Cyber Beast Media

Tag: IT

  • Insights & Opportunities in an AI World

    Insights & Opportunities in an AI World

    There has never been more data around us: according to Deloitte, global data volumes will reach as much as 175 zettabytes by 2025. This means there has never been a greater opportunity for data science insights. Within these insights lie the chance for businesses to gain a competitive edge, improve their customer experiences, and drive new efficiencies in their operations.

    This blog highlights the current state of play in data science and analytics, and how you can take full advantage. We’ll explore why data science and big data can’t be treated the same, why many data scientists are under pressure to deliver on expectations, and how technology is helping Ciklum connect clients to the data science insights they’re looking for.

    Data Science and Big Data – are they the same?

    Not quite – there are some subtle differences between data science and Big Data, and it’s important to make the distinction between them because the two are often conflated and confused.

    Data science is the practice of analyzing data to gain valuable business insights. It brings together math, statistics, computing power, engineering and even AI to find answers to questions and patterns in information. Big Data, on the other hand, refers to the large, complex data collections that are normally so big that normal data processing software is unable to reasonably handle them.

    Both approaches will bring together data from many different sources, and will combine data that is fully structured, partially structured or completely unstructured. Big Data, however, generally involves raw data that has not been aggregated, and involves analytical approaches that are mainly focused on volume, quantity and ‘getting through it all’. Data science, on the other hand, goes into the content of that data in much more detail.

    What is a data scientist?

    A data scientist is a person who collects, analyzes and derives findings from data, so that their organization can make informed, data-driven decisions. These people will normally be experienced in analytics, and able to deploy the very latest and most advanced in analytics techniques, including machine learning, predictive analytics and more.

    The Data Science and Big Data Experts at Ciklum are an excellent example of the kind of work that a good data science team does, uncovering new business opportunities by identifying hidden patterns in data. They can rapidly set up data analytics tools that are aligned with clients’ business goals, so that they can micro-segment their markets, customize products, and transform raw technical data into clear information for making key decisions.

    What are the issues facing data scientists today?

    Like many areas of technology related to analytics and AI, data science is an area that’s moving and evolving all the time. This means data scientists are constantly having to update their knowledge in order to keep up with the latest trends, as well as deal with these current challenges:

    • Data preparation: For data science insights to be worthwhile, data has to be properly prepared in advance, and that means collecting, cleaning and organizing that data. This is one of the most time-consuming and repetitive parts of a data scientist’s job, and so can be prone to human error
    • Multiple-source data generation: Some experts believe that up to 90% of data science work is data cleaning. This means that generating and collating data from a wide range of different sources, and in a variety of different formats, can be laborious for a data scientist
    • Identifying business issues: Data science is largely pointless if it isn’t executed in the context of a specific business need or problem. Data scientists must discover and evaluate what those demands are, and design data science to address them – not the other way around
    • Communicating results: Data science is an advanced concept, and many key decision-makers in senior management may not be up to speed with how it works. A key part of a data scientist’s work is to communicate results of analysis in forms that everyone can understand
    • Security: By the end of 2023, the cost to the global economy of cyber attacks is expected to pass $10.5 trillion. The threat of cybercrime is rising all the time, as is the scope of regulations around cybersecurity and data protection. This has complicated matters for data scientists, who are now expected to take measures to keep data safe throughout their processes, including encryption and machine learning-based protections
    • Collaboration: Data scientists rarely work autonomously – good processes will also incorporate data engineers to ensure the technology in place runs as it should. Close collaboration between both parties is key to ensure that workflows remain aligned throughout

    Closing the gap to meet the demand for data science & AI

    The good news is that many of the challenges above are being addressed by automation and AI. Indeed, the relationship between Artificial Intelligence and data science is relieving much of the administrative pressure and workload on data scientists that are already in high demand.

    Many of those repetitive, time-consuming tasks in the data science and analytics process can be taken care of by automation and Artificial Intelligence: collecting and collating data from diverse sources, and preparing them for analysis. Combining data science and Artificial Intelligence will result in a process that is faster, more efficient, more cost-effective, more insightful and less vulnerable to human error.

    In summary: how Ciklum is paving the way for data scientists

    Over the years, Ciklum has worked tirelessly to advance the concept of efficient data science; to expand the use of automation and AI for this purpose; and to help meet global demand for skilled data scientists. 

    For example, we have run the DataminDS programme that helps develop new data science talent, through online and in-person educational courses and platforms, as well as internships inside Ciklum that have helped people progress. We have also provided scholarships at Masters level for a specialization in Data Science at the Ukrainian Catholic University, which has opened more doors for aspiring data engineers to become part of the Ciklum team.

    It’s by promoting talent like this that we stand out as one of the leading enablers of data science insights for businesses just like yours. Get in touch with our team today to find out more on how we can help you, and help you address your biggest data science challenges.

  • How MSPs Help Businesses Cut IT Costs

    How MSPs Help Businesses Cut IT Costs

    Keeping IT operations running smoothly is essential for business success, but managing technology in-house can quickly become a significant financial burden. Between infrastructure costs, software licensing, maintenance, and hiring skilled IT personnel, expenses can add up fast. For many organizations, partnering with a Managed Service Provider (MSP) offers a cost-effective alternative that not only reduces IT spending but also improves efficiency, security, and scalability.

    Reducing IT Overhead Through Proactive Management

    One of the most significant cost-saving benefits of working with an MSP is proactive IT management. Instead of reacting to problems after they cause disruptions, MSPs continuously monitor and maintain systems to prevent costly downtime and emergency repairs. By addressing issues before they escalate, businesses avoid expensive break-fix scenarios that can drain budgets and disrupt operations.

    MSPs also eliminate the need for large in-house IT teams by providing expert support at a predictable monthly cost. Businesses gain access to a full team of skilled IT professionals without the expense of salaries, benefits, and ongoing training.

    Streamlining IT Infrastructure for Cost Efficiency

    A common challenge for businesses is maintaining an efficient IT infrastructure. Outdated systems, redundant applications, and inefficient workflows can lead to unnecessary expenses. MSPs optimize IT environments by:

    • Consolidating software and hardware to eliminate waste
    • Virtualizing servers and desktops to reduce hardware costs
    • Implementing cloud solutions to lower infrastructure expenses
    • Managing software licenses to prevent unnecessary spending

    By streamlining infrastructure, businesses maximize the value of their technology investments while reducing overall IT costs.

    Lowering Security and Compliance Costs

    Cybersecurity threats are growing in complexity, and protecting sensitive data requires significant investments in security tools, monitoring, and compliance measures. MSPs help businesses reduce security-related costs by offering:

    • 24/7 threat monitoring to detect and neutralize risks before they cause harm
    • Automated patch management to keep systems secure and up to date
    • Compliance support to meet industry regulations like HIPAA, CMMC, and the FTC Safeguards Rule
    • Data backup and disaster recovery solutions to prevent costly data loss

    By outsourcing security and compliance management to an MSP, businesses reduce the need for expensive in-house security teams and lower the financial impact of potential breaches or compliance violations.

    Enhancing Scalability While Controlling IT Costs

    Business growth often comes with rising IT costs, as scaling infrastructure and support can be expensive. MSPs provide scalable IT solutions that grow with the business, eliminating the need for large capital expenditures. Whether expanding to new locations, onboarding remote employees, or integrating new technologies, MSPs offer:

    • Flexible cloud solutions that adapt to changing needs
    • On-demand IT support to handle fluctuating workloads
    • Predictable pricing models to prevent unexpected costs

    By aligning IT services with business growth, MSPs ensure companies have the resources they need without overspending on unnecessary infrastructure.

    Predictable IT Expenses with Fixed-Fee Pricing

    One of the biggest challenges of managing IT in-house is the unpredictability of expenses. Unexpected outages, security incidents, and hardware failures can lead to sudden spikes in costs. MSPs offer fixed-fee pricing models that provide businesses with predictable monthly costs, making budgeting easier.

    Instead of dealing with fluctuating IT expenses, businesses benefit from a consistent pricing structure that covers:

    • Ongoing IT support and maintenance
    • Proactive monitoring and security management
    • Help desk services for employees
    • Regular system updates and compliance checks

    This approach allows companies to better allocate resources and invest in other areas of growth.

    Unlocking Cost Savings with a Strategic IT Partner

    An MSP is more than just an outsourced IT provider—it’s a strategic partner that helps businesses reduce costs, improve efficiency, and stay competitive. By leveraging expert IT management, streamlined infrastructure, enhanced security, and scalable solutions, businesses can focus on growth without the burden of unpredictable IT expenses.

    For companies looking to cut costs without sacrificing performance, partnering with an MSP offers a clear path to optimized IT operations and long-term financial savings.