The GCC is leading the way with digital transformation, and it’s exciting to see this across all industries from education to retail:Karl Escritt, CEO of Like Digital & Partners
Here’s the full Q & A:
1. Please tell us more about Like Digital & Partners and what the agency does?
We are a digital transformation agency that help brands and businesses understand, navigate and deliver digital products and strategies, in the every increasing and always-on digital world. We do this through a mix of data an insight services, experience design, content and technology, and work with some of the biggest global enterprise brands, in what is a hugely an exciting time for digital change.
2. What are LD&P’s expansion plans in the Middle East?
Our Dubai office has been open for approximately 5 years, and we are seeing incredible growth in this exciting digital first market. Over the coming year, we will continue to expand in the GCC, with a big focus on our new KSA office opening in 2024.
3. Are you a technology guy or a content guy? What takes up most of your time?
I’m neither really, I’ve always focused on the experience of the user. All users want is exceptional and relevant content, and technology should help deliver that. A great user experience enables this to happen without technology interfering.
4. How technology will play an important role in the GCC? What are your thoughts on this?
The GCC is leading the way with digital transformation, and it’s exciting to see this across all industries from education to retail. This technology first view, will play a significant role as individuals embrace and become increasingly digitally native, and businesses prioritsing a digital first approach.
5. In your opinion, what are the benefits of AI for businesses?
The benefits for businesses are twofold; consumer focused, only if it offers a genuine and better experience for the user and isn’t just a gimmick. Improved internal operations, which can also be streamlined at micro levels, and its here where businesses could really benefit. It does, however, require a better understanding of problems, rather than adopting technology for the sake of it.
6. The Best Businesses Are Built Around Passion. What are your views on this?
I 100% agree, I built Like Digital & Partners fueled by passion, for how design can help deliver excellent technology solutions for consumers. I’m a big fan of finding a why, embracing your passion and truly immersing yourself in it.
7. On a personal note, what have been the highlights of your career so far? Your key learnings?
It’s easy in the midst of growing a business to forget all the highs, but for me seeing the Like Digital & Partners team grow both personally and professionally, is one of my biggest accomplishments. We grew from a windowless office with 3 employees, to opening multiple offices around the world and are close to 100 employees, which is a real pinch moment. There have been many key learnings over the years, but it’s the passion and technology that has made everything worth it.