FINAL WORD
Short term versus long term fix
Businesses often lean toward short-term fixes to address immediate IT challenges , rather than enduring the temporary discomfort of committing to a long-term , future-focused strategy . Much like throwing more RAM at a speed problem , an immediate solution might not be addressing the underlying issue .
While some short-term solutions can provide value , it is essential to ensure that short-term solutions are not limiting to future enhancements and are aligned with long-term objectives that remain sustainable over time – this is where foresight becomes key .
Striking the right balance between short-term solutions and long-term goals , and being willing to transition to a longer-term approach , even if it involves some initial discomfort , is crucial for sustainable growth . And here , futureproofing does not imply predicting the future , but rather being able to prepare for future changes .
When it comes to software versus non-software related IT projects , research conducted by global management consulting firm , McKinsey , found that across industries , software projects exceeded timelines and cost more , yet these changes brought immense value and adaptability in the long run . This , compared to the lower cost of non-software projects , resulted in minimal longterm benefits .
The biggest hindrance to modernising a business ’ s technology stack is user acceptance , which is why working with solutions that make it easier for people to accept change is key , something that Microsoft has done well . By creating an ecosystem of familiarity , the user interface remains , despite the changing of a solution or back-end technology .
Grant van der Westhuizen , Sales Manager Business Applications , Braintree
Future-proofing your business from a technology perspective also does not mean changing everything straight away . What needs to be done is to start driving the right behaviour and the right approach , taking a holistic view and aligning the service offerings and solutions based on where the business is going .
analysing vast amounts of data from various sources , AI can identify fixes more quickly than alternatives . embracing energy-efficient hardware such as low-power processors and accelerators that can significantly shrink carbon footprints .
For example , our sustainable data centre solutions like storage and servers built with leading liquid and air cooling , emissions tracking and energy efficiency are top of mind . Therefore , consideration about the modular design and upgradeability of AI hardware can minimise the e-waste coming out of the infrastructure needed to power the models .
Finally , implementing responsible recycling and disposal practices for outdated components is critical for minimising waste and maximising resource recovery .
Sustainability is part of business
Because sustainability is now a business imperative , it should be intricately woven through business operations . Responsible practices should be integrated into every facet of the organisation , extending outwards to suppliers , partners and customers .
Having clear internal and external alignment on these goals makes it easier to drive more sustainable materials innovation , pioneer new energy solutions and navigate changing regulatory landscapes .
Cross-functional collaboration is key to empowering change within the whole ecosystem ; for instance , if it becomes a requirement that products need to be designed with materials innovation at heart , then suppliers are challenged to innovate to meet those specific demands .
This end-to-end approach drives meaningful widespread change and helps to create a more sustainable ecosystem .
While the digital revolution has reshaped our world and created new , exciting possibilities , its environmental impact cannot be ignored ; nor can it continue in the same way . The escalating e-waste crisis calls for a shift in the way we approach building and designing new technologies .
The insights derived are useful for informing strategies that reduce waste across everything from the supply chain itself through to manufacturing and packaging optimisation .
Reducing energy consumption and e-waste within AI requires a multi-faceted approach , including
At this juncture , it is time to embrace circularity and resource efficiency , and to employ longer-term thinking when it comes to technological innovation . By exploring new ways of thinking , businesses can begin shaping a digital future that strives to grow in balance with the environment , creating opportunities for both progress and sustainability . p
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