Across the public and private sectors, they are leveraging it as a reliable technology that delivers superior experiences to stakeholders, creates digital revenue channels, builds competitive entry barriers, and creates resilient organizations that can withstand uncertainty. According to IDC's recent spending guide, Worldwide AI spending is expected to reach 337 billion USD in 2026 between 2022 and 2026 with 21.2% CAGR. Over the next 12 months, organizations plan to further invest in AI to future-proof their businesses.
Organizations across industries such as finance, oil and gas, government, manufacturing, retail, and telecommunications have already initiated investments in their AI journeys. The recent rise of Generative AI is being hailed as the great disruptor of every facet of life and business, providing smarter, faster, scalable, lower-cost, higher-value solutions. On an enterprise level, AI is being incorporated in existing enterprise technology environments such as code generation, content management, marketing and CX applications, product design and engineering.
Yet, with all the promise of AI, it raises important questions about the impact it will have on our lives, enterprises, and broader society. To succeed in their digital transformation journey and capitalize on the AI opportunity, organizations should take a proactive approach to how they manage the data lifecycle, ensure data quality, privacy, security, and enable safe and secure data sharing across different ecosystem partners.
This exclusive IDC Digital Event will feature senior IDC analysts and technology executives who will discuss multiple topics related to AI adoption trends. A series of keynote presentations and panel discussions offer valuable insight for every CIO and CTO looking to commit time and intellectual capital right to ensure their organization is prepared, avoid missteps, and capitalize quickly on the potential of AI across both IT and the business.
| 11:00 |
Registration & Networking |
| 11:30 |
Welcome Address |
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Melih Murat Associate Research Director, IT Services & Software (META), IDC
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| 11:35 |
IDC Keynote: Rethinking Digitalization with GenAI for an AI-First World |
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As generative AI (GenAI) unleashes a new wave of disruption across industries, tech leaders are reviewing the way they approach their digitalization strategies. The promise of a significant impact on digital innovation, customer experience, and operational efficiencies will drive progressive governments and digitally determined organizations to embrace an AI-first approach. This session will provide tech leaders with guidance on key considerations for building value in their organizations with automation and GenAI. It will also outline a process for establishing use cases, developing the appropriate organization, and better managing risks.
Melih Murat Associate Research Director, IT Services & Software (META), IDC
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| 11:50 |
Generative AI – Opportunities and Challenges |
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In this session, we will explore the transformative potential of Generative AI and delve into its wide-ranging applications across various industries. From content creation to advanced problem-solving, Generative AI is opening new avenues for innovation. However, with these opportunities come significant challenges, including ethical considerations, bias, and the need for robust regulatory frameworks. Join us as experts discuss the benefits, risks, and the future landscape of Generative AI, providing valuable insights for businesses and technologists alike. |
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| 12:05 |
Securing the AI Frontier: Ensuring Trust, Privacy, and Resilience in an Era of Rapid Innovation |
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Securing the AI frontier is crucial as we navigate an era of rapid innovation. This involves building trust through transparent, ethical, and regulatory-compliant AI systems; safeguarding privacy with robust data protection and user consent measures; and enhancing resilience against adversarial attacks and system failures. This session will highlight how fostering responsible innovation and collaboration can ensure AI technologies are trusted, secure, and beneficial to both organizations and society at large. |
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| 12:20 |
Empowering Cloud Workloads with AI: Enhancing Security, Resilience, and Performance |
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Focusing on the integration of AI technologies into cloud workloads, this topic aims to enhance their security, resilience, and overall performance. Gain insights into how AI can optimize resource allocation, predict and mitigate security threats, and ensure seamless operations under varying load conditions. By leveraging AI, organizations can improve the efficiency of their cloud infrastructure and build more robust and adaptive systems. Industry experts will share case studies, best practices, and future trends in AI-driven cloud computing. |
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| 12:35 |
Empowering Real-Time Insights: Edge AI's Fusion with IoT |
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Empowering real-time insights through the fusion of Edge AI and IoT is revolutionizing data processing and decision-making. This session will explore how Edge AI enhances IoT by enabling on-device intelligence, reducing latency, and improving data security. Attendees will learn about cutting-edge applications, challenges, and strategies for leveraging Edge AI to unlock the full potential of IoT in various industries. |
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| 12:50 |
AI-Driven Automation and Orchestration in IT Operations |
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Delve into how AI-driven automation and orchestration are revolutionizing IT operations. This session will cover the latest advancements in AI tools and techniques that streamline IT workflows, enhance operational efficiency, and reduce human error. Learn how AI can automate routine tasks, enable proactive issue resolution, and optimize resource management. Experts will share insights into the benefits, challenges, and future trends of implementing AI in IT operations, providing a comprehensive understanding of how to leverage AI for a more resilient and efficient IT infrastructure. |
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| 13:05 13:30 |
Gold Tracks (Parallel Sessions) |
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Gold Track 1
13:05 - 13:15
The AI Revolution: Redefining Digital Business Landscape
The AI Revolution is redefining the digital business landscape by driving innovation and transforming operations across industries. This session will delve into how AI technologies are reshaping business models, enhancing customer experiences, and creating new opportunities for growth. Attendees will gain insights into the latest AI trends, successful implementation strategies, and the future impact of AI on the business world.
13:15 - 13:30
Unlocking the Power of AI: Transformative Potential Across Industries
Unlocking the power of AI holds transformative potential across industries, driving innovation and efficiency. This session will explore how AI technologies are revolutionizing sectors such as healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and retail. Attendees will discover real-world applications, key benefits, and strategies for integrating AI to unlock unprecedented growth and competitive advantage. Gold Track 2
13:05 - 13:15
Future-proofing Business with AI: Investments and Strategies
Future-proofing business with AI requires strategic investments and innovative approaches. This session will examine how organizations can leverage AI to stay competitive, enhance efficiency, and drive growth. Attendees will learn about critical investment areas, best practices for AI integration, and strategies to ensure long-term success in an AI-driven landscape.
13:15 - 13:30
Data-driven Decision Making: Empowering Organizations for Success
Data-driven decision-making empowers organizations to achieve greater success through informed strategies and actions. This session will explore how leveraging data analytics and AI can enhance decision-making processes, optimize operations, and drive innovation. Attendees will gain insights Gold Track 3
13:05 - 13:15
Manufacturing 4.0: Leveraging AI for Smart Factories
Manufacturing 4.0 leverages AI to create smart factories that enhance efficiency, productivity, and innovation. This session will explore how AI-driven technologies are transforming manufacturing processes, from predictive maintenance to real-time quality control. Attendees will learn about cutting-edge applications, implementation strategies, and the benefits of integrating AI into manufacturing to stay competitive in the digital age.
13:15 - 13:30
AI and Automation: Transforming Workflows and Processes
AI and automation are transforming workflows and processes, driving efficiency and innovation across industries. This session will delve into how these technologies streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance productivity. Attendees will gain insights into successful implementation strategies, real-world applications, and the future impact of AI and automation on business processes. Gold Track 4
13:05 - 13:15
Telecommunications and AI: Enhancing Connectivity and Services
Explore the transformative impact of AI on the telecommunications industry, enhancing connectivity and improving services. This session will cover AI applications in network optimization, predictive maintenance, customer service, and the rollout of 5G technology. Discover how AI-driven solutions are enabling faster, more reliable communication networks and providing personalized services to customers. Industry experts will discuss case studies, best practices, and the future landscape of AI in telecommunications, offering valuable insights into leveraging AI for competitive advantage and superior service delivery.
13:15 - 13:30
Integrating AI into Enterprise Environments: Applications and Benefits
Discover the diverse applications and benefits of integrating AI into enterprise environments. This session will highlight how AI can enhance business processes, improve decision-making, and drive innovation across various departments such as marketing, finance, and operations. Learn about successful AI implementations, from automating routine tasks to uncovering valuable insights from data. Experts will discuss the challenges, best practices, and future trends of AI adoption in enterprises, providing a roadmap for organizations looking to harness the power of AI for competitive advantage and operational excellence. |
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| 13:30 14:00 |
Silver Tracks (Parallel Sessions) |
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Panel Discussion: The Rise of AI in Enterprise Operations
13:30 - 14:00
Panel Discussion: Strategies for Capitalizing on the AI Opportunity
Over the past few years, rapid advances in AI technologies have begun to accelerate and reshape the digital journey of organizations in the Middle East and Africa. The emergence of generative AI (GenAI) has accelerated AI adoption, and many leading organizations are already exploring GenAI use cases to deliver measurable business outcomes. This session will provide perspectives on how organizations should approach AI. It will also explore the role of vendor and partner ecosystems in helping customers to progress along their AI-driven digital business journeys. Panel Discussion: Driving Digital Transformation
13:30 - 14:00
Panel Discussion: Building Industry Ecosystems for Succeeding in AI-Led Business Transformation
With the demonstrably increased power of AI, organizations can use the technology to identify and capture meaningful insights from their data, leading to better productivity and operational efficiencies. They can also leverage AI to deliver superior customer experiences while increasing revenues and reducing costs. In order to realize the full value of AI, organizations should focus on building industry ecosystem partnerships. Such ecosystems include a diverse set of stakeholders, including channel partners, government agencies, regulators, start-ups, and investors. In this session, industry thought leaders will come together to discuss the role of industry ecosystem partnerships in driving complex, value-driven AI initiatives. They will also discuss the importance of building a strong governance framework for ensuring success in ecosystem-driven initiatives. Panel Discussion: Securing the Future: AI-Driven Approaches to Cybersecurity and Data Protection
13:30 - 14:00
Panel Discussion: Building a Data-Driven Organization
Many organizations in the region are challenged by the lack of a modern data architecture, distributed and siloed data systems, and a lack of quality data in sufficient quantity. These organizations want to leverage data science and analytics more to deliver business value across entire business operations for better decision-making and higher customer satisfaction. But to achieve this, they must address the challenges first — a foundational pillar of driving successful AI-led digital business initiatives. This session will explore the key success factors for becoming a data-driven organization, while showcasing a series of proven best practices. |
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| 14:00 14:30 |
End User Fireside Chat (Parallel Sessions) |
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End User Fireside Chat 1
14:00 - 14:30
End User Fireside Chat: Leveraging AI Platforms for Digital Business Success
In this fireside chat, industry experts will delve into the critical role that AI platforms play in driving business transformation in today's fast-paced digital landscape. Attendees will gain insights into how an AI platform-led approach can streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and foster innovation across various sectors. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that will provide valuable knowledge and practical strategies for leveraging AI platforms to drive business success in the era of digital transformation. End User Fireside Chat 2
14:00 - 14:30
End User Fireside Chat: Future-Proofing Digital Business: Investing in Flexible, AI-Ready Digital Infrastructure
In this session, industry leaders will explore the evolving landscape of IT infrastructure investment in the age of AI and GenAI. As organizations increasingly rely on AI to drive innovation and competitive advantage, the need for a robust, flexible, and hybrid multicloud-enabled digital infrastructure has never been more critical. This session will focus on the strategic approaches organizations should adopt to ensure their IT investments are future proof and capable of supporting the development, testing, and inferencing of AI models. Join us for a dynamic discussion that will provide valuable insights and practical strategies for making informed IT infrastructure investment decisions in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. End User Fireside Chat 3
14:00 - 14:30
End User Fireside Chat: Navigating Data Management Challenges for AI Adoption: Strategies for Success
This fireside chat explores the complexities of data management in the era of artificial intelligence. As AI transforms industries, effective data management is crucial, but the proliferation of distributed data sources and disparate systems creates major challenges. In this session, distinguished thought leaders will share real-world examples of successful data management strategies. They will also highlight best practices around data life-cycle management and explain how effective data management strategies can have a measurable impact on AI-led business initiatives. |
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| 14:30 |
Close of Event |
Want to become a speaker?
Melih Murat
Associate Research Director, IT Services & Software (META), IDC
IT executives rely on IDC and Foundry events for discovering new ideas, trends, and solutions that drive their technology strategies. Leveraging IDC’s deep market intelligence and advisory expertise, and Foundry’s rich media brands (CIO, Computerworld, InfoWorld) and relationships, IDC and Foundry produce powerful learning and networking experiences for IT decision makers around the world.