ME PoV Spring 2022 issue

The game-changer mindset is one that pushes the envelope, dares to break boundaries, and dives into unmarked territory. A game-changer will transform entire markets… and dare to be unique. It’s all about being a leader willing to think out-of-the-box for the sake of all good. As the world continues to spin, and our way of life and doing business continues to evolve, the future appears to be a sensational one. There is no other choice but to keep up with the innovative flow that continues to surround us. This is where the magic happens. 

Innovation is everywhere… even in the streets. Tech in the city: Using spatial insights by Manika Dhama offers a glimpse into the future of our growing cities. In her article she discusses how “The application of technology in real estate presents unique opportunities for infrastructure, transportation, and resource planning.” It becomes clear that data analytics combined with real estate market information can provide ideal decision making support through a cohesive view of city planning and project development.

Taking a detour to yet another relevant global trend that will prove to be promising… In an interview by Basel El Malki entitled Leading the implementation of IPSAS in Saudi Arabia, with Abdullah Al-Mehthil, President of the Accrual Accounting Center at the Ministry of Finance & Assistant Undersecretary, Deputyship of Finance & Accounts, Ministry of Finance, IPSAS Board Member, Saudi Arabia, we look at the latest International Public Sector Accounting Standards implementation journey in the Kingdom, which will enable the government to have a vibrant view of its financial position. 

From IPSAS implementation to sustainability in family businesses, Damian Regan looks at “how family businesses that adapt their internal processes with an eye on the development of legacy and succession, while demonstrating strong sustainable leadership, are more likely to withstand future challenges and identify future opportunities,” in Family firm focus: How family businesses are demonstrating sustainable leadership.

While the topic of sustainability remains to be a top priority in the Middle East, Dr. Ahmed Hezzah and Joerg Meiser ask the question “Does the world really need sustainable fashion?” in their article A walk down 'Green' Fashion Avenue: Gearing towards sustainable fashion and responsible consumption. One thing we can say for sure is that sustainability remains to be “in style.”

And in his article Forging ahead: Leaping sustainable reporting, Damian Regan reflects on how “2022 is turning out to be an exciting year for the development of sustainability reporting.” He explains that “The new International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) (….) is currently developing IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards, and this heralds a significant step forward to creating a baseline of consistent, comparable information needed by capital markets.” 

Technology also features prominently in this issue of the the Middle East Point of View. In Blurred lines: Incorporating mobile devices in corporate investigations, Cezar Serhal, Natalie Forester, and Faiz Ali Khan explain how data extracted from mobile devices can be crucial in corporate investigations. They go on to say that: “… corporates are urged to have proper controls and mechanisms in place to be able to reap the benefits of this critical information, while still ensuring employee privacy and legal compliance.

”In the article Smart security for smart grid: The challenges and risks with implementing effective security and controls for smart grid, Ali Khan and Tamer Charife explain how “In order to realize the economic value of a fully deployed smart grid, select power companies are taking the necessary steps to implement smart grid networks, taking the leading edge within their industry.”

We have collectively learned that you can never be too prepared in protecting yourself both personally and professionally. In their article Data defense: Protecting your brand, Muzzi Ebrahim, Sridip Ganguli, Collin Keeney, and Wael Tahtah ask the question: “Why is analytics important to ensure FCPA compliance?” And they skillfully explore the various ways in which data analytics can be utilized.

And finally, in the article Adapting capital program delivery with organizational agility, authors Paul Hirst, Matthew Hanson, and Ishaq Jarallah explain how “… with the growing scale and volume of projects and complex programs initiated in the past five years, the effectiveness of the PMCM/outsource delivery model has been impacted and may have run its course.”

All in all, the future is looking brighter… and definitely “greener.” As the Middle East continues to play a significant role at the forefront of global trends, such as the latest in sustainability practices and technological advances, it will be exciting to see how the future unfolds in the region. 2022 could very well be a game-changing year.

ME POV editorial team