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IFS: Utilities globally prioritize AI to drive digital transformation, but lack of collaboration a key factor preventing 80% from completing journey

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Organized data holds the key to successfully adopting AI while improved asset management emerges among top drivers of transformation

LONDON, July 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — AI is at the forefront of digital transformation in the utilities sector, with 82% of executives recognizing it as essential to their strategy. However, despite widespread recognition of the importance of emerging technologies, only a fifth (20%) of companies have completed their digital transformation journey, with respondents split on where ownership should lie (22% reference CFO, while the same percentage cite the CTO).

That’s according to new research by IFS, the leading technology innovator in cloud and Industrial AI software, which polled 863 C-level executives and VPs from utilities companies around the world (UK, US, France, the Nordics, the Middle East, and Australia).

While 84% of organizations recognise data analytics as important to their digital transformation approach, the research highlights the complexity and challenges inherent in fully realizing digital strategies. The primary obstacles include the inability to measure value accurately from investments (32%), a lack of clarity on necessary resources and skills (25%), and a lack of consensus on priorities among leadership (23%).

Asset management has emerged as a critical factor in delivering new services and outcomes as part of a digital transformation, with 36% of respondents emphasizing its importance ensuring reliable and efficient service delivery. This focus is driven by aging infrastructure and increasing asset complexity. Many grid components are well past their intended lifespan and operate under conditions far more severe than they were originally designed for, while the shift to renewables and distributed energy resources adds further complexity.

Other operational areas are referenced in this context with resource optimization cited by 39%; 38% highlighting the need for a robust customer experience strategy, and 36% mentioning field service management.

Carol Johnston, VP of Energy, Utilities and Resources at IFS, commented: “The utilities sector is at a pivotal moment, where AI-driven digital transformation and sustainability are not just trends but imperatives. Our research proves the need for robust data management and AI capabilities to ensure companies make a success of their transformation. But utilities must also embrace a holistic approach, leveraging end-to-end digital tools and fostering strong partnerships to navigate this complex landscape.”

When it comes to executing on digital transformation strategies, composable enterprise platforms which empower businesses to mix and match/assemble different software modules to meet their specific needs are in high demand, with 38% of decision makers seeking such solutions to support their journey. This underlines the need for flexible and modular technology infrastructures as companies look to adapt quickly to changing requirements, while being able to integrate various applications more seamlessly.

Johnston added: “Composable platforms allow enterprises to bring in new functionality as and when required, providing a flexible approach to digital transformation. This reduces complexity and allows companies to adopt technology at their own pace, offering a streamlined solution that integrates various applications seamlessly.”

The research also reaffirmed sustainability as a top priority for utilities businesses, with 46% of respondents currently at the stage of setting timelines and goals for achieving sustainability targets. However, only 31%have hit their first milestones. The key strategies for meeting these goals include improving asset efficiency (43%) and investing in energy-efficient assets (42%).

Sustainability in the utilities sector involves more than just carbon reduction. It includes revenue models, workforce retention, and safe operations. Integrating sustainability across operations ensures resilience and compliance. Johnston added: “We don’t see sustainability as a trade-off, but as an opportunity to create value for our customers and society. Utilities also increasingly understand the importance of accurate data and reliable reports in measuring progress to key sustainability goals and avoiding greenwashing. Effective strategies include optimizing resource use, selecting sustainable suppliers, and engaging customers in programs like energy audits and solar panel installations.”

There is significant importance in connecting four of the core themes from this research: AI, digital transformation, asset management, and sustainability. “Utilities must recognize that these elements are interconnected. By leveraging AI and digital tools to optimize asset management, they can meet sustainability goals more effectively. This comprehensive approach ensures a balanced and strategic transformation journey,” concluded Carol Johnston.

Research conducted by Censuswide in April and May 2024. The research polled 863 C-level executives and VPs from utilities companies specializing in power generation, transmission, distribution, natural gas, and water/wastewater services. Conducted across the UK, US, France, the Nordics, the Middle East, and Australia, it explores critical trends, challenges, and strategic priorities, particularly in digital transformation, sustainability, and customer experience.

About IFS

IFS develops and delivers cloud enterprise software for companies around the world who manufacture and distribute goods, build, and maintain assets, and manage service-focused operations. Within our single platform, our industry specific products are innately connected to a single data model and use embedded digital innovation so that our customers can be their best when it really matters to their customers – at the Moment of Service™. The industry expertise of our people and of our growing ecosystem, together with a commitment to deliver value at every single step, has made IFS a recognized leader and the most recommended supplier in our sector. Our team of over 6,000 employees every day live our values of agility, trustworthiness, and collaboration in how we support our 6,500+ customers. Learn more about how our enterprise software solutions can help your business today at ifs.com.

IFS Recognition

IFS ranked #1 for EAM market share in the Gartner® Market Share: All Software Markets, Worldwide, 2023 report for third consecutive yearGartner® Peer Insights Customers’ Choice 2023 – Cloud ERPIFS named a leader in IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Field Service Management Solutions 2023-2024Top 100 Companies (3rd), The Software Report, 2023

IFS Press Contacts:

EUROPE / MEA / APJ: Adam Gillbe
IFS, Director of Corporate & Executive Communications
Email: press@ifs.com 
Phone: +44 7775 114 856

NORTH AMERICA / LATAM: Mairi Morgan
IFS, Director of Corporate & Executive Communications
Email: press@ifs.com
Phone: +44 7918 607 299

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/ifs/r/utilities-globally-prioritize-ai-to-drive-digital-transformation–but-lack-of-collaboration-a-key-fa,c4012876

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Carbide Manufacturing Expert Carl Ciesla Shares How Beginners Can Build Strong Foundations in HelloNation

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SANBORN, N.Y., June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — What does it take to get started in machining with the right foundation? In an article published by HelloNation, Carl Ciesla of Lakeshore Carbide in Sanborn, New York, explains how beginners can prepare for long-term success in the trade. He emphasizes that machining is more than operating equipment; it requires precision, problem-solving, and a solid grasp of both theory and practice.

Ciesla notes that learning to read blueprints and understand tolerances is one of the first steps for new machinists. These skills ensure that each part can be accurately produced and verified. Knowing how exact a measurement must be — and how to consistently meet that requirement — lays the foundation for quality work.

The article explains that hands-on practice with measurement tools is equally important. Micrometers, calipers, and indicators allow machinists to measure down to the thousandth of an inch. Mastering these tools ensures that accuracy begins at the bench, not just at the machine.

Ciesla highlights that tool geometry is another essential area of learning. The shape and angle of cutting flutes directly influence chip evacuation, tool engagement, and part quality. Beginners who understand these details gain an advantage when choosing and using carbide end mills and inserts for different jobs.

He also stresses the value of manual machining experience. By working with lathes and mills, apprentices develop an understanding of speeds, feeds, and tool angles. This manual training provides the background needed to troubleshoot effectively when transitioning to CNC machines.

The article points out that shops look for machinists who combine technical knowledge with practical skills. Those who understand both the “why” and the “how” are better equipped to solve problems and improve efficiency on the shop floor.

Ciesla emphasizes that machining is not a skill learned overnight. It is a lifelong craft shaped by curiosity, precision, and practice. Developing strong habits early on helps new machinists grow into experts who continuously refine their techniques.

The path into machining, according to Ciesla, is about more than learning machines. It is about cultivating craftsmanship, practicing patience, and building the mindset needed to succeed in a career defined by exacting standards and continuous improvement.

The article, Getting Started in Machining, shows how Carl Ciesla of Lakeshore Carbide offers practical guidance for those entering the field. His perspective in HelloNation outlines the key steps and habits that prepare new machinists for long-term success.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative “edvertising” approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/carbide-manufacturing-expert-carl-ciesla-shares-how-beginners-can-build-strong-foundations-in-hellonation-302804920.html

SOURCE HelloNation

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Honest Medical CEO Responds to Medline Facility Fire, Confirms Inventory Secured for California Customers

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Following the devastating Medline distribution center fire in Tracy, CA, Honest Medical CEO Mike Greenan went on NBC News to confirm that inventory secured at alternative facilities will keep customer orders on track.

OCEANSIDE, Calif., June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Honest Medical (HonestMed.com), a fast-growing ecommerce site offering thousands of essential healthcare products, is assuring customers that the recent fire at a primary Medline distribution hub will not significantly impact the availability of critical medical supplies. Honest Medical CEO Mike Greenan addressed the public on NBC News to assure healthcare facilities and other customers that robust contingency plans are actively in place.

It’s great to get this commitment from Medline so that our customers in other regions don’t need to worry. There may be a minor logistical adjustment of one or two days, but that is the absolute extent of it.

Medline, which describes itself as the largest supplier of medical and surgical supplies in the world, manufactures thousands of medical supplies that are essential for both healthcare facilities and in-home caregivers. This fire impacted one of Medline’s largest distribution hubs, leaving many healthcare facilities in the San Francisco Bay Area and other parts of California concerned that critical supplies may be seriously delayed. The California Hospital Association, which represents close to 400 hospitals throughout the state, reported receiving many inquiries as a result of the fire, demonstrating the high level of concern.

Greenan was able to confirm that Honest Medical received firm assurances from Medline that inventory at other facilities – particularly a warehouse in Temecula, Southern California – have the resources to make sure pending orders are filled and that Northern California customers receive the supplies they need. Greenan said, “It’s great to get this commitment from Medline so that our customers in other regions don’t need to worry. There may be a minor logistical adjustment of one or two days, but that is the absolute extent of it.”

While Medline has not yet released an official timeline for rebuilding the damaged distribution hub, local authorities and industry experts emphasize that its strategic location makes a full restoration likely. In the interim, Honest Medical’s secondary supply channels remain fully operational to prevent any disruption to patient care.

Watch the report on the fire and Honest Medical CEO Mike Greenan’s comments here.

About Honest Medical

Honest Medical is a fast-growing ecommerce source for thousands of health and wellness products. Honest Medical empowers families, caregivers and institutions to shop across a broad range of essential healthcare products addressing critical issues such as mobility, nutrition, incontinence and more. In addition, the Honest Ideas blog offers helpful information and insights covering a range of topics relevant to those with disabilities, seniors, caregivers and loved ones. With its primary focus on customer satisfaction, HonestMed maintains a team of expert customer care specialists and offers its essential health and wellness products at affordable prices and with speedy delivery. Follow Honest Medical on Facebook and Instagram.

Media Contact

Jon Ramirez, Honest Medical, 1 833-933-2323, jon.ramirez@honestmed.com, www.honestmed.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/honest-medical-ceo-responds-to-medline-facility-fire-confirms-inventory-secured-for-california-customers-302804793.html

SOURCE Honest Medical

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Advent Resources Expands Across Texas as Dealers Face Rising Fraud, Compliance Pressures, and Operational Complexity

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One connected platform helps Texas dealerships reduce risk, eliminate friction, and move deals faster.

FORT WORTH, Texas, June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Advent Resources is expanding its reach across Texas to help dealerships simplify and strengthen the car deal, as fraud, compliance, and disconnected technology continue to create operational challenges for automotive retailers.

Dealers are managing more systems, regulations, customer expectations, and risk. The answer isn’t adding more technology. It’s about creating one workflow, one source of truth, and one platform to run their entire sales department.

For over 30 years, Advent Resources has helped dealers streamline operations by bringing identity verification, deal structuring, lender approvals, contracting, compliance, and funding into a single connected platform.

Today, this goal is more important than ever.

“Dealers are managing more systems, regulations, customer expectations, and risk,” said Ben Gill, CEO of Advent Resources. “The answer isn’t adding more technology. It’s about creating one workflow, one source of truth, and one platform to run their entire sales department.”

Auto fraud continues to grow while dealerships face increasing pressure to maintain compliance, protect customer information, and improve operations.

Auto fraud losses are projected to exceed $9 billion annually.

45% of dealerships report losses between $10,000 – $20,000 from a single fraudulent transaction.

Many dealerships recover less than 50% of fraud-related losses once a deal has been funded.

At the same time, many stores still rely on multiple disconnected systems to complete a single transaction, creating duplicate work, wasted clicks and opportunities for expensive errors.

Advent addresses these challenges by connecting every stage of the deal into one workflow, helping dealerships:

Structure, approve, contract, and fund deals in one system

Reduce hundreds of unnecessary clicks and eliminate duplicate data entry

Verify customer identities and collect required documents in real time

Strengthen compliance through integrated audit trails and automated workflows

Improve profitability by accelerating deals and reducing delays

Maintain one consistent source of truth from lead to funded deal

What’s more, Advent provides advanced AI-powered identity verification to reveal potential fraud risks earlier in the sales process, before issues become costly problems.

“Fraud and compliance issues rarely show up early,” Gill said. “They happen after the fact, when a dealership is trying to unwind a bad deal. The best way to reduce risk is to mitigate it head on at the beginning of the process.”

Advent’s commitment to improving the dealership experience extends beyond the sales department and into the showroom with Advent Connect.

Designed for both customers and staff, Advent Connect guides shoppers through the entire purchase process – from vehicle selection and payment options to financing, protection products, compliance documents, and final delivery. With every step of the transaction in a single customer-facing experience, dealerships eliminate friction, improve transparency, and create a faster, more engaging purchase.

Advent’s workflow helps customers make informed decisions while ensuring every profit opportunity is optimized throughout the transaction. The result is a better experience for customers, greater efficiency for teams, higher profitability for the dealership, and a modern retail process built around collaboration, transparency, and speed.

About Advent Resources

Advent Resources provides software that powers the financial layer of the car deal. For more than 30 years, the company has supported thousands of dealerships across the United States, including many of the industry’s top-performing dealer groups. By bringing identity verification, deal structuring, lender approvals, contracting, compliance and funding into one system, its digital car deal platform, Advent Advantage, helps dealerships complete deals faster while reducing risk and improving operational efficiency.

For more information, visit www.adventresources.com.

Media Contact

Jennifer Lange, Advent Resources, 1 9494603408, jenniferl@adventresources.com, www.adventresources.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/advent-resources-expands-across-texas-as-dealers-face-rising-fraud-compliance-pressures-and-operational-complexity-302804921.html

SOURCE Advent Resources

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