Technology

Sidestepping AI’s Pitfalls: The Unforeseen Implementation Risks

Published

6 months ago

July 8, 2024

The genie is out of the bottle, with AI poised to grant the wishes of every competitive enterprise with efficiency, profit, and growth. However, relying on the promises of nascent technology heedless of its potential pitfalls can undermine its eagerly anticipated benefits. Companies risk mismanaging massive amounts of data without defining and aligning tangible business goals with clear objectives. Rich Fennessy, CEO of Trace3, encourages businesses to develop robust data management strategies that support the successful integration of AI and other emerging technologies to avoid stagnation, increased cybersecurity threats, and missed financial opportunities.

IRVINE, Calif., July 8, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — It’s becoming less a matter of “if” or “when” companies will incorporate AI tools into their business model, but rather “how” they will integrate its advantages into their daily operations. According to research conducted by Exploding Topics, 77% of companies are currently using or exploring the applications of AI in their businesses, with 83% reporting that AI is a top priority in their future plans. Nine out of ten organizations believe AI offers a competitive advantage. (1) However, despite all the optimism surrounding its limitless possibilities, 70% to 80% of all AI projects fail. (2) Rich Fennessy, CEO of Trace3, advises, “To mitigate the financial risks associated with the high failure rate of AI projects, companies should adopt a practical and strategic approach. Focus on selecting the right use cases that align closely with business objectives and offer clear, measurable outcomes. Prioritize high-impact, feasible projects that can demonstrate quick wins, thereby building confidence and securing further investment.”

“Maintaining a competitive edge in today’s AI-driven landscape requires a purposeful approach,” emphasized Rich Fennessy, CEO of Trace3. “It’s about aligning technology with business strategy and ensuring AI readiness for success.”

Emerging technologies arrive in tandem with associated risks that are often overlooked. Misalignment with strategic goals can lead to poor ROI and low buy-in and shortcuts in technology infrastructure impede progress and increase costs. The demand for experts and workforce retraining slows adoption, while a lack of expertise among executives can impact decision-making and risk assessment. Treating emerging technology as incremental improvement rather than transformative can limit success. The lightning-fast pace of innovation can outpace risk assessment and regulation, leading to safety and security concerns. Large volumes of data create vulnerabilities that require data governance, secure infrastructure, and compliance measures. (3)

Essential Strategies for Successful Technology Integration
Fennessy offers the following solutions to successfully overcome the inherent risks when implementing emerging technology like AI:

1. Develop Robust Data Management Strategies for AI Integration: Data preparation is essential, as many enterprises struggle with data quality and availability issues. Establish strong data governance with clear policies for quality, security, and privacy. Use data profiling to identify inconsistencies and anomalies. Implement scalable architectures like data lakes or warehouses to store, manage, and organize diverse data types efficiently.
2. Align AI Projects With Business Objectives: Engage both business and technical stakeholders to identify specific AI use cases that align with business objectives and deliver measurable outcomes, using techniques like “art of the possible” workshops to uncover potential ideas. Conduct pilot projects to test and refine these use cases, focusing efforts on high-impact areas and being prepared to pivot if necessary.
3. Mitigate Financial Risks of AI Project Failures: Poor data quality and management are common reasons for AI project failures. Invest in reliable data assessment, cleansing, and validation. Establish strong data governance frameworks to maintain data integrity, security, and compliance. Choose the right platforms for AI deployment, such as cloud solutions offering advanced AI and machine learning tools, pre-built models, and infrastructure, significantly reducing initial setup costs and time.
4. Address Ethical Concerns in AI and Emerging Technologies: Communicate clearly on data usage and AI decision-making processes. Implement oversight mechanisms to prevent misuse and ensure compliance. Adhere to data protection regulations, employ anonymization techniques, and audit AI systems to identify and mitigate bias.
5. Balance Operational Disruptions with Innovation: AI should be implemented as an integral business component, requiring visionary leadership and a culture of testing assumptions to foster technical trust. While explainability is crucial in critical use cases, preparing for future adoption remains essential for evolving technologies.
6. Cybersecurity Measures for Emerging Technologies: Organizations must ensure transparency in data handling, aligning with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), and other privacy standards while enhancing anonymization and cybersecurity. Mitigating bias involves using diverse datasets, regular audits, and adopting bias detection tools for AI. Establishing ethical AI frameworks and ongoing employee education promotes responsible deployment aligned with organizational values.
7. Ensure Regulatory Compliance in Technology Implementations: Regular risk assessments identify tech vulnerabilities and monitor threats. Solid security systems like the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, ISO/IEC 27001, and CIS Controls ensure comprehensive protection with advanced endpoint security, network segmentation, encryption, and strong access controls. Implementing vulnerability management, incident response plans, and ongoing training to defend against cybersecurity threats are crucial for organizations using third-party services.

Trace3 transforms enterprises through collaborative, strategic consulting, adaptive technology, and convergent solutions that deliver visible and measurable results. Fennessy concludes, “Maintaining a competitive edge in today’s AI-driven competitive landscape requires a purposeful approach. It’s not simply about getting on board with the latest technology, it’s about bending it to align with your strategy and desired business outcomes, while ensuring your AI data readiness supports a roadmap that leads straight to success.”

About Trace3:
Today there is a great deal of noise in the technology industry around AI, but not much practical intelligence is offered. Trace3, based in Irvine, California, delivers over 20 years of expertise in delivering innovation in the form of emerging technology, providing unique technology solutions and consulting services to change this – and drive its implementation across enterprises. Their elite engineering and dynamic innovation provide convergent solutions that embrace emerging technology and drive measurable value. Trace3 embodies the spirit of a startup with the advantage of a scalable business. Trace3 believes that ALL Possibilities Live in AI. For more information, visit http://www.trace3.com.  

References:
1. Tprestianni. “131 AI Statistics and Trends for 2024.” National University, 1 Mar. 2024, nu.edu/blog/ai-statistics-trends/#:~:text=According%20to%20research%20completed%20by,priority%20in%20their%20business%20plans.
2. Rschmelzer. “Top Reasons Why AI Projects Fail.” Cognilytica, 26 Dec. 2023, cognilytica.com/top-10-reasons-why-ai-projects-fail/#:~:text=The%20Shocking%20Truth%3A%2070%2D80%25%20of%20AI%20Projects%20Fail!,-Despite%20the%20buzz&text=Not%20surprisingly%2C%20there%20are%20a,ways%20to%20navigate%20these%20challenges.
3. “Eight Overlooked Emerging Tech Risks and How to Mitigate Them.” ISACA, isaca.org/resources/news-and-trends/newsletters/atisaca/2024/volume-9/eight-overlooked-emerging-tech-risks-and-how-to-mitigate-them. Accessed 1 July 2024.

Media Contact

Karla Jo Helms, JOTO PR™, 727-777-4629, khelms@jotopr.com, jotopr.com

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SOURCE Trace3

Technology

Who’s Working Remotely? Virtual Vocations Survey Highlights Evolving Jobseeker Demographics

Published

5 hours ago

December 27, 2024

This survey underscores the diverse backgrounds and experiences of remote jobseekers, highlighting the growing demand for flexible work arrangements across various demographics.

TUCSON, Ariz., Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — With over 500 participants from the U.S. (69%) and international locations (31%), Virtual Vocations‘ 2024 demographics survey offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of remote work. By comparing responses across these groups, the survey highlights shared experiences and unique challenges faced by jobseekers worldwide.

“Whether based in the U.S. or abroad, jobseekers are embracing remote roles to align their careers with their personal goals, and we’re proud to be a part of their journey.” –Laura Spawn, CEO and co-founder of Virtual Vocations

Although Virtual Vocations is a U.S.-based company, it supports international jobseekers through its fully remote job board and career resources, addressing the global demand for remote work opportunities. The company frequently receives inquiries from international members seeking to access fully remote roles, punctuating the worldwide appeal of flexible work arrangements.

“The 2024 demographics survey results reinforce what we’ve known for years—professionals around the world are seeking flexibility, balance, and opportunities to work from home,” said Virtual Vocations CEO Laura Spawn. “Whether based in the U.S. or abroad, jobseekers are embracing remote roles to align their careers with their personal goals, and we’re proud to be a part of their journey.”

Fully Remote Jobs Remain Most Desired

A significant 43% of U.S.-based jobseekers and 42% of international respondents named fully remote, no-travel jobs as their top preference. These roles, which allow employees to work entirely from home, offer flexibility, aligning with both personal and professional goals. Although occasional in-person requirements may arise, fully remote roles are favored over hybrid, partially remote, and “work from anywhere” options. These positions provide businesses with access to a broader talent pool and enable employees to prioritize workplace values and culture.

Top Industries for Remote Jobseekers

The survey also highlights four key industries attracting remote jobseekers worldwide. Information Technology (IT) stands out as the leading industry for remote roles, with significantly more job postings than any other field. Healthcare follows closely, benefiting from the growth of telehealth and remote medical roles. Customer service offers engaging opportunities for professionals interested in client interaction, while education presents a wide array of roles in online teaching, tutoring, and instructional design, fueled by the expansion of virtual learning.

Jobseekers’ Common Frustrations

Both U.S. and international jobseekers shared frustrations, particularly with online job scams. Jobseekers expressed dissatisfaction with the prevalence of scams, especially when searching for work-at-home positions. Despite relying on online job boards, only a quarter (23% of U.S. respondents and 24% of international respondents) use dedicated remote job boards, like Virtual Vocations, where job postings are thoroughly vetted to ensure they are free of scams. Additionally, many jobseekers expressed frustration with excessive job requirements and employers failing to provide feedback or “ghosting” applicants during the hiring process, with one-third of respondents from both groups reporting these issues.

Income Insecurity: A Global Concern

Income insecurity remains a pressing issue for both U.S. and international jobseekers, with many reporting their earnings as insufficient for comfortable living. Sixty-five percent of U.S. respondents and 77% of international respondents reported inadequate household incomes. Nearly half (48%) of U.S. jobseekers earn less than $60,000 annually, while 68% of international jobseekers earn under $30,000. To improve financial stability, many jobseekers have set income targets, with 30% of U.S. jobseekers aiming for $60,000–$89,999 and another 30% targeting at least $120,000. In contrast, international respondents generally require lower salaries, with 38% seeking $30,000–$59,999 and 32% aiming for $60,000–$89,999.

For a comprehensive analysis and additional insights, read the full demographics survey report here: https://www.virtualvocations.com/blog/annual-statistical-remote-work-reports/remote-work-demographics-survey-results-2024/

ABOUT VIRTUAL VOCATIONS
Founded in 2007 by CEO Laura Spawn and her brother, CTO Adam Stevenson, Virtual Vocations is a small company with a big mission: to connect jobseekers with legitimate remote job openings. To date, Virtual Vocations has helped more than four million jobseekers in their quests for flexible, remote work.

In addition to providing a database of current, hand-screened, and 100% remote job openings, Virtual Vocations offers jobseekers a number of tools to aid in their job searches, including exclusive career courses, downloadable jobseeker content, and career coaching and resume writing services. Virtual Vocations also releases several data-driven reports each year on current trends in remote work.

Virtual Vocations, Inc. is a private, family-owned, and 100% virtual company incorporated in Tucson, Arizona.

Media Contact

Kimberly Back, Virtual Vocations, Inc., 1 (800) 379-5092 x. 703, kim@virtualvocations.com, https://www.virtualvocations.com

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SOURCE Virtual Vocations, Inc.

Technology

Judge Baker Children’s Center d/b/a The Baker Center for Children and Families Provides Notice of Data Security Incident

Published

5 hours ago

December 27, 2024

BOSTON, Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Judge Baker Children’s Center d/b/a The Baker Center for Children and Families (“The Baker Center”), a nationally recognized provider of services for children’s mental health, has learned of a data security incident that may have impacted certain personal and / or protected health information. On December 27, 2024, The Baker Center formally notified potentially affected individuals with available address information and provided resources to assist them.

On July 28, 2024, The Baker Center discovered unusual activity within its local digital storage environment. After taking immediate steps to ensure the environment was secure, The Baker Center enlisted independent cybersecurity experts to conduct an investigation to determine what happened and whether sensitive information may have been impacted. According to the investigation, an unauthorized actor gained access to The Baker Center’s systems between July 26 – 28, 2024 and may have downloaded certain files. Following a thorough review of the impacted files, on October 28, 2024, The Baker Center determined that certain individuals’ personal and/or protected health information was potentially impacted during the incident.

The information affected during this incident varies between individuals but may have involved the following: name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, driver’s license or other government identification number, financial account information, health insurance information, medical treatment or diagnosis information, and/or clinical information.

On December 27, 2024, The Baker Center mailed notification letters to potentially impacted individuals with verifiable address information. The letters include information about this incident and about steps that potentially impacted individuals can take to monitor and help protect their personal and protected health information. The Baker Center has established a toll-free call center to answer questions about the incident and to address related concerns. The call center can be reached at 844-920-8988, Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM Eastern time.

The Baker Center takes the security and privacy of information in its possession very seriously and is taking steps to prevent a similar event from occurring in the future. The Baker Center deeply regrets any inconvenience or concern this incident may cause.

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SOURCE The Baker Center for Children and Families

Technology

outboundIQ Achieves Certified Implementation Partner (CIP) Status with Five9

Published

6 hours ago

December 27, 2024

Delivering Optimized, Outbound-Focused Contact Center Solutions for Modern Businesses

LAUDERDALE LAKES, Fla., Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — outboundIQ www.outboundiq.com proudly announces its accreditation as a Five9 Certified Implementation Partner (CIP), a distinction that reflects its deep expertise in optimizing and streamlining outbound-focused contact center operations. With a team of seasoned Five9 veterans, expert programmers, and industry thought leaders, outboundIQ is uniquely equipped to help businesses of all sizes unlock the full potential of Five9’s Virtual Contact Center platform.

Optimized Solutions for Complex Contact Center Needs
outboundIQ specializes in providing expedited, outbound-focused contact center implementations, integrating advanced features such as inbound and outbound Voice, SMS, Chat, Email, Salesforce Integration, and other third-party app integrations. Clients can also leverage ongoing optimization engagements and monthly retainers for strategic consulting designed to support long-term, outreach-focused success.

“Who better to handle your domain configuration than the experts that understand the outbound contact center world. To be an outbound expert, you must know 3 things; how to configure the domain front end, how the architecture interprets that design, and how carriers respond to your dialing behavior as a result of the build. outboundIQ has the advantage of deeply understanding all 3 things. Our experts are seasoned professionals that will guide toward the best build for your business. You tell us about your business, your needs and your processes, and we will build you a domain fit for purpose. outboundIQ offers best in class Domain Optimization, Implementation and Consulting for customers of all sizes and complexity. Due to our methodology and proprietary automations, we are able to bring our customers’ projects to life within accelerated timeframes.”

– Jessica Clay, VP Support and Services

“We launched our business in June and were fortunate to connect with the incredible team at outboundIQ early on. Navigating the world of outbound calling and building efficient prospecting systems isn’t easy, but the entire team at outboundIQ brought our vision to life seamlessly. They implemented our ideas quickly and executed them flawlessly. Since partnering with them, our contact rates have significantly improved, our conversions have increased, and our overall business is thriving. We’re deeply grateful for this collaboration and look forward to continuing our work together on future endeavors!”

– Tim, Lit Financial

“I genuinely don’t know enough ways to thank the entire outboundIQ team. I inherited a domain riddled with mistakes, tangled beyond belief, and I had essentially planned to scrap the whole thing and start over. That’s when this team, led by Jessica Clay’s brilliance, took over to understand exactly what I wanted to create and completely revitalized my domain. We are all beyond thankful as they continue to consult for us to this day and I see no reason to stop. Thank you, Jessica, Jason, Rudy, Bruno, Sandy and everyone who gets the pleasure of working with these domain geniuses!”

– Michael, Lifetime Home Remodeling

A Holistic Approach to Outbound Excellence
Creating a competitive, consumer-focused outreach program requires more than just advanced technology. As outboundIQ explains, a thriving contact center functions like a high-performing racing team:

The Car: Five9 Virtual Contact Center provides a cutting-edge technology foundation.The Driver: Strong Dialer Administrators who skillfully manage operations.The Pit Crew: IT/Support teams ensuring seamless functionality.The Spotters: Data Analytics and Reporting experts optimizing performance.The Fuel: High-quality data driving better outcomes.

outboundIQ’s professional services team brings these critical elements together, ensuring clients achieve best-in-class outbound operations that prioritize consumer experience while maintaining a competitive edge.

A Call to Collaboration
With its new CIP certification, outboundIQ invites businesses to explore select partnership opportunities and projects to reimagine their contact center operations. Whether through expedited implementations or ongoing strategic consulting, outboundIQ is committed to driving measurable results for its clients.

About outboundIQ
outboundIQ delivers optimized, outbound-focused contact center implementations, combining years of Five9 expertise with cutting-edge strategies to help businesses achieve exceptional outreach outcomes. As a Five9 Certified Implementation Partner, outboundIQ provides tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of modern organizations.

About Five9
Five9 is a digital enterprise’s leading cloud contact center and software provider. The Five9 Intelligent CX Platform is reliable, secure, compliant, and scalable, designed to create exceptional personalized customer experiences.
www.five9.com

Media contact:
Sandy Tafur
Phone: 404-660-5314
mail: sandy@outboundiq.com

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SOURCE outboundIQ