A Deep Dive into Happiest Minds’ Digital Initiatives: From Generative AI to Sustainable IT Practices

In an exclusive conversation with Express Computer, Sajith S. Kumar, Chief Information Officer of Happiest Minds, shares his views on the company’s strategic digital initiatives, focusing on harnessing cutting-edge technologies to drive innovation and enhance customer experiences. With a proactive approach for adopting Generative AI, automation, and robust cybersecurity measures, Happiest Minds is at the forefront of leveraging emerging technologies to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving IT landscape.

Some edited excerpts from the interview:

Can you share with us some of the key digital initiatives undertaken by Happiest Minds? What has been the impact?
We have rolled out multiple digital initiatives that are aimed at driving innovation and enhancing customer experiences. Multiple solutions are being evaluated and rolled out on GenAI, small utility solutions that can generate reusable content from the documentation that we already have (Responses to RFP, proposals, legal documents, policies, etc.). Applications that can generate responses to queries that are related to policies, IT support, etc. Many daily tasks are automated, such as identifying insecure devices, critical alert automation, log analysis through SOAR, automation of secure OS installation with all CIS controls, patches and updates automation, etc.

To address the growing concerns around data security, we have focused on solutions that protect Data and IT infrastructure using multiple solutions on the cloud and on-premises. For example – Implementation of SASE, CASB, and DLP at the perimeter, endpoints & collaboration tools.

Multiple initiatives that reduce CO2 emissions, such as making sure that our IT assets are compliant with the relevant standards, not used beyond the warranty period, energy saving devices, and ensuring e-wasting through proper channels.

These initiatives have had a significant impact on the availability of organizational IT systems and processes. The adoption of automation and AI has streamlined processes, reducing operational costs and increasing efficiency. The implementation of IT Security control solutions has strengthened data security, protecting sensitive information and ensuring compliance with all relevant standards. The focus on sustainability and ESG initiatives has not only improved the company’s environmental impact but also enhanced its reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking organization. These efforts collectively contribute to Happiest Minds’ mission of creating a happier, more connected, and sustainable digital world.

How is Happiest Minds leveraging emerging technologies like AI – more specifically, Generative AI, to gain a competitive advantage and deliver innovative solutions to clients? Can you share some specific examples?
Happiest Minds is leveraging Generative AI, automation, new technology adoption, etc., to gain a competitive edge and deliver innovative solutions across various domains. Here are some key initiatives. Happiest Minds has established a dedicated business unit focused on Generative AI. This unit offers full-scale Generative AI services, including consulting, engineering, and testing. This unit aims to create tailored Generative AI solutions for specific business challenges, optimize workflows, and enhance existing systems.

The company is training all its people in relevant aspects of Generative AI, such as code assistance, to leverage the technology for internal functions. We are also strengthening their technology skillset on platforms like Microsoft, OpenAI, Google, and AWS. We are also ensuring that all our systems are secure and adequate training is provided to our people on preventing cybersecurity attacks or incidents. We are also ensuring that DLP is implemented at endpoints, perimeter & collaboration tools.

How is Happiest Minds optimizing its IT infrastructure to improve efficiency and reduce costs?
Happiest Minds is optimizing its IT infrastructure through several strategic initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and reducing costs. Here are some key approaches:
* Automation of repetitive tasks
* SDWAN, Cloud firewall, Strengthening of DLP
* Standardization of hardware, Operating Systems etc.
* Administrator access is controlled, preventing the installation of unauthorized software
* Adopting Cloud
* Leveraging SaaS applications
* Adoption of GenAI\chatbots

These initiatives collectively contribute to a more agile, secure, and cost-effective IT infrastructure, enabling Happiest Minds to deliver better value to its customers.

We are also moving towards technologies that automate all installation, patching and updating third party applications as well as native applications, securing internal and external movement of traffic, controls to protect data at rest and as well as on motion, automation of log reviews and SDWAN implementation to optimize & secure network\data traffic. All of these have reduced the number of incidents and have also reduced the effort to monitor our IT systems.

What are the key trends and challenges that you see impacting the IT industry in the coming years? How is Happiest Minds preparing to address these challenges?
We feel Generative AI will evolve to reduce some of the recurring IT tasks; automation of many redundant but necessary IT controls will reduce manual effort and improve efficiency; and connectivity will improve going forward, thus reducing the need for specialized hardware to manage corporate networks.

What emerging technologies do you believe will have the most significant impact on the IT landscape, and how is Happiest Minds positioning itself to capitalize on these opportunities?
As new technologies continue to evolve, their impact on the IT landscape will be profound. We are positioning ourselves to capitalize on these opportunities by investing in research and development, fostering strategic partnerships, and upskilling our workforce. This proactive approach ensures we can harness the potential of these innovations and deliver advanced solutions that meet our customers’ evolving needs. The emerging technologies that we believe will have the most significant impact are: GenAI, Hyper Automation, Highspeed Internet\Connectivity solutions, Cyber Security and SaaS\PaaS Applications