From the Glaciers to the Palm Trees
Recently, I had the privilege of attending a meeting in the luxurious ski resort of St. Moritz, Switzerland. The journey there, aboard the Bernina Express, proved to be an unforgettable experience.
Traversing the highest railway tracks in Europe and the world’s steepest, this iconic train ride offered a breathtaking voyage through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges. From Switzerland’s oldest town, through awe-inspiring gorges and past remarkable structures, to the eternal ice of glaciers, and finally descending to the palm trees of Italy’s Tirano, the journey was nothing short of spectacular. Side remark: In 2022, the rail operator achieved a remarkable feat, setting a new record by operating a 1,906m-long train to commemorate its 175th anniversary.
As I marveled at the passing scenery, I couldn’t help but ponder the incredible engineering achievements of over a century ago and the recent world record-breaking accomplishment. Could there be lessons in overcoming such monumental challenges that could be applied to managing global trade?
Here are five lessons I’ve gleaned:
- Persistence and Determination: Overcoming complex challenges requires unwavering persistence and determination, crucial traits in managing global trade and supply chains.
- Adaptability and Flexibility: Like the rail track construction, adaptability and flexibility are essential in responding to changing market dynamics and unforeseen disruptions in global trade.
- Collaboration and Partnerships: Effective collaboration among various stakeholders is vital to building resilient networks and ensuring smooth operations in global trade.
- Innovation and Technological Advancement: Embracing innovative technologies and solutions can optimize efficiency and address challenges in global trade management.
- Risk Management and Contingency Planning: Robust risk management strategies and contingency plans are vital for navigating uncertainties and disruptions in global trade and supply chains.
By applying these lessons, businesses can enhance their ability to tackle challenges, foster collaboration, embrace innovation and effectively manage risks in the dynamic landscape of global trade and supply chains.