Recommended soundtrack: Who are you ? The Who

Comparison Note: H2O.ai, C3.ai, and DataRobot

These three companies are leading players in the enterprise AI and machine learning platform market, each with distinct approaches and strengths:

Functionality:

H2O.ai focuses on democratizing AI through its open-source roots and automated machine learning (AutoML) capabilities. Their H2O Driverless AI product emphasizes ease of use for non-experts while still providing powerful tools for data scientists. C3.ai takes an industry-specific approach, offering pre-built AI applications tailored for sectors like energy, manufacturing, and financial services. DataRobot emphasizes end-to-end AI lifecycle management, from data preparation to model deployment and monitoring.

Technical Architecture:

H2O.ai's architecture is built on distributed computing and in-memory processing, supporting multiple programming languages. This approach allows for scalability and flexibility in handling large datasets. C3.ai utilizes a model-driven, microservices-based architecture that is cloud-native, enabling rapid development and deployment of AI applications. DataRobot employs a containerized, cloud-agnostic architecture centered around automated machine learning, facilitating easy deployment across various cloud environments.

Service Capabilities:

H2O.ai offers a mix of open-source tools and enterprise solutions, with a strong focus on AutoML and time-series analysis. Their H2O AI Cloud provides a comprehensive platform for building and deploying AI applications. C3.ai's strength lies in its industry-specific AI solutions and its ability to integrate IoT data with enterprise systems, making it particularly suited for large-scale industrial applications. DataRobot provides robust MLOps capabilities and emphasizes the entire AI lifecycle, from data preparation to model monitoring and governance.

In summary, while all three companies offer powerful AI platforms, H2O.ai stands out for its open-source heritage and focus on AutoML, C3.ai for its industry-specific solutions and IoT integration, and DataRobot for its comprehensive AI lifecycle management and MLOps capabilities. The choice between them would depend on an organization's specific needs, existing technical infrastructure, and the level of AI expertise available in-house.

Recommended soundtrack: They Say I’m Different, Betty Davis

Key Issue: Can IBIDG present a unified sales approach (CEO,CIO, end-user) for the top artificial intelligence markets ?

Enterprise AI Platforms

CEO Expectations

CEOs expect Enterprise AI Platforms to provide a comprehensive solution that can drive digital transformation across the entire organization. They anticipate significant improvements in operational efficiency, decision-making processes, and the ability to gain a competitive edge in the market. CEOs look for clear ROI models that demonstrate how the AI platform will contribute to revenue growth, cost reduction, and improved market positioning.

CIO Expectations

CIOs expect Enterprise AI Platforms to seamlessly integrate with existing IT infrastructure while providing robust security and compliance features. They look for scalability, flexibility, and the ability to support a wide range of AI applications across different departments. CIOs also expect the platform to streamline AI development and deployment processes, reducing the need for specialized AI talent and accelerating time-to-value for AI initiatives.

End User Expectations

End users expect Enterprise AI Platforms to be user-friendly and intuitive, with minimal disruption to their existing workflows. They anticipate AI-powered tools that can augment their capabilities, automate routine tasks, and provide actionable insights to improve their job performance. End users also expect adequate training and support to help them leverage the platform effectively.

Sales Approach

The sales approach for Enterprise AI Platforms should focus on creating a holistic vision of AI-driven transformation. The salesperson should begin by conducting a thorough assessment of the organization's current AI maturity and strategic goals. They should then present a customized roadmap that demonstrates how the platform can address specific pain points while aligning with the company's long-term objectives. The sales strategy should include executive-level workshops, technical deep-dives, and hands-on demonstrations for end users. Emphasizing the platform's ability to democratize AI across the organization and showcasing success stories from similar companies will be crucial in winning over all stakeholders.

Market

Conversational AI/Chatbots

CEO Expectations

CEOs view Conversational AI and Chatbots as key tools for enhancing customer experience, reducing operational costs, and potentially opening new revenue streams. They expect these technologies to provide 24/7 customer service, improve customer satisfaction scores, and generate valuable customer insights. CEOs also anticipate that implementing conversational AI will lead to significant cost savings in customer service operations and potentially create new business models.

CIO Expectations

CIOs expect Conversational AI and Chatbot solutions to be secure, scalable, and easily integrable with existing customer service platforms and databases. They look for solutions that offer robust natural language processing capabilities, multi-language support, and the ability to handle complex queries. CIOs also expect these systems to be trainable with company-specific data and to provide detailed analytics on user interactions.

End User Expectations

End users, including both customers and internal staff, expect Conversational AI and Chatbots to provide quick, accurate, and helpful responses. They anticipate an experience that closely mimics human interaction, with the ability to understand context and handle complex queries. For internal users, there's an expectation that these tools will help them handle customer inquiries more efficiently, freeing up time for more complex tasks.

Sales Approach

The sales approach for Conversational AI and Chatbots should focus on demonstrating tangible improvements in customer experience and operational efficiency. The salesperson should begin with a detailed analysis of the company's current customer service metrics and pain points. They should then provide a clear implementation roadmap, showcasing how the AI solution can be gradually integrated to enhance rather than replace human agents. Offering a pilot program or proof of concept that demonstrates quick wins in a specific area of customer service can be highly effective. The sales strategy should also emphasize the solution's learning capabilities and how it can be continuously improved based on real-world interactions.

( other markets with subscription)

Recommended soundtrack: Let There Be Rock, AC/DC

Research Note: Bridging the AI Implementation Gap Between Executives and Employees


Strategic Planning Assumption

Enterprise artificial intelligence implementations will face challenges due to a broadening gap of expectations between executive teams and employees (Probability .93).


Executive Summary

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the business landscape, a critical challenge is emerging with high probability: the widening disconnect between executive expectations and employee experiences in AI implementation. This research note examines this pressing issue and proposes a comprehensive framework for addressing it, ensuring organizations can maximize the value of their AI investments while maintaining workforce engagement and productivity.


Issue


The AI implementation gap manifests in multiple dimensions, including strategic misalignment, organizational rigidity, cultural resistance, skill disparities, and user adoption challenges. While executive teams often envision AI as a transformative force driving competitive advantage, employees may view it as a threat to job security or struggle to integrate it effectively into their daily workflows. This misalignment can result in suboptimal AI investments, reduced productivity, employee disengagement, and missed opportunities for innovation.


Key challenges include

1. Strategic Alignment: Misalignment between AI initiatives and business goals

2. Organizational Structure: Rigid hierarchies impeding AI innovation

3. Culture and Change Management: Resistance to AI adoption and fear of job displacement

4. Skill Gap and Talent: Shortage of AI expertise and inadequate AI literacy among staff

5. User Adoption and Experience: Poor user experience in AI tools and lack of user involvement in development

Solution

To bridge this gap, organizations need a multi-faceted approach that combines strategic vision with practical execution. Key steps include:

1. Develop an AI Hedgehog Concept aligning with organizational strengths and addressing both executive vision and employee needs

2. Create a balanced AI portfolio addressing short-term improvements and long-term innovation

3. Redesign organizational structures to foster cross-functional collaboration and AI integration

4. Implement collaborative AI development processes involving end-users from the outset

5. Invest in comprehensive AI education and core competency development across all levels

6. Establish robust feedback systems and agile governance frameworks for AI initiatives

7. Foster an AI innovation culture that empowers employees and recognizes AI-driven improvements

Value

Successful implementation of this approach can yield significant benefits:

1. Strategic Value: Improved alignment of AI initiatives with business goals, leading to increased ROI and market differentiation

2. Operational Efficiency: Streamlined AI integration and improved cross-departmental collaboration

3. Innovation Capacity: Balanced portfolio of AI innovations and new market opportunities

4. Talent Development: Enhanced AI literacy and reduced dependency on external expertise

5. User Satisfaction: Higher productivity and reduced resistance to AI implementation

6. Risk Management: Improved stakeholder trust and better compliance with AI regulations

7. Adaptability: Sustained competitive advantage in AI and ability to capitalize on emergent opportunities

Bottom Line

The high probability of challenges arising from the AI implementation gap underscores the urgency for organizations to address this issue proactively. By adopting a holistic approach that addresses both executive aspirations and employee concerns, companies can unlock the full potential of AI, drive innovation, and create sustainable competitive advantages. Leaders who successfully bridge this gap will position their organizations at the forefront of the AI revolution, ready to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven business landscape.


John Smalligan, MSF

Artificial Intelligence
Management Consulting
IBIDG

Recommended soundtrack: Telephone, ELO

Report: Materials Demand Shift in the Transition from 5G to 6G

Executive Summary:

The transition from 5G to 6G technology is driving significant changes in material demands for telecommunications infrastructure. This report analyzes the anticipated shifts in material requirements, focusing on key semiconductors Gallium Nitride (GaN) and Indium Phosphide (InP).

Key Findings:

a) Wide-bandgap Semiconductors:

Materials:

Gallium Nitride (GaN), Indium Phosphide (InP)

Expected Demand Increase:

High

Reason:

Superior performance at high frequencies, improved power efficiency

b) Advanced Antenna Materials:

Materials: Graphene, Metamaterials
Expected Demand Increase: Very High
Reason: Needed for efficient, reconfigurable antennas at THz frequencies

c) Low-loss Substrate Materials:

Materials: Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP), Low-loss Glass
Expected Demand Increase: Moderate to High
Reason: Critical for reducing signal loss at higher frequencies

d) Thermal Management Materials:

Materials: Phase Change Materials, Graphene-based Thermal Solutions
Expected Demand Increase: High
Reason: Necessary for managing increased power density and heat generation

e) Photonic Materials:

Materials: Silicon Photonics, Plasmonic Materials
Expected Demand Increase: Very High
Reason: Enabling optical-electrical interfaces for ultra-high bandwidth


Material Definitions:

Gallium Nitride (GaN):

Wide bandgap semiconductor (3.4 eV)
Composed of gallium and nitrogen

Key characteristics:

High electron mobility, high breakdown voltage, high-temperature operation, high-frequency capability, excellent thermal conductivity

Applications:

Power electronics, RF amplifiers, LED lighting, laser diodes, high-frequency transistors for 6G base stations

Indium Phosphide (InP):

Binary semiconductor compound of indium and phosphorus
Direct bandgap semiconductor (1.35 eV at room temperature)

Key characteristics:

High electron mobility, superior high-frequency performance, excellent photonic properties, low noise
Applications: High-speed electronics, photonic integrated circuits, fiber-optic communication, RFICs, multi-junction solar cells, millimeter-wave and terahertz devices for 6G systems


Key Suppliers:

Gallium Nitride (GaN) Suppliers:

1) Wolfspeed (WOLF)

2) Infineon Technologies (IFNNY)

3) Qorvo (QRVO)

4) Northrop Grumman (NOC)

5) Sumitomo Electric (SMTOY)

6) MACOM (MTSI)

7) NXP Semiconductors (NXPI)

Indium Phosphide (InP) Suppliers:

1) AXT Inc. (AXTI)

2) Sumitomo Electric (SMTOY)

3) IQE plc (IQE)

4) JX Nippon Mining & Metals (5020 Tokyo)


Market Implications:


The transition to 6G will significantly impact material demands in the telecommunications industry.

Wide-bandgap semiconductors, advanced antenna materials, and photonic materials are expected to see the highest increase in demand.

Manufacturers and suppliers in these material categories should prepare for substantial growth opportunities.

Industries involved in advanced thermal management solutions and low-loss substrate materials should anticipate increased market interest.

The semiconductor industry is dynamic, and company involvement in GaN and InP production may change over time.


Investment Considerations:


While the listed companies are involved in GaN and InP production, it may not be their only or primary business.

Investors should conduct thorough research on the overall business model and financial health of these companies.

The transition to 6G technology is likely to increase demand for these materials, potentially leading to expansion of production capacities and entry of new market players.

Companies in related industries, such as those producing precursor materials or manufacturing equipment for GaN and InP production, may also see increased business opportunities.

Bottom Line

The shift from 5G to 6G technology presents significant opportunities in the materials sector, particularly for GaN and InP semiconductors.

As research and development in 6G technologies progress, we can expect to see growing demand for these materials, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape in the semiconductor industry. Investors and industry stakeholders should closely monitor developments in this space as 6G technology moves closer to commercialization.

Recommended soundtrack: Clanadonia
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Global Tax Regimes and Policy Implications for England
Introduction

This report analyzes the current state of global tax regimes and offers policy suggestions for England to enhance its competitiveness and economic growth. By examining tax systems worldwide and identifying best practices, we provide recommendations tailored to England's unique circumstances.

Global Tax Landscape

The international tax landscape is characterized by significant variation in income tax rates and structures. Top marginal personal income tax rates range from 37% in the United States to 57% in Sweden, while corporate tax rates span from 0% in Bermuda to 40% in India. The U.S. stands out for having one of the highest statutory corporate tax rates among OECD countries at 27%, compared to an average of 23.5%.

European nations tend to impose higher personal income taxes than other regions, with several countries like Denmark and Austria featuring marginal rates above 55%. These high rates often kick in at lower income thresholds than in the U.S. Tax-to-GDP ratios, measuring total tax revenue relative to the size of the economy, also differ substantially. France's ratio of 45.5% is nearly double that of the U.S. at 24.5%, while Mexico has the lowest OECD ratio at 16.5%.

However, comparing tax systems across countries is challenging due to differences in how taxes are levied (nationally vs. locally), as well as variations in deductions, credits, and exemptions.
Policy Recommendations for England

Growth

To bolster its global competitiveness and stimulate economic growth, England should consider the following tax policy changes:

Competitive Taxation:

For the “technology industry,“ lower the corporate tax rate from 19% to match Ireland's 12.5% rate and simplify the tax code by reducing brackets and eliminating unnecessary deductions. This will attract foreign investment and encourage domestic business growth.

Targeted Tax Incentives:

Expand the R&D tax credit to 20% of eligible expenses and introduce a 30% investment tax credit for advanced manufacturing equipment. These incentives will spur innovation and productivity gains in key industries.

Closing Loopholes:

Reform the non-domiciled resident tax status and limit interest expense deductions for multinationals. Closing these loopholes will ensure a fairer tax system and reduce tax avoidance.

Devolution of Taxing Power:

Grant Scotland the authority to set its own corporate and personal income tax rates, while allowing Wales to control property and environmental taxes. This devolution will enable regions to tailor tax policies to their specific needs and promote healthy tax competition within the UK.

Shifting Tax Burdens:

Gradually reduce marginal income tax rates by 5 percentage points while implementing a carbon tax starting at £40 per metric ton. This shift will incentivize work and investment while promoting environmental sustainability.

International Coordination:

Advocate for an OECD-wide digital services tax on large technology companies and participate in EU efforts to combat corporate profit shifting. Collaborating with international partners will help create a more level playing field and prevent tax base erosion.

Bottom Line

By adopting these policy recommendations, England can create a more competitive, efficient, and equitable tax system that supports economic growth and social welfare. Lowering corporate taxes and providing targeted incentives will attract investment and spur innovation, while closing loopholes and shifting tax burdens will promote fairness and sustainability.

Based on the experiences of other countries like Singapore and Sweden, we estimate that implementing these reforms could boost England's annual GDP growth rate by 0.5 to 1 percentage point over the next decade. This would result in a cumulative economic benefit of £200 billion to £400 billion by 2033, depending on the speed and scope of implementation.

Recommended soundtrack: Stackolee, Samuel L. Jackson

Economic and technology survey findings:

Economic Survey Results:

Some economists surveyed predict slowing economic growth and potential recession risks in the coming years.

Inflation concerns are impacting consumer confidence, according to certain surveys.

Forecasts show continued growth in consumer spending on digital ads and e-commerce.

Surveys point to shifts in consumer spending priorities and behavior in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Limited references are made to government spending breakdowns and budget deficit projections from economic surveys, but details are lacking.

Technology Spending Survey Results:

Many companies across industries plan to increase spending on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing,

Internet of Things (IoT), and 5G wireless networks through 2024.

In particular, retail, finance, and healthcare industries are projected to see rising IT budgets in the coming years.

However, some surveys indicate that businesses are facing challenges in successfully implementing new technologies and achieving payoff from AI projects.

Takeaways

The key takeaways are that technology spending is expected to rise significantly (Probability .67), especially in AI, despite some implementation challenges, while the economic outlook appears mixed, with growth expected in certain areas like e-commerce even as recession risks and inflation weigh on the minds of economists and consumers.

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Natural Law

Recommended soundtrack: The Hu, Wolf Totem

1. Cloud infrastructure and services

Definition:

Cloud infrastructure and services refer to the on-demand delivery of computing resources, including servers, storage, databases, networking, and software, over the internet. These services are provided by cloud vendors and can be easily scaled up or down based on the organization's needs.

Unique value:

Cloud infrastructure and services enable businesses to reduce capital expenditure, increase agility, and accelerate innovation by providing flexible and scalable computing resources. They also enable remote work and collaboration, improve business continuity, and allow organizations to focus on their core competencies rather than managing IT infrastructure.


2. AI and machine learning platforms

Definition:

AI and machine learning platforms are software tools and frameworks that enable businesses to develop, deploy, and manage AI and machine learning models. These platforms provide pre-built algorithms, libraries, and tools for data preparation, model training, and inference.

Unique value:

AI and machine learning platforms help organizations harness the power of data to drive automation, improve decision-making, and gain competitive advantages. They enable businesses to build intelligent applications that can learn from data, adapt to new inputs, and provide predictive insights.


3. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) tools

Definition:

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) tools are software solutions that enable businesses to automate repetitive and rules-based tasks by creating software bots that can mimic human actions. These bots can interact with applications, databases, and systems to perform tasks such as data entry, data extraction, and transaction processing.

Unique value:

RPA tools help organizations improve efficiency, reduce errors, and free up human workers to focus on higher-value tasks. They enable businesses to automate processes across multiple systems and applications without the need for expensive integration or customization.


4. Advanced analytics and business intelligence solutions

Definition:

Advanced analytics and business intelligence solutions are software tools that enable businesses to analyze large volumes of structured and unstructured data to gain insights and make data-driven decisions. These solutions provide capabilities for data visualization, data mining, predictive modeling, and natural language processing.

Unique value:

Advanced analytics and business intelligence solutions help organizations turn data into actionable insights that can drive better decision-making, optimize operations, and identify new business opportunities. They enable businesses to gain a competitive edge by leveraging data to improve customer engagement, optimize supply chains, and drive innovation.


5. Cybersecurity software and services (e.g., SIEM, EDR, XDR)

Definition:

Cybersecurity software and services are solutions that help organizations protect their networks, systems, and data from cyber threats such as malware, phishing, and hacking attempts. These solutions include Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), and Extended Detection and Response (XDR) tools.

Unique value:

Cybersecurity software and services enable businesses to detect, prevent, and respond to cyber threats in real-time, reducing the risk of data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage. They provide visibility into security events across the organization, enable automated threat hunting and response, and help businesses comply with industry regulations and standards.


6. Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions

Definition:

Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions are software tools that enable businesses to manage user identities, authentication, and access privileges across multiple systems and applications. These solutions provide capabilities for user provisioning, single sign-on, multi-factor authentication, and access governance.

Unique value:

IAM solutions help organizations improve security, reduce risk, and streamline user access management. They enable businesses to enforce consistent access policies, prevent unauthorized access, and ensure that users have the right level of access to the right resources at the right time.


7. Zero Trust security frameworks and tools

Definition:

Zero Trust is a security model that assumes that no user, device, or network should be trusted by default, and that all access requests must be authenticated and authorized based on the principle of least privilege. Zero Trust security frameworks and tools provide capabilities for continuous authentication, authorization, and monitoring of all access requests.

Unique value:

Zero Trust security frameworks and tools enable businesses to improve security, reduce the attack surface, and prevent lateral movement of threats within the network. They provide granular access control, enable micro-segmentation of networks, and enable businesses to enforce consistent security policies across all users, devices, and applications.


8. Data management platforms and data lakes

Definition:

Data management platforms and data lakes are software solutions that enable businesses to store, process, and analyze large volumes of structured and unstructured data from multiple sources. These solutions provide capabilities for data ingestion, storage, processing, and analysis, and enable businesses to build a single source of truth for their data.

Unique value:

Data management platforms and data lakes enable businesses to break down data silos, improve data quality and consistency, and gain insights from data that were previously unavailable. They provide a scalable and flexible infrastructure for storing and processing big data, and enable businesses to build machine learning models and advanced analytics applications.


9. Master Data Management (MDM) solutions

Definition:

Master Data Management (MDM) solutions are software tools that enable businesses to create and maintain a single, consistent, and accurate view of their critical data entities, such as customers, products, and suppliers. These solutions provide capabilities for data integration, data quality, data governance, and data stewardship.

Unique value:

MDM solutions help organizations improve data quality, reduce data duplication and inconsistency, and enable better decision-making based on a trusted view of critical data entities. They enable businesses to improve customer experience, optimize supply chain operations, and comply with industry regulations and standards.

10.
Data governance and privacy tools

Definition:

Data governance and privacy tools are software solutions that enable businesses to define, implement, and enforce policies and procedures for managing and protecting sensitive data. These solutions provide capabilities for data discovery, classification, access control, and auditing, and enable businesses to comply with data privacy regulations such as GDPR and CCPA.

Unique value:

Data governance and privacy tools help organizations reduce the risk of data breaches, protect sensitive data, and build trust with customers and stakeholders. They enable businesses to demonstrate compliance with data privacy regulations, improve data quality and consistency, and enable better decision-making based on trusted data.


11. Collaboration and productivity suites

Definition:

Collaboration and productivity suites are software solutions that enable teams to work together more efficiently and effectively, regardless of their location or device. These solutions typically include tools for communication, document sharing, task management, and project collaboration.

Unique value:

Collaboration and productivity suites help organizations improve teamwork, communication, and productivity, especially in remote and hybrid work environments. They enable businesses to break down silos, foster innovation, and improve employee engagement and satisfaction.


12. Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) solutions

Definition:

Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) solutions are software tools that enable businesses to deliver virtual desktops and applications to users on any device, from any location. These solutions provide capabilities for desktop virtualization, application virtualization, and remote access, and enable businesses to centrally manage and secure user desktops and applications.

Unique value:

VDI solutions help organizations improve flexibility, scalability, and security of their desktop and application delivery. They enable businesses to provide users with access to their desktops and applications from any device, reduce the cost and complexity of desktop management, and improve business continuity and disaster recovery.


13. Secure remote access tools (e.g., VPN, ZTNA)

Definition:

Secure remote access tools are software solutions that enable users to securely access corporate networks and resources from remote locations. These solutions include Virtual Private Network (VPN) and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) tools, which provide encrypted and authenticated access to corporate resources over the internet.

Unique value:

Secure remote access tools help organizations improve security, flexibility, and productivity of their remote workforce. They enable businesses to provide users with secure access to corporate resources from any location, reduce the risk of data breaches and cyber attacks, and improve user experience and satisfaction.


14. Application modernization services

Definition:

Application modernization services are professional services that help businesses update and upgrade their legacy applications to take advantage of new technologies, platforms, and architectures. These services include application assessment, re-platforming, re-factoring, and re-architecting, and enable businesses to improve the performance, scalability, and maintainability of their applications.

Unique value:

Application modernization services help organizations reduce the cost and complexity of maintaining legacy applications, improve agility and innovation, and enable better integration with modern technologies and platforms. They enable businesses to take advantage of cloud computing, microservices, and containerization, and improve the user experience and business value of their applications.


15. Cloud migration and optimization services

Definition:

Cloud migration and optimization services are professional services that help businesses move their applications and workloads to the cloud, and optimize their cloud infrastructure and services for performance, cost, and security. These services include cloud assessment, planning, migration, and optimization, and enable businesses to take full advantage of the benefits of cloud computing.

Unique value:

Cloud migration and optimization services help organizations reduce the cost and complexity of their IT infrastructure, improve agility and scalability, and enable innovation and digital transformation. They enable businesses to take advantage of the elasticity, flexibility, and cost-efficiency of cloud computing, and improve the performance, availability, and security of their applications and workloads.


16. Low-code/no-code development platforms

Definition:

Low-code/no-code development platforms are software tools that enable businesses to develop and deploy applications quickly and easily, without the need for extensive coding or programming skills. These platforms provide visual drag-and-drop interfaces, pre-built templates and components, and automated testing and deployment capabilities.

Unique value:

Low-code/no-code development platforms help organizations accelerate application development, reduce the cost and complexity of custom software development, and enable citizen developers to build and deploy applications quickly. They enable businesses to improve agility, innovation, and time-to-market, and to respond more quickly to changing business needs and customer demands.


17. Agile and DevOps tools

Definition:

Agile and DevOps tools are software solutions that enable businesses to implement agile and DevOps methodologies for software development and delivery. These tools include project management, continuous integration and delivery (CI/CD), automated testing, and infrastructure as code (IaC) tools, and enable businesses to improve the speed, quality, and reliability of their software development and delivery processes.

Unique value:

Agile and DevOps tools help organizations improve collaboration, communication, and alignment between development and operations teams, reduce the risk and cost of software failures and downtime, and enable faster and more frequent delivery of software updates and new features. They enable businesses to improve customer satisfaction, competitive advantage, and business agility.

18. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems

Definition:

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems are software solutions that enable businesses to manage and analyze customer interactions and data throughout the customer lifecycle. These systems provide capabilities for sales automation, marketing automation, customer service and support, and analytics and reporting.

Unique value:

CRM systems help organizations improve customer acquisition, retention, and loyalty, by providing a 360-degree view of the customer and enabling personalized and targeted interactions across all channels. They enable businesses to improve sales productivity, marketing effectiveness, and customer satisfaction, and to gain insights into customer behavior and preferences.


19. Customer Data Platforms (CDPs)

Definition:

Customer Data Platforms (CDPs) are software solutions that enable businesses to collect, unify, and activate customer data from multiple sources, to create a single, comprehensive view of the customer. These platforms provide capabilities for data integration, data management, data governance, and data activation, and enable businesses to create targeted and personalized customer experiences across all channels.

Unique value:

CDPs help organizations improve customer understanding, engagement, and loyalty, by providing a unified and actionable view of the customer across all touchpoints. They enable businesses to create targeted and personalized marketing campaigns, improve customer service and support, and gain insights into customer behavior and preferences.



20. Omnichannel customer engagement solutions

Definition: Omnichannel customer engagement solutions are software tools that enable businesses to engage with customers across multiple channels, such as email, chat, social media, and voice, in a consistent and seamless way. These solutions provide capabilities for customer communication, customer service and support, and customer feedback and analytics.

Unique value: Omnichannel customer engagement solutions help organizations improve customer experience, satisfaction, and loyalty, by providing a consistent and personalized experience across all channels. They enable businesses to improve customer service and support, reduce customer churn, and gain insights into customer behavior and preferences.



21 IT Financial Management (ITFM) tools

Definition: IT Financial Management (ITFM) tools are software solutions that enable businesses to manage and optimize their IT costs and investments, and align them with business objectives and outcomes. These tools provide capabilities for IT budgeting, cost allocation, chargeback and showback, and financial reporting and analytics.

Unique value: ITFM tools help organizations improve visibility, control, and optimization of their IT costs and investments, and demonstrate the value and ROI of IT to the business. They enable businesses to make data-driven decisions about IT investments, optimize IT spending and resources, and improve financial transparency and accountability.


22. IT Service Management (ITSM) solutions

Definition:

IT Service Management (ITSM) solutions are software tools that enable businesses to manage and deliver IT services to their customers and users, based on best practices and standards such as ITIL. These solutions provide capabilities for incident management, problem management, change management, and service level management, and enable businesses to improve the quality, efficiency, and effectiveness of their IT services.

Unique value:

ITSM solutions help organizations improve IT service delivery, reduce IT incidents and downtime, and improve user satisfaction and productivity. They enable businesses to standardize and automate IT processes, improve collaboration and communication between IT and business teams, and demonstrate the value and performance of IT services to the business.


23. AIOps and IT automation platforms

Definition:

AIOps (Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations) and IT automation platforms are software solutions that enable businesses to automate and optimize their IT operations using machine learning and artificial intelligence. These platforms provide capabilities for data collection and analysis, anomaly detection and prediction, and automated remediation and optimization of IT systems and services.

Unique value:

AIOps and IT automation platforms help organizations improve the availability, performance, and efficiency of their IT systems and services, by enabling proactive and predictive management of IT operations. They enable businesses to reduce manual effort and human error, improve incident response and resolution times, and optimize IT resources and costs.


24. Digital skills training and learning management systems

Definition:

Digital skills training and learning management systems are software solutions that enable businesses to provide their employees with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the digital age. These solutions provide capabilities for online learning, skills assessment, and certification, and enable businesses to create and deliver personalized and engaging learning experiences.

Unique value:

Digital skills training and learning management systems help organizations improve employee productivity, engagement, and retention, by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their roles and careers. They enable businesses to upskill and reskill their workforce, close the digital skills gap, and foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation.


25. Sustainability and ESG reporting tools

Definition:

Sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting tools are software solutions that enable businesses to measure, manage, and report on their sustainability and ESG performance. These tools provide capabilities for data collection and analysis, sustainability scoring and benchmarking, and sustainability reporting and disclosure.

Unique value:

Sustainability and ESG reporting tools help organizations improve their sustainability and ESG performance, by providing transparency and accountability into their environmental and social impact. They enable businesses to meet regulatory and stakeholder requirements for sustainability reporting, improve their reputation and brand value, and attract and retain customers and investors who prioritize sustainability.


26. Internet of Things (IoT) platforms and sensors

Definition:

Internet of Things (IoT) platforms and sensors are software and hardware solutions that enable businesses to collect, analyze, and act on data from connected devices and sensors. These solutions provide capabilities for device management, data ingestion and processing, analytics and visualization, and automation and control.

Unique value:

IoT platforms and sensors help organizations improve operational efficiency, asset utilization, and customer experience, by providing real-time insights and automation based on data from connected devices and sensors. They enable businesses to optimize supply chain operations, improve product quality and reliability, and create new revenue streams and business models based on IoT data and services.


27. Blockchain solutions for supply chain transparency

Definition:


Blockchain solutions for supply chain transparency are software tools that enable businesses to create a secure, transparent, and immutable record of supply chain transactions and events using blockchain technology. These solutions provide capabilities for asset tracking, provenance and authenticity verification, and smart contract automation. Unique value: Blockchain solutions for supply chain transparency help organizations improve trust, transparency, and efficiency in their supply chain operations, by providing a tamper-proof and auditable record of all supply chain events and transactions. They enable businesses to reduce fraud and counterfeiting, improve product safety and quality, and streamline supply chain processes and documentation.


28. Energy management and optimization software

Definition:

Energy management and optimization software are solutions that enable businesses to monitor, manage, and optimize their energy consumption and costs across their facilities and operations. These solutions provide capabilities for energy data collection and analysis, energy benchmarking and reporting, and energy efficiency and optimization recommendations.


Unique value:

Energy management and optimization software help organizations reduce their energy costs, improve their sustainability and environmental performance, and comply with energy regulations and standards. They enable businesses to identify energy waste and inefficiencies, implement energy-saving measures and projects, and demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility.

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The Innovation Cycle

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The Innovation Phase

In the Innovation Phase, new potentially disruptive technologies are triggered by research breakthroughs or innovation sparks. These cutting-edge solutions represent paradigm shifts from existing approaches. Technologies in this phase tend to be highly conceptual and experimental in nature as companies work to develop minimum viable products and validate product-market fit hypotheses. From a technological standpoint, the focus is on pioneering R&D, prototyping, and testing out the core capabilities and limits of the innovative approach.


Financially, companies operating in the Innovation Phase are squarely pre-revenue, investing heavily in research and development activities. They typically rely on venture capital, grants, or internal funding from parent companies to finance this high-risk, high-potential work. With no commercial products yet, burn rates can be high as these players aim to achieve technological milestones and proofs-of-concept before pursuing commercial pathways.


The Hype Phase

Success with early prototypes generates hype and inflated expectations around a new technology's potential impact and timeline for adoption. In the Hype Phase, vendors rush to capitalize on the initial market enthusiasm, amplifying the hype through marketing efforts, product announcements, and lofty promises. Technologically, there is often a disconnect between public perception and the actual production-readiness of these solutions during this phase of over-exuberance.


On the financial side, most companies in the Hype Phase are pre-profit, relying on investor funding and revenues from initial pilots or first-generation products attempting to meet the sky-high expectations. Valuations can become very frothy in this phase as startups and incumbents chase the projected market potential. However, the road to profitability is still unclear as the heavy lifting of true commercialization and scalability remains.


The Denouement Phase

As real-world implementations fail to live up to the inflated hype, the Denouement Phase sees the growth trajectory undergo a discounted rationalization. In this phase, the technology's true complexity and development roadmap becomes evident as practical limitations emerge through widespread customer experimentation and testing. From a product standpoint, companies focus on hardening core capabilities, improving performance, refining usability, and addressing outstanding issues preventing mainstream adoption.

During the Denouement, companies often remain pre-cash flow positive, pouring investments into iterative product cycles as they work to make their innovations viable for commercial deployments at scale. Revenue may come from early adopters and trailblazer programs, but profits remain elusive as players prioritize product-market fit over short-term financials. Bridging this "trough of disillusionment" requires financial discipline and runway.


The Rational Growth Phase


As the technology's real-world strengths and applications become better understood by the market, the Rational Growth Phase emerges with more reasonable pricing and growth expectations. Enterprises move beyond experimental stages into real production deployments, integrating the innovative solutions into their operational workflows and technology stacks in clearly delineated use cases and domains. Companies focus on expanding core capabilities, improving scalability and interoperability.

Financially, some companies may achieve initial profitability during this phase while others still sacrifice margins for top-line growth as they invest in market expansion, sales, and delivery capabilities. Revenue becomes increasingly predictable with production deployments replacing unpredictable pilots. However, cash flow prioritization varies as some companies may favor growth reinvestment while others may achieve cash flow positivity.


The Maturity Phase


In the Maturity Phase, a new technology realizes widespread productive adoption as its capabilities become embedded ubiquitously across countless solutions, use cases, and industry verticals. The innovation transforms into an established requirement with integrated product suites, standardized deliveries, reliable performance, and robust third-party ecosystems emerging around it. Companies focus on incremental enhancements, cost optimizations, and ecosystem expansions during this phase.

From a financial standpoint, the leading vendors and platforms in the Maturity Phase are potentially pre-dividend, with the most established players favoring profitable growth over aggressive reinvestment. Valuations become more closely tied to profitability and cash flow metrics as future growth rates moderate from the hypergrowth periods. With sustainable recurring revenue streams, dividend distributions, buybacks, and other capitalization approaches become feasible options.

The Innovation Cycle framework encapsulates the full lifecycle that new technologies undergo - from innovation to hype, rationalization, commercialization, and ultimately mainstream productive adoption. Understanding this cycle and the distinct technology/financial implications of each phase is crucial for companies looking to successfully navigate the risks and opportunities of bringing innovative new products and services to market.

Giddeon Gotnor

Recommended soundtrack: Let It Bleed, Rolling Stones

Strategic Planning Assumptions

The adoption of sustainability technology will become a strategic imperative for organizations seeking to thrive in a world increasingly focused on environmental sustainability and responsible business practices. (Probability .87)

The intersection of cybersecurity, IoT, and immersive technologies will create a secure, interconnected, and immersive digital ecosystem that transforms industries and shapes new realities. (Probability .69)

The integration of cloud computing, data and analytics, and digital workplace technologies will create a highly adaptable, insights-driven, and employee-centric organization that can thrive in the face of disruption and change. (Probability .79)

The convergence of AI, automation, and modern software engineering practices will redefine business operations and drive digital transformation, creating a more efficient, agile, and intelligent enterprise landscape. (Probability .76)

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Recommended soundtrack: Gansta Rap Made Me Do It, Ice Cube on a Horocycle

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Infinite series definitions of hyperbolic functions

The definition of the hyperbolic sine function (sinh) as the infinite series:

sinh(x) = x + (x^3/3!) + (x^5/5!) + (x^7/7!) + ...

The definition of the hyperbolic cosine function (cosh) as the infinite series:

cosh(x) = 1 + (x^2/2!) + (x^4/4!) + (x^6/6!) + ...


Geometric interpretation and applications of hyperbolic functions:

1) The introduction of the concept of "tractional curves," which were curves defined by the hyperbolic functions.

2) The application of these curves and hyperbolic functions to construct polygons from given arcs of a circle.


Relationship between hyperbolic and circular functions:

1) The exploration of the relationship between the newly introduced hyperbolic functions (sinh and cosh) and the well-known circular functions (sine and cosine).

2) The concept of hyperbolic functions as an extension of circular functions beyond the unit circle.


Expansion of the trigonometric realm:

The introduction of hyperbolic functions expanded the realm of trigonometric functions beyond the traditional circular domain, opening up new avenues for mathematical exploration and applications.

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One of the key shortcomings of Vincenzo Riccati's work on hyperbolic functions was the lack of standardized and explicit variables or notation.

In his original paper "De usu motus tractorii in constructione polygonorum ex dato peripheriae arcubus" (On the Use of the Tractional Motion in the Construction of Polygons from Given Arcs of the Circumference), published in 1724, Riccati did not introduce specific variable names or symbols to represent the hyperbolic sine and hyperbolic cosine functions.

Instead, he defined these functions as infinite series without assigning them explicit variables or function names. For example, the hyperbolic sine function was defined as:

x + (x^3/3!) + (x^5/5!) + (x^7/7!) + ...
and the hyperbolic cosine function was defined as:
1 + (x^2/2!) + (x^4/4!) + (x^6/6!) + ...

Riccati did not use a standardized variable or symbol to represent these functions explicitly. The lack of explicit variables or notation made it more challenging to work with and communicate these functions effectively.

It was not until the 19th century that mathematicians like Carl Gustav Jacob Jacobi and William Spence introduced the modern notation and terminology that we use today, such as "sinh" for the hyperbolic sine function and "cosh" for the hyperbolic cosine function.

Jacobi, in his seminal work "Fundamenta Nova Theoriae Functionum Ellipticarum" (New Foundations of the Theory of Elliptic Functions) published in 1829, was the first to use the terms "hyperbolic sine" (sinh) and "hyperbolic cosine" (cosh), along with their corresponding inverse functions, "hyperbolic arcsine" (sinh^-1 or asinh) and "hyperbolic arccosine" (cosh^-1 or acosh).

The introduction of explicit variables and standardized notation by Jacobi and others greatly facilitated the study, communication, and dissemination of hyperbolic functions, addressing a key limitation of Riccati's pioneering work.

So, in summary, you are correct that Riccati's variables and notation for hyperbolic functions were not standardized or explicit, which was a shortcoming that was later addressed by subsequent mathematicians, allowing for the wider adoption and development of these functions.

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A horocycle, in the context of hyperbolic geometry, is a special type of curve that is defined as the set of points that are equidistant from a given line, called the ideal boundary or the absolute.

More precisely, in the hyperbolic plane, a horocycle is the locus of points that are a constant hyperbolic distance from a given line (the absolute). This constant hyperbolic distance is often referred to as the "height" or "radius" of the horocycle.

Horocycles have several important properties:

Unbounded and asymptotic:

A horocycle is an unbounded curve that approaches the ideal boundary (the absolute) asymptotically, meaning it gets closer and closer to the absolute but never actually touches or intersects it.

Equidistance property:

Every point on a horocycle is equidistant from the absolute, with the distance being the height or radius of the horocycle.

No center:

Unlike hyperbolic circles, which have a center and a polar line, horocycles do not have a center. They are defined solely by their equidistance from the absolute.

Limiting case:

A horocycle can be viewed as the limiting case of a hyperbolic circle as its radius approaches infinity. In other words, as the radius of a hyperbolic circle increases without bound, the circle approaches the shape of a horocycle.

Parallel horocycles:

In hyperbolic geometry, there exist families of horocycles that are parallel to each other, meaning they are equidistant from the same absolute.

Horocycles play a crucial role in hyperbolic geometry and have various applications in areas such as relativity theory, computer graphics, and geometry processing. They are fundamental objects in the study of hyperbolic spaces and have properties that are quite different from circles in Euclidean geometry.

The concept of a horocycle is closely related to the notion of an "infinigon" or an "infinite-sided polygon," as a horocycle can be approximated by a sequence of regular polygons with an increasing number of sides inscribed within it.

- Ramoan Steinway, MSF

Recommended soundtrack: The Man, The Killers

Eigenvalues

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