Trends facing business in 2021 and beyond

Global trends can have a significant effect on your business, whether it’s a trend in social change, politics or technology. Does your business capitalize on trends that could present an opportunity for your business to evolve in the direction you want?

The following series of posts cover key trends that business leaders should be aware of as they craft their strategic plans for 2021. Instead of reacting to the latest fads, the savvy CEO maintains awareness of how the landscape is changing and what specific trends — in their industry or globally — could have an immediate or long-term impact on their businesses. Leveraging certain trends where it make sense with the company’s vision and mission can help business leaders jumpstart innovation and avoid getting stuck in a rut.

Stay informed of key developments with the following analysis in four areas of change.

Part 1: Ecological trends facing business in 2021 and beyond

Heading into 2020, a study conducted by the pro-business World Economic Forum (WEF) cited infectious disease and weather change as among the most significant risks facing businesses today. In their risk assessment, the WEF noted that the near-term consequences of climate change were resulting in a “planetary emergency.” Read more

Part 2: Social trends facing business in 2021 and beyond

COVID-19, social injustice and the election have tested management teams’ ability to operate within an evolving social contract. In this post, we look beyond these historic events at social trends that will impact business in 2021 and beyond. Any discussion of U.S. social issues must acknowledge the divides that have been magnified over the last few months. Read more

Part 3: Technology trends facing business in 2021 and beyond

One learning from the pandemic is the need for a new construct and mental model for technology. In almost every industry, some form of technology will become the product or an enabler to it. Those who cannot participate in digital transformation will be left behind. Read more

Part 4: Economic trends facing business in 2021 and beyond

As the history of 2020 is written, it will be the year of COVID-19 and the biggest freefall of the U.S. economy since the Great Depression. How and when this story will end are uncertain. Read more

Related resources 

• Trends facing business in 2022 and beyond 

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