ARTECULATE
No Result
View All Result
  • News
  • Premium
  • Features
    Insights from APAN56: A Comprehensive Look at 5 Days of Collaborative Excellence

    Insights from APAN56: A Comprehensive Look at 5 Days of Collaborative Excellence

    Almaden International

    Inside Almaden Towers: A New Horizon for Collaborative Innovation

    CodeGen | Culture | Innovation | Sri Lanka

    Transforming Holidays and Building Electric Sports Cars: Discovering the Dynamic Culture of CodeGen

    PickMe Pass and Uber One: Exploring Sri Lanka’s Mobility Subscriptions

    PickMe Pass and Uber One: Exploring Sri Lanka’s Mobility Subscriptions

    Gapstars | AI

    Embracing the Future: Highlights from Gapstars AI Day Exploring its Limitless Possibilities

    Creative Software | CSR | Together We Care

    Together We Care: A Better Sri Lanka through Impactful Engagement for Social Good by Creative Software

    Indonesia’s Baskit Is Empowering Traditional Distribution Businesses With Technology and Commercial Support

    Indonesia’s Baskit Is Empowering Traditional Distribution Businesses With Technology and Commercial Support

    Insights from Dr. Dhammika Elkaduwe: The First Sri Lankan Recipient of the ACM Software System Award

    Insights from Dr. Dhammika Elkaduwe: The First Sri Lankan Recipient of the ACM Software System Award

    Shaping the Future: How LankaPay Enables Customer-Driven Innovation in Sri Lanka’s Financial Sector

    Shaping the Future: How LankaPay Enables Customer-Driven Innovation in Sri Lanka’s Financial Sector

    PetParker helps Pets Spend More Time with Their Loving Owners

    PetParker helps Pets Spend More Time with Their Loving Owners

  • Startups
  • Events
  • Hotpicks
  • Community
    Unlock The Secrets of Startup Funding with Founders Institute Sri Lanka

    Unlock The Secrets of Startup Funding with Founders Institute Sri Lanka

    The RiskSense Story: Building a Cyber Security Product

    The RiskSense Story: Building a Cyber Security Product

    Negotiating to Thrive – Lessons from a Hostage Negotiator

    Negotiating to Thrive – Lessons from a Hostage Negotiator

    First wildlife travel-based management lessons book by Sarath Perera to be launched

    First wildlife travel-based management lessons book by Sarath Perera to be launched

    Hack:bit 2020 is bringing the ideas of students and undergraduates to life

    Hack:bit 2020 is bringing the ideas of students and undergraduates to life

    ESCaPe 2020: University of Peradeniya’s Engineering Students Conference

    ESCaPe 2020: University of Peradeniya’s Engineering Students Conference

    Trending Tags

    • Contributor
    • Billboard
    SUBSCRIBE
    • News
    • Premium
    • Features
      Insights from APAN56: A Comprehensive Look at 5 Days of Collaborative Excellence

      Insights from APAN56: A Comprehensive Look at 5 Days of Collaborative Excellence

      Almaden International

      Inside Almaden Towers: A New Horizon for Collaborative Innovation

      CodeGen | Culture | Innovation | Sri Lanka

      Transforming Holidays and Building Electric Sports Cars: Discovering the Dynamic Culture of CodeGen

      PickMe Pass and Uber One: Exploring Sri Lanka’s Mobility Subscriptions

      PickMe Pass and Uber One: Exploring Sri Lanka’s Mobility Subscriptions

      Gapstars | AI

      Embracing the Future: Highlights from Gapstars AI Day Exploring its Limitless Possibilities

      Creative Software | CSR | Together We Care

      Together We Care: A Better Sri Lanka through Impactful Engagement for Social Good by Creative Software

      Indonesia’s Baskit Is Empowering Traditional Distribution Businesses With Technology and Commercial Support

      Indonesia’s Baskit Is Empowering Traditional Distribution Businesses With Technology and Commercial Support

      Insights from Dr. Dhammika Elkaduwe: The First Sri Lankan Recipient of the ACM Software System Award

      Insights from Dr. Dhammika Elkaduwe: The First Sri Lankan Recipient of the ACM Software System Award

      Shaping the Future: How LankaPay Enables Customer-Driven Innovation in Sri Lanka’s Financial Sector

      Shaping the Future: How LankaPay Enables Customer-Driven Innovation in Sri Lanka’s Financial Sector

      PetParker helps Pets Spend More Time with Their Loving Owners

      PetParker helps Pets Spend More Time with Their Loving Owners

    • Startups
    • Events
    • Hotpicks
    • Community
      Unlock The Secrets of Startup Funding with Founders Institute Sri Lanka

      Unlock The Secrets of Startup Funding with Founders Institute Sri Lanka

      The RiskSense Story: Building a Cyber Security Product

      The RiskSense Story: Building a Cyber Security Product

      Negotiating to Thrive – Lessons from a Hostage Negotiator

      Negotiating to Thrive – Lessons from a Hostage Negotiator

      First wildlife travel-based management lessons book by Sarath Perera to be launched

      First wildlife travel-based management lessons book by Sarath Perera to be launched

      Hack:bit 2020 is bringing the ideas of students and undergraduates to life

      Hack:bit 2020 is bringing the ideas of students and undergraduates to life

      ESCaPe 2020: University of Peradeniya’s Engineering Students Conference

      ESCaPe 2020: University of Peradeniya’s Engineering Students Conference

      Trending Tags

      • Contributor
      • Billboard
      No Result
      View All Result
      ARTECULATE
      No Result
      View All Result

      Empowering Conscious Entrepreneurs and Transforming Sri Lankan Tourism: The GLX Digital Evolver Programme

      Arteculate Arteculate
      September 16, 2021
      · 6 mins read
      Empowering Conscious Entrepreneurs and Transforming Sri Lankan Tourism: The GLX Digital Evolver Programme

      From L to R: Randhula de Silva - Founder & CEO of GLX, Emma De Silva - Program Jedi at GLX, Shenali de Silva - Program Manager at GLX

      Share on Facebook Share on LinkedinShare on Whatsapp

      The pearl of the Indian Ocean – Sri Lanka has always been a world-renowned travel destination. With numerous visitors every year, the island’s tourism industry is an integral part of its economy. It is the country’s third-largest source of foreign income and employs almost 11% of its working population. However, the tourism sector has taken a severe hit following the Easter Terror attacks in 2019 and the COVID-19 pandemic soon after. While some may look at it as a setback to the industry, it may also be viewed as a wake-up call for Sri Lanka to adapt future proof approaches and attract new-age travellers through technology and eco-consciousness. 

      You may also like

      LEARN Hosts APAN56 in Sri Lanka: Uniting the Asia-Pacific Community for Collaborative Innovation

      LEARN Hosts APAN56 in Sri Lanka: Uniting the Asia-Pacific Community for Collaborative Innovation

      August 14, 2023
      Saison Capital

      Saison Capital Reveals its Asia-Forward Footprint Across Web3 Ecosystem and Token Fund

      April 11, 2023
      Gapstars | TukTuk

      Tech for Sustainable Tourism: Gapstars as the Technology Partner for Tuk Tuk Tournament 2022

      November 30, 2022
      GEW - Global Entrepreneurship Week

      Global Entrepreneurship Week Sri Lanka 2022 Has Begun!

      November 16, 2022

      Good Life X – Creating good growth 

      “Sri Lanka is not tapping into the fullest potential of all the abundance it has to offer, and we aim to change this narrative,” introduces Founder & CEO of Good Life X (GLX), Randhula de Silva. Originally a development project under GiZ in 2018, Good Life X has transitioned from an Accelerator Programme into a private entity that catalyses growth for both startups and SMEs in Sri Lanka. “GLX strives to be the bridge between the luscious resources Sri Lanka has, the booming possibilities around innovation and entrepreneurship, and cater to what the conscious consumers of the world are demanding,” says Randhula.

      As such, GLX hosts a series of programmes to provide customised solutions for businesses to accelerate their growth through innovative solutions. The Digital Evolver Programme by GLX is one such initiative that serves as a launchpad for entrepreneurs to replenish the tourism sector in Sri Lanka and provide a window of opportunity to make a stronger comeback. Throughout the programme, companies improve their business resilience and sustainability practices, the right digital strategies and use storytelling for their benefit under the tutelage of 10 esteemed experts.

      Digital Evolver – A Boost to SME Tourism

      Good Life X | Sri Lankan Tourism
      The experts supporting the companies of the GLX Digital Evolver programme

      The Digital Evolver Programme is a 12-week programme implemented by Good Life X (GLX) in collaboration with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) Sri Lanka and funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Designed to enable local travel and tourism businesses to ride the rapid digitisation wave and utilise this knowledge and tools to meet their short and long term business objectives and create net positive impact as a whole.

      The massive benefits of going digital

      To see the true impact of the GLX Digital Evolver, one only needs to look at how the companies that participated have transformed. Many of these efforts can be categorized under 4 pillars – Business Operations, Channel Management, Branding, Digital Marketing. The common thread between these pillars was a detailed evaluation by the experts who then capitalized on digital technologies to lead the companies to revamp their operations to attract the new age traveler.

      Rediscover Sri Lanka, which offers bicycle tours around the island became the first organization in Sri Lanka to adopt the TrekkSoft platform. A feat made possible by the Digital Evolver programme that now allows it digitally manage reservations, process payments, and more.

      One example of this success is Rediscover Sri Lanka, which like many other tourism companies in the programme was keen to directly engage with their customers. However, they were held back with antiquated manual processes. The experts of the Digital Evolver Programme strengthened its processes for the digital age by implementing a Swiss cloud-based platform called TrekkSoft. Being one of the first organisations in Sri Lanka to adopt the platform, Rediscover Sri Lanka can digitally manage reservations, take online bookings, process digital payments, and carry out channel management seamlessly. 

      Another example of this success is Gileemale Retreat. With a rich history of over 300 years, the Digital Evolver programme was the key to its next chapter of growth. Prior to its acceptance, it had a minor digital presence and no online distribution strategy. Working with the experts of the programme, Gileemale underwent a rapid re-branding campaign that gave the historic property a fresh new look and meaning. Afterwards, the experts helped the property get listed on Expedia, Airbnb, and Booking.com. Before long, Gileemale received its first online booking! 

      Good Life X | Sri Lankan Tourism
      Working with the experts of the Digital Evolver programme, it launched an innovative line-up of virtual kayaking tours, adapted to the domestic market, and reworked its social media strategy.

      Another example is how Eco-Grip, a local tour operator that was primarily reliant on international tourists adapted to the pandemic. With global travel grinding to a halt, the company saw 95% of its revenue disappear overnight. Fighting for its survival, the Digital Evolver programme supported it innovate and pivot to the new normal. Eco-Grip went on to launch an innovative line-up of virtual kayaking tours, adapted its existing tours for the domestic market, and reworked its social media strategy to generate more sales which led them to a fully booked out season ahead! 

      Across the programme, many of the companies underwent a transformation to attract their reach into new markets. Jungle Beach Ahungalla refreshed its look by bringing well-being to the forefront to attract mindful tourists keen on experiencing nature, inner healing and energizing activities. Infinity Vacations was able to introduce a new brand called That’s a Holiday that caters to millennial and Gen-Z travellers and offers a 24/7 online itinerary building service. The Travel Concierge also worked with the experts of the programme to update their existing website to cater and expand into the B2C market.

      Empowering communities through authenticity

      Good Life X | Sri Lankan Tourism

      Ultimately, the efforts by GLX through the Digital Evolver programme is empowering local communities across Sri Lanka. Speaking to Arteculate, Shenali pointed to Gileemale Retreat, which offers authentic Sri Lankan cuisine made with ingredients sourced from nearby village farmers. Similarly, Rediscover Sri Lanka offers bicycle tours across the island to explore hidden hotspots and experiences with local communities. 

      “Having some plain tea at a local shop, interacting with local communities and drawing from their daily way of life. These are the types of immersive experiences being offered by these companies.,” said Shenali and continued, “Every company in a GLX programme is actively working on making their businesses and experiences planet and people-friendly.  It’s not just using metal straws but going beyond that.” 

      This strong focus on regenerative practices results in a powerful ripple effect. By enabling these companies to grow, GLX is empowering their local communities to embrace and continue practices that make a positive impact overall. In turn, helping improve their quality of life. Add it all up, and it can potentially drive a transformation of the tourism industry, where conscious and authentic local experiences are the norms.

      In addition to Digital Evolver, GLX is also the proud initiator of several other programmes enabling SME’s and startups to reach their full potential in Sri Lanka. “By adding value through the simple act of reshaping thought patterns, and bringing in innovation and novelty to sectors that are overlooked, we are nudging the Sri Lankan economy to take off in the right direction and make ourselves future proof,” states Randhula. GLX is currently in the process of setting stones for its new chapter in this journey, taking its expertise and business models global in the upcoming months. 

      ShareShareSend
      Previous Post

      Explorer Series 2.0: Your Introductory Guide to GraphQL

      Next Post

      Inside Ascentic: The Sri Lankans Helping Sweden Embrace Innovation at One of the Best Workplaces in Asia

      Arteculate

      Arteculate

      Arteculate is your guide to the Asian tech industry. We give you unparalleled insights, accurate, local tech news, thoughtful features and sometimes scathing opinions on where things are headed. Stay tuned for the best of Asia!

      Recommended Stories

      LEARN Hosts APAN56 in Sri Lanka: Uniting the Asia-Pacific Community for Collaborative Innovation
      News

      LEARN Hosts APAN56 in Sri Lanka: Uniting the Asia-Pacific Community for Collaborative Innovation

      August 14, 2023
      Saison Capital
      News

      Saison Capital Reveals its Asia-Forward Footprint Across Web3 Ecosystem and Token Fund

      April 11, 2023
      Gapstars | TukTuk
      News

      Tech for Sustainable Tourism: Gapstars as the Technology Partner for Tuk Tuk Tournament 2022

      November 30, 2022
      GEW - Global Entrepreneurship Week
      News

      Global Entrepreneurship Week Sri Lanka 2022 Has Begun!

      November 16, 2022
      PickMe Pass
      News

      PickMe Launches PickMe Pass: Enjoy Unlimited FREE Delivery on all your Orders!

      November 16, 2022
      Gapstars | Great Place to Work | Technology | Culture
      News

      Gapstars Continues To Break Records: Among the Top 100 Workplaces in Asia

      November 10, 2022
      Leave Comment

      Recommended Stories

      Insights from APAN56: A Comprehensive Look at 5 Days of Collaborative Excellence

      Insights from APAN56: A Comprehensive Look at 5 Days of Collaborative Excellence

      September 20, 2023
      Almaden International

      Inside Almaden Towers: A New Horizon for Collaborative Innovation

      August 31, 2023
      LEARN Hosts APAN56 in Sri Lanka: Uniting the Asia-Pacific Community for Collaborative Innovation

      LEARN Hosts APAN56 in Sri Lanka: Uniting the Asia-Pacific Community for Collaborative Innovation

      August 14, 2023
      CodeGen | Culture | Innovation | Sri Lanka

      Transforming Holidays and Building Electric Sports Cars: Discovering the Dynamic Culture of CodeGen

      August 7, 2023
      PickMe Pass and Uber One: Exploring Sri Lanka’s Mobility Subscriptions

      PickMe Pass and Uber One: Exploring Sri Lanka’s Mobility Subscriptions

      July 18, 2023
      Gapstars | AI

      Embracing the Future: Highlights from Gapstars AI Day Exploring its Limitless Possibilities

      July 7, 2023

      Popular Stories

      • Coca Cola and Avocado: A Partnership Rewarding Food Experiences

        Coca Cola and Avocado: A Partnership Rewarding Food Experiences

        0 shares
        Share 0 Tweet 0
      • Rhoda: The all-electric Sri Lankan Roadster

        0 shares
        Share 0 Tweet 0
      • Spotify Expands Into Sri Lanka: Exploring What It Has To Offer

        0 shares
        Share 0 Tweet 0
      • Leveraging the Power of AI: How EBI is Building a Digitally Inclusive Sri Lanka

        0 shares
        Share 0 Tweet 0
      • The DirectPay Story: Building a Virtual Bank One Digital Brick at a Time

        0 shares
        Share 0 Tweet 0
      No Result
      View All Result
      • News
      • Premium
      • Features
      • Startups
      • Events
      • Hotpicks
      • Community
      • Contributor
      • Billboard

      © 2020 Arteculate™ All Rights Reserved.

      Are you sure want to unlock this post?
      Unlock left : 0
      Are you sure want to cancel subscription?