Category: General

Must-read for CIOs this World Book Day

April 21, 2017

With great power comes great responsibility. This oft-quoted line might instantly remind us about the blockbuster Hollywood film Spider-Man, but this message holds true in the life of a CIO. A CIO needs to keep a hawk’s eye on the day-to-day IT operations, develop strategies to maintain an integrated IT architecture, balance IT budget and also motivate staff members. The role and responsibilities of a CIO are continuously evolving especially due to the rapid advancement in technology. With such workload, the CIO might not always have enough time to leaf through a book on a regular basis. But then, we all know that books are our best friends and books are a great tool to motivate, educated, entertain and build confidence. So, it’s important to take time out for yourself and read. At times, there’s no harm taking a quick reading break in the middle of a workday. At Indus Net Technologies, we have a culture of reading books and we inculcate the habit of reading among our employees too. On World Book and Copyright Day on April 23, Indus Net Technologies has compiled a list of books CIOs can read, get inspired from or add to their already existing collection. 1. Be the Business: CIOs in the New Era of IT Author: Martha Heller The book, by Martha Heller, the founder and President of Heller Search Associates, a recruiting firm specializing in CIO, comprises profiles of CIOs, quotes and their interviews. It is exciting and appealing to read how CIOs are leading the way in creating an IT climate where technology belongs to everyone. goo.gl/drAX49 2. Digital Vortex: How Today’s Market Leaders Can Beat Disruptive Competitors at Their Own Game Authors: Jeff Loucks, Andy Norohna, Dr James Macaulay and Michael Wade This 266-pages hardcover on digital disruption gives a detailed overview of the business best practices. The book gives a thorough understanding of how to identify a company’s disruptive competitors. goo.gl/GFvg5t 3. Wolf in CIO’s Clothing Author: Tina Nunno Running a business is not an easy task and at times, a CIO needs to take on difficult business decisions. Gartner analyst Tina Nunno makes an interesting and analytical observation in this book, where she explains how at times people at the helm of power turn grey depending on situations to make their businesses profitable. She draws metaphorical comparisons between Machiavellians and wolves. It’s an interesting read. goo.gl/1uKdkn 4. Meatball Sundae: Is Your Marketing out of Sync? Author: Seth Godin Just like his blogs, this book chronicles important topics in lucid language but in entertaining and captivating ways. Meatball Sundae is a must-read, which comprises 14 trends that no marketer can overlook. You are bound to go with the flow of this language. goo.gl/6Wgyl3 5. Information Architecture: For the Web and Beyond Authors: Jorge Arango, Louis Rosenfeld, and Peter Morville Since all the three authors are Information Architecture (IA) consultants, this book provides a detailed introduction to IA and also the process, strategies, and implementation needed for IA. goo.gl/7GMrZY 6. The Art of Scalability: Scalable Web Architecture, Processes, and Organizations for the Modern Enterprise Authors: Michael T Fisher and Martin L Abbott Exquisitely researched and informative guidebook with the best practices in technology and processes needed to build a scalable organization. goo.gl/P6SXwq 7. Don’t Make Me Think, Revisited: A Common Sense Approach to Web Usability Author: Steve Krug You will be hooked onto the book from the very first page, thanks to Steve Kurg’s impeccable story-telling style and witty yet educative information. This book is an absolute favourite for anyone who’s interested in web designing. goo.gl/GcdXde 8. Growing Your CIO Career: How CIOs Can Work With the Entire Company in Order to Be Successful Author: Jim Anderson What are the traits that make for a successful CIO? Who’s a CIO’s best friend? This book gives a vivid portrayal of what exactly goes in the life of a CIO and whether MBA is needed to become a successful CIO. goo.gl/9eapiW 9. How To Win Friends & Influence People Author: Dale Carnegie One of the Time magazine’s 100 most influential books of 2011, this is one of the most popular self-help books available in the market. A compelling book, this helps one to understand the behaviour of the people and also how to improve communication and business skills. goo.gl/7wdtUn 10. Letting Go of the Words: Writing Web Content that Works (Interactive Technologies) Author: Ginny Redish Renowned usability writer and consultant Ginny Redish presents a comprehensive and exhilarating look at anything which deals with writing on the web. Almost like a Bible for the web content writers and content strategists. goo.gl/Lvl0UY 11. The Magic of Thinking Big Author: David J. Schwartz goo.gl/tKJkAq This incredibly popular self-help book has sold over 4 million copies and comprises motivational pep talks on life, positivity and future. An easy-read, the book has practical examples, which will excite the readers to lead a happy and fulfilled life. 12. Technology vs Humanity: The Coming Clash Between Man and Machine Author: Gerd Leonhard Are we heading to an era where technology will completely dominate humanity, or should there be a sustainable balance between humanity and technology? This thought-provoking book by futurist Gerd Leonhard debates the ethics of technology and the disruptive potential and development of technology. goo.gl/wh3Ns2 13. The Hard Thing about Hard Thing: Building a Business When There are No Easy Answers Author: Ben Horowitz Renowned American business and investor Ben Horowitz gives his first-hand experiences on building a technology business, from scaling it up, managing it to leading the way. The book has relatable content with good humour and learning. goo.gl/mHgpQJ 14. The Industries of the Future Author: Alec Ross American technology policy expert, Alec Ross was also the Senior Advisor for Innovation to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton during her term as Secretary of State. He came up with an arresting and influential book, which explores the development in the fields of big data, cyber security, robotics and how these fields will impact our economic future.

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Digital Marketing Demystified 2017

February 22, 2017

As a digital marketer, should you concentrate only on PPC or should you also pursue SEO diligently? Do you know the tools through which you can keep an eye on your competitors? Or what the most common mistakes that digital marketing agencies or digital marketers do? If these are some of the many questions hovering in your mind as business leaders and decision makers, our digital marketing experts have the answers to them at the DIGITAL MARKETING DEMYSTIFIED workshop.   Digital marketing coaches — Aji Issac Mathew, CEO & Co-Founder, Indus Net Techshu, Eastern India’s largest Digital Agency and Santanu Mukherjee, Digital Marketing Head, Indus Net Technologies — will be in your town for one-on-one sessions at the Digital Marketing Demystified workshop.   We all know how we are increasingly moving towards a digital world. Companies are adopting various digital marketing practices. You belong to the senior management team of your company and are the decision makers. So, we need not inform you about the definition of digital marketing. But this 8-hour long structured workshop will help you understand, manage and explore the digital opportunities of your business. It will help you grow your business. This is not a seminar or conference where you will be required to come with pen and paper and write down points. This is an open, interactive forum with a limited number of participants, where you can bombard our experts with all kind of queries related to digital marketing. You can know from our experts the myths that exist in digital marketing, the importance of hiring the right digital marketing strategists for your company or how to measure the success or failure of a digital marketing strategy? Our experienced coaches will help you in identifying your business objectives and then leveraging the power of digital marketing. We have been organizing this workshop, which is India’s most structured Digital Marketing training, in various cities across the country since 2014. From New Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore, Mumbai, Siliguri, Chennai and Bhubaneswar, our digital marketing pundits are travelling and conducting workshops for professionals. Our coaches share case studies with the participants to have a better understanding of the matter. On February 15, 2017, we were in the Pink City i.e. Jaipur. This was our first workshop in Jaipur and we had received an overwhelming response from entrepreneurs and business owners. Sanjay Goel, Business Manager at Vibrant Technik, attended our workshop in Jaipur. He took to Facebook to share his feelings about the workshop. “What a great teacher you are Isaac. Enjoyed every minute of your wonderful training in Jaipur session,” he posted on social media. After Jaipur, our experts will be travelling to Chennai to meet the business leaders and decision makers of the companies for the workshop. This will be our second visit to Chennai and we are sure that just like the previous time, this time too, we will experience enthusiastic response from Chennai. So, all you product Mangers, marketing managers, brand Managers, CIOs, CEOs, and business owners, come meet us in Chennai if you want to explore digital marketing in an effective way to expand your business. Those who have missed the Jaipur session, you can come down for the Digital Marketing Workshop in Chennai on February 24 at The Residency. Limited seats are available. Book them fast.  

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Indus Net Technologies(INT.) Will Attend the Mobile World Congress 2017

February 22, 2017

It’s that time of the year again. Mobile World Congress, one of the largest events in the global mobile industry, will be held from February 27-March 2, 2017 in Mobile World Capital, Barcelona, Spain.    Indus Net Technologies (INT.)  will be present at Mobile World Congress (MWC), 2017. This is the fifth consecutive year we will be participating in MWC, which is touted as the mobile industry’s biggest annual exhibition and conference. Driven by the motto — “to innovate everyday” — Indus Net Technologies(INT.) is a trusted name when it comes to creative and productive web and enterprise mobility solutions. In the last 19 years, we have developed more than 1,000 apps for enterprises and partner agencies. Like the past four years, this time too, we, at Indus Net Technologies, are all geared up to meet innovative businesses at MWC. Our services mirror the company’s excellence in innovation and invention and also demonstrate our immeasurable passion and hunger for technology. Indus Net Technologies(INT.) offers advanced mobility solutions in BFSI, education, retail, E-governance, MPE, travel and logistics, pharmaceutical, hospital and food chains in more than 40 countries. We have developed mobile applications related to enterprise communication and collaboration, digital publishing, citizen governance, energy tech and others. We also ensure ROI for companies looking to leverage disruptive technologies in the field of wearable technologies, IoT (Internet of Things), and VR (mobile gaming). Drop in at our hall 8.1, booth H21 in Mobile World Congress 2017. We can’t wait to talk to you.    Our services in Enterprise Mobility Mobile Applications Hybrid (PhoneGap, Ionic, Xamarin, Titanium, IBM Worklight, Kony) Native (iOS, Android, Windows) HTML5 App Development Mobile Game Development (2D and 3D) AR/ VR Application Development IOT Apps (Smart TV, Wearables, Smart devices) Mobile Website Development Mobile App Testing QT

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Express your Love for Technology #ILoveTechnology

February 14, 2017

Technologically yours! Technology has infiltrated every aspect of our lives. Today, more than half of all smartphone users check their phones at least once every hour. The world is rapidly changing and so is technology. Can you imagine a single day of your life without technology? Somewhere we all use technology but at times we don’t even realise that. YOU CAN “LOVE” TECHNOLOGY, BE “INDIFFERENT” TO IT OR MIGHT “HATE” IT. But the most important question is —can you continue to ignore technology? At this moment, you might even think of doing so, but the speed at which technology is progressing, soon your life will be completely controlled by it. You won’t be able to “ignore” it any longer. You won’t be able to be “indifferent” to technology in near future. The faster you embrace technology, the more quickly they will work for you. In future, everything will have its share of technology be it the health sector, banking, publishing or transportation. You cannot grow in personal or professional life if you don’t embrace technology. Technology has empowered us. We, at Indus Net Technologies, eat, breathe and sleep technology. We help our clients use technology for their business operations and grow faster. Our immense love and passion love for technology drive us to develop innovative solutions for our clients. One of our noteworthy projects was the development of an amusing application for Unilever’s brand – Axe that stealthily hides secret information from one’s partner, and allows user to control his privacy. Today is Valentine’s Day. Love is in the air. Don’t miss the chance and express your love for technology with us and win attractive ‘I Love Technology’ branded goodies from Indus Net Technologies. So, what are you waiting for? Simply prove your love for technology on our #ILoveTechnology post comment section on Facebook and Twitter.  

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Indus Net Technologies(INT.) is Now A CMMI Level 3 Organization

February 13, 2017

Now, INT has achieved CMMI® maturity level 3 Rating. This is a proud moment for all of us at Indus Net Technologies. Committed to continuous improvement and closing the capability gap, we are proud to announce that Indus Net Technologies has been appraised at level 3 of the CMMI Institute’s Capability Maturity Model Integration. Yes, you heard that right. Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) is a process level improvement model consisting of training and appraisal program. Directly administered by the CMMI Institute, it was initially developed at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU). Results are graded according to the maturity levels, ranging from capability level one to five depending on which representation is selected for appraisal. It also describes the maturity of the organization, based on the projects the company is handling with the clients. Capability Level 3 is a level known as ‘Defined’, where our company’s processes are well understood and characterized, and also are described in procedures, standards, tools, and methods. Our work and processes have received the highest form of third-party validation. We take a proactive approach to managing projects and processes. We’re dedicated to continuous improvement and producing great work that makes a difference. Abhishek Rungta, founder & CEO of Indus Net Technologies(INT.), is elated for being appraised at level 3 of the CMMI Institute’s Capability Maturity Model Integration. He congratulated his fellow employees on this rare feat and also thanked the coveted clients for their continual support and trust. According to him, this successful Level 3 Capability Appraisal is recognition of the commitment of the company to quality and consistency.   “A CMMI Level 3 Appraisal means that we have a set process and the process is continuously improving. If the process improves, the qualities of the software projects or our products improve. This will not only help the clients but also the company to grow. It will add to the profitability of the organization as well,” he said. Indus Net Technologies(INT.) is a full service digital service company offering  web development and enterprise mobility solutions. Having been in the business for more than 19 years, the company has always aimed for higher quality product and services. CMMI Maturity Level 3 rating of Organisation Capability will assure and reassure the clients that whatever products or services Indus Net Technologies is offering them as software development partner is of ‘top-level quality’.  At Indus Net Technologies, we are adopting the right practices at the right time. But that doesn’t mean we will compromise on the quality to achieve speed. We, at Indus Net Technologies, always strive to strike a fine balance between innovation and sustenance. “Every client cannot always come and audit the software development process in an organization. Having CMMI Maturity  Level 3 maturity rating of Organisation Capability gives our clients the much-needed confidence that the software development process here is standardized, and is in a state of continuous development based on quantitative approach,” said Abhishek Rungta.   American essayist and poet Ralph Waldo Emerson had rightly said, “We aim above the mark to hit the mark.” We, at Indus Net Technologies, continue to aim higher.   Our CIO too believes in achieving the highest level of success through continuous development. “CMMI Level 3 appraisal is just the beginning. Obviously Indus Net Technologies(INT.) is aiming towards Level 5 maturity rating. We have statistical process control mechanism in place. They need to mature in the next year for us to qualify to a point where we can target level 5. This is our aim,” Bharat Berlia said with vigour. This appraisal is not only for our clients but also for our own growth and development. CMMI appraisal is not purely customer-centric initiative. It’s more process-centric approach where our people can improve their processes and become more quantitatively measurable. Indus Net Technologies(INT.) adopts a cycle of self-improvement relentlessly and that’s our ultimate goal. Through our continuous strive for quality we believe we can achieve a higher level of maturity in our CMMI journey. Looking ahead: Efficient service delivery process Proactive approach to managing projects and processes Dedicated to continuous improvements and producing great work for our clients.

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How Beacons and Proximity Marketing Can Enhance Sales at Stores?

February 8, 2017

Location-based marketing has been around for a while now. Using the latest in technology, stores can send marketing messages to shoppers’ smartphones when they are in the vicinity of stores. This is made possible by the use of beacons, or iBeacons, which were introduced by Apple in 2013. These Bluetooth low energy (BLE) devices broadcast messages one-way, and can be used to provide information about deals products, make billing easier, etc. Most importantly, beacons have begun to revolutionize the way stores market their products and services. In this article, let us take a look at how proximity marketing makes use of beacons. Quick facts According to an article published on the Forbes:   53% of users are willing to share their location with stores. 57% of users are open to the idea of receiving location-based ads. 63% feel coupons on mobile phones are great. 62% share deals they find interesting with their friends. Certainly, these facts point toward a trend that is likely going to normalise location-based marketing that makes use of beacons. What do beacons do to help drive sales? Beacons help in providing several payment options to customers. Loyalty programs can be shared via beacons when customers are in store. Recommend products based on individual user attributes Broadcast coupon details to customers who are likely to make purchases. Help customers navigate stores and find products they want easily. Here is how marketers can use beacons and proximity marketing to drive sales:  Gain customer insights Beacons help you to understand how your customers are spending money, how long they spend time at your store on average and what they are doing while they are at your store. This information can be further processed to design personalized campaigns that help to drive sales. Boost customer loyalty You can use beacons to reward customers who may arrive at your store repeatedly. The moment they walk in, you can send coupons and if they are regulars, you can ask them to ‘click and shop’ for goods previously purchased. While this a utility for the customer, it drives sales for you.   Kick-start proximity marketing Beacons help you to gain a variety of information based the customer. One of these is their location data. Location-based information can be used to kick start proximity marketing, suggesting information, products and services which may be available close to where your customer is around at that particular moment. Offer discounts and coupons Nothing entices customers more than a good discount or a coupon. If you want to turn walk-ins to sales, you can use beacons to send coupons to users’ smartphones, so that they purchase something, instead of walking away. Geo-targeted messages are known to drive sales, especially if you have a store in a place where footfalls are high. Even if they are in the vicinity to buy something else, a coupon or a discount that flashes on their screen may tempt them to walk into your store. Help customers Beacons are all about the location. If your customer is looking for something, beacons can be used to help them find the right aisle, or the right product. If it is a man that walks into your store, you would probably direct him to the men’s section of your clothing store, instead of him having to look or them himself. The possibilities are endless. Beacons can help you maximize sales by customizing location-targeted messages. Enable cross-channel experience With so many options to make sales happen these days, many stores are opting for online sales. While this takes place mostly on desktops or smartphones, brick and mortar stores are still around. By offering a custom sales experience across all these channels, beacons help you to offer a cross-channel experience. This is important when your competitors are already engaging in multi-channel delivery.   Thwart shoplifting While this is not part of traditional marketing, beacons do help you to thwart shoplifting when they happen. Though it may not directly boost sales, preventing shoplifting helps you to save valuable products which will add up to your bottom-line. Many supermarkets and departmental stores have begun to use beacons to monitor and track customers when they are in the store. Data and analytics Analysis if data that is collected by beacons provides valuable information about the kind of people who purchase your products. This is the target demographic that you should be targeting in order to boost sales. There are several analytic tools available to help retailers drive sales with the help of beacon-based analytics. Business intelligence tools can be customized to integrate beacon data and help you come up with useful insights.   3 Examples of companies using beacons to enhance sales:   Woolworths, a British supermarket chain has successfully used beacons across its 254 stores. Push notifications are sent too consumers when they arrive within a certain radius of the store so that they can ‘click and collect’. Venerable Macy’s installed more than 4,000 beacons to provide an omni-channel retail experience. The store also brought a beacon-triggered mobile game which allowed users to win Macy’s coupons and prizes. McDonald’s used beacons to engage in proximity marketing across its Istanbul outlets. A loyalty app was used to target customers near McDonald outlets and then offer them coupons and try new drinks for free.        Highlights More marketing agencies believe location based data can help them design better campaigns. Proximity marketing campaigns can be weaved along with social media campaigns for a more nuanced approach. Data collected by beacons can be used to improve products. The same data can be used to manage shelves and product locations within a store. Use beacons to push discounts and coupons, which in turn help drive sales. Use analytics for a deeper insight about customers, their behaviour and their needs. Monitor and track individuals to avoid unwanted activities such as shoplifting. Provide an enhanced shopping experience to your store visitors, by combining in-store, social media, online and mobile experiences.

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Data Privacy Issues Concerning IoT Devices and How to Handle Them

February 6, 2017

An estimated 24 billion IoT devices are expected to be used by people across the world, in just a couple of years. With a staggering estimate like that, questions about data that is generated and collected, and the security and privacy issue that follow are invariably raised. To get a perspective, it is important to understand the security and privacy issues that IoT devices may pose to our societies.   What do people think?   There is a lack of confidence with respect to using IoT devices People are scared to bring home devices that may collect data about their lifestyle There is a general sense of skepticism with respect to IoT, though most of us have begun to use IoT devices such as smart energy meters.   Are these devices secure? Companies need to evaluate if the IoT devices they are launching are secure enough. There are various questions with respect to how secure these devices are. Security of devices depend on testing but all companies not adopt similar testing procedures. It is difficult to asses the actual risk of a device being compromised by eavesdroppers or hackers.   Is there business acceptance?  Businesses that may use IoT devices in bulk are not very confident about risking their data. B2B IoT devices are likely to change the way we do business, but business skepticism comes in the way. Companies are also worried about the expenditure and maintenance costs of these devices. Businesses are not very sure how to move from legacy devices to a smarter approach, which involves using IoT devices and connected technology. How secure are programs and networks that connect IoT devices?   Security of programs IoT opens on the programs that connect them. Security also pends on how these software programs are being developed, who is developing the, and if they are being updated regularly. True security of a device depends on securing software programs, network connections and tools that connect these IoT devices.       5. Data management   The more IoT devices enter our lives, there will be more data to handle. There will be so much of data that companies might find it difficult to store them, unless they adopt cloud technology. Even cloud storage can prove to be difficult when it comes to handling astronomical amounts of data generated by IoT devices. Millions of discreet data points are generated by just a few thousand devices.   Dealing with public profiles   People and companies may have to create public profiles which are easily searchable. Though profiles are protected by companies, there may always be a way to search them through some database. Data that is collected can be used in unrelated way by third parties, as public profile data usage is not explicitly mentioned by many companies. both IoT service providers and users will need to ensure that profile data always remains safe and secure, with adequate privacy.    Is someone reading all this data?   There are a lot of instances where people and companies are being eavesdropped with the help of data they generate through their IoT devices. It is difficult to monitor who is reading this data, and who is accessing it. There can be changes of hacking attempts if data is not encrypted. There are already questions being raised about homes and businesses remaining safe when they are connected too IoT devices and thereby risking privacy. Is location data safe?   Many IoT devices collect location-based data. It is not clear how soon this information is deleted, and if companies are using this information not only to enhance services, but also for ulterior motives. Location data is not secure and many people are hesitant to share that. Many IoT devices will require location data, creating a catch-22-like situation. Looking at these various security and privacy concerns, here are a few steps that companies can adopt in order to ensure data privacy and security. Conduct a risk assessment   Before launching products, companies should conduct a risk-assessment of their products. They should also adequately test them before launching them. Minimize data collected   Data shouldn’t be collected unnecessarily. IoT device-manufacturers should collect only that data which is critical to provide services. Test security regularly   Security should be constantly monitored and tested. The may involve running programs to find vulnerabilities Train employees too respect privacy   A number of times, security lapses occur when employees are not adequately trained about the importance of privacy. Ensure that mobile devices that belong to employees are adequately vetted regularly. Train employees with security and privacy best practices. Tie up with cloud security agencies   As IoT devices generate humongous amounts of data, it is important to tie up with agencies that specialise in data storage and security. Make sure that your chosen vendor has experience in IoT data security.   Identify possible risks and have contingency plans   Have a team to evaluate possible risks and how best to fill the loopholes. Arrive at contingency plans so that you will not be looking for solutions in a moment of crisis.   Implement access control   While this is a little difficult to implement, it is necessary. Access levels must be stated and defined, so that only authorised people have access to different levels of data. Ensure that access levels are built into the devices and the programs that connect them. Monitor the situation 24/7   Do not take IoT security and privacy for granted. Monitor 24/7 for vulnerabilities. Constantly release patches to fix vulnerabilities, and keep your connected software updated. Assess, fix and monitor risks   As you can see, there are various issues concerning data and privacy with respect to IoT devices. yet, with proper security and privacy measures, risks can be reduced, and there will be fewer vulnerabilities. It is important to bear in mind that cloud storage and computing is very important too ensure security risks, as data will not be stored on premises. Moreover, to ensure data

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How is Augmented Reality Different from Virtual Reality

February 3, 2017

Augmented reality has received a lot of attention in recent years. Yet, a lot of people are not sure how different it is from virtual reality, a technology that is closely related. While media attention has been given to both these technologies, many people erroneously use these terms interchangeably. In this article, let us take look at how these two groundbreaking technologies are different from each other. What is virtual reality? Virtual reality is a situation or environment where a person experiences simulated reality thanks to visual and auditory stimuli. This simulation takes place with the help of computer-enabled technologies. Virtual reality creates a simulated environment where the user feels like they are experiencing the simulated environment truly. Many headsets that are currently used by people to enjoy entertainment make use of this technology. Gaming, movie and entertainment industries, professional simulators for pilots and other situations make use of virtual reality,. Virtual reality usually uses Virtual reality Modeling Language (VRML) in order to create images and specify the kind of interactions that could be made possible when viewing them. What is augmented reality? Augmented reality, on the other hand, superimposes computer-generated enhancements over a reality that actually exists. Mobile technologies, app development, and even certain games make use of AR, in which the real-world is inter-weaved with digital components. Augmented reality is being used in a. number of domains, and not only in the gaming arena. If you have ever seen a youth waving hands furiously in front of a screen at a mall, he is probably playing a game that comes with some AR-ability. The main difference between VR and AR is that virtual reality provides a simulated version of a reality that doesn’t quite exist, whereas, augmented reality creates a situation where computer-enhanced situations superimpose over an existing reality. Virtual reality and augmented reality have some similarities Both virtual reality and augmented reality have some similarities. This is probably why people confuse between the two terms and use them interchangeably. if you know the similarities between the two, you will later be able to tell them apart. Both AR and VR use computer-enabled technologies to create an altered environment for the user. They are both used extensively in entertainment especially the gaming and movie industries. Both AR and VR are finding their place in health care and medicine. Surgeons are known to use virtual reality to practice their skills, while augmented reality finds its use in actual medical settings. Both technologies are used by psychologists to enhance in-vitro behaviour therapies. What are the differences then? If you would like to know the differences between AR and VR, things can get a little dicey. Augmented reality enhances an existing reality by adding images, sensations and sounds. Virtual reality creates a situation where images and sounds can feel real, though they do not exist. Virtual reality is usually delivered through a head-mounted or hand-held controller. Augmented reality can be used in a variety of situations and a specific tool may not be required. If your apps jiggle on your iPhone while trying to delete them, that is a form of augmented reality. Is it possible for them to exist together? Mixed Reality. Many times, augmented reality works in conjunction with virtual reality. This is especially true in video games, where the aforementioned young man probably felt that he really was being shaken by a. demon on the screen, thanks to haptic feedback. When virtual reality and augmented reality work together, it is known as mixed reality (MR). Mixed reality is an effort where the best of AR and VR are spun together so that the user is not only experiencing the real world in an enhanced state but is also experiencing something that probably doesn’t exist. Mixed reality is going to get a lot more popular in the future because of its applications in gaming, movies, entertainment and also events. However, if we are discussing medicine and health, AR and VR will remain operate and distinct. Now let us take a look at some of the non-traditional situations in which VR can be used: Live communication VR can be used during meetings and conferences, where the simulation of a board room can be created. A conference room can be simulated and participants can feel like they are in an actual meeting. This helps to psychologically tune the participants to be more attentive, and pay attention to what is being said during the conference or meeting, instead of getting distracted, which is possible during virtual conversations and meetings. Sales exhibitions There is no place better than a trade show to experience the goodness of virtual reality. If your company is trying to exhibit product A, you can quickly use VR to simulate an environment where visitors to the exhibition can ‘experience’ your product. In other words, sales demos become more life-like and helps in immersing clients in a simulated reality. Product testing Virtual reality also helps in testing products, even in the most adverse conditions. Thanks to virtual reality, companies and manufacturers can Crete impossible situations or difficult-to-test situations and ensure that the product doesn’t malfunction. A few of the non-traditional situations where augmented reality can be used are: Augmented reality works very well on mobile apps. Thus, it can be used in design and retail, marketing, and B2B sales. For instance, customers can try their glasses on, using their own image. The app helps them to try glasses or clothes on an image that resembles them. Augmented reality can also be used to create interactive billboards, displays and immersive branding experiences. There’s no race between AR and VR By looking at these examples and the similarities and differences between AR and VR, it becomes clear that they are not going to outpace one another. They may be similar in some respects but they both have their uses and utilities. While they can exist separately, they can also exist in conjunction with each other, a technology which is known as

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10 Ways Design Thinking Can Help You Innovate

February 1, 2017

We’ve heard often that design thinking is the secret to the success of businesses like Apple, Nike, and many other recognizable brands. However, not many of us stop and question what design thinking really is, and how it can help us to innovate our products and services. What is design thinking? Most businesses try to approach products and services with problems in mind. However, design thinking brings a paradigm shift. Design thinking prioritizes solutions first and orients products and services toward action. Design thinking imagines all the solutions that a user might want, even if there are no problems. This unique quality of design thinking helps businesses to bring solutions before users identify problems or feel a need. In other words, when a user uses a product or service with design thinking as its basis, he experiences what can be described as a “eureka moment”.   Whether you are selling a software program, an idea or a pair of shoes, design thinking can help you innovate. Let’s take a look at how it does that. Brings value Design thinking is a combination of science, art & design. This approach helps us to bring value to whatever we are creating. Apple’s iPhone is not just a cellphone. It effectively used art, science and design to create one of the most enduring symbols of 21st century. iPhone not only helped solve existing problems, but it brought value to an entire industry and helped other smartphone manufacturers to innovate. Intuitiveness One of the hallmarks of design thinking is intuitiveness. Design thinking helps to create products and services that are intuitive. This intuitiveness helps to drive innovation in the larger industry. WordPress is a good example of this intuitiveness. It helps even users with minimal knowledge of publishing to post blogs, and even run entire websites. This is an example of intuitiveness at its best. WordPress continues to innovate publishing industry because it is rooted in design thinking. Competitive edge Design thinking helps to predict what others might be doing. It isn’t just about creating solutions but also about understanding what might happen in future. This quality helps those doing the design thinking to innovate and move further than their competitors. Nike has consistently used design thinking to stay ahead of other sneaker manufacturers. This is mostly because the company’s design thinking has helped it to combine athletic science with fashion trends, which appeals not only to those who are interested in sportswear, but also the fashion-conscious. UI/UX Design thinking puts user interface and user experience at the top of priorities. Doing so helps to create products and services that are truly innovative. Most software programs that are popular today are so because of their UI/UX. Programs that are clumsy or outdated simply do not do well enough. With this in mind, it is safe to say that software development’s UX/UI is heavily dependent on design thinking. Focus on end user Design thinking is all about focusing on the end user. Some of the most important questions that are asked are who is it for, why do they want to use it, when will they use it, how will they use, and where will they use it. As only end users are prioritized, innovation focuses on their needs. When Amazon decided to include bookmarks with books that were parceled to customers, it was engaging in design thinking. Brainstorming and collective expertise Design thinking focuses on brainstorming and the collective expertise of many individuals or teams. This helps to create a holistic solution, instead of a product or service that may not seem very well put together. Remarkable buildings around the world are a result of design thinking. The Great Pyramid of Giza took thousands of slaves, builders, architects and engineers to build, thousands of years ago. Emotional connection Design thinking stresses upon the importance of empathy and emotional connection with the user. Designers should walk in the shoes of the user, and imagine what he or she might feel emotionally while using the product. Does it elicit joy, confusion, anger, boredom, thrill, relief? Manufacturers of candies know the importance of empathy and emotional connection very well. This is one of the reasons why they hire professional tasters before launching candies into market! Focuses on the gestalt Design thinking is not about looking at various problems. It is about creating a holistic solution. It believes in the gestalt philosophy of ‘the whole is greater than the sum of its parts’. This means, it puts various factors of art, science and design together to create a marketable service or product, which is intuitive and useful. Almost all great products and services are gestalts. Be it IBM’s cloud solutions or Microsoft’s Office suite, they are all gestalts in their own way.   Creates opportunities Design thinking drives innovation by creating opportunities. It creates opportunities for competitors to innovate because a product or service that is based in design thinking is usually inspirational. We could probably again state the example of the iPhone, which helped Samsung, and other smartphone manufacturers to create products that are rivals in their own right.   Solves problems Last but not the least, design thinking solves problems. This quality of design thinking helps companies to innovate and create solutions even before problems arise. Testing and resting, research and development, innovation and strategy  are all part of design thinking. Almost all mobile and web apps that are successful today solve problems based on design thinking. Similarly, today’s extraordinary cloud computing solutions are based in design thinking too! As you can see, design thinking does a lot of other things than just solving problems. It helps to create value and bring intuitive user experience to end users. All this results in innovation in whatever you are offering to your end users, and that is what a business should be all about.

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Top Image File Conversion Tools

December 27, 2016

Today, an overwhelming number of image formats exist. Different software/ devices have different image format compatibility. Therefore, an image format suitable for one software/ device may not compatible with others. And you are often encountered with a message saying unable to read file.  To avoid this difficulty, it is necessary to install image file conversion tools. Image file conversion tools serve as a handy way to convert any image format to a desired format. The following blog lists some of the best image file conversions tools for desktop PC and mobile apps along with some online tools accessible through a web browser. Best image file conversion programs for desktop PC XnConvert A powerful and cross-platform batch image processor, XnConvert is compatible with 500 image formats and can export to about 70 different file formats. It offers more than 80 different operations including metadata editing, transforms, adjustments, filters, effects etc. And it seamlessly exports to NConvert for a command line usage. XnConvert is multi-platform software available for Windows, Mac and Linux for both 32-bit and 64-bit editions. With translation support for more than 20 languages, it is multilingual. User interface is simple providing convenient drag and drop functionality. Adapter An intuitive batch image converter by Macroplant, Adapter comes with multiple functionalities. It can resize and convert images in a batch with a simple conversion process. After choosing an output format and dropping a collection of images, click format. You can also make size adjustment, compression or text addition before conversion. Adapter can compile images into timelapse videos, slideshows, or stop motion animations. Irrespective of source file size, shape or format, Adapter can export to various video formats and resolution including 1080p and 4K. It can also batch convert watermarked photos. Free Image Convert and Resize by DVDVideoSoft Free Image Convert and Resize is a compact program for batch image processing that allows you to convert separate images and file folders containing images into different graphic formats. It allows you to rename, reorder, and change size according to the desired settings. Image file format supported include jpg, png, bmp, gif, tga, pdf (export only). The software is free to install and does not contain any spyware or adware. It is available for Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista and XP (Service Pack 3). PixConverter By CoffeeCup PixConverter is a cool converter that does more than conversion. It can easily convert digital photos for Flickr, websites, email with convenient conversion presets for email, CDs and website images. It can convert gif, jpg, tiff, png, bmp files and change image colors, size, format, and file names. Create thumbnail pages for your website and watermark your images with text and graphics. Apart from that, upload images to your server through a built-in FTP client. It also helps you to import pictures from digital camera. Advanced Batch Image Converter (ABIC) ABIC is a multiplatform tool for batch image conversion. It provides binaries for Windows 32/64 bit (with and without installers) and Mac OS X along with source code for compilation on Linux. ABIC converts multiple image files in various formats such as JPG, TIFF, PNG, WebP etc with a capability to convert 16-bit-images. The software is available for free with no additional downloads like toolbars etc. User can set the quality and compression for the export formats through the user interface. Apart from that, ABIC can also read some historic formats particularly Amiga IFF (ILBM). Best mobile apps for image file conversion Image Converter Image Converter is one of the best Android apps for converting image files. It offers a number of features including image re-sizing, multiple file processing, multiple output formats, image cropping and image rotation. The application works offline without having you to upload any image on online servers. It can load a large number of formats including jpeg, png, gif, tiff, bmp, etc. And convert images into a huge number of output formats. With an easy-to-access user interface, Image Converter allows access to all your files/images including photo library and email attachments from other apps.   The converted files are accessible within the app and automatically saved in your photo library.  What’s more, you can share the converted images with your social apps and emails within the app and your original files stay as it is. The File Converter An Android app available on Google Play, The File Converter is a complete and full-featured multi-file converter. It can convert video, audio, images, documents, ebooks, and archives.  The free app allows only 2 conversion credits. Post two successful conversions, you can unlock unlimited conversions via in-app purchase. The purchase is worth it due to multiple reasons. Images can be converted to jpg, png, bmp, eps, gif, tga, tiff and others. Because the conversion occurs in the cloud, the app does not consume much battery and conversion speeds are quite fast.  Internet connection is mandatory to use this app. The files are uploaded to an encrypted conversion server, converted and then downloaded to your phone. The best part is the files are immediately deleted from the server. Free app has a limit of 100 MB per file for two file conversions. Once you upgrade to Premium, the file limit is increased to 1 GB. Free Image Converter Free Image Converter is another popular Android app that can convert images into various formats. The output format includes jpeg, bmp, gif, pdf, psd, png, tiff, and others. It allows you to add unlimited files to one conversion. Once you choose an output format along with some format support setting, click convert.  The resulting file is saved in the output directory. Apart from that, you can resize the image into a desired size. However, since the conversion happens online you need an internet connection for it to function. All File Converter This online app by Tech Mania allows you to convert files to almost any format.  It is not just an image file converter but a complete media converter. It can convert files to documents, ebooks, images, audio, video,

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