USC refreshed as Frasers Group digital transformation journey sees brand go live on new MACH architecture

USC refreshed as Frasers Group digital transformation journey sees brand go live on new MACH architecture

USC has become the first brand within Frasers Group to transition to its overhauled digital platform in the UK, built using MACH principles on a commercetools-based architecture. In a LinkedIn post, Frasers Group , which is best known for its Sports Direct brand, said: “The new site focuses on delivering a consumer centric experience for shoppers, featuring hyper-personalisation and best-in-class product discoverability.” “We are building one of the most modern and advanced e-commerce ecosystems in retail that not only future-proofs the business but delivers an unmatched shopping experience for consumers.” In a LinkedIn post, David Clark, Chief Customer Officer at Frasers Group, added: “It’s an important milestone in our digital transformation journey as the first UK fascia to be built not only on the new tech, but in a truly customer centric, product driven way.” “This allows us to build great experiences for our customers, and also gives our digital teams the best tools to do their jobs due to our strategic partnerships with Algolia, Amplience, Optimizely, Emarsys, XCM, commercetools. Well done to all involved. There’s more to come very soon. We’re building the future of retail.” New research commercetools this week published a report analysing insights on the […]

Tech leaders are ramping up IT modernization, but they’re wary of the productivity nosedive that comes with it

Tech leaders are ramping up IT modernization, but they’re wary of the productivity nosedive that comes with it

(Image credit: Getty Images) IT modernization projects have a significant negative impact on enterprise productivity, according to new research. A survey from Rocket Software and Forrester Consulting found IT leaders are wary of the potential risks of IT overhaul programs, with one-third believing they are highly disruptive to operations. Common roadblocks encountered during modernization projects often lead to reduced productivity, but there are broader considerations at play, the study found. Some of the most common hurdles faced by IT leaders include costly and time-consuming application rewrite projects. Just over half (51%) of respondents admitted to having attempted at least six rewrite projects as part of a cloud migration strategy. LATEST VIDEOS FROM itpro “Rewriting applications can be a costly mistake for businesses, as it often leads to extended timelines, operational disruptions, and frequently fails to deliver the expected outcomes,” the study noted. Other challenges include concerns over cybersecurity , identified by 41% of respondents as a recurring issue, and talent shortages. Just over one-third (38%) of respondents specifically highlighted talent shortages and skills gaps as a major roadblock during IT modernization projects. Worse still, IT leaders noted that modernization challenges have impacted their ability to recruit new talent. IT […]

Wesco updates its $500 million plan for digital transformation

Wesco updates its $500 million plan for digital transformation

The company’s digital transformation began with significant investments in upgrading its ecommerce platform, modernizing its supply chain and other critical initiatives, according to CEO John Engel. Wesco Co., a leading public distributor of industrial supplies, electrical products, lighting systems and power distribution equipment, has invested $270 million toward its $500 million digital transformation initiative. The company’s digital transformation began with significant investments. Initially, it set out to upgrade its ecommerce platform, modernize its supply chain and pursue other critical initiatives, according to CEO John Engel. How Wesco is investing in digital transformation “The next phase will focus on advancing new technologies, including artificial intelligence and other digital innovations,” Engel announced at Wesco’s 2024 Annual Investors Day conference. “We are positioned for sustained outperformance, with strong growth driven by secular trends such as AI-powered data centers, increased electrification, IoT [internet of things], automation and the re-shoring of global supply chains.” Engel highlighted several achievements. They included the integration of generative AI analytics and automation of order fulfillment processes. Wesco also put resources into the development of new digital tools aimed at improving working capital efficiency. “We are now more than halfway through building out these new technologies and capabilities,” he […]

How to Prepare for AI Implementation

How to Prepare for AI Implementation

It helps AI implementation for things like predictive maintenance to collect and store relevant data before introducing the technology. PMMI Business Intelligence: 2024 The AI Advantage in Equipment: Boosting Performance and Bridging Skills Gaps When entering the wild west of AI technologies in packaging and processing, it’s important to put the right foot forward. That’s why PMMI Business Intelligence researchers asked AI solutions experts to offer advice for companies looking to begin AI implementation, or utilize an AI tool within operations, in the 2024 report, “The AI Advantage in Equipment: Boosting Performance and Bridging Skills Gaps.” Have a clear plan in mind of what you want to achieve There’s a wide variety of processes AI can help improve within a company. Thus, experts say it is important to have a clear definition of the problem they are trying to solve and a specific goal in mind, before starting integration. Whether this is improving throughput, increasing productivity, enhancing machine performance, improving worker safety, reducing machine downtime, or optimizing training outcomes, it is vital to keep a plan in mind to ensure the project has a clear end goal. This helps both with understanding what data should be collected, and how […]

5 Ways AI-Powered Digital Transformation Has Changed B2B Software Marketing

5 Ways AI-Powered Digital Transformation Has Changed B2B Software Marketing

The B2B software industry is no stranger to disruption. But amidst this next AI-fueled wave of digital innovation, one area that has undergone a particularly dramatic transformation is marketing. No longer a siloed function focused on generating leads, marketing has evolved into a strategic force multiplier for companies seeking to drive deeper customer relationships, supercharge growth and deliver lasting value to investors. Technology customers expect a different level of digital engagement with B2B software companies. Marketing exists to build meaningful customer engagements and relationships through compelling, always-on experiences that measurably increase the value of the business. The foundation for its execution is built on a sophisticated web of technologies that deliver that engaging and holistic customer experience end to end. Drawing insights from my new book Power of Surge , I’ve outlined five ways marketing has changed, requiring B2B software companies to rethink their strategies and embrace a new era. The Rise of the Techsumer: B2B Buyers Have Consumer Expectations The lines between B2B and B2C are blurring. The next generation of B2B buyers bring those same expectations to their professional lives. They demand personalized interactions and frictionless experiences. This new breed of “techsumer” has higher expectations about getting […]

UNDP, Visa partner to boost digital transformation and financial inclusion in Somalia

UNDP, Visa partner to boost digital transformation and financial inclusion in Somalia

DIGITAL ID for ALL NEWS Vietnam: Mandatory biometric authentication leads to big drop in bank account fraud UN’s 50-in-5 DPI campaign welcomes new members Digital ID a major step toward fighting invisibility in Africa LATAM and Caribbean embrace DPI, led by Guyana’s digital ID and biometrics push Gabon puts digital ID at forefront of its digital transformation journey Philippines central bank gives greenlight for new ID card printing contract UNDP experts prescribe coordinated efforts to streamline digital transformation in Malawi Digital public infrastructure a pillar of UN’s ambitious Global Digital Compact Cameroon civil registration agency lobbies govt to officialize ID Day Daily Biometrics News Featured Company Mobai’s technology is developed by internationally acknowledged researchers with expertise in biometric systems and state-of-the-art attack detection at the Department of Information Security and Communication. Learn More More Biometrics Companies ID for ALL FEATURE REPORTS LATAM and Caribbean embrace DPI, led by Guyana’s digital ID and biometrics push Gabon puts digital ID at forefront of its digital transformation journey Cameroon civil registration agency lobbies govt to officialize ID Day Nigerian leader pledges support for digital ID expansion amid DPI investment plans Digital rights, inclusion primordial for Africa’s DPI pursuits: Paradigm Initiative More Features […]

15 digital transformation questions every CIO must answer

15 digital transformation questions every CIO must answer

Impactful DX requires a business-centric approach supported by the right skills, culture, and strategy. Here’s how to assess whether your digital journey is on the path to success. Credit: fizkes / Shutterstock Digital transformation remains front and center for CIOs, with multiple surveys and reports indicating that DX is a top priority for IT leaders even now, after a decade or so of transformation initiatives. That continuing priority for DX reflects the ever-increasing importance of transformation for business success, as the technology landscape itself evolves increasingly faster. Findings from Foundry’s 2024 State of the CIO survey speak to this point, with 88% of surveyed CIOs saying that their role is becoming more digital- and innovation-focused. Meanwhile, TEKsystems’ 2024 State of Digital Transformation report found that 84% of its respondents consider digital transformation as a core pillar of business strategy. Yet, organizations still struggle with getting transformation right. Some still see transformation as a project with a start and end date. Others view it as a technology initiative, instead of an organizational change . Regardless of the particular challenges to DX success, those who are falling short may have missed signs indicating the need to tack and set a new […]

Q&A: what leaders need to know about business transformation in the age of AI

Q&A: what leaders need to know about business transformation in the age of AI

WNS’ Group CEO Keshav R. Murugesh explains why the time has come for leaders to embrace AI and shares his key considerations for those embarking on their digital-led business transformation journey Sponsored by Business transformation has taken on a new form in the AI era. As the AI hype settles, it’s crucial that organisations shift from speculative excitement to actionable strategies to ensure a successful AI-driven digital transformation. WNS’ Group CEO Keshav R. Murugesh offers expert insights into how AI is fundamentally reshaping business landscapes, outlines the tangible benefits it offers and shares the practical steps leaders should take to successfully integrate technology into their operations. Q How has AI reshaped the digital transformation landscape and what are the tangible benefits that businesses can expect to realise today? A One of the greatest elements of life today is that we are constantly seeing change, which is most definitely the case with technology. As far as generative AI (GenAI) is concerned, it is completely rewiring the way businesses are approaching transformation and reinvention. The advent of GenAI means that everything must change – the tools we have used up until now will be unrecognisable tomorrow. This shift is empowering a […]

ROG.e 2024: Harnessing digital applications to evolve human factors, innovation and governance in Brazil’s oil, gas sector

ROG.e 2024: Harnessing digital applications to evolve human factors, innovation and governance in Brazil’s oil, gas sector

Digital transformation optimizes operations, reduces costs and unlocks new value in the oil and gas industry. The FPSO Cidade de Itajaí (pictured) was Ocyan’s first offshore production unit to operate in the Santos (Campo de Baúna). The FPSO contract term runs from 2022 to 2026 for client Karoon. By Rodrigo Chamusca, Ocyan The oil and gas industry has embraced technologies like Big Data analytics, remote monitoring, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things sensors, digital twins, robotic process automation software, cloud computing, additive manufacturing, drones, video analytics and mixed realities. These tools enhance value generation and help companies adapt to market demands. Innovation in the oil and gas sector has evolved, with Brazilian companies integrating these technologies into core strategies and creating R&D departments. Challenges in governance and innovation include assessing new technologies without prior knowledge, risk appetite and resistance to change. Cultural shifts within organizations are necessary but often met with employee resistance. Employee apprehensions about job displacement hinder technological adoption and innovation. A lack of understanding and skepticism about new technologies exacerbates this issue. Adapting to new tools can create a skills gap, making recruitment and retention difficult. The industry also struggles to attract young talent, as it doesn’t […]

Legacy Brands Must Embrace Digital Transformation

Legacy Brands Must Embrace Digital Transformation

Moving technology from obstacle to opportunity Legacy brands often possess strong brand equity and loyal customer bases, but many are behind the times when it comes to leveraging digital technology to remain competitive and relevant with today’s audiences. They need to fully embrace the digital transformation that powers the challenger brands taking market share, and commit to data-driven decision-making, personalized customer experiences, innovation, and building a strong digital talent pool. provides a step-by-step action plan established brands can use to better navigate the digital landscape. It explores ways to accelerate key strategies, including adapting to changing customer expectations, embracing emerging technologies and recruiting strategic talent. Among the topics covered: Embracing innovation: New technologies like AI, augmented/virtual reality and the connected home can help legacy brands connect with younger generations. Rethinking the customer experience: Creating seamless and engaging customer experiences across all touchpoints is crucial for building loyalty. Brands that have been there: How well-established consumer brands like Jergens and Bio-Oil overcame digital transformation challenges. Accelerate your digital transformation. Download the ebook. Get access to more guides and white papers at the Adweek Resource Library .