Intelligent Tech Channels Issue 80 | Page 76

FINAL WORD
occur : 51 % of IT and security leaders say that board members or executives have faced fines , jail time , loss of their position , and loss of employment following a cyberattack .
The stakes are high for organisations when it comes to cybersecurity . Breaches continue to take a financial toll , and senior leaders are sometimes penalised when they happen . With the growing skills gap creating additional risks for organisations , many businesses are embracing new , creative approaches to recruiting , hiring , and retaining skilled professionals .
It is encouraging that leaders pursue unique initiatives and collaborate across the public and private sectors to address this
Prakhar Jain , Data Science and Business Intelligence Head , CARS24 Arabia
Skills required for modern day systems integration
The adoption of digital platforms , automation , clouds , AI and ML has reshaped the systems integration landscape and created opportunities for channel partners to add value throughout the ecosystem . Ongoing innovation and the introduction of new value propositions are necessary to prevent enterprises from switching providers .
The modern-day SI services require a unique blend of technical , business and strategic skills . Channel partners must cultivate these abilities within their data and product teams to design adaptable solutions tailored to their clients ’ needs . Knowledge of statistical analysis and feature engineering to support AI and ML projects , familiarity with DevOps tools , expertise in relational and NoSQL databases , expertise in API creation and deployment , and understanding of UX and UI design principles are some of the core technical skills that are necessary .
Although technical skills are central to SI services , strong business acumen is crucial . This includes understanding clients ’ objectives , customising solutions to meet their needs , and managing relationships to minimise resistance towards organisational change .
The main challenge for channel partners to provide modern SI services is the rapid evolution of technologies that require channel partners to constantly upskill and train their resources . These new technologies require specialised skill set , and acquiring and retaining such expertise is always a challenge . The investment required in building these capabilities can be very high and needs to be carefully evaluated while planning to offer such services .
challenge , as this is a crucial piece of the puzzle when it comes to strengthening an organisation ’ s overall defences .
Given these complexities , organisations should focus on a three-pronged approach to cybersecurity that blends technology , training , and awareness . Fortinet offers an integrated portfolio of over 50 enterprise-grade products through the Fortinet Security Fabric platform .
Fortinet Training Institute is dedicated to making cybersecurity certification and new career opportunities available to everyone and offering current professionals the chance to advance their skill sets .
The institute offers a variety of free and low-cost education and certification programs , unique initiatives to upskill and reskill individuals from diverse backgrounds , and more . The Fortinet Training Institute also has a Security Awareness Training offering designed to help organisations cultivate a more cyber-aware workforce .
Cybercriminals are not slowing down anytime soon , making cybersecurity into an all-hands-on deck effort for every organisation . Highly skilled professionals with access to the right cybersecurity technologies are essential to protecting businesses from breaches , as is having cyber-aware employees who can serve as a solid first line of defence .
By refreshing and strengthening distinct aspects of a risk management strategy , an enterprise will be better positioned to defend against the speed and volume of today ’ s attacks . •
Nearly three-quarters of leaders agree that the cybersecurity skills gap creates additional risks for their enterprise .
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