Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) is a beacon of transformation in the technological landscape, heralding unprecedented advancements in efficiency and productivity for organizations worldwide. However, this groundbreaking technology is currently navigating turbulent waters, with public trust seemingly in decline.

A recent survey has illuminated a concerning trend: only 39% of adults in the U.S. now trust that AI technologies are safe and secure, marking a significant drop from previous figures. The shift in public sentiment is even more telling, with most Americans harboring more fear than excitement toward AI. This growing mistrust is hardly surprising, given the relentless media focus on AI's potential for harm, including its propensity for generating misinformation, hate speech, and the existential threats it poses.

As marketers, we find ourselves at the crossroads of an intriguing challenge: How do we leverage the immense potential of GenAI, a technology mired in controversy, while simultaneously safeguarding our brand's trustworthiness? Here are three strategies that could help marketers navigate this complex landscape:

1. Transparency and Education: One of the foundational steps in rebuilding trust is transparency about how AI technologies work and their limitations. Educating the public and customers about the mechanisms of GenAI, the ethical considerations in its development, and the measures taken to mitigate risks can demystify the technology and alleviate fears.
2. Ethical AI Use and Advocacy: Marketers must not only ensure that their use of GenAI adheres to the highest ethical standards but also actively advocate for industry-wide ethical practices. This includes being vocal about the importance of bias mitigation, privacy protection, and the responsible use of AI-generated content. By setting an example and pushing for ethical guidelines, brands can position themselves as trustworthy leaders in the responsible deployment of AI.
3. Engaging with Concerns: It's crucial for marketers not to dismiss public concerns about AI as unfounded or trivial. Instead, engaging with these concerns directly, acknowledging the potential risks, and detailing the steps being taken to address them can foster a dialogue based on understanding and reassurance. This approach shows that a brand values its audience's apprehensions and is committed to being part of the solution.

In conclusion, while GenAI presents many opportunities for marketers, the path forward must be carefully navigated, emphasizing transparency, ethical use, and engagement with public concerns. By adopting these strategies, marketers can harness the benefits of GenAI while maintaining and even enhancing the trust in their brand. As we stand on the brink of this AI revolution, let's commit to a future where technology and trust go hand in hand.

Read the article: https://www.fastcompany.com/9104276...-ai-responsibly-without-losing-customer-trust

Cybersecurity is crucial for protecting our digital world, yet it significantly lacks female representation. This underrepresentation is not just a matter of equality and diversity; it's a missed opportunity for the industry to harness a broader spectrum of perspectives and skills. As someone who has observed firsthand the talent, hard work, and innovation that women bring to any role, I believe it's essential to delve into the root causes of this issue and explore potential strategies for change.

Stereotypes and Social Biases: The journey towards underrepresentation begins early, influenced by societal stereotypes and biases. Like many STEM fields, cybersecurity is perceived as male-dominated, a notion reinforced by media, societal expectations, and even the marketing of toys and games. This early gendered divide in interest and confidence in technology is a significant barrier to entry for many women.

Educational Barriers: The bias extends into education, where girls often face discouraging environments in STEM subjects. The lack of female role models, gender-biased teaching methods, and sometimes overt discouragement contribute to the dwindling interest and participation of girls in fields like cybersecurity. Despite the critical need for diverse talents in cybersecurity, educational institutions frequently fail to provide an inclusive curriculum or engage all students equally.

The Bigger Picture: Some argue that encouraging young women into STEM is a solution to searching for a problem, particularly in the First World. However, I believe the real issue lies in a widespread lack of competency and the prevalence of imposter syndrome among practitioners. The overwhelming realities of cybersecurity work and the scarcity of comprehensive knowledge among even the most seasoned professionals underscore the need for diverse perspectives and skills.

In conclusion, the underrepresentation of women in cybersecurity is a multifaceted issue requiring concerted effort to address. By challenging stereotypes, transforming educational environments, and valuing the unique contributions of women, we can begin to close the gender gap in cybersecurity. The field benefits immensely from including more women, not just in terms of equality and diversity but in its overall effectiveness in safeguarding our digital world. Let's work together to make cybersecurity a welcoming and inclusive field for everyone.

Read the article: https://www.govinfosecurity.com/blogs/are-there-fewer-women-than-men-in-cybersecurity-p-3584

Liebe DACH Community,
anbei ein paar Bilder - die Slides folgen auch bald.

Ladet gerne auch Eure Bilder hoch, die Ihr an jenem Tag gemacht habt.

LG,
Katrin

Sharing some pictures from our recent CCF event. Maybe you can spot yourself if you were there. If you missed it then maybe we'll see you at ChannelCon.

As you can see, a real mix of learning and fun!

Grabbed some photos of the session going on in Chicago right now. Great conversations!

Happy International Women's Day 2024

Join our online Advancing Women in Technology Interest Group and work with us to support and lift up our amazing women, whatever stage of their career journey they're at. This group is not just for women, men can be allies for women too. In fact, often some of our biggest supporters are men. We'll be meeting online every 2 months and we'd love your input regards initiatives, guest speakers etc.

This photo shows the first meeting of our group. I'm sure you'll agree, we're a strong and mighty bunch

Drop us a note here if you'd like to get involved - together we're stronger #CompTIACommunity

Regards

Leanne

From the blog.

We asked our community volunteer leaders @Sibyl Jacob , @Lieve Van de Voorde, @Brook Lee to share their experiences in the tech workplace and what they would say to women trying to make it in tech. Here’s what they had to say.



What would your tips be to women trying to make it in tech?

In the ever-evolving realm of technology, the introduction of Wi-Fi 7 marks a significant milestone in the journey towards achieving lightning-fast speeds, exceptional reliability, and unparalleled performance in wireless connectivity. As an expert in computer science and telecommunication, I am thrilled to share my insights on this groundbreaking innovation. Wi-Fi 7 is not just an incremental update but a transformative leap forward that promises to redefine our interconnected world. Let's explore the unique features of Wi-Fi 7 and discuss its potential impact on our digital lives.

The Imperative for Wi-Fi 7: Our world is increasingly becoming dependent on wireless connectivity for various aspects of daily life, from smart home devices to the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, and the demand for bandwidth-intensive applications is surging. Wi-Fi 7 emerges as a beacon of hope, designed to meet these escalating demands by offering swifter and more robust performance than ever before. It aims to transcend the capabilities of its predecessor, Wi-Fi 6, and address the formidable challenge of providing an efficient and responsive wireless experience globally.

Key Features of Wi-Fi 7: Wi-Fi 7 is poised to revolutionize the connectivity landscape with its array of pioneering features. It sets a new benchmark in wireless networking by offering elevated spectral efficiency and unparalleled multi-band operation. Some of the most promising features of Wi-Fi 7 include:

1. Enhanced Spectral Efficiency: Wi-Fi 7 utilizes advanced technologies to maximize the data transmitted over wireless spectrums, significantly boosting network efficiency and capacity.
2. Multi-Band Operation: It supports operation across multiple frequency bands, allowing devices to switch or combine bands for optimal performance seamlessly.
3. Improved Latency: Wi-Fi 7 is designed to reduce latency dramatically, ensuring smoother and more responsive online experiences, especially crucial for gaming and real-time applications.

Discussion Points:

1. Impact on IoT and Smart Devices: How will Wi-Fi 7 transform the IoT ecosystem and the functionality of smart devices in our homes and workplaces?
2. Challenges and Opportunities: What are the potential challenges in adopting Wi-Fi 7, and what opportunities does it present for businesses and consumers alike?
3. Future of Connectivity: With the advent of Wi-Fi 7, what can we anticipate for the future of wireless connectivity? How will it shape the development of emerging technologies?

Conclusion: Wi-Fi 7 represents a significant leap towards a future where ultra-fast, reliable, and seamless connectivity is the norm. As we stand on the brink of this new era, it's essential to understand the capabilities and implications of Wi-Fi 7 for our interconnected world. By embracing this latest advancement in wireless technology, we can unlock new possibilities and pave the way for innovation across various sectors. Let's engage in a thoughtful discussion on Wi-Fi 7 and explore how it will shape the landscape of digital connectivity.

Read the article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes...u-need-to-know-about-wi-fi-7/?sh=5dccf722b059

The tech industry, celebrated for its innovation and forward-thinking, faces a critical challenge that threatens to undermine its progress: the significant underrepresentation of women, especially in leadership roles. Recent data from the WomenTech Network reveals a stark reality: women hold less than 24% of tech leadership positions across industries as of 2023. This issue is further compounded by the disproportionate impact of tech layoffs on women, with 69% of those laid off in 2022 being women. This discussion aims to shed light on the systemic barriers women face in tech and explore actionable strategies to promote gender balance.

The Gender Gap in Tech Leadership: The disparity in leadership roles is not just a number; it's a reflection of the broader societal norms and implicit biases that influence hiring and promotion practices. The tech layoffs of 2022 have exacerbated this gap, reducing the pool of experienced women candidates for leadership positions and reinforcing the glass-ceiling effect. This trend not only hinders the progress of women in tech but also deprives the industry of diverse perspectives that are crucial for innovation.

Consequences of the Gender Imbalance: The underrepresentation of women in tech leadership has far-reaching implications. It limits the availability of women role models and mentors, which is essential for guiding and supporting the next generation of women in tech. Furthermore, the lack of job security and the perception of instability within the tech industry can deter women from pursuing long-term careers in this field. This cycle of underrepresentation and insecurity poses a significant challenge to achieving gender balance in tech.

Discussion Points:

1. Strategies for Promoting Gender Balance: What actionable steps can organizations take to address the gender gap in tech leadership? How can we ensure that hiring and promotion practices are free from bias?
2. Supporting Women in Tech: How can the tech industry create a more supportive environment for women, including mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and career development resources?
3. Addressing the Layoff Disparity: What measures can be implemented to prevent the disproportionate impact of layoffs on women in the tech industry?
4. The Role of Male Allies: Considering the discomfort many male managers feel in mentoring women, how can we encourage and facilitate male allyship in the tech industry?

Conclusion: The gender imbalance in tech is not just a women's issue; it's an industry-wide problem that requires collective action. By addressing the systemic barriers that women face and implementing targeted strategies to support and promote women in tech, we can begin to close the gender gap and unleash the full potential of innovation in the industry. Let's come together to discuss and implement solutions that will reboot the gender balance in tech for good.

Read the article: https://www.entrepreneur.com/leader...e-techs-gender-disparity-in-leadership/469543

In a world where every advancement seems to be countered by a new challenge, the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) presents a complex scenario of optimism and apprehension. Employees across the globe are wrestling with questions about AI's impact on their careers, while employers are calculating the potential financial benefits and strategic advantages. This discussion aims to explore the multifaceted relationship between AI, employees, and employers, particularly from the perspective of those in leadership roles.

The Employee's Dilemma: For many workers, AI represents a double-edged sword. On one hand, it holds the promise of streamlining tasks and unlocking new opportunities for innovation. On the other, there's a palpable fear of job displacement, skill obsolescence, and the unsettling prospect of reporting to an AI-driven manager. These concerns raise important questions about the future of work and the role of human employees in an increasingly automated world.

The Employer's Calculus: From the boss's viewpoint, AI is primarily seen as a lever for enhancing productivity and profitability. The allure of AI-driven efficiencies and cost savings is undeniable, but integrating this technology into the workplace is not without its challenges. Convincing employees to embrace AI, overcoming resistance to change, and navigating the ethical implications of automation are just a few of the hurdles that leaders must clear.

Discussion Points:

1. Employee Empowerment vs. Displacement: How can organizations balance the use of AI to enhance employee productivity without fueling fears of job loss or devaluation of human skills?
2. Cultural Integration of AI: What strategies can leaders employ to seamlessly integrate AI into their organizational culture, ensuring that it is perceived as a tool for empowerment rather than a threat?
3. Ethical Considerations: As AI becomes more prevalent in decision-making roles, what ethical guidelines should organizations follow to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability?
4. Future of Leadership: With AI's potential to revolutionize business operations, how might the role of human leaders evolve? Will AI augment leadership capabilities, or could it eventually replace certain leadership functions?

Conclusion: The journey into the AI era is fraught with both promise and peril. As we stand at this crossroads, it's crucial for both employees and employers to engage in open dialogue about their hopes, fears, and expectations regarding AI. By fostering a collaborative approach to AI integration, organizations can harness its potential while safeguarding the interests and well-being of their human workforce. Let's delve into this complex topic and share insights on navigating the AI landscape together.

Read the article: https://www.zdnet.com/article/how-do-you-get-employees-to-embrace-ai-you-may-find-this-sneaky/

The term "Real World Assets" (RWAs) might seem self-explanatory, but its application within the blockchain ecosystem opens up a fascinating dialogue. RWAs in the blockchain context refer to the digital representation of tangible assets or the rights associated with them through tokens. This concept is not about owning virtual properties in digital realms but about bridging the tangible world with the digital one.

The Essence of RWAs: Imagine owning a token that represents a share in a real estate property, not a virtual one but an actual house or apartment in the physical world. This is the essence of RWAs. They bring the concept of asset ownership into the blockchain, allowing for innovative ways to manage and invest in real-world properties.

Fractional Ownership and Its Benefits: A particularly interesting aspect of RWAs is the possibility of fractional ownership. For instance, an apartment can be divided into numerous tokens, each representing a share of the property or even a share of the rental income it generates. This fractionalization makes the investment more liquid and accessible, opening up opportunities for a broader range of investors.

Discussion Points:

1. Liquidity and Accessibility: How do RWAs improve liquidity and accessibility for investors compared to traditional asset ownership? What implications does this have for the real estate market and other asset classes?
2. Fractional Ownership: What are the potential benefits and challenges of fractional ownership of real-world assets? How does it change the dynamics of investment and ownership?
3. Investor Community: With RWAs making investments more accessible, how might this affect the community of investors? Could this lead to a more democratized investment landscape?
4. Regulatory Considerations: What are the potential regulatory implications of tokenizing real-world assets? How might governments and regulatory bodies respond to this emerging trend?

Conclusion: RWAs represent a groundbreaking intersection of the physical and digital worlds, offering new possibilities for asset ownership and investment. By discussing the implications, benefits, and challenges of RWAs, we can better understand how blockchain technology is reshaping our approach to real-world assets. Let's dive into this discussion and explore the future of RWAs together.

Read the article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes...t-that-means-for-enterprises/?sh=34e476437743

Hi everyone,

Thank you to all who were able to join our interest group call today where Wayne Selk, our VP of Cybersecurity Programs presented ISAO and Trustmark. There was also a healthy discussion and questions from both our ANZ and ASEAN participants on this call where members heard from Zaun Bhana from Leap Consulting, who hold a previous Trustmark accreditation, along with input from MSPs currently in the process of obtaining Trustmark accreditation.

Here is a link to the recording, https://comptia.zoom.us/rec/share/n...9b7atYaTCfCbtdIG4xruaZ--veus.hrheYoN7CeCKKtDc

The slides are attached.

And a link to Leap Consulting

Hi there,

In advance of Tracy Pound of Maximity's amazing session - Strategic Thinking and Action: Tools and Techniques for Business Success - coming up at our CompTIA Community UK & Ireland meeting in Manchester on 5 March, I'm posting some follow up CompTIA resource links here.

If you joined the session and want access to the resources then here you go.... If you unfortunately missed Tracy's session then please still feel free to take a look at the items via the links and provide any feedback here

MSP Guidebook https://my.comptia.org/resource-lib...k-cultivating-a-culture-of-process-efficiency

UK Legal Playbook https://my.comptia.org/resource-library/content/uk-legal-playbook

Marketing Toolkit https://my.comptia.org/resource-library/content/marketing-toolkit-for-msps

Maximizing Operational Efficiency - https://comptia.litmos.com/course/9907386

Elevating Your Sales Operation - https://comptia.litmos.com/course/7436080

I hope you find these useful.

The global aviation industry is navigating through an era of unprecedented challenges. With soaring jet fuel prices, labor shortages, and equipment scarcities, the pressure on the industry's bottom lines has never been more intense. Amidst these hurdles, blockchain technology is emerging as a beacon of hope, offering innovative solutions to enhance operational efficiency and provide airports with a much-needed competitive edge.

The Power of Blockchain in Aviation

Blockchain technology, with its advanced database capabilities, facilitates the recording of transactions on an immutable ledger. This ledger, securely shared both internally and externally among interconnected companies, enables a seamless exchange of value and establishes a single source of truth, a feat that was previously unattainable.

Alan Vey, the founder of Aventus, highlights the transformative potential of blockchain in aviation, emphasizing its role in streamlining operations and enhancing the passenger experience. The adoption of blockchain is not a distant future prospect but a current reality, with leading airports like Heathrow and Zurich already implementing blockchain-powered solutions. These initiatives are revolutionizing cargo management efficiencies and delivering benefits across the aviation sector.

Redefining Airport Operations

The integration of blockchain technology is reshaping the very fabric of airport operations. It's not merely about embracing the latest technological advancements; it's about fundamentally altering how airports function, improving the journey for millions of passengers worldwide.

As we explore the evolving landscape of air travel, it becomes evident that blockchain technology holds the key to not only smoother operations but also a reimagined experience for all stakeholders involved, from airport and airline executives to passengers.

This discussion invites you to share your thoughts on the integration of blockchain technology in the aviation industry. How do you envision blockchain transforming the future of air travel? What challenges and opportunities do you foresee in its adoption? Let's delve into the potential impacts of blockchain on aviation, exploring how it can revolutionize the industry and enhance the travel experience for everyone involved.

Read the article: https://www.airport-technology.com/...-taking-flight-in-aviation/?cf-view&cf-closed

In the digital age, where data overload has become the norm, artificial intelligence (AI) emerges as a beacon of hope, offering us the tools to sift through the cacophony. The advent of today's AI models, particularly the large language models powering generative AI, has revolutionized our ability to process vast amounts of data, even enabling the creation of poetry. It's my belief that, when approached with caution and intelligence, AI has the potential to significantly enhance the lives of nearly everyone.

In the realm of business, AI's capabilities can unearth insights and generate outputs at a pace far beyond human capacity, acting as a force multiplier for our innate business acumen and benefiting all stakeholders involved.

However, it's imperative to recognize that AI, for all its potential, is a potent tool requiring judicious handling. The art of providing and managing the essential guidance for AI operations stands as a crucial new skill that every business leader must acquire.

Why AI Needs Human Oversight

It's important to remember that technology, by itself, lacks a moral compass. The deployment of extraordinary tools like AI necessitates equally extraordinary measures to ensure the protection of individuals affected by these technologies.

This responsibility extends beyond mere rhetoric; it demands a proactive and critical examination of the outputs generated by AI and the data underpinning these results. The ethical use of AI transcends technological considerations, touching upon deeper cultural values. It calls for a commitment from those in charge to wield these powerful tools with respect and consideration for the people they are intended to serve.

This discussion invites you to share your thoughts on the ethical use of AI in business and beyond. How can we balance the incredible capabilities of AI with the need for human oversight and ethical considerations? What measures can be implemented to ensure that AI serves as a tool for positive change without compromising our values and the well-being of society?

Let's delve into the complexities of navigating the AI landscape, exploring how we can harness its potential responsibly and ethically. Your insights and experiences are invaluable as we tackle these pressing questions together.

Read the article: https://www.fastcompany.com/91035128/modern-business-needs-ai-but-ai-needs-you

Have you ever pondered the reasons behind the predominant male presence in the tech industry? It's an intriguing question, especially considering that gender diversity within tech is notably lower compared to other sectors. This disparity is not merely a cultural phenomenon but a global issue that persists despite the growing awareness of its implications. Surprisingly, many countries have yet to take significant steps towards bridging this gap.

These obstacles often lead to discouragement among women, causing many to veer off their tech career paths or abandon them entirely. Workplace bias, particularly hostile in tech environments, manifests vividly during hiring and promotion processes. Women are stereotyped and subjected to biases, with some holding the erroneous belief that tech roles, especially high-level positions like CIOs, CTOs, and CISOs, are better suited to men due to the demanding nature of these jobs. This is further compounded by societal norms attributing superior leadership skills and competencies to men.

Another significant hurdle is boardroom politics. Women who ascend to C-suite positions in tech report having to exert double the effort to prove their worth compared to their male counterparts. While networking and informal discussions about promotions are common among men, often taking place in leisure settings like golf courses, women frequently find themselves unable to participate due to family or childcare commitments, forcing them to sacrifice work-life balance for career advancement.

The gender gap is also evident in education, particularly in STEM fields, where male students predominate. This imbalance in educational settings carries over into the corporate world, influencing hiring practices. However, it's noteworthy that tech companies with women in leadership positions tend to outperform their counterparts. This success could be attributed to women's risk management strategies and their meticulous attention to detail.

This discussion seeks to explore the experiences of women in the tech industry, the barriers they face, and the strategies they employ to navigate these challenges. How can the tech industry foster a more inclusive environment that not only welcomes women but also supports their advancement? What role can mentorship play in empowering women in tech? Let's delve into these questions and share insights on how to dismantle the barriers that hinder women's progress in the tech sector. Your experiences, thoughts, and suggestions are invaluable as we aim to create a more equitable and diverse technological landscape.

Read the article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes...in-c-suite-of-tech-companies/?sh=4e2c3cf12f93

I recently came across an insightful article that discusses the promising fusion of the Internet of Things (IoT) and edge computing in addressing the challenges of data processing and security in our rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Here are some key takeaways from the article:

1. Efficiency and Security: Integrating IoT with edge computing can lead to more efficient and secure data routing. By implementing a software-defined distributed edge network, data can be processed more swiftly and securely.
2. Immediacy: In a digital landscape where immediacy is not just desired but demanded, this fusion emerges as a beacon of innovation, ensuring swift, secure, and seamless operations.
3. Technological Revolution: We stand on the brink of a technological revolution. The quest for efficiency and security in IoT has led to this groundbreaking approach, paving the way for a smarter, more efficient world.

This fusion of IoT and edge computing presents an exciting opportunity for us to enhance our operations and services. I believe this is an important conversation for us to have as we continue to innovate and adapt to the changing technological landscape.

I encourage everyone to share their thoughts and ideas on leveraging this fusion of IoT and edge computing in our operations.

Read the article: https://bnnbreaking.com/tech/revolu...computing-redefines-data-routing-and-security

I recently read an intriguing article about the potential of drone deliveries in transforming the logistics industry. Despite the current challenges, the article suggests that if logistics companies can find a way to overcome these hurdles, drone deliveries could be the next big thing.

Here are some key points from the article:

1. Last-Mile Delivery: Drones are well-suited for short-range applications, making them ideal for last-mile delivery. The cost of deploying conventional vans for the last leg of shipping is high, and drones could offer a more cost-effective solution.
2. Same-Day Delivery: Drones are small, fast, and lightweight, typically holding only one package at a time. This makes them perfect for urgent order fulfillment and same-day delivery services.
3. Food and Grocery Delivery: The surge in food and grocery delivery services presents another potential application for cost-effective drones. Companies currently lose money paying their drivers, and drones could offer a more profitable solution.

The question now is, how long will it take for logistics companies to figure things out and overcome the current challenges?

This article provides an exciting glimpse into the future of logistics. I believe it's an important conversation for us to have as we continue to innovate and adapt to the changing landscape of our industry.

I encourage everyone to share their thoughts and ideas on how we might leverage drone technology in our operations.

Read the article: https://hackernoon.com/how-close-are-we-to-widespread-drone-deliveries

I recently came across an insightful article that addresses the current challenges faced by business leaders amidst economic uncertainty, talent retention issues, and political polarization. The article emphasizes that in today's volatile business environment, leaders must prepare for various scenarios.

The article shares findings from a study conducted by Patrick Wright from the USC Darla Moore School of Business, who annually surveys Fortune 500 CHROs and interviews CEOs about the challenges they face. Here are some key points:

1. Developing Strategic Workforce Plans: This topped the list of CEO challenges, with 41% indicating this process needs improvement and 7% indicating it needs vast improvement.
2. Influencing the Development of Business Strategy: This was a priority, with 24% stating it needs improvement and 3% saying it needs vast improvement.
3. Understanding the Financial Impact of HR Processes: This was listed, with 22% noting it needs improvement and 2% asserting it needs vast improvement.

To better develop their workforces, business strategies, and HR processes, the article suggests executives consider the following approaches:

• Inclusive succession planning
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategic planning
• Inclusion assessments

These findings and suggestions provide a valuable perspective on the current business landscape and the areas we need to focus on for improvement. I believe this is an important conversation for us as we navigate these uncertain times.

I encourage everyone to share their thoughts and ideas on how we can better develop our workforce and influence our business strategy.

Read the article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/juliek...business-leaders-up-at-night/?sh=406a7c466d8c

I recently read an enlightening article that broadens the perspective on blockchain technology, moving beyond its common association with cryptocurrency. While blockchain indeed plays a significant role in the crypto industry, it's essentially a tech tool with potential applications that extend far beyond trading cryptocurrencies.

The article, featuring insights from 16 members of the Forbes Technology Council, highlights how blockchain technology can be leveraged to ensure ethical business practices and support humanitarian efforts. Here are a couple of key points that stood out:

1. Sending Funds for Humanitarian Relief: Blockchain-based ledgers can allow instant, global transfers of wealth without relying on local currencies or government stability. This can be particularly useful during crises when steep transfer fees and local inflationary instability can make it difficult to send value globally. For instance, the government of Ukraine accepted humanitarian donations via Ethereum, demonstrating the reliability of blockchain during a crisis.
2. Guaranteeing Contract Fulfillment: Blockchain can be used to manage the disbursements of funds. Smart contracts can lock up funds until the terms of the contract have been met. This not only gives vendors confidence in getting paid but also allows agencies to hold vendors accountable by not approving payment until the contract conditions have been met. Since it's a blockchain, the entire process is immutable and easily audited.

These examples illustrate the potential of blockchain technology in promoting better business practices and aiding humanitarian efforts. I believe this is an important conversation for us as we continue to explore and understand the potential of emerging technologies.

I encourage everyone to read more of the article and share their thoughts and ideas on how we might leverage blockchain technology beyond its traditional use in cryptocurrency.

Read the article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes...for-business-and-social-good/?sh=79eea0c04abc

I recently came across an interesting article that I believe warrants a discussion. The article discusses the readiness of businesses for AI transformation. According to Cisco’s AI Readiness Index for 2023, only 14% of businesses worldwide are prepared to leverage and deploy artificial intelligence. This statistic is particularly concerning for European companies, who are struggling to train their employees on AI use and develop a clear strategy for responsible AI.

David Shrier, a futurist and leader of venture studio Visionary Futures LLC, says, “At the moment, businesses aren’t well-equipped to deal with AI. It’s not going as fast as it should.” Shrier suggests that businesses must build new skills, build processes to scale AI, and change their corporate governance to align AI ambition with practice.

So, what does this mean for us? Here are some points for us to consider:

1. Building Expertise: We need to ensure that our team, from the CEO to the employees, understands what AI can and can't do. This understanding will help us leverage AI effectively.
2. Establishing New Processes: We need to understand where our data goes when using AI tools and how to manage and prevent leaks and cybersecurity risks. This is particularly important as the article mentions employees using AI without their manager’s knowledge and even prompting tools like ChatGPT with confidential data.

I believe this is an important conversation for us to have as we continue to navigate the digital transformation. I encourage everyone to share their thoughts and ideas on how we can better prepare for the AI transformation.

Read the article: https://thenextweb.com/news/3-ways-businesses-should-prepare-ai-transformation

📣 CompTIA Community Benelux is launching the Advancing Women in Technology Interest Group. We're inviting everyone who's passionate about fostering positive change in the tech industry.
🚀 Be part of a dynamic group that empowers women at all stages of their tech careers.
📆 Save the Date: 19th February, 1-2 pm CET. Join us for an interactive online session where your ideas can shape projects and strategies to support women in tech.
🔗 Ready to make a difference?https://lnkd.in/ehquQ6Ec
🌐 Together, we can redefine the tech industry, making it more inclusive and diverse. Let's shatter ceilings and set new standards. Your voice is vital, and we're eager to hear it.
👩‍💻 Women in technology. Join us and be the change! #WomenInTech #CompTIACommunity

📣 CompTIA Community Benelux is launching the Advancing Women in Technology Interest Group. We're inviting everyone who's passionate about fostering positive change in the tech industry.
🚀 Be part of a dynamic group that empowers women at all stages of their tech careers.
📆 Save the Date: 19th February, 1-2 pm CET. Join us for an interactive online session where your ideas can shape projects and strategies to support women in tech.
🔗 Ready to make a difference?https://lnkd.in/ehquQ6Ec
🌐 Together, we can redefine the tech industry, making it more inclusive and diverse. Let's shatter ceilings and set new standards. Your voice is vital, and we're eager to hear it.
👩‍💻 Women in technology. Join us and be the change! #WomenInTech #CompTIACommunity

@Lieve Van de Voorde @Daniëlle Meulenberg @Valerie Vernout @Sibyl Jacob

Good afternoon,

Hope this message finds you well

Here is a link to our latest on-demand webinar. It's not live, so you can watch it any time you want. Set aside an hour and you will pick up some really valuable tips and tricks.

Access our full range of on-demand webinars.

The potential of blockchain to reshape the financial landscape is immense, but it's currently hindered by a critical debate: how to balance innovation with regulatory oversight.

The blockchain community's pursuit of completely decentralized, anonymous transactions often clashes with the reality that without some level of government control, mass adoption may remain elusive. The future of blockchain could involve platforms capable of high transactional throughput, integrating essential regulatory elements while preserving core principles like privacy and decentralization.

However, this vision is not without controversy. Critics argue that increased regulation could suppress innovation, leading to a less dynamic blockchain space. On the other hand, proponents view regulatory adaptation as an inevitable evolution for blockchain's maturity and wider acceptance. This tension between innovation and regulation is a central issue in determining blockchain's future.

Beyond innovation, blockchain's potential lies in revolutionizing our financial infrastructure. A forward-thinking blockchain model could include participatory governance features, allowing users to influence its evolution and making it more responsive to both emerging technological trends and regulatory changes.

As we continue to explore and leverage blockchain technology in our work, it's crucial to consider how we can balance the need for innovation with the necessity of regulation. I encourage everyone to reflect on this topic and consider how we can contribute to this ongoing debate.

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and ideas on this matter.

Read the article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes...ulation-to-foster-innovation/?sh=332d037c47f1