Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions — The Podcast: Recent Episodes

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We are Hitachi Solutions. A global, Microsoft systems integrator delivering end-to-end business transformation through advisory services, industry and technology expertise, and implementation excellence. Join us as our team shares how we’re working with customers just like you — delivering outcomes, tackling challenges, and leveraging technology to accelerate their business modernization initiatives.

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AI initiatives rarely fail because the technology isn’t powerful enough. More often, they stall long before delivering measurable impact, stuck in pilot mode due to gaps in data readiness, architecture, and long-term sustainability.

In this episode of Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions, I sat down with Evan Sotos, Senior Manager of Engineering, to break down the three most common hurdles that slow AI progress, and how organizations can move through them faster. From unclear data foundations to time-consuming infrastructure work and ongoing maintenance fatigue, these challenges are familiar to any team trying to operationalize AI.

Evan shares a practical perspective shaped by real-world implementations, along with how the Hitachi Unified Data Accelerator helps organizations bypass months of setup and complexity. By providing a proven foundation, built on best practices, flexible architecture, and preconfigured connectivity, teams can spend less time standing up environments and more time actually using their data to drive outcomes.

This conversation sets the stage for what it really takes to move from experimentation to execution, and how to build an AI foundation that’s designed to scale.

Key Takeaways

AI Stalls at the Starting Line
Most AI projects don’t fail because of weak models. Instead, they stall because the data isn’t ready. As a result, teams get stuck before they can show real business value.

Data Readiness Is Ongoing
There’s no finish line for data readiness. Instead, it depends on the outcomes you want to drive. As goals change, your data needs to evolve with them.

Setup Slows Progress
Before AI can deliver value, teams must build the foundation. That includes setting up environments, connecting data, and testing models. However, this work can take months and delay impact.

Governance Enables Scale
As AI expands, so does access to data. Therefore, strong governance is critical. Teams need clear controls for access, security, and data lineage to reduce risk.

Manual Work Holds Teams Back
Much of the effort goes into building and maintaining pipelines. Because of this, teams spend less time solving real business problems with data.

A Faster Way to Get Started
The Hitachi Unified Data Accelerator helps teams move faster. It brings together best practices, proven architecture, and prebuilt connectors. As a result, organizations can skip setup and focus on outcomes.

Less Maintenance, More Impact
Instead of adding another layer of work, the accelerator reduces it. For example, it minimizes ongoing fixes and updates. This allows teams to focus on insights and innovation.

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Modern data platforms are evolving—and speed, scale, and efficiency are becoming non‑negotiable.

In this episode of Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions, host Matt Volke sits down with Evan Sotos, Engineering Manager for the Empower Data Platform, fresh off his return from NVIDIA GTC. Together, they explore how GPU acceleration is moving beyond AI and machine learning—and into the core of data engineering.

The conversation dives into what Evan heard from engineers, partners, and vendors at GTC, why NVIDIA is positioning itself as an algorithms company, and how technologies like NVIDIA RAPIDS are being used to dramatically accelerate analytics and data pipelines without rewriting existing code.

What You’ll Learn

· Why GPU acceleration is becoming a core capability for modern data platforms, not just AI workloads

· What NVIDIA RAPIDS is and how it enables existing CPU‑based workloads to run on GPUs

· How GPU acceleration can significantly reduce processing time and overall compute costs

· Why “zero code changes” is such a critical advantage for real‑world data teams

· Which types of data workloads benefit most from GPU‑accelerated pipelines

From AI Buzz to Real‑World Data Engineering Impact

While NVIDIA GTC is often associated with AI and large language models, this conversation highlights a broader shift: GPUs are increasingly being applied to traditional data engineering and analytics workloads.

Evan shares how NVIDIA RAPIDS acts as a mapping layer that allows existing Spark and Databricks workloads to take advantage of GPU compute. Rather than forcing teams to refactor complex, production‑grade code, GPU acceleration can be enabled through configuration—making it practical for teams to test, validate, and adopt without disruption.

The result? Faster pipelines, improved cost efficiency, and a shorter path from raw data to actionable insight—especially for large, time‑sensitive workloads.

What This Means for Data Teams

For organizations running large‑scale analytics, predictive models, or operational reporting, time truly is money. Evan explains how accelerating data pipelines can directly impact downstream use cases—from predictive maintenance to real‑time decision‑making—by reducing the lag between data ingestion and insight.

Most importantly, this episode emphasizes practicality: GPU acceleration isn’t about chasing hype. It’s about giving data teams another tool they can turn on, test, and adopt when it makes sense—without introducing risk, rework, or operational complexity.

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The Future of Field Service: From Cost Control to Value Creation

Field service is evolving—and value is the new metric that matters.

In this episode, Ginny Lebeck, Michael Mendoza, and Boris Klimovitsky break down the biggest shifts shaping modern field service, from AI adoption to revenue‑driven transformation. Learn why leading organizations are moving beyond technology for technology’s sake and focusing on outcomes that drive real business impact.

What You’ll Learn

Why value‑driven transformation is replacing cost‑only strategies
How AI is unlocking new revenue and operational opportunities
What it means to “go beyond the field” with end‑to‑end service optimization
How to measure and prove the value of AI in service operations

Going Beyond the Field

True service transformation doesn’t stop with technicians. This conversation explores how organizations are extending service impact across customers, processes, and the broader business—connecting people, processes, and AI to deliver smarter, more scalable outcomes.

Meet Us at Field Service Next – San Diego

The team also shares what they’re looking forward to at Field Service Next, including connecting with peers, customers, and partners who are navigating these same challenges. If you’re attending, stop by booth #215 to continue the conversation.

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Why Should You Listen?

FABCON is where Microsoft Fabric conversations stop being theoretical and start getting real. This year in Atlanta, Hitachi Solutions is on the ground at Booth 545, focused on one thing: helping organizations turn Fabric potential into practical, measurable outcomes.

To kick things off, we recorded a special, on‑site episode of Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions, bringing together a few of the experts you can meet at the booth—and giving you a preview of the conversations we’re having all week at FABCON.

Meet the voices behind the conversation

In this episode, host Matt Volke is joined by:

Sree Reddy, Senior Data & Analytics Architect, who’s working hands‑on with customers adopting Microsoft Fabric and demonstrating our Empower Data Platform—showing how organizations can simplify architecture, strengthen governance, and move faster with analytics and AI.
Philip Rainsberger, Solution Sales Professional for Azure Solutions, who brings a business‑first perspective to Fabric adoption—helping teams prioritize initiatives, align stakeholders, and turn capability into real value.
Carrie Smedira, Solution Sales Professional, who specializes in bridging the gap between AI ambition and business‑ready outcomes. At FABCON, Carrie is focused on helping organizations cut through the hype and zero in on where Microsoft Fabric and AI can drive measurable impact—quickly and responsibly.

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This episode sets the stage for Microsoft FABCON 2026 by spotlighting the people, perspectives, and practical guidance attendees can expect at Booth 545. Host Matt Volke is joined by Philip Rainsberger and Mark Shoesmith of Hitachi Solutions to discuss how organizations are approaching Microsoft Fabric today—what’s driving adoption, where teams get stuck, and how to move from exploration to execution with confidence.

Highlights:

FABCON is where Microsoft Fabric conversations become practical—shifting from “what’s possible” to “how do we implement and scale this responsibly?”
Successful Fabric initiatives start with the business problem, not the technology, ensuring data and AI investments are tied to real outcomes.
Hitachi Solutions’ “thin slice” approach delivers production-ready wins early, avoiding proof-of-concept efforts that never make it to value.
Common Fabric adoption paths include migrations from on‑prem SQL Server, SSIS, and Synapse Analytics into a unified Fabric architecture.
Fabric is increasingly the analytics and AI foundation for Dynamics 365 customers, supporting both Finance & Operations and Customer Engagement workloads.
FABCON attendees are encouraged to come prepared with their current data landscape, top Fabric goals, and key blockers to make booth conversations immediately actionable.

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This episode demystifies AI agents, explaining how they differ from chatbots and showcasing their real-world impact in business applications. Chris Fairfax, Technical Product Manager for Industry Cloud at Hitachi Solutions, shares actionable insights on deploying agents to drive efficiency, empower employees, and unlock new value from enterprise data.

Highlights:

Agents are AI-powered tools that execute business processes, going beyond simple chatbots by leveraging multiple skills within platforms like Microsoft Dynamics.
Automation with agents can increase productivity by 20–30%, but the focus is on augmenting—not replacing—employees through human-in-the-loop design.
Practical use cases include process management, identity verification, call center workflows, and field service automation.
Data quality and a modern data estate are essential for successful agent deployment and scalability.
Early wins are seen in industries like insurance, with plans to expand agent capabilities for industry-specific needs.
Transparency, confidence scores, and purposeful design are key to building trust and driving adoption of AI agents.

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In this episode of Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions, host Ginny Lebeck joins Matt Volke, Chris Satterly, and Mark Shoesmith to preview FabCon 2026 in Atlanta. The conversation explores why FabCon has become a must-attend event for data and AI professionals, how customer expectations around data have evolved, and what organizations need to succeed on their AI journey. Drawing from real-world client conversations and healthcare use cases, the panel discusses Microsoft Fabric as a unifying data platform, the importance of strong data foundations and governance, and how emerging capabilities—from low-code tools to advanced analytics—are enabling teams to move faster and unlock more value from their data. You can find Hitachi Solutions at Fabcoon Booth #545 March 18-20.

Highlights:

FabCon brings together customers, partners, and Microsoft experts to share practical insights on data management, analytics, and AI, with a strong emphasis on real-world business challenges.
Organizations are increasingly treating data as a strategic asset rather than a byproduct, focusing on real-time insights, advanced analytics, and AI readiness.
Microsoft Fabric is emerging as a key enabler, simplifying data ingestion, modeling, and curation while supporting both self-service analytics and advanced data science workloads.
Healthcare organizations are adopting Fabric to modernize legacy, on-premises data platforms, reduce manual ETL effort, and better handle diverse and high-volume data sources.
Tools like pipelines, copy jobs, mirroring, and Copilot-assisted development help small data teams work more efficiently and respond faster to analytics demands.
Strong data models, governance, and curated information are essential prerequisites for successful AI and advanced analytics initiatives.
Hitachi Solutions’ presence at FabCon focuses on connecting customers with experienced data engineers, data scientists, and industry experts to help translate technology into outcomes.

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Generative AI has captured the imagination of the enterprise world—but the reality is more complex than the hype. In this fireside chat, Stuart Morris, Director of R&D at Hitachi Solutions, joined me to unpack the findings of MIT’s “Gen AI Divide” report and share practical insights from the front lines of AI deployment.

The conversation begins with a sobering statistic: 95% of generative AI pilots fail to deliver measurable impact on P&L. But as Stuart points out, that doesn’t mean they’re worthless. Many projects drive internal process improvements, enhance compliance, and streamline operations—benefits that don’t always show up on a balance sheet but are critical to business success.

In our chat above, Stuart emphasizes that readiness is key. Companies often jump into AI without ensuring their data is clean, organized, and accessible. “There’s no amount of AI you can throw at a data situation that’s in shambles,” he warns. Instead, success starts with foundational work—cleaning up CRM systems, structuring data warehouses, and defining clear business processes.

This discussion highlights a recurring theme: back-office automation consistently delivers higher ROI than customer-facing AI. Internal processes are well-documented and easier to optimize, while public-facing AI carries reputational risks. Stuart shares examples of chatbots behaving badly on social media, underscoring the importance of starting with internal use cases.

Key Takeaways:

Most AI pilots fail to impact P&L—but still deliver internal value.
Data readiness is essential; clean, structured data is the foundation.
Back-office automation offers higher ROI and lower risk than customer-facing AI.
Targeted, repeatable solutions outperform one-off proofs of concept.
Avoid vendor lock-in by deploying in customer tenants and delivering code.
Success lies in purposeful design, tailored agents, and a steady approach to innovation.

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In this episode of Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions, host Matt Volke sat down with Evan Sotos, Engineering Manager for the Empower Data Platform, and Stuart Morris, Director of Research & Development, for a fast‑paced wrap‑up of their time on the ground at CES 2026 in Las Vegas. With Hitachi’s presence spanning IoT, mobility, digital cities, energy, and data innovation, the team shares firsthand observations from the world’s largest consumer electronics event and highlights the trends shaping the year ahead.

In this episode, you’ll hear Evan, and Stuart discuss:

What it’s like navigating CES across massive halls filled with humanoid robots, batteries, e‑mobility, and next‑generation digital city technologies—and why even three days on the show floor isn’t enough to see it all.
How Hitachi’s unified booth showcased the full “One Hitachi” vision, bringing together group companies across industries to demonstrate integrated solutions for AI, data, and digital transformation.
What Empower brings to the CES conversation, including how organizations can unify, orchestrate, and model their data to support analytics, AI, business insights, and industry‑specific use cases.
Why clean, consolidated data is the foundation for any successful AI initiative, especially as companies discover the limits of rushing into AI without the right data architecture.
How Hitachi Solutions is applying AI internally first—building real workflows, modernizing processes like RFP response management, and proving value before productizing solutions for customers.
The industry’s growing focus on pragmatic, value‑driven AI, including a shift away from “toy” demos toward real workflows, hybrid models, and the rise of agentic AI—paired with the need to combine classical automation and machine learning with modern LLMs.

Whether you’re exploring how AI can drive real business transformation, looking to modernize your data foundation, or just curious about the innovations making headlines at CES, this episode offers an insider’s perspective on the technologies and trends expected to define 2026.

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In this episode of Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions, Alex Rigaud, Vice President of Incubation Solutions, reports live from CES 2026 in Las Vegas, and explores the latest innovations on display at the world’s largest consumer electronics show and highlight how Hitachi Solutions is shaping the future of AI, data, and automation. You can meet Alex and the rest of our team at CES at North Hall Booth #8529.

In this episode, you’ll hear Matt and Alex discuss:

What it’s like to experience CES firsthand, from robots and gadgets to Hitachi’s massive two-story booth showcasing solutions across rail, energy, digital, and more
How Hitachi Solutions is uniting its global teams under one roof to demonstrate cutting-edge technology, including a multilingual AI-powered receptionist avatar that delivers seamless, human-like interactions and integrates with visitor management systems
Why clean, structured data is essential for effective AI, and how the Empower enterprise data platform unifies data, ensures governance, and enables actionable insights for organizations
The role of AI agents like the QA bot in automating quality assurance, reducing manual effort, and accelerating release cycles—saving up to 85% turnaround time internally
The importance of engaging with experts from manufacturing, IoT, energy, supply chain, rail, life sciences, and financial services to turn ideas into reality and address industry-specific challenges
Personal anecdotes from Alex about the CES experience, including testing high-end tech and the excitement of interacting with visitors from around the world

Whether you’re interested in the latest AI-powered solutions, want to understand the practical impact of data governance, or are curious about how Hitachi Solutions is driving innovation at CES, this episode offers a front-row seat to the trends and technologies shaping the future of business.

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Is your ERP digital concrete? Or does it have the flexibility and capability to deliver what your organization needs in the era of AI?

In this episode of Exchanges, host Hannah Story is joined by guests Ted Kempf from Microsoft and Marcus Raddatz and Nick Gulmon from Hitachi Solutions, to discuss the importance of a flexible and AI-enabled ERP solution.

In this episode, you’ll hear from Ted, Marcus, and Nick as they discuss:

What Makes Microsoft ERP Special
The Importance of Data Integrity, Interoperability, Security, and Flexibility
How AI is Simplifying Processes
Why You Need to Know About MCP

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What do navigating economic uncertainty, integrating AI, data privacy, personalization, and marketing ROI all have in common?

They are few of the challenges marketing leaders face today and in this episode of Exchanges, host Hannah Story is joined by guests Tracie Poland and Michael Green, to discuss the relationship between data and these challenges.

In this episode, you’ll hear from Tracie and Michael as they discuss:

The Complex Challenges Marketing Leaders Face Today
Why Customer Expectations for Personalization Require a Data-Driven Mindset
How to Overcome Data Privacy, Complexity, and Organization Challenges
And More!

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In this episode of Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions, host Matt Volke sits down with Alex Rigaud, Vice President of Incubation Solutions, fresh from Microsoft Ignite in San Francisco. Together they unpack the biggest announcements from Ignite—including Microsoft’s new Agent 365 platform—and explore how organizations can move from experimentation to truly embedding AI across their business.

In this episode, you’ll hear Matt and Alex discuss:

Why Agent 365 is a game changer for identity, security, and compliance in the age of AI agents
How organizations can get ahead of the challenge of shadow AI before it overwhelms their networks
Why starting small—like building a Lego set or boiling pasta—is the smartest way to approach AI adoption
How workshops at Ignite revealed that data governance and structure remain the biggest hurdles to effective AI use
What it means to be a Frontier Firm and how Hitachi Solutions is “walking the walk” by embedding AI into its own workflows before bringing solutions to customers
Why proof‑of‑concepts aren’t enough, and how moving to execution with agents and co‑pilots creates real business value

Whether you’re curious about Microsoft’s latest innovations or looking for practical insights on how to responsibly scale AI, this conversation offers a candid look at where enterprises stand today—and what it will take to reach true enterprise‑level AI.

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What does boiling pasta have to do with a conversation on AI and security?

In this episode of Exchanges, host Ginny Lebeck is joined by guests Dr. Michael Green, Principal Consultant for Hitachi Solutions Empower Data Platform, and Alex Rigaud, VP of Incubation Solutions, live from Microsoft Ignite in San Francisco, to discuss the future of security in the age of AI.

In this episode, you’ll hear from Michael and Alex as they discuss:

How organizations are embedding AI at every layer and rethinking security as a core function
How the era of AI agents and Co-workers is changing the way organizations approach threats and data governance
Why organizations should be asking “where to AI?” as it relates to their data and workflows
Why observability, security, and governance require a new level of maturity in automated environments
And more!

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What does a case for a cell phone have to do with a conversation on security?

In this episode of Exchanges, host Hannah Story is joined by guests Peter Garadis and Matt Aghedo, to discuss security in the era of AI in financial services.

In this episode, you’ll hear from Peter and Matt as they discuss:

How organizations are rethinking security as a function within their organization
How the Era of AI has changed the way organizations think about threats
Why organizations should be asking “where to AI?” as it relates to their data
Why Identify Access Management (IAM) and governance require a new level of maturity
And more!

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The conversation begins with a sobering statistic from an MIT report: 95% of generative AI pilots fail to deliver measurable impact on P&L. But as Stuart points out, that doesn’t mean they’re worthless. Many projects drive internal process improvements, enhance compliance, and streamline operations—benefits that don’t always show up on a balance sheet but are critical to business success.

This discussion highlights a recurring theme: back-office automation consistently delivers higher ROI than customer-facing AI. Internal processes are well-documented and easier to optimize, while public-facing AI carries reputational risks. Stuart shares examples of chatbots behaving badly on social media, underscoring the importance of starting with internal use cases.
Key Takeaways:

Most AI pilots fail to impact P&L—but still deliver internal value.
Data readiness is essential; clean, structured data is the foundation.
Back-office automation offers higher ROI and lower risk than customer-facing AI.
Targeted, repeatable solutions outperform one-off proofs of concept.
Avoid vendor lock-in by deploying in customer tenants and delivering code.
Success lies in purposeful design, tailored agents, and a steady approach to innovation.

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In this Episode of Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions, Alex Rigaud, VP of Incubation Solutions at Hitachi Solutions joins Jay Natarajan as they draw upon decades of experience at the intersection of cloud, AI, and digital transformation to discuss how organizations can avoid past mistakes and maximize the business value of AI adoption. Their conversation explores practical strategies for building momentum, driving user adoption, and ensuring that technology investments deliver real returns across the enterprise.

Key Topics Covered:

The importance of focusing on business problems and process optimization before implementing technology
Strategies for building momentum with small, scalable AI use cases and a “Lego block” approach
Common challenges in scaling AI solutions, including user adoption, integration, and data quality
Measuring ROI for AI projects and ensuring cross-functional collaboration
Avoiding “pilot paralysis” and moving from proof-of-concept to enterprise scale

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Welcome to an exciting exploration into the world of Generative AI with Jay Natarajan, Vice President of SCM Sales and Dr. Michael Green, Principal Consultant of Hitachi Solutions. In this engaging podcast, these industry veterans delve into the transformative potential of Gen AI, offering insights that could help define or redefine your business strategy.

This podcast is not just about understanding Gen AI—it’s about inspiring businesses to rethink their strategies and embrace innovation responsibly. Here are a few key takeaways:

Start with Challenges: Define your business problems clearly before exploring AI solutions.
Leverage Human Creativity: AI is a tool to enhance, not replace, the unique insights and creativity humans bring.
Focus on Data: Clean and organized data is crucial for effective AI implementation.

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Manufacturing leaders are encouraged to prioritize building trust in their data as a foundational step toward successful AI adoption, as outlined in a discussion featuring experts Michael Mendoza and Dr. Michael Green.

The episode highlights a data maturity framework progressing from visibility to generative AI, emphasizes the importance of clean and reliable data, showcases Lippert Components’ $2.1 million savings through trusted data and AI, identifies traits of leading manufacturers, and offers practical advice on aligning data initiatives with business objectives to foster a data-driven culture and drive innovation.

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As business leaders continue to navigate through the buzz surrounding AI, it is no secret that employees are looking for AI to help them access information quickly, automate administrative tasks, and help them become more productive overall.

In this episode of Exchanges, host Hannah Story is joined by guests Marcus Raddatz and Rick Doss, to discuss how AI is impacting the way organizations modernize and transform their ERP solutions.

In this episode, you’ll hear from Marcus and Rick as they discuss:

The role of AI in ERP Transformation
How the emergence of Agentic AI is impacting ERP solutions and workloads
Why it’s important to focus on data integrity

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Are you ready to dive into the world of AI and agents? Join us on the latest episode of the Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions podcast, where we explore the cutting-edge advancements in AI technology and how it's revolutionizing industries. Hosted by the dynamic duo, Joel Lindstrom and Marcus Raddatz, this episode is packed with insights, real-world examples, and a sneak peek into the future of AI.

🔍 What's Inside?

AI Agents Unleashed: Discover how AI agents are transforming the landscape of finance, supply chain management, and operations. From automating time entry to managing purchase orders, AI is making processes more efficient and freeing up valuable time for employees.
Real-World Applications: Hear about the innovative ways Hitachi Solutions is leveraging AI internally and for our customers. Learn how AI is being used to streamline vendor payments, enhance customer interactions, and even assist in complex RFP processes.
Exclusive Event Info: Get the details on the upcoming Power Platform Conference in Las Vegas. Find out how you can meet the experts, ask your burning questions, and see AI in action at Booth 239.

🎧 Why Listen? This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of AI and its practical applications. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a business leader, or just curious about how AI can improve your day-to-day operations, this podcast has something for you. Joel and Marcus break down complex topics into easy-to-understand insights, making it accessible and engaging for all listeners.

Tune in now and get ahead of the curve with the latest in AI technology! Don't miss out on this exciting episode of Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions.

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AI-Driven Business Transformation with Hitachi Solutions

The Evolving Role of Data Science in AI: Hosted by Laurel Greszler, she visits with Hitachi Solutions Data Science & AI Resident Experts Fred Heller and Mike Kirkpatrick to discuss how data science is foundational to unlocking business value from vast, underutilized data assets. They emphasize that data scientists transform raw data into actionable insights, enabling organizations to automate and optimize decision-making processes.
AI as a Strategic Business Enabler: The team highlights that AI, particularly generative AI (GenAI), is not a magic solution but a powerful tool that, when applied thoughtfully, accelerates business outcomes. They stress the importance of setting realistic expectations and integrating AI into existing analytical best practices.
Three Core AI Solution Categories:
1. Custom AI Chatbots: Tailored chatbots using Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) architectures allow dynamic interrogation of large text datasets, providing users with precise, context-aware answers. This approach leverages Azure cloud services for security and scalability, aligning with Microsoft investments.
2. Document Processing Automation: AI-driven document processing dramatically reduces manual effort, cycle times, and costs by automating the extraction and summarization of information from large volumes of documents. This is especially impactful in industries burdened by compliance and documentation requirements.
3. AI-Powered Document Generation: Generative AI can rapidly produce high-quality first drafts of complex documents (e.g., proposals, reports), giving teams a significant head start and freeing up time for higher-value work. This solution is particularly valuable for organizations that produce lengthy, formulaic documents.
Custom vs. Out-of-the-Box Solutions: The conversation distinguishes between out-of-the-box tools like Microsoft Copilot and custom AI builds. While standard solutions offer quick wins, custom builds are essential for complex, industry-specific needs, offering better long-term value and integration with existing business processes.
Industry-Agnostic Impact: The team shares that these AI solutions are applicable across industries—from manufacturing to pharmaceuticals—wherever there is a need to process or generate large volumes of information. The common thread is the desire to reduce manual reading and writing, improve efficiency, and empower employees to focus on higher-value tasks.
Customer-Centric Approach: Hitachi Solutions’ methodology starts with understanding the customer’s true business challenge, ensuring that AI solutions are tailored to deliver measurable impact. Advisory workshops and collaborative design sessions are used to align technology with business goals.
Microsoft Azure Expertise: As a Microsoft-dedicated partner, Hitachi Solutions leverages Azure’s robust AI and data services to deliver secure, scalable, and future-ready solutions, ensuring customers maximize their existing technology investments.
Key Takeaway: AI and data science, when strategically applied, can transform business operations, reduce costs, and enhance employee satisfaction. Hitachi Solutions offers deep expertise in custom AI development, ensuring solutions are both innovative and aligned with each customer’s unique needs.

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Listen at Your Leisure and Get to Know Us!

With more than 5,000 downloads to date, Hitachi Solutions is helping customers understand where they are on the business transformation map and pin point where they're going based on people, process and desired outcomes.

We spend time with our experts throughout the year to offer a thoughtful perspective on how we're working with business leaders to solve their challenges.

In this episode, Matt Volke and Laurel Greszler review some of the top takeaways for business leaders from season 5 and talk about what's ahead for thought leadership, business decision making moments of calm and how to navigate the wild frontier in season 6.

You will find our full podcast library here: Podcasts Archive – Hitachi Solutions

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Explore the forefront of AI innovation in this engaging episode of Exchanges, Hitachi Solutions’ podcast dedicated to transformative technology insights. Host Matt Volke chats with Michael Popp, Principal Data Architect, about the groundbreaking Agent Bricks, unveiled at the Databricks Data and AI Summit. Join us as we dive into how Agent Bricks democratizes AI applications, broadens use cases, and simplifies agent creation for enterprises.

Why should you listen?

Discover how Agent Bricks empowers non-technical users to develop AI agents without coding, streamlining processes and boosting efficiency.
Gain insights from a data architecture expert on Databricks’ latest offerings such as LakeFlow and Lakebase, crafted to enhance data orchestration and management.
Learn how Agent Bricks can accelerate AI adoption, helping businesses achieve higher levels of data maturity faster than ever before.
Get a behind-the-scenes look at what these technological advancements mean for the future of AI in business operations.

Listen now to uncover expert perspectives and strategic insights that are shaping the next generation of AI technology.

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Curious about how a tech leader's vision can redefine business operations and drive innovation? In this episode of Exchanges, a podcast by Hitachi Solutions, host Matt Volke sits down with Alex Rigaud, Vice President of Incubation Solutions, to explore his strategic vision after reaching 100 days with the company—a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of data, AI, and industry-specific solutions.

You’ll also hear firsthand insights from Dr. Michael Green, Director of Product Management, who delves into the Hitachi Solutions Empower Data Platform and its role in transforming data management. Nonika Bajaj, Industry Cloud Practice Lead, shares how Engage solutions are tailored to accelerate implementation across various sectors, and Stuart Morris, Director of R&D, talks about the latest AI advancements and their impact on business processes.

Here’s why you should tune in:

Discover how Alex Rigaud's leadership is shaping the future of innovation at Hitachi Solutions, fostering collaboration and driving strategic initiatives.
Learn about the Empower Data Platform's capabilities in centralizing data and enabling advanced analytics and AI for unparalleled business insights.
Explore the Engage suite's industry-specific solutions designed to provide exceptional value and accelerate business transformation.
Understand the role of AI and agentic solutions in managing data efficiently and extracting meaningful insights for strategic decision-making.
Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Hitachi Solutions is leveraging technology to redefine business operations and create value for customers.

If you want to stay ahead in the tech innovation space, this episode is packed with expert perspectives, actionable advice, and stories from the front lines of Hitachi Solutions' journey. Don’t miss it!

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Curious about generative AI but feeling a bit apprehensive for your business initiatives? This episode is for you. Here’s why you should tune in:

Demystifying AI for Everyone
This episode is all about breaking down the barriers and misconceptions around generative AI. The hosts, Laurel Greszler, Stuart Morris, and Matt Volke, make it clear that you don’t need to be a tech expert to understand or benefit from AI. They focus on making complex concepts approachable, especially for business decision-makers and those just starting to explore AI
.
Real-World Use Cases
You’ll hear practical examples of how generative AI is already making a difference in industries like real estate and financial services. Tools like Docudrop are showcased, demonstrating how AI can automate tedious tasks-like extracting data from documents and populating CRM systems-making processes up to 90% faster and more accurate than manual entry
Human-Centric Approach
The episode emphasizes that AI isn’t about replacing people; it’s about augmenting your work, making your day-to-day easier and more efficient. The discussion around AI “agents” highlights how these tools work alongside humans, not instead of them, requiring human oversight and input to function effectively
.
Engaging and Relatable Format
With the playful “Stu Monster” theme and a conversational style, the hosts make the topic fun and accessible. They even use cute monster characters to help explain intimidating concepts, ensuring listeners feel welcome and engaged from the start
.
Expert Insights, No Hype
Stuart Morris, Director of Software R&D at Hitachi Solutions, brings firsthand experience from the front lines of AI development. You’ll get honest perspectives on what generative AI can and can’t do, and why it’s more of a helpful tool than something to fear1
.

Bottom line:
If you want to understand what generative AI really is, how it can help your business, and why you don’t need to be afraid of it, this episode is your perfect starting point. Tune in to learn, laugh, and leave empowered to explore AI with confidence!

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As business leaders navigate through the buzz surrounding AI, it can be challenging to break through the noise and find real business impact. In this episode of Exchanges, host Hannah Story is joined by guest Ashley Keimach to discuss the balance of expectations vs. reality when it comes to AI and how business leaders can ultimately find their North Star.

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Curious about the future of data platforms and how Microsoft Fabric is changing the game? In this episode of "Exchanges" by Hitachi Solutions, host Laurel Greszler and her expert guests break down the biggest takeaways from Microsoft's second Fabric Conference in Las Vegas—a must-listen for anyone navigating the fast-evolving world of data, AI, and analytics.

You’ll hear firsthand insights from Sandeep Pawar, a senior architect and Microsoft Data Platform MVP, who presented on AI-powered data engineering, and from Ian Santillan, who specializes in data security and real-time intelligence. Plus, Matt Volke shares what it was like connecting with thousands of attendees and customers from around the world.

Here’s why you should tune in:

Get the inside scoop on the latest features and announcements from Fabric Con, including expanded AI and Copilot capabilities now accessible to organizations of all sizes—not just large enterprises1.
Learn how Fabric’s rapid adoption (now with 19,000 paying customers) is driving organizations to modernize their data platforms and become “AI ready”.
Discover how Hitachi Solutions’ Empower Data Platform accelerates Fabric adoption, helping companies centralize messy data sources and unlock powerful analytics and AI.
Find out how real-time intelligence and low-code tools are making advanced analytics more accessible, and what that means for your business in 2025 and beyond.
Hear about the practical steps and free training available to help your team mature from dashboards to real-time, AI-driven insights.
Get a behind-the-scenes look at industry trends, security best practices, and what’s next for data-driven organizations1.

If you want to stay ahead in the data and AI space, this episode is packed with expert perspectives, actionable advice, and stories from the front lines of Microsoft’s data revolution. Don’t miss it!

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FabCon Pre-event Primer with Data Experts Dr Michael Green and Alexandre Crespo-Perez

Data experts Dr. Michael Green (Hitachi Solutions Empower Data Platform) and Alexandre Crespo-Perez (Industry Data Expert) discuss AI adoption, data management challenges, and upcoming Microsoft Fabric innovations. Key points include the gap between AI experimentation and enterprise readiness, the need for unified data platforms, and advancements in real-time intelligence and AI-powered analytics.

Top takeaways:

85% of organizations use generative AI, but only 22% feel their systems can fully support it
Unified data platforms are crucial for simplifying data management and analytics
Real-time intelligence is becoming increasingly important for decision-making
Custom AI chatbots can now query structured and unstructured data for insights

What's in it for you:
Attend FabCon in Las Vegas March 31 - April 2 to explore cutting-edge data solutions that can streamline your operations, enhance decision-making, and unlock the full potential of AI in your organization. Don't miss this opportunity to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of data and AI.

Find Us at FabCon!

You will find Dr Michael Green and Alexandre Crespo-Perez along with our entire FabCon Data on-site team at Hitachi Solutions Booth #412!

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See you there!

As we look forward to what's coming for Microsoft Fabric Community Conference in Las Vegas March 31-April 2 at MGM (Hitachi Solutions at FabCon 2025 – Hitachi Solutions), we take a second look at our conversation after FabCon Europe in October in Stockholm to bring us up to speed.

Fabric MVP Sandeep Pawar (who will be once again presenting in Las Vegas) talks about our own "customer zero" story with Fabric, as well as the general availability of Semantic Link, what that means, and how Real-time Intelligence offers Power BI developers more muscle in their business intelligence initiatives.

With MVP Sandeep Pawar

Find us at booth #412

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Forrester’s 2024 US Health Insurers Customer Experience Index Rankings highlighted the continuing decline the industry has been facing for several years with a noticeable area of decline being digital experiences.

Despite this trend, many organizations are shifting their focus from customer experience to broader strategies that emphasize revenue goals and technology transformation.

In this episode of Exchanges, host Hannah Story joins guests Rich Hackenberg and Dave Horstein, as they discuss the opportunity health insurers have in front of them as they face the challenge of declining CX and the opportunity that comes with transformation.

In this episode, you’ll hear from Rich and Dave as they discuss:

The role of personalization and data in enhancing experiences and generating revenue
Aligning strategic business goals with technology investments
How mapping the member journey can lead to success

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In the latest episode of Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions, host Matt Volke dives into the whirlwind of recent AI developments alongside esteemed guests Dr. Michael Green, Director of Product Management at Hitachi Solutions, and Dave Horstein, Senior Director of Advisory at Hitachi Solutions. This episode aims to bring clarity and calm to the current AI market turbulence, focusing on the broader implications of rapid innovations and how businesses can strategically adapt.

Dr. Green and Mr. Horstein address the dramatic market reactions following the release of DeepSeek, an AI model that has outperformed its proprietary counterparts. They discuss the emotional market swings and highlight the potential for increased AI adoption, driven by the open-source model's ability to democratize access to advanced technology. Despite initial panic, they assure listeners that the AI infrastructure's demand will persist, with open-source development spurring innovation cycles and enhancing the value AI brings to organizations.

Key insights from the episode include:

Understanding Market Reactions: The guests dissect the knee-jerk responses to recent AI advancements, emphasizing the importance of viewing them within a broader strategic context.
Open Source and Innovation: As AI models become more accessible, open-source contributions are expected to accelerate innovation, reducing development cycles and increasing competitive opportunities for businesses.
Strategic AI Adoption: With the rise of compact reasoning models, AI is becoming more affordable and easier to integrate into business and consumer applications. Organizations are encouraged to proactively incorporate AI into their strategic planning to remain competitive.

Stay connected with us for more insights into the evolving world of AI and technology. You can find all our episodes on your favorite podcast platforms or at hitachisolutions.com.

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Join Advisory Host Dave Horstein with Change Management Expert Ian Park as they unpack AI prioritization for leaders everywhere in every org. This one's got something in here for YOU.

Listen to this episode and take away tools and tips to action for your AI initiatives and to reach better outcomes for your enterprise:

AI and Human Element: Dave and Ian unpack the importance of considering the human element in AI implementation, emphasizing communication, sponsorship, and change management.
AI Maturity Stages: The five stages of AI maturity, from exploring AI capabilities to implementing advanced use cases, help organizations navigate these stages.
Defining Vision and Benefits: Many organizations are in the defining stage of AI adoption, where they need to establish a clear vision and communicate the benefits to employees.
Governance and Risk: Embrace governance from the word GO in AI implementations to mitigate risks and ensure proper use of the technology.
Upskilling and Reskilling: Understanding the need for upskilling and reskilling employees to work alongside AI, rather than replacing them, and how to address employee concerns.
Value and Automation: AI can change the perception of employee value within an organization and how to approach employees who are concerned about their value.
Leader Communication: How to communicate AI adoption to their teams, even if they are uncertain about the technology's implementation.
Transparency and Openness: Transparency and open communication are paramount with employees about AI adoption to build trust and address concerns.
Tools and Tips: How to get started with Microsoft's Viva offerings, sentiment surveys, and skills GPT for employee development.

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Unpacking the 5 Stages of AI Maturity with Hitachi Solutions

In this episode of "Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions," host Dave Horstein explores the journey of AI value creation with guests Ryan Caputo and Chris Bennett. The discussion revolves around how companies can embed AI into their operations to achieve tangible results such as revenue generation, cost optimization, and innovation. They emphasize the importance of organizational readiness and a phased approach to AI maturity.

Ryan and Chris explain that every organization is at a different stage in their AI journey, and it’s crucial to understand where they currently stand to effectively move forward. They highlight Microsoft’s AI maturity study, which outlines five key stages: Exploring, Planning, Implementing, Scaling, and Realizing. Each stage has its own set of priorities and challenges, and the goal is to progress through these stages to achieve significant value.

A critical takeaway from the discussion is the importance of having a strong leadership vision and support. This is identified as the strongest driver of success in AI adoption. Additionally, they stress that having a solid technical foundation is essential for scaling AI solutions and realizing their full potential.

The episode provides valuable insights into how organizations can strategically approach AI implementation, ensuring both business and technical readiness to unlock substantial value.

For more information and to access the Microsoft AI maturity study, visit global.hitachi-solutions.com.

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Hear from the Hitachi Solutions Team on All Things AI

CES is the world’s largest electronic exhibition in the world. And the number one topic on everyone’s mind is AI.

In the acres upon acres of technology – from robotic coffee makers and vans with built-in helicopters, to the latest solar solutions and video games – the topic of AI is inescapable.

AI is everywhere you turn in this massive event, including at the Hitachi booth at 8317 in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, where our team of data and AI experts are on hand, showcasing the latest in data, AI, and Microsoft technology.

Two members of that team, by Sr. Technical Product Manager Dr. Michael Green and Stuart Morris, Director of Research and Development, took the time in our Exchanges podcast to share what they’re hearing on the exhibition floor, and how Hitachi Solutions is solving them with the latest technology.

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In this episode of Exchanges, host Hannah Story joins guests Jonathan Yundt, Industry Director, Healthcare & Insurance at Hitachi Solutions, and Andrew Montgomery, Director, Business Applications at Microsoft, as they discuss the transformation occurring in the contact center.

In this episode, you’ll hear from Jonathan and Andrew as they discuss:

The agentic experience and why it’s a buzzword for 2025
How Microsoft Copilot is empowering agents and benefiting customers
Why it’s important to make sure you don’t ignore AI in your contact center

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In this episode of Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions, host Laurel Greszler dives into the newly launched Databricks MVP program and its significance for Hitachi Solutions' customers. Hear from Hitachi Solutions Sr. Technical Product Manager Dr. Michael Green, a recent Databricks MVP, and Databricks experts Jeff Lipkowitz and Alex Baur as they discuss how the MVP program recognizes top talent and fosters innovation, helping companies like yours leverage cutting-edge data technology for maximum impact. Tune in to discover how this elite program is driving business success and hear real-world examples of transformative results.

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Hear industry experts, Adam Piercy from Hitachi Solutions and Peter Goth from Microsoft, discuss how financial services organizations can harness the power of Microsoft Copilot and Dynamics 365 for transformative business impact.

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Leaning into Season 5 of Exchanges: A Podcast by Hitachi Solutions for Business Executives Seeking a Way to Breakdown the Complex World of Modern Transformation.

For this fun first episode, join our RSD (Rapid Solution Development) Low Code Award Winning Experts who sit down to discuss what they're looking forward to in the coming weeks and how to find them at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas!

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In this special edition of Exchanges, Marketing Manager Laurel Greszler turns the tables on regular host Dave Horstein, Advisor Senior Director, to uncover valuable insights for business leaders navigating digital transformation.

Key takeaways for decision makers:

People-first approach: Learn how placing your team at the center of technology initiatives can drive success and adoption.
Data-driven prioritization: Discover why aligning technology investments with business goals leads to superior outcomes.
Strategic problem-solving: Gain actionable strategies for identifying and addressing critical business challenges through innovative tech solutions.
Expert perspective: Benefit from the experience of seasoned advisors who have guided numerous organizations through successful transformations.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain a competitive edge in your digital transformation journey. Tune in to Exchanges and equip yourself with the knowledge to lead your organization confidently into the future.

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Join Hitachi Solutions Security and Advisory Experts, Michael Steel and Dave Horstein, as they delve into the Crowdstrike update incident that affected industries worldwide, from airlines to Starbucks.

In this episode of Exchanges, they provide thought leadership on the causes and implications of the incident, highlighting Microsoft's pivotal role in rapid response and customer collaboration.

Gain valuable insights on how business leaders can navigate the security lessons learned and apply them to their ongoing security transformation initiatives.

This episode goes beyond the headlines, offering a thoughtful exchange on the real impact of the incident and practical guidance for businesses aiming to fortify their security posture.

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Join our host and advisory expert Dave Horstein, alongside low code expert Joel Lindstrom, as they delve into "Rapid Value Delivery." This thoughtful and fun episode unpacks how low code tools can enhance daily efficiency — from automations to apps, and AI-assisted solution development.

Leveraging low code to adapt to AI offers organizations a safe entry into its efficiency benefits, evolving the way we work.

Discover why Hitachi Solutions' innovative AI integration earned us the Microsoft "Partner of the Year" award for low code app development. With our dedicated team of Power Platform experts, Hitachi Solutions is a game-changer for customers.

Meet Us in Vegas!

Don't miss us at Microsoft's Power Platform Conference from Sept 18-20 at the MGM in Vegas. Our team will deliver several presentations and be available at our booth for one-on-one discussions.

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Hosted by Advisory Director Dave Horstein with Tom Galambos, President and Global CEO of Hitachi Solutions & Microsoft Global Alliance Executive for Hitachi

Key Discussion Points:

Hitachi Solutions Wins Partner of the Year for Low Code!

What does the new partnership between Microsoft and Hitachi Ltd mean for our customers?

The establishment of a three-year agreement with Microsoft emphasizes deeper integration across Hitachi's broad ecosystem.

The partnership aims at enhancing collaboration on solutions, especially revolving around operational technology (OT), information technology (IT), and Generative AI.

Focus on Generative AI (Gen AI):

Discussion on how Gen AI is central to the partnership and technology developments.
Microsoft and Hitachi Solutions aim to infuse Gen AI into every aspect of technology and solutions provided.
Emphasis on upskilling tens of thousands of individuals within Hitachi on Gen AI.

Employee Upskilling and Efficiency:

Process efficiencies and upskilling for employees were discussed, including the use of innovative tools for tasks like user testing, significantly reducing time and cost.
Internal reflection and optimization using AI to deliver more value to customers.

Future Direction:

Vision to establish Hitachi Solutions as an AI-led company.
Leveraging AI to radically improve value delivery both internally and for customers.
Continued alignment with Microsoft and investment in industry-specific solutions.

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In this episode Advisory expert Dave Horstein meets with Application Engineers Jan Nelson, Kalyan Koppineedi and Lucas Pains to talk about how AI is — and is NOT — changing how they solve for business for our customers.

This is a great "inside out" listen for business leaders interested in learning how our experts are navigating the era of AI for speed, agility and security while keeping their pulse on what works and what doesn't for our customers.

Dave and Jan talk about how AI is augmenting software engineering at work and how they approach the development of AI solutions. They also talked about the impact of AI on the software engineering community and how it is effecting their work; using tools like GitHub Copilot.
Jan, Dave, Lucas and Kalyan explore how AI is changing software development and the role of AI in the future of software engineering.
Dave, Kalyan and Lucas discuss the value of leveraging AI as a software engineer. They emphasize that AI can increase the value of software engineers by allowing them to focus more strategically on the problem and provide the context needed to ensure that the right problems are being solved.
Dave, Jan, Kalyan and Lucas highlight the importance of human validation and context in using AI tools, and the need for IT in businesses to define good requirements and criteria for determining the quality of AI output.

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How will this episode help me?

According to Forrester, there could be close to 40 million people who will be eligible for Medicare Advantage in the next ten years. Additionally, their report states that the Congressional Budget Office is projecting that the share of all Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans will rise to 62% by 2033 and that within that population, nearly two-thirds will select an individual plan through general open enrollment.

In this episode of Exchanges, host Brad Koontz joins guests Leah Bowling, VP and GM of Regulated Industries at Hitachi Solutions, and Ashley Keimach, Business Applications Specialist at Microsoft, as they discuss the impact of recent CMS changes have on Medicare Advantage sellers – a role Ashley has been in and shares her personal experiences with.

In this episode, you’ll hear from Leah and Ashley as they discuss:

· What it’s like selling Medicare Advantage

· Challenges facing Medicare Advantage sellers today

· How technology – especially, AI – is poised to help

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In this episode, we’re joined by Fred Heller, Senior Director of Data Science and Machine Learning for and Senior Principal & Solution Architect Chris Bennett from Hitachi Solutions to discuss the key highlights and expectations for the upcoming Databricks Data & AI Summit, June 10-13. Host Dave Horstein steers the conversation through the latest partnerships, technological advancements, and innovative solutions that are shaping the future of big data and AI. Get ready for engaging insights and expert analysis on what's new, what's next, and how Hitachi Solutions is actively participating in this transformative event.

In this episode you’ll hear:

· An introduction to the Summit, it’s importance in the data community, and how industry and technology leaders use this platform to share insights.

· Hitachi Solutions' Role at the Summit, including how Hitachi Solutions is leveraging partnerships with Microsoft and Databricks to deliver cutting-edge solutions.

· Technological Breakdown: Fred provides a digestible explanation of the latest tech buzzwords, including Azure Databricks and Unity Catalog, demonstrating their practical applications in business scenarios.

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This week, we take a few minutes to review some of our recent episodes on DATA, which seems to be on the tip of everyone's tongue when talking about their priorities for business transformation in the era of AI. ... find out WHY data leads the way for AI transformation in these "Top 5" and other episodes of Exchanges here: Podcasts Archive – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)

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In this episode of EXCHANGES, host Matt Volke, product marketing manager for Hitachi Solutions, dives into a discussion with Dr. Michael Green, data scientist and product manager for the Lumada Empower Data Platform. Dr. Green, about his upcoming session he’ll be giving at the Databricks Data & AI Summit, June 10-13, titled “RAGS to Data Riches.” Dr. Green shares his insights on the intersection of AI and data management, and the role of Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG). With a focus on the complexities of integrating AI within enterprise data strategies, including security and governance, this episode offers valuable knowledge for data practitioners looking to push the envelope of AI in their businesses. Tune in to learn about Hitachi Solutions' innovative approaches using Databricks and Microsoft technology and get a sneak peek into Dr. Green's anticipated presentation at the Summit. Don't miss the blend of expert knowledge and practical advice that could transform your data and AI journey.

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Generative AI has been making a lot of news not just for the flash of new tech, but because of the results it’s driving. According to McKinsey, companies are seeing a 40% increase in productivity through AI-driven automation.

In this episode, you’ll hear from industry and technology leaders as they discuss powerful Generative AI use cases for the healthcare industry:

Diagnosis health conditions
Develop new medicine
Decrease time spent on administrative tasks
Improve patient service

Related Webinar On-demand: Prepare for an AI Driven Future in Healthcare

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Your Thought Leaders for this Episode:

Dave Horstein, Host, Senior Advisory Consultant
Greg Gant, Vice President of Corporate Development
Hannah Farley, Vice President of Advisory Services

Overview

Constructing a business-led data strategy is the topic today! Based on customer interactions, we discuss the need for strategy alignment with overall business goals and outcomes for your enterprise. The inefficiencies of non value-added data work and the lack of trust in data among managers was discussed with an aim to address why data initiatives fail and how to correct course.

Key points of discussion include:

The need for a business-led roadmap and how it must tie back to business outcomes.
Fundamental necessity of having a talent strategy that aligns future states of organization with skill sets required for a robust data strategy.
The importance of an efficient operating model for data sharing within the organization.
Choosing the right technology solutions to leverage data and align with organizational goals.
The imperatives of data management and governance to bolster confidence in organizational data.
The essential nature of adoption and scaling, ensuring organizational capability to harness data effectively.

Action Items

Business Outcome Alignment: Enforce sincere business outcome alignment amongst leadership to avoid future derailment of data initiatives.
Current State Assessment: Performing a neutral current state assessment to accurately identify opportunities and discrepancies without biases.
Create a Roadmap Framework: Develop a strategic vision with clear business outcomes, timelines, resource allocation, and ownership for various initiatives.
People Plan Development: Ensuring the integration of a comprehensive people plan to support each phase of the data initiative, focusing on talent management and engagement.
Technology and Process Review: Reassess the technology and processes with a focus on ultimate business goals, not just technological advancements themselves.
Education and Enablement Program: Implementing a program to educate and enable employees, ensuring the governance model works effectively across the board.

Summary

The meeting successfully outlined critical considerations for a business transformation through a data-led approach. It highlighted that technology, while vital, is insufficient without strategic Alignment with business outcomes, supportive leadership, and an engaged and skilled workforce. The discussion confirmed the need to establish clear visions, leverage Alignment workshops like OGSM, and embed tangible value creation in roadmaps, with overarching emphasis on the critical role of people in the adoption and endorsement of any data strategy. The session concluded with a call to check out further material on the web at global.hitachi-solutions.com.

You might be interested in our upcoming webinar...AI Readiness Roadmap: Guide to Unlocking Value with a Sound Data Strategy – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)

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Podcast Summary

Title: Microsoft Fabric Conference Wrap Up with Hitachi Solutions

Podcast Air Date: Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Featuring: Brad Koontz hosts with Sandeep Pawar and Miles Cole

Key Points Discussed:

Microsoft Fabric Conference Customer Insights

Brad Koontz introduces Microsoft's first-ever Fabric Conference (Fab Con) held in Las Vegas, with Hitachi Solutions expert presentations
The conference featured 130 sessions with hands-on experience with Microsoft Fabric capabilities like data warehousing, data movement, AI, real-time analytics, and business intelligence.
Hitachi Solutions has been in partnership with Microsoft for nearly two years, offering "Fabric in a Day" training since the previous November.

Announcements and Integrations

Microsoft announced new fabric capabilities and Hitachi Solutions presented their own sessions at the conference.
One significant investment was the integration between Microsoft and Databricks for better interoperability of platforms related to Lakehouse architecture.
Mirroring was a new feature showcased, allowing for the replication of databases outside of Fabric, which facilitates data analysis without physical data movement.

Hitachi Solutions' Role and Offering

Hitachi Solutions is positioned to assist customers with the integration of fabric and their existing investments due to their close relationship and collaboration with Microsoft.

Key Takeaways and Call to Action:

For Existing Lakehouse Architecture Users:
- Customers can take advantage of fabric immediately, but nuances with integration exist.
- Action Item: Hitachi Solutions to provide guidance on interoperability between platforms like Azure Databricks and Microsoft Fabric. *
For New Users and Educating Customers:
- Interest in Fabric is high, as demonstrated by conference turnout.
- Hitachi Solutions offers our "Fabric in a Day" as well as upcoming dates for Microsoft's Fabric Analytics in a Day" events for customers

Next Steps:

Further engagement with Hitachi Solutions for education on Fabric's capabilities and assistance in implementing new technologies.

Related Resources:

Jumpstart Your Adoption of Microsoft Fabric with Lumada Empower Data Platform – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)

Fabric in a Day – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)

A Complete Data Estate in 7 Days? We Do It Every Day. – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)

Next Gen Business Intelligence: Microsoft Power BI + Fabric – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)

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What does a tattoo have to do with patient experience?
How do you gain trust around AI?
What impact does collaboration have on the future of data and AI in healthcare?

In this episode of Exchanges, Brad Koontz speaks with Leah Bowling, VP & GM at Hitachi Solutions, and Paulo Pinho, Chief Medical and Strategy Officer at Discern Health, about their experiences at HIMSS 20204 and the industry trends impacting healthcare and technology that surround the answers to these questions.
*Listen and learn more!

Check out our related resources:*

https://global.hitachi-solutions.com/blog/advancing-healthcare-through-data/
https://global.hitachi-solutions.com/downloads/empower-trial-offer/
https://global.hitachi-solutions.com/webinars/prepare-for-ai-driven-future-in-healthcare/

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Hosts: Joel Lindstrom and Joe Unwin

Discussion Points:

March Power Platform Insights: Recap of the insights and the usefulness of the power platform as a practical guide for frequently asked questions on Copilot and Copilot Studio.
Understanding Copilot: Distinctions between different 'Copilot' offerings, e.g., general Microsoft Copilot vs. M365 Copilot vs. Copilot Studio. Clear explanation on purpose and functionalities were provided.
Generative AI Landscape: An overarching theme is Microsoft's move towards generative AI alongside manual pathways, the balance between precision and generative freedom, and the use of AI in chat solutions.
Power Virtual Agents (PVA) Transition: Discussion on how PVA has evolved and integrates into Copilot Studio, emphasizing the transition from PVA to Copilot Studio.
Security Aspects: Focused on how Copilot Studio maintains high standards for data security and privacy amidst its capabilities.
Licensing and Pricing: Clarity was provided on the new pricing model, which is based on message interactions rather than sessions, with examples of how generative AI interactions are counted.
Adoption Strategy: Suggestions on approaches businesses can take in adopting Copilot Studio such as starting with a pilot program before wider implementation.

Featured Resource

Power Platform Insights: March 2024 – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)

Related Resources:

Power Platform Insights: February 2024 – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)

The Impact of AI on the Future of Work – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)

Learn How to Modernize Your Out-dated RPA FAST — with Microsoft Power Automate and Hitachi Solutions – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)

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In every discussion Advisory expert Greg Gant has with business leaders today, the conversation inevitably leads to business modernization for the Era of AI. What advice is he giving, and when does data first enter the discussion? Find it in this week's episode of Exchanges by Hitachi Solutions.

Key Discussion Points:

Data-Centric AI: Greg emphasizes that data is paramount for AI and related technologies like generative AI and CRM to work efficiently.
Worker Adoption of Generative AI: According to Forrester — 60% of workers will use generative AI by 2024. Is it true for your business?
Practical Uses of AI in Business: How we're helping customers prioritize practical applications of AI in their processes.
The Necessity for Data Modernization: Prioritizing data modernization comes up early in discussions with business decision-makers, as good data quality directly impacts the efficacy of future AI initiatives.
AI as a Transformation Driver: AI is considered a key factor in digital transformation, but the implementation must balance innovation with the human aspect to ensure adoption and realization of business value.

Final Notes

In this episode we discuss the rapid pace at which AI is being adopted in the workforce and the critical role of data in leveraging AI capabilities. Greg Gant highlights the importance of preparing and training teams to effectively use AI and data-driven technologies as they become increasingly integral to business operations. To learn more, check out our "Finding Your AI Onramp" webinar now on demand.

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Date: Wednesday, February 21
Meeting Title: Microsoft Copilot 101 for Business Leaders
Participants:

Brad Koontz (Host)
Adam Piercy (Fast Track Recognized Solution Architect, Hitachi Solutions)
Joe Unwin (Microsoft Power Platform MVP)

Discussion Points:

Overview of Copilot:
- Introduced as a versatile assistant across Microsoft 365 workspace.
- Embedded in daily apps to enhance productivity and provide assistance in real-time.
- Not all users are aware of how to utilize it effectively.
Copilot Functionality:
- For general use: Supercharges productivity in Teams, Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint.
- For business applications (e.g., Dynamics 365): Optimizes sales processes, helps manage tasks, creates summaries, drafts emails, etc.
Understanding Copilot Variants:
- M365 Copilot is the broad AI assistant.
- Copilot for Sales focuses on the sales process within Dynamics 365 and helps with managing opportunities, leads, and meetings.
Availability and Pricing:
- $30 per user/month as a separate SKU.
- Accessible to all commercial customers on various M365 plans.
- Additional AI capabilities available for some Dynamics 365 users without the comprehensive package.
Extension of Copilot:
- Customization and extensions can be done via Copilot Studio, even for non-Microsoft applications through an API.
- Custom copilots can be created for specific business needs.
Copilot Studio:
- Builds on the previous Power Virtual Agent technology.
- Allows for custom conversational plugins and connects Copilot to third-party systems through an automation studio.
- Enhanced with generative AI capacity.
Future of CRM and AI:
- Discussion on the direction of CRM becoming invisible within user workflows.
- Emphasis on productivity and user adoption through seamless integration with Copilot.

Action Items for Business Leaders:

Understanding Extension Capabilities:
- Task: Assess how Copilot extensions can improve productivity within their respective organizations.
Evaluating Custom Copilot Needs:
- Task: Consider if a custom Copilot could benefit their current customer service model and begin strategizing the implementation.
Exploring Copilot Studio:
- Task: Dive into Copilot Studio's offerings to understand how it can be utilized to enhance user experience with generative AI.
Educating Teams on Copilot Use:
- Task: Share knowledge and arrange training, if necessary, on Copilot's features and how they can be leveraged for better efficiency.
Subscription Evaluation:
- Task: Assess current subscriptions and additional costs to evaluate the financial impact of leveraging full Copilot capabilities.

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Title: 3 Top Leadership Priorities for Successful Digital Transformation
Date: Wednesday, Feb 14
Participants: Dave Horstein hosts Hannah Farley - Vice President of Advisory Services at Hitachi Solutions America

Dave & Hannah focus on key leadership priorities that are essential for successful digital transformation. The conversation revolved around three major aspects:

Prioritizing Digital Initiatives: Hannah highlights the importance of having a clear strategy. She emphasizes initiatives should align with an organization's overall vision and strategic objectives. She also warns against the common mistake of trying to execute multiple initiatives simultaneously, which often leads to none being completed effectively.
1. Action Item: Leaders need to define the top three priorities for their organizations, understand how projects and priorities may overlap, and consider the impact on employees.Upskilling and Reskilling Employees:
Dave & Hannah discuss why preparing employees for changes that come with digital transformation is fundamental to success.
1. Action Item: Implement a process for upskilling and reskilling employees to fit into the new roles that emerge from digital transformation.
Adopting New Cutting-Edge Technology: The conversation highlights that simply communicating and training employees about new technology is not enough to ensure adoption. Hannah stresses the need for reinforcement and accountability measures to create sustainable change.
1. Action Item: Development of effective training programs and the inclusion of behavioral reinforcement and accountability mechanisms in the digital transformation plan.

Overall, Dave & Hannah stress the importance of clear communication, effective training, and the need for accountability and reinforcement mechanisms to ensure the successful implementation of digital transformation initiatives.

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In this episode of "Exchanges," a podcast by Hitachi Solutions, host Brad Koontz talks with Jonathan Yundt, Industry Director, and Stuart Morris, Director of R&D, about the use of generative AI in the insurance industry. In the insurance sector, generative AI is used in various areas including marketing, sales, underwriting, operations, and claims.

By conversing with data, insurance companies can analyze success rates based on different variables, speeding up processes such as claim processing and policy renewal.

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When it comes to AI initiatives for your enterprise and business leader decision-making, in the words of Stephen Covey, "First Thing's First."

As our Advisory experts Dave Horstein and Greg Gant unpack prioritization for AI initiatives, Gant puts it this way, "Center your prioritization around 'find my things, fix my things, and update my things,' which means look at areas where you're already working to improve your efficiencies.

You're not solving new issues, it's about solving existing and even age-old issues more efficiently and realize value more quickly. Start by identifying high-priority use cases.

Learn more in this episode of Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions, and don't miss our upcoming webinar on "Finding Your AI Onramp," which further explores this topic to help business decision makers map their way forward.

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Join host Brad Koontz and Cybersecurity expert Michael Steel as they discuss the top trends in enterprise security and how to navigate them for your business.
Our experts discuss their top 3 security concerns in 2024:

Ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure
Deepfakes and disinformation campaigns
Insider threats and identity breaches

To begin, let's dive deeper into each of these concerns:

Ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure - With cybercriminals increasingly targeting vital systems, organizations should be prepared for the potential impact of ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure. This involves not only securing IT networks but also investing in robust cybersecurity measures for operational technology (OT) systems.
Deepfakes and disinformation campaigns - The rapid advancement of AI and machine learning has led to the rise of deepfakes, synthetic media that can manipulate and deceive even experts. Businesses must be aware of the potential harm from deepfake-based disinformation campaigns and invest in countermeasures to detect and mitigate their impact on brand reputation and public trust.
Insider threats and identity breaches - Insider threats, whether intentional or accidental, pose a significant risk to organizations. As remote work becomes the norm, ensuring strong access management, user training, and monitoring of user behavior will be crucial in preventing and mitigating insider threats and potential identity breaches.

By taking proactive steps to address these security concerns, business leaders can help their organizations stay ahead of the curve and maintain a strong security posture in 2024 and beyond.

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**In this Season 4 preview of Exchanges — Advisory Expert Dave Horstein engages in a "Man on the Street" Q&A about how we're helping customers make an impact with AI.

Here are a few key takeaways:**

People First Approach to AI: The conversation emphasized the importance of a people-first approach when incorporating AI into businesses. It highlighted how AI can make employees more efficient, instead of replacing them. Investing in upskilling and reskilling their workforce alongside implementing AI should be a part of the organization's talent strategy.
Strategic Use of AI: The discussion stressed the need for businesses to use AI strategically to solve specific business challenges rather than just adopting AI for the sake of it. It's essential to align AI initiatives with the business strategy and focus on the value it can bring to the organization, such as increasing operational efficiency, reducing human error, and providing cost savings.
Leveraging AI for Business Transformation: The conversation provided examples of how AI can drive positive outcomes. It highlighted the use of AI in automating data entry from unstructured data, enhancing the customer service experience, and providing a knowledge base for easy access to enterprise data. The conversation encouraged business leaders to consider these use cases when planning their AI transformations.

Successful integration of AI in businesses depends on aligning it with business strategy, focusing on enhancing employees' skills, and leveraging AI to solve real business issues.

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AI has moved beyond the stage of experimentation and is now being used to optimize business processes. Organizations are identifying and evaluating use cases and investing significant time and resources. Learn more in this special year-end edition of Exchanges —a podcast by Hitachi Solutions.

Hosted by Advisory expert Dave Horstein with Hitachi Solutions COO Jerry Hawk

"Consider the societal implications of AI and how it can be used to improve the quality of human life."
—Jerry Hawk

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Advisory Services Host Dave Horstein leads a thought leadership discussion on not only how to define digital transformation moving forward, but how to navigate and communicate throughout the process.

Tying together organizational strategy with sustainability is always tricky for leadership as companies work to build effective modernization plans for their business model.

While ensuring people & process are at the center of the strategy is key — understanding & communicating WHAT digital transformation means for everyone is paramount… especially in this Era of AI …

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In this episode of the Exchanges podcast, hosts Adam Piercy and Jonathan Yundt discuss the concept of Invisible CRM and how it can revolutionize the way businesses approach customer relationship management. They dive into the methodology behind Invisible CRM, focusing on understanding people, processes, and data before diving into technology.

Adam and Jonathan discuss the importance of defining personas, uncovering hidden processes, and ensuring quality data to drive successful CRM implementations - emphasizing the need for meeting users where they work and delivering information in the most effective way.

Key takeaways from this episode include:

Adopt a mindset of understanding people, processes, and data before implementing technology.
Meet users where they work by surfacing information when, where, and how they need it.
Focus on extensibility rather than customization to leverage the full potential of CRM platforms.

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In this episode, we explore the intersection of AI and sustainability within the fashion and retail industries. With expert insights from Deb Marotta of Hitachi Solutions and Kimberly Morgan of K3, we discuss strategies, technologies, and trends aimed at creating a more sustainable future.

Host: Dave Horstein

Guests:

Deb Marotta, VP, Industry Strategy

Kimberly Morgan, VP, NA & Global Partner Lead at K3

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For Quebec Law 25, the time is now for business leaders to take action to secure their data for governance & compliance to avoid penalties in the future.

For your people, process & technology, you will learn:

Law 25 background — what is the "right to be forgotten?"
Key milestones
How to prepare for next compliance requirement(s) through data management & governance
Expert-led suggestions for next steps

Learn more through this expert-led discussion with Hitachi Solutions hosted by Brad Koontz with Jay Tsang and Alexandre Crespo-Perez.

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In this episode of Radical Consulting for Exchanges, , Keith Shoulders leads our Project Services team discussion with special guest Gary Peterson, CSO, Hitachi Solutions. Through this Microsoft Teams-driven conversation, we turn the lens on digital transformation, how we're helping our customers in this modern era, and how we're using these tools ourselves to work more efficiently everyday wherever we are.

Join our team discussion and learn how we're leveraging this technology, why we consider Gen AI a great daily "digital assistant," and how it can become your favorite go to as well — Enterprise Chat is there for you whenever you need help writing, recording or resourcing; even at 2am.

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Join Host Brad Koontz with AI and innovation experts Paul Way and Don Scott for this straightforward conversation on how AI is working for business...

...It’s hard to imagine an industry that won’t be transformed by AI. Whether it’s healthcare, education, retail, construction, banking and finance, insurance, or manufacturing.

There are very clear use cases where AI can make an immediate and large change in how they improve operations and customer experiences.

There is a geyser of ideas and concepts in the marketplace and media – and with it a feeling of being overwhelmed. With all these predictions, offers, and tech talk out there, learning about AI can be like taking a sip from that geyser.

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In this episode of the Exchanges podcast by Hitachi Solutions, host Keith Shoulders is joined by co-hosts Marne Brocksmith and Mike Majarais as they dive into the topic of trustworthiness and building trust as a trusted advisor.

Their special guest is Amy Pritts, the CE delivery lead at Hitachi Solutions. Amy shares her insights on the importance of being engaging, authentic, and curious in order to build trust with clients and colleagues. She emphasizes the value of vulnerability and active listening in cultivating intimacy and creating meaningful connections.

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If there’s one word that can summarize the state of the manufacturing industry today, it would probably be “change”.

Supply chain challenges, labor shortages, economic unpredictability, and a rapidly evolving global landscape have spurred manufacturing business leaders to rethink how they do business, and how technology can help them evolve.

The power and potential of Generative AI in solving real-world business problems is impossible to ignore, but what exactly does that look like for manufacturers?

Join Advisory Host Dave Horstein and Industry 4.0 Expert Jeff Winter as they break this down for leaders solving for business in a very specific way for the manufacturing industry.

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Leveraging process mining to drive Power Platform performance to do more is the topic of this episode with Host Joel Lindstrom and low code expert Amarnath Vootla.

Process Mining analyzes system log files to discover bottlenecks, variants, and optimization opportunities in business processes. It's an AI powered X-ray into your workflows and efficiency rating. This can be refreshed on an ongoing basis to provide near-real-time monitoring of processes to identify inefficiencies and failure points.

The result? Better insight and prioritized decision-making around automation and optimization with Microsoft Power Platform

To learn more, check out our September edition of Power Platform INSIGHTS !

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Keith Shoulders, Marne Brocksmith, and Michael Majarais discuss the importance of personal and professional evolution in producing effective leadership.

Michael Majarais shares his journey from majoring in special education to VP of Project Services at Hitachi Solutions. He emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities and having the courage to make changes, even if they are unexpected. He also stresses the value of diverse experiences and how they can contribute to one's growth and success in their career.

Marne Brocksmith highlights the importance of humility and understanding oneself in leadership. She explains how her background in various fields has helped her in her current role and how she has been able to apply her previous experiences to her work in project services.

We also talk about the importance of having a strong foundation of experience and training to be innovative and creative in one's career. He also highlights the importance of collaboration, support, and a focus on the organization as a whole.

In summary, personal and professional evolution plays a crucial role in producing effective leadership. Having the conviction, curiosity, and courage to make changes and seize opportunities can lead to growth and success in one's career. Furthermore, having a diverse set of experiences and a strong foundation of training can help individuals become more innovative and creative leaders.

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Host Brad Koontz walks through the concept of "invisible CRM" with Hitachi Solutions experts, including 2x Microsoft Fasttrack Architect Adam Piercy and Pre-sales architect James Bowen.

Learn more about Microsoft Copilot, the concept of "invisible CRM," and how we're at the apex of all these tools coming together in a way that really works for sales and the way they function. And it's all achieved with a security-first mindset and approach.

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This week on EXCHANGES our experts talk about Microsoft PowerBI + Fabric = Unified Data for Everyone. What does Fabric mean for your modern business? As our Power BI Expert Sandeep Pawar says, "It's more about creating solutions, and less about the plumbing." Don't miss a single episode of Hitachi Solutions EXCHANGES. Wherever you get your favorite podcasts!

Hosted by Brad Koontz, with Power BI Experts Aditi Iyer, Sandeep Pawar and Bryan Campbell

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Communicate. Communicate. Communicate. While unpacking what AI means for your business model, it's important to iterate on what AI means for you, your people & processes first.

Join Advisory Expert Dave Horstein, along with security and data experts Branden Wick and Luke McGrath as they walk through what keeps business leaders up at night, and how to begin the transformation from the inside out to embrace what your employees are most definitely already realizing in terms of the availability of AI and how to leverage it at work with a "security first" mindset.

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How does your business strategy connect to your targeted audience, and how are you measuring the effectiveness of your customer product? Are your people and process part of the plan? How do you define "product" for your business, and what is "product mindset?"

Join us this week as Advisory Experts Dave Horstein and Rob Leavitt talk about adopting a product mindset and why that’s paramount for today’s digital enterprises.

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Top insights from the Databricks Data & Summit as Hitachi Solutions leaders Don Scott, Michael Green and Deb Marotta discuss the latest trends in AI and data management, including Large Language Models (LLMs), data cleanrooms and flows, AI in retail & more. Planning a data migration or modernization? Don't miss this insightful conversation!

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Join host Dave Horstein on Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions, as he dives into the long-running tech challenges in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry with experts Jon Loring & Mike Oster. From dealing with large file sharing and compliance issues to harnessing the power of real-time data and digital twins, they dissect the problems and present strategic solutions. Get actionable insights on user-friendly tech adoption, data security, and using business intelligence for smoother operations. Tune in to get equipped for the digital transformation in AEC.

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Hitachi Solutions President and Global COO Tom Galambos and Senior Vice President of Marketing Marcel Narish chat with Advisory Client Partner Dave Horstein on what it means to be a global Microsoft partner — the opportunities, challenges, and overall approach we take to successfully deliver unified, people-driven capabilities for our customers across the globe, and how we help leadership develop business innovation strategy for companies world over.

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Advisory Client Partner Dave Horstein talks about what's next for Exchanges — A Podcast by Hitachi Solutions

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Tune into this episode of Hitachi Solutions Exchanges, as low-code experts Joel Lindstrom and Will McLendon have fun discussing enterprise low-code maturity and scaling up Microsoft Power Platform usage for better business returns.

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Financial services industry experts, Landy Wingard and Peter Garadis, chat with Brad Koontz about some of the top tech trends mentioned in a recent Forrester report, and how financial services organizations are benefitting from low code technologies, like the Power Platform. Everything from business process automation, client and employee experience, and risk and compliance are on the table for discussion in this episode of Exchanges.

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Insights from AI Pioneers and Business Executives: Hitachi Solutions Advisory expert Dave Horstein in conversation with VP of Advisory Services Greg Gant, unraveling the essence of AI for enterprises and unlocking its potential as a transformative tool while upholding organizational culture.

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Just back from their presentation at this year's HIMSS (Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society) Exhibition in Chicago, Host Brad Koontz spoke with Data Science Expert Michael Green, Innovations Expert Nicholas Hogan and Healthcare Expert Leah Quartano about what a unified data platform does for customer service in the healthcare industry.

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In this episode, Hitachi Solutions Advisory Expert Dave Horstein walks through the business use case for Microsoft Fabric with Chief Technology Officer Luke McGrath and Empower Modern Data Platform Developer Don Scott. They talk about what Fabric means for your enterprise, and how Hitachi Solutions is particularly T-d up to help our customers surface the value of the technology today.

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In between sessions at Microsoft Build in Seattle last week, we grabbed some time with Hitachi Solutions Data VP Simon Nuss and Senior Power BI Architect Sandeep Pawar to unpack for business leaders some key takeaways from Microsoft's announcement of Fabric, what that means for enterprises, and how it will impact their modern data platform now and in the future.

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It's no longer okay just to meet best practices when it comes to building customer service and solutions through unified customer data platforms. Organization must innovate. And a lot of that comes from creating tailored experiences for customers. Join our marketing and sales experts Luke McGrath and Brittany LeMaro as they discuss how to build your capabilities to maximize customer impact with Advisory Expert Dave Horstein.

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In this short preview, Advisory Expert David Horstein introduces some of the topics we'll be covering for business leaders in season 3 of Exchanges — a podcast by Hitachi Solutions.

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Business Leaders know that to go forward with wisdom and predictive analysis, you must look and learn from the past. With the right recipe of data science and data analytics, you can leverage data for better business outcomes throughout your enterprise.

Join us for this week's episode of Exchanges: A podcast by Hitachi Solutions when Advisory's Dave Horstein talks with our resident "Weatherman" — Data Science expert Fred Heller — on the art of applying data science to business strategy.

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Join Hitachi Solutions data experts for the latest installment of our podcast where they discuss three simple steps business leaders can take to unlock analytical insights most company's don't even know exist.

With Don Scott, Michael Green and Sean Forgatch, hosted by Brad Koontz.

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Check out our podcast preview for Hitachi Solutions March 23 Webinar: Executive Panel — Technologies, People & Process in 2023 — where Advisory Client Partner Dave Horstein leads a panel discussion with some of our experts, including Vice President Deb Marotta, who you'll hear today talk about how businesses are solving in 2023 in this "Do More with Less" environment.

Register for the complete panel discussion and insight here: Executive Panel: How to Solve for Business with Microsoft Technologies, People & Processes – Hitachi Solutions (hitachi-solutions.com)

Don't miss this leadership deep dive into how we're helping customers solve for business in 2023!

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How do you safely leverage AI for Insurance? Is it in the underwriting realm? Where does it make sense to inject AI-driven data? How do you make sure it’s personalized and hitting the mark with your customers?

Our expert panel — with Brad Koontz, Insurance Expert Jonathan Yundt and, Advisory's Jason Ruud — explores the ins and outs on where we are in real-time with AI and the customer journey with a focus on regulated industries.

"Doing More with Less" is the theme of the times, but how to organize the motto into action is what keeps executives up at night. Join our experts Joel Lindstrom along with Em D'Arcy and Wes Seward to learn what "fusion" is all about, and how to leverage low code and pro code development with your people & processes to solve for your enterprise.

How organizations are learning to leverage their people and processes throughout their decisions in and around cloud migration for better business modernization outcomes for their enterprise

Host Jim MacLennan guides this discussion with experts Tom Bowman and Natalia Demidova.

As enterprises work to navigate what sustainability means for their business and their people— how to define, navigate and build a strategy around the word itself — our experts meet around the table for a thought-provoking discussion on how we're helping customers through technology, process and strategy to begin building a tangible and achievable plan.

Securely retrieving and surfacing business data when you're in the field or if you're a salesperson on the go is here. At Hitachi Solutions, we've worked with a team of innovators to develop a chat-driven, mobile-based, on-the-go experience for people to connect to results where and when they need them.

In this episode of EXCHANGES — Brad Koontz, Maverick Garrett and Scott Millwood connect today's tech headlines with tangible business innovation.

Power Platform expert Joel Lindstrom introduces our January edition of INSIGHTS, a monthly update from our tech hub of experts on what's happening in and around Microsoft, how our customers are solving with rapid solution development, and our ongoing customer recommendations to leverage this ever-evolving platform.

Hitachi Solutions Advisory Expert Dave Horstein walks us through a brief introduction to Exchanges Season 2 and what to expect in coming episodes when we'll meet around the table and drill down issues and opportunities for business leaders, people & processes in 2023 in an informative, casual, and conversational style. Join us each Wednesday!

We wrapped our first season of EXCHANGES — a podcast by Hitachi Solutions — with a bow. Reflecting on our goals for the podcast and looking ahead to Season 2 in 2023, we also walked through the most popular, most listened to, and shared episodes in Season 1, and talked about why they resonated most with business leaders.

Go ahead. Have a listen!

EXCHANGES is a thought-leadership gift that keeps on giving this holiday season. If you haven’t had the opportunity. Take a listen. Share. Let us know what you’d like to hear in Season 2. We’re listening …

As a member of the Enterprise Data Management Council (EDMC), Hitachi Solutions meets up with EDMC to talk about their core initiatives as well as how they help enterprise organizations through their Data Capabilities Assessment Model (DCAM), including training, information, building a common language for better returns on data initiatives, and building data resiliency, capability, governance, strategy, organizational standards and more.

In this episode of Exec's Guide to Tech, Dave Horstein talks with Power Platform Expert Joel Lindstrom on how to unpack Robotic Process Automation (RPA) for your business, including understanding the ins and outs, the ROI, how Microsoft Power Platform can efficiently upgrade outdated automation platforms, how it seamlessly integrates with all those benefits, and how it effects people and processes. We learn not only how to define RPA, but how to execute on the opportunity for better business returns.

From copious amounts of data, to changing market and consumer expectations, underwriters and actuaries have had their roles dramatically impacted in recent years. Not to mention the advancements in technology and types of insurance policies being sold. Join our industry experts as we discuss the future of underwriting in this episode!

In this episode of EXCHANGES, Power Platform expert Joel Lindstrom walks through Hitachi Solutions' Top 10 takeaways and favorite new features in Microsoft's October wave release with Power Platform Senior Consultant Matthew Devaney and Dynamics 365 Customer Service Director Eric Lin. They talk about not only how to absorb the dense content, but also what the wave release means for customers, and how best to navigate the news and what it means for your business.

When it comes to building a Digital Front Door for your enterprise, it is not a "one size fits all." What does Digital Front Door mean for your organization? How do you define it for all your constituents? What are best practices? Join Hitachi Solutions experts Brad Koontz, Leah Bowling, and Jonathan Yundt for a dive into Digital Front Door and how it functions for different audiences. That - and the value of Business Advisory when implementing new processes to maximize UX.

Whether it's undergoing digital transformation or effectively leading in a hybrid work sphere, Hitachi Solutions works with our customers through not only or own experience as a world-wide, hybrid enterprise, but through years of partnering with Microsoft and our customers to inform successful business transitions.

In this episode, Dave Horstein talks with Gary Peterson, Hitachi Solutions Chief Strategy Officer & Executive Vice President. Together they talk a little "About Us," but they also delve into the challenges and opportunities leading a global company with a nearly 100 percent remote workforce — staying true to our core culture as the company iterates, as well as always working to build and retain a talented, diverse workforce.

This week Hitachi Solutions' Brad Koontz talks with Michael Mendoza and Marcus Raddatz on the power of (and the definition of) mixed reality and how it can extend the capabilities of field service.

As the mixed reality landscape continues to develop, we are seeing it leveraged in more and more everyday applications. During this session we will review how Dynamics 365 Field Service is leveraging Guides and Remote Assist and how accessible it can be for workers in the field.

Join our panel of Hitachi Solutions tech experts as they discuss navigating their profession; how to overcome persistent obstacles; and, ways to seek mentorship and positive role models when you may be the first in your field. (Hint: There's not one way to make it in the professional world of technology!)

While women in tech continue to make headway, our Hitachi Solutions professionals talk about some of their experiences; lessons learned and ways forward for our future leadership — leaving room for some key takeaways and food for thought.

Join Hitachi Solutions Change Advisory experts Dave Horstein and Hannah Farley as they discuss the critical component of SPONSORSHIP when implementing new technology to maximize people and process adoption and adoption, which helps business leaders meet their goal and the entire enterprise to embrace their future state successfully.

Listen in and learn how we help our customers — from ERP to CRM initiatives, and BEYOND!

For today's business enterprise, maintaining your environments with the flexible ability to be ALWAYS ON — whether it's monitoring for security, Azure support, providing operational staff augmentation or guiding you through your post Go Live for new technology implementations, managed services can cover the entire depth and breadth of your IT solutions.

When choosing technology, sometimes we need to take a step back and confirm the "Why" before implementing the "What." This is where our Advisory Services Experience team helps our customers inform their digital strategy through guided workshops and problem framing in order to course confirm and/or correct, and define direction by prioritizing business needs to better inform innovation for better business outcomes.

More and more, Healthcare Industries seek Microsoft’s Power Platform for modern business performance and impact. Not only does Power Platform bring its low-code ease of use for solving daily business issues, it also offers time to value, extending the reach of your employees, with extraordinary results for both internal and external communities and processes. Find out more as Hitachi Solutions’ Brad Koontz talks with Industry Director Jonathan Yundt on this episode of EXCHANGES.

In this "mini-series," Advisory's Dave Horstein periodically meets up with Insurance and Health Payor VP Leah Quartano Bowling to talk tech.

Through these conversations, they explore how decision makers can best navigate the rapid rate of technological change — what helps, what hurts, and how to map the way forward for successful business outcomes.

In this first episode, Leah and Dave talk about the importance of focusing on the "why."

Find Out What Our Experts Have to Say ... Join Host Dave Horstein, along with Strategic Account Manager John Lawhead and Manufacturing Vice President Martin Boggess as they discuss the ins and outs of choosing the right digital strategy, the right partner, and knowing when to course correct in your digital journey for better business outcomes.

When do you use pro-code? Low-code? Can you use both? Direct from Hitachi Solutions Tech Hub of Power Platform Experts, Joel Lindstrom and Em D'Arcy talk about this month's edition of INSIGHTS and answer some common customer questions on Microsoft Power Platform.

Where are organizations finding themselves in addressing today's "office?"

What happens when organizations don't properly plan for changes to their working models?
What are you finding to be an effective model for your workplace—in person, remote, or hybrid?
What are some of the common reasons people are resisting in-person arrangements?
What are your top tips for organizations planning to return to the office fulltime or bring their employees on a hybrid journey?

Dave Horstein talks with Advisory's Steve Chihos and VP of Cloud Enablement and Security Joseph Scaravilli about working with our customers as they navigate the best return to work solution for their organization now and in the future.

Preparing for a digital transformation or taking the next step in your innovation journey? Is your organizational house in order? What is "digital readiness?"

Dave Horstein and Jim MacLennon discuss how companies best prepare for innovation through the lens of organizational readiness — from technology to human experience.

In this short episode, Dave Horstein talks with Advisory Services VP Greg Gant about our approach to helping our customers realize better business value from their digital and process innovations in this rapidly changing world.

Introducing Exchanges: The ultimate podcast for innovating and creative problem solving in and around business and Microsoft technology.