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While AI has been around for many years , Rahma believes the recent increased interest and significant uptick in SAP customer queries are a result of the launch and growing popularity of Generative AI tools , including ChatGPT and SAP ’ s Joule Generative AI copilot . She adds that this interest in AI is apparent across all sectors and company sizes , from the smallest offices to large multinationals .
Which generic technologies and innovations can make a difference to your end customers ’ business ?
Cloud enables customers to achieve scalability , streamline and automate processes , and reduce costs , while achieving a clean core by eliminating infrastructure problems in aging on-premises systems . Cloud also enables businesses to rapidly assimilate and leverage AI technologies effectively for immediate and future benefits .
Businesses also need to consider the financial , workforce and training implications of technologies such as AI . In the case of SAP , the aim is to support customers to leverage specific AI and Generative AI tools that will be meaningful and effective in the context of their business , implemented in an ethical and responsible way .
Which non-competitive business in the region do you admire for innovative usage of technology ?
Rahma has been particularly impressed with how the public sector leverages innovative technology in the UAE . The public sector has been leading the way by fostering an ecosystem that drives innovation across both the public and private sector .
From creating the world ’ s first Ministry of AI in 2017 , and introducing smart services , block chain and paperless transactions , to launching the UAE ’ s Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme and leveraging technology to support ambitious sustainability goals . In other parts of the world , it is rare for the public sector to play such a leading role in innovation , she adds .
Rahma also highlights the innovative focus of SAP ’ s regional partners . SAP has been collaborating with leaders in the AI space , as well as regional customers and strategic partners , to advance AI and its applications , using technology to innovate and cocreate industry solutions to pressing challenges .
Which aspects of your role do you find rewarding and which challenging ?
As SAP Sustainability Ambassador , Rahma has enjoyed working with UAE ministries and companies as well as foreign stakeholders during COP28 , to exchange knowledge and collaborate on long-term sustainability initiatives .
In terms of her customer advisory role , Rahma says one of the most rewarding aspects is seeing the impact her team is making , and seeing customers thriving thanks to implementing the right set of technology solutions to meet their own and their customers ’ needs .
As for challenges , there is a certain amount of stress inherent in meeting deadlines and ensuring you are always up to date with rapidly evolving technologies and trends , but this a good type of stress to have .
How do you best like to de-stress and re-charge off work ?
Rahma loves exercising , especially with her family , for example going on bike rides , and usually travels by bike on weekends . She also enjoys networking with diverse groups of people and hearing different viewpoints , so she belongs to many clubs such as university alumni circles , mentorships organisation , business leaders from Tunisia – her homeland – and France , among others .
Do you have any tips for women working in the field of technology ?
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As an executive sponsor of the SAP Businesswomen Network and a founder of the London Business School alumni club ’ s Women in Business group , Rahma ’ s advice for women entering the technology world is not to be shy in making their voices heard . Be open to challenges , make your viewpoints clear , and do not create self-limitations . There is no reason women cannot excel in this field , and it can be helpful to find a woman mentor to help you . p
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