Tag: Devices Page 1 of 2

The Role of Technology in Business Transformation

On May 4, 2023

Today’s rapidly evolving business landscape has made technology crucial in driving transformation and innovation. From cloud computing to artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), technology has enabled businesses to streamline processes, increase efficiency, and, ultimately, drive growth. In this blog post, we’ll explore the role of technology in business transformation.

Streamlining Operations

One of the most significant impacts of technology on business transformation is its ability to streamline operations. Automation tools like robotic process automation (RPA) allow businesses to automate repetitive and mundane tasks, freeing employees to focus on more complex tasks. This increases productivity, reduces errors, lowers costs, and improves overall efficiency.

Cloud computing is another technology that has transformed business operations. Cloud solutions enable businesses to store and access data remotely, eliminating the need for on-premise servers and reducing maintenance costs. This also enables employees to access data from anywhere, increasing collaboration and enabling remote work.

Enhancing Customer Experience

Technology has also transformed the way businesses interact with their customers. Companies can use technology to provide a seamless customer experience, from chatbots to personalized marketing campaigns.

Chatbots, for example, allow businesses to provide 24/7 customer support and answer frequently asked questions in real time. This improves customer satisfaction and reduces the workload on customer support teams.

Personalized marketing campaigns powered by AI and machine learning algorithms enable businesses to target customers with relevant content and offers. This not only increases engagement but also drives sales and revenue.

Enabling Innovation

Technology has also enabled businesses to innovate and create new products and services. For example, IoT technology has enabled the creation of smart products and services to collect and analyze data, providing valuable insights into customer behavior and preferences.

In addition, AI technology can analyze large amounts of data and provide insights into customer behavior and market trends, enabling businesses to make data-driven decisions and stay ahead of the competition.

Challenges and Considerations

While technology has many benefits for businesses, it also poses some challenges and considerations. For example, implementing new technologies can be expensive and require significant investment. Companies must carefully consider the return on investment (ROI) and ensure that the benefits of new technologies outweigh the costs.

Additionally, businesses must have the necessary skills and expertise to implement and maintain new technologies. This may require hiring new talent or providing training to existing employees.

Businesses must also consider the potential impact of new technologies on their employees and customers. For example, automation tools may eliminate some jobs, while chatbots may only be suitable for customer interactions.

Technology has transformed how businesses operate, interact with customers, and innovate. Technology has become crucial in business transformation, from streamlining operations to enhancing the customer experience and enabling innovation. However, businesses must carefully consider the costs, expertise, and potential impact on employees and customers before implementing new technologies. By leveraging technology strategically, companies can drive growth and stay ahead of the competition in today’s fast-paced business landscape.

Ethics of Data Collection and Privacy in the Age of Big Data

By Russ Ewell

On April 19, 2023

In Blog, Russ Ewell, Technology

Data collection has become a ubiquitous part of our lives. From browsing the internet to using social media platforms, we leave digital footprints that companies and organizations can use to collect and analyze our personal data. Big data continues to rise, which has made it easier to collect and analyze vast amounts of data. Still, it has also raised concerns about data collection and privacy ethics.

The Ethics of Data Collection

The collection of personal data raises ethical concerns about how the data is collected, who has access to it, and how it is used. Some of the key ethical considerations related to data collection include the following:

Informed Consent: Individuals should have the right to know what data of thier is being collected and how it will be used. Companies and organizations must obtain informed consent from individuals before collecting their data.
Transparency: Companies and organizations must be transparent about their data collection practices. They should provide clear and concise information about how data is collected, used, and stored.
Purpose Limitation: Data should only be collected for specific and legitimate purposes. Companies and organizations should not collect data that is not necessary for their business operations.
Data Quality: Companies and organizations should ensure the data they collect is accurate, complete, and up-to-date.
Security: Companies and organizations are responsible for protecting personal data from unauthorized access, use, and disclosure. They should implement appropriate security measures to safeguard personal data.

The Ethics of Privacy

Privacy is a fundamental human right protected by international and national laws. The rise of big data has raised concerns about personal data privacy. Some of the key ethical matters related to privacy include:

Data Ownership: Individuals should have control over their personal data. Companies and organizations should not claim ownership of personal data.
Data Minimization: Companies and organizations should only collect the minimum personal data necessary to achieve their business objectives.
Data Retention: Companies and organizations should only retain personal data for as long as necessary for their business operations.
Data Sharing: Companies and organizations should only share personal data with third parties for specific and legitimate purposes.
Data Deletion: Individuals should have the right to request the deletion of their personal data.

How to Ensure Ethical Data Collection and Privacy

To ensure ethical data collection and privacy, companies and organizations should:

Develop Clear and Concise Privacy Policies: Every company, businessm and organization must develop clear and concise privacy policies that explain their data collection practices.
Obtain Informed Consent: Companies and organizations must also obtain informed consent from individuals before collecting their data.
Implement Appropriate Security Measures: Companies and organizations should implement appropriate security measures to protect personal data from unauthorized access, use, and disclosure.
Regularly Review and Update Privacy Policies: Companies and organizations should periodically review and update their privacy policies to ensure they comply with all relevant laws and regulations.
Provide Access to Personal Data: Individuals should have the right to access their personal data and correct any inaccuracies.

Conclusion

Data collection and privacy ethics are essential considerations in the age of big data. Companies and organizations are responsible for collecting personal data ethically and protecting individuals’ privacy. By implementing appropriate security measures, obtaining informed consent, and regularly reviewing and updating privacy policies, companies and organizations can ensure that they collect and use personal data ethically and responsibly.

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Russ Ewell – Technology

Assistive Technology Helping Those with Disabilities

By Russ Ewell

On March 11, 2023

In Blog, Russ Ewell

Assistive technology has come a long way in recent years and has become an increasingly important tool for people with disabilities. In 2023, there are a wide range of assistive technologies available that are helping people with disabilities to lead more independent and fulfilling lives.

One of the most significant advancements in assistive technology in recent years has been the development of devices that are controlled using brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). These devices allow people with physical disabilities to control computers, prosthetics, and other devices using their thoughts. This has the potential to revolutionize the lives of people with disabilities, as it allows them to perform tasks that were previously impossible.

Another important development in assistive technology is the use of machine learning algorithms to enhance the functionality of assistive devices. For example, machine learning algorithms can be used to help speech recognition software understand the speech patterns of people with speech impairments. This can make it easier for people with disabilities to communicate with others and perform everyday tasks.

In addition to these advancements, there are a wide range of other assistive technologies that are helping people with disabilities. For example, there are devices that use sensors and machine learning algorithms to detect falls and alert caregivers, and devices that can help people with visual impairments to navigate their surroundings.

One of the most exciting developments in assistive technology is the use of virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) to create immersive experiences that can help people with disabilities to overcome their limitations. For example, VR/AR can be used to create simulations that allow people with mobility impairments to experience activities that they would otherwise be unable to participate in. This can help people with disabilities to feel more included and engaged in society.

There are also a wide range of assistive technologies that are specifically designed for people with sensory impairments. For example, there are devices that can translate speech into sign language for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, and devices that can provide tactile feedback for people who are blind or visually impaired.

In conclusion, assistive technology has come a long way in recent years, and there are a wide range of technologies available that are helping people with disabilities to lead more independent and fulfilling lives. From brain-computer interfaces to machine learning algorithms and virtual reality simulations, there is a wide range of assistive technologies that are making a real difference in the lives of people with disabilities. As technology continues to advance, it is likely that we will see even more exciting developments in assistive technology in the years to come.

New Assistive Technologies in 2022

By Russ Ewell

On June 14, 2022

In Blog, Russ Ewell

There is no doubt that technology has changed the world in innumerable ways. In particular, it has made life easier for people with disabilities. Assistive technologies have come a long way in the past few years, and they are only going to get better in 2022. Many people with disabilities rely on assistive technologies to help them with everyday tasks. Here are some of the most promising new technologies that will be available in 2022.

Help for the Hearing Impaired
One of the most promising new technologies for people with hearing impairments is called AudioEye. This technology uses a combination of hardware and software to provide real-time captioning for live events. AudioEye is already being used by some major corporations, including Microsoft and AT&T. Also, the National Association of the Deaf has given AudioEye its seal of approval. Most importantly, AudioEye is very affordable, which makes it accessible to people with all types of hearing impairments.

Help for the Dexterity-Challenged
There are many new technologies being developed to help people with dexterity issues. One of the most promising is a robotic arm that can be controlled by thoughts. The user simply wears a special cap that reads brain waves. This technology is still in the early stages of development, but it has great potential for people with disabilities. According to one estimate, there are over a million people in the United States alone who could benefit from this technology.

Help for the Visually Impaired
There are several new technologies being developed to help the visually impaired. One of the most promising is called eSight. This wearable device uses a high-definition camera to capture images and then displays them on two OLED screens in front of the user’s eyes. The result is that the user can see things that they would not be able to see with their naked eyes. eSight is already being used by thousands of people around the world, and it is expected to be available to the general public by 2022.

These are just a few examples of the new assistive technologies that will be available in 2022. It is clear that these technologies have the potential to change the lives of people with disabilities for the better. We can only imagine what new technologies will be developed in the years to come.

Technology Spotlight: Project Understood

By Russ Ewell

On December 31, 2019

In Blog, Russ Ewell

Google is a seasoned pro when it comes to developing reliable and modern technology that promotes inclusion amongst all users. We are living in an era where voice technology is becoming the norm as pivotal software to assist users with a variety of tasks. Digital voice assistants like Google’s Assistant, Apple’s Siri, and Amazon’s Alexa have quickly become a necessity through all tech mediums like smartphones, tablets, and home devices.

However, the Canadian Down Syndrome Society (CDSS) noticed that voice technology can lack the capability to correctly understand and transmit the voices of individuals with Down Syndrome. The way that individuals with Down Syndrome speak can be anomalous compared to those without, making the software difficult to use. Although, it is likely that individuals with a number of disabilities would benefit from the technology the most.

With this mission in mind, the CDSS set forth to find partnership in one of these major tech companies to not only recognize the issue at hand but join them in developing a solution that they have named Project Understood. Google was quick to jump on board and, with the society’s help, is testing its technology.

The initial test was to record 1,700 words and phrases spoken by individuals with Down Syndrome. From there, researchers could analyze whether or not Google’s voice technology was able to learn from the repetitive input of this voice data. They started with about nine volunteers.

After the initial testing, researched could confirm that Google’s voice technology was able to understand about 2 of 3 words spoken by individuals with Down Syndrome and that it has the capabilities to learn more with further data. Now the project just needs to secure more volunteers to feed Google’s voice technology more data.

Google and the CDSS are now seeking to collect about a thousand different voices of individuals with Down Syndrome to donate their time to developing this dynamic software. Not only will this help teach the system to learn to recognize speech from individuals with Down Syndrome, but it should also benefit other individuals with disabilities or atypical speech.

Google and the Canadian Down Syndrome Society are just a few of a number of companies that are working to build a more inclusive future for individuals with disabilities. Voice recognition, along with other smart technologies, has the capability to enhance the lives of all users, no matter their differences.

Google’s New Accessibility Projects

By Russ Ewell

On October 21, 2019

In Blog, Russ Ewell

Google has recently unveiled 3 separate efforts to bring technology to those with disabilities to help make their daily lives easier and more accessible. The three projects are Project Euphonia, which aims to help those with speech impairments; Live Relay, which assists anyone who is hard of hearing; and Project Diva, which aims to give autonomy and independence to people with the help of Google Assist.

More than 15% of people in the United States live with a disability, and that number is only expected to grow in the years ahead as we grow older and start living longer. There has never been a better time to try to harness the power of our technology to help make the lives of the disabled more comfortable and fulfilling.

Project Euphonia

Project Euphonia aims to help those with speech difficulties caused by cerebral palsy, autism, and other developmental disorders, as well as neurologic conditions like ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), stroke, MS (multiple sclerosis), Parkinson’s Disease, or traumatic brain injuries. Google’s aim with Project Euphonia is to use the power of AI to help computers understand speech that is impaired with improved accuracy, and then, in turn, use those computers to make sure everyone using the service can be understood.

Google has partnered with the ALS Residence Initiative and the ALS Therapy Development Institute to record voices of men and women with ALS, and have worked on optimizing algorithms that can help to transcribe and recognize their words more reliably.

Live Relay

Live Relay was set up with the goal of bringing voice calls to those who are deaf or hard of hearing. By using a phone’s own speech recognition and text-to-speech software, users will be able to let the phone listen and speak on their behalf, making it possible to speak to someone who is deaf or hard of hearing.

Google also plans to integrate real-time translation into their Live Relay software, allowing anyone in the world to speak to one another regardless of any language barrier.

Project Diva

Project Diva helps those who are nonverbal or suffer from limited mobility to give Google Assistant commands without needing to use their voice, but instead by using an external switch device.

The device is a small box into which an assistive button is plugged. The signal coming from the button is then converted by the box into a command sent to the Google Assistant.

For now, Project Diva is limited to single-purpose buttons, but they are currently devising a system that makes use of RFID tags which they can then associate with certain specific commands.

How AI is Improving Assistive Technology

By Russ Ewell

On October 1, 2019

In Blog, Russ Ewell

Assistive technology is an AI-based solution that helps people and businesses save time and simplifies processes. Many businesses have adopted forms of assistive technology, such as automation, in their operations to increase efficiency. Ultimately, automation and robotics are becoming more sophisticated and are playing an increasing role in the workplace in many operations. However, a lesser-known function for AI is how it is improving and advancing assistive technology for individuals with disabilities.

AI for Medicinal Purposes

One of the areas where AI has developed rapidly is the medical industry, as physicians can now track patients through electronic medical devices. Smart devices are helping save lives by alerting medical professionals in emergency situations. AI-based devices can track heart rate, blood pressure, and many other physical processes of patients. Robots can be programmed to assist individuals with disabilities with certain tasks like making emergency calls or reminding a patient to take medication.

Communicative Assistance

Many new developments are in the works to help improve communication among individuals with disabilities. A highly accurate device that converts sign language into text or voice makes communication easier between those with and without hearing impairments. A 3D camera tracking body movement is also revolutionizing the possibilities of AI. Assistive technology can potentially change someone’s life at a personal and professional level.

Smart Glasses and Hearing Aids

Some of the innovations on the horizon for assistive technology include smart glasses and cognitive hearing aids. Augmented reality glass enhances a certain component of sight, developed by Google, which has been working on smart glass projects throughout the decade. Cognitive hearing aids that track brain waves are now on display at Columbia University School of Engineering.

Other AI Applications

There are several other AI applications in the medical industry, many of which relate to wearables. University of Houston researchers are currently testing a biofeedback rehabilitation wearable, which consists of a belt made of vibrating actuators. These actuators are sensors that map out real-movement of the individual wearing the belt. By collecting and analyzing data on a daily basis, the system can monitor behaviors associated with Parkinson’s Disease.

Assistive learning is focused on improving the quality of life for individuals with a variety of disabilities. Innovative ideas ushered in by AI technology allow for a growing range of solutions that these individuals did not experience prior to the development of wearables. In the future, we expect many new opportunities for assistive technology advances with the help of AI devices.

Microsoft’s Focus on Inclusivity

By Russ Ewell

On August 21, 2019

In Blog, Russ Ewell

What started as a new controller intended for professional and intense gamers quickly became a sensation for a different group of video game lovers – those with mobile disabilities. When Microsoft launched their new Elite controller for Xbox one, it featured the ability for extreme gamers to customize some of the buttons and a textured grip for ease of grip. Microsoft had unintentionally created a customizable controller better equipped for video game enthusiasts with mobile disabilities. This was the start of a series of progressive improvements that Microsoft would make for inclusivity.

After the buzz associated with the accessibility of the new Elite remote with disabled gamers, Microsoft launched a new software update with this demographic in mind. They updated the existing narrator and magnifying feature to assist those with vision impairments. They also debuted the copilot feature that allowed users to handle the buttons better with just one hand.

Microsoft then developed its Xbox Adaptive Controller designed explicitly with disabled players in mind. This foot-long board features two large buttons that can be programmed to perform any function. It also has 19 3.5mm jacks that allow for a variety of input devices to plug into the controller. Some of these assistive inputs include foot pedals, microswitches, larger buttons, or joysticks. The standard-sized jack allows for gamers to utilize peripherals that users may already own for other functions as well. These features will enable each player to create a controller that can function with their unique disabilities. Creating a truly personalized gaming experience feeds into the inclusivity that Microsoft is yearning.

While the controller itself is more substantial and looks different than the standard controller, it is specifically designed to foster inclusivity. The color scheme is in keeping with a standard Xbox one council, and it still features all of the standard buttons like menu, pause, and start. Microsoft’s intent with this design is to avoid an outcast appearance for individuals who need assistive technology. Instead, the purpose is for users to play together with others and face no different challenges than anyone else.

The Xbox Adaptive Controller is making it easier than ever for children with differences or disabilities to enjoy the inclusivity that the gaming world has to offer. Children and adults can immerse themselves in a world where you can customize your avatar and roam around a foreign land with made-up storylines – all while connecting with users from across the globe. In the gaming world, your physical limitations don’t exist, and Microsoft is taking steps to make this authentic in the real world as well.

Speech Technology For People With Nonverbal Autism Russ Ewell

VocaliD: Speech Technology for People with Nonverbal Autism

By Russ Ewell

On August 13, 2019

In Blog, Russ Ewell

Close to 25% of all people with Autism are considered nonverbal. These individuals rely on gestures and movements or minimal vocabulary to communicate with others. As one can imagine, this comes with a series of challenges as well as social barriers for people with Autism. Many parents report that their child with Autism has experienced bullying at school due to their lack of communication.

In this technological era, there are copious technologies that offer automated voice assistance from a touch-screen device. An iPad now offers applications that show pictures of objects and, when clicked on, will project the word in a robotic voice. However, the personalization is still lacking from this technology, which can cause emotional distress for an individual with nonverbal Autism. Luckily, VocaliD founder Rupal Patel has a solution.

VocaliD is a new technology that combines the individual’s real voice with that of a ‘voice donor’ in their database. This combination provides the individual with nonverbal Autism with a unique pseudo-voice personalized to match their own. Patel’s technology starts by capturing a recording of the individual saying a word or syllable. From there, Patel’s database full of tens of thousands of voice donors filters by factors like age, gender, and regional dialect. Pitch and volume of the recipient’s natural vocals are also considered when matching with a donor.

The goal of this technology is not to provide just a voice to individuals with nonverbal Autism – this is available through many different applications and technologies. The goal is instead to give the individual a unique and clear voice that is representative of their real personality. The psychological benefits of achieving this goal are immaculate.

Patel has found that most individuals who own this assistive technology can show hesitation in utilizing them. This could be because the voice cannot be completely personalized. Two individuals using the same technology will likely have the same “voice” regardless of their age, gender, or background. This naturally discourages people, especially children, from using their assistive technology for fear of being made fun of or misunderstood.

With VocaliD, Patel and the other developers hope that the utilization of the technology could also encourage children and adults with nonverbal Autism to become more verbal over time. There is evidence that suggests that children who use technology for speech assistance regularly will learn to form and say words in their own voices.

While this technology is still very new, the promise of personalized assistance to children and adults with any form of Autism is an inspiring step in the right direction.

A New Niche For Smart Glasses

By Russ Ewell

On March 20, 2018

In Blog

Wearable technology is a relatively recent field that has exploded in popularity in recent years. The Fitbit and similar smartwatches are near-ubiquitous and can be seen on wrists young and old. Medical devices have gained popularity in the industry for their ability to enable patients to monitor their own health.

However, it hasn’t been all revolutionary breakthroughs. Some products do not resonate as well as others. Smart eyewear has become the black sheep of the wearable family, lampooned for its strange appearance and debatable utility. The challenge with these glasses seems to be making a device that people would actually want to wear, with companies such as Intel edging closer to that sweet spot.

Even as smart eyewear struggles to find its place in the world of wearables, it does find a niche helping special needs children learn. Technology such as non-traditional keyboards designed for autistic students is already popular among education professionals working with these children. Google Glass, the poster child for misguided attempts at eyewear technology, has nevertheless rebranded itself as a product for businesses looking to improve the skills of their workers on the spot. Additionally, it has promised utility for the classroom, helping autistic children learn.

Among these students, the results have been noteworthy. All eight children tested by Harvard University’s Department of Psychology were able to successfully use the device without stress. Researchers used smartglasses as a way to help children identify social cues based on facial expressions and other minute changes that autistic individuals have difficulty identifying. They also discussed the need for devices that are aesthetically pleasing, so that the users are less likely to face stigma for their use. All participants did, however, report that they would be willing to use the glasses again in a different setting.

As with anything else designed for special needs students, it is important that their opinions are solicited before coming to any conclusions. If the technology is untested, it can be uncomfortable for the individuals at best or overwhelming at worst. Caregivers can be fundamental in ensuring that these devices supplement the help that they are already providing. In this way, Google Glass seems to be a great method for teaching the subtleties of social interaction that may be hard to impart through other educational methods. Smartglasses worn on a consistent basis can provide support on the spot, with the potential to radically affect a child’s perceptions of the environments in which he or she grows up. This, in turn, can lead to positive improvement in development and psychological well-being.

That said, it is still not a perfect technology. Less-than-stellar attitudes toward smartglasses may make some less willing to use them in social situations. Additionally, physical concerns about the glasses staying in place with head movements are also worth noting.