The level of adoption of this technology often depends on the scale of an organization’s operations and its technology resources. Smaller companies and start-ups are increasingly opting to develop cloud-native applications. In contrast, larger companies are increasingly willing to migrate to the cloud. What are the predicted IT trends for this year?

Where data is stored matters

The conflict in Ukraine has highlighted the importance of the location of data backups, which are crucial to the functioning of both the state and businesses operating in strategic sectors of the economy. If the data center where the copies are stored is destroyed, access to them becomes impossible. Therefore, it is worth considering placing backups in a data center located in a secure area, ensuring that data can be recovered in the event of armed conflict or other catastrophic events.

UKRSIBBANK has server rooms in Kyiv – the focus of the Russian offensive, hence our decision to move our data centers to another country. Poland was the most natural choice, given the experience of the BNP Paribas Group financial group to which UKRSIBBANK belongs. The most important task was to create a Disaster Recovery environment for various systems operating in the bank – says Serhii Zagorulko, Deputy Chairman of the Management Board, IT Director at UKRSIBBANK BNP Paribas Group.

Law on the side of the cloud

It can be assumed that increasing importance will be attached to the use of cloud computing, which can already be seen at the project development stage and in tender bids. In regulated industries such as the financial sector, the law will be increasingly open to cloud computing, especially in the context of backup data centers.

The cloud is the cradle of new applications

The cloud is the perfect environment for developing a wide variety of applications – it enables the use of pre-built components, libraries, and solutions, which greatly simplifies the software development process. Many tasks are automated, which means that applications can now be configured quickly, without having to build them from scratch. The cloud also reduces infrastructure-related work, and the resources saved can therefore be used for business development.

In addition, the cloud makes it possible to create AI or ML-enabled applications and manage them at later stages. This trend will further accelerate the already huge demand for cloud services and computing power in the coming years.

Why is time synchronisation important?

The main objective of the Polish Cloud initiative is to increase the level of security by ensuring reliable time synchronisation in IT infrastructure devices across Poland. We undertook this task because we recognised the threat posed by the insufficient number of time servers in the country. While in Western countries the stock of time servers numbered in the hundreds, in Poland the number was only in the double-digits. As an association of Polish data centres, whose mission includes caring for data sovereignty and security, we decided to jointly respond to this problem and increase the number of available servers. In total, we have made 11 servers available, thereby increasing their number by more than 15 percent – says Wiesław Wilk, President of the Polish Cloud Association.

The resources provided by Polcom, among others, play an extremely important role as a back-up for other servers. This is particularly important for companies using IT infrastructure and representatives of the public sector and government administration.

The importance of time synchronisation in an IT system is often misunderstood and underestimated in organisations. The solution to this problem may be the use of so-called time servers. Unfortunately, their number in Poland is still insufficient – emphasises one of the project initiators Mateusz Tykierko, Vice President of the Polish Cloud Association.

Secure infrastructure through time servers

Time synchronisation is crucial to ensure a secure IT infrastructure. There are some services that need precise time stamping in order to function properly, such as logging mechanisms, event monitoring or time certification in financial transactions.

By transmitting data from servers to IT networks, both global and local, all connected devices can update the hour in real time. In contrast, potential anomalies can increase vulnerability to cyber-attacks and make security incident analysis more difficult.

Modern cyber-attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, using a variety of techniques and tools. Time server attacks, especially DDoS attacks and attacks on time protocols, have become commonplace. By increasing the number of time servers, we are securing a key piece of infrastructure against possible disruption. The potential for action in this area is high. Therefore, we invite all Polish data centres to cooperate in this area. We will be happy to share the lessons learned from the project free of charge so that together we can build a more threat-proof digital space – emphasises Mateusz Tykierko.

The provision of additional servers therefore increases the availability and reliability of the IT infrastructure, which has an impact on ensuring the continuity of the organisation’s operations. Through the implementation of the project, member companies of the Polish Cloud have a significant impact on building a secure digital future for the country. The initiative is at the same time a reaction to current events and an expression of the association’s great commitment to the long-term security of data and online services.

Industry 4.0

At Warsaw Industry Week, which runs from 24 to 26 Octobers, visitors were able to learn more about migrating key systems to a cloud environment and how to increase the security and availability of the IT infrastructure with special tools such as Security Operation Center (SOC).

Cloud computing directly influences the continuity of the production process, which form our perspective is crucial and affect the proper functioning of the entire enterprise. Also noteworthy is Polcom’s project-based approach to our needs, efficient implementation and partnership approach – says Piotr Słanek, Production Director at PROTECH.

Cloud solutions for industry

Industrial entrepreneurs are well informed of the challenges facing the modern market. These include not only the need to optimise cost, but also increasing customer demands and increasing competitiveness. In the light of the above, the chance to have direct contact with customers and the opportunity to attend an event that attract a large number of entrepreneurs from the industrial and manufacturing sector provides an excellent opportunity to discuss and align the industry’s need with the latest technological trends that directly support business development and guarantee the highest level of security.

The Polcom SOC service allows us to protect from potential, dangerous attacks and to monitor our systems more precisely at each stage of sale – for this reason we decided to implement it at Poczta Kwiatowa. Security Operation Center allows us not only to protect against attack, but also to monitor the status of our IT resources and to react in time to potential failures before they occur. Thanks to this we are not only certain that we properly secure our data and our customer’s data, but also that we can provide them with uninterrupted services at the highest level, giving them full satisfaction with the possibility of shopping at Poczta Kwiatowa® – convinces Michał Sikora, IT Coordinator at Poczta Kwiatowa.

The implementation won recognition from the jury of the 11th edition of the competition Best in Cloud , organized by the editors of Computerworld. UKRSIBBANK with a project based on Polcom Cloud took 1st place in the category “Best implementation of a cloud service in the last 12 months”. This is the culmination of the financial institution’s huge commitment to the innovative development of banking and its continuous efforts to provide the highest quality of services to its customers.

Polcom has provided the bank with a cloud-based Disaster Recovery solution that enables rapid restoration of IT infrastructure in case of sudden incidents or disasters. As a result, UKRSIBBANK provides services uninterruptedly, which is crucial for the highest quality of customer service and affects the company’s continuous development.

What has UKRSIBBANK gained?

In today’s dynamic and unpredictable world, ensuring business continuity of IT systems is a key element for any institution, especially in the financial sector. By implementing a Disaster Recovery solution, UKRSIBBANK has gained the ability to quickly and efficiently restore key services in the event of disasters or failures, minimizing potential losses resulting from the unavailability of banking applications.

As part of the project arrangements, Polcom provided a backup data center for key systems used by UKRSIBBANK – including SAP. In addition, Polcom provided a dedicated server environment for Oracle systems. The migration of the bank’s systems to a Polish cloud provider also included the implementation of safeguards against DDoS attacks, a real threat emanating from Russian territory.

The project implemented for UKRSIBBANK is a clear indication of how important it is nowadays to have a properly prepared IT infrastructure and ensure business continuity for key systems used in business processes. Without cloud solutions, adequate scalability and security levels would be difficult or even impossible to achieve. Thanks to the cloud, even the most demanding projects can be effectively carried out in limited time and under difficult conditions, as the case study with UKRSIBBANK perfectly demonstrates.

New reality

The development of a backup IT environment in the Polcom cloud was part of an extensive process of adaptation to the new geopolitical situation. The decision to use Polcom’s services and implement a Disaster Recovery solution allowed the bank to flexibly manage its IT infrastructure under dynamically changing conditions. As a result, UKRSIBBANK is able to respond quickly to hard-to-predict events, minimizing the negative effects on its customers and employees that result from the unavailability of IT environments.

In the face of the challenges posed by the armed conflict across the eastern border, the implementation of a Disaster Recovery solution is proof that the flexibility and security of IT infrastructure play a key role in ensuring the stability and continuity of business operations. Striving to optimize business processes and implementing modern technological solutions are indispensable elements of adapting to a changing world. UKRSIBBANK, in cooperation with Polcom, has successfully met the challenges of the rigorous demands placed on financial institutions, laying a solid foundation for further development and serving its customers at the highest level.

In the latest edition of the Best in Cloud competition, Polcom gained recognition and was acknowledged for innovative solutions in three different product categories. This valuable distinction confirms the company’s strong position in the IT market as one of the leaders in delivering comprehensive cloud solutions.

Secure Cloud – 1st place for Polcom SOC

In recognition of the development of an effective tool for monitoring IT infrastructure, Polcom has achieved first place in the “Secure Cloud” category for the Polcom SOC solution. In an era where the number of cyberattack incidents is noticeably increasing and threats from hackers and fraudsters continue to grow, it is crucial to have control over the utilized IT infrastructure, which can be a constant target of attacks. Polcom SOC enables immediate response in crisis situations and mitigates potential threats at their core.

Other Solutions – 1st place for Polcom Disaster Recovery

Polcom has been honored with the first place in the “Other Solutions” category for a product supporting the business continuity process – Polcom Disaster Recovery. With backup data center and well-established best practices related to continuity of operations, companies can effectively safeguard their data and systems against unforeseen events and outages. Swift recovery of business continuity after a disaster is now the standard. Polcom Disaster Recovery offers a set of tools and practices that minimize losses resulting from the unavailability of critical business systems.

Best Test-Development Platform PaaS – 2nd place for Polcom Cloud Platform for SAP

Polcom has been awarded second place in the category of ‘Best Test-Developer PaaS’ for its high-performance and fully scalable solution, Polcom Cloud Platform for SAP. This cloud platform is designed for the most demanding SAP environments that require unlimited computing power and a specialized environment coupled with the necessary knowledge of qualified engineers. The solution is always tailored to the individual business needs of the client.

The cloud as an opportunity for business development for companies

Using the cloud as a tool for business development is not only a necessity but also a key to success in the era of digital transformation. In the context of market trends and evolving customer needs, it is crucial for companies to keep up with technological advancements to avoid falling behind. Active utilization of the potential offered by modern cloud solutions creates numerous opportunities for both the private and public sectors.

As a result of the Russian aggression against Ukraine, many companies from various sectors had to change their operational models, including procedures related to maintaining continuity of operations and securing their IT infrastructure. UKRSIBBANK is an excellent example of an organization that took appropriate steps early on to protect its systems and sensitive data, and to ensure uninterrupted work and availability of applications used daily by its customers.

 

IT security is essential

To ensure the highest level of IT security and business continuity, UKRSIBBANK decided to use cloud solutions offered by Polcom. The project included building a comprehensive Disaster Recovery environment for key systems (including SAP software) used by the bank, as well as for database servers.

Polcom also provides effective protection against DoS/DDoS attacks for the BNP Paribas group bank, which are among the most commonly carried out cyber-attacks. As a result, the bank has gained confidence in the uninterrupted operation of its systems and secured sensitive organizational data, which is crucial for the stable functioning of financial institutions and ensuring a high level of customer service.

 

An unusual implementation process

The project was a challenge for many reasons. The most important one was, of course, the ongoing Russian invasion and the associated time pressure. In addition, the process of securely migrating cloud environments carries many risks and requires careful planning. However, our priority was the client’s business objectives and taking immediate action. Ultimately, we completed the project in less than a quarter. The migration of UKRSIBBANK’s environment shows how important flexibility and IT infrastructure continuity protection, which can be provided by cloud solutions, are in today’s world. Thanks to cloud services, even such demanding projects can be effectively carried out under time pressure and in difficult conditions, which we can certainly say was the case here – emphasizes Adam Matyaszek, Key Account Manager at Polcom.

I cannot write about the specific details of the multi-level security measures I see here, but imagine being in a building that is like a combination of a smaller version of the Pentagon, a modern nuclear power plant, and the headquarters of MI6 from James Bond movies,” that’s how the journalist describes the data center building in Skawina.

Disaster-resistant data center building

In his article, Jacek Bereźnicki particularly emphasizes the high level of security, which is noticeable even before crossing the entrance gate.

I approach the entrance gate, and I already know that it’s not just an ordinary company headquarters. Even though I have an appointment, the guard rigorously checks if I am authorized to enter the premises, and this is just the beginning.

Not only physical security

However, in his article, he not only mentions the building’s security but also the security of customer data stored in the data center. This aspect is also emphasized by Robert Czarniewski:

Our clients do not choose our services based on the building itself, but rather on the level of data security it provides. They have a need for a comprehensive solution that ensures the continuity of their IT systems. Thanks to our facilities, we are able to guarantee that to them.

Obstacles in digital transformation

The material also addressed a very important aspect related to the desire to migrate data to the cloud.

It’s a bit like with the Yeti when it comes to the cloud – everyone has heard of it, but no one has seen it – jokes the Vice President of Polcom. We would really like to convey this message to Polish entrepreneurs: discover how much the cloud can offer you, and you won’t want to give it up – he says. It’s not about them necessarily coming to us because we’re not lacking in growth pace, and there are other Polish companies providing such services. But let them consider taking this step, especially during challenging times like now – says Robert Czarniewski.

TOOLEX Trade Fair is an annual event where industry leaders come together to discuss the latest advancements and trends in the industrial and manufacturing sectors.

 

IT in production and industry

Among Polcom’s clients, many of them come from the industrial and manufacturing sector, and one of them is Protech. As emphasized by Piotr Słanek, a member of Protech’s management board, cloud computing has allowed them to tackle numerous challenges and focus on key areas of their operations.

Before we decided to migrate to cloud computing, we had to constantly ensure regular servicing and modernization of our own server room, which significantly engaged many specialists and, after all, is not a core activity of a manufacturing company. In the current reality, where we utilize cloud computing, we primarily focus on aspects important from the perspective of a manufacturing company. We know that we can rely on technical support and post-implementation care at any moment, which increases our security and business flexibility. The implementation of a fully functional IT platform based on cloud computing has provided us with full scalability, flexibility, and integration with other systems.

 

Companies are taking actions related to digital transformation

The report “Industry 4.0 – a step towards industrial security” shows that both medium-sized and large enterprises have already taken concrete actions towards digital transformation, as the majority of respondents declared. Furthermore, many respondents stated that they would either increase or at least maintain their budgets allocated for digitization.

In light of this fact, the opportunity to “reach out to clients” and present oneself at an event gathering so many entrepreneurs from the industrial and manufacturing sectors is an excellent occasion to engage in discussions and align industry needs with the latest business-supporting technologies.

Throughout the entire duration of the trade fair, Polcom will have its booth set up, and we encourage you to visit us.

Global company DSI Underground has migrated its global environment to Polcom Cloud, and both companies have been awarded the title of winner in the IDG Best in Cloud competition.

Benefits of the cloud

Sectors such as manufacturing and heavy industry still exhibit a low level of interest in cloud services, despite the numerous benefits that cloud computing can bring. These benefits include operational agility, optimization, business continuity, and increased security. DSI Underground recognizes these advantages:

DSI Underground, in order to enhance its business capabilities and effectively compete in the international market, has made the decision to digitize and globalize the IT infrastructure of all its branches. To achieve this, the company established its competence center in Central Europe, which serves as the point of contact for all DSI units utilizing hybrid cloud services provided by a Polish provider. Polcom has proven to be our best strategic partner. It is rare to come across a similar implementation example where a company with Polish capital and know-how successfully carries out such a massive project – says Mateusz Borkowski, Head of Global IT and Digital Strategy at DSI Underground.

The impact on the company’s development

According to 67 percent of respondents, the cloud will be the main driver of technological changes, as indicated in the Polcom and Intel report. The example of DSI Underground demonstrates that implementing key systems based on cloud computing, such as ERP, WMS, or Workflow, enables the achievement of intended goals in areas that directly contribute to faster company development.

It is difficult to find a similarly extensive cloud project in the Polish market in recent years, and receiving the title of Best in Cloud only confirms this. We hope that this award will allow other companies in the industry to learn about the story of this implementation and motivate them to take steps towards digitization – says Adam Matyaszek, Key Account Manager at Polcom.

What did the company gain?

Polcom, together with DSI Underground, recorded a video case study that perfectly showcases the scale of the project and highlights the real challenges faced by modern companies. We encourage you to watch the material and learn more about it.

The implementation carried out by Polcom at DSI Underground brings us double joy. On the one hand, we are delighted with the project itself, where Polcom Cloud serves as a central point in a global IT environment. On the other hand, it has been recognized and awarded by the Jury of the Best in Cloud 2021 competition, taking the first place in the category of the best cloud service implementation – summarizes Adam Matyaszek.

Over two-thirds of companies in Poland utilize cloud services, with approximately one-third in the implementation phase. It can be stated that the cloud is increasingly embedded in the business models of companies, and it is becoming harder to find a company that does not utilize cloud solutions to some extent. These conclusions stem from the latest report prepared by PMR and Polska Chmura, to which Polcom also belongs.

Premiere of the Polska Chmura report

The report “The Cloud and Cybersecurity Among Medium and Large Companies and in the GovTech Sector in Poland 2022” covers topics related to investment plans, data center localization, digital sovereignty, and the characteristics of cloud solutions used. Wiesław Wilk, the chairman of Polska Chmura, also emphasizes that the data from the report clearly shows the fading trend of hyperscalers:

What is clearly visible in the results of the survey today – the high interest and trust in Polish cloud service providers – was not so obvious until recently. Today, Polish data centers are the first choice companies – both in business and GovTech – appreciated for the potential inherent in human and technological capital, as well as exceptional relationality. The “made in Poland” label for data centers is not only about cybersecurity but also about quality, understanding the realities and challenges specific to entrepreneurs from a given country, successful cooperation, and a flexible, tailored offer to individual needs.

The publication highlights intriguing differences in the approach to the cloud between the business world and the public administration. The results indicate that the once popular “trend” of hyperscalers is slowly fading, especially among companies that, faster than the administration, recognize the richness and pluralism of the market, on which suppliers from the country have been building their positions for years.

Who participated in the study?

The material includes data collected from two significantly different groups, and the analysis is based on 143 interviews conducted among medium and large companies and 60 interviews in the GovTech segment. The report presents the research findings as well as expert statements from customers using cloud solutions and representatives of affiliated data centers.

We strongly encourage you to read the report!