THE GREAT RESIGNATION RESHUFFLE : Job Market Shifts and Retaining Top Talent
The ongoing wave of job market changes, often referred to as “The Great Resignation,” has become one of the defining movements of our time. For me, this topic strikes a personal chord. Over the past few years, I’ve had many conversations with friends and colleagues who were searching for more fulfilling roles,while others grappled with how to retain their teams in the face of this unprecedented reshuffle. These moments have been a reminder of how deeply work is intertwined with our identities, our wellbeing, and our outlook about the future.
The Great Resignation isn’t just about people leaving jobs; it’s about them redefining what they want from their careers. This shift has created both challenges and opportunities for businesses and professionals. It’s also sparked critical questions: What’s driving these changes, and how can organizations evolve to meet the moment?
Let’s unpack the forces at play and explore how businesses can rise to the challenge of retaining top talent in this rapidly changing world of work.
THE GREAT RESIGNATION: A MOVEMENT IN MOTION
The pandemic fundamentally changed how people think about work. It forced us to confront what really matters: time, health, relationships, and purpose. Many employees began reevaluating their priorities, and for millions, that meant making bold decisions to leave their jobs in search of something better.
This wave of resignations wasn’t just about leaving. It was about reshuffling. Professionals began looking for roles and workplaces that aligned with their values, offered greater flexibility, and promised a sense of purpose. While this created exciting opportunities for individuals, it also placed enormous pressure on businesses to rethink how they attract, engage, and retain talent.
WHY ARE PEOPLE LEAVING?
To address this reshuffle, we must first understand the factors behind it. Some of the key reasons include: Burnout and Overwork: The intensity of work during and after the pandemic left many employees feeling drained, with insufficient support to recover.
Demand for Flexibility: The widespread adoption of remote work revealed the value of flexibility, making it a top priority for many of us.
Compensation and Benefits: Pay is still a key driver, but employees are increasingly seeking benefits that address their overall wellbeing, from mental health support to career development opportunities.
Lack of Meaning and Growth: A job is no longer just about the paycheck. People want to feel that their work matters and that their employers are invested in their growth.
How Can Businesses Retain Top Talent?
For businesses, the Great Resignation is a wake-up call to reimagine their employee experience. Here are some actionable strategies to help organizations not only retain but inspire their teams:
1. Build a Culture of Flexibility
Flexibility isn’t a trend, it’s a demand. Whether it’s hybrid work, remote-first policies, or flexible hours, organizations must give employees the tools to work in ways that line up with their lives.
2. Prioritize Well-Being
The wellbeing of employees is now non-negotiable. This means offering mental health resources, wellness programs, and fostering an environment where people feel supported to take time off when needed.
3. Foster Purpose and Belonging
It is evident that employees who feel connected to their work and their teams tend to stay. As leaders, we can create this connection by clearly communicating how each role contributes to the company’s mission and by building an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued.
4. Revisit Pay and Benefits
Organizations need to stay competitive, not just with salaries but with benefits that matter. Offerings like extended parental leave, wellness stipends, or even career coaching can make a meaningful difference.
5. Invest in Leadership Development
The relationship between employees and their managers is one of the most critical factors in retention. Providing leaders with training on empathy, communication, and team development can help create stronger, trust-filled relationships.
The Great Resignation has evolved into a broader reshuffle, and its effects are still unfolding. This is a transformative moment, one that challenges businesses to step up and build workplaces where employees don’t just stay but they thrive.
For organizations, the key to success lies in listening to their teams, embracing change, and showing a willingness to adapt. For professionals, it’s a time to reflect on what truly matters in their careers and to seek opportunities that align with their values and aspirations.
In the end, this reshuffle is about more than jobs. It’s about rewriting the relationship between work and life. And while it’s a concerning shift, it’s also a chance to create a better, more sustainable future for employees and employers alike.
THE GREEN REVOLUTION 2.0
Sustainability is no longer a tagline, it’s a necessity. The impact of climate change, the depletion of natural resources, and the rising tide of eco-conscious consumers have obliged us all to reconsider how we live and work. This transformation feels deeply personal because, like many of you, I’ve been paying closer attention to the choices I make every day, whether that’s supporting a brand that uses eco-friendly materials or simply learning how businesses can balance growth with environmental responsibility.
It’s not just about doing less harm. The Green Revolution 2.0 is about reimagining how we create, consume, and connect with the world. It’s an exciting time, filled with new ideas and start-ups that are proving sustainability and innovation go hand in hand. This article aims to suggest solutions reshaping our world and introduce you to the trailblazing companies making it happen.
WHAT IS THE GREEN REVOLUTION 2.0?
Unlike earlier sustainability efforts focused mainly on reducing environmental damage, the Green Revolution 2.0 is about regenerative, forward-thinking solutions. It’s about creating systems, products, and practices that give back to the planet and enhance people’s lives.
Think about it, we’re no longer content with simply recycling. We’re asking, “How can this product or process actually restore balance to our ecosystems?” And businesses are answering in bold and creative ways.
INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS CHANGING THE GAME
From energy to packaging to everyday products, startups around the globe are pushing boundaries. Here are a few standout trends and the companies leading them:
1. Circular Economy: Goodbye, Waste
We’re moving beyond single-use products to a circular economy, where resources are reused and recycled in endless loops.
Take Loop, for example. This company partners with big brands to deliver products in reusable containers. You return the empty containers, and they get cleaned, refilled, and sent back; similar to the milkman model, but modernized for today’s lifestyle.
Similarly, Sweden’s Renewcell is revolutionizing fashion by transforming old clothes into Circulose®, a material that can be used to create new garments. It’s a win-win: less textile waste, more sustainable fashion.
2. Renewable Energy: Rethinking What’s Possible
Renewable energy is reshaping industries beyond power generation. In Finland, Solar Foods is creating a protein-rich food called Solein using only CO2, water, and electricity. Imagine feeding the world without placing further strain on land and water resources.
3. Plastic Alternatives: Moving Beyond Oil-Based Materials
The push to eliminate single-use plastics has led to some truly groundbreaking innovations. UK-based Notpla makes packaging from seaweed and plants. Their products are biodegradable and even edible—yes, you read that right.
Similarly, MycoWorks, a US-based start-up, uses mycelium (mushroom roots) to create an eco-friendly leather alternative that feels as luxurious as the real thing.
4. Green Technology: Smart Solutions for Complex Problems
Technology is at the heart of the Green Revolution. Companies like Climeworks in Switzerland are tackling carbon emissions with direct air capture technology. They literally pull CO2 from the atmosphere and store it safely or turn it into useful products.
Caption: Solein Carrot Crepe
In agriculture, Tunisia’s IoTree uses AI to optimize irrigation, reducing water waste, a crucial innovation in regions where every drop counts.
SUSTAINABILITY FOR EVERYDAY LIFE
It’s not just large-scale innovations that are making a difference. Everyday products are becoming greener and more accessible:
● Blueland: This US-based brand creates refillable cleaning products, replacing single-use plastic bottles with simple, water-dissolvable tablets.
Allbirds: Known for its eco-conscious shoes, Allbirds uses materials like merino wool and sugarcane to make footwear that’s as kind to the planet as it is comfortable.
FinalStraw: This company produces collapsible, reusable straws that are small enough to fit in your pocket—helping us say goodbye to single-use plastics for good.
These small changes in consumer behavior, multiplied millions of times over, can have an enormous impact.
WHY DOES THIS REVOLUTION MATTER TO ALL OF US
Sustainability isn’t just an environmental issue; it’s a business opportunity. We as consumers are more aware than ever, and we’re voting with our wallets. According to recent studies, nearly three-quarters of millennials and Gen Z are willing to pay more for sustainable products.
Investors, too, are prioritizing companies that embrace environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria. Businesses that adapt are finding new ways to thrive, while those that don’t risk falling behind.
But this isn’t just about profit. It’s about creating a future where businesses and the planet can succeed together.
HOW CAN BUSINESSES JOIN THE GREEN REVOLUTION
For companies wondering where to start, here are a few ideas:
Rethink Waste: Adopt a circular model by exploring ways to
reuse or recycle materials.
Leverage Technology: Use AI, data, and renewable energy to improve efficiency and reduce carbon footprints.
Collaborate with Innovators: Partnering with start-ups that already have proven eco-solutions can fast-track sustainability efforts.
Engage Your Consumers: Be transparent about your goals and progress. Today’s consumers value authenticity and want to support brands they trust.
BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE TOGETHER
The Green Revolution 2.0 isn’t just about businesses making big changes. It’s about each of us rethinking our choices regarding how we shop, consume, and interact with the world around us. It’s about recognizing that we have the power to shape the future, and we can do it in ways that honor both people and the planet.
Sustainability isn’t just a trend, it’s a lifestyle. And whether you’re an entrepreneur launching the next great eco-friendly product or a consumer choosing to support sustainable brands, you’re a part of this revolution.
DR.
SAI KAVITHA, DIRECTOR - SUPPORT ENGINEERING AT MICROSOFT
1.What led you to choose a career in support engineering? And if you could hit pause on tech for a day, what would you be doing instead?
My journey began with a solid foundation in Computer Science Engineering, where I developed a fascination for technology and its transformative power.
During my formative years as a technical writer, I discovered the art of translating complex concepts into user-friendly language, which sparked my passion for making technology accessible to all. This experience opened doors to the world of analytics, where I learned to harness data to uncover insights and drive strategic decisions.
Ultimately, I found my true calling in technical support engineering, where I could blend my technical expertise with my enthusiasm for problem-solving and customer interaction. Each step of this journey has been an exhilarating adventure, fueled by a commitment to empower users and enhance their experiences with technology.
If I could hit pause on tech for a day, I would dive headfirst into community engagement and advocacy to Pay-It-Forward in the autism spectrum. As a single mother to a neurodiverse son, I am deeply committed to autism spectrum initiatives that support parent, special educators, and caregivers. It is not just about personal experience; it is about creating a ripple effect of understanding and inclusivity. I
envision spending a day organizing workshops or speaking at events to raise awareness about mental health and empower others facing similar challenges. After all, when we uplift each other, we create a world where everyone can thrive!
2. Agent AI sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie! If you had to explain it in plain English to someone who isn’t tech-savvy, how would you describe it?
Imagine a personal assistant that helps with your daily tasks, but instead of a person, it is a computer program. This is “Agent AI.” It uses artificial intelligence to understand your requests, process information, and perform tasks like scheduling meetings or sending emails.
AI agents take the power of generative AI a step further by working alongside you or even on your behalf, and they can be built and used by anyone.
These agents perform tasks autonomously, leveraging machine learning algorithms to enhance their decision-making capabilities. The core of Agent AI lies in its ability to learn from interactions and improve over time. By integrating with various systems, Agent AI can streamline workflows and boost productivity.
Years ago, I had a team member who could not commute due to health challenges. I got her a laptop so she could
work from home. This experience taught me the importance of making technology accessible and adaptable to individual needs, a principle I carry forward in my work with Agent AI. By ensuring technology meets people where they are, we create tools that truly enhance productivity and make a meaningful impact.
3. What’s been the trickiest hurdle to overcome with the advent of Agent AI into your line of work? And were there any moments when you thought, ‘Why did I sign up for this?’
One of the trickiest hurdles with the advent of Agent AI has been ensuring these systems truly meet the needs of our end users. Introducing AI required a cultural shift and overcoming initial resistance, which we addressed through education, open dialog, and continuous support. Adoption was challenging as the AI initially provided surface-level answers, but through focused group discussions, education, and experimentation, success followed. Despite these challenges, the journey has been incredibly rewarding, driven by the passion and dedication of the team.
By fostering empathy and collaboration, we have created technology that is not only powerful but also deeply hu-
man, resonating with and benefiting our users.
4. People often worry that AI will replace human roles. What’s your take on this? How do you make sure there’s a balance between automation and the human touch?
The rise of AI marks a new era where technology takes over repetitive tasks, freeing people to focus on more creative and strategic work. Instead of replacing human roles, AI acts as a tool that opens up new opportunities and drives innovation. Looking back at the computerization era, we saw that initial fears of job loss turned into the creation of new, more meaningful roles, allowing people to use their skills in more impactful ways.
To balance automation with the human touch, it is crucial to design AI systems that support and enhance human abilities rather than replace them. This means creating AI solutions that help with routine tasks, so people can concentrate on more complex and emotionally engaging work. By using AI as a partner, we can build a more innovative and efficient work environment that values human creativity and contributions.
5. If I followed you around for a day while you were working on this project, what’s something that might surprise me about your work?
If you shadowed me for a day, you would witness the profound heart and human connection driving my work. Building and integrating AI systems transcends coding and algorithms; it is about understanding people and their needs. My day is filled with rich conversations, dynamic brainstorming sessions, and collaborative problem-solving with my team. Despite challenges, our shared passion and dedication fuel a sense of purpose and excitement about AI’s transformative potential.
By fostering empathy and open dialog, we ensure every team member feels valued and heard. This inclusive approach not only drives better outcomes but also sparks creativity and innovation. Inspired by empathetic leadership, we strive to make our work not just technically sound but deeply human, creating technology that truly benefits our users.
6 .As a woman in a leadership role in tech, what work policies or initiatives have made a real difference for you? And what’s still on your wish list for creating a more inclusive workplace?
As a woman in a tech leadership role, policies promoting flexibility and work-life balance, such as remote work options and mentorship programs, have been transformative. Mentorship has provided crucial guidance and support, fostering personal and professional growth. On my wish list, I envision robust diversity and inclusion training programs, increased sponsorship, stronger allyship, advocacy within organizations, and through external industry connections. Creating a culture of empathy and open dialog is essential for fostering an inclusive workplace where
everyone feels valued and heard.
7 .What does a perfect, stress-free day look like for you? And do you have a favorite hobby or ritual that helps you unwind?
A perfect, stress-free day for me starts with a peaceful morning, spending quality time with my son. My sunrise with my son is the perfect way to begin the day. I enjoy a productive workday filled with meaningful conversations and collaborative problem-solving with my team. These interactions fuel my passion and drive for innovation.
During the weekend, I love to unwind by engaging in community activities and advocacy work for autism spectrum initiatives. This is my pay-it-forward moment and close to my heart that gives me a sense of purpose beyond my professional responsibilities. It is incredibly fulfilling to contribute to a cause that makes a real difference in people’s lives.
One of my favorite rituals is practicing selfcare through mindfulness and meditation. Taking a few moments each day to center myself helps me stay grounded and focused. It allows me to reflect on the day’s achievements and challenges, and to approach each new day with a clear mind and open heart.
These moments of reflection and connection are what truly recharge me and keep me motivated. They remind me of the importance of balance and self-care in achieving longterm success and fulfilment.
8. We all have people who inspire us. Who’s been a mentor in your journey, and what’s the best advice they’ve given you?
- My journey over the past 25 years, navigating life alongside my son with autism, has been transformative. This experience has deepened my empathy and resilience, teaching me that awareness and validation are paramount in both personal and professional settings. My son is my greatest mentor and tutor, imparting invaluable leadership lessons. In addition to his influence, I have been fortunate to encounter several mentors, coaches, and advocates who have significantly impacted my path.
One piece of advice that stands out is, “When one door closes, another opens; you just need to be bold enough to knock.” This mindset has encouraged me to embrace change and seek new opportunities even in adversity. Another insightful advice was, “Always perform your boss’s role so they can focus on broader goals.” These principles have guided me through various challenges, shaping my growth as a leader and empowering me to create a positive impact.
9. The pace of change in Agent AI is dizzying! Where do you think we’re heading with AI and what’s one trend or technology that you’re most excited about?
- The future of Agent AI is incredibly promising, with advancements leading to more intelligent and autonomous systems. These AI agents will adapt and learn from their environments, performing complex tasks with minimal human intervention. One trend that excites me is the integration of AI with machine learning to create predictive analytics. This technology anticipates issues before they arise, optimizing processes in real-time.
The potential for Agent AI to transform industries and enhance efficiency is immense. By staying curious and embracing innovation, we can harness AI’s power to drive meaningful improvements and deliver greater value to our users.
10. Innovation doesn’t happen in a bubble. How does having a diverse team—whether it’s in gender, culture, or experience—help in tackling ambitious projects like this?
- Diversity is a catalyst for innovation. When team members bring varied perspectives, ideas, and experiences, they approach problems from unique angles, leading to more comprehensive solutions. A diverse team fosters creativity and drives better decision-making. By embracing different backgrounds and viewpoints, we create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and heard. This not only enhances our work but also propels us to tackle ambitious projects with confidence and ingenuity. Diversity is not just about representation; it is about leveraging our collective strengths to achieve extraordinary outcomes.
11. If you could give just one piece of advice to someone starting out in tech, what would it be? And what’s one thing you wish someone had told you when you were just beginning?
- Stay curious and never stop learning. The tech industry evolves rapidly, and being open to new ideas and technologies is crucial for growth. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and expand your skills. Building a strong support network early on is essential. Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and allies who can offer guidance and encouragement.
Another piece of advice is to embrace failure as a learning opportunity. The path to success is rarely linear, and setbacks are a natural part of the journey. By viewing failures as opportunities to learn and grow, you can build resilience and continue moving forward with confidence.
Success is not just about individual achievements but also about the connections and relationships you build along the way. By fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, you can create a fulfilling and successful career in tech. Remember, the journey is as important as the destination, and having a solid network can make all the difference.
12. If you had to pick one AI-driven feature or tool that you think is a game-changer in testing today, what would it be, and why?
- One AI-driven feature that I believe is a game-changer in testing today is automated anomaly detection. This tool uses AI to identify unusual patterns and potential issues in real-time, allowing teams to address problems before they escalate. Automated anomaly detection enhances the accuracy and efficiency of testing processes, reducing the time and effort required for manual inspections.
The ability to detect anomalies in real-time is incredibly powerful. It means that we can catch issues early and prevent them from impacting the user experience. This proactive approach to testing ensures that our systems are reliable and high-quality, ultimately delivering better outcomes for our users.
In a rapidly evolving field like AI, tools like automated anomaly detection are essential for staying ahead of the curve. They enable us to deliver high-quality products and services, and to continuously improve our processes and outcomes. By leveraging AI to enhance our capabilities, we can focus on strategic and innovative tasks, driving continuous improvement and maintaining a competitive edge in the industry.
SYAMANTHAKA BALAKRISHNAN - LEAD SOLUTION ARCHITECT, ONE SAVINGS BANK INDIA
WHAT SPARKED YOUR PASSION FOR SOFTWARE ARCHITECTURE? WAS THERE A SPECIFIC MOMENT WHEN YOU REALIZED, ‘THIS IS WHAT I WANT TO DO’ ? AND IF YOU HAD TO PICK A TOTALLY DIFFERENT CAREER, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
The fact that I always try to get to the bigger picture of anything I do, made me passionate about software architecture. Watching one of Simon Sinek’s talks around the “Why”, the “What” and the “How” emphasised this more in my head. A totally different career would probably be investigating crime!
2. What does a day in the life of a solution architect look like? Is there a part of your job that always makes you smile (or roll your eyes)?
Each day is different in the life of a solution Architect, as there is always a new challenge that comes up or needs a different way of looking at it in order to solve it. Ranges from doing research on the latest tech, to supporting stakeholders in finding the best tech solution for their needs, to consulting on the design aspects of a project, right up to writing up policies, strategies and guard rails on the tech roadmap of the organization. Something that makes me roll my eyes – Business func-
tions coming up with a tool they want to use, and me realizing that it won’t fit their requirements that they themselves defined.
3. You’re a woman leading in a male-populated field. What has been your experience breaking the mold, and what advice would you give to someone navigating a similar path?
I’m the only woman architect in our team, but honestly, it is like being in a biker group – when we discuss tech, there is no gender, just like when we discuss engines and ignitions there is no gender. Breaking the mould is challenging only when one thinks about this disparity when on a task. In a tech field, simply being focused on the solution and technology is the easiest thing to do.
4. What’s one thing people always get wrong about your work, and how do you set the record straight?
Oh! the list is endless, I’ve been referred to as a Data Architect (which is a specialized aspect of Architecture as compared to a more generic or holistic Solution Architect), sometimes I’ve been referred to as a generic tech support, which again is tricky, as I might not be deeply specialized in supporting a particular tool or product alone. The worst was when someone thought I’m a building Architect and
work with softer construction material Sometimes I try giving details about my work, but most of the time, I ignore the ignorance and move on!
5. What’s one thing you wish more up-and-coming solution architects knew about testing? Any tips for making testing an integral part of the solution-building process from the start?
I wish Solution Architects worked more closely with the Testing teams, right from the start of the solution, to ensure that the requirements are all well covered and the landscape of the AS-IS and TO-BE is fully testable and tested. Test driven design and test driven development is the best way to build a solution ideally. The TOGAF® framework can be used as a guide even in testing, in my view.
6. Every architect has a go-to toolbox. What are your favorite tools or methods for making sure your designs are testable and easy to maintain?
At the risk of sounding like a broken tape, my mantra is always being close to the “original requirements list”. That is the key to any solution and ensures that the design is testable.
7. Architects often need to bridge the gap between developers, business stakeholders, and users. How do you keep everyone on the same page and avoid the dreaded ‘lost in translation’ moments?
I always ensure to mould my overviews of the solution in the beginning by explaining as if I were describing it to a child. That makes it easy to understand without the use of fancy jargon. I go deeper into the tech aspects with developers and testers as we progress. The key has always been understanding my audience in every discussion.
8. Tech is moving so fast these days. From cloud computing to AI, what’s one trend or innovation in software architecture that you’re most excited about?
Well, the fact that there is so much innovation, right from low-code-no-code to AI, digital transformation, the sky is the limit. That is what makes software architecture so exciting, having to always keep abreast with what’s happening technologically around us.
9. What’s one skill or mindset you think is a game-changer for someone wanting to become a solution architect? And what’s a piece of advice you wish someone had given you
early on?
Go broader in as many programming languages, domains and frameworks as your experience permits you to and specialize in at least a few aspects. That is very essential to be a solution architect.
10. As a lead solution architect, you have to juggle a lot of different needs—technical, business, and everything in between. How do you ensure your testing efforts align with both the technical challenges and the business goals of your projects?
That’s where the TOGAF® framework comes in very handy. By defining every element through the phases of the Architecture Development Method (a building block of the TOGAF® framework), the testing efforts can be easily aligned to all aspects – tech and non-tech.
11. If you could design a software solution for anything— no budget limits, no constraints—what would it be and why?
A solution to interpret and translate animal sounds into human understandable conversations! Why? Because I believe they have every emotion that we experience and are more honest in their expression of those. And getting to understand them, from their world would probably help understanding The Universal Truth a bit better.
12. What do you think companies can do to make the tech world more inclusive and welcoming for women and underrepresented groups?
Well, for one, stop referring to women as “diversity candidates” or just a statistic in the chart. Building the culture of gender-free collaboration at work and purely focusing on the technical competency of each individual and what they bring to the table would make the world a more inclusive place!
AJAY
BALAMURUGADAS - HEAD OF CUSTOMER SUCCESS AND STRATEGY, POSTQODE.AI
1.Looking back, what are some key moments in your career that really shaped your path and led you to your current role?
There have been many moments that shaped my career path. If I had to pick the top three, they would be:
1. Attending the Rapid Software Testing workshop by Pradeep Soundararajan and Michael Bolton in 2009. This introduced me to the world of Context-Driven Testing and exposed me to the thinking of many great individuals.
2. Co-founding Weekend Testing: Facilitating and participating in weekend testing sessions helped me practice my testing skills. It also helped me improve many other skills like time management, facilitation, communication, and building my network of testing professionals worldwide.
3. Having a strong online presence boosted by conducting and participating in workshops. The journey of learning every day continued and the workshops helped me learn many topics I needed to get better at my craft.
Even Gen AI, for example, I attended multiple workshops that are helping me use the power of Gen AI in testing, in my current role as well.
2. Automation often brings up concerns about job loss, but you advocate for thinking of AI as a co-worker instead.
How do you see this shift impacting team dynamics and changing how software testers view their work?
Let us go back twenty years in time. When the hype around automation started, we faced a similar situation. Certain people feared that automation will take away their jobs, while certain folks believed that automation cannot replace humans ever and had no place.
What happened is that we humans have figured out how to co-exist with automation - use where it is powerful and know where to avoid automation. The same will happen with AI too.
The ones who join the bandwagon early will have a headstart over others who will eventually join the AI journey, just like the automation journey.
3. With AI becoming more integrated into our workflow, where do you think the partnership between human testers and AI will be in five years?
The role of critical thinkers will be prominent. Everyone who was bad at their skills will get exposed quickly. Either improve your testing skills and learn how to use automation, AI in testing or be satisfied with limited opportunities.
The development time is shrinking due to usage of AI
co-pilots and the testing phase will become a bottleneck. The ones who are not using AI in their day-to-day tasks will struggle to keep up with the pace. So, the partnership has to start early and continue to evolve as we discover more and more advancements in AI.
4. Can you share a specific project where AI-driven testing helped get a product to market faster than traditional methods would have?
There have been many projects. To quote one of them, a team that had close to 720 test cases to be automated and planned for a team of 3 engineers for close to 2.5 months finished the entire automation in half a month with just one engineer.
PostQode (AI Co-Worker for Continuous Testing) understood the context of the project, generated test plans, test cases, and automated scripts in less than a month. The team was able to use the automated test suite for quicker feedback and make release decisions faster. In addition to the time and cost savings, the team and the management were more confident of the coverage and release confidence.
5. When customizing AI solutions for different industries like fintech or healthcare, what do you focus on to make sure they meet unique industry needs?
Compliance helps and answers most of the questions. On-prem deployments removes a lot of fears around data security. Ensuring that the outputs are contextual for the specific project and industry specific contexts helps use the AI solutions to the fullest.
6. If AI were a member of your team, what kind of personality traits or work habits do you think it would have to mesh well with everyone?
A hard-working (24 x 7), ready to learn quickly, super fast in generation, adaptable and doesn’t lie about what they
don’t know. A powerful co-worker ready to assist across tasks.
7. Has there been a moment or a specific example when AI’s capabilities surprised or inspired you in your work?
One of the key challenges in testing is good test design. The stronger your test ideas, the more easily everything else, such as sampling, execution, bug hunting, and automation, falls into place. The key skepticism against AI has always been about hallucination.
When I saw PostQode deliver test cases across quality criteria and in a contextual manner, the tester in me did not believe what was happening. It was too good to be true.
But once I understood the internals about knowledge graph, agentic workflows, tested the consistency and quality of tests, recognized the importance of human feedback in this entire cycle, then I realized that AI powered testing is here to stay and revolutionize the way testing is going to be performed in the coming months, if not weeks.
8. For those looking to build a career at the intersection of AI and customer success, what advice would you offer to help them thrive in this landscape?
AI is here to eat up a lot of jobs, especially the ones who faked testing or did not even know that they were doing a bad job in the name of testing. If you want your customers to succeed, embrace the power of AI.
Know the power and limitations of AI and figure out how to use it as your co-worker. Regarding data security and privacy concerns, the appropriate companies will take care of the governance.
Know your customer’s context in detail. Do not enforce best practices. The more you understand your customer’s context, the more closer you will be to helping them achieve success.
IMPACT INVESTING
THE CONCEPT OF INVESTING FOR A BETTER TOMORROW
In the past, investors were often focused on making a quick profit. But times have changed. Today, people are more thoughtful about where they put their money. They want to know that their investments will not only earn them a return but also have a positive impact on the world. Impact investing offers a way to make a difference by combining financial returns with social and environmental benefits.
Impact investing is built on the idea that businesses can excel while also solving real-world problems, such as reducing poverty, improving education, or promoting clean energy. By investing in companies that address these challenges, individuals can earn a financial return while also contributing to a better world. Impact investing is dif-
ferent from traditional charity work, as it combines giving with investing, allowing people to support important causes while earning a financial return.
The key to successful impact investing is measuring its social and environmental impact. Many organizations use standardized frameworks, such as the Global Impact Investing Network’s IRIS+ system, the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria.
These frameworks track outcomes like the number of lives improved, access to basic amenities, educational achievements, or job creation, as well as environmental factors like carbon footprint reduction and sustainable resource usage.
As investors consider impact investing, they should ask themselves several questions: What’s the main goal of this investment? How do I balance financial returns with social impact? What risks am I taking on? Impact investing is transforming the financial landscape, driven by trends like millennial values, government support, technological innovation, and cross-sector collaboration.
For instance, millennials are starting food businesses that focus on healthy, diet-friendly, and guilt-free options. Governments offer tax breaks for investments in renewable energy projects, and regulatory bodies create guidelines for impact investing. Blockchain technology and artificial intelligence enhance transparency and efficiency in impact measurement and reporting. Partnerships between public, private, and nonprofit sectors drive large-scale impact initiatives.
While impact investing holds promise, it also faces challenges like inconsistent metrics, greenwashing, and aligning stakeholder expectations. However, advancements in technology, stricter regulations, and a growing emphasis on accountability are addressing these hurdles. As the industry develops, the future of impact investing looks bright, with profit and purpose becoming increasingly interconnected.
Impact investing represents a significant shift in the investment landscape, redefining success beyond financial returns. By integrating social and environmental considerations, investors can drive meaningful change and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future.
Social Media and Stock PricesCan X and Threads Move Markets?
The stock market has long been a space defined by institutional investors, complex analyses, and breaking news from traditional media. But in recent years, something extraordinary has shifted. Social media, the platforms where we once shared cat memes, political opinions, and travel photos has now become one of the most powerful forces that shape stock prices.
Today, a single tweet can send a stock soaring, while a Reddit post can spark a buying frenzy that challenges even the most seasoned Wall Street professionals. This is more than a trend, it’s a revolution. But with this power comes a lot of risk, confusion, and, let’s be honest, some chaos.
HOW SOCIAL MEDIA SHAPES MARKET MOVEMENTS
Social media has done a remarkable job in making investing feel accessible. Where once the stock market seemed like a distant world dominated by professionals, platforms like Reddit and X have given retail investors a platform to share ideas, rally around stocks, and, in some cases, even challenge the dominance of institutional players.
HERE’S HOW IT WORKS:
1. The Power of Instant Information
Social media spreads information faster than traditional news sources. A tweet or Reddit post can instantly reach millions of people, sparking conversations and influencing market sentiment in real time.
Take X, for example. When a CEO or influencer posts about a company, the market pays attention. Just look at Elon Musk, his tweets about Tesla, Dogecoin, or even emojis have caused massive movements in stock and crypto prices. Social media has made the market more accessible, but also more volatile.
2. FOMO and Herd Mentality
Fear of missing out (FOMO) is a powerful psychological driver in investing. When a stock starts trending on X or Reddit, it creates a sense of urgency. Investors rush to get in before prices climb even higher, which often leads to massive buying activity and sudden price spikes.
This was on full display during the GameStop saga in early 2021. Reddit’s r/WallStreetBets community rallied behind the stock, driving its price up by thousands of percent. The collective effort wasn’t just about making money; it was about taking on hedge funds and creating a shared sense of purpose.
3. The Rise of Meme Stocks
Meme stocks are stocks that gain popularity because of social media hype rather than business fundamentals. Companies like AMC Entertainment and Bed Bath & Beyond saw their share prices skyrocket as retail investors rallied around them online. These movements are fueled by enthusiasm, memes, and a shared sense of community among investors.
But here’s the catch: these stocks can be incredibly risky. What goes up often comes crashing down, leaving some investors with big losses.
REDDIT, X, AND THE NEW MARKET PLAYERS
Reddit: The Power of Community
Reddit has become the go-to hub for retail investors looking to share ideas and collaborate. Communities like r/ WallStreetBets and r/Superstonk are filled with detailed analyses, bold predictions, and, of course, plenty of humor.
On Reddit, investing feels less like a solitary task and more like a group project. When a stock gains traction in these forums, the collective action of thousands of investors can push its price higher, sometimes catching institutional investors off guard.
X: The Financial Pulse
While Reddit builds community, X is the place for breaking news and real-time commentary. Financial influencers, journalists, and even CEOs use X to share insights, opinions, and forecasts.
Elon Musk’s X activity is the stuff of legend. One tweet can move markets. When he tweeted “Gamestonk!!” in support of the GameStop rally, the stock jumped even further. His influence shows just how powerful a single voice can be in today’s interconnected world.
THE
PROS AND CONS OF
SOCIAL
MEDIA INVESTING
Social media has opened up the stock market to millions of new investors, but it’s not without its pitfalls.
The Good Accessibility : Information is no longer locked behind Wall Street paywalls. Anyone with an internet connection can join the conversation.
Community: Social media creates spaces where people can learn from one another and feel like they’re part of something bigger.
Challenging the Status Quo: Retail investors now have the power to disrupt traditional market dynamics, as seen with GameStop and other meme stocks.
The Bad Volatility: Stocks influenced by social media can experience wild price swings, making them risky investments.
Misinformation: Not all advice shared online is accurate or well-intentioned. It’s easy to get swept up in the hype.
Emotional Decision-Making: Social media fuels impulsive behavior, with many investors buying or selling based on trends rather than research.
WHAT CAN INVESTORS LEARN?
Investing in the social media age requires a mix of curiosity, skepticism, and patience. Here are a few tips for navigating this new landscape:
Do Your Homework: Social media can be a great starting point, but don’t take everything at face value. Research the companies you’re investing in.
Stay Grounded: Avoid chasing trends just because they’re popular. Focus on your own investment goals and risk tolerance.
Diversify: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket; or one meme stock. A balanced portfolio can help manage risk.
Tune Out the Noise: Not every tweet or post deserves your attention. Learn to separate valuable insights from the chatter.
A NEW ERA OF INVESTING
Social media has reshaped the stock market in ways we couldn’t have imagined a decade ago. It has given power to retail investors, created new opportunities, and challenged the dominance of traditional Wall Street players. But with this power comes responsibility.
For investors, the key is to strike a balance: embrace the accessibility and sense of community that social media offers, but approach every trend with a healthy dose of skepticism. The market will always have its ups and downs, but in this new era, we’re reminded that sometimes, the biggest movements start with a single tweet.
So, whether you’re scrolling through Reddit threads or refreshing your X feed, remember this, the market isn’t just about numbers anymore, it’s about conversations, connections, and the constantly changing influence of the digital world.
