Paul Simms, Chairman of eyeforpharma by Reuters Events, facilitated an in-depth conversation around one of the biggest topics of discussion in healthcare: tech innovation. Joined by two experts from the pharmaceutical industry, the 35-minute live virtual panel discussion resulted in dozens of new insights. Below are some highlights from the conversation:
What’s the right approach when having to decide whether to prioritize technology or digital literacy first?
“Focusing on the technology without changing the mindset of the organization is like driving a Ferrari inside of a traffic jam. Where can you go?”
- Ali Abusnina, Senior Data Scientist at Boehringer Ingelheim
“When you look at tech as an enabler, a means to an end, a tool to achieve the value we are wired for...the cultural mindset is about making sure (technology) is properly wired within the company.”
- Haider Alleg, Global Head of Digital Excellence, Ferring
What are the human problems we need to solve in technology innovation?
“One of the very critical characteristics here would be the desire to change – the desire to adopt the technology. Especially in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry, we tend to be afraid.”
- Ali Abusnina, Senior Data Scientist at Boehringer Ingelheim
“You want change and you want innovation and you want this mindset to be like a virus that spreads, but it needs leadership and courage.”
- Haider Alleg, Global Head of Digital Excellence, Ferring
“The courage – I think that is the key word. It’s very good to plan for success, but we tend to eliminate all the risks before we even start. We are afraid of failure most of the time. But, you need to be proud if you fail.”
- Ali Abusnina, Senior Data Scientist at Boehringer Ingelheim
If you were CEO of your organization for the next couple of months, what is the first thing you do to enable the right kind of culture in your team?
“Making the strategy and vision clear to every single employee in the company.”
- Ali Abusnina, Senior Data Scientist at Boehringer Ingelheim
“What I’ve seen working are the conditions where people are empowered by (a) willingness to change.”
- Haider Alleg, Global Head of Digital Excellence, Ferring
