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Mastering OpenAI Deals with NET(net): A Samurai’s Path to Enterprise Success

Steven Zolman
Jun. 30,2025 | AI OpenAI

Introduction In the fast-evolving dojo of artificial intelligence (AI), OpenAI stands as a formidable sensei, offering unparalleled large language models (LLMs) and generative AI capabilities that promise to transform enterprises. Yet, like wielding a katana, engaging with OpenAI requires precision, discipline, and mastery. An unmanaged acquisition of this technology can be akin to a novice swinging a samurai sword—resulting in catastrophic financial, technical, and legal wounds that can cripple an organization. With NET(net) as your master sensei, you transform from a vulnerable novice into a strategic samurai, staying in the driver’s seat ...

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IBM's Acquisition of DataStax : A Rocket to the Stars or a One-Way Ticket to Oblivion?

Buckle up, enterprise tech buyers: DataStax just boarded IBM’s Death Star, and their CEO’s LinkedIn post is a glitter-dusted fantasy that deserves a cold, hard reality check. They’re hyping a future of “unlocking unstructured data” and “accelerating AI apps at scale” with Astra DB, watsonx, and Apache Cassandra’s open-source cred. It’s the kind of corporate fairy tale that seduces C-suite wallets—until you recall IBM’s knack for turning tech darlings into cosmic debris. As a grizzled critic of IBM’s acquisition slaughterhouse, I’m here to gut the hype and warn you: DataStax is strolling into a buzzsaw, and your tech supply chain could get ...

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Salesforce’s Acquisition of Informatica: Strategic Implications for Enterprise Technology Buyers

Background On May 27, 2025, Salesforce (SFDC) announced its $8 billion acquisition of Informatica, a transformative move that reshapes the enterprise technology landscape. This strategic acquisition bolsters Salesforce’s AI and data management capabilities, positioning it as a dominant player in the $150 billion-plus enterprise data market. For C-suite executives navigating complex technology investments, this deal signals both opportunities and challenges. As the world’s leading provider of cost and value optimization for the enterprise technology supply chain, NET(net) offers a deep dive into the implications of this acquisition and ...

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Breaking Free from Lock-In: Your Strategic Guide to Mid-Term Contract Termination

At NET(net), we’re constantly asked: “Can I terminate my agreement with XYZ Supplier mid-term?” The short answer? It’s tough—but not impossible. As you’ll see in the attached chart, termination rights for enterprise customers with technology vendors fall into one of five categories, as outlined below: Termination for convenience is rare due to vendor resistance, as it undermines revenue stability. TermScout notes 82% of customer forms seek this right, but negotiated contracts often exclude it, especially in SaaS or long-term deals. However, large enterprises with strong leverage (e.g., Fortune 100 companies) may secure this right in some ...

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Navigating the High Costs of Akamai: Strategies for Cost and Risk Reduction

Steven Zolman
May. 28,2025 | Akamai

Introduction In today’s fast-paced digital world, enterprises rely on content delivery networks (CDNs) like Akamai to deliver seamless online experiences. But with rising costs straining budgets, finance and IT leaders face growing pressure to justify these expenses. At NET(net), we specialize in optimizing technology investments to maximize value without compromising performance. This blog outlines practical strategies to reduce Akamai costs, backed by market insights and customer feedback, to help you stay competitive and financially agile. The Hidden Costs of Inaction Akamai’s robust services come at a premium, often significantly higher ...

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Microsoft Calling: SPLA Changes Coming Soon

Executive Summary: Microsoft’s impending SPLA restrictions, kicking in on September 30, 2025, are about to shake up the world of service providers and enterprises in ways that could either break or make your business. This blog doesn’t just skim the surface—it dives deep into the chaos these changes will unleash, exposing the risks of sitting on your hands while Microsoft tightens its chokehold on licensing. We’ll shred the myths, expose the pitfalls, and arm you with contrarian strategies like shifting to a Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) model and embracing Azure ARC agreements. Compliance isn’t just a checkbox—it’s your lifeline to staying ...

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Cybersecurity Threats and Ransomware Attacks: A Growing Menace

Cybersecurity Threats and Ransomware Attacks: A Growing Menace Preface The days of relying on personal relationships to secure favorable deal terms are over. IT vendors are aggressively shifting their focus towards capturing a larger share of your value chain and more of your wallet share. Their maneuvers include: Subscription-based pricing models: IT vendors are locking customers into recurring fees with additional consumption costs, making it difficult to predict and control long-term technology costs. Reduced flexibility: Subscription access often comes with limited customization options, and tiered access that requires you to subscribe ...

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Revolution or Obsolescence: Tech Vendors Are Redefining Industry

Revolution or Obsolescence: Tech Vendors Are Redefining Industry Preface The days of relying on personal relationships to secure favorable deal terms are over. IT vendors are aggressively shifting their focus towards capturing a larger share of your value chain and more of your wallet share. Their maneuvers include: Subscription-based pricing models: IT vendors are locking customers into recurring fees with additional consumption costs, making it difficult to predict and control long-term technology costs. Reduced flexibility: Subscription access often comes with limited customization options, and tiered access that requires you to subscribe ...

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Workday Sentiment Analysis

Workday Sentiment Analysis Preface The days of relying on personal relationships to secure favorable deal terms are over. IT vendors are aggressively shifting their focus towards capturing a larger share of your value chain and more of your wallet share. Their maneuvers include: Subscription-based pricing models: IT vendors are locking customers into recurring fees with additional consumption costs, making it difficult to predict and control long-term technology costs. Reduced flexibility: Subscription access often comes with limited customization options, and tiered access that requires you to subscribe to more expensive levels that offer ...

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The Insidious Mask of the Technology Channel

The Insidious Mask of the Technology Channel Preface The days of relying on personal relationships to secure favorable deal terms are over. IT vendors are aggressively shifting their focus towards capturing a larger share of your value chain and more of your wallet share. Their maneuvers include: Subscription-based pricing models: IT vendors are locking customers into recurring fees with additional consumption costs, making it difficult to predict and control long-term technology costs. Reduced flexibility: Subscription access often comes with limited customization options, and tiered access that requires you to subscribe to more expensive ...

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