Tech Features

‘Socially Responsible’ Data Centres Need to be a Cornerstone of the Region’s Digital Economy

Published

1 year ago

July 2, 2024

By Bjorn Viedge, General Manager at ALEC Data Center Solutions

Across the Middle East, digital agendas have long been seen as the necessary underpinnings of economic growth — a way to detach from historic dependencies on petrochemical trade and move forward as innovators.

Amid a series of economic visions that prioritise skilling, entrepreneurship, and industry disruption, we have seen the rise of the data centre as a fulcrum of progress. According to recent estimates, the Middle East data centre colocation market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.83% from 2022 to 2028. The United Arab Emirates leads its regional peers in this growth and has become one of the largest data centre hubs in the Middle East. Significant investments continue to flow into the country, with expectations of surpassing USD 1 billion by 2028. In April 2022, the UAE Cabinet launched a strategy to bolster the digital economy, aiming for it to contribute 20% to the gross non-oil GDP in the coming years. This initiative included the formation of a council to oversee digital economy progress, serving as a catalyst for accelerated data centre adoption.

Digitisation vs Sustainability

But the UAE is not nurturing technology in isolation. Part of the country’s vision is an embrace of the UN’s 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs), which cover everything from quality of work and social life to preservation of the environment. Research has shown the mounting environmental impact of data centres. Demand for data centre services has driven them to get bigger, hotter, and more expensive and a peer-reviewed study by Swedish researcher Anders Andrae predicts that ICT industry could use 20% of all electricity and emit up to 5.5% of the world’s carbon emissions by 2025. And in a region that already faces a looming water crisis, Middle East data centre planners should be aware that today’s data centres use up an Olympic swimming pool every two days.

Traditional building and cooling technologies are having trouble keeping pace with increasing chip densities, so those that build their own data centres should account for this impact when looking to comply with government regulations. And with the government signalling clear intent, data centre owners must be ready to play their part. In the age of ESG, they must be climate conscious, and they must look to the latest technologies to ensure their facilities are adding net value to society.

Many such technologies exist and have proven themselves, but not all are applicable in all geographies. For example, heat-recovery may be viable in colder countries, but is not suitable for the sun-soaked Middle East. However, other efficient means are on hand to make the region’s data centres greener. If planners aim for great design, then they must consider not just the exterior — elements such as the location, the resources used, the climate, and the temperature — but also the interior of the facility.

Inner Pieces

Rethinking the design of modern data centres means leaving no component overlooked — from the building itself down to the nuts and bolts of the servers. Indeed, server-cooling technologies are improving all the time and some older ones are making a powerful comeback.

Liquid-immersion cooling, for example, has been around since the 1940s, and with the surging demand for denser computing that we are seeing today, the technology may be the answer to many problems. Modern liquid-immersion cooling uses a dielectric (non-electrically conductive) fluid which is far more effective in conducting and therefore enabling the dissipation of heat produced by hardware, compared to traditional air-based cooling systems.

Liquid-immersion could represent the future of data centre cooling. Facilities can operate with less physical space compared with traditional air-based solutions, while gaining energy savings of up to 50%. Meanwhile, lower maintenance costs, cheaper builds, and power-usage effectiveness (PUE) scores lower than 1.03 (where 1.0 is the ideal) mean organisations can reduce the time needed to realise a full return on their investment.

Building Blocks

But cooling is not the only way to sustainability. Facility planners must also consider the building process itself. Emerging today, and rapidly gaining acceptance for data centres of smaller scale is the technique of prefabricated construction, also known as modular data centres. As the construction of the prefabricated modules primarily occurs offsite in dedicated fabrication facilities, standardised production methodologies can be implemented which improve efficiencies, enhance quality, and significantly reduce wastage.

Because prefabricated data centres have been assembled and tested in a controlled factory environment, construction is faster, less error-prone, and less labour-intensive on site. Additionally, modules can be added whenever the demand arises, meaning data centre companies need not build a large facility to accommodate future expansion. Instead, they can build quickly as needed. All of this leads to a cheaper, more efficient, more sustainable project.

Many regional governments, including that of the UAE, are firmly committed to the UN’s SDGs. Middle East authorities, and their counterparts elsewhere in Asia, the Americas and Europe, are placing greater emphasis on LEED certification and other standards in their regulatory frameworks. Nations everywhere, it seems, have recognised the importance of regulating their way to sustainability. But in playing their part, data centre owners can also take advantage of a lucrative new business model of long-term benefits — from quicker GTM to reduced operational costs.

Tech Features

Sustainable AI Practices Driving Ethical and Green Tech

Published

1 month ago

August 12, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

By 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

Tech Features

Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan to Drive Global Marketing Growth

Published

1 month ago

August 12, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

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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

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!

Published

1 month ago

August 11, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Oppo Reno 14 Series promotional collage highlighting design and performance

Reviewed By Srijith KN
Device Reno 14F 5G

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.