Matthew Miller, Author at Techbest - Top Tech Reviews In Australia - Page 2 of 100

JBL Tune Flex Ghost 2 Wireless Bluetooth in-Ear Earphones Review


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JBL Tune Flex Ghost 2 Wireless Bluetooth in-Ear Earphones with Noise Cancelling, 48 Hours Playback Time, IP54 Water and Dust Proof, Multipoint Connection, Ergonomic Design, White Ghost

Transport for NSW Acquires Leading NBN Co Data Specialists


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Transport for NSW Engages Former NBN Co Data Leaders

Quick Overview

  • Transport for NSW has brought on board two former NBN Co data executives, Marc Ashworth and Easwaren Sivagnanam.
  • The hires are part of a recent restructuring within the agency’s technology sector.
  • Ashworth will spearhead strategic data efforts, while Sivagnanam will concentrate on architecture and strategy.
  • These modifications aim to improve data management and artificial intelligence capabilities.

Transport for NSW Enhances Data Leadership

Transport for NSW secures two NBN Co data leaders

Transport for NSW has revealed the hiring of Marc Ashworth and Easwaren Sivagnanam, two former NBN Co data specialists, to newly established leadership positions within its technology sector. This transition is part of a strategic restructuring aimed at bolstering the agency’s data capabilities.

Marc Ashworth’s Role and Responsibilities

Marc Ashworth has taken on the role of Chief Data Officer at Transport for NSW. With significant experience gained from his time at NBN Co and CBA, Ashworth is poised to deliver strategic leadership across the agency’s data and information domain. His responsibilities include overseeing the enterprise-wide data strategy, policy, engineering, architecture, and operations, with an emphasis on data management, exchange, storage, and the assimilation of AI technologies.

Easwaren Sivagnanam’s New Position

Easwaren Sivagnanam steps in as the Executive Director of Architecture, Strategy, and Partnering. His experience in leading data and infrastructure transformations at NBN Co will be crucial in developing Transport for NSW’s technological framework and capabilities. Sivagnanam is enthusiastic about advancing the agency’s mission to enhance the quality of life in New South Wales.

Strategic Implications of the Appointments

The hiring of these experienced data professionals highlights Transport for NSW’s dedication to utilizing sophisticated data strategies and technologies. By strengthening their data management and AI capabilities, the agency aims to provide more secure, effective, and customer-centric technology solutions.

Summary

Transport for NSW has strategically engaged former NBN Co data leaders to fortify its technological framework. The appointments of Marc Ashworth and Easwaren Sivagnanam are pivotal to achieving the agency’s vision of using data for operational excellence and enhanced public service delivery.

Q: What positions have Marc Ashworth and Easwaren Sivagnanam taken at Transport for NSW?

A: Marc Ashworth serves as the Chief Data Officer, and Easwaren Sivagnanam occupies the role of Executive Director of Architecture, Strategy, and Partnering.

Q: What background does Marc Ashworth bring to Transport for NSW?

A: Ashworth previously held the position of General Manager of Data Science and Data Product Engineering at NBN Co and has data experience from CBA.

Q: What will Easwaren Sivagnanam prioritize in his role?

A: Sivagnanam will focus on architecture, strategy, and partnerships, applying his experience in data transformation and AI technology from his time at NBN Co.

Q: What effect will these appointments have on Transport for NSW?

A: The appointments are designed to enhance Transport for NSW’s data strategy, management, and AI capabilities, ultimately improving customer service and operational effectiveness.

Q: What prompted Transport for NSW to restructure its technology division?

A: The restructuring aimed to align the agency’s technology goals more closely with its strategic objectives, thereby improving data-driven decision-making.

Q: What are the primary duties of the Chief Data Officer at TfNSW?

A: The Chief Data Officer is tasked with guiding teams to deliver secure and efficient technology solutions, with a strong focus on data strategy, policy, and AI integration.

Belkin SoundForm True Wireless Earbud Headphones Review


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Belkin SoundForm True Wireless Earbud Headphones (Bluetooth Earphones for iPhone, Samsung, Google, Touch Control, Portable Charging Case, 24 Hours Playtime, Noise Isolation, Sweatproof) – White

Razer Hammerhead True Wireless Earbuds, Mercury Review


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Razer Hammerhead True Wireless Earbuds, Mercury

Kinglucky ClipFree Open-Ear Headphones Review


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Kinglucky ClipFree Open-Ear Headphones, Jewelry-Inspired Ear-Cuff Design, Stylish & Comfortable Clip-On Fit, Bluetooth 5.4 Wireless Earbuds for Women, Long Battery Life, Great for Gifting, Rose Gold

DTA Excludes Key Government Technology Buyers from Vendor Conversations


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Government Technology Acquisitions: A Plea for Inclusion and Openness

Government Technology Acquisitions: A Plea for Inclusion and Openness

DTA omits government's largest tech purchasers from vendor discussions

Brief Overview

  • Significant government technology purchasers excluded from vendor discussions.
  • Contracts have resulted in $1.6 billion in cost avoidance but are under scrutiny.
  • Demands for the reinstatement of purchaser input in talks for improved terms.
  • Challenges regarding complexity and clarity in existing contracts.
  • Suggestions for enhancements and incorporation of emerging technologies.

Exclusion of Major Technology Purchasers

The Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) has conducted negotiations for whole-of-government technology contracts without input from large federal bodies, such as the Defence and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). This exclusion has sparked worries about the efficacy of these contracts, with some agencies believing they might secure superior deals independently.

Cost Avoidance Versus Actual Savings

Although the DTA claims an estimated $1.6 billion in cost avoidance over a five-year span, the real savings are challenging to measure. The lack of transparency and the absence of key stakeholders in negotiations have been pointed out as major concerns.

Advocacy for Clarity and Transparency

Agencies have voiced their need for more straightforward and transparent contracts. The prevailing complexity complicates the assessment of deal value for purchasers. The report advises that negotiations should encompass the entire lifecycle of technology, including continuous support and upgrades.

Improvements and Future Perspectives

The report proposes several enhancements, such as incorporating new vendors like Google and Adobe into contracts and including emerging technologies. It also recommends introducing standardized cybersecurity clauses and clarifying sovereign hosting requirements.

Conclusion

The DTA’s current strategy regarding government technology contracts has faced backlash for sidelining major purchasers from negotiations, prompting calls for increased inclusion and transparency. While cost avoidance has been recorded, the real value of these contracts remains uncertain. The report delineates several recommendations for enhancement, seeking to improve the effectiveness and transparency of future initiatives.

Q&A

Q: Why are significant government technology purchasers excluded from negotiations?

A: The DTA replaced the engagement of major purchasers with a senior executive service sponsoring committee, effectively cutting these stakeholders out of the negotiation process.

Q: What is the estimated cost avoidance achieved through these contracts?

A: The DTA estimates a $1.6 billion cost avoidance over five years, although actual savings are tougher to pinpoint.

Q: What enhancements are suggested for the current contracts?

A: Suggested improvements include simplifying contracts, including additional vendors, addressing technology lifecycles, and instituting standardized security measures.

Q: How can clarity in these contracts be enhanced?

A: Enhancing clarity could involve increased stakeholder involvement in negotiations, clearer pricing frameworks, and improved tracking of technology application and savings.

Q: Are there intentions to incorporate new vendors into upcoming contracts?

A: Yes, the report advocates exploring new contracts with vendors like Google and Adobe, which have agreements at the state level but not at the federal level.

Q: How does the report propose addressing emerging technologies?

A: The report advises revising existing contracts to include emerging technologies that were not accessible at the time the agreements were originally forged.

Aptkdoe Bluetooth Headphones Review


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Edifier TWS330 NB Wireless Earbuds Review


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Edifier TWS330 NB Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation Bluetooth 5.0 Earphones Earbuds – Microphone, AI Call Noise Technology, Touch Control, 20hr Playback, Dust/Water Resistance

“Wireless Bluetooth 5.3 Sports Headphones with 4 ENC Mic Review”


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Bluetooth Headphones Sports Headphones Wireless Bluetooth 5.3 with 4 ENC Mic, 128H Playtime Wireless Headphones, Deep Bass Earbuds IP7 Waterproof Earphones LED Display USB-C Touch Control with Ear

JBL Tune Beam 2 Wireless Bluetooth In-Ear Headphones Review


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JBL Tune Beam 2 Wireless Bluetooth in-Ear Headphones with Noise Cancelling, 48 Hours Playback Time, IP54 Water and Dust Proof, Multipoint Connection, Ergonomic Design, Ghost Black