January 1, 2025
Tech News
Japan’s Sumitomo Rubber Industries is set to streamline its global manufacturing processes by integrating business and production data. The company will implement Rockwell Automation’s FactoryTalk ProductionCentre to enhance operational efficiency and address challenges like rising material costs and labor shortages. The deployment will start at its Shirakawa plant and expand to other locations by 2026, aiming to strengthen its organizational structure through digital transformation.
The tech industry is focusing on innovation and resilience as key themes for 2025. Industry leaders emphasize the importance of finding talent, building trust, and ensuring cybersecurity while integrating legacy systems with new technologies. Despite economic challenges, technology spending remains strong, driven by the need for digital transformation and improved customer experiences. The report highlights various challenges, including skills gaps and the complexities of hybrid cloud environments.
Small businesses are bracing for a potential TikTok ban, which could significantly impact their marketing and customer engagement strategies. Many rely on the platform for advertising and direct sales, with estimates suggesting a loss of over $1 billion in revenue if the ban is enforced. Business owners are exploring alternative platforms like Instagram and YouTube, but express concerns about losing the reach and functionality that TikTok provides.
Tech Explained
Digital Transformation – The process of using digital technologies to create new or modify existing business processes, culture, and customer experiences to meet changing business and market requirements.
Cybersecurity – The practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks aimed at accessing, changing, or destroying sensitive information.
Hybrid Cloud – A computing environment that combines a public cloud and a private cloud, allowing data and applications to be shared between them.
Artificial Intelligence – The simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, such as learning, reasoning, and self-correction.
Digital Marketing – The use of digital channels, such as social media, email, and websites, to promote products and services to targeted audiences.
