In the fast-moving world of technology, Atanu Pramanic, COO & VP – IT, RPSG Ventures, sheds light on how businesses have changed because of tech advancements.
Over the past 25 years, technology has moved at an incredible pace. This change has transformed not just how companies work but also the role of CIOs.
In a candid conversation with CIO&Leader, Atanu Atanu Pramanic, COO & VP – IT, RPSG Ventures, with decades of experience, shares his journey through the evolving landscape of technology. Starting from the early days of his career to the current era dominated by artificial intelligence (AI), his story offers a unique perspective on how technology has transformed the workplace and the world.
Early beginnings and the digital dawn
Atanu’s career began in an era when computers were a rarity, guarded like treasures within his university’s mechanical engineering department. “Back then, getting a couple of hours on a computer was considered a privilege,” he recalls, reflecting on a time without personal email, relying instead on face-to-face communication and physical documents. These were the days of electronic typewriters, a far cry from today’s digital tools.
The Dot-com era and ERP systems
The late ’90s brought the dot-com boom and the introduction of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, such as Oracle and SAP. Atanu notes the value of ERP knowledge during this time, which marked his transition from mechanical engineering to becoming an IT expert. “Those who understood ERP were the hotcakes in the market,” Atanu observes, highlighting a period crucial for tech professionals, setting the stage for the digital transformations to follow.
The rise of the Internet, SaaS, and Cloud Computing
With the 2000s came the widespread adoption of the internet, alongside the emergence of Software as a Service (SaaS) and cloud computing. “Oracle’s attempt to merge traditional ERP systems with cloud technology signaled a new chapter in digital solutions,” Atanu points out. His career evolved in tandem, focusing on application development, business process management, and, ultimately, leading digitalization initiatives as a CIO.
Digitalization and the importance of security
Reflecting on the shift towards digital technologies, Atanu emphasizes the reimplementation of ERPs and the adoption of digital tools. “The digital landscape has transformed drastically, with security becoming a cornerstone of technological evolution,” he explains. The discussion also highlights the evolving landscape of information security, moving from basic firewall protection to sophisticated data and application security in response to the challenges posed by a connected world.
Managing workforce transitions
One of the most significant challenges Atanu faced was guiding teams through the uncertainties of automation and AI. He stresses the importance of viewing technology as an enabler, not a replacement. “Empowering employees to embrace change rather than fear it has been key to our success,” he shares, outlining strategies for building confidence among employees wary of change. By focusing on education and the benefits of technology, he has successfully navigated the complexities of modernization.
The future of AI and intelligent enterprises
Looking ahead, Atanu contemplates the role of AI in shaping the future of business. “AI’s potential for innovation is boundless, yet its ethical use remains a paramount concern,” he asserts. While acknowledging the potential for innovation, he also calls for regulatory measures to ensure the ethical use of AI. The conversation touches on the need for a unified standard for AI deployment, highlighting the balance between leveraging technology and safeguarding human interests.
