Converged Infrastructure (CI) remains a highly efficient and cost-effective option for many IT roles and workloads despite the rise of hyper-converged infrastructure (HCI) and cloud architectures. This paper explores the benefits of CI, including cost efficiency, manageability, and control over configuration. The relevance of CI in the modern IT landscape is affirmed, particularly for scenarios requiring performance, tuning, and management control.

The article discusses the trend of incorporating dedicated AI engines into laptops and other edge devices, highlighting the benefits of AI inferencing for personal productivity, such as facial recognition and videoconferencing enhancements. It explains that while AI training requires high-end GPUs, inferencing can be done more efficiently and power-effectively on local devices with dedicated AI hardware. The piece notes that ultraportable devices are the primary focus for new AI-capable processors from companies like AMD, Qualcomm, Intel, and Apple, with desktop versions to follow. The article suggests that AI-enabled systems will become essential as software increasingly leverages AI capabilities, and it advises organizations to consider these systems for power users who would benefit from enhanced productivity.

Intel is intensifying its efforts in the AI-enabled laptop market with its AI-PC program and AI-enabled Core Ultra processors, aiming to catch up with competitors like Apple, Qualcomm, and AMD. While AI-enabled processors are not new, Intel's strategy involves leveraging its widespread presence in laptops and its ecosystem approach to integrate AI technologies into applications. The development is likened to the historical shift from text-based to graphical user interfaces, with more software developers incorporating AI technologies, prompting PC suppliers to adapt.

Broadcom's $69bn acquisition of VMware has led to immediate layoffs and confusion among VMware staff and partners, contradicting initial assurances of increased R&D spending and investment. Broadcom's actions have caused fear and uncertainty, particularly regarding contract terms and potential price increases. Competitors like Nutanix are capitalizing on this instability. The article advises VMware users to have contingency plans in place due to the changing landscape of technology infrastructure.

The article discusses the considerations for implementing Private AI, focusing on the choice of large language models (LLMs) like OpenAI's GPT, Google's PaLM, Meta's LLaMa, and Anthropic's Claude 2. It highlights the importance of selecting the right model for specific tasks and industries, and mentions vendors like Google Cloud and Box offering model choices. The article also addresses the cost and computational requirements of training and inferencing with LLMs, and explores the potential of smaller, more efficient models like IBM's Granite and Microsoft Research's Phi 1.5.

The article discusses the growing interest in Private AI among companies due to concerns over data leakage with generative AI tools like ChatGPT. It highlights how various vendors, including Dell, Google Cloud, IBM, and others, are offering solutions for secure, private AI that can be implemented on-premises or in a private cloud. The piece also touches on the importance of data security and governance, especially when using AI-driven search services that need to be permission-aware.

The article discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with the adoption of Kubernetes in enterprise environments, particularly as it relates to multi-cloud strategies. It highlights the growing mainstream adoption of Kubernetes and the issues of managing and scaling multiple clusters. The diversity in cluster management by individual teams can lead to inefficiencies and increased costs. The article suggests that standardization and harmonization are necessary to maximize return on investment and reduce risks. It also emphasizes the importance of considering multi-cloud strategies in conjunction with Kubernetes adoption.

The article explores the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and its intersection with physical security, highlighted by observations from the International Cyber Expo and International Security Expo in London. It notes the growing importance of cybersecurity in various physical security technologies, such as electronic door locks and radar surveillance systems, and emphasizes the need for infosec professionals to adapt to these changes to avoid being outflanked by emerging threats like drones and industrial espionage.

The article discusses the challenges and opportunities in automating SAP master data management (MDM). It emphasizes the importance of moving MDM responsibilities from IT to business units to improve efficiency and alignment with business goals. The text highlights the benefits of automated MDM, such as increased accuracy and efficiency, and suggests an incremental approach to implementation. A case study on Maextro, a modern MDM solution built on SAP's Business Technology Platform, is included to illustrate practical application.

Customer experience (CX) is crucial across all aspects of an organization, from product design to aftercare. The interconnected nature of society through social media and online reviews has made engaging with customers a complex, technology-driven task. A survey of 50 CIOs reveals that technology, including traditional contact center tools and AI, plays a key role in enhancing CX. However, there is caution about AI directly interacting with customers, suggesting its use should be more behind the scenes.