Chief executives to tell conference how to utilise new technology

Some 100 of the Republic’s top chief executives from business and the arts will appear at a conference next week to discuss how companies use new technologies to engage more effectively with customers.

PwC’s global CEO survey shows nine out of ten chief executives around the world say they are changing how they use technology to assess customer and wider stakeholder expectations.

PwC managing partner Feargal O Rourke said technological and digital advances were "game changers" for business and consumers alike.

“For businesses it’s about using the technology for competitive advantage, providing the content and monetising it,” he said. “For consumers it’s all about exciting content experiences, anytime, anywhere.

“Technology is transforming how we engage with customers. And we also see technology transforming the world of work, enabling people to work in virtual offices wherever they are located and presenting opportunities for even better collaboration.

“This will take mobile working to a new level. Consuming information on the move will also push interconnectedness to a new reality. These are exciting times with lots of opportunities and, with consumers calling the shots, whether in business or in the arts, the early adaptors will be the winners.”

The Business to Arts CEO FORUM takes place at the PwC headquarters at Spencer Dock on Wednesday. Speakers include RTÉ chief digital officer Muirne Laffan, An Post director of communications and corporate affairs Barney Whelan, Alex Gibson, senior lecturer in DIT, and Irish Times managing director Liam Kavanagh.