Small-business infrastructure and operations
Small-business infrastructure and operations management of IT systems can be difficult for a modern business with big data governance needs and finite resources. Find the latest news, tips and opinion to assist small-business infrastructure and operations management, including advice to ensure the proper flow of data throughout the organization despite a limited budget.
Top Stories
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News
04 Nov 2021
Aruba launches more powerful Instant On switches
Aruba is launching the 1960 series, the latest addition to its small business-optimized Instant On portfolio. The new switch offers more bandwidth and scalability. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Apr 2020
SAP Business One overview: Features, benefits and more
SAP Business One promises holistic business management software. Learn more about its advantages and pitfalls, as well as pricing and integration, in this SAP Business One overview. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Feb 2023
The 10 most promising tools for Web 3.0 development
Web 3.0 doesn't exist yet, but there are many tools for developing apps for the next generation web and bridging the gap from today's Web 2.0 infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Feb 2023
Capital One machine learning strategy taps MLOps
The financial services company harnesses ML for several use cases and aims to deploy the technology at scale through standardized infrastructure and the MLOps methodology. Continue Reading
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News
31 Jan 2023
Calif. climate bill to require business carbon emissions data
The Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act introduced in California would require businesses to report their scope 1, 2 and 3 carbon emissions. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jan 2023
5 ways Web 3.0 will impact digital marketing
If Web 3.0 can provide greater privacy, more marketing reach and better targeting, the World Wide Web's latest iteration could ease the online customer personalization problem. Continue Reading
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News
27 Jan 2023
Former Google CEO outlines dangers of generative AI
Mitigating risks from generative AI tools such as ChatGPT means involving humans in final decision-making and establishing guardrails. Continue Reading
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Opinion
27 Jan 2023
Economic slowdown cannot stop IT's ESG progress
An economic slowdown may be inescapable, but IT leaders must maintain focus on ESG initiatives. Discover why IT operations should continue to strive for sustainability. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Jan 2023
Why IT asset management should include sustainability
CIOs must do more with less as economic concerns grow, and continue to drive environmental, social and governance efforts. Pairing IT asset management and sustainability can help. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jan 2023
How to become a Web 3.0 developer: Required skills and guide
Web 3.0 may be years away, but blockchain and web development tools have been around a while. Prepare by learning the fundamentals and getting experience on the right tools. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jan 2023
Biden calls for bipartisan legislation reining in big tech
President Joe Biden wants Section 230 and antitrust reform, as well as federal privacy regulation and transparency into AI algorithms. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Jan 2023
Top 8 Web 3.0 trends and predictions for 2023 and beyond
It's still early days for the next major iteration of the world wide web, but that's all likely to change soon. Here's how experts say Web 3.0 will evolve in the coming year. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Jan 2023
10 challenges in project portfolio management adoption
A portfolio management approach to project management can really pay off, but it's not easy to implement. Learn about the main challenges. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jan 2023
Technology diffusion strategies for CIOs and the VC mindset
Whether a technology investment pays off depends in large part on how fast and widely it's adopted. CIOs can take a page from the VC playbook to improve the odds of success. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jan 2023
3 tips CIOs can use for more sustainable device management
Sustainable device management is an important area CIOs should focus on to support organizational ESG goals. Learn how it can also help lower e-waste and save money. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Jan 2023
10 benefits of adopting project portfolio management
Project portfolio management takes a centralized approach to managing projects and focuses on aligning projects with company goals. Learn how it adds value to project management. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jan 2023
Best project portfolio management software and tools in 2023
Project portfolio management software and tools in 2023 promote strategic management of projects and agile tactics. Read our PPM list for guidance on which tools do what. Continue Reading
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News
20 Jan 2023
California privacy law might push online age verification
The California Age-Appropriate Design Code Act goes into effect in 2024, meaning businesses with users under the age of 18 should start preparing to comply soon. Continue Reading
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News
20 Jan 2023
Sustainability goals should focus on business practices first
In this Q&A, Schneider Electric's Michael Lotfy discusses why and how organizations need to step up efforts to reduce CO2 emissions to meet carbon reduction targets. Continue Reading
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News
19 Jan 2023
Tackling fake product reviews a challenge for FTC, states
Fake product reviews can be harmful not just to consumers, but to businesses if their product is negatively targeted by bad actors. Continue Reading
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News
19 Jan 2023
Gartner halves 2023 IT spending growth
Gartner lowered its forecast for IT spending to 2.4% over 2022. The firm expects CIOs to be more cautious and delay some purchases while riding out the economic uncertainty. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jan 2023
Gartner IT spending trends, PPI data show mixed economic bag
Gartner's global IT spending forecast reflects diverging economic trends as does U.S. inflation data, which shows a drop in professional services costs and an uptick for storage. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jan 2023
Project portfolio risk management: Learn the key tenets
Project portfolio risk management is a holistic approach to managing project risk. Learn about its benefits and what can get in the way of success. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jan 2023
16 top business process management tools for 2023
BPM tools are evolving rapidly as vendors add intelligent automation tools, cloud-based functionality and user-friendly features. Read about products from 16 top BPMS providers. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jan 2023
DOE's clean energy tech goals include easy-to-install solar
At CES 2023, The Dept. of Energy highlighted its efforts to research emerging clean energy technologies as well as federal incentives for businesses to adopt the technology. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jan 2023
Project vs. program vs. portfolio management
Project, program and portfolio management are related, but they represent three distinct disciplines. Learn about the responsibilities and goals of each and how they differ. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Jan 2023
The upshot of a bad economy: Recessions spur tech innovation
Tech innovation accelerated during the economic recession of 2008, and 2023 will be no different. Industry watchers predict where the R&D dollars will go. Continue Reading
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News
06 Jan 2023
Enterprise potential of the metaverse takes shape at CES 2023
There were plenty of warnings about metaverse hype, but at CES 2023 there's business interest in its potential to build 3D digital twins and models of things like factory floors. Continue Reading
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News
05 Jan 2023
CES 2023 highlights enterprise push toward sustainability
CES 2023, the annual consumer electronics show, is giving attention to sustainability and tech, including blockchain, that can track and reduce carbon emissions. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Jan 2023
6 ways to build a green IT culture
CIOs and IT leaders who want to implement sustainability programs can't ignore the human element. Learn strategies to build a culture of green IT. Continue Reading
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News
28 Dec 2022
Analysts name top emerging technologies to watch in 2023
When building a list of emerging technologies to watch, it's essential to also consider sustainability -- a concept gaining more momentum heading into 2023. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Dec 2022
12 must-read digital transformation books in 2023
Looking for information on digital transformation? Our list of 12 must-reads covers everything from formulating a digital strategy to using the network effect to launch products. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Dec 2022
Top 7 CIO challenges in 2023 and how to handle them
Technology managers will be boosting cybersecurity, optimizing previous investments and staying on top of AI -- while they also deal with a difficult economic climate. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Dec 2022
10 factors reshaping the role of the CIO in 2023
Yes, the economy is a large factor in how CIOs will do their jobs next year. Insiders point to nine other factors that will influence the role of the CIO in 2023. Continue Reading
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News
21 Dec 2022
FTC pushes antitrust enforcement power heading into 2023
Major antitrust cases are expected to play out in 2023 while federal regulators consider new interpretations of existing antitrust laws to broaden enforcement capabilities. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Dec 2022
How to lower IT's digital carbon footprint
Digital technologies have a hidden environmental cost that too-few leaders have on their radar. Learn which technologies have a digital carbon footprint and what IT can do to help. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Dec 2022
Let EAs lead your enterprise sustainability strategy
Enterprise architects are well positioned to advise the CIO when it comes to the sustainability strategy. Their choices cut across the corporate infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Dec 2022
How companies can overcome the IT worker shortage
Research shows organizations are still struggling to bring in IT talent. We identify the reasons why there's a shortage and what CIOs and other IT leaders can do to combat it. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Dec 2022
5 big digital transformation trends in 2023
The threat of a recession coupled with the ongoing need for transformation and growth means CIOs must make force multiplying investments in 2023. Here are five strategies. Continue Reading
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News
16 Dec 2022
TikTok data collection, ties to China spur bans
The U.S. Senate, federal agencies and state governments have banned TikTok from government devices due to concerns about data collection and China's access to U.S. data. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
16 Dec 2022
Report highlights growth of process intelligence use
A new report examines the growth of process intelligence use by enterprise leaders. Learn practical and actionable tips for a successful implementation. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Dec 2022
12 top enterprise risk management trends in 2023
The 2023 trends that are reshaping the risk management landscape include GRC platforms, maturity frameworks, risk appetite statements and the CIO's critical role in promoting ERM. Continue Reading
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News
14 Dec 2022
SEC charges FTX founder while Congress talks crypto rules
The SEC charged cryptocurrency firm FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried with fraud Tuesday, shortly before a House committee met to discuss cryptocurrency industry regulation. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Dec 2022
How CIOs can solve their tech and IT talent shortage
Massive layoffs haven't reduced the demand for tech workers. CIOs can address their organization's IT talent shortage with expert advice on how to recruit, hire and retain talent. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Dec 2022
36 edge computing companies to watch in 2023
With the amount of data organizations are generating today, IT leaders should consider edge computing technologies to keep all that data closer to the edge. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Dec 2022
8 top CIO trends and priorities for 2023
CIOs face a tough challenge in 2023 as they balance the need for technology investment and the need for fiscal prudence. Business agility is key. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Dec 2022
7 edge computing trends to watch in 2023 and beyond
As edge computing continues to evolve, organizations are trying to bring data closer to the edge. We identify the top trends they should look out for. Continue Reading
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News
06 Dec 2022
Stakeholders want more than AI Bill of Rights guidance
While organizations like The Brookings Institution applaud the White House's Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights, they also want to know when enforceable AI rules will be coming. Continue Reading
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News
02 Dec 2022
Federal, private work spurs Earth observation advancements
Earth observation is a primary driver of the global space economy and something federal agencies are partnering with commercial companies to advance. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Dec 2022
Top 9 blockchain platforms to consider in 2023
Get the lowdown on the major features, differentiators, strengths and weaknesses of the blockchain platforms getting the most buzz -- and real-world deployments. Continue Reading
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News
30 Nov 2022
A rising space industry will create new jobs and products
A growing space industry is creating business opportunities in space, ranging from Earth observation and communications to space tourism and, eventually, asteroid mining. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Nov 2022
10 real-world use cases of the metaverse, plus examples
The potential for metaverse projects exist across a range use cases. Here are enterprise-focused and consumer-focused examples that business and IT leaders may want to explore. Continue Reading
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News
18 Nov 2022
Bayer's compliance automation pays off
Bayer global head of compliance and data privacy Thomas Pfennig discusses LPC Express, an automation project for law, patents and compliance across the massive enterprise. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Nov 2022
Top metaverse platforms to know about in 2023
It's early days for metaverse platforms, especially those geared for the enterprise. Here's what to know and which platforms to keep an eye on in 2023. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Nov 2022
History of the metaverse explained
The term 'metaverse' has only recently gained currency, but its history is long. Learn about the technologies that gave rise to a concept many believe will change civilization. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Nov 2022
Top metaverse investors and how to start investing
Would-be metaverse investors have many ways to get in on the action. Read our coverage of the metaverse's top investors, direct investing opportunities and investment risks. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Nov 2022
How will the metaverse affect the future of work?
Field trips to the Louvre for inspiration, sped-up learning, onboarding reimagined -- how will the metaverse change our working environments and when? It depends. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Nov 2022
Metaverse privacy concerns and how to address them
Data privacy in the metaverse is a moving target. Learn about the main privacy issues and risk for businesses and users -- and how best to address them. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Nov 2022
12 top metaverse predictions for 2030
Like AI before it, the metaverse carries unlimited potential and hyperbole. We address the questions of how big, how fast, how far, how scary and how impactful on businesses. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Nov 2022
Metaverse interoperability challenges and impact
An open metaverse that mimics how we operate in the real world depends on interoperability. What is interoperability, why is it important and what will it take to make it happen? Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Nov 2022
7 top technologies for metaverse development
Several advanced technologies in various stages of maturity have been powering everyday business processes. How will they one day transform the 3D virtual world into reality? Continue Reading
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News
17 Nov 2022
Google settlement heightens focus on data practices
Google's nearly $400 million settlement over user location data shows regulators want to hold companies accountable, but still need stronger legislation to do so effectively. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Nov 2022
'Speed & Scale' has climate action tips for all
Companies, individuals and governments should work together to combat the global climate crisis, according to 'Speed & Scale' co-author Ryan Panchadsaram. Continue Reading
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News
15 Nov 2022
Tech inflation data drops -- what does it mean for IT budgets?
The U.S. government's latest producer price data, which shows declines for servers, storage and services, could signal an economic shift and boost CIO confidence moving into 2023. Continue Reading
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News
10 Nov 2022
IRA invests in the future of clean energy technology, work
The Inflation Reduction Act invests not only in existing clean energy technology like wind and solar, but future innovations and educating the next generation workforce. Continue Reading
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News
10 Nov 2022
Elections won't speed antitrust reform, data privacy efforts
Midterm election outcomes aren't likely to immediately affect progress of hotly debated antitrust and Section 230 reform bills or creation of a federal data privacy law. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Nov 2022
Metaverse pros and cons: Top benefits and challenges
Lifelike experiences, equal access, better collaboration and new business opportunities, yet there's the potential for higher costs, privacy violations, bullying and addiction. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Nov 2022
Top 10 business process management certifications for 2023
These BPM certifications can help you gain the specialized knowledge you need to perform your job better. Get all the details to help you advance your career. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Nov 2022
Venture capital mindset helps CIOs deal with tech deluge
As CIOs and CISOs push for innovation, mindset changes might be in order. They can take a cue from VCs and think about ideation funnels and technology investment portfolios. Continue Reading
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News
04 Nov 2022
Content moderation under Musk won't trigger legal reform
While Musk is facing legal and business challenges since taking over Twitter, it's not likely that his content moderation policies will trigger any changes to federal laws. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Nov 2022
4 sustainability leadership tips from Impossible Foods founder
Impossible Foods' Patrick Brown is proof that a focus on climate action can drive market success. Here are four sustainability mindset tips that IT leaders can use for themselves. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Nov 2022
Why companies should be sustainable and how IT can help
Pressure is mounting for the business sector to address its environmental footprint and become more sustainable. Here's a look the key drivers and how technology can help. Continue Reading
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News
03 Nov 2022
New EU, U.S. privacy framework sets clear data transfer rules
President Joe Biden signed an executive order on a long-awaited European Union-U.S. Data Privacy Framework last month, giving companies legal clarity for data transfers. Continue Reading
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News
03 Nov 2022
Capital One study cites ML anomaly detection as top use case
The bank itself is making ML a key part of its digital transformation strategy, deploying the technology to locate aberrations, detect fraud and support marketing. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Nov 2022
The Metaverse Standards Forum: What you need to know
Creating an open and inclusive metaverse will require the development and adoption of interoperability standards. That's the tall order of the Metaverse Standards Forum. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Nov 2022
Metaverse vs. multiverse vs. omniverse: Key differences
Virtual realities are coming to a computer interface near you. Will you be joining a metaverse, multiverse or an enterprise-oriented version of the omniverse? Continue Reading
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News
28 Oct 2022
Whistleblower risk rises with AI policy adoption
Big tech companies aren't the only ones who should worry about repercussions from whistleblowers. CIOs from all industries should be implementing responsible tech policies. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Oct 2022
5 advantages and 6 disadvantages of open source software
Open source software is popular with both small and large organizations, and for good reason. But CIOs should understand which situations works best for this lower cost option. Continue Reading
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News
20 Oct 2022
Gartner: IT spending to grow 5.1% amid optimization push
The market research firm said enterprise IT spending will endure in a tough economy, but noted an emphasis on optimization, productivity gains and rooting out inefficiencies. Continue Reading
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News
14 Oct 2022
Sustainable procurement goes mainstream, influences IT buys
ESG considerations add a new dimension to IT purchasing criteria and, more broadly, could bridge the gap between business leaders and IT professionals. Continue Reading
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News
12 Oct 2022
For climate tech investors, the team behind the tech matters
Climate tech success hinges on the technology's capability, the team behind the tech, and their vision for building a viable business and scaling it. Continue Reading
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News
07 Oct 2022
Experts torn on impact of antitrust bills passed by House
The three antitrust bills passed by the U.S. House of Representatives would funnel more money to antitrust law enforcers, as well as add to enforcement processes. Continue Reading
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News
07 Oct 2022
Micron investment to spark chip ecosystem in New York
The $100 billion plan aims to bring businesses and thousands of workers to the Syracuse, N.Y., area -- and boost the chip supply for the IT staples and innovations CIOs pursue. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Oct 2022
Tech talent development rests on DEI, upskilling, teamwork
Liberty Mutual Insurance's next CIO, Monica Caldas, shares new ways of solving the IT talent problem and explains why soft skills are critical for today's IT teams. Continue Reading
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News
05 Oct 2022
Good sustainability strategy balances tech, use cases
During Forrester Research's Technology and Innovation Forum, experts said IT leaders should identify use cases for technology to advance a company's sustainability strategy. Continue Reading
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News
30 Sep 2022
Test beds, workforce critical to U.S. technology leadership
The CHIPS and Science Act allows the U.S. to invest in critical technologies such as quantum computing and artificial intelligence. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Sep 2022
How to make the right business case for a tech spend
CIOs should help evaluate management goals to support long-term strategy. Learn how IT can assist business objectives and justify tech spending with a business case. Continue Reading
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News
23 Sep 2022
Experts highlight trust and safety practices for the metaverse
Creating a safe metaverse experience means bringing all stakeholders to the table, according to experts. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Sep 2022
Business-led IT strategy casts shadow IT in more positive light
Traditional shadow IT is giving way to business-led technology deployments that have the IT department's approval. But CIOs must manage the process to avoid problems. Continue Reading
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News
16 Sep 2022
Companies need data privacy plan before joining metaverse
Experts speaking during ITIF's AR/VR Policy Conference pointed out that businesses need to head into the metaverse with a strong data privacy plan. Continue Reading
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News
15 Sep 2022
IT services inflation follows broader market trend
CIOs can expect to pay more for consulting and professional services as pricing in the sector continues an upward trend that first surfaced last year. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Sep 2022
10 examples of smart contracts on blockchain
Smart contracts support enterprise blockchain by automating tasks. These use cases showcase the benefits and challenges IT leaders may face during implementation. Continue Reading
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News
09 Sep 2022
Amazon's iRobot acquisition raises concerns
Numerous organizations wrote to the Federal Trade Commission Friday, raising data privacy and competition concerns about Amazon's iRobot acquisition. Continue Reading
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News
09 Sep 2022
Apple, Sephora settlements shine light on data privacy
High-profile lawsuits and the potential for new FTC data privacy rules should be a warning to businesses to ensure that internal data privacy practices are in order. Continue Reading
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News
01 Sep 2022
Inflation Reduction Act boosts clean energy incentives
The Inflation Reduction Act increases incentives for clean energy, but there is concern that it doesn't address existing regulatory flaws inhibiting clean energy tech deployment. Continue Reading
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News
31 Aug 2022
Privacy bill ADPPA to police data sharing, algorithmic bias
The ADPPA passed the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce in July, making it farther than other recently introduced data privacy bills. Continue Reading
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News
26 Aug 2022
Amazon evolves healthcare approach, ends Amazon Care
The end of Amazon Care and acquisition of One Medical means Amazon is turning from employee health to direct to consumer. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Aug 2022
ESG for IT: How CIOs can drive environmental sustainability
Sustainability as a business initiative has rocketed up the priority list as investors, consumers and legislators demand accountability from businesses. Here's how IT can help. Continue Reading
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News
24 Aug 2022
Inflation: Server costs rise, software sells at a premium
Latest PPI data reveals a 3.1% month-over-month uptick for host computers and servers, while storage prices drop slightly and professional services stand pat. Continue Reading
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News
19 Aug 2022
Experts concerned with FTC exploring data privacy rules
The Federal Trade Commission is considering new data privacy rules that would address business data collection, analysis and profit. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Aug 2022
12 AI and machine learning use cases in ITSM
AI-enabled ITSM, while still maturing, promises to greatly improve the speed and quality of IT service management. Here are 12 AI and machine learning use cases in ITSM. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Aug 2022
The effect of digital transformation on the CIO job
Digitization and digital transformation sound similar, but they couldn't be more different in what they demand from CIOs, explains Genpact's Sanjay Srivastava. Continue Reading