Telia launched a development and runtime platform for AI solutions based on Azure technology
“We wanted to partner with the best Azure experts,” says Mari Yliperttula, Telia’s Head of Platform Development.
Security is what Telia is known for. Telia is a critical infrastructure operator serving many clients with high security requirements. It operates as an integrator and service provider of ICT solutions in the field of business-critical data networks and hybrid cloud solutions. A hybrid model can be built for customers, where part of the data is stored in Finland and part in the public cloud.
“For us, data security is at the core of everything, and our infrastructure covers the entire chain – we also manage data traffic in and out of the public cloud, within the public cloud, and between public clouds. Customers and their end-users get an easy-to-use platform and services, while we secure the data every step of the way,” says Yliperttula.
A partnership is formed
Telia wanted to develop its hybrid cloud using Azure technologies in a way that allows customers to access the best Azure features within Telia’s secure infrastructure and familiar interface. Mallow was chosen as the partner to build this landing zone.
“Expertise is the most important thing, and there hasn’t been an issue Mallow couldn’t solve. When dealing with critical customers with critical needs, it also matters that we are in Finland and can work in Finnish.”
Now, after 18 months of collaboration, Mallow’s Azure architects have become almost like Telia’s own employees, Yliperttula describes.
“Mallow’s experts have helped write our programs and trained our team. The knowledge has been well disseminated, and the partnership works smoothly.”
Joint effort – the AI Platform
The most extensive area of the partnership has been the construction of Telia’s AI Platform. The platform enables Telia’s various clients to integrate existing applications and data in an agile and secure manner, allowing them to test different AI services tailored to their needs.
“A secure, easy, and customizable development environment with all necessary features is relatively challenging to build, but we are very satisfied with the result. The code-based solution enables a high degree of automation and modern AI development methods to meet diverse needs.”
Mallow’s CEO Jaakko Karhumaa is also pleased with the completion of Telia’s AI Platform.
“We created an innovative service for Telia’s internal use and for its clients to utilize the latest AI technologies. Security was a constant focus here as well, and we built a system that detects and prevents vulnerabilities throughout the application lifecycle. Network security was one of the most important design criteria. The planning and collaboration were educational and fun,” say both Yliperttula and Karhumaa.
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