By adopting a NaaS model, businesses can optimize their networks for the future while focusing on what matters most—their core mission. The era of “hands-free” networking has arrived, and it’s redefining the IT landscape
Salesforce Expands Partnership with AWS: AI and Marketplace Integration Salesforce (NYSE: CRM) is making significant strides in its partnership with Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN), unveiling an expanded collaboration at AWS. Customers can now purchase Salesforce products directly through the AWS Marketplace, paying with AWS credits. This integration aims to simplify access to Salesforce offerings, enhance data integration capabilities, and leverage generative AI tools. Key Announcements: Marc Benioff, Chair and CEO of Salesforce, highlighted the importance of this milestone: “We’re bringing together the No. 1 AI CRM provider and the leading cloud provider to deliver a trusted, open, integrated data and AI platform. With these enhancements to our partnership, we’re enabling all of our customers to be more innovative, productive, and successful in this new AI era.” AWS CEO Adam Selipsky echoed these sentiments, emphasizing how the partnership will enable joint customers to “innovate, collaborate, and build more customer-focused applications.” Strategic Benefits: Revenue-Sharing Structure: Like app stores, Amazon will take a percentage of Salesforce’s revenue generated through AWS Marketplace. Despite this, the potential growth in sales and efficiency gains may outweigh the costs. Market Reaction: Following the announcement, both Salesforce and Amazon shares experienced a boost in premarket trading, signaling investor optimism about the partnership’s potential. This expansion reinforces Salesforce’s strategy of aligning with major cloud providers to meet growing demand for AI-driven, integrated data platforms. As this collaboration evolves, it is poised to drive significant value for businesses navigating the AI and data revolution. 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 Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more
The life sciences industry is poised for significant evolution in 2025 as it navigates a dynamic landscape shaped by digital transformation, competitive pressures, business volatility, and shifting customer needs. Despite potential challenges, industry leaders remain optimistic about growth in the coming year. Deloitte’s recently released 2025 Life Sciences Outlook, published on December 10, 2024, offers a comprehensive overview of the trends and forces expected to shape the industry in the upcoming year. Drawing from a global survey of life sciences executives conducted by the Deloitte U.S. Center for Health Solutions, the report highlights key focus areas that will drive transformation and innovation. Key Trends Shaping the Life Sciences Industry in 2025 1. Digital Transformation Digital transformation continues to be a cornerstone of growth and innovation for the life sciences sector. Executives anticipate accelerated adoption of digital tools, with particular emphasis on: To stay ahead, life sciences companies are investing in transformative technologies, robust cybersecurity, and digital tools that enhance R&D, employee productivity, and customer engagement. 2. Competitive Pressures The competitive landscape in 2025 will be shaped by several key challenges: To address these pressures, companies are focusing on innovation, expanding their portfolios, and targeting profitable disease areas. Strategies include improving R&D productivity, enhancing clinical trial diversity, leveraging real-world evidence, and aligning M&A activities with corporate objectives. 3. Business Volatility Economic and regulatory uncertainties are adding layers of complexity to the business environment. Key drivers of business volatility include: To mitigate these risks, life sciences companies are optimizing operating models, enhancing supply chain resilience, and implementing global risk mitigation strategies to safeguard operations against unforeseen disruptions. 4. Evolving Customer Needs The rise of personalized medicine and digital adoption among patients is transforming customer expectations. Advances in genomics, biomarkers, and precision medicine are enabling companies to deliver more effective treatments with fewer side effects. In response to these shifts, life sciences firms are prioritizing customer-centric strategies by: As one senior executive from a German pharmaceutical company explained, “With advances in genomics and biomarkers, we can provide patients with more precise treatment options. This not only improves efficacy but also significantly reduces side effects, allowing patients to have a better treatment experience.” Outlook for 2025 Despite challenges, the outlook for the life sciences industry in 2025 remains positive. With 75% of surveyed executives expressing optimism, the sector is positioned for growth driven by innovation, strategic investment, and a commitment to addressing evolving market demands. As the industry continues to adapt to internal and external pressures, its ability to leverage digital transformation, overcome competitive challenges, and meet shifting customer needs will define its success in the year ahead. The 2025 Life Sciences Outlook underscores the importance of proactive strategies, forward-thinking investments, and adaptability in navigating this transformative era. By embracing these trends, life sciences companies can position themselves for sustainable growth and innovation in the years to come. 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 Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more
managing healthcare data is complex and resource-intensive. Health informatics addresses this challenge by merging health data with IT systems to streamline healthcare operations and analytics.
Salesforce Unveils Tableau Einstein Alliance to Empower Partners in the AI-Driven Agent Era Salesforce today announced the launch of the Tableau Einstein Alliance, a new partner community designed to create and deliver AI-driven solutions and analytical agents for Tableau Einstein. Built on the Salesforce platform and integrated with Agentforce, this initiative aims to help partners accelerate success in the emerging AI landscape. Tableau Einstein Alliance to Help Partners Drive Success in the Agent Era The Tableau Einstein Alliance offers partners a range of exclusive benefits, including early access to Salesforce’s product roadmaps, in-house AI experts, marketing support, and co-selling opportunities. Through the Alliance, partners will be able to develop agents, apps, and AI-driven solutions, enabling customers to navigate the autonomous AI revolution and rapidly extract value from their data and AI investments. The Alliance is set to launch in February 2025 with 25 founding members, including Tectonic, Capgemini, Deloitte, IBM, and Slalom. Solutions developed within the Alliance will be available on both the Salesforce AppExchange and the forthcoming Tableau Marketplace, offering developers a platform to create, share, and monetize analytical assets. Why It Matters:Partner ecosystems have been crucial in advancing major technological innovations, from cloud computing to software-as-a-service. With the rise of Agentforce, building a dynamic partner community is more critical than ever to drive the next wave of AI and analytics adoption. Salesforce’s Perspective: “Tableau’s success is deeply rooted in our partners’ commitment to our customers. Now, we’re investing in the Tableau Einstein Alliance to cultivate an ecosystem of visionary and innovative partners who will integrate Agentforce into every facet of analytics. The future of data and analytics is here, and our partners are essential to this journey.”— Ryan Aytay, CEO, Tableau Industry Perspectives: “Atrium has championed the vision of unified analytics since Tableau joined the Salesforce ecosystem. We’ve seen the incredible potential of Data Cloud and Tableau Cloud together, and we’re thrilled to help bring Tableau Einstein to market. Its integrated features will offer customers unprecedented productivity.”— Chris Heineken, CEO, Atrium “Tectonic’s “Insight to Action” methodology (i2a) is directly improved by the launch of the Tableau Einstein Alliance. By utilizing automated AI-solutions to power data-driven insights, we are able to deliver additional value to our customers.”— Dan Grossnickle, Tectonic “Tableau Einstein represents the next step in Salesforce’s data platforms and generative AI products. The value for clients from these data-driven insights is immense. We’re excited to help lead the way through the Tableau Einstein Alliance.”— Jean-Marc Gaultier, Head of Group Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships, Capgemini “Deloitte has long benefited from Tableau’s capabilities, and we’re excited to see how this next iteration will further empower our teams with data to drive growth. Integrating key features into tools like Salesforce and Slack will unlock even greater potential for us.”— Moritz Schieder, Tableau Alliance Leader and Director, Deloitte Germany “IBM is eager to leverage Tableau Einstein to deliver more value to our customers, regardless of where they work. As a strategic Agentforce partner and Salesforce customer, we are excited to be part of the next generation of analytics alongside Salesforce.”— Mary Rowe, Global Head of IBM Consulting Salesforce Practice Tableau Einstein Alliance to Help Partners Drive Success in the Agent Era and Tectonic, an insights 2 actions company, is excited to be a part of the innovation. 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 Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more
Salesforce, now one of the most influential companies in tech history, was founded by Marc Benioff after his successful tenure at Oracle. Having witnessed the potential of the internet, Benioff realized it would usher in a new era for delivering enterprise software through the cloud. However, this new approach demanded a complete overhaul of traditional business models, marketing strategies, and software development practices. Salesforce would embody this transformation, evolving over the decades into a platform supporting a diverse array of enterprise applications. Today, Salesforce’s flagship initiative is Agentforce, a pioneering wave of AI agents built on the Salesforce platform. This initiative, which I covered in detail earlier this month, exemplifies Benioff’s forward-thinking vision for AI. He passionately argues that Salesforce is well-positioned to lead in this space, and his insights on AI and its potential are as compelling as they are thought-provoking. Before diving into Agentforce and Benioff’s views on AI, it’s important to explore his early life and the founding of Salesforce. Benioff’s path to becoming the CEO of one of the most powerful software companies in the world was shaped by an early interest in technology. His first foray into software development was creating an app called “How to Juggle,” which he sold for $75 to CLOAD Magazine in Goleta, California. This early success marked the beginning of a long career in tech. Benioff went on to establish an Atari game company called Liberty Software and later wrote assembly code for the Mac as part of an internship. Despite his success as a software developer, he transitioned to a leadership role after realizing his interest in the broader business of technology. He credits his time at Oracle, where he learned the intricacies of sales, marketing, and customer communication, as critical to shaping his vision for Salesforce. Oracle, during Larry Ellison’s prime, was an ideal place to hone these business skills, which Benioff would later apply to revolutionize the enterprise software space. With this foundation, Benioff founded Salesforce, a company that has fundamentally changed the way businesses engage with technology. The company’s success lies not just in its cloud-based software, but in its ongoing evolution to address new challenges, including the AI-powered Agentforce initiative, which stands at the forefront of Salesforce’s future growth. Benioff’s journey, from a young programmer to the CEO of a global tech giant, is a testament to his visionary approach and adaptability in an ever-changing tech landscape. Marc Benioff’s early entrepreneurial instincts were evident even before he fully embraced the title of entrepreneur. From a young age, he knew he wanted to build something of his own, though he hadn’t yet honed the full set of skills needed to succeed in business. He had a knack for technology, excelling as a programmer working in assembly code, but his mentors, including university professors and colleagues at Apple, recognized that being an entrepreneur required more than just technical ability. They encouraged him to develop his sales, marketing, and business acumen. His early exposure to these lessons was pivotal in shaping his future trajectory. Benioff’s transition from a programmer to a business leader began when he sought advice from Bill Jost at Apple, who connected him with Gary Gibson, an Oracle executive. After a memorable and unexpected interview, Benioff joined Oracle, starting with a role answering calls at the company’s 800-number. He quickly moved into sales and marketing, eventually working directly with Larry Ellison, who would become a significant mentor over the next 13 years. Benioff’s success at Oracle set the stage for his eventual departure to start Salesforce in 1999. In the mid-1990s, while at Oracle, Benioff had an epiphany while using a web browser. The internet was transforming how software could be delivered, and Benioff saw the potential for a new business model based on cloud computing. At this time, Oracle was focused on the network computer—a vision Benioff did not fully share. After discussing his ideas with Larry Ellison and taking some time off for reflection and research, Benioff recognized that the world was on the cusp of a major shift in technology. He felt compelled to create something new that would leverage the internet, offering software over the web through a subscription model. During his time off, Benioff traveled to Hawaii, reflecting on the future of the tech industry and contemplating ideas. He also experimented with domain names, purchasing You.com and later gifting it to a friend who turned it into a search and AI company. Benioff returned to Larry Ellison to share his vision of a cloud-based business model and later found inspiration from spiritual gurus during a trip to India, who reminded him that success in business should also be grounded in positive values. Benioff’s experience led to the founding of Salesforce with its revolutionary 1-1-1 Model—dedicating 1% of equity, profit, and employee time to philanthropy. Salesforce also embraced emerging technologies such as social, mobile, and AI, and created a new business model through subscription-based services. This combination of technological innovation and a strong sense of social responsibility has set Salesforce apart, attracting both admiration and emulation from other companies. Benioff’s Career Benioff’s career is a testament to the power of surrounding oneself with great people, continuing to learn, and having a clear vision. His leadership at Salesforce has been guided by values he believes are crucial to the company’s success and its ability to make a positive impact on the world. His insights on the Innovator’s Dilemma, a concept popularized by Clayton Christensen, highlight the challenges companies face as they evolve with changing technologies. While Salesforce’s core principles remain intact, the company has continued to adapt to new technology paradigms, ensuring it remains at the forefront of innovation in the software industry. Marc Benioff (MB) recently shared his excitement about the future of AI and its potential to revolutionize business and technology. He explained that, from a business perspective, this is the most thrilling moment in his career. AI, according to him, will transform how enterprises operate, making them more
The workforce has undergone significant changes over the last two years. Today’s employees have different motivations, seeking more flexibility and purpose, while also expecting more from corporate leaders. Employees Have Different Motivations. Similarly, customers now demand high levels of personalization and exceptional experiences. How can C-suite executives keep up with these evolving expectations? Our research highlights emerging priorities for corporate leaders in these challenging times. In a recent webinar, we asked two Inc. 5000 CEOs about shifting priorities and the critical role of enhancing employee experiences to meet rising customer demands. The message was clear: efficient growth starts with your employees. Focusing on employee satisfaction, providing clear paths for growth, establishing strong values, and investing in the right tools are key drivers of success. However, for some leaders, old habits hinder progress. Today’s executives must not only be digitally proficient but also agile, with strong emotional intelligence to manage change and new relationships effectively. A prime example of this disconnect is seen in employee engagement. Salesforce’s recent report, The Experience Advantage, found that while 71% of C-suite executives believe their employees are engaged, only 51% of employees agree. Similarly, 70% of executives think their employees are happy, but only 44% of employees share that sentiment. How can companies enable their leaders to succeed in this era of heightened expectations? Let’s explore the top priorities for CEOs today. Top Priorities for Corporate Leaders In a world where CEOs are accountable to more stakeholders than ever, they must navigate an increasingly complex landscape. They’re expected to speak on social issues, advocate for sustainability, and ensure stability in times of rapid change. Adaptability is crucial for success. Here are some current top priorities for corporate leaders: At Salesforce, they’ve found success by operating with startup-style values—centering consumer trust, fostering constant innovation, and setting clear, simple goals. Marc Benioff’s V2MOM framework exemplifies this alignment in action. The New Skills Leaders Need After reviewing research and interviewing business leaders, several trends have emerged. The most successful executives today share the following traits: A 2021 IBM Institute for Business Value survey of 3,000 global CEOs revealed similar trends, highlighting purposeful agility and making technology a priority. The study found that 56% of CEOs emphasized the need for operational flexibility, and 61% were focused on empowering remote work. Key technologies driving results over the next few years include the Internet of Things (79%), cloud computing (74%), and AI (52%). A major shift on leader agendas is the growing focus on employee experience. As Salesforce’s chief growth evangelist, Tiffani Bova, noted, “Employees are now the most important stakeholder to long-term success.” Providing seamless, consumer-like experiences for employees is now essential for business growth. Our research also uncovered a key gap: 73% of C-suite executives don’t know how to use employee data to drive change. This disconnect between leadership perception and actual employee experience is undermining growth. Emotional Intelligence (EQ) Matters To close this gap, sharpening leaders’ emotional intelligence is essential. Last year, we conducted interviews with 10 CEOs across various sectors. Many revealed plans to replace C-suite team members with more digitally savvy and emotionally intelligent leaders better equipped to manage the modern workforce. Summit Leadership Partners’ 2020 research found that 80-90% of top-performing executives excelled because of their high EQ. In fact, EQ is twice as predictive of performance as technical skills or IQ. The Changing Role of Key Executives Who do CEOs rely on most? A decade ago, IBM’s Institute for Business Value found that 47% of CEOs considered the chief innovation officer critical. Today, only 4% of CEOs agree. The chief marketing officer and chief strategy officer roles have also seen significant declines in perceived importance. The positions that have gained prominence include the chief technology officer (CTO) and chief information officer (CIO), now ranked third in importance after the chief financial officer (CFO) and chief operating officer (COO). As Jeff McElfresh, COO of AT&T, observed, “Not all leaders are comfortable managing in a distributed model. We’ve got work to do to unlock the potential.” The rise in job titles related to the future of work—up 60% since the pandemic—reflects this shift, with hybrid work models becoming more common. Diversity Drives Innovation and Profitability Diversity in leadership has become essential for driving revenue and innovation. McKinsey’s 2020 report Diversity Wins found that companies with more gender-diverse executive teams were 25% more likely to achieve above-average profitability. Similarly, those with greater ethnic diversity outperformed their peers by 36%. Diverse management teams also deliver 19% higher revenues from innovation compared to less-diverse teams, according to research from BCG. As diversity becomes increasingly tied to executive compensation, companies must support a diverse leadership pipeline by developing inclusive talent strategies. Moving Forward To thrive in today’s business world, corporate leaders must plan for change, ensure all executives have both digital literacy and emotional intelligence, and redistribute power to drive success. The healthiest C-suites will include diverse leaders in key positions like COO, CFO, and CIO/CTO. Aligning the business around common goals—like those in Salesforce’s V2MOM framework—and eliminating barriers for employees are key to staying ahead. Innovation must remain a top priority. By investing in the right tools and connected platforms, companies can reduce costs and drive sustainable growth. Reach out to Tectonic for assistance in making the innovations that recognizes Employees Have Different Motivations. 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 Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more
Cloud Computing in Healthcare: Ensuring HIPAA Compliance Amid Growing Adoption As healthcare organizations increasingly turn to cloud computing for scalable and accessible IT services, ensuring HIPAA compliance remains a top priority. The global healthcare cloud computing market is projected to grow from $53.8 billion in 2024 to $120.6 billion by 2029, according to a MarketsandMarkets report. A 2023 Forrester report also highlighted that healthcare organizations are spending an average of .5 million annually on cloud services, with public cloud adoption on the rise. While cloud computing offers benefits like enhanced data mobility and cost efficiency, maintaining a HIPAA-compliant relationship with cloud service providers (CSPs) requires careful attention to regulations, establishing business associate agreements (BAAs), and proactively addressing cloud security risks. Understanding HIPAA’s Role in Cloud Computing The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) defines cloud computing as a model that provides on-demand access to shared computing resources. Based on this framework, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has issued guidance on how HIPAA’s Security, Privacy, and Breach Notification Rules apply to cloud computing. Under the HIPAA Security Rule, CSPs classified as business associates must adhere to specific standards for safeguarding protected health information (PHI). This includes mitigating the risks of unauthorized access to administrative tools and implementing internal controls to restrict access to critical operations like storage and memory. HIPAA’s Privacy Rule further restricts the use or disclosure of PHI by CSPs, even in cases where they offer “no-view services.” CSPs cannot block a covered entity’s access to PHI, even in the event of a payment dispute. Additionally, the Breach Notification Rule requires business associates, including CSPs, to promptly report any breach of unsecured PHI. Healthcare organizations engaging with CSPs should consult legal counsel and follow standard procedures for establishing HIPAA-compliant vendor relationships. The Importance of Business Associate Agreements (BAAs) A BAA is essential for ensuring that a CSP is contractually bound to comply with HIPAA. OCR emphasizes that when a covered entity engages a CSP to create, receive, or transmit electronic PHI (ePHI), the CSP becomes a business associate under HIPAA. Even if the CSP cannot access encrypted PHI, it is still classified as a business associate due to its involvement in storing and processing PHI. In 2016, the absence of a BAA led to a $2.7 million settlement between Oregon Health & Science University and OCR after the university stored the PHI of over 3,000 individuals on a cloud server without the required agreement. BAAs play a crucial role in defining the permitted uses of PHI and ensure that both the healthcare organization and CSP understand their responsibilities under HIPAA. They also outline protocols for breach notifications and security measures, ensuring both parties are aligned on handling potential security incidents. Key Cloud Security Considerations Despite the protections of a BAA, there are inherent risks in partnering with any new vendor. Staying informed on cloud security threats is vital for mitigating potential risks proactively. In a 2024 report, the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) identified misconfiguration, inadequate change control, and identity management as the top threats to cloud computing. The report also pointed to the rising sophistication of cyberattacks, supply chain risks, and the proliferation of ransomware-as-a-service as growing concerns. By understanding these risks and establishing clear security policies with CSPs, healthcare organizations can better safeguard their data. Prioritizing security, establishing robust BAAs, and ensuring HIPAA compliance will allow healthcare organizations to fully leverage the advantages of cloud computing while maintaining the privacy and security of patient information. 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 Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more
Industry forecasts predict an annual growth rate of 6% to 7%, fueled by innovations in cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and data engineering. In 2023, the global data analytics market was valued at approximately $41 billion and is expected to surge to $118.5 billion by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27.1%. This significant expansion reflects the growing demand for advanced analytics tools that provide actionable insights. AI has notably enhanced the accuracy of predictive models, enabling marketers to anticipate customer behaviors and preferences with impressive precision. “We’re on the verge of a new era in predictive analytics, with tools like Salesforce Einstein Data Analytics revolutionizing how we harness data-driven insights to transform marketing strategies,” says Koushik Kumar Ganeeb, a Principal Member of Technical Staff at Salesforce Data Cloud and a distinguished Data and AI Architect. Ganeeb’s leadership spans initiatives like AI-powered Salesforce Einstein Data Analytics, Marketing Cloud Connector for Data Cloud, and Intelligence Reporting (Datorama). His expertise includes architecting vast data extraction pipelines that process trillions of transactions daily. These pipelines play a crucial role in the growth strategies of Fortune 500 companies, helping them scale their data operations efficiently by leveraging AI. Ganeeb’s visionary work has propelled Salesforce Einstein Data Analytics into the forefront of business intelligence. Under his guidance, the platform’s advanced capabilities—such as predictive modeling, real-time data analysis, and natural language processing—are now pivotal in transforming how businesses forecast trends, personalize marketing efforts, and make data-driven decisions with unprecedented precision. AI and Machine Learning: The Next Frontier Beginning in 2018, Salesforce Marketing Cloud, a leading engagement platform used by top enterprises, faced challenges in extracting actionable insights and enhancing AI capabilities from rapidly growing data across diverse systems. Ganeeb was tasked with overcoming these hurdles, leading to the development of the Salesforce Einstein Provisioning Process. This process involved the creation of extensive data import jobs and the establishment of standardized patterns based on consumer adoption learning. These automated jobs handle trillions of transactions daily, delivering critical engagement and profile data in real-time to meet the scalability needs of large enterprises. The data flows seamlessly into AI models that generate predictions on a massive scale, such as Engagement Scores and insights into messaging and language usage across the platform. “Integrating AI and machine learning into data analytics through Salesforce Einstein is not just a technological enhancement—it’s a revolutionary shift in how we approach data,” explains Ganeeb. “With our advanced predictive models and real-time data processing, we can analyze vast amounts of data instantly, delivering insights that were previously unimaginable.” This innovative approach empowers organizations to make more informed decisions, driving unprecedented growth and operational efficiency. Real-World Success Stories Under Ganeeb’s technical leadership, Salesforce Einstein Data Analytics has delivered remarkable results across industries by leveraging AI and machine learning to provide actionable insights and enhance business performance. In the past year, leading companies like T-Mobile, Fitbit, and Dell Technologies have reported significant improvements after integrating Einstein. Ganeeb’s proficiency in designing and scaling data engineering solutions has been critical in helping these enterprises optimize performance. “Scalability with Salesforce Einstein Data Analytics goes beyond managing data volumes—it ensures that every data point is converted into actionable insights,” says Ganeeb. His work processing petabytes of data daily underscores his commitment to precision and efficiency in data engineering. Navigating Data Ethics and Quality Despite the rapid growth of predictive analytics, Ganeeb emphasizes the importance of data ethics and quality. “The accuracy of predictive models depends on the integrity of the data,” he notes. Salesforce Einstein Data Analytics addresses this by curating datasets to ensure they are representative and free from bias, maintaining trust while delivering reliable insights. By implementing rigorous data quality checks and ethical considerations, Ganeeb ensures that Einstein Analytics not only delivers actionable insights but also fosters transparency and trust. This balanced approach is key to the responsible use of predictive analytics across various industries. Future Trends in Predictive Analytics The future of predictive analytics looks bright, with AI and machine learning poised to further refine the accuracy and utility of predictive models. “Success lies in embracing technological advancements while maintaining a human touch,” Ganeeb notes. “By combining AI-driven insights with human intuition, businesses can navigate market complexities and uncover new opportunities.” Ganeeb’s contributions to Salesforce Einstein Data Analytics exemplify this balanced approach, integrating cutting-edge technology with human insight to empower businesses to make strategic decisions. His work positions organizations to thrive in a data-driven world, helping them stay agile and competitive in an evolving market. Balancing Benefits and Challenges – Predictive Analytics While predictive analytics offers vast potential, Ganeeb recognizes the challenges. Ensuring data quality, addressing ethical concerns, and maintaining transparency are crucial for its responsible use. “Although challenges remain, the future of AI-based predictive analytics is promising,” Ganeeb asserts. His work with Salesforce Einstein Data Analytics continues to push the boundaries of marketing analytics, enabling businesses to harness the power of AI for transformative 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 Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more
Data breaches reached an all-time high in 2023, affecting more than 234 million individuals, and there’s no sign of the trend slowing down. At the center of this challenge is how organizations allocate resources to safeguard customer data. One of the most critical systems for managing this data is CRM platforms like Salesforce, used by over 150,000 U.S. businesses. However, security blind spots within Salesforce continue to pose significant risks. To address these concerns, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) offers a strategic framework for Salesforce security teams. In February 2024, NIST released Version 2.0 of its Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), marking the first major update in a decade. Key improvements include the introduction of a new “Govern” function, streamlining of categories to simplify usability, and updates to the “Respond” function to enhance incident management. This framework now applies across all industries, not just critical infrastructure. For Salesforce security leaders, these changes will significantly affect how they manage security, from aligning Salesforce practices with enterprise risk strategies to strengthening oversight of third-party apps. Here’s how these updates will influence Salesforce security going forward. What is the NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0? The NIST Cybersecurity Framework, first launched in 2014, was developed after an executive order by President Obama, aiming to provide a standardized set of guidelines to improve cybersecurity across critical infrastructure. The framework’s objectives include: The newly updated NIST CSF 2.0, released in 2024, expands on the original framework, providing organizations with structured, yet flexible, guidance for managing cybersecurity risks. It revolves around three core components: the CSF Core, CSF Profiles, and CSF Tiers. Key Components of NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 These components help organizations understand, assess, and improve their cybersecurity posture, forming the basis for risk-informed strategies that align with organizational needs and the evolving threat landscape. Key Updates in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 and Their Impact on Salesforce Security The 2024 updates to NIST CSF offer insights that Salesforce security leaders can use to align their strategies with evolving cybersecurity risks. Implementation Strategies for Salesforce Security Leaders To incorporate CSF 2.0 into Salesforce security operations, leaders should: Conclusion: Embracing NIST CSF 2.0 to Strengthen Salesforce Security The 2024 NIST Cybersecurity Framework updates offer crucial insights for Salesforce security leaders. By adopting these practices, organizations can enhance data protection, strengthen incident response capabilities, and ensure business continuity—critical for those relying on Salesforce for managing sensitive customer data. 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 Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more
California’s new AI bill has sparked intense debate, with proponents viewing it as necessary regulation and critics warning it could stifle innovation, particularly for small businesses. Senate Bill 1047, known as the Safe and Secure Innovation for Frontier Artificial Intelligence Models Act, mandates that developers of advanced AI systems costing at least $100 million to train must test their models for potential harm and put safeguards in place. It also offers whistleblower protections for employees at large AI firms and establishes CalCompute, a public cloud computing resource aimed at startups and researchers. The bill is awaiting Governor Gavin Newsom’s signature by Sept. 30 to become law. Prominent AI experts, including Geoffrey Hinton and Yoshua Bengio, support the bill. However, it has met resistance from various quarters, including Rep. Nancy Pelosi and OpenAI, who argue it could hinder innovation and the startup ecosystem. Pelosi and others have expressed concerns that the bill’s requirements might burden smaller businesses and harm California’s leadership in tech innovation. Gartner analyst Avivah Litan acknowledged the dilemma, stating that while regulation is critical for AI, the bill’s requirements might negatively impact small businesses. “Some regulation is better than none,” she said, but added that thresholds could be challenging for smaller firms. Steve Carlin, CEO of AiFi, criticized the bill for its vague language and complex demands on AI developers, including unclear guidance on enforcing the rules. He suggested that instead of focusing on AI models, legislation should address the risks and applications of AI, as seen with the EU AI Act. Despite concerns, some experts like Forrester Research’s Alla Valente support the bill’s safety testing and whistleblower protections. Valente argued that safeguarding AI models is essential across industries, though she acknowledged that the costs of compliance could be higher for small businesses. Still, she emphasized that the long-term costs of not implementing safeguards could be greater, with risks including customer lawsuits and regulatory penalties. California’s approach to AI regulation adds to the growing patchwork of state-level AI laws in the U.S. Colorado and Connecticut have also introduced AI legislation, and cities like New York have tackled issues like algorithmic bias. Carlin warned that a fragmented state-by-state regulatory framework could create a costly and complex environment for developers, calling for a unified federal standard instead. While federal legislation has been proposed, none has passed, and Valente pointed out that relying on Congress for action is a slow process. In the meantime, states like California are pushing ahead with their own AI regulations, creating both opportunities and challenges for the AI industry. 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 Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more
Pindrop Expands Deepfake Detection with New Tool On Thursday, voice authentication vendor Pindrop expanded its deepfake detection capabilities with the preview release of Pindrop Pulse Inspect, a tool designed to detect AI-generated speech in digital audio files. This new tool builds on Pindrop’s earlier launch of Pindrop Pulse at the start of the year. While Pindrop Pulse initially targeted call centers, Pulse Inspect broadens its reach, catering to media organizations, nonprofits, government agencies, and social networks. Pindrop Pulse is already integrated with the company’s fraud protection and authentication platform. The new Pulse Inspect tool allows users to upload audio files to the Pindrop platform to determine if they contain synthetic speech, providing deepfake scores in the process. The introduction of Pulse Inspect is timely, coinciding with heightened concerns over deepfakes as the U.S. general election in November approaches. In recent months, Pindrop has tested its technology on high-profile cases. The company analyzed a deepfake audio clip of presidential candidate Kamala Harris, posted on X by Elon Musk, and discovered partial deepfakes in the audio. Pindrop also examined a deepfake of Elon Musk, released on July 24, identifying voice cloning technology from vendor ElevenLabs as the source. Additionally, Pindrop detected a fake robocall, generated using ElevenLabs’ technology, impersonating President Joe Biden before the January Democratic presidential primary. ElevenLabs has publicly stated its commitment to preventing the misuse of audio AI tools. “The human ear can no longer reliably distinguish between real and synthetically generated audio,” said Rahul Sood, Pindrop’s Chief Product Officer, during a discussion on the risks deepfakes pose for the upcoming election. “It’s almost impossible to have a high level of confidence without assistance.” Fighting AI with AI Analysts emphasize the necessity of tools like Pulse Inspect in the age of generative AI. “They’re fighting AI with AI,” said Lisa Martin, an analyst at the Futurum Group, highlighting the importance of Pindrop’s technology. According to Pindrop, their detection technology is trained on over 350 deepfake generation tools, 20 million unique utterances, and more than 40 languages. “We know how powerful generative AI is—it can be used for good, but it can also be weaponized, as we’re seeing,” Martin noted. She added that with the increasing ease of creating deepfakes, the demand for detection tools like Pulse Inspect will only grow. As deepfakes continue to proliferate, companies like Pindrop and competitors such as Resemble AI are racing to develop these detection solutions. With Pulse Inspect, Pindrop is extending its technology’s application beyond call centers. Pindrop has also partnered with Respeecher, a voice cloning vendor that collaborates with Hollywood. “Respeecher is working with Pindrop to ensure their synthetic voice technology for Hollywood is not misused,” said Martin, stressing the importance of ethical development and use of AI voice cloning technology. Pulse Inspect is positioned to assist media companies, social media networks, nonprofits, and government organizations in navigating the challenges of AI-generated audio. The Challenge of Scaling Deepfake Detection While Pindrop is well-equipped to detect deepfakes, scaling this technology could be costly and complex, according to Forrester Research analyst Mo Allibhai. “Implementing this technology at scale is expensive, even from an integration standpoint,” said Allibhai. “We need to be selective in how we deploy it.” Allibhai suggested that edge AI, such as Apple’s upcoming generative AI system for iPhones, could ease these challenges by reducing the reliance on cloud computing, making solutions like Pulse Inspect more viable in the long term. Pindrop Pulse Inspect offers an API-driven batch-processing platform and user interface, designed to meet the evolving needs of organizations facing the growing threat of deepfake audio. 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 Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more
The Smithsonian already embraces technology through its Open Access Initiative. ousing 2D and 3D renders of collections it provides access to over 20 museums. Enter Salesforce and Smithsonian Data Cloud. The world’s largest network of research, museum, and education facilities, the Smithsonian Institution, manages over 150 million collections across its 21 museums, the National Zoo, and eight research centers. Navigating this vast array of artifacts can be overwhelming, even for dedicated history enthusiasts. To enhance accessibility, the Smithsonian Institution is collaborating with cloud computing giant Salesforce. The goal is to streamline the user experience by integrating disparate data sources, such as ticketing systems and donation histories, into a unified system. This initiative aims to provide a clearer blueprint of Smithsonian’s diverse locations and offerings, according to Lori Freeman, Salesforce’s Vice President and General Manager of Nonprofit Industry Solutions and Strategy. “Smithsonian is so progressive. They have all this content, they have all this history, they have incredible tools,” Freeman told Technical.ly. “So this technology is going to enable them to reach audiences they would never get to.” For instance, this system will allow museum staff and volunteers to assist visitors in locating exhibits across different Smithsonian locations. Becky Kobberod, the Smithsonian’s Head of Digital Transformation, illustrated this by describing how a visitor at the Hirshhorn could ask about a piece of art at the National Museum of American History. “It’s connecting the dots and creating a Smithsonian ecosystem that we currently don’t have. If you want to engage in our various museums, you go to each of them separately,” Kobberod said. “Whereas now, we’re providing you a front door, so to speak, that can help you navigate across all of the many different museums and resources that we have.” Although specifics about the technology and user interface have not been disclosed, Freeman emphasized that the main objectives are to keep visitors engaged and to build lifelong relationships with both in-person and virtual visitors. Building on Current Tech Resources The Smithsonian’s Open Access initiative, launched in early 2020, offers 2D and 3D renderings of its collections, totaling around 5 million items to date. Users can interact with 3D images to get a 360-degree view of fossils, sculptures, and artifacts like Neil Armstrong’s spacesuit. This initiative began with 2.8 million pieces and continues to grow, said Kobberod. In addition to Open Access, the Smithsonian has other digital initiatives. In 2022, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, in collaboration with Baltimore-based digital services firm Fearless, launched a searchable online platform to make certain collections and stories more accessible. Kobberod noted that only about 1% of the collections are physically displayed at any given time. Digitizing and uploading these collections not only preserves them but also makes them accessible to people who might not have the means to visit in person. “Smithsonian exists as a service to all of the American public,” she said. “We know that this is core to our future, and to making what we have available to the nation and the world.” 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 Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more
“We’re on an Incredible Journey”: Why Salesforce’s AI Push is Just Beginning This article originally appeared in TechRadar by Mike Moore. Salesforce AI Journey. When it comes to leveraging AI to enhance global workforces, some companies are leading the charge, particularly when their technology is at the forefront. Salesforce, known for its robust AI tools, is one such company pushing the boundaries. At its recent World Tour London event, Salesforce emphasized its commitment to AI, showcasing how its Einstein tools are already benefiting customers worldwide. TechRadar Pro spoke with Paul O’Sullivan, SVP, Solution Engineering & UKI, CTO, Salesforce, about the company’s vision for enhancing efficiency and productivity across all markets, particularly in the UK. A Wave of Innovation “We’re on an incredible journey,” O’Sullivan stated, referencing Salesforce’s $4 billion investment in the UK and Ireland in 2023. “We’re well-positioned in the UK to maximize AI’s potential and help our customers achieve true value.” This ambition is epitomized by Salesforce’s new AI center in London. The 40,000 square foot facility is set to be a hub for AI collaboration and development, addressing the growing demand for AI technology. O’Sullivan hinted that this is just the beginning. “We’re an innovation-led company—always looking ahead,” he said, highlighting the UK’s history of driving innovation as a positive indicator for AI’s future in the capital. Growing Demand and Education As demand for AI tools and services increases among businesses of all sizes, O’Sullivan acknowledged the rapid pace of change in the AI landscape. “It starts with education—at all levels,” he noted, recognizing the varying degrees of AI knowledge among business leaders. O’Sullivan compared the current AI momentum to past technological revolutions like cloud computing, websites, and ecommerce. Companies had to adapt quickly to avoid falling behind, and he noted that the window for catching up with AI might be even smaller. He predicted a “steady wave of innovation” in AI before it becomes ubiquitous in the business world, with various models and platforms vying for dominance. “It feels like everyone is in a race for AI,” he added, “and there’s a collective agreement that AI will enhance productivity and efficiency, benefiting both the bottom and top lines of big enterprises.” Human Jobs and AI Looking forward, O’Sullivan dismissed concerns that AI would replace human jobs. He suggested that AI would instead create new opportunities for human workers. “I think human nature is inherently curious,” he said. “We will continue to explore new ways of doing things and offer different levels of connection and service.” Drawing parallels to the industrial revolution, O’Sullivan pointed out that machines didn’t eliminate jobs; they increased productivity and efficiency. He believes AI will have a similar impact. “We’re going to see a new level of productivity and efficiency with AI, just as we did with the industrial revolution,” he concluded. Salesforce’s AI journey is only just beginning, promising exciting advancements and opportunities for businesses and workers alike. 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 Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more
Healthcare Cloud Computing Market: A Comprehensive Overview and Future Outlook Vantage Market Research Report: Insights into Healthcare Cloud Computing by 2030 WASHINGTON, D.C., February 6, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ — The global Healthcare Cloud Marketplace was valued at USD 38.25 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.2% from 2023 to 2030, reaching approximately USD 145.86 billion by 2030, according to Vantage Market Research. This technology allows healthcare organizations to utilize cloud-based services for data storage, management, and analysis, providing numerous benefits such as cost efficiency, scalability, flexibility, security, and interoperability. It enhances healthcare delivery by enabling seamless data access and sharing across various locations, devices, and networks. Additionally, cloud computing supports the integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, big data analytics, telehealth, and mobile health, driving progress in disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Market Dynamics The market’s growth is fueled by several key factors, including the increasing demand for healthcare IT solutions, the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, the widespread adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), and evolving payment models and regulatory frameworks. The exponential increase in healthcare data, encompassing patient records, imaging scans, and research findings, necessitates scalable storage and analysis solutions. Cloud computing meets this need by providing flexible and scalable infrastructure, accommodating data growth without overburdening IT systems. The rise of telehealth and remote patient monitoring further boosts the demand for secure, cloud-based platforms that facilitate efficient data exchange. However, stringent data privacy regulations like HIPAA and GDPR require robust security measures, compelling healthcare organizations to seek cloud providers that offer strong compliance and access controls. This need for a balance between agility and security shapes the healthcare cloud computing market’s future trajectory. Leading Companies in the Global Healthcare Cloud Computing Market Market Segmentation By Product: By Deployment: By Component: By Pricing Model: By Service Model: Key Trends and Opportunities The healthcare cloud computing market is witnessing significant trends, including the adoption of hybrid and multi-cloud models, which combine the benefits of both public and private clouds. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into cloud-based healthcare applications is opening new avenues for personalized medicine, clinical decision support, and drug discovery. Moreover, blockchain technology is emerging as a solution to enhance data security and patient privacy, addressing critical industry concerns. Key Findings: Opportunities: Healthcare Cloud Marketplace The healthcare cloud computing market is poised for robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for scalable and secure data management solutions. As healthcare organizations navigate challenges related to data privacy and security, robust cloud solutions and supportive government policies will be essential in unlocking the full potential of cloud computing in healthcare. 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 Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more
