Upgrade Upcharge
Applebee’s is sizzling up its operational efficiency with a significant upgrade to its point of sale (POS) systems, as revealed in an exclusive discussion with Dine Brands CIO Justin Skelton. The restaurant franchise, known for its casual dining and comfort food, is bidding farewell to its long-serving legacy technology. Skelton likens the current outdated tablets, which servers use to input orders, to an “old Atari system,” signaling a strategic shift towards more modern solutions, much like upgrading to a “PS5.” This tech transformation promises to streamline service and enhance the dining experience at Applebee’s, where tradition meets innovation in the kitchen—and at the checkout counter.
Executive Disorder
In an executive order that rewrites key aspects of President Biden’s cybersecurity strategy, President Trump has used his executive authority to adjust America’s stance on post-quantum cryptography (PQC)—a technology crucial for safeguarding against the potential future threats posed by quantum computing. Although Trump’s directive maintains the necessity of supporting advanced internet privacy protocols, it steps back from Biden’s push for immediate implementation of PQC across network security. Cybersecurity professionals are now weighing in on the trade-offs and advancing the dialogue on how best to protect the nation’s sensitive data in a post-quantum world.
HR vs. IT
As artificial intelligence integrates more deeply into the workforce, a recent report underscores the growing friction between HR and IT departments, particularly when it comes to CHRO-CIO collaboration. Gartner research puts a spotlight on the fact that only a slim fraction of CIOs prioritize the potential negative impacts of AI on employee wellbeing as they press forward with generative AI investments. Meanwhile, the iCIMS report highlights the contrasting priorities and perceptions between HR leaders and CIOs on talent acquisition’s reliance on technology. With 85% of CHROs placing greater emphasis on talent acquisition technology than ever before, and a notable segment leaning into AI for hiring processes, the report reminds us that bridging the gap between HR and IT is not just beneficial but essential for future-minded companies.
Market Agility through Managed Services
Staying ahead in today’s fast-paced market demands adaptability, and businesses are increasingly seeking managed services providers who can offer flexible, strategic support. KPMG provides insights into how changing buyer expectations are reshaping the managed services landscape, marking a shift from traditional static solutions to more dynamic and tailored approaches. As companies navigate complex technological and operational challenges, the role of managed service partners becomes more pivotal in enabling organizations to move nimbly with market tides.
Tech Ecosystem Snapshot
Tech trends evolve at lightning speed, and so do the statistics and stories that define them. A striking 88% of enterprises acknowledge that they are embarking on an AI transformation journey, according to McKinsey. Meanwhile, lawmakers like Rep. Warren Davidson express concerns about the potential misuse of consolidated government data by firms like Palantir. And the “OpenAI Files” offer a rare glimpse into one of tech’s most influential powerhouses. As AI becomes ever more integral to core business operations, new IBM research provides leaders with a roadmap to balance ambition with sustainable implementation.
