UNLOCKING OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
the
RYAN MIDDLESWORTH PAGE 5
July 2024 | Volume 37 | No. 7
The Rock River Valley Blood Center (RRVBC) launched three new donor loyalty programs designed to encourage blood and platelet donations.
Never Miss a Monday Every Monday through August 26, the first 100 people to donate at any of the four RRVBC locations will receive a special gift from a local business.
By Hannah Haggestad, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce
Four Seasons Club
effectiveness, most (52%) said the biggest barrier to improving effectiveness was IT systems that are outdated, inflexible and impose security risks. Along those same lines, 73% pointed to technology issues as a major risk for failing to reach their work objectives. Most also said that technology and the risks of emerging technology, including cybersecurity, play a much larger role than they did five years ago. Finally, 65% said IT would be the most important issue for their business over the next five years—the highest ranking for any single issue. So, technology is a big deal and will remain so. That’s why it’s important to understand existing and emerging technologies for businesses (financial services in particular), and the risks
What are the top emerging technologies for financial services organizations?
A survey by McKinsey & Company identified them in order of popularity: 1. Cloud and edge computing 2. Applied artificial intelligence (AI). 3. Next generation software development 4. Trust architectures and digital identity 5. Industrialized machine learning 6. Advanced connectivity Cloud computing consists of hosting applications in a core data center, while edge computing involves hosting applications closer to end users, either in smaller edge data centers or on the customer’s premises. In recent years there has been significant growth in edge computing. In some ways, edge computing is the opposite of cloud-based computing.
associated with those technologies.
(continued on page 12)
Leveraging your membership When and why to connect with GRCC By The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce As a valued member of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC), you have access to a wealth of resources, support, and advocacy tailored to help your business thrive. Whether you’re a new member or a longtime partner, a small business or a large corporation, knowing when to reach out can make a significant difference in your business journey. Here’s a guide to understanding when and why you should connect with the GRCC for help, support, or advocacy.
Advocacy and representation Join the Chamber on Social Media
The Voice is online at rockfordchamber.com
PAGE 13
NEW LOYALTY PROGRAMS
How to manage risk while expanding your use of technology
THE VOICE IS PUBLISHED BY
DARLYNE KELLER
of the greater rockford business community
Emerging technologies and cybersecurity
The world of finance is certainly complex. Organizations in the industry are highly regulated. The financial industry is a dichotomy of black-andwhite numbers and the psychology of money. An area of growth and opportunity for the finance world, and business world at large, is technology. But technological advances bring their own obstacles. And when those obstacles impact the bottom line, the stakes certainly get higher. A survey by Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG) of finance directors and CFOs revealed that, while they believe technology is a major key to their
SUPPORTING EMPLOYEE FINANCIAL WELLBEING
Why connect:
The GRCC serves as the collective voice of the business community, advocating on behalf of members to influence public policy. By reaching out, you can ensure your concerns are heard and addressed. The chamber actively
Donors who contribute once during each season—winter, spring, summer, and fall—will receive a punch on their Four Seasons Club card. Once all four punches are collected, they will receive a gift valued at $100.
Spin 6 VIP Program Platelet donations only last seven days and are vital for patients undergoing treatments for cancer, traumatic injuries, and surgeries. Participants who donate platelets six times a year receive a punch on their club card for each donation. Upon completing six donations, donors will receive a gift valued at $100. RRVBC is the sole provider of blood to 14 local hospitals and requires 800 donors every week to meet the ongoing demand. It is facing a critical blood shortage that is placing an immense strain on the community’s blood supply. Schedule your donation appointment at rrvbc.org, on the myRRVBC app, or call 815965-8751. Walk-ins are also welcome.
SAVE THE DATE 2024 Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner Thursday, September 19 5-8 p.m.
engages with policymakers to create a favorable business environment and can provide updates and insights on legislative matters. When to connect:
• If your business is facing challenges due to local, state, or federal legislation, or if you have concerns about regulatory changes. (continued on page 3)
Tebala Event Center 7910 Newburg Rd Rockford, IL 61108 Register online at rockfordchamber.com presented by: