Technology

Manufacturing Industry’s Path to Innovation and Efficiency Lies in Exponential IT, Says Info-Tech Research Group

Published

3 months ago

June 17, 2024

Info-Tech Research Group is offering durable goods manufacturers a strategic guide to adopting an Exponential IT mindset. In a recently published blueprint focused on enhancing operational efficiency, predictive maintenance, and supply chain optimization, the firm outlines actionable strategies for IT leaders in the manufacturing industry to leverage advanced technologies to improve productivity, innovation, and customer engagement.

TORONTO, June 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ – Facing heightened competition, aging legacy equipment, and significant technical debt, the manufacturing sector is under immense pressure to innovate and modernize its operations, Info-Tech Research Group explains in a new industry resource. The global research and advisory firm highlights in Priorities for Adopting an Exponential IT Mindset in the Durable Goods Manufacturing Industry that manufacturing companies must embrace exponential technologies to improve competitive positioning, with IT leaders playing a key role as valued business partners in this transformation. The new research-backed blueprint provides manufacturing and IT leaders with strategic insights and actionable plans to predict market shifts, enable proactive technology investments, and drive modernization through Exponential IT, ensuring they maintain their competitive edge and avoid disruptions.

“From digitizing service models to computerizing operations and the new influx of artificial intelligence processing, information technology has drastically changed organizations,” says Kevin Tucker, advisory practice lead at Info-Tech Research Group. “To make the most of this impending opportunity, IT executives will need to transform into business leaders who can unlock advanced value and insights for their company while reducing risk by implementing an IT transformation. But in the world of Exponential IT, where new skills and capacities are needed, innovation readiness is often still a mystery.”

Info-Tech defines Exponential IT as the strategic integration of rapidly advancing technologies that can revolutionize the manufacturing sector. These technologies, including automation, artificial intelligence, and advanced analytics, empower manufacturing companies to enhance operational efficiency, improve resource management, and innovate production processes. Embracing an Exponential IT mindset allows manufacturers to tackle digital transformation head-on, ensuring sustainable business growth and maintaining a competitive edge.

“The manufacturing industry is urged to rapidly inject an Exponential IT implementation into its roadmap to address potential industry disruptions,” explains Tucker. “It is essential for businesses to grasp the main priorities of Exponential IT transformation to stay competitive in today’s challenging environment. Recognizing and integrating core foundational capabilities are considered crucial initial steps in starting a successful Exponential IT transformation, resulting in the generation of value in the industry.”

The firm’s research outlines critical challenges faced by the durable goods manufacturing sector in adopting Exponential IT. Key issues include the integration of cutting-edge technologies with legacy systems, the persistent difficulty in attracting and retaining skilled IT professionals, and the urgent need for effective data governance. Many manufacturers also contend with fragmented data management and the dual pressures of innovation and regulatory compliance. Overcoming these challenges demands an approach encompassing strategic planning, targeted investments in upskilling staff, and a culture that embraces technological advancement. By fortifying foundational IT capabilities and enhancing digital proficiency, manufacturers can successfully navigate digital transformation, achieving substantial gains in operational efficiency and improved customer engagement.

Info-Tech’s recently published blueprint emphasizes the strategic use of advanced technologies, such as AI and data analytics, for predictive maintenance, supply chain optimization, and customer experience personalization. This approach not only safeguards sensitive data but also leverages it to fuel innovation and boost overall business performance. The firm advises that by prioritizing these technological advancements, manufacturing organizations can develop more flexible and responsive operations, ensuring sustained success in the dynamic manufacturing landscape.

In the resource, Info-Tech outlines four key priorities that manufacturing IT leaders must consider as they adopt an Exponential IT mindset:

Fund exponential value creation: As the market and IT’s roles evolve, IT budgets will need to shift significantly toward innovation. This includes focusing on efficiency, sustainability, cost reduction, and faster product quality enhancement. More funding should also be directed toward advanced human-machine technologies that improve employee safety.Team up DataOps with ModelOps: Companies are increasingly recognizing that data is their most critical asset. While data has always been important, the rise of AI and machine learning has further elevated its significance. These advanced technologies are essential for rapid decision-making, but poor-quality data can lead to poor decisions. Integrating DataOps with ModelOps ensures data integrity and effective model management.Transform infrastructure and applications into utilities: Shifting towards a utility-based model for infrastructure and applications promotes a collaborative and innovative approach to IT asset management. Leveraging cloud solutions and low-code/no-code platforms gives organizations greater control over their outcomes and agility to respond to market changes.Let AI take over core operations: The growing importance of data, driven by AI and machine learning, is transforming core operations. AI can enhance system efficiency, accelerate incident detection, and boost automation productivity. Ensuring high-quality data is crucial, as poor data can lead to poor decisions. Proper integration of AI in core operations allows for rapid, accurate decision-making and improved overall performance.

As the manufacturing sector navigates the complexities of the digital era, prioritizing these strategies will equip organizations to drive innovation, maintain robust data security, and deliver value-rich, personalized services that meet evolving market demands.

By adopting an Exponential IT mindset, manufacturing companies can effectively address the multifaceted challenges of digital transformation, enhance their technological frameworks, and achieve substantial improvements in operational efficiency and customer engagement. This proactive approach ensures not only operational resilience but also a competitive edge in an increasingly dynamic market.

For exclusive and timely commentary on this topic from Info-Tech’s analysts and access to the complete Priorities for Adopting an Exponential IT Mindset in the Durable Goods Manufacturing Industry blueprint, please contact pr@infotech.com.

Info-Tech LIVE 2024 Conference

Registration is now open for Info-Tech Research Group’s annual IT conference, Info-Tech LIVE 2024, taking place September 17 to 19, 2024, at the iconic Bellagio in Las Vegas. This premier event will also offer journalists, podcasters, and media influencers access to exclusive content, the latest IT research and trends, and the opportunity to interview industry experts, analysts, and speakers. To apply for media passes to attend the event or to gain access to research and expert insights on trending topics, please contact pr@infotech.com.

About Info-Tech Research Group

Info-Tech Research Group is one of the world’s leading research and advisory firms, proudly serving over 30,000 IT and HR professionals. The company produces unbiased, highly relevant research and provides advisory services to help leaders make strategic, timely, and well-informed decisions. For nearly 30 years, Info-Tech has partnered closely with teams to provide them with everything they need, from actionable tools to analyst guidance, ensuring they deliver measurable results for their organizations.

To learn more about Info-Tech’s divisions, visit McLean & Company for HR research and advisory services and SoftwareReviews for software buying insights.

Media professionals can register for unrestricted access to research across IT, HR, and software and hundreds of industry analysts through the firm’s Media Insiders program. To gain access, contact pr@infotech.com.

For information about Info-Tech Research Group or to access the latest research, visit infotech.com and connect via LinkedIn and X.

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SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group

Technology

Supreme Court Justice Michelle O’Bonsawin Joins Elementary Students for Live Virtual Q&A and Chapter One Storybook Reading on Sep. 24

Published

8 hours ago

September 21, 2024

The Honourable Justice Michelle O’Bonsawin, the first Indigenous person appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada, will join elementary students in a live virtual Q&A on September 24, from 1:00-2:15 pm ET, following a reading of the children’s storybook, “Daanis the Judge.” This event is hosted by Chapter One, a children’s literacy charity, to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Lawyer Victoria Perrie, writer of “Daanis the Judge,” will read aloud the inspiring story, which is based on Justice O’Bonsawin’s remarkable journey. Illustrator EJ Miller-Larson will join Justice O’Bonsawin and Perrie in a moderated Q&A session with over 1900 elementary students.

TORONTO, Sept. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Honourable Justice Michelle O’Bonsawin, the first Indigenous person to be appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada, will join elementary students in a live virtual Q&A following a live online reading of the original children’s storybook “Daanis the Judge,” on September 24, from 1:00-2:15 pm ET. The event will be hosted by Chapter One to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Chapter One is a children’s literacy charity that provides 1:1 high-impact reading tutoring and co-creates original storybooks with participating communities nationwide.

“I am very humbled and proud to be a part of the book, “Daanis the Judge.” My hope is that this book will inspire youth to dream big and know that anything is possible. I am evidence of that!” – Justice Michelle O’Bonsawin

Métis-Cree lawyer Victoria Perrie, who wrote “Daanis the Judge,” will lead the live reading. Students will ask questions during a moderated Q&A with Justice O’Bonsawin, Perrie, and illustrator EJ Miller-Larson, of the Fond du Lac Band and Oneida Nation.

“Daanis the Judge” was inspired by Justice O’Bonsawin’s trailblazing career. It tells the story of a young student, Daanis, who dreams of becoming a judge after learning about Justice O’Bonsawin’s achievements.

The story is part of Chapter One’s growing collection of original children’s e-storybooks, co-created with Indigenous writers, illustrators and communities. The e-storybooks celebrate Indigenous experiences and perspectives, and feature audio clips of Elders pronouncing foundational words in their communities’ first languages. All e-storybooks are provided for free through the Global Free Library.

About Chapter One

Chapter One (chapterone.org/ca) is a global nonprofit and registered Canadian charity that provides one-on-one early literacy tutoring programs to 2,300 children in eight provinces and territories across Canada. Its proven “short burst” high-impact tutoring approach—five-minute sessions, three to five times a week—is ideally suited to young children’s attention spans and aligns with the Science of Reading. In one of the largest randomized control trials conducted on early literacy instruction, researchers from Stanford University found that 7 out of 10 students receiving Chapter One high impact tutoring achieved phonics benchmarks by the end of Kindergarten, compared to 32% in the control group.

Children at risk of reading failure receive 1:1 reading support from trained, paid paraprofessional tutors through Chapter One’s online reading platform and custom software. Programs are delivered in-person and virtually in classrooms through agreements with schools and school boards, and at home on families’ smartphones, connecting struggling readers with individualized reading support—regardless of location and circumstance, even in some of the most geographically remote communities in Canada.

In addition to its tutoring programs, Chapter One collaborates with Indigenous communities to co-create children’s stories that represent the communities’ priorities and experiences and advance language revitalization efforts. The e-storybooks are provided for free online, as part of the Global Free Library.

Event details

The Live Virtual Q&A and Reading of “Daanis the Judge” with the Honourable Justice O’Bonsawin takes place on Tuesday, September 24, from 1:00-2:15 pm ET via Zoom. The event is open to elementary classes (Grades 1-6). Teachers/principals must register their classes in advance using this link.

Media Contact

Denise Orosa, Chapter One Canada, 1 4374224825, denise.orosa@chapterone.org, chapterone.org/ca

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SOURCE Chapter One Canada

Technology

PEAC Institute Launches “24 Hour Pause for Peace: A Global Concert”

Published

10 hours ago

September 21, 2024

24 Hour Pause for Peace Will Be the Largest Peace Initiative Ever Worldwide, Unifying 96 Countries on Six Continents Through Music

MONTCLAIR, N.J., Sept. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — On this International Day of Peace, PEAC Institute, part of the 2017 Nobel Peace Prize winning team, has launched “24 Hour Pause for Peace: A Global Concert,” the largest peace initiative ever organized worldwide through music.

“Now, we need companies, government entities, other nonprofits and donors who care about our cause for peace to join us in lifting up the biggest event of this generation.”

On October 4, 2025, this ground-breaking program will activate a massive network of youth ensembles that spans 96 countries and territories across six continents and host two 24-hour commercial festivals featuring some of the biggest acts in music and entertainment. This extraordinary day-long event will be live-streamed globally, allowing millions to participate simultaneously.

“It has been 40 years since Live Aid and We Are the World historically unified and changed the world through music,” said Rebecca Irby, president and CEO of PEAC Institute. “With our planet riddled with post-pandemic fatigue, climate chaos, unsettling wars and more, we believe it is time to create a new trajectory for humanity by inviting everyone around the globe to a 24 hour pause for peace to enjoy the sounds of music and feel the transformative power of human connection,” Irby explained.

Additionally, 24 Hour Pause for Peace plans to amass more than 100 million ambassadors to sign an appeal to the United Nations calling for a 24 hour ceasefire during the children’s concerts and commercial music events. All countries are welcome to participate with no exceptions. One of Pause for Peace’s core beliefs is everyone has the right to be equally respected and heard, particularly in collectively calling for peace.

“Achieving this ambitious global endeavor requires the support and participation from the most impactful brands, organizations, and influential leaders, artists and celebrities,” said Jennifer McKenna, 24 Hour Pause for Peace CEO.

Pause for Peace is a $165 million global initiative. Currently, it is in its first phase of raising seed capital through consumer brand-aligned sponsorships and private donors. Funding for the program is tax-deductible through PEAC’s 501(c)(3) status.

“We have assembled an exceptional executive team of change agents in entertainment, production, consumer marketing, charitable development and global security to make this extraordinary, worldwide peace event happen.” McKenna added. “Now, we need companies, government entities, other nonprofits and donors who care about our cause for peace to join us in lifting up the biggest event of this generation.” To become involved in 24 Hour Pause for Peace: A Global Concert as a sponsor, partner or donor, sign up to be an Ambassador, or for more information, go to www.24hourpauseforpeace.org.

About PEAC Institute

PEAC Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in the United States. PEAC stands for peace, education, art and communication. It was formed in 2016 through a campaign with partner organization, International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), which garnered a 2017 Nobel Peace Prize. PEAC now holds special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations and has a global presence working with countries and territories worldwide to reach the most marginalized youth through art and communication activities to help them explore and express. For more information on PEAC Institute, go to www.peacinstitute.org.

Media Contact

Chadwick Boyd, Pause for Peace, 1 4046060611, chadwick@24hourpauseforpeace.org, www.24hourpauseforpeace.org

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SOURCE Pause for Peace

Technology

Global Times: China opens 12 nuclear research facilities to global scientists

Published

11 hours ago

September 21, 2024

The involved facilities span areas such as basic nuclear research, isotope production, nuclear environment simulation, equipment testing, and radioactive waste treatment and disposal.

VIENNA, Sept. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — China will open 12 nuclear research facilities and testing platforms to international scientists and institutions to enhance global cooperation, a senior Chinese official said here on Monday.

These include the China Advanced Research Reactor, the new-generation tokamak device Huanliu-3, and the Beishan Underground Research Laboratory, Liu Jing, vice chairman of the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA), said at a meeting on the sidelines of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) annual general conference.

The facilities span areas such as basic nuclear research, isotope production, nuclear environment simulation, equipment testing, and radioactive waste treatment and disposal.

Monday’s meeting, themed “Share for Development,” was organized by the CAEA to promote international cooperation in nuclear technology research and development, as China marks the 40th anniversary of its accession to the IAEA.

Yu Jianfeng, chairman of China National Nuclear Corporation, said at the event that the company aims to deepen cooperation with the IAEA and expand international collaboration. He expressed hope that opening China’s nuclear research facilities will contribute to advancing nuclear technology globally.

IAEA’s Deputy Director General Mikhail Chudakov commended China’s remarkable achievements in nuclear energy development and highlighted the long-standing, fruitful relationship between the IAEA and the CAEA.

Welcoming China’s decision to open up more of its nuclear research and development facilities, Chudakov said the move will further strengthen the agency’s technical capacity to support its member states.

On Monday evening, the CAEA and China’s permanent mission to the United Nations (UN) and other international organizations in Vienna jointly held a reception at the UN headquarters in Vienna to celebrate the 40th anniversary of China’s accession to the IAEA. More than 200 participants, including IAEA representatives and foreign envoys to Vienna, attended the event.

Li Song, China’s permanent representative to the UN and other international organizations in Vienna, said at the reception that China and the IAEA have expanded practical cooperation and jointly promoted the development of nuclear energy over the past 40 years.

China, he said, will continue to strengthen collaboration with the IAEA and its member states to address emerging challenges in international security, safeguard the global non-proliferation regime, and promote the use of nuclear energy and technology for the benefit of the Global South.

At the reception, Liu, Li and IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi jointly unveiled a bronze statue of Qian Sanqiang, a renowned Chinese nuclear physicist and one of the founders of China’s nuclear industry.

The statue, donated by China, will be permanently displayed at the IAEA headquarters, alongside sculptures of Polish-French physicist Marie Curie and other prominent figures who have made significant contributions to the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

Contact: xutianshu@globaltimes.com.cn

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SOURCE Global Times