Author: Jim O Brien/CEO

CEO and expert in transport and Mobile tech. A fan 20 years, mobile consultant, Nokia Mobile expert, Former Nokia/Microsoft VIP,Multiple forum tech supporter with worldwide top ranking,Working in the background on mobile technology, Weekly radio show, Featured on the RTE consumer show, Cavan TV and on TRT WORLD. Award winning Technology reviewer and blogger. Security and logisitcs Professional.

Audioscenic Collaborates with Acer to Deliver Spatial Audio on World’s First Fully Immersive 3D Monitors #CES2024

Audioscenic, the UK-based developer of the Amphi AI Beamforming spatial audio technology, announces their collaboration with Acer, one of the world’s top ICT companies, to integrate their technology with Acer Immerse Audio. The technology is available on its newest SpatialLabs 3D monitors: the Acer SpatialLabs View Pro 27 and the Predator SpatialLabs View 27. Combined with Acer’s industry-leading naked-eye 3D visualisation solution, the 27-inch SpatialLabs monitors offer enveloping 3D gaming and viewing experiences with Audioscenic’s proprietary audio technology to provide a completely immersive listening experience without the need for headphones. Audioscenic will showcase a wide range of implementations of their spatial audio technology at the 2024 CES Show in Las Vegas from Tuesday, January 9th to Friday February 12th, 2024, at The Venetian Hotel on the 29th Floor of the Venetian Tower. For more information and to book your immersive experience, please click here.

“Enhanced by Audioscenic’s Amphi 3D audio beamforming technology, Acer Immersive Audio complements the sensual stereo 3D experiences on the 27” SpatialLabs monitors. Rich soundscapes are echoed from dual 2.5 W speakers for truly encapsulating experiences for gamers, cinephiles and developers. These efforts prove our dedication to providing an intuitive and natural, yet captivating digital adventure without the need for additional components such as headphones or glasses,” comments Jane Hsu, Head of Business Development, Spatial Computing BU at Acer.

A new threshold for the immersive experience

The SpatialLabs 27-inch 4K 3D displays are Acer’s flagship monitors designed for a ground-breaking 3D experience. Acer collaborated with Audioscenic to power its Acer Immers Audio with Audioscenic’s Amphi AI Beamforming technology that elevates the audio-visual experience. The displays are fine-tuned in every facet of the audio system to craft a virtual headphone experience that takes advantage of the latest spatial technologies without the need for headphones or aid from 3D glasses.

“We’re proud to cooperate with Acer in pushing this technology forward, and are eager to see the impact it has on consumers and creators in the industry alike. The beamforming technology in Amphi has been tuned to utilise the dual speaker system in the SpatialLabs 27 monitors which allow for great immersion,” explained Audioscenic Chief Technology Officer, Marcos Simon. “This implementation, alongside Acer’s SpatialLabs 3D visualisation solution, creates a heightened level of experience for the viewer that is different from any other monitor on the market.”

The Predator SpatialLabs View 27 follows the first collaboration between the companies, with the Acer SpatialLabs View Pro 27 monitor announced in October 2023. This monitor geared toward professionals like visual designers and developers now grants an opportunity to create realistic content for video, education, retail, museums, simulations and training accompanied by an unmatched life-like audio experience.

The Predator SpatialLabs View 27 is Audioscenic’s latest collaboration to merit a high-profile launch at CES and the brand’s latest venture in consumer products. Previously the brand partnered with Razer and THX to integrate Amphi technology in the Leviathan V2 Pro gaming soundbar, which received several ‘Best of CES’ awards in 2023. Looking forward, the brand continues to explore new and exciting applications for its unique approach to spatial audio technology within a wide array of platforms.

“The strength of Amphi is its flexibility — it can be implemented in any device that has a pair of speakers and a camera as most consumer devices today do,” stated Audioscenic CEO David Monteith. “Our technology offers an accessible, and affordable alternative to existing spatial audio implementations and we are eager to explore new product implementations that will deliver a no-compromise spatial audio experience for everyone and make it an essential part of everyday life.”

Blink Parametric Strengthens Blue Cross Partnership in Canada

Blink Parametric has agreed to a further three-year deal with Blue Cross, Canada’s most trusted insurance provider. Blue Cross was first to launch the Blink Parametric flight disruption real-time assistance solution in the Canadian market in October 2018. The solution is now offered by Blue Cross in eight Canadian provinces, including Ontario, Québec, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, and Prince Edward Island.

This extended, three-year agreement holds particular significance for the Ireland-based InsurTech. Blink Parametric CEO, Sid Mouncey, commenting on the deal said, “Blue Cross backed us right out of the gate in 2018, and was the first brand in Canada to use our innovative platform to assist insured travellers experiencing flight delays or cancellations. Their decision was prescient back then, ahead of the unprecedented global travel turmoil that was to follow. This agreement speaks volumes for the strength of our long-term collaboration and growth over the past five years. I’m proud of the great teamwork and look forward to the next chapter of serving the Canadian market.”

The Blink Parametric flight disruption solution simply requires a customer to register their flight details prior to travel. Blink Parametric then monitors the flight(s) in real-time. If a delay or cancellation occurs on the flight schedule, in line with policy terms, the traveller is automatically notified and offered instant choices. These can include cash pay-outs, lounge access or more to help alleviate the stress and consequences of the delay.

“Our teams ensure that our policy holders enjoy travelling with confidence and peace of mind, whether they are exploring Canada or the world,” said Tim Bishop, Managing Director, Blue Cross of Canada. “Millions of Canadians trust that the travel coverage we offer delivers the assistance they need and we are excited to continue our successful partnership.”

This collaboration is between Blue Cross and Blink Parametric with support from Red Consulting, one of Canada’s leading travel consulting companies.

Your Complete Guide to Free Spins At Online Casinos

Online casino players are always on the lookout for exciting casino bonuses, and for those passionate about slot games, the appeal of free spins is particularly irresistible. It’s no secret that online gaming platforms are well aware of this, and they use free spin offers to attract new casino players and reward their loyal customers with them.  However, when claiming free spins online casino offers,  players need to be aware of some considerations before going ahead and using these bonuses. 

How Free Spins Work

Free spins are a casino bonus that lets you play online slot games without spending your own money. They are offered as a promotion by real money online casinos to newcomers, allowing them to experience the slots risk-free and motivating them to open an account. Sometimes, the casino will award free spins to loyal customers to encourage continuous play.

Free spins bonuses are accessible on all types of devices, so players can take advantage of such promotions while playing on a mobile device with a steady connection. It gets even better with platforms providing a casino app that brings a set of additional perks. 

How to Get a Free Spins Bonus

Each operator has its own promotions policy, but as a general rule, there are three ways to get a free spins bonus: 

Free Spins Upon Registration

Players can claim the online casino promotions once they verify their real money account. When free spins are awarded without a deposit requirement, they are known as a no-deposit bonus. 

Free Spins Upon Deposits 

Players joining an online gaming platform may get free spins as a welcome offer with their first deposit. Also, resident players can receive free spins after any deposit or as part of in-game rewards and loyalty programme prizes. 

Free Spins As Part Of A Referral Reward

Online casinos appreciate when players want to share the fun with friends. So, players who invite someone to join the platform may be offered free spins as a reward. 

How To Choose the Best Free Spin Bonuses

When choosing a free spins bonus, players must check the terms and conditions of each promotion. They limit the use of free spins based on game eligibility, bonus validity, playthrough requirements, and maximum winnings. The terms and conditions affect the payout of winnings, so it’s recommended to be aware of what they entail. 

Game Eligibility

Check game eligibility to ensure the free spins are allowed for games you enjoy playing. These promotions often restrict free spins to designated slots or a particular game provider, which means you can spin the reels only on the games listed in the terms and conditions of the bonus. It’s best to use this opportunity to explore the slot mechanics and the game lobbies and understand how the casino generally works.   

Validity Period

The promotions are subject to a set time frame, so check the bonus terms to see how long you have to use the free spins, especially if you can’t claim them right away. Regarding daily free spins, players have just 24 hours to claim the offer. Still, most bonuses grant at least a week to enjoy the games for free, and after the expiration date, all unused spins are forfeited. 

Wagering Requirements

Free spins promotions come with wagering requirements, which denote how many times you must bet the bonus winnings before cashing them out. The industry standard is 35x; anything lower than that is considered much more favourable for players. For example, if you win $10 while playing with free spins, you’ll need to wager $350 to be allowed to take out the winnings.     

Maximum Winnings

Online casino bonuses have a cap on the maximum amount you can win when playing with free spins. So, if the limit is set to $100, you won’t be able to claim any funds above that sum despite winning more. 

The Best Casinos with Free Spins

If you want to see what the typical free spin offers from trustworthy online casinos look like, check out the best online casinos with free spin offers:

  • Lotus Asia Casino offers 125 FS to new and existing players on the Cash Vegas slot
  • Kudos Casino attracts new players with 100 FS on the Snowmania slot
  • Lincoln Casino extends an offer to new and resident players with 50 FS on Cleopatra’s Pyramid II 
  • Grand Eagle Casino has a bonus of 99 FS available for existing players only allowed on The Prize is Right slot
  • Uptown Aces Casino also promotes a 100 FS bonus valid for existing players on the Ghost Ship slot

Final Thoughts

Many online casinos offer free spin bonuses to new and existing players. To determine which casino bonus is worthwhile, you’ll need to check the bonus conditions, looking for wagering requirements, maximum winnings, game eligibility, and bonus validity. After carefully evaluating these factors, you’ll be ready to choose the best free spin bonuses that will allow you to enjoy and potentially reward your gaming experience.

What to Look for in a Business Broker When Selling Your Company

Selling a company is a significant milestone that requires careful planning, strategic decision-making, and expert guidance. Choosing the right business broker is one of the most crucial steps in this process. A skilled and experienced broker can make all the difference in securing a successful sale and maximizing your company’s value. In this blog, we will explore the key factors to consider when selecting a business broker to guide you through the complex process of selling your company.

Experience and Expertise

When it comes to selling a company, industry-specific knowledge and experience are paramount. Business advisors at www.hedgestone.com/ recommend looking for a business broker with a proven track record in your industry. They should be familiar with your niche market’s unique challenges and opportunities. An experienced broker will deeply understand industry trends, valuation methodologies, and potential buyers. This expertise will enable them to position your company effectively and attract the right buyers who can recognize its true value.

Reputation and Track Record

Before committing to a business broker, it’s essential to research their reputation and track record. A reputable broker will have a strong reputation based on their past performance and client satisfaction. Look for brokers who have positive testimonials and reviews from previous clients. Additionally, seek referrals from trusted sources in your industry or professional network. A broker with a solid track record of successful transactions demonstrates their expertise, professionalism, and ability to achieve favorable outcomes for their clients. Conduct thorough research to ensure that the broker you choose has a proven history of delivering results and can be relied upon to guide you through the selling process effectively.

Marketing Strategy

A well-executed marketing strategy is crucial when selecting a business broker. A reputable broker will have a comprehensive plan to market your company and attract potential buyers. They will leverage their extensive network, online platforms, and industry connections to maximize exposure for your business. Look for brokers who utilize targeted advertising, confidential listings, and proactive outreach to qualified buyers. A strong marketing campaign will ensure that your company receives the attention it deserves, generating more significant opportunities and competitive offers. By selecting a broker with a solid marketing strategy, you can increase the chances of a successful sale and achieve the best possible value for your company.

Communication and Transparency

Effective communication and transparency are key factors to consider when choosing a business broker. A reputable broker will prioritize clear and open communication with their clients throughout the entire process. They should promptly respond to inquiries, provide regular updates on the status of the sale, and address any concerns or questions that may arise. Transparency is equally important – a trustworthy broker will be upfront about potential challenges, market conditions, and realistic expectations. They should provide detailed information about their fees, contracts, and any other relevant aspects of the transaction. By selecting a broker who values communication and transparency, you can establish a strong working relationship built on trust and ensure a smoother and more successful business sale experience.

Negotiation Skills

Negotiation skills are critical when it comes to securing the best possible deal for your company. A skilled business broker should possess strong negotiation skills and be adept at navigating complex agreements. They should be able to represent your best interests while maintaining a collaborative approach with potential buyers. Look for a broker who can demonstrate their ability to negotiate favorable terms, maximize the value of the sale, and resolve conflicts effectively. Their expertise in negotiation can significantly impact the outcome of the sale and ensure that you achieve your desired goals.

Confidentiality and Privacy

Maintaining confidentiality is of utmost importance during the selling process. A reliable business broker should have a proven track record of safeguarding sensitive information and protecting your company’s privacy. Inquire about their confidentiality policies and strategies for minimizing the risk of leaks or breaches. Their commitment to maintaining confidentiality will provide you with peace of mind and protect your company’s reputation throughout the selling process.

Fees and Contracts

When engaging a business broker, it’s essential to understand their fee structure and ensure it aligns with your budget and expectations. Clarify any upfront costs, commission rates, or additional fees associated with their services. Review all contractual agreements carefully before committing to ensure that you are comfortable with the terms and conditions. A reputable broker will be transparent about their fees and contracts, offering clarity and answering any questions you may have.

Choosing the right business broker is a critical step in successfully selling your company. Their experience, reputation, marketing strategies, communication skills, negotiation expertise, commitment to confidentiality, and transparent fee structure are all essential factors to consider. Take the time to research potential brokers, interview them, and ask for references. By selecting a trusted and experienced broker, you can navigate the complexities of selling your company with confidence, securing the best possible outcome, and maximizing the value of your hard-earned business.

Dell unveils AI and analytics storage appliance ObjectScale 1.3

Dell Technologies has launched a new software innovation, ObjectScale version 1.3, that is set to redefine the object storage landscape.

The latest release of the groundbreaking technology comes as a fully integrated, turnkey solution in the form of ObjectScale XF960, an all-flash appliance that promises to bring unprecedented speed, sustainability, and security to object storage architecture.

ObjectScale is Dell’s software-defined object storage system. Now it is available as a turnkey hardware appliance with limited scalability. The XF960 is the first member of an ObjectScale X-Series family and based on a latest-generation Dell PowerEdge server running ObjectScale v1.3 software. The system includes servers, network switches, rack-mount equipment, and appropriate power cables.

Geeta Vaghela, Senior Director, Unstructured Data Solutions, Dell Technologies said: “Object storage is evolving—fast. More and more, it’s embraced as primary storage for demanding high-growth workloads like analytics, generative AI (GenAI) and related cloud-native application development.

“Dell ObjectScale has demonstrated its value through scale-out architecture, high-performance containerized object storage which is built for those next-generation demands to help organisations innovate faster with a global namespace, strong S3 compatibility, powerful performance and enterprise-grade security that’s ready on day one.”

ObjectScale is now available as the world’s most powerful object storage appliance custom-built on Kubernetes.1

Optimize and Flex Your Cloud for GenAI and More

ObjectScale provides users to seamlessly scale from current needs to petabytes and beyond, offering a choice between OpEx and CapEx pricing models for a genuinely public cloud-like experience. Optimise data management with software defined ObjectScale at edge locations for efficient data ingest, complemented by XF960 appliance in the data center for hard-core processing capabilities.

Combining Starburst with ObjectScale Dell establishes the foundation for a high-performance, infinitely scalable lakehouse on-premises and across multi-cloud environments. The possibilities are virtually endless.In addition to the cutting-edge all-flash appliance, ObjectScale is available with a choice of two software-defined “flavours.” With the Software Bundle, users can deploy on their infrastructure while entrusting Dell to manage ObjectScale and Kubernetes.

With As-an-Application, Dell handles ObjectScale, and users can deploy and run on Red Hat OpenShift, which is industry’s leading hybrid cloud application platform powered by Kubernetes.

Chris Morgan, Senior Director, Hybrid Platforms, Red Hat said: “Red Hat OpenShift offers a more consistent, reliable platform to build, deploy and manage applications across hybrid cloud environments. By running ObjectScale As-an-Application on Red Hat OpenShift, organisations can more seamlessly provision and scale high-performance object storage for optimized flexibility.”

Speed Innovation with Added Performance and Sustainability

AI, machine learning, analytics, and cloud-native applications where millisecond latency is critical. Organisation seeking combination of scale and performance to train their algorithms via on-premises cloud operations will find XF960 to be the perfect fit.

The ObjectScale XF960 sets a new standard for development cycles by harnessing the robust performance of the latest-generation PowerEdge server and full-stack NVMe connectivity. Achieving speeds of up to 4.3GB/sec reads and 3.3GB/sec writes per node, the KF960 ensures rapid data access and transfer, propelling algorithms to new heights.

Notably, this remarkable performance is complemented by cutting-edge sustainability and efficiency features, including PowerEdge Smart Cooling technology. Intelligent thermal algorithms and Dell’s innovative Smart Flow chassis direct cooling precisely.

In addition to delivering 2x higher density compared to its predecessor, the XF960 offers flexible consumption options to minimize waste and emissions. Dell further extends its commitment to customer satisfaction through comprehensive professional services options, encompassing secure data sanitization and destruction.

Establish Zero Trust at Enterprise Scale

ObjectScale is built from the same codebase as Dell ECS and inherits its trusted, enterprise-proven pedigree. As the first provider to deliver a commercial content-addressable storage (CAS) system—Dell Centera—Dell Technologies has over 20 years of leadership in object storage and with ObjectScale, organisations can apply Dell’s established Zero Trust mindset by delivering comprehensive built-in security and data protection.

The latest software update and new features in XF960 advance capabilities beyond what’s available with public cloud alone. Strengthen auditing and compliance with new S3 bucket logging and enhanced S3 replication. Protect against “bad actor” threats such as rogue admins with new consensus-based protection and self-encrypting (SED) drives.

Learn more about our new XF960 appliance and object storage innovations here.

RED BULL MEO: Irish Gamers Invited To Compete In Worlds Largest Mobile Esports Open

Irish gamers will have the chance to mix it with some of the country’s best esports pros this month as the world’s largest mobile esports open competition comes to Ireland for the very first time. Now in its sixth season globally, Red Bull M.E.O. sees players from over 30 countries compete, with incredible prizes for the winners.

Red Bull M.E.O. is a free competition, open to participants of all levels, and is a rare opportunity for casual mobile gamers to take on established professionals from the Irish circuit. The most popular mobile esports open internationally, this is the first year that the competition will be open to Irish gamers.

The two chosen titles in which players can compete are Clash Royale and PUBG Mobile. Clash Royale is open to individual players, and will be played in a standard single elimination tournament format. The first qualifier for Clash Royale takes place on January 13th with the second to follow on January 21st. The top 4 players from each qualifier will proceed to the grand finals.

PUBG Mobile, which is open to duos (teams of 2 players), will follow a similar format. Two online qualifiers will take place on January 14th and January 20th respectively. Eight teams will in turn qualify for the live final, with four teams proceeding from each round.

On Saturday January 27th, the Red Bull M.E.O. Live Final will take place in the Sugar Club in Dublin, where Ireland’s top gamers will battle it out to claim the Red Bull M.E.O. title for the first time on these shores.

Red Bull M.E.O. Season 6 (Ireland) 

  • Clash Royale Qualifier #1 – Saturday January 13th
  • PUBG Mobile Qualifier #1 – Sunday January 14th
  • PUBG Mobile Qualifier #2 – Saturday January 20th
  • Clash Royale Qualifier #2 – Sunday January 21st
  • Red Bull M.E.O. National Finals – Saturday January 27th

Tech Review – Tronsmart T7 Lite waterproof bluetooth speaker

The Tronsmart T7 Lite waterproof bluetooth speaker is the latest on offer from the company at an affordable price and toned down somewhat from the Tronsmart T7 we reviewed some time ago but all is still good here when it comes to sound from this portable speaker.

The design is slightly different but we have still got RGB lights and this speaker is also lighter than before still with all the buttons up front and a lanyard to hang from wherever suits you best and can be used outdoors of course with the IPX7 rating. The housing is solid too and the overall build quality is robust with a nice finish and look.

You have an array of buttons up front all raised and easy to use and you can use their app too which is great at this price point the app screenshots below show you what to expect as well as our full video review below..

Given its size it packs a punch with the audio that comes from it, you can connect your device or insert an SD card and let it play all day long with a 24HR battery life, the speakers are decently loud with no tinny sound or distortion when put up to the max as you should, it will fill a decent sized room given its size and with the RGB light effects you can impress your guests at a party or out at the beach or poolside.

With Dual pairing you can pair more than one and get double the effects if you wish to do so and with the App control you can get the sound desired and customise to your own requirements which again is great to see app access at this price on a bluetooth speaker.

Overall this is a well priced speaker with plenty of features not seen at this price with the quality to match, check out the video review below for more and see what you can expect.

 

  • [Powerful Bass with App Control] The T7 Lite portable speaker features 24w full frequency high power, 2 full-range drivers and an aluminum alloy bass vibrator for a rich and powerful sound experience. Customize your sound and lighting preferences with the Tronsmart App, available on the App Store and Google Play. Perfect for music lovers looking for a premium audio experience.

 

  • [24-Hour Playback with Extended Battery Life] Enjoy up to 24 hours of uninterrupted playback (medium capacity) with our powerful 4,000mA battery. And with quick 3-4 hour charging, you’ll never have to wait long to get back to your music. Plus, save on electricity by easily turning off the lighting mode with the power button. Our extended battery life is the perfect solution for music lovers on the go.
  • [Ultra-Portable Waterproof IPX7] Take your music anywhere with the T7 Lite waterproof speaker. Its compact size and detachable cable make it easy to carry in one hand, while its waterproof design protects against splashes, rain, and more. Perfect for outdoor adventures, beach trips, pool parties, and even showers!
  • [Dual Audio Modes & Stereo Pairing] Elevate your listening experience with Tronsmart T7 Lite wireless speaker’s dual audio modes and stereo pairing feature. Connect two Bluetooth speakers to enjoy up to 48W of powerful sound. Plus, you can seamlessly switch tunes by connecting up to two phones or tablets. Perfect for music lovers who crave high-quality audio and convenience.
  • [Latest version of Bluetooth 5.3 ] Experience faster and more stable connections that are compatible with a wide range of Bluetooth devices including iPhone, Samsung, mp3, television, and laptops. Enjoy the added convenience of inserting a Micro SD/TF card to play music, hands-free calling, and access to Siri and other voice commands. Get the best out of your Bluetooth devices with Bluetooth 5.3.

Buy From Tronsmart 

Buy From Amazon

Video Review

Nokia and Honor sign 5G patent license agreement

Nokia announced today it has signed a new patent cross-license agreement with Honor covering both parties’ fundamental inventions in 5G and other cellular technologies. The terms of the agreement remain confidential between the parties.

Susanna Martikainen, Chief Licensing Officer Mobile Devices at Nokia said: “We are delighted to have concluded an amicable patent cross-license agreement with Honor, one of the leading players in the Chinese smartphone market. It is the fourth major litigation-free smartphone agreement that Nokia has concluded over the past twelve months and highlights once again the strength of Nokia’s patent portfolio and decades-long contributions to cellular standards and other technologies.”

Wenyu Zhou, Head of Global Intellectual Property at Honor said: “As both 5G SEP holder and implementer, Honor highly respects IP rights and strongly believes that reasonable value of IP is important to the development of mobile industry. The conclusion of the patent cross-license agreement shows Honor’s commitment on innovation to enabling a smart life across all scenarios and all channels, for all people.”

Nokia’s industry-leading patent portfolio is built on more than €140 billion invested in R&D since 2000 and is composed of around 20,000 patent families, including over 6,000 patent families declared essential to 5G. Nokia contributes its inventions to open standards in return for the right to license them on fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory (FRAND) terms. Companies can license and use these technologies without the need to make their own substantial investments in the standards, fueling innovation and the development of new products and services for consumers.

Esri’s digital mapping system delivers savings of €5.8M to Fibrus in NI broadband rollout

Esri Ireland, the market leader in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), is today announcing that its digital mapping system has delivered savings of up to €5.8 million to broadband provider Fibrus as it accelerates broadband rollout in Northern Ireland. Fibrus is providing connectivity to 85,000 rural homes and businesses under the Northern Ireland Executive’s initiative, Project Stratum.

Using its ArcGIS technology, Esri Ireland designed a suite of integrated solutions to streamline processes throughout the entire lifecycle of planning, constructing, and maintaining fibre networks. The technology is improving cost control for Fibrus, as ArcGIS calculates precise costs for new infrastructure plans and optimises the number of potential customers in project areas.

The solution is transforming Fibrus’ operations and resulting in time savings of 500 hours per week for Fibrus, its contractors, and subcontractors. It has enhanced process efficiency by at least 50% and is enabling the company to maintain a steady rate of over 5,000 rural home and business connections every month.

Wherever they’re working, over 1,000 field operatives can view plans on digital maps, collect survey data, record cable and pole installations, and flag any issues. Data is shared in real-time to a central dashboard which is improving workflows and increasing collaboration. This has also improved data accuracy, streamlined time-intensive tasks, and decreased misinformation-related issues, enabling Fibrus to meet targets significantly faster.

Issues such as cut cables or storm-damaged poles are now promptly identified, simplifying maintenance planning and facilitating rapid repairs. Dependence on paper-based maps has been eliminated, and Fibrus also uses data collected and shared via ArcGIS online to validate contractor invoices and approve payments based on the latest construction progress information.

Riain Garcia, Senior Manager, GIS, Fibrus, said: “Esri’s system provides far greater visibility of what is happening on the ground, helping us to improve financial control, traceability, and accountability. We have already seen significant cost savings by using ArcGIS to reduce build revisits and by using dashboards to track progress instead of manual processes.”

“I don’t think we would have accomplished the exceptionally high number of connections needed for Project Stratum as fast as we did without ArcGIS. It gives everyone a one-stop shop for information on everything to do with Fibrus projects.”

Philip McLaughlin, Client Manager, Esri Ireland, said: “Fibrus is paving the way towards a more connected future. We’re thrilled to see our technology making a real difference in bringing connectivity to people and businesses throughout Northern Ireland. ArcGIS is a powerful tool which is not only impacting positively on Fibrus and its operations, but is ultimately benefiting and connecting more communities.”