Karolis Žemaitis – Vice-Minister of the Economy and Innovation of the Republic of Lithuania
Vitnija Saldava – CEE Regional Public Policy Lead at Meta
Prof. Dr. Jivka Ovtcharova – Head of the Institute for Information Management in Engineering at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
Michal Kanownik – President of Digital Poland Association
Mindaugas Morkūnas – Head of Development & Member of Advisory Board at MO Museum
Panel discussion lineup
Throughout the discussion, several key themes emerged. First, there was a thorough examination of how governments are leveraging digital technologies to enhance citizen services and boost economic competitiveness. Various strategies and practical implementations were discussed to emphasize this point. Then the discussion shifted to the transformations occurring in industries due to digitalization. Concrete examples from case studies were provided to illustrate these shifts and offer insights into the adaptation strategies being employed.
The idea of a “shrinking” world, brought about by increased global connectivity, was thoroughly explored. This concept was linked to its implications for businesses, emphasizing the need for companies to adapt to this interconnected landscape. Moreover, there was a focused discussion on how traditional industries can thrive amidst digital disruption. Strategies centered around innovation and resilience were highlighted as crucial for their adaptation and success.
Drawing from the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of agility and preparedness in digital service delivery was emphasized. This highlighted the need for organizations to be flexible and responsive in the face of unforeseen challenges. The evolution of online identities and the growing importance of digital verification solutions were addressed, particularly in relation to issues of trust and security in the digital realm.
Vice-minister of the Economy and Innovation of the Republic of Lithuania Karolis Žemaitis highlighted the emerging prominence of the CEE region as a hub for talent and innovation, positioning it as a frontrunner in the global digital economy, while the President of Digital Poland Association referenced the CEE Digital Coalition report, emphasizing the significance of digitalization in driving economic growth and innovation in the region.
Mindaugas Morkūnas, Head of Development & Member of Advisory Board at MO Museum stressed the importance of soft skills in navigating the digital age, underscoring the need for human connection amidst the loneliness pandemic. Panelists noted that despite being more connected than ever, there is a prevailing sense of disconnection among individuals.
Prof. Dr. Jivka Ovtcharova offered a thought-provoking perspective on the relationship between humans and technology. She urged for a paradigm shift where technology serves human needs rather than dictating human behavior. Additionally, she proposed a metaphorical interpretation of Europe as a “common human brain,” composed of diverse cells working together for the collective good of the region.
Prof. Dr. Jivka Ovtcharova offered a thought-provoking perspective on the relationship between humans and technology. She urged for a paradigm shift where technology serves human needs rather than dictating human behavior. Additionally, she proposed a metaphorical interpretation of Europe as a “common human brain,” composed of diverse cells working together for the collective good of the region.
Prof. Dr. Dr. Jivka Ovtcharova
Overall, the 3SI breakfast panel discussion provided invaluable insights into the diverse facets of digitalization on society, the economy, and culture. Navigating the intricacies of the digital era demands prioritizing collaboration, innovation, and a human-centric approach to fully realize the potential of technology for the benefit of all.
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CEO, Co-Founder
Erika, known as the champion of innovation and a curious strategist at heart, is a force to be reckoned with in the world of business development and digital transformation.In the past, Erika worked as an Executive & Board Member at major companies and startups in Tech, Fintech, Telco & Media industries, where she successfully led the Strategy & Business Development divisions. She has also co-founded the largest Innovation & Tech Festival in Baltics, LOGIN. Furthermore, she is an active member of the Lithuanian Tech community, serving as the ambassador of the WomenGoTech mentorship initiative and the board member of Fintech Hub LT.
Co-Founder
Darius is the IT transformation professional and self-described geek with a strong set of technical and interpersonal skills—a killer combination that has bolstered his success over the last ten years. Through years of international work experience, he has managed diverse teams and completed complex assignments in such areas as IT development, organizational change management, and big infrastructure and network development projects. Over his career of more than 15 years in telecommunications and Fintech industries, Darius has transformed big enterprise companies and led enormous business projects in Nordics and Europe. His sharp eye for detail and his dogged pursuit of the most efficient solutions possible have made him into thes keen and reliable tech industry leader that he is.
Head of Technology, Co-Founder
Edvardas is always ahead of the curve when it comes to delivering high-quality digital solutions and products. He has a vast knowledge of various technologies and platforms and a proven track record of leading complex enterprise-level mobile software development projects, while overseeing the whole SDLC process. In addition to his passion for all things tech, he also excels in leading teams, managing relationships, and supporting tech product development. He has led numerous multicultural teams developing products for Fintech companies in the area of AI and Machine learning , earning himself a well-deserved reputation as a mobile technology leader and the go-to person when it comes to digital transformation.
