Sawmills, the first AI-powered telemetry data management platform, has emerged from stealth with $10 million in seed funding. The oversubscribed funding round was led by Team8, with participation from Mayfield and Alumni Ventures. Founded by enterprise software veterans from New Relic, CloudBees, and Tricentis, Sawmills aims to help enterprises optimize their observability data management, reducing costs while improving system monitoring capabilities.

Tackling Observability Challenges

As modern software architectures become increasingly complex, observability has become essential for system reliability. However, organizations are struggling with high costs and data quality issues. The median company now spends nearly $2 million annually on observability, with frequent cost spikes. A notable case involved a financial services firm receiving an unexpected $65 million observability bill from Datadog.

"Engineering teams are grappling with both cost and quality challenges in their observability data," said Ronit Belson, CEO of Sawmills. "Missing data points, inconsistent formats, and duplicate data drive up costs and make root cause analysis unreliable and time-consuming. Observability has become the second-largest expense after cloud costs for most companies."

Belson further highlighted that many VPs of Engineering report that up to 90% of their observability data is unnecessary, yet companies continue paying to collect, process, and store it. Unanticipated cost surges remain a pressing issue—one company saw an additional $250,000 in fees in just one day due to a single developer’s mistake.

How Sawmills Optimizes Telemetry Data Management

Sawmills leverages AI to analyze telemetry data streams in real time, identifying cost-saving opportunities while improving data quality and system reliability. Key features of the platform include:

• Real-time Processing – AI-driven optimization of logs, metrics, and traces, detecting and correcting issues like missing data points and inconsistent formats.
• Comprehensive Control – Smart policies that enrich telemetry data, prevent system outages, and mitigate unplanned data spikes.
• Vendor Flexibility – Intelligent routing capabilities that allow businesses to switch between observability vendors without disrupting operations.

Organizations can implement Sawmills' recommendations with a single click and automate policies to prevent unexpected cost surges.

Industry Endorsements & Market Potential

Early adopters have already seen the benefits of Sawmills' AI-driven approach.

"Partnering with Sawmills has set us on a path toward optimizing our telemetry data—paving the way for streamlined costs, improved observability resource allocation aligned with our business needs, and enhanced data governance," said Edi Buslovich, VP of Engineering at Via.

Liran Grinberg, Managing Partner at Team8, emphasized the significance of Sawmills in enterprise cloud infrastructure:

"Telemetry data management is emerging as a critical new category in enterprise cloud infrastructure. The Sawmills team has a deep understanding of the problem and a comprehensive vision that perfectly positions them to own this new category. This isn't just about cost reduction; we believe Sawmills' approach to intelligent telemetry data management will massively improve observability and become essential infrastructure for modern enterprises."

With video advertising spend projected to account for 86% of new display dollars over the next three years, a gap still exists between how ads are delivered and what resonates with consumers. GumGum, a leader in contextual-first advertising technologies, has released findings from a survey of 3,000 consumers across the U.S., U.K., and Canada, shedding light on audience preferences for video advertising.

Consumer Insights from the Survey

The study highlights a growing demand for contextually relevant and privacy-conscious advertising:

• 94% prefer contextually relevant ads over those based on browsing history.
• 42% find ads aligned with their current interests the most valuable.
• Over one-third prioritize privacy, while another third value both privacy and relevance equally.
• 80% are more likely to engage with ads that match the content they are viewing.
• 55% say short, concise, and contextually relevant video ads are the most memorable.

GumGum’s AI-Powered Approach to Video Advertising

To meet the growing demand for non-intrusive and engaging ad experiences, GumGum has launched the Mindset Graph™. This AI-driven technology analyzes billions of data points to match ads with consumer context and mindset in real time.

Through advanced contextual analysis at both the page and video level, GumGum’s video solutions—instream, outstream, and overlay formats—deliver high-quality ad placements that align with viewer interests.

"Let’s face it: online video experiences today aren’t working, and video is only becoming more prominent," said Ken Weiner, Chief Technology Officer at GumGum. "Advertisers are facing poor ad performance, wasted impressions, and growing viewer dissatisfaction. To put an end to this pattern, we're using AI to analyze the billions of data points within the GumGum Platform™ every day to better understand the digital environment and mindset a consumer is in so that they want to watch the ad instead of skip it and move on."

Commitment to Brand Safety & Suitability

GumGum ensures high-quality video ad placements while maintaining brand suitability standards. It remains the only independent ad tech platform to achieve MRC content-level accreditation for contextual analysis, brand safety, and suitability across display, mobile web, and CTV.

Fluent, Inc., a leading commerce media solutions company, has announced the appointment of Adrian Stack as Chief Product Officer. Stack will spearhead Fluent’s product vision and strategy, leveraging AI-driven technologies to elevate consumer engagement and deliver high-impact solutions for partners and advertisers.

A Proven Leader in AI and Commerce Media

With over 15 years of experience in product development, Stack brings a strong track record in AI-driven growth strategies. Most recently, he led Data Engineering (Data Science & AI) at Zillow. Prior to that, as SVP of Product at Rokt, he played a crucial role in scaling the company’s commerce media business, overseeing data engineering, machine learning, and analytics.

"We’re thrilled to welcome Adrian as we continue building a world-class product team to strengthen Fluent’s AI-powered marketplace,” said Don Patrick, CEO of Fluent. “His leadership will accelerate investment in our data infrastructure and product capabilities, leveraging Fluent’s unique competitive advantages to drive better results for partners, advertisers, and consumers.”

Driving the Future of Commerce Media with AI

As commerce media evolves, brands require intelligent and scalable solutions to connect with high-intent consumers. Fluent’s investments in AI, identity resolution, and bidding technology position it as a leader in delivering hyper-relevant ad experiences and maximizing ROI for advertisers.

"I’m excited to help drive the next wave of product innovation at Fluent,” said Adrian Stack. “By leveraging our proprietary first-party identity graph and advanced machine learning models, we are creating an AI-powered marketplace that seamlessly connects brands with high-value consumers—driving higher ad relevance, increased conversions, and stronger brand-consumer relationships.”

Building on a Strong Foundation for Growth

With 14 years of expertise in customer acquisition, Fluent continues to stand out in the commerce media space through its owned and operated marketplaces and robust first-party data assets. Stack’s leadership will further enhance data strategies, product innovation, and unlock new opportunities for long-term growth and profitability.

Data443 Risk Mitigation, Inc., a leading data security and privacy software company, has announced a strategic agreement with TierPoint, a premier provider of secure, connected data center and cloud solutions. This collaboration will triple Data443’s data center infrastructure capacity, supporting its rapid customer growth, operational efficiency initiatives, and AI-driven security solutions.

Enhancing Infrastructure for Growth & AI Innovation

Through this partnership, Data443 will leverage TierPoint’s advanced data center facilities to expand its infrastructure while optimizing operational expenses. The increased capacity addresses the growing demand for Data443’s suite of data security, privacy, and compliance solutions.

"Our partnership with TierPoint was driven by necessity as we scale to meet the demands of our expanding customer base,” said Jason Remillard, Founder and CEO of Data443. "TierPoint’s robust infrastructure and expertise position us well for future growth, particularly in AI-powered security solutions."

"We are excited to support Data443 with scalable and reliable data center solutions," said Gus Hoover, Director of Data Center Operations at TierPoint. "By leveraging our redundant infrastructure, we’re delivering a cutting-edge solution that enables Data443 to grow efficiently."

Strategic Advantages & Market Expansion

The expanded data center capacity and AI-driven security solutions bring multiple strategic benefits, including:

• Tripling infrastructure capacity to support Data443’s fast-growing customer base
• Enhanced AI capabilities to drive next-generation security solutions
• Accelerated service deployment, ensuring faster response to market demands
• Significant operational cost savings through efficiency and economies of scale

Strengthening Market Leadership

This expansion follows Data443’s recent acquisition of Breezemail.ai, an AI-driven email management provider, as part of its commitment to continuous innovation in data security and privacy.

Business Jet, a leader in private aviation services, has launched its newly redesigned website and refreshed brand identity, developed in collaboration with award-winning marketing agency Tegan Digital. The transformation enhances customer experience, offering seamless charter bookings, robust aircraft maintenance services, and improved aircraft management solutions.

Elevating the Digital Experience in Private Aviation

"Working with Business Jet was an incredible opportunity to reimagine their brand while respecting the legacy they've built," said John Herrington, Partner at Tegan Digital. "Our goal was to create an online experience as sophisticated and seamless as Business Jet’s in-person service while modernizing their brand presence across all interactions."

The new website features a modern, intuitive design tailored for aircraft owners, operators, pilots, directors of maintenance (DOMs), and flight schedulers. Key enhancements include:

• Streamlined navigation for quick access to service details
• Simplified service request forms for efficiency
• Direct customer support access for bookings and inquiries

A Refined Brand Identity

Business Jet’s brand refresh honors its legacy while introducing a modern visual identity, featuring:

• A refined logo for a sophisticated look
• Updated typography and color palette, incorporating gold and blue tones
• Consistent branding across all materials, from the website to business cards and stationery

"Our new website and brand identity reflect our dedication to excellence at every level of service," said Business Jet Brand Manager, Alette Cook. "Through Tegan’s partnership, we've created a digital presence that supports customers at every stage of aircraft ownership, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience."

Inspired Thinking Group (ITG), a leader in AI-enabled, agile content solutions, has announced its strategic expansion into North America with the acquisition of US-based PureRed, a leading provider of omnichannel content and technology for Microsoft, Kroger, Walgreens, and other major brands.

Strengthening Global Reach and Market Leadership

The move builds on ITG’s rapid growth over the past 12 months, during which its Storyteq marketing technology was recognized as a Leader in Gartner’s Magic Quadrant™ for Content Marketing Platforms (2024) and Digital Asset Management (2025)—the only vendor to achieve this distinction in both categories.

Under the leadership of Andrew Swinand, Global CEO (formerly Publicis Groupe Creative US and Leo Burnett), ITG is set for major growth in 2025. The acquisition of PureRed expands ITG’s global team to over 2,000 employees and significantly strengthens its US presence.

"ITG is well known in the UK and Europe for our AI-powered Storyteq technology and agile Halo content approach," said Swinand. "Expanding our ability to deliver this solution to more global clients is an exciting step. PureRed aligns perfectly with our vision for scaled content solutions and a culture of kindness."

AI-Driven Innovation and Global Content at Scale

The rise of digital channels and retail media has fueled demand for personalized, high-quality content at scale. With PureRed now part of ITG, brands can expect faster, more cost-efficient, AI-driven content solutions across global markets.

"This is about more than delivering more content—it’s about unlocking AI’s full potential in marketing," Swinand added. "With PureRed, we’re scaling our capabilities and leading the industry’s transformation through a smarter, AI-powered approach."

Brian Cohen, former CEO of PureRed and new US CEO of ITG, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership:

"We've built a strong reputation for delivering omnichannel content and industry-changing technology solutions. Joining ITG allows us to scale our impact and deliver even greater value to clients."

A Strategic Partnership Driving Innovation

Emma Watford, Partner at Bridgepoint, emphasized the significance of the expansion:

"Expanding into the US is a milestone for ITG. PureRed’s strong client relationships and capabilities make them a perfect fit, and together they are well-positioned to drive real innovation in content marketing. We look forward to seeing this partnership set new standards for agile, AI-driven content at scale."

Total Expert, a leading provider of customer engagement software for financial services, has announced its 2025 Winter Platform Release, introducing Rate Enrichment Data as a new enhancement to its Customer Intelligence solution. This feature provides mortgage lenders with expanded interest rate-driven capabilities, enabling them to create personalized recommendations based on their customers’ current mortgage rates.

Enhancing Customer Intelligence with Rate Data

With the integration of Rate Enrichment Data, lenders can now access critical mortgage rate information directly within customer contact records. This feature allows users to:

• Filter database contacts based on rate-based criteria
• Identify refinance opportunities and prioritize leads efficiently
• Provide customized quotes from a single, centralized dashboard

The new enhancement is designed to improve loan officers' efficiency in identifying and pursuing customers who could benefit from refinancing or other mortgage-related opportunities.

“As a lender, having accurate and actionable rate information available on every customer in my database is incredibly important to building meaningful relationships,” said Joe Welu, Founder and CEO of Total Expert. “To educate, engage, and advise customers, loan officers need effective resources to show up in the moments that matter. By infusing mortgage rate data directly into contact records, we’re able to provide lenders with relevant, impactful information they need to understand their customer’s needs and financial journey.”

Features in the Winter 2025 Release

In addition to Rate Enrichment Data, the Winter Platform Release includes several new tools designed to empower loan officers, including:

• Setting alert thresholds by loan type (FHA, VA, Jumbo, etc.)
• Calculating monthly savings for customers over 3, 5, and 10-year periods
• Running real-time Product Pricing Engine (PPE) requests to generate estimates for customers
• Adding dynamic personalization in emails by integrating Rate Enrichment fields into Email Builder

“As we continue to enhance our platform, our focus remains on providing solutions that drive measurable business outcomes for our customers,” Welu added. “We’re delivering even more powerful tools to help loan officers grow and retain their book of business by creating engaged customers.”

Additional Platform Enhancements

Beyond Customer Intelligence improvements, Total Expert’s Winter 2025 update also includes:

• Engage SMS automated responses for inbound phone calls and opt-in messages
• Streamlined contact list navigation for easier database management
• New on-demand, self-service contact reports for admins
• Refined Salesforce integration performance for better system connectivity
• A new integration between MAXA Design Suite and Optimal Blue

With these expanded capabilities, Total Expert continues to enhance its AI-driven platform, enabling lenders to improve engagement, increase efficiency, and drive business growth in 2025.

InMoment, a leader in Experience Improvement (XI) solutions, has been named to the Constellation ShortList for Conversational Intelligence for Customer Service for Q1 2025. This recognition highlights the company’s AI-powered Conversational Intelligence solution, which transforms unstructured contact center data—including calls, chats, and emails—into actionable customer experience insights.

InMoment’s AI-Powered Conversational Intelligence Solution

Selected from 23 evaluated solutions across 14 different criteria, InMoment was one of only eight vendors named to the Constellation ShortList. The company’s AI-driven solution leverages machine learning, natural language processing (NLP), and generative AI (GenAI) to analyze conversational data, identifying sentiment, effort, intent, and emotion beyond traditional post-interaction surveys.

By implementing AI-powered text analytics, automated call summaries, and agent scorecards, businesses using InMoment’s Conversational Intelligence solution can:

• Improve first-call resolution and call quality
• Enhance agent performance
• Reduce average handle time and post-call workload
• Lower operational costs

Additionally, the solution integrates omnichannel customer feedback, giving businesses a holistic view of customer interactions across multiple touchpoints. Fortune 500 companies using InMoment’s solution have already seen measurable improvements in call resolution rates and customer satisfaction.

Industry Recognition and Expert Insights

John Lewis, CEO of InMoment, expressed his excitement about the recognition:

“We’re honored to be recognized on the Constellation ShortList for Conversational Intelligence for Customer Service. At InMoment, we believe that every customer interaction holds valuable insights, and our AI-driven solution is designed to help businesses unlock those insights at scale. By leveraging advanced AI, machine learning, and NLP, we empower organizations to transform raw customer conversations and unstructured data into meaningful actions that drive improved experiences and business outcomes.”

R “Ray” Wang, CEO and founder at Constellation Research, emphasized the importance of AI-driven transformation:

“The push for business transformation via digital and AI has never been greater. In the Age of AI, organizations seek to achieve exponential efficiency with their technology investments. The ShortList provides a jump start in their transformation journey.”

Liz Miller, VP & Principal Analyst at Constellation Research, highlighted the growing role of conversational intelligence in customer experience:

“As conversations between companies and customers continue to be critical for customer experience improvement, the ability to effectively analyze those conversations across channels will continue to be a competitive advantage.”

Constellation ShortList Selection Process

Constellation Research evaluates vendors based on client inquiries, partner conversations, customer references, vendor selection projects, market share, and internal research. The Constellation ShortList is updated at least once per year to reflect the latest market trends and industry advancements.