Emerging modes of business refer to new or evolving ways in which businesses operate, driven largely by advancements in technology, changes in consumer behaviour, and global economic shifts. Here are some notable emerging modes of business: E-commerce and Online Platforms: The rapid growth of online retail platforms such as Amazon, Alibaba, and Shopify have transformed how businesses sell products and services. E-commerce enables businesses to reach global markets, operate 24/7, and personalize customer experiences through data analytics. Subscription-Based Models: Companies like Netflix, Spotify, and Microsoft Office 365 have popularized subscription-based business models. This approach offers customers ongoing access to products or services for a recurring fee, ensuring predictable revenue streams for businesses. Sharing Economy: Platforms like Uber, Airbnb, and TaskRabbit exemplify the sharing economy model. These businesses facilitate peer-to-peer transactions, allowing individuals to monetize underutilized assets (such as cars and homes) or offer services (like freelance work) in exchange for payment. Blockchain and Cryptocurrency: Blockchain technology is revolutionizing industries beyond finance, including supply chain management, healthcare, and real estate. Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum provide decentralized payment systems that bypass traditional banking intermediaries. Remote Work and Virtual Teams: Accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, remote work has become mainstream. Businesses are increasingly adopting virtual collaboration tools (e.g., Slack, Zoom) and flexible work arrangements, allowing employees to work from anywhere. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation: AI-driven technologies are enhancing business operations through automation, predictive analytics, and personalized customer interactions. Chatbots, predictive maintenance, and data-driven decision-making are becoming integral to modern business strategies. Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): There's a growing emphasis on sustainable practices and CSR among businesses. Companies are integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into their strategies to align with consumer expectations and regulatory requirements. Mobile-First Strategies: With the widespread adoption of smartphones, businesses are prioritizing mobile-friendly websites, apps, and marketing strategies. Mobile payment solutions (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Wallet) are also reshaping how transactions are conducted. Crowdfunding and Alternative Financing: Platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo enable businesses to raise capital directly from individual investors. Peer-to-peer lending and venture capital funding are providing alternative sources of financing outside traditional banking channels. Personalization and Customer Experience: Businesses are leveraging data analytics and AI to deliver personalized customer experiences. From targeted advertising to customized product recommendations, personalization enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty. These emerging modes of business reflect ongoing shifts in consumer behaviour, technological advancements, and the evolving regulatory landscape. Embracing these trends can position businesses to innovate, adapt, and thrive in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.

Introduction to Business At its core, a business is an organization or entity engaged in commercial, industrial, or professional activities with the primary goal of generating profit. However, the concept of "business" encompasses much more than just making money. Here are some key aspects: Value Creation: Businesses create value by providing products or services that satisfy customer needs or solve their problems. This value can take various forms, such as convenience, quality, innovation, or affordability. Exchange: Business involves the exchange of goods, services, or money between parties. This exchange can occur between businesses (B2B) or between businesses and consumers (B2C). Risk and Reward: Business activities involve taking risks, such as investing capital, developing new products, or entering new markets, in the hope of achieving financial rewards. Managing risks effectively is crucial for long-term success. Innovation: Businesses drive innovation by developing new products, services, processes, or business models. Innovation helps businesses stay competitive, adapt to changing market conditions, and create value for customers. Employment: Businesses create jobs and contribute to economic growth by hiring employees, contractors, and service providers. They provide opportunities for individuals to earn income, develop skills, and pursue career advancement. Legal and Regulatory Environment: Businesses operate within a framework of laws, regulations, and industry standards that govern their activities. Compliance with these requirements is essential for maintaining legality, ethical standards, and social responsibility. Customer Focus: Successful businesses prioritize customer satisfaction and strive to build strong relationships with their customers. Understanding customer needs, preferences, and feedback is critical for developing products and services that meet market demand. Financial Management: Businesses must manage their finances effectively to ensure profitability, liquidity, and long-term sustainability. This includes budgeting, accounting, financial planning, and investment decisions. Social Impact: Businesses have a broader impact on society beyond their economic activities. They can contribute to social welfare through philanthropy, corporate social responsibility (CSR), ethical business practices, and environmental sustainability initiatives. Globalization: In an increasingly interconnected world, businesses operate across national borders, engaging in international trade, investment, and collaboration. Globalization presents opportunities for growth and expansion but also challenges related to cultural differences, regulatory compliance, and geopolitical risks. Overall, business encompasses a wide range of activities and functions aimed at creating value, driving innovation, and meeting the needs of customers, employees, shareholders, and society at large.

This proceedings book captures a wide range of timely themes for readers to be able to foresee the digital era's impact on English teaching in non-English speaking countries. English used in the global environment, the frequent mobile communication, and the use of AI-based translators are bringing about dramatic changes in our English language learning and teaching. Who can provide us the wisdom to know what to do? Those scholars going through these complex environmental changes! A collection of puzzle pieces may bring us a better contour for the future than a perfectly edited book. It's indeed a pleasure reading these insightful pieces to gain wisdom for the future of ELT practices in global contexts.