Articles - Page 29

Bland Brands Beware: Optimizely’s New Identity Brings Human Creativity to its Agentic AI and AEO Ambitions

matt-garrepy

<h4 id="snapshot">Snapshot</h4><ul><li>The 2023 CMS Critic Awards “People’s Choice” nominations are officially open</li><li>To nominate your favorite platforms, visit <a target="_blank" href="http://www.cmscritic.com/nominate">www.cmscritic.com/nominate</a></li><li>Nominations close January 26th, 2024</li></ul><hr /> Feel that buzz in the air? That electrifying post-holiday tingle?That can only mean one thing: It’s Awards Season, baby! Ah yes… Awards Season. That early chapter of the year when the media landscape is aflutter with statue-seeking celebs basking in red-carpet hype, unsealed envelopes, and excessively long acceptance speeches. But oh, how we love the drama. The pomp. The play-by-play commentary of who’s wearing Vera Wang, or the host that crosses the comedic line. Who can forget Will Smith’s “slap heard ‘round the world” or Taylor Swift’s “knives out” glare at <a target="_blank" href="https://people.com/jo-koy-says-taylor-swift-reaction-to-his-golden-globes-joke-was-cute-8423475">last night’s Golden Globes</a>?While the Swifties shake it off, it’s important to remember the real purpose of these events: celebrating excellence. But there’s more to it than that. When done right, an awards program can illuminate audiences, unite loyal fans, and give entire communities the chance to revel in the triumphs.In our own corner of the content management universe, we’ve been doing that for the last decade with our exclusive CMS Critic Awards. Now in its 12th year, the CMS Critic Awards – one of the longest-running programs in the industry – continues its steadfast tradition of making you a part of the academy (so to speak). As in previous contests, our “People’s Choice” program allows you to nominate your favorite tools from the previous year. We take the top five contenders across a range of categories, open that up to general voting, and announce the victors in late February. In a world where technology can feel increasingly cold and robotic (hello AI!), our little competition is proof that loyalty still means something in the software biz – and that humans still carry the day. Here's a short video that hits the highlights:<figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://youtu.be/JSrjxhmDRMA"><div style="position:relative;padding-bottom:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.2493%"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JSrjxhmDRMA" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;top:0;left:0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></figure><h3 id="what-to-expect-with-this-year’s-categories">What to expect with this year’s categories</h3>2023 was a big year for CMS, DXP, and the ecosystem of technologies we cover. A lot of change (hello again, AI!), and we’ll get to that in a minute. This year, we have 16 different categories for your consideration. As you know, the whole notion of categories is becoming a wiry morass – just ask your friendly neighborhood analyst. Despite a lack of clarity in some of the swim lanes, the established pillars of Best Enterprise CMS, Best DXP, Best DAM, and Best Headless CMS are still in play. That said, we saw headless CMSes like Contentstack achieve DXP status on the most recent <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/thoughts-on-the-forrester-dxp-wave-2023-dont-judge-an-analyst-report-by-its-infographic">Forrester Wave Report</a>. Many platforms now offer free options, while others have introduced their own visual builders or hosting solutions. To that end, if you feel a single vendor can live in more than one category, it’s your choice to nominate it. Composable was a big part of the story in 2023, so we’ve maintained the Best DXC category (which is continuing to evolve). We also added Best Composable Solution as a catchall, so you can nominate any vendor in our space that delivered the most innovative composable experience.  Finally, 2023 was arguably “The Year of AI” as many platforms raced to incorporate ChatGPT and other artificial intelligence capabilities into their workflows. Of course, AI rippled up and down the stack, with DXPs adding image generators, headless CMSes weaving in content generators, and even widely-used editors like <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/tinymce-brings-advanced-ai-to-cms-text-editing-interview-with-fredrik-danielsson-elise-bentley">TinyMCE</a> incorporating a host of AI features. With so much AI afoot, we had to include a Best AI Solution in a CMS or DXP category, so you can nominate any platform that wielded AI like a Jedi’s lightsaber and brought the Force to their solution. I saw dozens of AI demos this year (maybe “AI Critic” would be more apropos) and this is a tough one, my Padawans. All the more reason to let the people decide. One final note: The CMS Critic Awards are intended to be fun and friendly. But they do, at times, get a little fiery. Every year, we receive thousands of ballots, with whole communities of users coming together to champion the platforms they love. I also intercept several, shall we say, “passionate” pleas, demanding to know why certain platforms were in a specific category – or why their tool of choice wasn’t in the running. As always, we try to operate in a space of respect and integrity. Obviously, if a platform isn’t truly open source, it won’t be considered for Best Open Source CMS. That's a binary attribute. But many systems are blurring the proverbial lines – and let’s face it, the analysts are also compounding the problem. So, our editorial team endeavors to stay out of the nominating process. As a reminder, we only take the top five in each category by nomination count, so anything below that won’t be featured in the final voting. <h3 id="how-to-cast-your-nominations-">How to cast your nominations </h3>Without further ado, I’m happy to announce that the 2023 CMS Critic Awards “People’s Choice” nominations are officially open! Here’s how you can participate:<ol><li>Visit <a target="_blank" href="http://www.cmscritic.com/nominate">www.cmscritic.com/nominate</a></li><li>Fill out the required fields and enter the names of your nominees in each category. You don't have to include a nomination for every category – only complete the fields you care about, and your ballot will be counted. Remember that you can nominate the same vendor in multiple categories.</li><li>Once completed, click the Submit button at the bottom of the form. </li><li>You can only nominate once, and companies or brands that offer incentives of any kind will be disqualified.</li><li>Spread the word! Remember to share and encourage others to participate, especially across your social channels.</li></ol>Nominations close on January 26, 2024, so get out there and rally the troops! Once we tabulate the results, we’ll announce the top five in each category for general voting in early February (we'll blast it on email and social).She might have a lot of style, but Taylor Swift wouldn’t be anywhere without her fans. Now’s your chance to show some love for the platforms that rocked your world in 2023. <hr /><figure class="image"><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/11/cms-kickoff-2024-banner.jpg" /></figure><h3 id="join-us-at-cms-kickoff-2024-next-week!">Join us at CMS Kickoff 2024 next week!</h3>CMS Critic is a proud conference partner at this second annual edition of the prestigious international Boye &amp; Co conference, dedicated to the global CMS community. This event will bring together top-notch speakers, Boye &amp; Company's renowned learning format, and engaging social events.Tired of impersonal and overwhelming gatherings? Picture this event as a unique blend of masterclasses, insightful talks, interactive discussions, impactful learning sessions, and authentic networking opportunities. Prepare for an unparalleled in-person CMS conference experience that will equip you to move forward in 2024. Hear from leading voices across the industry on a wide range of topics, including:<ul><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/andrew-kumar">Andrew Kumar</a>, GVP at Uniform</li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/becky-brown">Becky Brown</a>, Content Strategy Lead at Johnson &amp; Johnson</li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/marli-mesibov">Marli Mesibov</a>, Content Strategy at Verily</li></ul><h4 id="-"> </h4><img style="width:39.13%" src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/11/don-cesar-hotel.jpg" /><h4 id="the-don-cesar:-a-world-class-venue">The Don CeSar: a world-class venue</h4>Is there a better location for a winter kickoff than Florida's beautiful, sugary sand beaches? CMS Kickoff 2024 will be held at the iconic Don CeSar, just steps from the Gulf of Mexico. Dubbed the “Pink Palace,” this majestic hotel and resort provides a stunning backdrop to the conference, along with access to the local food and culture of St. Petersburg Beach.  <h4 id="get-your-tickets-today">Get your tickets today</h4>CMS Kickoff offers an intimate, highly focused experience. Space is limited, and only a few seats remain. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity!<a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/conferences/cmskickoff24/tickets">Purchase tickets now &gt;</a>

Nominate Your Favorite Platforms for the 2023 CMS Critic Awards

<hr /> For many large-scale organizations, an annual report is a moment of clarity. It encapsulates the past year’s performance with a keen focus on financials, and often provides a throat-clearing platform for the year ahead.Sometimes, annual reports can be sobering. Historically, brands like Nike have used them as megaphones for change, staking the proper amount of accountability while shifting the narrative around less-than-stellar performance. In this sense, annual reports provide a reality check for investors while giving businesses a focused channel for communicating a vision for the future. For the <a target="_blank" href="https://machalliance.org/">MACH Alliance</a> – an advocacy group focused on future-proof, open, best-of-breed technology ecosystems – the publishing of its first-ever annual report is a bellwether moment. It signals an organizational and market maturity that further elevates its relevance while underscoring its responsibility to its members and the community at large. Perhaps most importantly, this annual report is a testament to transparency. Since last year’s <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/mach-two-conference-wrap-six-takeaways-from-the-composable-event-of-the-year">MACH Two Conference</a>, I’ve spoken frequently with <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/the-future-is-composable-a-conversation-with-new-mach-alliance-president-casper-rasmussen">Casper Rasmussen</a>, president of the Alliance – including a <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/whats-ahead-for-mach-in-2024-read-these-3-predictions">year-end interview</a> that detailed some key predictions for 2024. In almost every conversation, he has emphasized the importance of transparency and detailed how the Alliance is committed to embracing a more open posture. Why is this important? Because the organization has been challenged by vendors and industry watchers alike, protesting a lack of clarity around its certification processes. While not completely shrouded in secrecy, the Alliance has also struggled with an egalitarian mantle, being thrust to a level of market demagoguery by some analysts (we all know about that velvet rope). There have also been challenges relative to the MACH moniker and defending the organization's IP (this was the subject of <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/mach-alliance-openly-invites-companies-claiming-mach-to-apply-for-certification">an open letter </a>published last year). Still, the unshakeable truth is that the Alliance has managed to unite a good share of the market around a common vision while educating and evangelizing the value of composability.Since its inception, the MACH Alliance has come a long way – and this annual report reflects that evolution. After reading it cover to cover, I’ve tried to encapsulate a few thoughts below on what stood out. That said, I recommend perusing it for yourself; it’s available and ungated at <a target="_blank" href="https://machalliance.org/annual-reports">https://machalliance.org/annual-reports</a><h3 id="growth-was-a-core-theme-in-2023">Growth was a core theme in 2023</h3>First and foremost, the growth of the MACH Alliance is undeniable. As Rasmussen states in his opening salvo, the adoption of MACH technologies has become a “linchpin for success” as businesses grapple with an ever-evolving digital ecosystem. <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/mach-alliance-surges-past-100-members-caps-2023-as-a-milestone-year">Now boasting 100 members</a>, its reach has clearly broadened – and as stated in a prominent statistic from its 2023 survey, 92% of tech leaders felt the work of the MACH Alliance has been valuable. The Year-End Highlights section reinforces the Alliance’s achievements over the last 12 months, codified in customer use cases and celebrated at the <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/mach-two-conference-wrap-six-takeaways-from-the-composable-event-of-the-year">MACH Two Impact Awards</a> last June. It’s worth noting that 98% of delegates attending the MACH Two Conference rated it as “excellent” or “very good,” a stunning reflection of the quality and perceived value of the event.  There’s a quote from <a target="_blank" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahukar/">Gireesh Sahukar</a>, VP Digital at Dawn Foods, in the report. To me, it reflects how deeply embedded the role of the Alliance has become: “It’s the first question we ask as part of our RFP. Are you a member of the MACH Alliance? Explain.” To be sure, not all enterprises have woven this question into their assessment practices. However, it does illustrate a growing movement towards MACH as part of the buying journey, and how the Alliance is providing a layer of confidence around the decision-making. The Governance section illustrates how the MACH Alliance has evolved its organizational practices around key teams and processes. While discrete councils for tech and marketing have been a part of the tapestry, the further evolution of “Taskforces” is designed to support key initiatives and defined outputs for objectives such as content, tools, or even MVPs. It’s no surprise that one of the big concentrations is certification. As previously stated, the certification process has been a focus of criticism, but the increased communication with applicants around the challenges has certainly improved – with many rejections going through the submission process again with better outcomes. In fact, according to Rasmussen, 15% of members accepted in 2023 undertook a strategic transformation to achieve MACH certification. 2023 saw an expansion not only in the total number of members, but the available categories for admission. This includes the new Supporters segment, which offers a path for companies that are not ISV, SI, or Enablers but want to engage with the community (<a target="_blank" href="https://machalliance.org/newsroom/mach-alliance-announces-paypal-is-the-first-company-to-join-new-supporter-membership-category">PayPal</a> became the first member last year). This edging towards a more inclusive model is helping to reshape the membership footprint and expand the community at multiple levels. <h3 id="focus-areas-provide-context-for-the-past-and-the-future">Focus Areas provide context for the past and the future</h3>The Focus Areas section of the report tightens the aperture around industry collaboration, open standards, and interoperability as cornerstones for 2024. The continued investment in real tools – including the <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/new-mach-alliance-maturity-assessment-tool-helps-organizations-evaluate-their-mach-readiness">MACH Maturity Assessment</a>, the <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/new-mach-alliance-admissions-playbook-brings-greater-clarity-to-certification-process">Admissions Playbook</a>, and forthcoming business and technical courses launching this year – fortify the Alliance’s commitment to education and leveling up market knowledge. While vocal demand has increased throughout 2023, the certification programs have been somewhat slow to materialize. This is likely a product of being mindful of the quality and extensibility of the course substance. The two Foundation Level programs are just the beginning, and the organization plans to scale its offerings over the coming year. There are some compelling metrics around the rising demand for MACH in North America and how the Alliance is reinforcing this expansion with a combination of roadshows and symposiums. As I discussed with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellygoetsch/">Kelley Goetsch</a> at MACH Two last year, the addressable US market for composable is still largely untapped when compared to Europe, so it remains a primary target for growth. Finally, the MACH Alliance continues to differentiate itself by fiercely committing to diversity and inclusion initiatives. This speaks to the culture and community it has endeavored to cultivate, earmarked by a number of milestones in 2023 – including a <a target="_blank" href="https://machalliance.org/insights/women-in-mach-manifesto-for-gender-equality">Manifesto for Gender Equality</a> (signed by 40 companies) and its <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/women-in-machs-2023-flagship-event-plans-to-go-beyond-boundaries-in-madrid">Women in MACH</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/mach-alliance-launches-women-in-mach-mentorship-program">mentorship program</a>. <h3 id="financials-and-2024-outlook">Financials and 2024 outlook</h3>As a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/other-non-profits/business-leagues#:~:text=Section%20501(c)(6,of%20any%20private%20shareholder%20or">501 (c)(6) nonprofit organization</a>, the MACH Alliance is already beholden to disclose its income and expenditures to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This provides a modicum of transparency around operational considerations, but the annual report provides a simple snapshot of where the Alliance is deriving revenue and spending it.<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2024/01/mach-expenditures.png" />Of its $3.9 million income in 2023, 66% came from membership fees. It’s worth noting that the <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/mach-two-conference-wrap-six-takeaways-from-the-composable-event-of-the-year">MACH Two Conference</a> accounted for 25% of the total, signaling its vital importance as both an educational platform and a revenue generator. On the operations side of the ledger, the largest share of expenditures reflected conference investments, along with building a dedicated in-house team to manage certifications and other functions. Looking ahead, the report zeroes in on the continued growth and adoption of MACH, the role of artificial intelligence as a game changer for automation, and sustained trends towards modularity. As crystallized by a Gartner quote that bookends the document, 70% of organizations will be mandated to acquire composable DXP technology by 2026 – a 20% increase from last year. This underscores the opportunities ahead. <h3 id="why-it-matters">Why it matters</h3>Like any good annual report, the MACH Alliance’s efforts are meant to capture a year’s worth of activity in just a few pages and make the top-level insights meaningful. For many, skipping ahead to the financials might be par for the course, but there’s a lot in this report to gestate from a forward-thinking perspective. As the US economy continues to boom (at least the stock market), there looks to be ample opportunity to grow that market – something that’s clearly stated as a Focus Area. What’s not reflected in the report’s outlook is the very real potential for softening conditions. 2023 was replete with “mood swings” that would have been surefire indicators of a recession, with quite a few jobs shed in the tech sector. With global uncertainty and a decisive US presidential election ahead, there may be headwinds facing many layers of the tech market, and across geographies. MACH may very well deliver an attractive hedge in these times, particularly if expensive, large-scale enterprise licenses become a harder sell. What continues to impress is the fervent commitment to D&amp;I. It's core to the organization, and as an influential body, the MACH Alliance is uniquely positioned to “walk the talk” and drive greater awareness around the importance of these tenants. As we look ahead to developing new talent pipelines across industries and market sectors – something Rasmussen talked about in our last interview of 2023 – attracting the next generation of workers will rely on these investments in human causes. All in all, this annual report is a sign of the Alliance’s growth and maturity. It reflects the ongoing commitment to transparency and trust – and draws a clear roadmap for what’s ahead.   <hr />Footnote: In full transparency, I am quoted in the report as an industry analyst. It’s important for you to know that while I agree with the general tenants of composable and the overall mission of MACH, I strive to maintain an unbiased point of view in a market where multiple solutions can coexist, particularly as enterprises try to find footing in a rapidly changing digital world.

MACH Alliance Publishes First Annual Report, Showcases Industry Impact and Plans for 2024

<hr /> In most organizations, there is pressure to do more with less. As budgets tighten, scope expands and timelines become more aggressive, content teams are forced to get creative about how they deliver value. Here are 5 tips for content leaders and teams to help them not just survive, but thrive, when the pressure is on.  <h3 id="1.-get-back-to-basics">1. Get back to basics</h3>Getting back to basics is about making tough decisions around where to spend our time and energy. There is always more we can do, but when the team is stretched, maximizing the value they can deliver is key.To achieve that, it’s important to stay grounded in what matters most about your content. My team uses a concept called CAR Squared to define the basics. Is the content clear, concise, actionable, accurate, relevant and readable? If certain activities aren’t going to meaningfully improve those aspects of the content, we don’t do them. Focusing on the basics will help teams avoid unnecessary effort. For example, some teams may spend a lot of time on formatting and design. Ask if internal content needs as much branding as external content. Ask whether there are ways to leverage technology to reduce manual effort.It’s also important to question whether certain content is even necessary. Focus on progress over perfection. As content professionals, we always want to do more. That’s what makes us good at what we do, but when facing resource and budget constraints, we have to focus on the most critical work and let the nice-to-haves go.<h3 id="2.-leverage-ai-">2. Leverage AI </h3>It’s important to get teams thinking proactively about how they can leverage AI and to not be afraid of it.As Generative AI continues to accelerate it will, no doubt, have an impact on what we do as content professionals. While it will continue to evolve, there are some practical use cases that don’t require a lot of investment and can support productivity. For example, it’s surprisingly good at rewriting content in a different style or tone. It can also create summaries, FAQs, and identify keywords to aid in search optimization.  I encourage my team to think of Generative AI as a way to help us do what we do more efficiently. It’s like having an assistant we can delegate certain tasks to. The human-in-the-loop philosophy is critical for AI to work effectively for content creation, so you still need a level of review, but it helps save time and effort.<h3 id="3.-keep-the-team-engaged">3. Keep the team engaged</h3>When we’re busy, it’s easy to start canceling teaming events, training, all-hands meetings, and happy hours.  During times when the team is stretched to their limit, these activities can mean the difference between burnout and attrition, and having a motivated team that pushes through the challenges together. A sense of belonging and camaraderie is often what helps a team get through a challenging time.Make the time for team building and training, even when it’s difficult to schedule. If anything, it gives the team a much needed break from the daily grind. Most importantly, it reminds them that they’re valued and you’re continuing to invest in them.     Recognition also goes a long way during challenging times. Leaders should take the time to understand what motivates each person on their team and celebrate both team and individual accomplishments.Additionally, when capacity is limited and scope is expanding, it’s important for leaders to set clear expectations with the team. Leaders who foster an environment where the team feels comfortable discussing their struggles, sharing their ideas and pushing back when appropriate, will set the team up to have more genuine and effective relationships with leaders, stakeholders and each other.<h3 id="4.-get-creative-about-prioritization-and-funding-">4. Get creative about prioritization and funding </h3>One of the most challenging things for a team is knowing that they can make a bigger impact if they had more time and resources. It’s fundamentally important for leaders to acknowledge that we can’t do it all, and they need to help the team prioritize.It can be helpful to have a prioritization model to guide these decisions. For example, content for larger audiences, business critical campaigns and other strategic initiatives should be prioritized over other work.Funding can be challenging when budgets are tight, but when you think quality or delivery might suffer, consider asking for project-specific funding for a fixed period of time. For example, if you need two content specialists to work on a project for 6 months but don’t have capacity, consider asking the project sponsor for budget to cover offshore contract resources for 6 months. In my experience, critical campaigns and projects have some budget to work with, and the cost of offshore resources tends to be nominal in the grand scheme of things.<h3 id="5.-don’t-wait">5. Don’t wait</h3>Challenging times can either bring a team together or pull it apart. That’s why it’s important not to wait until times are tough.These tips are about creating a culture of inclusiveness, engagement, innovation, efficiency, and continuous improvement. These are things we should always be doing. So, applying these concepts during less challenging times will go a long way in preparing a team for whatever they may face in future.A high-performing content team will always weather the storm more effectively. For more on that, see my previous article, <a target="_blank" href="https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcmscritic.com%2Fwhat-it-takes-to-build-a-high-performing-content-team&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmspencel%40its.jnj.com%7Ca393fe92aac749e2c46208dc1044feba%7C3ac94b33913548219502eafda6592a35%7C0%7C0%7C638403135714032847%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=RS1aV46W%2FoRENyORtEgpTyw61oqlEF34YWAg7zHGOWM%3D&amp;reserved=0">What it Takes to Build a High-Performing Content Team</a>.<h3 id="about-mike-spenceley">About Mike Spenceley</h3>I’ve been working in the content, knowledge management and communications space in some capacity for most of my career. While I don’t describe myself as a content professional, I am a problem seeker and solver who found a niche in the content space. I currently lead a content team at J&amp;J, where I’ve been for the past seven years. Before that I spent 10 years at PwC.<h3 id="about-johnson-&amp;-johnson">About Johnson &amp; Johnson</h3>At Johnson &amp; Johnson, we believe good health is the foundation of vibrant lives, thriving communities and forward progress. That’s why for more than 135 years, we have aimed to keep people well at every age and every stage of life. Today, as the world’s largest, most diversified healthcare products company, we are committed to using our reach and size for good. We strive to improve access and affordability, create healthier communities, and put a healthy mind, body and environment within reach of everyone, everywhere. We are blending our heart, science and ingenuity to profoundly change the trajectory of health for humanity.

The Pressure is on: Tips for Content Teams During Challenging Times

michael-spenceley

<hr /> The digital transformation of <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/what-is-a-content-management-system-cms">content management systems (CMS)</a> is accelerating, with AI capabilities becoming a significant differentiator among providers. Some CMS vendors are enhancing their platforms with ChatGPT add-ons, while <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/kontent-ai-pioneers-native-ai-in-headless-cms-interview-with-vojtech-boril">others are weaving AI more intricately</a> into their technology stacks. A select few are even making AI the heart of their offerings. This diversity in AI integration presents a spectrum of challenges, particularly in terms of securing and maintaining the privacy of customer data.<h3 id="what-is-at-stake">What is at stake</h3>CMS platforms are the custodians of a wide array of data, from the mundane to the mission-critical. This data can include everything from public-facing content to sensitive internal documents detailing future product launches and marketing campaigns. The impact of a data breach originating from a CMS vendor can be severe, with the potential for significant financial and reputational damage.Data breaches are not only disruptive but also expensive. The average <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ibm.com/reports/data-breach">cost of a data breach</a> can be staggering, with public reports often calculating it in millions on affected organizations. Furthermore, CMSs are frequently tasked with processing data that is protected by various regulations, such as Protected Health Information (by HIPAA in the US) and financial information (by GLBA in the US, DORA in Europe, etc.). Personal data processing is a given, necessitating adherence to privacy laws like GDPR and CCPA.Regulatory frameworks mandate a set of controls to safeguard this data, and AI implementations within CMSs must meet these same stringent requirements. If AI functionalities are implemented incorrectly, they can lead to the mishandling of sensitive data, compliance issues, and even data leaks across customer accounts.<h3 id="how-to-address-the-challenges">How to address the challenges</h3>Despite the relative novelty of generative AI, there are already established standards and best practices that leading CMS vendors are adopting. The architecture of the AI solution is paramount; a well-designed architecture will prevent data leaks between customers and ensure at least logical data separation. Utilizing well-tested AI models and implementing AI governance on the vendor's side are also crucial steps.Frameworks such as the EU AI Act, capAI methodology, and the NIST AI Risk Management Framework provide guidance for responsible AI risk management. While specific "AI security certifications" do not exist yet, adherence to recognized security and privacy best practices, such as ISO/IEC 27001, 27017, 27018 certifications, GDPR compliance, SOC 2 Type 2 Report, and Cloud Security Alliance STAR registry, is indicative of a vendor's commitment to security.Transparency from vendors about their AI implementations and their approach to security and responsible AI development is essential, as is ensuring the privacy of data.<h3 id="what-kontent.ai-brings-to-the-table">What Kontent.ai brings to the table</h3><a target="_blank" href="https://kontent.ai/">Kontent.ai</a> is at the forefront of AI integration in the CMS market, being the first headless CMS vendor to natively incorporate AI capabilities. With a strong AI-powered feature set and a forward-looking AI roadmap, Kontent.ai leads the way in AI in content management.On the compliance side, the company's approach to AI governance is in line with the best practices of capAI and NIST AI RMF, and it ensures immediate compliance with the EU AI Act. Kontent.ai's security program is robust and certified by ISO/IEC 27001, 27017, and is audited regularly by Trust Services Criteria. To provide customers with assurance, Kontent.ai offers a suite of artifacts:<ul><li>SOC 2 Type 2 Report</li><li>Comprehensive OWASP penetration test reports</li><li>CSA STAR level 1</li><li>HECVAT</li><li>GDPR audit report</li></ul>These resources demonstrate Kontent.ai's commitment to security and governance, and the company requires its suppliers to adhere to the same high standards.For more information on Kontent.ai's commitment to trust and governance, visit <a target="_blank" href="https://kontent.ai/trust-and-governance/">https://kontent.ai/trust-and-governance/</a><h3 id="summary">Summary</h3>The integration of AI into CMS platforms is revolutionizing the way content is created, managed, and delivered. It's imperative to understand that AI implementations vary widely, and the security and privacy of customer data are paramount. Responsible and secure AI integration involves adhering to established best practices and regulatory standards, ensuring that AI offerings are not only innovative but also trustworthy.Kontent.ai exemplifies this approach by being the first headless CMS vendor to natively incorporate AI capabilities, adhering to best practices such as capAI and NIST AI RMF, and ensuring compliance with the EU AI Act. With a robust security program and a suite of assurance artifacts, Kontent.ai demonstrates its commitment to security and governance, setting a standard for responsible AI in CMS. As AI continues to shape the CMS landscape, it is crucial for vendors to prioritize the responsible use of AI to maintain the trust and confidence of their users.

Not Every AI is the Same: A Guide to Responsible and Secure AI in CMS

matej

Key Takeaways from Gartner’s 2021 Magic Quadrant for Digital Experience Platforms

cms-critic-staff

Man holding a magnifier to the big DXP letters

What's Ahead for MACH in 2024? Read These 3 Predictions

Hotjar - Spot what confuses

Spot what confuses your users with Hotjar & AI

#ffffff

<hr /> Nope. It’s not a figma of your imagination. On the same day that U.S. Steel agreed to a <a target="_blank" href="https://6abc.com/us-steel-news-today-nippon/14197549/">hefty takeover</a> by Japan’s Nippon Steel, another deal in the software world was falling apart – one that delivered shock and awe when first announced in September of 2022.Fast forward 15 months and a steely resolve has been exchanged for tears of regulatory regret.Yesterday, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.adobe.com/">Adobe</a> – one of the leading technology platforms for creative, marketing, and digital experience software products – agreed to terminate its merger with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.figma.com/">Figma</a>, a collaborative tool for designing, prototyping, and testing web and app interfaces (among other things). When Adobe tendered its magnanimous offer of <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/shock-and-awe-adobe-to-acquire-ui-design-platform-figma-for-20-billion">$20 billion</a> for Figma, its <a target="_blank" href="https://news.adobe.com/news/news-details/2022/Adobe-to-Acquire-Figma/default.aspx">press release</a> stated that the iconic company – responsible for legendary products like Photoshop – was “reimaging the future of creativity and productivity.” The truth, of course, is that Adobe was buying an up-and-coming competitor that had managed to do the impossible: attract millions of designers and developers away from its defacto product foothold, reflecting a troubling threat to its long-held grip on the creative industry. But it wasn’t just about Figma’s technology (the big secret is that it never is). As more alternatives to Adobe’s portfolio of products flooded the market – everything from design to video editing – a new generation of creators emerged. These remote digital nomads craved less “Paleolithic” desktop tools and drifted towards web-powered platforms with more flexible pricing models. For this new breed of user, Adobe felt tethered to the past, focusing more on specialists. Figma felt like the future, one where almost anyone can become a designer. That unique intersection of product, brand, and culture captured the zeitgeist of the moment, helping Figma become a key disruptor during the height of a booming, pandemic-infused digital economy.For Adobe, an acquisition made sense, allowing it to capture lost market share while tapping a whole new pipeline of prospects. For Figma? Well, there were 20 billion reasons to do it, despite marked resentment from its user base (just peruse some of the Subreddits on the subject). But hey, what can you do? Anytime a beloved software platform is eaten by a larger competitor (e.g. <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2022/10/26/four-years-after-being-acquired-by-microsoft-github-keeps-doing-its-thing/">Microsoft buying Github</a>, and the list goes on) there are vocal pessimists across the user community. As any Swifty would tell you, haters gonna hate. And there were questions from users, as you might expect, about how Figma would fit in Adobe’s mammoth portfolio of over 100 technologies. How would it align with Adobe XD, the company’s existing UX design offering? From a brand standpoint, would it follow the same track as Magento – now <a target="_blank" href="https://business.adobe.com/products/magento/magento-commerce.html">Adobe Commerce</a> – and slowly ride off into the sunset? Regardless of any user friction, the companies forged ahead, sharing plans around their combined superpowers. This included ambitions to leverage Figma’s web-based, multi-player capabilities with Adobe’s cloud offerings to make the creative process more productive and accessible. While talk of improving brainstorming and product design permeated the ethos, the strategic details were nebulous for obvious reasons: the deal was far from approved.  And that brings us to yesterday’s news. There’s a lot to unpack, but there are three key things I’ve taken away from the not-entirely-shocking revelation, and they have broader implications across the market – not just for Adobe and Figma. More importantly, I think this is good for both vendors in several ways, chiefly from an innovation perspective. And that’s good for everyone – even if there's a little heartache involved. <h3 id="1.-m&amp;a-has-changed-(for-better-or-worse)">1. M&amp;A has changed (for better or worse)</h3> Maybe it’s <a target="_blank" href="https://www.sec.gov/about/commissioners/gary-gensler">Gary Gensler</a> beating the war drum in a post-FTX world, or just rampant remorse over past decisions. Either way, the M&amp;A pipeline is being scrutinized more than ever by regulatory bodies, focused on preventing large players like Google from squashing competition with obscene amounts of cash. And $20 billion is, well, kinda obscene.In this case, the deal was scuttled by supposed clashes with governing bodies in Europe and the UK. Last month, Britain's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/adobe-figma-terminate-20-bln-deal-2023-12-18/#:~:text=Dec%2018%20(Reuters)%20%2D%20Adobe,buyouts%20of%20a%20software%20startup.">said the deal</a> would negatively impact innovation for software used by a large swath of the UK's digital designer marketplace. The EU voiced similar concerns, citing the potential for reduced competition.“Despite thousands of hours spent with regulators around the world detailing differences between our businesses, our products, and the markets we serve, we no longer see a path toward regulatory approval of the deal,” said <a target="_blank" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylanfield/">Dylan Field</a>, Co-Founder and CEO of Figma, in a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.figma.com/blog/figma-adobe-abandon-proposed-merger/">blog post</a> yesterday.  Perhaps the compliance stamp on these software transactions isn’t as clear cut as, say, JetBlue and Spirit Airlines – which <a target="_blank" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/transportation/2023/10/28/jetblue-sprit-merger-justice-department/">attempted to join forces</a> earlier this year (that merger was priced at a paltry $3.8 billion, BTW). But the same principles apply: it’s all about ensuring choice for consumers. At the same time, startup exits have slowed considerably in 2023, and VCs have tightened their belts – and their expectations. The white-hot halcyon days of 2021 and 2022 are in the rearview, and that’s been a persistent drag on raising capital (by all accounts, the investment market looks <a target="_blank" href="https://carta.com/blog/mergers-acquisitions-outlook-2024/">poised to rebound</a> next year). As firm managers command greater confidence around the scope and scale of any investment, they’re looking closer than ever at the multipliers. Which, in the case of Figma’s price tag, was heavily overweighted in 2022, and more so today.Also worth considering is the timetable for such a complex transaction. A lot has changed in the 15 months since the deal was announced, including the growth of Adobe’s stock price (the bigger story is the rise of generative AI, but more on that in a minute). Complexity and lengthy transaction cycles will likely continue to impact M&amp;A for the foreseeable future, but it's clear in this case how the dynamics can impact outcomes.  <h3 id="2.-figma-is-kicking-butt-–-so-why-not-go-for-the-ipo?">2. Figma is kicking butt – so why not go for the IPO?</h3>Sure, with the loss of Figma, Adobe is giving up an attractive jewel in its creative crown. But when that jewel outshines you, it's an even more precarious challenge.Let’s start with Figma’s revenue, which has grown from $400M to $600M since September of 2022. This is a far cry from a $20 billion valuation, but the company has demonstrated the level of profitability that might signal an IPO (when the time is right). But let’s add one more gold nugget to the prospecting pan. As part of the proposed acquisition, Adobe <a target="_blank" href="https://fortune.com/2023/12/18/adobe-figma-breakup-european-regulators-merger/">agreed to pay Figma</a> a whopping $1 billion breakup fee upon termination, to be paid almost immediately. Buoyed by this windfall, Figma will be well-positioned to focus on innovation over the coming years and fuel more competitive products and features – the likes of which will, without doubt, compete with Adobe. According to Figma's CEO, that’s already happening. Over the last 15 months, the company shipped a myriad of new products and expanded into the UK and Asia. In essence, they never stopped the growth machine – and it’s paying off. How’s the song go? Breaking up is hard to do. Maybe not in this case. If Figma plays its cards right, they can help users accelerate the design process and build digital products faster than ever. And in this hyper-paced product world, that’s the real deal. <h3 id="3.-ai-is-the-gamechanger-for-both-adobe-and-figma">3. AI is the gamechanger for both Adobe and Figma</h3>I keep conjuring that 15-month period from “buy” to “bye,” which equates to years in this new normal. Conditions were quite different when Adobe agreed to acquire Figma, and nowhere was that more evident than with the rise of artificial intelligence.Last September, generative AI wasn’t part of the common lexicon. ChatGPT had not yet enraptured the world. Since then, we’ve seen a massive investment in AI features across industries, specifically in areas like content and imagery – which is in Adobe and Figma's wheelhouse.In less than a year, platforms like <a target="_blank" href="https://www.canva.com/magic-write/">Canva</a> have introduced generative content within their design tools and <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/products/kontentai">Kontent.ai</a> in their <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/what-is-a-content-management-system-cms">headless CMS</a>. Image generators like Dall-E and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.midjourney.com/">Midjourney</a> are taking the visual potential of AI to entirely new levels (check the latter out, it will knock your socks off). AI is where Adobe has focused its future, leading the pack with innovative new offerings. Photoshop of old now features generative capabilities that are incredibly robust (if not a tad challenging to prompt). The company says more is on the way – and with billions in reserve, they have ample cash to keep innovating. Recently, Figma also joined the GenAI chorus, shipping its first <a target="_blank" href="https://www.figma.com/blog/introducing-ai-to-figjam/">native AI features</a>. Bolstered by its revenue growth and impending breakup bucks, they’ll have plenty of runway for expanding AI features and capabilities. Would Adobe float such a bloated number for Figma today? Not a chance – and AI is the chief determiner. That's why innovation in this area is essential for both players, and the mutual parting of ways is in their collective interest. There may be some head-to-head competition betwixt the two, but no matter. AI has changed the game, and could soon disrupt things even further. Platforms like <a target="_blank" href="https://uizard.io/">Uizard</a> are bubbling up, allowing users to ideate and design UI/UX with nothing more than an idea and a few prompts. Expect more of these players to enter the market in 2024 and create more choice – and maybe a little more chaos. <h3 id="a-designer-walks-into-a-bar…">A designer walks into a bar…</h3>… and asks the bartender, "Got any Helvetica?" The bartender replies: “Sorry, we don’t serve your type here.”Font humor aside, good design is no joke. When done well, it can be incredibly effective for communicating ideas. This goes back to the printed page and extends through modern application UX. Most importantly, design is for humans – even if it's not directly created by humans. That trend towards automation has been a constant in the design world, but the people part has never changed. I remember the first time I used Photoshop in college. It was astounding. Magical, even. It allowed users like me to explore new and imaginative pathways while accelerating the creative process. It only happened because Adobe committed to a culture of innovation – and with its latest crop of AI features, it appears to be continuing on that course.Are they sweating this breakup? Sure. A billion is a big number, and a lot to walk away from. A few shareholders might be miffed (although they're up 4 points today, which suggests otherwise). But in the end, they're still well-positioned across the portfolio of products. They've never been a one-trick pony, and the latest foray into composable components via its <a target="_blank" href="https://experienceleaguecommunities.adobe.com/t5/adobe-experience-manager-blogs/aem-franklin-helix-composability-pros-and-cons-aem-community/ba-p/600497">AEM Franklin Project </a>shows tremendous promise in other areas.  And who knows? They might just add multiplayer capabilities to Adobe XD – and give that missing jewel a run for its money.  As for Figma… oh, the money, honey. The $20 billion dream might be dead, but the horizon looks promising when considering the possibilities ahead. Flush with cash and a solid growth streak, the company might fare better as a free and independent entity. Figma’s founding vision was to “eliminate the gap between imagination and reality.” According to Field, the shift from a physical economy to a digital economy – powered by huge advances in AI – have combined to make that vision more attainable than ever for its growing community of designers.And those designers? Man, they're a unique breed. Artists with a penchant for technology. Adobe and Figma understand that audience intimately, albeit it’s evolving faster than ever. Only with a persistent focus on innovation will they have a shot at remaining competitive – not just with each other, but with the next wave of apps to come.Cut. Paste. Save.  <hr /><figure class="image"><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/11/cms-kickoff-2024-banner.jpg" /></figure><h3 id="join-us-at-cms-kickoff-2024---january-16-17">Join us at CMS Kickoff 2024 - January 16-17</h3>CMS Critic is a proud partner at this second annual edition of the prestigious international Boye &amp; Co conference, dedicated to the global CMS community. This event will bring together top-notch speakers, Boye &amp; Co's renowned learning format, and engaging social events.Tired of impersonal and overwhelming gatherings? Picture this event as a unique blend of masterclasses, insightful talks, interactive discussions, impactful learning sessions, and authentic networking opportunities. Prepare for an unparalleled in-person CMS conference experience that will equip you to move forward in 2024. Hear from leading voices across the industry on a wide range of topics, including:<ul><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/andrew-kumar">Andrew Kumar</a>, GVP at Uniform</li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/becky-brown">Becky Brown</a>, Content Strategy Lead at Johnson &amp; Johnson</li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/marli-mesibov">Marli Mesibov</a>, Content Strategy at Verily</li></ul><h4 id="-"> </h4><img style="width:39.13%" src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/11/don-cesar-hotel.jpg" /><h4 id="the-don-cesar:-a-world-class-venue">The Don CeSar: a world-class venue</h4>Is there a better location for a winter kickoff than Florida's beautiful, sugary sand beaches? CMS Kickoff 2024 will be held at the iconic Don CeSar, just steps from the Gulf of Mexico. Dubbed the “Pink Palace,” this majestic hotel and resort provides a stunning backdrop to the conference, along with access to the local food and culture of St. Petersburg Beach.  <h4 id="get-your-tickets-today">Get your tickets today</h4>CMS Kickoff offers an intimate, highly focused experience. Space is limited, and only a few seats remain. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity!<a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/conferences/cmskickoff24/tickets">Purchase tickets now &gt;</a>

Cut, Paste, Delete: Why Adobe’s Canceled Merger with Figma is Good for Innovation 

CMS Delivery Flexibility Always Wins

deane

Thoughts on the Forrester DXP Wave 2023: Don’t Judge an Analyst Report by its Infographic

mark

<hr /> The <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/mach-alliance-bolsters-commitment-to-buyers-providing-clarity-amidst-shifting-market-dynamics">MACH Alliance</a> is breaking out the balloons and stringing the streamers. Reaching 100 is quite an accomplishment by almost any measure – and today, the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.machalliance.org/">organization</a> celebrates its own centennial benchmark as it surpasses 100 members.The group of independent tech companies advocating for open, best-of-breed technology ecosystems just announced the news as it welcomed eight newcomers to its community, spanning its various <a target="_blank" href="https://machalliance.org/application-member">membership categories</a>: Boutique System Integrators<ul><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.cabiri.io/">Cabiri</a></li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.kernpunkt.de/">Kernpunkt Digital</a></li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://iona.fi/">Iona</a> </li></ul>System Integrator<ul><li><a target="_blank" href="https://xebia.com/am/">Xebia</a> </li></ul>Independent Software Vendors<ul><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.mirakl.com/">Mirakl</a></li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.inriver.com/">inriver</a></li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.salsify.com/">Salsify</a> </li></ul>Startup Independent Software Vendor<ul><li><a target="_blank" href="https://ninetailed.io/">Ninetailed</a> </li></ul>The continued growth of the Alliance’s membership reflects an industry trend toward adopting modern, composable technologies. It also coincides with a surge in interest from established vendors who are actively building their MACH credentials through strategic acquisitions and innovative re-architecting of solutions. Newcomers Inriver, Mirakl, and Salsify are examples of such vendors that have fully aligned their entire product offering around MACH principles. "The MACH Alliance's growth to over 100 members is a testament to the industry's recognition of the transformative power of composable technologies,” said <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/the-future-is-composable-a-conversation-with-new-mach-alliance-president-casper-rasmussen">Casper Rasmussen</a>, President at the MACH Alliance. “The increase in membership applications from SIs alone shows how the industry is maturing and changing. As we reflect on our achievements in 2023, we’re proud of the momentum and collaboration across our community. We are particularly encouraged by seeing established vendors shifting gears to embrace MACH principles," <h3>MACH captures more of the market</h3>Since its launch in 2020, the MACH Alliance has focused on defining and establishing the rapidly maturing MACH (Microservices, API-first, Cloud-native SaaS, Headless) industry standard. In that time, 225 companies have applied for certification, with around 45% meeting the membership requirements. Many have re-applied several times, re-architecting their portfolios to achieve MACH status. The MACH Alliance creates clear guidance for enterprises, differentiating MACH technologies that foster future-proofing and vendor independence from those that don’t. That guidance is especially important for buyers given the rapidly shifting dynamics of the technology landscape.This past year, the MACH Alliance observed a significant paradigm shift, with established vendors recognizing the transformative potential of MACH principles. MACH is a coveted seal for companies building future-proof tech stacks, and adoption continues to grow. With MACH now perceived by many as “the standard” – along with evolving industry and vendor behavior towards that goal – the MACH Alliance <a target="_blank" href="https://machalliance.org/insights/mach-alliance-s-commitment-to-clear-guidance-amidst-big-tech-acquisitions-and-developments">announced in December</a> it is assessing how it can provide market guidance as more established vendors seek validation for their MACH strategies. <h3>Building on solid research</h3>As a body, research has long been a central function of the MACH Alliance. This includes both broad-market and member-focused analysis across all of the Alliance's categories. The 2023 MACH Alliance Global Research initiative – which polled 500 tech leaders – confirmed that 85% of organizations have increased the percentage of their MACH infrastructure in the past 12 months. Those companies cited several motivations, including the ability to respond to changes in the market faster, to build and implement new functionality more quickly, and the propensity to reduce costs. The respondents were also more likely to say that their investment in MACH has enabled their infrastructure to keep up with customer demands – and helped them stay ahead of competitors with lower MACH adoption rates. The fourth edition of this research will be published in March 2024.<h3>Last year’s highlights and what to expect in 2024</h3>Here are a few of the MACH Alliance's achievements in 2023 and some of the roadmap for the year ahead: <h4>Diverse Membership Growth</h4>With the continued rise in new members and increased applications from System Integrators (SIs), the Alliance is diversifying the representation of organizations eager to adopt and champion MACH technology. Early 2024 will also focus on how the Alliance can ensure holistic guidance to the market.<h4>Community Building Initiatives</h4>Networking events, forums, and an awards program organized by the MACH Alliance have facilitated extensive collaboration across the group’s vast community, allowing for the exchange of ideas and experiences that have accelerated MACH adoption. The Alliance will kick off 2024 at <a target="_blank" href="https://machalliance.org/events/nrf-nyc--mach-haus">NRF</a> in January, followed by a series of local market events throughout the year. MACH THREE, the Alliance’s signature annual event, will be held in June 2024 in New York City.<h4>Educational Initiatives</h4>The Alliance is fiercely committed to empowering established and emerging businesses with the knowledge, skills, and insights needed to navigate the MACH landscape successfully. To this aim, a dedicated education program will be launched in early 2024. The Alliance is also working on deep-dive projects around critical topics, including MACH interoperability and how companies can make the best use of AI in MACH implementations.<h3>Why it matters</h3>Over the last few years, the MACH Alliance has been a bellwether in the composable storm. As enterprises sought the benefits of building their own stacks, they faced significant challenges and confusion. The Alliance provided a collective compact of trust for best-of-breed solutions, giving organizations greater confidence in the technologies they choose – and breaking free from the stranglehold of monoliths and vendor lock-in. Evolving from its early posture as an exclusive cabal, the Alliance has garnered respect, trust, and even reverence by investing deeply in education across the market. That open narrative and engagement has reinforced its commitment to provide greater transparency around its membership practices, which many vendors and industry watchers have demanded of the organization. Still, the composable storm has been stirred by controversy, particularly as key terminology caught fire with single-vendor DXPs and became part of the marketing lexicon. <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/mach-alliance-openly-invites-companies-claiming-mach-to-apply-for-certification">In a recent open letter</a>, the Alliance invited companies that are claiming to be “MACH” to undergo certification to help avoid market confusion for buyers as they evaluate software. Despite these headwinds and growing pains, the milestone of surpassing 100 members is a clear validation of the MACH Alliance's value to the market. It signals the continued desire for platforms to be associated with the organization's mission and to benefit from its governance and practices. This is amplified by its goals to introduce MACH certifications and other educational initiatives in 2024, which gives members a stronger position to compete with. As it continues to invest in worthy causes (which include stated commitments around diversity, inclusion, and sustainability), the MACH Alliance represents qualities that go beyond pure technology considerations. These attributes might help future-proof the training, employment, and nurturing of tomorrow's digital workforce – and ultimately scale the Alliance towards another big milestone.We'll keep the balloons handy.  <hr /><figure class="image"><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/11/cms-kickoff-2024-banner.jpg" /></figure><h3>Join us at CMS Kickoff 2024 - January 16-17</h3>CMS Critic is a proud conference partner at this second annual edition of the prestigious international Boye &amp; Co conference, dedicated to the global CMS community. This event will bring together top-notch speakers, Boye &amp; Company's renowned learning format, and engaging social events.MACH Alliance members joining us at the CMS Kickoff 2024 include <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/products/agility">Agility</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/products/contentful">Contentful</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/products/consciaai">Conscia.ai</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kinandcarta.com/en-us/">Kin &amp; Carta</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/products/kontentai">Kontent.ai</a>, and <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/products/uniform">Uniform</a>. Tired of impersonal and overwhelming gatherings? Picture this event as a unique blend of masterclasses, insightful talks, interactive discussions, impactful learning sessions, and authentic networking opportunities. Prepare for an unparalleled in-person CMS conference experience that will equip you to move forward in 2024. Hear from leading voices across the industry on a wide range of topics, including:<ul><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/andrew-kumar">Andrew Kumar</a>, GVP at Uniform</li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/becky-brown">Becky Brown</a>, Content Strategy Lead at Johnson &amp; Johnson</li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/marli-mesibov">Marli Mesibov</a>, Content Strategy at Verily</li></ul><h4> </h4><img style="width:39.13%" src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/11/don-cesar-hotel.jpg" /><h4>The Don CeSar: a world-class venue</h4>Is there a better location for a winter kickoff than Florida's beautiful, sugary sand beaches? CMS Kickoff 2024 will be held at the iconic Don CeSar, just steps from the Gulf of Mexico. Dubbed the “Pink Palace,” this majestic hotel and resort provides a stunning backdrop to the conference, along with access to the local food and culture of St. Petersburg Beach.  <h4>Get your tickets today</h4>CMS Kickoff offers an intimate, highly focused experience. Space is limited, and only a few seats remain. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity!<a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/conferences/cmskickoff24/tickets">Purchase tickets now &gt;</a>

MACH Alliance Surges Past 100 Members, Caps 2023 as a Milestone Year

<hr /> “I feel the need… the need for speed…”It's not easy earning “Top Gun” status in the website performance game. But <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/zengenti-expands-focus-on-higher-education-brings-contensis-cms-to-heriot-watt-university">Zengenti</a>, the pilots behind <a target="_blank" href="https://www.contensis.com/">Contensis CMS</a>, know exactly which industries and organizations flew higher – and faster – in 2023.The company just rolled out its annual “<a target="_blank" href="https://www.contensis.com/content/ftse-2023-report?pr=&amp;utm_source=Press+release&amp;utm_medium=Organic&amp;utm_id=FTSE2023">Big Players, Slow Web Pages</a>” campaign, which analyzed all <a target="_blank" href="https://www.londonstockexchange.com/indices/ftse-100">FTSE 100 and 250</a> homepages to determine which industries and organizations had the best online presence this year – and which lagged.But there's more to it than speed, Maverick. Zengenti's rubric also included the average accessibility score, providing a well-rounded review of the overall “flight performance” of each contender. So who has bragging rights in this year's showdown? Strap in – and keep reading. <h3>Utilities rise while media falls</h3>In a dramatic swing from <a target="_blank" href="https://www.contensis.com/community/blog/ftse-website-performance">last year's</a> rankings, Zengenti's research shows that the Utilities sector delivered the best website performance across the FTSE 100 and 250 sites, climbing 12 places with an overall score of 269.  That's a big shift from 2022, when Media and Publishing took the top spot. This year, the former leader fell 14 places, putting it in the bottom three of 2023’s rankings with an overall score of 234. Despite the major swap for the crown, the race at the top was tight – with Utilities narrowly outperforming the Sports and Entertainment industry in second place with a score of 268, and the Food and Beverage sector in third with a score of 261. <h3>How was the research conducted?</h3>For this year's website performance analysis, the Zengenti team examined the overall performance, accessibility, and speed scores for each of the FTSE 100 and 250 companies. The results were tabulated and averages were calculated for each sector. The complete list of the performance results based on industry can be found in the league table below. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.contensis.com/content/ftse-2023-report?pr=&amp;utm_source=Press+release&amp;utm_medium=Organic&amp;utm_id=FTSE2023">Click here</a> for more details:<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:72.4%"><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/12/zengenti-performance-table-b.png" /></figure><h3>The urgency to improve website performance, speed, and accessibility</h3>“This research shows how important it is to pay attention to and maintain your business’ website performance," said <a target="_blank" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-chivers-34a36b11/">Richard Chivers</a>, co-founder of Contensis and chief executive officer of Zengenti. “Last year, Media and Publishing topped the list, yet the industry has fallen a staggering 14 places to the bottom three in this year’s ranking.”As Chivers noted, if a company's website doesn't load quickly or is inaccessible, it will inevitably lose engagement and sales – and the lack of performance can potentially damage a brand or organization's reputation in the process. For FTSE 100 and 250 companies, this could have a critical impact.  But getting things right isn't just important for business performance – it's also key to delivering digital equality for all users. “At Zengenti, we’ve always been a big advocate for improving online accessibility,” Chivers explained. “We work closely with the Digital Accessibility Centre (<a target="_blank" href="https://digitalaccessibilitycentre.org/">DAC</a>) to ensure our clients’ sites meet and go beyond accessibility requirements.” According to Chivers, the company's research shows that many industries still have significant room for improvement, specifically around accessibility. One in particular that he pointed out: Travel, Hospitality and Leisure, which scored near the bottom of the pack. With the DAC revealing that 90% of disabled users click away from a website rather than report accessibility issues in 2023, he said there's no excuse not to improve. “As leaders in their sectors, FTSE 100 and 250 companies have a real opportunity to lead the conversation and ensure online accessibility becomes an integral part of website performance in every industry.”You can learn more about the importance of online accessibility and view the top five FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 performers on the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.contensis.com/content/ftse-2023-report?pr=&amp;utm_source=Press+release&amp;utm_medium=Organic&amp;utm_id=FTSE2023">company's website</a>.  <hr /><figure class="image"><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/11/cms-kickoff-2024-banner.jpg" /></figure><h3>Join us at CMS Kickoff 2024 - January 16-17</h3>CMS Critic is a proud conference partner at this second annual edition of the prestigious international Boye &amp; Co conference, dedicated to the global CMS community. This event will bring together top-notch speakers, Boye &amp; Company's renowned learning format, and engaging social events.Tired of impersonal and overwhelming gatherings? Picture this event as a unique blend of masterclasses, insightful talks, interactive discussions, impactful learning sessions, and authentic networking opportunities. Prepare for an unparalleled in-person CMS conference experience that will equip you to move forward in 2024. Hear from leading voices across the industry on a wide range of topics, including:<ul><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/andrew-kumar">Andrew Kumar</a>, GVP at Uniform</li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/becky-brown">Becky Brown</a>, Content Strategy Lead at Johnson &amp; Johnson</li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/marli-mesibov">Marli Mesibov</a>, Content Strategy at Verily</li></ul><h4> </h4><img style="width:39.13%" src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/11/don-cesar-hotel.jpg" /><h4>The Don CeSar: a world-class venue</h4>Is there a better location for a winter kickoff than Florida's beautiful, sugary sand beaches? CMS Kickoff 2024 will be held at the iconic Don CeSar, just steps from the Gulf of Mexico. Dubbed the “Pink Palace,” this majestic hotel and resort provides a stunning backdrop to the conference, along with access to the local food and culture of St. Petersburg Beach.  <h4>Get your tickets today</h4>CMS Kickoff offers an intimate, highly focused experience. Space is limited, and only a few seats remain. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity!<a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/conferences/cmskickoff24/tickets">Purchase tickets now &gt;</a>

Which industries on the FTSE have the best-performing websites in 2023? You might be surprised

<hr /> As a new year beckons and we take stock of the one reaching its conclusion, it’s always a natural time to look back on the learnings and the experiences and enthusiastically towards the potential innovations before us. Writing at this time last year, I would not have even talked much about <a target="_blank" href="https://www.wwt.com/wwt-research/generative-ai-risks-rewards-and-a-framework-for-utilization?utm_campaign=ao_ai_and_data_wwt2324_research_gen_ai_ps_1_search&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_content=&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAmsurBhBvEiwA6e-WPOhabEb0LXg2ylPjsudPYZV3z-GM7rmhjofX87dKj1H_lMcJeXzqDxoChKYQAvD_BwE">Generative Artificial Intelligence</a> or <a target="_blank" href="https://openai.com/">ChatGPT</a>. But boy, did it take 2023 by storm, building upon network effects unseen in human history. What I take personally from this past year is perhaps not something so ground-breaking, but a culmination of my own background and observations. For me, this has been the year of “earnfluencing.” A blend of earned media and influencer strategies, this approach could catalyze your own content management, strategy, and production – and turn many more eyes toward the content products you worked so hard on creating.  As I gear up for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/conferences/cmskickoff24/program#Earnfluencing">my talk on earnfluencing</a> at the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/conferences/cmskickoff24">CMS Kickoff Conference</a> next month, I'm eager to delve into how earnfluencing can be a game-changer in your daily content strategy.<h3>Defining the “earned” and “influencer” terms</h3>You may not be familiar with earnfluencing as a concept. While it's fairly intuitive, let’s start with a basic explanation of the term and the parts that define the whole. <h4>Earned Media</h4>This is publicity gained organically through means other than paid advertising. Think promotional efforts like unpaid social, buzz, or viral attention. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cision.com/resources/articles/what-is-earned-media-definitions-examples-benefits/">According to Cision</a>, a PR and media software company, “Earned media, by definition, isn’t created directly by your brand or paid for. You ‘earn’ it through your reputation, word-of-mouth, and public relations efforts. The biggest difference between earned media marketing and other strategies is that it comes from third-party sources, which gives it some unique benefits.”<h4>Influencing/Influencer Strategies</h4>Here, the focus is on leveraging individuals who have the power to affect the purchase decisions of others because of their authority, knowledge, position, or relationship with their audience. Influencers can also be the third-party sources and platforms through which earned media can come to light.<h3>Combining the pitch and the platform</h3>Traditionally, earned media was won via media relations (public relations) specialists spending their days making pitches on behalf of clients to television and news platforms. These professionals would craft angles and narratives and pitch their customers accordingly. When a customer mention, interview, or profile landed in print or on television, it was a joyous occasion for the PR practitioner and their firm. Earnfluencing is different in that it includes the “pitch” but also the platform where that pitch will be disseminated. It’s still earned media because money has not changed hands to be mentioned or inserted, as in advertising. In this era of nearly unlimited digital canvas, where a smartphone in the palm of your hand can be a 4K video camera, audio recording device, notebook, word processor, and digital disseminator, there is a true democratization of platform creation. With this, you can leverage your unique storytelling skills to become and develop the platform. For instance, the earnfluencer can interview a thought leader to appear on their long-form podcast, write the definitive profile of the industry CEO for their news blog, and even guide an expert product manager into the waters of TikTok. The opportunities are endless. If you can artfully tell the story and provide access to an audience, you can facilitate the narrative. You can use that position at your professional intersection to further earnfluence by contributing to an online trade publication (like CMS Critic) or appearing in other podcasts, videos, and news across different platforms. <h3>Earnfluencing in action</h3>What’s the potential of earnfluencing? Consider the impact of personalities like Donald Trump and Deion Sanders. They expertly blended media presence with influencer tactics, generating significant (earned) value for their brands, organizations, or aspirations, albeit with varied outcomes.  First, it has been reported that <a target="_blank" href="https://www.thestreet.com/politics/donald-trump-rode-5-billion-in-free-media-to-the-white-house-13896916">Donald Trump generated $5 Billion dollars in “free” earned media during the 2016 Presidential campaign</a>. That’s a big number. How did they calculate it, you ask? Here's the basic math: the totality of the media coverage of the individual is tracked in terms of overall impressions, and then a dollar value is applied to these impressions based on advertising rates at the time. Similarly, after Deion Sanders – the famous two-sport professional athlete nicknamed “Prime Time” – took over as Head Coach at the University of Colorado, he <a target="_blank" href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/pac12/2023/09/29/deion-sanders-value-contract-colorado-buffaloes-football/70985907007/">generated an estimated $280 Million in earned media after the first four games</a>! Both examples speak to the power and estimated value of “earnfluencing.” That said, it’s important to note that Donald Trump’s presidential first term ended unsuccessfully (to be kind), and Sanders’ Colorado Buffaloes finished 1-8 after three improbable wins to open the first season under his Colorado tenure. <h3>Leveraging earnfluencing in the content and DX industries</h3>I’ve used earnfluencing successfully in my work as a digital agency leader and across other entrepreneurial ventures. I’ve also thought a lot about how my peers in the digital experience and content management industry can leverage it as well. Here’s what I discovered: By combining earnfluencing with a solid, stable, mission-driven strategy, the impact can be incredibly effective – and, more importantly, long-lasting. It requires the right mindset and a firm commitment, but the rewards can be tremendous. If you’re thinking about putting earnfluencing into practice, here are five of my top takeaways and recommendations.<h4>1. Be a Beat Writer</h4>In the early days of my career, I cut my teeth covering sports for blogs and the online home of the Newark Star-Ledger. I was also the in-house writer for the NBA’s New Jersey Nets. Through it all, I learned the importance of being an effective beat writer. So, what exactly is a beat writer? It’s an old journalism term used to describe specialized reporters. Beat writers are typically in the thick of things, immersing themselves in a specific issue, sector, or environment – connecting with key players and constantly seeking stories to drive the news cycle. The beat writer uses all the access available to them and the trust earned in them to narrate, curate, and raise up the stories of those around them. Similarly, in content management, you can be the beat writer for your industry, product, or organization. Use your access and experience to uncover and elevate the narratives around you and develop a smart, scrappy mindset for uncovering the stories that matter. <h4>2 .“Contentize” Your Experiences</h4>The ultimate goal of any business is to monetize and commercialize activities. But I think we can do something very important on that path to monetization – and that is to "contentize." Contentizing is about turning every experience and interaction into potential content. It's utilizing your unique position, connections, and skills – whether they be writing, hosting, audio, video, social media, or teaching – to craft stories that engage, influence, and generate value in the form of content.  This approach goes beyond mere monetization. It creates real value through storytelling and engagement.<h4>3. Be a student of effective influencer strategies</h4>I call this “The Kardashian Model,” as no discussion of influencer strategies is complete without mentioning the Kardashians. Their methodical approach to content creation, as highlighted in "<a target="_blank" href="https://amzn.to/3Gy95uF">No Filter: The Inside Story of Instagram</a>," revolves around strategic planning and algorithm mastery. Even if you’re not a fan of Kim and company, try mimicking their tactics by being intentional with your content, collaborating within your network, engaging with the super-connectors in your midst, and understanding the nuances of platform algorithms to maximize reach and impact. While we might not have the heft of the Kardashians (they’re known globally), we can do several of the things they do well within our own organizations, niches, and with the connections we have within the industry.<h4>4. Be prepared for serendipitous content opportunities </h4>As a beat writer, I’ve learned always to have my smartphone charged and ready – because a story can emerge in the wild at any moment. I call these serendipitous content opportunities.A great example of this is <a target="_blank" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyvaynerchuk">Gary Vaynerchuk</a>, a.k.a GaryVee. He epitomizes the "Contentize" ethos, as he constantly prowls for content opportunities. He even has videographers documenting his daily life, figuring that if he captures most of what happens in his day, there'll be some gold in them thar hills…It also makes him more apt to start discussions with strangers because serendipitous content opportunities can also come from those interactions. It's a virtuous circle – and if something doesn’t work, you don’t have to use it.Also, the<a target="_blank" href="https://www.slideshare.net/vaynerchuk/the-garyvee-content-model-107343659"> "Content Pyramid"</a> in GaryVee's Content Model strategy emphasizes repurposing a single piece of long-form content across multiple platforms (similar to the ole “big rock” concept). This approach can be a game-changer in creating, decomposing, and distributing content. <h4>5. Use generative AI to accelerate and improve your earnfluencing </h4>Despite its rap as a threat to writers, generative AI was purpose-built for content creators – and it’s revolutionizing how we approach earnfluencing. Gen AI is a massive productivity booster that allows earnfluencers to do more with less. It can aid in creating, transcribing, and repurposing content, allowing users to maintain a consistent and engaging presence across multiple platforms. This technology can amplify your earnfluencing capabilities, making your strategy more dynamic and far-reaching. ChatGPT, in my opinion, was born to contentize.<h3>Where does CMS/DXP fit into earnfluencing?</h3>A <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/what-is-a-content-management-system-cms">content management system </a>or digital experience platform should be a natural repository, hub, and spoke of your earnfluencing program – the aforementioned “platform” to bring to life all your “pitches.” In a CMS or DXP, content can be created and crafted through collaboration. It can be requisitioned for publishing through integrated editorial calendars and workflow. The database of your ecosystem influencers and key/trending topics should be tagged and ultimately distributed across all your channels (social, email, etc.), so you can easily manage and grow your earnfluencer strategy.Using a platform with built-in or integrated analytics is also critical. The metrics and tracking should be within arm’s reach so you can always gauge your performance and adjust as needed. The best platforms can also power dynamic personalization for specific audiences, allowing you to tailor your content based on your readers and customers. My dream: What if you could pipe in trending topics (from Google Trends, etc.) to the dashboard of your CMS or DXP – and then have AI surface all the content within your library that can be utilized at that moment to generate new engagement and reach for your existing content? This tactic, affectionately called “newsjacking,” would be a great way to augment your earnfluencing and bring more value to your content. Earnfluencing is at the intersection of earned media and influencer strategies. It requires a keen understanding of digital narratives, audience engagement, and the power of influence. As content managers and creators, embracing this approach means stepping into a realm where authenticity, strategic planning, and technological innovation come together to create impactful, resonant content. Ready to catch some “earnfluenza”? Let's embrace it – and go viral together. <hr /><figure class="image"><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/11/cms-kickoff-2024-banner.jpg" /></figure><h3>See Matt McQueeny at CMS Kickoff 2024 - January 16-17</h3>CMS Critic is a proud conference partner at this second annual edition of the prestigious international Boye &amp; Co conference, dedicated to the global CMS community. This event will bring together top-notch speakers, Boye &amp; Company's renowned learning format, and engaging social events.Tired of impersonal and overwhelming gatherings? Picture this event as a unique blend of masterclasses, insightful talks, interactive discussions, impactful learning sessions, and authentic networking opportunities. Prepare for an unparalleled in-person CMS conference experience that will equip you to move forward in 2024. Along with Matt McQueeny, hear from leading voices across the industry on a wide range of topics, including:<ul><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/andrew-kumar">Andrew Kumar</a>, GVP at Uniform</li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/becky-brown">Becky Brown</a>, Content Strategy Lead at Johnson &amp; Johnson</li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/marli-mesibov">Marli Mesibov</a>, Content Strategy at Verily</li></ul><img style="width:39.13%" src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/11/don-cesar-hotel.jpg" /><h4>The Don CeSar: a world-class venue</h4>Is there a better location for a winter kickoff than Florida's beautiful, sugary sand beaches? CMS Kickoff 2024 will be held at the iconic Don CeSar, just steps from the Gulf of Mexico. Dubbed the “Pink Palace,” this majestic hotel and resort provides a stunning backdrop to the conference, along with access to the local food and culture of St. Petersburg Beach. <h4>Get your tickets today</h4>CMS Kickoff offers an intimate, highly focused experience. Space is limited, and only a few seats remain. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity!<a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/conferences/cmskickoff24/tickets">Purchase tickets now &gt;</a>

Earnfluencing: Bridging the Gap Between Earned Media and Influencing

mattmcqueeny

<hr /> If it feels like you’re drowning in AI, you’re not alone.ChatGPT might only be <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnbc.com/2023/11/30/chatgpts-one-year-anniversary-how-the-viral-ai-chatbot-has-changed.html#:~:text=Nov.,human%20than%20an%20AI%20system.">a year old</a> (and acting a bit like a toddler), but the wave of innovation it spurred is dominating every conversation. To complicate matters, the ecosystem dynamics are evolving on a daily… er, hourly basis. One possible life raft on these stormy seas has emerged: data provenance. But before we drop anchor on that, let’s review the last few weeks of “AI headwinds,” shall we? And try to keep your head above water…First, we had the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/22/technology/openai-board-capitalists.html">epic drama at OpenAI</a> as Sam Altman played musical chairs with <a target="_blank" href="https://cmscritic.com/products/microsoft-sharepoint">Microsoft</a>. The market is still unpacking what it means, but the hit left more than a black eye for both brands.Synchronously, AWS opened the proverbial floodgates at <a target="_blank" href="https://reinvent.awsevents.com/">re:Invent,</a> the cloud juggernaut’s annual confab in Las Vegas. AI felt like the only show on the strip, with Amazon introducing a slew of new models, services, and its hyper-connective <a target="_blank" href="https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/aws/introducing-amazon-q-a-new-generative-ai-powered-assistant-preview/">Amazon Q assistant</a>. Finally, not to be bested by its cloud rivals, Google just unveiled its highly anticipated <a target="_blank" href="https://blog.google/technology/ai/google-gemini-ai/#sundar-note">Gemini AI</a> last week, an advanced LLM built for multimodal reasoning across text, images, video, and code.And that’s just scratching the surface. Floodgates… drowning… is there a lifejacket on this boat?  Despite the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/08/technology/eu-ai-act-regulation.html">EU’s landmark agreement</a> to limit the use of artificial intelligence, we can all agree that the genie isn’t going back in the bottle. And with businesses set to increase their AI investments by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/north-american-businesses-plan-to-invest-67-more-in-generative-ai-in-2024-to-drive-efficiency-experience-and-growth-infosys-research-301967370.html#:~:text=The%20research%20forecasts%20that%20companies,67%25%20in%20the%20next%20year.">almost 70% next year</a>, the pros currently outweigh the cons.  Still, there are challenges aplenty. As more organizations dive into AI, big questions linger around accuracy, security, and governance. Between rampant hallucinations, unsavory biases, and other “shenanigans,” organizations are wrestling with existential issues as they lean more heavily on AI to crunch their data. It’s worth pointing out that machine learning technologies have been around for quite some time, and data has always been the lifeblood. The recent AI acceleration is due in part to the advent of new LLMs, but also the growth of compute capabilities and cloud services to manage more of the heavy lifting. Now, enterprises can rapidly build and train their own AI models and leverage more datasets for critical use cases – like <a target="_blank" href="https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/publicsector/predict-diabetic-patient-readmission-using-multi-model-training-amazon-sagemaker-pipelines/">predicting diabetes</a> based on procedure data from diagnoses and medical claims.  But what about the trustworthiness of the data they’re feeding to AI? Do they know where, when, and how it was collected? If they rely on third-party entities, how do they ensure the data they inherit is clean and complete?This is one of the questions the <a target="_blank" href="https://dataandtrustalliance.org/">Data &amp; Trust Alliance</a> is endeavoring to answer. The not-for-profit consortium is comprised of Fortune 500 businesses across multiple industries (IBM, Pfizer, Nielsen, Walmart, Meta, just to name a few) – all focused on learning, developing, and adopting responsible data and AI governance.I recently spoke with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinapodnar/">Kristina Podnar</a>, Senior Policy Director for the organization, about the Alliance’s proposed <a target="_blank" href="https://dataandtrustalliance.org/our-initiatives/data-provenance-standards">Data Provenance Standards</a>. Kristina is an industry authority and one of the sharpest, most passionate voices on the subject of Digital Policy. She walked me through the proposed standards and the elegant role of metadata in delivering this essential layer of transparency.   <h3>An alliance built for trust</h3>A bit of history for context: The Data &amp; Trust Alliance was formed in 2020 by two heavy hitters: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-chenault/">Ken Chenault</a>, General Catalyst chairman and managing director, and former American Express chairman and CEO; and <a target="_blank" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samuel_J._Palmisano">Sam Palmisano</a>, former CEO of IBM. In addition to helming some of the world’s largest brands, these pioneering luminaries have served on numerous boards – including Airbnb, NCAA, Berkshire Hathaway – and continue to be influential figures across industries. As Kristina recalled, both Chenault and Palmisano observed that the next era of business won’t be dependent on data and AI, but on trustworthy data and AI. To help guide the responsible use of data and intelligent systems, they formed the Data &amp; Trust Alliance – which resides within the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.thecge.net/">Center for Global Enterprise</a> (CGE), a New York-based non-profit.The Alliance is built on a core belief that every enterprise in every industry is (or will soon be) a data enterprise, and must be responsible stewards of their data, algorithms, and AI. To support this mission, the organization doesn’t lobby or advocate on public policy issues; instead, it maintains a fierce commitment to developing tools and sharing practices to enhance learning. “Unlike other coalitions that publish a lot of guiding principles, the Data &amp; Trust alliance is all about actually creating tools, which member companies can adopt,” she said. “In the coalition are folks like American Express, Deloitte, Nike, Starbucks, AARP – the list goes on. These organizations get together around a table and ask, what are the biggest challenges we're facing right now? And then let's actually create a solution and adopt it.”According to Kristina, there have been several initiatives that the Alliance has taken on since its inception. This includes a data assessment resource for mergers and acquisitions, and a toolkit for preventing or detecting bias in HR hiring practices when using AI. The latter predates <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nyc.gov/site/dca/about/automated-employment-decision-tools.page">NYC’s Automated Employment Decision Tool law</a> – the first of its kind in the country, and a potential indicator of future legislation (the bill has also <a target="_blank" href="https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/08/04/1030513/podcast-beating-the-ai-hiring-machines/">garnered criticism</a> from a range of entities).<h3>The Data Provenance Standards initiative </h3>According to the Data &amp; Trust Alliance, having clear data provenance – understanding the origin, lineage, and rights associated with data – is vital to establishing trust around the insights and decisions coming from data-enabled systems. This includes AI applications. As it stands, data scientists <a target="_blank" href="https://www.anaconda.com/resources/whitepapers/state-of-data-science-report-2022">spend</a> nearly 40% of their time on data preparation and cleansing tasks, which is a huge drag on productivity. Further, 61% of CEOs <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ibm.com/thought-leadership/institute-business-value/en-us/c-suite-study/ceo">cite</a> the lack of clarity into data lineage and provenance as the central risks preventing the adoption of AI across their businesses.All these factors led to the development of the Data Provenance Standards, which were co-created by 19 Data &amp; Trust Alliance member organizations, along with multiple third-party industry partners and ecosystem experts. The organization took a “for industry, by industry” approach when developing the proposed standards, identifying provenance pain points from 25 use cases across its diverse members. The resulting set focuses on the eight most essential, valuable, and feasible standards for small and large enterprises to implement – irrespective of industry.“The interesting thing about these data provenance standards is they’re built on top of AI use cases,” Kristina shared. “But in reality, they apply to any data, including traditional data. It's the first set of standards really targeted at trustworthiness.”Unlike other principles and industry guidelines that are voluntary in compliance, the Data &amp; Trust Alliance’s provenance standards were designed to be actionable specifically for data governance practitioners. When implemented, they will provide transparency into the origin of the datasets used for both traditional data applications and a rapidly growing number of AI applications – which will ultimately enhance AI value and trustworthiness. <h3>It’s all in the metadata</h3>The word policy might give you the shivers, but that’s where the Data Provenance Standards provide an elegant solution: metadata.“First of all, it's not policy,” Kristina explained. “They are a set of standards, and it's rich metadata that goes along with that. They extend the concept of metadata into a set of trustworthy considerations. At the root of all eight standards, there's a provenance metadata unique ID, and that unique label tracks the history and origin for each data set.”As she further pointed out, the standards apply at the dataset level – not at the element row or table level – acting as an overall “fingerprint” for divining the lineage of the dataset. The eight proposed Data Provenance Standards surface metadata and associated values for: <ol><li>Lineage: Provides the provenance metadata unique ID, along with a blockchain ledger ID or other identifier. </li><li>Source: Contains information about the user, organization, software systems, and even IP address of the originator. </li><li>Legal Rights: Includes details about attribution, copyrights and trademarks, and any laws or regulations that are applicable. </li><li>Privacy and Protection: Covers any protected data classifications or if any privacy-enhancing techniques were applied.</li><li>Generation Date: Codes the year, date, month, and timestamp for the data. </li><li>Data Type: Delineates if the data is structured or unstructured.</li><li>Generation Method: Provides info on how the data was created, via web crawling, data mining, or other methods. </li><li>Intended Use and Restrictions: Details how the data should be used and by what audiences. </li></ol>To see example values, you can download the <a target="_blank" href="https://dataandtrustalliance.org/Data-Provenance-Standards-Information-pack.pdf">Standards information pack</a> from the Data &amp; Trust Alliance website. <h3>Helping enterprises make informed choices about data </h3>Providing information about the origin and rights associated with datasets gives enterprises more confidence in the data they source and use. This can have significant benefits, like improving operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, collaboration, and value generation.“If you think about the biggest challenge that corporations or any entity face today, everybody will tell you it’s data quality,” Kristina injected. “We were originally asked to develop a set of standards around data quality, but quality is very subjective. With our Data Provenance Standards, what we can all agree on is where data originated, and the attributes that it actually has.”To illustrate the impact of the Data Provenance Standards, Kristina narrates <a target="_blank" href="https://www.loom.com/share/d94d162418b3485890efdf8b330164ee?sid=9a21dae1-ea68-4ee7-b22b-9fa93f908511">a short video</a> that outlines a hypothetical use case in the healthcare industry. The story focuses on a researcher at a fictitious company that is using predictive AI modeling to study Hepatitis C in young women. The researcher acquires data regularly from third-party sources and needs to ensure that the dataset is reliable. Using the Data Provenance metadata, the researcher is able to inform her decision-making based on a number of key variables. By examining the lineage standard, she sees that the current dataset is derived from multiple sources. The generation date also indicates how fresh the data is and how much cleaning might be involved. With the intended use and restrictions, the researcher is also able to identify blockers for sharing the data with specific entities, such as the federal government. It's a fantastic video and use case. I’ll let you watch it to hear the researcher’s verdict, but the point is clear: armed with this metadata, enterprises can rely on essential information and attributes to make a decision with greater confidence – and ultimately improve outcomes. <h3>Why it matters for DX applications</h3>It’s easy to see how the proposed Data Provenance Standards will impact the digital experience ecosystem. First and foremost: DX applications rely on data. The list is long, but for starters, think about acquiring outside datasets to power digital advertising and marketing initiatives.“It will be interesting for third-party data procurement purposes,” said Kristina. “But I think in due course, it’s going to start to impact adtech and martech. It can't help but impact it.”AI is also being woven across every layer of the digital stack, so enhancing transparency will be key to trust at every level – particularly in a decoupled, API-first world that taps lots of data sources. This includes CMS and DXP platforms that are becoming training grounds for AI and connecting with a myriad of external services driven by data.  The new standards are still in a “proposed” mode as the Data &amp; Trust Alliance continues to gather feedback from the market. You can participate in the process by <a target="_blank" href="https://dataandtrustalliance.org/our-initiatives/data-provenance-standards">reviewing the standards</a> and providing input on the metadata and values <a target="_blank" href="https://us14.list-manage.com/survey?u=f2c4b0ec47814ddee58d70038&amp;id=fb47ee5e98&amp;attribution=false">via an online survey</a>.  As a resident Digital Policy rockstar, Kristina seems bullish on the potential impact – namely because the Data &amp; Trust Alliance represents leading global brands that are committed to ensuring this vital transparency.“The reason why this matters is because around the table are the largest procurement entities for data in the world,” Kristina said emphatically. “So if they start to adopt these standards and apply them to their data in the form of metadata, what you actually have is a huge ecosystem play.”That ecosystem won't stop the AI floodgates from opening further, but it might help keep things afloat.   <hr /><figure class="image"><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/11/cms-kickoff-2024-banner.jpg" /></figure><h3>See Kristina Podnar at CMS Kickoff 2024 - January 16-17</h3>CMS Critic is a proud conference partner at this second annual edition of the prestigious international Boye &amp; Co conference, dedicated to the global CMS community. This event will bring together top-notch speakers, Boye &amp; Company's renowned learning format, and engaging social events.Tired of impersonal and overwhelming gatherings? Picture this event as a unique blend of masterclasses, insightful talks, interactive discussions, impactful learning sessions, and authentic networking opportunities. Prepare for an unparalleled in-person CMS conference experience that will equip you to move forward in 2024. Along with Kristina Podnar, hear from leading voices across the industry on a wide range of topics, including:<ul><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/andrew-kumar">Andrew Kumar</a>, GVP at Uniform</li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/becky-brown">Becky Brown</a>, Content Strategy Lead at Johnson &amp; Johnson</li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/speakers/marli-mesibov">Marli Mesibov</a>, Content Strategy at Verily</li></ul><h4> </h4><img style="width:39.13%" src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/11/don-cesar-hotel.jpg" /><h4>The Don CeSar: a world-class venue</h4>Is there a better location for a winter kickoff than Florida's beautiful, sugary sand beaches? CMS Kickoff 2024 will be held at the iconic Don CeSar, just steps from the Gulf of Mexico. Dubbed the “Pink Palace,” this majestic hotel and resort provides a stunning backdrop to the conference, along with access to the local food and culture of St. Petersburg Beach. <h4>Get your tickets today</h4>CMS Kickoff offers an intimate, highly focused experience. Space is limited, and only a few seats remain. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity!<a target="_blank" href="https://www.boye-co.com/conferences/cmskickoff24/tickets">Purchase tickets now &gt;</a>

Can you trust your AI data? New standards emerge to help ensure transparency

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