At Publicis Sapient, we believe that digital transformation is fundamentally about people. While technology can drive efficiency and growth, its most profound impact is felt in the lives it touches—enabling access, promoting inclusion, and supporting vulnerable communities. Our purpose, "helping people thrive in the brave pursuit of next," is more than a guiding principle; it’s a commitment to harnessing technology as a force for good, creating tangible, positive change for individuals and society at large.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of families faced the threat of eviction due to sudden loss of income. In Charlotte, North Carolina, Kersten—a single mother diagnosed with a lung disease—was one such individual. The difference between stability and homelessness for her family came down to a single day. Through a digital platform built by Publicis Sapient for DreamKey Partners, Kersten was able to access emergency rental assistance just in time. This platform, designed to streamline and digitize the application process, enabled the rapid distribution of aid to over 40,000 households, often in days rather than months. Kersten’s story, featured in the documentary “Never Done,” is a testament to how thoughtfully applied technology can change the trajectory of a life, providing hope and security when it’s needed most.
In Los Angeles, the public defender’s office serves millions who rely on legal representation but often face barriers due to outdated, paper-based systems. Publicis Sapient partnered with the LA Public Defender’s Office to digitize over 160 million records and build a modern case management system. This transformation didn’t just improve efficiency—it leveled the playing field. Now, public defenders can quickly access critical information, enabling them to advocate more effectively for their clients, many of whom are among society’s most vulnerable. The story of Johnny, told in the film “Forgiving Johnny,” illustrates how technology can democratize access to justice, ensuring the law serves everyone, not just those with resources.
Digital platforms are powerful tools for democratizing access to financial services. Our work in financial services has enabled over 100 million people to access banking, credit, and investment products—many for the first time. By reducing barriers and expanding reach, we help create pathways to financial independence and equity. As one of our leaders put it, "Financial equity leads to financial independence. That helps with reducing the barriers that we have in society today."
The ripple effect of digital transformation extends across sectors:
Our approach to digital transformation is rooted in human-centered design. We recognize that technology must be accessible and inclusive, serving people of all abilities and backgrounds. This means designing intuitive solutions, removing barriers to access, and ensuring digital services reach those who need them most. Accessibility is not an afterthought—it is a foundational principle that shapes every project we undertake.
The impact of technology is also deeply personal. Our CEO, Nigel Vaz, has spoken about how technology gave him "superpowers" to overcome the challenges of dyspraxia, enabling him to participate fully in education and work. Our Chief Marketing Officer, Teresa Barreira, credits digital tools with enabling her to build a global career from a small village in Portugal. We invest in programs that support diversity, equity, and inclusion, such as Spring (helping women return to the workforce) and initiatives for LGBTQI+ employees and people with disabilities. Our "People Success" function ensures everyone at Publicis Sapient can thrive.
When digital transformation is guided by empathy, its impact extends far beyond business metrics. It creates a ripple effect—helping one person, one family, one community at a time. By focusing on the individual, we create solutions that are not only innovative but also inclusive and accessible. This mindset is embedded in our SPEED framework: Strategy, Product, Experience, Engineering, and Data—all aligned to deliver outcomes that matter for real people.
We invite you to explore our Impact Films, connect with our people, and discover how technology—when guided by empathy, purpose, and partnership—can be a force for good. Together, we can build a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. At Publicis Sapient, we’re never done pursuing impact that goes beyond business—because every person’s story matters.