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Rajeev Aluru

Managing Director of Innovation & Analytics / Head of AI and Data Science at Smartbridge
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Rajeev Aluru is serving as the Managing Director-Innovation and Analytics, where he is focused on helping clients with their digital transformation journey through data and insights-driven business innovation. He recently worked as Head of Operations Analytics at Calpine Corporation in Houston. His responsibilities included leading the value creation from data and positioning the company to use data as a strategic asset. Prior to that, he worked as Analytics and Strategic Growth Director for Duke Energy in digital transformation, big data focusing on customer analytics, and leading business transformation programs. He also held various engineering leadership positions in mid-sized aerospace and automotive industries. Rajeev also co-founded a digital Oil & Gas optimization firm by leveraging IoT and analytics focused on production optimization.

Rajeev serves as a reviewer for NSF (National Science Foundation) seed fund in the areas of energy, blockchain, and serves as an advisor for various start-up companies. Rajeev graduated with a PhD. in Engineering from Auburn University and Global MBA from UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School.

In his free time, he contributes his time to leading the Houston Chapter of EKAL (a global non-profit focused on village empowerment in India). He likes traveling across the world, meeting different people, and learning about different cultures.

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  • Smartbridge
    Managing Director of Innovation & Analytics / Head of AI and Data Science
    started May 2022
  • AI Model Pricing: Impact on Business Accessibility and Market Dynamics
    Rajeev notes that rising AI model costs may limit access for small businesses, but "pre-trained models and hybrid cloud solutions offer alternatives." Premium pricing might not drive open-source adoption immediately. Specialized models could introduce new pricing tiers, with large enterprises investing in advanced models and smaller ones opting for tailored solutions in sectors like e-commerce and media.
  • AI Deployment Costs: Challenges and Solutions for CIOs
    Rajeev confirms budget limits impact AI value, with software prices rising due to AI investments. He advises "thorough cost estimation and continuous monitoring" to manage expenses. Miscalculating scaling costs is a risk, but can be mitigated by experienced professionals and workload optimization. Allocating budget for cost optimization is crucial for successful AI project scaling.
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