Tag: strategy

HEAnet Unveils Ambitious Strategy to Advance Education and Research in Ireland

HEAnet, Ireland’s National Education and Research Network, is proud to announce the launch of its Strategy 2025–2030. 

HEAnet, Ireland’s National Education and Research Network, plays a pivotal role in supporting the country’s academic and research communities. By delivering high-speed internet connectivity and ICT shared services, HEAnet connects over one million students, researchers, and staff across all levels of the Irish education and research sector. Our network not only facilitates access to essential online resources but also ensures that Irish learners and researchers are linked to global academic and research networks through our partnership with GÉANT.

With a vision to empower excellence in education and research, HEAnet aims to be a trusted partner, driving technological innovation for the advancement of this sector. The HEAnet Strategy 2025-2030 seeks to address the ever-growing demands of the education and research community through key focus areas and foundation enablers. The new strategy focuses on five strategic areas:

1. Network– Delivering world-class network connectivity. HEAnet will strengthen Ireland’s education and research infrastructure with a resilient, scalable, and energy-efficient network. Through key upgrades and expanded international connectivity, we will meet growing demands and position Ireland as a global hub for education and research data.

 

2. Security – Strengthening the security capability and resilience of Irish education and research. HEAnet will expand its security services, including further expansion of our SOC and SIEM solution. In collaboration with the National Cyber Security Centre, we aim to strengthen the security posture of Ireland’s education and research sector, reducing risks and enhancing resilience.

3. Research  – Driving collaboration and innovation to support global research ambitions. HEAnet is committed to driving research excellence by supporting FAIR data management, advancing national research infrastructure, and fostering collaboration. HEAnet will enhance Open Science efforts, helping Ireland’s research community to innovate and excel on the global stage.

 

4. Sustainability – Leading the way in environmental, social and economic sustainability. HEAnet will integrate sustainability across environmental, social, and financial dimensions. We will significantly reduce our carbon footprint, improve energy efficiency, and ensure a sustainable funding model, contributing positively to Ireland’s Climate Action Plan and the wider community.

5. People – Empowering Our People to Achieve Excellence. At HEAnet, people are our most valuable asset. We will foster a culture of growth, inclusivity, and excellence, offering expanded development opportunities, promoting EDI, and cultivating talent pipelines to ensure long-term success and a thriving, diverse workforce.

HEAnet CEO Ronan Byrne remarked, “Our Strategy 2025–2030 outlines our ambitious and forward-looking strategic direction to the end of this decade. This strategy represents a significant milestone for HEAnet, as it sets the stage for a transformative journey that builds on our past achievements while charting a course for a future filled with opportunities and growth.”

The full strategy is available on HEAnet’s website: www.heanet.ie/heanet-strategy 

Strengthening Brand Connection with Personalized Merchandise

As it has been mentioned, in the current market environment, it is highly important to address the clients personally. Consumers are not just being offered products, but they are being offered stories from lives, feelings, and tribes. This link can be obtained through the use of personalised merchandise as one of the most influential methods. Whether it is a t-shirt that has been ordered to be designed or a mug or office products that have been branded for an organisation, customers are likely to become ambassadors for that brand. It gives something physical which can represent not only the company’s brand but also the personality of the consumer.

The Power of Personalization in Brand Marketing

Personalised merchandise is especially useful in print on demand business strategies. These businesses enable brands to sell customised products while not having to hold stock. This flexibility helps brands to easily adapt to trends, customer demands or occasions, giving customers a feeling that they are using something rare. Also, because the products are manufactured on-demand there is little waste and overproduction which is in line with the current trend of sustainable production.

Hence, for organisations, which seek to improve the brand association, it makes sense to invest in the branded products. People don’t just care about the objects but the history behind them and the connection they make. The targeted consumers will feel like they are valued and will always be associated with the brand hence promoting word of mouth.

Benefits of Personalized Merchandise for Businesses

Personalised merchandise has numerous advantages for companies, from customer loyalty to the interaction with the clients.Here’s why you should consider adding personalised products to your marketing strategy:

  • Enhanced Brand Recognition: People engage with products with your branding and when they put them on or use them it becomes visible. Each time a person employs that item, your brand gets a little publicity. It’s an unobtrusive and repeated reinforcement of your brand in the customer’s daily routine.
  • Customer Loyalty and Engagement: Having personalised merchandise is a good sign to the customers as it shows that you care for them. It makes them feel special and this makes it easier for them to come back to the brand in the future. For instance, a t-shirt designed for a customer with his or her name or a t-shirt that is designed and meant to capture the customer’s interest will evoke emotion.
  • Cost-Effective Marketing: Personalised merchandise is not the same as traditional advertising techniques where the advertisement lasts for a short time only. An item, if designed properly, can remain with a customer for several years thus giving repeated visibility. Also, using print on demand platforms, companies are free from the necessity to buy large amounts of stocks and can produce merchandise only if there is demand, thus, reducing the costs and risks involved.

Integrating Personalised Merchandise into Your Brand Strategy

To ensure that you incorporate the personalised merchandise into your brand, you need to ensure that the merchandise highlights your brand’s values and messages. First, define what your audience is most interested in: sustainability, creativity or exclusivity. From there, design products that not only embody these values but also provide the consumers with something that is unique to them. Use information from the customers’ preferences and buying habits to design products that belong to them.

Furthermore, incorporate tools that make the print on demand business easy, ensuring that you can sell many products on demand without having to store them. Incorporating such customised products into your advertising messages will therefore help you to promote brand recall, engagement and loyalty among your target consumers.

Steps to Launch a Successful Personalized Merchandise Campaign

Launching a successful personalised merchandise campaign involves several key steps:

  1. Understand Your Audience: Investigate your customers and their needs and wants. What kind of products do they apply in their everyday life? Adapt the products to their life and preferences.
  2. Choose the Right Products: Choose items that are relevant to your brand and will be appreciated by the target audience. When it comes to clothing and accessories or stationery and office needs, the products should be of good quality and useful.
  3. Leverage Print on Demand Platforms: Use platforms to sell numerous products that can be customised while not having to stock anything. This cuts down the initial cost and gives more freedom in designing.
  4. Promote Effectively: Advertising one’s customised product should be done through social media, emails, and collaborations with key opinion leaders.

 

Conclusion: Building Lasting Connections Through Personalization

Custom products are not just a promotional product; they are a tool for creating relationships with your audience. In this way, it is possible to provide the products that would correspond to the values of the brand and the needs and wants of the specific customer, which will help to develop the positive associations and, therefore, the loyalty of the client. Print on demand services can be easily integrated into the overall branding plan because it is flexible and cost effective when it comes to offering customised products. When properly implemented, these custom products will create brand loyalists out of customers leading to lasting business success.

 

Visual Product Configurator: Transforming Customer Experience and Business Strategy

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, customer preferences are shifting toward highly personalized products and services. Today’s consumers demand more than just a catalog of predefined options—they want to have a hand in crafting the products they buy. Enter the visual product configurator, a game-changing tool for both customers and businesses. By utilizing advanced software, these configurators allow users to view and customize products in real-time using 2D, 3D, and augmented or virtual reality (AR/VR) technologies.

This tool empowers both sales teams and end-users to visualize their products with life-like accuracy, making the process of customization more interactive and engaging. Whether it’s choosing the color of a car or personalizing a piece of furniture, a visual product configurator enables customers to tailor their products to their specific preferences. Let’s explore the various types of product visualization and see how businesses can leverage configurators to enhance customer satisfaction and drive growth.

Different Types of Product Visualization

  1. 2D Visualization: Simple Yet Effective

Though 2D visualization may seem basic in comparison to 3D or AR, its simplicity is exactly what makes it effective in many use cases. For certain industries and customer groups, particularly those that do not require complex customization options, 2D visual configurators offer an intuitive interface.

Non-technical users, such as sales representatives or customers looking for quick solutions, often appreciate the straightforwardness of a 2D model. It cuts down on confusion and makes the customization process faster. Instead of getting bogged down in manipulating complex 3D objects, users can easily select options and proceed with confidence. In scenarios where closing a sale quickly is crucial, a 2D configurator can be the ideal tool to streamline the purchasing process.

  1. 3D Visualization: Enhancing Interaction

As customization options grow more sophisticated, 3D product configurators offer a more detailed, dynamic experience. These systems allow users to view a product from multiple angles, zoom in on specific features, and interact with elements in real-time. More advanced configurators even provide the option to simulate real-world usage.

For example, a customer customizing a car might open doors, examine the interior, or add accessories like roof racks and custom wheels. In more industrial applications, users can manipulate parts of a machine, seeing how different components fit together. This level of interaction allows customers to feel more connected to their purchases and confident in their choices.

  1. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): Immersive Experiences

The cutting edge of product customization lies in AR and VR technologies. These tools create fully immersive experiences, allowing customers to interact with products in a way that goes beyond the screen.

With virtual reality (VR), users can step into a simulated environment where they can explore a product from every angle as though they are physically present. Imagine being able to sit inside a car, turn on the dashboard, and “drive” through a virtual landscape before making a purchase decision. This capability isn’t just an eye-catching novelty—it offers real value by helping customers fully understand the products they are customizing.

Augmented reality (AR), on the other hand, integrates digital elements into the physical world. Customers can point their smartphone camera at their living room, for instance, and see how a piece of furniture would look in real time. This blend of digital and physical realms creates a seamless shopping experience that builds buyer confidence and reduces uncertainty.

Business Benefits of Visual Product Configurator

  1. Elevating the Customization Experience

One of the core benefits of visual configurators is that they simplify the customization process, making it not only more efficient but also more enjoyable for customers. In traditional shopping experiences, customers may have to scroll through endless product catalogs, comparing features and trying to envision what their final product will look like. This process can be time-consuming and frustrating, often leading to lost sales.

Visual product configurators solve this by allowing customers to create their own product variations based on a set of options. This could include selecting colors, materials, styles, or additional features. The ability to see these changes in real-time keeps customers engaged and more likely to complete their purchase. The joy of customization becomes an integral part of the shopping experience, which leads to higher customer satisfaction.

  1. Building Brand Loyalty

Customization goes beyond mere functionality—it fosters emotional connections between the customer and the brand. When users have the power to create something unique, they feel a deeper attachment to the product and the company behind it. This sense of ownership drives loyalty, encouraging customers to return for future purchases and to recommend the brand to others.

Furthermore, when businesses offer personalized solutions, they stand out in the customer’s mind. Personalization sets a brand apart from competitors, helping it become the preferred choice for repeat purchases. As customers create products tailored to their tastes, they are more likely to associate positive emotions with that brand, leading to long-term customer retention.

  1. Reducing Return Rates

Returns are a costly problem for many businesses, especially in e-commerce. Visual product configurators help mitigate this issue by offering customers a clear and accurate preview of the product they are creating. When customers can see exactly what they’re getting—down to specific details like color, size, or texture—they are less likely to be disappointed with the final product.

Moreover, configurators often allow customers to make real-time edits to their designs before completing a purchase. This ability to refine their selections further reduces the risk of returns and refunds. In this way, businesses can cut down on the costs associated with returned merchandise and instead focus on delivering products that meet customer expectations from the start.

  1. Boosting Customer Satisfaction and Word-of-Mouth Marketing

When customers feel involved in the product creation process, their satisfaction levels rise significantly. The customization journey becomes an enjoyable and rewarding experience that turns customers into brand advocates. Satisfied customers are more likely to recommend your products to friends and family, either through word-of-mouth or social media.

This organic promotion is invaluable to businesses, as it expands brand visibility and brings in new customers. Happy customers who are proud of their personalized purchases will often showcase these items online, further enhancing your brand’s reputation.

  1. Opportunities for Custom Pricing

Product configurators offer the added benefit of enabling businesses to implement flexible pricing strategies. When customers customize their products, they understand that unique items often come at a premium. This opens the door for businesses to charge more for personalized products, driving profitability.

For example, certain customization options—such as choosing premium materials, adding additional features, or selecting complex patterns—can carry upcharges. By clearly communicating the cost associated with these choices, businesses can increase revenue while giving customers the satisfaction of designing a unique product that fits their preferences.

  1. Standing Out in a Crowded Market

The competitive landscape of e-commerce requires brands to differentiate themselves in unique ways. Offering product customization through a visual configurator is an excellent way to set your business apart from competitors. In a market saturated with cookie-cutter products, the ability to create something one-of-a-kind is a major selling point.

When customers know they can customize their purchase to fit their exact needs, they are more likely to choose your brand over others. Visual configurators offer a personalized shopping experience that gives your business a competitive edge, ensuring you stand out in an increasingly crowded marketplace.

  1. Increasing Online Engagement

Research shows that customers who use product configurators tend to spend more time on a brand’s website, leading to increased engagement and higher conversion rates. The interactive nature of a visual configurator encourages users to explore different options, fostering a sense of curiosity and excitement.

This extended engagement translates into better brand awareness and a higher likelihood of making a purchase. The longer customers spend on your site, the more invested they become in your brand, creating opportunities for upselling, cross-selling, and repeat business.

Conclusion

Visual product configurators are a powerful tool for businesses looking to deliver personalized shopping experiences that engage customers and drive sales. By offering 2D, 3D, AR, and VR visualization options, businesses can meet the needs of a diverse customer base while standing out in a competitive market. As customization becomes increasingly important to consumers, investing in a robust visual configurator can lead to higher customer satisfaction, lower return rates, and stronger brand loyalty. This technology not only enhances the buying experience but also helps businesses increase profitability and grow in today’s digital marketplace.

 

Irish leaders concerned about retention of top talent & are not prioritising AI strategy, IMI Leadership Barometer reveals

The IMI (Irish Management Institute), a centre of excellence for business education, today published new research revealing that AI is not currently a strategic priority among most business leaders in Ireland.

The ‘IMI Leadership Barometer’ surveyed senior business leaders in Ireland from private, public and semi-state organisations across a wide range of sectors including technology, food/agriculture, utilities, banking, finance, professional services, legal, healthcare, logistics, construction and others. The research provides key insights into the attitudes and priorities of senior decision makers as they navigate a shifting business environment and the rise of disruptive new technologies.

Findings show that only 30% of business leaders currently consider AI a strategic priority. Many organisations are still in an experimentation phase with the technology, with 40% of leaders stating that they are testing the technology in areas of their business. A further 30% of decision makers reported struggling to keep pace with rapid advancements in the technology, reflecting a clear need for upskilling and education in the technology among business decision makers.

With businesses continuing to face the impact of a tight labour market, attracting and retaining highly skilled talent is set to continue as a top concern for decision makers, according to the findings of the Barometer. 36% of leaders state that retaining top talent is set to become more difficult over the coming months. More than half of business leaders (54%) believe that retaining talent will remain challenging in the next 12 months.

Despite these challenges, business leaders in Ireland are generally confident about their capacity to navigate change. Findings reveal that 84% of senior leaders are reasonably confident about their capacity to achieve core business objectives over the next 12 months. Only 4% of decision makers state their organisation is fully prepared to overcome obstacles and unlock business growth over the months ahead.

Leadership and management capabilities are the top business priority for senior decision makers, indicating clear awareness among leaders of the importance of strengthening skills in this rapidly evolving landscape. Future workforce skills/ways of working and technology from a business perspective make up the top three most important areas on leaders’ business agenda for the coming months.

The new research is released as the IMI announces the agenda for its 2024 National Leadership Conference. First held over 70 years ago, the NLC 2024 will bring together senior business leaders from across Ireland for a series of discussions focused on enhancing leadership skills and positioning their organisation for future success.

Speakers at the event include Deputy Simon Coveney, former Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment; Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland; Ann Kelleher, foundry technology development General Manager at Intel Corporation; Bernard Gloster, CEO of Health Service Executive; Siobhan Talbot, the former CEO of Glanbia; Vanessa Hartley, Head of Google Ireland; and Christopher Hartwell, Head of the International Management Institute & Professor of International Business Policy at ZHAW School of Management and Law. The 2024 edition of the NLC will be held on October 3rd at IMI’s Sandyford campus, with additional speakers due to be announced in the coming weeks.

Commenting on the release of the research, Shane O’Sullivan, CEO of the IMI, said: “Senior leaders across Ireland continue to navigate a fast-evolving business environment from a tight labour market to rapid advances in technology and heightened global competition. The IMI Leadership Barometer provides an important insight into the key challenges and opportunities facing leaders in Ireland in this environment and the actions they’re taking to prepare their business for future success.

“It’s clear from the findings of the Barometer that many leaders are still at an early phase of engagement with AI technology. Despite growing levels of experimentation with the technology, our research shows most decision makers have yet to form clear AI strategies. Enhancing leaders’ AI skills and capabilities will be crucial to fully harnessing the potential of the technology and understanding how it can support their business objectives. As these capabilities grow, we expect AI to accelerate up the business agenda.

“With economic indicators suggesting a competitive labour market is set to continue over the next 12 months, our research reveals significant concerns among decision makers regarding attracting and retaining top talent. Given these challenges, it is crucial that leaders evolve their talent management strategies to meet the evolving needs of their workforce from new ways of working to upskilling programmes and employee compensation.

“I’m also pleased to announce the agenda for this year’s National Leadership Conference, which will provide important insights for business leaders as they navigate the challenges highlighted in our research. By taking on board the advice of our expert speakers, decision makers can enhance their leadership skills and better seize new opportunities for future business growth and success.”

Dublin City Council launches first ever Drone Strategy

Dublin City Council is delighted to announce that it has today launched its first Drone and Urban Air Mobility Strategy 2024-2029 for the city.

This ambitious and forward-thinking Strategy aims to transform how the city utilises drone technology to enhance public services while understanding their future potential.  Increasingly drones are being applied across a range of city services helping to increase service efficiencies, reduce costs and streamline operations. Areas where drones are being applied within the Council include mapping, dangerous buildings inspections or emergency response.   They are also being used to access to hard-to-reach areas for surveys and environmental monitoring, providing better oversight and management of urban spaces.

Eileen Quinlivan, Assistant Chief Executive and Chair of the DCC Drones High Level Steering Group of Dublin City Council, speaking from the launch at the DCC innovation hub in the CHQ building said:

“This strategy marks a significant milestone for Dublin City Council. By embracing drone technology, we are not only enhancing our service delivery but also paving the way for a smarter, more sustainable city. Drones will revolutionise how we approach various tasks, from emergency response and infrastructure inspections to environmental monitoring and urban planning. The benefits for our staff and citizens are immense, and we are committed to ensuring that Dublin remains at the forefront of this urban innovation.”

A new dedicated Drone Unit is being established in the Council to centralise drone operations and support internal departments to accelerate the adoption of the technology. This unit will build on existing capabilities and resources and maximise efficiencies across the Council. The unit will also play a role in supporting innovation in the drone industry by helping develop new services that benefit citizens and communities as the commercial sector grows.

Jim Gavin, Chief Operations Officer in the Irish Aviation Authority, express his support of the Strategy:

“The Irish Aviation Authority is very supportive of public sector bodies developing drone strategies. We are delighted to support this initiative by Dublin City Council to develop their drone strategy where they will drive innovation and development in the drone sector.

By harnessing the potential of drones, Dublin City Council is taking proactive steps to enhance public safety, improve efficiency, and foster economic growth. We believe that this initiative will pave the way for advancements in urban air mobility, benefiting both the public and the broader aviation industry.”

The development of the Drone and Urban Air Mobility Strategy for Dublin City Council has been led through the Smart City programme which supports the council in future-proofing how new and emerging technologies are applied. By fostering a vibrant drone technology ecosystem, Dublin has the potential to attract new businesses and drive economic growth, positioning itself as a leader in this emerging sector.

Julie Garland, Founder and CEO of Avtrain, who provided expertise and guidance on the Strategy emphasised the transformative potential of drones:

“Drones are revolutionising how we think about urban mobility and public service delivery. Dublin’s strategy is a step towards a future where drone technology can improve our daily lives, enhance safety, and contribute to a more sustainable environment. By integrating drones into various city services, cities can streamline operations, reduce response times in emergencies, and provide more efficient monitoring of infrastructure and environmental conditions.”

Philip Butterworth-Hayes, principal consultant of PMI Media Limited, who advised DCC on the Strategy provided an international perspective:

“Dublin’s approach to integrating drone technology into city services sets a new benchmark globally. The strategy’s focus on safety, efficiency, and public engagement is exemplary and will undoubtedly inspire other cities to follow suit. The efficiency gains from using drones for tasks such as infrastructure inspections, environmental monitoring, and emergency response are significant, leading to cost savings and more effective service delivery. The strategy’s commitment to public engagement means that the community is actively involved and informed, fostering trust and collaboration.”

This strategy has been developed through extensive consultation with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring that it aligns with Dublin’s unique needs and leverages the latest advancements in drone technology. The strategy also supports compliance with evolving European Union regulations and emphasizes public trust, safety, and privacy.

For more information and to discover the benefits of the Dublin City Council Drone and Urban Air Mobility Strategy 2024-2029, please visit: https://smartdublin.ie/dublin-city-drone-strategy  and see Drones

National Strategy for Open Education Practices Strategy would widen access to education in Ireland – OER24

A national strategy for Open Education Practices is needed to address current and future access and equity issues in the Irish higher education sector. That’s according to the N-TUTORR programme, a collaboration across the Technological Higher Education sector focused on transforming the student experience and fostering more inclusive and sustainable learning environments for all. The call for a national strategy came at OER24, the 15th annual Association of Learning Technology conference for Open Education Research, Practice and Policy. The event is taking place in Munster Technological University’s Bishopstown Campus in Cork today and tomorrow.

Open education seeks to widen access to and participation in education by removing barriers and making learning accessible through the likes of digital technologies and modern education practices.

At the event’s opening reception, N-TUTORR published a sectoral white paper on Open Educational Practices outlining a number of recommendations and actions which will diminish barriers to accessing education, and foster equity and inclusion across the technological higher education sector.

Speaking today, Dr Gearóid Ó Súilleabháin, Head of the Department of Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL), MTU and Co-Chair of OER24, said: “While there is no official national policy document on open education in Ireland, numerous reports and initiatives have highlighted the importance of developing open education principles and institutional repositories for research outputs and teaching resources.

“We are urging the Government to prioritise developing a National OEP Strategy aligned with UNESCO’s Recommendation on Open Educational Resources. OEP can have a transformative impact on the technological higher education sector, enhancing accessibility and data privacy, promoting participatory learning and student engagement, and supporting pedagogical flexibility and innovation.”

Topics discussed at OER24 will include:

  • Ethical considerations surrounding the use of generative AI for open education resources, and its potential in making educational content more accessible;
  • The connection between Open Education, Open Data, the Open-Source movement, and digital scholarship/librarianship
  • The role of Open Educational Resources (OER) in serving marginalised groups and in promoting inclusivity, diversity and equity in open education.

 

Keynote speakers include:

  • Dr. Rajiv Jhangiani, Vice Provost, Teaching and Learning at Brock University in Ontario, Canada. The architect of Canada’s first zero textbook cost degree programs, his work focuses on open educational practices, student-centred pedagogies, and ethical approaches to educational technology.
  • Dr. Catherine Cronin, an independent scholar focusing on critical and social justice approaches in open, digital and higher education. Catherine actively interweaves work in the higher education and community education sectors.
  • Laura Czerniewicz, Professor Emerita at the University of Cape Town, South Africa, previously the founding director of its Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching. Her professional life has engaged in education from many perspectives including researcher, teacher, publisher and open education advocate, with a consistent focus on equity, digital inequality and justice.

 

Further information on OER24 is available here: https://www.oer2024.co.uk/; and information on the N-TUTORR project is available here: https://www.transforminglearning.ie/.

Maples Group Advances AI Strategy with Global Rollout of Harvey AI Partnership

Maples and Calder, the Maples Group’s law firm, is expanding its collaboration with Harvey AI (“Harvey”), the OpenAI-backed legal AI platform, to enhance its award-winning legal and professional services for the benefit of clients. The international law firm has long been at the forefront of innovation in law and regulation and this latest step follows a rich tradition of bringing additional value and services to the market.

Following a carefully managed pilot of generative AI among a sandboxed group of senior lawyers and professionals, the firm is now deploying Harvey to over 140 global Partners and a select group of senior professionals to explore how the technology can deliver even better outcomes for clients, while enhancing the work experience for its people.

The Maples Group recently held its annual flagship event, ‘The Maples Investment Funds Forum’, attended by over 350 international lawyers and investment professionals. A key theme of this year’s Forum was generative AI and included a fireside chat with Suril Patel, VP of Partnerships at Harvey AI, who presented an update on the latest developments in AI and a demonstration of how the Group is exploring the use of AI.

Harvey, a secure generative AI platform for sophisticated professional services, has earned the trust of leading international law firms, in-house teams, professional service providers and private equity firms. The company brings together engineers from the best AI research labs and lawyers from the most prestigious firms in the world to develop cutting-edge, specialised models that enable secure generative AI workflows and research for lawyers.  Harvey is designed to support the firm’s lawyers and professionals in a wide range of their daily projects and work tasks. The technology enables teams to take a creative and ambitious approach to enhance legal service delivery, both in respect of existing workflows and in the delivery of new capabilities which will benefit our clients and deepen the value we bring.

Ireland Managing Partner Peter Stapleton, who sponsors the Maples AI project, said, “The Maples Group has always valued and invested in innovation, advising at the cutting-edge of today’s laws and regulations to help our clients to be at the forefront of what they do. We have increasingly harnessed technology to deliver superior services to our clients and we invest heavily in LegalTech and RegTech solutions. Having been one of the first firms to start working with Harvey in late 2022, I’m excited that we are now taking our AI journey to the next level. And I look forward to many more conversations with our clients and partners in the industry as we work together to unlock the potential of this technology.”

Global Managing Partner Jonathan Green adds, “Generative AI will transform how we deliver legal services, but it will never replace our lawyers. The most effective work that we do in the future will combine the best of both people and technology. And in fact, our people’s legal expertise, business acumen, and client trust will matter more, not less. “

Harvey co-founder Winston Weinberg adds: “We are proud to partner with the Maples Group, who share our vision of using generative AI to enable lawyers to take legal services to the next level. They have been a key collaborator in assessing and developing our platform, and we look forward to working with them to discover new opportunities and outcomes for their clients and lawyers.”

Notably, a core team of the firm’s lawyers and technologists have been working with Harvey since late 2022 while it was still in beta. The firm established a carefully structured and sandboxed pilot, following a thorough risk review, limited to using only internal data and documentation, and with all output supervised by senior staff. The firm is now rolling Harvey alongside a global training programme, having developed an understanding of where the technology can be most helpful for clients and implemented safeguards to ensure quality and security.

Ambitious Comms Reseller GPS Telecom Chooses Evolve IP To Accelerate Growth Strategy

Evolve IP, a leading service provider of Unified Communications, has welcomed GPS Telecom as its latest reselling partner across the EMEA region – to help fire-up further sales success.

GPS Telecom joins at an exciting point of their business journey, with plans of expansion and growth including new global collaboration services from Evolve IP.

Runcorn-based GPS Telecom has over 15 years’ industry experience in providing the latest unified communication products, designed to integrate and futureproof businesses. The company has built a reputation as an expert provider who recommend and implement the very latest, often complex systems, simply and seamlessly into any organisation.

Big targets

Managing Director, Chris Jones, explained: “Evolve IP are the service provider that can help with our growth plans. We have set ourselves some big targets and Evolve IP has the expertise and technologies that will help us get there. 

“I am very proud to lead a team of dedicated and highly talented individuals who are all committed to delivering a professional and personal service to each and every one of our customers.

“We are embarking on an exciting journey of expansion, supported by our customers both old and new and by the trusted relationships we have built with our industry leading suppliers. Our business is our people and without their commitment none of the amazing things we achieve would be possible, I am honoured to work with such a fantastic team.”

Chris Jones, Managing Director, GPS Telecom

 

Thrilled

Jamie Hughes, UK Sales Director at Evolve IP, shared the enthusiasm, as he outlined: “We’re thrilled to have GPS Telecom join our reselling base; their expertise and skills are exactly what we look for within our partners. We’re very excited to see them grow and thrive by offering our solutions to their customer base which will inspire them on a new journey of success.”

Jamie Hughes, Evolve IP

GPS Telecom will be reselling a range of the Evolve IP enterprise-grade solutions that are available to all reselling partners These feature:

 

  • Anywhere Contact Centre – Delivers service excellence and supports teams in the hybrid world. Scales from 5 to 1000 plus agents, always allowing on-demand agent ‘bursting’. With Anywhere Contact Centre, new contact centres can be online within hours and new agents in just minutes.

 

  • Evolve Anywhere with Microsoft Teams – Natively integrated between the Microsoft Teams and Evolve IP’s carrier-grade voice solution. Users can work within a system they are familiar with (MS Teams) but integrate with sophisticated technologies that will allow them to scale up and improve their communications strategy effectively. 

 

  • Evolve Anywhere with Cisco Webex – A decade-long partnership with Cisco for hosting Cisco telephony solutions enables Evolve IP to provide ‘unparalleled service, support and the latest features’.

 

  • Anywhere Value Add Solutions – Evolve IP’s Anywhere Product Suite offers partners an eco-system of technology partners from call recording with Voice AI to business analytics, integrations and receptionist console. All within a user-friendly management portal.

Hughes highlighted: “Evolve IP’s recent launch of Anywhere Portal and introduction of Anywhere Contact Centre has come at a great time for GPS Telecom – offering their customers simple provisioning and a complete unified communication technology stack for extensive growth in the future.”

Evolve IP has recently launched a summer sales campaign, teaming up with top technology partners to offer a range of offers and incentives.

Jones believes the company is ideally placed to help push GPS Telecom further forward, as he concluded: “Evolve IP’s scalable technology and flexibility is going to enable my team to flourish and support our customers seamlessly.”

Revolutionising Business Strategy: Embracing the Digital Shift

In an era where technology is the heartbeat of society, businesses must align their strategies with the digital shift to stay competitive and relevant. The rapid emergence of digital technologies and the transformative potential they hold are revolutionising business operations and customer engagement across industries. Companies that are reluctant to embrace this digital revolution risk being overshadowed by more forward-thinking competitors. But how does a traditional business navigate the complexities of digital transformation? This comprehensive guide aims to answer this critical question, providing a strategic roadmap to embrace digital innovation, build a transformative culture, choose the right technologies, ensure cybersecurity, measure success, and anticipate future trends.

Identifying Opportunities for Digital Innovation

The first crucial step in the journey towards digital transformation is to identify areas in your business that can benefit from digital innovation. It requires an in-depth audit of your business operations, identifying inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and outdated processes that could be streamlined or eliminated through the use of digital technologies. Use analytics to understand your customer’s behaviours and preferences, as this could unearth opportunities for better service delivery. For instance, if your data shows a significant number of customers interacting with your brand online, it might be time to enhance your digital channels. Moreover, keep an eye on your competition and the market at large. Discover what digital strategies are being employed in your industry, and look for inspiration outside of your sector to gain a fresh perspective. Remember, digital transformation isn’t merely about replacing old with new; it’s about leveraging digital tools to create value and drive growth.

Building a Culture of Digital Transformation

Shifting towards digital isn’t just a process or strategy change, it’s a cultural shift. It necessitates not only the adoption of new technologies but also a change in the mindset of your organisation’s leadership and employees. Everyone must understand and accept the value of digital transformation and be committed to its successful implementation. Communication is vital; articulate the reasons for the change and the benefits it will bring to the team and the business as a whole. Encourage openness to learning, provide necessary training, and foster a culture of experimentation and flexibility. Celebrate small victories to create momentum and build resilience for overcoming inevitable challenges. Building a digital transformation culture takes time, but it is a critical factor that determines the success of your digital shift.

Technological Considerations: Choosing the Right Tools for Your Business

The digital transformation journey necessitates adopting technologies that align with your business objectives and cater to your unique operational needs. This might involve investing in cloud services for enhanced data storage and management, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems for improved business processes, or perhaps AI-based tools for better customer insights. One particularly handy tool in an increasingly digital workspace is a PDF compressor. This can be incredibly useful for businesses that deal with vast amounts of digital documents. Using a PDF compressor tool helps reduce the size of large PDF documents, making them easier to share and store. When you compress PDF files, you not only save on storage space but also facilitate quicker document transmission, which can significantly boost productivity. However, the choice of technologies isn’t a one-size-fits-all scenario. It requires careful evaluation, trial and error, and possibly expert guidance to determine the most suitable digital tools for your business.

Ensuring Cybersecurity in the Age of Digital Business

As businesses venture deeper into the digital landscape, cybersecurity becomes a paramount concern. The increasing reliance on digital technologies and online platforms exposes businesses to a range of cyber threats, from data breaches to ransomware attacks. It’s crucial to develop robust cybersecurity strategies that protect your business’s and customers’ sensitive data. This might involve investing in state-of-the-art security software, conducting regular security audits, and implementing stringent data management policies. Equally important is cultivating a cybersecurity culture among employees. Regular training sessions can help your team identify potential threats, understand the importance of secure practices, and respond effectively to security incidents. It’s essential to consider cybersecurity not as an afterthought but as an integral part of your digital transformation journey.

Measuring Success: Key Performance Indicators in the Digital Era

As you steer your business through the digital shift, it’s crucial to measure your progress and success. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are instrumental in this process. They provide quantitative measures of performance, helping you assess whether your digital strategies are yielding the desired outcomes. However, these KPIs must be carefully chosen to align with your digital objectives. If improving customer engagement through digital channels is your goal, for instance, your KPIs could include website traffic, social media engagement, or online sales figures. For productivity improvements, you could measure time saved through new digital processes or the increased number of tasks completed. Regularly monitoring these KPIs allows for real-time adjustments to your strategies, ensuring your digital transformation remains on track.

Looking Ahead: Future Trends in Business Digitization

Staying ahead of the curve necessitates constant vigilance of emerging trends and technologies. Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and quantum computing are some digital technologies predicted to further revolutionise the business landscape. Moreover, shifts in work patterns such as remote working, driven by the global pandemic, have emphasised the need for flexible and secure digital systems. It’s also worth considering the role of sustainability in digital transformation. As businesses and customers become increasingly conscious of environmental issues, companies are exploring how they can leverage digital technologies to reduce their environmental impact. Staying informed about these trends and considering their implications for your business can ensure your digital transformation strategy remains future-proof.

Embracing the Digital Future

In conclusion, the digital shift isn’t a fleeting trend but a fundamental change in the way businesses operate and create value. It offers a plethora of opportunities to streamline operations, engage customers, drive innovation, and foster sustainable growth. However, the transition demands careful planning, strategic choices of digital tools, robust cybersecurity measures, and the monitoring of KPIs to gauge success. Moreover, cultivating a culture of digital transformation and keeping an eye on future trends are vital for staying competitive. While the digital transformation journey can be complex, the potential rewards make it a compelling venture for businesses in the 21st century. As we delve deeper into the digital era, businesses that embrace this shift will not only survive but thrive in the dynamically evolving market landscape.