IgniteTech Unveils New Era for Khoros Focused on AI and Customer Engagement

IgniteTech's New Phase for Khoros: Pioneering AI and Enhancing Customer Engagement

In a significant move that showcases its commitment to transforming the customer experience, IgniteTech has officially announced a new phase for the Khoros platform, following its acquisition of Khoros in May 2025. This well-planned initiative aims to leverage artificial intelligence and a customer-first approach to enhance community engagement and connectedness among users.

A New Vision for Khoros

The strategic investments announced by IgniteTech represent a clear intent to fortify the Khoros platform. CEO Eric Vaughan emphasized that this initiative is more than mere investment; it reflects a fundamental rebuilding of the product itself. By collaborating closely with customers and integrating community expertise, IgniteTech hopes to elevate Khoros into a leading AI-powered solution. Vaughan noted, "Our focus is on delivering AI-powered value at scale by leveraging what made the Khoros Community solution a leader in the first place."

IgniteTech is set to accelerate the rollout of new AI capabilities, reinforcing commitments to not only modernization but also innovation through community leadership. Future enhancements will be built on the Aurora architecture, specifically designed to enhance AI integration and foster customer engagement. This modern approach positions Khoros as an essential player in the evolving landscape of customer support and engagement strategies.

Community and Collaboration

One of the standout elements of IgniteTech's announcement is its renewed focus on community and collaboration. The company is dedicated to voicing customer concerns, aspirations, and experiences. To lead these conversations, Michael Puhala, the Chief Community Evangelist at Khoros, has been appointed to engage with customers. His role is crucial in ensuring that the voice of the community remains at the forefront of Khoros’s development.

"Khoros has a strong heritage, and I'm excited to see IgniteTech building on that with urgency and clarity," Puhala stated. The appointment of Jake McKee, a distinguished community strategist with an impressive track record—including partnerships with renowned brands like LEGO and Apple—further emphasizes IgniteTech's dedication to community-driven development. McKee’s influence will help streamline Khoros’s community strengths with the company's overarching product vision, ensuring that customer feedback is a driving force in shaping future innovations.

Sponsoring Innovation and Engagement

In its mission to foster community growth, IgniteTech has also announced its participation as a sponsor of the Community-Led World Conference during London Community Week 2025. This event aims to bring together community leaders to discuss and share insights into the evolving landscape of community management. Puhala, McKee, and IgniteTech's Chief AI Officer, Thibault Bridel-Bertomeu, plan to engage with global community leaders to better understand the needs and directions within the Khoros ecosystem.

With the commitment to make listening a priority, IgniteTech aims to align its innovations with the desires of both current users and the broader community management landscape. The move symbolizes a pivotal moment in Khoros’s journey into AI-driven community ecosystems, signifying a shift from traditional search-driven support towards more integrated, AI-enhanced solutions.

Transitioning to New Capabilities

IgniteTech's plans to introduce new capabilities resonate well within the expectations of modern users. These advancements will focus on maintaining brand presence within AI-generated responses, elevating content from active contributors while also nurturing a community of engaged users. The goal is to motivate passive members to move towards active participation, creating a more vibrant and responsive community.

While focusing on this future vision, IgniteTech has assured that the classic Khoros Community will remain supported, with a balanced approach to migrations that cater to the needs of its customers. This ensures that transitions are smooth and beneficial, enhancing user experience all the while.

Conclusion: A Future-Driven Approach

As IgniteTech forges ahead with its clear plan, Vaughan stated, "Khoros is moving forward with a clear plan, a dedicated team, and customers at the center." This is an exciting time for Khoros, where Khoros's rich legacy meets forward-thinking innovations in AI, prioritizing not just technology, but profound community engagement. IgniteTech's vision promises a progressive path that aims to redefine what community-driven customer service can achieve in an increasingly AI-oriented world.

For more information about IgniteTech and their innovations, visit their official website or engage with them on social media.