#Customized business plans for tech startups

[dhrubo-organization]

Unlocking Startup Success with Business Plan Writing Services

Starting a new business can be an instigative and grueling adventure, but having a logical business plan in position is essential for success. A well- penned business plan can support you secure backing, attract investors, and guide your business missions. still, not all entrepreneurs have the time, moxie, or coffers to produce a complete business plan on their own. That is where business plan…

[pb-dot]

Some Thoughts on the Reddit Blackout

Like many new arrivals on Tumblr these days, I used to be a Redditor until recent developments encouraged me to take my business elsewhere, and I have been following the development of the story as thoroughly as I can without actually giving Reddit any more traffic. With the most recent development of the Reddit admin corps taking on a suite of strategies lifted straight from the depression-era railroad baron playbook, I figured the time has come to talk a little about the wider implications of this whole story.

The Tech sector is, to the best of my understanding, in a vulnerable place right now. After the Web 2.0 gold rush and years of consolidation and growth from the biggest actors, your Alphabets, Twitters, Metas, and so on, many of the larger sites and services are reaching the largest size they can expect to grow to. How, for instance, could Facebook or Twitter grow much more now that everyone and their mother is on Facebook and Twitter? Prior to the Musk buyout, Twitter seemingly settled on upping engagement, making sure people were on Twitter longer and invested more energy and emotion in the platform, usually by making damn sure the discourse zapping through that hellhole was as polarizing and hostile as possible. Meta, meanwhile, has been making bank on user data as advertisers, AI folks, and any number of other actors salivate over getting their hands on the self-updating contact and interest registry that is Facebook.

With the rise of what we apparently have decided to call AI, data is now more valuable than ever. I consider this to be yet another Tech Hype Bubble on the level of NFTs or Metaverses, but, like with the two above, I can imagine it's hard to explain that when you are a Tech CEO and your shareholders ask you "Hey, how do you plan on earning us money off of this AI/NFT/Metaverse thing?" This is not to say CEO Steve Huffman isn't handling this whole thing with the grace of a three-legged hippo, but merely to suggest that his less-than-laudable decisions and actions in this mess don't arise from his character alone but also is a result of wider systemic issues.

One of these issues is the complicated role user data plays in modern websites and -services. Since its inception as a publicly accessible space, the question of how to monetize the Internet has been a tricky one for site and service owners. Selling ad space on your website or service has long been the go-to, but this in itself presents its own issues, having to curate content that is considered ad-friendly, malicious or careless actors making using said service or website less attractive for customers, and finally how to convince your advertisers that they get what they pay for in the first place, ie. "how do I know people even look at our ads?" All of this is before you even stop to consider how ads massively favor large, established actors.

It's no small wonder, then, that several startups in the era of internet mass adoption chose to forgo ads, or at least massively deprioritize them and/or relaunch them as "promoted posts," in an attempt to escape the stigma around ads. Meta/Facebook is probably the biggest fish in this particular pond, but we also see other services such as Twitter and Reddit follow the same pattern.

What makes this work is that the data these platforms collect from their users isn't all that valuable on a person-to-person basis, knowing that so-and-so is 32 years old, lives in a traditionally conservative part of the city, goes to Starbucks a lot, and listens to Radiohead isn't particularly useful information for anyone but a dedicated but lazy stalker; When viewed as an aggregate, however, large collections of data on a large population becomes quite valuable. This is especially true if you're working with, say, targeted ads or political campaigns. Look no further than the Cambridge Analytica data scandal for an example.

Now, all this is to illustrate the strange position the user occupies in Web 2.0. We tend to think of ourselves as the customer of Facebook, Reddit, Tumblr, and so on, but it isn't the case. After all, we don't pay for these services, and if we do it's to buy freedom from ads or other minor service modifications. It is more correct to say that we make up the product itself. This is true in two respects, first, an active social community is vital for social media to not be entirely pointless, and second, we generate the data that the platform holder seeks to monetize. This hybrid product/participant role doesn't map cleanly to traditional understandings of "worker," but I argue it is a closer fit than "customer."

All of this is to say that it is immensely gratifying to see the Reddit Blackout taking the shape of a strike rather than the more typical boycott model we've seen in the internet-based protests of yesteryear. Much of this, I think, we can thank the participating Reddit moderators. While the regular platform user can be *argued* to be a worker, the moderator inarguably is one, and the fact that they aren't paid for their efforts is more a credit to the prosocial nature of humans than to the corporate acumen of the platform holders. Either way, moderating a subreddit is work, if the subreddit is large, it's quite a lot of work, and moderators keeping malicious actors, scammers, and hatemongers out of everyone's hair is a must for any decently sized social space to not be an objectively terrible experience. So, if you were to, for example, withhold your labor (moderating for free) which you as a worker can do, it would be plain irresponsible to leave the place open for said bad apples to ruin everyone's bunches, thus the shutdowns.

I don't think it's a controversial take to claim that the Reddit admins also view this more as a strike than a boycott, given their use of scabs, intimidation, and other strikebreaking tactics in an attempt to break the thing up. This is nothing new, and the fact that Reddit admins are willing to stoop to these scumbag tactics tells us that their bluster about the shutdown not affecting their bottom line is nothing more than shareholder-placating hot air.

As this entire screed has perhaps demonstrated, I believe the Reddit Blackout is important. My stay at Tumblr so far has been excellent and will probably continue past this strike no matter what outcome it has, but for others in my situation, or perhaps entirely alien to the Reddit biome, I ask you to consider: If we do not stop this level of consumer and user-unfriendly bullshit Reddit have been pulling on the API change, where will it pop up next? Who's to say the next bright idea in corpo-hell isn't "Hey boss, how about we charge these nerd losers a dollar per reblog? And maybe a fiver for a Golden Reblog (TM)?"

This is perhaps getting into grandstanding, but I believe we are way past due for a renegotiation of what it means to be a platform holder and -user on this hot mess of an internet. If we as users do not take an active, strong stance on the matter, the Steve Huffmans, Elon Musks, and Mark Zuckerbergs of the world will decide without us. One does not have to be a fortune teller to see that the digital world this would create would not have our best interests in mind any more than the current one does.

So, in closing, I wish to extend my wholehearted support to the participating Moderators of Reddit and everyone who has decided to take their business elsewhere for the duration of the shutdown. Even without getting into the nitty-gritty of the API situation, this is a fight worth having, and may we through it make a world that's just a little bit less shitty.

Become Ungovernable

Become Unprofitable

Stay that way.

[mariacallous]

Christopher Ren does a solid Elon Musk impression.

Ren is a product manager at Reality Defender, a company that makes tools to combat AI disinformation. During a video call last week, I watched him use some viral GitHub code and a single photo to generate a simplistic deepfake of Elon Musk that maps onto his own face. This digital impersonation was to demonstrate how the startup’s new AI detection tool could work. As Ren masqueraded as Musk on our video chat, still frames from the call were actively sent over to Reality Defender’s custom model for analysis, and the company’s widget on the screen alerted me to the fact that I was likely looking at an AI-generated deepfake and not the real Elon.

Sure, I never really thought we were on a video call with Musk, and the demonstration was built specifically to make Reality Defender's early-stage tech look impressive, but the problem is entirely genuine. Real-time video deepfakes are a growing threat for governments, businesses, and individuals. Recently, the chairman of the US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations mistakenly took a video call with someone pretending to be a Ukrainian official. An international engineering company lost millions of dollars earlier in 2024 when one employee was tricked by a deepfake video call. Also, romance scams targeting everyday individuals have employed similar techniques.

“It's probably only a matter of months before we're going to start seeing an explosion of deepfake video, face-to-face fraud,” says Ben Colman, CEO and cofounder at Reality Defender. When it comes to video calls, especially in high-stakes situations, seeing should not be believing.

The startup is laser-focused on partnering with business and government clients to help thwart AI-powered deepfakes. Even with this core mission, Colman doesn’t want his company to be seen as more broadly standing against artificial intelligence developments. “We're very pro-AI,” he says. “We think that 99.999 percent of use cases are transformational—for medicine, for productivity, for creativity—but in these kinds of very, very small edge cases the risks are disproportionately bad.”

Reality Defender’s plan for the real-time detector is to start with a plug-in for Zoom that can make active predictions about whether others on a video call are real or AI-powered impersonations. The company is currently working on benchmarking the tool to determine how accurately it discerns real video participants from fake ones. Unfortunately, it’s not something you’ll likely be able to try out soon. The new software feature will only be available in beta for some of the startup’s clients.

This announcement is not the first time a tech company has shared plans to help spot real-time deepfakes. In 2022, Intel debuted its FakeCatcher tool for deepfake detection. The FakeCatcher is designed to analyze changes in a face’s blood flow to determine whether a video participant is real. Intel’s tool is also not publicly available.

Academic researchers are also looking into different approaches to address this specific kind of deepfake threat. “These systems are becoming so sophisticated to create deepfakes. We need even less data now,” says Govind Mittal, a computer science PhD candidate at New York University. “If I have 10 pictures of me on Instagram, somebody can take that. They can target normal people.”

Real-time deepfakes are no longer limited to billionaires, public figures, or those who have extensive online presences. Mittal’s research at NYU, with professors Chinmay Hegde and Nasir Memon, proposes a potential challenge-based approach to blocking AI-bots from video calls, where participants would have to pass a kind of video CAPTCHA test before joining.

As Reality Defender works to improve the detection accuracy of its models, Colman says that access to more data is a critical challenge to overcome—a common refrain from the current batch of AI-focused startups. He’s hopeful more partnerships will fill in these gaps, and without specifics, hints at multiple new deals likely coming next year. After ElevenLabs was tied to a deepfake voice call of US president Joe Biden, the AI-audio startup struck a deal with Reality Defender to mitigate potential misuse.

What can you do right now to protect yourself from video call scams? Just like WIRED’s core advice about avoiding fraud from AI voice calls, not getting cocky about whether you can spot video deepfakes is critical to avoid being scammed. The technology in this space continues to evolve rapidly, and any telltale signs you rely on now to spot AI deepfakes may not be as dependable with the next upgrades to underlying models.

“We don't ask my 80-year-old mother to flag ransomware in an email,” says Colman. “Because she's not a computer science expert.” In the future, it’s possible real-time video authentication, if AI detection continues to improve and shows to be reliably accurate, will be as taken for granted as that malware scanner quietly humming along in the background of your email inbox.

[sunshinesmebdy]

Balancing the Scales: Asteroid Mony in Libra and its Influence on Business Wisdom

In the intricate dance of celestial bodies, astrology has long been regarded as a tool for gaining insights into various aspects of life, including business and finance. One celestial player that holds particular significance is the asteroid Mony, with its current positioning in the zodiac sign of Libra. In this blog article, we delve into the mystical realm of astrology to explore the potential effects of asteroid Mony in Libra on business and finance. So, fasten your seatbelts as we embark on a cosmic journey into the world of economic energies guided by the stars.

Understanding Asteroid Mony:

Asteroid Mony, also known as Monya, is a celestial body that astrologers believe can influence financial matters and wealth accumulation. Its placement in different zodiac signs is thought to bring specific qualities and energies to the forefront. Currently stationed in Libra, the sign of balance and harmony, Mony’s cosmic influence takes on a unique and intriguing dimension.

Harmony and Negotiation in Business:

Libra is ruled by Venus, the planet of love and beauty, emphasizing aesthetics, balance, and negotiation. With Mony in Libra, businesses may find themselves more attuned to the principles of harmony in their operations. This celestial alignment suggests that negotiations and partnerships will be crucial for success during this period. Entrepreneurs and business leaders are encouraged to seek win-win situations and adopt a diplomatic approach to financial dealings.

Real-life example: A global technology firm, recognizing the need for collaboration during the Mony in Libra transit, engaged in diplomatic negotiations with international partners. By fostering a harmonious working relationship, they successfully navigated complex regulatory landscapes, enabling smoother market entry and expansion.

Balancing the Financial Scales:

Libra is symbolized by the scales, representing justice, fairness, and balance. When Mony aligns with Libra, it can inspire individuals and businesses to reevaluate their financial strategies, ensuring that they are fair and just. This celestial alliance encourages fiscal responsibility and ethical financial practices, fostering a sense of equilibrium in the business world.

Real-life example: A financial institution, inspired by the celestial alliance of Mony in Libra, initiated a review of its lending practices. They implemented fair interest rates and transparent terms, ensuring that their financial strategies aligned with principles of justice and fairness. This not only improved customer trust but also contributed to long-term financial stability.

Creativity and Aesthetic Ventures:

Venus, as the ruler of Libra, also brings a touch of creativity and aesthetic appreciation to the forefront. Businesses may find that investing in artistic ventures or incorporating aesthetic elements into their products and services could prove beneficial during this cosmic alignment. Appealing to the senses and focusing on the visual aspect of branding may be key to capturing the market’s attention.

Real-life example: An innovative tech startup, recognizing the influence of Mony in Libra, revamped its product design to incorporate aesthetically pleasing elements. The redesigned user interface not only enhanced the user experience but also attracted a broader audience, leading to increased market share and improved financial performance.

Strategic Financial Planning:

As Libra is known for its strategic thinking and analytical approach, the combination of Mony and Libra suggests that meticulous financial planning will be rewarded. Businesses are encouraged to analyze their financial structures, investments, and expenses with a discerning eye. Strategic decision-making and calculated risks could lead to financial success during this celestial alignment.

Real-life example: A manufacturing company, guided by the analytical approach of Libra and Mony’s influence, implemented a comprehensive financial planning strategy. This involved a thorough analysis of production costs, strategic investments in technology, and calculated risks in entering new markets. The result was increased operational efficiency and significant revenue growth.

While skeptics may dismiss astrology as mere superstition, many individuals find solace and guidance in its teachings. The alignment of asteroid Mony in Libra offers a unique perspective on business and finance, encouraging businesses to embrace balance, harmony, and strategic thinking in their financial endeavors. Whether you’re a firm believer in astrology or simply intrigued by its mystique, exploring the cosmic influences on business can be a fascinating journey that adds a touch of celestial magic to the world of commerce.

Here are some tips for navigating this transit:

Embrace Diplomacy in Negotiations: During the transit of asteroid Mony in Libra, prioritize diplomatic and harmonious negotiations. Seek win-win situations, and approach business dealings with a spirit of cooperation and compromise. Building positive relationships will contribute to long-term success.

Reevaluate Financial Strategies with Fairness: The scales of Libra symbolize justice and balance. Take this opportunity to review your financial strategies and ensure they are fair and just. Consider implementing ethical financial practices, as this alignment encourages businesses to operate with integrity and transparency.

Strategic Financial Planning is Key: Libra’s strategic thinking, combined with Mony’s financial influence, calls for meticulous financial planning. Analyze your financial structures, investments, and expenses with precision. Develop a strategic roadmap that aligns with your business goals, helping you navigate potential challenges and seize opportunities.

Incorporate Aesthetics for Market Appeal: Venus, the ruler of Libra, brings a creative and aesthetic touch to the transit. Consider incorporating visual appeal into your products, services, or branding. Aesthetically pleasing elements can capture the attention of your target audience and set your business apart in the competitive market.

Foster Equilibrium in Business Operations: Strive for balance in all aspects of your business. Whether it’s balancing budgets, workloads, or team dynamics, maintaining equilibrium is crucial during this celestial alignment. Avoid extremes and find the middle ground to create a stable and sustainable business environment.

Cultivate Ethical Financial Practices: Libra’s influence emphasizes fairness and ethical considerations. Evaluate your financial practices to ensure they align with ethical standards. Adopting transparent and morally sound financial practices not only resonates positively with stakeholders but also contributes to long-term business stability.

Explore Artistic Ventures for Innovation: Leverage the creative energy brought forth by Mony in Libra to explore artistic ventures within your business. Whether it’s incorporating artistic elements into your marketing campaigns or investing in creative projects, tapping into the realm of aesthetics can lead to innovative solutions and heightened consumer engagement.

Be Mindful of Timing in Financial Decisions: Libra is associated with balance and timing. When making significant financial decisions, consider the timing carefully. Waiting for the opportune moment and aligning your actions with the natural flow of cosmic energies can enhance the success of your financial endeavors.

By incorporating these tips into your business strategies, you can harness the positive energies associated with asteroid Mony in Libra, creating a harmonious and prosperous path for your business and financial ventures.

[mostlysignssomeportents]

Learning from Silicon Valley Bank's apologists

My weird hobby is taking pictures of signs, especially “vernacular” signs, handwritten and odd. The best kinds of signs tell you what other people think you are thinking, or what you don’t understand. I’ve nabbed over 4,600 of ‘em:

https://www.flickr.com/search/?user_id=37996580417%40N01&sort=date-taken-desc&text=sign&view_all=1

If you’d like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here’s a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/03/15/mon-dieu-une-guillotine/#ceci-nes-pas-une-bailout

I think you learn more about the world by delving into others’ misconceptions than you learn from their factual understandings. Facts are out there for anyone to discover, but when someone inadvertently affords you a glimpse into their wrong beliefs, well, that’s something that can’t be learned in any other way.

Which brings me to the apologists for Silicon Valley Bank, who are busily churning out incredibly revealing bad takes about why bailing out SVB was the right thing to do, and why you’re wrong to call it a bailout, and why all of this is Very Regrettable but nevertheless The Right Thing To Do.

Here’s a terrible reason to support the SVB bailout: because if we let all the tech companies who did business with it fail, you might not be able to get into your house anymore after your smart-lock fails because the cloud service it depends on cuts off the startup that made it because their bank account went up in a puff of smoke:

https://www.wired.com/story/silicon-valley-bank-collapse-fallout/

Look, if you think the fact that my Internet of Shit door-lock failed because the company that designed it made no plan to let me into my house if they went out of business would make me sympathetic to that company, you are out of your fucking mind. If that happened to me, it would make me want to tear the lock out of my door, hunt down the CEO of the company that made it, set the lock on fire, and throw it through their front window.

Here’s another terrible reason to support the bailout: if SVB’s depositors lose their money, every other large depositor will flock to Morganstanley, on the theory that Morganstanley is too big to fail, and will behave just as recklessly, but will never be allowed to go under precisely because they are so structurally important:

https://marginalrevolution.com/marginalrevolution/2023/03/can-the-svb-crisis-be-solved-in-the-longer-run.html

I’m pretty sure this is true! It doesn’t make me want to support an SVB bailout though — it makes me want to break up Morganstanley, regulate the everlasting shit out of the resulting fragments, and create massive public banks that are run by and for their depositors, insulated from the reckless, speculative conduct of these maniacs who keep crashing the world economy:

https://prospect.org/economy/2023-03-15-federal-reserve-banking-public-option/

One more very bad reason to support the bailout: “it’s not a bailout.” The Biden administration wants us to know that SVB’s creditors and shareholders aren’t being bailout here, just the depositors — everyday folken with more than $250,000 in liquid cash in their checking accounts. Whomst amongst us can’t relate to that?

https://www.nbcnews.com/meet-the-press/first-read/biden-administrations-message-dont-call-bailout-rcna74628

There are a lot of totally normal people who would suffer if not for this bailout — the people who clean the toilets or answer the customer-service calls for tech companies aren’t stock-option-fattened bros in Patagoinia vests. They’re totally normal working people who took no risks and bear no responsibility for the failure of SVB.

But come on. Does anyone seriously believe that the absolute fucking ghouls who came out against a barely-there student debt cancellation as a precursor to literal Stalinist gulags are advocating for endless billions for SVB’s depositors because of the janitors?

https://www.forbes.com/sites/mattnovak/2023/03/12/larry-summers-says-now-is-not-the-time-for-moral-hazard-lectures-about-bailouts/

Listen: people aren’t pissed off about the bailout because they want startups to fail. They’re pissed off because they are living in the century of “socialism for the rich and rugged individualism for the poor”:

https://www.reddit.com/r/LateStageCapitalism/comments/iaqdrl/as_martin_luther_king_jr_said_in_1968_this/

They’re pissed off because the Treasury official who presided over the theft of millions of houses by corrupt, bailed-out banks after the 2008 Great Financial Crisis and then wrote academic articles defending the decision to “foam the runways” for the banks with everyday Americans’ homes is about to join the Federal Reserve Board:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/03/06/personnel-are-policy/#janice-eberly

They’re pissed off because Biden reneged on his promise for muscular, sweeping StudentDebtCancellation in favor of a self-immolating weaksauce version that would barely dent the crushing financial devastation faced by millions of young people:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/05/03/utopia-of-rules/#in-triplicate

Only to have the illegitimate dotards of the Supreme Court make even that symbolic gesture moot:

https://www.npr.org/2023/02/28/1159606491/student-loan-forgiveness-supreme-court

(As to what Biden should do about it? The same thing Trump would: Pack the court. Pack the fucking court. Pack it. Just do it. The court’s legitimacy could not sink any lower. There is no downside. Do it.)

The rage at well-capitalized startups being rescued from unearned distress isn’t motivated by a free-floating techlash rage at “bros.” It’s rage born of the fact that young Americans are being put on the hook for their dead parents’ debts:

https://pluralistic.net/2021/05/19/zombie-debt/#damnation

There is infinite political will and bottomless appetite for money creation when VC-backed companies face distress, but when the death of your parents is followed by years of brutal debt-collector armbreakers chasing you from phone number to phone number, it’s just crickets.

There’s no question that the SVB failure resulted from a series of extremely technical phenomena that offer a fascinating peek into the behind-the-scenes forces that power an economy built on private banking and home ownership as the sole means of intergenerational wealth transfer.

But the fact that this is a complicated circumstance doesn’t mean that laypeople don’t have a right to be furious about it. We should all be suspicious of the inevitabilist narratives of the “experts” who claim that none of this could have been avoided:

https://prospect.org/economy/2023-03-15-qa-daniel-davies-venture-capitalist-bailout/

When finance “experts” tell you that you have no business opining on this highly technical matter, just remember that these are the same experts who were paid fantastic gobs of cash to certify that all these failing banks are just groovy, mere weeks ago:

https://www.wsj.com/articles/kpmg-faces-scrutiny-for-audits-of-svb-and-signature-bank-42dc49dd

Those same experts were caught bribing government officials to help their top staff cheat…on ethics exams (!!!!!!!!!!!!):

https://pluralistic.net/2021/06/04/aaronsw/#crooked-ref

Even if it turns out to be true that the kind of risk that SVB was exposed to is an inevitable consequence of an economy built on private banking and housing as an asset, rather than a human right:

https://www.bitsaboutmoney.com/archive/banking-in-very-uncertain-times/

Remember that those choices are not inevitable. The decision to make housing the primary driver of intergenerational wealth transfer is both recent and very, very stupid:

https://gen.medium.com/the-rents-too-damned-high-520f958d5ec5

Private banking doesn’t need to be an unregulated free-for-all, nor does it have to be the only game in town:

https://publicbankla.com/

As SVB’s apologists insist that tech startups should be preserved lest our IoT gadgets brick themselves, or that SVB should be preserved so that the Morganstanley cancer doesn’t creep into more of our social organs, or that bailing out SVB is acceptable because it’s to defend elite startup founders, not ultrawealthy bank owners, they are missing the fucking point.

But they’re missing it in a useful way. Like any weird sign, these bad takes teach us a lot about how the people who utter them model our own beliefs. They think that people like smart gadgets. They think that we don’t want the finance sector reformed. They think that we’re motivated by schadenfreude, which means that they also think we’ve forgotten about broken student debt promises, about robosigning and the foreclosure epidemic. They think we are fully onboard with rugged individualism for the poor and socialism for the rich.

These bad takes reveal a profoundly out-of-touch elite, the spiritual descendants of the French aristos who went to the guillotine with sincerely baffled hearts, unable to imagine why anyone would be this angry at them.

Upton Sinclair said, “It is difficult to get a man to understand something, when his salary depends on his not understanding it.” It’s even more difficult to get a one percenter to understand something when the system that insulates them from the endless, spiraling economic wreckage of our new feudal economy is on the line.

Next Monday (Mar 20), I’m doing a remote talk for the Ostrom Workshop’s Beyond the Web Speaker Series.

[Image ID: A sign reading 'Pull on handle to open closet. Handle is rigid and doesn't turn.']

[ohhappyday123]

Office Dynamics - Part 7: New Beginnings and New Challenges

The days at Dunder Mifflin had settled into a comfortable routine, but there was always something brewing beneath the surface. As you walked into the office one bright morning, you felt a renewed sense of excitement and curiosity about what the day might bring.

Pam greeted you with a warm smile as you approached your desk. "Morning, Y/N. Ready for another day of fun?"

You laughed, placing your bag on the floor. "Always. What’s on the agenda today?"

Before Pam could answer, Michael burst out of his office, waving a piece of paper excitedly. “Everyone, gather around! I have an announcement!”

The office slowly congregated near Michael’s desk, curiosity piqued. Jim leaned against your desk, giving you a playful nudge. “Wonder what it is this time. Another party?”

Michael cleared his throat, beaming with pride. “I have just received word that we have a new client who wants to meet with us today. This could be a huge deal for us, people!”

Dwight’s eyes lit up, clearly ready to take on the challenge. “Who’s the client, Michael?”

Michael scanned the paper. “It’s a local tech startup called ByteSize. They’re looking for a paper supplier, and we’re in the running. But we need to make a great impression.”

Pam raised an eyebrow. “Do we have a plan?”

Michael nodded vigorously. “Of course we do! Y/N, Jim, and Dwight, you’ll be in the meeting with me. We need to show them we’re the best in the business.”

You exchanged a surprised glance with Jim, who looked equally taken aback. “Uh, okay, Michael. We’ll do our best.”

Interview with Y/N: “I’m excited about this new client meeting. It’s a great opportunity for us, and I’m glad Michael trusts me to be a part of it. I just hope we can pull it off without any mishaps.”

As the office buzzed with preparation, you, Jim, and Dwight gathered in the conference room to strategize. Michael was already there, pacing nervously.

“Okay, team,” Michael said, clapping his hands. “We need to be on our A-game. Dwight, you’ll handle the product details. Y/N, you focus on client relations. Jim, you back us up with your charm.”

Dwight nodded, his eyes steely with determination. “Got it, Michael. I won’t let you down.”

Jim smirked, giving you a sidelong glance. “I’ll do my best to be charming, as always.”

You rolled your eyes playfully. “Let’s just make sure we’re prepared. I’ll handle the introductions and initial questions. Dwight, be ready to dive into specifics when needed. Jim, you can add in with any insights or anecdotes that show our value.”

Michael nodded, looking relieved. “Perfect. This is why you’re my favorite, Y/N.”

Dwight bristled slightly but kept his focus. “Let’s make this happen.”

Interview with Dwight: “I’m ready to prove myself today. This new client could be a game-changer, and I intend to show them just how efficient and dedicated we are. And maybe remind Michael that I’m still his top salesman.”

The meeting with ByteSize was set for 11 AM, and as the time approached, the four of you gathered in the conference room, nerves and excitement mingling in the air. The ByteSize representatives arrived, a young, dynamic group eager to find the right supplier.

You took charge, welcoming them warmly and starting the presentation. “Welcome to Dunder Mifflin. We’re excited about the opportunity to work with ByteSize and support your growth with our reliable paper products.”

The ByteSize team seemed impressed by your confidence and professionalism. As the meeting progressed, Dwight expertly handled their technical questions, while Jim interjected with timely humor and anecdotes that highlighted Dunder Mifflin’s exceptional customer service.

Michael, to everyone’s surprise, managed to keep his enthusiasm in check, contributing effectively without overwhelming the conversation. By the end of the meeting, the ByteSize representatives were smiling and nodding, clearly impressed.

“We’ll definitely consider Dunder Mifflin for our paper needs,” their leader said, shaking hands with each of you.

As they left, Michael let out a triumphant cheer. “We did it! Great job, team!”

Interview with Jim: “I have to admit, that went way better than expected. Y/N was fantastic, Dwight was on point, and Michael actually held it together. I think we have a real shot with ByteSize.”

Back at your desk, Pam leaned over, grinning. “You were amazing in there. Looks like we might have a new client.”

You smiled, feeling a sense of accomplishment. “Thanks, Pam. It was a team effort, though.”

Just then, Stanley walked by, giving you a rare thumbs-up. “Nice work, Y/N.”

Phyllis followed, placing a small candy on your desk. “You did great, sweetie.”

You felt a warm glow, grateful for the support of your coworkers. As you settled back into your tasks, Jim walked over, a playful smirk on his face.

“Looks like Cupid struck again,” he teased, referring to the successful meeting.

You laughed, feeling a connection between you that was growing stronger every day. “Maybe so. But I think it was a team effort.”

Interview with Y/N: “Today was a good day. We worked well together and hopefully landed a new client. It’s moments like these that make all the craziness worth it.”

The rest of the day passed in a blur of productivity and camaraderie. Michael was in high spirits, Dwight was already preparing follow-up materials for ByteSize, and Pam and you found time for a quick chat.

“So, what’s next for you and Jim?” Pam asked, a knowing smile on her face.

You shrugged, feeling a blush creep up your cheeks. “We’re taking it one day at a time. But it feels right.”

Pam nodded, her smile widening. “I’m happy for you. You deserve this.”

Interview with Pam: “Y/N and Jim are really cute together. It’s nice to see something good coming out of all this office chaos. They balance each other out.”

As the day drew to a close, you and Jim found yourselves alone in the break room, cleaning up after an impromptu celebratory snack session Michael had insisted on.

Jim glanced over at you, his eyes softening. “So, dinner tonight?”

You smiled, feeling a flutter of excitement. “Sounds perfect.”

Interview with Jim: “Y/N makes every day a little brighter. I’m looking forward to seeing where this goes. Today was a great step forward, both professionally and personally.”

As you walked out of the office together, you couldn’t help but feel hopeful about the future. With supportive friends, a challenging but rewarding job, and a blossoming relationship with Jim, life was looking pretty good.

Whatever tomorrow brought, you knew you’d face it with a smile, surrounded by the unique and wonderful people of Dunder Mifflin.

[beardedmrbean]

Luxembourg-based satellite telecom operator OQ Technology is testing investor appetite for space-based Internet of Things (IoT) technology, seeking EUR 30 million in fresh funding as competition intensifies in the nascent market for satellite-enabled device connectivity.

The company, which has deployed 10 satellites since 2019, plans to launch 20 more as larger telecommunications companies and satellite operators begin developing similar IoT services. The Series B funding round follows a EUR 13 million raise in 2022 and aims to strengthen its global 5G IoT network coverage.

OQ Technology has secured initial backing through a convertible loan from the Luxembourg Space Sector Development Fund, a joint initiative between SES S.A. and the Luxembourg government. Previous investors, including Aramco's venture capital arm Wa'ed Ventures and Greece's Phaistos Investment Fund, are participating in the new round.

The startup differentiates itself by focusing on standardized cellular technology for narrowband-IoT, contributing to 3GPP protocols that allow existing cellular chips to connect with satellites. This approach contrasts with proprietary systems offered by competitors, replacing traditional bulky satellite systems with compact, cost-efficient IoT modems that offer plug-and-play functionality.

"The satellite IoT sector is still largely in the proof-of-concept phase," says the company representative. "While there's significant potential, companies face challenges in standardization and convincing industries to adopt these new technologies at scale."

In an effort to secure its supply chain, the company is exploring partnerships in Taiwan's semiconductor industry. It has begun collaborating with the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), though these relationships are still in the early stages. The company has shipped initial terminals to prospective Taiwanese clients, marking its first steps in the Asian market.

The global reach for semiconductor partnerships comes as the company expands its geographical footprint, having established subsidiaries in Greece, Saudi Arabia, and Rwanda. Plans for US market entry are underway, though regulatory approvals and spectrum access remain hurdles in some markets.

Current clients include Aramco, Telefonica, and Deutsche Telekom, primarily using the technology for asset tracking and remote monitoring in industries such as energy, logistics, and agriculture. While the company estimates a potential market of 1.5 billion devices that could use satellite IoT connectivity, actual adoption rates remain modest.

"The challenge isn't just technical capability," notes the company representative. "It's about proving the economic case for satellite IoT in specific use cases where terrestrial networks aren't viable but the application can support satellite connectivity costs."

Market dynamics are also shifting. Recent announcements from major tech companies about satellite-to-phone services have sparked interest in space-based connectivity, but may also increase competition for spectrum and market share. Several companies are pursuing similar standards-based approaches, potentially commoditizing the technology.

For OQ Technology, the ability to deploy its planned satellites and convert pilot projects into paying customers will be crucial. While the company's focus on standardized technology may reduce technical risks, successfully scaling the business will require navigating complex regulatory environments and proving the technology's reliability across different use cases.

[exeton]

Data Centers in High Demand: The AI Industry’s Unending Quest for More Capacity

The demand for data centers to support the booming AI industry is at an all-time high. Companies are scrambling to build the necessary infrastructure, but they’re running into significant hurdles. From parts shortages to power constraints, the AI industry’s rapid growth is stretching resources thin and driving innovation in data center construction.

The Parts Shortage Crisis

Data center executives report that the lead time to obtain custom cooling systems has quintupled compared to a few years ago. Additionally, backup generators, which used to be delivered in a month, now take up to two years. This delay is a major bottleneck in the expansion of data centers.

The Hunt for Suitable Real Estate

Finding affordable real estate with adequate power and connectivity is a growing challenge. Builders are scouring the globe and employing creative solutions. For instance, new data centers are planned next to a volcano in El Salvador to harness geothermal energy and inside shipping containers in West Texas and Africa for portability and access to remote power sources.

Case Study: Hydra Host’s Struggle

Earlier this year, data-center operator Hydra Host faced a significant hurdle. They needed 15 megawatts of power for a planned facility with 10,000 AI chips. The search for the right location took them from Phoenix to Houston, Kansas City, New York, and North Carolina. Each potential site had its drawbacks — some had power but lacked adequate cooling systems, while others had cooling but no transformers for additional power. New cooling systems would take six to eight months to arrive, while transformers would take up to a year.

Surge in Demand for Computational Power

The demand for computational power has skyrocketed since late 2022, following the success of OpenAI’s ChatGPT. The surge has overwhelmed existing data centers, particularly those equipped with the latest AI chips, like Nvidia’s GPUs. The need for vast numbers of these chips to create complex AI systems has put enormous strain on data center infrastructure.

Rapid Expansion and Rising Costs

The amount of data center space in the U.S. grew by 26% last year, with a record number of facilities under construction. However, this rapid expansion is not enough to keep up with demand. Prices for available space are rising, and vacancy rates are negligible.

Building Data Centers: A Lengthy Process

Jon Lin, the general manager of data-center services at Equinix, explains that constructing a large data facility typically takes one and a half to two years. The planning and supply-chain management involved make it challenging to quickly scale up capacity in response to sudden demand spikes.

Major Investments by Tech Giants

Supply Chain and Labor Challenges

The rush to build data centers has extended the time required to acquire essential components. Transceivers and cables now take months longer to arrive, and there’s a shortage of construction workers skilled in building these specialized facilities. AI chips, particularly Nvidia GPUs, are also in short supply, with lead times extending to several months at the height of demand.

Innovative Solutions to Power Needs

Portable Data Centers and Geothermal Energy

Startups like Armada are building data centers inside shipping containers, which can be deployed near cheap power sources like gas wells in remote Texas or Africa. In El Salvador, AI data centers may soon be powered by geothermal energy from volcanoes, thanks to the country’s efforts to create a more business-friendly environment.

Conclusion: Meeting the Unending Demand

The AI industry’s insatiable demand for data centers shows no signs of slowing down. While the challenges are significant — ranging from parts shortages to power constraints — companies are responding with creativity and innovation. As the industry continues to grow, the quest to build the necessary infrastructure will likely become even more intense and resourceful.

FAQs

1. Why is there such a high demand for data centers in the AI industry?

The rapid growth of AI technologies, which require significant computational power, has driven the demand for data centers.

2. What are the main challenges in building new data centers?

The primary challenges include shortages of critical components, suitable real estate, and sufficient power supply.

3. How long does it take to build a new data center?

It typically takes one and a half to two years to construct a large data facility due to the extensive planning and supply-chain management required.

4. What innovative solutions are companies using to meet power needs for data centers?

Companies are exploring options like modular nuclear reactors, geothermal energy, and portable data centers inside shipping containers.

5. How are tech giants like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google responding to the demand for data centers?

They are investing billions of dollars in new data centers to expand their capacity and meet the growing demand for AI computational power.

Muhammad Hussnain Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Linkedin | Youtube

[seobud]

Elevate Your Digital Presence with Bud: The Premier Advertising Agency in Bangalore

In the bustling tech hub of Bangalore, businesses are constantly striving to make their mark in the digital sphere. Amidst this competitive landscape, the role of a reliable advertising agency becomes paramount. Enter Bud, your trusted partner in navigating the complexities of online marketing. As a premier advertising agency in Bangalore, Bud offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to amplify your brand's visibility and drive tangible results.

Advertising Agency in Bangalore:Bud takes pride in being a frontrunner among advertising agencies in Bangalore, leveraging cutting-edge strategies and innovative approaches to help businesses thrive in the digital realm. With a deep understanding of local market dynamics and global trends, we craft bespoke advertising campaigns that resonate with your target audience.

From compelling ad creatives to strategic media planning, we ensure that your brand message reaches the right audience at the right time, maximizing your ROI. Our team of seasoned professionals combines creativity with data-driven insights to deliver campaigns that leave a lasting impact.

PPC Services in Bangalore:Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising is a powerful tool for instant visibility and targeted reach. At Bud, we specialize in crafting highly optimized PPC campaigns that drive qualified traffic to your website and boost conversions. Our meticulous approach involves keyword research, ad copy optimization, and continuous monitoring to ensure maximum performance and cost-effectiveness.

Whether you're looking to increase website traffic, generate leads, or boost sales, our PPC services in Bangalore are designed to meet your specific goals. With transparent reporting and ongoing optimization, we strive to deliver measurable results that exceed your expectations.

SEO company in Bangalore:In an era where visibility on search engines can make or break a business, search engine optimization (SEO) is non-negotiable. As a leading SEO company in Bangalore, Bud employs proven strategies to enhance your website's organic visibility and drive sustainable growth.

From technical SEO audits to content optimization and link building, we leave no stone unturned in our quest to improve your search engine rankings. Our holistic approach focuses on long-term success, ensuring that your website maintains its competitive edge amidst evolving search algorithms.

Why Choose Bud?

Expertise: With a decade of experience in the industry, Bud brings unparalleled expertise to the table. Our team comprises seasoned professionals who are adept at navigating the complexities of digital marketing.

Customized Solutions: We understand that every business is unique, which is why we tailor our solutions to align with your specific objectives and budget constraints. Whether you're a startup or a multinational corporation, we have the expertise to elevate your digital presence.

Transparency: At Bud, transparency is at the core of everything we do. From clear pricing structures to detailed performance reports, we believe in keeping our clients informed every step of the way.

Results-Driven Approach: Ultimately, our success is measured by the success of our clients. We are committed to delivering tangible results that drive business growth and foster long-term partnerships.

Get started today!Don't let your competitors steal the spotlight. Partner with Bud, the leading advertising agency in Bangalore, and take your digital presence to new heights. Whether you need PPC services, SEO solutions, or a comprehensive advertising strategy, we have the expertise to turn your vision into reality. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and embark on your journey to digital success.

[daughter-of-melpomene]

𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐃𝐔𝐂𝐈𝐍𝐆… 𝐒𝐈𝐍 𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘, 𝐀𝐍 𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐆𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐘

❝ Marisol Crúz is a woman seeking justice. Specifically, she seeks justice against Harlan Maddox, a corrupt Las Vegas casino owner who, just a little over a year ago, had been found to rig his slot machines and who had scammed his customers out of a collective ten million dollars. But Maddox, being rich enough to cheat the justice system, had not received the punishment he deserved, and so Marisol is determined to drain the bastard’s bank account and give the stolen money back to Maddox’s victims. And as the wealthy CEO of a large tech conglomerate, inherited from her father when it was only a tiny startup, she certainly has the riches and resources to do it. But in order to pull off her plan properly, she’s going to need a team - one consisting of highly skilled individuals who will be the best choices to help Marisol hand down her justice.

CeCe Gomez has been Marisol’s best friend since the two of them were small (and a little bit more than that in high school, but that’s in the past). She’s also a certified badass, a former US Marine who was honourably discharged due to a shoulder injury and who now acts as a martial arts instructor in the heart of New York City. CeCe has always been willing to go along with Marisol’s crazy schemes, but the two of them lost contact several years ago and haven’t heard from each other since. But when her old friend’s lawyer visits her gym and asks if she’d be willing to join a team Marisol is assembling, of course CeCe’s answer is yes. She’s never been good at saying no to Marisol Crúz.

Zeke Rojas is a born and bred conman, but he hasn’t wanted to be for some time. He’s been disillusioned with the life of a liar and a cheat since he was seventeen years old, which was kind of a hard thing to be when his entire family consisted of the most accomplished con artists in Chile. He finally got out of the family “business” four years ago, fleeing to the United States in the middle of the night and leaving no trace of himself behind, but it hasn’t been easy to go straight when the only skills he’s ever been taught are cheating and stealing. He’s working the cold streets of Chicago, picking pockets and trying desperately to get a real, steady job, when he’s approached by the personal lawyer of the young CEO of CrúzTech, offering him a chance to finally use his talents for good.

Charlie Kellman has had a lifelong fascination with everything that goes boom, but being an economically-challenged bundle of social anxiety and possible undiagnosed autism hasn’t exactly provided him with many opportunities to use his demolition skills in legal ways. Not that that’s an excuse for assisting in four bank robberies, he knows it’s not, but also the robbers were all very nice and he doesn’t really have any friends, so it was nice to find some people he could hang out with while also being useful. That is, until the cops came upon the most recent robbery and the others completely ditched him, leaving Charlie to run from the law while alone once again. He’s still running when Marisol Crúz’s lawyer finds him, offering to get him an official pardon in exchange for joining some kind of Robin Hood team where he’ll get to use his explosives for an actual good cause. Getting to be around a group of people, no longer worrying about getting arrested, and being allowed to blow stuff up? It’s practically Charlie’s dream deal, how is he supposed to refuse?

Eva Carmichael knows she’s a talented singer. She’s known it from a very young age, and she desperately wants other people to know it too. But without the dough to make connections and properly promote herself, it’s extremely hard to break onto the New York music scene. And apparently Marisol Crúz, a badass young CEO whom Eva has always admired, knows she’s talented as well, because she wants Eva to be her “in” for a heist she’s planning by getting a job as a singer in a Las Vegas casino. It’s not exactly the big break Eva was expecting, but at this point, she’s willing to do pretty much anything to get her talent out there. Plus, she’s sure as hell not going to pass up a free trip to Sin City.

Logan Wilder is a self-proclaimed “hacking vigilante,” using his considerable computer skills to hack into the financial systems of corrupt businesses and give money back to their swindled customers. He’s also a white hat hacker, doing people a favour by breaking into various security systems to pinpoint their weaknesses and informing the owners about them, but either way, he’s never been on the right side of the law. That’s why he’s in a cold holding cell with a rock-hard bench when some lawyer dude he did not call for comes to visit him, proclaiming that Marisol freaking Crúz wants to utilize his skills to pull off a heist in Vegas in exchange for getting all the charges against him dropped. It’s basically a chance for Logan to continue his mission on a much larger scale, plus it gets him off of this awful bench that’s made his ass completely numb by this point, so of course he agrees.

Now assembled, Marisol’s team makes their way to America’s City of Lights, ready and willing to pull off their plan. In two weeks, Harlan Maddox will be hosting a gala in celebration of the twentieth anniversary of his biggest and best casino - the perfect opportunity for the team to strike. And so, putting Marisol’s scheme into action, the team slowly infiltrates Maddox’s business, getting Eva a job performing at the gala in addition to getting CeCe hired as Maddox’s new bodyguard and Logan as the casino’s new IT manager.

The plan seems to be going off without a hitch, but of course it wouldn’t go exactly according to plan. As Logan spends more time around Jack, Maddox’s sweet but overworked assistant, he begins to doubt the fairness of taking all the money away from a man who has people on his payroll. In addition, Marisol has been keeping a secret from the team about why she wants justice against Maddox in the first place - one that may destroy their trust in her if it comes to light.

As the night of the gala, and the heist, draws nearer, the team, who have all become something of a family to each other these last two weeks, begin to wonder: will they be able to pull off this plan after all, or will the heist, and their newly-found connections with it, come crashing apart?

Either way, what happens in Vegas is not going to stay in Vegas. Not this time. ❞

General Taglist: @hiddenqveendom, @auxiliarydetective, @foxesandmagic, @artemisocs, @reyofluke-ocs, @endless-oc-creations, @stanshollaand, @ginevrastilinski, @luucypevensie, @arrthurpendragon, @fakedatings, @impales, @claryxjackson, @dancingsunflowers-ocs, @ocappreciationtag.

[ppcseo]

#essayassist #blog #techstartup #customerlifetimevalue #customerexperience #customersupport #loyalty #personalization #innovation #crosssell #upsell #strategicpartnerships #marketing #productfeatures #engagementprograms #community #loyaltyprograms #ROI #startupgrowth #earlystagecompanies

[falatiseo]

The Secret Guide to Find the Best Intellectual Property Lawyer

In today's rapidly evolving world, intellectual property (IP) has become a valuable and fiercely protected asset. Whether you're a creative artist, a tech startup, or an established corporation, your ideas, inventions, and innovations deserve safeguarding. This is where intellectual property lawyers come into play. In this article, we'll explore the critical role of intellectual property lawyers and why their expertise is indispensable in an era of creativity and innovation.

Understanding Intellectual Property

Before we delve into the role of an intellectual property lawyer, it's essential to grasp what intellectual property encompasses. Intellectual property refers to the legal rights granted to individuals or entities over their creations or inventions. These creations can include:

Copyrightable Works: Such as literature, music, films, and software. Trademarks: Identifiers of goods or services that distinguish them from others. Patents: Exclusive rights to inventions, processes, and innovations. Trade Secrets: Proprietary information, like manufacturing processes, formulas, or customer lists.

The Vital Role of Intellectual Property Lawyers

Strategic Counsel: Intellectual property lawyers provide strategic guidance on how to protect your IP assets. They assess your unique needs and develop a customized plan to safeguard your creations.

IP Portfolio Management: For businesses, managing a portfolio of IP assets can be complex. Lawyers assist in organizing, maintaining, and enforcing these assets, ensuring they remain valuable assets.

Registration and Filing: Intellectual property lawyers are experts in filing and registering IP with the appropriate government authorities. This includes copyright registrations, trademark applications, and patent filings.

IP Enforcement: When someone infringes upon your intellectual property rights, an IP lawyer is your advocate. They can send cease-and-desist letters, negotiate settlements, or take legal action on your behalf.

Defensive Strategies: Intellectual property lawyers can help clients defend against allegations of IP infringement. They evaluate the claims, gather evidence, and develop a strong defense strategy.

Licensing and Contracts: Many IP owners license their rights to others. Lawyers negotiate and draft licensing agreements, ensuring that the terms protect the IP owner's interests.

Due Diligence: In mergers, acquisitions, or investments, intellectual property lawyers conduct due diligence to assess the value and risks associated with IP assets.

Challenges in the Digital Age

In today's digital age, the protection of intellectual property faces unique challenges. The ease of copying and distributing digital content, the rise of online infringement, and the global nature of the internet have added complexity to IP issues. Intellectual property lawyers must adapt to these challenges by staying current on legal developments, cybersecurity threats, and international IP treaties.

The Importance of Early Action

One crucial aspect of intellectual property protection is early action. Waiting until an issue arises can be costly and limit your legal options. Intellectual property lawyers stress the importance of proactive protection. Whether you're an individual artist or a business entity, consulting with an IP lawyer early in the creative or innovative process can help you establish a strong foundation for protection.

Navigating International IP Law:

In our interconnected world, intellectual property often crosses international borders. Intellectual property lawyers are well-versed in international IP treaties and agreements. They can assist clients in protecting their IP rights globally, ensuring that innovations, trademarks, and copyrights are safeguarded in multiple jurisdictions.

IP Litigation and Enforcement:

When disputes over intellectual property arise, IP lawyers are prepared to advocate for their clients in legal proceedings. IP litigation can be complex, involving issues such as patent infringement, copyright disputes, or trademark challenges. Lawyers specializing in IP have the expertise to build strong cases and represent their clients effectively in court.

Emerging Technologies and IP:

As technology continues to advance, intellectual property lawyers are at the forefront of addressing novel challenges. This includes issues related to artificial intelligence, blockchain, virtual reality, and biotechnology. Lawyers work to ensure that innovators in these fields have adequate protection for their creations while also navigating the ethical and legal complexities that arise.

Digital Rights Management (DRM):

In the digital age, the protection of digital content is paramount. IP lawyers play a role in advising content creators and distributors on implementing DRM strategies to prevent unauthorized copying or distribution of digital assets.

Open Source and IP Licensing:

Open-source software and collaborative projects have become essential parts of the tech industry. Intellectual property lawyers help clients understand the intricacies of open-source licensing and ensure compliance with license terms when using open-source software in their projects.

Protection Against Counterfeiting and Piracy:

Counterfeiting and piracy remain significant threats to intellectual property rights. IP lawyers work with clients to develop strategies to combat counterfeit products and piracy in various industries, from fashion to pharmaceuticals.

Education and Awareness:

Intellectual property lawyers often play an educational role, helping clients understand the importance of IP protection. They can offer guidance on best practices for IP management within organizations, including employee training on IP issues.

Environmental Considerations:

In some cases, intellectual property intersects with environmental concerns. IP lawyers work with clients to protect environmentally sustainable innovations, such as clean energy technologies, and navigate IP issues related to environmental regulations and patents.

Ethical Considerations:

The ethical responsibilities of IP lawyers are multifaceted. They must uphold the highest ethical standards in their practice, ensuring confidentiality, avoiding conflicts of interest, and providing clients with honest and transparent advice. Ethical considerations are particularly important when dealing with sensitive matters such as trade secrets.

Conclusion: Guardians of Innovation and Creativity

In a rapidly evolving world driven by innovation and creativity, intellectual property lawyers serve as essential guardians of the rights and interests of individuals, businesses, and organizations. They navigate complex legal landscapes, address emerging challenges in technology and digital media, and provide strategic guidance that allows innovators to thrive while protecting their valuable creations.

The role of an intellectual property lawyer extends beyond legal expertise; it encompasses a commitment to fostering innovation, creativity, and the responsible management of intellectual assets. By collaborating with these legal professionals, individuals and entities can navigate the intricate terrain of intellectual property rights, secure their innovations, and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of human progress. In an age where ideas and innovations are catalysts for change, intellectual property lawyers are instrumental in safeguarding the intellectual legacy of today and the innovations of tomorrow.

[mariacallous]

One hour and three minutes before Silicon Valley Bank blocked all withdrawals, Pat Phelan got the last of his company's money out. Phelan's cosmetic medicine startup, Sisu Clinic, kept the majority of its reserves with the California-based bank. When he saw whispers of its problems spreading across the internet, he joined the digital bank run that ultimately pushed Silicon Valley Bank to collapse.

“I just messaged our chief financial officer and said, ‘Get the money out,’” Phelan says, adding he had to wait all night for the funds to arrive in his Bank of Ireland account. “It was an incredibly worrying 26 hours.”

After a tense weekend, regulators in the UK and US have stepped in to protect depositors, averting the most dramatic potential consequences of the largest US bank failure since the 2008 financial crisis.

But many in Europe’s tech industry warn of a slower-burn crisis to come. The reason that Silicon Valley Bank was so popular was because it filled a role that no one else would. It was part bank, part networking community, part venture capital firm. In some countries it was a major investor. In Ireland, the bank had planned to invest more than $500 million in technology and life science startups by 2024. In the Netherlands, the bank was in discussions about how to finance more local companies. Europe’s tech sector was already struggling with funding shortfalls, mounting losses, and widespread job cuts. The loss of Silicon Valley Bank only deepens the gloom. 

“What happened during the last few days is once again there was a recognition that, especially when it comes to bigger [investment] rounds … there are not that many real big funds that can play a major role,” says Rinke Zonneveld, the CEO of Invest NL, a government-backed investment firm in the Netherlands. “We are dependent on US money.”

Silicon Valley Bank was embedded in Europe’s tech sector via a series of affiliated businesses and offices. Its Danish office, which didn’t have a banking license, focused on networking. The German branch did not offer a deposit business. But at the heart of that system was the bank’s London-based subsidiary, established in 2012, which helped startups across the EU with funding, loans, and accounts. On Friday, the Bank of England declared that Silicon Valley Bank was set to enter insolvency, before that arm of the business was acquired in a last-minute £1 rescue deal by HSBC bank.

But many of Silicon Valley Bank’s customers turned to the bank exactly because they felt that traditional lenders were not set up to cater to the technology industry’s specific demands. 

The bank didn’t just enable tech companies with unusual financial structures to open accounts, says Check Warner, partner at London-based inclusive venture firm Ada Ventures. It also sponsored events and organizations trying to make the UK tech sector more diverse. “SVB was much more than just a bank,” she says. “I'd love it if a homegrown UK business was doing this role, but in the absence of that, Silicon Valley did it and did it really well.”  

Silicon Valley Bank's struggles started with a bad bet on long-dated US bonds. Rising interest rates meant that the value of those bonds fell. As depositors started to worry about the bank's balance sheet, they pulled their money out. High interest rates have become a challenge across the industry, ending the cheap loans  that tech companies got used to over the past decade and reducing available funding.

More than $400 billion in value was wiped from Europe’s tech industry in 2022, while some companies, like the buy-now, pay-later provider Klarna, watched their valuation plunge more than 85 percent. This year there’s been little reprieve, as layoffs continue within local startups as well as at Europe’s big tech outposts. At the end of February, Google confirmed it would cut 200 jobs from its business in Ireland. 

“The whole tech industry is suffering,” Warner says. “Generally, in 2023 rounds are taking much longer; there's much less capital available.” 

Against this backdrop it’s unclear whether any major European bank is able or willing to fill the niche that Silicon Valley Bank is leaving. 

“Silicon Valley Bank is unique. There are not that many banks which provide startups loans,” says Reinhilde Veugelers, a senior fellow at economic think tank Bruegel and a professor at Belgian university KU Leuven. “Typically, European banks are not good alternatives, because they're way too risk-averse.” 

And even if a bank wanted to take the risk, they'd likely struggle to replicate Silicon Valley Bank's deep knowledge of the startup ecosystem, Veugelers adds. “You need way more than deep pockets. You also need to be sufficiently close to the whole venture capital market and have the ability to do due diligence” she says. “If the bank had that capacity, it would have already been doing this.” HSBC did not immediately reply to WIRED’s request for comment. 

Silicon Valley Bank was prepared to take risks that other banks wouldn't, says Frederik Schouboe, co-CEO and cofounder of the Danish cloud company KeepIt. 

KeepIt secured a $22.5 million debt financing package—a way of raising money through borrowing—last year from Silicon Valley Bank’s UK business. Although the bank opened an office in Copenhagen in 2019, the branch did not have a banking license. Mainstream banks “are ultimately impossible to bank with if you are making a deficit in a subscription business,” Schouboe says. “The regulatory environment is too strict for them to actually help us.”

The way Silicon Valley Bank operated in Europe has earned its admirers. But now those people are worried the company’s collapse will warn other banks away from funding tech in the same way. It was SBV’s banking practices that failed, not the business model of funding the startup sector, says Berthold Baurek-Karlic, founder and managing partner of Vienna-based investment company Venionaire Capital. “What they did was they made big mistakes in risk management,” he adds. “If interest rates rise, this shouldn't make your bank go bust.”

Baurek-Karlic believes European startups were benefiting from the riskier bets that Silicon Valley Bank was taking, such as offering venture debt deals. The US and UK said Silicon Valley Bank is not system critical, arguing there was limited risk of contagion to other banks. That might be true in banking, he says. “But for the tech ecosystem, it was system critical.”

[namastetu]

The Meteoric Rise of Digital Marketing in India: What's Driving Growth

Introduction:

In recent years, India has witnessed a remarkable surge in the field of digital marketing. As businesses adapt to the digital age, they are increasingly recognizing the importance of a strong online presence. This paradigm shift has led to the exponential growth of digital marketing in India. In this blog, we'll delve into the key factors driving the expansion of digital marketing in the Indian market.

Rapid Internet Penetration:

One of the primary catalysts for the growth of digital marketing in India is the widespread availability of the internet. The country has experienced a massive increase in internet users, thanks in large part to affordable smartphones and data plans. This has created an enormous online audience that businesses can tap into, making digital marketing an essential avenue for reaching potential customers.

Mobile-First Nation:

India is a "mobile-first" nation, with a significant portion of its population accessing the internet through smartphones. This shift in consumer behavior has forced businesses to adapt their marketing strategies to be mobile-friendly. Mobile marketing, including app-based advertising and SMS campaigns, has become an integral part of digital marketing efforts.

Social Media Boom:

The rise of social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn has provided businesses with powerful tools to engage with their target audience. Indian consumers are active on these platforms, creating opportunities for businesses to build brand awareness and drive sales through targeted social media marketing campaigns.

E-commerce Growth:

The e-commerce industry in India has witnessed exponential growth, particularly with the emergence of major players like Amazon and Flipkart. To compete in this dynamic marketplace, businesses are increasingly relying on digital marketing to drive traffic, conversions, and customer loyalty.

Data-Driven Insights:

Digital marketing offers the advantage of detailed data analytics and insights. Indian businesses are using data-driven marketing strategies to understand consumer behavior, preferences, and demographics better. This information enables them to tailor their marketing efforts for maximum impact and efficiency.

Affordable Advertising Options:

Digital marketing provides cost-effective advertising solutions, making it accessible to businesses of all sizes. Unlike traditional advertising methods, digital marketing allows for precise targeting, ensuring that marketing budgets are used efficiently.

Government Initiatives:

The Indian government's Digital India campaign and initiatives like "Make in India" have encouraged businesses to embrace digital technologies. These initiatives have created an environment conducive to digital innovation and entrepreneurship.

Startup Ecosystem:

India has witnessed a thriving startup ecosystem, with many tech-based startups gaining prominence. These startups are often agile and tech-savvy, making them early adopters of digital marketing strategies. Their success stories have inspired more traditional businesses to follow suit.

Conclusion:

The growth of digital marketing in India is a reflection of the country's rapid digital transformation. As more businesses recognize the potential of online marketing to reach and engage their target audience, the digital marketing landscape in India will continue to evolve. With increasing internet penetration, mobile usage, and a vibrant startup ecosystem, India is poised to remain a hotbed of digital marketing innovation and growth in the years to come. Businesses that embrace this digital revolution are likely to enjoy a competitive edge and sustained success in the Indian market.

[thechanelmuse]

Chile that ain't even the half...

Anybody still with an Adobe subscription well before reading that top post is wildin and not reading. Them fine print, "hidden" cancellation fees alone were enough for me to steer clear from purchasing anything. $300+ for saying bye? Yeah, no. (That's the highest I've seen someone's bill.) That's why the FTC been on they ass.

This shit been going on for years. It's so bad that there are forums to help people negotiate their exit plan from Adobe 🙃 smh. Please, please stop clicking "I Agree" and read the electronic contract you're signing with the release of a button. People talk about music artists in shady record label bank deals when there are deals right at the consumer's doorsteps as well. Everything isn't the fault of the consumers, but sometimes the shit is in black and white. Get a magnifying glass.

About Adobe being sued and more.

👇🏽

U.S. regulators sued Adobe on Monday over claims that the company made it difficult to cancel subscriptions to Photoshop and other software, an escalation by regulators in a crackdown against such practices.

The Justice Department said in its lawsuit that Adobe hid details of an expensive cancellation fee from consumers “in fine print and behind optional text boxes and hyperlinks.” Adobe’s website and customer service representatives made canceling additionally challenging, according to allegations in the suit.

“Adobe knows about the barriers consumers face when attempting to cancel their subscriptions,” the government said in the lawsuit, which was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.

The challenge follows a similar suit by the Federal Trade Commission against Amazon last year, in which the government argued that the e-commerce giant made it hard for customers to terminate their Prime memberships. The agency has proposed new “click to cancel” rules, which would require companies to offer an easy way to stop paying for a product.

The new efforts to penalize companies with hard-to-cancel subscriptions build on a wider attempt by federal regulators to rein in Big Tech’s power. The Justice Department and the F.T.C. have filed antitrust lawsuits against Google, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft and Meta, the owner of Instagram and WhatsApp, charging that their behavior or deals stifle competition. Adobe dropped a planned $20 billion purchase of Figma, a design startup, when it faced resistance from regulators around the world last year.

In the suit against Adobe, the Justice Department named David Wadhwani, the president of its digital media business, and Maninder Sawhney, a company vice president, as defendants. The suit follows an investigation into Adobe’s practices by the F.T.C.

“We are transparent with the terms and conditions of our subscription agreements and have a simple cancellation process,” said Dana Rao, Adobe’s general counsel, in a statement. “We will refute the F.T.C.’s claims in court.”

Mr. Wadhwani and Mr. Sawhney did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Monday’s lawsuit targets Adobe’s suite of popular design software, including Photoshop, Illustrator and Acrobat. In recent years, Adobe has shifted to offering subscriptions for those products, scrapping its previous model of selling one-off licenses to use the tools.

The company earned $14.22 billion in revenue from subscriptions in 2023, up from $7.71 billion in 2019, the government said.

Adobe took steps to lock consumers into yearly subscriptions billed in monthly increments, the lawsuit argued. The overall price of the plan was often displayed in bold when customers signed up. But a reference to Adobe’s cancellation fee was displayed in lighter italic text, the government said. [...]

“Consumers can enroll in subscriptions without clicking that link, and Adobe knows most consumers do not click it before enrolling,” the lawsuit said. [...]

“In numerous instances, subscribers who have requested to cancel through Adobe’s customer service believe they have successfully canceled but continue to be charged,” the government said. “Some of these subscribers do not realize for months that Adobe is continuing to charge them, and only learn about the charges when they review their financial accounts.”

Most of the lawsuit’s allegations related to the individual executives were sealed. The government said Mr. Wadwhani was pivotal to Adobe’s subscription business.

Source

"We are transparent with the terms and conditions of our subscription agreements" 😬. "Simple cancellation process." Dana...stfu. Yeah the pay-to-leave process.

Adobe is going to spy on your projects. This is insane.