At the 7th edition of the Assises of the Moroccan Association of Information Systems Users (AUSIM) in Marrakech, a panel of experts gathered to discuss the critical role of data in shaping the future of Moroccan businesses. Held under the theme “Becoming a Data-Driven Enterprise: Challenges and Opportunities,” the event, which took place on Thursday, focused on the organizational, technical, and strategic aspects of leveraging data to drive transformation.

The conference explored various dimensions of data-driven business transformation, from data platforms to governance, analytics, and the growing importance of artificial intelligence (AI). It attracted participation from top data experts and business leaders seeking to understand how data can fuel growth, efficiency, and innovation.

Mohamed Benali, the Chief Technology Officer at Orange Maroc, highlighted that data has become a key pillar in modernizing Moroccan enterprises. He emphasized that data holds the potential to unlock both operational efficiency and innovation, driving economic growth across sectors. Benali shared how Orange Maroc, one of the leading telecom operators in the country, has heavily invested in data management and analytics, placing data at the core of its strategic decisions and day-to-day operations.

“At Orange Maroc, decisions are made based on advanced data analysis, rather than purely on experience. This enables us to make well-informed, clear decisions that improve overall performance,” Benali explained. He added that using data analytics allows the company to better understand customer needs, enhance services, and make networks more intelligent and efficient.

Benali also pointed out the role of data in advancing corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability at Orange Maroc. Through data-driven insights, the company can innovate to meet its environmental commitments and find solutions that contribute to sustainable development.

Abed Ajraou, Executive Partner for Data and Analytics at Gartner, echoed these sentiments, stressing that companies must embrace data to stay competitive in an increasingly digital world. He called on Moroccan businesses to invest more in data infrastructure and analytics capabilities to fully capitalize on the opportunities presented by the digital age.

Othmane Zrikem, Founding Partner at vdd.ai, emphasized that data is not just a luxury but a necessity for Moroccan enterprises. He underscored the importance of adopting the right tools and techniques to optimize both talent and technology investments, ensuring that data leads to tangible innovation and value creation. “To truly innovate, businesses need to balance technology with human resources, ensuring that data is effectively harnessed to drive new ideas and solutions,” Zrikem noted.

Held under the High Patronage of King Mohammed VI, this three-day event (October 23-25) aims to promote digital technology as a key driver of sustainable development. The Assises provide a platform for showcasing innovative and eco-friendly use cases of technology while fostering collaboration and dialogue among participants from various sectors.

With the theme “The Power of Digital: Together Towards a Sustainable and Resilient World,” this year’s edition also seeks to raise awareness about the environmental and societal impacts of digital technologies. The event has become a cornerstone for professionals in Morocco’s information systems and digital sectors, offering unique networking opportunities, knowledge exchange, and discussions on the future of digital transformation.

In addition to keynotes from renowned experts, the program includes roundtables, panels, and debates that delve into the technological and economic issues shaping Morocco’s future. These discussions are aimed at helping businesses navigate the digital revolution and capitalize on emerging trends.