Interview with Aditya Kinra, Vice-President, Tata Teleservices

“One of the significant challenges faced by businesses, including SMBs, is the need for expertise and resources in managing data privacy and security within the realm of Generative AI,” says Aditya Kinra, Vice-President, Tata Teleservices, who in an interaction with Enterprise Times, talks about evolving landscape of cloud computing and cybersecurity trends and how Tata Teleservices is gearing up to meet the requirements of SMBs to achieve digital agility and realize their growth potential.

Enterprise TimesHow is Tata Tele Business Services (TTBS) helping SMBs to recalibrate their functions with Smart Solutions and new cybersecurity practices?

Aditya Kinra: Tata Tele Business Services (TTBS) is empowering SMBs with Smart Solutions, enabling them to build operational efficiency and enhance customer experience. Through our innovative smart cloud and collaboration solutions, coupled with robust customer services, we are helping SMBs to achieve digital agility and realize their growth potential.  

Since most of SMBs do not have large IT Teams and resources, we introduced Smart Internet, an advanced Internet leased line which empowers SMBs to easily access bandwidth-heavy applications on our secured high-performance network with real time usage control and manageability. Smart Internet makes it easier for them to run huge data operations, send bulky files, make video calls, and use cloud-based applications. Smart Internet comprises a unified threat management system, secured remote connectivity between server and client, fully managed system with best-in-class SLA and uptime, scalable services as per customer’s future needs, and end-to-end security. It further guards organisations against sophisticated cyber threats  and makes them more productive with a positive impact on financials, reputation, and sustainability. Smart internet is now being used by thousands of SMBs across diverse industry segments.

Furthermore, we have a strategic partnership with Quick Heal and SEQRITE, leveraging the collective strengths of all entities to deliver comprehensive cybersecurity solutions to the market. This alliance is a significant milestone in empowering SMBs with cutting-edge cybersecurity measures to safeguard their digital assets and data. As the business landscape continues to evolve, TTBS remains committed to enabling SMBs to embrace new cybersecurity practices and smart solutions, ensuring their continued success in an ever-changing digital ecosystem.

Enterprise Times: How is Enterprise Security in India shaping up with recent technological interventions?

Aditya Kinra: The landscape of enterprise security is undergoing a profound transformation driven by recent technological innovations, particularly amidst the transition to hybrid work models. Enterprises across sectors, including those handling sensitive data like Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI), are recognizing the heightened importance of prioritizing security measures. With employees accessing corporate networks from diverse locations and devices, enterprises face increased cybersecurity risks, emphasizing the need for robust measures to safeguard data integrity and confidentiality. From the adoption of AI and ML to embracing Zero Trust principles and cloud security measures, organizations are leveraging cutting-edge technologies to fortify their defences against evolving cyber threats.

TTBS has been at the forefront of enhancing enterprise security offerings, leveraging strategic partnerships and innovative solutions to empower organizations to navigate the complexities of hybrid work environments effectively. Through collaborations like our partnership with Truecaller, we offer enhanced security features that utilize advanced caller identification technology. By integrating Truecaller’s cutting-edge technology, we aim to empower businesses with a seamless and secure communication solution that not only optimizes operations but significantly augments customer trust and satisfaction.

Furthermore, TTBS has introduced secure offerings tailored for meta-WhatsApp Businesses, recognizing the growing reliance on messaging platforms for customer engagement across industries. By integrating our Smartflo cloud Communication suit with WhatsApp Business Platform, we provide  an integrated omnichannel solution experience involving different channels and methods of connecting with customers. These secure offerings enable enterprises to leverage messaging platforms for seamless customer interactions while adhering to regulatory requirements and safeguarding sensitive information.

Through strategic initiatives and innovative solutions backed by stringent security standards  TTBS remains dedicated to supporting  enterprises in India in embracing digital transformation securely.

Enterprise Times: Cloud adoption by SMBs. How is it turning into a dominant determinant for mainstream adoption in the enterprise?

Aditya Kinra: The rapid adoption of cloud technologies by SMBs is emerging as a pivotal force driving mainstream adoption in the enterprise, reshaping the business landscape with swift and comprehensive digital initiatives. Recognizing the critical role of cloud technology, SMBs have significantly invested in cloud based digital solutions yielding tangible impacts on customer relationships, market reach, and overall business growth.

Strategically aligning their digital initiatives on cloud , SMBs are enhancing customer relationships and fostering loyalty through an omni-channel approach. This approach seamlessly integrates all customer-facing interfaces, delivering cohesive experiences across platforms such as web apps, mobile apps, and intelligent chatbots. Cloud technologies play a pivotal role in expanding market reach for SMBs, empowering them to serve customers globally and transcend geographical barriers. Furthermore, the adoption of cloud-based collaborative tools like Unified Communication as a Service (UCaaS) facilitates hybrid  work, enhancing operational flexibility and enabling SMBs to tap into a wider talent pool. This adaptability is crucial for SMBs to respond quickly to evolving business demands and market dynamics.

At TTBS, we have made significant advancement in this domain by integrating Operator Connect for Microsoft Teams with Smartflo UCaaS. Operator Connect takes Smartflo UCaaS to the next level, empowering customers to seamlessly connect their telephone numbers on Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) with Teams. This integration bridges the gap between remote employees and the office, delivering an advanced communication experience and fostering stronger connections with employees and customers. Smartflo UCaaS with Operator Connect provides unparalleled flexibility with work-from-anywhere functionality, streamlined deployment, enhanced support, and cost optimization, making it a transformative asset for businesses.

In essence, cloud adoption has emerged as a dominant determinant for mainstream adoption by SMBs offering remarkable benefits such as cost savings, revolutionizing customer experiences, expanding market reach, enhancing operational flexibility, and fostering collaboration between businesses and service providers. This trend underscores the transformative power of cloud technologies in shaping the future of business.

Enterprise Times: Data privacy and security seem to be a leading concern surrounding Generative AI. How are you addressing these concerns?

Aditya Kinra: Data privacy and security are paramount concerns in today’s digital landscape, extending to emerging technologies like Generative AI.  One of the significant challenges faced by businesses, including SMBs, is the need for expertise and resources in managing data privacy and security within the realm of Generative AI.

To bridge this gap, TTBS serves as a trusted partner, offering subject matter expertise and comprehensive services tailored to different industries and requirements. Our team of experts works closely with businesses to implement robust data privacy and security measures, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and standards. In our suite of innovative business solutions for digital transformation, data privacy and security are integral components, including our approach to Generative AI. We prioritize the implementation of stringent security protocols to safeguard sensitive data throughout the lifecycle of  projects. Through strategic partnerships with leading tech companies, we integrate best-in-class security features into our offerings, ensuring that data privacy and security remain top priorities.

Enterprise Times: What shall be the top priorities/technology trends for SMBs?

Aditya Kinra: SMBs will place a strong emphasis on leveraging emerging technologies to fuel their growth and enhance competitiveness. Among the top priorities for these businesses, integrating innovations such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cloud computing stands out prominently. Cloud computing, in particular, will continue to play a central role in SMB IT strategies, enabling scalability, flexibility, and cost-efficiency. SMBs will remain focused on optimizing their cloud environments by leveraging multi-cloud and hybrid cloud architectures, adopting advanced UCaaS solutions to maximize performance and minimize costs.

Also, AI-powered solutions will play a crucial role in optimizing processes, reducing waste, and improving overall operational efficiency. Additionally, as digital solutions become more widespread, cybersecurity remains a critical concern. Strengthening digital infrastructure to safeguard against evolving cyber threats will be paramount for SMBs, ensuring the protection of sensitive data and fostering trust among customers and partners. Furthermore, in a competitive market where user experience is of utmost importance, SMBs will prioritize customer-centric digital strategies by investing in customer relationship management (CRM) platforms, personalized marketing automation tools, and omnichannel communication solutions. By staying at the forefront of these trends and offering comprehensive solutions and expert guidance, TTBS will continue to empower SMBs by offering solutions that enable personalized interactions, understand customer preferences, and deliver products and services in innovative ways.

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