Attending IBM TechXchange in Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas was an exhilarating experience that showcased the cutting-edge IBM technologies shaping various industries today. The conference brought together technologists, IBM Champions, thought leaders, industry experts, and innovators eager to share insights and explore the latest advancements in IBM's technology portfolio. From AI to cloud computing, the event highlighted how these tools are transforming businesses, making operations more efficient, and ultimately driving better decision-making.
As an IBM champion we were treated as VIPs with row seats in all keynote sessions, special champions lounge and special dinners and networking sessions. It was great to see IBM champions sporting the blue jackets throughout the conference.
One of the standout moments for me was the opportunity to present alongside Ashika Singh from Fiji Airways. Our session focused on their usage of IBM Planning Analytics, which allowed Fiji Airways to navigate the challenges posed during the COVID-19 shutdown. The pandemic created unprecedented obstacles for the airline industry, with travel restrictions and safety concerns leading to a dramatic decline in passenger numbers. However, Fiji Airways leveraged IBM Planning Analytics to make data-driven decisions that prepared them for the eventual reopening of global travel.
During our presentation, we shared how the airline utilised forecasting and scenario planning capabilities in the tool to assess various outcomes and devise strategies for recovery. By analysing all drivers and generating up to 60- what-if scenarios at a time, Fiji Airways was able to predict future demand and align their resources accordingly. This proactive approach not only ensured they were ready when the skies reopened but also positioned them to adapt quickly to changing circumstances, ultimately enhancing their resilience. This led to numerous awards and Fiji Airways is now ranked 14th in the world in Skytrax ranking 2024. They have overtaken Qantas and Air New Zealand which traditionally dominated the rankings in the region.
The discussions throughout the conference were incredibly enlightening. Industry leaders spoke about the importance of digital transformation and how organizations must prioritise agility and innovation to thrive in today's fast-paced environment. There was a strong emphasis on how leveraging AI and analytics can unlock new opportunities, streamline operations, and create a more personalized customer experience. These insights resonate deeply, especially in sectors like travel and hospitality that have been profoundly affected by global events.
Networking opportunities were plentiful at TechXchange, allowing me to connect with other professionals who share a common goal of harnessing technology for business growth. Conversations flowed about the challenges and triumphs faced during the pandemic, highlighting how collaboration and knowledge-sharing have played vital roles in overcoming adversity. Each conversation reinforced the idea that we are all part of a larger community that supports each other's journeys toward transformation. There were lots of opportunities to network with other TM1 specialists from around the world.
The event was also filled with hands-on labs and demonstrations, showcasing IBM's latest products and solutions. Exploring new functionalities and engaging with the technology firsthand enhanced my understanding of how these tools can be applied in various contexts. It was exciting to envision how businesses can harness these innovations to optimize their operations and improve overall performance. IBM also used the conference to announce the launch of the Granite 3.0 AI model. (Read more here Granite 3.0)
Looking back on my experience at IBM TechXchange, I am inspired and optimistic about the future. Planning Analytics has a range of new functionality to improve performance, deployment options and integration of IBM AI onto the platform will cement its position as a leader in the XP&A space. Presenting with Ashika was a highlight that illustrated not only the adaptability of Fiji Airways but also the potential of data-driven decision-making for all of our clients. There was a lot of interest in how we integrate Watson Orchestrate with Planning Analytics to boost the AI functionality in finance teams.
In conclusion, attending IBM TechXchange has provided a great platform to see where IBM is going in the future – and it's looking exciting. As AI becomes more mainstream and use cases continue to evolve it was interesting to see how our peers and IBM are harnessing this technology to deliver business value for clients. The dates for 2025 Techxchange in Orlando are already announced and Octane will once again attend along with our clients. (More details IBM Techxchange conference)