Tag: Dell

  • A.I.SHA | My Virtual Girlfriend to be dubbed in Tamil; S2 on cards

    A.I.SHA | My Virtual Girlfriend to be dubbed in Tamil; S2 on cards

    MUMBAI: Following the successful run of the season 1 of A.I.SHA | My Virtual Girlfriend, Arre plans to release its Tamil version. With this category, it intends to reach out to a wider audience.

    This version is presented by Gillette Flexball in association with Palo Alto Networks, Indo Nissin Foods and Dell.

    In addition, the show is also syndicated to the digital platform of one of France’s television networks, TF1 Xtra, apart from various Indian digital platforms such as Sony LIV, Yupp TV, Vodafone Play, etc.

    “The southern regional markets are growing markets from a mobile internet consumption and advertiser interest point of view. They’re also interesting future forays for Arré considering that digital media in these markets is more secular as compared to broadcasting and cable and there isn’t enough original content available currently. A.I.SHA, our first show, is possibly the best show to begin our regional foray with, given its universal appeal and the overwhelming viewer response so far,” said Arre founder B. Saikumar.

    The series is produced by Raghu Ram and Rajiv Laxman’s production venture, Monozygotic.

    Ram added, “A.I.SHA is a special project for all of us at Monozygotic since it was our first fiction show and also the first show that Arré launched with.”

    A.I.SHA (Artificial Intelligence Simulated Humanoid Assistant) is India’s AI-based digital series. A fiction thriller, the story pivots around the widely debated and chilling premise of what happens when AI (Artificial intelligence) develops feelings and consciousness.

    Pre-production work for A.I.SHA season 2 is underway and is planned for launch later this year.

  • Neo@Ogilvy Appoints Deepankar Kapoor head of strategy for India

    Neo@Ogilvy Appoints Deepankar Kapoor head of strategy for India

    MUMBAI: Neo@Ogilvy announced Deepankar Kapoor as Vice President and Head of Strategy – India, Neo@Ogilvy. He will be based in Gurgaon.

    Kapoor comes to Neo@Ogilvy with work experience that is richly diverse and spans eight years in digital strategy and planning. Kapoor has worked on multiple aspects of this business – creative, content, media, technology and CRM providing solutions for a roster of blue chip brands. He joins Neo@Ogilvy from Havas Media where he was leading the digital strategy function while working with brands such as Star TV, Sun Pharmaceuticals, LG, Amway, Xolo, Clovia among others.

    Neo@Ogilvy India president & country head Rajesh Bhatia said, “I have always emphasised the need and importance of sophisticated strategy and planning talent – this skill is often compromised by digital agencies. I am fortunate to have worked with some of the best talent in the industry who have reinforced that belief. I am delighted to have Deepankar join us in our journey to help establish our thought leadership and provide digital strategic direction to the brands we partner.”

    Before Havas Media Group, Kapoor has led digital strategy at the Grey Group and DigitasLbi where he drove digital transformation journeys for brands such as Tata Motors, Volkswagen, Quikr, Cadburys, Vespa, ITC, Dell, Johnson & Johnsons portfolio, Indian Army, Network18, Wipro Corporate, etc. A few prominent digital exercises under his belt are the digital brand launches of Tata Bolt & Zest, Tata Safari’s CRM initiative famously known as SOUL and the very recent buzziest campaigns of 2015 called Tardis Day (for Doctor Who fans) for Star FX.

    Academically, he holds an MBA from the University of Calcutta, a degree in Communications Management from Symbiosis International University and a Diploma in Cyber Laws from Government Law College Mumbai.

  • Neo@Ogilvy Appoints Deepankar Kapoor head of strategy for India

    Neo@Ogilvy Appoints Deepankar Kapoor head of strategy for India

    MUMBAI: Neo@Ogilvy announced Deepankar Kapoor as Vice President and Head of Strategy – India, Neo@Ogilvy. He will be based in Gurgaon.

    Kapoor comes to Neo@Ogilvy with work experience that is richly diverse and spans eight years in digital strategy and planning. Kapoor has worked on multiple aspects of this business – creative, content, media, technology and CRM providing solutions for a roster of blue chip brands. He joins Neo@Ogilvy from Havas Media where he was leading the digital strategy function while working with brands such as Star TV, Sun Pharmaceuticals, LG, Amway, Xolo, Clovia among others.

    Neo@Ogilvy India president & country head Rajesh Bhatia said, “I have always emphasised the need and importance of sophisticated strategy and planning talent – this skill is often compromised by digital agencies. I am fortunate to have worked with some of the best talent in the industry who have reinforced that belief. I am delighted to have Deepankar join us in our journey to help establish our thought leadership and provide digital strategic direction to the brands we partner.”

    Before Havas Media Group, Kapoor has led digital strategy at the Grey Group and DigitasLbi where he drove digital transformation journeys for brands such as Tata Motors, Volkswagen, Quikr, Cadburys, Vespa, ITC, Dell, Johnson & Johnsons portfolio, Indian Army, Network18, Wipro Corporate, etc. A few prominent digital exercises under his belt are the digital brand launches of Tata Bolt & Zest, Tata Safari’s CRM initiative famously known as SOUL and the very recent buzziest campaigns of 2015 called Tardis Day (for Doctor Who fans) for Star FX.

    Academically, he holds an MBA from the University of Calcutta, a degree in Communications Management from Symbiosis International University and a Diploma in Cyber Laws from Government Law College Mumbai.

  • CommunicAsia2016, EnterpriseIT2016 and BroadcastAsia2016 open with a view of a digital future

    CommunicAsia2016, EnterpriseIT2016 and BroadcastAsia2016 open with a view of a digital future

    MUMBAI – Robots, Virtual Reality, Drones, and Smart Devices – these are the innovations fueled by digital transformation that will pave the way of Asia Pacific’s future. With digitisation and smart technologies enhancing productivity, these innovations form the heart of CommunicAsia2016, EnterpriseIT2016 and BroadcastAsia2016 which opens today, from 31 May to 3 June 2016, at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

    From taxi bookings, travel lodging to courier arrangements, digital transformation which includes integration is at the heart of businesses’ and consumers’ lives today. On the back of digitalisation, bringing together the movers and shakers in the world of information and communications technology (ICT) and media, the event will gather about 1,800 exhibitors and 34 international pavilions from 53 countries and regions, bringing innovations critical for digital transformation in the region.

    “Disruptive models from businesses like Uber and Netflix – who are speakers of this year’s events – have propelled organisations’ into innovating and reinventing themselves to stay ahead in a digitally transformed world. The programme for CommunicAsia2016, EnterpriseIT2016 and BroadcastAsia2016 presents participants with cutting-edge technology from robotics, Internet of Things (IoT) manifestations, virtual reality (VR) and more, alongside topical, forward-thinking conversations led by industry thought leaders,” said Lindy Wee, Chief Executive, Singapore Exhibition Services.

    Gabriel Lim, CE-designate of the IMDA and Co-Managing Director of IDA said, “We are moving into an exciting digital future, marked by connectivity and creativity, which will bring about exciting possibilities for Singapore. The new IMDA will help Singapore seize these opportunities, by implementing the Infocomm Media 2025 masterplan, and creating a vibrant and globally competitive ICM sector here. CommunicAsia and BroadcastAsia are important shows that bring different parts of the ICM ecosystem together, creating platforms for individuals and companies to take the ICM sector to new frontiers. We look forward to working with our international partners and industry stakeholders to create a brighter future for us all.”

    CommunicAsia2016 and EnterpriseIT2016: Powering digital transformation
    Smart technology paves the way towards a smarter and more simplified digital lifestyle, producing countless opportunities that transform how people live, learn, work and play.

    Extending conversations from smart technology to smart city development, for the first time, this year’s programme will feature the Asia ICT Innovation Forum, held in strategic partnership with Huawei. Happening today, the forum features speakers from the World Economic Forum, Singapore’s Smart Nation Programme Office, Huawei, Facebook and BT and more. Participants will be immersed in presentations and discussions on technology’s impact to Asia Pacific’s digital economy, how businesses can make global digital inclusion a reality, and the value of Big Data analytics in today’s digital era.

    In addition to macroeconomic discussions, also new this year is the invitation-only CIO Forum, organised in partnership with the CIO Academy Asia, on 1 June. Speakers from IDA, The Farrer Park Company (Asia’s first integrated hub for healthcare & wellness), Tetra Pak and Agile Development, will provide CIOs and CTOs with the how-tos and pitfalls to avoid in delivering digital transformation for organisations.

    Today’s sharing economy with disruptive app-based business models entering the Asia Pacific market have raised discussions and drive for new ideas. Giving participants the platform to gain insights, network and spark ideas for innovation, IdeasCollider, a mini-conference held in collaboration with The Innovators Institute on 2 June 2016, will feature speakers from Galen Growth Asia, Padang & Co, Samsung Asia, SAP Innovation Center Network and more.

    IoT and connected devices remain to be of interest to businesses and consumers in the region. Bringing to life latest IoT innovations, theNXT@CommunicAsia2016 showcases products and solutions that can make enterprises, cities and consumers smarter, greener, and more efficient. Visitors will get to see the ‘Double’, a first of its kind surveillance robot for home use by OTSAW, and the Birloki system, an urban street connector and space activator aimed at boosting city environmental spaces by Nerei, among many others.

    Beyond ‘NXT’, other showfloor highlights include ST Electronics’s launch of its Next-Gen Connected Bus Stop. The system leverages on smart sensors, smart phones to capture and analyse wide-ranging data including number of passengers at bus stops, bus loads and traffic conditions to provide timely and useful bus information for commuters. Operators can optimise operational efficiency and resource utilisation, as well as maintain high quality of services to commuters. In addition, ST Electronics is signing a Memorandum of Understanding at its booth today with US-based Motorola Solutions, to co-create innovative technologies for advanced secured communications in public safety, national security and enterprise sectors across the region.

    Over at the Huawei booth is a series of innovative solutions developed to help accelerate digital economic development, ensure a nation’s safety and security, enrich an individual’s lifestyle and most importantly, build an ICT infrastructure for a Better Connected World.

    Asia’s largest gathering of satellite players at SatComm2016
    As the cornerstone of the world’s ICT system, satellite communications continue to play an important role in enabling and promoting digitisation. 2016 sees the largest gathering of satellite players from the region, with participation from Inmarsat, Intelsat, MEASAT, Singtel and more. The exhibitors will be showcasing the latest innovations from HTS monetisation and deployment models, to methods of customisation of spot beams and frequency reuse.

    BroadcastAsia2016 unveils content from core to beyond boundaries
    Content consumption has experienced an incredible shift with the influx of new content creation methods and delivery strategies. With broadcasters and content providers across Asia battle for viewers and look for innovative ways to monetise their content, BroadcastAsia2016 will bring together top industry service providers to showcase an entire ecosystem of the latest end-to-end solutions needed to stay ahead of the curve.

    On spotlight are new innovations from first time exhibitors such as CISCO, Dell, Tata Communications, Level3 Communications andHyku. For instance, Dell is showcasing how content experiences can be rejuvenated with the latest in 360 degree VR capabilities, andHyku, social TV application with patented second-screen sync technology designed to better connect and engaged hyper-connected consumers of today.

    Consumer expectations in the region increasingly present new challenges to provide more convenient and reliable access to content.Building on the success of its debut last year, the popular TV Everywhere! Zone returns with an emphasis on OTT and multiscreen solutions and explore the entire value chain of non-linear broadcasting.
    In addition to the TV Everywhere! Zone, attendees can explore other themed zones, including the Cinematography/Film/Production Technology Zone – where exhibitors are demonstrating the latest motion picture production tools and software capabilities – and the Post Production Hub where industry experts will share their knowledge and experience using technology showcased at BroadcastAsia2016.Oscar nominated, multi Grammy-nominated producer of soundtracks, classical and jazz recordings and former Senior Vice President ofSony BMG Masterworks, Christopher Craker will be a part of the lineup at the Post Production Hub, as well as award winning sound designer and composer of The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, The Hobbit, King Kong, Dave Whitehead.

  • CommunicAsia2016, EnterpriseIT2016 and BroadcastAsia2016 open with a view of a digital future

    CommunicAsia2016, EnterpriseIT2016 and BroadcastAsia2016 open with a view of a digital future

    MUMBAI – Robots, Virtual Reality, Drones, and Smart Devices – these are the innovations fueled by digital transformation that will pave the way of Asia Pacific’s future. With digitisation and smart technologies enhancing productivity, these innovations form the heart of CommunicAsia2016, EnterpriseIT2016 and BroadcastAsia2016 which opens today, from 31 May to 3 June 2016, at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

    From taxi bookings, travel lodging to courier arrangements, digital transformation which includes integration is at the heart of businesses’ and consumers’ lives today. On the back of digitalisation, bringing together the movers and shakers in the world of information and communications technology (ICT) and media, the event will gather about 1,800 exhibitors and 34 international pavilions from 53 countries and regions, bringing innovations critical for digital transformation in the region.

    “Disruptive models from businesses like Uber and Netflix – who are speakers of this year’s events – have propelled organisations’ into innovating and reinventing themselves to stay ahead in a digitally transformed world. The programme for CommunicAsia2016, EnterpriseIT2016 and BroadcastAsia2016 presents participants with cutting-edge technology from robotics, Internet of Things (IoT) manifestations, virtual reality (VR) and more, alongside topical, forward-thinking conversations led by industry thought leaders,” said Lindy Wee, Chief Executive, Singapore Exhibition Services.

    Gabriel Lim, CE-designate of the IMDA and Co-Managing Director of IDA said, “We are moving into an exciting digital future, marked by connectivity and creativity, which will bring about exciting possibilities for Singapore. The new IMDA will help Singapore seize these opportunities, by implementing the Infocomm Media 2025 masterplan, and creating a vibrant and globally competitive ICM sector here. CommunicAsia and BroadcastAsia are important shows that bring different parts of the ICM ecosystem together, creating platforms for individuals and companies to take the ICM sector to new frontiers. We look forward to working with our international partners and industry stakeholders to create a brighter future for us all.”

    CommunicAsia2016 and EnterpriseIT2016: Powering digital transformation
    Smart technology paves the way towards a smarter and more simplified digital lifestyle, producing countless opportunities that transform how people live, learn, work and play.

    Extending conversations from smart technology to smart city development, for the first time, this year’s programme will feature the Asia ICT Innovation Forum, held in strategic partnership with Huawei. Happening today, the forum features speakers from the World Economic Forum, Singapore’s Smart Nation Programme Office, Huawei, Facebook and BT and more. Participants will be immersed in presentations and discussions on technology’s impact to Asia Pacific’s digital economy, how businesses can make global digital inclusion a reality, and the value of Big Data analytics in today’s digital era.

    In addition to macroeconomic discussions, also new this year is the invitation-only CIO Forum, organised in partnership with the CIO Academy Asia, on 1 June. Speakers from IDA, The Farrer Park Company (Asia’s first integrated hub for healthcare & wellness), Tetra Pak and Agile Development, will provide CIOs and CTOs with the how-tos and pitfalls to avoid in delivering digital transformation for organisations.

    Today’s sharing economy with disruptive app-based business models entering the Asia Pacific market have raised discussions and drive for new ideas. Giving participants the platform to gain insights, network and spark ideas for innovation, IdeasCollider, a mini-conference held in collaboration with The Innovators Institute on 2 June 2016, will feature speakers from Galen Growth Asia, Padang & Co, Samsung Asia, SAP Innovation Center Network and more.

    IoT and connected devices remain to be of interest to businesses and consumers in the region. Bringing to life latest IoT innovations, theNXT@CommunicAsia2016 showcases products and solutions that can make enterprises, cities and consumers smarter, greener, and more efficient. Visitors will get to see the ‘Double’, a first of its kind surveillance robot for home use by OTSAW, and the Birloki system, an urban street connector and space activator aimed at boosting city environmental spaces by Nerei, among many others.

    Beyond ‘NXT’, other showfloor highlights include ST Electronics’s launch of its Next-Gen Connected Bus Stop. The system leverages on smart sensors, smart phones to capture and analyse wide-ranging data including number of passengers at bus stops, bus loads and traffic conditions to provide timely and useful bus information for commuters. Operators can optimise operational efficiency and resource utilisation, as well as maintain high quality of services to commuters. In addition, ST Electronics is signing a Memorandum of Understanding at its booth today with US-based Motorola Solutions, to co-create innovative technologies for advanced secured communications in public safety, national security and enterprise sectors across the region.

    Over at the Huawei booth is a series of innovative solutions developed to help accelerate digital economic development, ensure a nation’s safety and security, enrich an individual’s lifestyle and most importantly, build an ICT infrastructure for a Better Connected World.

    Asia’s largest gathering of satellite players at SatComm2016
    As the cornerstone of the world’s ICT system, satellite communications continue to play an important role in enabling and promoting digitisation. 2016 sees the largest gathering of satellite players from the region, with participation from Inmarsat, Intelsat, MEASAT, Singtel and more. The exhibitors will be showcasing the latest innovations from HTS monetisation and deployment models, to methods of customisation of spot beams and frequency reuse.

    BroadcastAsia2016 unveils content from core to beyond boundaries
    Content consumption has experienced an incredible shift with the influx of new content creation methods and delivery strategies. With broadcasters and content providers across Asia battle for viewers and look for innovative ways to monetise their content, BroadcastAsia2016 will bring together top industry service providers to showcase an entire ecosystem of the latest end-to-end solutions needed to stay ahead of the curve.

    On spotlight are new innovations from first time exhibitors such as CISCO, Dell, Tata Communications, Level3 Communications andHyku. For instance, Dell is showcasing how content experiences can be rejuvenated with the latest in 360 degree VR capabilities, andHyku, social TV application with patented second-screen sync technology designed to better connect and engaged hyper-connected consumers of today.

    Consumer expectations in the region increasingly present new challenges to provide more convenient and reliable access to content.Building on the success of its debut last year, the popular TV Everywhere! Zone returns with an emphasis on OTT and multiscreen solutions and explore the entire value chain of non-linear broadcasting.
    In addition to the TV Everywhere! Zone, attendees can explore other themed zones, including the Cinematography/Film/Production Technology Zone – where exhibitors are demonstrating the latest motion picture production tools and software capabilities – and the Post Production Hub where industry experts will share their knowledge and experience using technology showcased at BroadcastAsia2016.Oscar nominated, multi Grammy-nominated producer of soundtracks, classical and jazz recordings and former Senior Vice President ofSony BMG Masterworks, Christopher Craker will be a part of the lineup at the Post Production Hub, as well as award winning sound designer and composer of The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, The Hobbit, King Kong, Dave Whitehead.

  • Times Network is all geared up for its second digital India summit & awards 2016

    Times Network is all geared up for its second digital India summit & awards 2016

    MUMBAI: Times Network, the leading English broadcast network in the country, has unveiled the agenda and list of power-packed speakers for its upcoming Second Digital India Summit & Awards 2016, which are to be held on 22 March in New Delhi.

    The Second Digital India Summit will see some of the most important architects of India’s digital revolution congregate for the all-day event. Times Network has organized the significant initiative to take a closer look at India’s progress in the digital world. Union Minister of communications and information technology Ravi Shankar Prasad, chief guest of the second digital India summit will deliver the keynote address at the conclave.

    The Sessions and Speakers:

    Delivering on Digital India Dream: The Story So Far

    This session will have panelists like Arvind Gupta (National Head-BJP-IT Cell) Amit Midha (President Dell Asia Pacific & Japan; Chairman, Dell Emerging Markets-) Noshir Kaka (MD – McKinsey India ) Amit Jain (CEO, Uber India), Satyan Gajwani (Managing Director, Times Internet Ltd), R Chandrasekhar (President- NASSCOM);, Karl Mehta (Founder,CEO Edcast) Joe So (Global CTO Enterprise Business Group-Huawei).

    This power packed panel will discuss topics like Digital India: Where Do We Stand and Government’s Key Initiatives under Digital India Program which includes Digital Locker, Twitter Samvad, Swach Bharat Mission Mobile App and Jeevan Pramaan.

    Building A Digital Economy

    The speakers at this session include Arun Tiwari (Chairman & MD – Union Bank of India) Ravinder Pal Singh (Director Solutions Strategy & Biz Development – Dell)   Sandeep Aurora (Director, Marketing and Market Development – Intel South Asia), , Milind Bengali (Chief Operating Officer, Business Operations – GTL Infrastructure Ltd), Chandan Kumar (Director, Marketing and Integrated Solutions – Huawei Telecommunications India Pvt.Ltd) Jagdish Mitra (Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer, Head Growth Factories  – Tech Mahindra). They will discuss Roadmap To Change India’s Future and throw light on India’s Digital Population that is transforming economy, business landscape, governance and society alike.

    Digital India – Developing Digital Entrepreneurs

    This important topic will be explored by eminent speakers like Ravi Gururaj (Chairman – Founder & CEO QikPod & NASSCOM Product Council), Sharad Sharma (Co-Founder – iSpirt) Saurabh Srivastava (Entrepreneur & Co-Founder – Indian Angel Network), Kavin Bharti Mittal,Founder & CEO,Hike Messenger, Sanjeev Aggarwal (Founder– Helion Ventures), Sanjay Sethi (Founder & CEO – ShopClues),  Mahesh Murthy (Founder & Co-Founder – Pinstorm & Seedfund). The panelists of the third session will discuss about how the internet is enabling entrepreneurs to tap the big Indian e-commerce opportunity. They will also talk about the entrepreneurial opportunities at the intersection of Make in India and Digital India.

    Making India an Electronics Manufacturing Hub

    The panelists on this session include thought leaders like Ajai Chowdhry (Chairman-Electronics Sector Skills Council of India), Sudhir Hasija (Chairman – Karbonn) , Nitin Kunkolienkar (VP & Director-MAIT & Smartlink) , Sunil Vachani (CMD – Dixon Technologies) and Murali Arikara (Executive Director – Essential Energy India Pvt Ltd). They will discuss subjects like Recent Developments and Incentives for Electronics Industry along with the challenges involved.

    Developing Digital Workforce

    The discussion on this crucial area  will have eminent experts like Rahul Patwardhan (CEO – NIIT), Shrikant Sinha (CEO-NASSCOM Foundation), Raj Raghavan (HR Head – Amazon India) , Prithvi Shergill (Global HR – HCL Tech), Raja Sekhar Reddy (Director & Chief Operating Officer  – Innovsource Private Limited),  Ashok Reddy (Co-Founder – Teamlease), Vivek Madhukar – Chief Operating Officer (Times Business Solutions)and discuss how critical the skilled workforce digital India mission is, and will examine the Government’s measures to enhance digital literacy in the country. Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Colonel Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore will give a special address on the occasion.

    The Digital India Summit will conclude with an award function in the evening, the Digital India Awards, which will continue the objective of showcasing and honoring the most inspirational digital work in the country.  Guest of Honour R S Sharma, Chairman of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India will give away the awards.

    Award categories:

    * Good For India’ has Smart City solutions in seven categories – E-governance solutions, E-education learning solutions, E-healthcare delivery solutions, Skills & employment solutions, Energy solutions, Environment solutions and Agricultural Solutions

    * Good For Organizations’ has four categories under Digital Enterprise, which are Manufacturing, Services, Digital Start-up Innovators and Digital Social Innovation

    The awards have received an overwhelming participation from corporates and individuals. An eminent jury comprising of Aruna Jayanthi, CEO, Capgemini, R Chandrasekhar, President NASSCOM, Kiran Karnik, Chairman, CII, National Committee Telecom & Broadband, & Shinjini Kumar, CEO, Payments Bank, Paytm, Joy Chakraborty – COO – P D Hinduja Hospital, Ashutosh Jain, Chief Information Security Officer, Axis Bank judged the award entries in a daylong session. E&Y is the process partner for the awards. 

    PARTNERS:

    Supporting the Event is the Lead Partner for the Summit and Award Partner for the Awards- Huawei, Our Lead Partners- GTL Infrastructure and Union Bank of India, Recruitment Partner-Times Job, Digital Partner Tech Mahindra, Digital Storage Partner Western Digital, Knowledge Partner MAIT and Tech 4 Good Partner NASSCOM Foundation, Exclusive Chamber Partner FICCI.

  • Times Network is all geared up for its second digital India summit & awards 2016

    Times Network is all geared up for its second digital India summit & awards 2016

    MUMBAI: Times Network, the leading English broadcast network in the country, has unveiled the agenda and list of power-packed speakers for its upcoming Second Digital India Summit & Awards 2016, which are to be held on 22 March in New Delhi.

    The Second Digital India Summit will see some of the most important architects of India’s digital revolution congregate for the all-day event. Times Network has organized the significant initiative to take a closer look at India’s progress in the digital world. Union Minister of communications and information technology Ravi Shankar Prasad, chief guest of the second digital India summit will deliver the keynote address at the conclave.

    The Sessions and Speakers:

    Delivering on Digital India Dream: The Story So Far

    This session will have panelists like Arvind Gupta (National Head-BJP-IT Cell) Amit Midha (President Dell Asia Pacific & Japan; Chairman, Dell Emerging Markets-) Noshir Kaka (MD – McKinsey India ) Amit Jain (CEO, Uber India), Satyan Gajwani (Managing Director, Times Internet Ltd), R Chandrasekhar (President- NASSCOM);, Karl Mehta (Founder,CEO Edcast) Joe So (Global CTO Enterprise Business Group-Huawei).

    This power packed panel will discuss topics like Digital India: Where Do We Stand and Government’s Key Initiatives under Digital India Program which includes Digital Locker, Twitter Samvad, Swach Bharat Mission Mobile App and Jeevan Pramaan.

    Building A Digital Economy

    The speakers at this session include Arun Tiwari (Chairman & MD – Union Bank of India) Ravinder Pal Singh (Director Solutions Strategy & Biz Development – Dell)   Sandeep Aurora (Director, Marketing and Market Development – Intel South Asia), , Milind Bengali (Chief Operating Officer, Business Operations – GTL Infrastructure Ltd), Chandan Kumar (Director, Marketing and Integrated Solutions – Huawei Telecommunications India Pvt.Ltd) Jagdish Mitra (Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer, Head Growth Factories  – Tech Mahindra). They will discuss Roadmap To Change India’s Future and throw light on India’s Digital Population that is transforming economy, business landscape, governance and society alike.

    Digital India – Developing Digital Entrepreneurs

    This important topic will be explored by eminent speakers like Ravi Gururaj (Chairman – Founder & CEO QikPod & NASSCOM Product Council), Sharad Sharma (Co-Founder – iSpirt) Saurabh Srivastava (Entrepreneur & Co-Founder – Indian Angel Network), Kavin Bharti Mittal,Founder & CEO,Hike Messenger, Sanjeev Aggarwal (Founder– Helion Ventures), Sanjay Sethi (Founder & CEO – ShopClues),  Mahesh Murthy (Founder & Co-Founder – Pinstorm & Seedfund). The panelists of the third session will discuss about how the internet is enabling entrepreneurs to tap the big Indian e-commerce opportunity. They will also talk about the entrepreneurial opportunities at the intersection of Make in India and Digital India.

    Making India an Electronics Manufacturing Hub

    The panelists on this session include thought leaders like Ajai Chowdhry (Chairman-Electronics Sector Skills Council of India), Sudhir Hasija (Chairman – Karbonn) , Nitin Kunkolienkar (VP & Director-MAIT & Smartlink) , Sunil Vachani (CMD – Dixon Technologies) and Murali Arikara (Executive Director – Essential Energy India Pvt Ltd). They will discuss subjects like Recent Developments and Incentives for Electronics Industry along with the challenges involved.

    Developing Digital Workforce

    The discussion on this crucial area  will have eminent experts like Rahul Patwardhan (CEO – NIIT), Shrikant Sinha (CEO-NASSCOM Foundation), Raj Raghavan (HR Head – Amazon India) , Prithvi Shergill (Global HR – HCL Tech), Raja Sekhar Reddy (Director & Chief Operating Officer  – Innovsource Private Limited),  Ashok Reddy (Co-Founder – Teamlease), Vivek Madhukar – Chief Operating Officer (Times Business Solutions)and discuss how critical the skilled workforce digital India mission is, and will examine the Government’s measures to enhance digital literacy in the country. Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Colonel Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore will give a special address on the occasion.

    The Digital India Summit will conclude with an award function in the evening, the Digital India Awards, which will continue the objective of showcasing and honoring the most inspirational digital work in the country.  Guest of Honour R S Sharma, Chairman of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India will give away the awards.

    Award categories:

    * Good For India’ has Smart City solutions in seven categories – E-governance solutions, E-education learning solutions, E-healthcare delivery solutions, Skills & employment solutions, Energy solutions, Environment solutions and Agricultural Solutions

    * Good For Organizations’ has four categories under Digital Enterprise, which are Manufacturing, Services, Digital Start-up Innovators and Digital Social Innovation

    The awards have received an overwhelming participation from corporates and individuals. An eminent jury comprising of Aruna Jayanthi, CEO, Capgemini, R Chandrasekhar, President NASSCOM, Kiran Karnik, Chairman, CII, National Committee Telecom & Broadband, & Shinjini Kumar, CEO, Payments Bank, Paytm, Joy Chakraborty – COO – P D Hinduja Hospital, Ashutosh Jain, Chief Information Security Officer, Axis Bank judged the award entries in a daylong session. E&Y is the process partner for the awards. 

    PARTNERS:

    Supporting the Event is the Lead Partner for the Summit and Award Partner for the Awards- Huawei, Our Lead Partners- GTL Infrastructure and Union Bank of India, Recruitment Partner-Times Job, Digital Partner Tech Mahindra, Digital Storage Partner Western Digital, Knowledge Partner MAIT and Tech 4 Good Partner NASSCOM Foundation, Exclusive Chamber Partner FICCI.

  • Launches and deals announced at CommunicAsia, EnterpriseIT & BroadcastAsia 2015

    Launches and deals announced at CommunicAsia, EnterpriseIT & BroadcastAsia 2015

    MUMBAI: Over the past four days, Marina Bay Sands has been abuzz with activity as CommunicAsia2015, EnterpriseIT2015 and BroadcastAsia2015 brought the movers and shakers of the infocomm technology (ICT) and broadcasting industry together under one roof.

     

    Dell, Panasonic, Samsung and Sony, household names renowned for their consumer electronics chose CommunicAsia, EnterpriseIT and BroadcastAsia to announce major launches in their B2B segments. 

     

    Panasonic, an exhibitor at both CommunicAsia and BroadcastAsia, announced seven new business technology products and solutions for the Asia Pacific markets. These include the Toughpad FX-X1, a fully-rugged 5-inch tablet, the new AG-DVX200, the world’s first 4K integrated zoom lens camcorder and the world’s lightest 4K+ 3-Chip DLPTM Laser Projector alongside the latest in mobile surveillance technology, blu-ray data storage, and professional broadcast video equipment.

     

    “Asia Pacific is a fast-growing dynamic marketplace, and presents huge opportunities for Panasonic across all our B2B business segments from integrated solutions to audio visual products,” said Hiro Sakamoto, Managing Director of Panasonic System Solutions Asia Pacific. “Our commitment to delivering total end-to-end solutions in the region is an integral part of our growth strategy. CommunicAsia2015 and BroadcastAsia2015 was an ideal platform for us to launch new products and solutions for the Asia Pacific markets as part of our commitment to strengthen our B2B business.”

     

    At CommunicAsia, Dell launched its new Internet of Things Gateway, while at BroadcastAsia, Samsung unveiled the world’s first low temperature video wall, and Sony – their new HXR-NX100 professional camcorder.

     

    Handset makers Huawei, PHICOMM and RugGear also launched their flagships P8, P660 and GranTour Series – RG730 respectively at CommunicAsia.

     

    “CommunicAsia, EnterpriseIT and BroadcastAsia are cornerstone events in the Asia Pacific ICT and broadcasting industries. With experts and decision-makers from a wide range of fields, the events provide an important Asian platform for companies and industry leaders alike to announce new, best-of-breed launches, and deliver key announcements that not only signal a pivotal shift in how enterprises are embracing technology in the way business is conducted, it also demonstrates clearly how technology has become indispensable in the new generation of business growth strategies. We continuously aspire to deliver great, if not better, quality events as countries and regions make further inroads in their smart cities journey towards a hyper-connected digital world,” said Lindy Wee, Chief Executive of event organiser, Singapore Exhibition Services.

     

    “I had no idea how big CommunicAsia was. There are so many high profile companies and people here. It has been great to meet these people in person and develop new friendships and business relationships that are going to help my own business grow,” said CommunicAsia2015 Summit speaker and CEO of MWI, Joshua Steimle.

     

    Smart Technologies to realise Singapore’s Smart Nation initiative

     

    Dr. Yaacob Ibrahim, Minister for Communications and Information announced at the opening ceremony of CommunicAsia, EnterpriseIT and BroadcastAsia that Singapore has entered the “build” phase of its Smart Nation initiative.

     

    In support of Singapore’s Smart Nation vision, local company ST Electronics launched the Intelligent Aggregation Gateway (iAG) Box – a key enabler to ubiquitous connectivity for smart cities. Facilitating sensor communication infrastructure on a single secure platform, the iAG box can be deployed in an urban environment to help with the management of a city’s key infrastructure for public safety, healthcare, transport, environment and utilities.

     

    Alongside major conglomerates, also playing a significant role in paving the way for Singapore becoming a ‘Smart Nation’ are start-ups like CtrlWorks, Neeuro and Zap!. At CommunicAsia, CtrlWorks showcased Axon, an intelligent robot powered by cloud robotics technology, easing manpower needs for areas such as logistics and hospitals. Neeuro pioneered an innovative EEG brainwave headgear that, when paired with Memorie – a mobile app with entertaining games suited for people of all ages, can train different aspects of the brain’s cognitive functions through completion of specific tasks, and enable them to apply the attained skills to daily activities.Another exciting product launch is Zap!, an ‘Uber’ courier service that offers less than two-hour deliveries from as low as S$5.

     

    Australian firms announced major deal at CommunicAsia2015

     

    On the international front at CommunicAsia, ICT companies from Australia marked a decade of participation. The 49-strong delegation from the Victoria region of Australia announced a range of new partnerships, expansions, licensing deals and international joint ventures centred on ICT health and medical technology industries. UnityHealth licensed its award winning eLearning platform, iTherapeutices, to Singapore based MIMS. Proximiti announced the expansion of company operations through two new regional hubs in Singapore and India. flexAnswer Solutions signed a five-year renewal contract with Changi Airport Group, and new contracts with seven Singapore government agencies.

     

    “Victoria has a strategy to help our ICT, health and medical technology companies to become part of global supply chains in knowledge creation, research, product development and commercialisation. The Andrews Labor Government is proud to be showcasing our state’s world class ICT capabilities at CommunicAsia2015, the most important ICT expo in South East Asia,” said Australian Minister of Training and Skills, Steve Herbert.

     

    Shifts in broadcasting economics addressed at BroadcastAsia2015

     

    With consumers increasingly taking control of where and when they want to access content, BroadcastAsia2015 responded by bringing together the latest in OTT and 4K technology, media asset management (MAM) and video analytics.

     

    ARRIS, a global innovator in IP, video and broadband technology gave BroadcastAsia attendees an exclusive first look of its 2015 Consumer Entertainment Index. It is one of the only global studies of its kind undertaken annually that looks at the evolution of entertainment through the lens of consumer engagement with content, connected devices, and each other.

     

    “This week at BroadcastAsia2015, we shared a first look of the findings of our ARRIS Consumer Entertainment Index. This event provided the perfect platform for us to talk about the evolving trends of consumers from across APAC. This year’s study revealed that while consumers’ consumption habits are changing, there are many frustrations, such as challenges with streaming and Wi-Fi connectivity, and experiencing quality mobile TV content through cellular and mobile Wi-Fi streaming services,” said Tim Gropp, Senior Vice President, Sales, Asia Pacific, ARRIS. “Understanding their concerns present significant opportunities for service providers. Beyond addressing these issues, businesses can look at developing new and differentiated offerings that would be most relevant to viewers.”

     

    “BroadcastAsia is THE meeting place for broadcasters in the region. The wide spectrum of products and variety of exhibitors allow me to choose the ideal digital solutions for our company’s ICT strategy,” said BroadcastAsia2015 visitor Alain Roger Poirier, Chief Operating Officer, Bloomberg TV Malaysia.

     

    Best Practices and Growth Potential – The Focus of Industry Discussions

     

    More than 1,000 industry leaders and professionals gathered at CommunicAsia2015 Summit, BroacastAsia2015 International Conference and the Creative Content Production Conference to discuss latest ICT trends, fundamental shifts in broadcasting economics, and digital media challenges.

     

    “BroadcastAsia2015 International Conference was a good combination of both technical and commercial aspects of cloud and virtualisation, as it applies to all video applications. Attendees were a good balance between IT, enterprises and those with broadcast experience,” said Ian Trow, BroadcastAsia2015 International Conference speaker and Senior Director of Emerging Technology and Strategy at Harmonic.

     

    “The social TV and second screen track was absolutely outstanding this year. 2014 and 2015 has seen some of the biggest changes in OTT, social media and the second screen and our panelists and speakers represented all different parts of the business. From gamification to analytics and video this year’s BroadcastAsia was truly enlightening when it came to understand the future of TV,” said BroadcastAsia2015 delegate and Senior Vice President of the Shorty Awards & Muck Rack, Natan Edelsburg.

     

    “The session was especially enlightening in terms of service providers’ business plans to leverage convergence to deliver cross platform services that are engaging to customers,” said Yuvarami T, Director, Media Development Authority, a CommunicAsia2015 Summit delegate.

     

    More than 48,000 attendees from 101 countries and regions, including visitors, exhibiting staff, conference speakers and delegates, and members of media, got to witness at CommunicAsia, EnterpriseIT and BroadcastAsia how technology could be harnessed to better connect cities, governments, enterprises and consumers.

     

    The event will return to Marina Bay Sands on 31 May – 3 June 2016.

  • New Software Competencies Enable Dell Channel Partners to Capitalize on End-to-End Solution Offerings

    New Software Competencies Enable Dell Channel Partners to Capitalize on End-to-End Solution Offerings

    MUMBAI: Dell today announced improvements to its channel partner programs, including software-specific enhancements to its PartnerDirect program through four new software competencies, as well as new service provider and referral programs.

    The enhancements highlight Dell’s commitment to enabling channel partners to sell end-to-end solutions through one simple program, and increase the scope and revenue potential of their partnerships. Partners selling a mix of Dell hardware and software can now achieve Premier status through a mixed competency, while an advanced competency offers a path to Premier for partners specializing in a single line of business. The KACE, AppAssure, and SonicWALL partner communities had been transitioned earlier in the program’s lifecycle and fit well into the four software competencies introduced today.

    Historically, the Dell PartnerDirect program has focused on enabling and promoting hardware sales for Dell partners. Over the past year, Dell has launched an aggressive strategy to build scalable enterprise software offerings into its solution portfolio in the areas of datacenter and cloud management, information management, mobile-workforce management, and security and data protection, with the objective of becoming a full service, end-to-end IT solutions provider. Today, Dell’s software division is one of the largest software companies in the world, with a US$1.2 billion business selling into 90 percent of Fortune 1000 companies and supported by 6,000 dedicated software employees worldwide.

    Dell Software PartnerDirect Competencies

    The enhanced program features customized requirements and revenue thresholds for software partners to achieve Premier and Preferred Partner status. The software competencies will allow Dell to better serve the needs of its combined channel partner community, including software- and hardware-focused partners, as well as partners selling a combination of both.

    PartnerDirect competencies provide specialized learning paths for channel partners to validate and distinguish their expertise, leading to increased profitability and competitive advantage.
    The new software competencies announced today are as follows:

    •    Security: Includes identity and access management, as well as network, endpoint and email security

    •    Systems Management: Includes client management, performance monitoring, Windows Server management, virtualization and cloud

    •    Data Protection: Includes enterprise backup/recovery, virtual protection, application protection and disaster recovery

    •    Information Management: Includes database management, business intelligence/analytics, applications and data integration, and big data analytics.

    Dell Software partners can now take advantage of vital PartnerDirect benefits including:

    •    New paths to Premier status to drive even greater revenue potential, including a blended competency for partners selling Dell’s end-to-end hardware and software offerings

    •    Rewards for training and sales achievement through Dell Partner AdvantEdge

    •    Marketing and Market Development Funding for lead generation

    •    Concierge-level, white glove support from the Certified Partner Resource Desk

    •    Free or low-cost, high value online and instructor-led training

    “Today’s announcement marks a fresh beginning for Dell, and is the perfect opportunity for partners to take advantage of both our hardware and software capabilities. We are very excited to bring to partners in the region a tremendous array of new benefits to expand their revenue potential and the scope of their customer relationships. It is a huge win for all of us to be part of a single program with end-to-end solution offerings and endless possibilities,” said Barrie Sheers, Vice President & General Manager, Software, Dell APJ.

    The four software competencies are now available to all Dell PartnerDirect partners, providing training against the new competency requirements and learning paths. The competency training provides rich, role-based curricula allowing partners to drill down and learn more on those areas of greatest interest. The training is currently available in English. Japanese, Korean and simplified Chinese versions will be available in February 2014. 

    Market Opportunity

    The Dell PartnerDirect software enhancements announced today empower Dell’s channel partners to take advantage of tremendous market opportunities in this growing space. Recent findings that illustrate the opportunity for partners in areas such as systems management, cloud technology, data protection and access management include:

    •    Gartner reports that in 2012 IT operations management software grew 5 percent and generated $18 billion in revenue[1]. Gartner also found that the enterprise distributed system backup/recovery software market was valued at $4.4 billion in 2012, and it is projected to grow to $6.8 billion by 2017, for a five-year compound annual growth rate of 9.0 percent.[2]

    •    Harvard Business Review found that 85 percent of businesses expect to use cloud technology moderately to extensively in the next three years.[3]

    •    IDC found that the identity and access management market was $4.4 billion in 2012, growing at a five-year CAGR of 9.4 percent.[4] Dell has grown 27.1 percent and is 8th largest IAM vendor.

    [1] Gartner “Market Share Analysis: IT Operations, Management Software, Worldwide, 2012” by Laurie F. Wurster, Federico De Silva, Matthew Cheung, 3 May 2013
    [2] Gartner “Magic Quadrant for Enterprise Backup/Recovery Software” by Dave Russell, PushanRinnen, 5 June 2013
    [3] Harvard Business Review, “How the Cloud Looks from the Top: Achieving Competitive Advantage In the Age of Cloud Computing” 2011
    [4] IDC, “Worldwide Identity and Access Management 2013–2017 Forecast” Doc # 241685, June 2013

  • Dell launches campaign to inspire youth

    Dell launches campaign to inspire youth

    MUMBAI: Dell India has kicked off a new ‘Celebrate Dell Se’ campaign for the festive season with the ‘Hint a Gift’ television commercial for its Inspiron series of Notebooks.

     

    It aims to inspire youth to do kuch bhi to get a Dell Inspiron. The New Dell Inspiron TVC promotes its latest range of touchscreen laptops as the ultimate machine to fulfill the creative aspirations of the youth.

     

    Dell India marketing director Ritu Gupta says: “Inspiring customers by providing them with technology that gives them “the power to do more” has always been one of Dell’s biggest goals. Building an emotional connection between our customers and technology is integral to Dell’s branding strategy. In line with our on-going Achievement “I can do kuch bhi” Campaign, we decided this festive season to inspire the youth with the idea that they have the power to get what they want by hinting to their loved ones on their preferred gift for Diwali, which in this case is the Dell Inspiron range of touch laptops.”

     

    Grey Worldwide has conceptulaised the campaign and the creative team has tried to connect with the consumer on a much deeper and emotive level.

     

     “When we looked at Dell’s core TG – the youth, and their changing dynamics, we had our task cut out. Today’s youth does not humbly accept whatever gift they get. They are willing to ask for a gift of their own choice, one that they believe will help them further their dreams and ambitions and achieve all they set out to do. Openly dropping hints to their loved ones about gifts they would prefer has become a common practice. It is this insight that inspired our communication idea. The result is our latest campaign – This Festive season, do kuch bhi to get a Dell Inspiron,” said Grey Bangalore group creative director Ram Jayaraman.