Latest news with #digitaltransformation
Yahoo
4 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Cloud Services Solutions Celebrates Over 20 Years of Expertise in ERP Integration and Digital Transformation
With a track record in guiding complex enterprise rollouts across continents, Cloud Services Solutions celebrates 20 years in the field and now expands its footprint into AI and the Middle East. Knoxville, Tennessee, June 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cloud Services Solutions (source: Cloud Services Solutions) After more than two decades in the enterprise technology space, Cloud Services Solutions is celebrating a major milestone in its journey. Officially founded in 2017, but built on over 20 years of combined hands-on experience, the consultancy has emerged as a trusted advisor to organizations seeking to modernize their operations through cloud-based ERP systems. For founder Stephen Roche, this moment reflects not only the evolution of technology but also the importance of thoughtful, human-centered transformation. 'I've been in the enterprise space since 1995, and what's stayed constant is this: success doesn't come from the software. It comes from the people, the planning, and the process,' says Roche. Under his leadership, Cloud Services Solutions has helped public agencies, universities, and commercial enterprises take the guesswork out of selecting, implementing, and managing ERP systems, always emphasizing strategy over software sales. The firm's work spans vendor selection, integration support, project rollout, and, most critically, change management. At the core of the company's process is what they call the Client Assessment Matrix, a structured discovery phase that uncovers the nuances of each organization's operations. Rather than assume what a client needs, the team asks thoughtful, open-ended questions to understand the business from the inside out. These include considerations such as whether a company has recently undergone mergers or acquisitions, what its internal structure looks like, and what regions or jurisdictions it operates in. The goal is to surface any red flags early on, such as conflicting regulatory requirements between countries or regional staffing gaps that could derail a rollout. Roche notes that many of the ERP projects that fail do so not because of incompatible software, but because of poor planning and misaligned resources. Too often, companies assign internal staff who are already overextended and expect them to lead implementations that can require additional hours weekly. Others will assign personnel based on certification rather than real-world experience, a choice that can compromise projects costing millions. Cloud Services Solutions not only identifies these issues during its assessments but also provides qualified backfill personnel to ensure that business-as-usual doesn't suffer during transformation efforts. The firm's work is inherently global, supporting organizations across North America, Latin America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. A major part of their process is ensuring that communication flows smoothly between headquarters and regional offices. Too often, projects are derailed because corporate offices assume regional teams are aligned or available when, in reality, those regions are pursuing different initiatives or are already stretched thin. Cloud Services Solutions mitigates this risk by organizing joint kickoff meetings with all regional stakeholders, establishing steering committees, and ensuring executive buy-in before any major rollout begins. This collaborative, inclusive structure is designed to prevent miscommunication and build trust, especially when internal teams don't yet understand the value of the systems being implemented. Looking to the future, Cloud Services Solutions is now expanding its focus in two key directions: artificial intelligence and the Middle East. The firm sees the Middle East as a strategic region for growth, with its increasing investments in digital infrastructure and AI-driven business processes. Roche emphasizes that the company's AI advisory services are not about chasing hype, but about making smart, context-specific recommendations. He points out that while many vendors rush to offer AI solutions, the reality is that AI is changing rapidly, and integration must be both strategic and cautious. The firm works across ecosystems to identify the right AI-powered tools for ERP, CRM, and marketing initiatives, always grounded in what best serves the client's long-term goals. Cloud Services Solutions continues to resist the one-size-fits-all approach that dominates much of the ERP consulting world. Instead of pushing a single platform or pre-selected vendor, the company presents clients with multiple tailored options, each vetted against their business needs, budget, and five-year outlook. This vendor-agnostic stance, combined with deep sector experience, makes them particularly effective in high-stakes environments where the margin for error is slim. As Roche puts it, 'It's a competitive field out there. Whether you're building new infrastructure or acquiring another company, you can't afford to guess your way through it. The decisions you make today will shape your competitiveness tomorrow. And you need the right strategy, people, and systems to get it right.' Media Contact Name: Stephen Roche Email: info@ Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
11 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Hybrid branch-bank models & digital inclusion in retail banking
Retail banking has undergone profound shifts over the past decade. Digital channels have undeniably transformed service delivery and broadened financial inclusion. Yet, despite the rise of mobile banking apps and AI-driven tools, the physical branch continues to play a vital role - especially in fostering trust, supporting the financially vulnerable, and anchoring community relationships. The hybrid branch-bank model is not simply a compromise between old and new. It is a strategic integration - blending the familiarity and assurance of in-person banking with the convenience and efficiency of digital services. This evolution is not driven by nostalgia but by customer demand across demographics and regions. Hybrid models reflect how real people live, bank, and engage. In emerging markets, branches remain the gateway to formal banking. They provide critical services where digital penetration remains low or inconsistent. And even in digitally mature countries, certain customer segments - the elderly, microentrepreneurs, and those with accessibility needs - prefer or rely on face-to-face interactions. Branches are not obsolete; they are being redefined. A modern hybrid branch is no longer a transactional venue. Instead, it becomes a consultative hub - a space where complex financial decisions are discussed, where small businesses are nurtured, and where financial literacy is advanced. The future branch will be smaller, smarter, and more purposeful. It may have fewer counters, but it will have more tools - biometric authentication points, digital onboarding stations, and live remote advisory services. In the hybrid model, branch staff are empowered to play broader roles. The traditional teller role is evolving into that of a universal banker - someone capable of guiding customers across physical and digital touchpoints. Upskilling, soft skills, and data literacy are becoming as important as operational knowledge. This human-centric approach adds warmth to technology. Importantly, digital inclusion must not be an afterthought. In designing hybrid models, banks must ensure that technology is not a barrier. Interfaces must be intuitive. Language support must be thoughtful. Accessibility features must be embedded. And above all, empathy must underpin every digital journey. This is how we ensure inclusion is meaningful and sustainable. Crisis periods have reinforced the value of having dual infrastructure. When digital platforms faced outages or cybersecurity threats, branches served as fallback anchors. Conversely, during lockdowns, mobile and online channels ensured continuity. Together, they build systemic resilience - something every modern bank needs as part of its risk strategy. Another advantage of the hybrid approach is the capacity to drive personalised experiences. Customer insights gathered digitally can be deepened through human interaction. A digital trigger - say, a mortgage query - can lead to an in-branch consultation. This cross-channel intelligence, when handled responsibly, can uplift customer satisfaction and reduce churn. The regulatory environment is also evolving. Hybrid models offer a proactive response - ensuring no customer is left behind, while also enabling banks to comply with evolving global mandates around financial access and consumer duty. Banks that embed digital within physical branches can serve communities more consistently and transparently. Additionally, there is a growing opportunity to repurpose branches as centres of community engagement. From hosting SME workshops to facilitating digital literacy drives, branches can serve a broader social role. These initiatives not only enhance financial inclusion but also reinforce a bank's standing as a trusted local partner. Data analytics also plays a pivotal role. By leveraging in-branch behavioural insights and digital footprints, banks can personalise services, improve compliance, and reduce operating costs. But this must be done with care. Customers expect transparency - they want to know how their data is used and why. When done ethically, data can be a force for empowerment rather than exclusion. This shift to hybridisation is not merely a tactical adjustment but a reflection of long-term structural change in customer expectations. Customers today want contextual banking - where the service, advice, or access is timely, relevant, and seamless across platforms. A hybrid branch delivers that continuity. One important factor often overlooked is emotional intelligence in banking. Human interactions at branches still serve an irreplaceable role in resolving distress, clarifying complexity, or simply reassuring clients during uncertain economic times. While algorithms can recommend, only people can empathise. From a regulatory perspective, hybrid branches align with growing expectations around inclusive access and responsible service models. As banks transition further into digital ecosystems, supervisory bodies are placing greater emphasis on fairness, reach, and customer understanding. Maintaining localised, digitally supported branches is one of the most effective ways to ensure these priorities are met in practice. Globally, we observe that national strategies around financial wellbeing - such as the UK's Consumer Duty or India's Jan Dhan mission - align well with hybrid frameworks. Both emphasise simplicity, reach, and financial literacy. A branch with integrated digital advisory services can execute this vision at scale. Hybrid models are also better suited to engaging younger customers, who may begin their journey digitally but require guidance on milestone decisions - buying a home, saving for education, or starting a small enterprise. These are moments where in-person conversations add trust to technology. Cost efficiency is often cited as a barrier to retaining physical branches. However, data shows that branches reconfigured for multi-functionality, co-location with community services, and intelligent workforce deployment can achieve profitable impact. It's not about square footage; it's about strategic utility. Leadership teams across global retail banks are increasingly looking at hybrid not as a transitional model but as a permanent backbone. It enables a distributed presence, resilience in operations, and a human-digital blend that reflects modern service economies. Banks that act now will shape the next decade of responsible banking. To be clear, this is not a nostalgic defence of the branch. It is a forward-looking argument grounded in customer data, regulatory trends, and operational resilience. Digital-only may scale, but hybrid delivers sustainability - with impact rooted in real people, real lives, and real outcomes. In summary, the hybrid branch-bank model is a dynamic, inclusive, and resilient response to the evolving landscape of financial services. It retains the best of traditional banking - personal trust, familiarity, and presence - while layering on the tools of tomorrow. As financial leaders, the onus is on us to ensure that our strategies reflect not just digital ambition but human purpose. Dr. Gulzar Singh is Founder & CEO of Phoenix Thoughtworks "Hybrid branch-bank models & digital inclusion in retail banking" was originally created and published by Retail Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Entrepreneur
17 hours ago
- Business
- Entrepreneur
The Telecom Enabler: Anuradha Gupta, CEO, Amantaya
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. You're reading Entrepreneur India, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. "We offer a comprehensive range of services designed to address the diverse needs of our global clientele. Our offerings include product development, system integration, testing, and consultancy, with a focus on wireless and digital technologies. We provide end-to-end solutions that enable our clients to navigate the complexities of digital transformation, ensuring they stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market,' said Anuradha Gupta, CEO, Amantaya. Amantya is the first in India to offer a 5G SA Core and Network-in-a-Box, enabling diverse deployments from smart logistics and Industry 4.0 to connectivity in underserved areas. "With TTDF funding, our 5G SA Core will become carrier-grade within the next year, incorporating enhanced scalability, reliability and advanced features to support large-scale network deployments and complex use cases," she added. The solutions are driving global impact in the telecom domain by fostering economic growth, creating job opportunities, and enabling innovation. By unlocking new use cases across industries, it anticipate generating over 2,000 new jobs in diverse domains over the next five years. "Cost-efficiency and flexibility are central to our offerings," the CEO said. The growth plans for the next two years are centered around expanding market presence, fostering innovation and entering new geographies. "We are dedicated to advancing our research and development initiatives to create cutting-edge technologies in wireless, Digital, and AI domains. This includes expanding our accelerators and solutions portfolio, ensuring they continue to align with customer needs. We aim to deepen our collaborations with leading industry players across Indian and global markets to fast-track the adoption of 5G and allied technologies. Our growth plans include entering new markets such as Japan and the EU, alongside strengthening our presence in established regions like India, the USA, the UK, Canada, and the Middle East. Additionally, we are committed to supporting the Government of India's 'Make in India' initiative by developing indigenous 5G solutions," Gupta explained. Factsheet: Year of inception: 2018 No. of employees:800+ Major clients: Verizon, DISH, TCS, C-DOT, and more IP developed/patented (no. - if more than one and names)– 5G SA Core, 5G Network-in-a-Box, Multi-Access Gateway, and Test Automation Tools for RAN, Core, and Wi-Fi testing.
Arabian Business
18 hours ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Deloitte and AWS unveil $1bn Middle East digital transformation alliance by 2030
Deloitte Middle East and Amazon Web Services (AWS) have announced a landmark expansion of their strategic alliance, aiming to deliver $1bn worth of digital services by 2030. The agreement is set to transform key sectors across the Middle East by advancing cloud adoption, AI integration, and digital resilience at scale. Unveiled during a leadership meeting at Deloitte's offices in Dubai, the collaboration will drive large-scale transformation through cloud-native technologies, secure infrastructure, and generative AI, while also expanding talent capabilities and technical infrastructure in the region. Deloitte Middle East and AWS partnership This initiative will focus on helping organisations across industries modernise operations, boost agility, and unlock innovation. Sectors to benefit include: Banking and financial services Energy and utilities Public sector and healthcare Key focus areas will include: Cloud strategy and architecture Application modernisation AI development and integration Cybersecurity and governance Deloitte will increase its network of AWS-certified professionals and establish dedicated Centres of Excellence across the Middle East to support complex digital transformation efforts. Rashid Bashir, Technology and Transformation Leader at Deloitte Middle East, said: 'This initiative is a major step forward in our mission to drive large-scale transformation for organizations across the region. 'By deepening our alliance with AWS, we are not only investing in advanced technologies but also in the talent and tools that local businesses need to thrive. 'Together, we will help clients accelerate innovation, build resilience, and unlock long-term value through cloud and AI adoption at scale – starting right here in the Middle East.' The expanded alliance builds on successful collaborations in Europe and Africa, where Deloitte and AWS have supported hundreds of organisations with full-spectrum digital transformation—from strategy to execution. Tanuja Randery, Managing Director for Europe, Middle East and Africa at AWS, said: 'This collaboration means Deloitte and AWS can bring their proven methodology for industry solutions to customers in the Middle East. 'Customers can look forward to significantly accelerating the pace of their bold transformation projects by having a partner which will stay with them from inception to value realisation'.
Entrepreneur
20 hours ago
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Riding on India's Push Towards Digital, Data, and Cloud: Manoj Nagpal
Over the past three decades, OpenText has transformed from a document management innovator into a global leader in Information Management, serving over 120,000 enterprise customers in 180 countries. You're reading Entrepreneur India, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. Tech 25: Manoj Nagpal, MD, OpenText India and VP Professional Services OpenText began as a collaborative research project between the University of Waterloo and Oxford University in 1991, originally aiming to digitise and make the Oxford English Dictionary searchable. This pioneering effort in full-text search laid the foundation for what would become one of the world's top ten software companies today. Over the past three decades, OpenText has transformed from a document management innovator into a global leader in Information Management, serving over 120,000 enterprise customers in 180 countries. Today, it has a portfolio of AI-led, cloud-based software and services that power and protect information across complex digital ecosystems. In India, since 2004, OpenText has been a key enabler of digital transformation, supporting mission-critical initiatives across both public and private sectors. "OpenText delivers one of the most comprehensive Information Management platforms in the industry, spanning content services, business network, cybersecurity, IT operations, digital experience, and developer APIs. With the launch of Titanium X and the OpenText Aviator platform, we are bringing generative AI and automation to the heart of enterprise workflows. These technologies are transforming how businesses operate by augmenting knowledge workers with AI agents, reducing complexity, automating decisions, and unlocking new productivity frontiers," says Manoj Nagpal, MD, OpenText India and VP Professional Services. Asked how he ensures his company stays ahead and relevant in a constantly changing marketplace, Nagpal says, "We stay ahead by embracing transformation ourselves. OpenText consistently evolves with the market, most recently through a bold shift to a cloud-first, AI-integrated strategy and a reimagining of our brand as a unified innovator rather than a 'house of brands'. At the heart of our approach is continuous investment in R&D, strategic acquisitions, and product simplification." OpenText's Indian innovation hubs play a pivotal role in global product engineering and partners closely with customers to co-innovate. "By aligning closely with megatrends like AI, Zero Trust security, and responsible automation, we ensure long-term relevance and leadership," he says. India's accelerated push toward digital transformation, increasing data regulation, and demand for cloud-native solutions are key drivers for OpenText, says Nagpal. "Organisations across BFSI, government, manufacturing, and telecom are prioritising secure information management, intelligent automation, and AI-led insights—all core strengths of our platform. Even amid global headwinds, India's tech spending continues to rise, particularly in compliance-driven and AI-powered transformations." In terms of its growth plans, OpenText aims to deepen its market penetration in India by expanding its capabilities in cloud, security, AI, and increasing local customer engagements. "We are also growing our presence in regulated sectors like BFSI and government, where data sovereignty and security are paramount. India will continue to play a strategic role in our global R&D operations, with plans to expand our engineering and innovation hubs. Moreover, we aim to grow our team here and invest significantly in talent over the coming years. We aim to increase our headcount from 6500 currently to 10,000 in 3 years," says Nagpal. Company Facts: Year of Inception: 1991 (Global), 2004 (India operations) Number of Employees: ~6500 in India (part of ~24,000 globally) Revenue for 2024: USD 5.8 billion (Region-wise revenue not disclosed) Major Clients: Aircel, Vodafone, DHFL Pramerica (DPLI), Tata Consultancy Services, L&T Technology Services, etc. Any IP Developed/Patented: Over 700 global patents across AI, cybersecurity, cloud orchestration, and enterprise content management technologies
