Connect with us

Technology

Modernizing K-12 Education: Info-Tech Research Group Says to Adopt an Exponential IT Mindset to Meet Evolving Needs of Students and Educators

Published

on

In a newly published industry blueprint for K-12 education leaders, Info-Tech Research Group advises the need for the sector to integrate advanced technologies to boost student engagement, strengthen cybersecurity, and streamline school operations. The research delivers research and actionable insights to guide leaders in developing an Exponential IT mindset to drive innovation, enhance learning experiences, and optimize educational infrastructure.

TORONTO, June 5, 2024 /CNW/ – As K-12 education institutions grapple with rapid technological advancements and increasing demands for digital transformation, schools are under pressure to modernize their operations to remain relevant and effective, as well as to meet the evolving needs of students and educators. However, balancing the need for cost optimization in a constrained environment while investing in technology can be challenging. To support this critical transition, global research and advisory firm Info-Tech Research Group has released a new blueprint, Priorities for Adopting an Exponential IT Mindset in K-12 Education. This comprehensive, sector-specific research provides education leaders with strategic insights and actionable plans to leverage exponential technologies, such as AI and advanced analytics, to enhance educational outcomes, streamline operations, and drive innovation across all levels of the education system.

“Information technology is revolutionizing K-12 education, from improving classroom interactions to streamlining administrative processes,” says Mark Maby, principal research director at Info-Tech Research Group. “The rapid pace of technological change is creating numerous opportunities, but to fully leverage these, IT leaders in K-12 schools must evolve into strategic partners. By doing so, they can unlock advanced value and insights that will benefit their schools and districts.”

As explained by Info-Tech in the new resource, “Exponential IT” in the context of K-12 education involves the strategic adoption and integration of advanced technologies to revolutionize how schools operate and deliver education. This framework includes leveraging artificial intelligence, data analytics, and automation to enhance classroom learning, streamline administrative tasks, and improve overall educational outcomes. The firm advises that by adopting an Exponential IT mindset, K-12 institutions can navigate the rapid technological changes, strengthen cybersecurity measures, and foster an innovative learning environment that supports the continuous growth and development of both students and educators.

“With exponential technologies come new risks, including heightened security threats and the complexities of deploying these innovations within schools,” explains Maby. “For Exponential IT to be successful, acquiring new skills and capabilities is essential, but achieving innovation readiness can be a significant hurdle. To stay ahead, technology leaders in K-12 education need to grasp the core priorities of Exponential IT transformation. Establishing and integrating foundational capabilities are vital first steps in launching a successful Exponential IT journey, which can create substantial value for all stakeholders in the K-12 education sector.”

The firm’s research highlights the significant challenges that K-12 institutions face in adopting Exponential IT, including limited budgets, outdated infrastructure, and the need for enhanced digital literacy among educators. Info-Tech cites that schools often struggle with integrating new technologies into legacy systems, ensuring cybersecurity, and providing equitable access to digital resources for all students. Overcoming these challenges requires a holistic approach that includes strategic planning, investment in professional development for educators and IT staff, and fostering a culture of innovation. By building foundational IT capabilities and advancing digital competencies, K-12 schools can navigate the complexities of digital transformation and drive significant improvements in educational outcomes and operational efficiency.

Additionally, in the blueprint, Info-Tech emphasizes the necessity for K-12 schools to adopt robust data governance practices to safeguard student information and support data-driven educational strategies. Leveraging emerging technologies like AI, advanced analytics, and cloud computing can enhance personalized learning, streamline administrative tasks, and improve overall operational efficiency. This approach ensures that schools not only protect sensitive data but also harness its potential to drive innovative teaching methods and improve student outcomes. By focusing on these technological advancements, schools can create a more engaging and effective learning environment, preparing students for a technology-driven world.

Info-Tech’s blueprint details four key priorities that K-12 educational IT leaders must consider as they adopt an Exponential IT mindset, outlined below:

Co-Own Organizational Outcomes: By co-owning organizational outcomes, IT leaders can focus more time on strategic organizational goals and outcomes rather than just application delivery. As IT services become commoditized and outsourced, the role of IT must evolve to be integral to educational success.Defend Against AI Attacks: IT must defend against exponentially sophisticated threat actors leveraging AI-powered capabilities. This includes preparing for a threat landscape where polymorphic APTs and zero-day threats are on the rise, as attackers operate without the regulatory constraints that defenders face.Boost Vendor Management Practices: IT should manage a portfolio of virtual organizational capability vendors, moving beyond transactional relationships to strategic partnerships. This approach can free up budget to invest in new technology use cases by reducing costs for routine operations and integrating end-to-end capabilities.Treat Data as a Product: Data must be managed as a valuable product rather than merely a business enabler. This involves evolving roles to drive product ownership, increasing cross-functional influence and collaboration, and actively marketing and using data assets both internally and externally to achieve organizational outcomes.

As schools continue to navigate the rapidly evolving technological landscape, those that embrace these priorities will be well-positioned to foster innovation, ensure data security, and create dynamic, engaging learning environments that prepare students for the future.

Through the adoption of an Exponential IT mindset, K-12 education institutions can address the multifaceted challenges of digital transformation, enhance their operational efficiencies, and significantly improve educational outcomes. Info-Tech Research Group’s blueprint provides a comprehensive roadmap to guide IT leaders through this transformation, offering actionable insights and strategies to leverage emerging technologies effectively.

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 K-12 Education blueprint, please contact pr@infotech.com.

Info-Tech LIVE 2024
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.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/modernizing-k-12-education-info-tech-research-group-says-to-adopt-an-exponential-it-mindset-to-meet-evolving-needs-of-students-and-educators-302165184.html

SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Technology

Judopay leaps across the pond, bringing its mobile payment services to North America.

Published

on

By

Judopay, the UK’s go-to mobile payments provider, is now making waves across the Atlantic. Backed by its powerful partner network, Judopay is bringing its seamless in-app and online services to the complex payment landscape of North America.

LONDON, Nov. 14, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Judopay, the UK’s go-to mobile payments provider, is now making waves across the Atlantic. Backed by its powerful partner network, Judopay is bringing its seamless in-app and online services to the complex payment landscape of North America.

Joe Perry, Chief Customer Officer at Judopay, shared his excitement, “Our entry into this new market is about meeting the growing demand for seamless, mobile-first payments that breaks down geographical barriers. Something today’s consumers expect.”

This year alone, digital payments in North America are set to hit a staggering $3.3 trillion. Judopay’s expansion is set to enable its existing and prospective client base to tap into massive revenue opportunities and make a splash in a brand-new market.

Judopay’s connections will now make it even easier for merchants to go state-side. North America, once seen as lagging behind its European counterparts when it came to adopting digital payments, is catching up fast. The Payments and Commerce Market Intelligence (PCMI) forecasted that by 2026, digital wallets will reach a 41% share of the ecommerce market (versus 39% in cards) with Apple Pay and Google Pay spearheading that growth. And now, Judopay’s mobile-first approach is stepping in to keep things moving smoothly.

Joe Perry, Chief Customer Officer at Judopay, shared his excitement, “North America is now steaming ahead when it comes to app and ecommerce, and we’re excited to dive in. Our entry into this new market is about meeting the growing demand for seamless, mobile-first payments that breaks down geographical barriers. Something today’s consumers expect.

We’re focused on helping our customers go global whilst bringing our game-changing tech and innovation to North American consumers. Hand-in-hand with our partner network, we’re simplifying the payment process for all.”

As part of its North American launch, Judopay is also actively partnering with software platforms across the retail, hospitality, and mobility industry, allowing them to add innovative payment technology to their core offering.

About Judopay:

Judopay is the UK’s leading mobile payments provider. Born out of the frustration with friction-filled checkouts, we built a flexible solution designed to securely drive sales and improve the customer experience. Now wholly owned by Fabrick S.p.A., part of the Banca Sella Group, Judopay is continually building ways to enhance the overall payment experience for merchants and customers alike. Available across multiple sectors, their solution is used by KFC, Uber subsidiary Autocab, PaybyPhone, Sigma Sports, BUPA, Hiscox, Foxtons and many more.

For more information about Judopay and its services, visit www.judopay.com.

Media Contact

Jessica Carroll, Judopay, 44 20 3503 0600, jessica.carroll@judopay.com, https://www.judopay.com/

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/judopay-leaps-across-the-pond-bringing-its-mobile-payment-services-to-north-america-302305466.html

SOURCE Judopay; Judopay

Continue Reading

Technology

Whatfix Recognized as a Digital Adoption Platform (DAP) Leader for the Fifth Consecutive Year and a Star Performer for the Third Year

Published

on

By

– 2024 PEAK Matrix® Assessment Features Whatfix as a Leader in the Inaugural Regional Reports for North America and Europe

– Strengthens Leadership Position with One of the Highest Scores in Buyer Satisfaction, Value Delivered, Market Presence, and AI Innovation

SAN JOSE, Calif., Nov. 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Whatfix, a global leader among digital adoption platforms (DAPs), today announced that the company has been recognized as a Leader for the fifth consecutive year and a Star Performer for the third year and second consecutive year in the Everest Group Digital Adoption Platform (DAP) PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2024. Whatfix is also recognized as a Leader in the inaugural regional reports for North America and Europe in the DAP category. The Everest Group PEAK Matrix®, a trusted framework for assessing market impact, vision, and capabilities, evaluated 25 DAP software providers in its 2024 report, helping enterprises make well-informed purchasing decisions.

Whatfix has showcased remarkable capability and impact in the digital adoption landscape, achieving top scores in portfolio mix, value delivered, vision and strategy, implementations and support, and engagement and commercial model. Whatfix was selected as one of only three DAP technology providers to receive the “Leader” title based on an evaluation of its vision and capabilities as well as market impact, including value delivered to clients. The company was also one of only four Star Performers, achieving one of the highest scores for value delivered and buyer satisfaction. Its strong market presence, extensive lifecycle expertise, and advanced AI-driven innovations underscore Whatfix’s role in providing exceptional value to clients. This progress in the yearly recognition underscores Whatfix’s consistent industry leadership, impressive year-over-year growth, and unwavering commitment to driving innovation that is shaping the future of the DAP category.

“Whatfix’s deep expertise in driving digital adoption has been crucial to its success, as evidenced by its recognition as a Leader and Star Performer in the global Digital Adoption Platforms (DAP) PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2024,” says Sharath Hari N, Vice President at Everest Group. “This highlights Whatfix’s multi-product strategy, including advanced product analytics, which effectively addresses adoption challenges throughout the application lifecycle. Their extensive global reach allows them to serve a wide range of industries, while advancements in AI significantly enhance user experiences. The Rise 2 Excellence Partner Program further empowers partners to boost sales and customer success. With a continued focus on user experience and robust customer support, Whatfix is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in the rapidly evolving DAP market.”

Key factors contributing to Whatfix’s recognition include:

Multi-Product Strategy & Global Presence: Whatfix employs a multi-product strategy to effectively address adoption challenges throughout the entire application lifecycle. Its extensive global footprint enables the company to serve clients across a wide variety of industries. Whatfix has recorded the highest growth rate in DAP revenue, maintaining its market momentum and positioning itself among the top providers by market share in key industry verticals and regions.Expansion of the Product Suite: Whatfix is broadening its product offerings to target different aspects of an application lifecycle, including Mirror, its application simulation tool that provides a secure, hyper-realistic setting for users to practice and master new tools without affecting live systems. It also provides product analytics that encompasses both product and guidance analytics, as well as Enterprise Insights. The distinctive Ask Whatfix AI feature further sets it apart by translating natural language inquiries into insightful trend visualizations, simplifying the decision-making process. To enhance collaboration among content creators, it has introduced Comments, allowing users to tag colleagues and share links to pages. Whatfix supports a robust content lifecycle management system, offering various environments for creating and testing walkthroughs before publication. It has implemented visibility rules within the editor that allow precise control over when, where, and to whom the content is displayed, enhancing the overall user experience through behavioral targeting informed by product analytics.AI & GenAI-Driven Enhancements: As a leader in AI advancements, Whatfix utilizes AI and GenAI to improve its product functionalities, such as generating summarized responses to user queries, auto-filling text fields, elaborating text, and delivering real-time insights into user satisfaction through survey analysis.Dual Data Center Disaster Recovery for Seamless Operations: Whatfix is distinguished by its strong disaster recovery capabilities, operating two identical data center infrastructures simultaneously. In the event of a disruption in one data center, the other takes over seamlessly, guaranteeing zero downtime and uninterrupted operations. Organizations with data security and privacy concerns will appreciate Whatfix’s flexible deployment options, which include on-premises, private cloud, and hybrid hosting solutions.Commitment to Customer Satisfaction and User Support: Whatfix is consistently recognized for its responsive customer service, comprehensive platform functionalities, and valuable analytics, with clients highlighting these as primary strengths. The company achieved one of the highest scores for buyer satisfaction and value delivered in 2023. Its robust support for mobile and desktop applications, including virtual desktop solutions on Citrix, differentiates it in the market.

“Our continued recognition by Everest Group reaffirms Whatfix’s position as a leader in the DAP space. Our customer-first approach and relentless focus on innovation beyond DAP has enabled us to deliver unparalleled value to global enterprises worldwide,” said Khadim Batti, CEO and co-founder of Whatfix. “We’re proud to offer a solution that empowers organizations to drive user adoption, maximize their technology investments and enhance user productivity.”

This recognition comes on the heels of Whatfix’s recent $125 million Series E funding, which is driving the company’s efforts to enhance its integrated product suite beyond DAP through both organic growth and strategic acquisitions. With this momentum, Whatfix will further solidify its market presence in the US, EMEA, and APAC regions, expand into the Middle East, and strengthen its position within the global public sector.

Click here to read the Everest Group Digital Adoption Platform (DAP) PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2024.

About Whatfix
Whatfix is advancing the “userization” of application technology, by empowering companies to maximize the ROI of digital investments across the application lifecycle. Powered by GenAI, Whatfix’s product suite includes a digital adoption platform, simulated application environments for hands-on training, and no-code application analytics. Whatfix enables organizations to drive user productivity, ensure process compliance, and improve user experience of internal and customer-facing applications. With seven offices across the US, India, UK, Germany, Singapore, and Australia, Whatfix supports 700+ enterprises, including 80+ Fortune 500s like Shell, Microsoft, Schneider Electric, UPS Supply Chain Solutions, and Genuine Parts Company. Backed by investors such as Warburg Pincus, Softbank Vision Fund 2, Dragoneer, Peak XV Partners, Eight Roads, and Cisco Investments, software clicks with Whatfix. For more information, visit the Whatfix website.

Media Contact
whatfix@luminapr.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/whatfix-recognized-as-a-digital-adoption-platform-dap-leader-for-the-fifth-consecutive-year-and-a-star-performer-for-the-third-year-302305306.html

SOURCE Whatfix

Continue Reading

Technology

Sonepar’s North American Expansion Brings over $2B in Additional Revenue

Published

on

By

Acquisition growth in 2024 includes 7 companies, 1700 new associates and 89 new branches

CHARLESTON, S.C., Nov. 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — 2024 has been a transformative year for Sonepar as it continues to focus on strategic growth. Since 2021, Sonepar has closed 21 acquisitions in North America. The acquisition growth alone in 2024 consists of seven companies representing over $2B in additional revenue, approximately 1,700 new associates, and 89 new branches. Sonepar’s North American acquisition strategy is key to the global success of the Sonepar Group.

Sonepar’s mission is to continue as the strongest and most dynamic electrical distribution network across the entirety of North America. It seeks to combine local sales excellence with significant regional and global investments and capabilities to provide customers with the best distribution experience and associates with the most opportunities to succeed.

Philippe Delpech, President & CEO of Sonepar, commented:

North America is our largest market, where Sonepar leads in building and industrial verticals serving customers with a best-in-class level of service. With 36 billion dollars in sales in 2023, Sonepar is the world leader in B2B electrical distribution of products and services, deploying a global automated supply chain and a proprietary omnichannel digital platform called Spark. Today, the USA is leading in size, processes, technology, and workforce quality. We welcome the more than 1,700 associates who joined the Sonepar family through these seven acquisitions and are already working on combining our strengths for the benefit of customers, suppliers and associates.”

Rob Taylor, President of Sonepar Americas, said:

“Each acquisition is carefully considered, and we look to partner with the best local and regional distributors, which share our values and desire to grow. We truly believe that acquisitions are a strategic partnership that benefits all parties. We work closely with the leadership of companies we engage with to understand what makes them a success, with the goal of enhancing the local go-to-market approach and culture with significant investment and new capabilities. This strategy will continue to be an important focus for Sonepar across the Americas.”

The statistics regarding Sonepar’s investments in North America are striking. Sonepar has added numerous automated distribution centers and significantly increased its density branch network, now serving every province, territory and state in North America out of 548 total branches. It has also added new service offerings like panel shop design and assembly capabilities, and expanded expertise and product offerings in the solar and EV, industrial, broadband and utility segments. Sonepar’s digital solutions such as Spark and the Digital Job Center are best-in-class, offering customers a seamless digital experience.

Sonepar will continue to grow organically and through acquisitions and make significant investments across its entire business.

About Sonepar

Sonepar is an independent family-owned company standing as the world leader in B-to-B distribution of electrical equipment, solutions, and services. In 2023, Sonepar achieved global sales of $36 billion.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sonepars-north-american-expansion-brings-over-2b-in-additional-revenue-302305127.html

SOURCE Sonepar

Continue Reading

Trending