At the recent Business Today’s Most Political Women 2024 event, Prativa Mohapatra, Vice President and Managing Director, Adobe India, spoke about how technology has become an irreplaceable driver for business growth and individual empowerment. During a panel discussion, she highlighted that today, technology is not just a support function, but the heart of any business, and also an important factor in women’s empowerment.

“Today, every business is a technology business,” said Mohapatra, reflecting the transformative impact of technology across all sectors. She highlighted that technology is no longer just a background tool but is at the very heart of business operations. According to her, it is difficult to find a sector that does not integrate technology within it, determining not only services and products, but also how businesses operate and compete.

Mohapatra also highlighted the change in how technology has redefined the concept of “enablers” over the years, especially for women. “Twenty years ago, when I was asked about work-life balance and my supports, it was often family support, such as help from a mother-in-law or a mother. full-time housekeeper,” she said. Fast forward to today, and she described how these enablers have evolved from family and work policies to tools and technologies.

“Today, I think the enablers are the tools, technologies and AI in everyone’s hands. “Women can actually become much more productive by becoming familiar with some of the tools at our disposal, whether it’s helping their children with their school exams, ordering food or throwing a party,” Mohapatra explained. She encouraged women to keep abreast of new technologies that can free up their time for more meaningful tasks and help them excel in their careers.

The rise of AI and other technologies has not only redefined efficiency, but also expanded the scope of opportunities available to women to achieve their goals, both at work and at home. For Mohapatra, technology has become the “big, big tool” for women, allowing them to focus on what really matters by leveraging digital tools to make everyday tasks easier and faster.

Mohapatra urged women not to “fall behind” in adopting these technologies, emphasizing that the productivity gains they offer can be transformative. “The nature of the enablers has actually changed. So grab them. Don’t get left behind,” she said, emphasizing the importance of technological mastery in modern life.

Her message was clear: technology is the bridge that allows women to overcome traditional barriers, unlocking their personal and professional potential. As every business becomes more technology-driven, women who adopt and adapt to these tools are in a prime position to take advantage of new opportunities and lead.