Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights

Host Dave Sobel sits down with Collin Graves, CEO of North Labs, to delve into the critical realm of data governance and analytics. Northlabs has positioned itself as a data operations partner, akin to a data Managed Service Provider (MSP), helping organizations design, implement, and operate their data capabilities. Collin explains that their approach encompasses a wide range of data projects, including internal and customer-facing analytics, Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, automation, and machine learning, all aimed at accelerating an organization's data capabilities through a structured methodology.Collin outlines the three primary phases of Northlabs' project lifecycle: implement, operate, and innovate. The implementation phase focuses on assessing the current state of an organization’s data and identifying the initial business problems to solve. Collin emphasizes the importance of starting with a minimalist data infrastructure to build a solid foundation, akin to pouring concrete for a house. The second phase, operate, involves aligning people and processes with technology to ensure that teams are comfortable using data in their decision-making. Finally, the innovate phase allows organizations to explore advanced analytics capabilities, such as machine learning, once the foundational elements are in place.A significant aspect of their discussion revolves around data governance, which Collin identifies as a crucial component of building trust in data systems. He highlights that many organizations overlook this area, often skipping it in favor of more immediate solutions. Collin stresses that effective data governance is not just about ensuring data quality at a single point in time but about creating mechanisms that maintain data integrity over the long term. Without this trust, organizations risk reverting to outdated methods, such as relying on cumbersome Excel spreadsheets, which undermines the entire data initiative.As the conversation shifts towards the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in data analytics, Collin agrees with Dave's premise that solid data groundwork is essential for successful AI implementation. He likens the current AI landscape to the early days of cloud adoption, where organizations rushed to adopt new technologies without a solid foundation. Collin believes that organizations must focus on building a robust data infrastructure before fully leveraging AI capabilities. He also discusses the potential of generative AI to transform reporting and analytics, enabling users to query data in natural language and receive actionable insights without needing to become BI experts. This evolution in data interaction represents a significant opportunity for organizations to enhance their decision-making processes.   All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

In this episode of the Business of Tech Lounge, host Dave Sobel engages in a thought-provoking discussion with technology writer Paris Marx, who brings a critical perspective on the hidden costs associated with business-to-business technology, particularly focusing on hyperscale data centers and the implications of artificial intelligence (AI). The conversation begins with an exploration of the environmental and economic impacts of these massive data centers, which have become essential for cloud computing. Marx highlights the significant resources required to operate these facilities, including energy and water, and raises concerns about the monopolistic power that major tech companies wield over the economy.As Sobel and Marx delve deeper, they discuss the balance between the convenience offered by cloud services and the broader societal implications of relying on a few dominant players in the tech industry. Marx emphasizes that while cloud computing has enabled small businesses to thrive, it has also led to increased energy demands and environmental challenges, particularly in regions already facing resource constraints. The conversation touches on the need for regulatory frameworks that can address these issues without stifling innovation or economic opportunity.The discussion shifts to the role of AI in this landscape, with Marx pointing out the "dirty secret" of AI: the necessity for substantial investments in data management and governance to ensure effective implementation. Sobel and Marx agree that rather than replacing jobs, AI should be viewed as a tool for augmenting human capabilities. They express skepticism about the narrative that AI will lead to widespread job loss, instead suggesting that it may transform the nature of work and the skills required.In concluding the episode, Sobel and Marx reflect on the importance of holding large tech companies accountable while recognizing the complexities of regulation. They discuss the historical context of Microsoft’s antitrust scrutiny and how it contrasts with the current lack of oversight for other tech giants. The episode wraps up with a call for a more equitable playing field in the tech industry, advocating for regulations that protect smaller businesses and ensure that the benefits of technological advancements are shared more broadly across society. Supported by: https://salesbuildr.com/   All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Analysts from Jeffreies predict that true AI integration in smartphones, particularly with the iPhone 16, is still two to three years away, leading to a downgrade in Apple's stock rating. Despite some optimism for future AI capabilities, the episode emphasizes the need for human involvement in AI applications, especially in cybersecurity, as noted by CISA's chief AI officer, Lisa Einstein.The conversation shifts to the healthcare sector, where host Dave Sobel shares alarming statistics about the administrative burdens faced by healthcare providers. With 41% of providers spending over four hours daily on administrative tasks and 68% struggling with fax management, the episode underscores the significant gap between AI's promise and its practical application in improving healthcare delivery. Sobel argues that IT service providers have a crucial role in helping clients navigate this transition, particularly in customizing AI solutions and managing cultural shifts.Sobel also covers recent advancements in AI technology, including Zoom's AI Companion 2.0 and its integration with ServiceNow to enhance meeting productivity. The episode highlights Fairfax County, Virginia's initiative to implement an AI system for managing non-emergency 911 calls, showcasing a scalable model for AI deployment in public services. Despite the potential benefits, Sobel notes that government agencies are lagging in generative AI adoption, with many expressing concerns about cultural resistance and compatibility with legacy systems.Finally, the episode delves into Microsoft's challenges in the AI space, particularly with its Copilot initiatives, which have not met enterprise needs. Sobel discusses the projected spending on AI and the importance of a robust infrastructure to support it. He concludes by emphasizing that AI is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and customers require strategic, tailored advice to maximize their investments. The episode serves as a reminder of the ongoing evolution of AI and the opportunities it presents for IT service providers.Three things to know today 00:00 Slow AI Growth in Smartphones, Healthcare, and Jobs: Bridging the Gap Between Promise and Practicality03:55 AI Expands Across Sectors: Zoom and ServiceNow Integrate GenAI, While Public Sector Embraces AI Solutions for Efficiency07:28 Microsoft's AI Leadership and Enterprise Struggles Highlight Gaps as AI Market Booms for IT Providers  Supported by:  www.mspradio.com/engage/ Event: www.smbTechFest.com/Go/Sobel    All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Marriott was issued a hefty $52 million fine following major data breaches that compromised the personal information of over 344 million customers. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) settlement mandates that Marriott enhance its security measures, including implementing multi-factor authentication and allowing customers to request data deletion. Host Dave Sobel emphasizes the long-term implications of such breaches, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) that may not have the financial resilience to recover from operational damage.The episode also highlights the growing concerns surrounding iPhone mirroring at work, which can inadvertently expose personal app lists to employers, raising privacy risks. Experts warn that organizations should inform employees to avoid using this feature until Apple addresses the issue. Additionally, Microsoft has issued warnings about increasing cyberattack campaigns that exploit legitimate file hosting services, using phishing tactics to compromise user credentials. Sobel underscores the importance of proactive security strategies to mitigate these risks.Sobel further explores the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and its implications for cybersecurity. OpenAI's report reveals a rise in AI-generated misinformation, particularly in the context of elections, raising alarms about the potential for disruption. Dr. Sheetwa Singh expresses concerns about OpenAI's new reasoning model, Strawberry, which could facilitate deception and manipulation. The episode stresses the need for robust regulatory frameworks to ensure the ethical use of AI technologies and protect against emerging threats.Finally, Sobel discusses recent updates from major tech companies, including enhancements to Microsoft's OneDrive, LinkedIn's user agreement changes regarding AI-generated content, and Atlassian's integration of its Jira software. These developments reflect a broader trend of incorporating AI into various platforms, prompting service providers to help clients navigate the associated risks and limitations. The episode concludes with a reminder that cybersecurity is not solely about technology but also requires human expertise to effectively respond to complex threats. Three things to know today00:00 Marriott Fined $52M After Major Data Breaches: A Warning to SMBs on Cyber Preparedness04:10 Experts Warn: iPhone Mirroring, AI-Generated Misinformation, and Phishing Attacks Demand New Security Policies07:18 Microsoft OneDrive Enhancements, LinkedIn Policy Overhaul, and Atlassian's Jira Revamp  Supported by:  https://www.coreview.com/msphttps://www.huntress.com/mspradio/   Event: www.smbTechFest.com/Go/Sobel     All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

T-Mobile and Starlink have launched a satellite texting service that will allow emergency alerts and basic texting for T-Mobile subscribers, even if they lose network connectivity. This initiative is part of a broader response to the hurricane, with over 10,000 Starlink kits being delivered to assist those affected. Sobel also highlights the growing coordination among managed service providers (MSPs) and IT service providers on platforms like Reddit to offer support during this crisis.The episode delves into the evolving landscape of IT services, with a survey revealing that 80% of IT workers believe the help desk model will undergo significant changes by 2027, largely due to advancements in AI and automation. While there is excitement about these technologies, many workers express concerns about job security. Sobel emphasizes the need for IT staff to adapt by upskilling in areas such as employee experience and generative AI, as the future of help desks may shift towards experience desks that focus on enhancing user interactions.Sobel also discusses Anthropic's new Batch AI API, which allows businesses to process queries asynchronously at a reduced cost, making advanced AI models more accessible to mid-sized companies. This development could transform how businesses approach data analysis, although it raises concerns about the potential trade-off between cost savings and real-time processing capabilities. Additionally, OpenAI is diversifying its data center partnerships, moving away from Microsoft due to supply chain frustrations, which could have ripple effects across the AI ecosystem.Finally, the episode addresses the challenges faced by Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) regarding the use of generative AI tools by employees, which can expose sensitive company data. Despite governance policies, many organizations struggle to enforce them effectively. Sobel advocates for ongoing education about the risks associated with external AI tools and suggests that creating controlled environments for AI experimentation can help balance innovation with security. This approach allows companies to harness the productivity benefits of AI while mitigating the risks of data breaches.Four things to know today 00:00 T-Mobile and Starlink Launch Satellite Texting Service in Florida as Hurricane Milton Approaches04:08 80% of IT Workers Predict Helpdesk Model Obsolescence by 2027, Driven by AI and Automation06:45 Anthropic’s Batch AI API Could Revolutionize Data Analysis for Mid-Sized Businesses, Offering 50% Cost Savings08:45 Controlled AI Environments Emerge as Key to Safe AI Use Amid Data Security Concerns  Supported by:  https://getthread.com/mspradio/https://timezest.com/mspradio/  Event: www.smbTechFest.com/Go/Sobel    All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) facces ongoing challenges regarding its backlog of security vulnerability reports. Despite some progress, NIST missed its September 30th deadline to restore processing speeds to pre-February levels, leaving over 17,000 Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) unprocessed. This backlog poses significant risks to organizations, as they may remain unaware of vulnerabilities that are actively being exploited. The episode highlights the importance of effective risk management in cybersecurity and encourages organizations to pressure vendors to participate in disclosure programs.The episode also delves into the rising concerns surrounding cloud security threats, which have become the top worry for executives, according to a recent PwC report. The report identifies hack and leak operations, third-party breaches, and ransomware as leading threats, with organizations feeling least prepared to address cloud attacks. Additionally, Microsoft has informed customers about a software bug that affected log data collection for key security products, emphasizing the need for robust security measures and incident response planning.Host Dave Sobel shifts focus to the impact of Broadcom's acquisition of VMware, which has led many users to explore alternatives like OpenStack. The latest version of OpenStack, codenamed Dalmatian, is experiencing a resurgence as former VMware users migrate to its platform, benefiting from improved tools and a stable ecosystem. Meanwhile, Microsoft has announced a 10% price increase for its System Center management tool set for 2025, raising questions about potential challenges for the product in the competitive landscape.Finally, the episode addresses the stagnation in IT leadership diversity, revealing concerning statistics from a recent survey. The data shows that 89.6% of IT leaders are white and 79% are male, with minimal changes from previous quarters. The Society for Human Resource Management's recent decision to remove equity from its diversity, equity, and inclusion strategy has sparked controversy, as critics argue it undermines commitments to fostering a diverse workplace. Sobel emphasizes the importance of gender diversity in IT, citing research that indicates diverse teams outperform homogeneous ones, ultimately enhancing business efficiency and customer satisfaction.Four things to know today00:00 NIST Faces Vulnerability Report Backlog as Cloud Threats Dominate Cybersecurity Concerns04:02 VMware Users Flock to OpenStack Amid Acquisition Uncertainty, While Microsoft Ups System Center Pricing for 2025 05:36 Apple Addresses macOS Sequoia Cybersecurity Bugs Ahead of Major AI Launch with iOS 18.106:38 IT Leadership Diversity Stagnates as DEI Efforts Face Scrutiny   Supported by:  https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/https://www.coreview.com/msp  Event: www.smbTechFest.com/Go/Sobel    All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

The latest trends in the U.S. labor market highlight a resilient job landscape despite challenges faced by small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). The September jobs report revealed that employers added 254,000 jobs, lowering the unemployment rate to 4.1%. However, SMBs are struggling to fill positions, with 34% of owners unable to find qualified applicants, leading to a decrease in hiring attempts. This situation suggests that SMBs may increasingly rely on technology solutions to maintain operations.The episode also delves into the surge in data center spending, which has increased by 30% year-over-year as enterprises balance their AI growth with cloud and on-premises strategies. The demand for AI-optimized servers is driving significant capital expenditures, with infrastructure investments expected to exceed $400 billion in 2024. Sobel emphasizes the importance of IT service providers in this evolving landscape, as companies seek to modernize their infrastructure while navigating the complexities of cloud migration and hybrid strategies.Additionally, Sobel highlights a notable shift in ownership dynamics as baby boomers sell their businesses, creating a $10 trillion opportunity for millennials looking to acquire established companies. Many millennials are interested in modernizing and digitizing these businesses to compete in a tech-driven economy. This trend presents a significant opportunity for IT service providers to offer services that facilitate digital transformation and operational efficiency for newly acquired businesses.Finally, the episode underscores the importance of aligning IT offerings with the current economic climate, where SMBs may tighten budgets and focus on essential expenditures. Sobel encourages IT service providers to position themselves as strategic partners, offering solutions that enhance efficiency and provide clear paths to return on investment. As the labor market evolves and technology becomes increasingly integral to business operations, the role of IT service providers will be crucial in supporting SMBs and enterprises alike.Three things to know today 00:00 U.S. Labor Market Resilient, But SMBs Face Hiring Challenges05:23 Data Center Spending Surges 30% as Enterprises Balance AI Growth with Cloud and On-Prem Strategies08:33 As Boomers Sell, Millennials Acquire: IT Service Providers Can Capitalize on the Coming Ownership Shift  Supported by:  https://mspradio.com/engage/  Event: www.smbTechFest.com/Go/Sobel     All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Host Dave Sobel welcomes Craig Petronella, founder of Petronella Technology Group, to discuss the evolving landscape of technology compliance and cybersecurity. With a focus on the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), Craig highlights its significance for defense industrial base contractors and its potential to streamline compliance across various industries. He emphasizes that while regulations like HIPAA and FTC compliance exist, they often lack a consistent framework, leading to confusion and non-compliance among businesses.Craig shares his insights on the current state of compliance, noting that many organizations, including those in healthcare, are not adequately meeting regulatory standards. He points out that the CMMC introduces a more rigorous approach, requiring third-party validation for compliance, which could help address the shortcomings of existing frameworks. This shift towards a proof-based model aims to ensure that businesses cannot simply check boxes to claim compliance but must provide evidence of their adherence to security controls.The conversation also delves into the challenges of enforcement and accountability in compliance. Craig argues that without significant consequences for non-compliance, such as losing the ability to operate in certain sectors, many organizations will continue to neglect their security responsibilities. He draws parallels to the driving test analogy, suggesting that just as individuals must demonstrate their driving skills to obtain a license, businesses should be held to similar standards in cybersecurity.Finally, Craig discusses the role of cybersecurity insurance in driving compliance. He explains how insurance companies are increasingly requiring businesses to implement basic security measures, such as multi-factor authentication, to qualify for coverage. This trend reflects a broader movement towards a "don't trust, verify" model, where organizations must take proactive steps to secure their systems. The episode concludes with Craig advocating for a future where AI and third-party validation play crucial roles in ensuring software security and compliance across industries. Supported by: https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Dave welcomes Carolyn April, Vice President of Industry Analysis at CompTIA, for an insightful discussion on the current state of the IT service provider channel. They delve into the evolving dynamics between managed service providers (MSPs) and vendors, highlighting a surprising statistic from CompTIA's latest report: 36% of MSPs express distrust in vendors potentially bypassing them to reach customers directly. This skepticism is compounded by a trend of IT providers enrolling in fewer vendor programs, suggesting a shift in how MSPs view their relationships with vendors.Carolyn explains that the overwhelming number of vendors available today has led many MSPs to reassess their partnerships. Instead of spreading themselves thin across numerous vendor programs, many are opting to focus on a select few that align closely with their business goals. This strategic narrowing allows them to maximize their return on investment and foster deeper, more productive relationships with their chosen vendors. The conversation also touches on the role of distributors, who are increasingly positioning themselves as marketplaces, providing MSPs with aggregated solutions while reducing the need for formal vendor program enrollments.As the discussion progresses, the topic of data services emerges as a significant area of growth within the channel. Carolyn notes that while the term "data services" can encompass a variety of offerings—from database management to data protection and AI model development—there is a growing recognition of the importance of data governance. This is particularly relevant as businesses look to leverage AI technologies effectively. The episode emphasizes that MSPs have a unique opportunity to position themselves as experts in data strategy, helping clients navigate the complexities of data management and AI implementation.Finally, the conversation shifts to the potential for tech fatigue among business owners, who may be growing weary of constantly investing in new technologies without seeing proportional returns. Carolyn and Dave discuss how this fatigue could impact the adoption of emerging technologies like AI, as businesses weigh the risks and benefits of new investments. They conclude by exploring the future of the MSP business model, particularly in light of increasing regulatory scrutiny and the need for accountability within the industry. This episode provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the IT service provider channel as it adapts to a rapidly changing technological landscape.   All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Kyndryl's new services aimed at facilitating the adoption of Microsoft's CoPilot within enterprises, emphasizing the importance of tailoring AI solutions to meet specific business needs. With a focus on enhancing data integrity and continuous optimization, Kyndryl's offerings, including a Co-Pilot Value Discovery Workshop, aim to help organizations effectively implement AI technologies to drive meaningful business outcomes.Sobel also covers Google's recent launch of Gemini 1.5 Flash 8B, a production-ready AI model that boasts significant improvements in cost, speed, and efficiency. This model is designed to support high-volume tasks, making it an attractive option for developers. Additionally, OpenAI has introduced a new feature called Canvas for ChatGPT, which enhances collaboration for coding and writing projects by allowing users to work alongside the AI without losing context. These advancements signal a shift in the AI landscape towards creating tangible business value through effective technology integration.The episode further explores the evolving role of CIOs in managing the risks associated with generative AI, as highlighted by Discover Financial Services' implementation of the NIST risk framework. Sobel notes that as organizations navigate the complexities of AI, there is a growing urgency to establish responsible practices for its integration. He also discusses the transformation within the professional services sector, where firms are increasingly adopting data-driven approaches and leveraging AI to enhance efficiency and client engagement.Finally, Sobel addresses the potential pitfalls of new technologies, including the risks associated with smart glasses and the overwhelming proliferation of apps in daily life. He raises concerns about user fatigue and privacy issues, suggesting that the future of technology should focus on creating better user experiences and more transparent systems. The episode concludes with a reminder of the importance of balancing innovation with ethical considerations, as businesses strive to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven landscape.Three things to know today 00:00 Kyndryl’s Copilot Strategy and the Next AI from Google and OpenAI03:39 AI Strategy and Consulting's Future: Why Smaller, Agile Firms Are Poised for Growth08:04 Are New Technologies Backfiring? Smart Glasses, App Fatigue, and Apple's Social App Shake-Up  Supported by:  https://mspradio.com/engage/  Event: www.smbTechFest.com/Go/Sobel   All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech