Month: June 2023

Kaseya raises funds for Dublin Simon Community

Kaseya, the global leader in IT and cybersecurity infrastructure management software for small-to-medium businesses (SMBs) launched their ‘Cooper Cares’ initiative last year which is dedicated to assisting the communities that Kaseya serves with a primary focus on charitable organisations for children, veterans and animals.

As part of this initiative, Kaseya is partnering with Dublin Simon Community for Kaseya DattoCon Europe 2023 which will be held next week in Dublin.

Dublin Simon Community works to prevent and address homelessness in Dublin, Kildare, Wicklow, Meath, Louth, Cavan and Monaghan. They provide services at all stages of homelessness and enable people to move to a place they can call home. Kaseya will be collecting funds and supplies to lend their support to this charity which has already raised over €6,500. You can donate here.

Tech Review – HUION Inspiroy Dial 2 ( Model Q630M)

The HUION Inspiroy Dial 2  professional-grade drawing tablet with and slim design with 6 buttons which can be configured and 2 dials. The two dials can be set to cycle between three different controls (scroll, zoom, and brush size) by pressing the dial. The texture of the tablet is similar to paper without the rubber feeling you might expect.

Accessories

 

Setup and use:

The setup is standard in terms of plugging in the USB cable to the laptop and downloading software from the website with the supplier user guide giving clear instructions. Alternatively, this can be connected via Bluetooth 5.0 with a range of 10 meters. The Bluetooth while good to have seems impractical as to use the drawing tablet required the use of a monitor to view the work.

The supplied software allows the configuration of the dual dial controllers and supports the quick-access Windows Radial Menu. These can be programmed with a  menu of options in terms of Zooming in or out, changing the brush size,  scrolling through the pages, adjusting the volume and my favourite  – Undo.

The software allows the configuration to allow for “Left hand / right hand “  use,  & the monitor to use as a selected area,  if using dual monitors

The tablet came with a pen that is responsive and accurate, making it easy to create detailed and intricate drawings. The holder stores 5 standard pen nibs and 5 felt pen nibs made of fibre, the latter of which can provide a greater level of resistance, thus making you feel like you are drawing with a traditional pen.

Warranty  This came with a two-year warranty,

Conclusion 

The HUION Inspiroy Dial 2   is solid, slim and lightweight  ( 10.5 x6.5″active area is ideal. 0.3″ ultra-thin design) while does not come with a travel case if moving in a laptop bag etc, the drawing tablet allows a multitude of configurations in terms of the 2 dials and 6 buttons which can be configured via the supplied software. The setup in terms of the mechanics is standard with no latency noticed in the pen use. Once set up this works but required a lot of practice to allow drawing on the tablet while viewing a separate monitor to see where the pen is located.

The drawing tablet does have coordinated listed when the pen is located and is compatible with Windows. Mac, chrome, Linus, and Android allow for a  versatile experience  with 18 hours of battery  life if used via Bluetooth, this can be used with  most  creative software like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, SAI, Lightroom, Affinity Designer, ZBrush, etc

Overall a response drawing tablet with a multitude of configuration options with a pen-like feel of a standard pen used with an array of options to provide a delightful drawing experience.

Buy

https://www.amazon.co.uk/HUION-Inspiroy-Bluetooth-Battery-Free-Compatible-Black-Silver/dp/B0B1V1JBNX

Video Review

Sky Live is the new interactive camera from Sky

Sky today unveils Sky Live, the clever entertainment device that will transform the way you use your TV. Exclusive to Sky Glass, the new interactive camera brings you exciting new ways to share your favourite TV with family and friends, work out, play and video call – all on your TV. Sky Live is now available to buy from €6 per month*.

Speaking about Sky Live, JD Buckley, CEO, Sky Ireland, said: “Following Sky Glass’ successful launch last August, we are thrilled to announce that we are transforming the home entertainment experience yet again with the launch of our new 4k interactive camera, Sky Live.

We are so excited to bring this innovative product to our Sky Glass customers as our new camera will change the way we interact with TV.  There’s a new way to chat, play, work out and share the greatest TV moments with family and friends. We hope our customers love it as much as we do.”

Fraser Stirling, Global Chief Product Officer, Sky, said: “We surprised everyone when we launched our streaming TV, Sky Glass. Now we’re doing it again. Sky Live makes your TV much more than just a TV, by introducing new entertainment experiences for the heart of your home.

“Get active with motion control games, work out with body tracking technology, video call on the big screen and watch TV with loved ones – even from afar. And this is just the start. With our powerful Entertainment OS ecosystem, it will keep getting better with every update.”  

Sky Live makes the big screen in your living room even smarter, more social, and more interactive. Key features include:

Watch Together when you’re not together

 

  • Enjoy TV together, even when you’re apart.
  • See and hear family and friends in their own homes alongside your favourite content on your TV screen, so you can celebrate Premier League goals together live, discuss the latest murder mystery from Poker Face and chat through every episode of And Just Like That, S2.
  • Working across live channels and Sky on demand content – the dedicated Watch Together button on screen lets you invite your family and friends to watch with you**.
  • And with Auto-Tracking, everyone will always be in shot and in focus. Plus, Sky Live’s background noise suppression technology means sound will be crystal-clear.

Workout with a personal trainer on your TV

  • With the exclusive Mvmnt fitness app, you can choose from over 130 interactive workouts, including a range of strength, mobility, Pilates and yoga classes for all abilities.
  • Built-in Body Tracking technology improves your technique by analysing your form, providing real-time feedback as you move and counting your reps.
  • Developed in partnership with WithU and qualified coaches, Mvmnt is exclusive to Sky Live for innovative and easy ways to work out from home on the big screen.
  • Download the Mvmnt companion mobile app so you can also get real-time feedback on your form directly to your mobile. Plus, you can plan your workouts, track your personal progress, and share to social media.

Play hands-free immersive games for the whole family

 

  • Use your body as the controller in fun active games like Starri, PAW Patrol PAWsome fitness and Fruit Ninja with Sky Live’s ground-breaking Motion Control technology, which uses AI-powered body tracking and gesture control. With more games like Peppa Pig coming soon.
  • Play solo at home, or challenge family and friends to join in a range of fun multiplayer games and experiences like Monopoly.
  • With VideoBooth you can capture short videos and photos on your Sky Glass. Immerse yourself in some of your favourite TV shows and films with AR filters for PAW Patrol, Trolls and more. Download your creations and share with your family, friends and on social media.
  • Also coming soon is the Stingray Karaoke app, allowing you to record, play back and easily share your best performances on social media.

Video Call on your TV

 

  • Make Zoom calls to family and friends from your sofa to any device.
  • Have better conversations and see people in HD, large as life and crystal-clear on the big screen – no more juggling iPads, laptops or mobiles.
  • Everyone will be in shot with Auto-Tracking and you can hear every word with the background noise suppression technology.
  • You can even switch from a call on your mobile to your TV if you’re signed into the same account on Sky Live. Just use your existing Zoom account and log in with your regular e-mail address and password.

Simple set up

Sky Live has been designed with the same simplicity and privacy credentials as Sky Glass. It’s easy to set up, with no remotes, headsets or controllers, and the magnetic base sits securely on top of your Sky Glass, with cables to connect to the TV. Giving you complete control over your privacy, there’s a dedicated button which lets you switch the camera and microphone on and off – when the front light is off, you know it’s completely off.

Pricing and availability

Sky Live is available to buy in Ireland from today (Thursday 22 June) at Sky.ie/SkyLive, in Sky retail stores or with our customer services.

Buy for €6 per month interest-free credit on a 48-month credit sale agreement, €12 per month on a 24-month credit sale agreement, or €301***.

Buy Sky Glass, Sky Ultimate TV and Sky Live from just €18.50 for 3 months

Developing for the future

Sky Live is the latest addition to the Sky TV Entertainment OS ecosystem, which includes Sky Glass. Sky Live will never stay the same; its software will continue to evolve, with new games, workouts, features and more to come in future releases.

As a platform Sky is looking forward to working with experience and app creators to bring new entertaining innovations to the big screen. We’re even opening our developer portal very soon.

For more, visit Sky.ie

Expleo launches initiatives to attract women in Ireland back to the workplace

Expleo, a global technology, engineering, and consulting service provider, is today announcing that it is launching progressive initiatives aimed at attracting women back to the workplace. The Return@Expleo programme, in partnership with Women Returners, along with an expanded leave policy and a comprehensive Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Programme, aims to empower female professionals seeking to return to work.

Expleo’s Return@Expleo programme is aimed at professionals who have taken extended career break. Participants will be equipped with the resources they require to refresh their skills, re-establish industry connections and pursue their career progression. On completion of the five-month paid career returners programme, successful candidates will have a view towards permanency within Expleo. This will help Expleo fill current job openings in the areas of Quality Assurance, Business Analysis, and Engineering.

Expleo’s commitment to diversity is further exemplified through its generous leave policies, which the company has expanded this year to include menopause leave, fertility treatment leave, volunteer leave and special leave relating to important life situations, such as a child starting school. Team members can also avail of fully-paid maternity, paternity, adoption, and parent’s leave. In addition, Expleo’s life enrichment programme offers unpaid leave for traveling, research or education.

Expleo’s award-winning Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Programme, meanwhile, has long been a champion for female voices in the workplace. With a dedicated D&I Committee and Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), Expleo ensures that all employees have a voice in shaping D&I initiatives. The company’s commitment to continuous learning is demonstrated through its annual D&I training for the leadership team and employees. Expleo’s dedication to gender diversity has been recognised with award wins including the recent Diversity and Inclusion Award at the Tech Excellence Awards. It has also previously been awarded the Best Large Workplace in Ireland.

Aimee Farrell, Project Manager at Expleo, who went through the programme said: “I joined Expleo as a Project Manager through the Return@Expleo programme in March 2022 following a five-year career break to stay at home with my young children. From the very first contact I had with Expleo and the team at Women Returners, I knew that my career was in good hands. They made the transition back to work very straight forward and provided support including webinars on brushing up your CV and job interview preparation, through to a five-month programme of workshops specific to my needs. This personalised approach helped me regain confidence and update my skills. Connecting with the other participants on the programme created a supportive community, offering shared experiences and valuable insights. I recommend this programme to any woman seeking to return to the world of work.”

Eimear Fitzsimons, Head of Recruitment, at Expleo, said: “At Expleo, we are dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We understand that many women desire to return to the workforce, but may lack confidence and feel that their skills are outdated – particularly when it comes to our fast-moving technology industry. Through our initiatives, we aim to provide the encouragement and support that career returners need to step back into the professional realm and carve out successful careers.

“Helping women to get back into the workplace is just one element of ensuring greater gender diversity in our industry. We understand that life happens and that is why we have extended our leave policies to include menopause leave and special leave, which can cover unexpected or unique events. We stand by our employees through every stage of their lives, continually assessing and enhancing our benefits to meet their evolving needs year after year.

“We have also taken measures including the removal of gender-biased language from job ads; implementing internal mentorship programmes; offering a flexible model for working parents, Expleo Fusion; and hosting impactful workshops and webinars. Our goal is to empower female professionals, dismantle barriers, and foster an inclusive environment where every individual can thrive and make meaningful contributions.”

 To find out more information or to apply for the roles, visit https://expleo.to/ReturnAtExpleoProgramme

Bord Gáis Energy sms scam is back

Another scam is back and this time it is Bord Gais, recently we had another one return and it was Guinness which again turned out to be rampant and claiming to give free full fridges of beer. This particular sms asks you to pay an overdue bill which you possibly might have due to the energy crisis going and again shows how these scammers operate. As always if you get the said sms just ignore and delete. Most importantly in today’s world of scams getting more realistic looking remain vigilant and feel free to ask us too as people do if they get a suspicious looking message.

 

Bord Gais Energy already have stated on their website

We’re aware of recent fraudulent messages that have been circulating via SMS and WhatsApp, which may look like they have been sent by Bord Gáis Energy. We’ll never send you a link asking for account details or personal information. If you receive a message like this, please delete it immediately.

We have asked the company for a comment on the matter.

Canadian Biotechnology Company Zymeworks to establish a Clinical and Regulatory Operations European Headquarters in Dublin

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris today announced that Zymeworks Inc. (NASDAQ: ZYME), a global biotechnology company committed to the discovery, development and commercialization of novel, multifunctional biotherapeutics, is to establish a Clinical and Regulatory European Headquarters in Dublin with the creation of up to 20 new roles across activities such as regulatory affairs, clinical operations, clinical data management and support functions.

Zymeworks, which develops therapeutics to address difficult-to-treat cancers and other serious diseases has established an office in Dublin Airport Business Park, Swords and has recruited Jeffrey Smith, MD to serve as Senior Vice President of Early-Stage Development based in Dublin.  The new Clinical and Regulatory European Headquarters will enable Zymeworks to coordinate clinical trials in the EU and progress early-stage clinical programs through its drug development process.

Speaking about the announcement, Minister Harris said “I am delighted to see the launch of this new headquarters in Dublin.

“I recently met with Zymeworks in Vancouver where I was delighted to hear about the company’s plans for its new entity in Ireland.  We have an established ecosystem for pharmaceutical and biopharma activity in Ireland offering regulatory stability, a talented workforce and easy access to the EU market.

“This announcement is another vote of confidence in Ireland, in our life sciences sector and in the talent of the Irish people.”

Commenting on the new entity Kenneth Galbraith, Chair and CEO, Zymeworks said “Zymeworks is at an exciting stage of global expansion with a portfolio of antibody-drug conjugates and multispecific antibody therapeutics in clinical trials and preclinical development. We are excited to announce our establishment in Dublin, which will provide us with the opportunity to engage with European cancer researchers and investigators, and recruit a larger proportion of patients in clinical studies planned in the European Union during the global drug development process.”

Welcoming the announcement, Michael Lohan, CEO, IDA Ireland said “Ireland’s life sciences sector has a global reputation for operational and innovational excellence.  Zymeworks joins a growing cluster of biopharmaceutical companies establishing corporate and technical management operations in Ireland.  Zymeworks is the first Canadian biopharmaceutical company to establish an international headquarters in Ireland and IDA Ireland is committed to winning more investment from the region. We welcome the company’s plans to create high value career opportunities and we look forward to continuing to work closely with Zymeworks.”

The Impact of Online Streaming services on the Sports Industry in Australia

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, online streaming services have revolutionized the way we consume sports content. From thrilling cricket matches to exhilarating rugby clashes, sports enthusiasts in Australia now have unprecedented access to their favorite games, regardless of location.

Platforms like ITV, offering a range of live and on-demand sports programming, have played a pivotal role in reshaping the sports industry. With the ability to watch ITV in Australia and other sports streaming services, fans can engage with sports content on their own terms.

In this blog, we delve into the profound impact of online streaming services on the Australian sports industry, exploring how these platforms have transformed the game for both fans and sports organizations alike.

Effect of Streaming Platforms on Australia’s Sports Industry

Accessible Anytime, Anywhere:

Online streaming services have revolutionized the way sports fans consume content by providing the convenience of accessing live games and matches at their fingertips. Whether fans are on the go or at home, they can tune in to their favorite sports events via smartphones, tablets, or computers. This flexibility eliminates the need to be tied to traditional TV schedules, allowing fans to watch sports on their own terms and never miss a moment of the action.

Global Reach and Exposure:

The advent of online streaming services has propelled Australian sports onto the global stage. International fans can now easily access and enjoy Australian sports events, leading to increased exposure for both the sports themselves and the athletes involved. This expanded reach has the potential to grow fan bases, attract new sponsorships, and encourage investments from a worldwide audience, further boosting the development of Australian sports.

Diverse Sports Coverage:

Online streaming platforms offer an extensive range of sports, going beyond mainstream favorites and including niche and lesser-known sports. This diversification allows fans to explore a wide variety of sports and discover new athletes and teams they may not have had access to through traditional broadcasting. It promotes inclusivity within the sports industry, giving lesser-known sports the opportunity to gain recognition and attract dedicated fan bases.

Enhanced Viewing Experience:

Streaming services go the extra mile to enhance the overall viewing experience for sports fans. With features such as multiple camera angles, instant replays, real-time statistics, and live chat options, fans have more control and engagement while watching their favorite sports. These interactive elements provide a deeper level of immersion, allowing fans to analyze plays, discuss game strategies, and share their excitement with fellow viewers in real-time.

Cost-Effectiveness:

Online streaming services offer flexible subscription options that cater to individual preferences, making sports content more affordable and accessible to a broader audience. Instead of paying for entire cable TV packages, fans can choose specific sports or events they are interested in, reducing costs and eliminating the need for expensive bundled subscriptions. This cost-effectiveness opens up opportunities for more people to enjoy their favorite sports without breaking the bank.

On-Demand Content:

One of the significant advantages of online streaming services like HBO Max is the availability of on-demand content. In addition to live events, streaming platforms offer access to past matches, highlights, interviews, and documentaries. This feature allows sports fans to catch up on missed games or relive memorable moments at their convenience. The ability to access a vast library of sports content enhances fan engagement, extends the lifespan of sports events, and keeps fans connected even outside of live matches.

Direct Fan Engagement:

Online streaming services facilitate direct interaction between fans and athletes or teams, creating a sense of community and fostering stronger connections. Through live chat features, social media integration, and exclusive content, fans can engage in real-time conversations, share their thoughts, and express their support for their favorite athletes or teams. This direct fan engagement not only strengthens loyalty but also provides personalized experiences that make fans feel more connected and valued within the sports industry.

Monetization Opportunities:

Streaming platforms offer new avenues for revenue generation in the sports industry. With targeted advertising, sponsorships, and partnerships, brands can reach specific audiences and measure engagement more effectively. Streaming services provide valuable data on user preferences and demographics, allowing brands to create tailored marketing campaigns that resonate with sports fans. These monetization opportunities benefit both the streaming services, by generating revenue, and the sports organizations, by attracting sponsors and enhancing their financial stability.

Data-Driven Insights:

Online streaming services gather a wealth of user data, including viewing preferences, engagement patterns, and demographic information. This data can be analyzed to gain valuable insights into fan behavior, preferences, and trends. Sports organizations can leverage these insights to make informed decisions about content creation, scheduling, and marketing strategies. By understanding their fan base on a deeper level, sports organizations can optimize their offerings and tailor experiences to meet the evolving needs and preferences of their audience.

Expansion of Niche Markets:

Online streaming platforms have played a pivotal role in the growth of niche sports markets in Australia. Previously, lesser-known sports struggled to gain exposure through traditional broadcasting. However, with streaming services, these niche sports now have a dedicated platform to showcase their events and competitions. This increased visibility attracts new fans who may have otherwise been unaware of these sports, thereby expanding their fan bases. Additionally, streaming platforms provide opportunities for niche sports to secure sponsors and investments, fostering growth and development within these specialized sporting communities.

Crux

In conclusion, online streaming services like Kayo Sports have significantly impacted the sports industry in Australia. They have expanded access, enhanced viewing experiences, provided monetization opportunities, and promoted fan engagement. These platforms have also contributed to the growth of niche sports, improved data analytics, and expanded the global reach of Australian sports. As technology continues to evolve, it is expected that the influence of online streaming services on the sports industry will only continue to grow, shaping the future of sports consumption in Australia.

 

The Importance of Security in Banking and Financial Software Development

One of the key things customers want while working with banks is security. In this article, we’ll look at the reasons why this aspect is so important for modern financial institutions. With the growing threat of cybersecurity threats in the financial sector, one should pay more attention to guaranteeing the safety of the clients. If you’re interested in reading something beyond this article, here’s an example of a company that offers a service with maximal security: https://keenethics.com/services-financial-software-development

The Role of Security in Banking and Financial Software Development

Security plays a critical role in banking and financial software development. It’s essential to protect sensitive financial data and prevent cyberattacks that could lead to financial losses, reputational damage, and customer distrust. Secure software ensures that customer information, such as account details and transactions, remains confidential and safeguarded from unauthorized access. The need for secure software is heightened in the banking and financial sector due to the valuable and sensitive nature of the data involved. Hackers and cybercriminals are constantly targeting financial institutions, making security a top priority. 

Secure software development involves implementing robust security measures throughout the software development lifecycle. This includes secure coding practices, vulnerability testing, and regular security audits. Encryption techniques, authentication mechanisms, and access controls are utilized to protect data integrity and ensure authorized access. In addition to protecting sensitive financial data, secure software also helps institutions comply with regulatory requirements such as data protection and privacy laws. By prioritizing security in banking and financial software development, institutions can mitigate risks, maintain customer trust, and establish a strong foundation for a resilient and secure financial ecosystem.

Security Threats in Banking and Financial Software Development

Common security threats faced by banking and financial software development companies include:

1) Phishing and Social Engineering: Attackers deceive individuals into revealing sensitive information by posing as trustworthy entities. This can lead to unauthorized access to financial accounts, identity theft, and financial fraud. Financial institutions and their customers may suffer financial losses and damage to their reputations.

2) Malware and Ransomware Attacks: Malicious software can infiltrate banking systems, compromising data integrity and confidentiality. Ransomware attacks can encrypt valuable data, demanding a ransom for its release. This disrupts operations, causes financial losses, and can erode customer trust if personal and financial information is compromised.

3) Insider Threats: Insider threats involve malicious actions or unintentional mistakes made by individuals with authorized access to systems or data. This includes employees, contractors, or business partners. Insider threats can result in data breaches, financial fraud, and reputational damage to financial institutions.

These threats can have severe impacts on financial institutions and their customers. Financial losses, compromised customer data, regulatory penalties, and legal consequences are common outcomes. Customer trust can be eroded, leading to a loss of business and reputation damage. Additionally, regulatory compliance may be compromised, exposing institutions to legal and financial risks. It is essential for banking and financial software development companies to implement robust security measures to mitigate these threats and protect the integrity of their systems and the trust of their customers.

Best Practices for Ensuring Security in Banking and Financial Software Development

Best practices for ensuring security in banking and financial software development include:

1) Implementing strong authentication and access control measures: This involves utilizing multi-factor authentication, strict password policies, and role-based access controls to ensure only authorized individuals can access sensitive data and perform critical functions.

2) Using encryption to protect data in transit and at rest: Encryption techniques should be employed to encrypt data during transmission and while stored in databases or other storage systems, safeguarding it from unauthorized access and mitigating the risk of data breaches.

3) Conducting regular security audits and penetration testing: Regular assessments of software systems and infrastructure help identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses. Penetration testing simulates real-world attacks to uncover potential security gaps that could be exploited by attackers.

4) Establishing incident response plans and procedures: Having a well-defined incident response plan in place ensures a timely and coordinated response to security incidents. This includes steps for identifying, containing, and resolving security breaches, as well as communication protocols to keep stakeholders informed.

Final Thoughts

To summarize, the importance of security in banking and financial software development is high. Without it, you risk undermining the customers and encountering massive reputation losses. The more you invest in security, the better the chances your business will be able to stay stable. If you want to work with a company that knows how to deliver financial security, we have an interesting option. Meet Keenethics: this company has multiple years of experience when it comes to developing financial products. Their specialists can consult you on the key security features and guide you toward high-quality solutions.

54% of IT Leaders in Ireland Doubt AI Capacity, More than Worldwide Average

Over half (54%) of IT leaders in Ireland believe their existing IT infrastructure is not fully prepared for the demands of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, despite its widespread adoption across industries, according to the Equinix 2023 Global Tech Trends Survey. The survey, which examined IT leaders’ responses to AI advances in their organisations, comes after a year of significant AI breakthroughs that saw the technology rapidly deployed in applications across both the business-to-business and business-to-consumer sectors.

Equinix’s survey, which included 100 IT decision-makers in Ireland, found that, on average, IT leaders in Ireland were more likely than IT leaders in EMEA – and worldwide – to lack confidence in their digital infrastructure’s ability to cope with the demands of AI. The survey found that 49% of IT decision-makers in EMEA have concerns about the ability of their infrastructure to accommodate the needs of AI, compared to 44% in Asia-Pacific and 32% in the Americas

The survey showed that there is now a widespread appetite among businesses in Ireland to benefit from the advantages of AI, with 85% of IT leaders reporting that they are already using it, or planning to do so, across multiple functions. A similar survey from Equinix last year found that a significantly lower 62% of IT leaders viewed AI as a priority for their technology strategy, representing a marked change in sentiments towards the technology and its accessibility. Today, organisations in Ireland are currently using, or planning to use, AI to benefit IT operations (85%), cybersecurity (81%), and customer experience (80%).

In addition to inadequate digital infrastructure, the survey highlighted a lack of confidence among IT leaders in Ireland in their teams’ abilities to accommodate the growing use of AI, with 59% expressing concerns. Therefore, 34% of IT leaders understandably listed AI and machine learning as the third-most sought after expertise for IT team growth in the last 24 months. The lack of internal knowledge relating to AI was found to be enough to put 46% of IT decision-makers off adopting newer technologies like AI. Other deterrents included increased OPEX costs (42%) and slow implementation (41%).

Peter Lantry, Managing Director for Equinix in Ireland, said: “All industries are being transformed by AI – including our own. We are already experimenting with how it can enable greater operational efficiency and energy savings – and it has the potential to do so much more.

“For enterprises to use AI in a meaningful way, they must be able to produce vast amounts of data which can be shared, stored and processed in a sustainable way. They require digital infrastructure that guarantees private, secure, high-speed access to external data sources and AI models.

“Ireland’s digital economy is growing and there is no question that AI will play a central role in its continued growth. From disease detection in healthcare, to fighting cybercrime in financial services, it will have a profound impact on our everyday lives, with every industry benefiting from its implementation. Without the right digital infrastructure underpinning it, AI cannot be intelligent, and given the pace of change, businesses will quickly find themselves left behind.

A full copy of the report can be found here.