#industrial automation 2024 | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

jcmarchi · 6 months

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Shining a light on oil fields to make them more sustainable

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/shining-a-light-on-oil-fields-to-make-them-more-sustainable/

Shining a light on oil fields to make them more sustainable

Operating an oil field is complex and there is a staggeringly long list of things that can go wrong.

One of the most common problems is spills of the salty brine that’s a toxic byproduct of pumping oil. Another is over- or under-pumping that can lead to machine failure and methane leaks. (The oil and gas industry is the largest industrial emitter of methane in the U.S.) Then there are extreme weather events, which range from winter frosts to blazing heat, that can put equipment out of commission for months. One of the wildest problems Sebastien Mannai SM ’14, PhD ’18 has encountered are hogs that pop open oil tanks with their snouts to enjoy on-demand oil baths.

Mannai helps oil field owners detect and respond to these problems while optimizing the operation of their machinery to prevent the issues from occurring in the first place. He is the founder and CEO of Amplified Industries, a company selling oil field monitoring and control tools that help make the industry more efficient and sustainable.

Amplified Industries’ sensors and analytics give oil well operators real-time alerts when things go wrong, allowing them to respond to issues before they become disasters.

“We’re able to find 99 percent of the issues affecting these machines, from mechanical failures to human errors, including issues happening thousands of feet underground,” Mannai explains. “With our AI solution, operators can put the wells on autopilot, and the system automatically adjusts or shuts the well down as soon as there’s an issue.”

Amplified currently works with private companies in states spanning from Texas to Wyoming, that own and operate as many as 3,000 wells. Such companies make up the majority of oil well operators in the U.S. and operate both new and older, more failure-prone equipment that has been in the field for decades.

Such operators also have a harder time responding to environmental regulations like the Environmental Protection Agency’s new methane guidelines, which seek to dramatically reduce emissions of the potent greenhouse gas in the industry over the next few years.

“These operators don’t want to be releasing methane,” Mannai explains. “Additionally, when gas gets into the pumping equipment, it leads to premature failures. We can detect gas and slow the pump down to prevent it. It’s the best of both worlds: The operators benefit because their machines are working better, saving them money while also giving them a smaller environmental footprint with fewer spills and methane leaks.”

Leveraging “every MIT resource I possibly could”

Mannai learned about the cutting-edge technology used in the space and aviation industries as he pursued his master’s degree at the Gas Turbine Laboratory in MIT’s Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics. Then, during his PhD at MIT, he worked with an oil services company and discovered the oil and gas industry was still relying on decades-old technologies and equipment.

“When I first traveled to the field, I could not believe how old-school the actual operations were,” says Mannai, who has previously worked in rocket engine and turbine factories. “A lot of oil wells have to be adjusted by feel and rules of thumb. The operators have been let down by industrial automation and data companies.”

Monitoring oil wells for problems typically requires someone in a pickup truck to drive hundreds of miles between wells looking for obvious issues, Mannai says. The sensors that are deployed are expensive and difficult to replace. Over time, they’re also often damaged in the field to the point of being unusable, forcing technicians to make educated guesses about the status of each well.

“We often see that equipment unplugged or programmed incorrectly because it is incredibly over-complicated and ill-designed for the reality of the field,” Mannai says. “Workers on the ground often have to rip it out and bypass the control system to pump by hand. That’s how you end up with so many spills and wells pumping at suboptimal levels.”

To build a better oil field monitoring system, Mannai received support from the MIT Sandbox Innovation Fund and the Venture Mentoring Service (VMS). He also participated in the delta V summer accelerator at the Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship, the fuse program during IAP, and the MIT I-Corps program, and took a number of classes at the MIT Sloan School of Management. In 2019, Amplified Industries — which operated under the name Acoustic Wells until recently — won the MIT $100K Entrepreneurship competition.

“My approach was to sign up to every possible entrepreneurship related program and to leverage every MIT resource I possibly could,” Mannai says. “MIT was amazing for us.”

Mannai officially launched the company after his postdoc at MIT, and Amplified raised its first round of funding in early 2020. That year, Amplified’s small team moved into the Greentown Labs startup incubator in Somerville.

Mannai says building the company’s battery-powered, low-cost sensors was a huge challenge. The sensors run machine-learning inference models and their batteries last for 10 years. They also had to be able to handle extreme conditions, from the scorching hot New Mexico desert to the swamps of Louisiana and the freezing cold winters in North Dakota.

“We build very rugged, resilient hardware; it’s a must in those environments” Mannai says. “But it’s also very simple to deploy, so if a device does break, it’s like changing a lightbulb: We ship them a new one and it takes them a couple of minutes to swap it out.”

Customers equip each well with four or five of Amplified’s sensors, which attach to the well’s cables and pipes to measure variables like tension, pressure, and amps. Vast amounts of data are then sent to Amplified’s cloud and processed by their analytics engine. Signal processing methods and AI models are used to diagnose problems and control the equipment in real-time, while generating notifications for the operators when something goes wrong. Operators can then remotely adjust the well or shut it down.

“That’s where AI is important, because if you just record everything and put it in a giant dashboard, you create way more work for people,” Mannai says. “The critical part is the ability to process and understand this newly recorded data and make it readily usable in the real world.”

Amplified’s dashboard is customized for different people in the company, so field technicians can quickly respond to problems and managers or owners can get a high-level view of how everything is running.

Mannai says often when Amplified’s sensors are installed, they’ll immediately start detecting problems that were unknown to engineers and technicians in the field. To date, Amplified has prevented hundreds of thousands of gallons worth of brine water spills, which are particularly damaging to surrounding vegetation because of their high salt and sulfur content.

Preventing those spills is only part of Amplified’s positive environmental impact; the company is now turning its attention toward the detection of methane leaks.

Helping a changing industry

The EPA’s proposed new Waste Emissions Charge for oil and gas companies would start at $900 per metric ton of reported methane emissions in 2024 and increase to $1,500 per metric ton in 2026 and beyond.

Mannai says Amplified is well-positioned to help companies comply with the new rules. Its equipment has already showed it can detect various kinds of leaks across the field, purely based on analytics of existing data.

“Detecting methane leaks typically requires someone to walk around every valve and piece of piping with a thermal camera or sniffer, but these operators often have thousands of valves and hundreds of miles of pipes,” Mannai says. “What we see in the field is that a lot of times people don’t know where the pipes are because oil wells change owners so frequently, or they will miss an intermittent leak.”

Ultimately Mannai believes a strong data backend and modernized sensing equipment will become the backbone of the industry, and is a necessary prerequisite to both improving efficiency and cleaning up the industry.

“We’re selling a service that ensures your equipment is working optimally all the time,” Mannai says. “That means a lot fewer fines from the EPA, but it also means better-performing equipment. There’s a mindset change happening across the industry, and we’re helping make that transition as easy and affordable as possible.”

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svayarobotics · 9 months

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The Trust Factor: How Reliable Automation Redefines Industry Standards

In the dynamic landscape of contemporary industries, the integration of reliable robotics and automation stands as a beacon of transformation. The fusion of these advanced technologies redefines the very fabric of .moperational standards, reshaping how industries operate, innovate, and thrive.

Reliable robotics serves as the cornerstone in this evolution. These cutting-edge mechanisms epitomize precision, consistency, and unwavering performance, fundamentally altering the way tasks are executed. Their sophisticated algorithms, guided by intricate sensors and AI, imbue them with an unparalleled ability to execute tasks flawlessly.

The essence of reliable robotics lies not just in the automation of repetitive tasks but in their unfaltering dependability. Whether it's precision manufacturing, intricate surgical procedures, or autonomous logistics, the advent of reliable automation has ushered in an era of heightened efficiency and accuracy.

Industry landscapes are witnessing a profound metamorphosis, transitioning from conventional modes of operation to a realm dictated by reliable robotics. The adoption of automated systems reduces human errors to minuscule margins, ensuring a level of consistency that was previously unimaginable.

The interplay between reliable robotics and automation extends beyond mere operational enhancements. It intertwines with the fabric of trust within industries. As organizations embrace these technologies, a newfound trust in their operational processes emerges. Stakeholders rely on the consistency and predictability these systems offer, fostering a renewed sense of confidence in the quality of outputs.

Moreover, the integration of reliable automation introduces a paradigm shift in safety standards. In sectors like manufacturing and healthcare, where precision is paramount, the utilization of robotics minimizes risks associated with human errors, significantly enhancing safety protocols.

The reliable aspect of these technological marvels instills a sense of assurance. Unlike their predecessors, these systems boast an impressive track record of maintaining functionality and delivering results within specified parameters. This reliability isn't merely a feature; it's a foundational element that reshapes how industries perceive and implement automation.

The pursuit of reliable robotics isn't without its challenges. Ensuring the seamless integration of these systems into existing infrastructures requires meticulous planning and adaptation. Calibration, maintenance, and constant monitoring become essential to sustain the reliability quotient.

The true essence of reliable automation lies not just in its technical prowess but in its ability to evolve and adapt. Continuous advancements in AI, machine learning, and robotics engineering pave the way for systems that not only meet but exceed reliability benchmarks.

As industries embrace this transformative journey, the ripple effects are far-reaching. The benchmarks set by reliable robotics redefine what was once deemed standard. They compel industries to recalibrate their operational expectations, setting a new norm where reliability isn't an aspiration but an inherent trait.

In conclusion, the convergence of reliable robotics and automation has propelled industries into an era where trust, precision, and consistency redefine the benchmarks of success. The infusion of these technologies reshapes industry standards, fostering a landscape where reliability isn't just an attribute but the very essence of operational excellence.

#industrial automation #collaborative robots #artificial intelligence #automationrobotics #technology #robotics #business #industrial robot manufacturers #manufacturing robots #cobots #2024

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storyblinker · 10 months

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#Best Industrial Automation Companies in India 2024

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mostlysignssomeportents · 5 months

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Podcasting “Capitalists Hate Capitalism”

I'm touring my new, nationally bestselling novel The Bezzle! Catch me in Torino (Apr 21) Marin County (Apr 27), Winnipeg (May 2), Calgary (May 3), Vancouver (May 4), and beyond!

This week on my podcast, I read "Capitalists Hate Capitalism," my latest column for Locus Magazine:

https://locusmag.com/2024/03/cory-doctorow-capitalists-hate-capitalism/

What do I mean by "capitalists hate capitalism?" It all comes down to the difference between "profits" and "rents." A capitalist takes capital (money, or the things you can buy with it) and combines it with employees' labor, and generates profits (the capitalist's share) and wages (the workers' share).

Rents, meanwhile, come from owning an asset that capitalists need to generate profits. For example, a landlord who rents a storefront to a coffee shop extracts rent from the capitalist who owns the coffee shop. Meanwhile, the capitalist who owns the cafe extracts profits from the baristas' labor.

Capitalists' founding philosophers like Adam Smith hated rents. Worse: rents were the most important source of income at the time of capitalism's founding. Feudal lords owned great swathes of land, and there were armies of serfs who were bound to that land – it was illegal for them to leave it. The serfs owed rent to lords, and so they worked the land in order grow crops and raise livestock that they handed over the to lord as rent for the land they weren't allowed to leave.

Capitalists, meanwhile, wanted to turn that land into grazing territory for sheep as a source of wool for the "dark, Satanic mills" of the industrial revolution. They wanted the serfs to be kicked off their land so that they would become "free labor" that could be hired to work in those factories.

For the founders of capitalism, a "free market" wasn't free from regulation, it was free from rents, and "free labor" came from workers who were free to leave the estates where they were born – but also free to starve unless they took a job with the capitalists.

For capitalism's philosophers, free markets and free labor weren't just a source of profits, they were also a source of virtue. Capitalists – unlike lords – had to worry about competition from one another. They had to make better goods at lower prices, lest their customers take their business elsewhere; and they had to offer higher pay and better conditions, lest their "free labor" take a job elsewhere.

This means that capitalists are haunted by the fear of losing everything, and that fear acts as a goad, driving them to find ways to make everything better for everyone: better, cheaper products that benefit shoppers; and better-paid, safer jobs that benefit workers. For Smith, capitalism is alchemy, a philosopher's stone that transforms the base metal of greed into the gold of public spiritedness.

By contrast, rentiers are insulated from competition. Their workers are bound to the land, and must toil to pay the rent no matter whether they are treated well or abused. The rent rolls in reliably, without the lord having to invest in new, better ways to bring in the harvest. It's a good life (for the lord).

Think of that coffee-shop again: if a better cafe opens across the street, the owner can lose it all, as their customers and workers switch allegiance. But for the landlord, the failure of his capitalist tenant is a feature, not a bug. Once the cafe goes bust, the landlord gets a newly vacant storefront on the same block as the hot new coffee shop that can be rented out at even higher rates to another capitalist who tries his luck.

The industrial revolution wasn't just the triumph of automation over craft processes, nor the triumph of factory owners over weavers. It was also the triumph of profits over rents. The transformation of hereditary estates worked by serfs into part of the supply chain for textile mills was attended by – and contributed to – the political ascendancy of capitalists over rentiers.

Now, obviously, capitalism didn't end rents – just as feudalism didn't require the total absence of profits. Under feudalism, capitalists still extracted profits from capital and labor; and under capitalism, rentiers still extracted rents from assets that capitalists and workers paid them to use.

The difference comes in the way that conflicts between profits and rents were resolved. Feudalism is a system where rents triumph over profits, and capitalism is a system where profits triumph over rents.

It's conflict that tells you what really matters. You love your family, but they drive you crazy. If you side with your family over your friends – even when your friends might be right and your family's probably wrong – then you value your family more than your friends. That doesn't mean you don't value your friends – it means that you value them less than your family.

Conflict is a reliable way to know whether or not you're a leftist. As Steven Brust says, the way to distinguish a leftist is to ask "What's more important, human rights, or property rights?" If you answer "Property rights are human right," you're not a leftist. Leftists don't necessarily oppose all property rights – they just think they're less important than human rights.

Think of conflicts between property rights and human rights: the grocer who deliberately renders leftover food inedible before putting it in the dumpster to ensure that hungry people can't eat it, or the landlord who keeps an apartment empty while a homeless person freezes to death on its doorstep. You don't have to say "No one can own food or a home" to say, "in these cases, property rights are interfering with human rights, so they should be overridden." For leftists property rights can be a means to human rights (like revolutionary land reformers who give peasants title to the lands they work), but where property rights interfere with human rights, they are set aside.

In his 2023 book Technofeudalism, Yanis Varoufakis claims that capitalism has given way to a new feudalism – that capitalism was a transitional phase between feudalism…and feudalism:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/09/28/cloudalists/#cloud-capital

Varoufakis's point isn't that capitalists have gone extinct. Rather, it's that today, conflicts between capital and assets – between rents and profits – reliably end with a victory of rent over profit.

Think of Amazon: the "everything store" appears to be a vast bazaar, a flea-market whose stalls are all operated by independent capitalists who decide what to sell, how to price it, and then compete to tempt shoppers. In reality, though, the whole system is owned by a single feudalist, who extracts 51% from every dollar those merchants take in, and decides who can sell, and what they can sell, and at what price, and whether anyone can even see it:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/03/01/managerial-discretion/#junk-fees

Or consider the patent trolls of the Eastern District of Texas. These "companies" are invisible and produce nothing. They consist solely of a serviced mailbox in a dusty, uninhabited office-building, and an overbroad patent (say, a patent on "tapping on a screen with your finger") issued by the US Patent and Trademark Office. These companies extract hundreds of millions of dollars from Apple, Google, Samsung for violating these patents. In other words, the government steps in and takes vast profits generated through productive activity by companies that make phones, and turns that money over as rent paid to unproductive companies whose sole "product" is lawsuits. It's the triumph of rent over profit.

Capitalists hate capitalism. All capitalists would rather extract rents than profits, because rents are insulated from competition. The merchants who sell on Jeff Bezos's Amazon (or open a cafe in a landlord's storefront, or license a foolish smartphone patent) bear all the risk. The landlords – of Amazon, the storefront, or the patent – get paid whether or not that risk pays off.

This is why Google, Apple and Samsung also have vast digital estates that they rent out to capitalists – everything from app stores to patent portfolios. They would much rather be in the business of renting things out to capitalists than competing with capitalists.

Hence that famous Adam Smith quote: "People of the same trade seldom meet together, even for merriment and diversion, but the conversation ends in a conspiracy against the public, or in some contrivance to raise prices." This is literally what Google and Meta do:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jedi_Blue

And it's what Apple and Google do:

https://www.theverge.com/2023/10/27/23934961/google-antitrust-trial-defaults-search-deal-26-3-billion

Why compete with one another when you can collude, like feudal lords with adjacent estates who trust one another to return any serf they catch trying to sneak away in the dead of night?

Because of course, it's not just "free markets" that have been captured by rents ("Competition is for losers" -P. Thiel) – it's also "free labor." For years, the largest tech and entertainment companies in America illegally colluded on a "no poach" agreement not to hire one-anothers' employees:

https://techcrunch.com/2015/09/03/apple-google-other-silicon-valley-tech-giants-ordered-to-pay-415m-in-no-poaching-suit/

These companies were bitter competitors – as were these sectors. Even as Big Content was lobbying for farcical copyright law expansions and vowing to capture Big Tech, all these companies on both sides were able to set aside their differences and collude to bind their free workers to their estates and end the "wasteful competition" to secure their labor.

Of course, this is even more pronounced at the bottom of the labor market, where noncompete "agreements" are the norm. The median American worker bound by a noncompete is a fast-food worker whose employer can wield the power of the state to prevent that worker from leaving behind the Wendy's cash-register to make $0.25/hour more at the McDonald's fry trap across the street:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/02/02/its-the-economy-stupid/#neofeudal

Employers defend this as necessary to secure their investment in training their workers and to ensure the integrity of their trade secrets. But why should their investments be protected? Capitalism is about risk, and the fear that accompanies risk – fear that drives capitalists to innovate, which creates the public benefit that is the moral justification for capitalism.

Capitalists hate capitalism. They don't want free labor – they want labor bound to the land. Capitalists benefit from free labor: if you have a better company, you can tempt away the best workers and cause your inferior rival to fail. But feudalists benefit from un-free labor, from tricks like "bondage fees" that force workers to pay in order to quit their jobs:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/04/21/bondage-fees/#doorman-building

Companies like Petsmart use "training repayment agreement provisions" (TRAPs) to keep low-waged workers from leaving for better employers. Petsmart says it costs $5,500 to train a pet-groomer, and if that worker is fired, laid off, or quits less than two years, they have to pay that amount to Petsmart:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/08/04/its-a-trap/#a-little-on-the-nose

Now, Petsmart is full of shit here. The "four-week training course" Petsmart claims is worth $5,500 actually only lasts for three weeks. What's more, the "training" consists of sweeping the floor and doing other low-level chores for three weeks, without pay.

But even if Petsmart were to give $5,500 worth of training to every pet-groomer, this would still be bullshit. Why should the worker bear the risk of Petsmart making a bad investment in their training? Under capitalism, risks justify rewards. Petsmart's argument for charging $50 to groom your dog and paying the groomer $15 for the job is that they took $35 worth of risk. But some of that risk is being borne by the worker – they're the ones footing the bill for the training.

For Petsmart – as for all feudalists – a worker (with all the attendant risks) can be turned into an asset, something that isn't subject to competition. Petsmart doesn't have to retain workers through superior pay and conditions – they can use the state's contract-enforcement mechanism instead.

Capitalists hate capitalism, but they love feudalism. Sure, they dress this up by claiming that governmental de-risking spurs investment: "Who would pay to train a pet-groomer if that worker could walk out the next day and shave dogs for some competing shop?"

But this is obvious nonsense. Think of Silicon Valley: high tech is the most "IP-intensive" of all industries, the sector that has had to compete most fiercely for skilled labor. And yet, Silicon Valley is in California, where noncompetes are illegal. Every single successful Silicon Valley company has thrived in an environment in which their skilled workers can walk out the door at any time and take a job with a rival company.

There's no indication that the risk of free labor prevents investment. Think of AI, the biggest investment bubble in human history. All the major AI companies are in jurisdictions where noncompetes are illegal. Anthropic – OpenAI's most serious competitor – was founded by a sister/brother team who quit senior roles at OpenAI and founded a direct competitor. No one can claim with a straight face that OpenAI is now unable to raise capital on favorable terms.

What's more, when OpenAI founder Sam Altman was forced out by his board, Microsoft offered to hire him – and 700 other OpenAI personnel – to found an OpenAI competitor. When Altman returned to the company, Microsoft invested more money in OpenAI, despite their intimate understanding that anyone could hire away the company's founder and all of its top technical staff at any time.

The idea that the departure of the Burger King trade secrets locked up in its workers' heads constitute more of a risk to the ability to operate a hamburger restaurant than the departure of the entire technical staff of OpenAI is obvious nonsense. Noncompetes aren't a way to make it possible to run a business – they're a way to make it easy to run a business, by eliminating competition and pushing the risk onto employees.

Because capitalists hate capitalism. And who can blame them? Who wouldn't prefer a life with less risk to one where you have to constantly look over your shoulder for competitors who've found a way to make a superior offer to your customers and workers?

This is why businesses are so excited about securing "IP" – that is, a government-backed right to control your workers, customers, competitors or critics:

https://locusmag.com/2020/09/cory-doctorow-ip/

The argument for every IP right expansion is the same: "Who would invest in creating something new without the assurance that someone else wouldn’t copy and improve on it and put them out of business?"

That was the argument raised five years ago, during the (mercifully brief) mania for genre writers seeking trademarks on common tropes. There was the romance writer who got a trademark on the word "cocky" in book titles:

https://www.theverge.com/2018/7/16/17566276/cockygate-amazon-kindle-unlimited-algorithm-self-published-romance-novel-cabal

And the fantasy writer who wanted a trademark on "dragon slayer" in fantasy novel titles:

https://memex.craphound.com/2018/06/14/son-of-cocky-a-writer-is-trying-to-trademark-dragon-slayer-for-fantasy-novels/

Who subsequently sought a trademark on any book cover featuring a person holding a weapon:

https://memex.craphound.com/2018/07/19/trademark-troll-who-claims-to-own-dragon-slayer-now-wants-exclusive-rights-to-book-covers-where-someone-is-holding-a-weapon/

For these would-be rentiers, the logic was the same: "Why would I write a book about a dragon-slayer if I could lose readers to someone else who writes a book about dragon-slayers?"

In these cases, the USPTO denied or rescinded its trademarks. Profits triumphed over rents. But increasingly, rents are triumphing over profits, and rent-extraction is celebrated as "smart business," while profits are for suckers, only slightly preferable to "wages" (the worst way to get paid under both capitalism and feudalism).

That's what's behind all the talk about "passive income" – that's just a euphemism for "rent." It's what Douglas Rushkoff is referring to in Survival of the Richest when he talks about the wealthy wanting to "go meta":

https://pluralistic.net/2022/09/13/collapse-porn/#collapse-porn

Don't drive a cab – go meta and buy a medallion. Don't buy a medallion, go meta and found Uber. Don't found Uber, go meta and invest in Uber. Don't invest in Uber, go meta and buy options on Uber stock. Don't buy Uber stock options, go meta and buy derivatives of options on Uber stock.

"Going meta" means distancing yourself from capitalism – from income derived from profits, from competition, from risk – and cozying up to feudalism.

Capitalists have always hated capitalism. The owners of the dark Satanic mills wanted peasants turned off the land and converted into "free labor" – but they also kidnapped Napoleonic war-orphans and indentured them to ten-year terms of service, which was all you could get out of a child's body before it was ruined for further work:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/09/26/enochs-hammer/#thats-fronkonsteen

When Varoufakis says we've entered a new feudal age, he doesn't mean that we've abolished capitalism. He means that – for the first time in centuries – when rents go to war against profits – the rents almost always emerge victorious.

Here's the podcast episode:

https://craphound.com/news/2024/04/14/capitalists-hate-capitalism/

Here's a direct link to the MP3 (hosting courtesy of the Internet Archive; they'll host your stuff for free, forever):

https://archive.org/download/Cory_Doctorow_Podcast_465/Cory_Doctorow_Podcast_465_-_Capitalists_Hate_Capitalism.mp3

And here's the RSS feed for my podcast:

http://feeds.feedburner.com/doctorow_podcast

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/2024/04/18/in-extremis-veritas/#the-winnah

#pluralistic #technofeudalism #yanis varoufakis #rents #profits #economics #podcasts #locus magazine #mp3s

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reasonsforhope · 5 months

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Yesterday [April 30, 2024], a bipartisan collection of US Senators introduced the Fans First Act, which would help address flaws in the current live event ticketing system by increasing transparency in ticket sales, and protecting consumers from fake or dramatically overpriced tickets.

Today, the artists and Congressmen allege, buying a ticket to a concert or sporting event requires negotiating a minefield of predatory practices, such as speculative ticket buying and the use of automated programs to buy large numbers of tickets for resale at inflated prices.

The legislation would ban such practices, and include provisions for guaranteed refunds in the event of a cancellation.

The political campaign organizers, calling themselves “Fix the Tix” write that included among the supporters of the legislation is a coalition of live event industry organizations and professionals, who have formed to advocate on behalf of concertgoers.

This includes a steering committee led by Eventbrite [Note: lol, I'm assuming Eventbrite just signed on to undermine Ticketmaster and for PR purposes] and the National Independent Value Association that’s supported by dozens of artistic unions, independent ticket sellers, and of course, over 250 artists and bands, including Billie Eilish, Dave Matthews, Cyndi Lauper, Lorde, Sia, Train, Fall Out Boy, Green Day, and hundreds more which you can read here.

“Buying a ticket to see your favorite artist or team is out of reach for too many Americans,” said Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN).

“Bots, hidden fees, and predatory practices are hurting consumers whether they want to catch a home game, an up-and-coming artist, or a major headliner like Taylor Swift or Bad Bunny. From ensuring fans get refunds for canceled shows to banning speculative ticket sales, this bipartisan legislation will improve the ticketing experience.”

Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Roger Wicker (R-MS), John Cornyn (R-TX) and Peter Welch (D-VT) also signed on to the Fan First Act.

In the House, parallel legislation was just passed through committee 45-0.

[Note: That's a really good sign. That kind of bipartisan support is basically unheard of these days, and rare even before that. This is strong enough that it's half the reason I'm posting this article - normally I wait until bills are passed, but this plus parallel legislation with such bipartisan cosponsors in the senate makes me think there's a very real chance this will pass and become law by the end of 2024.]

“We would like to thank our colleagues, both on and off committee, for their collaboration. This bipartisan achievement is the result of months and years of hard work by Members on both sides of the aisle,” said the chairs and subchairs of the Committee on Energy and Commerce.

“Our committee will continue to lead the way on this effort as we further our work to bring this solution to the House floor.”

“The relationship between artist and fan, which forms the backbone of the entire music industry, is severed,” the artists write. “When predatory resellers scoop up face value tickets in order to resell them at inflated prices on secondary markets, artists lose the ability to connect with their fans who can’t afford to attend.”

-via Good News Network, May 1, 2024

#music #concert #performance #live music #live performance #music industry #ticketmaster #eventbrite #concerts #concert tickets #united states #legislation #us politics #good news #hope

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steppingonyourshadow · 1 month

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Selected excerpts from Elle September 2024

Right now, in his dressing room after the shoot, Xiao Zhan is holding his grain salad and doing a pitch perfect impression of his meeting with Legend of Zanghai director Zheng Xiaolong.

"I was a little unsure, so I asked him if he wanted me to be a little thinner or a bit more buff. He said thinner, of course thinner, looks really good, sharp." When he met Zheng Xiaolong again for the costume fitting shoot, "he said, aiyo, you did it." During that time, he lost more than 10 jin [around 6-8 kgs].

In the second half of 2019, when he was shooting The Oath of Love, Xiao Zhan would shoot during the day, and record the variety show Our Song at night. Both were challenging. The former was his first male lead role in a modern urban drama, he didn't have much experience and was under a lot of pressure; the difficulty with the latter were the harmonies, "[I] had to memorize all the harmonies that differed from the melody, and not be led stray."

"Back then I didn't mind, I'd sleep a couple of hours and wake up a new man. But now even if the spirit is willing, the body will raise complaints."

Earlier this year, while shooting in Hengdian, he got tonsillitis. Swallowing hurt, but he went to work as usual. It wasn't until the director came over to ask him what was going on with his eyes that he looked in the mirror and realised they were swollen. He kept going until the afternoon, "until I fully resembled a frog."

He then had to go to hospital. Getting sick is normal and he got better after taking medication. What he can't do is what the doctors always say: you have to rest.

More importantly, "you might become less perceptive, that's what I'm really afraid of - becoming more mechanical and automated." When he said this he emphasised "really". When he speaks with seniors in the industry, "they also say you have to experience life."

Actually, a life in the spotlight is more or less incompatible with normality. But that's what the work of an actor requires of him - to stay in touch as much as possible with the wrinkles of an ordinary existence.

Recently he watched a segment from a variety show depicting the ordinary working life of today's youth. Before he entered the industry, Xiao Zhan opened his own studio and had an ordinary job, so he can still relate to the difficulties associated with working life, but new terminology and tools which had appeared [since he left] weakened his sense of connection. He realised that to a certain extent he had gradually lost touch.

At the beginning of June, Xiao Zhan had a short holiday, and he took a trip back to Chongqing. He really likes going for walks, and one evening he wandered for hours, down old alleyways, to the Liberation Monument, and went past the place where he used to work.

In 2014, the 23 year old Xiao Zhan graduated from university and began working at a design studio as a designer. Every morning at the beginning of each work day he'd change from the second line to the third at Niujiaotuo Station, make his way through the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, squeeze onto the light rail. Many times it was so crowded on the train he'd have his face pressed up against the glass window.

Since he was stuck anyway, he'd look down at the Jialing River, the strange rock formations revealed at low tide and various groups of people, those doing a winter swim, running, fishing, in the spirit of an optimist.

He still really enjoys observing humanity around him -

"Why are you still here so late?"

"The ones walking really fast definitely just finished work and are hurrying to get home. Their expressions and behaviour is just like when I used to have to try and make the subway, it's the last train of the day and you have to run for it, all flustered. Some delivery guys rushing forward with no regard for their own safety. And some very relaxed folks sitting there drinking beer, scattering home after getting to the bottom of their bottle, and then the next day begins."

"All of them going through their own compelling stories, and their lives together make up our society. It's really marvelous, they're all protagonists in their own biographies. In which direction will the story go tomorrow?"

At that moment, he was like any other person who'd spent a long time away, busy with work, and finally had a chance to go home, who finds that "it's been a long time, a lot has changed".

"It's not like I was overjoyed and sentimental [about being home]. I'm just living my life, that's all."

After two and a half days, Xiao Zhan had to go back to Beijing because of work commitments, and then he hurried on to Shanghai to head to France. This time he took his parents along. This was the first family trip for a long time. In a single week, they went from France to Switzerland and then back to France. Every detail became magnified during the trip - they were happy, they bickered, or just went for an ordinary walk - "it was all very vivid".

The day they were due to part, after having a meal together in a restaurant in the south of France, a car arrived for him - he had to leave first. Before he left his mother hugged him and told him to take care of himself. Unusually, his dad also gave him a clumsy hug.

The taste of life is in the details.

"Before I used to think work was everything and life wasn't that important, beyond having a place to sleep and then getting up, going to work, coming home from work, and resting. But now, with my parents getting older, after not living with them for a good while, you'll feel like your lives are getting further and further apart, even with family." He really doesn't want to see that happen.

The way to avoid losing touch and regain a sense of reality doesn't sound difficult, "take time whenever possible to go out and see the world. The important thing is to experience life, experience this world. Even if it's something upsetting, something cruel, that's still life, and will still turn into energy when you need it."

Halfway through the interview, Xiao Zhan suddenly said that he felt conflicted about doing long interviews. On the one hand he worried about not having matured enough and showing timidity during the conversation, and on the other hand he wants to use the conversation to excavate some subtle emotions, because he's no good personally at describing them in words.

Observation, feeling, understanding, describing - these are the key to an actor's creative expression.

"Conversation is also a form of muscle memory," Xiao Zhan says. "Although I'm very introverted, I'm not anti-social. Because I think actors need to learn to express themselves, their inner thoughts, and internalise what the other person is transmitting to you."

Before Sunshine By My Side started shooting, he met up with the main creatives and had a few script meetings in order to deepen their understanding of each other and the character. In the early days of Legend of Zanghai, the producer mentioned that Xiao Zhan would engage in in-depth discussions of the script; he'd have a lot of his own thoughts about any scene.

Xiao Zhan isn't an actor by training. When he first started acting in Battle Through the Heavens and The Wolf, he had strong doubts and asked himself: am I suited to this? Repeatedly negating and overturning his sense of self caused him to lose confidence.

Sometimes he'd be asked if he hadn't auditioned at 23, debuted, joined the industry, what would he be doing now? He's thought about it, but he won't look back.

When he couldn't give a good performance, he put in extra time doing acting classes, watching the monitors, asking seniors for advice. Taking it seriously plus putting in the work slowly led to improvement.

Later, when he started shooting Where Dreams Begin, Xiao Zhan's character Xiao Chunsheng was a Beijing compound kid, very different from him, right down to the accent. He didn't feel comfortable. Before many scenes, the director Fu Ning would run over and whisper, don't be afraid Zhanzhan, just come out and say it, if you feel it then you can say it, the audience can actually feel your emotions and what you want to express.

He gradually became more self-aware: "technique is perhaps not my strongest suit, I rely more on feeling. When I feel it, that's when I have the confidence to act it out. If I rely purely on technique, I think that's not sufficiently moving."

It's been 8 years since Xiao Zhan's first acting experience. Going through his credits, one can see male protagonist roles of many different genres across TV and film. But he still thinks of himself as a newcomer. Given the opportunity, he still wants to work with more and more veteran creative teams.

#xiao zhan #text translations

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mitigatedchaos · 5 months

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General Post for Monday, April 8, 2024

(~1,600 words, 8 mins)

1 - Robot Jobpocalypse Notes: A brief theory that long-term redistribution to manage job losses from automation should consider focusing on inherently more scarce factors of production (land and materials), rather than more dynamic ones (labor and capital).

2 - Niche Smartphone Notes: If the pace of the smartphone industry were slower, niche smartphones might be more feasible.

3 - Coalitional Politics Notes: Many coalition-internal communications take place in public. Possible implications for loyalty vs. truthfulness.

4 - Lab Leak Notes: Separating the "strong" from "weak" lab leak hypothesis for Covid-19.

5 - Property Notes: Not all labor is equally effortful or valuable, so should claims on property be weighted? Entropy implies the gradual degradation of land and products to a "natural condition," which we might expect to either invalidate or weaken a property claim.

-☆☆☆-

1: Robot Jobpocalypse Notes

I've said this before, but I just want to reiterate:

Everyone already knows about the problem where automation can take over a job faster than the economy finds new jobs for those currently employed in that category. (Obviously we could talk about abstract skill capital that they've invested in the job that has now been made less valuable.)

But over the long term, the thing to think about is a bidding up of the prices of land, materials, and energy. For the first two, we can think of this in terms of rents (e.g. "land rents"), as the supply of land is highly inelastic. In theory, the gains from trade should make everyone better off, but that's only if you can bid high enough to get enough resources to survive. If people could always go back to subsistence farming if they had to, the trade would (almost) always make them better off than subsistence farming.

But without land, they can't. It's not just a matter of not selling, as land is taxed, and higher-value uses will bid up the price of the land, and thus the assessed tax.

We want a redistribution that's dynamic and which will respond to changes in market conditions, which won't dampen investment in capital and production, and which is less subject to political capture. Thus the thing to focus on is rent for land and materials, the inherently scarce factors of production, rather than labor (highly responsive to effort) or capital (material configurations).

2: Niche Smartphone Notes

[ @jadagul ]

They're currently putting out a 4.7" rugged phone, which is actually tempting. But if I wanted a keyboard phone from them, the most recent option is the Titan Slim, which came out in 2021 and runs Android 11. (My current phone is on Android 14.)

[...]

They can make some niche phones, but they just can't cover all the niches. There are too many! And because they're a niche producer, they also have lower quality across a variety of metrics: they can't put as many resources into their software stuff because they can't amortize it across nearly as many phones. In order to get the full advantages of a modern industrial toolchain, you need to standardize some stuff so you can spread development work across a ton of devices.

It's interesting to note that the extremely rapid rate of software development, including finding and patching security flaws, is such an obstacle.

In an Elfworld scenario, where some users are buying a phone for 15-25 year use, firms might be able to amortize the costs by updating the model less frequently, and charging more for the base model. They would likely also maintain smaller teams, who would work on the phones for longer.

Smartphones probably won't become such a stable technology for decades, however, and even if they did, we should expect fashion cycles.

3: Coalitional Politics Notes

We've all seen politicians, political operatives, and political party enthusiasts lie a lot. Why don't they lie to (or bullshit (as in speak as though 'indifferent to truth')) outsiders all the time?

There are a number of reasons. One may be that an insider who constantly lies to outsiders all the time could also lie to fellow insiders, and insiders cannot reliably tell whether someone is a general liar or merely a partisan liar.

Since people range in their level of partisanship, this suggests a curve where, from the perspective of someone who is moderately partisan, a speaker can trade some integrity for some partisan loyalty, and vice versa. Someone who has no loyalty and no integrity is of little value. At some point, partisan loyalty will be at odds with the truth due to the inherent contradiction in interests of the coalition members or else just simple imperfection, so someone cannot be both perfectly loyal and perfectly truthful.

For political coalitions, a lot of what is essentially coalition-internal communication takes place in public.

4: Lab Leak Notes

The debate over the potential lab leak origin of Covid-19 has not been settled yet, despite the article on ACX. People are arguing over the individual studies cited in responses to themotte's tracingwoodgrains.

However, we should differentiate between the "strong" lab leak hypothesis and the "weak" lab leak hypothesis.

Strong Hypothesis: Covid-19 was a bioweapon deliberately designed by the government of China and leaked on purpose for some strategic goal.

Weak Hypothesis: Covid-19 was a coronavirus being studied at the lab in Wuhan which studies coronaviruses. This virus may have been the subject of gain-of-function research not intended to create a bioweapon. Subsequently, as the result of an unintentional accident, the virus leaked from the lab, resulting in a global pandemic.

The criticism of the lab leak hypothesis from the more censorious 2020 libs was that, "The lab leak hypothesis is a racist conspiracy theory." The strong hypothesis is a conspiracy theory, but there is no requirement that it is racist - it is sufficient that the government of China openly identify as Communist. The weak hypothesis is neither of these things.

5: Property Notes

There is an Anarcho-Capitalist theory that ownership of unclaimed land is gained by "mixing your labor with it." Many people would ask why this creates a morally-valid indefinite ownership claim.

Alternatively, we could consider a functional decomposition of the operation.

"Mixing your labor" with the land means using [ attention ] to direct [ energy ] to configure [ matter ] according to your intentions. That might mean, for instance, cutting down trees on a lot in order to construct a fence, and then plowing the lot in order to plant a farm for later harvest. However...

Some people may have the intention for the lot, "It should be a wildlife preserve," which looks an awful lot like doing nothing, or perhaps just posting some signs.

Not all labor is of equal intensity. Should someone who uses less labor, or transforms the lot less, have a proportionally lower % claim on the lot? What does a % claim look like as compared to a full claim?

The configuration on the lot will degrade actively with time if it is not maintained. In our example, the wooden fence may break down and rot. Does this degrade the claim on the lot itself?

The metadata about the lot will also be lost, until it may not be feasible to resolve disputing claims of ownership with reasonable certainty.

Back in January, I wrote:

(Side note: The configuration of material inputs, like ore deposits, in the environment, relates to the amount of energy and attention required to recover them. Recycling is mostly about reducing the long-term recovery costs, keeping materials “near the surface.”)

Let's consider an example.

Joe mines a bunch of iron ore beneath a plot of land. The energy and attention required for most desired human uses is reduced.

Joe refines the iron into steel. The energy and attention required for most desired human uses is again reduced. (Did you know 93% of structural steel is recycled?)

Joe shapes the steel into a grill. This reduces the value of the material for other industrial uses, but increases the value for those who want a grill specifically. The steel is now configured as capital equipment.

Joe opens a hamburger shop, and uses the grill to grill hamburgers which he sells to customers.

After deciding to close the hamburger shop, Joe decides to explode the grill for a gender reveal party, scattering pieces all over the lot. The steel has been scattered throughout the environment, increasing the cost in energy and attention to gather it again if someone wants to do something else with it.

The value of the iron is subjective. That's conventional economics. However, there are typical uses that we can say will be common in most near-term human preference environments.

What makes this interesting is that within that common frame, in steps #1 and #2, Joe is pushing the iron up a value gradient. This value addition could then be lost to entropy through abandonment. For instance, in step #1, a landslide could occur, covering the iron back up and requiring it to be mined again. In step #2, the steel could be left out in the rain to rust, requiring it to be refined again.

Preventing this loss to entropy requires active attention and energy. (For instance, securing a nearby hillside to prevent the landslide scenario, or building and maintaining a barn to keep out the rain in the weathering scenario.)

Suppose that Joe abandons the land for 100 years. The steel rusts, and a landslide covers it up. A new prospector, Harold, comes across the land, finds no markings, excavates the rusted iron, refines it to make tools and sells those tools.

Shortly thereafter, Joe returns. Given that the land and materials returned to the natural condition, wouldn't it be strange to invalidate Harold's claim in this scenario?

Supporting a governing system, which could track ownership of the parcel of land and extracted materials, would require ongoing energy and attention on Joe's part. However, the system of deeds and records could be used as an alternative to Joe physically hanging out on the plot of land at all times, which he would have to do anyway to prevent the reversion of the plot of land to the natural condition.

This movement of materials along value and energy gradients is something to consider for a deeper analysis, perhaps oriented towards the development of new ideological principles.

#weekly post #politics #the invisible fist #general post series

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pinksilvace · 2 months

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Generative AI can most capably produce 2D images that managers in cost-squeezed studios might consider “good enough,” a term AI-watching creative workers now use as shorthand for the kind of AI output that’s not a threat to replacing great art, but is a threat to their livelihoods. Some clients care more about cost than quality, after all. Tasks like 3D animation and programming are, for now at least, much harder to automate in full. Games have, to varying degrees, used automation for years. They rely heavily on “AI” programs that control enemies, environments, and nonplayer characters. That’s not what people are talking about when they discuss AI now. In 2024, they’re typically talking about generative AI produced by large language models (LLMs), and the related systems that have been unleashed by the latest boom. A recent report from the consulting firm CVL Economics, commissioned by entertainment industry trade groups, found the gaming industry already relegated tasks to generative AI more than its peers in TV, film, or music. According to its survey of 300 CEOs, executives, and managers, nearly 90 percent of video game companies had already implemented generative AI programs. Gaming, CVL found, “relies heavily, more so than the other entertainment industries, on GenAI to carry out tasks like generating storyboards, character designs, renders, and animations. In fact, by some estimates GenAI may contribute to more than half of the game development process in the next five to 10 years.”

Support indie developers and studios who value their employees. Game developers are paid while they are developing games; once a game is released, all profits go to the studios, who often lay off swaths of employees hired for only specific projects. Boycotting games affects companies and executives, first and foremost, and NOT devs. They'll pay attention to where the money goes.

#fern muses #(sad kazoo noises)

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techtoio · 3 months

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How AI is Transforming Everyday Technology

Introduction

Welcome to TechtoIO! Today, we delve into one of the most exciting developments in modern technology: artificial intelligence (AI). AI has moved beyond the realm of science fiction and is now an integral part of our daily lives. From smart homes to personalized recommendations, AI is transforming everyday technology in ways we once only dreamed of. In this article, we explore how AI is reshaping various aspects of our lives and what we can expect in the near future. Read to continue

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shantitechnology · 8 months

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Manufacturing ERP: The Top 10 ERP Systems for 2024

Introduction:

In the dynamic landscape of the manufacturing industry, the right technology can make all the difference in streamlining processes and enhancing overall efficiency. Manufacturing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have become indispensable tools for businesses seeking to integrate various facets of their operations seamlessly. As we step into 2024, the demand for robust ERP solutions continues to grow. In this blog, we will explore the top 10 Manufacturing ERP systems that are poised to make a significant impact on the industry this year.

1. SAP S/4HANA: Pioneering Manufacturing Resource Planning System

One of the most trusted names in ERP, SAP S/4HANA stands out as a comprehensive Manufacturing Resource Planning System. Its real-time analytics, integrated modules, and intelligent automation make it an ideal choice for businesses aiming to optimize their manufacturing processes.

2. Oracle ERP Cloud: Empowering Manufacturing Enterprise Resource Planning

Oracle ERP Cloud offers a scalable and flexible solution for manufacturing enterprises. With its robust features, it caters to the diverse needs of businesses, ensuring a seamless integration of manufacturing operations. Its cloud-based architecture provides the agility required for modern manufacturing environments.

3. Microsoft Dynamics 365: A Versatile ERP Solution

Microsoft Dynamics 365 is gaining prominence as a Manufacturing Enterprise Resource Planning software that offers versatility and integration capabilities. Its user-friendly interface and interoperability with other Microsoft products make it an attractive choice for businesses, especially small enterprises.

4. Infor CloudSuite Industrial: Tailored Manufacturing ERP

Infor CloudSuite Industrial is designed with the unique needs of manufacturers in mind. It provides specialized functionalities, including supply chain management and shop floor control, making it a standout choice among ERP solution providers.

5. NetSuite ERP: Unifying Manufacturing Operations

NetSuite ERP is recognized for its ability to unify diverse manufacturing operations into a single, cohesive system. Its cloud-based platform allows for real-time collaboration and data accessibility, making it an efficient Manufacturing Enterprise Resource Planning Software.

6. Epicor ERP: Driving Growth for Small Businesses

Epicor ERP is particularly well-suited for small businesses in the manufacturing sector. With its focus on driving growth and improving efficiency, Epicor ERP offers a cost-effective solution without compromising on essential features.

7. IFS Applications: Comprehensive ERP Solution

IFS Applications is a comprehensive ERP solution that covers a wide range of manufacturing processes. Its modular structure allows businesses to tailor the system according to their specific requirements, making it a preferred choice for Manufacturing Enterprise Resource Planning.

8. IQMS Manufacturing ERP: Enhancing Shop Floor Control

IQMS Manufacturing ERP is distinguished by its emphasis on shop floor control and real-time monitoring. It empowers manufacturers with tools to optimize production processes and make informed decisions, positioning it as a top choice among ERP solution providers.

9. Acumatica Cloud ERP: Scalability for Growing Businesses

Acumatica Cloud ERP stands out for its scalability, making it an ideal choice for growing manufacturing businesses. With a flexible platform and advanced features, Acumatica supports businesses in adapting to changing demands and expanding their operations seamlessly.

10. SYSPRO ERP: Tailored for Manufacturing Success

SYSPRO ERP is tailored to meet the specific needs of manufacturing industries. Its focus on delivering a user-friendly experience and addressing industry challenges positions it as a reliable choice for Manufacturing Enterprise Resource Planning.

Conclusion:

As manufacturing industries evolve, the importance of robust ERP systems cannot be overstated. The top 10 ERP systems highlighted in this blog represent the cutting edge of technology, offering solutions that cater to the unique demands of the manufacturing sector. Whether it's SAP S/4HANA's real-time analytics, Oracle ERP Cloud's scalability, or Acumatica Cloud ERP's flexibility, each system brings its own strengths to the table.

For businesses in Madhya Pradesh seeking Manufacturing Software for Small Business, these ERP solutions provide a pathway to enhanced productivity and streamlined operations. Choosing the right Manufacturing ERP system is a critical decision that can impact a company's growth and competitiveness. Evaluate the features, scalability, and industry focus of each system to find the perfect fit for your manufacturing enterprise. Embrace the power of ERP in 2024 and position your business for success in the ever-evolving landscape of manufacturing technology.

#Manufacturing Software for Small Business #Manufacturing Enterprise Resource Planning Software #ERP Solution Providers in Madhya Pradesh #Manufacturing Enterprise Resource Planning #Manufacturing Resource Planning System #ERP Software #Chain Cycle Management #Business #Engineering #Manufacturing #India #Madhya Pradesh #Go-To-Market #GTM #ERP

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busstalks · 10 days

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Best 10 Business Strategies for year 2024

In 2024 and beyond, businesses will have to change with the times and adjust their approach based on new and existing market realities. The following are the best 10 business approach that will help companies to prosper in coming year

1. Embrace Sustainability

The days when sustainability was discretionary are long gone. Businesses need to incorporate environmental, social and governance (ESG) values into their business practices. In the same vein, brands can improve brand identity and appeal to environmental advocates by using renewable forms of energy or minimizing their carbon footprints.

Example: a fashion brand can rethink the materials to use organic cotton and recycled for their clothing lines. They can also run a take-back scheme, allowing customers to return old clothes for recycling (not only reducing waste but creating and supporting the circular economy).

2. Leverage AI

AI is revolutionizing business operations. Using AI-fuelled solutions means that you can automate processes, bring in positive customer experiences, and get insights. AI chatbots: AI can be utilized in the form of a conversational entity to support and perform backend operations, as well.

With a bit more specificity, say for example that an AI-powered recommendation engine recommends products to customers based on their browsing history and purchase patterns (as the use case of retail). This helps to increase the sales and improve the shopping experience.

3. Prioritize Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is of utmost important as more and more business transitions towards digital platforms. Businesses need to part with a more substantial amount of money on advanced protective measures so that they can keep sensitive data private and continue earning consumer trust. Regular security audits and training of employees can reduce these risks.

Example: A financial services firm may implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all online transactions, regularly control access to Internet-facing administrative interfaces and service ports as well as the encryption protocols to secure client data from cyberattacks.

4. Optimizing Remote and Hybrid Working Models

Remote / hybrid is the new normal Remote teams force companies to implement effective motivation and management strategies. Collaboration tools and a balanced virtual culture can improve productivity and employee satisfaction.

- Illustration: a Tech company using Asana / Trello etc. for pm to keep remote teams from falling out of balance. They can also organise weekly team-building activities to keep a strong team spirit.

5. Focus on Customer Experience

Retention and growth of the sales follow-through can be tied to high quality customer experiences. Harness data analytics to deepen customer insights and personalize product offers making your marketing campaigns personal: a customer support that is responsive enough can drive a great level of returning customers.

Example – For any e-commerce business, you can take user experience feedback tools to know about how your customers are getting along and make necessary changes. Custom email campaigns and loyalty programs can also be positively associated with customer satisfaction and retention.

6. Digitalization Investment

It is only the beginning of digital transformation which we all know, is key to global competitiveness. For streamlining, companies have to adopt the use advanced technologies such as Blockchain Technology and Internet of Things (IoT) in conjunction with cloud computing.

IoT example : real-time tracking and analytics to optimize supply chain management

7. Enhance Employee Skills

Develop Your Employees: Investing in employee development is key to succeeding as a business. The training is provided for the folks of various industries and so employees can increase their skills that are needed to work in a certain company. Employee performance can be enhanced by providing training programs in future technology skills and soft skills and job satisfaction.

Example: A marketing agency can host webinars or create courses to teach people the latest digital marketing trends and tools This can help to keep employees in the know which results in boosting their skills, making your campaigns successful.

8. Diversify Supply Chains

The ongoing pandemic has exposed the weaknesses of global supply chains. …diversify its supply base and promote the manufacturing of drugs in Nigeria to eliminate total dependence on a single source. In return, this approach increases resilience and reduces exposure to the risks of supply chain interruption.

- E.g., a consumer electronics company can source components from many suppliers in various regions. In so doing, this alleviates avoidable supply chain interruptions during times of political tensions or when disasters hit.

9. Make Decisions Based on Data

A business database is an asset for businesses. By implementing data, they allow you to make decisions based on the data that your analytics tools are providing. For example, sales analysis lets you track trends and better tailor your goods to the market.

Example: A retail chain can use data analytics to find out when a customer buys, and it change their purchasing policies. This can also reduce overstock and stockouts while overall, increasing efficiency.

10. Foster Innovation

Business Growth Innovation is Key A culture of creativity and experimentation should be established in companies. Funding R&D and teaming with startups can open many doors to both solve problems creatively but also tap into new markets.

Example: A software development firm could create an innovation lab where team members are freed to work on speculative projects. Moreover, work with start-ups on new technologies and solutions.

By adopting these strategies, businesses can navigate the turbulence for 2024 and roll up market — progressive.AI with an evolving dynamic market, being ahead of trends and updated is most likely will help you thrive in the business landscape.

#ai #business #business strategy #business growth #startup #fintech #technology #tech #innovation #ai in business

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jcmarchi · 6 months

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Low Full Self Driving Ratings Received by Tesla and Other EV Makers - Technology Org

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/low-full-self-driving-ratings-received-by-tesla-and-other-ev-makers-technology-org/

Low Full Self Driving Ratings Received by Tesla and Other EV Makers - Technology Org

Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self Driving technology, along with nine other assisted-driving systems from major automakers, received “poor” ratings in a recent study by the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), a safety research arm of the insurance industry.

Inside of Tesla. Image credit: Bram Van Oost via Unsplash, free license

The IIHS also stated that there is no evidence suggesting real-world safety benefits for Autopilot or other assisted-driving systems based on crash data.

David Harkey, President of IIHS, mentioned that the institute analyzed insurance claims data, comparing vehicles with and without these systems, and found no reduction in claims due to the more advanced systems. In contrast, there is evidence supporting the effectiveness of automatic emergency braking systems, which have been shown to reduce rear-end collisions by 50% and incidents of a vehicle hitting a pedestrian by 30%.

Despite Tesla and Elon Musk’s claims that a Tesla operating with Autopilot is significantly safer than the U.S. average, the IIHS findings challenge the assertion of real-world safety benefits for these advanced driving systems.

Federal regulators are actively investigating nearly 1,000 accidents involving the use of Tesla’s Autopilot. An upcoming civil case in California, set to go to trial soon, will serve as another examination of Tesla’s strategy, which often attributes crashes to drivers who allegedly fail to adhere to warnings instructing them to remain attentive when Autopilot or Full Self Driving technology is engaged.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducted a study, evaluating 14 assisted-driving systems from nine automakers against its developed standards. Notably, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration lacks formal standards for advanced-driver assistance systems (ADAS).

According to David Harkey, President of IIHS, the absence of federal regulations and consistent guidance prompted the institute to establish its safety standards.

Out of the tested systems, only one received an acceptable rating: the Lexus Teammate with Advanced Drive, introduced last year on a limited number of Toyota Motor’s luxury Lexus LS hybrid sedans. Toyota, in response to the findings, emphasized its ongoing commitment to enhancing vehicle safety and its consideration of third-party testing programs, including IIHS’s Top Safety Pick program and NHTSA’s New Car Assessment Program.

GM’s Super Cruise and Nissan’s “ProPILOT Assist with Navi-link,” available on the 2023-2024 Ariya electric vehicle, received “marginal” overall ratings in the first-ever Partial Automation Safeguards test conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Nissan stated that it is assessing the results and will collaborate with IIHS on matters related to customer safety. GM emphasized that Super Cruise is designed to enhance the driving experience and is not positioned as a safety feature.

Various assisted-driving systems from Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Nissan, Ford, GM, Hyundai’s Genesis brand, and Geely’s Volvo Cars brand all received “poor” overall ratings, despite achieving “good” scores on specific elements of the IIHS tests. The IIHS clarified that its new testing methodology focuses on safeguards to prevent misuse rather than assessing the performance of the driver assistance systems.

Automakers have the opportunity to enhance safety ratings by incorporating existing technology for features like driver-monitoring or attention warnings, which have received “good” scores, according to David Harkey, President of IIHS.

Tesla and other automakers are actively improving the capabilities of their systems, with Tesla updating its Autopilot software following a federal recall agreement. The IIHS plans to evaluate the revised system.

Responding to the findings, Mercedes emphasized taking the IIHS partial driving automation safeguard ratings seriously, while BMW stated its commitment to incorporating the results into the evolution of their cars and systems.

Written by Alius Noreika

You can offer your link to a page which is relevant to the topic of this post.

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techytoolzataclick · 11 days

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Top Futuristic AI Based Applications by 2024

2024 with Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the backdrop of what seems to be another revolutionary iteration across industries. AI has matured over the past year to provide novel use cases and innovative solutions in several industries. This article explores most exciting AI applications that are driving the future.

1. Customized Chatbots

The next year, 2024 is seeing the upward trajectory of bespoke chatbots. Google, and OpenAI are creating accessible user-friendly platforms that enable people to build their own small-scale chatbots for particular use cases. These are the most advanced Chatbots available in the market — Capable of not just processing text but also Images and Videos, giving a plethora of interactive applications. For example, estate agents can now automatically create property descriptions by adding the text and images of listings thatsurgent.

2. AI in Healthcare

AI has found numerous applications in the healthcare industry, from diagnostics to personalized treatment plans. After all, AI-driven devices can analyze medical imaging material more accurately than humans and thus among other things help to detect diseases such as cancer at an early stage. They will also describe how AI algorithms are used to create tailored treatment strategies personalized for each patient's genetics and clinical past, which helps enable more precise treatments.

3. Edge AI

A major trend in 2024 is Edge AI It enables computer processing to be done at the edge of a network, rather than in large data centers. Because of its reduced latency and added data privacy, Edge AI can be used in applications like autonomous vehicles transportations, smart cities as well as industrial automation. Example, edge AI in autonomous vehicles is able to get and process real-time data, increasing security by allowing faster decision-making.

4. AI in Finance

Today, the financial sector is using AI to make better decisions and provide an even stronger customer experience. Fraud detection, risk assessment and customised financial advice have introduced insurance into the AI algorithm. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are now common enough to be in use by 2024, greatly assisting customers stay on top of their financial well-being. Those tools will review your spending behavior, write feedback to you and even help with some investment advices.

5. AI in Education

AI is revolutionizing education with individualized learning. These AI-powered adaptive learning platforms use data analytics to understand how students fare and produces a customised educational content (Hoos, 2017). This way, students get a tailored experience and realize better outcomes. Not only that, AI enabled tools are also in use for automating administrative tasks which shortens the time required by educators on teaching.

6. AI in Job Hunting

This is also reverberating in the job sector, where AI technology has been trending. With tools like Canyon AI Resume Builder, you can spin the best resumé that might catch something eye catchy recruiter among a dozen others applications he receives in-between his zoom meeting. Using AI based tools to analyze Job Descriptions and match it with the required skills, experience in different job roles help accelerating the chances of a right fit JOB.

7. Artificial Intelligence in Memory & Storage Solutions

Leading AI solutions provider Innodisk presents its own line of memory and storage with added in-house designed AI at the recent Future of Memory & Storage (FMS) 2024 event. Very typically these are solutions to make AI applications easier, faster and better by improving performance scalability as well on the quality. This has huge implications on sectors with substantial data processing and storage demands (healthcare, finance, self-driving cars).

Conclusion

2024 — Even at the edge of possible, AI is revolutionizing across many industries. AI is changing our lives from tailored chatbots and edge AI to healthcare, finance solutions or education and job search. This will not only improve your business profile as a freelancer who create SEO optimized content and write copies but also give your clients in the writing for business niche some very useful tips.

#ai #ai in healthcare #ai in finance #ai in wealth management #ai in business #AI trends #artificial intelligence #advanced technologies #innovation #technological advancements

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gonzalez756 · 24 days

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How to Sell Your eCommerce Business in 2024 | Imagency Media

The eCommerce landscape in 2024 is more competitive and dynamic than ever. As a business owner, you may have decided that now is the right time to sell your eCommerce business and capitalize on your hard work. Whether you're looking to pursue new ventures, retire, or simply cash in on your investment, selling your eCommerce business can be a lucrative opportunity. However, it requires careful planning and execution. In this guide, Imagency Media will walk you through the key steps to successfully sell your eCommerce business in 2024.

1. Prepare Your Business for Sale

Before you put your eCommerce business on the market, it's crucial to ensure it's in the best possible shape. Buyers are looking for profitable, well-managed businesses with growth potential. Here's how to prepare:

Financials: Make sure your financial records are up-to-date, accurate, and easy to understand. Buyers will scrutinize your profit margins, revenue trends, and expenses. Consider working with an accountant to organize your financials and identify any areas for improvement.

Operations: Streamline your operations to make your business more appealing. This includes optimizing your supply chain, automating processes where possible, and ensuring that your inventory management is efficient. A well-run business is more attractive to potential buyers.

Brand Strength: Evaluate your brand's online presence. This includes your website, social media, and customer reviews. A strong, reputable brand can significantly increase your business's value. Consider investing in professional web design and branding services to enhance your business's appeal.

Legal Documentation: Ensure all your legal documents, such as business licenses, contracts, and intellectual property rights, are in order. Potential buyers will conduct due diligence, and any legal discrepancies could derail the sale.

2. Determine the Value of Your Business

Valuing an eCommerce business is a complex process that involves multiple factors. The most common valuation method is a multiple of your annual net profit, but other factors can influence the final price:

Revenue and Profit: Consistent and growing revenue, along with healthy profit margins, are key indicators of value.

Customer Base: A large, loyal customer base with low churn rates adds significant value to your business.

Market Position: How well does your business stand out in its niche? A strong market position with potential for growth can attract higher offers.

Growth Potential: Buyers are interested in the future potential of your business. Demonstrating a clear path for growth, such as expanding product lines or entering new markets, can increase your valuation.

Consider hiring a professional business broker or valuation expert to help you determine a realistic asking price.

3. Find the Right Buyer

Finding the right buyer is critical to the success of the sale. There are several types of buyers to consider:

Strategic Buyers: These are companies or individuals in your industry looking to expand their market share or acquire new capabilities. They may pay a premium for businesses that complement their existing operations.

Financial Buyers: Private equity firms or investors looking for profitable businesses with growth potential fall into this category. They typically focus on the financial performance of your business.

Individual Buyers: These are entrepreneurs or aspiring business owners who see value in taking over an established business.

To find potential buyers, consider listing your business on online marketplaces, reaching out to your industry network, or working with a business broker who can connect you with qualified buyers.

4. Negotiate the Sale

Once you’ve found a potential buyer, the negotiation process begins. This phase is crucial, as it will determine the final terms of the sale. Key aspects to negotiate include:

Purchase Price: This is the most obvious point of negotiation, but it’s not the only one. Be prepared to justify your asking price based on your business’s financials and growth potential.

Payment Terms: You may receive the full payment upfront, or the buyer might propose an installment plan. Consider the tax implications and risks associated with different payment structures.

Transition Period: Many buyers will request a transition period where you stay on to help manage the business during the handover. Define the duration and scope of your involvement during this period.

Non-Compete Agreement: Buyers may ask you to sign a non-compete agreement, which would prevent you from starting a similar business in the same industry. Ensure the terms are reasonable and won’t limit your future opportunities.

5. Close the Deal

Once all the terms are agreed upon, it's time to finalize the sale. This involves:

Drafting the Purchase Agreement: Work with a lawyer to draft a purchase agreement that outlines all the terms of the sale, including the purchase price, payment terms, and any contingencies.

Due Diligence: The buyer will conduct a thorough review of your business, including financials, operations, and legal documentation. Be prepared to provide all requested information promptly.

Transfer of Ownership: After due diligence is complete and both parties are satisfied, the final step is the transfer of ownership. This includes transferring all business assets, such as inventory, intellectual property, and customer data, to the buyer.

Post-Sale Transition: If a transition period was agreed upon, ensure a smooth handover by providing the necessary training and support to the new owner.

6. Celebrate Your Success

Selling your eCommerce business is a significant achievement. Take the time to celebrate your success and reflect on the journey that brought you here. Whether you're moving on to a new venture or enjoying the fruits of your labor, you’ve accomplished something remarkable.

Conclusion

Selling your eCommerce business in 2024 requires careful planning, strategic thinking, and a clear understanding of the market. By following these steps, you can maximize the value of your business and ensure a successful sale. At Imagency Media, we understand the importance of a well-executed exit strategy. If you're considering selling your business and need assistance with branding, web design, or preparing your business for sale, we're here to help.

Take the next step today. Contact Imagency Media to learn how we can support you in maximizing the value of your eCommerce business and ensuring a successful sale.

This article serves as a valuable resource for eCommerce business owners looking to navigate the complexities of selling their business in 2024. By following these guidelines, sellers can approach the process with confidence and increase their chances of securing a profitable and smooth transaction.

#digital services #social media marketing #branding #ecommerce #business #marketing

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