In celebration of Engineer’s Day, StartupTalky explores the journey of Vishal Gupta, Co-Founder and CTO of MaxVolt Energy, as he transitions from engineering to entrepreneurship. Driven by a passion for eco-friendly innovations, Gupta entered the lithium battery industry, focusing on sustainable energy solutions. In this interview, he discusses MaxVolt Energy’s advanced technologies, including Active Balancers and recycling efforts, along with the strategies that helped secure their initial customers. Gupta also addresses the challenges faced early on and how MaxVolt Energy overcame them to become a key player in the evolving energy storage market.
StartupTalky: What motivated you to move from engineering to entrepreneurship, and what key steps did you take to start your company?
Mr. Gupta: The transition from being an engineer to becoming an entrepreneur was primarily driven by the urge to address particular concerns, making innovations that are eco-friendly and help sustain the environment. Engineering made me skilled in innovation, and more importantly, problem-solving, which steered me towards entrepreneurship. The necessary key steps include recognizing an issue, building a prototype or minimum viable product (MVP), formulating a business opportunity, performing some research, and devising a business strategy.
Finally, more focus was given to product development – starting with a minimum viable product, taking feedback, listening to the consumers, and building up the business. I have enjoyed utilising my technical abilities in managing a business and appreciate the complexity involved in the process.
StartupTalky: Why did you choose the lithium battery industry, and what trends or opportunities do you see shaping its future?
Mr. Gupta: The fact behind choosing this industry was my personal interest in Lithium Batteries and its manufacturing and recycling alongside the increasing market demand in the ecologically-friendly energy segment. Further, our expertise in this industry enables us to make new innovations in technical areas such as battery design and management.
While peeking into the future, one can notice trends such as the optimization of energy storage, advancements in recycling, and the constant developments in the EV sector. The opportunities I see in shaping the future to make our environment more eco-friendly will be helpful in controlling pollution caused by ICE vehicles. Additionally, by recycling lithium batteries, we can use them again and again by just charging.
StartupTalky: What does MaxVolt Energy do, and what real-world problem does your technology solve?
Mr. Gupta: Our core business is the production and recycling of lithium batteries. We employ technologies that solve real-world problems in the energy storage domain through Heat Management, Active Battery Control, Battery Longevity, and Battery Endurance. Our goal is to minimize waste and improve the sustainability of the lithium battery packs by considering how these can be reused or recycled.
StartupTalky: Tell us about the core technology behind MaxVolt Energy’s products or services and how it stands out from others in the market.
Mr. Gupta: The core technology behind our products and services includes Active Balancers which basically work to improve the battery capacity and its fire resistance. Our batteries are equipped with features like over-temperature alarms and a sleep switch, especially when the battery is not being charged. Our products stand out from others in the market when it comes to service. We have added propositions by offering onsite support to more than 19,000 pin codes and a take-back facility on old battery packs to our clients.
StartupTalky: How did you secure your initial customers, and what strategies worked best to gain their trust and business?
Mr. Gupta: The initial customers were obtained by creating product awareness among them and emphasizing the value of the technology. By using lithium batteries, they can save money, which they are going to spend on fuel if they have petrol or diesel vehicles. The strategies worked for us, like the use of success stories and customer references, providing exceptional support, building a strong online presence, and building healthy relationships. These are the major strategies for generating early leads.
StartupTalky: What were the main challenges you faced early on, and how did you overcome them?
Mr. Gupta: The main challenges faced in the early stages were limited availability of raw materials, high costs, and hefty investments in technological advancements. However, the government’s focus on renewable energy presents significant opportunities like tax credits and tenders for energy storage projects. MaxVolt Energy Industries positions itself as a key player by leveraging these opportunities, particularly through strategic partnerships and innovations that address the cost and supply chain challenges, ensuring we remain at the forefront of this evolving industry.
StartupTalky: What tools or software are key to your business operations, and how do they help improve efficiency?
Mr. Gupta: Our production involves using a system called ERP, which assists in managing stocks, regulating waste in raw materials, and preparing reports. It has the ability to track inventory quantities of various warehouses and never let a particular material be below a specific level provided by this system. The application of the ERP solution has enhanced our day to day operations as it reduces time and cuts the cost involved.
In celebration of Engineer’s Day, StartupTalky connects with Rashmi Kulkarni, Co-founder and Director of IndoAI Technologies Pvt. Ltd. A visionary entrepreneur with a strong engineering background, Kulkarni’s journey from solving problems as an engineer to leading a tech-driven company highlights her commitment to innovation. In this conversation, we explore how her edge AI smart camera solutions are tackling practical security challenges, her entrepreneurial path, and the trends she expects to shape the future of this fast-growing industry.
StartupTalky: What motivated your move from engineering to entrepreneurship, and what key steps did you take to start your company?
Ms. Kulkarni: I have a desire to innovate the solutions that directly impact people’s lives. As an engineer, I was always passionate about solving people’s problems, but I always wanted to expand that scope by building products and services that solve real-world problems. That desire, with my curiosity in mind for emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, inspired me to take the entrepreneurial path.
Key steps I have taken to start my own company include finding gaps in the market, forming a team of like-minded people, and continuously learning about business and technology to build my own product.
I was also fortunate enough to build a strong network of mentors and business partners/experts to guide me through the early stages of my entrepreneurial journey. Most importantly, I always believe in the power of persistent work and adopting new technologies which helps me to grow my company gradually.
StartupTalky: Why did you choose AI-powered smart surveillance, and what trends or opportunities do you see shaping its future?
Ms. Kulkarni: I chose to focus on edge AI smart cameras because they represent the forefront of technological innovation in appization to deploy AI models easily on the camera which is a plug-and-play system. By integrating AI directly into smart cameras, we can deliver real-time processing and analysis at the edge, which enhances both efficiency and responsiveness. This approach allows us to address complex security challenges and contribute to the development of smarter, more connected environments.
The future of edge AI smart cameras is shaped by advanced AI for real-time analysis, edge computing for faster processing, integration with smart city infrastructure, increased focus on data privacy, and a push towards energy-efficient solutions. Also, appization will enable edge AI smart cameras to support a wide range of customised applications and functionalities, allowing for more versatile and adaptable solutions. This trend will drive innovation by integrating smart cameras with various apps for enhanced features like advanced analytics, user-specific alerts, and seamless integration with other smart technologies.
StartupTalky: What does IndoAI Technologies do, and what real-world problem does your technology solve?
Ms. Kulkarni: IndoAI Technologies specialises in edge AI smart cameras that integrate advanced artificial intelligence for real-time processing and analysis with Appization of AI models. We are allowing our clients to deploy AI models on the camera in just one click. Our technology addresses critical security and safety challenges by providing intelligent surveillance solutions that enhance monitoring efficiency, reduce response times, and offer advanced features like fire and smoke detection, visitor management, and more. This enables businesses and organisations to improve safety, streamline operations, and make informed decisions based on accurate, real-time data.
StartupTalky: Tell us about the core technology behind IndoAI Technologies’ products or services and how it stands out from others in the market.
Ms. Kulkarni: IndoAI Technologies uses edge AI smart cameras that perform real-time data processing on-device, reducing latency and enhancing privacy. Our technology stands out by integrating seamlessly with various applications and smart city systems, offering customisable solutions for specific needs like fire detection, visitor management, employee management, and many more.
StartupTalky: How did you secure your initial customers, and what strategies worked best to gain their trust and business?
Ms. Kulkarni: We secured initial customers through live demonstrations of our product and great customer service, networking, and leveraging positive customer testimonials. These strategies helped showcase our technology’s value and build trust.
StartupTalky: What were the main challenges you faced early on, and how did you overcome them?
Ms. Kulkarni: The main challenges we faced early on were market entry, technology development, and gaining customer trust.
Solutions: We conducted live demonstrations to showcase our product’s value, invested in R&D to enhance our technology, and built relationships through positive customer testimonials.
StartupTalky: What tools or software are key to your business operations, and how do they help improve efficiency?
Ms. Kulkarni: Tools or software key to our business operations are:
Communication: Slack – Facilitates team communication and collaboration.
Task Management: Asana – Organises and tracks tasks and projects.
Marketing and Sales: HubSpot – Manages marketing campaigns and sales processes.
Collaterals Creation: Figma, Canva, Adobe – Designs and creates marketing and design materials.
Videos: InVideo – Produces and edits videos efficiently.
These tools enhance collaboration, streamline task management, optimise marketing and sales efforts, and simplify content creation.
Artificial intelligence and sales enablement are revolutionizing how businesses approach sales, making efficiency, personalization, and impactful decision-making the new standard. By automating repetitive tasks, delivering real-time insights, and enhancing decision-making capabilities, AI is paving the way for a future where sales teams, businesses, and customers all thrive.
Bala Vignesh Charllo, an experienced software engineer and thought leader in AI-driven solutions, shared his insights into this transformative intersection. As a key contributor to the development of innovative tools that integrate AI into sales workflows, Bala emphasized, “AI allows sales teams to save time and focus on meaningful tasks, such as building customer relationships and closing deals. By automating the tedious aspects of data retrieval, we can empower salespeople to perform at their best.”
The creation of an Instant Answers feature for sales meetings was a transformative project for Bala Vignesh Charllo. This experience significantly shifted his perspective on sales enablement, demonstrating how AI can revolutionize the process. The tool leverages advanced AI techniques to instantly analyze and retrieve relevant insights from meeting transcripts. Whether addressing a client’s objection, discussing product features, or identifying critical action items, sales professionals can now access precise information with a simple query.
Bala explained, “Sales meetings are fast-paced and complex. Having instant access to specific details from past meetings not only saves time but also ensures that sales representatives are always equipped with the context they need to drive conversations forward effectively.”
The impact of this feature has been remarkable. By eliminating the need for manual transcript reviews, the tool has reduced preparation time for follow-up meetings by 40%. Sales representatives report feeling significantly more confident when responding to client inquiries, leading to more productive and meaningful discussions. Moreover, the Instant Answers feature strengthens client relationships by enabling accurate and immediate responses. This capability allows sales professionals to demonstrate attentiveness and a deep understanding of client needs, leaving a lasting impression of the company’s dedication to delivering exceptional service.
In another project, Bala Vignesh Charllo spearheaded the development of a recommended content feature that delivers tailored suggestions for upcoming meetings. By analyzing CRM data, and meeting context, and historical trends, the feature ensures sales professionals are equipped with insights and materials precisely aligned with client needs.
Bala’s deep understanding of AI and its applications in sales enablement offers a unique perspective. He believes AI goes beyond streamlining processes—it transforms the sales journey by providing predictive analytics, enhancing personalization, and delivering actionable insights in real time.
One of his key initiatives was implementing Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) models to improve the quality of information accessible to sales teams. “By analyzing meeting highlights, summaries, and customer feedback, AI can uncover patterns and trends that help sales teams anticipate client needs and refine their strategies,” Bala explained. This capability has significantly improved business outcomes. For instance, his innovative use of AI to analyze objections in sales meetings has enabled organizations to refine their messaging, accelerate deal cycles, and enhance customer satisfaction.
As an industry expert, Bala Vignesh Charllo views AI as the future of sales enablement, offering unparalleled opportunities to boost productivity, streamline workflows, and deliver exceptional customer experiences. However, he emphasizes that unlocking AI’s full potential requires a strategic approach. “The key is not just in adopting AI but in integrating it thoughtfully,” he explained. “Organizations must invest in training their teams, fostering a culture of innovation, and ensuring the ethical use of AI.”
As the sales field continues to grow, the convergence of AI and sales enablement marks a revolution with profound implications for the industry, setting new benchmarks for innovation and effectiveness.
A wholesale business is an enterprise that purchases goods in large quantities from manufacturers and sells them in smaller quantities to retailers.
The wholesale sector plays a crucial role in the Indian economy, serving as a vital link between manufacturers and retailers. It facilitates the efficient distribution of goods, ensuring that products reach consumers on time. By supporting various industries and contributing to employment, the wholesale business enhances economic growth and stability. It fosters competition and innovation, benefiting consumers through better prices and product availability.
Traditional wholesale distributors serve as intermediaries between manufacturers and retailers. This will enable easy maintenance of large inventories of goods in warehouses. They ease bulk purchasing, letting retailers to get products at lower prices. They also let them offer more services. These services can be anything from logistics and inventory management to streamline the supply chain.
Online Wholesale Platforms
Online wholesale platforms have revolutionized the wholesale industry by enabling businesses to connect with suppliers and buyers through digital marketplaces. They Offer a wide range of products. The products have competitive pricing, and provide a lot of features. The products are chosen based on user reviews, secure payment options, and efficient shipping solutions. This makes it easier for small and medium-sized enterprises to access wholesale goods.
Niche Wholesale Markets
Niche wholesale markets focus on specific product categories or industries. These cater to specialized consumer needs. Such markets often emphasize unique or hard-to-find items. Such a demand enables wholesalers to build strong relationships with buyers. Such markets increase the competition in the business
Import/Export Wholesale Businesses
Regional wholesale operations focus on serving a specific geographic area, catering to local retailers and businesses. These operations typically emphasize building strong relationships with clients within their region, allowing for tailored services and quicker response times to market demands, which can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Regional vs. National Wholesale Operations
National wholesale operations, in contrast, operate on a broader scale, supplying goods to retailers across an entire country. These businesses often enjoy economies of scale, allowing them to negotiate better pricing with suppliers and offer competitive rates to their customers. They may also install advanced distribution networks to manage inventory and logistics effectively across diverse markets.
Start comprehensive market analysis to understand industry trends, customer preferences, and competitive landscape, ensuring informed decision-making for the wholesale business. Determine specific products to offer by evaluating market demand and sourcing reliable suppliers who can provide quality goods at competitive prices.
2. Business Plan
Plan a detailed business plan that outlines the business model, marketing strategies, operational procedures, and long-term goals to guide the establishment and growth of the wholesale venture.
3. Location and Space
Find a location which is accessible to your market’s target.
Decide whether to buy or lease a retail space.
Plan the store layout for customer engagement and efficient operations.
4. Financing
Calculate the amount of initial capital required.
Check out various funding options such as bank loans, personal savings, or investors.
To track expenses and income, set up accounting systems.
Explore various financing options, including loans, grants, and personal investments, while creating a budget that accounts for initial startup costs and ongoing operational expenses
5. Set Up Logistics and Storage
Efficient logistics and storage are crucial for a wholesale business. Ensure you have adequate warehouse space to store your inventory and a reliable transportation system to deliver products to customers.
Warehouse: Rent or purchase a warehouse that meets your storage needs. Consider criteria such as location, size, and security.
Transportation: Arrange for transportation services to ensure timely delivery of products. You can either hire a logistics company or invest in your own fleet of vehicles.
6. Staffing
Hire staff that meet your business needs.
Provide comprehensive training for product knowledge and customer service.
Establish policies for staff management and operations.
7. Marketing and Sales
Create a strong brand identity.
Develop a website and utilize social media.
Strategise advertising campaigns and promotions to drive customer traffic.
Focus on providing excellent customer service to retain customers.
8.Set Up a Distribution and Sales
Building a strong sales and distribution network is essential for the success of your wholesale business. Identify potential retailers, businesses, and other customers who will buy your products.
Sales Team: Hire a competent sales team to reach out to potential customers and close deals.
Distribution Channels: Establish efficient distribution channels to ensure smooth delivery of products. This could include direct sales, online platforms, or third-party distributors.
9. Launch and Evaluate
Consider a soft launch to test your operations before the official opening.
Plan a grand opening event to attract customers.
Collect customer feedback and make necessary adjustments to improve business operations.
The establishment of a business necessitates proper registration and the acquisition of relevant licenses to operate legally within the jurisdiction.
Tax Registration (GST)
It is essential to register for tax purposes, including obtaining a Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration, to ensure compliance with fiscal obligations.
Compliance With Local Regulations
Adherence to local regulations is critical, as businesses must align their operations with the laws and standards set forth by municipal and regional authorities.
Import/Export Permits (if applicable)
For businesses engaged in international trade, securing import and export permits is mandatory to ease the lawful movement of goods across borders.
Other Necessary Certifications
More certifications may be required depending on the nature of the business, which could include health, safety, or industry-specific qualifications to meet regulatory standards.
The wholesale business in India presents significant opportunities for growth and expansion. Such a growth is driven by the country’s vast consumer market. It is also dependent on the increasing demand for diverse products. The evolving landscape of retail, coupled with advancements in technology and logistics, has created a conducive environment for wholesale operations to sustain. As businesses adapt to changing consumer preferences and leverage digital platforms, the potential for profitability and market penetration in the wholesale sector becomes clear. Furthermore, government initiatives aimed at promoting ease of doing business and enhancing infrastructure will likely bolster the wholesale industry’s development, making it a promising avenue for entrepreneurs and investors alike.
FAQ
How can I start my own wholesale business?
To start one’s own wholesale business one is required to do market research, business plan, location, financing, staffing, marketing and lastly distribution and sales.
How can I get an FMCG license in India?
FMCG license is required to have various kinds of licenses depending on the product, a food product must be licensed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
What are the types of wholesalers?
Wholesale businesses are of various kinds like traditional wholesale businesses, online wholesale businesses, niche wholesale businesses, import/export wholesale businesses etc.
How to write a business plan on wholesale?
To create a detailed business plan one must outline the business model, marketing strategies, operational procedures, and long-term goals to guide the establishment and growth of the wholesale venture.
There were 192 applications submitted for the first round of the Karnataka government’s programme that aims to encourage young graduates to leave regular occupations in favour of starting their own businesses.
It is the intention of the Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Programme, which is part of the Department of Information Technology and Biotechnology (IT-BT), to provide a monthly grant of INR 25,000 for a period of twelve months to thirty innovators and entrepreneurs. This support would be provided over the course of the following three years. The “first call” for the programme was open from the 14th of July until the 13th of August 2024.
In response to a question from the media, the secretary of the Karnataka Information Technology and Business Technology department, Ekroop Caur, remarked that the reaction to the initiative has been good. This project has been praised by a large number of young graduates and innovators for providing an essential support system for early-stage entrepreneurs. It assists these individuals in overcoming financial obstacles and boosts their confidence to expand their businesses.
Providing Financial Support and Mentorship
Both financial support and mentoring would be provided to individuals who are interested in starting their own businesses. According to Caur, this would ensure that innovators are able to concentrate on creating and expanding their ideas without being hampered by immediate financial restrictions.
After the examination of the proposals that were received in the first round, Caur stated that there is a possibility that the programme will call for additional submissions in the event that it does not accomplish its goal of providing support to thirty innovators in the first round.
Setting a Benchmark for the Entire Nation
In an interview with the media, Karnataka IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge emphasised the programme’s distinctiveness, stating that it is likely the first of its kind in the country. The programme provides a stipend of INR 25,000 per month for a year to individuals who have resigned from their jobs to pursue entrepreneurship.
The NAIN 2.0 (New Age Innovation Network) programme and the ELEVATE programme are two more important efforts that the state government has adopted in order to encourage young people to start their own businesses, according to officials.
Students enrolled in higher education institutions are provided with a foundational platform known as NAIN 2.0, which provides them with a helpful framework to begin their journey as entrepreneurs.
Officials further explained that the purpose of ELEVATE is to provide grant-in-aid funding to the most innovative entrepreneurs, thereby assisting them in making the transition from concept to products that are ready for the market.
Ivan Viktorovich Safonov is a top manager and IT specialist. He has worked in consulting and gained experience in international business. The company that Ivan Safonov is currently developing, Orion Solutions, specializes in protecting digital profiles. Its clients include top managers and owners of Russian and international companies.
Ivan Safonov: Origin and Education
Ivan Safonov was born in 1984 in Moscow. His father was a doctor, and his mother was an engineer. From early childhood, he showed interest in information technology. He studied at Moscow school No. 91 in a class with advanced mathematics. Among the graduates of this educational institution are well-known scientists and IT specialists.
Ivan Safonov entered Moscow State University in 2001, overcoming high competition. He chose the Faculty of Computational Mathematics and Cybernetics. In 2006, he became a certified specialist in system programming and mathematics.
In 2007, Ivan Viktorovich Safonov graduated from the New Economic School. He defended his master’s thesis in economics.
Ivan Safonov: Career Track
Ivan Safonov and the Beginning of His Career in Consulting
Ivan Safonov began working in his fourth year of university. He implemented software to automate various processes in small businesses. He also developed a program to monitor the implementation of plans at a small industrial enterprise producing parts.
In 2007, Ivan Safonov took an entry-level position at the consulting organization Princeton Partners Group. Soon he was entrusted with leading a small team. They consulted companies from the fields of medicine, metallurgy, and real estate.
In 2008, Ivan Safonov became an employee of Rimera Group, which worked in the field of oilfield services and production of specialized equipment. Together with colleagues, he developed a plan for restructuring and long-term development of the Group. This contributed to the growth of its financial results.
In 2009-2010, Ivan Viktorovich Safonov headed the analytics and sales strategy department at Eksmo publishing house, a leader in the Russian book market. The department where the specialist worked analyzed various aspects of the company’s activities:
assortment,
efficiency of regional branches,
work of retail partners,
pricing policy,
quality of marketing campaigns.
Ivan Safonov, together with team members, created and implemented a loyalty program for retail chains. It allowed Eksmo books to occupy more space on store shelves.
In 2010-2011, Ivan Safonov worked in the Moscow division of Monitor Group, which was responsible for the business structure’s activities not only in Russia but also in other CIS countries. Both Russians and ex-pats worked in the branch. Monitor Group itself was among the top 5 leading consulting companies in the world. In January 2013, it was absorbed by an even larger market player – the audit corporation Deloitte.
Ivan Safonov was involved in a project in Kazakhstan. He led a team that developed a development strategy for a local mining company. The specialists prepared a plan for reforming the enterprise, which would help it increase capacity and expand its presence in the global market.
Ivan Safonov led several other projects. These included the digitalization of a large bank and the selection of the most promising innovations for investment, the development of an economic development plan for one of the subjects of the Russian Federation, the optimization of a media company’s portfolio, and the integration of an asset absorbed by a telecom corporation.
To further develop his professional skills, Ivan Viktorovich Safonov decided to get a business education. He chose one of the best specialized educational institutions in the world – The University of Chicago Booth School of Business. In 2013, he received an MBA diploma.
Ivan Safonov decided to work for a large American company to get closer acquainted with leading international business practices. In 2013, he passed a complex multi-stage selection process and was accepted into McKinsey & Company.
This is a world-famous consulting corporation with almost a century of history. Its clients include companies from the Fortune 500 list, government bodies of different countries, and non-profit structures. McKinsey consults them on various issues:
development,
organization,
operational activities,
technologies.
The consulting company where Ivan Safonov got a job today has over 130 offices in more than 65 countries and is part of the “big three” along with Bain and BCG. McKinsey is known for its systematic approach to solving business problems and strict analytical methods. The corporation hires graduates from the best universities in the world, and many of its former employees hold high positions in large corporations and governments.
At McKinsey, Ivan Safonov helped develop a business scaling strategy for a regional company. For this, he conducted a comprehensive study of the current situation and prospects of the target market, performed an assessment of the competitive environment. Then he segmented the potential customer base, formed an optimal portfolio of products and services, and developed mechanisms for cooperation with partners.
Ivan Viktorovich Safonov also drew up a plan for developing a product line for an insurance company. He formed an optimal set of offers, a pricing system, and distribution channels. As a result, the client’s customer base significantly expanded.
Ivan Safonov led a project to improve business processes in a large corporation and to optimize the customer complaint processing system. He also developed a detailed plan for merging two companies after their merger. He paid the most attention to assortment and distribution.
Ivan Safonov also applied his programming experience in a consulting company. He led a group of developers of a website for one of the clients. Under his leadership, scenarios for using the web resource were created, and the user interface and backend architecture were optimized.
At McKinsey, Ivan Safonov gained experience working with specialists from various industries and representatives of different countries with a wide variety of educational and career backgrounds. Thanks to this, he learned to seek and find non-standard solutions for complex tasks that arose during project implementation.
Return to Russia
Ivan Safonov, Director at BCG
In 2017, Ivan Safonov moved back to Russia, where he got a job at the Moscow office of Boston Consulting Group – another consulting company from the “big three”. One of the cases he had to solve in the new place was related to a large domestic bank. The latter was looking for new drivers for growth. Together with colleagues, Ivan Viktorovich Safonov took on the work of digitizing the credit structure and optimizing its work.
They helped simplify the decision-making system and made the bank more convenient for clients. For example, equipment for applying data to blank cards was sent to the regions. This allowed them to speed up the process of their registration. In addition, Ivan Safonov applied his programming experience to modernize the bank’s mobile application. This set of measures allowed the financial structure to significantly increase sales.
In 2020, Ivan Safonov left BCG.
Orion Solutions
In the late 2010s, the digital transformation of business and government structures became comprehensive. This brought both many advantages and new risks, related, in particular, to information security.
In 2020, a new project was initiated, authored by Ivan Safonov. “Orion Solutions”, the company he founded in Moscow, specializes in information security, or more precisely, in working with digital profiles. This is the name for the totality of all data about a person or organization that can be found on the Internet. Orion Solutions’ clients include top managers and owners of domestic and international companies, including people from the Forbes list.
The company founded by Ivan Safonov works with client images in Google and Yandex search engines in Russian, English, and other languages. It also provides services for passing compliance checks. These are especially important in areas such as finance, healthcare, data protection, and environmental protection. An effective compliance system helps organizations avoid legal and reputational risks, as well as financial losses.
Such a check for an individual includes the following aspects:
confirmation of the authenticity of provided documents and information;
finding out if the person is under sanctions or on blacklist;
analysis of reputation, criminal records, and administrative offenses;
assessment of the financial position, income sources, and credit history;
identification of possible conflicts of interest;
determining if the person is politically significant (PEP);
assessment of risks of money laundering and financing of any illegal activities.
This procedure is needed to minimize risks associated with hiring or cooperating with a certain person.
Ivan Safonov notes that in their work, compliance officers largely rely on data from search engines. And ignoring work on one’s digital profile can lead to them coming across inaccurate or outdated information. Which, in turn, reduces the chance of successfully passing the check.
Orion Solutions combines the experience of professionals from various fields: consulting, law, IT, and content creation. The company that Ivan Safonov is developing actively uses its own technological developments in the fields of AI, information security, big data analysis, and information flow management. All this allows Orion Solutions to maintain a leading position in its field.
Key takeaways
Educational Excellence: Ivan Safonov has a strong educational background, including degrees from Moscow State University, the New Economic School, and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
Diverse Professional Experience: Safonov has worked for several leading global consulting firms, including Princeton Partners Group, Monitor Group, McKinsey & Company, and Boston Consulting Group (BCG).
International Exposure: His work at McKinsey & Company in the USA provided Safonov with significant international experience, particularly in working with Fortune 500 companies.
Entrepreneurial Spirit: In 2020, Safonov founded his own company, Orion Solutions, leveraging his extensive experience in technology and consulting.
Focus on Digital Security: Orion Solutions specializes in protecting and managing digital profiles for both corporate and individual clients, addressing a growing need in the digital economy.
Comprehensive Services: The company offers services including digital profile management in search engines, compliance check assistance, and information security solutions.
High-Profile Clientele: Orion Solutions’ clients include top managers and owners of Russian and international companies, including individuals listed in Forbes.
Interdisciplinary Approach: The company combines expertise from various fields including consulting, law, IT, and content creation.
Technological Innovation: Orion Solutions uses proprietary technological developments in AI, information security, big data analysis, and information flow management.
Compliance Emphasis: The company helps clients navigate complex compliance checks, which are crucial in fields such as finance, healthcare, and data protection.
Early Career Success: Safonov began his professional journey while still in university, quickly progressing to leadership roles in various companies.
Adaptability: Throughout his career, Safonov has worked across various industries, demonstrating his ability to apply his skills in different contexts.
Ivan Safonov is a Russian top manager and IT specialist, born in 1984 in Moscow. He is the founder of Orion Solutions, a company specializing in digital profile protection.
What is Ivan Safonov’s educational background?
Ivan Safonov graduated from Moscow State University’s Faculty of Computational Mathematics and Cybernetics in 2006. He also holds a master’s degree in economics from the New Economic School (2007) and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business (2013).
What major companies has Ivan Safonov worked for?
Ivan Safonov has worked for several major companies, including Princeton Partners Group, Rimera Group, Eksmo publishing house, Monitor Group, McKinsey & Company, and Boston Consulting Group (BCG).
What is Orion Solutions?
Orion Solutions is a company founded by Ivan Safonov in 2020. It specializes in information security, particularly in managing and protecting digital profiles for individuals and organizations.
What services does Orion Solutions provide?
Orion Solutions works with client images in search engines like Google and Yandex, provides services for passing compliance checks, and offers digital profile management and protection.
Who are Orion Solutions’ clients?
Orion Solutions’ clients include top managers and owners of Russian and international companies, including individuals listed in Forbes.
What international experience does Ivan Safonov have?
Ivan Safonov worked in the USA for several years, including at McKinsey & Company, where he gained experience working with Fortune 500 companies and international teams.
What is a digital profile?
A digital profile is the totality of all data about a person or organization that can be found on the Internet.
Why is digital profile management important?
Digital profile management is crucial for passing compliance checks, maintaining a positive online reputation, and minimizing risks associated with inaccurate or outdated online information.
What technologies does Orion Solutions use?
Orion Solutions uses its own technological developments in AI, information security, big data analysis, and information flow management.
An LMS, or learning management system, is a software platform designed to create, manage, and deliver educational courses and training programs. If you’re aiming for the best learning outcomes in the workplace, an LMS is essential.
What to Look for in an LMS
Choosing the right LMS for employee training goes beyond just picking the most popular solution. It’s about finding that perfect fit that really aligns with your company’s unique needs.
Here’s what to look out for when picking an LMS:
Key Features and Capabilities
With around 75% of companies now creating custom learning programs to drive growth, it’s clear that choosing the right LMS is a strategic priority.
Look for one that offers comprehensive course management tools. These include the ability to create, customize, and deploy training modules easily. Additionally, the platform should support diverse content formats such as videos, slides, and interactive content.
You’ve also got to look into integration capabilities. Does it integrate seamlessly with your existing tools like HR systems, project management software, and collaboration platforms? About 52% of businesses have issues with their LMS failing to integrate properly, so don’t take this lightly.
Also, don’t overlook analytics and reporting features. You’ll want detailed insights into how employees are progressing. This means tracking who completes courses, how they perform, and even pinpointing areas where they struggle.
Ease of Use
An LMS should be easy to use. It should be intuitive, meaning employees can log in and take the courses without needing a walkthrough. If it’s too complicated, it could deter users. This defeats the purpose of the training.
Many LMS providers offer free trials. Take advantage of these to see how intuitive the software feels. Check if the learning curve is steep or if you can jump right in and start creating or taking courses.
Scalability and Flexibility
The LMS you settle for should be able to scale with you. This means it can handle an increase in users, more complex training modules, and expanding course catalogs without performance issues.
Flexibility is also key. Your LMS should adapt to various training scenarios. You should very easily use it when onboarding new hires when the focus shifts to compliance training, or for professional development courses for your seasoned employees.
Also, it should accommodate different learning styles and paces. That’s something that about 65% of HR professionals take to heart while designing courses. Some employees may prefer self-paced courses, while others thrive in structured environments.
Support and Training
The level of support provided by your LMS vendor can go a long way, especially during the initial setup and as you roll out new features or face technical challenges.
Reliable LMS providers offer support through various channels such as live chat, email, and phone. Additionally, they should provide access to a comprehensive knowledge base, including tutorials, FAQs, and user forums.
Training for your administrators and trainers is just as important. Ensure that the LMS vendor offers thorough training sessions so your team can make the most out of the system.
Here are some of the best tools you can check out:
TalentLMS
TalentLMS is designed with simplicity and flexibility in mind, making it a great choice for growing businesses. Its user-friendly interface means you can get started without extensive training or a manual.
The platform also enhances the learning experience with gamification features such as points, badges, and leaderboards. It supports AI-powered content creation and offers ready-made courses to streamline your training needs.
Ideal use
Ideal for SMBs and large enterprises, TalentLMS is cost-effective and scales with your growth. It’s perfect for those who need a quick setup and a solution that won’t require constant IT support.
Docebo
Docebo is designed for advanced employee training, focusing on continuous talent development and personalized growth opportunities. Its AI-powered features tailor the learning experience by recommending content based on each learner’s behavior and preferences. Additionally, Docebo excels in integrations and offers advanced reporting capabilities.
Ideal use
Docebo shines in larger organizations that need a robust and scalable LMS. It’s perfect if you’re looking to leverage cutting-edge tech to really enhance your workplace learning. The AI-driven personalization means your team gets training that’s not just effective but also engaging, keeping them hooked and improving knowledge retention rates.
Trainual
Sometimes, it feels like you need a playbook just to make sense of all the processes and SOPs at work.
Trainual makes it super easy to document and distribute all the nitty-gritty details of your organization’s processes, policies, and SOPs. It also has some slick onboarding tools and role-specific training paths that streamline how you train your team.
Ideal use
Trainual is a lifesaver for companies, especially startups and growing small businesses, that need to get everyone on the same page fast. It’s all about ensuring consistency across your company, so everyone knows exactly what they need to do and how to do it. This clarity can really boost compliance and performance.
Absorb LMS
Absorb LMS is designed to simplify training management with its AI-guided learning tools. It offers personalized learning paths that adapt based on user performance, roles, and learning styles, making the training experience dynamic and tailored.
Beyond basic course deployment, Absorb LMS enhances learner engagement through features like leaderboards, social and collaborative learning, and experience personalization.
Ideal use
Absorb LMS is well-known for its strong focus on healthcare compliance. It partners with specialized providers to offer healthcare-approved content. Plus, its easy integration with different HRIS systems makes it a great choice for companies needing effective compliance training.
Cypher Learning
If you’re looking for engaging and interactive courses, Cypher Learning should be on your radar. Its powerful content authoring tools, including the Cypher Copilot AI, allow instructors to design training tailored to learners’ specific needs.
The platform supports both skills-based and role-based training. What’s more, Cypher Learning’s assessment and reporting features facilitate a two-way learning experience by integrating learner feedback into course development.
Ideal use
This platform is ideal for both educational and corporate environments. It’s particularly effective if your focus is on professional development and enhancing skills across your team.
Closing Thoughts
Each platform has its unique strengths, whether it’s ease of use, scalability, or rich feature sets. Consider your team’s specific needs and try out a few options. Your perfect match is out there.
Saarthi is a reference application that was developed by the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to assist businesses in the process of developing their buyer-side applications that are highly customized.
The artificial intelligence-driven language translation tool known as Saarthi was developed in collaboration with Bhashini. In addition to providing members in the network with a comprehensive architecture that enables smooth integration with ONDC, it also delivers expanded multilingual capabilities for a digital commerce experience that is more accessible.
Developing Software That Supports Multiple Languages
Saarthi is a reference tool that assists network members in the process of developing buyer applications that have multilingual capabilities. The programme initially supports five languages, including Hindi, English, Marathi, Bangla, and Tamil.
According to Bhashini’s objectives, the application will eventually be able to support all 22 languages. Consequently, this means that businesses are able to provide customers with a buying experience that is both personalised and localised, removing barriers related to language and increasing accessibility for people all throughout India.
What is Bhashini?
The objective of the “Digital India BHASHINI” initiative is to facilitate the creation of content in Indian languages, as well as to enable easy access to the internet and digital services in Indian languages, including access obtained through speech. It was put into operation at Gandhinagar, Gujarat, during the month of August 2022. Bhasha Interface for India is what Bashini is an abbreviation for.
In order to provide digital access and digital empowerment in an Aatmanirbhar Bharat, it makes use of natural language technologies to enable a diversified ecosystem filled with contributors, collaborating entities, and citizens. This is done with the intention of overcoming language barriers.
Features of Saarthi
Saarthi’s multilingual features, which include real-time translation, transliteration, and speech recognition, make it possible for enterprises to broaden their market reach. This, in turn, enables them to enter new regions and improve the number of customers they acquire.
It is important to note that the user-friendly and region-specific experience can also result in increased conversion rates and decreased support costs, which in turn can streamline operations and increase income.
In addition to this, the Saarthi application was developed with the goal of achieving scalability and simplicity of integration.
Views of the Partners
According to T Koshy, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ONDC, the introduction of Saarthi is a significant step forward in their journey towards a digital commerce landscape that is more inclusive. Through the provision of a reference application that enables businesses to develop buyer applications in several languages, the team is succeeding in removing obstacles caused by language and opening up new opportunities for engagement and expansion. The ONDC is committed to democratising access to eCommerce, and this programme coincides with that goal. It ensures that businesses of all sizes can engage with customers throughout India’s varied linguistic spectrum.
The fact that Bhashini is working with ONDC on Saarthi, according to Amitabh Nag, the Bhashini’s Chief Executive Officer, demonstrates the company’s commitment to addressing linguistic barriers in the realm of digital commerce. The objective of Bhashini is to accomplish the goal of making multilingual voice communication a universal medium, thereby breaking down language barriers in a variety of sectors beyond text and graphics. This cutting-edge language technology was developed by the company with the intention of enabling businesses to develop applications that accurately reflect the vast linguistic diversity that exists in India. By working together, the company is not only increasing the accessibility of online shopping but also establishing a new benchmark for inclusiveness in the digital marketplace.
The proposal of the Ministry of Power to modify the scheme of budgetary assistance for the cost of Enabling Infrastructure for Hydro Electric Projects (HEP) with a total outlay of INR 12461 crore was approved by the Union Cabinet which was led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The framework would be put into action between the fiscal years 2024-25 and 2031-32.
Several policy initiatives have been taken by the Government of India in order to overcome the challenges that are preventing the growth of hydropower. These issues include steep terrain, a lack of infrastructure, and other similar issues. In March 2019, the Cabinet approved a number of measures with the purpose of promoting the hydro power sector and making it more viable. These measures include announcing large hydropower projects as Renewable Energy sources, Hydro Power Purchase Obligations (HPOs), tariff rationalisation measures through escalating tariffs, budgetary support for flood moderation in storage HEP, and budgetary support for the cost of enabling infrastructure, which includes the construction of roads and bridges.
To Facilitate the Expedited Construction of Hydroelectric Projects
For the purpose of expediting the development of hydroelectric projects, the government has expanded the scope of the budgetary support for enabling infrastructure to include four additional items beyond the construction of roads and bridges. These include the following: (i) transmission lines from the powerhouse to the nearest pooling point, including the upgrade of the pooling substation of the State / Central Transmission Utility; (ii) ropeways; (iii) railway sidings; and (iv) communication Central funding is also available under this programme to improve preexisting roads and bridges that connect to the project.
Secondly, the Indian government has allocated funds to cover the cost of enabling infrastructure. This will happen when the Director of the Intelligence Bureau (DIB)/PIB has assessed the money and the competent authority has given its approval according to the current regulations.
In addition, the plan is set to roll out from FY 2024-25 to FY 2031-32 with a total expenditure of INR 12,461 crore, which will cover a cumulative generation capacity of approximately 31,350 MW. Hydropower projects with a capacity of more than 25 MW, whether they are publicly or privately funded, will be a part of the plan. As long as the project allocation is open and honest, this plan will work for any type of Pumped Storage Project (PSP), including Captive/Merchant PSPs. Under the plan, up to 15,000 MW of PSP capacity will be supported.
Benefits
Improved infrastructure in remote and hilly project locations, faster development of hydroelectric projects, and a large number of direct jobs for locals would all result from this revised scheme. Indirect jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities would also be generated through transportation, tourism, and small-scale businesses. It would motivate new investments in the hydropower industry and speed up the completion of existing projects.
In the presence of Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra, the National Health Authority (NHA) and IIT Kanpur signed an MoU on 11 September 2024. Both the Director of IIT Kanpur, Prof. Manindra Agrawal, and L. S. Changsan, Additional Secretary of the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and CEO of NHA, signed the MoU.
A consent management system for research under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) will be developed by IIT Kanpur as part of this MoU. The platform will include a quality-preserving database, an open benchmarking platform for comparing and validating AI models, and a federated learning platform across various machine learning model pipelines. After that, NHA will run and oversee the platform, releasing AI’s vast potential to improve health outcomes.
At the event, Apurva Chandra praised the NHA and IIT Kanpur for signing the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission’s crucial MoU, which would establish a public, open benchmarking platform for evaluating and certifying AI models.
Applauding this development, Davinder Bhasin, Founder & Managing Director, One Health Assist stated, “This is a pivotal step as the healthcare industry is on the brink of a digital revolution. Therefore, such strategic partnerships will not only play a crucial role in driving that transformation but will indeed enhance the entire ecosystem. AI-powered solutions do hold the potential to radically change healthcare delivery, making it more efficient, precise, and patient-centric.”
“By tackling the pressing challenges of India’s healthcare system, particularly in rural and underserved regions, AI can bridge critical gaps in diagnostics and treatment. This collaboration will empower both the public and private sectors to unite in building a more inclusive and equitable healthcare infrastructure,” he added further.
How This Mou Could Be a Game Changer
The alliance aims to use data in order to improve health outcomes. Using the ABDM’s data, it will provide a public standard for artificial intelligence models used in disease quantification and diagnosis.
In order to clarify this further, Chandra said that this partnership will address one of the most pressing problems with AI models in healthcare: the accessibility and accuracy of disease diagnostic data. More accurate diagnoses and better patient outcomes are possible when trustworthy data is readily available in a clinical context.
Researchers will have access to high-quality data and a platform to collaborate with other stakeholders of the health ecosystem through this partnership, which is a huge step forward in using AI for healthcare in India. The partnership will also ensure that all data privacy concerns are addressed. Additionally, it will accelerate the creation of AI-driven healthcare solutions that tackle important health issues.
As Changsan put it, this MoU will use artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to fortify digital public health infrastructure, setting a new standard for digital public health commodities.
Use of This Platform Will Have Several Advantages
Consumers will have more faith in AI models used in healthcare applications if this platform lets their providers do real out-of-set validation and sets publicly verifiable performance standards. Researchers will have an easier time accessing and analysing health data on the platform, which will solve the problem of data fragmentation in our nation. This is all while the data remains in the possession of data fiduciaries. Without sacrificing transparency or innovation, this platform will safeguard healthcare data—which is notoriously expensive to acquire—from statistical dredging.
Prithvi Durai
