Colleagues & Changemakers: Celebrating More Than a Milestone!

This June, Cybage celebrated its 29th birthday. This occasion isn't just a corporate milestone; it's a testament to a unique philosophy that transcends profit margins and boardroom discussions. The enduring partnership I have had with Cybage over the past 14+ years symbolizes the successful blending of 2 different cultures that helped both of us create a 'global culture' based on trust, a common set of goals, and many new friends and partners over the years. This has led to a sustainable business of growth, better resilience, and a wonderful group of partners/friends that have provided value to the number ONE overriding focus anywhere in the world… our wonderful customers!

A Culture of Trust and Shared Success

In my conversation with our MD and CEO, Arun Nathani , we discussed the unique culture at Cybage that has enabled such long tenure among both employees and partners. One thing that struck me during the conversation was his belief that the success of an organization is only possible when the right ones succeed and not the lucky ones. According to Arun, "If customers have to laugh a little more with you, they should feel at the center of your universe, which means they should not be treated like independent profit and loss centers." He has always envisioned a Cybage, which is the global solution provider that addresses critical needs while making a positive impact for partners, employees, and society at large. Today, the company caters to various industries such as HiTech & Software, Travel & Hospitality, Media & Advertising, Healthcare, Supply Chain, Fintech, and Retail, and we are increasingly exploring the Gen AI realm. My own story with Cybage is a testament to the power of relationships he covets!

When we embarked on a collaborative project highlighting the company's commitment to innovation and client-centricity, I was convinced of the project's potential to make a real difference. It was clear that Cybage wasn't just talking about innovation and client focus; they were actively putting those values into action. Partnerships are critical in high-tech, supply chain, development, and integrations, where things like currency, language, and time zones are just the surface of obstacles you can face. For example, if our business in Brazil had more than it could handle, Cybage would be available to assist in that implementation. The flexible model, laser focus on our customers, and highly trained/certified engineers at Cybage led to the largest global SI I have had anywhere in the world.

As the partnership with Cybage grew, we created a concept that allowed other partners to trust and work together to reduce the overall risk and help one another keep their services bench less lumpy. In other words, it is crucial for your professional services organization to be more stable while growing the business simultaneously. In a services-based organization, this is a significant factor for ensuring a profitable business and is an indicator of future growth.? I have said over the years that I am a product of reverse inclusion. I say this because whenever I am out and about, traveling the world, doing all the above-mentioned things, I am often the minority in the room. Through these experiences of being introduced to various cultures, the integration I learned has allowed me to become a better leader. The outcome was fantastic! Instead of the multiple partners worldwide wanting to protect their own 'backyard,' we have all realized that the community we created was more significant than we could imagine. Through the concept of 'partners helping partners,' I wanted to take this perspective global. ?

The coming together of an extraordinary relationship does not happen by accident; it takes years of trust to be surrounded by, in this case, many wins around the world. Through collective efforts, we grew into a 'partner-led' business, reducing risks, expanding into markets that were difficult to reach, and providing a foundation equal to every partner in every part of the world. This (software) lead product offered the partners compensation on license sales, maintenance & support, and implementation services. Cybage quickly took the reins and gave as much as I did… maybe more! This long-term business relationship between two cultures within high-tech services exemplifies the synergy, energy, and trust unique via global collaboration.

Over time, I learned more about the Cybage culture, and we created common goals and objectives to achieve significant gains for both Companies. Was there a cultural difference to overcome? Yes. The trust and mutual respect gained over time allowed for seamless communication after both sides drew to appreciate those differences as individual strengths that led to the most successful partnership either of us experienced globally.

The Hallmark for Lasting Relationships

As a trusted advisor, I was deeply impressed by how true the Cybage tagline of 'Delivering Value, Scientifically' rang. This ultimately led to my decision to join Cybage's leadership team as EVP, following an 8-month stint as an advisory board member, where I can continue contributing to the company's success by leveraging the unique insights gained through our long-standing partnership. The company uses data science to build relationships that last beyond transactions and business requirements. In these 29 years, Cybage has consistently delivered comprehensive and prudent services to businesses worldwide. Undoubtedly, this is the tangible embodiment of their commitment to excellence, ensuring optimal outcomes for both Cybage and our clients. This emphasis on fairness and excellence shines through in every aspect of their operations.

A truly global partnership is based on trust, mutual gain, and the understanding that can only come from two very different cultures over some time and through experiences together. After attending global leadership programs at the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL), including "Leadership and High-Performance Teams" and "Leadership for Organizational Impact," I've gained valuable insights that play a critical role as Cybage embraces the opportunities and challenges of the future. CCL tackles the complexities of global leadership through cultural sensitivity training, research, and partnerships. Their programs, in collaboration with institutes such as the Aga Khan Foundation and Project Management Institute, have helped me navigate diverse environments and build effective, inclusive practices for a more interconnected world.

CCL believes that leaders play a fundamental role in amplifying human potential . They hold the power to help people see something in themselves they've never seen before or to remove barriers that limit people's potential. Leaders can create remarkable changes in the lives of those around them and new possibilities for an entire organization or community. Arun agrees, "IT services and product engineering companies always sprint to innovate, adapt, and deliver exceptional client experiences. At the same time, they are desperately trying to hold onto their most valuable asset—their talent. It's a precarious balancing act in which missteps and tumbles threaten survival in the long term." Just like the industry itself, Cybage has navigated its share of challenges. Yet, through it all, Cybage's core values have remained constant.

Over the years, our partnership evolved, and I was fortunate to witness Cybage's dedication to its people firsthand. We've nurtured a culture of collaboration, embraced innovation, and always retained sight of the importance of our people.

Cybage is a master at bridging the gap between creativity and technical expertise. Take ExcelShore?, for instance. This data-driven platform optimizes operations and ensures transparency and fairness for all stakeholders. Arun said, "By reimagining a tech company's structure from the ground up, Cybage has always focused on how we can become more robust internally. Early on, we set our sights on long-term sustainability rather than quicker successes, dependent on external factors. As a data-driven company, Cybage goes beyond a traditional IT services company to deliver value and fairness for its clients, partners, and employees. And ExcelShore? is how we take this approach."

Cybage's dedication extends far beyond the realm of business. The company actively empowers underprivileged students with education through the CybageKhushboo Trust and uplift rural communities through the CybageAsha Trust. These programs are a testament to Cybage's core values, which are dedicated to positively impacting the world.

A Vision for the Future

Today, as Cybage stands on the cusp of its 30th year, the future looks bright. With Artificial Intelligence poised to revolutionize the industry, Cybage, under Arun's visionary leadership, is well-positioned to be at the forefront. "Instead of always focusing on how businesses will make more money... if organizations think more and more about creating a fairer world internally within the company and at the society level, then success automatically follows," Arun asserts. "And I think that's probably the best contribution and biggest impact of Gen AI implementation in tomorrow’s world!"

That belief is shared by the world's leading organizations, such as Microsoft or Google . According to Forbes , global partnerships are essential for fostering diversity of thought and experience, leading to more creative solutions and substantial outcomes. Through collaboration with diverse partners, Cybage aims to harness the best minds and resources to create a more open, innovative, and universally beneficial world. The future is bright, full of innovation, collaboration, a commitment to social responsibility, and, most importantly, to its people. With a strong foundation, a passionate team, and a clear vision for the future, I do not doubt that Cybage will continue to thrive in the years to come. As we embrace the potential of AI and navigate the complexities of a globalized world, join us on this exciting journey!

#CelebratingCybage29 #Cybage #CenterForCreativeLeadership #BusinessGrowth #BusinessMilestones #CustomerCentricity #TechInnovation #ccl #futureofwork

With a focus on human potential, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to social good, Cybage can help businesses achieve their goals. Curious to discover how we can help you navigate the complexities of the digital age?

I'm available to discuss your specific business needs and explore how Cybage's value-oriented services can unlock your organization's full potential.

David Houser (EVP?—?Cybage | Pro-to-Know)

linkedin.com/in/david-s-houser ?or @davidhouser

Also, discover more on Arun’s vision for the IT services industry

Arun Nathani (MD and CEO —?Cybage)

https://www.arunnathaniblog.com/

https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/arun-nathani-4665254/