The year 2023 marked a significant milestone for Cisco. The company navigated the technology landscape with a series of initiatives that demonstrated innovation and targeted strategic growth. Cisco unveiled fresh approaches for its customers, encompassing observability, networking, security, sustainability and hybrid work, as well as generative artificial intelligence (AI). These efforts are part of the company’s wider goal to provide customers with a simple and cohesive experience across its entire portfolio.
One of the most significant decisions of the year for Cisco was its declared intention to acquire Splunk, the cybersecurity and observability company. By combining these two engines of innovation, one of the biggest software businesses is expected to be formed. With their combined skills in AI, security, and observability, these two industry players will help enterprises of all sizes realise the full potential of data and become more digitally resilient and safe.
As the company is making waves in the industry, looking ahead to 2024, in an exclusive interview Reem Asaad, Vice President of Cisco Middle East and Africa, delves into the key highlights, opportunities, and the company’s vision for a digitally-enabled future.
Navigating challenges in a changing IT landscape
Reem Asaad emphasised the challenges posed by the rapidly evolving IT landscape, where digitisation and the adoption of AI add complexity on an unprecedented scale. Managing disparate technologies and delivering simple experiences to end-users in an environment of growing connections and multi-cloud applications became a pivotal focus for Cisco.
“Today’s technology landscape is complex and fragmented. That’s why, we are focusing on creating a simpler, sustainable, and more inclusive technology. We do this through our ability, rare among technology providers, to deliver comprehensive solutions for virtually every IT and business objective, from networking to security, collaboration, monitoring, application development and more,” said Asaad.
Tech trends and disruptions in 2023
2023 brought revolutionary changes to the technology landscape, with disruptive trends reshaping businesses globally. Cisco responded to the surge in connected IoT devices by driving solutions for hyperconnected environments, including hybrid and multi-cloud operating models. The company also embraced AI-powered predictive networks, full-stack observability, and advanced security solutions to address the complexities of highly distributed endpoints and applications.
Cisco recognises the role of technology in enabling Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies. The company is actively integrating circular design principles, choosing sustainable materials, and making products more efficient to reduce environmental impacts. Additionally, Cisco is developing technology solutions, such as IoT, AI, and cloud-managed services, to support customers in achieving their net-zero and environmental goals.
“We believe we have a responsibility to decrease the GHG emissions associated with our business. To help address this, we are integrating circular design principles across the business. This includes carefully selecting the materials we use and choosing recycled and renewable sources where possible. We are also making our products more efficient, reducing the environmental impacts of their manufacturing and transport, and better facilitating repair and reuse,” added Asaad.
On the accelerating adoption of AI, Cisco has been witnessing last year’s advancement in AI deployments, particularly in Generative AI. Reem commented on this and said, “At Cisco, we’re constantly pushing the boundaries of AI and machine learning. AI is essential to manage, secure, and optimise the vast amounts of data that cross our networks. And we use it to power everything from automation, baselining, and vulnerability assessments to anomaly detection and noise reduction. We’re also supporting our customers in their AI journeys”.
Anticipated customer priorities
Looking ahead to 2024, Reem Asaad outlined key tech trends, including the fast expansion of Generative AI into the business world, responsible and ethical use of AI, and increased risks from AI-generated disinformation. Cisco is positioning itself at the forefront of these developments, with a focus on reimagining Ethernet technology, modernising network and data centre infrastructure and supporting ESG initiatives.
“The business landscape of 2024 will be reshaped by a convergence of disruptive forces. AI will unlock hidden efficiencies, while sustainability, is no longer a buzzword, but a strategic imperative,” she said.
Cisco’s journey in 2023 reflects a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and addressing the challenges posed by the dynamic tech landscape. With strategic moves, a focus on simplicity, and a dedication to ethical AI, Cisco is poised to lead in the evolving world of technology in 2024 and beyond.
