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We are one of the largest software development companies in Brazil and we serve several segments of high impact to society, offering solutions that are a benchmark for digital transformation in the public and private sectors.

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Digital Transformation Solutions:

We offer digital transformation solutions for several Public Sector institutions.

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MultiSaaS Solutions:

We offer an ecosystem of solutions that meet the recurring business management demands of various segments.

See who has innovated with our software

Ford
Heaven
assai
Natura
BTG Actual
TJSP
City Hall Ribeirão Preto
Barueri City Hall
Cury Builder
Lumis Construction
Unimed Grande Florianópolis
City Hall of Juiz de Fora
Encorp
Municipality of Balneario Camboriu
DER DF
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What our customers have to say

"Obras.gov goes far beyond simply releasing information in the digital system (...) It encompasses the process from start to end,up to the termination of a contract. Everything is entered into the system. When the contract management operation becomes more than just scanning and uploading documents, but actually processing information."

Humberto Schmidt

Coordinator Project Avança Saúde São Paulo | Municipal Secretary of Health of São Paulo 

"We believe that in the medium term Barueri will be effectively paper free, in particular, starting with the Administration Secretariat. I am very pleased with softplan, which based on what I saw is a very reputable andtransparent company that works with top public bodies, such as our Court of Justice of the State of São Paulo. It is already a very reliable point and, with the competence of the CIT, we will quickly reach success in Barueri and we will be even prouder of our city."

Cilene Rodrigues Bittencourt

Administration Secretary of the Municipality of Barueri

"Sienge is the backbone, the main system. Any other tool that needs to be used by any of the company’s areas has to start from what we have in Sienge."

Sabrina Ribeiro

COO at Cury Construtora

"Assaí strongly values the health of our customers and employees. Easy Checklist allows us to manage all the stores simultaneously, understand improvements and address non-conformities.If it were all on paper, it would be quite complicated."

Natalia Figueiredo

Coordinator of Technical Training in Food Safety at Assaí Atacadista

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The impacts of artificial intelligence and the challenges of ensuring data privacy

TECH IN EVERYTHING

The impacts of artificial intelligence and the challenges of ensuring data privacy

The digital revolution has transformed our way of life and redefined how we relate and interact socially. At the heart of this change is Artificial Intelligence (AI), which influences our behavior in the online world and beyond. When you search for a product and then see advertisements for it on your social networks, this is an example of an AI result tracking and analyzing your online behavior patterns. The presence of AI can be strongly noticed in people's daily lives. This happens mainly due to the frequent use of smartphones, computers and other mobile devices, which offer access to virtual assistants such as Siri (Apple), Alexa (Amazon), Google Assistant (Google), among others. It is also possible to see its influence in the personalization of social networks and streaming platforms, such as Netflix and Prime Video, which suggest films, series and music based on each person's viewing and listening history. Facebook, on the other hand, uses algorithms to personalize each user's news feed based on their preferences and previous behaviors, for example. This transformation of daily activities through digitalization, global connection and the growing presence of intelligent algorithms in everyday life are characteristics of the Digital Era (beginning of the 21st century to the present day). We are immersed in a world where AI goes beyond being just a tool, becoming a fundamental element for providing personalized services, promising efficiency and convenience. However, this constant presence also brings with it a series of challenges, especially when it comes to protecting individual privacy. To get an idea of ​​these impacts, we can cite the case of Google, which, in 2019, was fined 50 million euros by the French National Commission for IT and Freedoms for violating the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). . The fine was imposed due to a lack of transparency in information about how user data was collected and used for personalized advertising purposes. AI's impact on personalization AI uniquely shapes our online experiences by analyzing complex data in real-time to tailor it to individual needs. This reflects three advantages: Efficiency: the personalization provided by AI makes online interactions more efficient, saving time by offering relevant content instantly; Improved user experience: By analyzing user behavior data, AI provides more relevant and personalized recommendations. Convenience: automatic adaptation of user preferences based on their past interactions, providing a more fluid experience. On the other hand, we have some points of attention regarding the use of this tool, such as: Concerns about data privacy. Risk of algorithmic bias; Possibility of reducing the diversity of experiences. Use of Artificial Intelligence and Data Protection The General Data Protection Law (LGPD) establishes principles for the use of personal data, requiring that its use has a specific purpose, is limited in storage time and shared with third parties. With this, the LGPD seeks to guarantee transparency and limit the use of unnecessary information for the functioning of artificial intelligence (AI), protecting the rights of data subjects. Furthermore, AI, when used to support the solution of everyday problems and assist companies in decisions, falls under Article 20 of the LGPD, which deals with decisions made solely based on automated processing of personal data. In this context, data subjects have the right to request a review of decisions that affect their profile or aspects of their personality, and companies must inform the criteria used in decisions, allowing data subjects to express their understanding of the processing of data. Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Bill 5051/2019, currently being processed in the Federal Senate, proposes that those responsible for artificial intelligence (AI) clarify the parameters used by the technology, highlighting the importance of human supervision to ensure reliability in the process of regulated use of AI. In turn, Bill 21/20 establishes the legal framework for the use and development of AI in Brazil, with a focus on stimulating its development and protecting citizens against its misuse, respecting human dignity, diversity, protection of personal data and transparency. The main objective of these regulations is to ensure transparency for holders of personal data, ensuring that AI technologies are administered in accordance with the laws, with possible human oversight to avoid violations of holders' rights. Future Perspectives As we move into the future at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and privacy, dynamic perspectives and challenges emerge. Innovative strategies are essential for shaping an ethical path forward in the digital age. According to a study carried out by Amazon Web Services (AWS) with support from the Access Partnership, where a survey was carried out with 1600 employees and 500 organizations in Brazil, from different sectors, 97% of all employers plan to use AI-based solutions by the year 2028. The survey also concluded that 97% of employers surveyed and 94% of employees expect to use, in some way, Generative AI in their organizations in the next five years. We can also cite as an example of future trends the use of AI techniques to anonymize personal data, guaranteeing user privacy. Tools such as learning algorithms are increasingly being adopted, allowing AI models to be trained on decentralized data without the need for direct sharing of the raw data. Data decentralization gains prominence, allowing users to maintain greater control over their personal information. Companies can prepare for this trend by adopting transparent privacy policies and offering users clear options for controlling their data. Furthermore, implementing end-to-end encryption systems can ensure data security during transmission and storage, increasing user confidence. To ensure compliance with laws and guarantee data privacy, companies can adopt other strategies, such as internal training on awareness of privacy guidelines and carrying out regular audits. The ability to pursue innovation while protecting privacy becomes a key point.

Social capital and gender equity in the labor market

BUSINESS ON THE MOVE

Social capital and gender equity in the labor market

The debate about human capital has long been relevant to high-performance organizations. However, little has been said about a perspective that highlights a valuable and often underestimated asset: social capital. This is not just limited to individual skills, but goes a little further, highlighting relationship and collaboration networks that shape companies. In a context where valuing interpersonal relationships and gender equity are essential for the sustainable growth of organizations, inclusion and diversity boost not only morale, but also financial results. This is where the intersection between social capital and gender equity reveals fertile ground for innovation, creativity and business success. Human capital represents the set of skills, knowledge and experiences that each employee brings to the organization. It is individual strength that drives productivity and performance, shaping expertise and problem-solving capabilities. In contrast, social capital focuses on the relationship networks that form inside and outside the company, based on trust, cooperation and innovation. They facilitate access to information and knowledge, creating an environment conducive to mutual learning and the exchange of ideas. This means that social capital goes beyond individual capabilities, encompassing interactions and connections between employees. It's like an invisible web that connects people, promoting gains such as: Sharing knowledge; Collaboration on projects; Creation of innovative solutions. The term "share capital" is also used in another context, related to the amount that the partners invest in the company at the time of its opening. In this case, it is a contribution of tangible resources, such as money, goods or rights, which are used to finance the purchase of assets, the payment of expenses and the implementation of the organization's activities. In this sense, social capital stands out here as an intangible asset of inestimable value and transcends the individual focus of human capital. The focus is on relationship and collaboration networks within organizations. Do companies really need superstars? With social capital in focus, the search for individual "superstars", that is, those employees who stand out the most, gives way to the appreciation of social cohesion and mutual support as pillars of success. In the TED “Forget the pecking order at work”, Margaret Heffernan, who is an entrepreneur, CEO, author and speaker, highlights that the true effectiveness of a team is intrinsically linked to three key elements: Social sensitivity; Equal distribution of time and participation among members; and Diversity of perspectives. When present, these three elements tend to significantly increase the productivity and innovation capacity of teams. Contrary to the approach that values ​​superstars, the most successful teams are those that demonstrate high social sensitivity among their members. This feeling is characterized by empathy and the ability to understand and respond to the needs of colleagues. When team members genuinely care about each other, there is an atmosphere of trust and collaboration that boosts productivity and creativity. The diversity of perspectives within teams is also a determining factor. The presence of a variety of experiences, skills, and points of view enriches discussions and increases the team's ability to solve complex problems effectively. Women in the market and social capital Speaking of diversity, the presence of women in the job market and, more specifically, in business teams, is intrinsically linked to the concept of social capital and the positive results it can generate. From this point of view, despite the barriers and challenges faced by women, the female presence is not only beneficial, but also fundamental to the financial success and innovation of companies. Research shows that companies owned or led by women tend to have higher levels of financial performance compared to companies led exclusively by men. According to Deloitte data cited in the DIEP in Practice report, there are many advantages to female leadership, such as improving team performance by 17%, the quality of decision-making by 20% and collaboration by 29%. These results are not merely coincidences, but reflections of the diversity of perspectives that women bring to leadership and business teams. The female presence increases gender representation in organizations, enriches the knowledge base and stimulates original thinking. Furthermore, it contributes to the creation of a more equitable and inclusive work environment, which in turn strengthens social capital within the organization. Speaking of knowledge base, understand how Softplan works on this topic internally. Gender equity in the Brazilian labor market Brazil has witnessed advances towards gender equity in the labor market in recent years, as reflected in the 2023 Global Gender Gap Report. The country rose considerably in the rankings, reaching 57th position in gender parity, compared to 94th position in the previous year. This progress is remarkable, especially considering the global context and the persistent challenges faced by women in many sectors of society. The report highlights a number of factors that contributed to this progress, including the reduction in educational disparities between men and women, with 117 of the 146 countries indexed closing at least 95% of this gap. It is crucial to recognize that achieving gender parity is not just a social justice issue, but also an economic imperative. The Panorama Mulheres 2023 study, carried out by Talenses Group and Insper, offers additional insights into female representation in Brazilian companies. The data reveals that, although there is progress, there are challenges to be faced. Women still represent only 21% of members of administrative boards and 17% in the position of CEO of companies in Brazil, for example. In technology, we had notable advances in the female presence between 2015 and 2020, with an increase of 60% according to data from CAGED. However, women still represent only 20% of the total number of professionals in this sector. At Softplan, in line with this market trend and with the objective of creating a diverse environment, women make up 34,7% of the general workforce (data from February 2024) and occupy 31% of leadership positions. This represents a 20% increase from 2023 and reflects an ongoing and intentional commitment to promoting equity of opportunity. Furthermore, in 2023, 46,15% of our promotions to leadership positions went to women, signaling a significant advance in gender equity not only for Softplan but also for the entire technology market in the country, which is still very challenging for women. On our board, we currently have three counselors, two on the Executive Board and one on the People Committee. To continue moving toward gender equity, companies must adopt strategies that promote equal opportunity and create work environments where all people can thrive and contribute fully.

How to foster a data-driven culture in companies?

BUSINESS ON THE MOVE

How to foster a data-driven culture in companies?   

Using data in favor of business objectives is the great mission of a data-driven culture. Assertively implementing this approach, however, is still a complex task. Nowadays, big data is the buzzword of the moment. Therefore, it is not difficult to find methods for collecting data. However, the data-driven culture goes further by prioritizing the analysis and interpretation of data to guide decisions and strategies. It is necessary to put the insights into practice, but assertively, considering the other variables that influence the company's processes. Therefore, a significant change in work tools, flows and, most importantly: in the mentality of teams and management is necessary. In short, data-driven culture is the organizational movement that places data analysis at the center of decision making. It is one of the pillars of the innovation and technological revolution we are currently experiencing. Data analysis, in turn, encompasses processes of collection, inspection, cleaning and, of course, critical analysis in order to transform data into reliable and useful information for making strategic decisions and defining solutions to various problems. Importance of a data-driven culture in companies Experts warn: without data intelligence, markets will not survive. According to studies by Gartner, in 2022, Decision Intelligence, which combines automated analysis and AI to guide the data-driven decision-making process, was identified as one of the main technological trends. In one of its most recent predictions about data analysis until 2028, the consultancy also highlights that 45% of product marketing professionals will be guided by data analysis to monitor behaviors and define segmentation and communication actions. Therefore, considering the collection and critical analysis of data as a strategic part of organizational culture opens up a range of possibilities and benefits, among them: Intelligent and reliable decisions: “above all, show the data”, sums it up well Edward Rolf Tufte - professor American Institute of Statistics and Political Economy. The processing of information relevant to companies must not leave room for “guesswork”; Data analysis reduces time and spending on empirical models or actions based solely on intuition and experience. Actions become more assertive, with better results when experiences and data analysis work together; A good example of this is the automation of marketing campaigns. The performance of actions, interaction and reception of consumers are monitored in real time, which reduces the time taken to make decisions. All this data, critically analyzed according to established metrics, can highlight the need for changes. This way, it is possible to review a poorly performing action in a timely manner and maximize results. Predict trends to reduce corrections and rework, which can result in high and unplanned costs for the operation; Improve the performance of marketing actions: by crossing information on consumer behavior, companies are able to launch new products and services, promote them or withdraw them from the market. Which marketing actions have the expected return? Which projects require more costs than results? Real-time information enables quick changes to avoid losses. Since the subject is organizational change, find out more about knowledge management in companies. Implementing a data-driven culture: where to start? The benefits of a data-driven culture are undeniable. Despite this, companies face challenges in its implementation, as this requires a reorganization of existing structures and the creation of new routines. Check out some guidelines for applying data-driven culture in companies. Invest in an efficient tool Establishing data-driven management requires the adoption of tools for collection and analysis, in addition to structures that organize existing information and communicate between systems. The ideal is to have a professional specialized in digital transformation and data analysis to help choose the tool, in addition to training internal agents to act as disseminators of the data-driven culture among employees. Define what is worth analyzing The volume of data in itself means nothing: it is necessary to define which indicators are relevant for daily decision making. The mission is to select what really matters, and share the insights with the sectors involved. SaaS metrics: characteristics and main indicators to monitor Conduct training with employees Employees need to understand the importance of data analysis in order to extract the benefits of this resource. To achieve this, it is essential to offer training on the topic and training on the use of the chosen tools. After all, the information generated should not be limited to specialist sectors or leaders. Optimizing data-based processes requires team autonomy. Create action plans With the analysis of indicators in hand, it is necessary to create action plans to solve possible challenges that the numbers show. Remember that data always represents some insight, positive or not, as well as pointing out trends and opportunities for the company. This way, managers are able to plan for the long term, so that the business will be more prepared to face unforeseen events. Monitor constantly Although they facilitate future planning, the data presents momentary scenarios, so monitoring must be constant. If you are a user of streaming platforms, you have certainly noticed that your activities are monitored instantly. A change in your musical style, for example, generates new suggestions for you and new behavior patterns for the application. In a data-driven company, this constant monitoring is part of the routine.

How does business architecture relate to product marketing?

TECH IN EVERYTHING

How does business architecture relate to product marketing?

Business architecture provides a guide for companies, helping to align functions and industries with core objectives. We are not talking about an organizational chart or job description, but rather an approach that supports the operational model in a strategic way. This process includes all areas of a company. Here, we will explore how product marketing and go-to-market planning relate, in practice, to business architecture from the perspective of Monica Moura, Product Marketing Coordinator at Softplan. Monica also shared with Portal Visão Softplan some of her experience and brought important insights on the topic. Follow along! The fundamental role of business architecture in companies Business architecture is a fundamental concept for understanding and optimizing the way a company operates, delivers its products or services and relates to its customers and other stakeholders. In essence, it focuses on structuring and understanding the elements that make up an organization, including its business functions, processes, information systems and business ecosystems. Monica explains that “a business architecture model describes not only how the organization is structured, but how it intends to achieve its objectives and deliver value to its customers.” Furthermore, it facilitates communication and understanding between the organization's different stakeholders, providing a clear roadmap for transformations and improvements. How business architecture adds competitive advantage Firstly, a well-defined business structure, with clear objectives and aligned operational processes, allows the company to establish tangible goals and objectives. This provides a clear view of internal operations and a solid basis for making strategic decisions. In large corporations, which often deal with complex portfolios of products and services, business architecture plays a crucial steering function. These portfolios can include a variety of physical, electronic, software products, among others. The integration of acquired companies and product diversification also increase the complexity of the organizational structure. In this scenario, “business architecture offers a structured approach to align the company's capabilities with market demands”, adds Monica. Furthermore, it allows business leaders to develop strategic plans for the future, adapting to market changes and maintaining competitiveness. By integrating business objectives, operational processes and product portfolios in a cohesive way, the company can maximize its efficiency, innovation and responsiveness to market needs, thus consolidating a sustainable competitive advantage. Understanding the role of product marketing When the business architecture is well defined, the company has greater clarity about how it creates value for the market, and this is where this strategy intersects with product marketing. Product marketing plays a key role in communicating and promoting the products or services offered by the company, ensuring that the value proposition is effectively conveyed to potential customers. This involves understanding the evolution of the product, translating its characteristics and benefits to the market and differentiating it from competitors. For Monica, “one of the challenges is to make the product’s values ​​tangible and ensure that the sales team understands and effectively sells the value proposition”. Additionally, product marketing is responsible for developing product positioning, strategic messaging, and pricing strategy. In practice, how does product marketing work in a company? Monica reminds us that “the organizational position of product marketing can vary depending on the context and the specific needs of the business”. Some possibilities she mentions are: Within the product area: ideal for companies facing the challenge of churn, as it helps, for example, in the construction of strategic customer retention messages; Close to marketing and growth: common practice in companies with rapid growth, as it contributes to the creation and dissemination of the added value of a brand (basically what we point out about translating its benefits to the public); Multi-strategic area: in companies with an extensive portfolio, product marketing can be a protagonist, assuming an even more strategic role in the organization. Business architecture and go-to-market strategies According to The State of Go-to-Market Report 2023, developed by the Product Marketing Alliance, 57,7% of respondents believe that launches have a positive impact on the company's revenue. This data reinforces the importance of a successful go-to-market strategy. Product marketing is often the sector responsible for the market entry process, as go-to-market depends on factors such as cross-functional management, extensive product knowledge and market analysis. Here, business architecture also serves as an important guide. It defines the base structure on which the product or service will be offered to the market. We can think about how this happens in practice taking into account the main go-to-market strategies. For example, in PLG (product led growth), where the product is the main driver of growth, the business architecture must ensure that product development is aligned with market needs. “This implies a clear understanding of systems architecture, internal processes and interactions with customers to guarantee the delivery of value”, says Mônica. In SLG (sales led growth), where the growth lever is more inclined towards the sales structure, this area influences the organization of sales teams, the definition of distribution channels and the implementation of support systems for this process. At MLG (marketing led growth), she guides the marketing strategy, from market segmentation to defining the most effective messages and communication channels to promote the company's solutions. Finally, in Community Led Growth, the business architecture supports the construction and involvement of communities around the company's solutions, ensuring an effective connection between users, customers and the organization itself. “Here at Softplan, Sienge is an excellent example of how to take the product to the market through a community”, adds Monica. Developing a product marketing strategy from business architecture Developing product marketing strategies from business architecture involves integrating in-depth knowledge of market needs with the organization's structure and operations. Monica highlights that it is “important to understand market and customer needs, as well as the continuous evolution of the company’s go-to-market process”. Understanding the ideal customer profile Business architecture provides a solid foundation for understanding the organizational structure and processes that can influence the ideal customer profile. Understanding the organization's requirements and objectives helps in identifying the most relevant market segments and the specific needs of the public. Product positioning Based on understanding the ideal customer profile and analyzing business architecture, companies can develop assertive product positioning strategies. In other words, they highlight the strengths of the organization and the benefits aimed at solving market pain. Marketing Message Development Business architecture provides insights into the company's internal processes, resources, and capabilities, which can be used to create effective marketing messages. Understanding the organizational structure allows for communication that is more aligned and consistent with the organization's values ​​and objectives. Pricing Strategies By understanding costs, processes and organizational structure, companies can develop pricing strategies that are competitive in the market while ensuring a healthy profit margin. Furthermore, business architecture can influence the way products are presented to the market, taking into account aspects such as branding, usability and customer experience. Continuous review and adaptation Business architecture provides a structured framework for constantly evaluating and reviewing product marketing strategies. Companies can monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to their operations and adjust their strategies according to changes in the market and customer needs. Monica highlights that it is still not common for early-stage companies to have a product marketing team. “It is essential to evaluate the company’s priorities and determine when the investment becomes justifiable”, he adds. Business architecture is a powerful tool that can be used to create a solid foundation for product marketing. When working together, these two strategies can generate significant results for the company. Want to deepen your understanding of business strategies?

ESG and Tech: Everything in common!

TECH WRITERS

ESG and Tech: Everything in common!

What is ESG ESG is an acronym that brings together actions, practices and work fronts related to the theme of Environment, Social and Governance. This triad constitutes a set of corporate practices and principles that are already inescapable as a driver of investments, reputation and share of mind and hearts. The positive correlation between ESG performance (when executed strategically, holistically and genuinely) and a superior result in both financial and reputational terms has already been proven. These papers from Harvard Business Review and NYU's Center for Sustainable Business explain this correlation in detail. And this video from KPMG consultancy explains more succinctly what ESG is. Anyone who wants to take a quick course to dive a little deeper, I recommend this one from the consultancy, and Softplan partner, Deep ESG. Last year, Softplan began to delve deeper into this subject. Mapping the relevance of the company's impacts on its customers (the company's most important stakeholder alongside employees) is one of the multiple initiatives of an ESG program. In a company like Softplan, where we consider ourselves "experts in translating knowledge and technology into solutions that simplify and impact the lives of thousands of people in Brazil and the world on a daily basis", permeate this knowledge in the development area (here considering product, design , software engineering and architecture) may perhaps be the most effective strategy to assert this statement. We recently completed this mapping work for solutions that serve Public Sector clients, following this very strict standard from the Global Reporting Initiative. Impacts, facts and how ESG and Tech combine Speaking about Information Security, our "Jedi master" Alexandre Golin listed, in 2009, the 4 principles of the SAJ Courts at the time: Integrity, Authenticity, Non-repudiation and Non-retroactivity (I dare say which has a fifth hidden principle which is inviolability). Since then, many concepts, practices and requirements have been improved, including here at Softplan. Currently, we are very proud to say that these four (or five) principles guide all of the company's solutions. Well, Information Security, combined with Data Privacy, was considered a relevant impact by customers of all solutions for the public sector. In doubt about updating a certain application component? There are a lot of free Devops courses out there and you don't know which one to take? Issues related to information security and data privacy will always be a safe haven. Let's not forget the 'E' in Environment, which also has everything to do with Product, Design, Development and Architecture. Reducing carbon emissions is a relevant impact in practically all solutions. One thing that unites all Softplan solutions is the digitalization of processes and reduction of paper use. For example, 1Doc's motto is "Let's get it off the ground?". The balance in CO₂ emissions from replacing paper, in addition to everything that is not emitted by paper not being produced, transported, stored and discarded, by digital processes and their emissions arising from the energy consumption of data centers and infrastructures is usually positive in more of 75%. But what if I told you that in 2022 all 92 courts in Brazil printed more than 500 million sheets of paper? This data comes from the Courts as a whole, which are not necessarily from the judicial area. It's a damn shame, right? But why do they still print so much paper if more than 90% of their collection is digital? Is it just because it's more comfortable? Probably not. Our designers have invested heavily in bringing greater ergonomics and comfort to our screens, to minimize the need for printing. This subject offers a giant roadmap of epics and stories and discoveries. And the result metrics are right here in front of us. More and more public bodies have sustainable logistics programs where paper consumption is measured. And for those who like behavioral economics, here's a tip to insert that clever nudge at the footer of each page: “Not printing this paper prevented the deforestation of N trees”. Still within 'E', Devops/DBAs who manage data in the cloud, did you know that AWS consoles allow the adoption of sustainability criteria? You can select more efficient regions (more performant and new machines, renewable energy source), implement “design that guarantees high utilization and maximizes energy efficiency of the underlying hardware” and use managed services. For those who don't know, it's a new world and, in most cases, sustainability will generate financial savings and operational efficiency. Softplan's operations in the public sector allow our solutions to have a direct impact on millions of people. In 2022, the external access portals of our solutions had an average volume of 4,3 billion queries and 3,2 million new processes/demands per month! Ensuring quality delivery to customers means greater prosperity, efficiency and well-being for society, which now has access to more efficient and better quality public services. But how so? Let's think about a Court of Justice: How do we measure the efficiency (oops, another Impact, and this perhaps the most important, within the 'S' for Social) of a Court? We know what results are expected from an efficient Court. And we also know how our solution directly and indirectly contributes to these results. This knowledge, disseminated within the teams (to reiterate, our operating model requires knowledge and ownership at all functional levels of the end areas), provides a reference for both clients and us, of what to prioritize, what the pace of deliveries is and how Let's measure whether deliveries are bringing the expected results. And what does it matter for a Court of Justice? It needs to provide a channel for external users to consult and file lawsuits. Improving and expanding society's access to public bodies is also a mapped impact. This channel needs to have broad access (multiple services) and be agile (performative and with high availability). Did you realize that these characteristics, which have very objective metrics, already offer the necessary drivers for grooming? In terms of efficiency, we map a maximum of 4 indicators per solution. It was difficult (for us and for the clients), but focusing on the most important ones helps us think about the big picture. In the case of Courts, one of the indicators measures stock variations from one year to the next, another indicator measures the duration of processes, another the capacity to meet demand (which is dynamic and depends on inputs) and another, Goal 2 of the CNJ, determines that the oldest cases must be judged first. Here is a fantastic guide to encourage teams and clients to design and implement solutions that: reduce the stock of cases, prioritizing the oldest ones, within sustainable process durations and always linked to the benchmarking of Courts of the same size. For PMs and POs who love prioritization matrices, here is a full plate for scoring stories and tasks. This footprint works for all of our solutions! Let's think about Sider, which digitizes countless services within the structures of infrastructure departments and roads and highways departments. Here we also have the impact of citizens and companies’ access to these services. Access portals act as virtual service desks. And how do you measure the level of this service? Firstly, the service needs to be available and broad, you have to be able to do everything there: consult, open demands, request and access information and documents and pay for things. Then, the service time of the main services can be evaluated. The driver for development is here! We need to expand access and reduce service time as much as possible. To do this, we also have to be aware of the regulatory framework of the bodies. Complying with this framework is also a relevant impact indicated by customers. You have to reduce time, respecting legal procedures, procedures and deadlines. As Softplan has national capillarity and expertise, here we can act as a network, as a hub, absorbing, feeding, feedback, transferring and sharing knowledge and good practices between bodies across the country. Pretty sure someone just correlated this with digital transformation. Well, promoting digital transformation was considered a relevant impact on all of our solutions that serve the public sector. Here we expand the reach of ESG to resident, support, communication and relationship teams. Do you realize how ESG and you (fellow Dev, DBA, PM, PO, UXer and so on) have everything to do with each other? It's not simple, but it's also nothing out of this world. To recap: We need to define impacts and their indicators and metrics in a methodologically rigorous way, engaging customers and internal (and external) experts in a genuine way. Collect and make data and evidence available in the form of indicators. Use data as input, considering context and specificities. Do not underestimate the external environment, as it is complex and dynamic. Permeate knowledge in the team. Encourage discussions and critical analysis. Always focus on the big picture. What are the main impacts and indicators that move the needle? Focus on them as a priority. Ensure that, over time, relevant impacts remain relevant and appropriate indicators remain appropriate.  

Generative AI: what to expect from this trend in the coming years?

TRANSFORMATION BEYOND DIGITAL

Generative AI: what to expect from this trend in the coming years? 

It is not new that interacting with machines or robots is a reality in people's lives. However, the way we communicate with technology has changed a lot in recent years. In particular, we have the use of Artificial Intelligence, especially Generative AI (IAG). Now, some scenes from old “futuristic” films are part of people’s daily lives. With a simple voice command, you can make requests to virtual assistants, such as Alexa, Bixby and Ok Google. The idea of ​​living in science fiction may sound attractive to some or disturbing to others, but the reality is that we are still taking our first steps with AI. And even so, the impacts of this technology can already be felt in all sectors, especially in companies. Professions are transforming, positions are ending and new ways of working are emerging. Like any change, it presents some challenges. But, overall, the scenario tends to be more optimistic for the coming years. According to the Global Tech 2023 report, published by KPMG, organizations consider AI and machine learning to be the most important technologies for achieving their short-term ambitions. According to the research, through the implementation of AI and automation, 63% of companies experienced a gain in profitability or performance. Additionally, 57% of corporations believe that Artificial Intelligence and machine learning, including generative AI, will help them achieve their business objectives in the next three years. However, it takes time and human knowledge to extract the full potential of AI in a responsible, reliable and safe way. In this report, Guilherme de Assis Brasil, CTO at Softplan, brings his keen eye on the challenges and benefits of Generative AI and talks a little about what to expect from this technology in the coming years. Check it out below. Generative AI: what it is and how it impacts business models One of the most promising areas of artificial intelligence - generative AI, allows the creation of new content, such as images, music and text from models trained on existing data. It is a format that feeds on a set of specific data to, through machine learning, predict and produce results. One of the most notable Generative AIs on the market in the last year was ChatGPT, a language model created by OpenAI capable of “answering follow-up questions, contesting incorrect information, rejecting inappropriate requests and even admitting its mistakes”, according to the website from the company. In addition to it, Bing was recently one of the language models that gained users' attention. In image creation, DALL-E and Midjourney stood out the most. In September 2022, an AI-generated image even won an art competition in the USA, sparking debates about the future of photography and digital art. However, more than knowing what generative AI is, it is important to understand how its applications can really affect the day-to-day lives of organizations. Also according to the KPMG report, 45% of companies say they are prioritizing AI and machine learning because they believe that market leaders have already adopted this type of technology. But, when explaining the thought process behind their selections, the most common reason given for investing in technologies was to “copy competitors”. And this is where the research highlights that attention needs to be paid, especially in an era where resources cannot be wasted and budgets are tight. It’s not enough to just “follow the herd”. It is necessary to have strategy and intentionality, to prevent projects from straying aimlessly and the momentum of digital transformation can be put to good use. The SaaS business model and the use of Generative AI Companies operating under the SaaS (Software as a Service) business model deal with a large volume of data on a daily basis: exactly what a generative AI needs to evolve. And the technical side effect of a SaaS operation brings several positive elements to IAG, as one ends up feeding back on the other. “The more data there is in the SaaS model, the more companies are able to train good generative AI models. The tendency here is for this partnership to function as a two-way street.”, explains Brasil. At the same time that generative AI benefits from the SaaS model, it also benefits. Through machine learning, Generative AI enables software to make decisions based on data, which can help SaaS companies prevent fraud and attempts to break into systems, detecting suspicious or criminal activities. Building an assertive interaction is the main challenge Even amid the speed of transformations due to advances in Generative Artificial Intelligence, it is still necessary to do the basics: get used to the new way that technology talks to humans. After all, we were “taught” to always expect direct answers from machines. To give an example, Softplan's CTO brings up a very common situation in the day-to-day lives of companies: “When issuing a financial report, the expectation is that, in front of a machine, a specific and precise number will be reached: R$1,2 million . However, when asking a human being, it is acceptable to receive an answer like plus or minus a million.” The challenge involved in transitioning from the technology we are used to to Generative Artificial Intelligence is understanding that the answer will not be completely accurate, just as a human's answer may not be. It is important, little by little, to better build the elements so that people get used to interacting with Generative AI (IAG) tools, understanding that in many aspects it could even be incorrect. A visible benefit and a much greater dynamic of information management with the computer. The tendency is for Generative AI to generate a very large and positive disruption in people's productivity, due to their ability to work exposed to a large volume of information. Generative AI, user experience and security One of the main benefits of generative AI for user experience is the capacity for increasingly specific personalization. Guilherme de Assis Brasil points out that when interaction stops being based on traditional navigation and becomes conversational, which is the essence of generative AI, countless layers of automated personalization possibilities are created for the user. “Now, it is possible to talk to the system, without needing to memorize exactly all the paths to reach a result, when taking a report”, he reinforces. Generative AI models can be used in different sectors of a company: IT, auditing, human resources, operations, etc. When exploring these use cases, it's important to remember that despite the many opportunities that generative AI has to offer, it also presents some challenges. Even when used legitimately, generative AI has its risks. Models create responses based on the information they receive, so there is a danger of producing false content. ChatGPT, for example, presents what we call “hallucinations”, inventing facts. Therefore, it was improved using reinforced learning from human feedback in order to prevent undesirable responses. To ensure the appropriate and effective use of generative AIs, it is essential that organizations create safe use guidelines. With a responsible AI program implemented, companies can begin to advance in the development of more reliable and assertive processes with the help of this resource. Application of Generative AI in the public sector The public sector is perhaps one of the places with the greatest potential to generate a significant impact on society through the use of generative AI models. This is because the nature of a public operation is, in most cases, extremely complex - and an AI has the ability to solve processes with a high degree of complexity. When applying generative AI in the public sector, the tendency is for citizens to experience faster, more efficient and easier-to-find services. “Once it is possible to shorten the time between the entry and execution of a demand, this will completely change the way we deal with and receive public services”, reinforces Brasil. The challenge, however, is the processing of a lot of sensitive information, even much more than the private sector. Furthermore, it is not possible to admit major failures, as this will impact a much larger number of people. In the Judiciary, for example, the misinterpretation of data by an AI could, in theory, affect sentences. It is necessary to double the security in relation to data and risk management, so that possible damages are properly avoided or controlled. Properly trained, generative AIs can revolutionize public management. Find out more about how technology has become an ally of Justice What to expect in the future In the coming years, the Softplan executive points out that, together with generative AI, we can expect a greater process of specialization of technologies. It reinforces the expansion of communication capacity and the evolution of new technologies such as 5G in partnership with generative AI. By having more ability to interact with data in real time, IAG will evolve quickly - and at scale. “The greater the power and speed of communication, the more capillarity we will have to expand and take advantage of technologies that require greater processing”, he explains. Discussions about governance, privacy, copyright and disinformation associated with generative AI will still be frequent. It is very likely that countries will create new regulations regarding the use of generative AI models. Possible markers or trackers should be implemented, showing that the content was generated by artificial intelligence, in order to prevent so-called deepfakes, when visual or audio content is altered to make it appear that someone said or did something that is not true. According to Gartner, we will see a rapid expansion in the use of generative artificial intelligence and AI-enabled applications. By 2026, more than 80% of companies are expected to adopt this technology, compared to less than 5% in 2023. This means that AI will be increasingly present in everyday business life, from senior management, who will use AI insights to make strategic decisions, to the operational team, who will depend on it for their daily tasks. The advancement of generative AI will transform several areas. Significant changes will need to be made in companies' internal processes so that this technology is used in a safe and assertive way, and adds value to the consumer.  

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