Optus Partners with Microsoft to Launch Unified Data Platform, Accelerating AI Transformation

Optus Partners with Microsoft to Launch Unified Data Platform, Accelerating AI Transformation

Background and Strategic Collaboration

In an effort to modernize its data infrastructure, Optus has transitioned from legacy on-premise data warehouses to a cloud-based solution powered by Microsoft Azure. This migration is part of a broader strategy to consolidate multiple data platforms into a single, unified system, facilitating better data governance and scalability.

Mark Potter, Chief Information Officer at Optus, emphasized the importance of this transformation: "Optus is thrilled to enable our people to use our data to make more insightful decisions with our completed migration to a unified data platform." He highlighted that collaboration with Microsoft, Tech Mahindra, and Databricks allows employees to work with cutting-edge technology, improving user experience and reducing latency. Source

Technical Implementation and Benefits

The Unified Data Platform is built upon an enterprise data lakehouse architecture, utilizing Databricks' data intelligence engine. This setup provides an open, unified foundation for all data and governance needs. Key technical benefits observed include:

• Operational Efficiency: A 50% reduction in processing time for core operational loads.
• Development Agility: Up to a 20% decrease in data engineering pipeline development time.
• Enhanced Security and Governance: Improved data consolidation and reduced latency, leading to better security and governance. Source

Implications for Customer Experience

The implementation of the UDP enables Optus to leverage generative AI and machine learning technologies, allowing for more personalized customer interactions. By consolidating customer data across all touchpoints, Optus can offer relevant offers, faster issue resolution, and tailored service recommendations.

Sarah Carney, National Chief Technology Officer at Microsoft Australia and New Zealand, stated: "It's inspiring to see Optus leading the charge in APAC with a unified data platform powered by Microsoft Azure. This partnership showcases how organizations can unlock the full potential of their data and embrace cutting-edge technologies like generative AI to deliver better experiences for customers and employees." Source

Future Outlook

As Optus continues to scale the use of the UDP, the company plans to evolve its data and AI-driven, customer-centric model. This includes enabling better decision-making, delivering superior customer experiences, and maintaining operational excellence. The partnership with Microsoft, Tech Mahindra, and Databricks positions Optus to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving telecommunications industry.

Harshvendra Soin, President – Asia Pacific and Japan Business at Tech Mahindra, noted: "We provided Optus with crucial cloud data warehousing and artificial intelligence capabilities with quick scalability and flexibility. Our efforts will further enhance innovation, security, disaster recovery, and cost efficiency, and provide business continuity opportunities for telecom enterprises." Source

Conclusion

Optus's implementation of the Unified Data Platform, in collaboration with Microsoft, Tech Mahindra, and Databricks, represents a significant advancement in the company's digital transformation efforts. By embracing cloud and AI technologies, Optus is set to deliver more personalized services to customers and enhance operational efficiency, positioning itself as a leader in the telecommunications sector.