Ralph Petta 2017-07-26 06:09:46
WE’RE ALL HEARING A LOT ABOUT “digital disruption” lately and the importance of staying ahead of the technology innovation curve in order to remain competitive. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the pace and breadth of new technologies and their potential impact on your business, you’re not alone. In this issue of Equipment Leasing & Finance magazine, we’re pleased to highlight resources to help you face disruption head on—and turn it into opportunity.
● Our cover story on p. 20, “Disrupt Yourself,” offers four steps you can take to learn about exponential technologies and how to apply them in your business.
● The feature story on p. 24, “Competition’s Next Big Step,” looks at how you and your customers can benefit from incorporating electronic documents into your operations. Learn about ELFA’s e-leasing initiative at www.elfaonline.org/edocs.
● The Foundation’s “2017 Industry Future Council Report: Staying Ahead of Tomorrow” is a must-read for industry leaders looking toward the future. Th e report explores digital trends, challenges and opportunities that could impact our industry in years to come. Watch for new Foundation research on emerging technologies—including blockchain, smart contracts and artificial intelligence—and how these technologies might be used in an equipment finance setting. Learn more on p. 42.
● Don’t miss the Operations & Technology Conference, Sept. 11-13. Th is terrific event is designed to help you to stay abreast of the latest technologies and operating methods and integrate the newest tools into your organization. Learn more at www.elfaonline.org/events/2017/OT/.
ELFA Annual Convention
You will also position your business for success by attending the 56th ELFA Annual Convention, Oct. 22-24 in Orlando. The theme, “Building the Next Generation Business,” is all about learning strategies to compete amid new policy, new people and new technology. You’ll enjoy high-quality educational sessions and unparalleled networking opportunities and hear from a great lineup of keynote speakers:
● Global technologist John Ellis will highlight new technology trends you should be paying attention to and how companies can approach the threat of disruption.
● Robotics entrepreneur and healthcare innovator Keller Rinaudo will demonstrate how businesses can harness technology to change the world for the better.
● Industry economist Dr. Robert Wescott will bring you up-to-speed on the state of the economy and what it means for your business.
Turn the page for more about the 2017 ELFA Annual Convention. We hope to see you there.
Member Survey Update
The ELFA Board of Directors recently reviewed the results of the Member Impact Survey that was distributed to all members earlier this year. It is clear from the results that our members value participating in our industry and our association. In the coming months, the Board and Executive Committee will be incorporating this valuable member feedback into the association’s strategic planning activities, which will result in a 2018–2020 Strategic Plan to be rolled out later this year. Please stay tuned for details as their work progresses.
Cast Your Ballot
It’s time to vote for ELFA’s officers and directors for 2017. To participate in this important process, please see the instructions on page 13. We also encourage you to participate in the Business Council Steering Committee elections. See page 17 for details.
Thank you as always for your continued support and participation. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at ELFA headquarters if you have any questions or you’d like to get more involved.
Ralph Petta is the President and CEO of the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association and the publishing director of Equipment Leasing & Finance. To submit letters to the editor, email EL&F@elfaonline.org.
©Equipment Leasing and Finance Association. View All Articles.