Sandra De Zoysa

RINGING IN THE FUTURE

The role of the telecom industry in the aftermath of the pandemic

The telecommunications industry today in a sentence
The most critical infrastructure component and lifeline for humanity in the world today.

Strengths of the telecom industry in the prevailing context
A robust and stable infrastructure helps keep us sane, productive and emotionally engaged, and democratises the digital divide with access to information and data at our fingertips.

Two weaknesses of the telecommunications industry
Founded on legacy systems so moving fast with agility isn’t inherent; and it is highly capital intensive and as such, expansion can take time.

Balancing act for telcos
Investment and revenue, as well as experiences and regulatory compliance.

New prospective customer segments
SMEs and the education sector through virtual meetings and events, and the healthcare sector by facilitating online consultations and delivery of medicines.

Evolving consumer trends or behaviours
An increase in digital payments due to e-commerce and e-payments; greater expectations through digital experiences; and omni-channel interactions through apps, and web and social channels.

Barriers to telecom industry professionals’ growth in Sri Lanka
I don’t see any major barriers impacting the growth of telecom professionals.

Your thoughts on gender balance in the industry
This is an area in which we are rated poorly in the country and across the world.

Main impact of COVID-19 on the telecom industry
There’s a major strain on infrastructure in terms of network load balancing as we look to ease congestion given the additional traffic.

Three initiatives to enhance telecommunications during the pandemic
Capacity expansion, smart optimisation and driving the momentum of digitalisation.

Scope of the industry in Sri Lanka
The telecom industry is considered to be the heart and soul of business and everyday life.

Regional telecom industry in a nutshell
Similar to the local telco industry and envisages exponential growth with the introduction of 5G.

Local vs regional comparison of the telecom industry
The local industry is on a par with its global and regional counterparts, and has great potential.

Telecom industry’s impact on millennials and gen Z
It is the greatest enabler for those born in the digital era.

Challenges facing the telecommunications industry
Restrictions and difficulties related to the import of mobile phones, accessories and infrastructure.

Sri Lanka’s competitiveness in a few words
Our country offers some of the most competitive tariff plans globally.

Impact of the digital age in Sri Lanka
It has enabled people to free up and make better use of time, and empowered a large workforce to be independent and entrepreneurial.

Sri Lanka’s readiness for technology adoption
We are at the nascent stages of tech adoption – it will gather pace among the millennial and gen Z demographics as technology is second nature to them.

Virtual team management in a sentence
The new norm and an integral part of our daily lives.

Digital security in telecommunications
One of the most pressing issues with the explosion of digital adoption caused by the pandemic.

Impact of social media on the world at large
A double-edged sword – at its best, it enabled us to stay sane by fulfilling economic, social and emotional needs during lockdowns; but it has also instigated hate and disharmony in society.

Productivity is affecting industrial and economic growth
Definitely – productivity fuels industrial and economic growth as it is the basis for progress.

Corruption is affecting industrial and economic growth
Yes – corruption has a major impact on industrial and economic growth as it directly impacts the ease of doing business.

Competition drives innovation
Healthy competition certainly drives and leads to innovation, as seen in over the top (OTT) players and their impact on telcos.

The industry in five years’ time
The IT industry will be a driving force, enabling humans to be immersed in technology while adding value to our lives by providing faster, more reliable and better life experiences.

Your mantra for success
Grab every opportunity that comes your way, do your best with everything no matter how small as it will lead to a transformative journey towards excellence, never overlook an opportunity to help someone, and always be positive and grateful.

– Compiled by Ashwini Vethakan
Sandra De Zoysa is the Group Chief Customer Officer of Dialog Axiata