Technically Easy

Category: Technology

  • Utilizing Robot Arms to Maximize Profits

    Utilizing Robot Arms to Maximize Profits

    Technology is growing rapidly across the globe. Most industries have embraced technology to improve their effectiveness and increase productivity this improves their competitiveness in the industry. Robots, which are as a result of technology, are being utilized heavily in the manufacturing industry.

    Robot arms are among other robots being utilized in the industry. A robotic arm is a programmed mechanical arm with features and functions similar to those of a human arm. This arm can automate most of tasks being carried out in the industry. Some of those tasks include: Picking and placing; painting and polishing; assembling; lab analysis; packaging and palletizing; and screwdriving.

    Characteristics of robot arms

    Easy and fast set-up. Most robotic arms are programmed in a way that operators with little or no programming experience are able to set them up and operate them easily.

    Are flexible. Robot arms can perform different tasks. This is made possible by its easy programming and design of the robot. In most cases the operator just need to easily move the arm to the desired way points and use the correct arrow keys that will ensure the robot performs the function at hand.

    Easy programming. Robot arms are programmed in a way that the user can easily operate it. Basic procedures provided to the operators are easy to apply.

    They are agile. For the robot arms to meet the changing trends/demands and remain competitive, they are produced in a way that they can be easily moved. These robots do not occupy a lot of space since they are small in size. Therefore they can be easily moved from one place to another and allow for deployment.

    Easy to update. With more innovations and changes in the manufacturing industry, robot arms are programmed in a way that they can be easily updated to meet the demands in the market.

    Advantages of robot arms

    They are accurate and provide high quality output. Due to the computerized control and proper programming of a robotic arm, they are able to perform tasks well by accurately following the programmed instructions. This provides little room for mistakes hence the end product is of high quality.

    They are fast and efficient. With the computerized control, a robot arm is able to follow the programmed instructions easily and faster. Therefore, the amount of time that a human would have taken when thinking of the next procedure is covered up. This increases the rate of production in the industry.

    Ability to work in hazardous environments. The mechanical nature of robots enables them to perform dirty, dull and dangerous tasks that humans cannot perform. This makes the company utilizing this robot more competitive as its production process is not limited to such issues.

    Less interference. Humans get bored and tired easily especially when performing similar tasks repetitively and when working for long hours. Robot arms are not affected by the length or repetitiveness of a task; hence their level of productivity is high all times. The quality of the output is thereby maintained.

    Cut the cost of hiring many employees. With the flexibility of a robot arm to perform different tasks, the personnel required to perform these tasks are reduced. Additionally, due to their easy programming, the manufacturing industry does not require frequently outsourcing professional programmers to perform certain tasks.

    Reduction of waste and better saving. Due to the accuracy of the robot arms, the amount of waste of the raw materials being used is highly reduced. This consequently reduces the cost of production and increases the profit to the industry due to the high utilization of the raw materials.

    Allows for better space utilization. As discussed earlier, robot arms do not occupy a lot of space. This creates space that can be utilized to perform other tasks thereby maximizing on the profits of the organization.

    From the above discussion, it is evident that well developed robot arms are relevant to the manufacturing industry. Embracing this technology is a major step to maximizing or increasing the profits of the industry.

  • How to Choose the Perfect VR Headset

    How to Choose the Perfect VR Headset

    It is a well-known fact that not everyone has the same requirements and desires when it comes to gaming gear. Some people focus more on speed and graphics power, some are more focused on the exterior design, while others simply want portability.

    Now, the same goes when a gamer is on the verge of choosing a VR headset, but because there are huge gaps in between devices, it may be a bit more difficult to find the right one. Among the comfort features, you also have to factor in the type of games you want to play, compatibility issues and price.

    Now, to make your life a bit easier, we put together a quick guide that will help you get the perfect VR headset for your needs.

    Consider your current gear

    As we already mentioned, differences between devices are quite big so it’s very important to consider the current type of gaming gear or the one you want to invest in the future. For instance:

    You own a gaming PC

    If you have a computer, you could get an Oculus Rift, an HTC Vive, or a Sony PlayStation VR. These devices can be easily hooked up to a PC and they come with a plethora of cool features and a rich game database.

    You do your gaming on the phone

    While most serious gamers would cringe at the idea, these days, smartphones are more powerful than some computers and they have the advantage of being portable.

    The cool thing is that there are VR headsets especially designed to be used with a phone, and the best example that comes to mind is Samsung Gear VR and Galaxy S8. Of course, there is also the combination of Google Daydream View and the Google Pixel phone, Moto Z, ZTE Axon 7 or Huawei Mate 9 Pro.

    The other advantage that comes with VR on phones is represented by the plethora of games out there. After all it’s easier to make a simple but entertaining game like the Get on Top game work with a VR headset than create a whole new world from scratch.

    You’re a console kind of gamer

    In this situation, you must first check the product’s specifications and make sure the device is compatible, but most big consoles have their own VR headsets. For instance, PS has PlayStation VR (works with PS4 and above).

    Virtual Reality

    Consider your budget

    According to the type of gaming you want to do, your budget may vary between $100 and $400+ so make sure you are prepared for this. But it’s not just about the cost of the headset that you need to worry!

    You should also think about other accessories you’ll need to create the VR experience you want. This means headphones, joysticks and controls, cables, software (games and others), and more. So make sure you calculate your budget well before taking the plunge.

    However, if you’re low on budget or you’re just dipping your toe into the VR world, we recommend trying Google Cardboard and a phone that fits. It may not have as many cool features, but it is a way to see if you truly like it.

    Consider the available content

    Another important aspect is the type of content available. Since the industry is not yet sure if VR headsets are here to stay there aren’t as many developers involved in creating games and other types of content. This is why, you may end up with a cool headset, but you’ll only be able to play a few boring games with it.

    Of course, the content base is growing, and each year, there are more games to consider, but make sure your device is compatible. Devices like Oculus Rift and PlayStation VR have access to a plethora of games and content, but so do devices that use mobile phones. However, the content for smartphones is less complex.

    Mobile or fixed

    One final decision you need to make before deciding on the headset you want focuses on mobility and space. It’s also strongly connected with the type of gamer you are or want to be. If you enjoy highly technical worlds, with lots of focus on movement that require hours of your time, we recommend a fixed gear like the PlayStation VR or HTC Vive.

    However, if you’re only using the gear to escape in a virtual world from time to time, a headset that uses a smartphone would do.

  • Can Machine Learning Help Bridge the Skills Gap in Tech?

    Can Machine Learning Help Bridge the Skills Gap in Tech?

    Have you been paying any attention to business news over the past year? Then you’ve almost certainly heard of machine learning. You might, however, still not quite understand what it is and how it works.

    Essentially, machine learning is a type of artificial intelligence that utilizes layered digital neurons to learn from data.

    This isn’t exactly one of those things that sound more complicated than it is in reality. Most people would be completely lost in a discussion about the intricacies of the subject. This doesn’t mean that employees should give up on trying to understand its potential applications.

    There are a few ways machine learning will help bridge the skills gap in tech.

    Logistics

    Logistics is mind-bogglingly complicated. This science has evolved greatly since its early days, thanks in large part to computers. Now, machine learning is going to take it to a whole new level.

    This is one of the biggest areas where this technology will pay massive dividends in the long run. An artificial intelligence will be able to completely redefine logistics patterns. This is because humans have an incredibly limited understanding of ideal logistical efficiency. We can create models to help us; but those still fall short.

    Machine learning can process all available data in order to continually improve processes to their full potential.

    Cybersecurity

    Digital security is going to be a major issue for the foreseeable future. It’s highly unlikely that we’re going to be regressing toward analog communications or payments anytime soon.

    Due to this, cybersecurity needs to stay ahead of nefarious trends. Machine learning will be able to help develop novel forms of online security.

    It may even lead to breakthroughs in new forms of computing altogether. Either way, machine learning will be essential to the future of data security.

    Data analysis

    A top data architect understands that machine learning will be critical to their future. Data is the lifeblood of growth in today’s business world.

    Companies that want to compete increasingly need to leverage data to some degree. Right now, this typically means paying a teams of data scientists to parse through masses of information.

    Soon, much of the process will be turned over to machine learning. This will be much faster, and provide deeper insights, than human-completed analysis.

    Optimization

    Optimization has already been discussed a little bit in regards to logistics. There are, however, many ways in which machine learning will help optimize other things as well. Consider a manufacturing plant.

    There are so many elements that go into it: design, layout, machinery, size, spacing, build rate, down time, and many more variables. It would be impossible for the human mind to come up with a perfectly optimized assembly process.

    We might do a decent job at it; but machine learning beats us by far. It will be able to tell assembly line designers exactly how to optimize for specific product production.

    Predictive modeling

    Of course, we can’t stop thinking about the future just because we have fancy new tools now. Machine learning will also be able to help us with that. These systems will be able to help companies model the future based on massive data pools.

    Of course, the outcome won’t 100 percent match the prediction. On the other hand, it will be much more accurate than anything that could be imagined by a human.

    Machine learning will also be able to identify patterns that might otherwise be completely overlooked by humans.

    Overall, machine learning is set to have a massive impact on the future of humanity. It truly has the potential to completely alter the way businesses and governments make decisions.

  • Questions to Ask Before You Choose a Digital Signature Vendor

    Questions to Ask Before You Choose a Digital Signature Vendor

    Thanks to the digitization of workplaces, a great deal of paperwork is now replaced by electronic documents. When it comes to sensitive documents like contracts, non-disclosure agreements and others that need signatures though, executives still have to run from pillar to post, making sure all documents are duly signed by all members involved.

    You know that digital signature can solve this problem and you’ve heard that they are safe and authentic. However, you still have your doubts, and rightly so.

    You must absolutely ask all the necessary questions and be a hundred percent sure that the digital signature vendor you are planning to engage is absolutely the right choice.

    Digital signatures are undoubtedly a secure and legally protected service that can save you the trouble of printing, faxing, mailing and scanning papers just for procuring a signature.

    However, it is so only when you have a reliable and authorized service provider. Unfortunately, e-signature providers have cropped up in large numbers and not all of them have a high standard.

    Here are the factors you should consider before choosing your digital signature service provider:

    1. Is The E-Signature Legally Protected?

    While e-signatures are ESIGN and UETA compliant and very much legally accepted in all high-value transactions, they require process evidence and an embedded audit-trail if they ever need to be presented in court.

    The process evidence is a sequential record of all the steps a customer took during the e-signature process. Additionally, look for a detailed and consistent audit trail.

    Look for a vendor who diligently records every event and provides a legally acceptable proof.

    2. Are The E-Signature And The Documents Secured?

    Ask your vendor if they will protect your documents and e-signatures using appropriate digital signature technology. Ideally, they should create a digital fingerprint that can be used for verification purposes in the future.

    Some vendors don’t have enough authenticity to create a tamper-proof solution for all e-signatures. You need to avoid such providers and make sure you use someone credible.

    Since the e-signature vendor will have access to your most sensitive documents, and will be storing them in a cloud, you need to make sure that they will protect the integrity and confidentiality of your information.

    Make sure they have proper mechanisms and appropriate electronic infrastructure to support highly secured cloud storage for documents.

    3. Does It Work With Your Existing File Types?

    Going paperless needs just as much flexibility as you find in the world of hard-copy documents. Signatures are required on a wide variety of documents from invoices to forms, contracts and agreements.

    E-signatures on such documents should be just as easy. Ascertain that your e-signature provider allows you all the flexibility you need and works with all the different formats, and applications you use such as Outlook, Word, and Excel or file types like PDF, SharePoint and AutoCAD.

    Also make sure that the e-signature solution works well with your existing workflows, your CRM tools and database management systems.

    4. Is It Easy To Use?

    To facilitate maximum adoption at all levels and by all people you deal with, an e-signature should be extremely useful. People should be able to complete the process within a few clicks, without any additional training on how to use e-signatures.

    Signing on a paper is one of the most basic, ingrained habits of people; it is something they can do in their sleep. Breaking away from the familiarity of paper-and-pen signatures to adopt e-signatures isn’t an easy transition and a complicated process could make it harder.

    5. Is It Open To Customization?

    As a part of your branding, you wish to give your clients/customers a seamless experience. When the time comes for an e-signature, they shouldn’t have to go to a new page to sign.

    The e-signature interface should be enable to be customized so that it can reflect the same colors and interface as that of your brand to avoid confusion.

    6. Does The E-Signature Provide Multiple Modes Of Signature Capture?

    There are multiple ways to do an electronic signature. Clicking on ‘sign here’, entering a password, initialing, and a few other creative ways can be adopted to complete the process.

    Check with your vendor if they support multiple formats.

    7. Is The E-Signature Mobile Friendly?

    Mobile is an absolutely indispensable part of business today and hence, the e-signature solution must be compatible with mobile. Your clients should have absolutely no trouble signing a document on a smartphone or tablet.

    8. Does The E-Signature Solution Have A Proper Consent And Notice Provision?

    According to the ESIGN Act and other accepted rules for e-signatures, the user performing an electronic signature must be very clearly notified what the e-sign entails and must seek consent for the same.

    They should have the option to not indulge in the process should they choose to. If there is ever a problem with the client’s consent and your vendor has failed to follow the right process, the e-sign can be invalidated.

    Conclusion

    As you can see, the seemingly simple process of electronically signing a document is rife with little intricacies which, if not followed, can lead to serious organizational and legal problems.

    It is important to understand that when electronic signatures are being given as much legal significance as a real-life signature, an equal amount of care must be taken.

    An e-signature vendor, who isn’t a well seasoned and highly credible industry personnel, may not be the right person to handle such sensitive matters of your business.

    It is hence imperative that you exercise extreme caution when selecting an electronic signature service provider.

    Rose Martin is an editor at Rantle East Electronic Trading Co. Limited – Electronic components distributor & IC supplier in Hong Kong. She has a master degree in electrical engineering. She likes to share her views and perspectives on electronics manufacturing industries, production, technologies and entrepreneurship. You can reach out to her at martinrrrose[AT]gmail[dot]com.

  • Is It Time to Seek Out Deals on Tech Updates? These 4 Signs Say Yes!

    Is It Time to Seek Out Deals on Tech Updates? These 4 Signs Say Yes!

    Investing in the latest and greatest technology is important for the growth of your business. If you fail to change with the times, it will usually lead to you losing your competitive edge.

    When first starting out in the world of small business, you will need to work on getting a computer network setup. Just like any other man-made equipment, eventually the computers and software you are using will need to be updated.

    Without routine updates, you may find it very hard to get your work done on a daily basis. Allowing IT professionals to help you with your company’s technology needs is vital.

    They will be able to consider the needs your company has and then make recommendations based on this information. These professionals can also advise you on where the couponbuffer discounts are for the tools you need.

    Below are some of the signs that you may notice when it is time to update the technology your business is using.

    1. You are experiencing a lot of downtime

    One of the biggest enemies that you will have as a business owner is downtime. If you are having constant problems with the computer network and other tech tools you have in place, it will generally lead to massive amounts of downtime.

    Employees who are unable to work will only cost you money. Instead of dealing with the damage this can do to your bottom line and productivity levels, you need to work on getting your business technology updated.

    Investing in a new and faster computer network can benefit you and your employees greatly. Allowing IT professionals to advise you on which tools to invest in can make this process easy and problem-free.

    2. Rapid growth calls for new technology

    The main goal that you should have as a business owner is growing. When you start to experience rapid growth, you will have to evaluate the effectiveness of the technology you have in place.

    If the computer network and software you have in place is hindering your growth rather than helping it, you will need to make a change quickly. Neglecting to make changes in the technology you are using can lead to you losing new customers.

    The money that is spent on these technology upgrades will pay off due to the increase in productivity they will be able to provide. Being able to scale your technology to meet the growth you are experiencing is the only way to stay on an upward trajectory.

    3. Problems with network security

    Keeping the data that you have on your computer network safe is important. Letting sensitive information get into the hands of a hacker can lead to a number of issues.

    If you are experiencing security issues due to an outdated software program or computer network, you have to address these issues quickly. With the help of an IT professional, you will be able to do things like establish a cloud-based backup of all of your files.

    Having this backup is a great way to keep your information safe and accessible in the event of a ransomware attack. Usually, you can get a cloud backup in place with a minimal investment.

    4. You are being edged out by the competition

    Are the companies you are competing against using technology to gain a competitive edge?

    If so, you have to find a way to compete with them. The last thing you want is to lose customers due to the use of outdated technology tools. If you are unsure about what you need to update your operation, you should call in an IT professional to assess the situation.

    They will be able to do an in-depth analysis of your network and let you know what needs to be done to make it better.

    Trying to upgrade your business technology without professional help will usually lead to lots of problems being created. The help that IT professionals can provide will allow you to take your company into the 21st century.

  • Fleet Management Technology: How ORIX is Revolutionising the Industry

    Fleet Management Technology: How ORIX is Revolutionising the Industry

    Technological innovation has consistently revolutionised and optimised a broad range of industries throughout the decades, particularly when it comes to transport and communication.

    ORIX has distinguished itself in this space by creating fleet management technology to enable detailed insights about your fleet and vehicles and make forecasting a lot more accurate.

    A full-service industry-leader, they integrate this technology into their commercial and novated leasing services to make your life easier.

    GPS tracking and in-vehicle devices for monitoring

    For businesses that rely on commercial vehicle fleets, fast, efficient, long-distance transmissions for GPS technology is vital. Knowing where your vehicles are and what state they’re in is now possible with ORIX’s vehicle tracking and asset management software.

    Track your vehicles at all times with the help of ORIX’s world-class partnerships, user-friendly web-based design and in-vehicle devices that range from budget-friendly, plug-and-play devices to cutting-edge monitoring equipment.

    In addition, to make reporting as hassle-free as possible, ORIX provides the flexibility of supporting your existing telematics provider for your convenience.

    Online pool car management and Driver Safety Programs

    Online pool car management systems tend to bring an unmatchable level of efficiency when you’re managing multiple vehicles. ORIX Share is a user-friendly online booking system that allows you to manage company resources for things like toll tags efficiently when working with a pool of vehicles.

    This means you can make sure your vehicles are always in use and keep your costs to a minimum.

    Further, risky drivers can be monitored and managed with ORIX’s online Driver Safety Programs which aim to improve drivers’ skills and competencies beyond licensing requirements.

    Keep track of specific concerns such as fuel abnormalities and servicing issues amongst drivers to have transparent reporting.

    Apps for drivers

    Managing your novated lease is very simple with apps such as the ORIX Companion App that make it easy for novated drivers to claim reimbursements for out-of-pocket costs.

    Additionally, you can keep track of expenses and distance travelled using ORIX’s FBT Logbook App that features GPS tracking to generate an ATO compliant logbooks.

    All it takes is a smart phone and ORIX’s easy-to-use, driver-focused app technology to make it happen.

    Get in touch with Orix to learn more about their fleet management and leasing technology today.

  • Why Don’t Employees Have Access to Structured Data and Insights?

    Why Don’t Employees Have Access to Structured Data and Insights?

    According to a study conducted by Forbes Insights and Dun & Bradstreet, up to 59 percent of companies are not using structured data to run advanced analytics and produce insights.

    And even in the companies that are, access to data and insights is often limited to isolated teams.

    That is odd considering that the promise and potential of data have been trumpeted for over a decade now. And most future forecasters see data playing a mission-critical role in every process imaginable.

    If structured data and insights have so much to offer, why aren’t companies utilizing them as broadly as possible?

    These are some of the most common explanations along with reasons those attitudes are outdated:

    There is too much data involved

    The size and scope of data stores have historically been challenges, and realizing the implications of the scale is important.

    But data that is properly structured is easily given form and function when paired with the right tools. And structuring that data is a more seamless process than ever.

    Companies are increasingly acknowledging that data silos and discreet departments are counter-productive. The solution is to give employees access to as much data as possible.

    The benefits are overstated

    It’s true that the potential of machine learning, analytics, and other aspects of data in general have been spoken about in hyperbolic terms.

    But that potential has been realized in the last few years.

    And data is now more accessible and actionable than ever, regardless of a company’s size or strength.

    It is also important to remember that as data-driven insights begin to become the norm, the companies that dismiss the capability put themselves at a distinct competitive disadvantage.

    Employees lack training or experience

    This is a very valid concern. Investing in new tech that employees are unable to use fully puts a real damper on its ROI. And data-driven technologies are complex by their very nature.

    But years of data science have revealed not only how to leverage the full value of data, but also how to interface with data intuitively. It’s now possible to conduct advanced analytics using commands, features, functions, and interfaces that every employee already understands.

    The onboarding process is minimal.

    The cost is prohibitive

    There was once a time when only the largest enterprises could afford to invest in analytics. It required a large budget for new software, hardware, staff, and possibly even space. But as with all technologies, the cost has come down over time.

    And with the advent of self-service analytics it’s possible for companies to begin leveraging data without making major changes to operations or adding significantly to the budget.

    Knowing how much employees stand to gain with deep access to data, it’s difficult to continue defining it as cost-prohibitive.

    The business case is lacking

    Some companies have concluded that while data sounds like an exciting asset, it’s not one that is particularly relevant to their business. Maybe they are less tech-reliant, operating in a less-competitive industry, or not even involved with a for-profit enterprise.

    It’s important to only invest in technologies that have a relevant impact, but structured data and analytics absolutely meet that criteria for all organizations.

    Data reveals insights that it would be impossible to know otherwise. And insights lead to opportunities that no one could have anticipated. Not matter what the short- or long-term goals of an organization may be, data is poised to serve them.

    Giving employees more access, more tools, and more freedom in regard to data is undoubtedly a good thing. Just imagine how much about an organization would improve if everyone was fully informed about any issue at all times.

  • 3 Ways Technology Can Better Your Business

    3 Ways Technology Can Better Your Business

    In today’s world, technology is becoming an increasingly important addition to almost every part of our daily lives. From home life to the workplace environment, the rise of technology has been almost unprecedented, helping to contribute to the modern, technically-savvy world that we currently live in.

    Although it is virtually impossible to run a successful business without using technology nowadays, the way in which you harness the benefits that technology can bring, can have a big impact on your business.

    From the creative use of new and innovative technologies right through to reliance on tried-and-tested old staples, the way in which you use the technology that is available to you can speak volumes about your business.

    For that reason, it is vital that you do your best to incorporate technology into your company, making full use of all the options on offer to you. However, technology has the ability to work to your business’ advantage in far more ways than you might originally think.

    Take the office computer set-up for granted, and instead, focus on using technology in some different ways to improve your business in the months to come.

    Vehicle Fleet Tracking

    1. Vehicle Fleet Tracking

    If you have a fleet of vehicles or trucks as part of your business, it may be worth investing in a vehicle fleet tracking system. These sophisticated systems can help to keep drivers safe as well as help you to keep tabs on individual driver’s location, fuel efficiency and driving habits.

    Smart technology like this can help you to keep everything running as smoothly as possible, ensuring your entire fleet is always optimised and working to full capacity.

    Not only should this help to increase levels of productivity and efficiency, but it also has the potential to save you money in the long run. This is because they are able to free up time for those who would otherwise spend long hours doing admin tasks like logging and compiling data or planning routes.

    When utilised across your fleet, you should easily be able to begin cutting costs and working towards creating a more efficient, effective business strategy.

    2. Sophisticated Computer Systems

    From a dedicated Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system right through to specialised accounting software, many computer systems and software packages are consistently becoming more and more valuable.

    If you don’t have the digital or coding experience necessary to create a bespoke computer solution that caters exactly to your business’ needs, there are still plenty of existing systems out there and available for you to use.

    3. Established Online Presence

    Nowadays, more and more potential customers are heading online to check out a business before deciding whether or not to use them or buy from them. For this reason, it is important that you not only have an online presence but that this presence is a strong, effective and valuable one.

    Make sure that your company website is up and running, looking its best and showcasing the image of your business that you want to portray. In addition, you should also look to incorporate social media as part of your online strategy – this way, you can work to create a consistent approach to branding across the field, as well as encouraging customers to interact directly with you.

    If you have been bitten by the technological bug, now is the perfect time to start incorporating the use of some new and exciting technology into your everyday workplace routine.

    Of course, every business is different and these are just a handful of ideas – with the ever-changing digital landscape, there are plenty of opportunities to tailor your technology to suit the exact needs of your business!