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.

Dublin Fire Brigade installs Public Access Defibrillators at all its stations

In support of international ‘Restart a Heart’ day, Dublin Fire Brigade unveils fourteen new Public Access Automatic External Defibrillators (AED) located prominently outside each of its fire stations across the city and county. This is a significant step forward in enhancing community safety and will be available 24/7 to provide immediate assistance especially during critical moments when every second counts. These AEDs will guide an untrained person through Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation, with voice prompts and encouragement while paramedics make their way to the patient and guidance is provided by Emergency Service Controllers over the 999/112 call.

The installation of the AEDs was prompted by an incident which happened outside Finglas fire station in January of this year. Pauline Ryan suffered a cardiac arrest in Finglas village while she was a passenger in a car being driven by her sister, who had the presence of mind to pull in to the fire station. At the time, the fire appliance, ambulance and all their medical equipment were out at another call, co-incidently, another Cardiac Arrest. Fortunately, the District Officer and a Firefighter/Paramedic were in the station and were able to perform life-saving CPR on Pauline until the arrival of colleagues from Phibsborough Fire Station, who were able to successfully defibrillate and resuscitate Pauline.

There is a simultaneous unveiling of the AEDs across all fourteen locations, and we are joined at Finglas Fire Station by Dublin Lord Mayor Daithí de Róiste. Speaking at the launch the Lord Mayor said, “I’m honoured to unveil the Public Access Defibrillator here at Finglas Fire Station, and to be part of the simultaneous launch of thirteen other AEDs across the city. The life-saving piece of equipment is a positive addition to the local community and to the people of Dublin.”

Dublin’s Chief Fire Officer is represented today by Assistant Chief Fire Officer Greg O’Dwyer who commented, “The Firefighter/Paramedics and Officers of Dublin Fire Brigade recognise the fire, rescue and medical role they provide in the wider community but also their closest neighbours to our 14 stations. Obviously we hope that these AEDs never have to be used, but we also hope that the installation of the AEDs provide some piece of mind and reassurance to our neighbours or commuters who pass our stations.”

Pauline, whose medical emergency prompted the installation of the AEDs joined with the Firefighters at the launch. Pauline said, “Only for the quick actions of my sister, the two firefighters in Finglas fire station and their colleagues from Phibsborough, I may not be here today. To them I am forever grateful. Knowing what I know now, I would encourage everyone from a young age to learn CPR. It is a life skill, literally“

This initiative aligns with Dublin Fire Brigade’s dedication to proactive community engagement and safety. By having these AEDs at our fire stations, we aim to bridge the gap between emergency services and the public fostering a sense of unity and co-operation within our great city. Dublin Fire Brigade encourages members of the community to take a course in CPR and the use of an AED. Visit www.irishheart.ie for a list of available “Heartsaver AED and CPR” courses in your area.

The AEDs are located outside each of the fourteen fire stations in a heated secure box. Members of the public can access the defibrillators by calling 999/112 stating their location. Simultaneously medical help will be dispatched and guidance will be given over the phone.

Tesco Ireland redistributes 20 million meals to 350 charitable groups in 10 years

Over the past decade, almost 20 million meals, or 7,900 tonnes of food, have been redistributed to people living in food insecurity across Ireland, thanks to Tesco Ireland’s Surplus Food Donations Programme. On average, Tesco Ireland redistributes and donates up to 40,000 meals every week to over 350 charities across the country.

New research commissioned by FoodCloud, a social enterprise with a mission to transform surplus food into opportunities, shows that families with children are the single largest group of people accessing donations from Tesco Ireland’s Food Surplus Redistribution programme.

According to the study, conducted in July of this year, families with children make up almost half (47%) of all those accessing food donations, while three quarters (75%) of community groups, who distribute surplus food, report that they have experienced an increased demand for food in the last six months.

In ten years of partnership, diverting this surplus food from going to waste to those in Irish communities who need it, Tesco has significantly reduced emissions associated with the processing of this waste.

Working with FoodCloud and Olio, as well as over 350 local charitable and voluntary groups nationwide, Tesco redistributes surplus food at the end of each day to those who need it most in our communities. This food is perfectly edible but because it is nearing its use by date, it will be removed from the shelves in store. Typical donations comprise fruit and vegetables, bakery goods, meat and more.

In 2013, Tesco Ireland became the first retailer to partner nationally with FoodCloud, and this year the two organisations are celebrating 10 years of working together. The programme, which began in one Tesco Express store on Talbot Street in Dublin city, is now in operation across Ireland, and has since expanded into the UK, Czechia, and Slovakia.

Marking this important milestone, Tesco Ireland Communications Director, Rosemary Garth said: “We are very proud of what has been achieved since we launched our national Surplus Food Donations Programme 10 years ago. As a grocery retailer we have no time for waste and are absolutely committed to ensuring that no good food goes to waste when there are people in our communities who need it.

Since we launched this programme, which is powered by our partners FoodCloud and Olio, we have provided almost 20 million meals to the most vulnerable in our communities. This has enabled the charitable and voluntary sector in Ireland to reduce their food bills by over €23 million, which, according to FoodCloud, has empowered them to invest in providing an even greater level of support services in towns and cities nationwide”.

Co-founder of FoodCloud, Aoibheann O’Brien said: “Tesco’s commitment to eliminating edible food waste from their stores has positioned us as a global leader in tackling food waste. Through our strong partnership with Tesco, we have continued to grow our impact, innovate, and push boundaries around what is possible around food redistribution. We have worked together to reduce food waste for 10 years, expanding across four countries.”

How Entrepreneurs Leverage HR Technology for Business Growth

In today’s fast-paced and technology-driven business world, entrepreneurs are constantly seeking innovative solutions to drive growth and success. Human resources, a cornerstone of any organization, has not been immune to this transformation. The integration of HR technology has proven to be a game-changer, allowing entrepreneurs to streamline processes, enhance employee experiences, and ultimately foster business growth. In this blog post, we will explore how entrepreneurs leverage HR technology to optimize their workforce and achieve long-term success.

Transforming Workforce Solutions 

One of the fundamental ways in which entrepreneurs are leveraging HR technology is by transforming workforce solutions. In the past, managing employee data, payroll, and benefits could be time-consuming and error-prone. With the advent of cloud-based HR platforms, entrepreneurs can now effortlessly take advantage of workforce solutions and manage employee information, track attendance, and process payroll with unprecedented accuracy. This not only reduces administrative overhead but also allows entrepreneurs to allocate their resources more strategically.

Being on top of the most efficient financial solutions gives entrepreneurs a major advantage in today’s competitive market. Expert services can help you keep up with the top trends shaping global payroll which allows for better compliance, flexibility and strategic workforce planning. These trends often include automation, real-time reporting and tailored tax solutions that meet country-specific regulations. Adopting these innovations can lead to smoother expansion and improved employee satisfaction across multiple regions.

Enhancing Recruitment and Talent Acquisition 

Recruiting top talent is crucial for business growth, and HR technology plays a pivotal role in this regard. Entrepreneurs are increasingly turning to applicant tracking systems (ATS) and AI-powered tools to streamline the recruitment process. These systems can sift through resumes, identify the best candidates, and even predict which applicants are most likely to succeed in the organization. Such enhancements in recruitment efficiency not only save time but also improve the quality of the workforce, directly impacting business performance. This, combined with consulting expert HR services, ensures that businesses not only find the right candidates but also enhance their overall recruitment strategy.

Empowering Employee Engagement 

Employee engagement is the heart of any successful business. Entrepreneurs recognize the significance of keeping their employees motivated and satisfied. HR technology enables them to do just that. Tools like employee self-service portals, regular feedback surveys, and recognition programs are now more accessible than ever. These platforms empower employees, improve communication, and help build a positive workplace culture that directly influences business growth.

Data-Driven Decision-Making 

Entrepreneurs are increasingly relying on data-driven decision-making, and HR technology provides them with the necessary insights. Through advanced analytics, HR platforms can provide invaluable information about employee performance, turnover rates, and more. This data allows entrepreneurs to make informed decisions related to resource allocation, talent development, and organizational strategies, all of which contribute to business growth.

Streamlining Compliance and Risk Management 

Ensuring compliance with ever-evolving labor laws and regulations can be a significant challenge for entrepreneurs. HR technology offers features such as automated reporting, real-time compliance monitoring, and even predictive analytics to identify potential compliance risks. By automating these processes, entrepreneurs can focus on their core business activities while reducing legal liabilities and associated risks.

Continuous Learning and Development 

Investing in employee development is a key driver of business growth. HR technology has made it easier for entrepreneurs to create learning and development programs that are tailored to individual employee needs. This includes e-learning platforms, personalized training recommendations, and performance tracking. By upskilling their workforce, entrepreneurs can adapt to changing market demands and stay competitive.

Remote Work and Flexibility 

 

Remote work and flexibility have become integral aspects of modern work environments, greatly influenced by the evolving landscape of business operations and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift represents a fundamental change in how entrepreneurs manage their workforce. HR technology plays a pivotal role in facilitating remote work and fostering flexibility. It enables entrepreneurs to effectively manage geographically dispersed teams, monitor productivity through remote work tracking tools, and ensure employees have the necessary digital infrastructure for seamless remote collaboration. This newfound flexibility not only benefits employees by improving work-life balance but also allows businesses to tap into a broader talent pool by accommodating remote workers. As a result, entrepreneurs are not only responding to current demands but also preparing for the future by embracing this new work paradigm, which contributes to business growth and resilience in an ever-changing world.

Employee Wellbeing and Benefits 

Employee wellbeing and benefits are vital components of a successful business strategy, and HR technology plays a crucial role in ensuring effective management. With the help of advanced HR platforms, entrepreneurs can offer a wide range of benefits tailored to their employees’ needs, whether it’s comprehensive healthcare coverage, flexible work arrangements, or mental health support. These platforms also provide the tools to track employee wellbeing, enabling employers to proactively address any issues that may arise. By prioritizing employee wellbeing and benefits, entrepreneurs not only foster a healthier, more satisfied workforce but also boost productivity, reduce turnover, and enhance their organization’s overall reputation – all of which contribute to sustainable business growth.

The adoption of HR technology is not just a trend; it is a necessity in optimizing workforce solutions, enhancing recruitment, empowering employee engagement, and facilitating data-driven decision-making. By embracing these innovative tools, entrepreneurs are better equipped to navigate challenges, adapt to change, and ultimately fuel their business growth. As HR technology continues to evolve, entrepreneurs must remain agile and open to new solutions, ensuring they remain competitive in the ever-changing business world.

Midlands ICT Cluster Thriving – Potential For Over 800 new jobs to be created by 2026 new research finds

Ireland’s Midlands is set to become an increasingly important ICT hub, new research published today suggests. According to the Midlands ICT Cluster Skills Survey, regional companies expect to create up to 800 new ICT jobs over the next 3 years, in addition to over 3,000 already employed across the region.

The research was carried out by the Midlands Regional Skills Forum, an industry and education partnership, on behalf of the Midlands ICT Cluster. A key finding from the forum was that currently over 70% of companies responding have critical vacancies. Opportunities exist for people with skills in the following areas:

  • Cloud computing and software development (sought by 50% of respondents).
  • Data analytics, AI and machine learning (40%)
  • Cyber security, networking, IT service management and project management (25%).

Ms. Sinéad Pillion, Head of Operations for Ericsson and Industry Chair of the Midlands ICT Cluster Steering Committee, said, “The launch of the Midlands ICT Cluster Skills Survey highlights the genuine opportunities that exist supporting the already strong ICT ecosystem in the region. With 93% of participants anticipating growth in the next three years there will be significant job growth in tech for the Midlands. Meeting this demand will require the ongoing collaboration between the regional skills forum and businesses.”

Dr. Anne Cusack, Chair of the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan Steering Committee, stated, “the results of the ICT Cluster Skills Survey can be seen as a great opportunity for the overall growth of the Midlands region. Attracting further talent to the Midlands while also enhancing the existing talented workforce living in the region is a priority for both the steering committee and local businesses.”

Mr. John Costello from the Midlands Regional Skills Forum who conducted the survey on skills, talent and education, commented on the findings, “the results contain a strong endorsement of work, being carried out across the region, to enhance the level of skills available, from extensive schools programmes, to ICT career pathways, and third level qualifications. Most notably by the fact that 60% of businesses anticipate being able to hire from the pool of talented people already living in the region.”

The survey aligns with Future Jobs Ireland’s strategic message, with a focus on skills and talent. The survey sought to identify critical vacancies, key skills needs, and other related strengths, weaknesses. opportunities, and threats (SWOT) relevant to the Midlands ICT Cluster. The survey was undertaken on behalf of the Midlands ICT Cluster by the Skills & Talent Working Group and the Midlands Regional Skills Forum.

Square Root Solutions and Factory44 Launch Start-App Competition to Propel Developer Talent in Ireland

Square Root Solutions, Ireland’s app development company of the year, has partnered with Ireland’s on-demand creative studio, Factory44 to launch Ireland’s Start-App Competition, offering early-stage start-ups and entrepreneurs the chance to win a €20,000 prize package to bring creative apps or website concepts to fruition.

The Start-App Competition provides a platform for developers to bridge the gap between ideation and execution, helping them to deliver apps and websites that are intuitive, user-friendly, and customer-centric. The top 10 applicants will be invited to present their concept to a panel of judges comprising esteemed members of Ireland’s business community at Factory44’s brand new facility in the heart of Dublin city. In addition to assessing the bonafides of the participating individuals and teams, judges will grade submissions through the lens of scalability, product viability and market demand.

The €20,000 prize package includes mentorship from industry experts and the opportunity to work closely with Square Root Solutions’ leading developers to scope, design and develop an app/website prototype worth €15,000, featuring the essential functionalities needed to demonstrate the concept to prospective customers and investors. Additionally, the winning project will receive a one year membership to Factory44’s creative hub (worth €4,500), granting them unlimited, on-demand access to a dedicated team of experienced creatives, designers, and strategists, as well as invites to exclusive member-only events. As part of the prize package, a showcase article on the winning concept will also be published in Startups Magazine, a dedicated media outlet for tech startups and industry disruptors. Interested parties can apply here. The deadline to submit applications is 30th November.

Factory44 is a membership-based hub of creative solutions catering to the diverse and time-sensitive content needs of businesses at every stage of development. Powered by a state-of-the-art studio and equipment suite, the company’s full-scope of content creation services includes podcasting, videography and photography, with additional packages for copywriting, video editing, strategic digital consultancy, graphic and web design, as well as social media management.

Square Root Solutions is a multi award winning app development company with offices in Dublin, Cork and Kilkenny. Recently named App Development Company of the Year for the second consecutive year by the All-Ireland Business Foundation, Square Root Solutions provides comprehensive and cost-effective website and mobile app development services to startups and established brands worldwide.

Robbie Phelan, Co-Founder of Factory44 said: “We’re delighted to launch Ireland’s Start-App Competition, which will serve as an incubator for high-potential start-ups and innovative ideas. Through our partnership with Square Root Solutions, we are providing a unique springboard for entrepreneurs to fast-track development and growth. I believe fortune favours the brave, and we’re encouraging individuals and teams to think outside the box and explore novel concepts that will impress our panel of judges.”

Ciaran Stone, CEO of Square Root Solutions said: “With the Start-App Competition, we want to nurture Ireland’s entrepreneurial talent and help inspire a wave of creative app and website development. To date, Square Root Solutions has worked with over 300 startups, so we know exactly what it takes to help bring a concept from ideation to market. We’re really looking forward to receiving applications from a diverse pool of participants across Ireland’s vibrant startup community.”

Final introduces VR2000 earphones for immersive gaming and 3D audio experience

Final, the Japanese high-end audio specialist, has announced their latest venture into the world of gaming and VR with the new VR2000 earphones.
For close to five decades, Final has long proven their mastery of all things hi-fi. Starting in 1974 with the development of high-end turntable cartridges, amplifies and CD transports, and more recently moving onto portable audio with their award-winning headphone and earphone models – final’s experience and insight is unmatched.
With the VR2000 Final has turned its attention to gamers, VR users and the captivating world of ASMR and immersive audio. Using newly designed ‘f-Core DU’ custom-made dynamic 6mm drivers developed in-house, final has been able to tune the VR2000 to extract every detail from your digital surroundings.
Whether playing a first-person shooter, exploring virtual worlds, relaxing to mediative ASMR or listening to a live jazz recording – the VR2000 will transport you into the heart of the action and deliver an experience like never before with no sound going unheard.
Hear distant footsteps and gunfire as though you were in battle yourself. Feel every reaction from a stadium full of thousands of spectators. Transport yourself to a 1970’s jazz club and hear every note played as though you were there.

A Wealth of Applications

Primarily designed for gaming and VR, the VR2000 can also be utilised to get the most out of live recordings, intricate electronic music, ASMR and the latest advancements in Dolby Atmos technology. Unlike typical earphones, the VR2000 has been designed to provide a spatial listening experience with a naturally vast soundstage and the ability to hear each and every sound individually separated with absolute clarity.
This attention to detail and separation lends itself most effectively to gamers – especially those involved within a competitive domain. The ability to react in-game is heavily reliant on the quality of the audio, and the speed at which users notice sound effects that have been produced for this very reason. The VR2000 is able to separate each sound and simultaneously deliver them accurately, and naturally, within its expansive soundstage.

‘f-Core DU’ Custom-Made Dynamic Driver

With the ‘f-Core DU’ driver, Final has managed to achieve a quality of sound that is unheard of in this price range. Completely redesigning driver parts such as diaphragms, voice coils, magnets, magnetic circuits, and adhesives, as well as production equipment. The material of the driver front housing is brass, which is less affected by magnetic force and has a higher specific gravity than general aluminium. In order to improve the time response performance of the diaphragm, the voice coil uses 30μ ultra-fine CCAW and is assembled with a minimum amount of adhesive to thoroughly reduce the weight of the moving parts.
Further developments in housing design have resulted in a uniquely attractive appearance and comfortable fit for the VR2000. Shells made from ABS plastic provides durability, and the OFC cable is covered in a tough and flexible coating with an in-line 3 button control with a high-quality built-in microphone – ideal for online gaming, streaming and taking calls.
The VR2000 comes supplied with a number of accessories including a selection of final Type E silicon eartips, earhooks for added support, and a carry pouch for safe storage.

Specifications

Housing: ABS
Driver Type: 6mm ‘fCore DU’ Dynamic Driver
Colour: Olive Green
Cable: OFC with in-line microphone
Cable Length: 1.2m
Sensitivity: 102dB
Impedance: 18Ω
Weight: 20g
The Final VR2000 will be available to buy on the 15th of October for £59.99/$69.99/€67.99 from Amazon and selected retailers worldwide.

Five Ways Data Storage Can Advance Your Sustainability Ambitions

In Ireland, IT departments are increasingly prioritising sustainability as part of their Environmental, Societal, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. A recent survey Enterprise Strategy Group revealed (93%) of IT decision makers consider asking about a supplier’s ESG programme when making IT purchase decisions and looking to action their digital transformation strategy. Colin Boyd, data centre solutions sales director with Dell Technologies Ireland tells us more. 

Today’s digital age has brought a surge in data usage, placing a significant pressure on Irish organisations to adopt sustainable practices. This is especially relevant given the high energy prices experienced by many businesses. Notably data centers consume approximately 200 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity, which is nearly 1% of all global electricity demand. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that implementing a green data center and hitting the “Environmental” aspect of ESG is top of mind for IT decision makers.

That’s where the modern storage solutions are playing a crucial role in promoting sustainability and energy efficiency in data management. There are five key benefits to sustainable data storage that are contributing to a more environmentally friendly and energy-conscious future.

1. Energy Efficiency:

Sustainable data storage solutions are engineered to minimise energy consumption by leveraging cutting-edge hardware technologies and energy-efficient processors. By optimising power usage, organisations can not only reduce their electricity costs but also make substantial reductions in their carbon emissions.

The adoption of virtualisation technologies and cloud computing is a significant driver of sustainable data storage practices in Ireland. Through the consolidation of physical servers into virtual machines, businesses can utilize technology more efficiently, ultimately lowering the energy required to maintain and cool IT infrastructure.

Cloud-based storage solutions are also enhancing sustainability by providing on-demand scalability, allowing Irish companies to efficiently expand their storage capacity when and how they need. The shared infrastructure of the cloud also helps to reduce waste, resulting in more eco-friendly data centers.

2. Cost Savings enabled by advanced technologies:

Embracing sustainable IT data storage practices not only advances sustainability, but it can also result in significant cost reductions for Irish businesses. Through the strategic allocation of resources and the integration of advanced technologies designed to enhance energy efficiency, organisations can effectively lower their expenditures on hardware and maintenance.

Irish companies that opt for high-density storage arrays can make the most of their physical data center space while simultaneously making strides in reducing their carbon footprint and overall environmental impact. Dell’s PowerMax 2500 model can deliver more than five times the effective storage capacity per watt consumed (PBe/watt) compared to the previous PowerMax generation.

New technologies, including Edge Computing and AI, are emerging as sustainable alternatives to traditional centralised data storage methods. These innovations involve decentralising data processing and storage, which brings benefits like reduced latency, enhanced data security and decreased reliance on extensive network infrastructure and you can also check out a hybrid cloud case study for more information.

This shift aligns with Irish businesses’ sustainability goals, enabling them to cut down on energy consumption and achieve greater operational efficiency. AI-powered algorithms play a crucial role in this transformation by analysing and optimising data efficiently.

Machine learning algorithms can identify data usage patterns, allowing for proactive measures like data tiering, where frequently accessed data is stored on faster, energy-efficient drives. By dynamically managing data placement and resource allocation, AI optimization reduces energy consumption and enhances overall storage efficiency.

3. Minimising Data Footprints:

Ireland’s data management landscape is evolving at pace. New data management approaches are gaining traction among IT leaders for their ability to eliminate redundant or duplicate data, which not only reduces storage requirements but also enhances overall system efficiency. By minimising data footprints, Irish organisations can unlock several advantages, including cost savings, improved backup and recovery times, and decreased energy consumption.

4. Environmental Conservation:

Conventional data storage infrastructure has long been associated with significant energy consumption and dependence on non-renewable resources, presenting environmental challenges. Whereas sustainable data storage solutions offer a distinct advantage by harnessing renewable energy sources like solar and wind power This shift not only reduces carbon emissions but also lessens the environmental footprint. Furthermore, the adoption of renewable energy sources to power data centres aligns perfectly with the commitment of Irish organisations to a sustainable future.

5. Regulatory Compliance:

Across the globe governments and regulatory bodies are introducing more stringent environmental regulations, extending their reach to data storage practices. In Ireland, adhering to these regulations is crucial for organisations to avoid penalties and legal entanglements. By adopting to eco-friendly data storage solutions, Irish companies not only ensure compliance with these evolving regulations but also showcase their dedication to sustainable business practices.

Advancing sustainability together

The rise of sustainable data storage in Ireland reflects the technology industry’s dedication to advancing sustainability and accelerating climate action. This commitment spans various innovations, including virtualization, cloud computing, the integration of renewable energy sources, and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies like edge computing and AI optimization.

As Irish organisations embrace and further develop these new technologies and practices, they not only ensure their own future sustainability but also play a vital role in fostering a greener, more efficient, and sustainable future.

As the IT industry plans to increase emphasis on ESG data management initiatives. Dell Technologies is leading the changes in championing ESG initiatives and promoting sustainability with data centers. With a modern storage portfolio, our team at Dell Technologies Ireland can enable organisations to effectively address the demands of a data-driven world while simultaneously reducing their ecological footprint.

Midlands celebrates 4 Ericsson Finalists in Women in STEM Awards 2023

The highly anticipated Women in STEM Awards 2023 celebrate and recognise the incredible achievements and innovations of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in Ireland, with the Midlands region celebrating as four women from the Ericsson Athlone team have been named as finalists in the upcoming awards.

These awards shine a light on the women who are breaking barriers, pushing boundaries, and making a significant impact in their fields. Among the esteemed finalists, Ericsson Athlone has emerged as a stand-out contender, with an impressive four finalists from their Athlone team, confirming their dedication to diversity, innovation, and leadership in STEM.

Ericsson’s nominations span diverse categories, reflecting their continued work to promote gender balance, and highlight the opportunities of careers in STEM to women and girls across the Midlands region.

  • Role Model of the Year: Sinéad Pillion
  • Women in STEM Award for Engineering: Noreen Muldoon
  • STEM Graduate of the Year: Andrea Tesarova
  • Rising Star of the Year: Natallia Patsykalnik

The Women in STEM Awards have become a leading event in the STEM community, showcasing some of Ireland’s leading companies and organisations that are creating diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces that allow every employee to thrive, regardless of their background.

The awards are driven by the belief that when companies and organisations embrace diversity and inclusivity, they foster a culture of innovation and creativity, and provide the necessary support for women in STEM to reach their full potential.

Commenting on the nominations, Sinéad Pillion, Head of Programs & Operations for Network Management Engineering at Ericsson, and Chair of the Midlands ICT Cluster said, “It is an honour to be named as one of this year’s finalists, along with my three colleagues, in the Women in STEM Awards, and it’s a testament to Ericsson’s ongoing commitment to advancing gender diversity, technological innovation, and leadership within our industry.

“Through our INFUSE (Investing in Future Software Engineers) program at Ericsson Athlone, we are committed to investing in STEM through a range of initiatives that focus on creating enthusiasm around software engineering, with the aim of motivating more female students to consider a career in technology and software engineering. Across the Midlands region, there are so many inspiring programmes offered by members of the Midlands ICT Cluster and aimed at increasing female STEM participation, and we are delighted to support the ongoing work that is ensuring a bright future for women in STEM across the region.”

The Women in STEM Awards 2023 will be hosted on October 26th 2023, at a prestigious event in the Round Room at the Mansion House, Dublin. The event promises to be an inspiring evening, celebrating achievements, fostering networking, and encouraging future leaders in STEM. For more information about the event, please visit https://womeninstemawards.ie/

Top 6 Things Every Android User Should Know

Welcome, Android users! If you’re reading this, it means you’re keen to uncover the hidden gems within your device. Whether you’re a new user or an Android aficionado, this blog post is going to reveal some essential tips that can truly transform how you interact with your device. Let’s delve into the world of these operating systems!

App Updates and Maintenance

Keeping your Android operating system and apps updated is crucial for a seamless user experience. These updates often provide new features, bug fixes, and security enhancements that keep your device protected and working optimally. Moreover, using some App Templates can help you customize your Apps for better performance too. Most Android devices automatically notify you when updates are available, but you can also check manually in ‘Settings’ > ‘System’ > ‘Advanced’ > ‘System Update’ for OS updates, and for App updates go to ‘Google Play Store> ‘My Apps & Games’. 

Remember to connect to a reliable Wi-Fi network before updating to save on data usage. Also, routine maintenance like clearing the cache, deleting unnecessary files, and restarting your device regularly can significantly improve its performance. Don’t worry, your personal data won’t be affected by these processes. So, to enjoy a smooth, efficient, and secure Android experience, regular updates and maintenance should be your top priority!

Google Account and Synching

Your Google account is like the master key to unlocking your Android device’s full potential. It offers access to an ecosystem of Google services like Gmail, Google Photos, Google Drive, and more. Simply put, it’s the backbone of your Android experience. Now, onto syncing – this refers to the process of keeping your data updated across all your devices. 

Any changes you make on one device, like adding a contact or saving a photo, are mirrored on the others. To enable it, go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Accounts’ > ‘Google’, choose your account, and select the services you want to sync. Remember, regular syncing ensures you have access to the latest information, regardless of which device you’re using!

Security Measures

Androids offer a variety of security measures that will provide peace of mind. Here are the best options: 

 

  • Lock screen
  • System updates
  • App permission management
  • App source verification
  • Antivirus
  • Device encryption
  • VPN
  • Google play protect
  • Secure browsing
  • Secure emails practices
  • Backup
  • Two-factor authentication

 

Android’s security is multi-faceted. Lock screens provide the first line of defense, while system updates regularly patch vulnerabilities. App permission management helps you control your data, and app source verification ensures you download safe apps. Antivirus software offers additional protection, while device encryption, VPN services, Google Play Protect, and secure browsing provide extra layers of security. Secure email practices, regular backups, and two-factor authentication further enhance Android’s security architecture.

Data Usage Management

Managing your data usage on Android is straightforward. Navigate to ‘Settings’ > ‘Network & Internet’ > ‘Data usage’ to find an overview of your data consumption. Here, you can set a warning for when data usage approaches a certain limit and even specify a limit to automatically restrict data use. If you wish to understand which apps consume the most data, go to ‘App data usage’. 

Here, you can see a detailed breakdown per app and choose to restrict background data for apps that consume too much. This will cause these apps to only use data when actively being used. Proper data management helps avoid unexpected charges and ensures a smoother Android experience.

Data Backups

Data backups on Android operating systems are a lifesaver, allowing you to preserve and restore your personal information, apps, settings, and more. Google’s built-in backup service, tied to your Google account, automatically backs up data like Wi-Fi passwords, call history, and app data to Google Drive. To enable this, navigate to ‘Settings’ > ‘System’ > ‘Backup’, and toggle ‘Backup to Google Drive’ on. 

If you ever switch phones or need to reset your device, you can restore this data during the setup process. Third-party apps offer additional backup options. Regular backups ensure you never lose important information and can resume your Android experience seamlessly, no matter what happens.

Battery Optimization

Optimizing your Android device’s battery life is essential for prolonged, uninterrupted usage. Android’s built-in battery optimization feature intelligently manages how apps use batteries by putting inactive apps into a low-power state. Access this feature at ‘Settings’ > ‘Battery’ > ‘Battery Optimization’. You can choose to optimize all apps or select specific ones. Additionally, Android’s Adaptive Battery feature learns your app usage patterns and prioritizes battery for the apps you use most. 

Also, the Battery Saver mode reduces your device’s overall power consumption by limiting features like location services and background data. Remember, a well-optimized battery ensures your Android device lasts the whole day, enhancing your user experience.

 

So, there you have it! These six essential tips can truly elevate your Android experience. Don’t forget that keeping your device updated, secured, and optimized not only enhances its performance but also extends its lifespan. So go ahead, unlock the full potential of your Android device, and enjoy the seamless, efficient, and secure experience it offers. Happy Android-ing!