Digital transformation is not just the digitization of the company processes or even just going paperless, but more about discovering new frontiers for the businesses using technological innovation to an advantage.
Asokan Ashok, CEO of UnfoldLabs has over 30+ years of experience as a technology leader and innovator. Being a technology leader with his business relationships and industry expertise, he has nurtured and influenced many aspirants towards strategic thinking.
Below are the highlights of the interview conducted between InspireZones and Asokan Ashok.
Tell us something about yourself? What inspired you to start your journey in this industry?
The inspiration behind my journey in technology and innovation stems from a deep-seated belief in the potential for positive change for humanity. I have always been driven by the desire to address some of the most pressing challenges facing humanity today, with technology.
With the belief that by pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, we can create a better future for all that takes us into the realm of the impossible. The potential impact of advancements in technology and innovation is immense, and it’s our responsibility to harness it for the greater good.
I am constantly motivated by the incredible teams I’ve had the privilege to work with. Their dedication and brilliance have been instrumental in turning ambitious ideas into reality. Together as a team, we are striving to build a future that’s not only technologically advanced but also sustainable and inclusive.
What solutions or services does UnfoldLabs offer to its clients? Would you tell us the overall vision behind UnfoldLabs and your focus today?
UnfoldLabs offers a range of innovative solutions and services to its clients, primarily focusing on advanced technology and product development in software, mobile and cloud. UnfoldLabs is where innovation meets mobility and cloud excellence. We are dedicated to crafting cutting-edge products and solutions that seamlessly integrate with your dynamic world. Our forward-thinking approach redefines user experiences, leveraging the power of mobile technology and cloud solutions to drive efficiency, connectivity, and growth.
At UnfoldLabs, we are not just developers; we are visionaries. Our team harnesses the latest advancements in mobile platforms and cloud architecture to deliver solutions that transcend expectations. Whether it is revolutionizing workflows or enhancing customer engagement, our products empower businesses to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
When did you recognize the need for UnfoldLabs and what were some of the challenges in putting together your offering?
At UnfoldLabs, our journey commenced in 2015 with a keen understanding of the evolving landscape in technology. We recognized a pressing need for technology and innovation driven products and solutions that could address human issues around the world.
In the process, we encountered several significant challenges. The first was assembling a team with the right skill set and a can-do attitude, vital for realizing UnfoldLabs’ vision. Second, we needed to persuade early users to embrace our products and provide valuable feedback to enhance our offerings. UnfoldLabs successfully built a culture centered on innovation, customer feedback, and strategic thinking to develop products that not only simplify user experiences but also address tangible real-world challenges.
Every CEO has numerous responsibilities, being a fearless leader at UnfoldLabs what added responsibilities are you dealing with?
As the CEO of UnfoldLabs, I bear a multitude of responsibilities that encompass both the strategic direction and operational aspects of the company. Apart from leading the overall vision, strategy, and growth of UnfoldLabs, I’m responsible for managing the company’s daily operations, ensuring the successful development and delivery of innovative products and services. I also play a pivotal role in interacting with clients, partners, and stakeholders to ensure that UnfoldLabs continues to meet and exceed their needs and expectations. Furthermore, I’m dedicated to mentoring and guiding the team, driving innovation, and contributing to thought leadership in the technology industry. These responsibilities, along with many others, require a relentless commitment to excellence, strategic thinking, and adaptability in a dynamic and ever-evolving business landscape.
How would you describe your leadership style, and what has been your success mantra?
My leadership style can be described as collaborative & empowering visionary. I believe in leading by example, setting a clear vision for the company, and inspiring our team to work collectively toward our goals. Empowerment is at the core of my leadership approach; I trust my team to make decisions, take ownership of their work, and drive our shared mission forward. I encourage open communication, collaboration, and a focus on problem-solving, always with the customer in mind.
How do you help a company understand what they want to achieve, how are you able to encourage people in that?
At UnfoldLabs, our approach to helping companies understand and achieve their goals centers on a combination of strategic insight and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. We begin by conducting a comprehensive assessment to grasp the specific needs, challenges, and aspirations of the company and products.
We strongly believe in open communication and actively engage with all stakeholders to ensure alignment and foster a shared vision. Encouraging people within the organization involves empowering them to be part of the solution. We emphasize the importance of every team member’s role and contributions, encourage open feedback, and promote a culture of continuous learning.
Tell us something about your team and the culture of your company. How are you keeping them motivated in current times?
UnfoldLabs is fueled by a talented and dedicated team of professionals who bring diverse expertise to the table. Our company culture is built on core values of excellence, innovation, empathy, safety, care, and responsibility. To keep our team motivated in these challenging times, we prioritize their well-being, both personally and professionally. We encourage continuous learning and growth opportunities, enabling our team to stay updated with the latest trends. Remote work flexibility and emotional support mechanisms were vital during the pandemic. Overall, our culture thrives on mutual respect, open dialogue, and the pursuit of innovative solutions, which keeps our team motivated and engaged.
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Great Leaders never stop Adapting, Evolving and Thriving: Today or Tomorrow.
What are the key milestones you have set for your company for the year 2024? What does the next six months to a year look like for UnfoldLabs?
In 2024, UnfoldLabs has set ambitious milestones to further solidify its position as a leader in innovative technology solutions. The upcoming year is dedicated to launching cutting-edge products in various areas, including artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, UI/UX and CX with machine learning. These innovations aim to address real-world challenges and enhance customer experiences. In the next six months to a year, we’re committed to delivering on these milestones, ensuring our products are well-received in the market, and continuing our journey of growth and transformation. We’ll remain dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation, learning, and strategic thinking that drive us to provide exceptional products and services to our clients and the world.
What has been your biggest learning experience in the industry? What did it teach you?
One of the most significant learning experiences in the industry has been the realization that innovation is an ongoing journey, not a destination. It has taught me that staying relevant and impactful in the technology sector requires a constant thirst for learning, a keen eye on emerging trends, and an agile approach to adapting to change.
What measures is your company taking to overcome the challenges posed by the pandemic? If you want to share a message or give a suggestion to our readers, what would it be?
UnfoldLabs, like many organizations, faced challenges during the pandemic. We adapted by enabling remote work, prioritizing the health and safety of our team, and enhancing our digital collaboration tools to ensure business continuity. We also explored opportunities to create products that could address emerging needs in a changing world.
For your readers, I’d like to share a piece of advice: in the face of adversity, embrace innovation and change. Challenges can be the seeds of great innovation. It’s important to stay agile, open to new possibilities, and, above all, focused on creating solutions that truly make a difference in people’s lives. This perspective can help not only overcome challenges but also lead to transformative success.
