Suren Rodrigues, how did you get started in the telecommunications industry? What inspired you to join this industry?
Even in the hype of the dot come era, telecom. companies stood out, with their promise of innovation and change. When I started out of college, I wanted to be part of this exciting industry. Telecommunications is the backbone of the modern internet revolution, improving people’s lives in such diverse areas as education, work and social environments, banking, medicine, commerce, and trade. It has profoundly changed modern life (for the most part, positively), like almost no other technology.
How do you add value?
I strive to understand our customers’ business problem thoroughly, and subsequently deliver high-value, scalable, software solutions, that will help our customers generate profitable revenue.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time that you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle it?
Technology can encompass complicated domains, which can appear formidable to people starting out. It took a lot of determination, self-development and learning to get myself familiar with carrier-grade global telecommunication networks. Of course, learning has been (and will be), an ongoing experience.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
Perseverance, Curiosity, Love-of-learning, and optimism have helped me on the journey.
What are you most excited about?
Being part of (however small) the global technological and renaissance movement, which has lifted millions out of poverty, and the further promise of improving lives globally.
What does the future hold in the Software and Product Space? What are you excited about?
In every business or product today, the expectation is that the cost of doing business will continue to drop, and the value delivered should continue to rise. Disruptors will force positive evolution, in the industry.
What business books have inspired you?
The Speed of Trust – Stephen Covey. He is a phenomenal and inspirational writer.
Even though this next book is not a business book in the traditional sense, it’s a must-read by a renowned author and appeals to me as a scientist. At the end of the day, facts and optimism will prevail.
Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress – Steven Pinker
And Finally – a well-written book about the possibilities and pitfalls of the new AI age.
Life 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence – Max Tegmark