Category: Tech

8 Key Benefits of Electronic Data Interchange Solutions

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In the current global landscape, the success of your company depends on how quickly your operations flow, how reliable you are, and how much you minimize the risk or errors. At the same time, the amount of information is instantly growing, and when your company develops, you have more and more employees to coordinate. Documents such as orders, bills, invoices, and contracts… the volume of organizational data can become a great challenge. The first step to overcome this situation is to digitize.

EDI services your company will find useful

By ensuring the swift and secure transmission of data between all business partners globally, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) provides your organization with a competitive market advantage. Before you introduce optimized software to your company, you need to determine the scope of services you are going to need. You can choose among multiple features, depending on who your business partners are, what products/services you provide, and how many documents you process in a year.

  • Master data management (MDM) and exchange
    This allows you to organize the process of data exchange and maintenance by eliminating chaotic email or paper communication that creates the risk of double data entry. Using electronic forms and workflow processes that are integrated with master data systems also allows the information to be validated at the start of the process – so you can unify master data management processes on different systems.
  • Supply chain management
    Supply chain management helps you manage the flow of goods. This solution ensures the secure and quick flow of data regarding the physical movement of goods, by using EDI messages and logistics labels. It communicates with various TSL service providers, allowing full integration with their logistics systems.
  • E-invoicing
    Thanks to this solution, you can handle the entire invoice-related flow (both electronic and paper) in a cost-effective way. Features such as a multi-lingual service desk or interoperability with global providers ensures electronic communication with all vendors and customers with the use of one solution. It guarantees that the invoice content is validated, and that the format is converted in the required way. The transmission process is fully secured, and you can check all statuses in real time.
  • Legal compliance
    e-Invoicing keeps your invoicing processes not only secure, but also compliant with new legal regulations. How? Firstly, it ensures the integrity of content. Secondly, it guarantees the authenticity of origin and legibility. Thirdly, it guarantees that your sensitive data is secure and archived for the legally required period of time (data retention policy). With the right provider, this solution should give you legal compliance in dozens of countries around the world.
  • AP/AR automation
    One way to decrease the workload related to manual operations is to automate accounts payable and accounts receivable Invoices should be accessible, trackable and reportable at any time and in any place. Automation works as a process engine which accelerates the acceptance of documents and collects data entered in the meantime. With the use of this feature, your accounting department can focus only on what matters.
  • Tracking
    Another service that could help you manage Electronic Data Interchange better is an instant access to a real-time monitoring platform. This way, you can check the performance of your EDI software. It may also be useful if the portal is equipped with a tracking feature in the shape of a web application providing a full preview of the current status of processed documents, and enabling you to respond rapidly to any type of document-related incidents.
  • Reporting
    One more service that you may find helpful is reporting. It’s good if your EDI platform can generate ready-to-use reports based on the data exchanged in the EDI Network, such as a comparison of the number of ordered products vs. the number of those appearing on an invoice. It’s also beneficial if you receive subscription reports via email in any given format.

Key benefits of EDI

Why are EDI solutions so beneficial when compared to paper systems? Let’s dive into the details.

1. Save time by making things faster

With the use of an EDI solution, you can significantly reduce the need for manual data processing, because all processes are performed automatically by your software. This makes document exchange much faster than with traditional methods such as sending emails. What is more, you can dive into the database to search for specific goods at any moment, as well as place an order and receive the confirmation in just seconds. Any delays due to different time zones are eliminated together, as are long waits to get hold of the person responsible for contact with your organization. Your transactions are realized in minutes instead of days, weeks, or months. Last but not least, you no longer have to rely on the postal or courier companies.

2. Costs reduction

All reports show that manually processing a paper-based order costs much more than electronic and automated processing. In the long run, it’s thousands of dollars you can save each year thanks to an EDI solution. When you exchange e-documents, you simply improve the visibility and speed of your transactions, while decreasing spending paper, printing, copying, filing, storage, postage, and other kinds of manual labor.

3. Decreased risk of errors and better data quality

EDI software improves your data quality by minimizing human errors caused by such elements as illegible handwriting, misunderstandings, lost emails, typos and many more. You no longer have to copy information from paper documents to the system, as the data is handled only electronically.

4. Improved business relationships

EDI is becoming an international standard, partly because it also helps strengthen market relationships with business partners, improve customer service and increase competitiveness.

For small companies, electronic data interchange is a chance for growth and better time management, freeing more valuable time for strategic tasks. Replacing manual and repetitive processes based on paper with fast and reliable software enables smaller organizations to take care of often neglected tasks and focus on further development.

Medium and large companies also benefit from EDI solutions. Using EDI software in cooperation between enterprises works as a kind of international language for data exchange. This means that EDI can work as a gateway to doing business with the biggest players on the market. What’s more, many companies even require potential business partners to use EDI.

5. Highest level of security and real-time control

It’s no surprise that traditional methods of data exchange, such as post, emails and fax, are not fully reliable. All of these methods create a danger of unauthorized access by third parties. With EDI software, you have a guarantee that all your documents will be delivered safely. Access to the EDI system has to be authorized, so you can always check who has looked at your database. Key documents can be also tracked in real time, at each step of verification, so you can make decisions and respond as quickly as possible.

6. More effective management

Exchanging documents smoothly and with minimized risk of errors lets you execute orders at much higher speed. Your company won’t have to worry about an empty warehouse, or shelves full of unsold products. EDI systems give you more control over inventory levels, more effective use of warehouse space, and lower risk of items being out of stock. Automated processing of business documents can also lead to less re-working of orders and shipments. Your employees gain more time to focus on customer service and marketing, which are often neglected when much paperwork has to be done.

7. Faster delivery

Thanks to quicker execution of transactions, EDI is a great tool for shortening the order-sales-invoicing-delivery-payment cycle. Shorter order processing and delivery time means that you can reduce your inventory levels and lower logistics costs.

8. Eco-friendliness

Paper-based processes are outdated because of their negative environmental impact. Switching to digitized solutions such as EDI significantly reduces the use of paper and other office supplies. Thanks to these actions, your organization can manufacture more products and less waste.

Summary

The global trend of digitizing a vast amount of processes is becoming stronger with each year, so it is no wonder that EDI software solutions are becoming a standard in business. They simplify the work of your staff and save a lot of precious time and money. No matter the size of your organization, in order to develop, it needs a reliable system to process data. The sooner you implement such a solution, the greater your market advantage will be. Once you introduce electronic data interchange, it will transform with your company, because it’s easily adjustable to your current and future needs.

When choosing an EDI solution provider, you should look for one that will help you with all of the elements related to EDI – implementation, employee training, updates and technical support after sales. The best solution will be adjusted to your business goals, financial budget and expectations. It’s good to choose a company with wide experience to specialize in secure and versatile IT solutions, compliant with international standards and regulations.

Prepared by: Data Exchange & Document Management Team at Comarch.

Peel X Analyses Whether Interactive Learning is More Effective Than Traditional Classrooms

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Peel X specialises in designing XR and AR experiences that connect people with learning experiences and here they analyse the revolutionary shift towards interactive learning and AR technology use.

Peel X are experts in using cutting edge technical expertise to help people see all kinds of things differently. Based in the UK, Peel X develop extended reality (XR) experiences for all kinds of sectors, including teaching and education.

Using digital technology to push the boundaries of digital interpretation and storytelling, Peel X has a unique take on the viability and possibilities surrounding interactive learning. Peel X’s AR trail apps are designed to take learners on interactive journeys through breath-taking visuals, superimposing digital content onto the real world to create a fully immersive experience. The AR technology enables learners to see and interact with virtual objects in their physical surroundings, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation of the subject matter.

What is an interactive learning environment?

Interactive learning is a teaching pedagogy that incorporates computers, social networking and various forms of tech (including augmented reality and virtual reality).

In many ways, interactive learning has evolved out of the almost complete digitisation of our world, and forms an essential part of engaging students in meaningful ways. Interactive learning also creates a more collaborative environment where the boundaries between students and teachers are more blurred.

In the case for virtual world-building, it is important to have a keen attention to detail. Peel X prides itself in their historically accuracy in developing virtual environments that replicate the sights, sounds, and sensations of the time. This can be seen in the York Mansion House’s interactive
cook-along exhibit, which uses AR technology to let users experience what it’s like to be in a Georgian kitchen and providing a fun learning experience for all ages.

Interactive learning and a collaborative learning environment

There are myriad ways that a teacher can implement interactive learning programs into the classroom in a way that will reach children, young people and students. Techniques to explore include, for example:

Educational gaming

Studies show that gaming in education can increase social activity and problem-solving
skills. By engaging students in different ways to use their imagination to
access gameplay, this kind of interactive learning can improve co-ordination,
memory, confidence and facilitate a deeper understanding of the subject in
question.

Social media

Educators and students have access to the kind of global collaboration that simply wasn’t available prior to technological development. Resources can be shared, knowledge pooled and lessons shared, boosting all kinds of skills for the child and teachers alike.

QR codes

Parents, instructors and students can access QR codes using smartphones to unlock and watch lectures, information and engage in different forms of instructions.

Augmented Reality app

Augmented Reality (AR) is Peel X’s specialism. The technology merges virtual worlds seamlessly with the real-world environment by overlaying digital information including audio, video and graphics.

A key example of this is the Uist Unearthed project bringing archaeological sites to life. The use AR technology to project the ancient sites onto devices can give users the freedom to explore ancient sites from any angle, discovering details that may have been previously unknown.

Augmented reality apps for learning and development

Think back to the official launch of Pokemon Go in 2016 for a reminder of just how accessible AR gaming is for people. Using the creativity and ideas from AR gameplay and transforming it into AR apps perfect for school lessons and learners of all abilities and age creates a way to continue interactive learning in new ways.

Using AR in the school classroom boosts creativity, interaction and the absorption of lessons and learning techniques. Peel X proves that AR can be used in many ways to encourage students to participate in the process of learning.

Now that the vast majority of smartphones can support augmented reality, there are many real-world use cases proving its worth for sharing knowledge inside and outside of the classroom.

The inclusion of AR trail apps has supplemented interactive learning as they provide an immersive learning experience that keeps learners engaged. AR trail apps can be used to create interactive learning experiences for various subjects such as history, geography, science, and art.

For example, an AR trail app can take learners on a virtual tour of a historical site, providing them with information and interactive activities that enhance their learning experience. Overall, AR trail apps can make learning more engaging, interactive, and fun for learners of all ages.

How does augmented reality transform the learning experience?

Augmented reality allows a lesson to include interactive, effective and meaningful experiences. For instance, a history course could include immersing students into the range of interactive displays developed by Peel X for the Derby Museum of Making.

This is great example of interactive learning that helps people focus on the evolution and historical developments over 300 years of Derby history. Using touchscreens and a visitor app, the technology allows visitors to create their own trail to follow.

Another Peel X AR app that enhances the way in which people can communicate with and learn from information is the Dublin Discovery Trails AR app. Bringing a new dimension to digital storytelling, the AR app is called Doors into Docklands.

What are the benefits of using AR technology in education?

AR within education – whether that’s aimed at school children, older students or learning experiences outside of classrooms – is currently totally revolutionising the way in which education is delivered.

It’s the most important EdTech trend right now and definitely something for parents to watch. Augmented reality can serve various purposes within education:

1.Enhanced creativity:

Interactive learning provides an opportunity for students to create, design, and experiment with new ideas and concepts, fostering creativity and innovation.

2. Improved Engagement:

VR makes learning experiences more fun and accessible, boosting
skills and opportunities to talk about it with the educator.


3. Accessible Learning:

It allows for accessible learning materials anywhere and at any time. This is why it’s so useful in museums and external sites that can be used for education purposes. It can replace textbooks and printed materials, allowing more people to be able to use it easily. AR is especially useful for students with physical or learning disabilities, who may find it difficult to participate in traditional classroom activities.

4. Increased Collaboration:

Interactive AR learning can help boost collaboration amongst students, which in turn boosts engagement. Providing a shared immersive environment can help fostering collaboration, teamwork, and communication skills.

5. Enhanced understanding:

Through immersive experiences, young people can get a Thanks to the immersion that AR offers, students can get a better understanding of complex concepts, especially in subjects like science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through shared visualisation.

6. Personalized learning:

Outside of a class, AR can be used to create personalized learning experiences for young people, allowing them to learn at their own pace and in their own way.

 7. Safe learning environment 

Interactive learning can provide a safer environment for young people to practice skills and learn valuable lessons without any real-world consequences.

Overall, immersive technology offers a range of benefits for users of all ages. XR technology provides individuals with new and exciting ways to learn and engage with different subjects.

The Peel X team specialises in XR and AR

Digital Catapult and the creators of Pokemon Go (Niantic) have short-listed Peel X to develop and pitch new immersive experiences that promise to change the game. This underlines the expert knowledge and breadth of experience that the team at Peel X has when it comes to interactive learning and AR technology.

Aside from the apps that Peel X has created, such as the Augmented Reality (AR) app for the islands of North and South Uist that brings archaeological storytelling to life, the company has also created the Virtual Reality (VR) project, GameChanger, specifically for the education sector.

GameChanger is a VR experience that helps to raise awareness of the UK’s biggest social issues such as Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE) and knife crime. In partnership with Doncaster Children’s Services Trust, the Home Office and South Yorkshire Police, the interactive suite aims to help create ‘intervention’ programmes for young people of high school age across the UK

The Future of Marketing: A World with Advanced Plagiarism Detection Technology

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In a world with advanced plagiarism detection technology, the future of marketing is bleak. This technology can detect when someone plagiarizes content. This makes it difficult for marketers to get their message out there.

The current state of plagiarism detection technology and its limitations

Plagiarism detection technology is offering universities and educators unprecedented levels of protection. Yet, this is hardly fool-proof. For example, these systems can’t provide any information about paraphrasing. Or, whether the source was acknowledged in an appropriate way. They can only detect plagiarism that has already appeared before in another paper. When it comes to identifying completely original material, they don’t stand a chance.

Don’t worry though! This technology may appear daunting to students and teachers alike. But at least provides a fair level playing field for all.

Advanced plagiarism detection technology and its implications

Advanced plagiarism detection technology promises to revolutionize the business-customer interactions. They provide instant feedback on whether copy is original or not. This way, marketers can now be sure that the content they are using is authentic and original. This is a concept which was impossible for them to guarantee before. This will open up new possibilities for collaboration! It will also create an atmosphere of trust between companies and their clients. In the end, this is something that all marketers strive for. Advanced plagiarism detection might be a powerful game-changer in the world of marketing.

The potential benefits of using a plagiarism detector online for marketing

The internet is becoming an invaluable platform for marketing campaigns. Thus, plagiarism detectors can be a beneficial asset for protecting intellectual property. Using a plagiarism detector online is a great way to start. It allows businesses to securely check for any plagiarized content in their written material. This is a must-have in the highly competitive world of digital marketing. With this tool, businesses can spot potential competitors using plagiarized content. Thus, they can make sure their marketing efforts remain unique. Plus, plagiarism detectors are very affordable.

The potential drawbacks

Looking back over the years, technology has advanced far beyond what we could have ever imagined. This, in terms of helping marketers find stolen content. On one hand, it’s fantastic to be able to quickly track down and identify plagiarized content. On the other hand, large companies are already at risk for copyright issues. And with this new technology, there may be even more areas where they can run into trouble. In general, advanced plagiarism detection technology is a helpful tool for ensuring originality. However, marketers must proceed with caution. They should ensure that they do not infringe on someone else’s copyright. Or else, they may end up paying a hefty price!

The future of marketing

We all know that technology continues to progress! Marketers are beginning to think of creative ways to turn the new developments into tools that promote their products. One intriguing possibility is the use of advanced plagiarism detection technology. This helps campaigns and companies protect their reputation from digital infringement. This kind of technology provides companies with the copyright protection. Plus, it can also sharpen a brand’s story by flagging inaccurate information before it gets too far.

Allowing marketers to practice judiciously will be key in the future. They will stop relying on novel strategies to grab attention. And they’ll have to take into consideration other things. For example, how their moves might affect them in a world of plagiarism detection.

Conclusion

The current state of plagiarism detection technology may seem advanced. But its limitations may lead to some undesired outcomes. As such, it is important to consider both the benefits and drawbacks of using plagiarism detectors. This should occur before refining these technologies for widespread use.

If used thoughtfully, this kind of technology could revolutionize. Ultimately, only time will tell how far advanced plagiarism detection technology will go. But one thing is certain! With its potential for good or bad comes an obligation to take special caution when using it. Companies and professionals must act with complete honesty! This, if they want to stay ahead in this ever-changing digital marketplace. And that honour begins with being true to your original ideas.

Author Bio:

James Hughey is a digital marketer and content strategist with six years of experience. He specializes in SEO, PPC, and email marketing campaigns. In his free time, James likes to write about the latest trends in digital marketing and technology.

5 Ways to Improve Your Blog’s Website Performance

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Blog Website

Blogging is a great way to spread your message and pull traffic to your site. But, with an estimated 4.4 million blog posts published every day in 2022, it is hard to get heard. 

So, what helps some blogs perform better?

 

What does good blog performance mean? 

Every small business needs a blog! But what makes a good blog? A high-performing blog needs the following characteristics:

  1. Targeted – for whom are you writing it?
  2. Discoverable – e.g., optimized for search engines
  3. Signposts other web pages you want users to see
  4. Well-pitched and engaging
  5. Well-presented and structured

 

These things are all linked. Well-pitched and engaging content is, of course, a good thing in its own right. But that also makes your blog more discoverable in search engine results. Likewise, good presentation helps engage your readers and also, once again, helps your search engine optimization (SEO) efforts.

A well-targeted blog is more likely to engage its intended audience. And so long as the links are clear, engaged readers are more prone to click through to other parts of your website. It is all interlinked. And, of course, many other specific tactics can support SEO.

For those who are looking for a more comprehensive solution, you can consider partnering with an agency dedicated to WordPress. They can help you with all aspects of your blog performance, from targeting your audience and optimizing for search engines, to providing well-pitched and engaging content and improving your blog’s readability.

Do you want more people to find your site? Do you want more people to engage with it and invest some of their time in it? And do you want people to use your blog as a stepping stone to other content on your website?

If the answer to these questions is ‘yes’ (and it probably should be!), you need to work on the five points above. This article will offer a few tips to support each one.

 

1. Identify your audience

Appropriately identifying your target audience is fundamental to the performance of your blog. You need to know and understand your users: what will entice them to engage with your blog?

Establish a user persona. Imagine a typical member of your audience. What are their demographic characteristics, interests, and buying behaviors? What online habits inform how they interact with blogs?

Every aspect of your content should target that audience: from where your blog is hosted (take note of the flexibility registration services like OnlyDomains offer here), through to the nature and presentation of your content.

 

2. Use SEO to help people find you

You might have fantastic, engaging content on your blog. But what is the point if nobody can find it? That is why search engine optimization (SEO) is crucial. Use SEO to ensure your blog appears high on relevant search engine result pages (SERPS).

SEO is complex. There are entire businesses dedicated to supporting other organizations with it. But here are a few tips.

 

Utilize keyword research

Keyword research identifies topics to address in your blogs. You can discover what your users are interested in, based on the search terms they have used. By identifying the most popular keywords, you can create blog content that explicitly covers these: make the content people seek.

 

Provide a meta description 

The meta description appears on the search engine results page (SERP). It sits just under the title and provides a short description of your blog. Many users consider these when deciding whether to click on a link. Use it to ensure your blog link stands out.   

The meta description is limited to just 155 characters. Stick within that, making sure it is catchy, concise, and includes your keyword.

 

3. Include internal links

Include links in your blog to other pages on your website, e.g., older blogs. That creates pathways for your users toward other content and information. As you publish a growing body of blog posts, internal linking gives older blog posts a bit of a push.

Internal linking is like using yarn to create a web between various pages of your content. As well as aiding your readers, this web of links helps search engines navigate your content; it makes your website discoverable to Google bots! That, in turn, helps your content show appropriately in a SERP.

Creating this web also allows your blog to cast a wider net. Try publishing blogs on slightly different but connected issues (still relevant to your audience); then, use internal linking to signpost your core proposition. For example, if the core focus of your blog is the digital product you are selling, publish a blog about a proximate issue and then link it back to your core offer; so you might blog about how custom workflow integrations could usefully interface your service with others.

 

4. Provide well-pitched and engaging content

It is crucial to consider what well-pitched and engaging content means for your target users. What are their blog reading habits? What tone, word count, and level of technical detail do they want? Is storytelling effective with your users? Such insights about your audience are invaluable.

In addition to this, it’s also important to ensure that your content reaches your intended audience by having a high email deliverability rate on top of a well-functioning sales platform. If your emails are marked as spam, it can be damaging to not just your outreach, but your brand reputation. 

Whatever you decide, ensure your content is easy to read. Most users reach a quick decision (just a few seconds) about whether to engage with a blog. Improving your blog’s readability makes users much more likely to linger. Simple language is generally better; stick with straightforward vocabulary and avoid long, overly complex sentences.

Good readability makes good SEO. If users linger longer, the search engine will see that as an endorsement of your content, ranking you higher in the future.

 

5. Use visuals and headings

Study after study has shown that web users love visual elements when browsing online. Their use engages users, pulling them into your article and enticing them to read more. Once again, search engines will interpret greater engagement as a signal to rank your article more highly.

You could use infographics to present technical detail concisely. Or photos to support your text. Videos are also fantastic, albeit more investment heavy. One helpful strategy here is using APIs to pull resources from elsewhere (e.g., YouTube videos) into your blog – take a look at this API integration definition to get started.

Effective headings and subheadings serve a similar function. Users often glance through an article before they commit to reading it. Does it look stimulating and helpful? A catchy title and well-chosen subheadings (giving an overview of coverage) support a favorable assessment. And an article organized into short, coherent sections is kinder for the reader.

Search engines like Google consider visual elements and subheadings when ranking results. These features allow the search engine to establish the relevance of your content to the search.

 

Give your users the blog they want!

Look to refine your blog strategy as you go. Just as you should monitor and test the technical performance of your website, you should also monitor how users interact with your content. Analyze what works best with your target audience. The very best blogs perfectly match their needs.

The Future of Video Production

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high tech video cameras

Tampa Bay company, CROOW, is disrupting the video production industry by offering high-quality, studio-produced video at a fraction of the cost. The company’s collaboration and project management software has earned CROOW our Best Collaboration Technology Solutions Provider – 2023 award. We catch up with CROOW’s lead developer, Aaron Lipkin, to find out more.

Since the dawn of the digital age, the demand for high-quality video images has been on the increase. Filming an occasional TikTok or Instagram reel on your phone is fine. But when it comes to marketing and promoting your business, there’s nothing better than a professional-quality video. With the costs of video equipment and studio time out of reach of many, CROOW is streamlining the process of creating and editing video to provide an accessible service.

CROOW, pronounced ‘crew,’ is a collaboration platform that makes the process of producing your video, faster, easier and more affordable. The platform features two products. CROOW Studio offers studio-quality video at a fraction of the usual costs. By creating a project with CROOW Studio, clients can access studio-quality video recording and editing at a fraction of the normal cost.

CROOWpm is project management software that enables stakeholders to collaborate on projects throughout their lifecycle.

Aaron explains more about the service, “Our software makes video production seamless and stress-free. Clients want videos that match the presentation standards of their brand. Our automated templates and efficient processes help them get that. When they buy a video package through CROOW, they enjoy a production experience that meets all their needs. Our pre-production process is unique and painless.”

Working with clients including Savills, CFO Alliance, Tampa Bay Chamber and Spoton Digital Media, the company’s goal is to help customers take their video production to the next level through its products and services.

Popular options include digital short films to engage with the client’s audience via info sharing, interviews showcasing business leaders to build trust, and longer films sharing a company’s brand history, mission and vision.

The team at CROOW are flexible and can visit your office if you wish. Or, visit them at one of the company’s fabulous studios to get the full VIP experience. The CROOW video team is on hand to ensure a smooth process. There’s even a library of title card logos, animations and icons to choose from.

After the shoot, CROOW encourages clients to submit their comments via an automated system. This makes sure nothing gets lost in translation. CROOW’s smart workflows and advanced tools make creative collaboration a breeze, getting projects to delivery in a fraction of the time.

We ask Aaron about the benefits of CROOW’s HQ base in Tampa Bay. He tells us, “We’re lucky to call Tampa Bay home. Over the years, we’ve filmed hundreds of videos in the Tampa/St Pete area. We’ve worked with some of the area’s brightest and most innovative companies, non-profits, and thought leaders. And we’ve been fortunate to work with the region’s most impressive and talented video production professionals.”

Today CROOW has expanded its operation and video production capabilities into Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Nashville, Orlando, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Washington DC.

Looking to the future, CROOW plans to add a creative network, CROOW Market, to the platform. This feature will provide teams and industry experts with a collaborative platform outside of individual projects.

For business enquiries, contact Aaron Lipkin (lead developer) from CROOW on their website – www.croow.com

SaaS Leaders Share the Top 7 SaaS Trends to Be Aware of In 2023

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Saas

Subscription management leader Chargebee reveals the top seven trends to look out for within the SaaS space moving into 2023.

The world of SaaS is constantly evolving, with new trends emerging every year. From the rise of AI and machine learning to the increasing popularity of subscription-based business models, these trends provide insight into how SaaS companies can operate and grow.

Whether you’re running a startup or SME, or you work in the SaaS sector yourself, staying informed about these trends will help you make strategic decisions and stay ahead of the competition. 

Chargebee has combined its industry expertise with Google Trends analysis of top SaaS movements, comparing its growth from the start of 2022 to its close, showcasing which areas are on an upward trend for 2023.  

 

1. White Label SaaS +614% 

White label SaaS platforms allow businesses to purchase software and rebrand it as their own. It’s an elegant no-code solution for companies that are keen to enter the software market but lack the resources needed to do so.

“White label SaaS” has seen a staggering 614% growth in search volume since the start of 2022, and it’s a trend we expect to enjoy further growth in the SaaS market as we head into 2023. 

 

2. PaaS (Platform as a Service) +95%

PaaS (Platform as a Service) providers offer a complete development and deployment environment, all accessible via the cloud. Through these services, clients can develop, run, and manage business applications without the hassle of maintaining the complex infrastructure associated with software development. 

According to our research, searches for the phrase “PaaS providers” have increased by 95%. It’s expected that PaaS will grow over the next year, as businesses increasingly shift their focus from management to innovation.

 

3. No-code SaaS +93%

The popularity of no-code and low-code tools is showing little sign of slowing down — our research shows a 93% increase in search volume since 2022 commenced. Thanks to no-code SaaS solutions, practically anyone can build a website, open an eCommerce store, or manage recurring payments via automation.

The simplicity of no-code platforms is evident in Chargebees’ service. People and businesses can easily set up reporting functionalities and payment gateways without needing any coding experience, making it easier to start an online business. This accessibility is a key benefit of no-code platforms.

 

4. Customer churn/retention tools +81%

Subscription-based business models remain popular with consumers — a sector where customer retention is essential. Little wonder then, why the customer retention tools trend is showing an 81% search volume increase since the start of 2022.

As we approach 2023, expect the growth of both lifecycle management tools and subscription businesses to mirror one another. By reducing customer churn, subscription businesses stand to benefit from additional revenue and increased brand loyalty, and customer retention tools can help them achieve this. 

 

5. Collaboration software +41%

With most businesses continuing to operate in hybrid or fully remote work environments, collaborative tools remain essential. There are promising signs for the future of the sector, too, with a 41% spike in search volume since January 2022. 

In 2023, the top collaborative tools will continue to grow. However, this growth will largely depend on their ability to stand out in the crowd, by taking advantage of forward-thinking features such as AR & VR integration, and spatial audio. 

 

6. Vertical SaaS +40%

Vertical SaaS is the practice of building software targeted toward a particular niche or industry-specific standard. Instead of aiming to be all things to all people, the vertical SaaS provider aims their software squarely at smaller market sectors. And, while it’s a relatively new strategy among developers, it’s a trending topic in the SaaS landscape, boasting a 40% increase in search volume since last year.

 

7. Metered billing +26%

SaaS providers are solving the pricing model headache by implementing metered billing. Metered billing takes into account your customer’s usage and charges them accordingly. 

The model isn’t perfect for every SaaS platform, but it’s a great way of ensuring pricing is fair, and it can offer valuable insights into your customer’s behavior, too. 

Searches for “metered billing” rose by 26% this year, and it’s a trend we expect to continue as consumers look to cut costs and seek out the most bang for their buck.

Commenting on the importance of staying abreast of SaaS industry trends, Chief Marketing Officer of Chargebee, Sanjay Manchanda commented: 

“SaaS providers have become a crucial ally to businesses looking to gain a competitive edge. It’s great to see SaaS providers helping to level the playing field. At Chargebee, we’re particularly excited by the rise of no-code solutions, and the way they’re steadily democratizing software development and increasing innovation. 

“The SaaS sector moves at an incredible pace, and without keeping up with current industry trends, it is easy to fall behind. However, if you’re keen to reduce the overheads of your startup, or streamline the workflows of your SME, it’s worth capitalizing on emerging SaaS offerings at the beginning of the trend’s popularity.

“If you’re seeking to build upon the successes you’ve had this year or hoping to recover from a difficult 2022, your business likely stands to benefit from investing in the SaaS space and its growing trends in 2023.” 

How Technology Is Improving Productivity In The Workspace

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Technology has drastically changed the way we work. We now have access to an unprecedented amount of information and tools that can help us be more productive than ever before. In this blog post, we’ll explore how technology is improving productivity in the workspace, from increased collaboration to automating repetitive tasks. Stay tuned to learn how you can use technology to boost your productivity at work!

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is revolutionizing the way businesses operate. By granting access to files and applications from any location, it has enabled increased productivity for employees both in and outside of the office. In addition to providing convenience, cloud computing also offers cost savings due to the reduced need for employee travel and data storage costs.

As technology continues to evolve, cloud computing will become an even more integral part of business operations and will ultimately drive innovation at a faster rate.

Virtual Reality

Virtual reality is revolutionizing the way industries train and simulate performance. Businesses in various sectors, including manufacturing, medicine and aviation, are finding innovative ways to use virtual reality machines as a learning tool. This cutting-edge technology is allowing employees to gain real-time experience without the need for physical space or personnel.

Not only does this improve the efficiency of training, but it also eliminates travel expenses and increases productivity.

By creating 3D immersive environments that replicate complex tasks, virtual reality opens the doors to realistic simulations in a wide range of work settings. With its ever-increasing capabilities, this forward-thinking technology is becoming an invaluable resource for companies looking to optimize their workforce’s performance.

3D Printing

3D printing is revolutionizing the world of work, allowing companies to create prototypes and products quickly and cheaply. Compared to traditional manufacturing processes, 3D printing saves time and money by removing many steps in the production process. For instance, with 3D printing, it is possible to go from design concept to prototype in a fraction of the time because the printed pieces can be constructed rapidly without sacrificing accuracy or quality.

In addition, 3D printers are capable of producing complex shapes with intricate details that may otherwise have been impossible to manufacture using traditional methods. The capabilities that 3D printing offers are ushering in a new era of productivity and creativity among businesses working with design and manufacturing.

Robotics

With the rapid evolution of technology in the workspace, robotics are now being utilized to complete tedious, repetitive tasks. This relieves much stress from employees who used to have to focus on mundane operations and allows them to concentrate instead on higher-order activities such as strategizing and problem-solving.

It also offers a great opportunity for employees to expand their skill sets, giving way to more creative projects. While there’s no doubt that human workers will always be needed due to certain qualities robotics cannot replicate. Overall, it is clear that robotics is an effective tool when it comes to enhancing productivity in today’s work environment.

Big Data

Big data is revolutionizing the way businesses operate, from start-up tech start ups to Fortune 500 corporate giants. By using data derived from customer interactions, surveys, and large datasets, organizations can gain invaluable insights into how their services and products are being received by the public. This allows them to create better marketing strategies and product development initiatives that have a greater chance of success in the long run.

Technological innovation has allowed business owners easier access to funds, from no credit check loans to instant wire transfers from banks. The business world never waits, which is exactly why business owners make use of these instant sources of funds.

By investing in some of these technologies, your business will be able to improve its productivity and get ahead of the competition. If you want help incorporating these technologies into your workplace, we can provide you with expert guidance and support. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you use technology to improve your productivity.

Attract and Keep the Best Employees with Tech

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Tech retention

Bruce Penson, managing director of cyber security and IT support company Pro Drive IT, outlines how the latest technology can support remote working and help professional services firms attract and retain top talent.

 

The global skills shortage has had a monumental impact on recruitment, with job vacancies exceeding the number of unemployed people in the UK for the first time in May 2022. This fact won’t have escaped the attention of most SME owners — or any business owner, really — looking to hire staff.

The professional services sector is undoubtedly experiencing a skills shortage, but generally, too, there are simply not enough people to fill the roles available. And with a lack of suitable candidates to go around, you can bet competitors will be going after your high performers — making staff retention a constant challenge.

All this comes against a backdrop of firms being inundated with client work. Many business sectors have traditional ‘busiest times’ in the year — like year-end for accountants or even just the summer holidays — when demand rises, and the impact of staff shortages is keenly felt.

Although there’s no magic bullet to this problem, tech is your best shot if you want to increase your company’s competitive edge and ensure you both attract and retain great staff…

 

Support remote workers with cloud technology

Given the rise of cloud phones, applications, virtual desktops and cloud security in recent years, you really should be able to allow your staff to work from anywhere — from a tech perspective, at least.

Firms with this technology in place have access to a much larger pool of talent, meaning they can recruit candidates from across the UK and even overseas whilst keeping their clients’ data secure.

Plus, for existing staff, flexible working can help alleviate stress and fatigue by reducing commuting costs and allowing them to work around family arrangements.

 

Develop a positive online culture

Company culture plays a big role in your firm’s success and delivering excellent service to clients. So, a valid argument against having a more remote and flexible workforce is the impact these arrangements can have on communication and culture. But with a helping hand from online communication platforms like Microsoft Teams, businesses can prevent remote workers from feeling left out and disengaged from company values.

Of course, a piece of software alone can’t solve a problem, and business owners will need to lead from the top to encourage participation. Rather than just using forums to discuss business matters, try talking with employees about the news, weekend activities and hobbies — all things you would normally speak about in the office.

You can also experiment with GIFs and memes (these aren’t just reserved for the younger generation — get involved!), share photos of your day, host quizzes and encourage teams to offer kudos and recognition. These small activities may seem trivial, but they’ll go a long way in creating a unique online culture.

 

Make repetitive tasks automatic

Most professional services firms have a huge number of repetitive tasks to carry out daily. Completing these essential but low-value tasks can often be monotonous and demotivating for staff.

Using tech solutions to automate these functions is a win-win. Your staff will be happier working on more challenging, creative tasks, and you won’t need to employ as many staff to meet client requirements.

Although many SMEs believe automation is out of their reach, tasks can be easily automated with the latest artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud services. In fact, in the accounting and legal sectors, the latest cloud-based practice and case management software usually have built-in automation features.

Plus, there are plenty of easily accessible tools, such as Power Automate and Zapier, that businesses can adopt to link together applications and create workflows to replace manual tasks.

 

Adopt a results-based measure of success

Many professional services firms still measure the time spent working on a task as an indicator of staff performance. Although timesheets are still necessary for billing within companies, what matters is output — and the quality of it.

By measuring output, you’ll be able to identify your best performers and reward them accordingly, and your team will also appreciate that you trust them to deliver without micromanaging. A great way to do this is by evaluating success based on tickets closed and customer satisfaction.

The good news is that the latest business applications will provide you with these measurements built into their software. And there are loads of business intelligence applications, such as PowerBI, that can bring all this together so you and your staff can easily track how everyone’s performing.

 

Set employee development goals, and track them

Keeping staff happy and motivated is key to retention. So, businesses need an efficient performance management system that provides clear goals and development paths.

Although keeping tabs on your staff can be challenging, especially with employees working remotely, some great HR software systems — like BreatheHR, for example — can make this easier, even if you don’t know where to start.

Employee engagement systems are another helpful way of maintaining employee satisfaction. Regularly polling your staff with fun questions, seeking anonymous feedback and running surveys can give you a holistic picture of what is and isn’t working in your firm — allowing you to make appropriate changes and keep your staff happy.

 

Get your business in gear

Getting started with any type of digital transformation can be daunting, especially when you’re already busy. However, IT specialists can help streamline the transition to attract, manage and retain talented employees.

Don’t wait until you lose staff to firms already embracing technology — start planning your first digital staff retention initiative today!

7 Benefits of Using Employee Scheduling Software

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In the last three years, there were a lot of changes in companies around the world. A lot of them now have a hybrid or remote type of work. This means that the coordination is taking place online.

Now, this is not an easy job. Manual scheduling takes a lot of time and effort. Also, it’s prone to errors. A study showed that 98% of HR professionals are burned out. That is why you must find a way to prevent this from happening as soon as possible.

Employee scheduling software would be the most useful tool for your HR team, or yourself. There are a lot of reasons why you should get one for yourself today. Let’s check out the benefits of this kind of software.

7 Benefits of using employee scheduling software

How would you feel if you have to organize 50 employees’ vacations manually? Everyone has their own wishes. Some of them are not determinant, and some make constant changes.

But it’s not only vacations. It can get messy. You need to keep track of shifts and holidays.  There are also compliance requirements, meeting rooms, and more.

Let’s analyse the most important positive outcomes when it comes to using employee scheduling software.

Perfect schedule for everyone’s needs

Not only the employees have a need for a tailored schedule. Sometimes your business has a need for balance. Employee scheduling software is perfect for planning all types of shifts.

.Your employees can have two types of shifts:

Rotating Fixed Rotating shifts

To have rotating shifts first you need to make a rotating schedule. This kind of schedule covers all shifts. Here you can find some rotating shift schedule examples that will explain the process to the fullest.

What you need to know is that managing employees in three or more shifts would be much easier with scheduling software.

This way you will have faster and more precise insights into how is the work delegated. For example, you can track in what shift a worker is more productive. Also, you will know all the shifts’ colorations with a click of a button.

Fixed shifts

This is when workers work the same shift every, day, week, or month. When we say “I work 9 to 5” then that’s a perfect example of a fixed shift.

If you have teams in separate fixed shifts you can easily make proper schedules with the help of scheduling software.

Better communication in less time

Why not ‘kill two birds with one stone’? Preparing documents or emails with attachments takes time. Not to mention that some people won’t be on the same page as you.

A good scheduling software would make everyone ‘gets the memo’. If you publish a new schedule or update an old one the employee will get a notification in real-time.

This means no more surprises like last-minute time off requests. You will save time while organizing your shift with a few clicks. No more Excel sheets. That’s great news, isn’t it?

A way to lower your labour costs If you still use manual scheduling you are probably paying an employee to do it. Now, I’m not saying that you should get software and fire one of your employees.

Think about how this employee can be productive while the scheduling software manages all that mechanical tasks. On the other hand, companies that hire hourly workers will save a lot of money.

Increased employee satisfaction Same as you your employees will be happy to have a schedule online. They won’t search in between documents or emails.

Depending on the software’s features the employees could give feedback about their preferences. There will be no more delays.

You will know their preferred shifts and keep track of their needs. This will definitely make your employees happier.

Better compliance management 

Organisations spend an average of $14.82 million for non-compliance. So you would like to avoid this mistake, right?

A lot of changing laws, complex federal, state, and local regulations can give you a headache. Some software let you keep the employees’ data, and update the regulations on time.

Ensuring an effective working environmentSay goodbye to slacking off on the job. An employee scheduling software with a modern time clock system will solve that.

With the help of timesheets, employees could clock in and out perfectly. Yes, the software will consider their brakes too.

Automation of HR

It’s hard when you don’t have a large HR team and one or two employees should take all the burden. Scheduling software will make their job much easier and more efficient.

The software could help with onboarding new employees. It will centralize their record and collect all the much-needed data from surveys.

This way you will know what your employees think, want, and do without burning out your HR team.

Leave your spreadsheets in the past

I know that sometimes is hard to let the bad habits go. But this is a necessary step if you want to grow.

Face the reality. Your spreadsheets, emails, and papers take precious time and money. At the same time, you will end up with unsatisfied employees, or employees to whom ‘slacking off is a passion’.

With proper employee scheduling software, you will stay up to date with the latest trends. Technology advances day by day and who knows what will they invent tomorrow.

Changes You Need To Make To Ensure Your Business Is Secure

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Businesses are currently going through a lot of hardship due to the current cost of living crisis which is impacting the entire world. This has led to rising inflation and supply issues too, so the last thing business wants now is an issue with the online and physical security of the business.

Depending on your business, much of your operations may be online which puts you at risk of a cyber security attack. What’s more, all businesses bear risk when it comes to physical injuries – even if you operate out of an office.

With that in mind, you’ll want to do all you can to keep your business and employees safe from harm. Failure to do this may lead to difficult times in the near future. To find out what you need to look out for and how you can mitigate these risks, be sure to read on.

IT

Every business will have an IT department, even if you’re the only employee. In the digital age we live in, it has become an essential feature where you save information on clients, sort your finances or count inventory, which is why keeping IT systems safe from cybersecurity is so important.

To keep your business safe from future hacks, take the following steps:

Monitor systems for malicious content

Identify network breaches Install updates frequently Assess the strength of network security Use two-way authentication Purchase anti-virus software Use a reliable and safe HR system to manage your business

Secure your company’s premises

Whether you operate on a construction site or in an office, there will be hazards that could injure employees. In the UK, slips, trips and falls are responsible for most workplace injuries. So, if you want to protect your employees from hazards like these then here’s what you must do.

Perform a risk assessment

A risk assessment will highlight the potential threats to your employees’ safety, so should be completed before anyone begins working. This should include what the danger is and a solution to the issue. Some of the most common things to look out for include:

  • Lighting
  • Tripping hazards
  • Uneven flooring
  • Cleanliness

Rectify issues

Now that you know what the issues are, your next job is to set them straight. This may include putting fresh bulbs in lights, hiring a professional cleaner or organising wires, so they aren’t at risk of tripping your workers up. Failure to do this may put you at risk of a lawsuit if anything goes wrong.

Give employees the correct personal protective equipment (PPE)

Finally, provide the necessary PPE for your employees. This will protect them from harm in the workplace and increase their confidence when working too.

How Technology has Revolutionised Global Trading

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While the terms ‘trading’ and ‘investing’ are often used interchangeably, there are fundamental but
subtle difference that separate these two practices.

Certainly, the goal of investing is typically to build wealth in the medium to longer-term, whereas traders use vehicles and strategies that unlock short-term gains.

While technology and innovation has changed both practices considerably, it has arguably had the biggest impact on global trading. But what did trading used to be like, and how exactly have the financial markets evolved over time?

Then and Now – Historic Trading on Wall Street

The history of Wall Street can largely be traced back to the formation of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), which followed the signing of the ‘Buttonwood Agreement’ by 24 separate stockbrokers on May 17th, 1792.

This laid out the initial rule and guidelines for stock and commodities trading and sought to create trust between all participating parties, based on the premise that market trading was a corporeal endeavour that needed to be done in-person (or through physical brokers).

Even until a few decades ago, trading the market was largely done in-person and over the telephone, making it the preserve of seasoned or institutional investors across the globe. This has gradually changed since the onset of the digital age, with computerisation having encouraged brokerages to transition virtually and investors to embrace trading online from desktop devices and smartphones.

This has gradually made the markets and a broad range of investment vehicles increasingly accessible to more demographics, including retail traders and part-time operators.

What Technological Changes Have Been Most Impactful?

Perhaps the single biggest innovation has been the evolution of digital trading platforms, which serve as one-stop brokerage sites through which investors can analyse, prepare and execute individual trades.

The advancement of mobile technology and devices such as smartphones have helped these platforms to evolve further.

Even from a wider perspective, mobile payment technology is changing how we live and opening up and exciting market opportunities, while driving financial inclusion and increasing access to bank accounts by approximately 20% between 2011 and 2014.

Certainly, this trend has increased the number of active forex traders across the globe and boosted
daily trading volumes, while diversifying the demographics that have access to the markets across the globe.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and its core principle machine learning have also started to have an incredible impact on trading. More specifically, these innovations are helping traders to draw data from increasingly vast and unstructured sources (like social media), creating predictive analytics that are insightful and capable of driving more successful trades.

The Last Word – What are the Key Innovations of the Future?

While AI will become increasingly influential in the near and medium-term, there are other technologies
that will also shape the global financial markets going forward.

One of the most obvious is blockchain, which refers to innovative distributed ledger technology and creates immutable records of transactions. This technology has already had a huge impact on the global trade supply chain, while it may also help to minimise transaction costs and increase transparency across a range of investment markets.

This will be particularly crucial in volatile markets such as forex, which have been widely manipulated by institutional traders in the past and underpinned a widespread lack of transparency and mistrust in the sector.

Exploring the Legal Implications of Blockchain Technology

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The legal implications of blockchain technology are far-reaching and complex. With the emergence of blockchain, there has been a significant rise in its use in many sectors, including finance, healthcare, and intellectual property. As blockchain technology continues to evolve and mature, the legal implications of blockchain technology must be carefully considered and addressed.

Introduction to Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology is first and foremost understood as a distributed ledger technology that can store data securely and immutably in a distributed digital ledger. It is a system of records that are linked together and secured using cryptography and perhaps most importantly, it is a decentralised system, meaning that there is no single authority that controls the data stored on the blockchain. This makes it more secure than traditional databases, as it is resistant to tampering and manipulation.

Blockchain technology has the potential to revolutionise many industries, as it can be used to store and transfer data securely and quickly. It can be used to facilitate transactions, track assets, and create smart contracts. It is also seen as a potential solution for data privacy, as it can be used to store data that is protected from unauthorised access.

The Legal Implications of Blockchain

The legal implications of blockchain technology are still being explored, as the technology is still in its early stages. However, it is clear that the legal implications of blockchain technology are wide-reaching and complex. The use of blockchain technology in many industries, such as finance and healthcare, may require new regulations and laws to be put in place. This is because blockchain technology can enable new and innovative ways of doing business, which may not be covered by existing laws and therefore require the constant monitoring by blockchain lawyers. The use of blockchain technology also raises questions about data privacy and ownership. As blockchain technology can be used to store data, it is important to consider who owns the data and how it is protected from unauthorised access.

Potential Legal Issues with Blockchain

The use of blockchain technology in various industries can create potential legal issues. For example, the use of blockchain technology in the finance industry may require new regulations to be put in place to protect investors, as the technology can be used to facilitate investments in a new and innovative way. In addition, blockchain technology can be used to create smart contracts, which are self-executing contracts that can be used to automate processes. However, there may be potential legal issues with smart contracts, as it may not be clear who is responsible for any potential errors or issues that arise from the use of the contract.

Another potential legal issue with blockchain technology is the question of ownership. As blockchain technology can be used to store and transfer data, it is important to consider who owns the data and how it is protected from unauthorised access.

Types of Legal Regulations for Blockchain

The legal implications of blockchain technology can be addressed through the implementation of various types of legal regulations.

First, there should be regulations to protect investors in the finance industry. This could involve the implementation of regulations to ensure that investments are made in a secure and transparent manner.

Second, there should be regulations to protect consumers when using blockchain technology. This could involve the implementation of regulations to ensure that personal data is protected from unauthorised access.

Third, there should be regulations to protect creators and innovators when using blockchain technology. This could involve the implementation of regulations to ensure that creators are compensated for their work and that their intellectual property is protected.

Finally, there should be regulations to ensure that blockchain technology is used responsibly and ethically. This could involve the implementation of regulations to ensure that the technology is used for legitimate and beneficial purposes and that it does not facilitate illegal activities.

The legal implications of blockchain technology are far-reaching and complex. As blockchain technology continues to evolve and mature, it is important to consider the potential legal implications of the technology. This includes considering the potential implications for data privacy, the regulation of cryptocurrencies, and the use of blockchain technology in legal applications.