CIO Review APAC

NTT DATA and Google Cloud Expand AI Partnership in APAC

CIO Review APAC | Monday, December 30, 2024

NTT DATA expands its partnership with Google Cloud to accelerate AI and cloud adoption in APAC, aiming for significant growth and digital transformation across industries.

FREMONT, CA: NTT DATA, a global leader in IT and digital business services has announced an expanded strategic partnership with Google Cloud to accelerate the adoption of generative AI and cloud-based data analytics across the Asia Pacific (APAC) region. This collaboration leverages Google Cloud’s cutting-edge AI and cloud capabilities alongside NTT DATA’s extensive enterprise expertise to drive innovation and optimize business operations.

Accelerating AI Adoption in the APAC Region

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The expanded partnership is focused on delivering tailored cloud-based solutions that integrate AI across various industries, positioning both companies to meet the growing demand for advanced technology solutions in the APAC market. By combining Google Cloud’s robust AI tools and cloud infrastructure with NTT DATA’s deep industry knowledge, the collaboration empowers businesses to reimagine their operations in the AI-driven age.

John Lombard, CEO of NTT DATA for APAC, highlighted the game-changing potential of the partnership, emphasizing its focus not just on adopting new technologies but on reimagining business possibilities in the era of AI. He outlined ambitious growth targets, with the partnership aiming to significantly increase NTT DATA’s cloud business in the APAC region over the next three years.

Capitalizing on Cloud and AI Growth

The collaboration taps into the rapid growth of cloud services, with Gartner predicting global end-user spending on public cloud services will reach USD 679 billion in 2024 and exceed USD 1 trillion by 2027. This surge fueled by the rapid rise of generative AI, is poised to play a pivotal role in driving business transformation across industries. Karan Bajwa, Vice President of Google Cloud for APAC, emphasized the importance of customer confidence in driving successful digital transformations. He noted that NTT DATA’s comprehensive portfolio and deep understanding of customer needs across the region align perfectly with Google Cloud’s leadership in AI and innovation.

A Hub for Innovation: The NTT DATA Google Cloud Business Unit

A central aspect of the expanded partnership is the establishment of the NTT DATA Google Cloud Business Unit, which will focus on developing collaborative solutions in areas such as generative AI, data analytics, cybersecurity, applications, modern infrastructure, and SAP services on Google Cloud Platform (GCP). This unit will provide businesses with the support needed to fully leverage the power of AI and cloud technologies to enhance their digital capabilities.

Charlie Li, Senior Executive Vice President and Global Head of Cloud and Security Services at NTT DATA, emphasized the partnership’s role in addressing industry-specific challenges. He highlighted that the expanded collaboration represents a significant step forward in delivering innovative solutions that meet the unique needs of customers undergoing digital transformations.

Driving Measurable Business Impact

The collaboration is already delivering tangible results. For instance, a major retailer leveraged NTT DATA’s technologies alongside Google Cloud’s data analytics, resulting in a 22 percent increase in digital inquiries and an 85 percent boost in occupancy rates, as stated in a joint press release. These success stories illustrate how integrating AI and cloud services can drive measurable improvements in business performance.

Supporting Digital Modernization and Workforce Development

The partnership also focuses on helping businesses accelerate their digital modernization efforts, particularly in cloud infrastructure, generative AI, and cybersecurity. Li believes that NTT DATA and Google Cloud are uniquely positioned to support clients in achieving their digital transformation goals through a seamless combination of NTT DATA’s transformation portfolio and Google Cloud’s advanced technologies.

Additionally, NTT DATA is committed to building internal expertise in Google Cloud technologies. The company aims to certify at least 1,000 professionals across the APAC region, equipping engineers, sales teams, pre-sales experts, and delivery personnel with advanced skills in Google Cloud solutions. This upskilling initiative is part of NTT DATA’s broader strategy to foster a workforce capable of delivering innovative solutions and driving success in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Looking Ahead: Shaping the Future of APAC's Digital Landscape

As the partnership between NTT DATA and Google Cloud strengthens, the focus will remain on driving innovation, boosting cloud adoption, and helping businesses in the APAC region harness the power of AI and data analytics. By combining NTT DATA’s industry expertise with Google Cloud’s AI leadership, the companies are well-positioned to deliver transformative solutions that meet both current market demands and future business needs in a rapidly evolving technological environment.

This collaboration underscores the increasing importance of AI and cloud technologies in shaping modern business operations. It paves the way for a groundbreaking phase of digital transformation in the APAC region, with both companies working to scale their offerings and expand their reach. As they continue to innovate, the partnership will play a crucial role in shaping the future of cloud and AI-driven solutions in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.

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