Paul, an astute Threat Hunter with OpenText’s SOC Team, was combing through logs in a customer environment when he stumbled upon a strange command line. It was using a ‘Living off the Land’ technique using Windows executable called Rundll32.exe, but this command line looked unusual compared to the others he was reviewing. The target of the command did not appear to be a DLL file. Diving deeper, Paul noticed the process was attempting a single outbound connection once per day to an IP address of a hosting network. The peculiar activity involved SYN flags being sent repeatedly to this IP over port 443, but nothing more. To Paul, this wasn’t just random noise; it was a subtle cry for attention, a digital “ping” that resembled classic beaconing activity.
In the world of cybersecurity, beaconing often hints at trouble. It’s like a compromised machine whispering to its command-and-control (C2) server, “I’m alive! What’s next?” Paul immediately flagged the activity for deeper investigation and raised it with the end customer.
A shadowy connection
Digging into the IP, Paul unearthed some unsettling history. Seven months ago, the IP was linked to the notorious Bianlian ransomware group, known for their stealthy operations and devastating attacks. However, recent threat intelligence reports suggested the IP was ‘clean’ and had no suspicious activity. Could this be a remnant of their infrastructure, or had the IP been repurposed?
A quick query on Shodan revealed the current state of the server: it was still exposed to the internet, with ports 22 (SSH) and 3389 (RDP) wide open—common ports for remote access.
Unveiling the intrusion
Tracing back the breadcrumbs, Paul zeroed in on two Indicators of Compromise (IOCs):
The IP of the suspected C2 server.
A suspicious file that was included in the unusual command line (REDACTED.log).
Both artifacts pointed to the first sign of malicious activity in the last few days. From the logs, Paul and his colleague Sourabh, another meticulous OpenText Threat Hunter, reconstructed a process tree that told a chilling story:
svchost.exe had spawned an instance of wscript.exe with the command:C:WindowsSystem32WScript.exe "C:windowssystem32REDACTED.vbs"
The same wscript.exe then launched rundll32.exe, with a command pointing to the suspicious file found in the command line; REDACTED.log.
There was no clear parent process for svchost.exe, but Sourabh discovered a scheduled task running at the same time:
Name:REDACTED
Path: MicrosoftWindowsWininetREDACTED
Action:C:Windowssystem32REDACTED.vbs
This task name had been chosen to blend in and had likely been planted by the attacker to ensure persistence. With this new finding, Paul added more IOCs to the list, all related to the Scheduled Task.
Malware analysis
Paul’s next step was to analyze the contents of the file from the original command line (REDACTED.log) and the REDACTED.vbs script. Although REDACTED.log had not been found in public malware repositories, dynamic analysis revealed it was actually a malicious DLL file, as suspected. The VBScript was used to execute a function in the malicious DLL, sending parameters such as the C2 IP address. It was designed to trigger beaconing behavior via scheduled tasks, signaling to the attackers that the compromised machine was ready for further instructions.
Swift containment
Armed with the evidence, and confirming the IOCs were not being seen across other hosts in the environment, Paul and the team took immediate action to contain the threat:
The REDACTED.log file was deleted.
The malicious scheduled task was removed.
The REDACTED.vbs script was eradicated from the system.
With the IOCs neutralized, the compromised machine was contained, and the deeper investigation and the threat hunting continued.
Conclusion
The BianLian ransomware group, likely based in Russia, has been active since June 2022, targeting various critical infrastructure sectors in the U.S. and Australia. Initially employing a double-extortion model, BianLian would encrypt victims’ systems after exfiltrating data. However, since January 2024, they have shifted to primarily exfiltration-based extortion, threatening to release stolen data if ransoms are not paid. The group typically gains access through valid Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) credentials and uses open-source tools and command-line scripting for discovery and credential harvesting. They exfiltrate data using methods such as File Transfer Protocol (FTP), Rclone, or Mega.
This incident served as a stark reminder of how even infrastructure reported clean by many online services, like an IP associated with a ransomware group many months ago, can remain a threat. Our OpenText SOC Team’s vigilance and methodical approach not only thwarted potential harm but also provided valuable insights into the evolving tactics of cyber adversaries.
The battle in cybersecurity is ongoing, but with dedicated skilled threat hunters in our OpenText MxDR Team, the defenders continue to hold the line.
Buckle up for a wild ride through the financial services landscape of 2025! The industry is about to undergo a transformation that’s part sci-fi, part real-world magic, blending cutting-edge technology with human-centric innovation.
Consumer banking: Your financial superhero sidekick
Forget traditional banking – in 2025, your bank will be more like a tech-savvy best friend. Imagine an AI that knows your financial needs before you do, serving up personalized loan offers just as you’re dreaming of that big purchase. Banking will seamlessly integrate into your life, whether you’re checking your balance on a smartwatch or getting financing while shopping online.
The coolest part? A “financial fitness tracker” that predicts potential money bumps before they happen. It’s like having a financial guardian angel that keeps you on track, offering real-time advice and insights.
Insurance: Smarter, faster, more personalized
Insurance is getting a major upgrade. Say goodbye to one-size-fits-all policies and hello to hyper-personalized coverage. AI will customize your insurance based on your actual behavior – safe drivers and healthy individuals will be rewarded with better rates. Imagine getting instant compensation for a delayed flight without lifting a finger, or having insurance premiums that adapt in real-time to market trends.
Climate change? Insurance is way ahead of the game, with policies that factor in environmental risks and help you stay prepared for whatever Mother Nature might throw your way.
Wealth management: Democracy meets investment
Investing is no longer just for the wealthy elite. In 2025, anyone can become an investor, thanks to democratized platforms that make growing wealth accessible to all. AI-driven portfolios will optimize your investments based on your unique goals and risk tolerance.
Want to invest sustainably? ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) portfolios will go mainstream, letting you align your investments with your values.
Corporate banking: Efficiency on steroids
Businesses will enjoy financial services that are faster, smarter, and more integrated than ever. Real-time global transactions, predictive cash flow tools, and seamless supply chain solutions will help companies operate with unprecedented efficiency.
The tech behind the magic
Artificial intelligence is the secret sauce driving this revolution. From fraud detection to personalized customer service, AI will be everywhere. Process automation will streamline operations, while generative AI will create intelligent, personalized financial experiences.
AI operational excellence for banking
Banking knowledge reimagined for consistent, trustworthy customer experiences
Finance is going green! Expect financial products that prioritize sustainability, with tools to measure and minimize environmental impact. Banks and investment firms will offer green loans, sustainable lending practices, and transparent ESG reporting.
The human touch in a tech-driven world
Despite all the technological advancements, human skills remain crucial. The workforce will need to balance technical expertise with emotional intelligence. Continuous learning, remote work flexibility, and skills in data science and AI will be key.
Cybersecurity: Trust is everything
With great technology comes great responsibility. Advanced encryption, zero-trust security models, and biometric authentication will protect sensitive information. Transparent data governance will build trust with customers.
The strategic roadmap
For financial institutions to thrive in 2025, they must:
Embrace innovation
Put customers first
Build flexible, resilient infrastructures
Invest in talent and continuous learning
The future is bright
The financial services landscape of 2025 will be a thrilling convergence of technology, sustainability, and customer-centricity. Institutions that adapt with vision and agility will lead the way, setting new standards for innovation and trust.
Get ready for a financial future that’s not just about managing money, but about empowering people and creating positive change!
The energy and resources sector is undergoing a profound transformation driven by the global push toward sustainability, energy technological advancements, geopolitical risks, and increasing regulatory pressures in some areas of the world.
In 2025, the continued evolution of the global energy mix, the rise of distributed energy resources (DERs) and the shift to decarbonized energy are reshaping industry operations across the entire sector. Simultaneously, organizations face mounting information management challenges, including managing vast quantities of data generated by industrial sensors and other digital assets, while protecting critical infrastructure from cybersecurity threats. The focus on building resilient, efficient, and sustainable energy systems highlights the growing importance of information management as a key pillar of innovation in this sector to safely deliver energy and essential commodities to the world.
Safety improvements through accelerated integration of AI and machine learning
The world is in a race for energy and critical resources, yet that race can’t compromise the safety of workers, the health of the surrounding community, nor the environment in which it operates. There will be a number of uses cases for generative AI and machine learning, yet safety will be one of the most important if not the most important application of this revolutionary technology. Asset documentation including but not limited to SOPs, safety standards, operating instructions, equipment manuals, safety forms and checklists, and much more contains a vast amount of knowledge. Utilizing an AI-powered content assistant to tap that knowledge quickly will ensure trusted information is always at a fingertips length away to keep workers and operations safe.
Increased asset uptime with expansion of digital twins across operations
Digital twins will scale across the enterprise, providing a real-time digital representation of an asset that enhances operational visibility. These models will improve the efficiency and sustainability of energy systems, offering actional insights into interconnected assets and processes. Every digital fabric has horizontal and vertical digital threads. Digital twins are no different. Key horizontal threads that will create trusted, autonomous, secures, and scalable digital twins include Content, Business Network, AI & Analytics, Experience, ITOps, Cybersecurity, and DevOps.
Advancements in predictive maintenance and autonomous supply chains
In 2025, autonomous supply chains powered by connected business ecosystems and predictive maintenance models will make advancements and continue to redefine operational efficiency across the entire energy and resources sector. Strategic equipment vendors and asset owners will partner together to securely connect and exchange IoT information so that manufacturers can build robust predictive models from their vast install base. Manufacturers will grow their reoccurring revenues through product-as-a service business models that predict equipment failures for their customers before unplanned downtime or unsafe scenarios occur. Moreover, asset owners will enhance their visibility into the location of critical spare parts, equipment replacements, and field service personnel reducing their risk profiles and improve asset uptime across their facilities.
Modernized customer experiences in utilities
Utilities will leverage advanced analytics and AI to transform customer interactions, providing hyper-personalized services and transparent communication. In 2025, customer experience improvements will be a necessity as utilities compete with alternative energy providers and adapt to decentralized energy systems. Smart meters and IoT devices will provide real-time data on energy usage, enabling utilities to offer personalized recommendations for energy efficiency or renewable energy options. Customer will see more proactive alerts about time of use pricing, outages, usage trends, and cost-saving opportunities through AI-power platforms.
Reduced cybersecurity gaps on energy infrastructure
In 2025, the energy and resources sector will face intensified cyber threats targeting smart grids, IoT devices, and digital infrastructures. Companies will deploy AI-driven cybersecurity systems capable of identifying and neutralizing threats in real-time. Cybersecurity gaps will continue to be reduced with governance playing a critical role. Organizations across the sector will enhance their frameworks for data ownership, access control, and compliance with international regulations like GDPR and NERC CIP.
We’ve released numerous features and product updates in the last 12 months, along with hundreds of fixes, to enhance SAP SuccessFactors Extended ECM by OpenText and make it more flexible and performant for our clients. CE 24.4 includes not only these past improvements but also brings a brand-new list of features. Designed to reduce maintenance, enhance accessibility, and speed up HR processes, these updates will give HR professionals more time for strategic initiatives.
A new name for clarity
Before I start, we have an announcement which will simplify the product identity. OpenText has renamed this solution “OpenText™ Content Management for Human Resources” for OpenText contracts. For new customers it will make it easier to quickly understand and identify the product’s purpose. However, SAP contract users will continue to see and reference the product as “SAP SuccessFactors Extended ECM by OpenText.” Rest assured; continuity remains a priority.
It was a privilege for OpenText to be a Gold sponsor and for me to attend the SAP SuccessConnect event in Lisbon at the end of October 2024. Throughout SuccessConnect we heard how AI-driven innovation is helping to solve workforce and business challenges, and when I consider the many ways that AI and automation enhanced business processes were delivered in 2024, it seems to me OpenText Content Management for Human Resources CE 24.4 is continuing the theme.
Automated HR business user experience
Summaries across multiple candidate and employee records
Leveraging generative AI, HR teams can now apply summaries across any number of candidate and employee files and folders. This feature enables fast comparisons of applications to speed up the application review process, helping recruiters make quicker, more informed decisions. All users need to do is “Ask” to find employees who do not have an NDA. No more clicking around and searching to find that nugget of information. This could be used to instantly identify risk in a business acquisition by evaluating each employee’s file as part of a business merger to find particular contract clauses to improve governance. Previously this level of analysis would take days of precious time and resources.
AI employee file analysis.
Automation of offboarding to cut down on administrative tasks
Now, when an employee leaves the company, permissioned access can be changed immediately using a straightforward integrated and automated procedure.
This will improve the offboarding process for retired, terminated, or departed employees. The reduction of high-volume manual tasks for large retail or service companies with high employee turnover will be invaluable. In addition to allowing onboarding to quickly redistribute user licenses to new hires, this automated background synchronization job will help HR administrators stay on top of offboarding ‘paperwork’.
Enhanced employee mobile experience
Digital signatures and multi-signee documents
For global HR teams hiring across regions, supporting diverse digital signature authentication is essential to the security of the organization. Now, customized authentication rules ensure a seamless signing experience, allowing smoother cross-border hiring process. With HR teams that can be located anywhere in the world and hire people from all over the world, this improvement also increases compliance.
Multiple e-signing authentication.
Customizable Mobile App interface
Designed with deskless workers in mind, this release allows HR business users to simplify the HR Mobile App experience. By customizing the App to show only essential features, we’re making mobile navigation easier for employees, enhancing usability and efficiency.
Mobile UI simplification.
Greater user accessibility
Streamlined document generation
With the addition of an employee communication widget on the SuccessFactors Employee Central Home page, users can generate documents easily, without custom setups. This update reduces maintenance requirements and standardizes processes, leading to faster, more reliable communication.
Document generation ‘Homepage’ access.
Self-service reporting
To enhance project delivery, we now provide real-time access to document generation status. Certified consultants can address issues quickly, keeping configurations on track and reducing potential delays.
Looking ahead
As 2024 product releases conclude, we see how automation, self-service tools, and AI have taken front and center space in helping to innovate HR business process. We hope this year’s innovations will empower HR professionals to streamline operations, lower ownership costs, and focus on strategic priorities. Our latest features are designed to support HR in reimagining recruitment, onboarding, and the employee experience.
Think your business is safe?Every day, businesses just like yours are crippled by ransomware, data breaches, and relentless cyberattacks and these threats are evolving at a rapid pace. Don’t wait until it’s too late and your business is a sitting duck. This is where we come in! Cybersecurity solutions aren’t about increasing revenues or decreasing costs (although they can do both), they’re about the actual survival and reputation of your organization.
The good news? The threat landscape isn’t the only thing evolving! We have reimagined everything about our Cybersecurity portfolio, from our web pages to our actual products. Forget facelift! This is a total transformation of the OpenText™ Cybersecurity portfolio. We’ve ripped out the old and built a sleek, powerful engine for navigating content and realigned our portfolio completely, helping you battle today’s treacherous cyber landscape. Why? Because the threats are evolving faster than ever, and your defenses need to stay ahead of this ever-changing landscape.
Our revamped portfolio is your arsenal in the fight against cybercrime. We’re not just offering products; we’re delivering the cutting-edge intelligence and tools you need to:
Lock down your data: In ancient Egypt, hieroglyphic encryption was used to protect sensitive information. Today, simply keeping up with GDPR or CCPA is a minefield. Introducing OpenText™ Data Privacy and Protection – we’ll help you keep your sensitive data out of the wrong hands and ensure compliance with today’s complex regulations.
Build an impenetrable fortress around your applications: Everyone knows the classic story of the Trojan Horse. It’s a term that’s still in use today – 3,000 years later – to refer to a type of cybersecurity attack. Hackers are relentless, but so are we. Introducing OpenText™ Application Security – our application security solutions will fortify your code and crush vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Shut the door on unauthorized access: Even before the Roman Empire, a signet ring was a powerful tool for identification and authentication. These rings verified the identity of the bearer and granted them access to restricted areas or documents. Identity and Access Management remains a critical cornerstone of security today. Introducing OpenText™ Identity and Access Management – we’ll help you implement zero-trust models and lock down your systems like Fort Knox.
Hunt down threats in real-time: The Cold War was a battle fought behind the battle lines through espionage. Intelligence gathering and threat analysis was key. Introducing OpenText™ Threat Detection and Response – our threat detection and response solutions are your digital 007s, sniffing out and neutralizing threats before they can wreak havoc.
Become a digital detective: Forensic science has its roots in 13th-century China. Song Ci developed methods to apply empirical observation to crimes. Introducing OpenText™ Digital Investigations and Forensics – when a digital attack happens to your organization (and it will), our forensic tools will help you uncover the truth, gather evidence, and rebuild stronger than before.
Outsmart the enemy: The Codebreakers of Bletchley Park, who cracked the Enigma code in WWII, proved (again) that staying ahead of threats is built on actionable threat intelligence. Introducing OpenText™ Threat Intelligence – we’ll arm you with the knowledge you need to anticipate digital attacks and fortify your organizations cybersecurity defenses.
Don’t be a victim. Be a force to be reckoned with. 💪
How can you be sure your software will do what it’s supposed to do—every time? You can check that each function of your software application operates in conformance with its required specifications with functional testing. This type of testing focuses on the output generated by the software in response to specific inputs, verifying that the software behaves as expected. Every time.
Why is functional testing important?
The ability to validate your software’s functionality against the defined requirements is essential. Ensure your software performs as intended and functions correctly, providing confidence for real-world scenarios. This type of testing helps identify and fix bugs early in the development process, reducing the risk of costly errors post-deployment. By systematically verifying each function, developers can ensure that the software meets both technical and business requirements, ultimately leading to a more reliable and user-friendly product.
Key benefits of functional testing
Focus on the functionality of the software to ensure that all features work as intended. This is crucial for end-user satisfaction and operational efficiency. Additionally, functional testing can uncover issues that might not be apparent during other types of testing, such as performance or security testing. This comprehensive approach to testing not only improves the software’s quality but also enhances its usability and compliance with industry standards.
Improved quality: Verify that all functionalities work as intended to enhance the overall quality of the software.
End-user satisfaction: Ensure that your software meets requirements and performs expected tasks, leading to higher end-user satisfaction.
Early bug detection: Identify and address issues early in the development cycle to help prevent more significant problems later.
Cost efficiency: Fix bugs during the testing phase as it is generally less expensive than addressing them after the software has been deployed.
Compliance assurance: Functional testing ensures that the software complies with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
Best practices for functional testing
To maximize the effectiveness of functional testing, it’s important to ensure thorough and efficient testing processes. The following best practices help create a structured approach to testing, making it easier to identify and address potential issues. Organizations can streamline their testing efforts, reduce the likelihood of errors, and improve the overall quality of their software.
Define clear requirements: Start with well-defined and clear requirements to ensure that the testing process is aligned with the expected outcomes.
Create detailed test cases: Develop comprehensive test cases that cover all possible scenarios, including edge cases and negative scenarios.
Automate where possible: Utilize automation tools to perform repetitive tests, which can save time and increase accuracy.
Continuous testing: Integrate functional testing into the continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipeline to catch issues early and often.
Ensure that your functional testing processes are robust, efficient, and effective, ultimately leading to higher quality software and greater user satisfaction.
OpenText™ functional testing solutions
Automate software testing at scale by tightly integrating with lifecycle management and continuous integration tools in the DevOps ecosystem with OpenText functional testing solutions. Enable your DevOps teams to streamline software testing, expand the number and diversity of supported devices, and automate delicate, manual tasks. OpenText functional testing solutions include:
OpenText™ Functional Testing: Accelerates AI-powered test automation across desktop, web, mobile, mainframe, composite, and packaged enterprise-grade applications
OpenText™ Functional Testing Lab for Mobile and Web: Provides a centralized, enterprise-level digital lab of real mobile devices and emulators
OpenText™ Functional Testing for Developers: Enhances your shift-left testing strategy and enable developers to boost automated functional testing
Functional testing is a cornerstone of quality assurance in software development. Its importance, benefits, and best practices ensure your software applications perform reliably and meet user expectations. Deliver superior products that stand up to the demands of real-world use with OpenText functional testing.
The retail and Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industries are experiencing a profound technological metamorphosis, driven by rapid digital innovation, changing consumer expectations, and the need for operational efficiency.
As we navigate through 2025, five groundbreaking technological trends are fundamentally reimagining how businesses engage with consumers, manage supply chains, and create value.
Artificial intelligence and predictive analytics: The new competitive advantage
Artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved from a buzzword to a critical strategic tool for retail and CPG companies. In 2025, AI-driven predictive analytics are no longer optional but essential for survival in a hyper-competitive marketplace.
Advanced machine learning algorithms now enable businesses to predict consumer behavior with unprecedented accuracy. By analyzing vast datasets encompassing purchase history, social media interactions, demographic information, and real-time market signals, companies can create highly personalized marketing strategies and product recommendations.
For CPG brands, AI is revolutionizing product development. Companies are using predictive models to anticipate emerging consumer preferences, design products that meet precise market needs, and optimize pricing strategies in real-time. Retail giants are deploying AI to manage inventory with remarkable precision, reducing waste and minimizing stockout scenarios.
Immersive augmented and virtual reality experiences
The boundary between physical and digital shopping experiences has become increasingly blurred, with Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies leading this transformation. In 2025, these technologies are no longer novelties but integral components of retail and CPG marketing strategies.
AR-enabled mobile applications allow consumers to virtually “try on” clothing, visualize furniture in their homes, or see how cosmetic products might look on their skin. CPG brands are using AR to provide interactive product packaging, enabling consumers to access detailed product information, ingredient sourcing, and sustainability credentials with a simple smartphone scan.
Virtual reality experiences are creating immersive brand storytelling platforms. Consumers can now take virtual factory tours, understand product manufacturing processes, and connect with brands on a deeper, more experiential level.
Sustainability tech: From buzzword to business imperative
Sustainability technology has transitioned from a marketing differentiator to a fundamental business requirement. In 2025, consumers demand transparency, and technology is the primary mechanism for delivering authentic sustainability credentials.
Blockchain technology is now standard for supply chain traceability. Consumers can track a product’s entire journey—from raw material sourcing to manufacturing and distribution—ensuring ethical and environmentally responsible practices. IoT (Internet of Things) sensors enable real-time monitoring of carbon emissions, waste reduction, and energy consumption across global supply chains.
Advanced recycling technologies and circular economy platforms are helping CPG companies redesign packaging, minimize environmental impact, and create closed-loop product lifecycle systems. Smart packaging with embedded sensors can now communicate product freshness, reduce food waste, and provide precise recycling instructions.
Hyper-personalized omnichannel experiences
The omnichannel strategy has matured into a sophisticated, data-driven approach that seamlessly integrates online and offline experiences. In 2025, technology enables truly personalized consumer journeys that adapt in real-time to individual preferences and behaviors.
Advanced customer data platforms consolidate information from multiple touchpoints—e-commerce platforms, mobile apps, in-store interactions, and social media—to create comprehensive consumer profiles. Machine learning algorithms then utilize these profiles to deliver contextually relevant experiences across every interaction point.
For retail and CPG companies, this means dynamic pricing, personalized promotions, and product recommendations that feel intuitive rather than algorithmic. Conversational AI and advanced chatbots provide instant, context-aware customer support that rivals human interaction.
Edge computing and 5G: Enabling real-time retail intelligence
The convergence of edge computing and 5G networks is unlocking unprecedented capabilities for retail and CPG businesses. These technologies enable real-time data processing, low-latency interactions, and sophisticated in-store and digital experiences.
Smart retail spaces equipped with edge computing can now track customer movements, analyze shopping behaviors, and optimize store layouts instantaneously. Computer vision technologies powered by 5G can monitor inventory levels, detect theft, and provide seamless checkout experiences.
For CPG brands, edge computing enables sophisticated quality control mechanisms. Sensors can detect microscopic variations in product quality, ensuring consistent standards across global manufacturing facilities. Real-time logistics tracking allows for dynamic route optimization and precise delivery estimations.
Adaptive innovation is the new competitive landscape
The technological trends of 2025 demonstrate that success in retail and CPG industries is no longer about implementing individual technologies but creating adaptive, interconnected ecosystems. Companies must view technology not as a tool but as a fundamental approach to understanding and serving consumers.
The most successful organizations will be those that can integrate these technologies holistically, maintain agile innovation frameworks, and continuously reimagine their relationship with consumers. As technology continues to evolve at an exponential pace, the only constant will be change itself.
Are you ready to learn more?
At OpenText, we will spend 2025 continuing to focus on meeting the supply chain, sustainability, and customer engagement requirements of our customers – including AI. Learn more about how OpenText solutions for consumer goods and retail industries can help you overcome your challenges.
Ho ho ho! Welcome to the North Pole’s most innovative technological advancement since the flying sleigh! As Chief Executive Elf of Workshop Operations, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Santa’s Present Delivery Network – the magical platform that keeps Christmas running smoothly for billions of children worldwide.
Connect once, reach everyone with our secure Christmas Integration Platform! With over 1 million festive suppliers connected who collectively exchange billions of wish lists annually, we’re the largest magical network serving the festive market.
B2B (Business-to-Believe) Integration
Gone are the days when elves had to manually process each Christmas wish! Our enhanced Workshop Performance Integration system helps avoid those costly bottlenecks that used to delay toy production. Remember the Great Teddy Bear Shortage of 1983? Never again!
Our new ERP (Elf Resource Planning) system seamlessly connects every workshop station, from the candy cane quality control to the reindeer maintenance department. Whether you’re a small regional elf operation or managing the main North Pole facility, our scalable B2B integration solutions keep the holiday spirit flowing.
Supply Chain Automation
Our automated Order-to-Christmas process has revolutionized how we handle wish lists. The days of manually sorting letters are long gone – now our AI-powered system can instantly categorize requests, check them twice, and route them to the appropriate workshop division.
Global compliance? We’ve got it covered! Our e-Nice List system meets magical regulations in over 50 countries, ensuring we’re fully compliant with international gift-giving standards and local chimney codes.
Supply Chain Insights (Powered by Christmas Magic)
My fellow holiday workers, you wouldn’t believe how our Command Center has transformed operations! Our advanced “Nice List” Analytics powered by Christmas AI helps us track good deeds in real-time. Mrs. Claus particularly loves how she can monitor cookie consumption metrics across all time zones!
Our digital twin technology creates a perfect replica of the entire supply chain, allowing us to simulate delivery routes and optimize chimney-descent patterns months before Christmas Eve. Talk about working smarter, not harder!
Supply Chain Traceability
Lost presents? Not on my watch! Our advanced tracking system monitors every gift from workshop to Christmas tree. Using IoT (Internet of Toys) sensors, we can even monitor the freshness of milk and cookies left out for yours truly!
The Anti-Grinch Protection Protocol prevents counterfeit presents from entering our supply chain, while our Predictive Maintenance system ensures Rudolf’s nose stays bright and reliable throughout the big night.
Secure Christmas Collaboration
Security is paramount when dealing with sensitive wish list data! Our state-of-the-art Candy Cane Authentication ensures that every elf, reindeer, and magical being accessing our systems is who they claim to be. No more sugar plum fairy impersonators trying to peek at our toy designs!
The Workshop Identity Management system handles everything from new elf onboarding to seasonal snowman contractor access. And with our API (Authentic Presents Interface), we’ve streamlined communication between the gift-wrapping department and the sleigh-loading crew. Secure collaboration is key to how we deliver all the Christmas presents around the world on time.
Industry Applications and Services
Whether you’re running a regional elf workshop or managing international present logistics, our specialized industry solutions have you covered. Our SWIFT (Santa’s Workshop International Fast Transport) network provides secure, reliable communication between all magical entities.
The Workshop Diagnostic Center ensures rapid response times for toy repairs, while our Straight-Through Processing system handles all milk-and-cookie transactions with unprecedented efficiency.
Santa’s Workshop Network Cloud is transforming how we spread holiday cheer in the digital age!
Remember, in today’s fast-paced holiday landscape, it’s not just about making toys – it’s about creating seamless, magical experiences that bring joy to children worldwide. With Santa’s Workshop Network Cloud, we’re not just preparing for this Christmas; we’re building the foundation for centuries of future holiday magic.
Powering Santa’s supply chain
OpenText Business Network is pleased to power Santa’s supply chain with our innovative and scalable integration solutions.
Want to learn more about how we can help optimize your magical operations? Contact your local elf representative today or send a letter to the North Pole (we’ve automated that too!)
Ho ho ho and happy automating!
Yours truly, Santa Claus, Chief Innovation Officer, North Pole Enterprises
What’s your favorite holiday show? I mean besides Die Hard, of course. I have to admit that I’m partial to the 1964 TV special, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
I’m especially drawn to the “Island of Misfit Toys.” As a kid, it was relatable to think that there are others who don’t quite fit in, but wind up finding a place to call home anyways.
Corporate help desks often resemble the Island of Misfit Toys—a collection of tools and processes that don’t quite fit the needs of the season. From outdated systems struggling under increased demands to overwhelmed agents juggling inefficiencies, these “misfits” can leave employees and customers feeling stranded. That’s where modern help desk automation comes in. Enter OpenText™ Service Management, which can turn these misfit tools into synchronized support heroes.
At OpenText, we’ve recently focused on consolidating our corporate help desk technology and processes to reduce costs and elevate employee experiences – two key goals of our CIO, Shannon Bell. Here are some of the challenges that she was looking to solve:
Much like the misfit toys yearning for purpose, traditional help desks often suffer from fragmented toolsets that don’t integrate or leverage the best practices of the others. OpenText Service Management provides a “configure, don’t code” approach to unify and elevate help desk functions across departments—IT, HR, facilities, and beyond. This approach delivers a faster time to value and lower costs to implement and make changes without the need for developers. It also ensures your configurations survive upgrades—making it easier to stay current with the latest capabilities.
Watch this video Demo of OpenText Service Management delivering on this vision for Corporate Help Desks.
An ai-powered virtual helper: Your help desk’s modern Rudolph
OpenText’s generative AI assistant, Aviator, acts as a “Rudolph” for help desk automation, leading the way with real-time responses, automated ticket resolutions, and personalized support. By providing instant, human-like interactions, the AI assistant replaces inefficiency with cheer, enabling teams to deliver seamless service even during holiday (or open enrollment season) peaks. Take the click tour demo of Aviator for ITSM
Turn your corporate support portal into self-service magic
Imagine if every employee could go to one place for all the answers they need, in the channel that they prefer—like a toy that finally works as it was designed to. OpenText’s self-service web portal and parallel mobile app (for the younger generations) provide a unified experience across all the departments in your organization that handle requests such as IT, HR, legal, procurement, finance, facilities and so on. By consolidating this engagement in one centralized interface, you empower users to find answers independently, freeing up help desk staff for more complex challenges and ensuring everyone gets what they need under the tree of corporate support.
Securing the spirit of giving
Like Santa’s workshop, the security and privacy of operations are paramount. OpenText uses a private LLM to provide generative AI, so that your data isn’t exposed to public LLMs and shared with the world.
The transformation from misfit to masterpiece is the hallmark of the holiday season. By adopting innovative AI help desk technology like OpenText Service Management, organizations can ensure their help desks embody the spirit of efficiency, empowerment, and exceptional service during the most wonderful time of the year.
December 2024: What’s new OpenText Business Network Cloud Edition 24.4
As the year winds down and the holiday season draws near, we’re excited to reflect on another year of growth and innovation at OpenText. November brought us our largest OpenText World event to date in Las Vegas, with a record number of Business Network customers in attendance. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with so many of you and showcase our latest advancements. And just in time for the holidays, we’re thrilled to announce the release of Business Network 24.4, packed with new features to streamline your operations and add even more value to your business.
If you missed OpenText World, don’t worry—you can still catch the general and Business Unit keynotes. This includes the legendary Business Network keynote, featuring Simon Ellis, Group VP at IDC; Deepti Sharma, VP of Engineering; and Mark Morley, Senior Director of Product Marketing, all available on demand until December 23. Unfortunately, we didn’t receive customer permission to share the panel with Denise Hemmert (VP of IT at Cardinal Health), Estelito Mendoza (Director of Global Delivery at SC Johnson), and Andrew Fitzpatrick (CEO of Washington Publishing Company), but the session is very worth watching!
New year: New OpenText Business Network Cloud
As we move into the new year, we’ve also rolled out new product names across our OpenText Business Network portfolio. These new names are now available on our website and product UIs. Next year, we’ll update SKU descriptions and the quote-to-order process. Check out the table below for the new product names:
Old Name
New Name
Active Access
OpenText™ Core Collaboration Access
Active Catalogue
OpenText™ Trading Grid Catalogue
Active Intelligence
OpenText™ Trading Grid Intelligence
Active Invoice with Compliance
OpenText™ Trading Grid e-Invoicing
Active Orders
OpenText™ Trading Grid Supplier Hub
Active Risk Monitor
OpenText™ Command Center Risk Monitor
BizManager
OpenText™ Data Integrator
Business Network Cloud Enterprise
OpenText™ B2B Integration Enterprise
Business Network Cloud Foundation
OpenText™ B2B Integration Foundation
EMR-Link
OpenText™ EMR Integration
Freeway Cloud
OpenText™ B2B Integration Essentials
Global Product Authentication Service
OpenText™ Core Product Traceability Service
Identity and Access Management (IAM)
OpenText™ Core Secure Access
Internet of Things (IoT)/Aviator IoT
OpenText™ Aviator IoT
Lens
OpenText™ Trading Grid Insights
STP Financial Hub
OpenText™ Financial Hub
SWIFT Service Bureau
OpenText™ SWIFT Service Bureau
Trading Grid
OpenText™ Trading Grid
Trading Grid API Connectors
OpenText™ Trading Grid Connectors
Trading Grid Command Center
OpenText™ Trading Grid Command Center
Trading Grid Messaging Service
OpenText™ Trading Grid Messaging Service
Now, let’s dive into the latest highlights in Business Network 24.4:
At OpenText World, we introduced one of our latest innovations: the Integration Monitor, a key app within Command Center. This tool provides critical insights into the health of your integration platform, tracking transaction flows and interactions with trading partners. A standout feature is Aviator, which empowers non-technical users to interact with business data through natural language queries. The MVP was demonstrated during OpenText World, showcasing dashboards for documents, partner information, and integration data.
Stay tuned for the general release of Integration Monitor in Q1 CY25!
OpenText Command Center dashboard OpenText Command Center Integration Monitor OpenText Command Center Integration Monitor document dashboard OpenText Command Center Integration Monitor partner dashboardOpenText Command Center Integration Monitor partner integration dashboard
OpenText™ Aviator IoT
The latest release of OpenText™ Aviator IoT 24.4 brings powerful new features to optimize IoT solution deployment. Updates include preconfigured templates and dashboards for asset tracking, enhancements to the IoT App Builder for easier customization, and improved integration with OpenText Core Intelligence for better data persistence and event tracking. The new Terraform provider simplifies solution configuration, making IoT solutions more accessible and efficient. To learn more about what’s new in Aviator IoT, read the blog here.
e-Invoicing Mandates Update: EU and France
The European Union’s ViDA (VAT in the Digital Age) proposal has been approved, introducing reforms such as mandatory cross-border e-Invoicing and single VAT registration. These changes will require multinational companies to comply with new regulations by mid-2030. OpenText’s Trading Grid e-Invoicing solution will help businesses navigate these changes with ease. In France, new e-Invoicing reforms set deadlines for large businesses by September 2026, and OpenText offers seamless integration as a registered Partner Dematerialization Platform (PDP) to help companies stay compliant. The most recent news are in the ViDA announcement blog and in the change to the French regulationsblog.
OpenText™ Trading Grid Insights (formerly Lens)
This release introduces customizable cross-reference tags and enhanced support for functional group-level customization, allowing greater flexibility in managing transaction details and trading partner facades.
With new self-service features in TG Quick Connect, this update enhances company and user onboarding, improving connectivity and transparency for AS2 direct connect partners.
Security and Platform Enhancements
The latest updates improve tracking with PEPPOL ID display and strengthen platform security with advanced encryption, user data entitlements, and audit capabilities. These enhancements are tailored to meet the needs of robust use cases, like Bank of America.
Adapter enhancements
New features include support for MS Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations Procure-to-Pay (P2P) processes, critical for Just-in-Time (JIT) manufacturing. Transactions like EDI 830, EDI 862, and EDI 867 streamline demand forecasting, inventory management, and supply chain communication. Additionally, Trading Grid Aviator Knowledge Training offers B2B Integration Foundation (former BNCF) customers interactive guidance on API adapter configuration, feature usage, and troubleshooting.
These features now offer advanced security with Core Share integration and enhanced user management capabilities, including batch mode group management via CSV files.
OpenText™ Trading Grid Intelligence (formerly Active Intelligence)
The new features include a new “Days to Onboard” column in Onboarding Members, enabling customers to track and report the time taken for certification on Compliance Link, helping measure the success of their Vendor Onboarding program.
B2B software
The latest updates include a Tomcat-only update to address vulnerabilities and improve system security. Additionally, TLi now supports GUI over TLS, offering customers a more secure and flexible user experience.
As we approach the new year, I want to wish you all a joyful holiday season. We look forward to what 2025 will bring, with even more exciting innovations on the horizon, especially in AI technology. Our commitment to delivering new releases every 90 days will ensure that your solutions remain cutting-edge. Here’s to a prosperous and successful New Year, filled with new opportunities and growth!
July 2024: What’s new OpenText Business Network Cloud Edition 24.3
The Olympic Games 2024 in Paris – the grand celebration of human athleticism, determination, and the occasional synchronized swimming routine that makes me question the laws of physics – will end in a few days. In the high-stakes world of Olympic competition, success is not just the result of individual athletes’ strengths. It is also the result of seamless coordination and the support of their teams. This dynamic mirrors the challenges and triumphs experienced by supply chain, IT, or finance organizations. Just as athletes strive for gold, businesses aim for efficiency, precision, and excellence. Therefore, the Business Network team delivered a feature-rich release, CE 24.3, to help you stay competitive, resilient, and ready for whatever comes in the following weeks and months.
Here is a brief overview of new and enhanced capabilities in Business Network CE 24.3:
Trading Grid with Aviator is a new conversational, generative AI-based self-service virtual advisor. It integrates seamlessly with the OpenText™ Business Network, providing users with instant, human-like, contextually relevant responses and support. Trading Grid users gain autonomy to find the information they need instantly instead of opening support tickets or reading product documentation. You can find more information in this blog post.
Aviator IoT combines AI and advanced analytics with our IoT platform to allow companies to innovate like never before. It simplifies IoT sensor data access and analysis with our custom application builder and intuitive user experience. It integrates with OpenText Magellan MBIRaaS for fast, AI-driven insights and data visualization. The pre-packaged apps help customers quickly leverage data and monitor digital twins of physical assets. For more information, read this blog post.
To help customers increase the reach of global e-Invoicing implementation, AIC supports the new B2B e-invoicing mandate in Malaysia, as well as the existing e-Invoicing mandate in Columbia. AIC extends the capabilities for SAF-T e-Reporting in Romania and brings enhancements to support changes in Saudi Arabia, Romania, and Turkey. For more details about the mandate in Malaysia, read the blog update here.
Configurable Bulk Redelivery Limit at User Level: Users with this role can simultaneously redeliver up to 60 transactions, up from the previous limit of 30.
Enhanced Partner Transaction View: Suppress internal documents and files. Users can exchange and view transactions between customers and partners using two new quick filters for Partner transactions and Partner transactions, including errors. We also added a new active filter attribute to filter out Partner transactions, excluding internal documents, control messages, and 997 EDI types.
Support for Live Search and Reporting for Active Document Customers Moving to Lens: Customers using AD can only access 93 days of data for their reports. However, with the transition to Lens, customers can run reports on 13 months of data and carry out live searches on historical data after Lens collects data for a 13-month period.
Trading Grid Cartographer: Integrates business processes and applications, allowing customers to programmatically retrieve and update XREF tables, dramatically simplifying table update processes for users, ensuring accuracy, and reducing time to production.
Developed SCIM APIs for Company and User Management: SCIM standardizes the exchange of company and user identity information, simplifying access to cloud applications. Adding SCIM APIs to BN allows customers to integrate identities between their platform, the Trading Grid portal, and its applications.
Deprecated gxs.com: All customers and communities on the Trading Grid will use Trading Grid Online to access and manage their Trading Grid solutions.
AS4 CEF Certification: The Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), a key EU funding instrument to promote growth, jobs, and competitiveness through targeted infrastructure investment, has certified Business Network Cloud Enterprise for the AS4 message exchange protocol, ensuring secure data exchange regardless of sector.
Peppol End User Statistics Reporting: Collects statistics and informs OpenPeppol and other Peppol authorities worldwide.
Common Mailbox for PEPPOL Outbound Receiver: Better fits BNCE solution to Peppol dynamic discovery and connections.
MS Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations (F&O) Order-to-Cash (O2C) Support for Just-in-Time (JIT) Manufacturing: The Planning Schedule with Release Capability (EDI 830) and Shipping Schedule (EDI 862) transactions are crucial in JIT manufacturing, enabling efficient demand forecasting, inventory management, and logistics coordination between buyers and sellers. The Product Transfer and Resale Report (EDI 867) adds additional value by providing insights into downstream sales and inventory, supporting refined demand forecasts and improved supply chain communication. Together, these transactions ensure the responsiveness and efficiency essential for JIT operations.
Self-Service Onboarding Dashboard for Customers: Get a single dashboard to view and manage tasks required to provision Trading Grid solutions.
Self-Service VAN Passthrough Workflow for Partner Onboarding: BNCF customers can now onboard VAN-connected trading partners to their solutions.
Added Subscription Actions to Bulletins: Active Access will provide specific messages for actions and automatically close the subscription pop-up after saving. Clear messages will further boost engagement and reduce errors and support needs.
Ability to Send Bulletins to Security Administrators: A streamlined notification process will automatically inform security personnel directly, without delays, about events they need to know.
Sign-In Policy for Geographical Region and Step-Up Authentication: This policy ensures additional authentication when users log in from unknown locations, enhancing security posture of enterprises.
Authentication IP Address Reputation Policy API: Prevents access from IPs flagged for suspect activity or low reputation.
Known Breached Password Policy Rule for Sign-In: Ensures weak or compromised passwords are flagged appropriately.
Support for French Language in Compliance Link and Trading Partner-Facing Screens: This feature enables customers to access the application in multiple languages and Professional Services to configure rules and data sets in the preferred languages.
Duplicate Index Constraint Check Verification for XML Format: This allows checking of elements in XML documents from trading partners for duplicates over a rolling period. This feature is in addition to the previously introduced capability for X12 documents.
BizManager Integration with API and PaaS Object Storage: This feature enables customers looking to build and extend integration flows to API-based services such as Azure Blob, Amazon S3, etc. It also helps developers build, deploy, and manage applications faster.
BizManager OAuth2.0 Support: Provides a secure, flexible, and user-friendly method for authentication and authorization.
BizManager PostgreSQL Support
Who is your favorite GOAT? Credits: https://news.sky.com/story/simone-biles-makes-history-yet-again-as-she-becomes-oldest-female-gymnast-to-win-all-around-olympic-gold-13189052; https://www.yardbarker.com/tennis/articles/novak_djokovic_hails_paris_olympics_gold_victory_as_the_biggest_sporting_success_in_his_career/s1_17325_40702410
Just as Olympic athletes depend on their teams to achieve greatness, supply chain, finance, and IT professionals rely on robust tools and features to reach their goals. We designed the new additions in Business Network CE 24.3 to help you push the limits of efficiency, precision, and excellence in your operations. Stay ahead of the competition and ensure your business is ready for the future with these powerful updates.
