Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights

The podcast episode explores three significant shifts impacting the managed service provider (MSP) and technology landscape. The first topic centers on the ongoing debate regarding artificial intelligence (AI) and its role in empowering non-skilled workers versus enhancing the capabilities of skilled professionals. The discussion highlights the current state of AI adoption in organizations, emphasizing that while skilled workers are leveraging AI to augment their expertise, many smaller MSPs are still in the experimental phase, using AI for basic tasks rather than integrating it into their core operations.The second major theme is the emergence of the security-first MSP model, where cybersecurity is not merely an add-on service but a fundamental aspect of the business. Research indicates that a significant portion of MSPs still view cybersecurity as a secondary function, with only a small percentage considering it a core part of their offerings. This raises concerns about the preparedness of MSPs to meet the growing cybersecurity demands of their clients, especially as regulations and compliance requirements become more stringent.The final discussion point addresses the readiness of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) for AI-powered cyber attacks. The experts note that many SMBs are ill-prepared for the evolving threat landscape, often relying on outdated strategies that may no longer be effective. The conversation underscores the necessity for MSPs to not only enhance their cybersecurity offerings but also to educate their clients about the importance of integrating cybersecurity into their overall business strategy.Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the need for MSPs to adopt a more proactive approach to cybersecurity and AI integration. They argue that as the technology landscape continues to evolve, MSPs must refine their business models and operational processes to remain competitive. The discussion concludes with a call for MSPs to embrace their role as trusted advisors, guiding their clients through the complexities of cybersecurity and AI, and ensuring that they are equipped to navigate the challenges of the modern digital environment.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Executives are increasingly optimistic about the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to transform their organizations, with 87% believing it will fundamentally change their business within a year. However, a significant gap exists between this optimism and the readiness of their workforce, as only 29% of executives feel their teams possess the necessary skills to effectively leverage AI technology. This disconnect is compounded by foundational issues in technology infrastructure, which over half of the surveyed executives cite as barriers to innovation. For Managed Service Providers (MSPs), this presents both a challenge and an opportunity to guide clients through complex AI transformations.A report from Movila indicates that 59% of MSPs are grappling with project management scope creep, which has risen from 46% in 2024. This increase is attributed to inaccurate project timelines and low process maturity, which are critical factors affecting profitability. Movila's CEO emphasizes the importance of accurate timelines in maintaining project profitability, suggesting that structured project management processes are essential for improving efficiency and client outcomes. The findings highlight the need for MSPs to address their internal project management challenges before assisting clients with AI initiatives.The episode also discusses the impact of the ongoing federal shutdown on government IT operations, which has led to workforce furloughs and hindered modernization efforts. Additionally, a study reveals a stark divide in AI adoption between executives and employees, with 87% of executives using AI compared to only 27% of employees. This disparity has created tensions in the workplace, particularly in companies where leadership promotes AI integration while employees express concerns about its reliability and job security.For MSPs and IT service leaders, the key takeaway is the necessity of focusing on execution and discipline rather than merely adopting new technologies. As the market for AI continues to grow, MSPs should prioritize training and process improvement to ensure their teams and clients are prepared for AI integration. By addressing foundational issues and fostering a culture of readiness, MSPs can position themselves as valuable partners in navigating the complexities of AI adoption.Four things to know today00:00 The Readiness Gap: When AI Ambitions and MSP Project Discipline Don’t Match Reality03:46 Reality Check: From Shutdowns to AI Gaps, Tech’s Biggest Problem Isn’t Tools—It’s Readiness07:13 Contrarian Wisdom: When Saying “No” to AI and “Goodbye” to VMware Becomes a Winning Strategy09:53 Waste, Profit, and AI Decay: Rethinking Technology’s Broken Business Models Before They Collapse This is the Business of Tech.    Supported by:  https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorshiphttps://scalepad.com/dave/  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

U.S. federal cybersecurity policy has regressed by approximately 13%, according to a report from the Cyberspace Solarium Commission 2.0. This decline is attributed to budget cuts and workforce reductions at key agencies, including the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the State Department's Cyber Diplomacy Staff. The report indicates that nearly a quarter of previously implemented recommendations have lost their status, which raises concerns about the nation's ability to effectively address rising cyber threats. Mark Montgomery, a former Navy Rear Admiral, emphasized that these cuts hinder the agency's effectiveness, calling for the restoration of funding and personnel to strengthen national cyber defenses.In addition to the decline in federal cybersecurity readiness, AI-generated code is now responsible for one in five security breaches, as reported by Aikido. The study found that AI coding tools account for 24% of production code, with 43% of U.S. organizations reporting serious incidents linked to AI-related flaws. Interestingly, the report also noted that increasing the number of security tools does not necessarily enhance safety; organizations using six to nine tools experienced a 90% incident rate, compared to 64% for those with one or two tools. Despite these challenges, 96% of industry professionals remain optimistic that AI will eventually produce secure and reliable code.The episode also highlights the impact of generative AI on IT service management, revealing that organizations utilizing this technology have reduced incident resolution times by nearly 18%. A report from SolarWinds indicated that the average resolution time decreased from 27.42 hours to 22.55 hours after implementing generative AI. Furthermore, a survey by Accenture found that 19% of office workers admitted to entering sensitive business information into free, unsecured AI tools, underscoring significant gaps in cybersecurity awareness and training.For Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and IT service leaders, these developments signal a pressing need for improved governance and training regarding AI usage. The findings suggest that organizations should focus on reducing tool sprawl and enhancing employee education on cybersecurity responsibilities. As small business optimism declines amid rising inflation and supply chain issues, MSPs should position themselves as stability partners, helping clients navigate these challenges rather than pushing the latest technology trends. The evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats, particularly those involving AI and automation, necessitates a proactive approach to risk management and incident response. Three things to know today 00:00 U.S. Cyber Defenses Slide as AI Code Risks Rise and Governance Gaps Widen05:41 Inflation, Uncertainty, and Automation Push Small Firms Toward Caution and Cost Control09:23 From Prompt Injections to Hidden Malware, Cyber Attacks Are Shifting Toward Stealth and Precision This is the Business of Tech.     Supported by:  https://saasalerts.com/platform-overview-for-msps/?utm_source=mspradio   💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

OpenAI has launched ChatGPT Atlas, an AI-powered browser designed to compete with Google in the realm of online information searches. Initially available on macOS, the browser will soon expand to Windows, iOS, and Android, offering free access to all users at launch. The integration of core ChatGPT functionalities allows users to interact directly with search results, streamlining online tasks through features like a sidecar and an agent mode for automating web-based tasks, although the latter will be limited to paying users. Despite the promising features, concerns about security and privacy have been raised, particularly regarding the experimental agent mode.The rapid adoption of AI technologies has led to ChatGPT processing an impressive 2.5 billion messages daily, with its user base reaching approximately 800 million. However, OpenAI faces significant financial challenges, reportedly losing three times more money than it earns, with a substantial portion of its users not paying for the service. The company generated $4.3 billion in revenue in the first half of 2025 but suffered a net loss of $13.5 billion. This financial disparity presents both challenges and opportunities for growth in the market, as OpenAI aims to double its customer base while investing heavily in data center capacity.In other industry news, Corey Kirkendall has been appointed as the new president of the National Society of IT Service Providers, focusing on strengthening community ties and advocating for ethical practices within the IT service industry. His leadership is seen as a pivotal moment for the organization, which is evolving into a more influential advocacy group. This shift could provide IT service providers with a stronger voice in the industry, emphasizing the importance of relationships over technology.Additionally, TeamViewer has integrated its software with Salesforce's AgentForce, enhancing IT service management capabilities, while Serval has raised $47 million to develop innovative agentic AI models for IT service management. Zoom has also introduced new features for its Zoom Spaces platform to improve collaboration in hybrid work environments. These developments indicate a trend where the boundaries between IT management, collaboration, and automation are increasingly blurring, signaling a need for IT providers to adapt to a rapidly changing landscape.Three things to know today00:00 OpenAI Launches ChatGPT Atlas Browser as AI Dominates the Web—and Faces Its Own Financial Reality06:48 Corey Kirkendoll Named President of NSITSP as Group Matures into National Voice for IT Service Providers08:40 AI Redefines IT Management: Salesforce-Driven Agentforce Integration, Serval’s Dual-Agent Model, and Zoom’s Hybrid Enhancements Lead the Shift This is the Business of Tech.     Supported by:  https://scalepad.com/dave/https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship   💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are significantly increasing their spending on cybersecurity solutions, with managed detection and response (MDR) and network detection and response (NDR) expected to grow by 107% and 118%, respectively. However, despite this financial commitment, a recent study reveals that 83% of SMBs do not conduct formal security awareness training, and nearly half lack established incident response protocols. This operational gap is concerning, as the average financial loss from a security incident for these businesses is estimated at $1.6 million. The study emphasizes that technology alone cannot address the underlying issues of process and expertise that leave many businesses vulnerable.Microsoft's sixth annual digital defense report highlights a troubling trend where over half of cyberattacks are now financially motivated, with ransomware and extortion being primary drivers. Critical public services, such as hospitals and local governments, are particularly at risk due to limited cybersecurity budgets and inadequate incident response capabilities. Nation-state actors are also evolving their tactics, with countries like China and North Korea increasing their cyber espionage efforts. Microsoft stresses the importance of organizations staying informed about threats and collaborating with industry peers to enhance their defenses.For managed service providers (MSPs), this situation presents a unique opportunity. Clients are investing in cybersecurity tools but require assistance in operationalizing these tools into effective security measures. MSPs can help by building processes, training personnel, and conducting tabletop exercises to ensure that businesses are not just purchasing products but are genuinely prepared for potential threats. The podcast emphasizes that cybersecurity is not merely about acquiring tools; it is fundamentally about preparedness and having a well-executed plan tailored to the business's needs.Additionally, the episode discusses recent product updates from various vendors, including Nerdio, SureWeb, and Veeam, which are introducing new AI tools and partner updates to enhance MSP operations. The importance of human capital in maintaining complex systems is also highlighted, particularly in light of Amazon's recent AWS outage, which was exacerbated by significant layoffs leading to a loss of institutional knowledge. The podcast concludes with a call for MSPs to audit their technology stacks and focus on the impact of workflows rather than just features, ensuring that they are prepared for any chaos that may arise. Four things to know today00:00 The Cybersecurity Paradox: SMBs Spend More Than Ever, But Stay Just as Vulnerable04:21 ConnectWise’s Critical Automate Flaws Highlight the Growing Risk of On-Prem RMMs06:11 From Layoffs to Latency: Amazon’s DNS Outage Reveals the True Cost of Lost Expertise09:06 AI, Compliance, and Cloud PCs: Vendors Race to Redefine MSP Efficiency Ahead of Microsoft’s 2025 Shift This is the Business of Tech.    Supported by:  https://try.auvik.com/dave-switchhttps://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Microsoft is significantly enhancing Windows 11 by integrating artificial intelligence capabilities, transforming the PC experience into what the company calls the "AI PC." This new initiative allows users to interact with their computers using voice commands through a feature called CoPilot. With functionalities like CoPilot Actions, users can delegate tasks such as editing files and troubleshooting issues directly to AI agents, which operate in secure environments to ensure data safety. This shift comes as Windows 10 reaches its end of life, prompting a wave of hardware upgrades as consumers and enterprises seek AI-enabled PCs. Salesforce has also made strides in the IT support sector by launching AgentForce IT Service, a conversational support suite designed to streamline employee assistance. This new system moves away from traditional ticket-based support to real-time solutions delivered through platforms like Slack. By automating incident management, AgentForce aims to reduce the time employees spend on IT challenges, which can lead to significant productivity losses. The service integrates with major companies, enhancing its utility and positioning Salesforce as a competitor in the help desk market. Research indicates that organizations that are well-prepared for AI are more likely to successfully implement AI projects and achieve measurable benefits. Cisco's AI Readiness Index reveals that companies integrating AI into their core functions see substantial gains in profitability and productivity. As enterprise spending on AI infrastructure is projected to double by 2026, the focus is shifting from training AI models to deploying them effectively in business operations. This trend underscores the importance of having a robust infrastructure to support AI initiatives. Finally, Microsoft has announced the end of support for Office 2016 and 2019, urging users to migrate to newer versions like Microsoft 365 Apps or Office 2024. This transition presents an opportunity for managed service providers to engage clients in proactive discussions about software upgrades and security measures. As unsupported software becomes a liability, providers can align these upgrades with other IT improvements, ensuring clients remain compliant and secure. The emphasis is on guiding clients through these changes to enhance their operational efficiency and maintain a steady revenue stream for service providers. Four Things to Know Today: 00:00 Windows 11 Enters the AI Era as Microsoft Launches Copilot-Powered PC Experience05:31 Salesforce Enters IT Support Market with Agentforce, Targeting Productivity and PSA Disruption09:06 AI Advantage Comes to Those Prepared: Cisco, Gartner, and Anthropic Signal Shift to Embedded Intelligence13:10 End of Support for Office 2016 and 2019 Raises Security Stakes, Opens QBR Opportunities  Sponsored by:  https://mailprotector.com/mspradio/  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jacob Ward, a technology journalist and author, delves into the complex relationship between artificial intelligence (AI), human behavior, and social change. He shares insights from his extensive experience in technology journalism, including his time as editor-in-chief of Popular Science and a correspondent for NBC News. Ward emphasizes the concerning trend of AI eroding our sense of agency, as companies increasingly deploy AI systems that exploit our cognitive shortcuts. He argues that while these technologies can enhance productivity by automating repetitive tasks, they also risk diminishing our ability to engage in critical thinking and moral reasoning.Ward highlights the blind spots in how big tech companies market AI as productivity tools without addressing the psychological implications of their use. He warns that the commercial interests of these companies often align with amplifying our primitive decision-making instincts rather than fostering our rational and creative capacities. This dynamic can lead to a reliance on AI systems that ultimately detracts from our ability to make thoughtful decisions, similar to how over-reliance on navigation apps has impaired our sense of direction.The conversation also touches on the importance of intentionality when using AI tools in business contexts. Ward suggests that while it is beneficial to use AI for mundane tasks, users should be cautious not to let these systems dictate their work pace or decision-making processes. He advocates for using AI to free up time for more significant, creative thinking rather than allowing it to consume time with trivial tasks. This approach can help maintain a balance between leveraging technology and preserving our cognitive abilities.Finally, Ward discusses the regulatory landscape surrounding AI, noting that while innovation often outpaces policy, regulations are inevitable. He draws parallels between the current state of AI and historical industries like airlines and shipping, suggesting that the future of AI may resemble these heavily regulated sectors. As AI continues to evolve, Ward emphasizes the need for a thoughtful approach to its implementation, ensuring that it serves to enhance human capabilities rather than diminish them.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The podcast discusses the current state of AI adoption among Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and the challenges they face in delivering measurable results to clients. Despite significant investments in AI, many enterprises report no new revenue from these technologies, leading to a growing skepticism about their practical value. MSPs are now under pressure to bridge the gap between vendor promises and client realities, focusing on specific workflow use cases that can demonstrate tangible benefits. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding client workflows and integrating technology in a way that enhances human productivity rather than replacing it.Ryan Morris, a channel strategist, highlights the cyclical nature of technology adoption, comparing the current AI landscape to previous technology trends like the dot-com boom and cloud computing. He notes that while the tools for implementing AI have become more user-friendly, the challenge remains in effectively integrating these tools into existing business processes. The discussion also touches on the need for MSPs to evolve from traditional roles to become more strategic partners, guiding clients through the complexities of AI implementation.The podcast further explores the trend of vendor consolidation in the tech industry, particularly with Kaseya's acquisition of Inky. This move signals a shift towards integrated platforms, but Morris argues that the best-of-breed approach is still relevant, especially for MSPs who prioritize flexibility and risk management. He explains that while vendors may push for comprehensive solutions, MSPs are cautious about committing to a single vendor due to concerns about vendor lock-in and the need for reliable service delivery.Finally, the conversation addresses the changing landscape of market development funds (MDF) in the channel. Traditional MDF programs are viewed as outdated, with partners now seeking outcome-based funding and support for solution development. This shift reflects a broader desire for meaningful collaboration between vendors and partners, focusing on integrated campaigns that drive measurable results rather than simple marketing reimbursements. The podcast concludes with a call for a more strategic approach to channel development that prioritizes long-term partnerships and shared success.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hybrid work is evolving into a strategic approach for organizations, rather than disappearing. Recent data indicates that 43% of small and mid-sized businesses offered hybrid work options in the third quarter of 2025, reflecting a slight decrease but still underscoring its significance in the modern workplace. Companies are focusing on enhancing their culture, improving physical environments, and developing better management practices. However, major tech companies like Amazon, Apple, and Google are pushing for a return to in-office work, which may risk losing top talent as employees increasingly prefer remote work for better work-life balance.The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the workforce is becoming more pronounced, particularly for young workers in roles exposed to AI, such as software development and customer service. A study from Stanford University revealed a 13% decline in employment for young individuals aged 22 to 25 in these sectors since the introduction of AI tools like ChatGPT. This trend highlights the need for educational institutions to adapt their curricula to prepare students for an evolving job market influenced by AI technologies. Meanwhile, small business owners are facing challenges with unfilled job openings, indicating a mismatch between available roles and qualified candidates.Organizations are finding ways to empower non-technical employees to embrace AI, as demonstrated by Super.com, which trained its staff to build their own tools, resulting in significant revenue growth. This approach emphasizes the importance of creating accessible tools and fostering a culture of innovation. As AI usage among employees rises, disparities in access to technology and training persist, particularly between executives and non-managers. Companies that provide inclusive AI training are likely to lead in productivity and innovation, making it essential for IT providers to help clients optimize their workflows and prepare their teams for AI integration.The discussion around AI suggests that we may not be in a bubble, as evidence shows early adopters are experiencing substantial performance improvements. Unlike the dot-com boom, current AI investments are driven by profitable companies integrating technology into their operations. The evolving role of AI is also elevating the value of support jobs, as organizations require skilled professionals to navigate complex customer needs. As AI systems become more prevalent, the demand for human skills such as empathy and communication remains crucial, indicating that the future of work may focus on enhancing human impact rather than replacing it.Three things to know today00:00 Hybrid Work Isn’t Over—It’s Optimizing for the Long Haul05:32 AI Training Pays Off: Super.com Hits $200M Revenue with Citizen Developers09:48 AI Boom or Business Shift? Analysts See Sustainable Growth, Not a Bubble This is the Business of Tech.    Supported by:  https://timezest.com/mspradio/https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship   💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has issued an emergency directive for federal agencies to update their F5 products following a significant breach where hackers accessed source code and undisclosed vulnerabilities. This incident, discovered in August, poses a serious risk to federal networks, as the threat actor could exploit these vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access and exfiltrate sensitive data. Agencies are required to apply the latest updates by October 22nd and report their F5 deployments by October 29th, highlighting the urgency of addressing these security concerns.In a related development, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is encouraging federal agencies to take calculated risks with artificial intelligence (AI) under new federal guidance. Martin Stanley, an AI and cybersecurity researcher, emphasized the importance of risk management in AI deployment, particularly in comparison to more established sectors like financial services. As agencies adapt to this guidance, they must identify high-impact AI applications that require thorough risk management to ensure both innovation and safety.A report from Cork Protection underscores the need for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to adopt a security-first approach in light of evolving cyber threats. Many SMBs remain complacent, mistakenly believing they are not targets for cybercriminals. The report warns that this mindset, combined with the rising financial risks associated with breaches, necessitates a shift towards a security-centric operational model. The cybersecurity services market is projected to grow significantly, presenting opportunities for IT service providers that prioritize security.Apple has announced a substantial increase in its bug bounty program, now offering up to $5 million for critical vulnerabilities. This move reflects the growing importance of addressing security challenges within its ecosystem, which includes over 2.35 billion active devices. The company has previously awarded millions to security researchers, emphasizing its commitment to user privacy and security. As the landscape of cybersecurity evolves, managed service providers (MSPs) are urged to tighten vendor monitoring, incorporate AI risk assessments, and focus on continuous assurance to meet the increasing demands for security. Three things to know today00:00 Cybersecurity Crossroads: F5 Breach, AI Risk, and Apple’s $5M Bug Bounty Signal Security Accountability06:44 Nearly a Third of MSPs Admit to Preventable Microsoft 365 Data Loss, Syncro Survey Finds09:22 AI Reality Check: Workers’ Overconfidence, Cheaper Models, and Microsoft’s Scientific Breakthrough Signal Maturity in the Market This is the Business of Tech.     Supported by:  https://mailprotector.com/mspradio/   💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.