John Edwards, Technology Journalist & AuthorJune 5, 20254 Min ReadSailGP Australia, USA, and Great Britain racing on San Francisco Bay, CaliforniaDannaphotos via Alamy StockWarren Jones is CTO at SailGP, the organizer of what he describes as the world's most exciting race on water. The event features high-tech F50 boats that speed across the waves at 100 kilometers-per-hour.  Working in cooperation with Oracle, Jones focuses on innovative solutions for remote broadcast production, data management and distribution, and a newly introduced fan engagement platform. He also leads the team that has won an IBC Innovation Awards for its ambitious and ground-breaking remote production strategy. Among the races Jones organizes is the Rolex SailGP Championship, a global competition featuring national teams battling each other in identical high-tech, high-speed 50-foot foiling catamarans at celebrated venues around the world. The event attracts the sport's top athletes, with national pride, personal glory, and bonus prize money of million at stake. Jones also supports event and office infrastructures in London and New York, and at each of the global grand prix events over the course of the season. Prior to joining SailGP, he was IT leader at the America's Cup Event Authority and Oracle Racing. In an online interview, Jones discusses the challenges he faces in bringing reliable data services to event vessels, as well as onshore officials and fans. Related:Warren JonesWhat's the biggest challenge you've faced during your tenure? One of the biggest challenges I faced was ensuring real-time data transmission from our high-performance F50 foiling catamarans to teams, broadcasters, and fans worldwide. SailGP relies heavily on technology to deliver high-speed racing insights, but ensuring seamless connectivity across different venues with variable conditions was a significant hurdle. What caused the problem? The challenge arose due to a combination of factors. The high speeds and dynamic nature of the boats made data capture and transmission difficult. Varying network infrastructure at different race locations created connectivity issues. The need to process and visualize massive amounts of data in real time placed immense pressure on our systems. How did you resolve the problem? We tackled the issue by working with T-Mobile and Ericsson in a robust and adaptive telemetry system capable of transmitting data with minimal latency over 5G. Deploying custom-built race management software that could process and distribute data efficiently. Working closely with our global partner Oracle, we optimized Cloud Compute with the Oracle Cloud.  Related:What would have happened if the problem wasn't quickly resolved? Spectator experience would have suffered. Teams rely on real-time analytics for performance optimization, and broadcasters need accurate telemetry for storytelling. A failure here could have resulted in delays, miscommunication, and a diminished fan experience. How long did it take to resolve the problem? It was an ongoing challenge that required continuous innovation. The initial solution took several months to implement, but we’ve refined and improved it over multiple seasons as technology advances and new challenges emerge. Who supported you during this challenge? This was a team effort -- with our partners Oracle, T-Mobile, and Ericsson with our in-house engineers, data scientists, and IT specialists all working closely. The support from SailGP's leadership was also crucial in securing the necessary resources. Did anyone let you down? Rather than seeing it as being let down, I'd say there were unexpected challenges with some technology providers who underestimated the complexity of what we needed. However, we adapted by seeking alternative solutions and working collaboratively to overcome the hurdles. What advice do you have for other leaders who may face a similar challenge? Related:Embrace adaptability. No matter how well you plan, unforeseen challenges will arise, so build flexible solutions. Leverage partnerships. Collaborate with the best in the industry to ensure you have the expertise needed. Stay ahead of technology trends. The landscape is constantly evolving; being proactive rather than reactive is key. Prioritize resilience. Build redundancy into critical systems to ensure continuity even in the face of disruptions. Is there anything else you would like to add? SailGP is as much a technology company as it is a sports league. The intersection of innovation and competition drives us forward and solving challenges like these is what makes this role both demanding and incredibly rewarding. About the AuthorJohn EdwardsTechnology Journalist & AuthorJohn Edwards is a veteran business technology journalist. His work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and numerous business and technology publications, including Computerworld, CFO Magazine, IBM Data Management Magazine, RFID Journal, and Electronic Design. He has also written columns for The Economist's Business Intelligence Unit and PricewaterhouseCoopers' Communications Direct. John has authored several books on business technology topics. His work began appearing online as early as 1983. Throughout the 1980s and 90s, he wrote daily news and feature articles for both the CompuServe and Prodigy online services. His "Behind the Screens" commentaries made him the world's first known professional blogger.See more from John EdwardsWebinarsMore WebinarsReportsMore ReportsNever Miss a Beat: Get a snapshot of the issues affecting the IT industry straight to your inbox.SIGN-UPYou May Also Like #racing #yacht #cto #sails #success

John Edwards, Technology Journalist & AuthorJune 4, 20254 Min ReadRancz Andrei via Alamy Stock PhotoIt may be hard to believe, but some senior executives actually believe that AI's arrival isn't a ground-shaking event. These individuals tend to be convinced that while AI may be a useful tool in certain situations, it's not going to change business in any truly meaningful way. Call them skeptics or call them realists, but such individuals really do exist, and it's the enterprise's CIOs and other IT leaders who need to gently guide them into reality. AI adoption tends to fall into three mindsets: early adopters who recognize its benefits, skeptics who fear its risks, and a large middle group -- those who are curious, but uncertain, observes Dave McQuarrie, HP's chief commercial officer in an online interview. "The key to closing the AI adoption gap lies in engaging this middle group, equipping them with knowledge, and guiding them through practical implementation." Effective Approaches The most important move is simply getting started. Establish a group of advocates in your company to serve as your early AI adopters, McQuarrie says. "Pick two or three processes to completely automate rather than casting a wide net, and use these as case studies to learn from," he advises. "By beginning with a subset of users, leaders can develop a solid foundation as they roll out the tool more widely across their business." Related:Start small, gather data, and present your use case, demonstrating how AI can support you and your colleagues to do your jobs better and faster, recommends Nicola Cain, CEO and principal consultant at Handley Gill Limited, a UK-based legal, regulatory and compliance consultancy. "This could be by analyzing customer interactions to demonstrate how the introduction of a chatbot to give customers prompt answers to easily addressed questions ... or showing how vast volumes of network log data could be analyzed by AI to identify potentially malign incidents that warrant further investigation," she says in an email interview. Changing Mindsets Question the skeptical leader about their biggest business bottleneck, suggests Jeff Mains, CEO of business consulting firm Champion Leadership Group. "Whether it’s slow decision-making, inconsistent customer experiences, or operational inefficiencies, there's a strategic AI-driven solution for nearly every major business challenge," he explains in an online interview. "The key is showing leaders how AI directly solves their most pressing problems today." When dealing with a reluctant executive, start by identifying an AI use case, Cain says. "AI functionality already performs strongly in areas like forecasting, recognition, event detection, personalization, interaction support, recommendations, and goal-driven optimization," she states. "Good business areas to identify a potential use case could therefore be in finance, customer service, marketing, cyber security, or stock control." Related:Strengthening Your Case Executives respond to proof, not promises, Mains says. "Instead of leading with research reports, I’ve found that real, industry-specific case studies are far more impactful," he observes. "If a direct competitor has successfully integrated AI into sales, marketing, or operations, use that example, because it creates urgency." Instead of just citing AI-driven efficiency gains, Mains recommends framing AI as a way to free-up leadership to focus on high-level strategy rather than day-to-day operations. Instead of trying to pitch AI in broad terms, Mains advises aligning the technology to the company's stated goals. "If the company is struggling with customer retention, talk about how AI can improve personalization," he suggests. "If operational inefficiencies are a problem, highlight AI-driven automation." The moment AI is framed as a business enabler rather than a technology trend, the conversation shifts from resistance to curiosity. Related:When All Else Fails If leadership refuses to embrace AI, it’s important to document the cost of inaction, Mains says. "Keep track of inefficiencies, missed opportunities, and competitor advancements," he recommends. Sometimes, leadership only shifts when management’s view of the risks of staying stagnant outweigh the risks of change. "If a company refuses to innovate despite clear benefits, that’s a red flag for long-term growth." Final Thoughts For enterprises that have so far done little or nothing in the way of AI deployment, the technology may appear optional, McQuarrie observes. Yet soon, operating without AI will become as unthinkable as running a business without the internet. Enterprise leaders who delay AI adoption risk falling behind the competition. "The best approach is to embrace a mindset of humility and curiosity -- actively seek out knowledge, ask questions, and learn from peers who are already seeing AI’s impact," he says. "To stay competitive in this rapidly evolving landscape, leaders should start now." The best companies aren't just using AI to improve; they're using the technology to redefine how they do business, Mains says. Leaders who recognize AI as a business accelerator will be the ones leading their industries in the next decade. "Those who hesitate? They’ll be playing catch-up." he concludes. About the AuthorJohn EdwardsTechnology Journalist & AuthorJohn Edwards is a veteran business technology journalist. His work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and numerous business and technology publications, including Computerworld, CFO Magazine, IBM Data Management Magazine, RFID Journal, and Electronic Design. He has also written columns for The Economist's Business Intelligence Unit and PricewaterhouseCoopers' Communications Direct. John has authored several books on business technology topics. His work began appearing online as early as 1983. Throughout the 1980s and 90s, he wrote daily news and feature articles for both the CompuServe and Prodigy online services. His "Behind the Screens" commentaries made him the world's first known professional blogger.See more from John EdwardsWebinarsMore WebinarsReportsMore ReportsNever Miss a Beat: Get a snapshot of the issues affecting the IT industry straight to your inbox.SIGN-UPYou May Also Like #how #convince #management #colleagues #that

Heydar Aliyev Center | © Olivier Blanchette via Unsplash In contemporary architectural discourse, the building envelope is no longer a passive partition but a dynamic interface capable of interaction, regulation, and adaptation. Amid rising environmental complexity and performance demands, composite materials are emerging as enablers of this transformation. Their potential goes far beyond lightweight strength; composites are redefining what intelligence means in architectural materiality. As the industry pivots toward energy-conscious design, real-time responsiveness, and multi-functional skins, composites provide structural solutions and performative systems. In this context, the envelope becomes a site of intelligence. From Passive Shells to Active Systems For centuries, architectural skins served primarily as barriers, blocking weather, enclosing space, and symbolizing permanence. But the 21st century demands more. We require façades that filter air and light, mediate thermal flux, integrate sensors, and generate power. Traditional materials, limited by monolithic performance and weight, have struggled to adapt. Composites, by contrast, are inherently systemic. They are engineered layers rather than singular substances. Through the integration of fibers and matrices, composites enable architectural envelopes that perform structurally while accommodating embedded systems such as thermal insulation, acoustic control, impact resistance, and photoreactivity. These characteristics make them prime candidates for high-performance envelopes in buildings and infrastructure alike. In the Qatar Integrated Railway Project, composite roofing and FRP façade panels were employed to meet the demands of the harsh desert environment. This solution reduced structural loads and improved thermal performance while ensuring long-term durability in a climate defined by extremes. Performance Layering and Embedded Intelligence What distinguishes composites from conventional materials is their capacity to combine multiple performance layers in one unified system. Instead of applying insulation, waterproofing, and cladding in sequence, a composite panel can consolidate these into a single prefabricated, high-performance element. A compelling example is the Eco Casa in Australia, designed by Ian Wright, which used frameless DuFLEX composite panels. The result was an environmentally conscious home with significantly reduced material waste, enhanced thermal performance, and minimized emissions. These outcomes demonstrate how composites offer design efficiency and ecological responsibility. The capacity for prefabrication and integration is particularly valuable in settings where labor conditions, transportation logistics, or weather exposure make traditional multi-layered construction inefficient or impractical. Composites with a Nervous System: Sensing the Built Environment Recent innovations in smart composites extend these capabilities further. By embedding fiber-optic or piezoresistive sensors into composite assemblies, architects and engineers can develop building skins that sense stress, temperature changes, humidity, or vibration in real-time. These responsive façades can feed data into building management systems, enabling performance optimization or alerting maintenance teams to signs of wear or structural fatigue. This functionality has been successfully explored in transport infrastructure. The King Abdullah High-Speed Rail Station in Saudi Arabia used 27-meter composite sandwich panels to span vast distances with minimal support. The lightweight system reduced the need for extensive reinforcement while enabling thermal and mechanical performance in a climate that demands resilience. Such examples are foundational to a future in which architecture does not merely resist the environment but interprets it. Formal Freedom Meets Functional Responsiveness Guangzhou Opera House | © Scarbor Siu via Unsplash Beyond embedded intelligence, composites also expand formal expression. Their moldability, especially with parametric design and digital fabrication, allows for envelopes that curve, fold, and morph in unattainable ways with conventional rigid materials. The Guangzhou Opera House, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, is a defining example. Advanced composite assemblies that merged structural demands with formal ambition enabled its seamless curvatures and sharp transitions. These systems supported high-precision details and complex geometries while reducing material weight and installation complexity. This freedom extends to smaller-scale yet equally ambitious projects. At the Tilburg School for VAVO, translucent composite panels embedded with knitted textiles reference local craft while offering thermal performance and design cohesion. Such examples show that intelligence in architecture includes cultural sensitivity as well as technical adaptability. Toward Circular and Regenerative Envelopes The sustainability potential of composites is often overlooked. While early generations relied heavily on fossil-derived materials, newer systems use bio-based resins, natural fibers like flax and basalt, and recyclable matrices that fit into circular design models. Composite panels can now be designed for disassembly, repurposing, or reintegration into new construction, minimizing waste and conserving embodied energy. The Pasarela de Almuñécar in Spain exemplifies this ethos. As the world’s longest carbon-fiber walkway, it replaced heavier materials and extended structural lifespan while reducing maintenance. The project signals how composites can fulfill both technical and ecological ambitions. Efforts to embed digital tracking into panels, such as RFID tags, also support long-term monitoring and facilitate reuse planning. This vision aligns with emerging concepts like material passports, which will play a critical role in lifecycle accountability. Pasarela de Almuñécar in Spain | © Luis Garcia, CC by 3.0 Overcoming Barriers to Adoption Despite the clear advantages, composite adoption in architecture still faces notable hurdles. First is the challenge of integration with legacy materials such as concrete, stone, or steel. Connection detailing requires careful coordination to ensure structural continuity and thermal performance. Second is the perception of cost. While composites may require a higher upfront investment, their lower maintenance demands, improved energy performance, and reduced structural requirements often result in favorable long-term economics. Finally, regulatory frameworks continue to evolve. Building codes have been slow to reflect the unique properties of composites, although this is changing as standardization increases and successful pilot projects proliferate. A Vision for the Future: Architecture as Adaptive Intelligence Composites are not merely substitutes for traditional materials. They represent a paradigm shift in how we understand performance, integration, and the role of material in space-making. As architecture becomes increasingly data-driven, climate-responsive, and energy-conscious, the intelligent envelope will become the norm rather than the exception. Composites make this future feasible by offering structural capability, aesthetic freedom, environmental stewardship, and embedded intelligence within a single engineered solution. From high-speed rail terminals to cultural landmarks, these materials are shaping a new kind of architecture that listens, learns, and evolves. It is no longer sufficient for architecture to stand still. The next generation of buildings must adapt, interact, and perform. Composites make that future tangible. Learn More Explore how composite materials are redefining the building envelope in the construction sector and beyond: Visit Composites.Archi by ArchEyes Team Leave a comment #intelligent #envelope #how #composites #think

3D printer manufacturer Bambu Lab has issued a new update after an early fix was withdrawn. Termed a critical calibration bug, the company has acted swiftly to deliver new code to its many users. The Shenzhen-based company has now released firmware version V01.01.02.07 for its H2D 3D printer through its Public Beta Program. Rolled out on May 23, this update introduces a comprehensive set of new features, performance enhancements, and critical bug fixes designed to elevate print quality, expand hardware compatibility, and offer users greater control. The release builds on feedback gathered from earlier beta phases. The Bambu Lab H2D Laser Full Combo in a workshop. Image via Bambu Lab. Features and Improvements Firmware V01.01.02.07 adds native support for the CyberBrick time-lapse kit. It also expands the H2D’s onboard AI failure detection system, now giving users the ability to individually toggle detection functions for nozzle clumping, spaghetti printing, air printing, and purge chute pile-ups from the printer’s interface. Hardware compatibility has been further extended. The AMS 2 Pro and AMS HT systems now support RFID-based automatic matching of drying parameters and can perform drying operations without rotating spools. Additionally, the Laser & Cut module can now initiate tasks directly from USB drive files, improving workflow support. Performance updates include improved foreign object detection on the smooth PEI plate, better regulation of heatbed temperatures, enhanced first-layer quality, more reliable chamber temperature checks before printing begins, and improved accuracy of laser module flame detection. The update also enhances the accuracy of nozzle clumping and nozzle camera dirty detection, while optimizing the pre-purging strategy. A collision issue between the nozzle flow blocker and nozzle wiper—previously triggered during flow dynamics calibration—has been resolved. Calibration reliability for the liveview camera has also improved, and issues with pre-extrusion lines sticking to prints during layer transitions have been addressed. Bambu Lab H2D Launch. Image via Bambu Lab. However, two known issues remain in this beta release: detection of filament PTFE tube detachment is currently disabled, and users cannot adjust heatbed temperature via the Bambu Handy app. The latter is expected to be fixed in a future app update. This version replaces V01.01.02.04, which was briefly released on May 20 before being withdrawn due to a critical calibration bug. That earlier version caused the right nozzle to crash into the wiper during left-nozzle calibration, damaging the printer. The firmware also temporarily disabled filament detachment detection. Bambu Lab quickly pulled the update and advised users to revert to the previous stable firmware while working on a corrected release—now realized in version V01.01.02.07. Accessing the Firmware To access the beta firmware, users can opt into the Public Beta Program through the Bambu Handy app by navigating to the “Me” section and selecting “Beta Firmware Program.” Once enrolled, the update will be rolled out gradually. Participants can leave the program at any time and revert to the most recent stable firmware version. Bambu Lab recommends updating Bambu Studio Presets before installing the firmware to ensure full compatibility. Full technical documentation and the official changelog are available on Bambu Lab’s website. Bambu Lab Hardware Line: H2D and Beyond The new firmware update applies to the H2D 3D printer, Bambu Lab’s flagship desktop manufacturing system unveiled in March 2025. Designed for professional users, the H2D offers the company’s largest build volume to date—350 x 320 x 325 mm—and includes two new AMS systems with integrated filament drying. Dual-nozzle extrusion and servo-driven precision deliver high accuracy, while a 350°C hotend and 65°C heated chamber allow reliable printing with high-performance, fiber-reinforced materials. With a toolhead speed of up to 1000 mm/s and acceleration of 20,000 mm/s², the H2D is built for productivity without compromising quality. The Bambu Lab H2D’s digital cutter. Image via Bambu Lab. Bambu Lab’s broader portfolio also includes the X1E, released in 2023 as an enterprise-grade upgrade to its X1 series. Developed with professional and engineering applications in mind, the X1E features LAN-only connectivity for secure, offline operation, enhanced air filtration, and precise thermal regulation. An increased maximum nozzle temperature expands its material compatibility, making it suitable for demanding industrial applications. At its core, the X1E builds on the proven performance of the X1 Carbon, extending the system’s capabilities for use in sensitive or regulated environments. Take the 3DPI Reader Survey — shape the future of AM reporting in under 5 minutes. Who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news. You can also follow us on LinkedIn, and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content. Featured image shows Bambu Lab H2D Launch. Image via Bambu Lab. Paloma Duran Paloma Duran holds a BA in International Relations and an MA in Journalism. Specializing in writing, podcasting, and content and event creation, she works across politics, energy, mining, and technology. With a passion for global trends, Paloma is particularly interested in the impact of technology like 3D printing on shaping our future. #new #bambu #labs #update #after

Shenzhen-based 3D printer manufacturer Elegoo has introduced a new RFID Ecosystem for its upcoming printer line, including the upcoming Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra. This system integrates RFID-tagged resin bottles, an Elegoo-designed scanner, and cloud-connected print profiles. Elegoo has opened a public feedback solicitation on its website and GitHub page to refine the implementation and encourage community input. The company is currently testing several use cases, such as automatic profile loading, material usage tracking, and batch traceability. Elegoo says these features aim to streamline workflow, reduce errors, and assist in quality assurance. However, in a GitHub post, the company emphasized that its RFID system is optional and will not lock users into proprietary materials. An open approach to a closed-loop trend? The Elegoo RFID Ecosystem enters a broader conversation in the additive manufacturingindustry regarding material-locking strategies and proprietary ecosystems. As discussed in a recent 3D Printing Industry analysis, the proliferation of closed systems has triggered renewed debate about interoperability, user autonomy, and long-term value for manufacturers and end-users alike. Elegoo appears to be taking a middle-ground approach: providing automation and traceability features via RFID while maintaining support for third-party materials. In the Elegoo RFID Tag Guide, developers are encouraged to create and test custom tags, with detailed instructions and example code provided to the open-source community. Developer-centric rollout The Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra, which serves as the first testbed for the RFID system, uses a dedicated RFID reader to retrieve data from tags affixed to resin bottles. These tags store encoded information such as resin name, type, batch number, and print profile metadata. The printer’s firmware can automatically sync this information with cloud-hosted slicer settings for optimal prints. According to the company, future updates may include compatibility with other Elegoo printers and additional features like usage history logging, tamper detection, and resin validation for regulatory compliance. Color scheme guide possibly used for tag classification or UI indication in Elegoo’s RFID material system. Image via Elegoo. A call for collaboration In its official blog post, Elegoo invited users, developers, and material manufacturers to contribute feedback and propose new applications. The company has not yet announced a formal launch date for the ecosystem or its associated hardware. Elegoo, known for its budget-friendly resin and FDM printers, has been expanding its R&D efforts in recent years. With the RFID ecosystem, it now joins other AM firms experimenting with embedded metadata and smart materials integration to support traceability, security, and ease of use. Interoperability and user autonomy The debate about open vs closed ecosystems has increasingly intensified in additive manufacturing discussions. For example, Bambu Lab’s controversial firmware update that introduced new authentication protocols, sparking concerns about third-party compatibility and user autonomy. Subsequent coverage highlighted pushback from the open-source community, including Orca Slicer developers, who rejected integration with Bambu Connect over transparency and access concerns. These cases underscore how interoperability is not only a technical issue, but a strategic and ideological one shaping the future of the AM sector.RFID in 3D printing While RFID integration is more common in logistics and supply chain management, researchers and companies are beginning to explore its potential in 3D printing. Scientists at Swinburne University developed biosensing RFID tags using 3D printed hybrid liquids, enabling applications in health diagnostics and environmental sensing. Meanwhile, materials firm Supernova unveiled a new resin cartridge system embedded with RFID to improve compatibility and process control in high-viscosity 3D printing platforms. These developments suggest that RFID could play a growing role in material authentication, traceability, and automated workflow management within additive manufacturing ecosystems.Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news. You can also follow us onLinkedIn and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry YouTube channel to access more exclusive content. At 3DPI, our mission is to deliver high-quality journalism, technical insight, and industry intelligence to professionals across the AM ecosystem.Help us shape the future of 3D printing industry news with our2025 reader survey. Featured image shows Elegoo RFID system displayed on a resin bottle, designed to communicate encoded material data to the printer. Image via Elegoo. #elegoo #launches #rfid #ecosystem #invites

John Edwards, Technology Journalist & AuthorMay 30, 20254 Min ReadTanapong Sungkaew via Alamy Stock PhotoAI adoption can help enterprises function more efficiently and productively in many internal and external areas. Yet to get the most value out of AI, CIOs and IT leaders need to find a way to measure their current and future gains.Measuring AI efficiency and productivity gains isn't always a straightforward process, however, observes Matt Sanchez, vice president of product for IBM's watsonx Orchestrate, a tool designed to automate tasks, focusing on the orchestration of AI assistants and AI agents."There are many factors to consider in order to gain an accurate picture of AI’s impact on your organization," Sanchez says,  in an email interview. He believes the key to measuring AI effectiveness starts with setting clear, data-driven goals. "What outcomes are you trying to achieve?" he asks. "Identifying the right key performance indicators -- KPIs -- that align with your overall strategy is a great place to start."Measuring AI efficiency is a little like a "chicken or the egg" discussion, says Tim Gaus, smart manufacturing business leader at Deloitte Consulting. "A prerequisite for AI adoption is access to quality data, but data is also needed to show the adoption’s success," he advises in an online interview.Still, with the number of organizations adopting AI rapidly increasing, C-suites and boards are now prioritizing measurable ROI.Related:"We're seeing this firsthand while working with clients in the manufacturing space specifically who are aiming to make manufacturing processes smarter and increasingly software-defined," Gaus says.Measuring AI Efficiency: The ChallengeThe challenge in measuring AI efficiency depends on the type of AI and how it's ultimately used, Gaus says. Manufacturers, for example, have long used AI for predictive maintenance and quality control. "This can be easier to measure, since you can simply look at changes in breakdown or product defect frequencies," he notes. "However, for more complex AI use cases -- including using GenAI to train workers or serve as a form of knowledge retention -- it can be harder to nail down impact metrics and how they can be obtained."AI Project Measurement MethodsOnce AI projects are underway, Gaus says measuring real-world results is key. "This includes studying factors such as actual cost reductions, revenue boosts tied directly to AI, and progress in KPIs such as customer satisfaction or operational output. "This method allows organizations to track both the anticipated and actual benefits of their AI investments over time."Related:To effectively assess AI's impact on efficiency and productivity, it's important to connect AI initiatives with broader business goals and evaluate their progress at different stages, Gaus says."In the early stages, companies should focus on estimating the potential benefits, such as enhanced efficiency, revenue growth, or strategic advantages like stronger customer loyalty or reduced operational downtime." These projections can provide a clear understanding of how AI aligns with long-term objectives, Gaus adds.Measuring any emerging technology's impact on efficiency and productivity often takes time, but impacts are always among the top priorities for business leaders when evaluating any new technology, says Dan Spurling, senior vice president of product management at multi-cloud data platform provider Teradata. "Businesses should continue to use proven frameworks for measurement rather than create net-new frameworks," he advises in an online interview. "Metrics should be set prior to any investment to maximize benefits and mitigate biases, such as sunk cost fallacies, confirmation bias, anchoring bias, and the like."Key AI Value MetricsMetrics can vary depending on the industry and technology being used, Gaus says. "In sectors like manufacturing, AI value metrics include improvements in efficiency, productivity, and cost reduction." Yet specific metrics depend on the type of AI technology implemented, such as machine learning.Related:Beyond tracking metrics, it's important to ensure high-quality data is used to minimize biases in AI decision-making, Sanchez says. The end goal is for AI to support the human workforce, freeing users to focus on strategic and creative work and removing potential bottlenecks. "It's also important to remember that AI isn't a one-and-done deal. It's an ongoing process that needs regular evaluation and process adjustment as the organization transforms.”Spurling recommends beginning by studying three key metrics:Worker productivity: Understanding the value of increased task completion or reduced effort by measuring the effect on day-to-day activities like faster issue resolution, more efficient collaboration, reduced process waste, or increased output quality.Ability to scale: Operationalizing AI-based self-service tools, typically with natural language capabilities, across the entire organization beyond IT to enable task or job completion in real-time, with no need for external support or augmentation.User friendliness: Expanding organization effectiveness with data-driven insights as measured by the ability of non-technical business users to leverage AI via no-code, low-code platforms.Final Note: Aligning Business and TechnologyDeloitte's digital transformation research reveals that misalignment between business and technology leaders often leads to inaccurate ROI assessments, Gaus says. "To address this, it's crucial for both sides to agree on key value priorities and success metrics."He adds it's also important to look beyond immediate financial returns and to incorporate innovation-driven KPIs, such as experimentation toleration and agile team adoption. "Without this broader perspective, up to 20% of digital investment returns may not yield their full potential," Gaus warns. "By addressing these alignment issues and tracking a comprehensive set of metrics, organizations can maximize the value from AI initiatives while fostering long-term innovation."About the AuthorJohn EdwardsTechnology Journalist & AuthorJohn Edwards is a veteran business technology journalist. His work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and numerous business and technology publications, including Computerworld, CFO Magazine, IBM Data Management Magazine, RFID Journal, and Electronic Design. He has also written columns for The Economist's Business Intelligence Unit and PricewaterhouseCoopers' Communications Direct. John has authored several books on business technology topics. His work began appearing online as early as 1983. Throughout the 1980s and 90s, he wrote daily news and feature articles for both the CompuServe and Prodigy online services. His "Behind the Screens" commentaries made him the world's first known professional blogger.See more from John EdwardsWebinarsMore WebinarsReportsMore ReportsNever Miss a Beat: Get a snapshot of the issues affecting the IT industry straight to your inbox.SIGN-UPYou May Also Like #how #measure #efficiency #productivity #gains

John Edwards, Technology Journalist & AuthorMay 27, 20254 Min ReadSharon Mandell, CIO of Juniper NetworksSharon Mandell, chief information officer of Juniper Networks, has held various CIO and CTO roles over the past 25 years, each building upon her previous experience and matching her current life phase. In her current role, Mandell is in charge of IT strategy and implementation for an enterprise that offers high-performance networking and cybersecurity products to service providers, businesses, and public sector organizations. In a recent email interview, Mandell discussed the options available for CIOs looking to further advance their careers. What should be the next logical career step for a current CIO? That really depends on the individual CIO, their time in the role, the scope of their responsibilities, the scale of the companies they've worked for, and most importantly, their personal interests and aspirations. The next step could be another CIO role at a larger company in the same industry, or a shift to a different industry -- smaller, same-sized, or even larger -- if the challenge is compelling. It could be a smaller organization with a mission or opportunity that you’ve always wanted to take on. Some CIOs take on adjacent or additional functions -- customer support, engineering, marketing, HR. I haven't yet seen a CIO move into CFO or chief counsel, but with the right background, it's not out of the question. Related:You could step into a COO or even CEO role. Somemove into venture capital or advisory roles. There's no single "right" next step -- it's about what makes sense for your unique path and purpose. When is the best time to make a career move? When you feel like you're no longer having a significant impact or adding meaningful value in your current role. I've often felt taking on new roles can feel like being thrown into the deep end of the pool -- completely overwhelmed at first, but eventually you develop a vision and begin driving change. When those changes start to feel incremental instead of transformative, it may be time to move on. Sometimes, opportunities show up when you're not actively looking -- something that fills a gap in your background, stretches you in a big way, or offers a challenge you’ve always wanted to take on. Even if you're happy where you are -- not that the CIO role is ever truly comfortable -- you’ve got to be open to those moments. When is the best time to stay in place? I don't like leaving a role when I've taken a risk on a project, a technology, or a transformation and haven't yet seen it through to a solid or stable outcome. Related:I also don't want to leave a leadership team holding the bag, especially if I've been pushing them outside their comfort zones. I want my peers to understand why I've made certain decisions, and that usually means staying long enough to deliver real results. That said, sometimes opportunities won't wait. You’ll have to weigh whether staying to finish something or making a move offers more long-term value. At the end of the day, I want the people I leave behind to want to work with me again should the right opportunity arise. What's the biggest mistake CIOs make when planning a career move? Chasing title, prestige, or compensation as the sole driver of the decision, or assuming that "bigger" is always better. At the end of the day, what matters most is the people you surround yourself with, the impact you're able to make, and what you learn along the way. The right role should stretch you, challenge you, and allow you to contribute meaningfully to the organization's success. That’s what makes a career move truly worth it. Is there anything else you would like to add? I’ve never been someone who obsessively mapped out a career trajectory. I've made decisions based on what felt right for my life at the time. There were points when I took smaller roles because they gave me the balance I needed as a single mom. I passed on big opportunities because I didn't want to relocate. I've moved back and forth between CIO and CTO roles more than once. Related:The common thread has been this: I look for roles that challenge me, expand my perspective, and give me big new experiences to grow from -- even if I know they won't be easy or fun. Those are the ones that build grit, resilience, and passion. The money, title, and scope tend to follow if you execute well. I may not end up with the biggest job or the highest salary, but I’ve had one heck of a ride, and that’s what makes it all worth it.  about:Network ComputingAbout the AuthorJohn EdwardsTechnology Journalist & AuthorJohn Edwards is a veteran business technology journalist. His work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and numerous business and technology publications, including Computerworld, CFO Magazine, IBM Data Management Magazine, RFID Journal, and Electronic Design. He has also written columns for The Economist's Business Intelligence Unit and PricewaterhouseCoopers' Communications Direct. John has authored several books on business technology topics. His work began appearing online as early as 1983. Throughout the 1980s and 90s, he wrote daily news and feature articles for both the CompuServe and Prodigy online services. His "Behind the Screens" commentaries made him the world's first known professional blogger.See more from John EdwardsWebinarsMore WebinarsReportsMore ReportsNever Miss a Beat: Get a snapshot of the issues affecting the IT industry straight to your inbox.SIGN-UPYou May Also Like #juniper #networks #cio #analyzes #career

John Edwards, Technology Journalist & AuthorMay 26, 20255 Min ReadLuis Moreira via Alamy Stock PhotoStructured data, such as names and phone numbers, fits neatly into rows and columns. Unstructured data, however, has no fixed scheme, and may have a highly complex format such as audio files or web pages. Unfortunately, there's no single best way to effectively manage unstructured data. On the bright side, there are several approaches that can be used to successfully tackle this critical, yet persistently elusive challenge. Here are five tested ways to achieve effective unstructured data management from experts who participated in online interviews. Tip 1. Use AI-powered vector databases combined with retrieval-augmented generation "One of the most effective methods I've seen is using AI-powered vector databases combined with retrieval augmented generation," says Anbang Xu, founder of AI video generator firm Jogg.AI. A former senior software engineer at Google, Xu suggests that instead of forcing unstructured data into rigid schemas, using vector databases will allow enterprises to store and retrieve data based on contextual meaning rather than exact keyword matches. "This is especially powerful for text, audio, video, and image data, where traditional search methods fall short," he notes.  For example, Xu says, organizations using AI-powered embeddings can organize and query vast amounts of unstructured data by meaning rather than syntax. "This is what powers advanced AI applications like intelligent search, chatbots, and recommendation systems," he explains. "At Jogg.AI, we’ve seen first-hand how AI-driven indexing and retrieval make it significantly easier to turn raw, unstructured data into actionable insights." Related:Tip 2. Take a schema-on-read approach Another innovative approach to managing unstructured data is schema-on-read. "Unlike traditional databases, which define the schema -- the data's structure -- before it's stored, schema-on-read defers this process until the data is actually read or queried," says Kamal Hathi, senior vice president and general manager of machine-generated data monitoring and analysis software firm at Splunk, a Cisco company. This approach is particularly effective for unstructured and semi-structured data, where the schema is not predefined or rigid, Hathi says. "Traditional databases require a predefined schema, which makes working with unstructured data challenging and less flexible." The key advantage of schema-on-read is that it enables users to work with raw data without needing to apply traditional extract-transform-loadprocesses, Hathi states. "This, in turn, allows for working with the diversity typically seen in machine-generated data, such as system and application telemetry logs." Related:Tip 3. Look to the cloud Manage unstructured data by integrating it with structured data in a cloud environment using metadata tagging and AI-driven classifications, suggests Cam Ogden, a senior vice president at data integrity firm Precisely. "Traditionally, structured data -- like customer databases or financial records -- reside in well-organized systems such as relational databases or data warehouses," he says. However, to fully leverage all of their data, organizations need to break down the silos that separate structured data from other forms of data, including unstructured data such as text, images, or log files. This is where the cloud comes into play. Integrating structured and unstructured data in the cloud allows for more comprehensive analytics, enabling organizations to extract deeper insights from previously siloed information, Ogden says. AI-powered tools can classify and enrich both structured and unstructured data, making it easier to discover, analyze, and govern in a central platform, he notes. "The cloud offers the scalability and flexibility required to handle large volumes of data while supporting dynamic analytics workloads." Additionally, cloud platforms offer advanced data governance capabilities, ensuring that both structured and unstructured data remain secure, compliant, and aligned with business objectives. "This approach not only optimizes data management but also positions organizations to make more informed and effective data-driven decisions in real-time." Related:Tip 4. Use AI-powered classification and indexing One of the best ways to get a grip on unstructured data is to use AI-powered classification and indexing, says Adhiran Thirmal, a senior solutions engineer at cybersecurity firm Security Compass. "With machine learningand natural language processing, you can automatically sort, tag, and organize data based on its content and context," he explains. "Pairing this approach with a scalable data storage system, like a data lake or object storage, makes it easier to find and use information when you need it." AI takes the manual work out of organizing data, Thirmal says. "No more wasting time digging through files or struggling to keep things in order," he states. "AI can quickly surface the information you need, reducing human error and improving efficiency. It's also excellent for compliance, ensuring sensitive data -- like personal or financial information -- is properly handled and protected." Tip 5. Create a unified, sovereign data platform An innovative approach to managing unstructured data goes beyond outdated data lake methods, says Benjamin Anderson, senior vice president of technology at database services provider EnterpriseDB. A unified, sovereign data platform integrates unstructured, semi-structured, and structured data in a single system, eliminating the need for separate solutions. "This approach delivers quality-of-service features previously available only for structured data," he explains. "With a hybrid control plane, organizations can centrally manage their data across multiple environments, including various cloud platforms and on-premises infrastructure." When it comes to managing diverse forms of data, whether structured, unstructured, or semi-structured, the traditional approach required multiple databases and storage solutions, adding operational complexity, cost, and compliance risk, Anderson notes. "Consolidating structured and unstructured data into a single multi-model data platform will help accelerate transactional, analytical, and AI workloads." About the AuthorJohn EdwardsTechnology Journalist & AuthorJohn Edwards is a veteran business technology journalist. His work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and numerous business and technology publications, including Computerworld, CFO Magazine, IBM Data Management Magazine, RFID Journal, and Electronic Design. He has also written columns for The Economist's Business Intelligence Unit and PricewaterhouseCoopers' Communications Direct. John has authored several books on business technology topics. His work began appearing online as early as 1983. Throughout the 1980s and 90s, he wrote daily news and feature articles for both the CompuServe and Prodigy online services. His "Behind the Screens" commentaries made him the world's first known professional blogger.See more from John EdwardsWebinarsMore WebinarsReportsMore ReportsNever Miss a Beat: Get a snapshot of the issues affecting the IT industry straight to your inbox.SIGN-UPYou May Also Like #unstructured #data #management #tips

Unless you've been living under a rock, you've probably noticed that AI's being crammed everywhere. From Taco Bell drivethrus to eye glasses to schools, the AI boom is forcing the tech anywhere it can fit.That means it'll also be in your toilet soon, at least if one tech startup has its way.Based out of — where else — Austin, Throne is a bold new startup leveraging AI to revolutionize the way we interact with our toilet. The new company just raised million in venture capitalist funds, courting some angel investors like famed bicycle doper Lance Armstrong, according to TechCrunch.By now you might have some questions: why do I need AI in my toilet? Four million dollars? Lance Armstrong!?Relax. You'll give yourself an ulcer. Luckily, Throne can help.At its core, Throne is a toilet-mounted camera that pairs with your phone to analyze your ones and twos. "It’s time to stop flushing away valuable data," as Throne's website greets.Throne proports to help health-conscious users monitor all kinds of important metrics from your waste, such as your "personalized Urinary Flow Score," which it tracks by listening "to the rhythm of your stream...those sounds into easy-to-read trends."Other metrics include users' "Digestive Pattern," which it categorizes by "hard, healthy, loose, and liquid," as well as a urine "Hydration Score," which it tracks in real-time, "empowering you to stay hydrated, one insight at a time."And apartment dwellers who share a bathroom, don't worry — Throne's for you too. "Just set up individual profiles in our app," the startup's website advises, "and thanks to Bluetooth, Throne knows exactly who's who." What a relief!That goes both ways. Say your awful house guest decides to leave you a floater. Unless they've set up a personal profile and connected to your toilet via Bluetooth, Throne's state-of-the-art AI is trained to ignore it.Users can currently pre-order Throne for just plus a recurring monthly fee.One can imagine many ways tech like this could come in handy. If it works as its website advertises — and that's a big if, given the growing landfill of failed AI devices — it could certainly help folks with issues like Crohn's disease or liver problems.TC, for example, tells the story of Throne's founders lurking outside Armstrong's bathroom as he "used" a prototype. Armstrong, the former Tour de France winner, has since been diagnosed with testicular cancer. Some cancers can be detected through changes in urinary habits, the American Cancer Society notes, which probably explains why Armstrong felt compelled to cut Throne a check.Still, as Throne's uncanny ad-copy intones, the startup also represents a perfidious trend in healthcare, where buzzy tech gadgets snatch millions of dollars from wealthy investors while deep structural problems go unaddressed.Throne has the added quality of feeding into a frenzied wellness culture, where similar tracking gadgets help feed an unhealthy obsession with monitoring every possible thing our bodies do.We'll let Lance take this one.More on Startups: A Billion Dollar AI Startup Just Collapsed SpectacularlyShare This Article #new #device #mounts #your #toilet