TECHtonic: Trends in Technology and Services

Join Thomas Lah, Executive Director and Executive Vice President of TSIA, and Steve De Marco, CEO of Provus, for a comprehensive look at the future of professional services quoting. In this episode of TECHtonic, Lah and De Marco explore how AI-powered Configure Price Quote (CPQ) tools are transforming outdated, spreadsheet-heavy quoting processes into streamlined, data-driven engines of growth.From speed and margin clarity to machine learning-driven accuracy, this conversation unpacks the challenges of project-based professional services models and the breakthroughs that AI and guided quoting are enabling today. Whether you're still quoting in Excel, or striving for outcome-based pricing and recurring revenue models, this episode reveals why modern CPQ is no longer optional—it's essential.

In this high-impact episode, we're bringing you an exclusive recording from the TSIA World INTERACT 2025 conference, where Thomas Lah, Executive Director and Executive Vice President of TSIA, delivers a keynote that pulls no punches. Drawing from real-world experiences and TSIA's latest research, Thomas explores why legacy business models are on shaky ground—and what companies must do to break free from the powerful grip of inertia.Through gripping stories, cheeky humor, and practical insights, Thomas unpacks four major forces reshaping tech business models: the great workflow migration, the shrinking revenue cross, the premium on value realization, and the shift to model-driven revenue engines. Whether you're a C-suite exec or a frontline leader, this is your urgent call to reimagine operations before legacy models collapse beneath your feet.From AI strategies to value communication, pricing challenges, and the threat of economic uncertainty (including the looming impact of tariffs), this episode is essential listening for anyone steering a tech organization through disruption. Recorded live at INTERACT 2025—don't miss this raw, real, and revelatory session.Want to stay ahead of the transformation curve? Join us at TSIA World ENVISION—register today to gain the insights and strategies needed to lead with confidence in times of rapid change.

We can't believe it — episode 100 of TECHtonic is here!To celebrate this milestone, we're revisiting some of the most insightful conversations Thomas has had with guests over the years. This highlight reel features powerful clips that showcase just how far we've come — and the evolution of the conversations that are shaping our industry.Curious to dive deeper into any of the full episodes you hear? Just scroll down to find the complete list:Episode 13: Zone to WinEpisode 32: Hug the BearEpisode 49: Data-Driven Everything: A Conversation with John DeereEpisode 58: How Culture Drives Results: Insights from a Culture ScientistEpisode 76: Scaling Customer Success with AI: A Deep Dive with MicrosoftTSIA Takes: Salesforce and the Customer Success + Support Services ExperimentEpisode 82: Practical Ways to Unlock Revenue Growth with AIThank you for being part of the journey. We hope you enjoy these standout moments — and here's to the next 100 episodes of TSIA's TECHtonic!

In this eye-opening episode of TECHtonic, TSIA Executive Director and Executive VP Thomas Lah sits down with Janice Lee, the new Education Services researcher at TSIA, to unpack the seismic shifts shaking up the education services landscape in the tech industry. From the rise of generative AI to the increasing demand for measurable business outcomes, this episode covers how ES leaders can not only survive—but thrive—amid the pressure to do more with less.What You'll Learn:How AI is transforming education services—from content development to adaptive learning experiences.Why “doing more with less” doesn't mean cutting quality, but rethinking roles and amplifying human creativity.The rising importance of customer value realization and how ES can drive it.The truth about monetization: Why an overwhelming majority of TSIA members are charging for education—and why your organization should too.A bold look at the future: Ambient learning, blurred service lines, and how ES will be seamlessly integrated into the customer journey.Whether you're an ES leader or instructional designer, this episode delivers insights with clarity and actionable strategies for the AI-powered services road ahead.

In this episode of TECHtonic, host Thomas Lah, sits down with IBM Fellow Bala Rajaraman to explore the revolutionary role of AI in enterprise support services. From IBM's early AI milestones—beating world chess champion Garry Kasparov in 1997 and winning Jeopardy! in 2011—to today's cloud-based AI models optimizing business workflows, IBM remains at the forefront of AI innovation.Bala dives deep into how AI is reshaping support organizations, addressing customer experience, cost efficiency, and the evolving role of support engineers. They discuss AI-powered sentiment analysis, predictive insights, self-service solutions, and the growing need for AI-driven operational efficiency. With AI rapidly integrating into every process, businesses must navigate the balance between digital agents and human expertise while ensuring a seamless, high-value support experience.Are you leveraging AI capabilities to redefine support?

The future of customer support is here—AI-powered, intelligent, and proactive. On this episode of TECHtonic, Thomas Lah chats with Krishna Raj Raja, CEO of SupportLogic, about how AI is reshaping support organizations. Krishna shares his story about founding SupportLogic, highlighting the power of AI-driven workflows, ambient intelligence, and predictive analytics in improving customer interactions. They discuss AI's evolution from rule-based systems to decision intelligence, the role of sentiment analysis in preventing escalations, and the future of AI in enterprise workflows. If you're curious about the real-world impact of AI on customer support and how companies can leverage it for efficiency and growth, this is a conversation you need to hear!

How is AI reshaping the relationship between marketing and sales? In this episode of TECHtonic, host Thomas Lah, EVP and Executive Director of TSIA, sits down with Kathy Macchi, EVP of Innovation at Inverta, to explore the seismic shifts happening in B2B marketing. Kathy breaks down how today's buyers rely on self-education and independent research—rendering traditional lead generation models like MQLs obsolete. Instead, success now hinges on multi-threaded engagement, AI-powered personalization, and a new, collaborative approach to Account-Based Marketing (ABM). Discover how revenue teams can leverage AI to deliver smarter, more effective outreach and create frictionless buying experiences. Don't miss this in-depth look into the future of B2B marketing!

In this episode of TECHtonic, host Thomas Lah sits down with Steve Hallowell and Millie Beetham from ZoomInfo to explore how AI is dramatically altering B2B sales and professional services. From transforming sales teams into data-driven powerhouses to leveraging AI for predictive modeling and customer insights, they dive into the real-world applications reshaping go-to-market strategies. They also tackle the evolving role of professional services, uncovering how AI is streamlining project management, customer engagement, and request for proposal (RFP) responses. Is your sales organization truly data-driven? Tune in for expert insights, actionable strategies, and a candid look at the future of AI in sales and professional services.

In a world where competition is fierce, how do you stand out? On this episode of TECHtonic, host Thomas Lah sits down with Matt Kellso, Owner of Sagebrush Coffee, to explore what it takes to carve out a unique space in an overcrowded industry.Starting from his garage in 2012, Matt has grown Sagebrush Coffee into a beloved brand by leveraging fresh roasting, data-driven operations, and a deep personal connection with coffee producers. From pricing strategies to Blue Ocean thinking, from leveraging technology to understanding the power of storytelling—this episode is packed with insights that any company, whether in tech or coffee, can learn from.How do you create a business that breaks through the noise? Tune in to hear how passion, strategy, and a willingness to pivot can help any company differentiate and thrive.

During this episode of TECHtonic, TSIA's Thomas Lah examines in detail the role AI is playing in transforming competitive analysis for sales teams. He is joined by Jason Smith, CEO and Co-founder of Klue, an AI-powered competitive intelligence platform. Together, they explore how machine learning and large language models (LLMs) are revolutionizing the way sales teams gather, synthesize, and leverage competitive insights. From enhancing battle cards with real-time data to empowering salespeople with actionable deal strategies, the conversation reveals how AI can speed up decision-making, improve win rates, and help companies stay ahead of their competition. Listen in to learn about the tools and tactics that can help your team adapt to the rapidly changing landscape of competitive intelligence, and hear firsthand how AI is set to shape the future of sales strategies.

In this episode of TECHtonic, TSIA's Executive Director Thomas Lah sits down with longtime tech leader turned executive coach, Mary Cay Kosten, to explore the challenges and opportunities awaiting professionals in today's AI-driven landscape. From maintaining a positive “energy” mindset to knowing when it's time to pivot your role—or your entire career—Mary Cay draws on her breadth of experiences at Sun Microsystems, EMC, and Dell to guide you toward intentional, strategic decision-making. Tune in for practical tips on managing the rapid pace of change, prioritizing what matters to your leadership, and harnessing AI's potential without losing sight of your own personal growth. If you're ready to chart a resilient career path in the ever-evolving tech world, this is the conversation you won't want to miss!

Join Thomas Lah as he speaks with Andy Chinmulgund, CEO of Bruviti, to reveal how AI is transforming the operating models of field service organizations. In this episode, find out how AI-driven solutions like predictive analytics, parts prediction engines, and dynamic triage agents are revolutionizing field operations. From reducing truck rolls and optimizing spare parts management to enhancing technician expertise, the conversation unveils practical AI use cases that boost efficiency, customer satisfaction, and environmental impact.Also, hear how AI makes field service careers more accessible and appealing to new generations, uncovers insights for better product design, and bridges the gap between service and product teams. If you're in field services, this episode is your gateway to the future of innovation and excellence.

Are we finally moving past the AI hype and into its real-world impact? In this episode of TECHtonic, Thomas Lah, Executive Director and EVP of TSIA, sits down with Ron Green, Co-founder and CTO of KUNGFU.AI, to explore the critical questions shaping AI adoption today. Together, they uncover why AI is no longer just a buzzword but an essential tool for transforming companies right now.From groundbreaking use cases like predicting breast cancer risk years in advance to practical applications like automating revenue forecasting and customer support, this conversation dives into the successes and pitfalls of deploying AI. Whether you're an executive grappling with ethical questions, or a business leader wondering where to begin, this episode provides actionable insights on accelerating ROI, building AI strategies, and understanding why this revolution is here to stay.Stay tuned for an engaging, no-hype conversation that will help you cut through the noise and take your first—or next—step into the AI-driven future.

Host Thomas Lah engages with Chris Mele, Managing Partner at Software Pricing Partners, to explore the shifting paradigms of software pricing models. As AI and automation redefine the technological landscape, traditional user-based pricing is under scrutiny. Chris shares his extensive experience on why it's time to rethink legacy pricing strategies and how companies can optimize for profitability in today's market.They discuss the three pillars of effective monetization—licensing, packaging, and pricing—and discuss the importance of aligning these with sales strategies and customer value perception. The conversation also tackles the challenges posed by AI, the pitfalls of discounting, and the need for data-driven, sophisticated pricing models.Listen in to discover actionable insights on transforming your pricing approach to not only survive but thrive in the evolving tech industry. Are your current pricing models optimized to maximize profitability? Find out in this insightful conversation.

Join us for a live, insightful keynote session from TSIA World Envision with Thomas Lah, Executive Director and Executive Vice President of TSIA. Thomas explores the transformative power of AI in revenue generation. Discover how cutting-edge AI use cases can supercharge your workflows, driving revenue growth and enhancing customer experiences. Learn how to leverage AI to improve lead qualifications, manage renewal risks, and position your offers more effectively.Don't miss this opportunity to stay informed on the latest breakthroughs, insights, and innovative solutions that could transform your business. Join us to discover how AI can dramatically enhance your revenue workflows and redefine your approach to revenue generation.

Thomas sits down with Dan Balcauski, an expert in pricing strategy for enterprise software and the Founder of Product Tranquilty. Together, they examine the shifting landscape of B2B software pricing, particularly as traditional per-user models face new challenges due to the rise of AI and a growing emphasis on profitability.Dan shares his insights on how long-standing pricing models are being disrupted, and why businesses need to reconsider how they charge for their products. He discusses the evolving role of pricing metrics, offering alternatives that better reflect the value delivered to customers. From adapting pricing structures to understanding how to align costs with real customer outcomes, this conversation provides a deep dive into the strategic shifts necessary for companies to stay competitive in today's AI-driven market.If you are looking to future-proof your pricing strategy and stay ahead in the rapidly changing technology AI-landscape, this episode is full of practical insights and forward-thinking advice. Join us for a thorough discussion on key strategies to consider for optimizing your pricing in the AI B2B software world.

During this episode of TECHtonic, host Thomas Lah has a compelling conversation with Kelley Jarrett, SVP of Revenue Strategy, Operations, and Enablement at ThoughtSpot—an AI-powered analytics platform. They discuss how AI is transforming revenue generation workflows and operational efficiency within organizations.Kelly shares her unique insights on leveraging AI for quick, data-driven decision-making, highlighting real-world use cases across industries like retail, healthcare, and aviation. She discusses ThoughtSpot's journey from an on-premise solution to a SaaS model embracing AI, and how this evolution is enabling businesses to unlock unprecedented value from their data.Listen in to discover how AI can be a game-changer in reducing costs, accelerating growth, and driving revenue excellence.

In this episode, Thomas finally finds the person he's been searching for: Mike Fouts, Chief Business Officer at ShareFile, who speaks to how AI and data are revolutionizing the sales function in technology companies. Mike shares his hands-on experience leading a digital-first, data-driven transformation at ShareFile, including detailing how AI is being used to predict renewals, drive customer engagement, and reshape the traditional go-to-market model.From verticalizing sales strategies to automating customer interactions and leveraging data to predict churn and expansion opportunities, Mike explains how the integration of AI is making sales teams smarter and more efficient. With insights on evolving sales roles, data modeling, and the future of B2B transactions, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways for revenue leaders looking to stay ahead in a rapidly changing market.Listen in to learn how your company can embrace AI and data to innovate its sales strategy and drive revenue growth!

Are you effectively leveraging AI in your workflows? As Thomas continues the AI research journey, AI Use Cases for Generating Revenue, he reveals the power of AI in revenue generation. With TSIA's latest paper, The Emerging 20, highlighting critical AI use cases, Thomas is on a mission to show how AI is a game-changer for businesses today.Joining his conversation are Seth Halpern and Derek Butts, co-founders and co-CEOs of Embrace.ai, an innovative AI startup that is transforming how companies accelerate go-to-market workflows. Seth and Derek share their journey of building Embrace from the ground up, discussing how their platform is enabling companies to streamline sales, marketing, and customer success processes. They reveal the tangible benefits of AI in reducing costs, speeding up go-to-market strategies, and significantly improving customer satisfaction.They also discuss in detail the practicalities of implementing AI, including how to curate content, train AI models to speak in your company's voice, and empower sales teams with real-time insights. Using real-world applications, this episode provides a detailed look at how AI is reshaping business models and why companies must adopt these technologies now to stay competitive.

In this episode of TECHtonic, Thomas Lah welcomes Dr. Jessica Kriegel, Chief Scientist of Workplace Culture at Culture Partners. In light of today's rapid shifts in technology business models, the conversation addresses head-on the challenges of change management. Jessica shares her insights on why traditional approaches fail, the importance of continuous change, and how to cultivate a culture where employees not only embrace change but thrive in it. Drawing from her experience in the technology industry and beyond, she discusses how to build accountability, shift beliefs, and gain alignment within leadership teams. Join us as we explore strategies to navigate and lead through the constant transformation in today's technology landscape.Then catch Jessica in person at TSIA World ENVISION this October 21 - 23! In her inspiring keynote, How To Get People To Give A Sh*t, she will motivate your team to step into accountability and take an active role in growing your business impact.

The transformative potential of AI in the technology industry is driving companies focus on growth without significantly increasing their sales and marketing spend. Thomas speaks with Brent Grimes, CEO of Reef.ai, about how to efficiently drive revenue growth by introducing AI into the process. Brent shares the journey of Reef.ai and its aim to predictively unlock customer value, helping companies transition from gut-feel decisions to data-driven strategies. This allows for optimized resource allocation and significantly improves revenue retention and expansion, all through a robust AI-powered approach. They discuss the importance of leveraging machine generated and process consistent data to create powerful predictive models, including the critical role of continuous improvement and feedback loops in refining these models for optimal performance.Listeners will walk away with valuable insights into the practical applications of AI, such as enhancing churn prediction, mitigating risk, and driving customer engagement. Join Thomas and Brent for a real conversation as they demystify AI's role in transforming technology business models by removing the guess work from revenue growth.

On this episode of TECHtonic, Thomas asks hard questions about the shifting landscape of customer success with Nick Mehta, CEO of Gainsight. Inspired by a provocative chapter in Frank Slootman's "Amp It Up" that questions the necessity of customer success, Thomas and Nick explore the current debates and future directions of this critical business function.Nick shares his insights on why customer success is more vital than ever, especially as technology companies face increasing pressure to prove their business value. From the historical context of customer success a decade ago to today's innovative strategies, Nick discusses the integration of AI, the importance of verticalization, and the evolving roles within customer success organizations.Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on how to leverage AI for better customer experiences, early warning systems, and productivity enhancements. Nick and Thomas also tackle the challenge of balancing cost efficiency with maintaining the core capabilities of customer success teams and the necessity of adopting a beginner's mind in the face of seismic industry shifts.Tune in to receive actionable advice and discover how you can stay ahead in the debate on the value of customer success and prepare your organization for the future.

Join Thomas Lah and Chad Quinn, CEO of Ecosystems in an engaging episode of the TECHtonic podcast. Chad shares his insights on helping technology providers prove the business value of their solutions through Ecosystems' collaborative web platform and AI-driven tools like ViViEN, the Virtual Value Engineer. Discover how focusing on common objectives, quantifying root cause problems, and incorporating diverse value drivers can significantly increase win rates, renewals, and expansion opportunities. Gain valuable tips on overcoming commoditization pressures and experimenting with hybrid value-based pricing models to stay competitive in the evolving tech landscape. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on making technology business models successful by truly connecting with customer value.

Join us for the first episode of TSIA Takes, a limited TECHtonic podcast series. During this series, Thomas Lah dives deep into the pivotal question: What is the value of customer success? This pressing question has turned the customer success organization upside down as it navigates what the future of its business looks like. In this episode, Thomas is joined by Jim Roth, President of Customer Success at Salesforce, who discusses Saleforce's pioneering approach to integrating customer success, support, and training into a seamless, unified experience. They explore the dynamic roles within Salesforce, emphasizing the importance of customer success managers (CSMs) as orchestrators who ensure comprehensive customer support. Jim shares how Salesforce's strategy of merging support, training, and success roles leads to a more streamlined and compelling customer experience. This allows Salesforce to leverage data to drive customer health, adoption, and education and create a unified customer success score that guides its strategies. They also discuss the financial models behind customer success, debating the merits of monetizing versus offering services as part of the overall customer experience. Jim provides a compelling argument for why tech companies should consider customer success a critical investment rather than a cost center.Whether you're a tech industry veteran or new, this episode offers insights to elevate your understanding of customer success. Take advantage of this first episode of our TSIA takes special podcast series, which challenges conventional wisdom and provides a fresh perspective on making your customer success business model successful.

Join us for a captivating episode of TECHtonic, where Thomas Lah sits down with Mari Cross, Chief Customer Officer at Infor. In this insightful discussion, Thomas and Mari discuss the dynamic landscape of customer success and the crucial role of the chief customer officer.Discover how Infor navigates the challenges of transitioning from legacy systems to modern, cloud-based solutions, and how they leverage AI and automation to enhance customer experience. Mari shares her unique perspective on balancing customization with standardization, driving digital transformation, and the strategic importance of understanding industry-specific needs.Key topics include:The responsibilities and impact of the chief customer officer at Infor.Strategies for aligning sales and customer success across global regions.The shift from on-premise to SaaS and the role of AI in this transformation.Insights into the future of software business models and the move towards consumption-based pricing.Learn how Infor is leading the way in customer success and what the future holds for technology business models. Learn how Infor is leading the way in customer success and what the future holds for technology business models. Get ready to rethink your customer journey!

In this episode host Thomas Lah sits down with Eduardo Coloma, the CEO of Maptek, a leading provider of software and hardware solutions for the mining industry. This episode delves into Maptek's journey from traditional business models to a subscription-based "as-a-service" transformation, highlighting the challenges and strategies involved.Eduardo discusses the reasons behind Maptek's shift to a subscription model, emphasizing the need for flexibility and scalability in a cyclical industry like mining. He explains how this transition not only aligns with evolving customer preferences but also positions Maptek for long-term success. Eduardo shares the importance of building organizational capabilities, such as customer success and product telemetry, to support a successful transformation.The conversation also explores the role of AI in Maptek's offerings. Eduardo highlights how AI is used to improve geological modeling and scheduling solutions, significantly enhancing efficiency and decision-making processes. He discusses the potential of AI to revolutionize internal workflows, particularly in predictive analytics for customer success.Lastly, Thomas and Eduardo discuss the importance of embracing technological changes, advising CEOs to evaluate and mitigate both business and technology risks. Identifying the crossroads we are at today and how these changes are reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace.This episode serves as a valuable resource for companies navigating their own transformations, providing practical insights and strategies from a leader who has successfully steered his organization through significant changes. Tune in to learn how Maptek is leveraging innovation to stay relevant and competitive in the rapidly evolving technology industry.

Join Thomas Lah in the latest episode of TECHtonic as he delves into the transformative power of AI in educational content creation. In this episode, Thomas engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Sarah Sedgman, CEO of LearnExperts, the AI tool that revolutionized OpenText's educational material production.Sarah shares her vision of democratizing the creation of high-quality training content through AI. With over 25 years of experience in instructional design, she discusses how LearnExperts leverages AI, particularly OpenAI's language models, to convert raw content into structured, impactful learning materials. From text documents to videos, their platform processes a variety of formats, significantly reducing the time and effort required for course development.Throughout the episode, Thomas and Sarah explore the practical applications of AI in learning, emphasizing the importance of human expertise in refining AI-generated content. They highlight the balance between technology and human input, ensuring high-quality, accurate educational materials.Discover how LearnExperts' strategic approach and customer success focus help clients integrate AI into their workflows, driving productivity and maintaining competitive advantage. Sarah also discusses the potential shift towards outcome-based pricing models in AI-driven solutions, providing insights into the evolving landscape of educational technology.Whether you're an instructional designer, a tech enthusiast, or someone interested in the future of AI, this episode offers valuable insights into the rapidly changing world of educational content creation. Listen in to learn how AI is a tool and a game-changer in education services.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative AI (Gen-AI) have the potential to transform insights, processes and provide a competitive edge for B2B technology firms. But in reality, few companies have developed a complete AI roadmap, and many have yet to begin evaluating opportunities for leveraging AI and Gen-AI across the enterprise. In this executive panel, hear from three companies at various stages on their AI journey and participate in live Q&A on getting started with AI, identifying funding, and overcoming common challenges such as data integrity, change management, and gaining executive and employee buy-in.This TSIA World INTERACT conference panel discussion offers valuable insights for technology and services professionals, drawing from expertise shared at TSIA World events.If you want to continue exploring the transformative power of AI, be sure to register for TSIA World ENVISION.

Host Thomas Lah welcomes David Judge, Partner, General Manager Global Customer Success at Microsoft, to explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on scaling customer success. As Microsoft leverages AI across its extensive service offerings, Judge provides an insider's view on how these technologies are improving customer interactions and enhancing operational efficiency within Microsoft.They discuss the specifics of AI use cases from the backend to customer-facing applications, highlighting Microsoft's strategic approach to integrating AI in day-to-day operations. David shares compelling insights into the practical benefits of AI, including significant improvements in self-service capabilities and the reduction of operational friction.Listeners will gain an understanding of how Microsoft's AI-driven tools empower customer success managers to deliver exceptional service, optimize workflow efficiencies, and drive meaningful business outcomes. Whether you're a tech professional seeking to understand AI's role in customer success or a business leader looking to harness AI's potential, this episode offers valuable perspectives and actionable insights you can start using now.

This May, TSIA will host our INTERACT conference in Orlando, showcasing an engaging panel discussion on deploying and optimizing AI hosted by Thomas Lah. Pattabhi Raman, VP of Digital Experience at Informatica, will join the distinguished panel. Recently, Thomas had the privilege of conversing with Pattabhi, gaining exclusive insights into Informatica's strategies for achieving a successful digital customer experience. They discuss the secrets behind Informatica's success and explore how they've exponentially leveraged AI to enhance their digital-first mindset.Tune into this episode of TECHtonic for a sneak peek into how Informatica can't go wrong with its digital-first mentality, and don't miss the chance to join us at INTERACT to explore this topic even further! Register today and get ready to uncover deeper insights to empower you to craft an even more impactful digital customer experience with AI.

This May, TSIA will host our INTERACT conference in Orlando, featuring a special closing keynote by Doug Schmitt, President of Dell Technologies Services. TECHtonic host Thomas Lah recently had the pleasure of speaking with Doug one-on-one for a sneak peek into his presentation. During their conversation, Thomas and Doug delve into Dell's use of AI as the cornerstone for continuously enhancing the customer experience.Their discussion also touches on:The essential skills required to harness AI effectively in today's dynamic business landscape, as well as the nuances and strategies needed to leverage AI to its fullest potential.How Doug and his team spearheaded the deployment of AI within their organization, and its transformative impact on organizational structures.The differentiating factors between customers who thrive with cutting-edge technology and those encountering hurdles.Tune into this episode of TECHtonic for a sneak peek into Dell's winning formula, and don't miss the chance to join us at INTERACT to explore this topic even further! Register today and get ready to uncover deeper insights to empower you to craft an even more impactful customer experience with AI.

In this episode of TECHtonic, Thomas Lah chats with Justin Cawood about the complex journey of integrating AI into the operations of a large technology services provider. Together, they explore the evolution of Managed Services platforms, the initial business case for AI, and the transformative impact of AI on service delivery and customer value propositions. Additionally, Justin shares the challenges and triumphs of deploying AI from the customer perspective and helping customers realize the value of their enhanced experiences—even while preemptively addressing service issues. With a lively discussion on the ever-changing nature of AI-driven operations and the critical role of a team approach in evaluating and implementing AI solutions, this episode isn't just about technology; it's about the future of service delivery, and the strategic advantage that AI can provide to companies seeking to stay competitive in the marketplace.

In this episode, host Thomas Lah, TSIA's Executive Director, engages in a pivotal conversation with Alexandra Zagury, Global Vice President at Cisco. Together, they explore the intricacies of partner strategies in the as-a-service era, as well as the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on technology business models.Key highlights include:The industry's urgent need for clarity and direction in partner strategies amidst the as-a-service transition. This includes Cisco's innovative approaches to partner management, ensuring a seamless transition, and fostering success in a service-dominated landscape.How AI is redefining tech business models, Cisco's AI implementation journey, the importance of AI in enhancing operational efficiency, customer experiences, and the crucial role of telemetry and data governance in harnessing AI's full potential.The implications of AI and as-a-service models on the workforce and corporate culture. How can companies retool and retrain employees to leverage new AI capabilities effectively, and how important is a growth mindset for individuals and organizations?Alexandra Zagury's personal career trajectory, and insights on how it helped mold her unique perspective on the essential skills and adaptive strategies needed to thrive in tech.For professionals seeking to understand and adapt to the seismic technological shifts transforming the industry, this episode is a can't miss!

Join us in the latest episode of TECHtonic, where we dive into the world of customer success with Thomas Lah and Stephen Fulkerson, VP of Customer Success Research at TSIA. In this episode, we explore how customer success can become a more effective channel for ensuring customer satisfaction and organizational success.Thomas and Stephen analyze all aspects of customer success, including:Introducing the KORE score: Keeping Organizational Outcomes, Retention, Renewal, and References Excellent, as the all-in-one solution for organizational success.Streamlining customer success to better define success, break down silos, and foster collaboration with sales.The significance of evolving job titles, such as Renewal Specialists, and what that means for compensation metrics.How to effectively harness and utilize AI capabilities in customer engagements.Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn how to empower your customer success organization with the essential tools required to survive in the uncertain future.Report: The State of Customer Success 2024

Jillian Alexander, Global Vice President of Learning Services at OpenText, guides Thomas Lah through the significant impact of a straightforward, manageable, and focused AI deployment strategy, which leads to strong ROI benefits that simply cannot be ignored.A few key topics that Thomas and Jillian discuss include:The core AI capabilities that OpenText has leveraged for content development.The clear and less obvious benefits of being an early AI adopter.Which KPIs to focus on if you want to demonstrate to senior leadership that there is no ambiguity in the ROI of your AI deployment.At the end of the day, there's a linchpin throughout the conversation that might be the most overlooked piece to build a successful AI strategy. This episode is truly focused on the essential AI stepping stones necessary for everyone, regardless of how far along the AI deployment path you are.

Join us in the latest episode of "TECHtonic" as we delve into the evolving world of technology support models with TSIA's Distinguished Vice President of Support and Field Services Research, Vele Galovski. In this conversation, Thomas and Vele offer a unique blend of insights and perspectives on the current and future state of technology support.They begin with the dramatic shifts observed in 2023, marked by divergent perspectives in the industry, including the bifurcation of corporate responses to economic conditions.Then they talk through the crucial role of support in driving growth, emphasizing the importance of viewing support as a strategic differentiator and an engine for customer satisfaction, while addressing the ongoing challenge of scaling service delivery and monetizing support.The highlight of the discussion is around AI's role in transforming support services. Vele introduces the concept of 'AI Base Campers' and 'AI Mountaineers,' explaining how companies are positioned in terms of AI readiness and adoption. He provides insightful statistics and real-world examples to illustrate how different organizations are leveraging AI to enhance support services, improve efficiency, and scale operations.This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, support services, and AI business strategy!

Dive deep into the dynamic world of technology channel partners with TECHtonic's host, Thomas Lah, and Jay McBain, Chief Analyst of Channels, Partnerships & Ecosystems at Canalys.During this conversation, Thomas and Jay explore the evolving role of channel partners in technology business models, particularly in the context of 'as-a-service' offerings. They focus on key points such as:The shift from traditional transactions to non-transactional moments, emphasizing the partner's lifetime value in subscription models.The critical role partners play in the 'as-a-service' landscape, adapting to changing buyer demographics.The essential nature of managed services in the 'as-a-service' model, with the linchpin being continuous customer support and success.How transparent data sharing between partners and providers fosters stronger trust and collaborations for improved customer outcomes.Tune in to understand the breadth of the expanding landscape of the technology business channel, with actionable insights vital to your ecosystem's success.Research Report: The Real State of Profitable SaaS - Abriged

Historically, Customer Success organizations have relied on inconsistent metrics, lacking a unified framework for assessing renewals and expansions. Simultaneously, the common practice of using NPS is dwindling, with fewer companies finding it effective in gauging customer value. With this, the critical question arises: What should CS orgs prioritize to define improvement and success for both themselves and their customers?In this episode, we not only talk about the “what” but also dive even deeper and explore the 'how,' with telemetry being the key that unlocks both parts of the Customer Success equation.Revolutionize your approach within your Customer Success organization by listening to this thought-provoking conversation from leaders Jim Roth, VP, Customer Support at Salesforce, TSIA's Stephen Fulkerson, VP, Customer Success Research, and TECHtonic host, Thomas Lah, Executive Director and EVP.

In a recent discussion, TSIA's Thomas Lah and Sean Morton, SVP of Professional Services for Trellix, delve into the critical challenges facing enterprise technology today, including the relentless threats of ransomware, the scarcity of IT security professionals, and the overwhelming complexity of IT software tools. Sean breaks down these challenges, shedding light on the paramount issues that demand attention in the tech security landscape. Thomas and Sean touch on key topics such as:The ongoing role Trellix plays in ensuring seamless customer experiences paints a vivid picture of how the company continues to support clients through post-implementation.The future of professional services and how the role will evolve in response to the changing technological landscapes.How Sean's past "product experience" roles have shaped his approach to professional services, and what unique insights and strategies he's brought to the table as a result of blending product expertise with service excellence.Join us as Sean unpacks the intricate tapestry of technology, unveiling the secrets behind Trellix's success and offering a glimpse into the future of IT security, professional services, and the evolving landscape of SaaS companies.

With a wealth of practical expertise between them, TSIA's Thomas Lah and George Humphrey, Distinguished VP & Managing Director of Offering and Delivery Research, delve into the transformative impact of AI on technology business models. They focus on three pivotal dimensions:Data-Driven Decision-MakingEfficiency and Cost ReductionEnhanced Customer ExperienceEmphasizing the urgency for companies to effectively organize around AI, they discuss the risks of stagnation in the face of rapid technological advancements. They stress the need for proactive strategies and highlight the potential dangers of irrelevance and diminished competitiveness for companies that fail to strategically embrace AI-driven transformations.Take the first step on the Enterprise AI in Technology and Service Operations Research Journey by completing the TSIA Quick Poll: Organizing for AI Success, enabling leaders to remain at the forefront of how AI is reshaping the technology industry. Gain valuable insights, stay informed, and be part of the transformative conversation that is shaping the landscape of technology businesses worldwide.

TSIA World ENVISION closed with J.B. Wood, President & CEO, and Thomas Lah, Executive Director and Executive VP at TSIA, discussing reflections and insights from our week together, and exploring the benefits of Silo Busting for Profits and Growth. From key takeaways and the most impactful breakout session presentations to the pulse from countless conversations with attendees throughout the week, this framing conversation will add depth and insights to the content that was presented. What resonated? What assumptions were validated or fell flat? Listen now to stay ahead of current trends that are forming and driving the technology industry today.

In this episode, host Thomas Lah interviews Rashellee Herrera, founder and president at CPA firm RNB Capital, who focuses on helping CEOs optimize the financial performance of their SaaS businesses. She provides an expert take on today's SaaS environment, what SaaS companies can do to protect cash flow, and the common mistakes that many SaaS companies make.Rashellee and Thomas discuss financial health metrics for SaaS businesses, as well as:Financial and business connections that executive teams must understandThe top practices that profitable companies are implementing todayAreas of risk assessment that CFOs may not be looking atThe current economic environment for SaaS companies

Tech companies everywhere are being challenged to grow recurring service revenues and scale customer success to nurture these recurring revenues. Today, TECHtonic host, Thomas Lah, is joined by Grad Rosenbaum, VP of Global Customer Success at HP Inc., to discuss these challenges, which are central to our current Research Journey, Protecting and Growing Your Customer Base. In this episode, Lah and Rosenbaum discuss the development of customer success at HP, the roles of sales and customer success in the expansion and renewal motions, and cost-effectively scaling customer success.Ready to learn more? Keep up to date on this subject by subscribing to TSIA's Research Journey, Protecting and Growing Your Customer Base today!

After years of focusing on growth at any cost, SaaS companies are now being forced to balance growth with improved profitability. Abbas Haider Ali, VP of customer success at GitHub and SaaS advisor and investor, believes that this pivot is creating a moment of truth for customer success organizations. Today, Ali talks to TSIA's Thomas Lah about his experience as an investor and customer success executive, and what he sees in the customer success landscape today. They discuss topics such as:Key questions that customer success executives must ask themselves and their teams to be successfulThe current customer success landscapeKey levers that customer success organizations must pull to improve profitabilityVital telemetry for customer success todayThe possibilities of AI for customer success

Today on TECHtonic, we dive into the role of customer success in a profitable software business model with Mike Flannagan, corporate vice president of global customer success at Microsoft.Mike and host Thomas Lah discuss what customer success entails today and how organizations can get it right, answering questions such as:How has customer success changed over the past few years?How can companies leverage data and analytics in terms of helping customers achieve business objectives?What is the role of AI in delivering customer success?What does the digital experience look like for larger, more complex customers?What should somebody newer to customer success or customer success leadership be thinking about?

Today's tech companies are struggling with the question of how to maintain corporate culture in a world where the workforce is rapidly evolving. But how do we define culture, and what are its effects? This week, we tackle the tricky topic of corporate culture with Culture Partners' Chief Scientist of Workplace Culture, Jessica Kriegel, discussing such critical topics as:What defines company cultureHow culture drives resultsElements of a strong or weak corporate cultureWhat virtual work means for cultureHow leaders drive company cultureManaging a multi-generational workforce Catch Jessica at TSIA World ENVISION this October 16-18! Her keynote will demystify corporate culture, providing attendees with an inspired perspective on achievable culture transformation and four actionable steps for cultivating an intentional culture that strengthens business strategy and performance.

Shally Stanley, SVP of Global Delivery at Salesforce, joins us on TECHtonic to discuss the future of the professional services function within technology providers. In this episode, we cover topics such as:How companies are breaking down silos between professional services, customer success, and supportKPIs and future metrics for success in professional servicesHow companies are pricing and packaging professional services offersThe impact of AI and data on consulting and professional servicesThe market's current demand for customized offers

Founding a successful SaaS company has never been easy, but as of 2022, it got much harder. Valuations took a hit, investment dollars became scarce, and for the first time ever, SaaS companies actually started laying off employees. In this episode of TECHtonic, Thomas is joined by Phil Alves, SaaS entrepreneur, CEO of DevSquad, and host of SaaS Origin Stories, a podcast where he interviews SaaS founders. In this fantastic conversation on the current state of SaaS, they discuss:How the current economic environment is impacting SaaS companiesThe best approach to starting a SaaS companyHow AI plays into SaaS valuationsWhether AI will soon start to replace technical staffReady to learn more? Keep up to date on this subject by subscribing to TSIA's Research Journey, The Year of Profitable SaaS today!

Managed services is one of the fastest-growing revenue streams in the technology industry, and can be a bridge to recurring revenues. Joined by Peter Lacoste, SVP of Managed Services at Dell, we shine a light on what it means to provide managed services in today's technology industry, and address the following questions:What is managed services and how is it different from traditional outsourcing?What are the best pricing approaches for managed services offers?How can managed services accelerate digital transformation?How have managed services sales evolved?What internal relationship is most critical for managed services success?Ready to learn more? Keep up to date on this subject by subscribing to TSIA's Research Journey, The Evolution of Pricing Models for Managed Services today!