Reimagining Data Platforms: The Future of AI and System Integration
May, 2025
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In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, one thing is clear: the data platforms we rely on need to be reimagined. As we engage with customers, it becomes evident that the platforms currently deployed are not equipped to handle the emerging use cases that are just around the corner or already here. Many businesses may find themselves needing to make significant changes to stay ahead.
We recently heard from Alexander Percivall, Senior Partner Engineer at Google during TEKsystems Global Services networking event hosted at the Google offices in Stockholm. Alexander walked our guests through the following trends that he is seeing emerge within the Cloud space.
The Spotlight on Generative AI
Generative AI has been at the forefront of recent technological advancements, relying heavily on vast amounts of data. However, one of the challenges with generative AI is its unpredictability and occasional lack of trustworthiness. Unlike predictive AI, which is generally reliable due to its narrow use, generative AI can be broad and sometimes misleading. Careful application of its capability must be applied, especially in these early days of transformation.
From Systems of Record and Systems of Engagement to Systems of Intelligence
To understand the future of data and AI, we must look at the combination of systems of record and systems of engagement. Systems of record, such as SAP, contain structured and easily modelled information that can be accessed via APIs and integrated into data warehouses. However, we now have systems of engagement, including contact centres, chat channels, WhatsApp messages, and email communications. Many businesses will recognise the slight differences between the information in their emails and their systems of record.
Creating Systems of Intelligence
By combining these different entities, we can create systems of intelligence. Data platforms that enable functionality and integrate systems of record with systems of engagement lead to these intelligent systems. Here are four top industry trends we're seeing in 2025, applicable to multiple industries, especially financial services:
- AI and Agent Capabilities. We are in the agentic era, where everyone is talking about agent capabilities. Multi-agent workflows involve computer systems acting autonomously on data. These agents are task-based and designed to assist with tasks rather than replace jobs. Data agents are the easiest to start with.
- AI assisted Search. The ability to find information quickly and efficiently within specific business contexts is crucial. AI assisted search reduces the burden of navigating multiple systems to find information.
- Customer Experience. Improving customer experience by enabling self-service tools and experiences is another trend. This includes contact centres and websites having capabilities which allow customers to solve problems autonomously, without the need to pick up the phone to the customer service department.
- Security in AI. Security is a critical aspect of AI, particularly in relation to handling sensitive information, making autonomous decisions, and for financial protection. Investments in AI must be made in order to combat criminals who will be using AI for their own gain, as well as to ensure secure operations.
The Integrated Platform Approach
Google Data Cloud exemplifies an integrated platform where databases, data analytics, AI, ML, and business capabilities are seamlessly integrated. This allows for built-in intelligence and smooth integration, enabling businesses to build models inside the data warehouse without external training.
There are three types of clouds:
- Licensing cloud (Business-as-Usual Cloud): This is the comfortable, widely used cloud with decent services but not necessarily innovative but leads with licensing.
- Component Cloud: Offers many choices but requires significant system integration projects to work together. There are always multiple ways to achieve the same thing.
- Integrated Platform Cloud: Google Cloud positions itself here, where everything is seamlessly integrated, allowing faster solution building and less component usage.
The future of data platforms lies in their ability to adapt and integrate emerging technologies and use cases. Generative AI, while promising, requires careful application due to its unpredictability. The evolution from systems of record and engagement to systems of intelligence is crucial, enabling businesses to harness the full potential of their data. Key trends such as AI and agent capabilities, AI-assisted search, enhanced customer experience, and robust security measures are shaping the landscape. The integrated platform approach offers a seamless and intelligent solution, positioning businesses to innovate and stay ahead in a rapidly changing environment.
Google Cloud brings everything together, not just products and services, but the entire platform. It enables businesses to build the next iteration of products and integrate them with legacy systems, providing a comprehensive and efficient solution for modern data challenges. Learn more about how we partner with Google Cloud to support our customers’ ambitious cloud transformation projects.