For those with an interest in tech, gadgetry, or IT more generally, it can be really interesting to gain an insight into where the sector seems to be headed. Getting a look ahead can be invaluable in giving you a sense of focus for your future learning, especially if you’re employed in a professional capacity within this sort of industry.
So events like SolarWinds’ THWACKcamp always raise some great topics for discussion, and its 2020 outing was no exception. We take a look at four key takeaways from the company’s most recent round of presentations.
Who are SolarWinds?
Before we go any further, let us pause and provide you with a quick overview of the company behind the event. Based in Austin, Texas, SolarWinds develops software for businesses, with the aim of helping them to manage their networks, systems, and IT infrastructure.
SolarWinds specialises in a number of widely used products, such as its popular Service Desk, a type of IT ticketing software that utilises AI and machine learning to capture, organise, manage, and automate tickets.
Each year for the past nine years, it has hosted an event known as THWACKcamp. This is a free, two-day virtual learning event that focuses on providing not only education, but insights into the IT industry and where it’s heading moving forward.
So what did SolarWinds have to say at its latest event?
IT Ops and IT security should work together
One issue that the latest THWACKcamp focused on was the proper balance between security and convenience. The key takeaway was that it’s time to stop talking about security and instead discuss risk and how to manage it. ‘Risk’ was defined as the gap between acceptable and inevitable, with SolarWinds suggesting this discussion was one that key stakeholders must involve themselves in ASAP.
Custom properties are invaluable
Another interesting discussion revolved around the role of custom properties. While these used to be fundamental, they have been lost in the ether of late, but this is apparently a mistake – instead, we need to begin bringing them back to the forefront. Invaluable for those who want to track a lot of data, custom properties should be embraced for their many upsides.
Maps should be designed around a purpose
More food for thought on day one came from a talk on Orion maps and their value in helping to pinpoint what’s wrong. The key takeaway here was that maps should be designed around a purpose so that they not only provide plenty of information, but can help you to pinpoint the specifics too.
Remote working – the year of the IT pro
In addition, there was a lot of discussion around the ever-growing importance of IT workers and teams within businesses. With the increasing shift towards remote work, two separate sessions looked at why and how companies can place an increasing value on their IT teams.
This paradigm shift has helped to make remote recruitment a reality too, and this is something companies should be embracing. The point made was that businesses need to see this as an opportunity to pick from an even wider talent pool, with location no longer being a limiting factor.
Which of these insights will you be applying moving forward into 2021?
