Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions — The Podcast

Generative AI has been making a lot of news not just for the flash of new tech, but because of the results it’s driving. According to McKinsey, companies are seeing a 40% increase in productivity through AI-driven automation. In this episode, you’ll hear from industry and technology leaders as they discuss powerful Generative AI use cases for the healthcare industry: Diagnosis health conditions Develop new medicine Decrease time spent on administrative tasks Improve patient service  Related Webinar On-demand: Prepare for an AI Driven Future in Healthcare global.hitachi-solutions.com

Your Thought Leaders for this Episode:Dave Horstein, Host, Senior Advisory ConsultantGreg Gant, Vice President of Corporate DevelopmentHannah Farley, Vice President of Advisory ServicesOverviewConstructing a business-led data strategy is the topic today! Based on customer interactions, we discuss the need for strategy alignment with overall business goals and outcomes for your enterprise. The inefficiencies of non value-added data work and the lack of trust in data among managers was discussed with an aim to address why data initiatives fail and how to correct course.Key points of discussion include:The need for a business-led roadmap and how it must tie back to business outcomes.Fundamental necessity of having a talent strategy that aligns future states of organization with skill sets required for a robust data strategy.The importance of an efficient operating model for data sharing within the organization.Choosing the right technology solutions to leverage data and align with organizational goals.The imperatives of data management and governance to bolster confidence in organizational data.The essential nature of adoption and scaling, ensuring organizational capability to harness data effectively.Action ItemsBusiness Outcome Alignment: Enforce sincere business outcome alignment amongst leadership to avoid future derailment of data initiatives.Current State Assessment: Performing a neutral current state assessment to accurately identify opportunities and discrepancies without biases.Create a Roadmap Framework: Develop a strategic vision with clear business outcomes, timelines, resource allocation, and ownership for various initiatives.People Plan Development: Ensuring the integration of a comprehensive people plan to support each phase of the data initiative, focusing on talent management and engagement.Technology and Process Review: Reassess the technology and processes with a focus on ultimate business goals, not just technological advancements themselves.Education and Enablement Program: Implementing a program to educate and enable employees, ensuring the governance model works effectively across the board.SummaryThe meeting successfully outlined critical considerations for a business transformation through a data-led approach. It highlighted that technology, while vital, is insufficient without strategic Alignment with business outcomes, supportive leadership, and an engaged and skilled workforce. The discussion confirmed the need to establish clear visions, leverage Alignment workshops like OGSM, and embed tangible value creation in roadmaps, with overarching emphasis on the critical role of people in the adoption and endorsement of any data strategy. The session concluded with a call to check out further material on the web at global.hitachi-solutions.com.You might be interested in our upcoming webinar...AI Readiness Roadmap: Guide to Unlocking Value with a Sound Data Strategy – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)global.hitachi-solutions.com

Podcast SummaryTitle: Microsoft Fabric Conference Wrap Up with Hitachi SolutionsPodcast Air Date: Wednesday, April 17, 2024Featuring: Brad Koontz hosts with Sandeep Pawar and Miles ColeKey Points Discussed:Microsoft Fabric Conference Customer InsightsBrad Koontz introduces Microsoft's first-ever Fabric Conference (Fab Con) held in Las Vegas, with Hitachi Solutions expert presentationsThe conference featured 130 sessions with hands-on experience with Microsoft Fabric capabilities like data warehousing, data movement, AI, real-time analytics, and business intelligence.Hitachi Solutions has been in partnership with Microsoft for nearly two years, offering "Fabric in a Day" training since the previous November.Announcements and IntegrationsMicrosoft announced new fabric capabilities and Hitachi Solutions presented their own sessions at the conference.One significant investment was the integration between Microsoft and Databricks for better interoperability of platforms related to Lakehouse architecture.Mirroring was a new feature showcased, allowing for the replication of databases outside of Fabric, which facilitates data analysis without physical data movement.Hitachi Solutions' Role and OfferingHitachi Solutions is positioned to assist customers with the integration of fabric and their existing investments due to their close relationship and collaboration with Microsoft.Key Takeaways and Call to Action:For Existing Lakehouse Architecture Users:Customers can take advantage of fabric immediately, but nuances with integration exist.Action Item: Hitachi Solutions to provide guidance on interoperability between platforms like Azure Databricks and Microsoft Fabric.For New Users and Educating Customers:Interest in Fabric is high, as demonstrated by conference turnout.Hitachi Solutions offers our "Fabric in a Day" as well as upcoming dates for Microsoft's Fabric Analytics in a Day" events for customersNext Steps:Further engagement with Hitachi Solutions for education on Fabric's capabilities and assistance in implementing new technologies.Related Resources:Jumpstart Your Adoption of Microsoft Fabric with Lumada Empower Data Platform – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)Fabric in a Day – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)A Complete Data Estate in 7 Days? We Do It Every Day. – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)Next Gen Business Intelligence: Microsoft Power BI + Fabric – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)global.hitachi-solutions.com

What does a tattoo have to do with patient experience?How do you gain trust around AI?What impact does collaboration have on the future of data and AI in healthcare?In this episode of Exchanges, Brad Koontz speaks with Leah Bowling, VP & GM at Hitachi Solutions, and Paulo Pinho, Chief Medical and Strategy Officer at Discern Health, about their experiences at HIMSS 20204 and the industry trends impacting healthcare and technology that surround the answers to these questions. Listen and learn more!Check out our related resources:https://global.hitachi-solutions.com/blog/advancing-healthcare-through-data/https://global.hitachi-solutions.com/downloads/empower-trial-offer/https://global.hitachi-solutions.com/webinars/prepare-for-ai-driven-future-in-healthcare/global.hitachi-solutions.com

Hosts: Joel Lindstrom and Joe UnwinDiscussion Points:March Power Platform Insights: Recap of the insights and the usefulness of the power platform as a practical guide for frequently asked questions on Copilot and Copilot Studio.Understanding Copilot: Distinctions between different 'Copilot' offerings, e.g., general Microsoft Copilot vs. M365 Copilot vs. Copilot Studio. Clear explanation on purpose and functionalities were provided.Generative AI Landscape: An overarching theme is Microsoft's move towards generative AI alongside manual pathways, the balance between precision and generative freedom, and the use of AI in chat solutions.Power Virtual Agents (PVA) Transition: Discussion on how PVA has evolved and integrates into Copilot Studio, emphasizing the transition from PVA to Copilot Studio.Security Aspects: Focused on how Copilot Studio maintains high standards for data security and privacy amidst its capabilities.Licensing and Pricing: Clarity was provided on the new pricing model, which is based on message interactions rather than sessions, with examples of how generative AI interactions are counted.Adoption Strategy: Suggestions on approaches businesses can take in adopting Copilot Studio such as starting with a pilot program before wider implementation.Featured ResourcePower Platform Insights: March 2024 – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)Related Resources:Power Platform Insights: February 2024 – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)The Impact of AI on the Future of Work – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)Learn How to Modernize Your Out-dated RPA FAST — with Microsoft Power Automate and Hitachi Solutions – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)global.hitachi-solutions.com

In every discussion Advisory expert Greg Gant has with business leaders today, the conversation inevitably leads to business modernization for the Era of AI. What advice is he giving, and when does data first enter the discussion? Find it in this week's episode of Exchanges by Hitachi Solutions. Key Discussion Points:Data-Centric AI: Greg emphasizes that data is paramount for AI and related technologies like generative AI and CRM to work efficiently.Worker Adoption of Generative AI: According to Forrester — 60% of workers will use generative AI by 2024. Is it true for your business? Practical Uses of AI in Business: How we're helping customers prioritize practical applications of AI in their processes.The Necessity for Data Modernization: Prioritizing data modernization comes up early in discussions with business decision-makers, as good data quality directly impacts the efficacy of future AI initiatives.AI as a Transformation Driver: AI is considered a key factor in digital transformation, but the implementation must balance innovation with the human aspect to ensure adoption and realization of business value.Final NotesIn this episode we discuss the rapid pace at which AI is being adopted in the workforce and the critical role of data in leveraging AI capabilities. Greg Gant highlights the importance of preparing and training teams to effectively use AI and data-driven technologies as they become increasingly integral to business operations. To learn more, check out our "Finding Your AI Onramp" webinar now on demand.global.hitachi-solutions.com

Date: Wednesday, February 21Meeting Title: Microsoft Copilot 101 for Business LeadersParticipants:Brad Koontz (Host)Adam Piercy (Fast Track Recognized Solution Architect, Hitachi Solutions)Joe Unwin (Microsoft Power Platform MVP)Discussion Points:Overview of Copilot:Introduced as a versatile assistant across Microsoft 365 workspace.Embedded in daily apps to enhance productivity and provide assistance in real-time.Not all users are aware of how to utilize it effectively.Copilot Functionality:For general use: Supercharges productivity in Teams, Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint.For business applications (e.g., Dynamics 365): Optimizes sales processes, helps manage tasks, creates summaries, drafts emails, etc.Understanding Copilot Variants:M365 Copilot is the broad AI assistant.Copilot for Sales focuses on the sales process within Dynamics 365 and helps with managing opportunities, leads, and meetings.Availability and Pricing:$30 per user/month as a separate SKU.Accessible to all commercial customers on various M365 plans.Additional AI capabilities available for some Dynamics 365 users without the comprehensive package.Extension of Copilot:Customization and extensions can be done via Copilot Studio, even for non-Microsoft applications through an API.Custom copilots can be created for specific business needs.Copilot Studio:Builds on the previous Power Virtual Agent technology.Allows for custom conversational plugins and connects Copilot to third-party systems through an automation studio.Enhanced with generative AI capacity.Future of CRM and AI:Discussion on the direction of CRM becoming invisible within user workflows.Emphasis on productivity and user adoption through seamless integration with Copilot.Action Items for Business Leaders:Understanding Extension Capabilities:Task: Assess how Copilot extensions can improve productivity within their respective organizations.Evaluating Custom Copilot Needs:Task: Consider if a custom Copilot could benefit their current customer service model and begin strategizing the implementation.Exploring Copilot Studio:Task: Dive into Copilot Studio's offerings to understand how it can be utilized to enhance user experience with generative AI.Educating Teams on Copilot Use:Task: Share knowledge and arrange training, if necessary, on Copilot's features and how they can be leveraged for better efficiency.Subscription Evaluation:Task: Assess current subscriptions and additional costs to evaluate the financial impact of leveraging full Copilot capabilities.global.hitachi-solutions.com

Title: 3 Top Leadership Priorities for Successful Digital TransformationDate: Wednesday, Feb 14Participants: Dave Horstein hosts Hannah Farley - Vice President of Advisory Services at Hitachi Solutions AmericaDave & Hannah focus on key leadership priorities that are essential for successful digital transformation. The conversation revolved around three major aspects:Prioritizing Digital Initiatives: Hannah highlights the importance of having a clear strategy. She emphasizes initiatives should align with an organization's overall vision and strategic objectives. She also warns against the common mistake of trying to execute multiple initiatives simultaneously, which often leads to none being completed effectively.Action Item: Leaders need to define the top three priorities for their organizations, understand how projects and priorities may overlap, and consider the impact on employees.Upskilling and Reskilling Employees:Dave & Hannah discuss why preparing employees for changes that come with digital transformation is fundamental to success. Action Item: Implement a process for upskilling and reskilling employees to fit into the new roles that emerge from digital transformation.Adopting New Cutting-Edge Technology: The conversation highlights that simply communicating and training employees about new technology is not enough to ensure adoption. Hannah stresses the need for reinforcement and accountability measures to create sustainable change.Action Item: Development of effective training programs and the inclusion of behavioral reinforcement and accountability mechanisms in the digital transformation plan.Overall, Dave & Hannah stress the importance of clear communication, effective training, and the need for accountability and reinforcement mechanisms to ensure the successful implementation of digital transformation initiatives.global.hitachi-solutions.com

In this episode of "Exchanges," a podcast by Hitachi Solutions, host Brad Koontz talks with Jonathan Yundt, Industry Director, and Stuart Morris, Director of R&D, about the use of generative AI in the insurance industry. In the insurance sector, generative AI is used in various areas including marketing, sales, underwriting, operations, and claims. By conversing with data, insurance companies can analyze success rates based on different variables, speeding up processes such as claim processing and policy renewal. global.hitachi-solutions.com

When it comes to AI initiatives for your enterprise and business leader decision-making, in the words of Stephen Covey, "First Thing's First."As our Advisory experts Dave Horstein and Greg Gant unpack prioritization for AI initiatives, Gant puts it this way, "Center your prioritization around 'find my things, fix my things, and update my things,' which means look at areas where you're already working to improve your efficiencies. You're not solving new issues, it's about solving existing and even age-old issues more efficiently and realize value more quickly. Start by identifying high-priority use cases.Learn more in this episode of Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions, and don't miss our upcoming webinar on "Finding Your AI Onramp," which further explores this topic to help business decision makers map their way forward. global.hitachi-solutions.com

Join host Brad Koontz and Cybersecurity expert Michael Steel as they discuss the top trends in enterprise security and how to navigate them for your business. Our experts discuss their top 3 security concerns in 2024:Ransomware attacks on critical infrastructureDeepfakes and disinformation campaignsInsider threats and identity breachesTo begin, let's dive deeper into each of these concerns:Ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure - With cybercriminals increasingly targeting vital systems, organizations should be prepared for the potential impact of ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure. This involves not only securing IT networks but also investing in robust cybersecurity measures for operational technology (OT) systems.Deepfakes and disinformation campaigns - The rapid advancement of AI and machine learning has led to the rise of deepfakes, synthetic media that can manipulate and deceive even experts. Businesses must be aware of the potential harm from deepfake-based disinformation campaigns and invest in countermeasures to detect and mitigate their impact on brand reputation and public trust.Insider threats and identity breaches - Insider threats, whether intentional or accidental, pose a significant risk to organizations. As remote work becomes the norm, ensuring strong access management, user training, and monitoring of user behavior will be crucial in preventing and mitigating insider threats and potential identity breaches.By taking proactive steps to address these security concerns, business leaders can help their organizations stay ahead of the curve and maintain a strong security posture in 2024 and beyond.global.hitachi-solutions.com

In this Season 4 preview of Exchanges — Advisory Expert Dave Horstein engages in a "Man on the Street" Q&A about how we're helping customers make an impact with AI. Here are a few key takeaways: People First Approach to AI: The conversation emphasized the importance of a people-first approach when incorporating AI into businesses. It highlighted how AI can make employees more efficient, instead of replacing them. Investing in upskilling and reskilling their workforce alongside implementing AI should be a part of the organization's talent strategy.Strategic Use of AI: The discussion stressed the need for businesses to use AI strategically to solve specific business challenges rather than just adopting AI for the sake of it. It's essential to align AI initiatives with the business strategy and focus on the value it can bring to the organization, such as increasing operational efficiency, reducing human error, and providing cost savings.Leveraging AI for Business Transformation: The conversation provided examples of how AI can drive positive outcomes. It highlighted the use of AI in automating data entry from unstructured data, enhancing the customer service experience, and providing a knowledge base for easy access to enterprise data. The conversation encouraged business leaders to consider these use cases when planning their AI transformations.Successful integration of AI in businesses depends on aligning it with business strategy, focusing on enhancing employees' skills, and leveraging AI to solve real business issues.global.hitachi-solutions.com

AI has moved beyond the stage of experimentation and is now being used to optimize business processes. Organizations are identifying and evaluating use cases and investing significant time and resources. Learn more in this special year-end edition of Exchanges —a podcast by Hitachi Solutions.Hosted by Advisory expert Dave Horstein with Hitachi Solutions COO Jerry Hawk"Consider the societal implications of AI and how it can be used to improve the quality of human life." —Jerry Hawkglobal.hitachi-solutions.com

Advisory Services Host Dave Horstein leads a thought leadership discussion on not only how to define digital transformation moving forward, but how to navigate and communicate throughout the process.Tying together organizational strategy with sustainability is always tricky for leadership as companies work to build effective modernization plans for their business model.  While ensuring people & process are at the center of the strategy is key — understanding & communicating WHAT digital transformation means for everyone is paramount… especially in this Era of AI … global.hitachi-solutions.com

In this episode of the Exchanges podcast, hosts Adam Piercy and Jonathan Yundt discuss the concept of Invisible CRM and how it can revolutionize the way businesses approach customer relationship management. They dive into the methodology behind Invisible CRM, focusing on understanding people, processes, and data before diving into technology.Adam and Jonathan discuss the importance of defining personas, uncovering hidden processes, and ensuring quality data to drive successful CRM implementations - emphasizing the need for meeting users where they work and delivering information in the most effective way. Key takeaways from this episode include:Adopt a mindset of understanding people, processes, and data before implementing technology.Meet users where they work by surfacing information when, where, and how they need it.Focus on extensibility rather than customization to leverage the full potential of CRM platforms.global.hitachi-solutions.com

In this episode, we explore the intersection of AI and sustainability within the fashion and retail industries. With expert insights from Deb Marotta of Hitachi Solutions and Kimberly Morgan of K3, we discuss strategies, technologies, and trends aimed at creating a more sustainable future.Host: Dave HorsteinGuests: Deb Marotta, VP, Industry StrategyKimberly Morgan, VP, NA & Global Partner Lead at K3global.hitachi-solutions.com

For Quebec Law 25, the time is now for business leaders to take action to secure their data for governance & compliance to avoid penalties in the future. For your people, process & technology, you will learn:Law 25 background — what is the "right to be forgotten?"Key milestones How to prepare for next compliance requirement(s) through data management & governanceExpert-led suggestions for next stepsLearn more through this expert-led discussion with Hitachi Solutions hosted by Brad Koontz with Jay Tsang and Alexandre Crespo-Perez.global.hitachi-solutions.com

In this episode of Radical Consulting for Exchanges, , Keith Shoulders leads our Project Services team discussion with special guest Gary Peterson, CSO, Hitachi Solutions. Through this Microsoft Teams-driven conversation, we turn the lens on digital transformation, how we're helping our customers in this modern era, and how we're using these tools ourselves to work more efficiently everyday wherever we are.Join our team discussion and learn how we're leveraging this technology, why we consider Gen AI a great daily "digital assistant," and how it can become your favorite go to as well — Enterprise Chat is there for you whenever you need help writing, recording or resourcing; even at 2am.global.hitachi-solutions.com

Join Host Brad Koontz with AI and innovation experts Paul Way and Don Scott for this straightforward conversation on how AI is working for business......It’s hard to imagine an industry that won’t be transformed by AI. Whether it’s healthcare, education, retail, construction, banking and finance, insurance, or manufacturing. There are very clear use cases where AI can make an immediate and large change in how they improve operations and customer experiences. There is a geyser of ideas and concepts in the marketplace and media – and with it a feeling of being overwhelmed. With all these predictions, offers, and tech talk out there, learning about AI can be like taking a sip from that geyser.global.hitachi-solutions.com

In this episode of the Exchanges podcast by Hitachi Solutions, host Keith Shoulders is joined by co-hosts Marne Brocksmith and Mike Majarais as they dive into the topic of trustworthiness and building trust as a trusted advisor. Their special guest is Amy Pritts, the CE delivery lead at Hitachi Solutions. Amy shares her insights on the importance of being engaging, authentic, and curious in order to build trust with clients and colleagues. She emphasizes the value of vulnerability and active listening in cultivating intimacy and creating meaningful connections. global.hitachi-solutions.com