Cloud-first world is new normal, says IBM Asia Pacific GM

Is your business ready for the cloud-first world? It’s not enough to reopen your business. Rethink your strategy for the post-pandemic world.

In her keynote that kicked off IBM Cloud Forum 2020, IBM Asia Pacific General Manager Brenda Harvey stressed that cloud computing will not only help businesses overcome the challenges posed today by the COVID-19 pandemic. Cloud computing will also be the vital building block that ensures your business will survive in the cloud-first world that is emerging.

“This crisis has proven beyond a doubt that hybrid cloud is underpinning platforms that are redefining businesses and ecosystems as we emerge smarter and more resilient through COVID-19. Before I get into the specifics around cloud and AI, one thing I hope that we have all learned from this crisis is the power of collaboration and trusted partnerships to solve problems, overcome challenges, and rethink how work can be done and services provided,” Harvey said.

IBM Cloud Forum 2020

This is the inaugural IBM Cloud Forum 2020, a regional event that IBM Asia Pacific is holding on July 16-17.

This virtual conference gathers Asia Pacific’s C-level executives and technical leaders, experts, and innovators. The goal is to collaborate and find solutions for resiliency, recovery and transformation.

Harvey stressed that automation of processes will help businesses focus on adding more value for their customers.

“We just launched Watson Works, a curated set of products that embed Watson AI models and applications to deliver data-driven insights to address COVID return-to-workplace challenges. From space allocation to contact tracing and even mass detection — built with data privacy and ethics,” Harvey said.

Harvey also cited the new solutions that IBM introduced at its Think Digital event in May. These include IBM Watson AIOps and edge computing solutions for the 5G era.

“I hope that with the insights and expertise to be gained from the IBM Cloud Forum 2020, you’ll discover new ways to build customer trust, reinvent experiences, and reap the benefits of the new cloud-first world,” Harvey said.

Is your company ready to embark on your digital transformation journey?