Page 124 - ALEF EDUCATION PR REPORT - AUGUST 2025

8/12/25, 9:32 AM Critical Tech Projects, Tools And Trends Overshadowed By The AI Boom
Everyone’s chasing new AI models, but many ignore data tools—secure sharing, federated learning and
clean data pipelines. Without that plumbing, the flashiest model stalls. Nail how you collect data first;
the AI wins will follow. - Ashutosh Synghal, Midcentury Labs Inc.

5. Strong Data Governance Standards

AI adoption is hindered by weak data governance—particularly the lack of trust in how identity,

permissions and access rights are managed once AI workflows are initiated and tokenized data is
presented in responses. To move forward, organizations must ensure data lineage, protect critical

sources and prevent unintended exposure in AI responses through better data discovery, mapping and
control. - Richard Cassidy, Rubrik

6. Adaptive Learning Systems

Amid the AI hype, adaptive learning is the quiet revolution we’re overlooking. While generative tools
steal the spotlight, adaptive systems personalize learning in real time, bridging skill gaps, boosting
retention and scaling impact. This isn’t just edtech; it is human capital tech. In chasing smarter

machines, let’s not forget to build smarter people. - Geoffrey Alphonso, Alef Education

7. Modern, Architected Digital Data Layers

AI is important, but getting the company’s IT house in order should be at the top of the list. Big,
decades-old companies have legacy technology weighing them down. A modern, architected digital data

layer is a must. This can sit on top of legacy tech, access all the company’s data, and be used to build
new agile apps and AI solutions, all while teams are replacing or upgrading legacy tech over time. -
Kerrie Hoffman, Hoffman Digital

8. Reusable Architecture

In the AI race, large tech companies often overlook green, reusable architecture. Companies can reduce
their cloud expenses and environmental impact by reusing microservices, leveraging cluster computing

and optimizing workloads for energy efficiency. Sustainable systems become essential for maintaining
margins and compliance, as well as ensuring resilience, as AI operations grow. - Dhruv Seth, Walmart

Global Tech

9. Unified Data Platforms

Many companies are ignoring the impact that a unified data platform can have on their business. Data
is often siloed, making it difficult for business leaders to identify trends, forecast properly and make
data-driven decisions that propel their business forward. Access to trusted data, both structured and
unstructured, for all employees serves as a catalyst for growth. - Matt Dickson, Eclipse Telecom

https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbestechcouncil/2025/08/11/critical-tech-projects-tools-and-trends-overshadowed-by-the-ai-boom/ 3/5