, Author at gettectonic.com
Agentic AI Race

The Evolution Beyond AI Agents

The Evolution Beyond AI Agents: What Comes Next? The Rapid Progression of AI Terminology The landscape of artificial intelligence has undergone a remarkable transformation in just three years. What began with ChatGPT and generative AI as the dominant buzzwords quickly evolved into discussions about copilots, and most recently, agentic AI emerged as 2024‘s defining concept. This accelerated terminology cycle mirrors fashion industry trends more than traditional technology adoption curves. Major players including Adobe, Qualtrics, Oracle, OpenAI, and Deloitte have recently launched agentic AI platforms, joining earlier entrants like Microsoft, AWS, and Salesforce. This rapid market saturation suggests the industry may already be approaching the next conceptual shift before many organizations have fully implemented their current AI strategies. Examining the Staying Power of Agentic AI Industry analysts present diverging views on the longevity of the agentic AI concept. Brandon Purcell, a Forrester Research analyst, acknowledges the pattern of fleeting AI trends while recognizing agentic AI’s potential for greater staying power. He cites three key factors that may extend its relevance: Klaasjan Tukker, Adobe’s Senior Director of Product Marketing, draws parallels to mature technologies that have become invisible infrastructure. He predicts agentic AI will follow a similar trajectory, becoming so seamlessly integrated that users will interact with it as unconsciously as they use navigation apps or operate modern vehicles. The Automotive Sector as an AI Innovation Catalyst The automotive industry provides compelling examples of advanced AI applications that transcend current “agentic” capabilities. Modern autonomous vehicles demonstrate sophisticated AI behaviors including: These implementations suggest that what the tech industry currently labels as “agentic” may represent only an intermediate step toward more autonomous, context-aware systems. The Definitional Challenges of Agentic AI The technology sector faces significant challenges in establishing common definitions for emerging AI concepts. Adobe’s framework describes agents as systems possessing three core attributes: However, as Scott Brinker of HubSpot notes, the term “agentic” risks becoming overused and diluted as vendors apply it inconsistently across various applications and functionalities. Interoperability as the Critical Success Factor For agentic AI systems to deliver lasting value, industry observers emphasize the necessity of cross-platform compatibility. Phil Regnault of PwC highlights the reality that enterprise environments typically combine solutions from multiple vendors, creating integration challenges for AI implementations. Three critical layers require standardization: Without such standards, organizations risk creating new AI silos that mirror the limitations of legacy systems. The Future Beyond Agentic AI While agentic AI continues its maturation process, the technology sector’s relentless innovation cycle suggests the next conceptual breakthrough may emerge sooner than expected. Historical naming patterns for AI advancements indicate several possibilities: As these technologies evolve, they may shed specialized branding in favor of more utilitarian terminology, much as “software bots” became normalized after their initial hype cycle. The automotive parallel suggests that truly transformative AI implementations may become so seamlessly integrated that their underlying technology becomes invisible to end users—the ultimate measure of technological maturity. Until that point, the industry will likely continue its rapid cycle of innovation and rebranding, searching for the next paradigm that captures the imagination as powerfully as “agentic AI” has in 2024. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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Mastering AI Prompts

Mastering AI Prompts: OpenAI’s Guide to Optimizing Reasoning Models OpenAI has released an updated prompting guide that reveals how to get the most accurate and useful responses from its reasoning models. As AI becomes more advanced, how you ask questions significantly impacts the quality of answers. Whether you’re a developer, business leader, or researcher, these best practices will help refine your AI interactions. Key Prompting Strategies from OpenAI 1. Simplicity Wins: Keep Prompts Direct Overloading prompts with unnecessary instructions can confuse the model. Instead of micromanaging its reasoning, trust the AI’s built-in logic. ✅ Better:“Analyze sales trends from this dataset.” ❌ Less Effective:“Break down this dataset step-by-step, explain each calculation, and ensure statistical best practices are followed.” 2. Skip the “Think Step by Step” Approach While some believe explicitly asking for reasoning helps, OpenAI found that models already optimize for logic—adding such instructions can backfire. ✅ Better:“What’s 25% of 200?” ❌ Less Effective:“Explain your reasoning step-by-step to calculate 25% of 200.” Need an explanation? Ask for it after getting the answer. 3. Use Delimiters for Complex Inputs When feeding structured data, contracts, or multi-part questions, clear separators prevent misinterpretation. ✅ Better: Copy Summarize the contract below: — [Contract text] — ❌ Less Effective:“Summarize this contract: The first party agrees to…” 4. Limit Context in Retrieval-Augmented Tasks When referencing external documents, only include relevant sections—too much info dilutes accuracy. ✅ Better:“Summarize key points from Sections 2 and 3 of this report.” ❌ Less Effective:“Read this 10-page document and summarize everything.” 5. Define Constraints for Precision The more specific your requirements, the better the output. ✅ Better:“Suggest a $500/month LinkedIn ad strategy for a B2B SaaS startup.” ❌ Less Effective:“Suggest a marketing plan.” 6. Iterate for Better Results If the first response isn’t perfect, refine your prompt with additional details. First Attempt:“Give me startup ideas.” Refined Prompt:“Suggest AI-powered B2B SaaS ideas for small business accounting.” Why This Matters OpenAI’s findings show that optimized prompting = better outputs. Whether you’re integrating AI into apps or using it for research, these techniques ensure smarter, faster, and more reliable responses. Try these strategies today—how will you refine your prompts? Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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Salesforce analytics insurance

4 Steps to Unlock the Right Marketing Insights

Overwhelmed by Dashboard Data? 4 Steps to Unlock the Right Marketing Insights An effective dashboard should present marketing data clearly and concisely, enabling teams to quickly extract insights and make confident decisions. 4 Steps to Unlock the Right Marketing Insights Turning Data into Action with Trusted Insights Imagine walking into a restaurant with an overwhelming menu—dozens of dishes spanning multiple cuisines, making it difficult to choose. While the food may be good, the sheer volume of options leads to decision fatigue, causing diners to default to familiar choices rather than exploring new possibilities. The same challenge applies to marketing dashboards. When cluttered with excessive metrics, they become difficult to navigate, obscuring key insights rather than revealing them. A well-designed dashboard, like a well-curated menu, should guide users to the most valuable information—helping them act quickly and strategically. The Difference Between Reporting and Insights Many dashboards fall into the trap of displaying every possible metric, but true value comes from actionable insights, not just raw data. Example: A live campaign shows that email conversions outperform social ads. Instead of just noting the discrepancy, an insights-driven dashboard helps marketers diagnose why—perhaps stronger subject lines or better landing page alignment—and adjust social strategies in real time for immediate improvement. 4 Steps to Build Dashboards That Drive Decisions To transform dashboards from data overload into insight engines, follow this structured approach: 1. Define the User Persona Dashboards should cater to specific roles, not broad audiences. Different stakeholders need different insights: A one-size-fits-all dashboard drowns users in irrelevant data. Instead, tailor views to each persona’s core needs. 2. Align with Daily Tasks Collaborate with users to understand how they apply data in their workflows. A well-designed dashboard should: 3. Answer Key Business Questions Every dashboard should directly address the user’s most critical questions, such as: Prioritize KPIs that drive action, like:✔ Impressions (Reach)✔ Click-through rate (CTR) (Engagement)✔ Conversion rate (CVR) (Effectiveness)✔ Revenue per sale (ROI) Supplement these with supporting metrics (e.g., time on site, repeat visits) to uncover deeper trends. 4. Design for Clarity and Impact A great dashboard balances simplicity with depth: Example for Executives: A high-level dashboard showing revenue, CAC, and CLTV by region helps identify growth opportunities. If one region shows strong CLTV, leadership might invest further in similar markets. The Result? Faster, Smarter Decisions By focusing on personas, tasks, key questions, and clarity, marketers can move beyond data overload and unlock real business value. The best dashboards don’t just report numbers—they illuminate the path forward. Ready to streamline your insights? Start by having Tectonic refine one dashboard using these steps—and watch decision-making improve. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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Real-World AI

AI in the Travel Industry

AI in Travel: How the Industry is Transforming with Intelligent Technology The travel sector has long been at the forefront of AI adoption, with airlines, hotels, and cruise lines leveraging advanced analytics for decades to optimize pricing and operations. Now, as artificial intelligence evolves—particularly with the rise of generative AI—the industry is entering a new era of smarter automation, hyper-personalization, and seamless customer experiences. “AI and generative AI have emerged as truly disruptive forces,” says Kartikey Kaushal, Senior Analyst at Everest Group. “They’re reshaping how travel businesses operate, compete, and serve customers.” According to Everest Group, AI adoption in travel is growing at 14-16% annually, driven by demand for efficiency and enhanced customer engagement. But as adoption accelerates, the industry must balance automation with the human touch that travelers still value. 10 Key AI Use Cases in Travel & Tourism 1. Dynamic Pricing Optimization Travel companies pioneered AI-driven dynamic pricing, adjusting fares based on demand, competitor rates, weather, and events. Now, AI takes it further with hyper-personalized pricing—tracking user behavior (like repeated searches) to offer tailored deals. 2. Customer Sentiment Analysis AI evaluates traveler emotions through voice tone, reviews, and social media, enabling real-time adjustments. Hotels and airlines use sentiment tracking to improve service before complaints escalate. 3. Automated Office Tasks Travel agencies use generative AI (like ChatGPT) to draft emails, marketing content, and customer onboarding materials, freeing staff for high-value interactions. 4. Self-Service & Customer Empowerment AI-powered chatbots, itinerary builders, and booking tools let travelers plan trips independently. Some even bring AI-generated plans to agents for refinement—blending automation with human expertise. 5. Operational Efficiency & Asset Management Airlines and cruise lines deploy AI for:✔ Predictive maintenance (reducing downtime)✔ Route optimization (cutting fuel costs)✔ Staff scheduling (improving productivity) 6. AI-Powered Summarization Booking platforms use generative AI to summarize hotel reviews, local attractions, and FAQs—delivering concise, personalized travel insights. 7. Frictionless Travel Experiences From contactless hotel check-ins to AI-driven real-time recommendations (restaurants, shows, transport), AI minimizes hassles and enhances convenience. 8. AI Agents for Problem-Solving Agentic AI autonomously resolves disruptions—like rebooking flights, rerouting luggage, and updating hotels—without human intervention. 9. Enhanced Personalization Without “Creepiness” AI tailors recommendations based on past behavior but must avoid overstepping. The challenge? “A customer segment of one”—balancing customization with privacy. 10. Risk & Compliance Management AI helps navigate data privacy laws (GDPR, CCPA) and detects fraud, but companies must assign clear accountability for AI-driven decisions. Challenges in AI Adoption for Travel The Future: AI + Human Collaboration The most successful travel companies will blend AI efficiency with human empathy, ensuring technology enhances—not replaces—the art of travel. “The goal isn’t full automation,” says McKinsey’s Alex Cosmas. “It’s using AI to make every journey smoother, smarter, and more personal.” As AI evolves, so will its role in travel—ushering in an era where smarter algorithms and human expertise work together to create unforgettable experiences. What’s Next? The journey has just begun. Like1 Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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Healthcare Cybersecurity Challenges Persist

Healthcare Cybersecurity Challenges Persist

Healthcare Cybersecurity Challenges Persist as Sector Struggles to Shift from Reactive to Proactive Strategies Healthcare organizations of all sizes continue to face significant challenges in addressing systemic cybersecurity risks, with new benchmarking data revealing that the industry remains largely reactive rather than proactive in its approach. The findings come from the 2025 Healthcare Cybersecurity Benchmarking Study, a collaborative effort by KLAS Research, Censinet, the American Hospital Association (AHA), the Health Information Sharing and Analysis Center (H-ISAC), the Healthcare and Public Health Sector Coordinating Council (HSCC), and the Scottsdale Institute. The study gathered responses from 69 healthcare and payer organizations between September and December 2024, assessing their alignment with key cybersecurity frameworks, including: Key Findings: Strong Response & Recovery, but Gaps in Prevention & Risk Management 1. Persistent Focus on Reactive Measures Consistent with past years, healthcare organizations reported high coverage in the “Respond” and “Recover” functions of the NIST CSF 2.0, indicating strong incident response and disaster recovery capabilities. However, long-term recovery planning lags behind immediate response efforts, suggesting room for improvement. “As cyber threats grow, healthcare organizations are preparing for when—not if—they will face a breach, emphasizing incident response and business continuity strategies,” the study noted. 2. Critical Gaps in Supply Chain & Asset Management Under the NIST CSF, the lowest coverage areas were: This is particularly concerning given the rising number of third-party breaches impacting healthcare. 3. Cybersecurity Insurance Benefits from Framework Adoption Organizations implementing the NIST CSF saw slower growth in cybersecurity insurance premiums, reinforcing the financial benefits of proactive risk management. 4. Emerging AI Risk Management Efforts Adoption of the NIST AI RMF remains in early stages, with many organizations still establishing governance structures for AI-related risks. 5. HICP & HPH CPG Findings Align with Past Trends Moving from Reactive to Proactive Security While progress has been made, the study highlights that greater adherence to leading cybersecurity frameworks can help healthcare organizations transition to a more proactive security posture, reducing risk and improving resilience. “The healthcare sector must prioritize foundational cybersecurity practices—particularly in supply chain and asset management—to mitigate escalating threats,” the report concluded. Final Takeaway:Healthcare cybersecurity remains heavily reactive, but organizations that invest in comprehensive risk management, third-party oversight, and AI governance can better protect patient data and reduce long-term vulnerabilities. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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Second Wave of AI Agents

Second Wave of AI Agents

The “second wave” of AI agents refers to the evolution of AI beyond simple chatbots and into more sophisticated, autonomous systems that can plan, execute, and deliver results independently, often leveraging large language models (LLMs). These agents are characterized by their ability to interact with other applications, interpret the screen, fill out forms, and coordinate with other AI systems to achieve a desired outcome. They are also seen as a significant step beyond the first wave of AI, which primarily focused on predictive models and statistical learning.  Key Characteristics of the Second Wave of AI Agents: Examples and Applications: In 2023 Bill Gates prophesized AI Agents would be here in 5 years. His timing was off. But not his prediction. The Future of Computing: Your AI Agent, Your Digital Sidekick Imagine this: No more juggling apps. No more digging through menus. No more searching for a document or a spreadsheet. Just tell your device—in plain English—what you need, and it handles the rest. Whether it’s planning a tour, managing your schedule, or helping with work, your AI assistant will understand you personally, adapting to your life based on what you choose to share. This isn’t science fiction. Today, everyone online has access to an AI-powered personal assistant far more advanced than anything available in 2023. Meet the Agent: The Next Era of Computing This next-generation software—called an agent—responds to natural language and accomplishes tasks using deep knowledge of you and your needs. Bill Gates first wrote about agents in his 1995 book The Road Ahead, but only now, with recent AI breakthroughs, have they become truly possible. Agents won’t just change how we interact with technology. They’ll reshape the entire software industry, marking the biggest shift in computing since we moved from command lines to touchscreens. Consider Salesforce’s AgentForce. A platform driven by automated AI agents that can be trained to do virtually anything. Freeing staff up from mundane data entry and administrative work to really set them loose. Marketers can once again create content, but with the insights provided by AI. Sales teams can close deals, but with the lead rating details provided by AI. Developers can devote more time to writing code but letting AI do the repetitive pieces that take time away from awe inspiring development. Why This Changes Everything We’re on the brink of a revolution—one where technology doesn’t just respond to commands but anticipates your needs and acts on your behalf. The age of the AI agent is here, and it’s going to redefine how we live and work. By Tectonic’s Marketing Operations Manager, Shannan Hearne Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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Salesforce Code Genie

Salesforce Code Genie

How Salesforce’s Agentforce Is Reshaping Development—Saving 30,000 Hours a Month “AI agents are transforming my role—shifting me from pure technical execution to strategic leadership,” says one Salesforce developer. Instead of spending hours on repetitive tasks like code reviews or debugging, she now focuses on designing scalable architectures, optimizing workflows, and driving innovation. This shift reflects a broader evolution in software development: Developers are becoming AI supervisors, guiding autonomous agents, refining outputs, and ensuring alignment with business goals. Success in this new paradigm requires systems thinking, context management, and strategic oversight—not just coding expertise. Agentforce: The AI-Powered Developer Revolution Salesforce is already leading this transition with Agentforce, its digital labor platform, which has saved 30,000 developer hours per month—equivalent to 15 full-time engineers—by automating routine tasks. Key tools powering this transformation include: Unlike traditional AI coding assistants (which suggest snippets or autocomplete boilerplate), Agentforce agents act autonomously. For example, a developer can simply prompt: “Create a component that calls this API, processes these parameters, and returns success/failure status.” The AI then: The developer’s role? Review, refine, and ensure alignment with broader system goals. CodeGenie: Salesforce’s Internal AI Powerhouse Behind Agentforce lies CodeGenie, Salesforce’s internal AI assistant, built on its proprietary CodeGen model. The results speak for themselves: ✅ 7M+ lines of code accepted✅ 500K+ developer questions answered✅ 30K+ hours saved monthly✅ Seamless integration (IDEs, GitHub, Slack, CLI) “CodeGenie handles repetitive work, freeing me to solve complex problems,” says NaveenKumar Namachivayam, Senior Software Engineer at Salesforce. “It’s like having an expert collaborator—making coding faster, smarter, and more efficient.” Lessons from Salesforce’s AI Journey These insights don’t just benefit Salesforce—they directly shape Agentforce’s external offerings. CodeGenie’s success, for example, informed Agentforce for Developers, ensuring enterprise users get battle-tested AI assistance. The Bottom Line: AI Won’t Replace Developers—It Will Elevate Them Just as cloud computing didn’t kill IT jobs, AI won’t make developers obsolete—it will redefine their roles. The future belongs to those who: 🔹 Embrace AI as a force multiplier🔹 Shift from writing code to orchestrating AI agents🔹 Focus on architecture, strategy, and innovation For organizations, this demands investment in training, culture, and tools that empower teams to lead in the agentic era. The message is clear: Developers who adapt will thrive—not as coders, but as AI-powered strategists. Salesforce’s Agentforce is proving it’s possible today. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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Agentforce: Modernizing 311 and Case Management

Join Tectonic for an informational webinar on Salesforce Agentforce, Modernizing 311 services, and Case management. In this webinar you will hear: For more information fill out the contact us form below or reach out to the Public Sector team [email protected] Get ready for the Next Frontier in Enterprise AI: Shaping Public Policies for Trusted AI Agents! AI agents are a technological revolution – the third wave of artificial intelligence after predictive and generative AI. They go beyond traditional automation, being capable of searching for relevant data, analyzing it to formulate a plan, and then putting the plan into action. Users can configure agents with guardrails that specify what actions they can take and when tasks should be handed off to humans. For the past 25 years, Salesforce has led their customers through every major technological shift: from cloud, to mobile, to predictive and generative AI, and, today, agentic AI. We are at the cusp of a pivotal moment for enterprise AI that has the opportunity to supercharge productivity and change the way we work forever. This will require governments working together with industry, civil society, and all stakeholders to ensure responsible technological advancement and workforce readiness. We look forward to continuing our contributions to the public policy discussions on trusted enterprise AI agents. Like1 Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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Tableau

Tableau’s New AI Agents

Tax day for some, Tableau Agents for others. The new Tableau AI agents will bridge a data confidence gap. Tableau’s New AI Agents Tackle the Growing Data Confidence Crisis A new Salesforce survey reveals a striking paradox in today’s data-driven business landscape: While 85% of U.S. leaders face mounting pressure to support decisions with data, their trust in that data has plummeted by 27% since 2023. To address this crisis, Salesforce is positioning its newly unveiled Tableau Next—an “agentic analytics” platform—as the solution. Formerly known as Tableau Einstein, the AI-powered system introduces three specialized assistants designed to restore confidence in data analysis: The survey of 500+ leaders highlights the urgency: Over half doubt their ability to analyze data independently, yet 85% require insights within 30 minutes for critical decisions. “The demand for real-time data is part of why confidence is eroding,” said Tableau CPO Southard Jones. Meanwhile, 77% say AI’s rise makes data-driven strategies even more essential. Integrated with Salesforce’s Agentforce AI platform, Tableau Next aims to transform analytics from static reports to AI-driven collaboration. “We’re moving beyond dashboards to AI as a decision-making partner,” said CEO Ryan Aytay. “By merging trusted data with intuitive tools, we’re automating the path from insight to action.” The launch marks Tableau’s latest evolution under Salesforce, which acquired the Seattle firm for $15.7 billion in 2019. Despite slowing growth (3% YoY in Q1 vs. 20% in 2023), the push into AI analytics aligns with Salesforce’s broader 9% annual revenue growth. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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Tectonic Shook Things Up at AgentForce World Tour in Denver

The Tectonic team attended Salesforce’s Denver AgentForce World Tour this week. It was a great experience to develop our AgentBlazer team and a true seismic time was had by all! AI Agents were the topic of conversation and kept things lively! One almost expected to meet an Agentic Robot around every corner. We were all excited to network with Salesforce, customers, and partners alike. Key Takeaways Autonomous AI agents can understand and interpret customers’ questions using natural language, with minimal human intervention. Here’s what you need to know. The AI Assistant Revolution: Empowering Every Employee Imagine if every person in your company—from the CEO to frontline employees—had a dedicated assistant at their fingertips. An assistant who:✔ Knows your customers inside out✔ Delivers instant, data-driven insights✔ Helps prioritize next best actions Thanks to AI agents, this future is already here—and it’s transforming how businesses operate. How AI Agents Are Supercharging Teams 1. Instant Insights, No Manual Work 🔹 Generative AI agents analyze your trusted customer data in seconds—eliminating hours of manual research.🔹 Sales, service, and marketing teams get real-time recommendations, allowing them to focus on high-impact work. 2. Scaling Teams Without Adding Headcount 🔹 AI agents handle routine tasks—customer inquiries, data entry, meeting prep—freeing employees for strategic work.🔹 Quickly ramp up productivity during peak demand without overburdening staff. 3. Proactive Problem-Solving 🔹 AI doesn’t just react—it predicts.🔹 Identifies risks, suggests optimizations, and prevents small issues from becoming big ones. 4. Personalized Support for Every Role 🔹 Sales: AI suggests the best leads, crafts follow-ups, and forecasts deals.🔹 Service: Resolves common cases instantly, escalating only when needed.🔹 Leadership: Delivers real-time business insights for faster decisions. The Future of Work Is AI-Augmented AI agents aren’t replacing humans—they’re empowering them. By automating the mundane and enhancing decision-making, they help teams:✅ Work smarter, not harder✅ Deliver better customer experiences✅ Stay ahead of the competition The question isn’t if your company should adopt AI agents—it’s how soon you can start leveraging them. Tectonic, a trusted Salesforce partner, is here to help. Ready to explore AI-powered productivity? Let’s talk about the right AI strategy for your business. AI Agents: Your Intelligent Digital Workforce What Is an AI Agent? An AI agent is an autonomous artificial intelligence system that understands, processes, and responds to customer inquiries—without human intervention. Built using platforms like Agentforce, these agents leverage machine learning (ML) and natural language processing (NLP) to handle tasks ranging from simple FAQs to complex problem-solving. Unlike traditional AI, which requires manual programming for each task, AI agents continuously learn and improve from interactions, becoming smarter over time. How Do AI Agents Work? AI agents operate through a seamless four-step process: 💡 Result? Faster resolutions, happier customers, and more efficient teams. 6 Game-Changing Benefits of AI Agents Feature Impact 1. 24/7 Availability Instant support across time zones. 2. Hyper-Efficiency Handle thousands of queries simultaneously—no wait times. 3. Smarter Escalations Auto-route complex cases to the best-suited human agent. 4. Personalized Experiences Tailor responses using real-time customer data. 5. Scalability Grow support capacity without hiring more staff. 6. Data-Backed Insights Uncover trends to optimize operations & CX. “72% of companies already deploy AI—with generative AI adoption accelerating.” – McKinsey AI Agents in Action: Industry Use Cases 🏦 Finance ✔ Personalized wealth advice based on spending habits✔ Auto-summarize client cases for faster resolutions 🏭 Manufacturing ✔ Predict equipment failures before they happen✔ Optimize supply chain decisions with real-time data 🛒 Retail & Consumer Goods ✔ Smart inventory tracking (e.g., flagging stock discrepancies)✔ AI-generated promo content for targeted campaigns 🚗 Automotive ✔ Proactive vehicle maintenance alerts via telematics✔ Dynamic dealership promotions to boost sales 🏥 Healthcare ✔ Automated patient scheduling with the right specialist✔ Clinical trial matching using AI-driven eligibility checks Join the AI Revolution with Agentforce AI agents aren’t just tools—they’re productivity multipliers that help teams:✅ Work faster with automated workflows✅ Serve customers better with personalized AI assistance✅ Stay ahead with predictive insights 📈 Ready to transform your business? Connect with Tectonic today, or check out our Agentforce Quickstart offering. Connect with the Tectonic Agentforce team and launch your Agentic Revolution. AI Agents: The Ultimate Productivity Multiplier for Every Team AI agents aren’t just transforming customer service—they’re revolutionizing how every department operates. From 24/7 customer support to hyper-personalized marketing campaigns, AI agents help teams work smarter, move faster, and deliver exceptional experiences. Here’s how AI agents supercharge key business functions: 🤝 AI Agents for Service Teams Never miss a customer inquiry—even at 2 AM.✔ Instant, 24/7 support across email, chat, and social media✔ Smart escalation—AI routes complex cases to human agents with full context✔ Brand-consistent responses powered by your CRM data 🔹 With Agentforce for Service, deploy AI agents in minutes using prebuilt templates—or customize them for your unique needs. 💰 AI Agents for Sales Teams Turn every lead into a conversation—automatically.✔ Autonomous lead engagement—AI answers product questions & books meetings✔ Always-on SDRs—Agentforce Sales Development Reps qualify leads 24/7✔ Controlled escalation—Set rules for when & how AI hands off to your team 🔹 No more missed opportunities—AI keeps your pipeline full while your reps focus on closing. 🛍️ AI Agents for Commerce Teams Personal shopping assistants—powered by AI.✔ Smart product recommendations based on browsing & purchase history✔ Guided shopping experiences—AI helps customers find what they need faster✔ Omnichannel support—Engage shoppers on your site, WhatsApp, and more 🔹 Boost conversions with AI that acts like your best sales associate—for every customer. 📢 AI Agents for Marketing Teams Campaigns that write, optimize, and improve themselves.✔ AI-generated campaign briefs—audience targeting, messaging & KPIs✔ Automated content creation—draft ads, emails & social posts in your brand voice✔ Performance optimization—AI analyzes results & suggests improvements 🔹 With Agentforce Campaigns, launch better campaigns in hours—not weeks. Why AI Agents? The Bottom Line ✅ Scale operations without scaling headcount✅ Deliver instant, personalized experiences 24/7✅ Free your team to focus on high-value work “Companies using AI agents see 40% faster response times and 30% higher customer satisfaction.” Ready to deploy your AI workforce? See how Agentforce can transform your business #FutureOfWork

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What is a CRM

Customer Relationship Management

Salesforce has transformed the way businesses manage customer relationships, sales, and marketing. Its capabilities extend into the events industry, enabling seamless integration for event planning, marketing, sales, and attendee engagement. By leveraging Salesforce, event organizers can streamline lead management, automate marketing campaigns, track event performance, and enhance attendee experiences. This guide explores how Salesforce can optimize event success and drive higher ROI. Managing Leads with Salesforce Effective lead management is critical to maximizing event ROI. Salesforce offers powerful tools to streamline lead capture, scoring, nurturing, segmentation, and tracking—helping sales teams convert attendees into customers. Seamless Lead Capture Salesforce integrates with event registration forms, mobile apps, and onsite check-in systems to: A centralized approach provides a 360-degree view of each attendee, empowering sales and marketing teams to act strategically. AI-Powered Lead Scoring Salesforce’s AI-driven lead scoring prioritizes leads by tracking: This data-driven approach helps sales teams focus on the most promising leads for personalized follow-ups. Automated Lead Nurturing Salesforce automation tools keep leads engaged post-event through: Advanced Lead Segmentation Salesforce enables lead categorization for targeted outreach: Tracking Sales Opportunities with Salesforce Beyond lead management, Salesforce empowers event teams with tools to monitor revenue-generating opportunities, such as ticket sales, sponsorship deals, and exhibitor partnerships. Comprehensive Opportunity Management Salesforce enables tracking of every stage of the sales process, including: Real-Time Sales Pipeline Visibility Salesforce’s pipeline management tools allow teams to: Customizable Sales Reporting Salesforce reporting capabilities help event organizers: Automating Event Marketing Tasks with Salesforce Marketing automation is key to scaling outreach, enhancing engagement, and driving conversions. Salesforce provides tools that streamline marketing efforts, personalize communication, and measure campaign success. Email Marketing Automation Salesforce automates email campaigns to ensure timely communication: Social Media Integration & Management Salesforce allows teams to manage and track social media engagement from one platform: Integrating Salesforce with Event Technology Seamless integration between Salesforce and event technology centralizes data, improves efficiency, and enhances engagement. Event Management Platform Integration Salesforce integrates with platforms like Cvent, Bizzabo, and Eventbrite to enable: Mobile Event Apps & On-Site Engagement Tools Syncing Salesforce with mobile event apps provides real-time insights and tracking: Marketing Automation Tool Integrations Salesforce enhances marketing efficiency by integrating with platforms like HubSpot, Marketo, and Pardot: Reporting and Analytics: Unlocking Actionable Insights Salesforce provides robust analytics to help organizers measure performance, optimize strategies, and maximize ROI. Customizable Reports for Event Insights Salesforce enables comprehensive reporting on: ROI Analysis for Strategic Planning Salesforce’s ROI analysis tools help organizers: Best Practices for Using Salesforce for Events To maximize Salesforce’s value in event management, organizations should adopt best practices: 1. Data Hygiene: Keeping Information Accurate 2. Training & Adoption: Empowering Teams 3. Customization: Tailoring Salesforce for Event Needs 4. Integration Strategy: Creating a Unified Event Tech Ecosystem By implementing these best practices, organizations can fully leverage Salesforce to enhance event success, improve attendee engagement, and drive higher ROI. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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Salesforce Essentials and Salesforce Professional

Benefits of Salesforce Essentials for Small Businesses

Salesforce Essentials: A Game-Changer for Small Businesses Salesforce is a leading force in the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) industry, offering scalable solutions tailored to businesses of all sizes. While global enterprises like Amazon, Accenture, Adidas, and American Express leverage its capabilities, Salesforce also caters to small businesses with Salesforce Essentials. Launched in 2017, this cloud-based CRM simplifies customer relationship management for small teams without the complexity and cost of enterprise-level solutions. What Is Salesforce Essentials? Salesforce Essentials is a streamlined CRM designed for small businesses with fewer than 10 users. It provides core features such as lead management, sales tracking, customer support, and business analytics. With an intuitive interface and cost-effective pricing, Essentials enables small businesses to leverage Salesforce’s powerful CRM tools without being overwhelmed by extensive configurations. With a cloud-first approach, Salesforce Essentials centralizes customer data on a single platform, enhancing efficiency, boosting productivity, and improving customer interactions. Who Should Use Salesforce Essentials? Salesforce Essentials is ideal for small businesses seeking a straightforward, affordable CRM to manage customer relationships, track sales, and provide support—without the complexities of traditional CRM systems. If your business currently relies on spreadsheets or disparate tools to manage customer data, Essentials offers a more organized and integrated solution. Designed for teams of up to 10 users, it is an excellent starting point for small businesses looking to scale their CRM capabilities as they grow. Key Features of Salesforce Essentials 1. Comprehensive CRM Capabilities Salesforce Essentials consolidates sales tracking, customer inquiries, and support into a single interface. This holistic approach ensures small businesses can manage customer data efficiently as they expand. 2. AI-Driven Automation Essentials includes Einstein Activity Capture, which automatically records emails, meetings, and calendar events. This eliminates manual data entry and allows teams to focus on strategic tasks. AI-driven insights further enhance customer relationship management and sales forecasting. 3. User-Friendly Interface The platform features an intuitive dashboard that provides real-time updates, task lists, and customizable views. The drag-and-drop interface simplifies navigation, reducing the learning curve for small business teams. 4. Personalized Setup Salesforce Essentials offers guided setup tailored to business needs, whether managing contacts, streamlining sales cycles, or improving customer support. 5. Third-Party Integrations While not all Salesforce AppExchange apps are compatible, Essentials supports key third-party integrations, enabling small businesses to sync data across multiple platforms seamlessly. Benefits of Salesforce Essentials for Small Businesses 1. Data Synchronization Salesforce Essentials allows businesses to import and sync data from spreadsheets, emails, and other sources. Einstein Activity Capture automates data collection, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records. 2. Affordability Priced at per user per month, Salesforce Essentials is a cost-effective CRM solution with essential features typically found in more expensive systems. 3. Scalability Though initially designed for small teams, Essentials facilitates a smooth transition to more advanced Salesforce solutions as business needs evolve. 4. Mobile Accessibility With a mobile app, Salesforce Essentials enables small businesses to manage customer relationships anytime, anywhere. 5. Training and Support Salesforce offers extensive learning resources through Trailhead, in-app tutorials, and an installation assistant, helping small businesses maximize their CRM investment. Pricing and Getting Started Salesforce Essentials starts at $25 per user per month, making it an accessible upgrade from spreadsheets or less sophisticated CRM tools. For businesses requiring advanced features, Salesforce provides higher-tier plans such as Sales Professional and Service Professional, both starting at $75 per user per month. To get started, businesses can explore a pre-built demo with dummy data before importing their own customer information. Integration with Google or Outlook ensures seamless email and calendar synchronization. With mobile access and a scalable framework, Salesforce Essentials is a strategic investment for small businesses aiming for growth. Conclusion Salesforce Essentials is a powerful yet affordable CRM tailored for small businesses. It offers an intuitive interface, automation tools, and seamless scalability to support growing teams. By adopting Salesforce Essentials, small businesses can enhance efficiency, strengthen customer relationships, and position themselves for long-term success. Like1 Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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Marketing Intelligence Ad Management

Marketing Intelligence Ad Management

Marketing intelligence and ad management involve gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data to understand market trends, competitor activities, and consumer behavior, enabling businesses to make informed decisions and optimize their advertising campaigns.  What is Marketing Intelligence? How Marketing Intelligence Helps with Ad Management Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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Commerce Cloud and Agentic AI

Generative AI in Marketing

Generative AI in Marketing: Balancing Innovation and Risk Generative AI (gen AI) has become a disruptive force in the marketplace, particularly in marketing, where its ability to create content—from product descriptions to personalized ads—has reshaped strategies. According to Salesforce’s State of Marketing report, which surveyed 5,000 marketers worldwide, implementing AI is now their top priority. Some companies, like Vanguard and Unilever, have already seen measurable benefits, with Vanguard increasing LinkedIn ad conversions by 15% and Unilever cutting customer service response times by 90%. Yet, despite 96% of marketers planning to adopt gen AI within 18 months, only 32% have fully integrated it into their operations. This gap highlights the challenges of implementation—balancing efficiency with risks like inauthenticity or errors. For instance, Coca-Cola’s AI-generated holiday ad initially drew praise but later faced backlash for its perceived lack of emotional depth. The Strategic Dilemma: How, Not If, to Use Gen AI Many Chief Data and Analytics Officers (CDAOs) have yet to formalize gen AI strategies, leading to fragmented experimentation across teams. Based on discussions with over 20 industry leaders, successful adoption hinges on three key decisions: To answer these, companies must assess: Gen AI vs. Analytical AI: Choosing the Right Tool Analytical AI excels at predictions—forecasting customer behavior, pricing sensitivity, or ad performance. For example, Kia once used IBM Watson to identify brand-aligned influencers, a strategy still relevant today. Generative AI, on the other hand, creates new content—ads, product descriptions, or customer service responses. While analytical AI predicts what a customer might buy, gen AI crafts the persuasive message around it. The most effective strategies combine both: using analytical AI to identify the “next best offer” and gen AI to personalize the pitch. Custom vs. General Inputs: Striking the Balance Gen AI models can be trained on: For broad applications like customer service chatbots, general models (e.g., ChatGPT) work well. But for brand-specific needs—like ad copy or legal disclaimers—custom-trained models (e.g., BloombergGPT for finance or Jasper for marketing) reduce errors and intellectual property risks. Human Oversight: How Much Is Enough? The level of human review depends on risk tolerance: Air Canada learned this the hard way when its AI chatbot mistakenly promised a bereavement discount—a pledge a court later enforced. While human review slows output, it mitigates costly errors. A Framework for Implementation To navigate these trade-offs, marketers can use a quadrant-based approach: Input Type No Human Review Human Review Required General Data Fast, low cost, high risk Higher accuracy, slower output (e.g., review summaries) (e.g., social media posts) Custom Data Lower privacy risk, higher cost Highest accuracy, highest cost (e.g., in-store product locator) (e.g., SEC filings) The Path Forward Gen AI is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Marketers must weigh speed, cost, accuracy, and risk for each use case. While technology will evolve, today’s landscape demands careful strategy—blending gen AI’s creativity with analytical AI’s precision and human judgment’s reliability. The question is no longer whether to adopt gen AI, but how to harness its potential without falling prey to its pitfalls. Companies that strike this balance will lead the next wave of marketing innovation. Like1 Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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