EPAM helps its customers engineer the future with Microsoft Enterprise Skilling Initiative

A long-standing Microsoft customer and partner, EPAM Systems (EPAM) helps its clients engineer the future using Microsoft cloud solutions. The company, repeatedly awarded for its strong learning culture, nurtures employee cloud competencies through participation in the Enterprise Skilling Initiative (ESI). Available in a variety of formats, the program has already provided over 2,500 engineers with more than 5,500 Microsoft Cloud certifications. Equipped with future-oriented skills, EPAM employees can feel more empowered in their roles and better serve the increasing digital needs of their clients.

EPAM, a leading digital transformation services and product engineering company, invests in its people and award-winning learning culture by offering mentoring programs and unlimited upskilling and development opportunities. “Our client works with us because we deliver results,” starts Dmitry Tikhomirov, Vice President, Head of Cloud Technology and Delivery, EMEA & APAC at EPAM. “And we are able to do that because we invest in our people — from technology and platforms to learning and education.”

A learning culture is deeply embedded in EPAM’s business strategy, providing an outlet for employees to grow and stay engaged. “We work to understand the business objectives of each department and map corporate learning solutions to those objectives,” reveals Irina Kureichyk, Director of Learning & Development at EPAM. “This way, we can offer our clients the most up-to-date, high-quality skills and services.” Seeing the demand for advanced digital and cloud technology expertise, EPAM decided to participate in Microsoft ESI, which provides hands-on interactive courses and certification in Microsoft Cloud technologies for Microsoft customers.

Cultivating an engaging learning environment

EPAM’s certification journey with ESI started in 2019 when the first 250 engineers signed up for training across Microsoft Cloud technologies (Azure, Security, Power Platform). Initially, on-site certification events and in-class experiences were planned, but the pandemic forced a rapid switch online. Yet, the transition occurred with no disruption. “We had a learning platform where we built a learning path, integrating courses from Microsoft,” explains Kureichyk.

By combining our strengths with Microsoft, we can help our clients achieve their digital transformation goals, increase their technological agility and deliver game-changing digital experiences to their customers.

Dmitry Tikhomirov: VP, Head of Cloud Technology and Delivery, EMEA & APAC.

All certification paths are role-based but open to anyone meeting the course requirements. “We offer all learning formats provided by Microsoft, from self-paced courses and virtual classes to expert advice provided by colleagues. That flexibility makes learning easier to accommodate for our employees and keeps them motivated,” continues Kureichyk. To distinguish and engage learners, EPAM also uses gamification and badges.

Certified to make an impact

Commitment to skilling brings resiliency to EPAM. “In spite of global challenges, we continued to make skilling initiatives our top priority.” recalls Kureichyk.

To date, over 2,500 engineers across 14 countries in Central and Eastern Europe have obtained more than 5,500 certificates, the biggest Microsoft certification initiative in the region. For EPAM, this achievement confirms the company’s outstanding cloud expertise. For its employees, certificates provide a chance to elevate or recalibrate their career. “We’ve seen people move from engineering or development roles into UX roles or change their career path from testing to software development,” says Kureichyk.  “This allows us to retain valuable talent.”

The drive for continuous learning is not purely employer-driven; EPAMers are hungry to build their skills to respond to the changing market demands. Apart from the Enterprise Skilling program, the company participates in Cloud Skills Challenge, Microsoft Training Days, and other joint learning initiatives. “The technology landscape is changing every three to four years, so we need to keep our skills current continuously,” comments Tikhomirov. “Through our combined efforts with Microsoft, we can help our clients on multiple fronts, from achieving digital transformation goals and increasing agility to delivering innovative solutions,” he says. “Equipped with cloud competencies, our engineers can continue to support our clients in navigating market shifts and disruption, providing them with strategic resiliency and the innovation to thrive.”

Tech Review – Soundpeats Engine 4 earbuds

The Soundpeats Engine 4 earbuds are one of the latest on offer form the brand and come with a new look and design which is really nice, these style of earbuds are not the top of my list however I prefer stems but it is how they sound is what can make you overlook at times and these stood out with my locals asking about them when out testing over the last few weeks..

 

The App

The App as seen above has plenty of features yet again and gives you control on how your earbuds sound however the controls are fixed which is fine and simple to use, the earbuds can be used on their own too so either side can be used whilst the other one is left to charge which is quite handy. I would also advise to complete the adaptive EQ test for the best results and ensure you have got the right tips and are happy with the fit. The controls work really well on these too which is an additional bonus due to the large surface area at hand so for those with big fingers like me it is a bonus. One small downside is the controls are fixed however they are fine as is and pretty much as standard settings on earbuds today. These sound a bit on the brighter side than what I like however with their app they can be changed to suit your needs and their app once again is decent and allows you to take some control over the audio experience.

Overall a different shape of earbud to my liking but sounds good, the fit or style might not suit everyone but they deliver again on the sound aspect with decent battery life and the look of the earbuds and case stands out and will be ideal for first time buyers of earbuds from the company or just looking for something new to try out as this brand has been very consistent over the years for us they offer a wide range of earbuds for all pockets and all styles.

Key Features of the SOUNDPEATS Engine4 Wireless Earbuds include:
1. Hi-Res Audio Wireless Certificated, LDAC Codec for Android Users Available. Boasting 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝘅𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝘆𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀 with a 10mm woofer and a 6mm tweeter. Engine4 is designed to provide deep bass, clear treble, and crisp mids. Enjoy powerful sound on the go wherever you are. With Engine4, you can take your music experience to the next level.

2. Enhanced Battery Life: These earbuds provide an impressive battery life of up to 12.5 hours on a single charge, and the compact charging case extends the total playtime to an astonishing 43 hours, ensuring uninterrupted audio enjoyment.

3. Seamless Connectivity: Engine4 features Bluetooth 5.3 technology, offering a stable and seamless connection between two different devices for an extended range of up to 100 feet, allowing users to move freely without any audio interruptions. ( Due to the Simultaneously Connection being turned off in the factory setting, you’re allowed to turn it on by using APP as your demand. )

4. Intuitive Touch Controls: The touch-sensitive controls on the earbuds enable easy management of music playback, volume adjustment, and call handling, providing a hassle-free user experience.

5. Ergonomic Design: The Engine4 earbuds are ergonomically designed to provide a secure and comfortable fit, ensuring a snug seal for improved noise isolation and long-lasting comfort, even during extended listening sessions.

6. APP Control: SOUNDPEATS App is build-in 8 kinds of sound effects for choice, you can achieve their enhanced bass or treble-oriented listening experience as you want. For Engine4, you can choose to Turn Off/ On the LDAC Codec mode or the Simultaneously Connection by using APP. Attention, these two features cannot be supported at the same time due to technical issues. The SOUNDPEATS app is on Google Play Store and Apple App Store

BUY 

Video Review

Introducing JOBY Beamo Reel and Beamo Studio Kit

JOBY – the reference brand for content creator gear that empowers creators and helps uplift their creativity has announced the launch of the new Beamo Reel and Beamo Studio Kits as part of their extensive range of lighting for smartphones and cameras.

Designed to help creators achieve the perfect lighting in any on-the-go or at-home-studio situation, the JOBY Beamo Reel and Beamo Studio Kits will make any video content stand out.
Both products are part of JOBY’s ongoing dedication to empower over 40 million creators worldwide; helping to uplift creativity and provide an ecosystem of products that is simple to operate and capable of creating unconventional content. The Beamo Reel and Beamo Studio Kits are the latest additions to the popular Beamo range that help to light up the content creation process making it easier and more fun. 

The Beamo Studio Kit is JOBY’s one stop YouTube home studio lighting kit. Ideal for anyone looking to start up their own YouTube channel, it contains everything needed – including the Beamo Studio Key Light and Beamo Studio Background Light – to create top quality videos from home.

The built in soft-lens diffusion of the Key Light ensures the best image quality for recording a YouTube video from the comfort of a home studio. It features 10 brightness levels and 3 color temperatures to choose from to match the tones and effects to whatever content is planned. The table stand means the Key Light can be adjusted for use, raising it to the ideal height (68-85cm) as needed. The included phone mount is supported by a flexible GorillaPod Arm for easy angling and framing, and the cold shoes on both the key light and phone mount allow a JOBY Wavo mic to be added to improve audio quality.

Looking for a way to really make videos pop? The Beamo Studio Background Light is a one-of-a-kind addition that allows users to add color to a background without the need for background paper or paint. With 12 colors and 10 brightness levels to choose from, the lighting can be mixed up to create a unique look that reflects any content creator’s style.
Both lights are USB powered making them easy to use anywhere. 

The Beamo Studio Kit is available in various kits:

Beamo Studio Creator Kit: covers all you need to start a channel from your home, including a key light, a color background light and a microphone.
Beamo Studio Deluxe Kit: a one-stop lighting solution for your home video studio including a key light and a color background light to get your channel started.
Beamo Studio Key Light
Beamo Studio Background Light.

The Beamo Reel is designed for content creators who are always on the go. Perfect f

or a travel vlogger filming an action-packed video, or an IRL creator filming a daily routine, this compact and lightweight LED light is great for capturing high-quality footage anywhere, from a smartphone or camera. 

The brightness is controlled by simply twisting the rim of the light whilst vlogging – meaning users no longer have to reach to the back of the LED to guess where the buttons and dial are located. It could not be easier to adjust the lighting during a video thanks to this simple yet effective design.

The ergonomic design fits nicely into your palm for handheld lighting, and the standard ¼” thread on the bottom allows it to connect to any JOBY tripod. In addition, Beamo Reel can be easily mounted to a camera or smartphone clamp thanks to the included cold shoe adapter and it can also stand on the table or on the ground by itself, making it a versatile tool for content creation.


Available in 3 models:
Beamo Reel which produces super soft light with the built-in diffuser and offers three different white color temperature options.
Beamo Reel Color which produces super soft light with the built-in diffuser, offers three different white color temperature options and 12 additional preset RGB colors.
Beamo Reel Creator Kit, an all-in-one kit that includes the PodZilla Medium mobile tripod kit, Wavo Mobile vlogging microphone, and Beamo Reel LED light. This ready-to-vlog bundle stabilizes your phone, captures crispy audio, and provides easy-to-use soft lighting.

JOBY Beamo Reel and Beamo Studio Kit are the newest additions to the successful Beamo Range; the Beamo RingLight 12”, the Beamo RingLight for MagSafe, and the Beamo and Beamo Mini. The perfect integrations to the Beamo lighting suite, these innovative new products will help make any creators lighting goals a reality.

Exploring Mobile App Monetization Strategies: Making Money from Your Apps

The number of smartphone users is constantly growing and has reached approximately 7 billion this year. In order to attract more customers and remain competitive, businesses are showing a keen interest in releasing mobile apps for tech-savvy users. It has been reported that 42% of businesses have already developed a mobile app to offer their services, with an additional 30% planning to do so in the near future.

Despite the fact that 90% of all mobile applications are available free of charge, this market is projected to generate over 935 billion U.S. dollars in revenues by 2023. One may wonder, how is this accomplished? There are different ways of making money on the mobile app. The most common strategies are described below.

#1 Download Fee

Many publishers who are new to the mobile app space often consider charging a fee to download their app from the Apple app store or Android app store as the first mobile app monetization option. This approach can generate significant revenue, but it heavily relies on providing valuable content to the end-users. Unless the offered content is exclusive and hard to find elsewhere, users who are well-informed are more inclined to seek out alternative sources rather than paying for it within an app store.

Some publishers opt for this approach. Specifically, apps that provide a distinctive gaming experience or utility on smartphones or tablets benefit from this monetization strategy. However, the percentage of publishers charging for app downloads is relatively low. As of March 2021, 92.9% of apps in the iOS store and 96.7% in the Google Play store were available for free download.

Due to the abundance of free applications, users are more actively using them. Today there is an application for almost any purpose, but this has the opposite effect – memory clutter. This is a small problem because, with the cleaner app, you can clear the memory. There is a special phone cleaner that looks for useless files on the device and deletes them. It is the automatic search that makes the cleanup app such a valuable tool. The app phone also has the ability to manually delete user data. Non-interference with personal data and efficient memory cleaning are what this application is valued for.

#2 In-App purchases

This mobile application monetization strategy is well-suited for games and service-based apps, particularly those that provide the option to purchase additional physical or virtual features. Many users are familiar with buying in-game extras such as additional game time, points, hints, and more. Additionally, some apps offer premium content and subscriptions.

#3 In-app subscriptions

Subscriptions represent a unique type of in-app purchase, wherein users pay a fixed subscription fee on a weekly, monthly, or quarterly basis to maintain access to the benefits, features, and content offered by the subscription. This monetization approach has gained significant popularity among app developers, as it provides predictable revenue streams. Interestingly, subscriptions contribute to a substantial portion (82%!) of the total revenue generated by non-gaming apps on app stores.

#4 In-app advertising

In-app advertising serves as a popular and widely recognized tool for users. This market is rapidly evolving and is projected to reach $240 billion by next year. This monetization model operates by compensating app owners for displaying third-party ads within their applications.

#5 Freemium subscriptions

Under the broader category of subscription apps, the “freemium” model is an effective way of monetizing mobile apps. After users download a free app, they are presented with in-app purchases that provide them with exclusive access to premium features, additional content, or digital goods. Spotify serves as an exemplary illustration of the freemium app subscription model. Originating from Sweden in 2006, Spotify was developed as an alternative to the pay-per-song model of iTunes and the rampant piracy of downloaded music during that period.

#6 Affiliate marketing

Many leading technology companies, such as Google, Apple, and Microsoft, offer affiliate programs that are accessible to app developers.

These programs allow app developers to promote other mobile apps within their own applications. Although the commissions offered in this particular strategy for app monetization tend to be moderate, developers have the flexibility to select the apps they want to promote. This can foster a strong connection between their app and related brands, potentially encouraging users to associate them together.

Conclusion

The top mobile app monetization strategies are now presented. To maximize their benefits, it is crucial to approach app development intentionally. For instance, when utilizing affiliate marketing, taking inspiration from Skin Bliss is recommended. Skin Bliss provides exceptional value through its well-designed user interface and smooth user experience. By seamlessly integrating the monetization method, the app generates revenue while maintaining an optimal user experience. This concept encapsulates the essence of app development.

 

The Benefits of Using SafeOpt to Maximize Your Website’s Potential

Are you tired of your website not reaching its full potential? Do you want to boost your online presence and attract more visitors? Look no further! In today’s digital landscape, where competition is fierce, optimizing your website is crucial for success. And that’s where SafeOpt comes in. SafeOpt is a powerful tool designed to maximize your website’s potential by employing cutting-edge optimization techniques. In this blog post, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of using SafeOpt and how it can transform your online presence. Let’s get started.

Increased Conversion Rates

SafeOpt leverages its extensive network of over 175 million shoppers to provide verified offers from partner brands. By offering exclusive deals and discounts, SafeOpt campaigns can significantly increase conversion rates on your website. You can find SafeOpt Offers to enhance your customers’ shopping experience, boost sales, and drive customer loyalty. When visitors are presented with compelling offers tailored to their interests, they are more likely to make a purchase.

SafeOpt’s ability to target individuals who have already shown interest in your website or abandoned their shopping carts ensures that your messaging reaches the right audience at the right time. This targeted approach and consideration of conversion rate optimization services lead to higher conversion rates, resulting in improved revenue and business growth.

Enhanced Customer Engagement 

SafeOpt enables you to re-engage potential customers who have shown interest in your website but left without completing a purchase. By sending personalized messages and offers, you can nurture their interest and encourage them to return. This level of engagement helps build strong customer relationships and increases the likelihood of conversion. 

The ability of the platform to deliver targeted and relevant content to individuals enhances their overall experience. By keeping your brand top-of-mind and providing valuable incentives, you can foster ongoing engagement, repeat visits, and ultimately, customer loyalty.

Maximized Marketing Reach

With SafeOpt, you can significantly expand your marketing reach. By leveraging its vast network of over 175 million shoppers, SafeOpt enables brands to send 3-5 times more messages to individuals who have interacted with your website, shown interest, or abandoned their shopping carts. This expanded reach allows you to stay in front of a larger pool of potential customers, increasing brand visibility and awareness. 

By reaching a wider audience, you have the opportunity to attract new leads and expand your market presence. It is among the marketing techniques you need to invest in as it ensures that your marketing messages are delivered to individuals most likely to engage and convert, maximizing your marketing reach and potential.

Increased Revenue Opportunities

SafeOpt opens up new avenues for revenue generation. By utilizing SafeOpt campaigns, you can tap into a significant revenue opportunity by connecting with its network of shoppers actively seeking exclusive offers. These individuals may have previously abandoned their shopping journey but can be converted into actual buyers through personalized messaging and compelling incentives. 

SafeOpt helps you capture additional sales from individuals who have shown interest in your brand, maximizing your revenue potential. By re-engaging these potential customers and providing them with exclusive deals, you can drive conversions, increase sales, and ultimately boost your overall revenue.

Data-Driven Insights

SafeOpt provides valuable data insights that can inform your marketing strategies. By analyzing customer behavior, preferences, and response rates, you gain a deeper understanding of your target audience. SafeOpt® tracks and measures the effectiveness of your campaigns, allowing you to identify which messages and offers resonate the most with your customers. 

These data-driven insights enable you to optimize your messaging, refine your marketing campaigns, and make informed decisions to improve your website’s performance. By leveraging the power of data, you can continuously enhance your marketing efforts, increase engagement, and drive better results for your business.

Cost-Effective Marketing Solution

Cost-Effective Marketing Solution: SafeOpt offers a cost-effective marketing solution compared to traditional advertising methods. Instead of investing heavily in broad-reaching campaigns, you can focus your resources on reaching a highly targeted audience that has already shown interest in your brand. SafeOpt enables you to deliver personalized messages and offers to individuals most likely to convert, maximizing the efficiency of your marketing efforts. 

By targeting those who have engaged with your website or abandoned their shopping carts, you can optimize your marketing budget and ensure that your messages are delivered to the right people at the right time. This cost-effective approach helps you achieve better ROI and allocate your resources wisely.

Improved Customer Retention

SafeOpt campaigns are not only effective at acquiring new customers but also in retaining existing ones. By offering personalized deals and incentives, you can reward customer loyalty and encourage repeat purchases. SafeOpt enables you to create targeted campaigns that specifically target individuals who have previously engaged with your brand, ensuring that your messages resonate with their interests and preferences. 

By nurturing these existing customer relationships and providing ongoing value, you can increase customer satisfaction and loyalty. SafeOpt helps you stay connected with your customer base, reducing churn rates, and fostering long-term brand loyalty, resulting in improved customer retention.

Enhanced Personalization and Customer Experience

SafeOpt enables you to deliver highly personalized messages and offers to your website visitors. By leveraging its network of 175M+ shoppers and data insights, SafeOpt allows you to tailor your communications based on customer preferences, browsing behavior, and past interactions. This level of personalization creates a more engaging and relevant experience for your customers, increasing their satisfaction and loyalty. 

By delivering the right message to the right person at the right time, SafeOpt helps you build deeper connections with your audience, ultimately leading to improved customer experience and long-term brand advocacy.

Seamless Integration and Ease of Use

SafeOpt provides a user-friendly platform that seamlessly integrates with your website. Implementing and managing SafeOpt® campaigns is straightforward and hassle-free. The platform offers intuitive features and a streamlined process, allowing you to set up campaigns quickly and efficiently. You don’t need extensive technical knowledge or coding skills to leverage the benefits of SafeOpt. 

Its user-friendly interface and robust support ensure that you can easily navigate the platform and make the most out of its features. With SafeOpt, maximizing your website’s potential becomes a seamless and user-friendly experience, empowering you to drive better results without unnecessary complexity.

Leveraging SafeOpt to maximize your website’s potential offers numerous benefits. From increased conversion rates and enhanced customer engagement to expanded marketing reach and increased revenue opportunities, SafeOpt provides a comprehensive marketing solution. By utilizing data-driven insights and enjoying cost-effective campaigns, you can optimize your marketing budget and drive better results. Additionally, SafeOpt promotes improved customer retention, fostering long-term loyalty. 

 

Optimizing VCard Usage with QR Codes

QR codes provide a versatile solution for optimizing the usage of VCards. By incorporating VCards into QR codes, you can enhance their accessibility and convenience. This article explores the benefits of using QR codes for VCards and highlights how they can be utilized in various scenarios, such as presentation design, to maximize their impact. Discover how free qr code for business card can streamline the sharing and utilization of VCards, making them more efficient and user-friendly.

Unlocking the Potential of VCards in QR Code Format

Explore the reasons why utilizing VCards in QR code format can be advantageous. Whether you need to present your contact information in a visually appealing and interactive way or streamline the process of sharing your details, VCards in QR code format offer numerous benefits. By using QR codes, you can conveniently provide others with quick access to your VCard information, making it easier for them to save and utilize your contact details effectively.

Creating a QR Code for VCard

Learn how to create a QR code for your VCard, whether by converting an existing VCard file or building a VCard page from scratch. To create a QR code at generator ME-QR for your VCard, follow these steps on the:

  1. Visit the website and navigate to the VCard QR code section.
  2. Select the option to create a new VCard QR code.
  3. Fill in the required contact information, such as name, phone number, email, and address.
  4. Customize the appearance of the QR code if desired.
  5. Generate the QR code and download it for use.

By following these steps, you can easily create a QR code for your VCard and optimize its accessibility and usability.

QR codes offer a powerful tool for optimizing the usage of VCards. By converting VCards into QR codes, you can enhance their accessibility and convenience, making it easier for others to save and utilize your contact information effectively. Whether for presentation design or simplifying contact sharing, QR codes streamline the process and ensure a seamless experience for both parties involved.

Utilizing QR codes for VCards provides a practical solution to optimize their usage. By creating a QR code for your VCard and incorporating it into your communication materials, presentations, or digital platforms, you can enhance the accessibility and convenience of your contact information. Embrace the power of QR codes and unlock the full potential of your VCards for efficient and user-friendly contact sharing.

Enhancing the Sports Experience: The Rise of Interactive Apps

The advent of technology has seismically shifted the landscape of sports engagement, reshaping the way fans follow, comprehend, and participate in their favorite games. A crucial component of this transformation is the surge in popularity of sports apps, which offer a smorgasbord of features – from live updates to player stats, and even interactive elements.

The Sports App Revolution: Transforming Fan Engagement

Over the past decade, sports apps have witnessed a steady ascent, transforming from simple score-checking platforms to comprehensive digital companions for sports enthusiasts. These apps have fundamentally altered how fans engage with their favorite sports, with popular examples like ESPN leading the charge.

ESPN provides users with a comprehensive platform that includes live updates, in-depth analysis, and access to exclusive content such as documentaries and original series. Of course it also delivers a personalized sports experience with customizable alerts, real-time scores, and player stats across various sports.

In addition, recent research revealed that over 69% of sports fans prefer to experience sports beyond the stadium in 2023, evidencing the widespread acceptance of this technological shift. These apps cater to the modern sports fan’s desire for an immersive and interactive experience, meeting their demand for instant access to information, stats, and analysis at their fingertips.

The Technology Behind the Apps: AI, AR, and Real-time Data Processing

Powering the dynamic functionalities of these sports apps are advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and real-time data processing. Moreover, AR technology is creating immersive experiences, with apps like MLB At Bat offering users a “3D Stadium” feature. This allows fans to explore the baseball stadium in a virtual setting, truly enhancing their engagement.

In addition to AI and AR, innovations such as geolocation tracking and personalized content curation are also becoming crucial in the realm of sports apps. Geolocation capabilities allow fans to receive specific content based on their location, increasing the relevance of information they receive. Similarly, personalization algorithms learn from users’ behavior and preferences to tailor content, thus cultivating a more engaging and meaningful connection between the app and the user. The synthesis of these technologies amplifies the sports fan’s digital experience, creating an environment that extends well beyond the physical confines of the stadium.

A Look to the Future

Looking to the future, we are on the cusp of witnessing more exciting developments in the realm of sports apps. One feature that has been gaining ground recently is sports betting, weaving an extra layer of excitement for fans. Integrating this into a sports app offers users the thrill of participating directly in the game outcomes.

Moreover, virtual reality (VR) technology, blockchain-based fan engagement models, and more personalized content delivery are predicted to be the next frontiers in sports app development. A study conducted by PwC in 2023 projected that the sports technology industry could be valued at around $55 billion by the end of 2030.

The Evolution Continues

In summary, sports apps have significantly reshaped the way fans engage with sports, offering an immersive and interactive experience previously unimaginable. Bolstered by cutting-edge technologies such as AI, AR, and real-time data processing, these apps have become an integral part of the modern sports landscape. As we step into the future, the advent of features like sports betting, VR integration, and personalized content will continue to enhance the sports experience, promising an exhilarating journey for sports enthusiasts worldwide.

 

Exclusion epidemic: Jabra research reveals Millennials feel most ostracised in hybrid meetings

After years of resisting, many workers are now back in the workplace , bringing with them the return of in-person meetings. In fact,58% of all meetings are now held in meeting rooms, with roughly half of them involving online participants. The rise of hybrid work has resulted in new challenges in terms of inclusivity and the understanding of meeting room technology according to Jabra’s 2023 edition of its Hybrid Ways of Working Global Report conducted amongst 304 UK respondents (1,845 people in the total of six key markets worldwide).

Jabra’s new report uncovers the state of meetings in hybrid work, including the largest barriers and opportunities for employees and organisations. As hybrid work continues to impact employees’ habits and behaviours, leaders need to rethink their overall working models to ensure effective collaboration.

Bridging the generational gap in hybrid meetings

We are currently living in an era of a multi-generational workforce with very different life experiences and perspectives. Whilst technology and autonomy can go a long way in enabling inclusive, productive, and creative meetings, there are still other dynamics to look out for which can cause people to feel left out. 

According to Jabra’s research, when asked how often they feel left out of the conversation in online meetings, Millennials were over 4 times as likely as Boomers to say they feel this way. Similarly, Gen X and Boomers were more than two times as likely to say they never feel left out of a conversation. 

Although Millennials are “digital natives”, they are also some of the youngest and least experienced employees, meaning they may lack the confidence to speak up in meetings. Leaders must be mindful of these intergenerational dynamics and effectively use meeting technology to create a more inclusive hybrid meeting culture. This gives each employee the confidence to share fresh ideas and actively participate in discussions in a way that best suits them.

Using video in meetings can have a positive impact on your career 

Should you have cameras on or off in an online meeting? When it comes to presenting ourselves as professionals in online environments, the verdict from employees is clear: using video can have a positive and empowering impact on your career. 

Jabra’s research found 55% of employees believe that using video impacts how they perceive their colleagues in meetings. They agreed that their colleagues using video seem more competent, more engaged, and more trustworthy in meetings than those who do not. However, similar to the way that Millennials feel left out in online meetings, the research also found that they feel pressured to have their cameras on. 

When employees can’t join a meeting in a way that works for them, remotely or in-person, employers run the risk of exacerbating existing issues within their teams, such as inequalities or negative social dynamics. Therefore, before leaders create mandatory video use policies, they must first be aware of the challenges that those policies can create.

Accessibility and training can drive meeting room technology adoption

At the beginning of the pandemic, employees all over the world were forced to adapt overnight to fully remote meetings. Even though employees are increasingly returning to the office, there is still at least one person joining from a remote location. 

According to the research, not enough has been done to support those returning to the office to get familiar with meeting room technology. In fact, 45% of employees say they’re hesitant to take meetings in a meeting room because they’re less comfortable with the technology compared to just using their own laptop.

As organisations around the world continue to upgrade their office meeting rooms, it’s essential that comprehensive training and guidance for employees is provided. By ensuring employees can use the technology, business leaders can maximise the benefits of their enhanced meeting rooms and foster a seamless transition into the hybrid work environment.

Holger Reisinger, SVP at Jabra said, “As we all know, hybrid work is now the norm for millions of knowledge workers worldwide, bringing with it new challenges to the way we collaborate with one another. While employees speak to the well-being benefits of flexible work, many employers have struggled to lead widely distributed teams. Moving forward, it’s essential that leaders give employees the tools they need and allow them to join meetings from where it best suits them. This will instill trust, empower decision-making, and allow the best ideas to rise to the top.”

 

Download a copy of the full report here: https://www.jabra.com/hybridwork/2023 

Airfield Estate Launches Sustainable Community Garden With €50,000 Donation From Toast.org

Toast, the digital technology platform built for restaurants, today announced the Toast.org Community Garden in partnership with Airfield Estate in Dundrum, South Dublin. Toast recently launched in Ireland, and its philanthropic branch, Toast.org, will donate €50,000 to fund the creation of the garden.

Known as Dublin’s only working farm, Airfield Estate is creating the community garden to produce sustainable fruit and vegetables while also offering opportunities for people to learn about environmentally-friendly food production, empowering them to make more informed food choices.

The Toast.org Community Garden at Airfield Estate will be a resource centre for education on nutrition, food sovereignty, seed saving, biodiversity, conservation, and resource management, supporting Toast.org’s mission to enrich the food experience for all.

The community garden will also support Airfield Estate’s ambition to be Dublin’s sustainable food hub and help bring Dublin on its journey to be known as a world-leading sustainable food city.

As a part of Toast.org’s support, the garden will employ a Community Garden Coordinator and Craft Gardener. The grounds will be accessible to everyone, from the local community and vulnerable groups to corporate employees, and the space will host horticulture talks and workshops on various topics.

Toast established its European presence in 2017 with the opening of its first Dublin office, an R&D Centre of Excellence. Toast has since added functions in Ireland including sales, marketing, and customer support and earlier this year, made its technology available for restaurants across the country.

“The Toast.org Community Garden at Airfield Estate will be a fantastic addition to the estate and will support our ambition to become Dublin’s leading sustainable food hub,” said Claire Mac Evilly, CEO of Airfield Estate. “The team at Toast.org mirrors our commitment to improve access to sustainable food for people in Dublin, while having a positive impact on our environment. We know that there are not enough community gardens in Ireland when compared to our European neighbours. This is a really positive example of social impact where businesses and charities like ourselves can come together and give people the opportunity to grow food.”

“At Toast.org, we’re passionate about supporting organisations that positively impact the communities we serve, and Airfield Estate is leading the way in sustainability and the environment,” added Robert McGarry, SVP of Engineering & Head of Toast’s Dublin Office. “We are impressed by Airfield Estate’s many programmes and initiatives that promote the environment while providing more informed food choices for people in Dublin and the surrounding area. We’re excited to mark the next step in our partnership with Airfield Estate with this donation and look forward to working with the charity to develop the community garden.”

Toast.org brings the strength of Toast’s people, products, and philanthropy to further the company’s purpose to enrich the food experience for all and create a healthier, more sustainable, and equitable world.

The partnership between Toast.org and Airfield Estate began in 2021 when some of Toast’s Dublin-based employees volunteered with the charity. The launch of the community garden is one of several ways Toast.org will support Airfield Estate throughout 2023.

More information on Toast.org is available on its website.