Synergi is helping businesses in the North East become fitter for the future, guiding organisations to invest in the right technology that will support their growth, reduce risk and deliver measurable results. Here, Synergi put the spotlight on four key technology advances that organisations can't afford to ignore.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Organisations of all sizes across our region have the passion and vision to grow and innovate but face many challenges and limitations when it comes to harnessing the potential that our data and technology is able to provide; that’s where AI comes in.
As one example, Generative AI has exploded onto the scene in recent months, sending people and businesses into a whirlwind of questions over its uses and potential benefits. This technology can take a simple set of data and use it to create something new – like an image, an email to client, or a PowerPoint presentation – when prompted by a human. This capability is surfacing in everyday cloud platforms and has the potential to improve operations, customer experiences and much more.
AI will also play a crucial role in enhancing security and reducing risks, mitigating the potential threats posed by enhanced malware, misinformation and cyberattacks. AI Trust, Risk and Security Management (AI TRiSM) is emerging strongly to ensure the ethical, transparent and accountable use of AI in business applications.
Low code/no-code
Low code/no code (LCNC) is a trend in software that enables users to create applications with little or no coding; its already mainstream within cloud platforms such as Microsoft 365. 2024 will see a significant growth and maturity in these technologies (which are predicted to reach a global market of $26.9 billion).
Being able to use low code no code tools means that non-IT professionals can create and maintain assets such as automated documents, e-signature solutions, custom workflow and mobile applications. Gartner predict that by next year, 65% of application development will be delivered this way and that represents a huge opportunity to power digital transformation, innovation and collaboration like never before.
Microsoft’s Power Platform is one of the most powerful examples of just how far low code/no code technologies have come; enabling users to create secure apps, workflows, chatbots and dashboards for web and mobile devices, using pre-built templates, drag-and-drop components and data connectors.
Cyber Security Posture
A Cyber Security Posture simply describes an organisations readiness to deal with Cyber security threats. Typically it will cover People, Services, Hardware, Software and Policies. Some simple questions relating to Cyber Security that you should consider:
People – Is your workforce appropriately and regularly trained?
Services – Are they implemented correctly and reviewed regularly? (Think about Cloud technologies like Microsoft 365, this should be regularly reviewed and improved)
Hardware/Software – Are systems appropriate and vendor supported for security updates and firmware patches?
Policies – Are they comprehensive, appropriate, up to date and visible to your staff?
Cyber Security Risk Management
Most businesses have a regularly updated risk register, but many will not have a Cyber Risk Register. Understanding todays risks, likelihood of an attack and the potential impact is extremely important. In many cases this can be the most significant risk for a business.
Risk Rating – There are excellent tools to help you understand your own Cyber risk status rating and identify supply chain risk. These are widely used in large Enterprise businesses today and will become more mainstream with prospects using them to assess the risk of trading with you.
Risk Frameworks – Most cover broadly similar key themes from three to eight steps, typically in line with risk management;
1. Identify – Find the potential risks or new risks since the last assessment
2. Assess – Review the potential impact and likelihood of these risks having an impact on the organisation
3. Remediate – Implement changes, procedures or technical controls to remove or minimise the risk
4. Monitor & Report – Communicate changes, check remediations had the desired impact and monitor for further issues
If you need guidance to understand your Cyber Risks and where investment will add value, the team at Synergi are here to help.
www.teamsynergi.co.uk
