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The Evolution of Data Centre Technologies: From Hardware to Software-Defined Infrastructure

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Kayvan Karim, Assistant Professor at Mathematical and Computer Sciences, Heriot-Watt University Dubai

In recent years, the landscape of data centre technologies has significantly transformed, shifting from the traditional hardware-based infrastructure to more flexible and efficient software-defined solutions. This change, driven by the increasing demand for scalable, agile, and cost-efficient computing resources in a rapidly digitised world, has brought numerous benefits. In this op-ed, Kayvan Karim delves into the journey of hardware-centric data centres. He explains how virtualisation, containerisation, and cloud computing have revolutionised data centre design, scalability, and efficacy.

Traditional Data Centres: The Era of Hardware Infrastructure

In the not-so-distant past, data centres were synonymous with massive physical servers, storage, and networking equipment housed in dedicated facilities. Once the gold standard, these environments were burdened with high capital costs, limited scalability, and resource inefficiencies. The exponential growth in data volume and the increasing complexity of business applications have made these traditional architectures obsolete. This stark reality underscores the need to embrace more modern, software-defined solutions.

The Rise of Software-Defined Data Centres (SDDCs)

To address the issues of hardware-centric data centres, the concept of software-defined infrastructure emerged as a game-changer. Software-defined data centres (SDDCs) are a paradigm shift. They decouple the management and control of data centre resources from the underlying hardware, enabling administrators to programmatically provision, manage, and orchestrate assets. This shift toward software-defined solutions has revolutionised how data centres are designed, deployed, and operated, offering unprecedented agility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. These transformative benefits of SDDCs paint a promising picture for the future of data centre technologies. According to Precedence Research, the global software-defined data centre market size is expected to hit around USD 350.53 billion by 2032, poised to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.9% from 2023 to 2032.

Virtualisation: Empowering Data Centre Efficiency

Virtualisation, a key component of contemporary data centre technologies, has proven worth it. Allowing several virtual instances to run on one physical server significantly improves resource utilisation. This abstraction from underlying hardware systems regarding computer storage and networking capabilities provides greater flexibility and makes workload management easier. As per VMware estimates, virtualisation can reduce hardware and operational costs by up to 70%. This is a testament to its effectiveness and the reassurance it brings about the future of data centre technologies. Additionally, a survey conducted by Citrix revealed that 74% of companies experienced reduced IT expenditure due to virtualisation. This underscores the importance of virtualisation in enhancing data centre efficiency.

Containerisation: Driving Portability and Scalability

Containers have become popular for packaging applications in lightweight, portable environments. Unlike virtual machines, containers are based on the host operating system kernel; thus, they are resource-efficient and faster to deploy. Docker and Kubernetes containerisation technologies, among others, have been widely adopted, allowing organisations to build, deploy and scale applications with unprecedented speed and flexibility. According to Mordor Intelligence, the containerised data centre market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of 18.49% to reach USD 33.77 billion by 2029. This depicts a fast-growing trend of containers being used by many companies, where enterprises use software-defined solutions that could efficiently be utilised to streamline the management or deployment of such containers.

Cloud Computing: The Future of Data Centre Infrastructure

Cloud computing has fundamentally changed how organisations consume and deliver IT services by offering on-demand access to different computing resources over the internet, which can be used anytime needed. Public-private hybrid cloud deployments have also become increasingly common, enabling businesses to leverage upon scalability, flexibility, and cost advantages cloud technologies provide. According to Mordor Intelligence, the cloud computing market is expected to reach USD 1.44 trillion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 16.40% during the forecast period (2024-2029). This shows that most firms are accelerating their adoption of clouds to enjoy benefits like agility scaling capabilities and cost savings from moving workloads into these platforms.

Embracing the Future of Data Centre Technologies

The transition from traditional hardware infrastructures to software-defined solutions in data centres signifies a complete change in how computing resources are allocated, administered, and optimised. Technologies such as virtualisation, containerisation, and cloud computing have made this shift possible, enabling organisations to construct adaptable and efficient data centre infrastructure. The future is likely characterised by software-defined data centres that bring with them new prospects for innovation, growth, and competitiveness in the digital age.

The evolution of data centre technologies holds an incredible prospect for businesses that want higher levels of efficiency, flexibility, and scalability within an increasingly analytic society. By taking advantage of recent developments in virtualisation, containerisation or cloud computing technology, corporations can prepare their data centre infrastructure for success in the digital age while making it more resilient at a relatively lower cost.

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Tech Features

Sustainable AI Practices Driving Ethical and Green Tech

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By Mansour Al Ajmi, CEO of X-Shift

Mansour Al Ajmi, CEO of X-Shift
Mansour Al Ajmi, CEO of X-Shift

Sustainable AI practices are no longer optional—they are essential for shaping technology that benefits both people and the planet. As artificial intelligence transforms industries from healthcare to transportation, the challenge is to ensure its growth is ethical, environmentally responsible, and socially inclusive. This means addressing not only energy efficiency and carbon reduction but also governance, fairness, and long-term societal impacts.

Why Sustainable AI Practices Go Beyond the Environment?

AI is now deeply embedded in investment strategies, medical diagnostics, media platforms, and public infrastructure. While reducing energy usage is vital, true sustainability also requires ethical governance and the elimination of bias.

For example, biased training datasets can unintentionally reinforce social inequality. Studies, such as those from the MIT Media Lab, have shown that some AI systems perform poorly with diverse populations, highlighting the risk of discrimination. Addressing this means conducting regular algorithmic audits, enforcing transparency, and ensuring diverse representation in AI development teams.

The Environmental Impact of AI

Training advanced AI models consumes enormous computational resources. The process can generate carbon emissions equivalent to hundreds of long-haul flights. To counter this, tech leaders are investing in renewable energy and designing energy-efficient processors and cooling systems.

However, sustainable AI practices should become the default, not the exception. From sourcing materials responsibly to rethinking hardware infrastructure, the focus must be on green innovation by design.

Embedding Sustainability at the Strategic Core

Sustainable AI practices work best when integrated into an organization’s core strategy. Aligning AI solutions with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can directly support climate action, reduce inequalities, and promote responsible consumption.

In the Middle East, initiatives like Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence demonstrate how sustainability and AI can align with national priorities. These strategies not only meet ethical standards but also deliver competitive advantages, building consumer trust and fostering innovation.

Governance for Responsible AI

Strong governance is key to ensuring sustainable AI practices are upheld. Regulatory frameworks, such as the European Union’s AI Act, guide transparency, accountability, and fairness.

Governance should enable innovation while preventing harm. Public-private partnerships, global cooperation, and industry alliances are critical to creating ethical, scalable, and resilient AI ecosystems.

Preparing the Workforce for the AI Era

McKinsey estimates that AI adoption could displace up to 800 million jobs by 2030. Sustainable AI practices must include reskilling and upskilling initiatives to ensure inclusive economic growth.

By investing in training programs, organizations can help employees transition to new roles in AI-related fields. This proactive approach strengthens workforce agility and supports long-term resilience.

Leadership’s Role in Driving Sustainable AI Practices

AI can significantly advance sustainability goals, from optimizing supply chains to reducing environmental waste. Companies like Unilever are already using AI to achieve greener operations, proving its real-world potential.

Yet leadership commitment is essential. Executives must set measurable goals, model ethical behavior, and integrate sustainability into company culture. This ensures that sustainability is not a side project but a core business value.

The Shared Responsibility for a Sustainable AI Future

Creating a sustainable AI future requires collaboration between individuals, corporations, and governments. Citizens should stay informed and question how AI affects them. Companies must embed sustainability into their AI strategies, while governments need to establish policies that encourage responsible innovation.

By acting now, we can ensure AI evolves as a force for good—advancing technology without sacrificing ethics, equity, or environmental stewardship.

Check out our previous post on WHX Tech 2025 to Drive Global Digital Health Transformation

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Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan to Drive Global Marketing Growth

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Kerrie Jordan - Epicor
Kerrie Jordan – Epicor

Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan has been appointed to lead the company’s global marketing strategy. This move marks a pivotal moment in the enterprise software leader’s expansion. Epicor, known for its industry-specific solutions for the make, move, and sell economy, announced the news on August 12, 2025, in Dubai.

Jordan brings a rare combination of senior product innovation and strategic marketing expertise. She will strengthen the Epicor brand, expand market reach, and deepen customer engagement worldwide.

Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan Brings Product and Market Expertise Together

Vaibhav Vohra, Epicor President and Chief Product & Technology Officer, eVaibhav Vohra, Epicor President and Chief Product & Technology Officer, emphasized the importance of the appointment.

“Kerrie’s ability to connect product strategy with market execution makes her an ideal fit. Her leadership has already shaped our Cognitive ERP vision, and we’re excited to see her bring that same energy and insight to our marketing efforts.”

Since joining Epicor in 2023 as Group Vice President of Product Management and ISV Partner Programs, Jordan has advanced the company’s Cognitive ERP roadmap. This AI-driven approach turns ERP from a system of record into a system of action and insight, empowering supply chain businesses to operate smarter and faster.

A Vision for Accelerated Innovation and Growth

In her new role, Jordan will unite product innovation, analytics, and go-to-market strategies to accelerate customer time-to-value. She will also foster innovation and support Epicor’s global expansion.

“I’m honored to expand my role at Epicor,” Jordan said. “Epicor is at the forefront of enabling essential businesses to thrive through AI-driven, connected technologies. I look forward to amplifying our impact, building stronger relationships with customers and partners, and driving growth across global markets.”

A Career Built on Technology Leadership

Before joining Epicor, Jordan served in senior product marketing positions at Oracle. She developed strategies for enterprise software solutions and helped drive adoption. Earlier in her career, she led strategic marketing programs for technology clients during her consulting roles at global marketing firms.

Jordan is a recognized voice in cloud ERP, digital transformation, and supply chain innovation. She hosts Epicor’s “Manufacturing the Future” podcast, which features industry leaders discussing trends shaping manufacturing and supply chain sectors. She is also a Forbes Tech Council contributor. Jordan holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Santa Clara University in California.

Epicor’s Commitment to Industry-Focused Growth

Epicor has served customers across automotive, building supply, distribution, manufacturing, and retail for more than 50 years. The company’s solutions are tailored to industry needs and adaptable to fast-changing market conditions.

Check out our previous post on WHX Tech 2025 to Drive Global Digital Health Transformation

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Tech Features

In-Hand Comfort Meets Elegant Design – A UI You’ll Love and Performance You Can Count On– Meet Oppo’s Reno 14 Series!

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Oppo Reno 14 Series promotional collage highlighting design and performance

In today’s crowded smartphone market, very few devices make a lasting impression from the first hold. The Oppo Reno 14 Series does exactly that. Its rounded front design, sharp edges, and striking Iridescent Mermaid finish give it a premium look that stands out. At just 7.42 mm thick and 187 g, with aluminium-framed edges, it feels light yet sturdy in the hand.

The 6.57-inch LTPS OLED display offers a 120 Hz Full HD+ experience with HDR10+ support and a peak brightness of 1,200 nits. While the brightness could be slightly higher, the rich colour tones make it ideal for streaming and gaming. The high refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and responsive visuals.

Display & Performance in the Oppo Reno 14

Powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 mobile platform, paired with 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of UFS 3.1 storage, the Oppo Reno 14 Series delivers fluid performance. Everyday tasks, multitasking, and gaming feel effortless. Even after a month of use, there’s no lag, and the phone remains cool under pressure.

The signal reception is equally reliable, performing well even in remote mountain regions. For gamers, the combination of smooth frame rates and strong connectivity makes it a dependable choice.

Camera Setup Built for Creativity

The Oppo Reno 14 Series brings a 32 MP front camera and a triple rear camera system (50 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP). It supports 4K 60 fps HDR video recording, delivering sharp and vibrant footage. Oppo’s image processing handles lighting well, although the AI can occasionally produce slightly artificial tones. When it dials back the processing, the results are impressively natural.

Selfies from the front camera are detailed, making it a strong option for content creators. AI-powered tools such as AI Eraser, AI Reflection Remover, AI Unblur, AI Recompose, and AI Perfect Shot add versatility. Beyond photography, features like real-time translation and cloud-based voice transcription offer extra value.

Battery Life & Charging Speed on the Oppo Reno 14

Battery performance is one of the standout features. The massive 6,000 mAh battery easily lasts over a day of heavy use. Paired with 80 W fast charging, it goes from 0% to 100% in just 40–50 minutes, reducing downtime significantly.

Software and User Experience

Running on ColorOS 15, the interface is polished and responsive. The design is intuitive, though it comes with pre-installed apps that many users may want to remove for a cleaner setup. The combination of IP69 water and dust resistance, strong haptics, and a promised five years of major updates enhances its long-term value.

Verdict: A Strong Contender in Its Price Range

The Oppo Reno 14 Series blends premium design, solid performance, long battery life, and camera versatility into a package that offers excellent value. Whether for everyday use, creative projects, or gaming, it meets a wide range of needs without compromise.

For readers who enjoyed this review, check out our previous feature on Sustainable Tech: How Globant Shapes a Greener Tomorrow to see how innovation is shaping the tech industry.

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