In this episode of 5G Talent Talk, Carrie Charles talks with Angus Ward, CEO of Beyond Now about the intersection of AI and Communication Service Providers (CSPs), exploring how AI can transform the telecom industry. He reveals that only 15% of companies currently derive significant value from AI, mainly due to fragmented experimentation across business units. To address this, Ward suggests prioritizing major business challenges and implementing a more structured approach to AI adoption, which can enhance cost efficiency, productivity, and customer experience, while driving revenue growth.
Ward also introduces the concept of digital business platforms, which differ from traditional linear business models by using multi-sided approaches that involve various partners. These platforms create network effects, where growth leads to greater economies of scale and competitive advantages. Using examples like Uber, Ward explains how network effects make it challenging for competitors to match the service quality, thus reinforcing market dominance.
Beyond Now’s culture, according to Ward, is shaped by its roots in management consulting, focusing on solving business problems rather than just providing technology. The company’s commitment to platform-based business models and revenue growth through partnerships has positioned it as a leader in helping CSPs and tech firms adapt to changing markets.
Looking ahead, Ward envisions leveraging AI to enhance customer experiences, optimize processes, and expand into other sectors beyond telecom and tech. He emphasizes the importance of building strong partner ecosystems and communities to drive innovation and deliver more value to customers across industries.
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About Angus Ward
Angus Ward is the CEO of Beyond Now, with 30 years of consulting experience across multiple industries. He became CEO in 2017, after helping to create the business through BearingPoint Capital. Under his leadership, Beyond Now transformed from a service-based entity into a SaaS technology company, expanding into ecosystem orchestration and digital marketplace solutions. In 2021, Angus led a management buyout, making Beyond Now an independent tech company with a global customer community in telecoms and technology.
His expertise has made him a trusted advisor to senior executives at AWS, Google, Accenture, Boeing, Jaguar Land Rover, the Ministry of Defense, BT, and NTT. He collaborates with industry bodies like TM Forum, and academic institutions such as MIT and Wharton. He is a frequent speaker at events like MWC and DTW, discussing trends in telecoms and technology. Angus holds a degree in Economics from the University of Bath and is a Chartered Accountant.