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PHD LAUNCHES “ASCENSION” TO HELP BRANDS RISE WITH AI

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Generative Publishing Platform Connects Human and Artificial Intelligence to Enable Experimentation, Acceleration and Elevation of AI as a Fundamental Element of Marketing Functions and Solutions

LONDON, Aug. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Omnicom Media Group agency PHD Worldwide has launched Ascension, a publishing platform offering a comprehensive and ongoing exploration of the impact of Generative AI on the marketing industry; and how clients and agencies alike will need to evolve their organizations and offers to effectively leverage the technology to drive business growth.

Unique among agency thought-leadership platforms, Ascension is a generative magazine that blends human and AI-generated content to capture the latest advancements and insights in the rapidly evolving field of AI.

“PHD’s mission is defined as Intelligence. Connected. – bringing everyone and everything together. And today, that includes artificial intelligence,” says PHD Worldwide CEO Guy Marks. “As a generative publication that evolves as the world updates, Ascension explores how AI is going to reshape marketing—from initial experimentation to full acceleration and eventual elevation – and provides actionable information and insights to help us, and our clients, to rise with AI.”

Editorial Perspective Informed by Research

To ensure content that best serves marketers’ needs – and does more than simply add to an already cluttered and confusing generative AI information landscape – PHD partnered with WARC to benchmark AI perspectives, surveying more than 700 senior marketers and agency experts. The findings  revealed significant gaps in desire vs adoption, and perceived vs actual AI knowledge; conflicting expectations around the functional impact; and subjective interpretations of the evolutionary timeline.   

In response, Ascension offers a clearly defined editorial perspective: exploring the impact of AI across seven distinct marketing executive functions; and mapping how these functions will evolve across three specific adoption stages. 

The Ascension Seven

Ascension identifies the seven different executive functions that are required as part of the day-to-day development of marketing communications:

Sensing: The function of understanding stakeholder needs through listening, interpreting, and empathizingVisioning: The ability to identify and articulate needs or opportunities, setting the course for future growthDefining: Translating a vision into an actionable strategy, setting parameters, objectives, and methodologiesGenerating: The creative heart of marketing, involving the creation of concepts and contentDeveloping: Building upon and adapting what has been generated to ensure it is well-crafted and fit for purposeJudging: Decision-making processes involving evaluation, choosing between alternatives, and steering project directionActioning: Task organization and project execution, orchestrating collective efforts to meet deadlines and achieve goals.

With the research revealing that marketers see higher impact across  the Defining,  Generating, Developing and Actioning functions,  Ascension will:

Explore requisite shifts in the roles of creatives, strategists and plannersReveal the essential new skills/roles that will be required to sustain growth in an increasingly AI-driven marketing landscapeExamine strategies for re-skilling/cross-skilling that will be critical for effective AI-human collaborationMap how all of the above will evolve across three eras of development

The Three Eras of Ascension 

Understanding that marketers need to be able to assess AI actioning in the context of the broader marketplace evolution, Ascension provides a developmental road map from this moment in time to the end of the decade that encompasses three distinct eras:

The AI Experimentation Era (2024-2026)
This phase will be marked by the individual use of LLMs and Diffusion models, new software with GenAI capabilities, utilization of existing platforms such as Microsoft Copilot and Adobe Firefly, and the early integration of GenAI into enterprise platforms. It will be a period of pilot projects and refinement, setting the stage for more profound changes to come.The AI Acceleration Era (2026-2028)
Following the early experimentation, AI will become a fundamental element of marketing – with more mature applications of GenAI in existing platforms. It will be used by a large portion of the workforce, albeit mainly for efficiency and effectiveness. This era will focus on replacing and/or enhancing current functions.The AI Elevation Era (2028-2030)
With efficiencies and effectiveness realized by existing platforms, the focus will turn to creating more intelligent systems that can take greater control of decision-making. As individuals are freed up, attention will shift to elevation – exploring new marketing capabilities beyond what we can envision today.

PHD Worldwide Chief Strategy Officer Mark Holden, who conceived and architected Ascension said “To outgrow, you need to outthink. An important part of that is providing an accurate map of the future. That’s why PHD has always emphasized thought leadership, with the latest being their “Ascension” project. This comprehensive initiative explores AI’s impact on marketing, offering insights and practical advice to help businesses adapt and thrive in an AI-driven landscape.”

Ascension is the latest addition to PHD’s thought leadership library – a collection that includes seven books exploring meaningful change moments over the past decade. To access visit https://ascension.phdmedia.com.

ABOUT PHD

PHD, an Omnicom Media Group Agency, helps the world’s leading brands outthink, outpace, and outgrow the marketplace with a next-generation network of tools, talent and technology engineered for connected intelligence. Collaborating on the AI-powered Omni operating system, 6500 people in 81 offices across 74 countries connect data, technology, and human expertise to deliver modern media solutions that drive brands and businesses forward. Headquartered in the UK, PHD is currently the most awarded media agency network in the world according to the WARC Media 100, an independent ranking of campaigns and companies for creativity and innovation; and was named 2024 Global Media Network of the Year by leading US advertising publication Adweek.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2485601/PHD_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/phd-launches-ascension-to-help-brands-rise-with-ai-302226431.html

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KNEX Technology CTO Gustavo Gonzalez Elected 2025 President-Elect of OATUG

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31 minutes ago

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January 11, 2025

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Gustavo Gonzalez, KNEX Technology’s CTO, has been elected 2025 President-Elect of OATUG, emphasizing his dedication to Oracle innovation, collaboration, and leadership, including Ascend 2025’s strategic initiatives.

IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — KNEX Technology, a leading Oracle Cloud solutions provider, is proud to announce that its Chief Technology Officer, Gustavo Gonzalez, has been elected as the 2025 President-Elect of the Oracle Applications & Technology Users Group (OATUG). This esteemed appointment highlights Gonzalez’s longstanding commitment to advancing innovation and collaboration within the Oracle community.

OATUG has played a pivotal role in my professional growth, and it is a privilege to contribute to this community which has enriched my career. As President-Elect, I look forward to collaborating with my peers to strengthen the Oracle user community and further its impact on businesses worldwide.

In his new role, Gonzalez will work closely with the OATUG leadership team throughout 2025, preparing to serve as OATUG President in 2026. He will focus on empowering Oracle professionals worldwide by fostering knowledge-sharing, community engagement, and professional development. OATUG, a globally recognized organization, supports its members in overcoming challenges, enhancing the value of Oracle solutions, and driving organizational success.

“OATUG has played a pivotal role in my professional growth, and it is a privilege to contribute to this community which has enriched my career,” said Gustavo Gonzalez. “As President-Elect, I look forward to collaborating with my peers to strengthen the Oracle user community and further its impact on businesses worldwide.”

Gonzalez’s election underscores his dedication to giving back to the Oracle ecosystem. A key focus of his role will include shaping OATUG’s strategic initiatives, such as the annual Ascend Conference, which unites Oracle users, thought leaders, and technology innovators for unparalleled learning and networking opportunities.

The upcoming Ascend 2025 Conference, scheduled for June 8–11 in Orlando, Florida, promises to build on the success of the 2024 event, which attracted more than 1,800 attendees. With early bird registration now open, Gonzalez aims to ensure the conference continues to deliver transformative insights and experiences for the Oracle community.

About OATUG

The Oracle Applications & Technology Users Group (OATUG) is the premier global organization for Oracle users, providing year-round education, networking, and advocacy. OATUG empowers its members to unlock the full potential of Oracle solutions, fostering innovation and collaboration across industries.

About KNEX Technology

KNEX Technology is a trusted leader in Oracle Cloud solutions, delivering cutting-edge products and services to help businesses achieve their objectives. Through its innovative approach and customer-focused strategies, KNEX enables organizations to navigate the complexities of today’s technology landscape. For more information, visit www.knextech.com.

Media Contact

Husna Gyasi, KNEX Technology, 1 (949) 232-0786, husna.ghayaisi@knextech.com, https://knextech.com/

Twitter, LinkedIn

View original content:https://www.prweb.com/releases/knex-technology-cto-gustavo-gonzalez-elected-2025-president-elect-of-oatug-302347693.html

SOURCE KNEX Technology

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Dr. Gerard van Belle Appointed Director of Science at Lowell Observatory, Charting a Bold Future for Research

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2 hours ago

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January 11, 2025

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Dr. van Belle to guide scientific exploration and foster innovation in the next era of astronomical research

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz., Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lowell Observatory is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Gerard van Belle as the new Director of Science. Van Belle, who has been an astronomer at the observatory since 2011, has been serving as the interim Director of Science.

In his new role, van Belle will lead a diverse team of astronomers and planetary scientists. He will spearhead the observatory’s new Science Vision, which focuses on advancing research capabilities and implementing cutting-edge technological improvements supporting Lowell’s leadership in astronomical research.

Under his leadership, the science department will continue to advance Lowell Observatory’s mission to pursue the study of astronomy, including the study of our solar system and its evolution, and to conduct pure research in astrophysical phenomena.

Van Belle’s own research focuses on fundamental stellar parameters, including the sizes, shapes, masses, distances, and temperatures of various types of stars. He is also renowned for his expertise in optical and near-infrared astronomical interferometry.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in physics from Whitman College in 1990, followed by a master’s degree from The Johns Hopkins University in 1993, and a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Wyoming in 1996.

Throughout his career, van Belle has been instrumental in the development and commissioning of major optical interferometers worldwide, including the Palomar Testbed Interferometer, the Keck Interferometer, and the Very Large Telescope Interferometer. His pioneering work in stellar surface imaging earned him the inaugural Edward Stone Award for Outstanding Research Publication at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in 2002.

In 2011, van Belle joined Lowell Observatory’s science staff, where he applied high-resolution astronomical techniques to detect nearby exoplanets and map stellar surfaces. He served as the Director of the Navy Precision Optical Interferometer (NPOI) in Flagstaff, Arizona, from 2017 to 2018, and subsequently as its Chief Scientist until 2022.

Notably, van Belle was among the astronomers who voted against the definition of ‘planet’ advanced during the 2006 International Astronomical Union (IAU) conference in Prague, which relegated Pluto to being a ‘dwarf planet’ (which according to the IAU resolution is not a planet).

His extensive experience and dedication to advancing astronomical research make him a valuable leader for Lowell Observatory’s scientific endeavors.

“I am honored to take on this role at such a pivotal time for Lowell Observatory,” said van Belle. “Our Science Vision will guide us in exploring new frontiers in astronomy while strengthening our commitment to public engagement and education.”

Executive Director Dr. Amanda Bosh expressed her confidence in van Belle’s leadership: “Gerard’s extensive experience and dedication to our mission make him the ideal person to lead our scientific endeavors. I look forward to working closely with him as we embark on this exciting new chapter for Lowell Observatory.”

For more information about Lowell Observatory’s research and public programs, visit lowell.edu.

About Lowell Observatory
Founded in 1894, Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, is a renowned nonprofit research institution. It is the site of historic and groundbreaking discoveries, including the first evidence of the expanding universe and the discovery of Pluto. Today, Lowell’s astronomers utilize global ground-based and space telescopes, along with NASA spacecraft, for diverse astronomical and planetary science research. The observatory hosts more than 100,000 visitors annually for educational tours, presentations, and telescope viewing through a suite of world-class public telescopes.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dr-gerard-van-belle-appointed-director-of-science-at-lowell-observatory-charting-a-bold-future-for-research-302348440.html

SOURCE Lowell Observatory

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ALTICE USA IS ABANDONING LOCAL SPORTS FANS AND IS KEEPING MSG NETWORKS AND ITS KNICKS, RANGERS, ISLANDERS AND DEVILS COVERAGE OFF THE AIR

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3 hours ago

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January 10, 2025

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NEW YORK, Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MSG Networks released the following statement about their dispute with Altice USA:

“Altice USA has pulled their last proposal and walked away from negotiations to bring MSG Networks back to its Optimum subscribers. They also just dropped WPIX Channel 11 in New York and other local stations around the country. If you have been waiting, like we have, for them to do right by their customers – don’t wait any longer. Now is the time to switch to Verizon Fios who has a special offer for Optimum subscribers. Meanwhile, Optimum has been charging their over 1 million customers for local sports programming they have not been receiving and EVERY subscriber should be credited at least $10 a month.

Verizon Fios is ready to take your business. If you are not in Verizon Fios area, you can get games through these other providers DirecTV, DirecTV Stream, Fubo and The Gotham Sports App. For more options on how to switch providers, visit www.keepMSG.com.”

About MSG Networks

MSG Networks, a pioneer in sports media, owns and operates two award-winning regional sports and entertainment networks (MSG and MSG Sportsnet) and MSG+, a direct-to-consumer and authenticated streaming offering (included in the Gotham Sports App), that serve the nation’s number one media market, the New York DMA, as well as other portions of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Pennsylvania. The networks feature a wide range of compelling sports content, including exclusive live local games and other programming of the New York Knicks, New York Rangers, New York Islanders, New Jersey Devils and Buffalo Sabres, as well as significant coverage of the New York Giants and Buffalo Bills. This content, in addition to a diverse array of other sporting events and critically acclaimed original programming, has established MSG Networks as the gold standard in regional sports. MSG Networks is part of the Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE: SPHR).

Contact:

Dan Schoenberg (dan.schoenberg@msg.com)

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/altice-usa-is-abandoning-local-sports-fans-and-is-keeping-msg-networks-and-its-knicks-rangers-islanders-and-devils-coverage-off-the-air-302348428.html

SOURCE Sphere Entertainment Co.

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