NOVEMBER 2019CIOAPPLICATIONS.COM9appropriate IT structure and capabilities. The IT function needs to be highly skilled and able to interact with the business at a strategic level. At Ingredion, IT just completed a major transformation to our service and delivery model. We are working with major technology vendors that manage the day-to-day operations while the internal team is refocused on the business. As a result, the relationships between business and IT are evolving to a new and more collaborative level. Essential IT capabilities include: business process acumen, analytics, merger and acquisition systems integration expertise, digital, innovation, IT operational excellence, and world-class security and compliance. Without a strong foundational knowledge of the business processes and the ability to translate to technology solutions, it's an uphill battle to get business leaders to think differently about IT. Technologies That Are Mind Gripping While it may not be particularly trendy, analytics continues to be top of mind for us given Ingredion's focus on transformation. Getting more from our data and reporting is a constant theme of discussions. I see opportunities with digital applications in supply-chain systems and processesOur focus is evolving. We are becoming more global and driving towards a more integrated and efficient set of processes to discover new analytic opportunities and test, scale, and sustain them in a broader information-management strategy. Of course this does not happen overnight. Commitment to analytics and viewing data as a highly valuable asset, coupled with a data governance structure, are essential building blocks on the analytics journey. Thoughts on Future Technology InnovationRegardless of industry, artificial intelligence will change business paradigms in the future. I think most people are excited about AI as an enabler. AI is more controversial than other things that have evolved in the world of IT ­ which is probably why it's an interesting topic. We will continue to see more and more practical applications of AI to business problems, which for us could include everything from food formulation to back office automation. Taking Food and Beverages Industry a Step AheadI see opportunities with digital applications in supply-chain systems and processes. As you look to overcome challenges, especially the need to drive better customer experience and lower costs, it's all about having real-time information. Our customers want less inventory on hand, so the ability of suppliers, like Ingredion, to provide analytics becomes a necessary component of doing business. And, if done right, can be a competitive advantage. We also see an opportunity to optimize our supply chain network with technology. Being able to execute scenarios and evaluate alternate sourcing options will allow us to not only to optimize internally but also to enhance our customer experience. The Transforming IT Operating ModelRecently we've embarked on a significant IT transformation. Driven by Ingredion's growth, we have implemented a global services model designed to improve the user experience, agility, innovation and operational excellence. Our operating model supports growth and business operational excellence, while refocusing IT to higher-value-add initiatives. We feel our transformation will accelerate innovation as we enhance our capabilities. We expect the new IT model to yield dividends in the form of business value.
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