Sunil Sankaramanchi, the entrepreneur and CEO of Wenable Inc, is championing tech innovation while also being known for his love of music and nature. The tech we use in our personal lives often does not seamlessly transition into our work lives, especially in B2B settings. Companies like Apple, Google, and Samsung create devices that cater well to personal use but fall short in meeting the robust and secure needs of businesses.
One of the key issues lies in the fundamental differences between consumer and professional use cases. Consumers look for sleek and intuitive devices, while businesses require tools that support data security and specialized software applications. The expectation that a single device can seamlessly transition between these realms is proving to be more myth than reality. The challenge for tech companies lies in crafting solutions that respect varied privacy needs, providing businesses flexibility to operate as needed while safeguarding against unauthorized data access or misuse.
Beyond privacy concerns, there are operational hurdles that arise when consumer-grade devices are used in professional settings. Compatibility issues with specialized software, inadequate durability, and the lack of essential features for business operations can transform these devices into costly impediments. The key is to not force consumer tech into a professional setting but to create a new space where it fits just right. Device and software design need to be more flexible and adaptable to ensure they work seamlessly in a business environment.
The path forward requires a paradigm shift in how tech giants approach product design. A dual-approach philosophy, which addresses the distinct needs of both consumer and professional environments, is essential. This entails adjustable privacy controls, enhanced security features, and hardware and software that can adapt to a range of professional use cases. Collaboration with B2B clients to understand their unique challenges and requirements can inspire innovative solutions that bridge the current gap between consumer and professional technology.
The dream is to have tech that seamlessly transitions between personal and professional lives, enhancing every part of our lives regardless of whether we are at home or work. It is an invitation for the tech industry to think bigger and design devices and software that cater to both consumers and businesses. While it may be a big ask, the possibilities are endless when devices can bridge the gap between personal and professional worlds. Here’s to hoping for a future where tech enhances every aspect of our lives.
