In this episode of the podcast “Fanjan,” Abdul Rahman Abu Malh hosts digital transformation expert Amer Hashem Al-Qahtani, who shares his extensive experience in this field and how his journey has shaped the future of technology in Saudi Arabia. The discussion covers the humble beginnings of the computer world in the Kingdom, where Amer explains how computers were just simple tools in the 1980s and how things evolved thanks to the strategic visions of government institutions like the National Information Center. He also talks about his personal experience in founding “Ara Soft” and how it managed to achieve great success in the software market in the Arab world, despite the challenges faced at the beginning.
The episode also addresses the importance of innovation and adaptation in the business world, and how failure can be an important lesson in an entrepreneur’s journey. Amer reflects on the role of government agencies and startups in creating a supportive environment for digital transformation, and how collaboration between the public and private sectors can contribute to achieving positive outcomes that serve the community.
This conversation provides an in-depth look at the technological transformations that Saudi Arabia has witnessed and the impact they have left on various aspects of daily life, making it suitable for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of work in the digital and innovation fields.
The Beginning of Computing in Saudi Arabia
The story of computing in Saudi Arabia began in the early 1980s, when computers were considered rare among community members. At that time, there was little interest in technology, and computers were primarily associated with the National Information Center. While personal computers were limited in use, programming courses like “BASIC” were the primary way to teach people how to interact with this technology. During that period, there was no comprehensive knowledge on how to use computers in daily life; rather, they were viewed as purely governmental tools.
Amid this landscape, there was a clear vision from the National Information Center to develop technologies in the Kingdom. The goal was to establish a technological infrastructure to support digital transformation in government, including creating a unified database for citizens. This vision meant that specialists in computer sciences were necessary, leading to the establishment of the College of Computer Science and Information, which aimed to graduate professionals capable of supporting this vision.
It was clear that the role of the National Information Center was vital, as it worked on developing governmental electronic services, which helped improve efficiency and facilitate access to services for citizens. This early start in utilizing technology marked the beginning of a long journey of digital transformations that the Kingdom witnessed in the following years.
Experience of Digital Transformation in the Kingdom
The Kingdom’s shift to using digital technologies was not just a stroke of luck. There were relentless efforts from various government entities to create an ideal environment for technology. Starting with the idea of establishing a National Information Center, developing university colleges to graduate specialists, and establishing clear strategies for digital transformation, all of this was part of a comprehensive vision aimed at building an integrated digital society.
One of the most significant developments was the government’s approval of incentive programs for technology, which drove many private companies towards innovation. This led to increased competition in the market, as companies began offering innovative technological solutions for various services. For example, the “Nafath” system was developed to improve the user experience in accessing government services online.
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Additionally, there has been significant interest in cybersecurity. With the increasing reliance on digital technologies, the need to protect data and sensitive information has grown. Therefore, specialized departments in cybersecurity were established within various government and private sectors to ensure the safety of information and protect it from threats.
The Journey of AraSoft Development
AraSoft is considered one of the success stories in the software field in the Kingdom. The idea began when the founders noticed a significant shortage in Arabic software, especially in the fields of education and entertainment. This marked the beginning of the journey to develop software targeting the Arab market. During that period, it was difficult to find programs that matched the needs of the local community, which opened up the market for a new opportunity.
As the market evolved, AraSoft launched to offer a variety of educational and entertainment programs. The core idea was to provide Arabic content that aligns with the culture of the community. This helped attract a large segment of users who were looking for solutions to meet their needs. Overall, the focus on quality and innovation was what set AraSoft apart from other companies.
One of the significant challenges AraSoft faced was competition with global companies that dominated the market. However, by focusing on local market characteristics and working hard to develop products that suited users’ needs, the company was able to grow and achieve significant success. Today, AraSoft is regarded as one of the leading companies in software provision in the region.
Challenges in the Software Market
Despite the success achieved by companies like AraSoft, there were many challenges faced by the market as a whole. Among the most prominent of these challenges was the lack of specialized technical skills in the market. There was an urgent need to train and develop the skills of those working in the technical field, especially in light of the rapid technological advancements.
In addition, there were difficulties in accessing the necessary funding to support small and medium-sized projects. Many entrepreneurs faced challenges in obtaining financial support from banks or investors, which led to many good ideas dying before they could see the light. Thus, there was a pressing need to establish financial support programs to help promote innovation.
Moreover, there were concerns related to cybersecurity. With the increasing reliance on digital technologies, there was an urgent need to protect data and sensitive information. These concerns drove many companies to reevaluate their security strategies and implement advanced solutions to protect information.
The Role of the Government in Supporting Startups
The Saudi government played a significant role in supporting startups by establishing platforms to provide financial support, training, and mentorship. These platforms aimed to enhance the entrepreneurial environment in the Kingdom. For instance, the Public Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises was established to support entrepreneurs by providing loans and financial assistance.
Additionally, numerous incubators and accelerators were created that contributed to accelerating the growth of startups. These incubators provided technical and technical support, as well as a conducive environment for idea development and transformation into actual products. Through these efforts, the government was able to enhance the entrepreneurial environment and support market growth.
Government initiatives were not limited to financial support only but also included support for innovation and development by providing advanced educational environments. Educational programs focused on technology and innovation were created, which helped graduate a new generation of innovators and entrepreneurs capable of competing in the market.
Innovation as a Key Element for Success
Innovation is considered a fundamental element for success in today’s business world. Companies that invest in research and development and modern technology will be the most capable of adapting to market changes and customer demands. Therefore, it was essential for companies to invest in innovation and develop new products and services.
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Ara Soft is a clear example of the importance of innovation. By introducing new programs that fit market needs, it has managed to grow and thrive in a competitive environment. Innovation has not been limited to products alone; it has also included marketing methods and customer service. By effectively utilizing technology, companies have improved customer experiences and increased their loyalty.
In the end, innovation is an integral part of a successful business strategy. Companies that focus on research and development will be able to evolve in the market and achieve sustainable success. Therefore, companies should embrace a culture of innovation and work to enhance it among their teams to achieve positive results.
SDAIA’s Role in Supporting Entrepreneurship
SDAIA is a leader in supporting entrepreneurship, embodying the concept of an incubating environment that allows startups to interact directly with government institutions. For example, SDAIA provides business accelerators that include 12 startups graduating annually, giving these companies a unique opportunity to access resources and direct government support. This program serves as a launching platform for startups seeking to develop their ideas and achieve their goals, reflecting SDAIA’s commitment to supporting innovation and stimulating investment in artificial intelligence.
Additionally, SDAIA holds regular meetings with sector leaders, such as the meeting with His Excellency Dr. Nabil Kawashk, to discuss ways to support entrepreneurship. This collaboration between the public and private sectors is considered an important step to enhance the national economy and expand the scope of innovation. Through these programs, the progress of startups can be measured using key performance indicators or KPIs, allowing for analysis of the effectiveness of the efforts made in this field.
Moreover, SDAIA aims to create a competitive environment that encourages innovation, where companies are encouraged to compete with both the local and international markets. This requires clear strategies and effective support that lead to tangible results contributing to enhancing entrepreneurship and achieving sustainable development.
Technology as a Solution to Improve Services
Technology plays a crucial role in improving and developing services, as adopting modern technological solutions is an urgent necessity to keep pace with global developments. For example, electronic services represent part of the strategy to transform government services to be more effective and easier. The first comprehensive electronic service known as “Tashir” was launched, which serves as a model for how to utilize technology to simplify procedures and reduce the time taken to complete transactions.
The challenges faced by technology often appear during implementation phases, as operating a new service takes a long time to be effective. For instance, the “Tashir” service took over a year and a half to become operational, highlighting the importance of good planning before launching any new service. Therefore, there should be a focus on improving implementation processes and ensuring the integration of different systems to provide a seamless user experience.
In addition, changing the institutional culture is an essential part of any technological project. Employees who are well-trained in using new systems are the key to success. Institutions should provide a learning environment that encourages employees to use technology and motivates them to suggest improvements to services. Through these actions, positive results can be achieved that contribute to improving customer service and enhancing their satisfaction.
Continuous Improvement in Customer Experience
Customer experience is the focal point for any institution seeking excellence. In this context, the discussion highlighted the importance of improving the environment surrounding customers, whether at the airport or elsewhere. For example, King Khalid International Airport was redesigned to enhance travelers’ experiences, focusing on reducing waiting times and facilitating procedures. These activities require a re-evaluation of every aspect of service, from building design to training employees on how to deal with customers professionally.
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There are many tools that can be used to enhance customer experience, such as using modern technology to reduce the time spent on travel procedures. However, there should also be attention to the human element. Employees should be trained to deal with customers kindly and professionally, which enhances customer impressions of the service.
Moreover, improving customer experience requires a combination of innovation and tradition. Companies can learn from their own experiences and those of others to ensure they provide the best services. Continuous measurement and evaluation of service performance are crucial factors in achieving success. By measuring customer satisfaction and collecting feedback, organizations can adjust their strategies and improve services according to customer needs.
Effective Management and Innovation in the Workplace
Success in the modern workplace requires effective management and continuous innovation. Good managers are the leaders who know how to motivate their teams to achieve the best results. Focusing on developing individual and team skills is the foundation of success in any project. For example, departments can provide tailored training programs to enhance employee efficiency, thus boosting their ability to innovate and achieve goals.
Management also requires a support system that encourages innovation. Companies can implement concepts like “innovation time” where employees can work on their own projects or propose new ideas. This type of support enhances teamwork spirit and increases innovation motivation.
Having a clear and shared vision between management and employees is also extremely important. If everyone works towards a common goal, it facilitates coordination and increases the effectiveness of teamwork. By providing a work environment that promotes collaboration and innovation, organizations can achieve outstanding results that distinguish them from competitors.
Work-Life Balance
In a fast and changing world, many individuals struggle to achieve a balance between work and personal life. Some seem to focus heavily on work, neglecting other important aspects such as family and health. This trend can lead to feelings of regret over time when one realizes that they have not enjoyed life as they should. Balance is not just a word; it is a lifestyle that everyone should strive to achieve. For instance, one can dedicate a specific time at the end of each week to spend with family, which strengthens family bonds and provides an opportunity to enjoy beautiful moments. Additionally, caring for physical and mental health is an important part of this balance. Exercise, proper nutrition, and good rest play significant roles in improving overall quality of life.
The Difference Between the Private and Government Sectors
The difference between the private and government sectors is a common topic in discussions. The private sector is characterized by flexibility and the ability to innovate, while the government sector is distinguished by stability and resources. Sometimes, there are criticisms regarding how time and resources are managed in the government sector compared to the private sector. For example, some government institutions may organize working hours in a way that forces employees to work on holidays, negatively impacting individuals’ quality of life. In contrast, the private sector may allow for a more flexible allocation of time, enabling individuals to better adapt to their personal needs.
Achievements of Saudi Youth
Recent years have witnessed numerous notable achievements by Saudi youth, reflecting their efforts and creativity in various fields. The “Tawakkalna” application is a prominent example of this success, facilitating daily life for citizens and residents during the pandemic. Similarly, the “Ehsan” platform has also made significant achievements in collecting and distributing donations effectively. These accomplishments are attributed to the advanced education that Saudi youth have received, which is among the best in the region. Quality education can open doors to innovations and new ideas, thus contributing to economic and social development.
The Importance
Clear Vision and Effective Leadership
A clear vision is one of the essential factors that contribute to achieving success in any field. When individuals or organizations have a clear vision, they know what they need to do and how to reach their goals. Effective leadership also plays a crucial role in guiding individuals toward achieving objectives. For example, when a leader is dedicated to their work and shows a commitment to creating a positive work environment, it reflects on the team’s performance. It is important for leaders to have the ability to motivate others and direct them towards a shared vision, contributing to tangible results. Vision and good guidance can accelerate the achievement of accomplishments and make the task easier and more enjoyable.
Regretful Decisions and the Importance of Family Relationships
In the journey of life, individuals face many decisions they may regret later. Among these decisions is dedicating too much time to work at the expense of family. Building family relationships is one of the top priorities, as children need time from their parents to shape their personalities. Spending time with children from a young age helps build strong bonds and teaches them how to set goals and strive to achieve them. Moreover, family trips can be a unique experience, enhancing relationships and creating unforgettable memories. It is important for parents to recognize the significance of spending time with their children, especially in their early stages when their personalities are forming and they begin to learn about the world around them.
Embracing Failure as a Part of Success
Failure is not the end of the road; it is an integral part of the journey to success. Learning how to cope with failure and challenges can be very beneficial in achieving long-term goals. Many successful individuals have experienced failure in their early days, but they did not give up; instead, they used those experiences to build their future careers. For example, failing in a particular project can be an opportunity to learn and improve performance in future projects. The important thing is for individuals to recognize that failure is a valuable lesson, not an obstacle, and this awareness can drive them toward achieving greater accomplishments.
This episode has been summarized using artificial intelligence ezycontent
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