In this episode, we talk to Greg Williams, VP at Western Computer, about the evolving role of systems integrators in the tech landscape. Greg shares insights on the shift from traditional software roles to modern integrations that demand a new breed of IT professionals. We discuss the impact of AI and machine learning on everyday business operations and explore how companies can navigate the transition to digital-first operations. Greg emphasizes the importance of adopting new technologies like AI to stay competitive, highlighting the motto "automate or die" as essential for business survival in the digital age.

Links mentioned in this episode:

https://www.westerncomputer.com/

(0:00 ) Introduction and guest introduction
(1:06 ) Volley AI's solution for tech debt accumulation and the potential of AI in simplifying coding
(3:23 ) The evolution of technology, concept of 'workflow', and complexities of systems integration
(6:20 ) Necessity of automation in business survival and the shift from manual to automated systems
(10:26 ) Gap between business desires and available technology solutions; challenges in cloud transition
(12:20 ) Addressing resistance and skill gap during digital transformation; educating about changing IT role
(13:16 ) Maximizing team potential in a startup environment; importance of communication and failure acceptance
(15:21 ) Identifying relevant data for decision making and aligning on KPIs and OKRs
(17:09 ) Combining tribal knowledge with best practices for effective results; Introduction to Western Computer
(19:02 ) Closing remarks by Christian Hammer
(19:19 ) Sponsor: Vala AI