- IBM to expand the Technology Expert Labs team to help tackle
the AI skills gap and data complexity that organizations across
sectors face today
- This team will build capacity and competency in generative
AI, data & AI, automation, hybrid cloud, sustainability,
cybersecurity, and more to better support their client's
success
- The team will be based out of IBM Canada's site in
Markham, home to Canada's largest Software Development Lab and
IBM's third largest software lab
MARKHAM, ON,
April 30,
2024 /CNW/ -- IBM (NYSE: IBM) today announced
the expansion of IBM Technology Expert Labs in Markham, Ontario, Canada to support Canadian
and global organizations as they continue to adopt and integrate
generative AI, such as watsonx, IBM's AI and data platform, Hybrid
Cloud, and Cybersecurity solutions.
According to a report1 by Conference Board of
Canada, a think tank that is
dedicated to researching and analyzing economic trends, generative
AI could add almost 2 per cent to Canada's GDP but it is lagging in adopting
technology at the organizational level. There are several barriers
to AI adoption that include AI skills gaps (41%), data complexity
(24%) and high costs (24%) as per IBM Global AI Adoption Index
2023. The Technology Expert Labs can help address some of the
challenges as it will comprise of a team of technical experts who
will advise, architect, and deploy outcome-based client engagements
that deliver value (or real return on investment) while minimizing
implementation risks.
"The expansion of IBM's Technology Expert labs in Canada is a significant milestone in our
continued commitment to empowering businesses to harness the
potential of technology including AI," said Sanjay Pal, Vice President, IBM Technology
Expert Labs, IBM. "We are dedicated to providing our
clients with the expert guidance they need to successfully
integrate AI solutions into their operations, accelerating their
digital transformation journey."
IBM Technology Expert Labs will create more opportunities for
experienced professionals in areas such generative AI, data &
AI, automation, sustainability, security, cloud, and zSoftware.
Deep expertise and global experience of the Technology Expert Labs
will augment and accelerate technology adoption for clients in
Canada and North America.
Deb Pimentel, President, IBM
Canada and General Manager, IBM Technology Canada said,
"Co-located with our Software Lab in Markham, Technology Expert Labs will provide
our clients and partners with unparalleled access to product
insights, features, and solutions, building on the strong
foundation of generative AI work already in motion at the lab."
She added, "Leveraging generative AI, will help companies
increase their productivity and efficiency, enabling them to stay
ahead in today's rapidly evolving technology landscape. This
expansion will create new jobs and build capacity for IBM to
provide clients with even more expertise and resources, ensuring
they have the support they need to thrive in the digital age."
IBM Canada Software Lab driving R&D behind watsonx,
IBM's data and AI platform
IBM Canada Software Lab, the largest software development
organization in Canada, is playing
a critical role in the research and development of watsonx. The
Software lab's expertise and resources have enabled IBM to drive
innovation and advancements in AI, solidifying IBM's commitment to
progress in the field. By leveraging the lab's capabilities,
businesses can tap into the vast potential of AI and gain valuable
insights that can help them stay ahead of the competition.
With over 50 years of experience in driving digital
transformation and key strategic missions worldwide, the Software
lab is well-equipped to help businesses and organizations make
data-driven decisions and optimize their operations.
Increase in AI Adoption in Canadian Businesses
According to IBM's Global AI Adoption Index 2023, Canadian
companies are increasingly adopting and deploying AI, with about
37% of enterprise-scale organizations (over 1,000 employees) saying
that their company is using it as part of their business
operations.
As more Canadian companies explore AI, it will be critical for
businesses to have the right skills sets, talent to integrate new
technologies into their existing IT landscape and business
processes.
Key highlights from IBM's Global AI Adoption Index 2023
include:
- Top three drivers of AI Adoption: Advances in AI tools
that make them more accessible (46%), the need to reduce costs and
automate key processes (46%), and the increasing amount of AI
embedded into standard off the shelf business applications
(34%).
- Top three barriers to AI Adoption: AI skills gaps (41%)
remains a top barrier to adoption, followed by too much data
complexity (24%) and high costs (24%).
- AI investments in Canada
are least likely to accelerate, despite increase in adoption:
Top AI investments in Canada are
reskilling and workforce development (42%), followed by research
and development (41%).
For more information about IBM Canada, visit
www.ibm.com/ca-en
Media Contact:
Ruhee Dhar
IBM Canada
ruhee@ibm.com
________________________________________
1 Real Talk: How Generative AI Could Close Canada's
Productivity Gap and Reshape the Workplace – Lessons from the
Innovation Economy
SOURCE IBM Canada
