Infosys Launches AI-First Model, Transforms Global Centers into Innovation Hubs

Beyond cost centers: Infosys’s AI-first model transforms GCCs into strategic innovation engines with integrated platforms and skilled talent.

November 18, 2025

Infosys Launches AI-First Model, Transforms Global Centers into Innovation Hubs
Global technology services giant Infosys has launched a specialized, AI-first model designed to accelerate the transformation of Global Capability Centers (GCCs) from operational hubs into engines of innovation.[1][2][3] The new offering aims to empower enterprises to treat their GCCs as strategic assets that drive competitive advantage and growth in an increasingly AI-dominated landscape.[4][5] This initiative combines agentic AI platforms, comprehensive talent development, and flexible operating structures to help businesses build, scale, and modernize their capability centers.[6] Drawing on its experience from over 100 GCC engagements with clients like Lufthansa Systems, zooplus, and Danske Bank, Infosys intends to address the common challenges enterprises face when expanding or overhauling their GCC operations.[1][4][3] The move signals a significant shift in how companies are expected to leverage these global centers, moving beyond cost-centric back-office functions towards proactive, AI-powered innovation.
At the core of the new offering is an integrated suite of Infosys's proprietary AI platforms.[7] The model brings together the Infosys Agentic Foundry, which is used for building and scaling production-grade AI agents; EdgeVerve AI Next, a unified platform for running both applied and agentic AI at an enterprise scale; and Infosys Topaz, which infuses AI-first services and solutions across the entire GCC lifecycle.[1][4] This technological trifecta is designed to embed enterprise-grade AI capabilities deep within the operations of a GCC, from the initial setup to ongoing management.[1][8] The goal is to drive significant cost efficiencies, accelerate time-to-market for new products and services, and uncover new business opportunities.[9] For example, Infosys recently assisted in establishing a dedicated GCC for Lufthansa Systems, which is now leveraging the generative AI capabilities of Infosys Topaz to develop advanced IT solutions aimed at improving aviation safety, efficiency, and customer experience.[1][9][10]
Recognizing that technology alone is insufficient for a successful transformation, the Infosys model places a strong emphasis on talent and operational flexibility. The offering includes comprehensive, end-to-end management of the GCC lifecycle, spanning from initial strategy development and site selection to entity setup, recruitment, and full operational launch.[11][3] To cultivate a future-ready workforce, the model leverages the Infosys Springboard digital learning platform and its corporate university resources to create a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals proficient in AI.[7][9][6] Furthermore, Infosys is providing a range of adaptable operating structures to meet diverse client needs.[3] These include options like Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) models, assisted GCC setups, joint ventures, and partner-hosted arrangements, offering businesses the agility to choose the framework that best aligns with their strategic objectives.[7][9] This holistic approach aims to tackle key obstacles such as talent readiness and the complexities of operationalizing AI models in a production environment.[7]
The strategic repositioning of GCCs from cost centers to innovation hubs is a central theme of this new initiative. As enterprises increasingly look to decentralize innovation and tap into global talent pools, the role of the GCC is evolving. Infosys's AI-first model is a direct response to this trend, providing the tools and framework for GCCs to host applied AI, develop reusable GenAI components, and manage sophisticated agentic systems for global mandates.[7] According to Satish H.C., EVP and Chief Delivery Officer at Infosys, the company's dedicated GCC practice will provide the "speed, scale, and strategic depth essential for the next wave of enterprise transformation."[1][4][12] Clients like Danske Bank have already leveraged Infosys's expertise to integrate AI into their software delivery lifecycle, deploy multiple GenAI use cases across business domains, and build a more AI-first banking experience.[1][7]
In conclusion, the launch of the AI-First GCC Model by Infosys represents a significant step in reimagining the purpose and potential of Global Capability Centers. By integrating advanced AI platforms, focusing on strategic talent development, and offering flexible operational models, Infosys is positioning itself to help clients unlock new value from their global operations.[11][12] This initiative not only addresses the practical challenges of setting up and scaling modern GCCs but also provides a clear roadmap for transforming them into strategic assets capable of driving innovation and competitive advantage.[1][3] The success of this model will ultimately be measured by its ability to help enterprises move AI experiments into repeatable, production-level outcomes, thereby solidifying the role of the GCC as a critical node for both cost-effective delivery and cutting-edge product innovation.[7]

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