved by maintaining transparency and disclosure in investment banking. 

Any economic bloom can rapidly take place if there is enough transparency and information about capital allocation. This helps the investors to take better decisions according to the available information. Therefore, transparency and disclosure in investment banking simply mean vivid communication between stakeholders and banks regarding the available capital.  

To learn more about transparency and disclosure in investment banking one must opt for an excellent online course. The investment banking and capital market course is therefore the most suitable online course that will incorporate an individual with all the essential knowledge and skills about investment banking. Let’s drive in to know more about this.

The Main Objective of Transparency and Disclosure in Investment Banking

The main purpose of transparency and disclosure in investment banking is the enhance the performance of the banks and improve their liabilities. This procedure also helps to increase the value and interest of the different stakeholders. Other than these it also allows the investors to comprehend the challenging situations a bank has to go through. 

As the banks disclose their information and are quite transparent about it then the market price fluctuation can be easily decreased. Transparency also boosts the performance of the market stocks. Hence, most investors and companies support this system. 

A piece of opaque information will hamper the future growth of any company. As it might not disclose the bad debt of that company. For positive future growth, it is necessary to know about the various investment of the company. 

Documents related to Transparency and Disclosure

To maintain transparency and disclosure a bank must disclose its annual reports along with certain statements and pieces of information. Here is a list of documents that are related to banking transparency:

Statement of Income

An income statement of a bank will display its revenue. It also shows the arenas where the bank has a yield profit or faced a loss. An income statement also carries information regarding expenditures as well as taxes. 

Cash Flow Statement

Cash is not constant, it always flows in and out of a bank in a continuous cycle. When money is credited to a bank it is commonly known as the inflow of cash. While, if money is debited from the bank then it is termed the outflow of cash. 

The inflow and outflow of cash are documented in the statement of income. It also contains details about various investments, loans, stock as well as bond issuances. A cash flow statement allows a bank to maintain its transparency. 

Balance Sheet

A bank might have numerous assets as well as liabilities which are generally documented down in a balance sheet. It is a kind of document that acts as evidence for transparency. The equities of a stakeholder are also documented down in a balance sheet.

There are two kinds of liabilities. One is the short-term liability and the other one is the long-term liability. Both of these liabilities are documented under the balance sheet.

Statement Regarding the Equity of Stockholder

All the data related to a stockholder’s equity is documented in the statement of stockholders’ equity. It stores all the data for a particular period. This statement also has data relating to changes in equity. 

These changes include dividends, issuance of stocks, and repurchase of shares. Dividends are a type of interest or reward an investor receives for buying numerous shares and stocks. 

Comprehensive Income Statement

 A comprehensive income statement often holds the records of other income sources. Other income sources include pensions and foreign exchange. Disclosing the data of other sources of income makes transparency stronger. 

Case Study on Transparency and Disclosure 

In early 2018 Tyson company was fined $2 million. This is because, during a meeting in 2016, shareholders of this company complained that the company’s annual financial report lacked transparency. It was found that Tyson company had hidden certain business tractions with a few companies and was breaking the environmental law which was destroying the animal lives in the Missouri river.

As a punishment, the U.S. Justice Department asked the Tyson company to hire private auditors who will give training and will double-check the accounts. 

Cons of Transparency and Disclosure in Investment Banking

Transparency and disclosure of data have many advantages. However, there are a few disadvantages to the transparency and disclosure of data. It has been observed that several competitive pieces of information about the banks get disclosed which is beneficial for the competitors. 

This procedure at times discloses the data about their customer which hampers their privacy. Hence, banks try to be more careful while maintaining their transparency. It is also observed that transparency can cause inefficiency within the bank and which leads to poor coordination among the employees. 

This hampers the reputation of the bank as the investors start losing their confidence. This also affects the incentives of the managers in a negative way which leads to insufficient decision-making. It also adversely affects the production of private money by the bank.

Conclusion

Imarticus Learning has brought the IIM Calcutta capital market course that is ideal for those individuals who are willing to commence a career in financial accounting and analysis. This course will continue for a timespan of 1 year. 

Well-experienced faculty of IIM Caltucta will impart essential knowledge and skills to the students. The individuals will also get an opportunity to work with real-life cases during this course. So without any further delay get yourself enrol in this course to bag alluring opportunities.

Challenges CMOs Will Face in 2023

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

A Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) overlooks a company’s entire marketing strategy. His/her areas of expertise include advertising, market research, public relations and developing and distributing products and services. As with every role, a CMO too has to face numerous challenges in the ever-changing business landscape, which can be tricky to resolve. 

chief marketing officer course

As CMOs gear up for the new financial year, disruptive market dynamics, shifting customer preferences and a volatile market are set to test their skill and knowledge. A CMO training programme will offer insight into the role of a Chief Marketing Officer in a company. This blog will discuss the latest challenges CMOs will face in 2023, including the introduction of artificial intelligence and machine learning into the marketing scenario. 

Challenges for CMOs in 2023 and the Best Practices to Counter Them

In 2023, CMOs are likely to come face to face with various marketing challenges. Listed below is a list of challenges and suggested ways to connect with the ongoing market. 

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Welcoming AI into the Company 

There is no denying that AI and its scope is a vital topic of discussion at the current point in time. A CMO can optimise the customer experience by personalising the shopping journeys with machine learning technologies. AI insights, data segmentation, personalised experiences and targeting the right audience can help tackle the situation in the right way.

To top that, automated content curation could also solve time-consuming problems. As Bill Gates once said, ‘Content is King.’ Marketers will need to conceive, curate and personalise content rapidly.

Enhanced Marketing Automation Tools

Balancing marketing strategies can be challenging for the CMO as these are susceptible areas. A marketing campaign may or may not benefit two different products or services. 

Although it is entirely acceptable to try both alternatives, choosing what brings in the leads at the end of the day is best. Moreover, automation tools can help out with a multi-channel marketing strategy. To understand how this works, you can always opt for a CMO training programme, covering all pillars of marketing and advertising.

Increased Competition

Customers’ Changing Needs and Expectations

Given the uncertainty of the marketing budget based on the clientele, choosing the best marketing strategy will take time and effort. A practical challenge involves increasing changes in customer shopping behaviours. To tackle this, a CMO can devise a marketing strategy that introduces potential customers to products in their preferred channels rather than in every existing channel.

The Possibility of a Recession

With Google, Amazon, Microsoft and Meta recently laying off more than 1,00,000 professionals, among other employers, the consequences of the recession have become evident. As a result, CMOs must deal with the challenges arising from the economic downfall. 

Traditional marketing methods like brand reach are declining and must be replaced with new techniques. Amid high inflation, a CMO must strive to balance the ongoing trends. The CMO must constantly find impactful ways to maximise resources, even with a straining budget. Smart investment in human resources and technology can propel a company to success and consolidate its future position in the industry.

Data and Analytics

Employing Data-driven Decisions 

When being an influential CMO, using data is paramount. For instance, in the case of CorelDraw software, a revenue increase of 106% was recorded with website data and analytics integration. Constant monitoring of customer buying behaviours and a specially curated ‘Hyper Retargeting’ ad campaign subsequently led to this hike. In doing so, the website gained marketing intelligence and research insights.

Understanding How to Use Customer Data 

Privacy and security are two primary areas of assurance that a company can offer its customers for better outreach. As customer data has always been a matter of concern, CMOs must find practical solutions to ensure the overall safety of their consumers. 

They must have the latest firewalls, encryption methods and technology to uphold sensitive information. It also includes abiding by the local laws and regulations surrounding data privacy.

Team Management

Building the Right Team

As a CMO, building and retaining professionals who understand the company culture and put in their best in every project is crucial. One of the advantages of being a CMO is being able to hire the right team built from scratch. Teamwork and collaboration are deciding factors both for a CMO and the organisation. A flexible working environment and a competitive salary go a long way in both building and retaining the dream team.

Conclusion

The need for digital campaigns and a data-driven market has enabled companies to look for advanced options. The article offers insight into the ongoing marketing trend and the challenges a CMO might face inadvertently. 

A Chief Marketing Officer certification is the safest bet for young professionals aiming for the role. Additionally, it can contribute to one’s understanding of the role and the adversities that follow. You can sign up for the IIM Raipur CMO course offered by Imarticus. Master the core concepts and gain experience through real-life inspired business problems and case studies. Enrol today and achieve a faster vertical career progression.

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