Intelligent CIO Middle East Issue 111 | Page 54

COUNTRY FOCUS : SAUDI ARABIA
The need to ensure transparency and control across the entire manufacturing lifecycle is essential . In the food and beverage sector for example , food safety is a top priority , and it is where an ERP system can uphold quality control standards . Product recalls are costly and can negatively impact brand equity .
Faddi Matta , Vice President , Mindware
Saudi Arabia
Arvind Nithrakashyap , Co-Founder and Chief Technology
Officer , Rubrik
Vijay Jaswal , CTO , APJ and ME & A , IFS
While automation and AI play an increasing role in manufacturing , human intelligence remains irreplaceable certainly for now . The synergy between humans and machines is critical for continuous improvement . For instance , frontline workers equipped with tools like Poka ’ s connected worker platform can access visual guides and real-time training resources ; collaborate with colleagues to share insights and resolve quality issues ; document and escalate issues to management for faster resolution .
“ The 70:20:10 model , which puts collaborative working on top of the learning and development scale , is precisely how training and development works for frontline workers on the shop floor . As opposed to simply telling workers to go on a course the model focuses on 70 % of learning on the job , 20 % of learning through colleagues and 10 % via formal training programs ,” says Jaswal .
Poka ’ s connected worker platform provides the opportunity to learn from other workers and their manufacturing experiences . It enables manufacturers to take their best , most knowledgeable employees and capture and reuse their knowledge . They can ensure the best people are training new employees to the best possible standards , and they only have to do it once .
The results ? When frontline workers are fully trained on the most up-to-date processes and standards , they contribute to the organisation ’ s ability to reduce waste , optimise production efficiency , and , crucially , minimise defects .
Cloud , AI , DSPM will go hand in hand because traditional security methods alone , do not adequately address an organisation ’ s datarelated cyber resilience . as both a priority and a challenge . With the rapid adoption of AI across various sectors , ensuring robust security systems has become critical to safeguarding sensitive information and maintaining public trust .
The Kingdom ’ s stringent compliance frameworks , such as the Saudi Personal Data Protection Law , further underscore the need for robust and adaptive security measures tailored to its evolving landscape .
Saudi Arabia ’ s focus on becoming a global hub for AI innovation is evident in projects like NEOM and the National Centre for AI . These initiatives aim to integrate cutting-edge technologies across infrastructure , government , and private enterprises .
The deployment of AI comes with inherent risks , including vulnerabilities in data privacy , operational systems , and infrastructure security . Addressing these risks requires not only advanced technology but also a proactive approach to risk management and compliance .
While technology adoption is accelerating , the successful implementation of these advancements hinges on workforce enablement . Saudi Arabia ’ s ambition to lead in AI , cloud computing , and IoT highlights the growing need for comprehensive training programmes to empower professionals with the skills necessary to drive transformation .
To harness the full potential of these advancements , it is essential for professionals to be equipped with the right skills to navigate and apply them effectively . This not only ensures seamless integration of new systems but also supports the Kingdom ’ s broader economic diversification goals , enabling a knowledge-based economy .
Recognising this imperative , Mindware Saudi has established a dedicated training centre to address the skills gap in the Kingdom . The centre offers specialised courses , hands-on workshops , and continuous learning opportunities tailored to the local market .
Technology skills and innovation
As Saudi Arabia embraces AI-driven technologies to power its Vision 2030 ambitions , data security emerges
Mindware Saudi stands as a trusted partner in this transformation , empowering industries with tailored solutions and equipping the workforce with the skills needed to unlock their full potential , ensuring Vision 2030 becomes a reality . p
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