KOJIMA PRODUCTIONS, in partnership with Sony Interactive Entertainment, confirmed a new action-espionage game in the latest State of Play. View the full announcement here.
“Yes, today, I’m excited to announce that we at Kojima Productions are creating a brand-new action-espionage game,” said Hideo Kojima. “Preparations are underway, but production will begin in earnest after Death Stranding 2. We have strong experience with Sony Interactive Entertainment, having grown the action-espionage genre together for almost 30 years, and while most of our partnerships with Sony in the past have been for games, they also produce music and films, and this will definitely be a cooperative collaboration.”
With the full support of Sony Interactive Entertainment, this new action-espionage game will use cutting-edge technology and a stellar cast to deliver an experience like no other. Blurring the boundaries between film and games, offering near life-like graphics and a new take on interactive entertainment.
CitySwift, the Galway-based leader in data intelligence for the public transport sector, has announced the closing of its latest funding round, securing €7 million. The round was led by Gresham House Ventures, a growth equity investor specialising in scaling businesses across a range of sectors in Ireland and the UK, investing €5 million. Led by Benjamin Faulkner and Tom Makey, the investment formed part of a €7 million round with all existing investors following including Irelandia Investments, the Western Development Commission, and ACT Venture Capital (with Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF) has an investor in ACT Venture Capital).
CitySwift is an intelligent transport data platform that increases the performance of public transport networks using AI-powered analytics, simulations and optimisations. Based in Galway, Ireland, CitySwift works with public sector transport authorities and private bus operators to break down the barriers to accessing and interpreting transport data. CitySwift’s platform aggregates, cleans and enriches data from hundreds of sources, providing both operators and authorities with an accurate single source of truth.
Brian O’Rourke, Co-founder and CEO at CitySwift, said: “Public transport services have to be reliable and efficient to drive passenger growth, and key to this is leveraging AI and data to ensure the transport networks of the future meet ever-changing customer needs. This investment is a massive vote of confidence in CitySwift’s platform and people. It will support us in expanding our team so we can continue to deliver the best transport data product and service for both authorities and operators, further positioning CitySwift as the catalyst for growing demand for public transport.”
CitySwift’s customer base has grown by 150% in the last 12 months, covering transport networks in all of the major UK cities including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Belfast, and the entire country of Wales. Notable clients include National Express, Go-Ahead Group, Transport for Wales, Metroline, East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Translink and Blackpool Transport. With current trends in hybrid working and leisure travel levels increasing, cities are looking to become more agile in their operations to ensure passengers can access fit-for-purpose, convenient transport services. Rapid access to accurate data across the entire network fuels this collaboration, enabling both parties to take a more dynamic, data-driven approach to move passengers away from private modes of transport to more sustainable, climate-friendly public transportation.
The investment will be used to accelerate CitySwift’s growth, with the company planning to double headcount in the next two years. Additionally, these funds will go towards enabling CitySwift to further scale its platform development and end-to-end client services, securing the company’s reputation as the leading transportation data innovators in the Irish and global markets.
Speaking on today’s announcement, Benjamin Faulkner, Associate Director at Gresham House Ventures, said: “CitySwift’s growth in recent years has been impressive, and the team’s knowledge of both bus networks and data science makes this a compelling and unique proposition. With our experience working with other transport and mobility data businesses, we look forward to supporting CitySwift as it continues to deliver real-world benefits for transport passengers across the UK, Ireland and global markets over the coming years.”
The investment continues a busy period of dealmaking for Gresham House Ventures and extends its investment activity in the transport and intelligent data areas. The Gresham House Ventures existing investment portfolio includes VivaCity, FocalPoint and Branchspace.
In recent years, the chocolate industry has seen a transformative shift, moving from mass production to a focus on fine, artisanal products. This evolution is particularly evident in the rise of bean-to-bar chocolate, where the emphasis is not just on the final product, but on the complete process of chocolate making, starting from the cacao beans all the way to the finished chocolate bar. This approach has led to an increase in the quality and variety of chocolates available, infusing the market with innovative flavours and textures that cater to a broad spectrum of palates.
The shift towards artisanal chocolate is driven by a newfound appreciation for sustainability and craftsmanship. Meticulous attention to detail, from the ethical sourcing of cocoa beans to the precise processes of roasting and refining, reflects a commitment to both environmental and socioeconomic responsibility. As consumers become more conscious of the origin of their food, producers are responding with transparency in their methods and respect for traditional chocolate-making techniques. The result is a chocolate experience that is as rich in story as it is in taste.
Key Takeaways
Artisanal chocolate marks a significant move away from traditional bulk production to a process that values quality and sustainability.
Bean-to-bar chocolate enhances the focus on traditional techniques and innovation within the industry.
Ethical sourcing and production transparency are now key factors in the gourmet chocolate market.
History and Tradition of Chocolate
In a journey spanning over three millennia, chocolate has evolved from ancient ritual to gourmet delight. This transformation mirrors the advancement of societies, technologies, and palates.
Pre-Industrial Chocolate Evolution
Historically, the Mayans are credited with the earliest known consumption of chocolate, dating back to as early as 1900 BC. They revered the cacao tree as sacred and used its beans to brew an unsweetened, frothy beverage during rituals and as a rich currency. The Aztecs later adopted chocolate and their nobility often enjoyed it spiced and cold, believing it to be a gift from the god Quetzalcoatl.
When the Spanish encountered the New World, they encountered chocolate and brought it back to Europe, initially retaining its status as a luxury item for the elite. The Spanish sweetened it with sugar and cinnamon, adapting it to European tastes and igniting a chocolate craze that slowly spread across the continent. Spaniards closely guarded their prized chocolate tradition for nearly a century until the secret of cacao propagated throughout Europe.
Industrial Revolution to Modern Artisanal Resurgence
The Industrial Revolution marked a pivotal moment for chocolate, rendering it widely accessible. In the 19th century, innovation in chocolate-making processes revolutionised production. Machines like the cocoa press and conching device allowed for smoother, richer, and more affordable bars.
This period dramatically democratised the luxury of chocolate, transforming it from an exclusive aristocratic beverage into solid chocolate bars that could be enjoyed by people from all walks of life. As mass production surged, so did the variety and availability, marking the transition to its modern form.
Yet the 21st century has seen a resurgence of the artisanal approach to chocolate. Reflective of the original ethos of high-quality luxury Irish chocolates, chocolate makers with a passion for tradition are creating sophisticated flavours and blends, paying homage to chocolate’s rich legacy. They employ meticulous craftsmanship, ethically sourced ingredients, and innovative techniques that look back to the roots of chocolate while pushing the boundaries of modern gastronomy. This conscious approach often echoes the award-winning methods, as underscored by the recognition bestowed uponartisan chocolatiers, setting new standards of excellence in the realm of gourmet chocolate.
The Journey from Cacao to Chocolate Bar
Indulge in the intricate process that takes cacao from tropical origins to an artisanal chocolate delight. Here’s an insight into each step of the transformation.
Harvesting and Sourcing Cacao
The creation of gourmet chocolate begins with the harvest. Cacao pods are carefully selected and harvested by hand, primarily from equatorial regions where the climate is ideal for growth. Sourcing high-quality cacao is crucial, ensuring that only the best beans are chosen for the subsequent stages of chocolate making. Companies like Lily O’Brien’s prioritise not only quality but also ethical practices when obtaining cacao.
Roasting and Grinding
Once sourced, cacao beans are roasted to develop their flavour through careful temperature control. This pivotal step determines the depth of taste and aroma in the chocolate. After roasting, the beans are ground into a fine liquor, which forms the base of all chocolate products. This stage is fundamental in contributing to the texture and quality of the final product.
Conching and Tempering
Conching is a careful process of mixing and aerating the chocolate over several hours, which refines its flavour and texture. This is followed by tempering, a precise technique involving the controlled heating and cooling of chocolate to stabilise the cocoa butter crystals. Proper tempering results in a glossy finish and a satisfying snap when the chocolate is broken. This step is vital in achieving the luxurious quality associated with brands such as Lily O’Brien’s, who have become renowned for their attention to detail through their variousawards.
Innovations in Chocolate Production
The chocolate industry has seen significant technological advancements, leading to more creative flavour profiles and a focus on sustainability. These developments are transforming the journey from bean to bar.
Advancements in Manufacturing Technology
Manufacturing technology is at the heart of chocolate’s evolution. Machines like Bühler’s moulding plantChocoBotic, with its robotic capabilities, are streamlining production. This not only enhances efficiency but also adds precision to the chocolate tempering process, ensuring a consistently smooth texture.
Robotic Technology – Increased precision and efficiency
Precision Tempering – Ensures smooth texture
Digital processes and IoT technologies are the cornerstone of these innovative methods, which allow constant monitoring and optimisation, marking a significant shift in how chocolate is produced.
Emergence of Unique Flavors and Textures
Chocolate enthusiasts are witnessing a surge in unique flavours and textures, partly thanks to artificial intelligence (AI) improving flavour development.Innovations like 3D printing are also allowing for intricate chocolate designs, offering bespoke textures and products that stand out in a competitive market.
AI in Flavour Development – Results in unique flavours
3D Printing Designs – Allows for bespoke textures
Sustainable and Ethical Production
Sustainability and ethical sourcing have become pivotal in chocolate production. Companies like Lily O’Brien’s are committed to responsible sourcing, ensuring that the environmental impact and social conditions of cacao farming are carefully managed. This holistic approach respects both people and the planet, reflecting a responsible way to enjoy chocolate without compromising on quality.
Ethical Sourcing – Commitment to fair trade and sustainable agriculture
Environmental Impact – Reduced footprint through ecological practices
The industry’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact is evident in these practices, setting a new standard for how premium chocolate should be made.
Cultural and Economic Impact of Gourmet Chocolate
The gourmet chocolate landscape is influenced by both its cultural significance and economic impact. Within this sphere, the chocolate industry reflects a blend of tradition and innovation.
Global Chocolate Market
The chocolate industry has seen substantial growth, evolving into a multi-billion-pound global enterprise. It’s not simply about the widespread consumption; chocolate plays a strategic role in the economies of producing countries. Direct trade efforts often lead to better living standards for growers, highlighting chocolate’s economic impact.
Artisanal vs Industrialised Production
Artisanal chocolate makers have reshaped public perception by focusing on craft and quality. This approach underscores tradition and cultural significance, with consumers increasingly valuing the unique flavours and stories behind craft chocolate products. Conversely, industrialised production leverages economies of scale, sometimes at the cost of these personal touches.
The Role of Chocolate in Society
Chocolate’s cultural significance transcends taste; it’s interwoven into many social fabric aspects, from holiday celebrations to emotional comfort. Gourmet chocolate, with its roots in quality and artisanal production, enriches this cultural tapestry. It encourages consumers to savour and appreciate chocolate beyond a mere sweet treat, fostering a deeper connection and respect for the craft.
In exploringhow it all began, one may appreciate the journey gourmet chocolate has taken, from a treasured resource to an accessible luxury, and its ability to captivate chocolate enthusiasts not only through flavour but also through its story of craftsmanship and excellence. Similarly, understanding a brand’s fundamentals can reveal much about its commitment to quality and sustainability, as seen throughtheir ethos. Lastly, recognising those who excel in the field, such as through prestigiouschocolate awards, acknowledges the expertise and innovation driving the sector forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gourmet chocolate has a rich history and involves intricate processes. The journey from cocoa bean to the chocolate bar we know today has been shaped by technological advances and environmental considerations. Here’s a deeper insight into how the art of chocolate-making has transformed over time.
What processes are involved in the production of gourmet chocolate from cocoa beans?
The transformation of cocoa beans into gourmet chocolate involves several key stages: sourcing high-quality beans, roasting to develop flavour, and refining to achieve the desired texture. Artisans then conch the chocolate to bring out further complexities in flavour before tempering, which gives the chocolate its shine and snap. Finally, the chocolate is moulded into bars.
How has the making of chocolate evolved since its inception?
From its humble beginnings as a beverage consumed by ancient civilisations, to the contemporary method of making gourmet chocolate, technology has greatly enhanced the chocolatier’s craft. Modern machinery allows for greater precision in roasting and conching, resulting in sophisticated flavour profiles and textures that were not achievable in the past.
Can you detail the historical journey of chocolate in relation to the Columbian Exchange?
The Columbian Exchange significantly impacted the global spread of chocolate. Following the discovery of the Americas, cocoa beans were brought to Europe, where chocolate was initially a luxury for the elite. Over time, innovations such as the cocoa press and milk chocolate creation democratised chocolate, making it accessible to a broader audience.
What are some significant facts that illustrate chocolate’s technological advancements?
The chocolate industry has leveraged advancements such as the development of the conche machine, which refines chocolate, enhancing its flavour and texture. More recently, precision agriculture techniques aid in sustainable cocoa farming, and innovations in packaging have extended the shelf life of chocolate products.
In what ways is chocolate production implicated in environmental concerns such as deforestation?
Chocolate production is linked to deforestation, mainly when forests are cleared for new cocoa plantations. Responsible chocolate producers now adopt sustainable practices, such as agroforestry, to grow cocoa with minimal environmental impact, as detailed in Lily O’Brien’s ethos on prioritising sustainability.
Who is credited with the creation of the first chocolate bar, and when did this innovation occur?
Joseph Fry is often recognised for creating the first modern chocolate bar in 1847. By adding back melted cocoa butter into Dutch cocoa, Fry’s company produced a mouldable chocolate paste that solidified into edible bars, transforming the chocolate consumption experience.
Cyber Ireland, the leading national cyber security cluster organisation, has today launched a comprehensive strategy aimed at driving the growth of Ireland’s cyber security sector by 2030. With a proven track record since its establishment in 2019, Cyber Ireland has evolved into a national representative body, uniting over 160 member organisations, including start-ups, SMEs, multinational corporations, and educational institutions.
Originally conceived to address cyber security skills shortage as an initiative at Munster Technological University, Cyber Ireland has grown into a recognised industry force, hosting activities across four strategic workstreams and also responsible for organising the annual Cyber Ireland National Conference (CINC), the premier cyber security conference which attracts leading cyber security experts from across Ireland and the globe.
According to the State of the Cyber Security Sector 2022 report the cyber security sector in Ireland employs over 7,300 professionals working across nearly 500 companies contributing €1.1 billion annually to the economy. Ireland requires a strong domestic cyber security sector with companies of scale that can deliver high value services to provide cyber resilience for the country and compete internationally. This can build on existing strengths as the island of Ireland grows into an international hub in Europe for cyber security multinational operations and further increase FDI in cybersecurity.
There has been strong demand for cyber security skills over the past four years with a trebling of job roles advertised between 2019 and 2022, from 2,000 jobs advertised to 6,700 open roles. On a growth trajectory of 10%, the sector anticipates the creation of 10,000 additional jobs by 2030, totalling 17,000 in the sector, contributing €2.5 billion per annum to the economy. How this demand is met given the existing skills shortages and skills gaps will be central in making Ireland a leader for cyber security talent globally.
Pat Larkin, Chairperson of Cyber Ireland and President, Ekco Security, said, “There is an incredible opportunity in front of us. Analysts quantify the current Cyber Security market opportunity in or around 200-250BN USD with a 15% growth rate. A recent consultancy report estimates that the current vended market spend may be 10 times under penetrated and thus the addressable market may be between 1.5 and 2 trillion USD.”
“No matter how you look at it, we cannot capture or service even a small percentage of that addressable market currently as individual entities. By working together as an industry sector we have a massive opportunity to capture a greater share of this market from Ireland, through Cyber Ireland,” Larkin added.
Eoin Byrne, Cluster Manager Cyber Ireland, said, “We have established the cyber security cluster as the representative body and coordinator of industry in Ireland, and are now recognised in Europe with our Cluster Management Excellence Award. We have quantified for the first time the size, scale and contribution that the cyber security sector makes to Ireland inc. and its potential for growth.
We now need to take Cyber Ireland, and the cyber security sector, to the next level by working with the wider ecosystem across industry, government, academia, training providers, research, investors and industry associations to drive business growth and position Ireland as a global leader,” Byrne said.
The opportunity now exists for Ireland to capitalise on its cyber security strengths and competitive advantages to develop a leading cyber security sector in Europe, and globally, providing resilience domestically and competing internationally. Cyber Ireland aims to be the driving force to deliver on Ireland’s cyber potential through the implementation of its new cluster strategy 2024 – 2027. The new strategy has four Focus Areas across Building the Community, Driving Business Growth, Developing the Workforce, and Advocacy and Promotion.
The cluster has recently been accredited with the European Cluster Excellence Initiative (ECEI) Bronze Label for “Striving for Cluster Excellence” by improving its management capabilities and performance levels. Cyber Ireland joins over 1,000 cluster organisations from 45 countries that have been benchmarked and received the award. The recognition will create additional opportunities for the cluster to promote the sector and engage with European organisations and clusters, and secure European funding.
Need some new cases for your Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra we have the Tudia Merge Grip With Magsafe cases here which is one of the first choices we go for when we get a new device and with any new device it is best to case up be it indoors or outdoors, I do often like to go with no case on the phone but strictly indoors where still it is not totally away from harms way and of course is a subjective choice, being a Tudia case user years now these cases are one of the best out there and we check out two of their new cases today.
Both cases come with dual layers and are magsafe compatible which is excellent if you are a person like me that has and iPhone and this means all thing will just get along together for both which is ideal. There is several colours and case styles on offer which you can find linked below.
Again as expected Tudia have delivered a nice solid care which is dual layered offering the best protection front back and side with additional grip to your phone, with your device placed face or rear down all is protected and will keep your device out of harms way and not forgetting the drop protection.
There is also anti slip material on the back of the case and some gripping points on the side making it more secure be it sat on a slippery surface or if you have a habit of dropping your phone. With raised edges on the camera array and the front you will be safe and it is also advisable to get a screen protector to be extra safe as a repair will be costly regardless if you have no case on board.
The keys work a treat too which are nice and tactile and durable and should last the lifetime of the case itself even if you are a power user like me, check out the video below for more and stay tuned for more Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra case reviews soon.
Bottom of case
Keys and front lip
Camera array
[Compatibility] Compatible with Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (2024)
[Drop Tested] Certified military grade and ToughRhino Technology for dual layer protection against drops and scratches
[Raised Edge Protection] Protects your camera and screen with raised lip and edges
[Enhanced Grip] Non-slip textured design on both sides and back provide additional grip while holding your phone
[Precise Design] Buttons are designed to be slim and easily clickable for stress-free usage
[Wireless Charging] Effortless wireless charging with the case on
The CASEKOO iPhone Koo Air Bumper Phone Case with Built-in Magnetic Kickstand and MagSafe Compatible – Cloud Cush Series Magic Stand Version Pink Edition is now available and of course we have checked it out alongside their latest releases the AirLov Series cases and their other latest editions the Magic Stand Series Sofarmor Version for iPhone 14/15 series. There is of course other colours available making it ideal to have a his and hers combo.
The Koo Air Cushioning Technology with an air-layered airbag structure enhances shock absorption effectiveness by 120%.
Highly elastic airbags for shock absorption, providing stringent military-grade standards for 3-meter drop protection. The case offers extra gripping power too and really comfortable in the hand.
The adjustable stand offers versatile angles ranging from 40° to 120°. This feature ensures an optimal perspective for both portrait mode(productive video calls during work) and landscape mode(immersive movie-watching sessions).This also can add a layer of security to your phone if you put your finger through it as you will see in the video review below.
The cases also come with advanced Magsafe technology and the magnet on board is super strong unlike some cases out there. Also noted is that these cases have Anti-Yellowing technology. As a user now some time I can vouch for these cases that will protect your cases and knowing they have air inside them really seals the deal for me and has been tried and tested.
Check the video review below for more.
Features
Koo Air Cushioning Technology: The Koo Air Cushioning Technology with an air-layered airbag structure enhances shock absorption effectiveness by 120%.Highly elastic airbags for shock absorption, providing stringent military-grade standards for 3-meter drop protection
Multi-Color Selection: Express your personality with a range of captivating colors. Choose from a spectrum of options to suit your style, whether you prefer a classic look, a vibrant pop of color, or something in between. The Magic Stand Cloud Cush Series lets you make a statement while keeping your iPhone secure.
MagicStand Feature: Experience convenience on a new level with the integrated stand feature. Effortlessly prop up your iPhone in both portrait and landscape modes, making it perfect for hands-free viewing, video calls, and more. The Magic Stand Series seamlessly combines style and functionality.
Precise Fit: Crafted with precision, the CloudCush Version provides easy access to all ports, buttons, and features without sacrificing protection. The slim profile maintains the sleek design of your iPhone, offering a perfect balance of form and function.
Yanmar Agribusiness Co., Ltd. (Yanmar AG), a subsidiary of Yanmar Holdings, has revealed its e-X1 concept, an electric drive compact electric agricultural machine designed to achieve zero emissions in agriculture.
Within the Yanmar Group, the YANMAR GREEN CHALLENGE 2050 initiative is driving efforts toward realizing a sustainable society. Electric agricultural machines not only offer environmental performance but also the superior quietness and environmental friendliness of electric motors, promising improved working conditions for nighttime, suburban farming, and operations within greenhouses. Yanmar AG has unveiled a prototype of a small electric agricultural machine at a stakeholder event, with a view to commencing market monitoring by 2025.
The machine can accommodate various implements such as rotary tillers and grass cutters at the front and rear, enabling tasks like weeding, snow removal, and cultivating. Opting for crawlers instead of wheels ensures stable operation on slopes and uneven terrain. With no driver’s seat, the machine guarantees operator safety during agricultural tasks through remote control. The incorporation of autonomous driving features is also under consideration.
Yanmar AG plans to initiate market monitoring in 2025 and actively progress toward mass-production through rigorous design and testing, with the goal of contributing to the decarbonization of the agricultural sector.
Compact electric concept e-X1
Model name
e-X1
Powertrain
Battery electric
Proposed operations
Tilling, mowing, ridging, snow removal etc.
Release date
Market monitoring is scheduled to start in 2025
Concept model of the e-X1 compact electric agricultural machine.
As our work habits further stabilise in a post-pandemic era, the return to office continues to rise. But what does this look and, more importantly, feel like for the UK’s up-and-coming workforce; Generation Z?
Some unwritten rules seem to have been overturned as the newest generation enters our working world in the UK. Flexibility (81%) matters more than anything else, including salary (0%), when rating the importance of factors to consider when choosing a job. In fact, GenZ gave flexibility the highest ranking of all generations here. This is according to Jabra’s newest report, Mind the Gap – How Gen Z is Disrupting the Workplace in 2024, which looks at work across generations, carried out amongst 4,473 people in 14 markets worldwide.
However, such generational differences in preference not only present themselves as flipped ideals, but in some cases, several total paradoxes: 69% of the UK’s Gen Z feel stressed and experience symptoms of burnout due to work, yet simultaneously report to be more than satisfied compared to other generations with their career development (72%). According to recent studies, Gen Z and millennials currently make up approximately 38% of the global workforce and this percentage will rise to about 58% by 2030. Leaders must learn to understand the shift in their mindset, attitudes, and values to unlock their full, collaborative potential.
Paradox 1: Gen Z might be happy, but they already have one foot out the door
Now Gen Z has been in the workforce for a few years, the conditions they entered the job market under (online and work-from-home) are clearly starting to reflect their digital native nature. They are considered the most flexible work-driven generation, with the vast majority (97%) working in jobs in the UK that allow them to choose their own schedules. However, Gen Zs say they are happy at work, but are also looking for an exit strategy.
More than 70% say they are satisfied, but 69% say they are burnt out and 55% expect to change job in next year. Whether this is an extension of the “quiet quitting” trend or down to the 64% of Gen Z believing in changing jobs as a career development driver is yet to be concluded.
Paradox 2: Can Gen Z get flexibility, work-life balance, and a career all at once?
Gen Z is often branded the generation that wants it all, desiring career development, flexibility, and work-life balance all at once. While this generation is often thought to prioritise personal life over work, more than a quarter (26%) of Gen Z in the UK still prioritise their careers over work-life balance.
Whether this difference can be put down to GenZ being generally more ambitious or having been misinformed about the reality of working is unclear. For example, Gen Z was found to be twice as likely as boomers to select social media as an influence on expectations on career (22%). There is a question mark over social media’s role played in illustrating that ‘anything is achievable’, making the social media trend of ‘lazy girl job’ status so desirable. So, is Gen Z in for a rude awakening or will their drive result in finding the sweet spot that has aluded generations before when it comes to work-life balance?
Paradox 3: A hybrid workforce that wants face-to-face time
Hybrid working has certainly helped many with work-life balance, particularly suiting digital-native Gen Zs. But, when asked what makes them feel connected with their colleagues at work, one third (33%) of Gen Z in the UK found face-to-face with their peers and manager a key factor. Being with colleagues in person surfaced as the number one reason for GenZ employees feeling a sense of belonging at work.
However, as digital natives, Gen Z are happy to rely on digital tools and technology to allow them to keep in contact with their colleagues. More than 6 in 10 (62%) agree that seeing or having casual catch ups either on video or in person is an important factor in making them feel more connected.
Although Gen Z demands flexible working the most, which often includes a virtual element, nothing beats in-person interactions. Despite this, when necessary, they are the only generation to feel the biggest sense of belonging online, most probably due to their positive relationship with technology. For this reason, leaders must facilitate closer digital proximity to colleagues through frequent touch points too. This can range from in-person chats, and meetings, to leveraging professional technology for calls, emails and virtual meetings that allow for a seamless, close to in-person experience. Ultimately, the role of technology aims to bridge the hybrid divide and nurture a rounded sense of belonging with employees of all generations.
Paradox 4: Gen Z keeps silent, but expect the opposite of managers
Belonging is one thing, but feeling heard in the workplace is another. It’s no secret that Gen Z is comfortable speaking up about difficult topics, such as mental health and diversity, but does this translate to their professional experiences too? It seems not; 29% of Gen Z in the UK feel uncomfortable taking up conversations about feeling unhappy at work with their manager.
Despite not wanting to discuss these issues, when asked what the most important qualities in a manager are, it became evident that today’s employees still value soft skills over hard skills. Gen Z would rather have an empathetic manager (40%) than an experienced one (8%), while honesty and integrity is 6 times more important than experience.
As many employees enter management positions at a younger age now, it’s likely that organisations will see a shift in the manager role and consequently, management styles. This can be seen by Gen Z’s ranking of friendliness and a flat hierarchy significantly higher than other generations (35% consider it an important quality, compared with 16% of Boomers).
This leaves managers with a difficult task. In order to help Gen Zs transition from a quietly unhappy workforce to well-rounded and genuinely positive leaders of the future, managers today must balance leading by example, with maintaining an approachable and transparent attitude.
Managers will have to be honest with a generation of employees who don’t feel comfortable enough to discuss their wellbeing honestly in return (28% of Gen Z). Such a dynamic could be attributed to Gen Z feelings of inadequacy. For example, they are still learning the rules of the workplace or feeling more emotionally distant to managers while not working fully from the office. In most cases, GenZ missed out on the foundational learning years as many enter the workforce without the lessons learned by being in the office traditionally. Either way, both leadership and younger employees have something to learn from, and teach each other, about their way of working. Gen Z has huge potential, but there is still something to be said for the experience leadership offers when guiding them through the challenges that hybrid work brings.
Paul Sephton, Head of Brand Communications at Jabra said, “We’ve never experienced a time with such stark generational differences when it comes to our core understanding of work and a job. It’s critical UK leaders seek to understand the complex paradoxes of how younger generations feel about the working world. Going forwards, companies need to consider what consequences the Gen Z mindset could have on the workforce of the future in the UK. Providing young employees with the necessary tools, both technical and psychological, to maximise wellbeing and productivity will be a non-negotiable for those striving for long-term success.”
Jabra, a global leader in true wireless sound and hybrid work solutions, has announced Jabra+ for Admins, a cloud-based API-first software platform for remote monitoring and management of meeting rooms and devices, at ISE 2024.
Jabra+ for Admins offers a seamless experience from start to finish, allowing users to manage their communication devices with ease, saving time on administration and troubleshooting. IT administrators will have visibility and control over settings, firmware and insights from one unified software platform and can check in for real-time status updates from anywhere.
Jabra+ for Admins will pave the way for future experiences for IT administrators, end users, and partners – starting with meeting room and video device management that customers can sign up for now via an Early Adopter Program, with wider availability this summer.
Next Generation Meeting Room and Video Device Management
With Jabra+ for Admins, users can effortlessly monitor and manage all Jabra meeting room solutions with a clear visual overview of rooms, locations, and devices. The modern user-interface (UI), new design, and enhanced intuitiveness make device management more accessible, offering a comprehensive solution for IT administrators.
The platform also allows users to manage all devices in a room collectively, optimising the in-room experience by remotely configuring devices and updating firmware. Furthermore, the real-time online/offline status tracking of rooms and devices helps to identify immediate issues, reducing IT tickets and ensuring a seamless meeting experience.
A Unified and Secure Cloud Platform
As a unified software platform, Jabra+ for Admins can integrate with IT help desk systems and third-party tools to create an ecosystem for device management. Whether updating devices, customising headsets, or integrating with Jabra devices, users engage with just a single system.
Jabra+ for Admins also leverages the security and scalability of Microsoft Azure, providing a future-proof platform with Single Sign-On (SSO) for easy access. SSO enhances security by reducing attack surfaces and streamlining user authentication, resulting in a better user experience and alleviating IT burdens associated with password recovery.
Holger Reisinger, SVP Enterprise Solutions at Jabra said, “In the hybrid workplace where managing meeting rooms and multiple devices is increasingly complex, we understand the importance of simplicity and efficiency. This is why we created Jabra+ for Admins; a streamlined, secure platform that is easy to use. Users can now be more productive and spend more time on what makes their business thrive.”
Experience the Future of Intelligent Meetings with Jabra PanaCast at ISE
Jabra will also showcase its latest video collaboration solutions, the Jabra PanaCast 50 and Jabra PanaCast 50 Video Bar System, at ISE 2024. These cutting-edge solutions feature innovative AI-powered experiences, including the new Intelligent Meeting Space feature.
Now available, this feature empowers users to personalise and set virtual meeting space boundaries, ensuring only relevant participants within this defined area are included, while excluding bystanders and passersby.
Jabra will also be presenting its new Mind the Gap – How Gen Z is Disrupting the Workplace in 2024 report at ISE. Download a full copy of the report here: www.jabra.com/GenZ-2024
Find out more about Jabra at ISE or visit them in Hall 2, Stand 2P130.
Availability and pricing
Jabra+ for Admins for meeting rooms and video devices is currently available via an Early Adopter Program, with wider availability this summer. Personal device management is planned later this year.
