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The Rise of the Solopreneur: Triumphs, Challenges, and Future Prospects

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The Rise of the Solopreneur: Triumphs, Challenges, and Future Prospects

The solopreneur movement has rapidly gained momentum over the last decade, spurred by technology, changing workforce dynamics, and the allure of independence. Defined as entrepreneurs who build and run their business alone, solopreneurs often operate as “one-person companies” or freelancers. As of 2023, an estimated 41 million Americans identified as solopreneurs or freelancers—a staggering 30% of the workforce. With each passing year, more individuals are opting to carve their own paths as solopreneurs, seeking autonomy and fulfillment. However, like all entrepreneurs, solopreneurs face unique challenges, some of which are likely to intensify as we move past 2025.

The Success of Solopreneurs

Flexibility and Freedom

One of the top reasons for the rise of solopreneurs is the flexibility it offers. Unlike traditional employees, solopreneurs can set their own schedules, choose projects they’re passionate about, and dictate the direction of their business. Take, for instance, Jane, a former corporate marketing executive who transitioned to solopreneurship as a content strategist. The ability to balance her work schedule with her family responsibilities while building a personal brand has been a dream come true for Jane. And she’s not alone: 75% of freelancers state that flexible hours are the primary motivator in their choice of work.

Financial Success and Scalability

While many solopreneurs start small, plenty have turned their ventures into highly profitable businesses. For example, a survey by the Freelancers Union found that 60% of freelancers make more than they would in traditional jobs, with some earning six-figure incomes. In 2022, freelance writers, graphic designers, consultants, and coaches made an average of $70,000 per year—a competitive income, especially given that many solopreneurs work fewer hours than their corporate counterparts.

With the help of technology, some solopreneurs even manage to scale their businesses significantly. For instance, Marie Forleo, a solopreneur in personal development and coaching, started with a small blog and eventually built an empire with courses, books, and an online community, reaching thousands globally. Digital tools, content marketing, and social media have allowed solopreneurs like Marie to build personal brands and successful companies from the ground up.

Professional Fulfillment and Creative Freedom

Another reason solopreneurs find success is the deep sense of fulfillment and creativity they experience. Working independently enables them to align their work with their values, passions, and goals. In a recent survey, 80% of solopreneurs expressed that they feel happier and more satisfied than in traditional employment. Their drive is often evident in their innovation; for example, software developers creating niche apps, graphic designers exploring innovative styles, or consultants crafting custom solutions for specific industries. This creative latitude not only enhances their satisfaction but also sets them apart in a competitive market.

Current Challenges Solopreneurs Face

Financial Uncertainty and Income Fluctuation

While solopreneurs often find financial success, it doesn’t come without its risks. Consistent income can be challenging to maintain, especially in the beginning. According to a survey conducted by MBO Partners, 47% of solopreneurs experience financial uncertainty, with fluctuating cash flow being a significant concern. The same report found that nearly half of solopreneurs regularly save for financial security, underscoring their concern for income stability. Building a steady pipeline of clients can take years, and some solopreneurs may even return to traditional work to supplement their income.

Isolation and Lack of Support

Unlike teams in traditional companies, solopreneurs lack the support of colleagues and often feel isolated. This can affect both their mental health and productivity. In a study by Buffer, nearly 20% of solopreneurs listed isolation as a top challenge. Without co-workers to bounce ideas off or to motivate them, they can struggle with maintaining momentum, particularly during difficult times. To counter this, many solopreneurs turn to co-working spaces or join online communities, which provide networking, collaboration, and social interaction.

Burnout and Work-Life Balance

For solopreneurs, work-life balance can be elusive. The pressure to succeed and the need to manage every aspect of their business—from finances to marketing—often lead to extended hours and even burnout. According to the American Institute of Stress, solopreneurs are at high risk of burnout, with 40% reporting regular feelings of overwhelm. These pressures sometimes turn a passion into a burden, leaving solopreneurs questioning if the freedom is worth the stress.

The Future: Challenges Beyond 2025

Increased Competition and Market Saturation

As more people enter solopreneurship, competition will only intensify, making it harder to stand out. By 2025, it’s expected that over 50% of the workforce will be involved in some form of freelancing or self-employment, whether full- or part-time. This trend means solopreneurs will need to find increasingly creative ways to differentiate their offerings in a saturated market. New entrants will need compelling personal brands, niche specializations, or advanced marketing tactics to capture attention.

Keeping Up with Technological Advancements

The rapid pace of technological advancements poses a challenge as well. From AI to blockchain and VR, new technologies are transforming industries, and solopreneurs must continuously adapt to stay relevant. A report from the World Economic Forum anticipates that AI and automation will transform over 50% of current job tasks by 2025. While these technologies present opportunities, they also demand a commitment to lifelong learning. For solopreneurs, this means consistently investing time in education to integrate new tech and avoid obsolescence.

Regulatory and Tax Challenges

With the growth of gig and solopreneur economies, governments around the world are adapting tax codes and regulations to encompass this shift. For example, new laws in the EU mandate specific benefits for freelancers, and states across the U.S. have proposed legislation for independent contractor protections. Navigating these changing landscapes will likely pose a challenge for solopreneurs, who may find themselves needing more legal and financial guidance than ever before.

Access to Capital and Financial Growth

Solopreneurs often face challenges in accessing capital, as traditional lenders favor larger companies or startups with multiple founders. Beyond 2025, this may continue to restrict solopreneurs from scaling their businesses effectively. To address this, some organizations have proposed targeted loan programs or financial resources for solopreneurs, though these initiatives are still in their infancy.

How Tech-ke Can Help

As a solopreneur, your online presence is your storefront. At Tech-ke, we understand the unique needs of solopreneurs and are here to support you at any stage of your journey. Whether you’re launching your first business website or refreshing an existing one, Tech-ke’s team is committed to designing innovative, high-performance websites that set you apart in an increasingly crowded market. Using cutting-edge technology, video, and even drone footage, we create immersive online experiences tailored to your brand. Let’s build something great together—reach out to Tech-ke today and take your solopreneur business to the next level.

We Build Quality Websites. Here’s How.

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Tech-ke builds quality websites. In the modern digital landscape, having a robust online presence is paramount for businesses across all industries. Among the myriad of success stories in the tech world, the journey of a website development business stands at the helm of helping business owners to visualize and communicate the right skills, market demands, and strategic growth that can lead to remarkable achievements for them and their companies.

The Inception of Tech’ke Quality Websites

The company, Tech-ke, started as a small operation over a decade ago. A few short years in, the founder teamed up with a graphic designer who also owned a website company and combined skillsets. Their unique selling proposition was simple yet powerful: creating custom and template websites that not only looked stunning but also delivered seamless user experiences.

The Examples of Tech’ke Quality Websites

Tech-ke builds quality websites. The quality websites are sought after because they work closely with clients. And in doing so, Tech’ke has built a rapport and delivered exactly what clients have visualized.

Below are two such websites.

The Growth Trajectory of Tech’ke Quality Websites

From its humble beginnings, Tech-ke quickly grew. Within the first year, they had built websites for several clients. The company’s growth was fueled by a few key factors:

  1. Quality of Work: The attention to detail and the focus on user-centric design set Tech-ke apart from competitors. Of course, this led to high client satisfaction and word-of-mouth referrals.
  2. SEO and Digital Marketing: Recognizing the importance of visibility, Tech-ke invested heavily in SEO and digital marketing. By optimizing their clients’ websites for search engines, they not only improved their clients’ online presence but also showcased their expertise too.
  3. Client Relationships: Building strong relationships with clients ensured repeat business and long-term contracts. Uniquely, Tech-ke positioned itself as a partner in their clients’ digital journeys, rather than just a service provider.

Diversification and Innovation

To sustain growth and stay competitive, Tech-ke diversified its service offerings. They branched out into drone and video editing offerings, blog and content services and Artificial Intelligence. Above all, innovation was a key driver. Tech-ke was early to adopt and integrate new technologies such as AI-driven design tools and advanced analytics to provide deeper insights into website performance. Again, integration was key.

Challenges and Resilience

Tech-ke builds quality websites and like any business, it faced challenges. Market saturation, evolving technology, and changing client expectations required constant adaptation. However, their resilience and commitment to continuous learning enabled them to navigate these hurdles effectively. Furthermore, investing in team training and staying updated with industry trends ensured they remained ahead of the curve, like successful businesses that cam before them.

Conclusion

Tech-ke’s story exemplifies how a clear vision, dedication to quality, and strategic growth can lead to tremendous success in the website development industry. From a small startup to a thriving business, their journey underscores the importance of adapting to market needs and continually innovating.

In the ever-evolving world of technology, one constant remains: the need for businesses to establish a strong online presence. Tech-ke makes it their mission to help others succeed online, proving that with the right approach, the sky is the limit.

How Can AI Help Families Become More Authentic With One Another?

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How Can AI Help Families Become More Authentic With One Another? It may seem like an oxymoron to suggest that artificial intelligence (AI) can help people to become closer. This is because AI is often thought of as a purely technological and impersonal concept. However, AI has the potential to facilitate human interactions and improve communication. Those things can ultimately lead to closer relationships.

History of American Family Time

The way Americans spend family time has evolved throughout history, shaped by cultural and societal changes.

Early 20th Century

In the early 20th century, the traditional family structure was characterized by the nuclear family, with the father as the breadwinner and the mother as the primary caregiver and homemaker. Family time was often spent at home, with activities such as cooking, cleaning, and playing together. Families would often gather around the dinner table to share a meal and spend time together.

1950s

During the 1950s, the rise of suburbanization and the proliferation of consumer goods led to an emphasis on the home as a place of leisure and consumption. Families spent more time at home, engaging in activities such as watching television, playing board games, and listening to music. Families also began to take more vacations together and spend time outdoors.

1960s

In the 1960s and 1970s, the feminist movement and a shift towards a more individualistic society led to a change in traditional gender roles. Women began to enter the workforce in larger numbers and both parents were often working outside of the home. As a result, family time became more limited and often focused on activities that could be done quickly. Two things that resulted were fast food meals and watching television.

Recent Years

In recent years, the rise of technology and the internet has had a significant impact on how families spend their time. Electronic devices and social media have made it easier for families to stay connected, but also increased screen time. However, there’s a growing awareness of the importance of disconnecting and investing in quality time together. Whether it’s through shared hobbies, reading, playing games, or going out on trips, families are making changes.

In summary, the way Americans spend family time has been shaped by societal and cultural changes throughout history. It has evolved from traditional activities at home to more individualistic and technology-focused ways of spending time.

Stay Connected

One of the main ways that AI can help to bring people closer is by making it easier for them to stay connected and communicate, regardless of their schedules or locations. AI-powered communication tools, such as chatbots and virtual assistants, can help families to schedule regular check-ins and family meetings, keeping everyone informed and in sync. Additionally, AI-powered tools such as sentiment analysis and natural language processing can help to identify emotions and underlying feelings in text-based communications. These tools can help families to better understand each other and respond in a more supportive and empathetic way. It can be a way for families to “meet” remotely and still have quality time together. This is a suitable approach for families who have members living abroad, on different states or simply separated by time-zones.

Build Memories

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to help families become more authentic with one another in a variety of ways. One of the most significant ways is through the use of AI-powered communication tools.

AI can also help families to create shared experiences and memories. For example, AI-powered image and video recognition can help to catalogue and share family photos and videos in a digital album, While AI-powered virtual and augmented reality technologies can create shared experiences even when family members are physically apart. Additionally, AI-powered memories and time-capsules applications can help family members to create and share memories of past events. They can also help to preserve memories for future generations.

Balance

However, as mentioned before, it’s important to remember that technology alone cannot replace human connection and understanding. The role of AI should be to augment and facilitate human interactions, not to replace them. Families should strive to use AI-powered tools in conjunction with other forms of communication and support. They include in-person visits and counseling. By using AI thoughtfully and in balance, it has the potential to bring people closer, rather than push them apart.

Communication Tools

One of the biggest challenges that families face is a lack of communication. Family members may be busy with their own lives and responsibilities, and may not have the time or energy to keep in touch as frequently as they would like. Additionally, families may have different communication styles and preferences, which can make it difficult to find a way to connect that works for everyone.

Bridging Gaps

AI-powered communication tools can help to bridge these gaps by making it easier for families to keep in touch, regardless of their schedules or locations. For example, there are AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants that can help families to schedule regular check-ins and family meetings. These tools can also help to facilitate more meaningful conversations by providing prompts and suggested topics for discussion.

Identifying Issues

In addition to improving communication and understanding, AI can also help families to identify and address issues that may be impacting their relationships. AI-powered tools such as analytics and machine learning can help to identify patterns in family interactions and behavior, which can then be used to identify areas where the family could benefit from additional support or resources. For example, AI-powered tools can help families to identify stressors or potential triggers and suggest coping mechanisms.

While there is no doubt that AI has the potential to help families become more authentic with one another, it is important to remember that technology alone cannot replace human connection and understanding. The role of AI should be to augment and facilitate human interactions, not replace them. Families should strive to use AI-powered tools in conjunction with other forms of communication and support, such as in-person visits and counseling.

Statistics

There are several studies and statistics that have been conducted on the topic of how Americans spend their family time.

2018

A study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) found that in 2018, Americans spent an average of 5.4 hours per week participating in leisure and sports activities as a household. These included activities such as outdoor and indoor games, hobbies, and reading for pleasure. The same study showed that Americans spend about 2.5 hours per week on socializing and communicating with family and friends.

2019

A 2019 study by the Pew Research Center found that 43% of Americans say that the amount of time they spend with their family has decreased in the past five years. Additionally, the study found that nearly one-third of parents with children under 18 say they spend too little time with their family.

A study by the American Time Use Survey (ATUS) reported that in 2019, Americans spent an average of 2.5 hours per day on leisure and sports activities with household members. The same study showed that the average American spent 1 hour and 22 minutes per day on “socializing and communicating” with family and friends.

Research from Common Sense Media found that in 2019, children ages 8-12 spend an average of 4 hours and 44 minutes per day using entertainment media. For teens ages 13-18, that number jumps to 7 hours and 22 minutes per day.

2020

A 2020 study by the National Center for Health Research (NCHR) found that an average American child between the ages of 8-18 spend about 7 hours a day on screens. This includes watching TV, playing video games, browsing the internet, and social media.

These statistics highlight the changing patterns in how Americans spend their family time. There is an increasing trend towards technology and screen-based activities. There is a decreasing trend in time spent on traditional family activities and in-person socializing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the way Americans spend their family time has evolved throughout history, shaped by cultural and societal changes. Studies and statistics have shown that Americans are spending less time with their family and more time on technology and screen-based activities. AI has the power to revolutionize the way families interact and communicate.

The increasing use of technology, while offering convenient ways to connect and stay informed, may contribute to a decrease in face-to-face communication and shared activities among families. However, it’s important to note that technology can also be used as a facilitator to improve communication, create shared memories and address challenges that may be impacting the family relationships. The key is to find a balance and use technology thoughtfully, to augment and facilitate human interactions, rather than replacing them. It’s important for families to set boundaries and make a conscious effort to spend quality time together, whether it’s through shared hobbies, reading, playing games, or going out on trips. In this way, families can strengthen their bond, improve communication and ultimately become more authentic with one another.

If you like this article, feel free to check out The Beauty Product Industry and Artificial Intelligence. Also check out  8 Ways Artificial Intelligence is Improving Real Estate. It is a contender for another good read on technology.

Clothing Pollution. Can Artificial Intelligence Help?

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According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Americans generate an average of 68 pounds of clothing and textiles per person each year. Unfortunately, a significant portion of this clothing ends up in landfills. That can take decades to break down and release harmful chemicals into the environment. Clothing Pollution. Can Artificial Intelligence Help?

AI can help address this problem in several ways. Here are a few examples:

1. Predictive analytics for inventory management

One of the main reasons for excess clothing waste is overproduction by fashion companies. AI can help these companies better predict consumer demand and adjust their production accordingly. By using machine learning algorithms to analyze past sales data and identify trends, companies can more accurately forecast how much of a particular item they need to produce. This can help reduce the risk of excess inventory, which can ultimately lead to less clothing waste.

2. Personalized recommendations for online shoppers

AI can also help reduce clothing waste by providing personalized recommendations to online shoppers. By analyzing a shopper’s past purchases and preferences, AI algorithms can recommend items that are more likely to be a good fit and be worn frequently. This can help shoppers make more informed and intentional purchases, rather than impulsively buying items that may end up going unused.

3. Repurposing and recycling clothing

AI can also help with the repurposing and recycling of clothing. For example, machine learning algorithms can analyze the fabric, style, and condition of a piece of clothing. Then they can recommend the best way to reuse or recycle it. This includes identifying the most appropriate charity or thrift store to donate the item to, or determining whether it can be repurposed into something else, such as cleaning cloths or insulation.

4. Reducing water and energy consumption in manufacturing

AI can also help fashion companies reduce their environmental impact by optimizing their manufacturing processes. For example, machine learning algorithms can analyze data from the production process and identify opportunities to reduce water and energy consumption. This could include identifying inefficiencies in the manufacturing process, such as unnecessary water use or energy-intensive steps that could be eliminated or streamlined.

5. Promoting secondhand and rental fashion

Finally, AI can help promote the use of secondhand and rental fashion as an alternative to buying new clothing. AI algorithms recommend secondhand or rental options that are a good fit for a particular shopper. They do this by analyzing data on consumer preferences and past purchases. This can help reduce the demand for new clothing, which can ultimately lead to less waste.

The History: Clothing Pollution. Can Artificial Intelligence Help?

The issue of clothing pollution and waste has been a concern for many years, And there have been a number of initiatives and movements aimed at addressing the problem. Here is a brief overview of the history of clothing pollution and efforts to reduce it:

  • In the 19th and early 20th centuries, clothing was generally made to last. Women repaired and it was reused for many years. However, with the rise of fast fashion in the mid-20th century, clothing began to be produced in large quantities at low cost, leading to a culture of disposability.
  • Concerns about the environmental impact of the fashion industry emerged in the 1970s and 1980s. A number of initiatives were launched to promote sustainable fashion.
  • In the 1990s and 2000s, the issue of clothing waste and pollution gained more widespread attention. And a number of organizations and movements emerged to promote sustainable fashion and reduce waste. These included the Council for Textile Recycling, the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s “Make Fashion Circular” initiative. Also included are the “Fashion Revolution” movement and the “Slow Fashion” movement.

Overall, the history of clothing pollution and efforts to reduce it is a long and ongoing one, and it is encouraging to see the fashion industry increasingly recognizing the importance of sustainability and taking steps to address this important issue.

Statistics: Clothing Pollution. Can Artificial Intelligence Help?

AI has the potential to help address the problem of excess clothing waste in a number of ways. By improving inventory management, providing personalized recommendations, facilitating repurposing and recycling, reducing water and energy consumption in manufacturing, and promoting secondhand and rental fashion, AI can help reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry and create a more sustainable future.

  • The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that Americans generate about 16 million tons of clothing and textiles each year. 15% is recycled.
  • The remaining 85% ends up in landfills, where it can take decades to break down.
  • The fashion industry is the second largest polluter in the world, second only to the oil industry.
  • It is estimated that it takes about 2,700 liters of water to produce just one cotton t-shirt.
  • The average American discards about 80 pounds of clothing per year, of which only about 15% is donated or recycled.

These statistics highlight the importance of finding ways to reduce clothing waste and the environmental impact of the fashion industry. AI has the potential to play a key role in this effort by helping companies better predict consumer demand. Then optimize their manufacturing processes, and promote more sustainable alternatives to buying new clothing.

Impact on the Environment: Clothing Pollution. Can Artificial Intelligence Help?

Clothing pollution refers to the environmental impact of the fashion industry, which includes the production, use, and disposal of clothing. The fashion industry is a major contributor to pollution and waste. It consumes large amounts of water, energy, and other resources, and generates significant amounts of greenhouse gas emissions.

One of the main sources of clothing pollution is the overproduction of clothing. This leads to excess inventory. And it ultimately results in a significant portion of clothing being discarded. Another major contributor is the use of synthetic materials, such as polyester. Polyester is derived from fossil fuels. They do not biodegrade. These materials can release harmful chemicals into the environment as they break down. They can also contribute to microplastic pollution in the oceans.

The good news is that there are steps that we can take to reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry. These include increasing the use of sustainable materials. Promoting circular fashion models (such as rental and secondhand fashion) will reduce the impact. And it will also improve the efficiency of production processes,

Designers Weigh In: Clothing Pollution. Can Artificial Intelligence Help?

There are many fashion designers and brands that have spoken out about the issue of clothing pollution and are working to reduce the environmental impact of their products. Here are a few examples:

  1. Stella McCartney: Stella McCartney is a well-known advocate for sustainable fashion. She has made it a core part of her brand’s mission. She has spoken out about the need to reduce waste in the fashion industry. And she has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of her own products. These include using organic and recycled materials, and partnering with organizations such as the Ellen MacArthur Foundation to promote circular fashion.
  2. Eileen Fisher: Eileen Fisher is another fashion brand that has made sustainability a central part of its mission. The company has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of its products. This includes using organic and recycled materials, and promoting circular fashion through its “Take Back” program. With his program, customers to return their used Eileen Fisher clothing to be reconditioned and resold.
  3. Patagonia: Patagonia is a well-known outdoor clothing brand that has a long history of environmental activism. The company has made sustainability a key part of its business model. They have implemented a number of initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of its products. These include using recycled materials, promoting repair and reuse, and advocating for policies to protect the environment.
  4. Vivienne Westwood: Vivienne Westwood is a British fashion designer. She is known for her bold and innovative designs. She has also been a vocal advocate for sustainability in the fashion industry. She has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of her products, including using organic and recycled materials and promoting circular fashion.

The importance of Sustainability

These are just a few examples of fashion designers and brands that are speaking out about clothing pollution. They are actively working to reduce the environmental impact of their products. There are many others as well. And it is encouraging to see the fashion industry increasingly recognizing the importance of sustainability and taking steps to address this important issue.

Conclusion: Clothing Pollution. Can Artificial Intelligence Help?

In conclusion, the issue of clothing pollution and waste is a significant and complex problem. It has a range of environmental, social, and economic impacts. The fashion industry is a major contributor to this problem. It consumes large amounts of resources and generates significant amounts of waste and pollution.

AI has the potential to address this problem by helping fashion companies better predict consumer demand. It can also assist in optimizing their manufacturing processes, and promote more sustainable alternatives to buying new clothing. By using machine learning algorithms to analyze data and identify trends, companies can more accurately forecast consumer demand. Then they can adjust their production accordingly, reducing the risk of excess inventory and ultimately leading to less clothing waste.

In addition to AI, there are a number of other steps we can all take to reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry and address the problem of clothing pollution and waste. These include increasing the use of sustainable materials, promoting circular fashion models (such as rental and secondhand fashion), and improving the efficiency of production processes.

Overall, it is clear that the issue of clothing pollution and waste is an important one that requires a multi-faceted approach to address. By leveraging the power of AI and other tools and strategies, it is possible to create a more sustainable and responsible fashion industry that has a reduced impact on the environment.

If you like this article, feel free to check out The Beauty Product Industry and Artificial Intelligence. Also,  8 Ways Artificial Intelligence is Improving Real Estate. a contender for another good read on technology.

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The Gender Wage Gap and Artificial Intelligence

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The gender wage gap is a persistent problem in the United States and around the world. Women consistently earn less than men for doing the same work. And the gap is even wider for women of color. Closing the gender wage gap is not only a matter of fairness. But it is also critical for the economy and for women’s financial security. The Gender Wage Gap and Artificial Intelligence explores what the technology can do for this issue in depth.

Gender Wage Gap

There are many factors that contribute to the gender wage gap. They include discrimination, bias, and the impact of motherhood on women’s careers. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in using artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool to help close the gender wage gap.

Reducing Bias

One way that AI can help is by reducing the impact of bias in the hiring and salary negotiation process. Many hiring decisions and salary negotiations are subjective, which can lead to bias and discrimination. AI can help to reduce this bias by using objective criteria to evaluate candidates and determine salaries.

For example, some companies are using AI to analyze resumes and job applications. AI is looking for specific skills and experience rather than relying on subjective evaluations. This can reduce bias in the hiring process. It can also ensure that candidates are evaluated fairly.

Analyzing Data

AI can help negotiate salaries. Some companies are using AI to analyze salary data. They then make recommendations for appropriate salaries based on objective criteria such as skills, experience, and job responsibilities. This can help to ensure that salaries are based on merit rather than on subjective evaluations or discrimination.

Automation

Another way that AI can close the gender wage gap is by automating certain tasks and roles. They focus on roles that are traditionally held by women and are therefore undervalued in the labor market. For example, AI can automate administrative tasks, customer service, and other roles that are often held by women. By automating these roles, companies can reduce the number of low-paid, female-dominated positions. They also create more opportunities for women in higher-paid roles.

Career Development

AI can also improve career development opportunities for women. Many companies offer training and development programs to help employees advance their careers. But these programs are often geared towards men and may not be as accessible to women. AI can help to make these programs more accessible by providing online training and development resources that are available to all employees.

Promoting Fair and Equal Pay

Finally, AI can help raise awareness about the gender wage gap and promote fair and equal pay for all employees. For example, AI can analyze salary data and identify pay disparities, allowing companies to take steps to address any imbalances. AI can create educational materials and resources for employees and managers to help them understand the importance of fair and equal pay.

Representation

Leadership

The technology industry is a growing and lucrative field. But it is also heavily male-dominated. Women are underrepresented in the technology industry. This limits opportunities for women and contributes to the gender wage gap. There are many other ways that AI can help to close the gender wage gap and promote gender equality in the workplace. One important factor is the representation of women in leadership roles and in the technology industry as a whole.

Women are underrepresented in leadership positions and in the technology industry. This contributes to the gender wage gap and limits opportunities for women. AI can help to address this issue by promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace and in the development of AI technology.

For example, companies can use AI to analyze their workforce and identify areas where there is a lack of diversity. This can help companies to identify and address any barriers to diversity and inclusion. And it can help to create more opportunities for women and other underrepresented groups.

Biased Results From Underrepresented Data Sets

Promoting diversity and inclusion is a critical factor in closing the gender wage gap. Also a factor is creating a more equitable and fair work environment for all employees. Diversity and inclusion refer to the representation and inclusion of individuals from different backgrounds, including race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, and ability.

AI can help to address this issue by promoting diversity and inclusion in the technology industry and in the development of AI technology. Companies can use AI to analyze their workforce and identify areas where there is a lack of diversity, and they can take steps to create more opportunities for women and other underrepresented groups.

AI can promote diversity in the development of AI technology itself. Many AI algorithms are trained on data sets that are not representative of the diversity of the population. This can lead to biased results. By ensuring that AI algorithms are trained on diverse data sets and that the development teams include diverse perspectives, companies can reduce bias in AI technology and promote more inclusive and fair outcomes.

Having a diverse workforce can bring a range of benefits to an organization. This includes increased innovation, better decision-making, and improved financial performance. However, many companies struggle with diversity and inclusion, and women and other underrepresented groups may face barriers to advancement and equal pay.

In conclusion, promoting diversity and inclusion is critical for closing the gender wage gap and creating a more equitable and fair work environment for all employees. By using AI to promote diversity and inclusion, and by implementing policies and programs to support diversity and inclusion, we can create a more diverse and inclusive workforce and close the gender wage gap.

Flex Schedules: The Gender Wage Gap and Artificial Intelligence

Another way that AI can help to close the gender wage gap is by supporting flexible work arrangements and promoting work-life balance. Many women, particularly working mothers, face challenges in balancing their work and family responsibilities. This can limit their career advancement and contribute to the gender wage gap.

AI can help to address this issue by automating certain tasks and allowing for more flexible work arrangements. For example, companies can use AI to automate routine tasks and allow employees to work remotely or on a flexible schedule. This can help to create a more balanced and equitable work environment for all employees.

Laws and Policies: The Gender Wage Gap and Artificial Intelligence

In addition to the ways that AI can promote gender equality in the workplace, there are also steps that governments and organizations can take to address the gender wage gap. These steps include:

  • Implementing equal pay laws and policies: Many countries have laws and policies in place to ensure that men and women are paid equally for doing the same work. Governments and organizations can work to enforce these laws and policies and ensure that they are effective in closing the gender wage gap.
  • Promoting education and training: Providing education and training opportunities for women can help to improve their skills and career prospects, which can lead to higher salaries and help to close the gender wage gap. Governments and organizations can invest in programs and initiatives to provide education and training for women.
  • Encouraging girls and young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM): Encouraging girls and young women to pursue careers in STEM fields can help to increase the number of women in the technology industry and improve opportunities for women. Governments and organizations can invest in programs and initiatives to promote STEM education and careers for girls and young women.
  • Supporting female-led businesses: Female-led businesses are often underrepresented in the business world and may face challenges in accessing funding and other resources. Governments and organizations can support female-led businesses by providing funding and resources and by promoting initiatives such as mentorship programs and networking opportunities.
  • Promoting flexible work arrangements: As mentioned earlier, flexible work arrangements can help to promote work-life balance and create a more equitable work environment for all employees. Governments and organizations can encourage the adoption of flexible work arrangements by implementing policies and programs that support these arrangements.

Transparency: The Gender Wage Gap and Artificial Intelligence

  • Encouraging transparency: One way to address the gender wage gap is to promote transparency in pay practices. This can identify any pay disparities and allow for corrective action to be taken. Governments and organizations can encourage transparency by requiring companies to disclose their pay practices and by promoting the use of tools such as salary transparency software.

Conclusion: The Gender Wage Gap and Artificial Intelligence

In conclusion, artificial intelligence has the potential to be a powerful tool in the effort to close the gender wage gap and promote gender equality in the workplace. By reducing the impact of bias, promoting diversity and inclusion, encouraging girls and young women to pursue careers in STEM, supporting female-led businesses, promoting flexible work arrangements, and taking other steps to address the gender wage gap, we can create a more equal and fair labor market for all employees.

If you like this article, feel free to check out 8 Ways Artificial Intelligence is Improving Real Estate. Also, 2021 Will Make You Give Drones The Respect They Deserve is a contender for another good read on technology.

The Beauty Product Industry and Artificial Intelligence

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The beauty product industry is a massive and constantly evolving industry, with new products, trends, and techniques emerging all the time. In recent years, one trend that has gained a lot of attention is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the development and marketing of beauty products. In this blog post, we’ll explore the ways in which the beauty industry uses AI. We will explore how it is changing the way products are developed, marketed, and purchased.

Size and Scope: The Beauty Product Industry and Artificial Intelligence

First, let’s take a look at the size and scope of the beauty industry. According to data from Statista, the global beauty and personal care market was worth an estimated $532 billion in 2020. By 2024, the industry will reach $863 billion by projection. L’Oréal, Unilever, and Procter & Gamble are the players that dominate the beauty industry market. But there are also a large number of smaller, independent brands that have gained significant market share in recent years.

One of the ways in which AI is changing the beauty industry is in the development of new products. Many companies are using machine learning algorithms to analyze data on consumer preferences and behavior. They can also identify patterns and trends that can inform the development of new products. For example, a company might use AI to analyze data on the most popular types of beauty products. They can also analyze the ingredients that are most commonly used, and the types of packaging and packaging materials that consumers prefer. By analyzing this data, the company can identify opportunities to create new products that are more likely to be successful in the market.

Optimization: The Beauty Product Industry and Artificial Intelligence

AI also optimizes the formulation of existing beauty products. For example, a company might use machine learning algorithms to analyze data on the effectiveness of different ingredients. They can also identify the optimal combinations of ingredients for a given product. This can help companies create products that are more effective and that deliver better results for consumers.

Marketing: The Beauty Product Industry and Artificial Intelligence

AI, a major player in the development of new products, is also improving the marketing and sales of beauty products. For example, many companies are using AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants to interact with customers and provide personalized recommendations based on the customers’ preferences and purchase history. These chatbots can help companies improve customer service and increase sales by providing personalized recommendations and assistance to customers in real-time.

AI helps companies better understand their customers and target their marketing efforts. Many companies are using machine learning algorithms to analyze data on consumer behavior and preferences. They use it to identify patterns and trends that can inform marketing strategies. For example, a company might use AI to analyze data on the types of beauty products that are most popular with a particular demographic. Or they might use it to identify the types of social media posts and advertisements that are most likely to be effective in reaching a particular audience. By using AI to analyze this data, companies can develop more targeted and effective marketing campaigns.

There are also a number of startups that are using AI to disrupt the traditional beauty industry. For example, a company called BeautyAI uses AI to analyze data on consumer preferences and behavior. BeautyAI creates personalized beauty regimes for individual customers. Another startup, L’Oréal’s Modiface, uses AI to create virtual makeovers. These makeovers allow customers to see how they would look with different makeup and hairstyles. With this technology, they don’t actually have to apply the products. These types of startups are using AI to create innovative and personalized beauty experiences that traditional companies might not be able to offer.

Overall, it’s clear that AI is playing an increasingly important role in the beauty industry. From product development to marketing and sales, companies are using AI to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their operations and to create more personalized and targeted products and experiences for consumers

BeautyAI: A Closer Look

BeautyAI is a startup that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze data on consumer preferences and behavior. It can create personalized beauty regimes for individual customers. The company’s AI platform, called Robobuilder, uses machine learning algorithms to analyze data on a wide range of factors. These include skin type, age, ethnicity, and environmental factors, to create customized beauty regimens for each user.

One of the key benefits of BeautyAI’s approach is that it allows customers to receive personalized recommendations. These are based on their unique needs and preferences for beauty products and treatments. Instead of relying on generic product recommendations or one-size-fits-all beauty regimes, customers can get tailored recommendations that are specifically designed to address their individual needs and concerns.

In addition to its AI platform, BeautyAI also offers a range of products and services designed to help customers achieve their desired beauty goals. These include a range of skincare products, as well as services such as facials and microdermabrasion. BeautyAI is an innovative example AI. It creates personalized and tailored beauty experiences for customers. By using machine learning algorithms to analyze data on consumer preferences and behavior, BeautyAI provides customized recommendations and treatments.

Robobuilder: A Closer Look

BeautyAI developed Robobuilder, the artificial intelligence (AI) platform. It uses machine learning algorithms to analyze data on a wide range of factors. These include skin type, age, ethnicity, and environmental factors, to create customized beauty regimens for each user.

One of the key features of Robobuilder is its ability to analyze data on a large number of variables in order to create personalized recommendations for beauty products and treatments. For example, the platform might analyze data on a user’s skin type, age, and environmental factors, such as pollution and UV exposure, in order to recommend the most appropriate skincare products and treatments. It might also consider other factors, such as a user’s diet, lifestyle, and stress levels, in order to provide recommendations for products and treatments that can help address specific concerns or needs.

In addition to its ability to provide personalized recommendations, Robobuilder also offers a range of tools and resources designed to help users improve their overall skincare routine. For example, the platform might provide tips and advice on how to properly cleanse, tone, and moisturize the skin, or offer recommendations for ingredients or products that can help address specific concerns, such as acne or aging.

Overall, Robobuilder is an innovative example of how AI creates personalized and tailored beauty experiences for customers. Robobuilder analyzes data on a wide range of factors using machine learning algorithms to make recommendations. It provides customized skincare regimens to meet the unique needs and concerns of each individual user.

L’Oréal’s Modiface

L’Oréal’s Modiface is a startup that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to create virtual makeovers that allow customers to see how they would look with different makeup and hairstyles, without actually applying the products. The company’s AI platform uses machine learning algorithms to analyze data on a wide range of factors, including facial features, skin tone, and hair color, in order to create realistic and accurate simulations of how different makeup and hairstyles would look on a particular user.

One of the key benefits of L’Oréal’s Modiface is that it allows customers to try on different looks without the need to physically apply makeup or style their hair. This can be especially useful for people who are unsure about how a particular look would suit them, or who want to experiment with different styles without committing to a permanent change.

In addition to its virtual makeover tool, L’Oréal’s Modiface also offers a range of other AI-powered beauty solutions. These include a virtual skin analysis tool that allows users to get a detailed analysis of their skin and receive personalized recommendations for skincare products and treatments, as well as a virtual makeup try-on tool that allows users to virtually apply different makeup looks and see how they would look in real-time.

Overall, L’Oréal’s Modiface is an innovative example of how AI is being used in the beauty industry. It creates personalized and tailored beauty experiences for customers. It uses machine learning algorithms to analyze data on facial features, skin tone, and other factors. Then, the company is able to provide realistic and accurate simulations of how different makeup and hairstyles would look on a particular user. This allows customers to try on different looks without the need to physically apply makeup or style their hair.

Newest AI Developments in The Beauty Product Industry and Artificial Intelligence

It’s worth noting that the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the beauty industry is an evolving field, and new developments are emerging all the time. Here are a few examples of some of the most recent AI developments in the beauty industry:

  1. Virtual consultations: Some beauty companies are using AI-powered virtual consultations to allow customers to receive personalized recommendations and advice from beauty professionals. For example, a customer might use a virtual consultation tool to upload a photo of their face and receive recommendations for skincare products or makeup looks based on their skin tone and facial features.
  2. Personalized product recommendations: Some beauty companies are using AI-powered algorithms to analyze data on consumer preferences. Also their behavior, and to provide personalized recommendations for products and treatments. For example, a customer might use an AI-powered tool to answer questions about their skin type, concerns, and preferences. Then they receive recommendations for products and treatments that are specifically tailored to their needs.
  3. Virtual makeup artists: Some beauty companies are using AI to create virtual makeup artists. These artists can provide personalized makeup tutorials and recommendations to customers. For example, a customer might use an AI-powered tool to upload a photo of themselves. In return, they receive step-by-step instructions on how to apply a particular makeup look. In addition to that, they receive recommendations for the best products to use.
  4. Skin analysis and diagnosis: Some beauty companies are using AI-powered tools to analyze and diagnose skin conditions, such as acne or aging. For example, a customer might use an AI-powered tool to upload a photo of their skin and receive a diagnosis and recommendations for treatment.

Conclusion of The Beauty Product Industry and Artificial Intelligence

Overall, these are just a few examples of the many ways in which AI is used in the beauty industry. They can create personalized and tailored beauty experiences for customers. Technology continues to evolve. It’s likely that we will see even more innovative and sophisticated uses of AI in the beauty industry in the future.

If you like this article, feel free to check out 8 Ways Artificial Intelligence is Improving Real Estate. Also, 2021 Will Make You Give Drones The Respect They Deserve is a contender for another good read on technology.

8 Ways Artificial Intelligence is Improving Real Estate

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  • Geodata, credit Unsplash
    Geodata, credit Unsplash

Are you following Artificial Intelligence’s (AI’s) upward trend in popularity? It is rapidly transforming industries across the globe, The real estate industry is no exception. With the ability to analyze and interpret vast amounts of data, AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we buy, sell, and rent properties. In this blog, we will explore 8 ways artificial intelligence is improving real estate.

1. Chatbots

The first of the 8 ways artificial intelligence is improving real estate are chatbots. One of the most significant ways in which AI is being used in the real estate industry is through the development of virtual assistants and chatbots. These AI-powered tools allow real estate agents to handle a large volume of inquiries and tasks. This frees up time for more complex and high-value activities. For example, a chatbots are used to answer frequently asked questions about properties. They can also schedule viewings, or even assist with the negotiation process.

2. Machine Learning (ML)

Another way in which AI is being utilized in the real estate industry is through the use of machine learning algorithms. Machine learning analyzes and interpret large amounts of data. For example, a trained AI system analyzes past sales data to predict which properties are likely to sell quickly. They can also predict a higher price for that same property. This information can be invaluable to real estate agents and investors.. This tool will help them to make more informed decisions about which properties to target.

3. Search

AI also improves the search process for potential buyers and renters. Many real estate websites now use AI-powered search tools that can understand natural language queries. Then they return results that are more relevant to the user’s needs. For example, a user might search for “properties with three bedrooms and a yard within a 10-mile radius of downtown,”. The AI system returns a list of properties that match those criteria.

4. Virtual Reality (VR)

In addition to improving the search process, AI is also creates virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences for real estate. With VR and AR, buyers and renters get a more immersive and interactive view of a property before they visit in person. This is especially useful for people who are unable to physically visit a property due to distance or other constraints.

5. Early Detection

Another potential use of AI in the real estate industry is in the area of property maintenance and management. AI-powered systems monitor the condition of a property and identify potential issues before they become major problems. For example, an AI system detects the early signs of a leak and alerts the property owner or manager before it becomes a major issue.

6. Saving Time

One of the primary benefits of AI in the real estate industry is the ability to save time and reduce the workload of agents and other professionals. AI automates tasks such as answering frequently asked questions, scheduling viewings, and analyzing data. This helps real estate professionals to focus on higher-value activities and better serve their clients.

7. Accuracy and Efficiency

AI also improves the accuracy and efficiency of various processes in the real estate industry. For example, AI-powered systems are used to analyze large amounts of data. AI uses this data to identify patterns that would not be immediately obvious to a human. This helps real estate professionals to make more informed decisions about which properties to target. It also helps them price a property for sale or rental.

8. Drones

And the last of the 8 ways artificial intelligence is improving real estate is drones. One potential use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the real estate industry is the use of drones for property photography and video. Drones equipped with cameras can capture high-resolution images. They also capture video of a property and its surroundings, providing buyers and renters with a more comprehensive view of the property.

AI is used to analyze the images and video captured by drones. AI identifies specific features of a property, such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the size of the yard, and the condition of the exterior. This information is invaluable to real estate agents and buyers. This helps them to make more informed decisions about which properties to target.

In addition to property photography and video, drones equipped with AI-powered sensors are used for property inspections. For example, a drone is used to inspect the roof of a property for damage, or to check for pests or other issues. This saves time and reduces the risk to property inspectors. After all, they do not need to physically access the property.

History: 8 Ways Artificial Intelligence is Improving Real Estatee

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the real estate industry is a relatively recent development. The first AI-powered real estate tools appeared in the late 2010s. However, the concept of using technology to improve the way we buy, sell, and rent properties has a much longer history.

One of the earliest examples of technology being used in the real estate industry is the multiple listing service (MLS). The MLS was developed in the United States in the 1940s. It is a database of available properties, used by real estate agents to find and list properties for sale or rent. This was a significant step forward in the real estate industry, It allowed agents to share information about properties. It also solidified a reach of a wider audience of potential buyers and renters.

In the decades that followed, the use of technology in the real estate industry continued to evolve. In the 1980s, the first real estate websites began to appear. These websites provided buyers and renters with an alternative to traditional methods of searching for properties. They no longer relied solely on newspaper classifieds or visiting open houses. These websites were followed by real estate apps in the 2010s. This made it even easier for buyers and renters to search for properties on the go.

It was around this time that AI began to be used in the real estate industry. The first AI-powered real estate tools were virtual assistants and chatbots. These were designed to assist agents with tasks such as answering frequently asked questions, scheduling viewings, and negotiating offers. These tools were followed by machine learning algorithms. The algorithms were used to analyze large amounts of data and identify trends and patterns that might not be immediately obvious to a human.

Today, AI shines in a variety of ways in the real estate industry. AI produces virtual reality and augmented reality experiences. It is also efficient in property maintenance and management. As the technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more in addition to these 8 ways artificial intelligence is improving the real estate industry.

Statistics: 8 Ways Artificial Intelligence is Improving Real Estate

There are several statistics that highlight the potential of AI to improve the real estate industry:

  • According to a survey conducted by the National Association of Realtors, 44% of buyers used a website to search for a home. 40% used a real estate app. This demonstrates the importance of technology in the real estate industry. It also cements the potential for AI to improve the way buyers search for properties.
  • A report by PwC estimates that the use of AI in the real estate industry could increase productivity by up to 40%. This will be achieved through the automation of tasks such as data analysis and property maintenance, freeing up time for real estate professionals to focus on higher-value activities.
  • The same PwC report estimates that the use of AI in the real estate industry could lead to cost savings of up to 30%. This will be achieved through the optimization of processes such as property management. It will also support the identification of cost-saving opportunities.
  • A survey by the National Association of Realtors found that 57% of buyers are willing to use virtual reality technology to view properties. This demonstrates the potential for AI-powered VR/AR experiences to improve the way buyers view properties. In turn it will guarantee that they make more informed decisions.
  • A study by the Urban Land Institute found that the use of AI in the real estate industry could lead to a reduction in transaction times of up to 25%. This could be achieved through the automation of tasks such as document preparation and the streamlining of processes such as contract negotiation.

Overall, these statistics demonstrate several of the 8 ways artificial intelligence is improving the real estate industry. This includes the search process, property management, and transaction times. As AI technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative uses of the technology in the real estate industry.

Current Use of Companies: 8 Ways Artificial Intelligence is Improving Real Estate

  • Redfin: Redfin is a real estate brokerage that uses AI to help buyers and sellers find the best properties. Redfin negotiates the best prices for them after that. The company’s AI-powered tools include Redfin Estimate. This tool uses machine learning algorithms to predict the sale price of a property. It also included Redfin Now, which uses AI to make cash offers on properties.
  • Zillow: Zillow is a real estate company that uses AI to improve the search process for buyers and renters. The company’s AI-powered search tool is called Zillow Home Search. It allows users to search for properties using natural language queries and returns results that are more relevant to the user’s needs.
  • Compass: Compass is a real estate brokerage that uses AI to improve various aspects of the buying and selling process. The company’s AI-powered tools include Compass Concierge. This tool helps sellers to prepare their properties for sale. Another tool, Compass Offer, uses machine learning algorithms to analyze past sales data and make personalized offers to buyers.
  • Purplebricks: Purplebricks is a real estate company that uses AI to assist with the property management process. The company’s AI-powered tool is called Smart Vendor. It monitors the condition of a property and identifies potential issues before they become major problems.
  • Realtor.com: Realtor.com is a real estate website that uses AI to improve the search process for buyers and renters. The company’s AI-powered search tool is called Matchmaker. It allows users to search for properties using natural language queries and returns results that are more relevant to the user’s needs.

These are just a few examples of companies in the real estate industry using AI to improve various aspects of their business. As the technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more companies adopting AI in the real estate industry.

Conclusion of the 8 Ways Artificial Intelligence is Improving Real Estate

In conclusion, artificial intelligence (AI) will significantly improve the real estate industry in a number of ways. They include virtual assistants and chatbots to machine learning algorithms and VR/AR experiences. AI is already being used to improve the way we buy, sell, and rent properties. The ability of AI to analyze and interpret large amounts of data, automate tasks, and optimize processes will save time. It will also reduce the workload of real estate professionals. It will free them up to focus on higher-value activities. Additionally, AI has the potential to improve the accuracy and efficiency of various processes in the real estate industry. Two such are property management and contract negotiation. Drones are also proving invaluable with the maintenance and sales of properties. Technology will continue to advance and become more widely adopted. Then we will see even more than 8 ways artificial intelligence will improve real estate.

2021 Will Make You Give Drones The Respect They Deserve

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Introduction

From the 2021 Olympic opening show to the bowling alley drone footage that impressed Hollywood, 2021 will make you give drones the respect they deserve.

Drones are a huge part of this new era that we have entered. In my last article, 12 Reasons You Must Educate Yourself About Drones (2021), I explain, in detail, why drones are and are becoming more important in our daily lives. The things that they can accomplish and the things that they can show, are phenomenal. Here, I showcase four awe-inspiring examples.

Respect for Flying Creative Art

Here’s an interesting fact, did you know that the 2018 Winter Olympic drone show set the Genius World record for the most drones flown at the same time at 1200 plus drones? The number in 2021 was over 1800.

2021 Olympic Opening Ceremony
Source: NBC

Like the Olympic Winter games, drones demonstrated a super impressive opening at the 2021 games, as shown above. Twenty years ago—even ten years ago, we could not even fathom what we are witnessing from these flying pieces of technology today.

Olympic Night Scene
Olympic Night Scene
Photo: Ryunosuke Kikuno

Respect for Video

The drone raced from the tree line outside the bowling alley, through the front door, under tables and through the back room where the pins are kept, and repairs are made. One minute, plus, of electrifying movement, dazzled in a place where family fun is usually the primary focus. Watch it below.

Minnesota Bowling Alley Drone Video
Source: The Guardian

Quotes:

Some of the quotes for this fpv (first person view) drone project were:

“This is one of the most amazing things I’ve ever seen,” – Lee Unkrich, director.

“Holy S**t”. – Elijah Wood, actor, Lord of the Rings.

“Stupendous” – James Gunn, director, Guardian of the Galaxy.

“This kind of wonderful photographic innovation adds to the language and vocabulary of cinema, just beautiful”. – Todd Vaziri, digital artist, Transformers.

So now that I have shown you two of drones’ greatest accomplishments of the year, do you think that 2021 is giving drones the respect they deserve?

Bowling alley
Bowling Alley Photo
Photo: Todd Diemer

If not, let’s move on to a couple more examples of footage that will resonate with you nature fans.

Respect for Nature

If sports don’t interest you, maybe this footage of nature will. Feast your eyes on footage that captures robust waterfalls, and coasts over wide rivers laying between mountains while remaining steady and stealth-like.

If you grew up in the country, as I did, some of this footage may seem quite normal. If you had a more urban upbringing and only got to the countryside to visit a grandparent, aunt, uncle or other family member, then you may only see these wonders of nature on vacation or video.

Amazing Nature Video
Source: Free HD Videos

Sacrifice for Education

Volcanoes. Who can get close enough to return ample data to create a 3-D image that will ensure that scientists understand them better than ever before? Not one human; but a drone can. Even if the actual drone is lost in the volcano’s inescapable heat, the footage that they drone pilots get, is recorded in real time.

Volcano Drones
Source: National Geographic

“We were able to take a series of thousands of photographs around the top of the [Marum] crater [in Vanuatu] and then process those using a specialized software to render the first of its kind 3-D model of the volcano from inside.” -Sam Cossman, National Geographic.

Scientists noted that they are able to go back and measure things that could be “done in the moment”. An example of that would be the microbial life that lives the on the sides of the rocks after the volcanic ash has cooled. Drone footage gives them the ability to go back and study everything about microbial life there. They also insist that using this video to pair with other research that is going on in the world surrounding this topic, is how an unbelievable amount of progress will be made in science. Their goal of “Merging worlds of exploration and tech” is precisely how (in my opinion) America became an economic and technological powerhouse. Throughout history, this formula is used over and over again to create, build, license, and sell, etc. We are doing precisely what we have always done before, only now, we are using the newest, innovative vehicle.

Conclusion

Never before have we had these viewpoints. Whether it is an athletic event, a causal afternoon of a popular family sport or insight about nature, we simply have not been getting these frames. This is enough to give drones the respect they deserve in 2021 and beyond.

Which area piques your interest most? Moreover, will you start researching drones for yourself? Leave a comment below. I’d love to hear your thoughts!

10 Places to Learn JavaScript for Free (2021)

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javascript1

javascript1

10 Places to Learn JavaScript for Free (2021)

Welcome to 2020!  If this is the year that you have chosen to learn to code, then you are not alone. Javascript is the next best place to start after you have learned HTML and CSS.  Some of the best advice that I have received is to start with the basics and learn the fundamentals.  The more of the fundamentals that you have under your belt, the better you will be at programming and developing the newer skills and languages that are sure to come afterward.

Each of these ten places have a unique style of teaching.  And if you have the time, going through more than one course could be a good idea.  It will strengthen your skills and deepen your knowledge.

The List of Ten

JavaScript.com:  When the page opens up, browse around and then click on “Learn” and go to work.  The site has several examples, a tab for resources and a tab that allows you to try JavaScript and gives feedback.

Codeacademy: This channel on YT adds a touch a charm by getting people nationwide to talk about their coding experience in a short 5- or 6-minute clip to lure you in on the home page.  My first time on the channel gave me the story of a young women from Georgia that had been coding for ten years. After making you feel at home, they help you to begin your path to learn the skill of JavaScript or any other skill you choose.

FreeCodeCamp: Though most of their programming tutorials are cookie cutter, short and straight to the point, they provide an excellent overview.  I have found that when you go through their course, it’s best to go through it a second time and don’t be afraid to hit the pause button.

General Assembly Dash: Unlike some of the other resources, you will have to sign in to gain access to their program.  However, when you get inside, you will be able to learn JavaScript with multiple projects. You will build projects real time and get feedback in the duration.

W3schools: W3schools started it all. They are the foundation of programming. In these tutorials you will receive examples, exercises, quizzes or tests, references and at the end, a certification. This site has “world’s largest web developer site” as the subheading and it is true.  The site has covered every question that you may have or will have on JavaScript. They also update it often, so the information is always accurate and up to date. It is a good reference even after you are proficient in that particular coding skill.

javascript puzzle

javascript puzzle

LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com: LinkedIn Learning has become an absolute behemoth when it comes to learning about programming and giving insight into different programming careers. LinkedIn Learning can still be accessed by your public library card. This is how I learned about the resource and I used it extensively. When you finish a course, you will get a notification on the screen asking if you want to publish the certification to LinkedIn.

Team Treehouse: There is a free seven-day trial. Afterward, there are tiers of membership from “Basic” to “Techdegree” ranging from twenty-five dollars to one hundred ninety-nine dollars.

Udemy: Udemy gives a few free courses but are certainly known for their paid courses. You can choose a popular instructor in JavaScript, sign up for their class and get going. I actually took a couple of the classes by Udemy instructors on YouTube, unknowingly, and found that they were on Udemy teaching a more in-depth version of that course.

Your Library (books on CSS): There are so many books at the library on JavaScript that it could be hard to decide which one to pick when standing in front of them all. What I usually do in this situation is take out my phone and check Google for the ratings on each. I check out the one with the highest rating, take it home and get started.

Stephan Mischook on YT has an excellent free series on JavaScript.  His channel is filled with technology and business advice. He backs everything that he says up with decades of experience. Also, using his degree in psychology, he is educated to teach in the way that people learn best.  This works. Most of all, he gives the kind of wisdom in the programming and small business world that some professors can’t or don’t share when you’re paying thousands of dollars per year in tuition. He’s rare.

js

js

A Final Note

Keep in mind that the best place to learn, in my opinion, is college.  The college classroom gives you the instructor and the “certification” (a grade at the end) whereas, when you finish an online course or YT video, you may or may not test and may or may not have to seek out your own certification. I also found value in college by collaborating with other students. As an introvert, I do not mind working alone. I usually prefer it. However, when it comes to learning to code, having a computer science major, who is a senior, in the CS lab across from you to ask a question is invaluable. Or there may be someone sitting right next to you that may not be a senior and may be majoring in another computer field, yet had to take a couple of programming courses, that you can talk to take some of the anxiety away. I also cannot stress enough how valuable the ability to email your instructor or TA a specific question and get help with it will be. That may not be the case online, depending on which route you choose.

In conclusion, this is a great way to learn or get started. Generally, most of these ten courses will offer a deeper dive into JavaScript for a fee.  They will then teach you more advanced skills, and they will offer testing and/or offer a certification at the conclusion.

So, in summary, the 10 best places to learn JavaScript are:

JavaScript.com

Codeacademy

FreeCodeCamp

General assembly dash

W3schools

LinkedIn Learning

Team Treehouse

Udemy

The Library (books on HTML)

Stephan Mischook

If you are just getting started and are wondering what the best hardware is to use when coding, please see my advice here.

Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Always use a good, solid computer for your programming journey!

Image by Alltechbuzz from Pixabay

Image by Nikin from Pixabay

Image by tsmr from Pixabay

10 Places to Learn CSS for Free in (2021)

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main css pic

main css pic

10 Places to Learn CSS for Free ( 2021)

Welcome to 2021!  If this is the year that you have chosen to learn to code, then you are not alone. HTML and CSS are the best places to start.  If you have completed a good HTML program, then CSS is the next logical stop. Some of the best advice that I have received is to start with the basics and learn the fundamentals.  The more of the fundamentals that you have under your belt, the better you will be at programming and developing the newer skills and languages that are sure to come afterward.

Each of these ten places have a unique style of teaching.  And if you have the time, going through more than one course could be a good idea.  It will strengthen your skills and deepen your knowledge.

css on computer

css pic1

The List of Ten

CSSTutorial.net: This website announces on the home page that they have been teaching CSS for over ten years and they seem to have the content to back it up.  There are six instructive tabs on the site. Each has several examples on the page.

Codeacademy: This channel on YT adds a touch a charm by getting people nationwide to talk about their coding experience in a short 5- or 6-minute clip to lure you in on the home page.  My first time on the channel gave me the story of a young women from Georgia that had been coding for ten years. After making you feel at home, they help you to begin your path to learn the skill of CSS or any other skill you choose.

FreeCodeCamp: Though most of their programming tutorials are cookie cutter, short and straight to the point, they provide an excellent overview.  I have found that when you go through their course, it’s best to go through it a second time and don’t be afraid to hit the pause button.

General Assembly Dash: Unlike some of the other resources, you will have to sign in to gain access to their program.  However, when you get inside, you will be able to learn CSS with projects. You will build projects real time and get feedback in the duration.

W3schools: W3schools started it all. They are the foundation of programming. In these tutorials you will receive examples, exercises, quizzes or tests, references and at the end, a certification. This site has “world’s largest web developer site” as the subheading and it is true.  The site has covered every question that you may have or will have on CSS. They also update it often, so the information is always accurate and up to date.

css 3rd pic

css pic2

LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com: LinkedIn Learning has become an absolute behemoth when it comes to learning about programming and giving insight into different programming careers. LinkedIn Learning can still be accessed by your public library card. This is how I learned about the resource and I used it extensively. When you finish a course, you will get a notification on the screen asking if you want to publish the certification to LinkedIn.

Team Treehouse: There is a free seven-day trial. Afterward, there are tiers of membership from “Basic” to “Techdegree” ranging from twenty-five dollars to one hundred ninety-nine dollars.

Udemy: Udemy gives a few free courses but are certainly known for their paid courses. You can choose a popular instructor in CSS, sign up for their class and get going. I actually took a couple of the classes by Udemy instructors on YouTube and found that they were on Udemy teaching a more in-depth version of that course.

Your Library (books on CSS): There are so many books at the library on CSS that it could be hard to decide which one to pick when standing in front of them all. What I usually do in this situation is take out my phone and check Google for the ratings on each. I check out the one with the highest rating, take it home and get started.

Stephan Mischook on YT has an excellent free series on CSS.  His channel is filled with technology and business advice. He backs everything that he says up with decades of experience. Also, using his degree in psychology, he is educated to teach in the way that people learn best.  This works. Most of all, he gives the kind of wisdom in the programming and small business world that some professors can’t or don’t share when you’re paying thousands of dollars per year in tuition. He’s rare.

A Final Note

Keep in mind that the best place to learn, in my opinion, is college.  The college classroom gives you the instructor and the “certification” (a grade at the end) whereas, when you finish an online course or YT video, you may or may not test and may or may not have to seek out your own certification. I also found value in college by collaborating with other students. As an introvert, I do not mind working alone. I usually prefer it. However, when it comes to learning to code, having a computer science major, who is a senior, in the CS lab across from you to ask a question is invaluable. Or there may be someone sitting right next to you that may not be a senior and may be majoring in another computer field, yet had to take a couple of programming courses, that you can talk to takes some of the anxiety away. I also cannot stress enough how valuable the ability to email your instructor or TA a specific question and get help with it will be. That may not be the case online, depending on which route you choose.

In conclusion, this is a great way to learn or get started. Generally, most of these ten courses will offer a deeper dive into CSS for a fee.  They will then teach you more advanced skills, and they will offer testing and/or offer a certification at the conclusion.

So, in summary, the 10 best places to learn CSS are:

CSSTutorial.net

Codeacademy

FreeCodeCamp

General assembly dash

W3schools

LinkedIn Learning

Team Treehouse

Udemy

The Library (books on HTML)

Stephan Mischook

If you are just getting started and are wondering what the best hardware is to use when coding, please see my advice here.

Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Always use a good, solid computer for your programming journey!

Image by Alltechbuzz from Pixabay

Image by Marcin desing707 from Pixabay

Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

10 Places to Learn HTML for Free (2021)

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Html blog 1

html blog 1

10 Places to Learn HTML for Free (2021)

Welcome to 2021!  If this is the year that you have chosen to learn to code, then you are not alone. HTML is the best place to start. Some of the best advice that I have received is to start with the basics and learn the fundamentals.  The more of the fundamentals that you have under your belt, the better you will be at programming and developing the newer skills and languages that are sure to come afterward.

Each of these ten places have a unique style of teaching.  And if you have the time, going through more than one course could be a good idea.  You will strengthen your skills and deepen your knowledge.

The List of Ten

Html.com: You will go through a basic tutorial or overview of HTML on the first page.  On other tabs you are offered tutorials and other resources. HTML.com has many pages for each element of learning html. I feel like they are similar to W3 schools in regard to the amount of content that they have on the subject of HMTL and in how their content is laid out.

Codeacademy: This channel on YT adds a touch a charm by getting people nationwide to talk about their coding experience in a short 5- or 6-minute clip to lure you in on the home page.  My first time on the channel gave me the story of a young woman from Georgia that had been coding for ten years. You feel at home as you begin your path to learn the skill of HTML. Feel free to take any other skills you choose on this platform as well.

FreeCodeCamp: Though most of their programming tutorials are cookie cutter, short and straight to the point, they provide an excellent overview.  Fast-paced, I have found that when you go through their course, it’s best to go through it a second time and don’t be afraid to hit the pause button.

General Assembly Dash: Unlike some of the other resources, you will have to sign in to gain access to their program.  However, when you get inside, you will be able to learn HTML with projects. You build projects real time and get feedback in the duration.

W3schools: W3schools started it all. They are the foundation of programming. In these tutorials look for examples, exercises, quizzes or tests, references and at the end, a certification. This site’s subheading is “world’s largest web developer site” and it is true.  It has covered every question on HTML. They also update often, so the information is always accurate and up to date.

html blog 2

html blog 2

LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com: LinkedIn Learning has become an absolute behemoth when it comes to learning about programming and giving insight into different programming careers. It can still be accessed by your public library card. This is how I learned about the resource and I used it extensively. When you finish a course, you will get a notification on the screen asking if you want to publish the certification to LinkedIn.

Team Treehouse: There is a free seven-day trial. Afterward, there are tiers of membership from “Basic” to “Techdegree” ranging from twenty-five dollars to one hundred ninety-nine dollars.

Udemy: Udemy gives a few free courses but they have many  paid courses. You can choose a popular instructor in HTML, sign up for their class and get going. I actually took a couple of the classes by Udemy instructors on YouTube.  I also took their Udemy course and they taught a more in-depth version of the same course.

Your Library (books on HTML): There are so many books at the library on HTML that it could be hard to decide which one to pick. What I usually do in this situation is take out my phone and check Google for the ratings of each. Afterward, I check out the one with the highest rating, take it home and get started.

Stefan Mischook on YT has an excellent free series on HTML.  His channel is filled with technology and business advice. He backs everything that he says up with decades of experience. Also, using his degree in psychology, he is educated to teach in the way that people learn best.  This works. Most of all, he gives the kind of wisdom in the programming and small business world that some professors can’t or don’t share when you’re paying thousands of dollars per year in tuition.

html blog 3

html blog 2

A Final Note

Keep in mind that the best place to learn, in my opinion, is college.  The college classroom gives you the instructor and the “certification” (a grade at the end) whereas, when you finish an online course or YT video, you may or may not test and may or may not have to seek out your own certification. I also found value in college by collaborating with other students. As an introvert, I do not mind working alone. I usually prefer it. However, when it comes to learning to code, having a computer science major, who is a senior, in the CS lab to ask a question is invaluable. Or there may be someone sitting right next to you that may not be a senior and may be majoring in another computer field, yet had to take a couple of programming courses, that you can talk to takes some of the anxiety away. I also cannot stress enough how valuable the ability to email your instructor or TA a specific question and get help with it will be. That may not be the case online, depending on which route you choose.

In conclusion, this is a great way to learn or get started. Generally, most of these ten courses will offer a deeper dive into HTML for a fee.  You will learn more advanced skills, and test and receive a certification at the conclusion.

So, in summary, the 10 best places to learn HTML are:

Html.com

Codeacademy

FreeCodeCamp

General assembly dash

W3schools

LinkedIn learning

Team Treehouse

Udemy

Your Library (books on HTML)

Stephan Mischook

If you are just getting started and are wondering what the best hardware is to use when coding, please see my advice here.

Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Always use a good, solid computer for your programming journey!

Image by Pexels from Pixabay

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Image by A1 B2 from Pixabay

Little Women love technology gifts too

Little Women Love Technology Gifts Too

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Why Technology Gifts are for Girls Too (2021)

Little women love technology gifts too. This is especially true if we are developers, web designers, graphic artists or gamers.  So if you have a little woman in your circle and feel as if you bombed in the Christmas gift category this  year, Christmas is over but you can make up for it during the “after Christmas sales” or on Valentine’s Day!

We are all old enough to know that Christmas is not about the gifts.  It is about togetherness and thankfulness.  The reality is, however, that there is still a level of expectation around this holiday and if we are going to participate, we’d all like to feel good about our participation.  If you do not feel good about it, all is not lost. This is the post that will get you back on track. Let’s try a little bit harder to match her up with the perfect gift.

Women and girls are often miscatergorized as far as what we truly like. Many assumptions are made and they are often not challenged.  A good deal of the time, we are the ones buying the gifts, so the dialogue about our wishes may be overlooked or not discussed at all. This is an issue.  As you will see later, the overlooking of the true wants and needs of women and young girls when it comes to technology, leads us all on an path of living, unfortunately, in an underserved community and world.

Technology girl

Technology girl

Love Tech but Often Overlooked

Quite a few of us love or loved technology at a young age but, sadly, were encouraged to go in different direction.  Maybe we loved math but were shuttled into a helping field. Or we were quiet and loved science but were encouraged to speak out more and steered into an art field.

Forbes magazine has a blistering article about the subject.  “Women are creating smartphones,  website software and a variety of programming languages and are still representing a far smaller percentage of those working in IT than their male counterparts.  Given that we know there is no “lady brain,” what could be driving this disparity?” Vigo, Forbes

Could it be that the next inventor of a ground-breaking technology is currently seven years old and is being encouraged against her interests? As I mentioned above, it only underserves the community around us for girls and women not to connect with our passion and gifts. Connecting with these technology skills could advance so many ills that plague our society, from medicine to environmental issues.

“We know that women’s and men’s brains are not different when it comes to mathematical or logical skills. Still, some of the best IT platforms widely used today are coming from countries like India where the awareness of the rights of women and girls is expanding within social and legal structures as much as within the field of IT.” Vigo, Forbes

That is encouraging.  But how can we make it a worldwide trend?

Verbalizing our interest and/or love for technology can be difficult for a girl. It is nice to have our families behind us, supporting us and paying enough attention to us to know where our interests lie. Either at an early age or a more seasoned age, the time for girls and women in technology is right now.

Little Women Love Tech

Little Women Love Tech

Our Shopping Habits

Often, we love the same gifts as the guys. In fact, we upgrade our phones as much or more than guys. We want cutting edge technology too. We shop for tech items for ourselves and we buy tech items for ourselves. If we are too young to buy them, we are just as fascinated as the boys around us when encountered with the same devices online or in stores. And we also buy technology for others. Studies show that not only do we research what those around us like and want, but those same persons are not afraid to also let us know what they like and want. Sometimes we are more reserved, either by learned habit or bashfulness, and do not take that same approach. But I can tell you this, little women love technology too!

Women do not all want the same things.  Perfume, clothing, shoes and makeup do not live at the top of all of our lists. Those things are nice, however, if boyfriend, dad or anyone in our circle acknowledges our interest in a drone or sees us doing complicated math or science problems and enjoying it.  If so, that is a sure sign to begin shifting buying habits.

Christmas Redemption

So if you have a tech girl in your circle, here is your second chance! There are a little less than 2 months to make this happen for Valentine’s Day or you can catch the after Christmas markdowns. It would be great to find a way to ask about her technology interests, however, if you just want to be especially attentive over the next few days or weeks, the answer will be clear to you by then.

Little Women Love Technology Gifts Too

Little Women Love Technology gifts Too

Technology Gifts

Here are some examples of a computer that she may benefit from in order to excel in complicated math, science or work problems or research.  Or she may want to take a break from it all and disappear into virtual reality.  Finally, she may want to learn to fly a drone for the adventure or for the amazing photography. Little women love technology gifts too!

Gaming:

Oculus Go Standalone Virtual Reality Headset – 32GB

LHTC Vive Cosmos – PC

HTC VIVE Pro Virtual Reality System

Computers:

Dell OptiPlex Desktop Complete Computer Package with Windows 

2018 Dell Alienware 17.3 Inch FHD Laptop Computer

Perhaps you’d like to buy her a drone…

DJI Mavic Pro 4K Quadcopter with Remote Controller, 2 Batteries, with 1-Year Warranty – Gray

SIMREX X11 Upgraded GPS Drone with 1080P HD Camera 2-Axis Self stabilizing Gimbal

If you see a gift or a talent in a little woman in your circle early on, or even if we are seasoned, a well thought out technology gift would be the best encouragement ever toward our passion and maybe our future career!

Also, if the little woman is a developer, check out this post on why she should be using a Mac. 

Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Image by S. Hermann & F. Richter from Pixabay

Image by Afishera from Pixabay

Image by Ulrike Mai from Pixabay

Mac trackpad for blog

7 Fantastic Features of the MacBook Pro

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There are so many excellent features in my favorite laptop. Here are a few of them in “7 Fantastic Features of the MacBook Pro.”

Macbook Pro

MacBook Pro

 

 

Who is using the MacBook Pro?

MacBook Use Stats

MacBook Use Stats

 

Source: StatCounter Global Stats – OS Market Share

According to the statistics above, Mac users are about 17% of the population using computers. Coding on a MacBook Pro is popular. Programmers spend a lot of time on our computers. It is an experience that we want to be pleasurable and efficient.  Below are “The 7 Fantastic Features of the MacBook Pro”. 

Coding

You’ve made the decision to learn to code. It’s time to get busy coding; on a MacBook Pro. The actual task of sitting down at a computer to code is intimidating.  It is less intimidating when you have the right hardware. A MacBook Pro laptop is the definition of “the right hardware”. It is sleek and performs tasks more efficiently than most computers.  The experience of using an Apple machine cuts the intimidation in half. There are also many applications that work well on the Mac and are suitable for coding. Xcode is a great environment and we will discuss that.  There are six other environments to code comfortably in on the MacBook Pro.

Let’s Talk About The Mac’s Xcode

In Xcode, you can program in C++. You can also build iOS apps. I have done both. There are other languages that you can code in as well.  It is Apple’s offer for coding with an IDE.  Also, this Apple machine is the only way that you can build iOS apps.

“Xcode makes it easy to get a huge head start on turning your existing iPad app into a native Mac app. Your Mac and iPad apps share the same project and source code, so any changes you make translates to both platforms. And your newly created Mac app runs natively, utilizing the same frameworks, resources, and even runtime environment as apps built just for Mac. Deliver your new Mac app to an engaged audience of over 100,000,000 active Mac users.”- Apple.com 

Visual Studio Code 

Visual Studio Code  is a Microsoft product but translates really well to the MacBook.  Just learning to code, Visual Studio Code for Mac made coding easier for me to understand. I downloaded it to my Mac and have been using it for projects since that time. It is my favorite of the “7 Fantastic Features of the MacBook Pro”.

“VS Code helps you be instantly productive with syntax highlighting, bracket-matching, auto-indentation, box-selection, snippets, and more. Intuitive keyboard shortcuts, easy customization and community-contributed keyboard shortcut mappings let you navigate your code with ease. Visual Studio Code includes an interactive debugger, so you can step through source code, inspect variables, view call stacks, and execute commands in the console.” – code.visualstudio.com

The MacOS Terminal

The MacOS Terminal is practical and is mostly free of clutter.  Therefore a programmer can get the job done faster and more efficiently.

“Terminal is a Mac command line interface. There are several advantages to using Terminal to accomplish some tasks — it’s usually quicker, for example.” –Igor Degtiarenko, MacPaw

The MacBook Features

The TechLead, an ex-Google, Ex-Facebook Software Engineer lead gives a solid explanation on the subject.  He states that “Everyone knows what the MacBooks are. They are very reliable. The screen color is well tuned….[it’s high resolution] the build quality is nice; the trackpad works well and Macs are used by all industry engineers (in Silicon Valley at least)”.

Screen

Mac screens

Mac screens

 

 

 

 

 

What do we need to know about MacBook screens?  Retina Display. This is the term that was coined by Apple and sums up the quality of its screens on its products.  Macworld states, “The first and most important criterion is pixel density: the statistic that generally gives the best idea of a screen’s sharpness. When Steve Jobs launched the iPhone 4, and with it the first Retina display, he described it as having a screen with so many pixels packed so closely together (it was rated as 326ppi – pixels per inch) that they were imperceptible to the human eye at a distance of 12 inches. You wouldn’t see individual pixels: you’d just see the image those pixels created.” -Macworld.co.uk (link above).

The Mac following is a following is because of this. You simply cannot see the pixels on the computer screen and pixel density is major when you are coding.  I am sure all programmers want whatever code they have executed to be displayed on the best screen possible.  Macs do not get it wrong.

 

Durability

Mac keyboard

Mac keyboard

 

 

 

 

 

 

“The MacBook’s unibody enclosure is made from a single block of aluminum, making the new MacBook fundamentally thinner, stronger and more robust with a fit and finish that we’ve never even dreamed of before.”-Jonathan Ive, Apple’s senior vice president of Industrial Design.

This is also the favorite of the 7 Fantastic Features of the MacBook Pro according to most Youtube videos that feature it. 

The manufacturing process , linked here with pictures, is amazing.  The unibody design explains why the Macbook is so sleek in comparison to other computers. My Chromebook is rough and rigid.  My Lenovo seems to be made of the same material and put together from multiple parts. They both remind me of having a cheese grater on my lap in the summer when I’m trying to code. Not good. The MacBook is smooth and cool. It is pleasurable to sit on my lap if I have that skirt or shorts on.  Other manufacturers may not have considered that women who code don’t want a cheese graters on their laps.  Apple did. Thank you.

Keyboard

2nd Mac Keyboard

Lit  Mac Keyboard

 

 

 

 

 

 

It seems Apple thought of everything. The keyboard is also a part of the joyous experience while coding. I can see at night when I code because a light shines from beneath the letters I’m typing.

“A portion of the front edge is milled thin enough that a laser can be used to micro-perforate the metal to allow light from the sleep indicator LED to pass through the metal. When the sleep indicator is off, the metal appears to be solid.  The environmentally-friendly LED backlit display also offers other advantages; it turns on instantly when the display is opened as there is no warm up time required by a conventional cold cathode fluorescent lamp backlight.” – Apple Insider

This light is a programmer’s friend.  The makers of Macintosh knew this because they were computer programmers and were up all hours of the night programming…just like us.

Trackpad

Mac trackpad

Mac trackpad

 

 

 

 

 

 

The MacBook Pro’s Trackpad, also called the magic trackpad, is so responsive that it is like magic. The glass on metal trackpad earned a patent designed by Steve Jobs and Jony Ive in 2008.

“The Force Touch trackpad…When you press on the trackpad, the Taptic Engine fires up and shakes the surface of the trackpad. Your brain interprets the vibration and the pressure as a downward click, even though that’s not what’s actually happening. (The vibration from the Taptic Engine is from side to side, not up and down.) But what Apple has implemented—a series of force sensors underneath the trackpad surface and a Taptic Engine that can vibrate the surface on demand—is a remarkable simulation of the real thing.” – Jason Snell, Macworld

And now, after learning all of this, you know that an investment in a Macbook is the right choice if you are coding. Programmers around the world enjoy the experience of coding more because of Apple. It is not a fluke that most programmers use this hardware. It is a choice.

At the time of this writing, this MacBook Pro is almost half price, which is insane! You should now have an idea of the enormous value that you’re getting.  But if not, I do and you’ll still be thanking me years from now. You’re welcome.

Buy Your MacBook Pro

Starter Mac:

Your Forever Mac:

Or if you need something in between:

Credits:

TechLead: YouTube video (linked)

Mac screens Image by Nick_H from Pixabay

Mac keyboard Durability Image by Tobias Heine from Pixabay

Lit Mac keyboard Image by Rogerio Rogeriomda from Pixabay

Trackpad of a MacBook Image by Free stock photos from www.rupixen.com from Pixabay

Tech-Ke Solutions

SQL

Learn SQL (2021)?

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What is SQL?

SQL stands for structured query language.  SQL is most students’ first experience with a database. My first experience was Access.  Before Access, I had an Excel class.  Excel spreadsheets were revolutionary in its time because it organized data when no other program could. I feel like I worked my way up to SQL. They are all methods, created by Microsoft, to organize data.

SQL is the most efficient way to organize complex data. It is a relational database.  All of the information in the database is related. Information is divided into tables and rows. There can be hundreds of tables and rows that relate to one another.  A great example is the database for a mid-sized college. There are thousands of students and these students have classes. The classes have grades attached. Students’ home addresses and phone numbers are also there. These are named and categorized a certain way in the database. There are tables of keys.  We will find foreign keys. There are primary  and composite keys. Also in the chart are surrogate keys. There are natural keys as well.

A very important task to learn with SQL is how to backup and restore. We also have to run or execute queries. These are two important skills to master. There are others of course. However, if freelancing, this is extremely important. A great deal of the requests for freelance help centers around restoration. An example is that a company’s database has been corrupted. They need the database restored without losing any of its data. This is preferable of course. However, if this was not properly handled by the original database administrator, it may not be possible. This is why it needs to be backed up properly the first time. Restores are not problematic afterward.

All That Data

Forbes Contributor Adrian Bridgewater writes the following. “Smart cars and Internet-connected machines are starting to produce huge volumes of time-stamped data.  Companies need to collect and analyze [that] data.” “New software monitoring and measuring strategies have created enormous logs of events that need similar treatment. These trends account for the largest portion of data growth today. The data from these sources always has a core element of time that is crucial to any meaningful analysis. Many enterprises will realize they need a specific strategy for time series data to glean the full value of their business potential,” said InfluxData’s Kaplan.

SQL will handle the above analysis. The statement mentions “enormous logs of events” and that is SQL’s specialty. They will be a huge part of strategy revolved around data in the future.

Data Engineering

“A data engineer works with sets of data to advance data science goals. Unlike other roles, such as a data scientist, a data engineer is not generally as involved in overall strategic analysis. She is more deeply involved in working hands-on with the data sets.” ~ TechoPedia

Sometimes called a database Administrator or DBA, we usually use the programming language Python for scripting. We may also use R or Java.  More coding is involved in data engineering. More calculation is involved in data science.  I have taken a couple of programming classes, and it is encouraged to data engineers. We write the scripts for the data. SQL is the basis and programming is an essential part.

“Data engineers work with the life cycle of data sets to help make data useful to a project. Many are primarily interested in aggregating raw data and making it into useful, ordered and structured data formats.” ~Techoppedia

The Pay

The pay is solid.  It is an attraction of the career.  Glassdoor estimates the salary for data engineers in my area, the southest, at 70k-135k.  One can work remotely or at the office.  The freedom is great but the workdays can be long. Coding at a computer on a project is a marathon. It  does not matter if it is to write a program for a database or a website. The end of the project is satisfying and it is a  great relief. Afterward, you will move on to another project if you are freelancing. If working for a company and on salary, monitoring the build will be the job.

Freelancing and salary at a company are the main ways to earn a living using SQL.  However, there is no set industry that we must stay in to use our SQL skills.  We can work in marketing. Paper product companies need past, present and future (or predictive) data to grow. The same is true for the financial field. Market analysis is super competitive and the best tools must be used to get ahead and to stay ahead. Those tools include relational databases.

Growth in the Field

Keep learning and growing in the field. Mentors and advisors constantly remind us. SQL is always evolving and we have to evolve as well. It will take several classes and practice at home to master SQL.  We work on many projects on our own and those of our employers to master the trade.

Growth in this field can take us many places. Artificial intelligence. Machine learning. Data migration. Big data. Internet of things (IoT). These are all subsections of the field.  And they are pretty large subsections.

What are the tools that data engineers work with to achieve data visualization and other hot terms for this field to get comfortable with.  Linux. Hive. Spark. Hadoop. Red Hat. Ubuntu. Power BI. ETL. Presto. Phoenix. Drill. Spark SQL. Data Lake. Azure. Normalization. Query builder. When learning SQL, we should become familiar with these terms. Learning about these with create opportunities and open doors.

Always use a good solid computer for your programming journey. I recommend the following computers.

Alienware 17R4 Intel Core i7-7700HQ X4 2.8GHz 32GB 1TB+1TB SSD Win10, Silver (Renewed)

Alienware Computer

Alienware Computer

Microsoft Surface Pro 6 2 in 1 PC Tablet 12.3″ (2736×1824) Touchscreen, i5-8250U, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD w/Fingerprint Type Cover, Surface Pen, Dock, Mouse, Backlit, Webcam, Fanless, Win 10 – Black

Surface Computer

Surface Computer

Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Credits:

Forbes: Adrian Bridgewater (linked above)

Photo by Kevin Ku on Unsplash

Glassdoor.com

Tech-Ke Solutions

2021: Drone Footage for your Website

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The Drone Trend

“We’re at the very beginning of the drone revolution.” David Pierce, Wired Magazine.   Drone footage on websites are on the rise because drone footage gets attention. Incorporating movement of all types into websites is becoming more and more popular. 2020 is the year that your website can take off, with the assistance of drone footage.

“You have probably seen websites that already use drone footage on their homepage. This is becoming a trend now with more and more website owners being able to afford such unique and stunning graphics.” Web Anywhere

Drones are a Part of Tech-Ke

At Tech-Ke, we want your website to be at the forefront of your industry as the attention grabbing website.  The web design approach of a responsive website coupled with drone footage gives your audience optimal viewing experience.  And now that you have their attention, so does your product and/or service offering.

Whether it is the background of a city, or something more specialized, take a moment to imagine the effect that a Tech-Ke website or a redesign of your current website will make. For example, the Tech-Ke website features the Manhattan background via drone and we have received more than a few compliments on it.

Why Fly

“Drones, by one definition, are neither high-tech toys nor lethal weapons. They are worker bees that are the foundation of a colony… The Belgian-based Flying-Cam, an early innovator, has received two Oscars, including the Scientific and Engineering Award for the Flying-Cam Sarah 3.0 used in the 2012 James Bond movie Skyfall.”~ Steve Goldberg, Inc Magazine.  And worker bees they are when it comes to the entertainment industry.  Drone footage in sporting events, drone footage in music videos and drone footage during weddings…now is the time to jump in and make sure that your company is a part of the drone revolution.

2020 is the year that drone footage helps your website and your business to take off!

Contact us for a quote at Tech-Ke Solutions.

Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Credits:

  1. David Pierce, Wired Magazine, Guide to Drones
  2. Steve Goldberg, Inc Magazine How Drones  are Shooting Movies…
  3. Web Anywhere, Unique and Stunning Graphics

Why Tech-Ke is YOUR Solution

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Have you ever had to multi-task? If you have, you’ll know the difference between multi-tasking and being able to concentrate on one item at a time. What if you could focus on growing your company’s profits by 20%-30%? With a customized website, Tech-Ke just changed your business hours to 24/7. That is a significant amount more eyes on your product, shopping in your “store” in the comfort of their homes or wherever they may be.

Customers will now able to see your product 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. There will even be an option for ecommerce. This allows your customers to purchase or hold your product with a debit, credit card, or PayPal account. It is the literal meaning of money in the mail. When you check your email, payments could be waiting for you.

So let’s review:

“Open Store” 24/7

More opportunity for sales because of increased number of people in your audience
A far wider reach

More concentration on running the company

Besides increasing visibility, it gives you credibility; tell the customers why they should trust you and your product with testimonials

Customers that want to visit your storefront also have hours and directions provided without calling or hunting the information down

The size of your company does not really matter, you could get a higher rank in Google than a larger multi-national and take some of their clients

Your company can look larger and more successful than it actually is.

Stay connected with your customer by sending email offers, blogs and other special promotions during the month.

Small business are growing into ‘not-so-small’ businesses because of the very items above that websites are able to offer. I hope that I have convinced you of the importance of a website and just as important, having a professional web developer take on that task on your behalf and possibly even maintain the site for your company as an administrator over the years. Consider Tech-Ke as your Solution and allow us to earn your business.

Hello world!

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I remember the exact day that I fell in love with technology.

It was early fall, 2007.  I worked for a Nashville law firm and my boss gave me his club seat tickets to a Tennessee Titans game.  I sat there watching the game when the man seated in front of us pulled out a sleek black phone device.  It looked like a shiny black device.   The front was made of glass, solid glass; the back, solid black with an apple in the top center.  When he turned the phone one way, the picture would adjust to the turn. I don’t care how many times he moved the phone, the picture on the screen continued to respond to his positioning of it.  I proclaimed my love  for Apple then and there.

My attention to the actual game on the field long gone, I watched as he took the picture, transformed it into an email and sent it on its way.  I heard a “swish” when he hit the “send” button.  He put his phone away and I was sad.

As soon as the game was over, I researched everything that I could find on the iPhone.  A few months later a package arrived for me… a white Macbook and a new black iPhone.

At Tech-Ke, we are obsessed with the idea that we can make our clients walk away from our products and services just as mesmerized as I was at that football game in 2007.

Welcome to your Tech-Ke.

 

Ukela Alred

Founder and CEO of Tech-Ke