In 2020 at the start of the pandemic, Accenture Interactive predicted we were entering the beginning of the 'Virtual Century.' The shift towards virtual solutions resulting from Covid-19 would permanently affect ways of communicating across learning, working, transacting, and consuming. Now, almost a year on, Mark Curtis, Head of Innovation at Accenture Interactive, can discuss the lasting impact of this trend and why it is more important that organizations streamline the hurdles of going virtual all experiences. Companies need to look at how they utilize technology to remain viable, connect with their customers, and create a positive environment for their employees. Mark joins me on the podcast to discuss what's next for the workplace, the innovation of tomorrow, and how organizations can overcome the growing digital disconnect. What's next for the workplace – There is no such thing as an 'old normal' anymore, just old processes and technology. Regardless of what the future workplace looks like, the value of being physically present has been forever diminished. In 2021 businesses need to take a holistic approach acknowledging how alterations across talent acquisition, control, and technology can influence and foster different working environments remotely. The innovation of tomorrow – Creativity has been able to shire through throughout the pandemic, driven by technology. From TikTok to Microsoft Teams, 2021 will see platforms creatively repurposed and products increasingly perceived as unfinished tools adapted in more inclusive designs for larger audiences. Businesses can tap into this trend, viewing their customers not just as end-users but as creative co-collaborators How organizations can overcome the growing digital disconnect – while businesses must create new, people-focused, digital workplaces and adjust how they convey and use technology, 2020 has also seen a new challenge – empathy. More and more people are feeling excluded digitally. Mark can discuss how empathy is crucial to the design of new systems and the implementation of new technologies.