In an era where technology is rapidly transforming our homes into smart sanctuaries, Nishan Fernando stands at the forefront, steering Shinrai Lanka Group of Companies toward innovation and growth. As the Chairman and Managing Director, his vision and daring decisions have shaped Shinrai Lanka (Private) Limited, propelling it into a realm where home automation meets sophistication.
Nishan’s journey at Shinrai Lanka is marked by bold decisions and strategic foresight, particularly in navigating the challenges of the home automation industry. In response to the question about daring decisions shaping Shinrai’s direction, he recounts the moment when the company embarked on a new venture amidst the uncertainties of a global lockdown in 2020.
The decision to venture into a new segment of home automation was not without its risks. As Nishan recalls, the company faced the daunting task of managing existing stock while exploring opportunities in a completely unfamiliar territory. With other products gradually depleting due to supply chain disruptions, Shinrai found itself at a crossroads, compelled to take a leap of faith into uncharted waters.
Despite the inherent risks, Nishan and his team forged ahead, leveraging their resilience and adaptability to navigate the challenges. The decision to invest significantly in branding, marketing, and infrastructure underscored Shinrai’s commitment to establishing its presence in the emerging market of home automation. This bold move not only demonstrated Shinrai’s willingness to embrace innovation but also showcased its ability to pivot in the face of adversity.
As shipments arrived during the lockdown, Shinrai faced the task of introducing products from a completely new segment to an audience unfamiliar with such technology. However, their perseverance paid off as they secured their first major projects, signalling a promising start to their venture into home automation.
Despite encountering setbacks along the way, including notable failures, Nishan remained steadfast in his commitment to steering Shinrai towards success. The challenges posed by the introduction of new technology were compounded by the unfamiliarity of staff and customers with the intricacies of home automation. However, his leadership and strategic direction enabled Shinrai to weather the storm and emerge stronger than before.
When prompted to discuss a time when he introduced pioneering technology within the smart home sector, Nishan delved into Shinrai’s recent endeavours in revolutionizing home automation.
Reflecting on the company’s initiatives, he shed light on Shinrai’s exploration of the Zigbee standard in home automation, which primarily entails wireless automation originating from China. While acknowledging the functionality of such products, Nishan highlighted the inherent limitations, particularly in comparison to more comprehensive automation systems.
Recognizing the need for a more robust and versatile solution, Shinrai embarked on discussions with a renowned Swedish-Swiss multinational corporation headquartered in Västerås, Sweden, and Zürich, Switzerland. As a leader in home automation technologies in the world, this brand adheres to the global automation standard known as KNX, renowned for its functionality and reliability.
Underscoring the significance of certification in KNX engineering, Nishan emphasized Shinrai’s dedication to upholding industry standards and delivering excellence in every project. Obtaining certification from ABB India in November of the previous year marked a significant milestone for Shinrai, paving the way for the implementation of advanced automation solutions in their projects.
Nishan’s strategic foresight and commitment to quality are evident in Shinrai’s recent projects, including a significant value, showcasing the company’s capacity to handle large-scale automation installations with precision and efficiency. Additionally, Shinrai’s collaboration with reputable digital partners further solidifies its position as a leading authority in home automation in Sri Lanka.
In the face of scepticism from clients and industry peers, Nishan recognized the importance of educating clients and stakeholders about the value and reliability of Shinrai’s offerings. Despite initial setbacks, he remained steadfast in his belief in the transformative potential of home automation, viewing it not just as a passing trend but as an essential component of modern living.
At 27, Nishan embarked on this journey with a clear vision but faced with doubts and obstacles along the way. However, he found solace and strength in the support of individuals who believed in Shinrai’s potential and rallied behind the company’s mission. Their faith and encouragement catalyzed Shinrai’s growth, propelling it to the forefront of the industry.
Navigating through challenges, including operational obstacles and doubts about the technology’s reliability, Nishan remained resolute in his determination to overcome adversity. His strategic leadership and commitment to Shinrai’s goals enabled the company to emerge stronger, solidifying its position as a leader in the home automation sector.
When asked about his approach to cultivating this mindset, Nishan emphasized the importance of adaptation and skill development in the evolving landscape of their industry. He leads by example, actively pursuing opportunities for personal and professional growth while instilling the same values in his staff.
Nishan’s commitment to continuous learning extends beyond mere rhetoric, as evidenced by the comprehensive training programs and development opportunities he provides for his team. Many of Shinrai’s employees have been with the company for an extended period, a testament to Nishan’s dedication to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of lifelong learning within the organization.
In addition to internal training initiatives, Nishan believes in exposing his team to external sources of expertise, often bringing in industry experts to provide specialized training and insights. By leveraging the knowledge and experience of these “fail-savers,” Nishan ensures that his team remains at the forefront of industry trends and developments.
This focus on development not only enhances the skills and capabilities of Shinrai’s workforce but also fosters a culture of innovation and adaptability. As Nishan rightly observes, the automation landscape is constantly evolving, necessitating a proactive approach to skill acquisition and knowledge dissemination.
At the helm of Shinrai, Nishan’s commitment to continuous growth and learning permeates every aspect of the company’s operations. His leadership approach prioritizes skill development, knowledge sharing, and adaptability, ensuring that Shinrai remains agile and resilient in the face of change. By empowering his team to embrace learning as a cornerstone of professional development, Nishan sets Shinrai apart as a forward-thinking leader in the home automation industry.
Looking ahead, Nishan remains steadfast in his vision for Shinrai, envisioning a future where innovation and sustainability converge to create homes that are not only technologically advanced but also environmentally conscious. With a dedicated team and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Nishan Fernando continues to lead the Shinrai Lanka Group of Companies toward new horizons, with the aim to become an industry leader and shape the future of home automation in Sri Lanka and beyond.