PLUS: Maria Thomson discusses the value of the Microsoft Intelligent Security Association A Canadian university boosts security culture with help from Fortra’s Terranova Security Blue Yonder’s Sai Buddhavarapu explains how AI is assisting with supply chain pressures Microsoft’s Shanthi Rajagopalan shares how generative AI is driving retail innovation Sally Ann Frank highlights the values behind the Microsoft for Startups programme ISSUE 31: WINTER 2023 £24.00 Cross-border protection Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty is helping organisations to prioritise regulatory compliance and data security
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9 WELCOME: WINTER 2023 ANDY CLAYTON-SMITH: EXECUTIVE EDITOR A secure data future for all The Organisation for Economic Growth and Development’s November 2023 forecast projects an easing in global growth from 2.9 per cent to 2.7 per cent in 2024, an adjustment due in large part to “growth in the emergingmarket economies generally holding up better than in the advanced economies”. Little wonder, then, that so many business leaders are showing interest in recent announcements coming from the technology world regarding the rapid growth of generative artificial intelligence as an agent for change. At a time when economic recovery is poised on a knife-edge, new technology tools can clearly play a pivotal role; however, as with all such paradigm-shifting moments, any advancements must be delivered within secure and ethically sound parameters. That being the case, data security and compliant data management practices are essential components for those seeking to leverage AI and the cloud. As we discover in our cover story, Microsoft is leading by example in this journey by ensuring data privacy and operational compliance for all. Starting on page 40, Microsoft’s Kathleen Mitford and Satish Thomas tell us about Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty and how it is enabling digital transformation for organisations. The enduring subject of data security continues to occupy the thoughts of many leaders worldwide. Starting on page 68, we take a closer look at the Microsoft Intelligent Security Association (MISA), with its director Maria Thomson offering us her thoughts on best security practice and showcasing some of the innovation on offer from MISA’s global membership. I hope you enjoy the read.
CONTENTS 11 CROSS-BORDER PROTECTION Kathleen Mitford and Satish Thomas explain how Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty is helping organisations to prioritise regulatory compliance and data security 18 MARKETWATCH The latest news from Microsoft and its partners, including Satya Nadella’s insights on why generative AI will be game changing 36 Starting strong Sally Ann Frank discusses the values behind the Microsoft for Startups programme and some of the solutions it has helped to develop for the health and life sciences industries 48 G abe Rivero explains how Avaya is helping clients to improve their customer experience with cloudbased contact centre solutions 50 Adrian Amos from Synergy Technical discusses how the combination of cloud computing and AI adoption is reshaping the business landscape 51 Kyndryl’s Faith Taylor explains how organisations can prioritise sustainability in their corporate strategies with AI technologies 52 Amy Mosher of isolved reflects on the importance of AI-powered analytics from a HR perspective 54 K yndryl’s Naveen Kamat shares how organisations can modernise their data estates 55 C loud-based documents management systems provide better opportunities for accessibility and collaboration, says Metafile’s Andy Birkey 56 Dan Riley outlines how Kyndryl’s Security Operations provides customers with a centralised view of their security infrastructures 40 ISSUE 31: WINTER 2023
Contact us to learn more about how our Copilot Readiness Assessment can benefit your organization: synergy-technical.com/copilot Get “AI-ready,” and understand what that means Synergy Technical is offering a Copilot Readiness Assessment that isn’t merely about deploying AI tools; it’s a comprehensive strategy aimed at ensuring that your organization is well-prepared to seamlessly integrate AI into your existing infrastructure. Let us help you build the right path to a secure AI-integrated future. Drive user adoption & provide end-user training Assess Copilot readiness & ensure compliance • Enhance your information governance • Boost cybersecurity & authorize identity roles & access requirements • Develop a holistic, personalized end-user adoption roadmap for Copilot in your organization Our Microsoft 365 Copilot Readiness Assessment includes: Prep your infrastructure for AI
CONTENTS 13 58 A ccording to Tollring’s Tony Martino, organisations that leverage data and analytics can improve business performance and customer satisfaction 60 Organisations should develop zero-trust and post-quantum strategies to protect against future cyberthreats, says Entrust’s Samantha Mabey 62 Julie Crawford of Shure explains why reliable audiovisual technology helps to deliver high- quality meeting experiences for employees 64 New Era Technology’s Rob Westwood on why organisations need to ensure their infrastructure meets the ever-changing needs of a hybrid workforce 66 Jay Gundotra details how ENow Software’s AppGov Score solution helps organisations to close the gaps in their Microsoft Entra ID application governance policies 68 Combining forces in the battle against cybercrime Maria Thomson explains how members of the Microsoft Intelligent Security Association are collectively protecting organisations from security threats 78 T eams at the Center for Internet Security and Microsoft Azure worked together to test CIS Hardened Images for Linux, says Mia Lavada 80 Sean Dyon reveals how HYPR’s identity assurance platform improves security for organisations and their employees 82 S iân John explains how NCC Group collaborates with Microsoft to better protect businesses as cyberattacks continue to surge 84 Fortra is helping organisations to adopt preventive security measures, says Mike Devine 87 Supply chain company AmerCareRoyal enhances security and increases the efficiency of its operations after partnering with MISA member Ontinue 88 Secude’s Mario Galatovic explains how the company’s zero-trust security solutions are helping organisations shield their most sensitive data FEATURED PARTNERS 153 A selection of Microsoft partners operating across all business sectors THE LAST WORD Andy Clayton-Smith highlights why industry leaders must manage their data to successfully implement AI IN FOCUS: MISA 160
14 CONTENTS FINANCIAL SERVICES INDUSTRIALS & MANUFACTURING 106 Sight Machine’s Jason Nienaber explains how operational digital twins can help to identify and solve issues that arise during the production process 108 Sai Buddhavarapu explains how Blue Yonder generative AI solutions are helping manufacturers cope with supply chain pressures 110 Innovations in technology such as AI are allowing manufacturers to better prepare for supply chain disruptions, says Blue Yonder’s Puneet Saxena 112 A strong network of suppliers, vendors, customer and value chain partners will help industrial firms to drive innovation and reach their sustainability goals, according to AVEVA’s Bry Dillon 114 Decarbonisation and electrification in three key areas is key to addressing the climate crisis, says Olivier Blum of Schneider Electric 116 Nick Bierbrodt from RSM US explains why companies must break down the IoT implementation process into small steps 119 Avanade’s Jen Johnson explains why manufacturing firms are migrating to Microsoft Dynamics 365 and why change management is essential to the success of these projects 120 AVEVA’s Harpreet Gulati reveals how the cloud, AI and analytics technologies can help industrial organisations to unlock the data insights they need to meet their goals 98 Unlocking new levels of performance Microsoft’s Simon Floyd explains how the combined power of digital twins and AI is helping manufacturers to yield multiple benefits, from reducing waste to improving safety 90 Your call is important to us Microsoft’s Chris Caile explains how financial services organisations can develop approaches to better engage and empower their call centre agents to work effectively 96 Polish payments company Blik has implemented a risk assessment solution with help from credit solutions provider ITSCREDIT 97 F inancial services organisations can use AI-enabled tools like Infosys Wingspan to reimagine the way their workforce operates, says Rasanth Korancharath
15 RETAIL & CG 144 Reinventing the world of retail Microsoft’s Shanthi Rajagopalan shares how generative AI is driving innovation in the retail industry and improving supply chain operations, customer experience and predictive analysis 148 Andrew Reeck and Chris Segurado share how Microsoft Dynamics 365 allows business-to-business retailers to streamline operations 150 Kyndryl’s Ryan Treacy and Microsoft’s Noel Pennington discuss the role technology plays in improving employee experience 152 Retailers need to pay close attention to their tax obligations to remain successful, according to Avalara’s George Trantasi PUBLIC SECTOR 138 A Canadian university is strengthening its security culture by implementing Fortra’s Terranova Security’s training courses 141 K yndryl’s Trent Sanders shares how generative AI and Microsoft solutions are key to helping some of the economic issues faced by health organisations 142 Microsoft technologies are helping public sector organisations to optimise operations, workforce collaboration and security, says Vinoth Subramanian Haldorai of Infosys 132 A united front Microsoft’s Kirk Arthur explains why technologies like AI and public-private sector collaboration are key for government organisations to win the cyber war MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS 122 Finding the edge The cloud is transforming the media industry with new solutions and capabilities, but not every organisation is comfortable with fully embracing the technology. Edge technology may offer an answer, says Microsoft’s Scott Davis 126 With the metaverse changing the way we consume media, Ateme’s Williams Tovar says that 5G is the key to ensuring it is a seamless experience for all 128 Pam Taggart discusses the convergence of audiovisual and IT and explains how AVIXA’s new training course will equip administrators to address the challenges it causes 130 EZDRM is using innovative solutions to overcome the challenges faced by its video industry clients, according to Olga Kornienko
Executive editor Andy Clayton-Smith Head of editorial Rebecca Gibson Editorial lead Alice Chambers Digital content lead Amber Hickman Editorial team Richard Humphreys, Laura Hyde, Alex Smith Production manager Stuart Fairbrother Design Bruce Graham, Libby Sidebotham, Dhanika Vansia Website development Chris Jackson Publication manager Ricky Popat Partner managers Tim Grayson, Daniel Thurlow, Thomas Wills, Paul Zmija Subscriptions For subscription enquiries, please contact Tudor Rose on subscribe@tudor-rose.co.uk or visit the website www.technologyrecord.com/subscribe Circulation Ritwik Bhattacharjee Publisher Toby Ingleton Photography Courtesy of contributors and www.istockphoto.com Business management Rachael Heggs, Richard Pepperman Published by Tudor Rose Tudor House, 6 Friar Lane, Leicester LE1 5RA Tel: +44 116 222 9900 www.tudor-rose.co.uk Technology Record is a quarterly magazine about technology solutions for enterprise organisations, published by Tudor Rose in collaboration with Microsoft. For further information and to subscribe, please visit: www.technologyrecord.com/subscribe Visit www.technologyrecord.com for up-to-date news and articles about Microsoft technology for enterprise businesses, a comprehensive directory of Microsoft partners that provide solutions for enterprise businesses, and to find out more about our printed publications. ISSN 2754-3277 (Print) and 2754-3285 (Online). Printed in Great Britain by Micropress. © 2023 Tudor Rose Holdings Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be stored or transmitted or reproduced in any form or by any means, including whether by photocopying, scanning, downloading onto computer or otherwise without the prior written permission from Tudor Rose Holdings Ltd. The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Microsoft or the publishers. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply official endorsement of the products or services concerned. While every care has been taken to ensure accuracy of content, no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. Readers should take appropriate professional advice before acting on any issue raised herein. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject advertising material and editorial contributions. The publisher assumes no liability for the return or safety of unsolicited art, photography or manuscripts. Follow Technology Record: ISSUE 31: WINTER 2023 PUBLISHING PARTNERS PUBLISHED IN COLLABORATION WITH Microsoft is the world leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realise their full potential. EPOS delivers high-end audio and video solutions with design, technology and performance in mind. Kyndryl and Microsoft are delivering solutions that enable modern work experiences and support mission-critical workloads and hybrid cloud adoption. Schneider Electric drives digital transformation by integrating world-leading process and energy technologies for homes, buildings, data centres, infrastructure and industries. Infosys is a global leader in nextgeneration digital services and consulting, enabling clients to navigate their digital journeys. Fortra’s Terranova Security empowers organisations to change unsafe end user behaviours, reduce cyber risk, and keep sensitive information safe through security awareness training programmes. AVEVA creates industrial software that inspires people to shape the future, by delivering solutions across the asset and operations life cycles. AVIXA is the international trade association for the audiovisual industry, producer of InfoComm trade shows around the world, and coowner of Integrated Systems Europe. Blue Yonder is a leading, end-toend, digital supply chain platform provider, enabling companies to better predict and pivot to quickly fulfill customer demand
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18 Generative artificial intelligence technology will help to transform the way businesses operate and have a game-changing impact on the way individuals work, predicted Satya Nadella, chairman and CEO of Microsoft, when speaking at the first two of seven Microsoft Envision events in 2023. “Something’s changed clearly in the last year,” said Nadella, discussing the adoption of AI, when talking with Clare Barclay, CEO of Microsoft UK, during the London event on 18 October 2023. “Our understanding of this new generation of AI and what it can do to pretty much any digital software category or any industry and business process, has gone through a real change. “The idea that you can have a multi-turn, multi-domain and multimodal conversation with your computer is going to be perhaps the biggest change in computing.” Nadella described generative AI as a new reasoning engine that is capable of recognising patterns in vast amounts of data. He also likened the predicted effect of generative AI technology to the impact of Microsoft’s Windows operating system when it launched in 1992. “Windows in particular was transformative in the workplace,” he said. “I remember what pre-email, word processing and spreadsheets looked like, and [that change] is what’s about to happen again with the age of Microsoft Copilots.” Microsoft Envision highlighted how Microsoft is empowering organisations in all sectors with AI technology MARKETWATCH Microsoft CEO explained the transformative use cases of Copilot at Microsoft Envision Generative AI will be game changing, says Satya Nadella
19 Nadella also explained how the UK and other countries can become leaders in AI, noting that the key is for them to import the latest technology and export value to the rest of the world. “The cloud is helping to make that possible,” he said. “Data is also already in the cloud, making the adoption of AI the next logical step with compounding effects. But we should also be very mindful that the rate of diffusion is so fast that I don’t think there’s going to be a distinction.” Nadella explained that the rate of AI adoption depends upon each specific firm, rather than which industry sector it belongs to. “I think whether it’s in financial services, retail or even healthcare, it’s very exciting to see the broad swathe of industries being reshaped [with AI],” he said. In addition, AI has the potential to transform the lives of individuals, according to Nadella. “The eight billion people on this planet could have in their pocket a personalised tutor, a doctor capable of providing medical advice, and a management consultant that can guide them on how best to run their lives,” he said. “If you take those three things, just think about what it could do to just the agency of an individual. A lot of us are afraid to venture into new domains because it takes a whole bunch of initiative, preparation and learning. But if you have something like Copilot to help you – an assistant that is going to walk you though each step – that is game changing. I think psychologically, that is the most exciting thing.” Nadella highlighted some of the ways he uses AI personally, including reducing his workload and improving his skills. For example, Nadella mentioned how he uses GitHub Copilot to “bring back the joy of coding”. Additionally, Microsoft 365 Copilot has assisted him in developing productive work habits such as summarising meetings and discussing the intent of documents with collaborators before their creation. Transforming work with AI-powered copilots Microsoft 365 In March 2023, Microsoft announced Microsoft 365 Copilot, which enables users to deploy automation tools across applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and Teams. GitHub GitHub Copilot is making coding more efficient by suggesting lines of code to developers inside their code editor. Sales Sales Copilot, which is part of the Microsoft Dynamics 365 Sales and Microsoft 365 apps, helps automate everyday tasks and empower sellers to deliver personalised customer experiences. Security In preview since 19 October 2023, Security Copilot allows individuals to detect hidden patterns, improve defences, and respond to incidents faster with generative AI. Images: Microsoft
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21 Analytics 365 RX, a new solution from Tollring, delivers artificial intelligence-based analyses of recordings by autonomously detecting keywords and topics mentioned during conversations. This allows organisations to gain insight from large volumes of call recordings without having to manually listen back. The automated process means every call can be analysed at scale, which increases the capacity and pace of call reviews. It also enables organisations to better understand customer sentiment, identify trends and improve the customer experience. “Alongside Analytics 365 CX and its ability to analyse key telephony metrics, AI-powered analytics of call recordings will deliver a powerful step change in achieving business clarity,” said Hilary Oliver, chief marketing and experience officer. “There is a great deal of demand for analytics for Teams and we are proud to be able to offer that to users globally.” Photo: Microsoft AVIXA delivers Microsoft Teams Rooms training for audiovisual professionals The Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association (AVIXA) is providing Microsoft Teams Rooms training to audiovisual professionals, as part of its partnership with Microsoft. Training sessions will provide participants with technical knowledge and resources using Microsoft Teams Admin Center, PowerShell and Microsoft Teams Rooms Pro Management. It begins with a technical introduction to Teams Rooms, highlighting the importance of room design and network readiness, and also details the process of creating the resource account. In addition, it will cover a range of features, functionalities and best-use scenarios, as well as configuration, deployment and troubleshooting. Access the training for free at: www.avixa.org/ microsoft-teams-rooms-training Tollring extends portfolio with AI-driven call recording Photo: Tollring Synergy Technical helps firms prepare for AI Cloud solution provider Synergy Technical has launched its Microsoft 365 Copilot Readiness Assessment, which is designed to empower businesses to embrace the full potential of Microsoft Copilot while implementing robust security and compliance measures. The assessment is available to all Microsoft customers and encompasses Synergy Technical’s analysis and validation of an organisation’s preparedness for Copilot adoption. The team offers insights and tailored recommendations for configuration adjustments, ensuring a seamless transition to artificial intelligence. Photo: iStock/PixelsEffect MARKETWATCH
22 MARKETWATCH World’s first AI Safety Summit inspires global collaboration Representatives from 28 countries have signed the UK Government’s Bletchley Declaration to mitigate the global risks of artificial intelligence. The document was released during the world’s first AI Safety Summit, which was held in the UK on 1-2 November 2023 to discuss the threats associated with AI and to coordinate international action to combat them. Attendees included world leaders and executives from businesses such as Microsoft, Amazon, Google and OpenAI, all of whom acknowledged the potential for “serious, even catastrophic, harm” caused by AI models and agreed that nations must work together to resolve these problems. To ensure progress, the Republic of Korea will co-host a virtual summit on AI in the next six months, followed by a second in-person summit in France in November 2024. The UK also launched the world’s first AI Safety Institute during the AI Safety Summit. The institute will test the safety of emerging types of AI and explore all the risks associated with AI use, such as social harms like bias and misinformation and extreme risks like humanity losing control of AI. World leaders from Japan and Canada, and major AI companies such as OpenAI and DeepMind are supporting the institute. 20 years since Cybersecurity Awareness Month was established in 2003. 25% of the global cybersecurity workforce are women. 4,000 identity authentication threats are blocked around the world every second. 99.9% of cybersecurity attacks can be prevented with multifactor authentication. Statistics taken from the Microsoft Digital Defense Report 2023 CYBERSECURITY IN NUMBERS RSM US to create AI solutions using Microsoft Copilot Professional services provider RSM US is using Microsoft Copilot to develop artificial intelligencepowered solutions for clients after using the tool to improve its own productivity and customer services during a six-month trial. RSM integrated Microsoft Copilot for Service and Microsoft Copilot Studio into its DASH managed services platform, which “significantly” reduced research time for customer support agents and increased first-contact resolution rates. It also decreased onboarding times for new customer support agents. The firm is now exploring how it can integrate Copilot and AI into RSM solutions to benefit its more than 8,000 managed services customers in multiple industries. Learn more about RSM’s pilot at: https://bit.ly/49Q4AJg Photo: Bloomberg/Chris J Ratcliffe Photo: iStock/Marco VDM
New Era Technology helps businesses with Microsoft Teams Rooms management New Era Technology has developed the Customer Command Centre for Collaboration (C3) to help organisations proactively monitor and manage their Microsoft Teams Rooms ecosystems and minimise downtime. It is designed to maximise the room’s availability and enhance the enduser experience. C3 enables organisations to gain a full overview of their entire Microsoft Teams Room ecosystem, whether the technology is from a single vendor or a mix of components from different vendors. New Era’s C3 can deliver real-time performance, enhanced remote management capabilities, and complete device management of multi-vendor solutions, all from within a single pane of glass. Photo composite: Unsplash/Surface and Microsoft Mazars to host Retail Envision sessions during NRF 2024 Attendees at NRF 2024: Retail’s Big Show on 15-17 January 2024 in New York, USA, can sign up for a 90-minute Retail Envision session with US-based firm Mazars, who provide audit, accounting, tax and advisory services. The sessions are designed to address the business issues that are most important to retail and e-commerce organisations, with topics including business transformation, cybersecurity, data and analytics, IT infrastructure, IT managed services, Microsoft Copilot, artificial intelligence, and maximising Microsoft Dynamics 365 Commerce. Show attendees can schedule a session at: https://go.mazars.us/2136NRF-Envision_Registration_Page.html Photo: Jason Dixson Photography 23
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A new blueprint released by Schneider Electric, titled The AI disruption: challenges and guidance for data center design focuses on helping organisations that are looking to leverage artificial intelligence in their data centres. The guide explores the critical intersections of AI and data centre infrastructure and addresses key considerations including guidance on physical infrastructure challenges such as power, cooling and software management. The guide also features insights into how to successfully transition from air cooling to liquid cooling to support the growing thermal design power of AI workloads as well as an outlook on emerging technologies and design approaches to address AI evolution. “As AI continues to advance, it places unique demands on data centre design and management,” said Pankaj Sharma, executive vice president of secure power division and data centre business at Schneider Electric. “To address these challenges, it’s important to consider several key attributes and trends of AI workloads that impact both new and existing data centres.” Read the full guide at: https://bit.ly/3sfEWNf Schneider Electric launches guide to help organisations leverage AI in data centres Photo: Schneider Electric Blue Yonder launches generative AI capability to simplify supply chain orchestration isolved’s People Cloud platform improves HR operations, finds new report Human capital management company isolved’s People Cloud platform provides an average return on investment of 201 per cent over three years, according to analyst firm Nucleus Research’s report, ROI Guidebook of isolved People Cloud. It does this in several ways such as: Lowering annual subscription and maintenance fees by 25 per cent Reducing time spent on payroll by between 70 and 88 per cent Simplifying scheduling by up to 90 per cent with automation tools built into the platform Making business practices more sustainable and saving approximately 90 to 95 per cent in paper and printing costs annually Improving onboarding time for new hires by 50 to 70 per cent through digitisation within People Cloud. Read the report at: https://bit.ly/40lnPGd Blue Yonder has launched Blue Yonder Orchestrator to help organisations make sense of their supply chain data with the help of generative artificial intelligence. The solution, which is integrated with Blue Yonder’s Luminate Cognitive Platform, enables users to quickly access recommendations and predictive insights to make informed decisions quickly and tackle any supply chain challenges. Blue Yonder Orchestrator can also act as a supply chain assistant to help employees make better and faster decisions. 25 MARKETWATCH
26 MARKETWATCH CIS Hardened Images help to strengthen cloud security The Center for Internet Security’s (CIS) Hardened Images are virtual machine images that are pre-configured to meet the robust security recommendations of the vendoragnostic CIS Benchmarks. CIS Hardened Images can help organisations to strengthen their cloud security in three new ways: All CIS Hardened Images contain assessment reports to help organisations identify conformance of the image to the CIS Benchmark. CIS released its first Hardened Images for Windows desktop operating systems in the Azure Marketplace to expand on the number of options available for organisations when deploying Hardened Images. The firm has tested compatibility with Azure Update Manager and Azure Monitor Agent to help users streamline their cloud security efforts. 1 2 3 Find out more about CIS Hardened Images at: www.cisecurity.org/cis-hardened-image-list Crestron’s Automate VX receives Microsoft Teams certification Workplace collaboration technology provider Crestron Electronics’ Automate VX voice-activated, speakertracking solution has been certified as a Microsoft Teams Room Device. Automate VX enables organisations to deliver equitable meeting experiences by using multiple cameras placed around a room to track active meeting participants. While an active speaker is being captured on the first camera, the second camera moves into position to capture the next speaker before the system switches the camera feed, reducing any disruptive camera movements and enabling remote participants to focus on their meeting. Photo: Crestron Omnichannel platform provider ITSCREDIT is optimising its risk capabilities with the two new modules: Early Warning Signs (EWS) and Credit Portfolio Monitoring (CPM). The EWS module helps loan providers to identify clients who show signs of difficulties in terms of credit capacity, even prior to non-payment of scheduled instalments. This will be done through the inclusion of a configuration section where the triggers and criteria of a bank’s EWS model are identified, set up and launched. This module will also allow banks to configure and use different risk triggers/signs depending on the type of client or portfolio segment. ITSCREDIT is also designing an interactive dashboard composing its new CPM module. The dashboard will be made up of more than 100 graphs and indicators, through which users will be able to access detailed analyses of their portfolio evolution and credit quality. ITSCREDIT enhances risk capabilities for loan providers Photo composite: Unsplash/Windows and ITSCREDIT
27 ENow Software has launched a free application governance assessment tool to help organisations strengthen their security posture by gaining complete insight into, and control over, all of their Microsoft Entra ID applications. The ENow AppGov Score tool runs more than 24 different checks against an organisation’s tenant to provide a comprehensive application governance assessment report. The scoring system takes into account Microsoft-recommended identity best practices and the input of experienced Microsoft Security Most Valued Professionals (MVPs). Identity teams can provide the necessary information within five minutes and will receive their AppGov Score Report shortly after. The AppGov data enables them to identify which applications are lurking in their tenant and successfully implement a comprehensive application governance strategy. “Misconfigured and overprivileged apps are a huge problem and are now being exploited by adversaries,” said Sander Berkouwer, a Microsoft Security MVP. “It‘s great to see that ENow Software has tackled this problem head on” Organisations can check their application governance status by obtaining their free AppGov Score and Application Governance Assessment report at: www.appgovscore.com Xbox and Inworld AI have partnered to develop AI-powered tools for game creators. The firms will develop an AI design copilot to assist game designers with creative ideas, turning prompts into detailed scripts, dialogue trees, quests and more. They will also build an AI character runtime engine that can be integrated into games to enable new narratives with stories, quests and dialogue for players to experience. “As with all creators tools we make at Xbox, our goal is to deliver state-of-the-art AI tools for game developers of any size, anywhere in the world and on every platform,” said Haiyan Zhang, general manager of gaming AI at Xbox. “We want to help make it easier for developers to realise their visions, try new things, push the boundaries of gaming today and experiment to improve gameplay, player connection and more.” Xbox and Inworld AI to bring the power of artificial intelligence to game developers Photo: iStock/blackCAT ENow creates free security assessment tool for Microsoft Entra ID Photo composite: Unspash/Windows and ENow
28 MARKETWATCH HYPR has established a new category in the identity security industry with the release of the first Identity Assurance solution. Identity Assurance establishes a chain of trust throughout the entire identity lifecycle, beginning at day zero. Identity Assurance includes fast identity online (FIDO) passwordless authentication, actionable identity risk assessment and ongoing identity verification, all of which work together on a continuous basis to solve critical challenges surrounding identity security. As the only software FIDO2 authenticator on the Microsoftcompatible list, HYPR’s Identity Assurance platform can be easily integrated into Microsoft Entra ID environments, leveraging Microsoft systems and services including Intune, Defender, and Sentinel. It extends Microsoft’s security capabilities across the ecosystem and accelerates adoption. HYPR reimagines identity security More than 80 per cent of enterprises to adopt generative AI by 2026, says Gartner According to Gartner’s 2023 Hype Cycle for Generative AI report, more than 80 per cent of enterprises will have used generative artificial intelligence-powered application programming interfaces (APIs) or models by 2026. “Generative AI has become a top priority for the C-suite and has sparked tremendous innovation in new tools beyond foundation models,” said Arun Chandrasekaran, distinguished vice president analyst at Gartner. “Demand is increasing for generative AI in many industries, such as healthcare, life sciences, legal, financial services and the public sector.” The report identified three innovations that will have a large impact on organisations within the next 10 years: generative AI-enabled applications, foundation models and AI trust, risk and security management. Photo: iStock/Marco VDM New Finastra study shows seven per cent growth in financial institutions using AI A new study from financial software provider Finastra has revealed that 37 per cent of financial institutions have improved or deployed artificial intelligence technology in the past 12 months, a seven per cent increase from 2022. The study, Financial Services State of the Nation Survey 2023, also revealed that 83 per cent of the 956 professionals surveyed believe their institution is interested in implementing generative AI. Read the full report on the Finastra website at: www.finastra.com/financial-services-state-nation-survey-2023 Photo: Finastra
29 Infosys is empowering frontline workers with its REF-OR-M Smart Field Automation platform, which streamlines facility and asset management, delivers data insights and interfaces with organisations’ operational technology. The platform is powered by the Microsoft Dynamics 365 suite of solutions, Power Apps, Dynamics 365 Field Service and Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations, and is designed to combat the challenges in asset management, field service team management, customer satisfaction tracking and more. Recently, Infosys deployed the solution to transform service management of over 450,000 assets across the globe for a US investment banking and securities firm. Infosys REF-OR-M Smart Field Automation Sight Machine has launched Factory Copilot, a generative artificial intelligence solution that is integrated into the firm’s Manufacturing Data Platform (MDP) and leverages the Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service to provide easier access to manufacturing problem solving, analysis and reporting. Factory Copilot’s natural language interface offers users an intuitive, ‘ask the expert’ experience and delivers real-time insights from production queries, such as key performance indicator reporting, performance comparisons, trend analyses and recommendations on optimal settings. Sight Machine’s MDP captures the entire manufacturing process in a secure industrial data foundation, incorporating and contextualising data from all sensors, machines, lines and plants operated by a company. Sight Machine Factory Copilot democratises industrial data with generative AI solution Photo composite: Unspash/Microsoft Edge and Sight Machine SPOTLIGHT SOLUTION AVEVA and Microsoft are collaborating to further strengthen their respective data integration platforms and help customers in key industries incorporate artificial intelligence into their operations. ‘According to AVEVA, this will lead to “an even closer synergy” between industrial cloud platform AVEVA Connect and data analytics solution Microsoft Fabric, which streamline the process of collecting, transforming and unifying data from various sources. They will gather data from different parts of an organisation’s operations, including manufacturing processes, supply chains and other relevant systems. Together, AVEVA Connect and Microsoft Fabric can help to create the “complete data analytics platform for the era of AI”, according to AVEVA. Organisations can access their complete data estate to gain insights that will empower teams and transform business. Having a unified view of data from different stages of the manufacturing process can also help with green software initiatives, such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and improving overall efficiency and sustainability. Read more about AVEVA‘s expanded partnership with Microsoft at: https://bit.ly/3Gltp28 AVEVA and Microsoft expand data platform collaboration Photo: iStock/gorodenkoff
30 MARKETWATCH: EVENT REPORT Cities must increase collaboration, prioritise people and find innovative ways to use new digital technologies to overcome climate change and various other socioeconomic and geopolitical challenges, according to experts speaking at Smart City Expo World Congress (SCEWC). During more than 273 conference sessions, city leaders, technology providers and other key stakeholders discussed the impact of rapidly growing populations, the rising cost of living, increasing temperatures, the scarcity of key resources, and other issues on cities. In addition, they explored how partnerships between the public and private sectors and the responsible and innovative application of technologies such as artificial intelligence, the cloud, data analytics, digital twins and quantum computing can help cities become more connected, secure, safer and sustainable. Other sessions focused on how cities can curb the climate change emergency and how to use technology to secure them against cyberthreats. “In a world full of challenges, cities really need to work together and take action,” said Ugo Valenti, SCEWC director. Microsoft and several of its key partners exhibited at the event. Technology Record caught up with them to learn how their smart city solutions and services. Read more at: www.technologyrecord.com/scewc-2023 7-9 November 2023 | Barcelona, Spain Smart City Expo World Congress 2023 We showcased the Accenture Intelligent Mobility Platform solution which leverages Microsoft Azure cloud services, AI, machine learning, data management and Microsoft Power Platform capabilities to help transportation agencies proactively manage traffic safety. This helps to reduce traffic accidents and ultimately save lives.” Accenture Balaji Yelchuru Associate Director The AMCS Platform for Municipalities solution connects and automates cities’ waste and recycling operations and environment, health and safety/environment, social and governance functions to help them easily manage customers and services, optimise logistics, streamline finance and reporting, and leverage the power of AI, internet of things and big data analytics. Available on a modern software-as-a-service Microsoft Azure architecture, the solution ensures high performance, security and scalability, while delivering smarter outcomes in savings, safety, service and sustainability.” AMCS Conor Dowd Senior Product Marketing Manager We showcased the digital twin we created for the municipality of Alkmaar in the Netherlands. The digital twin optimises data management and analysis, boosts transparency, delivers insights into government decisions and bridges the gap between citizens and their local administration. Our collection of digital twin applications helps cities to overcome urban challenges related to sustainability, housing, mobility, and more. These solutions are helping to create safer, greener and smarter cities, which will ultimately improve citizens’ quality of life.” Analyze BV Annelot Treure Project Manager and Business Analyst
31 Bentley Systems demonstrated intelligent urban digital twin solutions that empower people to design, build and operate better and more resilient infrastructure. Cities, campuses and their supply chains have to go digital to embrace innovation and answer global challenges like climate change, resource limitations, and the talent gap. Our products and solutions, powered by iTwin, help users to do more with less and move closer to green cities and campuses.” Bentley Systems Richard Vestner Vice President of Industry Solutions, Product Advancement Unit Bravent is at the forefront of leveraging AI, digital twins and immersive reality technologies to revolutionise smart cities. Our expertise lies in harnessing these technologies to create more efficient and sustainable cities that enhance the lives of their inhabitants. One of our main customers is Ferrovial, a global leader in infrastructure and services. We created AIVIA, a platform that uses Microsoft technology to develop an infrastructure that ensures that conventional and autonomous vehicles can coexist in harmony.” Bravent Mario López Business Development and Innovation Director Government buildings are foundational to how the public interacts with municipalities, and they are the primary contributor to spend reduction and decarbonisation plans. While advancements in building automation and internet of things devices have brought the promise of smarter buildings, governments face the common challenge of making all this technology work together in a meaningful way to meet their sustainability outcomes. CBRE’s Smart FM Solutions help these organisations to increase efficiency and operational reliability while reducing carbon emissions and lowering costs.” CBRE Pratish Mahtan Vice President of Digital and Technology
32 MARKETWATCH: EVENT REPORT Esri is the global leader in geographic information system software. At SCEWC, we showcased the amazing real work of our customers who are using ArcGIS to transform the way we model, manage, simulate and plan our cities and regions. Our discussions with business and government leaders focused on the fundamental strategies for location intelligence to help support understanding and address important challenges such as climate change, housing needs, future mobility, social equity, and civic engagement.” Esri Brooks Patrick Business Development Manager for Smart Cities We demonstrated our justice and public safety portfolio which centralises the management of city-wide security technology via a single unified platform. Operators can manage all their security cameras, automatic license plate recognition and other sensors in one application, with customised dashboards and access rights for individual employees, teams or external stakeholders. They can leverage the cloud to facilitate video and evidence sharing for public and private partnerships, driving efficiencies associated with the secure, audited, collection and sharing of evidence.” Genetec Rafael Martin Sales Director for Southern Euro Imec is a trusted research partner for companies and governments on nanoelectronics, AI and data. At SCEWC, the AI and data department showcased several innovative research projects taking place within the domains of urban mobility, logistics and sustainable environments. Imec is cooperating with its partners on ground-breaking AI research enabling a meaningful impact on people, industry and society, for example by working on novel data publication technologies like linked data event streams and sovereign data control.” Imec Stefan Lefever Program Director We demonstrated OpenBlue, our complete ecosystem for optimising the performance of buildings in real time to make them smart, healthy and sustainable. We also showcased OpenBlue Enterprise Manager, a suite of software solutions that gathers and analyses building data to assess environmental health and systems efficiency. One takeaway of SCEWC was that technology is key for combatting the climate crisis and it was incredibly motivating to be in the same room with thousands of other experts sharing solutions to address this global challenge.” Johnson Controls Kieran Sexton Director of Technical Solution Architects At SCEWC, we highlighted how LinkedIn Talent Insights empowers governments by offering data-driven insights into labour markets, aiding in strategic workforce planning, talent attraction and retention, economic development and policy formulation. The tool enables organisations to make informed decisions on education, immigration and economic development, fostering public-private collaboration. By tracking real-time labour market trends, governments stay agile, ensuring policies align with industry needs and facilitating a skilled, competitive workforce.” LinkedIn Seamus Clancy Public Sector Lead for EMEA and LATAM CrowdScan demonstrated how its battery-powered sensors can help smart cities to monitor crowds accurately and anonymously in public spaces. We mounted our sensors at venue entrance and on both the Microsoft and Flanders Investment and Trade booths to track traffic flow, peak visitor hours, crowd density, and more. We presented the data in both graphs and 3D models, allowing us to identify trends in real time and showcase how smart cities could link our solution with other data sources to improve public safety, sustainability and more.” CrowdScan Ben Bellekens Chief Technology Officer
33 We support customers in every step of their unique digital and sustainability transformation. Our professional services unit’s capabilities include advisory, solution design and implementation as well as custom software development. We turn the ideas of the new urban agenda into transformative actions by defining data and investment strategies, digital platforms, and living labs for smart districts to boost local economy and drive sustainability. Additionally, we implement digital solutions (for example on Microsoft Azure) by building digital twins, AI applications for environmental improvements, crowd management and pathway to net zero, turning municipalities into data-driven companies building their own digital core.” Siemens Advanta Björn Burbach Vice President of Digital Transformation for EMEA Infrastructure and Districts We presented our digital twin solutions for cities, which support decisionmaking in an evidence-based way. By using predictive modelling, optimisation algorithms and simulations, we create ‘what if’ scenarios and measure the impact of potential solutions before implementing them in the real city. For example, we can use the digital twin to understand how climate change will impact different parts of the city and implement solutions based on that. These tools are especially helpful for policymakers or urban planners.” TECNALIA Patricia Molina Director of City, Territory and Environment Sparrow Analytics unveiled a groundbreaking solution for helping public and private sector organisations to access hyperlocal environmental data on city streets. This comprehensive tool is indispensable for navigating the complexities of the modern urban landscape, empowering stakeholders to steer the course of the ‘new urban era’ by making informed decisions based on intricate street-level environmental insights. Sparrow is a pivotal player, bridging the gap between data and urban transformation, paving the way for a sustainable and responsive urban future.” Sparrow Analytics Max Interbrick Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder
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