Microsoft UAE in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Systems and Information Centre (ADSIC), has introduced its latest innovative solutions at the Open Door 2014event organized here, as part of the company’s transformation to a ‘Devices and Services’ organization. The annual event included interactive sessions and demonstration stations in which Microsoft experts provided insights into the ways in which Microsoft has been empowering businesses, educators, governments and individuals.
The event also served as an IT knowledge sharing platform for Abu Dhabi’s government entities who gained insights on new technologies and solutions to improve the competitiveness of the UAE in order to support Abu Dhabi’s ‘Economic Vision 2030’.
The demonstration of the highly anticipated Windows 8.1 update was one of the main attractions during the Open Door, which highlighted the new features on a range of the latest Windows devices allowing users to rediscover cloud connectivity through OneDrive and the updated Windows Store, which now hosts over 100,000 Apps. Promoting the true spirit of personalization, Windows 8.1 advances the vision set forward with Windows 8 and delivers the experiences that people look for in the latest PCs, tablets and other devices to run their favorite modern apps and experience exclusive cloud-connected services.
Microsoft also showcased the recently acquired Yammer, an Enterprise Social Network that brings together people, conversations, content, and business data in a single location. Over 20,000 organizations around the world are using Yammer to connect with co-workers, collaborate with team members and make an impact in their workplaces. Microsoft Gulf will also present updates to its Cloud portfolio, including Office 365, Azure and Windows Intune. Additionally, there will be demonstrations from its latest Line-of-Business and consumer applications designed specifically to meet the requirements of users in UAE looking to utilize the creativity, flexibility and mobility of the Microsoft interface.
Speaking at a press conference during the Open Door, Samer Abu Ltaif, Regional General Manager, Microsoft Gulf, said: “Open Door is a unique platform to experience all the latest innovation from around the world. The world of IT is evolving at a rapid pace and we continue to see disruption dominated by four main megatrends: mobility, cloud, big data and social networking. During Open Door, we presented solutions that are in-line with these megatrends, enabling businesses and governments to carry out activities that support their objectives. At Microsoft UAE, we are committed to serve the Abu Dhabi Vision 2030, and empower businesses and governments through technology innovation, making enhanced productivity and competitiveness possible. I would like to take the opportunity to thank ADSIC for their collaboration and support as we jointly embark on serving the vision of the leaders of Abu Dhabi and the UAE.”
Also attending the press conference was Abdul Karim Al Raisi, Director of Strategy & Planning at the Abu Dhabi Systems & Information Centre who delivered a key note speech during the opening session of the event. He said “Our collaboration and participation at the Microsoft Open Door UAE event for the second year is a testimony of the strong ongoing partnership between Abu Dhabi government and Microsoft. As the government entity in charge of Abu Dhabi’s ICT agenda, we are committed to transform government services to contribute to the development of an IT-enabled and competitive economy. This event is a great opportunity to meet IT leaders and enthusiasts in the UAE, to share technology advancements and strategically partner with ICT providers.”
Additionally, at Open Door, Khaled Al Sheikh, Entity Liaison Manager at ADSIC, outlined Abu Dhabi government’s strategic objectives to enable digital transformation of government services. He also discussed in his presentation, the key priority areas and the way forward to modernise the Emirate’s e-Government services.
Further to experiencing the latest Microsoft offerings, Open Door participants had the opportunity to interact with Microsoft’s solution partners and gain a better understanding of the way in which they provide innovative solutions across a variety of sectors and markets.