Tracy Lee hosts the Engineering Leadership Series and introduces Medha Parlikar, the Chief Technology Officer and co-founder of Casper Labs. Medha shares that Casper Labs has developed the technology behind the public Casper network, a decentralized blockchain protocol.
Medha has a long history in technology, starting in the early 80s when she and her father built computers in their basement. She has been working in IT and personal computing ever since, transitioning into web 2.0 and eventually falling into the blockchain space in 2017. After a project she was involved in ran out of funds during the 2017 ICO crash, Medha co-founded Casper Labs with the aim of building a public decentralized blockchain technology that can be utilized by enterprises and brought to the masses.
Tracy asks Medha about the evolution of blockchain and its buzzword status. Medha believes that adopting blockchain technology is similar to adopting cloud technology or the internet. She advises CTOs and CIOs to find someone who understands the technology and can guide them through the adoption process, comparing it to having a Sherpa. Companies like Red Hat, AWS, and VMware have played significant roles in leading and developing technologies like Linux and cloud computing.
Medha emphasizes that blockchain adoption doesn't have to be daunting or scary. It can be approached incrementally, considering the risk-averse nature of enterprises. She encourages companies to proceed with caution and find trusted partners who can help them navigate the disruptive technology and its potential benefits.
Tracy shifts the conversation to the challenges surrounding blockchain adoption. Medha explains that scalability, privacy, and regulatory uncertainty are common concerns. However, she believes that with proper planning and a trusted partner, enterprises can overcome these challenges. Blockchain technology holds great value and promise, and she encourages CTOs and CIOs to explore its potential benefits while mitigating risks.
Medha shares her perspective on the role of blockchain in the enterprise. She believes that blockchain can provide transparency, trust, and efficiency in various industries, including supply chain management, finance, and healthcare. Blockchain has the potential to revolutionize business processes and enable new models of collaboration and trust.
Tracy asks Medha about the role of education and awareness in promoting blockchain adoption. Medha acknowledges the need for education to bridge the gap between technical understanding and business requirements. She highlights the importance of explaining blockchain's benefits in a language that executives and decision-makers can understand.
Medha also stresses the significance of community building and collaboration within the blockchain ecosystem. She encourages individuals and organizations to actively participate in communities, attend conferences, and engage in discussions to share knowledge, foster innovation, and drive the widespread adoption of blockchain technology.
In conclusion, Medha Parlikar, as the CTO of Casper Labs, offers insights into blockchain technology adoption. She emphasizes the need for trusted partners, incremental approaches, and careful consideration of regulatory challenges. Medha envisions blockchain as a transformative force in various industries, and she encourages education, community building, and collaboration to drive its adoption forward.
To watch the full conversation, check it out here.
