Reflection Paper

Sigua, Shelly Mae B.

MBA – 1A
September 22, 2021

Global Megatrends by Steve Sammartino & Megatrends by Dr. Jess Estanilao

This study explains how we can handle our economy despite this uncertain time of
pandemic. There is nothing normal about the new normal set-up but there are some benefits.
Opportunities for small businesses, technology companies and our government. Big companies
got bigger and stronger while the world is falling apart. In this study we must anticipate some
innovation and develop something new to sustain growth that affects our businesses,
economics, society, culture, and personal lives.

As discussed by Steve Sammartino, digital sovereignty is the ability to own and

control digital infrastructure which means you can scan and interact with different people despite
being in the middle of covid crisis. We are still facing an economic shock that forces us to adapt,
make quick decisions, innovate, and think in a new way. This pandemic forced digitization in
many aspects in our lives such as work, healthcare, and education. Developing technologies have
suddenly become national and global priorities as of now. I hope this trend will bring a leap
towards something different and better, directing policies and investments towards some projects
that will transform our economy. Automation at distance in this time of pandemic can both oust
and create jobs. This ongoing technological transformation of work can interact with the Covid-
19 pandemic shock resulting in fewer jobs for the less educated and low-skill workers as well as
quality of work and a further decline in the labor share of national income. The fact that the
pandemic leads to remote work can have several implications that are related to digital
technologies and automation. Technology can facilitate remote work but not to the same degree
for all occupations. However, the adoption of new technologies and robotic systems can help
firms to overcome the negative effects of the pandemic shock while keeping their workforce
safe. A factor paving the ground for deglobalization also concerns the condition in which the
major world powers find themselves. In essence, the Covid-19 pandemic has re-empowered the
nation-state and due to practical necessities prompted governments steeped in political liberalism
to oppose the ‘open borders’ philosophy. Countries have realized that they need to secure their
supply chain. As professionals, we need to explore like an eagle circling the sky on the impact of
Covid on our respective industries and the value chain. The alignment between goals and efforts
will lead to productivity maximization and is a useful productivity metric in these uncertain
times. After identifying activities and efforts to focus on, essentialists create a system to utilize
the time saved in removing the obstacles to their efforts to ensure a smooth execution that is both
efficient and joyful.
 Indeed, this Covid situation is changing the way we live, and it has become
essential to reconsider all the priorities rather than the options. Until now it is unclear how long
this period of volatility will persist, hence the companies that can recalibrate quickly will be the
ones to triumph in this unprecedented story. Those who get it right will see quick returns, and
there will be little room for complacency in this new normal reality.

Based on Dr. Jess Estanislao, since the government must respond to the economic
consequences brought by Covid-19 through massive spending and taking over more power. This
is also to satisfy and meet the economy standard in the long run and this may result in deficit
spending over a particular time. This can lead to opportunities for big businesses since the
government knows that these companies are the sources of jobs and for the survival of the
economy. Jobs equals taxes, and taxes equals a thriving community since this is the primary
reason to raise revenue for government expenditures. Governmental policy responses in global
disease transmission modelling, factors influencing the decision to implement travel and border
restriction policies have attracted relatively less attention. Import and export of the goods and
supplies have been affected. Dynamic relationship between globalization and protectionism
when governments respond to significant global events such as a public health crisis. Massive
jump in digitalization, today, digital economic activities are already part of our daily lives,
including shopping online, ordering food and attending meetings. These digital economic tools
such as smartphones have become so popular also when making transactions, payments and
connecting to other people. In summary, digital technology has the following potential effects –
increasing scale, enhancing efficiency, improving users experience, reducing costs, and
controlling risks especially in this time of the pandemic.

Some of the ways to improve productivity include working on the values within
your company such as credibility, integrity, efficiency, and leadership. HR can create an
environment where everyone can work well. A nice office environment enables employees to
have healthy relationships with each other and not only work for hours but can also have a bit of
fun from time to time. Also, consider giving bonuses, prizes, or other forms of incentives so that
employees are more motivated to work and would feel that you value them. Successful employee
training and development can boost their engagement in the organization. Employees get better
at their jobs and develop their skills can lead to new career opportunities. Productivity in a
workplace will ensure that your company reaches their goals and will have visible results. Lastly
but most importantly, do not forget to show your humanity and your compassion. Share
strategies on how to stay physiologically resilient amid these strange and difficult times.