Futurum Tech Webcast

On this episode of the Infrastructure Matters, host Keith Townsend is joined by HPE's Bharath Ramesh, Global Head of AI Product for a conversation on exploring the complex landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) in the enterprise domain, with a focus on the challenges organizations face and the emergence of hybrid AI solutions as a viable approach. Their discussion covers: The current state of AI adoption in enterprises and the primary obstacles they encounter The evolution and importance of hybrid AI solutions in addressing enterprise needs Insights into how organizations can effectively navigate the integration of AI technologies Strategies for enterprises to maximize the value of AI investments Future trends in AI development and how they might influence enterprise strategies  

In this episode of Enterprising Insights, host Keith Kirkpatrick discusses two conferences he attended during the week, Epicor Insights and Salesforce Connections. Kirkpatrick talks about the key news from each event, new product announcements, and provides his take on each event. He then closes out the show with the Rant or Rave segment, focusing on a particular galling CX experience that saw a failure with applications, training, and the ability to show empathy.  

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, Steven Dickens and Camberley Bates discuss their experiences at various industry events, including Dell, IBM, Nutanix, and Lenovo earnings announcements. They highlight major announcements and key trends, particularly focusing on AI and multicloud. Dell emphasized their AI Factory and PowerStore updates, while IBM focused on hybrid cloud and AI developments through watsonx and AWS partnerships. Nutanix's collaboration with Dell and Lenovo's strong non-PC revenue growth were also discussed. Key Points: Dell Event Highlights: Major focus on AI, with the introduction of the AI Factory and significant updates to PowerStore. IBM Think Conference: Emphasis on hybrid cloud and AI, featuring developments in watsonx and partnerships with AWS. Nutanix and Dell Partnership: Integration of PowerFlex with Nutanix's AHV virtualization offering for scalable solutions. Lenovo Earnings Report: Strong growth in non-PC revenue and expansion in data center and AI solutions. Overall Industry Trends: Shift from AI proof-of-concepts to production deployments and infrastructure focus to support AI workloads and multicloud environments.  

In this episode of The 5G Factor, our series that focuses on all things across the 5G ecosystem, we review recent adjustments by key players throughout the 5G ecosystem including Verizon Business’ debut in the neutral host network segment, Dell and Ericsson commercially debuting Ericsson Cloud RAN software on Dell PowerEdge servers to spur telco cloud journeys, and how Red Hat’s open source approach is making inroads across telco hybrid cloud and Open RAN environments. Our analytical review drilled down on: Verizon’s First Neutral Host Deal with Cummins. Verizon created a 5G ecosystem stir in announcing its debut neutral host private 5G deal with Cummins Inc., a manufacturer of heavy-duty truck engines. Cummins is tapping Verizon as the technical lead and anchor tenant for a combo network to be deployed at its Jamestown engine plant in Lakewood, New York. Verizon will collaborate with Ericsson to implement the neutral host model using Verizon's C-band and mmWave spectrum bands, plus support for 3.5GHz CBRS connections. The move follows T-Mobile already tossing its hat into the neutral host arena with suppliers such as Celona certified on its 4G-based neutral host system within T-Mobile’s “Bring Your Own Coverage 2.0” (BYOC 2.0) program that has the property owner financing and hosting the neutral site. We delve into how the neutral host model can deliver benefits like ensuring all users, such as employees, get the same level of signal across all carriers, vital to making sure emergency calls inside or outside the facility are received as well as the prospects that other operators will warm to Verizon acting as the “neutral” anchor tenant at such sites. Dell and Ericsson Target Stimulating Telco Cloud Journeys. At Dell Tech World 2024, Dell and Ericsson announced they have bolstered their partnership to push telco cloud transformation journeys forward. To help make this happen, the duo is commercially debuting Ericsson Cloud RAN software on Dell PowerEdge servers underpinned by continuous testing and lifecycle management plus joint services that offer telcos integrated network infrastructure support. They are working together to cultivate customized cloud network transformation journeys and provide guidance on network structures and operational frameworks that minimize the deployment risks across open, heterogeneous vendor environments. We assess the potential impact of the alliance on the 5G market including how Dell’s AI Factory solutions can ultimately play a key role in stimulating telco cloud journeys including the acceleration of Cloud RAN implementations.  Red Hat Seeks to Reduce Complexity Through Open Source Principles. Red Hat is focused on using open source principles to help telcos improve their business outcomes by reducing complexity with open source underpinning Red Hat’s pre-integrated platform approach that includes orchestrating 5G automation, hybrid cloud, AI, and edge computing capabilities. Specifically, Red Hat offers a unified cloud-native application platform that spans the telco’s network from core to edge. To that end, Red Hat has integrated Ericsson Cloud RAN with Red Hat OpenShift to provide telcos more flexibility in choosing a cloud platform. The move comes after Red Hat announced in 2023 a partnership to deliver Nokia's core network applications together with Red Hat's cloud infrastructure platforms. We assess the practical outcomes of Red Hat’s portfolio development and marketing strategy as shown by its collaboration with telco organizations such as KDDI, Telenor, Turkcell, Perfectum, and an array of others to help accelerate cloud-native network deployments within multi-vendor environments including progress working with Nokia’s anyRAN framework as well as Mavenir’s Open RAN solutions in the Vodafone Idea network.

On this episode of the Infrastructure Matters, host Steven Dickens is joined by AveriSource's Stephanie Walter, Head of Product for a conversation on how AveriSource is innovating in the realm of mainframe modernization. Our discussion covers: An overview of AveriSource as a new entrant in the mainframe modernization space A deep dive into AveriSource's solution model and its unique approach Innovations AveriSource is bringing to the user interface (UI) space The role of AI in AveriSource's strategy and offerings Key trends from clients regarding mainframe modernization and how to engage with AveriSource

On this episode of Marketing Art and Science, I am joined by Infinidat’s CMO, Eric Herzog, for a lively conversation on marketing and business as a team sport, the symbiotic value of a strong sales-marketing relationship, and what Eric believes is the true art of marketing. Our discussion covers: An introduction to charismatic CMO Eric Herzog and how marketing is enabling Infinidat's mission to become the standard in enterprise storage How Eric’s integrated marketing organization fits in to Infinidat’s corporate strategy How the Infinidat customer journey progresses through its MarTech stack The criticality of having purpose when leveraging AI  

In this episode of Enterprising Insights, host Keith Kirkpatrick discusses news from the world of enterprise applications, HR, and AI. He focuses on the growing use of no-code/low-code development platforms, the focus on enterprise skills development, the use of AI guardrails within a CRM, and discusses how AI can be used to optimize digital customer experiences. He then provides a Rave during his Rant or Rave segment, praising vendors’ increasing willingness to focus on time to value as a key messaging point, eschewing the endless focus on feature sets.

On this episode of the Infrastructure Matters, host Steven Dickens is joined by Rocket Software's Phil Buckellew, President of Infrastructure Modernization and Neil Fowler, Senior Vice President of Hybrid Cloud Engineering to discuss the recent acquisition of AMC (formerly part of Micro Focus) and the seamless transition of mainframe modernization to cloud environments. The conversation includes insights into the future of mainframe technologies and Rocket Software's strategic direction. Our discussion covers: The critical importance of mainframe modernization and the new capabilities Rocket Software gains from the AMC acquisition. An overview of the products included in the AMC acquisition and what they mean for mainframe customers. The benefits businesses can expect when modernizing their mainframes, particularly through cloud integration. Insight into Rocket Software's promise for modernization without disruption, and what this process entails for their customers.  

On this episode of Infrastructure Matters, host Steven Dickens is joined by Rocket Software's Milan Shetti, President and CEO, for a conversation on how Rocket Software's monumental acquisition of AMC is set to revolutionize the company's market stance by significantly enhancing its modernization suite and unlocking new avenues for cloud innovation. Our discussion covers: The strategic significance of acquiring AMC and its impact on Rocket Software’s position in the market. The imperative of modernization in today's digital landscape and the necessity for companies to prioritize this transition. The unique qualities that set Rocket Software apart in the competitive field of cloud solutions and infrastructure modernization.  

On this episode of DevOps Dialogues: Insights & Innovations, I am joined by VP and Practice Lead, Bob Sutor, for discussion of the impacts of quantum computing on AI, DevOps and AppDev. Our conversation covered: What quantum software development is, what people use as their SDK, the platform, rise of Rust with a Python wrapper and WASM Quantum, AI and AppDev overlap and market space, including qualification TEV, ROI and the economic models Why this is important, and why prospects should care  How this relates to the topics of quantum, DevOps, AI, AppDev, etc These topics reflect ongoing discussions, challenges, and innovations within the DevOps community.  

In this episode of The 5G Factor, our series that focuses on all things 5G, the IoT, and the 5G ecosystem as a whole, we review new private 5G (P5G) ecosystem advances including Cisco’s collaboration with Augmentir, Nokia, and Logicalis to boost adoption of the Cisco Mobility Services Platform across enterprises, Tesla building its P5G network at its Berlin gigafactory, and Verizon completing the first phase of certifying Nokia’s DAC for the Verizon Business Private 5G Network portfolio. Our analytical review spotlighted: Cisco Private 5G Ecosystem Credentials Wax. At the recent Hanover Messe 2024 global trade fair, Cisco’s Next-Gen Workforce Collaboration with Cisco Private 5G proposition stood out. We address why focusing on how Cisco understands that ecosystem-wide collaboration is needed to advance private 5G implementations. Cisco is working with Augmentir, Nokia and Logicalis in bolstering the Cisco Mobility Services Platform’s deployment flexibility though increasing the value of mobile services by making them more accessible and programmable. The platform combines Augmentir, Cisco Webex Expert on Demand, and Cisco Private 5G to redefine automation and workforce efficiency in industrial operations. The platform also reinforces Cisco’s commitment to fulfill enterprise digital transformation objectives by delivering simple, unified solutions that provide secure connectivity and supporting value-added services for people, places, and things.  Tesla Jumps on the P5G Bandwagon. Tesla indicated it had constructed a private 5G network at its gigafactory in Berlin with plans to deploy the technology worldwide. The P5G network can work indoors and outdoors with the outdoor coverage enabling Tesla to update hundreds of cars outside avoiding the need to run and power to outdoor locations. We assess why Tesla’s ongoing plans to build out P5G provides a high-profile market bump for the technology.  Verizon has completed the first phase of certification to add Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (DAC) to its list of supported offerings in private networks that use Verizon’s licensed spectrum. Upon addition to its portfolio, Nokia DAC would expand Verizon Business’ hardware and software options available to customers of Verizon Business’ Private 5G Network offering. The Nokia DAC platform will also be used to enhance indoor coverage for Verizon consumers and enterprise customers. We examine why Nokia’s DAC is well-suited to help spur adoption of private wireless connectivity and operational technology needs across industrial sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, ports, airports, utilities, mining, and agriculture.   

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, hosts Steve Dickens, Krista Macomber and Camberley Bates cover Solidigm RSA conference and Red Hat Summit conference themes.     Key topic include:   Highlights from Solidigm Analyst Day for The Futurum Group  Key themes from the  RSA conference in San Francisco including:  Advancement in AI security posture management  Proactive cybersecurity measures CalypsoAI's work on identifying vulnerabilities in large language models and the use of AI in security analytics by companies like Elastic Plus Krista’s thrilling ride in the Waymo! News and Announcements from the Red Hat Summit, including: RHEL AI, allowing AI to run on PCs Virtualization Strategies Open-sourcing of IBM's Granite AI model and OpenShift AI Strategic approach to partner engagement Expansion of LightSpeed  

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, hosts Krista Macomber and Camberley Bates cover Commvault earnings, Dell’s data protection announcement, Microsoft’s Secure Feature initiative plus why Hitachi matters. Key topics include:  Commvault Earnings Discussion: Strong fiscal  and quarter performance, with a 10% year-over-year revenue increase and how their shift into cyber resiliency made the difference. Dell's Innovations in Data Protection: Dell's Data Protection Group introduced improvements with its Data Domain system and PowerProtect offerings.  We cover the details and what is new. Hitachi Vantara's Organizational Changes and New Offerings: With the GA of their VSP One Platform and the new organization including engineering, Hitachi marks a strategic refocus on data infrastructure space after a period of relative silence.  We talk about the relevance and what to expect. Microsoft's Secure Future Initiative: As part of preparing for the RSA conference, Microsoft launches the Secure Future Initiative, which focuses on integrating security deeply into its product development processes. And what to Expect from the RSA Conference: Spoiler alert: AI plus other topics including the evolving challenges for security teams. 

In this episode of Enterprising Insights, The Futurum Group’s Enterprise Applications Research Director Keith Kirkpatrick discusses Tableau Conference 2024, recent earnings news from major enterprise application vendors. He then closes out the show with the Rant or Rave segment, where he picks one item in the market, and either champions or criticizes it.

In this episode of Enterprising Insights, The Futurum Group’s Enterprise Applications Research Director Keith Kirkpatrick discusses the Oracle Analyst Summit, a survey on the changing nature of service organizations from Salesforce, and brief commentary on the plethora of earnings announcements from SaaS vendors. He then closes out the show with the Rant or Rave segment, where he picks one item in the market, and either champions or criticizes it.  

On this episode of Infrastructure Matters, host Steven Dickens is joined by PopUp Mainframe's Gary Thornhill, Founder and CEO for a conversation on enabling DevOps practices and facilitating mainframe modernization through innovative solutions. Their discussion covers: The inception and mission of PopUp Mainframe Challenges and opportunities in mainframe modernization How PopUp Mainframe integrates DevOps into traditional mainframe environments Key benefits companies can achieve with PopUp Mainframe's solutions Future trends in mainframe technology and DevOps  

On this episode of Marketing Art and Science, I am joined by Delta Air Lines’ CMO Alicia Tillman for a conversation on how modern marketing is enabling Delta to revolutionize travel globally. Together, we explore the massive impact Delta’s MarTech stack is having on the business and dive into the emerging technologies Delta is deploying that are already profoundly influencing the personalized passenger experience.  Our discussion covers:  Alicia Tillman's role as CMO of Delta Air Lines and the company's recent recognition for innovation and customer experience at events like SXSW 2024. A discussion on Delta's transformation as a digitally and culturally progressive 99-year-old organization that emphasizes how technology is enhancing passenger and employee experiences Delta's MarTech stack and its influence on brand identity, sales pipeline optimization, and the integration of emerging technologies like AI and IoT to fuel a highly personalized passenger experience. Insights into Delta's future, including its commitment to global connectivity and the implementation of tech-driven initiatives aimed at enhancing passenger and employee experiences while influencing key business metrics. Fail to Fab story, Tillman describes a marketing initiative experiment campaign that did not go according to plan and how Delta marketing transformed it into a fabulous marketing win.  

In this episode of the Futurum Tech Webcast, The Futurum Group’s Enterprise Applications Research Director Keith Kirkpatrick is joined by Gina Whitty, Product Management, CCaaS + AI at GoTo, about the challenges faced by SMBs and mid-market companies that are trying to undergo a digital transformation, and discusses the maturity journey involved with improving CX delivery via the use of generative AI, omnichannel engagement, and automation.

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, hosts Steven Dickens and Camberley Bates cover the Rubrik IPO, Oracle’s positioning in the cloud market, plus IBM’s Storage announcements. Key topics covered:  Rubric IPO: Rubric, a data protection company, went public with a $5.6 billion valuation, emphasizing its scale-out data protection capability and its focus on cybersecurity. IBM Earnings and Acquisition: IBM reported solid earnings, with notable growth in software and hybrid cloud, and announced the acquisition of HashiCorp for $35 a share, enhancing its open-source support model. IBM Storage Announcements: IBM introduced Storage Assurance Perpetual, a program aimed at keeping customers' storage infrastructure current over an eight-year period, and unveiled enhancements to its virtualized storage product, SVC, focusing on replication and mirroring capabilities. Google Cloud Growth: Google Cloud's revenue surged 28% year-on-year, nearing $10 billion for the quarter, signaling strong sales execution and growth momentum in the enterprise market. Oracle Developments: Oracle showcased its Exadata platform's cloud connectivity and cost-effectiveness, positioning itself as a competitive player in the IaaS space. Larry Ellison's involvement highlighted the company's AI strategy and its integration with the Cerner acquisition for healthcare innovation.  

In this episode of The 5G Factor, our series that focuses on all things 5G, the IoT, and the 5G ecosystem as a whole, we review the Q1 2024 earnings of T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T and their impact across the 5G ecosystem, BT’s partnership with Global to modernize its UK Portfolio Businesses, and Charter’s Q1 2024 earnings reflect making significant strides in residential mobile service revenue growth.  Our analytical review spotlighted: Big 3 US Mobile Operators Hit Guidance Home Runs: T-Mobile reported Q1 2024 results, raising full year guidance and delivering breakthrough customer growth, including a higher share of postpaid phone net additions year-over-year and matching its lowest ever Q1 postpaid phone churn. Verizon spotlighted that the company is on track to meet its financial guidance and to deliver positive Consumer postpaid phone net adds for the year. AT&T stressed that the Q1 2024 results reflect continued strong growth in the company’s Mobility and Consumer Wireline connectivity businesses, which represent about 80% of its total revenues. This consistent, solid performance driven by its investment-led strategy gives AT&T confidence to re-affirm full-year consolidated financial guidance. We examine why all three major operators fulfilled their guidance, who excelled in their guidance outcomes, and the implications of the results for the entire mobile ecosystem.  BT Partners with Global to Modernize UK Portfolio Businesses. BT’s new partnership with media & entertainment group Global comes a year since BT’s former Enterprise and Global divisions came together to create one B2B unit connecting customers in the UK and internationally. As a group of standalone businesses that consume BT’s core assets and serve diverse industries, its UK Portfolio Businesses are integral to BT from the Media & Broadcast services that focus much of the UK’s digital content to the company’s directories businesses that underpin BT’s critical 999 service and credit reference agencies. We assess how BT’s agreement with Global to continue marketing and selling advertising on BT’s 1,000+ existing Street Hubs as well as convert up to 2,000 conventional BT payphones and kiosks into brand new Street Hubs will play a critical role in modernizing BT’s B2B proposition.  Charter’s Q1 2024 Reflect Residential Mobile Strides. Charter Communications Q1 2024 included revenue of $13.7 billion grew by 0.2% year-over-year, driven by residential mobile service revenue growth of 37.8% and residential Internet revenue growth of 1.9%. Also, Q1 2024 total residential and SMB mobile lines increased by 486,000. As of March 31, 2024, Charter served a total of 8.3 million mobile lines. Plus, as of March 31, 2024, Charter had a total of 32.0 million residential and SMB customer relationships, excluding mobile-only relationships. We explore why we see Charter executing on the company’s plan to evolve its network at a lower cost than its competitors to offer symmetrical and multi-gigabit speeds across its entire footprint.