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Ning Su's DBS case explores leveraging digitalization

Feb 3, 2022

Ning Su with woman looking at her smartphone in the background

Dealing with uncertainty is a defining feature of modern business. Whether it’s the global pandemic, issues of injustice and inequality, or the need to build resilience in the environment and supply chains, there’s a new batch of challenges for leaders today. That’s why new cases from Ivey Publishing are bringing current issues to life in the Ivey classroom. Robust discussions of these real-life problems aim to influence behaviour, build critical thinking, and give students the confidence to face the future of business head-on. Here’s a look at new cases written and taught by Ivey faculty and the lessons they bring.

DBS Bank Ltd.: How to Accelerate Digitalization

Ning Su, Associate Professor, General Management, Strategy, and Information Systems (with Ramasastry Chandrasekhar)

Many organizations are seeking to adapt to a new global business environment post-pandemic, and DBS Bank, Singapore’s largest commercial bank, is no exception. Ning Su’s DBS case outlines the bank’s efforts to leverage its success in digitalization to create a competitive advantage in light of shifts in consumer behaviour. Su says it is important for businesses to make strategic investments in information technology and data and create an infrastructure for the digital age. The case provides insights on how to evolve different aspects of the organization around digital technology, and capitalize on market opportunities, such as increased adoption of mobile banking and changed expectations for customer services, in an agile manner.

“Students will be equipped with the knowledge, best practices, lessons learned, as well as analytical concepts and frameworks that are critical to their careers as decision-makers, executives, investors, entrepreneurs, technologists, consultants, and beyond,” he said.

Su said the case provides a global perspective on the future of business and the economy and can prompt in-depth discussions.

“Students with diverse backgrounds, including those who have used DBS in different parts of the world, those who have worked for or with DBS, those who have been employed by competing banks, and those who have never heard of DBS but see a parallel or contrast with their own organizations, can share their different insights and interpretations,” he said.