Thursday, March 31, 2016
Average Number of Social Media Followers for B2B? LinkedIn Kills It
If you run a B2B company (i.e., a business that sells to other businesses), have you ever wanted to benchmark your company’s social media efforts? See how you’re doing compared to others?
TrackMaven recently conducted a study of B2B brands and their social media activity. The study found that LinkedIn just kills it when it comes to the average number of social media followers among B2B businesses.
Average Number of Social Media Followers for B2B? LinkedIn Kills It
Sprint Teams with Amazon to Offer a Monthly Option for Sprint Customers to Enjoy Amazon Prime | Sprint Newsroom
Customers can now purchase Amazon Prime as a $10.99 add-on to their monthly Sprint plan and experience the full Prime membership – including access to shows, movies, music, e-books and fast, free shipping – on America’s Fastest LTE Network
Sprint Teams with Amazon to Offer a Monthly Option for Sprint Customers to Enjoy Amazon Prime | Sprint Newsroom
Sprint Teams with Amazon to Offer a Monthly Option for Sprint Customers to Enjoy Amazon Prime | Sprint Newsroom
Sprint to Launch LG G5 on April 1 | Sprint Newsroom
Pre-orders begin Thursday, March 24; Save $150 instantly and get a free accessory bundle when you buy the LG G5 and trade in your current working smartphoneFor qualified customers, LG G5 will cost $0 down (plus tax) and $24 per month for 24 months
Sprint to Launch LG G5 on April 1 | Sprint Newsroom
Sprint Wins Atlanta Metro Area 2016 Top Workplaces Award | Sprint Newsroom
Win Comes on Heels of New Local Market Approach
Sprint Wins Atlanta Metro Area 2016 Top Workplaces Award | Sprint Newsroom
Sprint Wins Atlanta Metro Area 2016 Top Workplaces Award | Sprint Newsroom
Ransomware threat highlights why backing up data is essential
Noticeably, over the last two years, there has been a marked increase in ransomware attacks, which is, in its simplest form, a type of malware that is executed for the principal reason of extortion.
The malicious software, once deployed, encrypts data, as well as devices. Access is only achievable if the victim pays a ransom (well, so the argument goes – it’s never guaranteed). Needless to say, this is a highly effective form of cybercrime.
Ransomware threat highlights why backing up data is essential
Video Social Networks Show Rapid Growth
Video-to-video communications is about to become as ubiquitous as voice in the very near future. This is possible without any difficulty using fixed Internet access, but there are still some hurdles to overcome with wireless broadband. When 4G LTE and 5G networks are fully deployed however, video will be as standard as voice on mobile.
The development in the network infrastructure has now allowed developers to create applications that give users easy access to video, and there is no shortage of services, with video social networks also making this form of communication a priority.
Video Social Networks Show Rapid Growth
Solutions - 60V Low IQ Dual Output Boost + Buck Synchronous DC/DC Controller Maintains Voltage Regulation in Automotive Systems
MILPITAS, CA - March 30, 2016 - Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC7813, a dual output (boost + buck), low quiescent current synchronous DC/DC controller. When cascaded, its independent step-up (boost) and step-down (buck) controllers regulate the output voltage from an input voltage that can be above, below, or equal to the output voltage, including during an automotive load dump or cold crank. Unlike conventional single inductor buck-boost regulators, the LTC7813’s cascaded boost + buck solution provides fast transient response with continuous, non-pulsating input and output currents. It substantially reduces ripple voltage and EMI, ideal for automotive, industrial and high power battery operated systems.
Solutions - 60V Low IQ Dual Output Boost + Buck Synchronous DC/DC Controller Maintains Voltage Regulation in Automotive Systems
Solutions - 60V Low IQ Dual Output Boost + Buck Synchronous DC/DC Controller Maintains Voltage Regulation in Automotive Systems
Accenture Implements New Core Insurance IT System for Zurich Insurance’s Launch in Colombia
From #Accenture:
ZURICH and BOGOTA, Colombia; Mar. 23, 2016 – Accenture (NYSE: ACN) recently completed building and implementing a new core insurance information technology system for Zurich Insurance Group (Zurich), marking the insurer’s entrance into the property and casualty (P&C) business in Colombia as part of its strategy for expansion in Latin America.
Accenture implemented the new system, based on TIA Technology’s core insurance solution, which supports underwriting, policy administration and claims management for the insurer’s P&C personal and commercial lines and is integrated with Zurich’s regional IT systems.
“Entering into the Colombian insurance market is an important component of Zurich’s expansion strategy into Latin America,” said Victoria Bejarano, CEO of Zurich’s Colombia operation. “Accenture has been a great partner in helping us implement this strategy, delivering results on time and in full compliance with regulatory demands, so that we can quickly meet the needs of local insurance consumers.”
Accenture provided implementation and support services to Zurich through its local facilities in Brazil and Colombia, as well as through its Global Delivery Network using a center in Pune, India.
“Latin America continues to be a promising market for insurance expansion, even as regulatory demands and competition are increasing,” said Andre Rezende, a managing director in Accenture’s Insurance practice in Colombia. “This is the third country in which we have implemented this solution for Zurich, in addition to Brazil and Venezuela, and we look forward to continuing to work with the company on its strategy for expansion in the region.”
“Colombia is an expanding market for insurance and we are pleased to support Zurich’s successful operational launch through the implementation of an insurance core system, which we accomplished in less than ten months and in full regulatory compliance,” said Juan Antonio Garcia, a managing director in Accenture’s Financial Services practice in Colombia.
About Zurich
Zurich Insurance Group (Zurich) is a leading multi-line insurer that serves its customers in global and local markets. With more than 55,000 employees, it provides a wide range of general insurance and life insurance products and services. Zurich’s customers include individuals, small businesses, and mid-sized and large companies, including multinational corporations, in more than 170 countries. The Group is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, where it was founded in 1872. The holding company, Zurich Insurance Group Ltd (ZURN), is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange and has a level I American Depositary Receipt (ZURVY) program, which is traded over-the-counter on OTCQX. Further information about Zurich is available at www.zurich.com.
About Accenture
Accenture is a leading global professional services company, providing a broad range of services and solutions in strategy, consulting, digital, technology and operations. Combining unmatched experience and specialized skills across more than 40 industries and all business functions – underpinned by the world’s largest delivery network – Accenture works at the intersection of business and technology to help clients improve their performance and create sustainable value for their stakeholders. With approximately 373,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries, Accenture drives innovation to improve the way the world works and lives. Visit us at www.accenture.com.
Accenture Implements New Core Insurance IT System for Zurich Insurance’s Launch in Colombia
ZURICH and BOGOTA, Colombia; Mar. 23, 2016 – Accenture (NYSE: ACN) recently completed building and implementing a new core insurance information technology system for Zurich Insurance Group (Zurich), marking the insurer’s entrance into the property and casualty (P&C) business in Colombia as part of its strategy for expansion in Latin America.
Accenture implemented the new system, based on TIA Technology’s core insurance solution, which supports underwriting, policy administration and claims management for the insurer’s P&C personal and commercial lines and is integrated with Zurich’s regional IT systems.
“Entering into the Colombian insurance market is an important component of Zurich’s expansion strategy into Latin America,” said Victoria Bejarano, CEO of Zurich’s Colombia operation. “Accenture has been a great partner in helping us implement this strategy, delivering results on time and in full compliance with regulatory demands, so that we can quickly meet the needs of local insurance consumers.”
Accenture provided implementation and support services to Zurich through its local facilities in Brazil and Colombia, as well as through its Global Delivery Network using a center in Pune, India.
“Latin America continues to be a promising market for insurance expansion, even as regulatory demands and competition are increasing,” said Andre Rezende, a managing director in Accenture’s Insurance practice in Colombia. “This is the third country in which we have implemented this solution for Zurich, in addition to Brazil and Venezuela, and we look forward to continuing to work with the company on its strategy for expansion in the region.”
“Colombia is an expanding market for insurance and we are pleased to support Zurich’s successful operational launch through the implementation of an insurance core system, which we accomplished in less than ten months and in full regulatory compliance,” said Juan Antonio Garcia, a managing director in Accenture’s Financial Services practice in Colombia.
About Zurich
Zurich Insurance Group (Zurich) is a leading multi-line insurer that serves its customers in global and local markets. With more than 55,000 employees, it provides a wide range of general insurance and life insurance products and services. Zurich’s customers include individuals, small businesses, and mid-sized and large companies, including multinational corporations, in more than 170 countries. The Group is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, where it was founded in 1872. The holding company, Zurich Insurance Group Ltd (ZURN), is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange and has a level I American Depositary Receipt (ZURVY) program, which is traded over-the-counter on OTCQX. Further information about Zurich is available at www.zurich.com.
About Accenture
Accenture is a leading global professional services company, providing a broad range of services and solutions in strategy, consulting, digital, technology and operations. Combining unmatched experience and specialized skills across more than 40 industries and all business functions – underpinned by the world’s largest delivery network – Accenture works at the intersection of business and technology to help clients improve their performance and create sustainable value for their stakeholders. With approximately 373,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries, Accenture drives innovation to improve the way the world works and lives. Visit us at www.accenture.com.
# # #
Tableau Awards EMEA Partner of the Year Accolade to Accenture’s Javelin Group, Recognizing the Digital Retail Capabilities of Accenture Strategy
From #Accenture:
LONDON; Mar. 23, 2016 – Accenture (NYSE: ACN) announced today that Tableau, a global leader in business analytics software, has awarded its EMEA Partner of the Year accolade to Accenture’s Javelin Group, the digital retail consulting business that is a part of Accenture Strategy.
Tableau’s Partner Awards recognize excellent performance and notable achievements from its global partners. Javelin Group, Digital Retail from Accenture Strategy, won the top partner award for its dedicated approach to working with the Tableau team and its success in introducing Tableau to new retail clients.
"Our mission of helping people see and understand their data is at the heart of our partner ecosystem,” said Paul Greenspan, director of channels in EMEA at Tableau. “Javelin Group reflects that mission in the way we work together to help people uncover insights and make more data-driven decisions thanks to the ability to visualize their data. We're thrilled to recognize their contributions with our most prestigious award.”
As part of Accenture Strategy, Javelin Group’s extensive retail and consumer experience helps retail clients to turn their data assets into actionable insight across the enterprise by using visual analytics, and then makes the tools available via a self-service platform.
“Tableau is well regarded as the global leader in visual analytics and we are delighted to be awarded EMEA Partner of the Year,” said Carl Bradbrook, associate director, Analytics & Business Insight team at Javelin Group. “The award reflects our strengths in helping our clients select and implement the most appropriate business intelligence software, as well as the quality of our training and consulting services that underpin best practice approaches and techniques.”
“Our commitment to ‘analytics everywhere’ is central to the digital transformation of retail and consumer businesses, and is facilitated by Tableau’s easy-to-use software that helps clients produce insightful real time visual analytics to inform key decisions,” added Bradbrook. “We look forward to continuing our successful relationship with Tableau into 2016 and beyond.”
As well as the Tableau EMEA Partner of the Year award, Javelin Group also currently holds the AlteryxEMEA Partner of the Year award. Both of these awards demonstrate Javelin Group’s commitment to the importance and value of analytics with the retail and consumer industries.
About Accenture
Accenture is a leading global professional services company, providing a broad range of services and solutions in strategy, consulting, digital, technology and operations. Combining unmatched experience and specialized skills across more than 40 industries and all business functions – underpinned by the world’s largest delivery network – Accenture works at the intersection of business and technology to help clients improve their performance and create sustainable value for their stakeholders. With approximately 373,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries, Accenture drives innovation to improve the way the world works and lives. Visit us at www.accenture.com.
Accenture Strategy operates at the intersection of business and technology. We bring together our capabilities in business, technology, operations and function strategy to help our clients envision and execute industry-specific strategies that support enterprise wide transformation. Our focus on issues related to digital disruption, competitiveness, global operating models, talent and leadership help drive both efficiencies and growth. For more information, follow @AccentureStrat or visitwww.accenture.com/strategy
About Javelin Group
Javelin Group, part of Accenture Strategy, provides strategy consulting and digital transformation services to the world’s leading retailers and consumer brands. Javelin Group helps clients improve their competitiveness by anticipating and responding to the rapid changes in customer shopping habits and retail technologies. For more information visit http://www.javelingroup.com or emailinfo.uk@javelingroup.com.
Tableau Awards EMEA Partner of the Year Accolade to Accenture’s Javelin Group, Recognizing the Digital Retail Capabilities of Accenture Strategy
LONDON; Mar. 23, 2016 – Accenture (NYSE: ACN) announced today that Tableau, a global leader in business analytics software, has awarded its EMEA Partner of the Year accolade to Accenture’s Javelin Group, the digital retail consulting business that is a part of Accenture Strategy.
Tableau’s Partner Awards recognize excellent performance and notable achievements from its global partners. Javelin Group, Digital Retail from Accenture Strategy, won the top partner award for its dedicated approach to working with the Tableau team and its success in introducing Tableau to new retail clients.
"Our mission of helping people see and understand their data is at the heart of our partner ecosystem,” said Paul Greenspan, director of channels in EMEA at Tableau. “Javelin Group reflects that mission in the way we work together to help people uncover insights and make more data-driven decisions thanks to the ability to visualize their data. We're thrilled to recognize their contributions with our most prestigious award.”
As part of Accenture Strategy, Javelin Group’s extensive retail and consumer experience helps retail clients to turn their data assets into actionable insight across the enterprise by using visual analytics, and then makes the tools available via a self-service platform.
“Tableau is well regarded as the global leader in visual analytics and we are delighted to be awarded EMEA Partner of the Year,” said Carl Bradbrook, associate director, Analytics & Business Insight team at Javelin Group. “The award reflects our strengths in helping our clients select and implement the most appropriate business intelligence software, as well as the quality of our training and consulting services that underpin best practice approaches and techniques.”
“Our commitment to ‘analytics everywhere’ is central to the digital transformation of retail and consumer businesses, and is facilitated by Tableau’s easy-to-use software that helps clients produce insightful real time visual analytics to inform key decisions,” added Bradbrook. “We look forward to continuing our successful relationship with Tableau into 2016 and beyond.”
As well as the Tableau EMEA Partner of the Year award, Javelin Group also currently holds the AlteryxEMEA Partner of the Year award. Both of these awards demonstrate Javelin Group’s commitment to the importance and value of analytics with the retail and consumer industries.
About Accenture
Accenture is a leading global professional services company, providing a broad range of services and solutions in strategy, consulting, digital, technology and operations. Combining unmatched experience and specialized skills across more than 40 industries and all business functions – underpinned by the world’s largest delivery network – Accenture works at the intersection of business and technology to help clients improve their performance and create sustainable value for their stakeholders. With approximately 373,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries, Accenture drives innovation to improve the way the world works and lives. Visit us at www.accenture.com.
Accenture Strategy operates at the intersection of business and technology. We bring together our capabilities in business, technology, operations and function strategy to help our clients envision and execute industry-specific strategies that support enterprise wide transformation. Our focus on issues related to digital disruption, competitiveness, global operating models, talent and leadership help drive both efficiencies and growth. For more information, follow @AccentureStrat or visitwww.accenture.com/strategy
About Javelin Group
Javelin Group, part of Accenture Strategy, provides strategy consulting and digital transformation services to the world’s leading retailers and consumer brands. Javelin Group helps clients improve their competitiveness by anticipating and responding to the rapid changes in customer shopping habits and retail technologies. For more information visit http://www.javelingroup.com or emailinfo.uk@javelingroup.com.
# # #
Gartner Positions Accenture as a Leader in the 2016 Magic Quadrant for North America Life Insurance Policy Administration Systems
From #Accenture:
NEW YORK; Mar. 23, 2016 – Accenture (NYSE: ACN) has been positioned in the “Leaders” quadrant by Gartner in the February 2016 “Magic Quadrant for Life Insurance Policy Administration Systems, North America1” evaluated for its Accenture Life Insurance & Annuity Platform (ALIP).
The Gartner Magic Quadrant evaluated 15 vendors that provide policy administration systems for individual and group life and annuity products targeted at life insurers in North America on two primary criteria – “completeness of vision” and “ability to execute.” Accenture is positioned the furthest for “completeness of vision” and is one of two companies positioned as leaders for “ability to execute.”
Kimberly Harris-Ferrante, Gartner analyst and author of the report, said “Insurance CIOs should carefully watch this evolving market and ensure that their core systems can support emerging business demands in marketing, sales, customer service and underwriting. Careful review of these needs against the maturing vendor market will help companies identify the right technologies and solution roadmaps for 2016 and beyond.”
“We are delighted to be recognized by Gartner as a leader in this market landscape,” said Shay Alon, global managing director of Life & Annuity Software at Accenture. “The continued adoption of Accenture Life Insurance & Annuity Platform, as evidenced by our growing and active client base, is a testament to our ongoing investment plan in the platform. We are committed to delivering enhancements and innovation in our products and helping our clients meet the new demands of the digital economy.”
ALIP, used by leading insurers worldwide, is a robust, configurable and scalable solution that provides life insurance carriers and annuity providers with advanced capabilities for product development, new-business development, underwriting, policy administration, claims and payout. It is available as an on-premise solution and over the Cloud as an integrated suite of software with modules that can be implemented individually or as part of a broader migration strategy.
1 Gartner, Inc. “Magic Quadrant for Risk Management Consulting Services, Worldwide,” by Kimberly Harris-Ferrante, 16 February 2016.
About Accenture
Accenture is a leading global professional services company, providing a broad range of services and solutions in strategy, consulting, digital, technology and operations. Combining unmatched experience and specialized skills across more than 40 industries and all business functions—underpinned by the world’s largest delivery network—Accenture works at the intersection of business and technology to help clients improve their performance and create sustainable value for their stakeholders. With approximately 373,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries, Accenture drives innovation to improve the way the world works and lives. Visit us at www.accenture.com.
Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
Gartner Positions Accenture as a Leader in the 2016 Magic Quadrant for North America Life Insurance Policy Administration Systems
Accenture is positioned the furthest for “Completeness of Vision” and is one of two companies positioned as leaders for “Ability to Execute”
Accenture is positioned the furthest for “Completeness of Vision” and is one of two companies positioned as leaders for “Ability to Execute”
NEW YORK; Mar. 23, 2016 – Accenture (NYSE: ACN) has been positioned in the “Leaders” quadrant by Gartner in the February 2016 “Magic Quadrant for Life Insurance Policy Administration Systems, North America1” evaluated for its Accenture Life Insurance & Annuity Platform (ALIP).
The Gartner Magic Quadrant evaluated 15 vendors that provide policy administration systems for individual and group life and annuity products targeted at life insurers in North America on two primary criteria – “completeness of vision” and “ability to execute.” Accenture is positioned the furthest for “completeness of vision” and is one of two companies positioned as leaders for “ability to execute.”
Kimberly Harris-Ferrante, Gartner analyst and author of the report, said “Insurance CIOs should carefully watch this evolving market and ensure that their core systems can support emerging business demands in marketing, sales, customer service and underwriting. Careful review of these needs against the maturing vendor market will help companies identify the right technologies and solution roadmaps for 2016 and beyond.”
“We are delighted to be recognized by Gartner as a leader in this market landscape,” said Shay Alon, global managing director of Life & Annuity Software at Accenture. “The continued adoption of Accenture Life Insurance & Annuity Platform, as evidenced by our growing and active client base, is a testament to our ongoing investment plan in the platform. We are committed to delivering enhancements and innovation in our products and helping our clients meet the new demands of the digital economy.”
ALIP, used by leading insurers worldwide, is a robust, configurable and scalable solution that provides life insurance carriers and annuity providers with advanced capabilities for product development, new-business development, underwriting, policy administration, claims and payout. It is available as an on-premise solution and over the Cloud as an integrated suite of software with modules that can be implemented individually or as part of a broader migration strategy.
1 Gartner, Inc. “Magic Quadrant for Risk Management Consulting Services, Worldwide,” by Kimberly Harris-Ferrante, 16 February 2016.
About Accenture
Accenture is a leading global professional services company, providing a broad range of services and solutions in strategy, consulting, digital, technology and operations. Combining unmatched experience and specialized skills across more than 40 industries and all business functions—underpinned by the world’s largest delivery network—Accenture works at the intersection of business and technology to help clients improve their performance and create sustainable value for their stakeholders. With approximately 373,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries, Accenture drives innovation to improve the way the world works and lives. Visit us at www.accenture.com.
Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
# # #
Here Are Some Good Reasons To Start Your Own Business
Do cubicles and long commutes make you cringe? Have you ever wanted to start your own business? If so, you are certainly not alone. Every year, thousands of people take a leap of faith and strike out on their own.
One of our DashBurst community members, Zohaib Akhlaq, is well-versed in the language of the modern entrepreneur. He is a digital marketing specialist, freelance writer and the founder of How Entrepreneur, a site dedicated to providing entrepreneurship and small business advice.
Here Are Some Good Reasons To Start Your Own Business
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
IBM News room - 2016-03-24 Guiding Eyes Turns to IBM Cloud to Improve Access and Analysis of Canine Data - United States
ARMONK, N.Y - 24 Mar 2016: IBM (NYSE: IBM) today announced that Guiding Eyes for the Blind, a non-profit organization dedicated to the breeding, raising, training and placement of service dogs with people who are blind or visually impaired, is adopting the IBM Cloud for better management and faster access to its increasing canine data.
IBM News room - 2016-03-24 Guiding Eyes Turns to IBM Cloud to Improve Access and Analysis of Canine Data - United States
IBM News room - 2016-03-24 Guiding Eyes Turns to IBM Cloud to Improve Access and Analysis of Canine Data - United States
IBM News room - 2016-03-24 Tuberculosis Study Launched, Powered By Citizen Scientists on IBM's World Community Grid - United States
ARMONK, NY & NOTTINGHAM, UK - 24 Mar 2016: IBM's (NYSE: IBM) World Community Gridand scientists at the University of Nottingham are launching a study to address tuberculosis, one of the world's most deadly diseases. It is expected that hundreds of thousands of volunteers will donate vast computing resources to aid this effort facilitated by IBM.
IBM News room - 2016-03-24 Tuberculosis Study Launched, Powered By Citizen Scientists on IBM's World Community Grid - United States
IBM News room - 2016-03-24 Tuberculosis Study Launched, Powered By Citizen Scientists on IBM's World Community Grid - United States
IBM Opens Bluemix Garage in Europe to Fuel Cloud Development
From IBM:
Now spanning four locations across the globe, Bluemix Garages are physical hubs where multi-disciplinary teams, including developers, product managers and designers, can collaborate with IBM experts to rapidly innovate and deliver new technologies using IBM Cloud. Based in San Francisco, Toronto, London, and now Nice, these Garages give developers access to the tools and expertise they need to build progressive, intelligent apps.
The Nice Garage will serve as a counterpart to IBM’s Bluemix Garage in London, the company’s northern anchor to the continent’s innovation scene. Both Garages will help support the world’s rapidly growing developer population, expected to reach more than 20 million by 2020. Europe alone already has a base of 1.6 million developers, priming the region to play a critical part in the next wave of global cloud and cognitive innovation.
Launched in 2014, the London Bluemix Garage has grown into an innovation hub, working with developers to design and build in new ways with IBM Cloud, which is currently drawing more than 20,000 developers per week. For example, the Garage team is working with Simon Wheatcroft, a blind ultra-marathon runner, to use IBM Cloud APIs and services, such as Cloudant, IBM’s database-as-a-service, to use data to direct, monitor and pace him through a solo, 60-mile run through a desert in Namibia.
Co-located within the European Business Innovation Center (BIC) of Nice Metropole, the region’s largest startup incubator, the Nice Bluemix Garage will help developers through:
IBM Opens Bluemix Garage in Europe to Fuel Cloud Development
Based in Nice, France, IBM’s fourth Bluemix Garage will help transform how apps are built with IBM Cloud
ARMONK, N.Y. and NICE, FR - 22 Mar 2016: IBM (NYSE: IBM) today announced the opening of a Bluemix Garage in Nice, France to help European organizations of all sizes and industries accelerate the development and design of next-generation apps on IBM Cloud.
Developers collaborate in IBM's newest Bluemix Garage in Nice, France to build advanced cloud apps.
The Nice Garage will serve as a counterpart to IBM’s Bluemix Garage in London, the company’s northern anchor to the continent’s innovation scene. Both Garages will help support the world’s rapidly growing developer population, expected to reach more than 20 million by 2020. Europe alone already has a base of 1.6 million developers, priming the region to play a critical part in the next wave of global cloud and cognitive innovation.
Launched in 2014, the London Bluemix Garage has grown into an innovation hub, working with developers to design and build in new ways with IBM Cloud, which is currently drawing more than 20,000 developers per week. For example, the Garage team is working with Simon Wheatcroft, a blind ultra-marathon runner, to use IBM Cloud APIs and services, such as Cloudant, IBM’s database-as-a-service, to use data to direct, monitor and pace him through a solo, 60-mile run through a desert in Namibia.
Co-located within the European Business Innovation Center (BIC) of Nice Metropole, the region’s largest startup incubator, the Nice Bluemix Garage will help developers through:
- Business Development: Combining enterprise acumen, agile methods, and a unique process to design, build and deploy, Garage consultants help clients to refine, iterate on and deliver a business idea into an app.
- Protecting Existing Investments: Tapping IBM Cloud’s hybrid and open models, Garage consultants help companies to seamlessly move existing data workloads to the cloud, lowering cost and adding enhancements, as well as connecting existing systems into new cloud apps.
- Speeding App Development: Through the Garage’s expertise in agility, extreme programming, DevOps and more, Garage consultants help businesses to significantly reduce the time it takes to design and build new services, applications or products.
- Skills Development: Equipping development teams with the skills and expertise needed on Bluemix, IBM’s Cloud Platform, Garage teams help businesses to rapidly scale cloud capabilities and implement agile development.
Bluemix, IBM's Cloud platform, which draws more than 20,000 new developers per week who are creating more than 120,000 apps every month, has grown rapidly to become the largest public Cloud Foundry deployment in the world. Based in open standards, it features over 140 tools and services spanning categories of big data, mobile, Watson, analytics, integration, DevOps, security and the Internet of Things.
Powered by IBM Cloud’s continuously growing catalog of advanced APIs, Garage teams work with companies to identify and build new ways to use the latest technologies, such as a robust roster of Watson APIs, Twitter social sentiment analysis, IoT tools, and new forms of data such as video, weather intelligence and more.
Local Nice startup ADVANSOLAR, a sustainable mobility company, tapped IBM Cloud and Design practices in the Garage to create and deploy its new electric bicycle rental services in just weeks – cutting the time needed to get to market by more than 50 percent. Using the Garage’s design methods as a starting point, ADVANSOLAR worked with Garage experts to use IBM Cloud tools, including IoT, NodeRed and Node.JS services, to easily integrate external services and data to build a high-quality customer experience.
“Working with IBM Cloud and design experts enabled us to quickly identify the most important features of our new service, and then build and deliver them rapidly,” said Raphael Briere, CEO of ADVANSOLAR. “Combining the power, openness and agility of IBM Cloud with the Garage’s expertise enabled us to create a valuable product rapidly, and deliver our rental services at the right price for all our customers.”
The Garage’s co-location with the BIC also houses it within the European Business Network – Europe’s largest startup incubator network comprised of over 10,000 startups.
"We are thrilled to welcome IBM’s latest Bluemix Garage – and its top experts in cloud, design and cognitive technologies - into our incubator of Europe’s most promising startups,” said Marie-Christine Vidal, director of BIC of Nice. “We believe the ability to easily build with cloud will be critical to helping European companies innovate on a global scale.”
“Our latest Bluemix Garage in Nice is a critical addition to our network of Garages across Europe and globally, and will help our clients to more quickly build with IBM Cloud,” said Steve Robinson, General Manager, Client Technical Engagement of IBM Cloud. “IBM Cloud offers companies the most rapid on-ramp, and most robust toolset, for their developers to create the apps they need to succeed and compete.”
To learn more about IBM Cloud, visit: https://www.ibm.com/cloud-computing/
To learn more about IBM Bluemix Garages, visit: https://www.ibm.com/cloud-computing/bluemix/garage/
1. Stack Overflow: http://stackoverflow.com/research/developer-survey-2015#profile-geo
2. Dow Jones Venture Capital Report
3. Fundacity European Accelerator Report 2014 http://www.fundacity.com/european-accelerator-report-2014 f
Powered by IBM Cloud’s continuously growing catalog of advanced APIs, Garage teams work with companies to identify and build new ways to use the latest technologies, such as a robust roster of Watson APIs, Twitter social sentiment analysis, IoT tools, and new forms of data such as video, weather intelligence and more.
Local Nice startup ADVANSOLAR, a sustainable mobility company, tapped IBM Cloud and Design practices in the Garage to create and deploy its new electric bicycle rental services in just weeks – cutting the time needed to get to market by more than 50 percent. Using the Garage’s design methods as a starting point, ADVANSOLAR worked with Garage experts to use IBM Cloud tools, including IoT, NodeRed and Node.JS services, to easily integrate external services and data to build a high-quality customer experience.
“Working with IBM Cloud and design experts enabled us to quickly identify the most important features of our new service, and then build and deliver them rapidly,” said Raphael Briere, CEO of ADVANSOLAR. “Combining the power, openness and agility of IBM Cloud with the Garage’s expertise enabled us to create a valuable product rapidly, and deliver our rental services at the right price for all our customers.”
The Garage’s co-location with the BIC also houses it within the European Business Network – Europe’s largest startup incubator network comprised of over 10,000 startups.
"We are thrilled to welcome IBM’s latest Bluemix Garage – and its top experts in cloud, design and cognitive technologies - into our incubator of Europe’s most promising startups,” said Marie-Christine Vidal, director of BIC of Nice. “We believe the ability to easily build with cloud will be critical to helping European companies innovate on a global scale.”
“Our latest Bluemix Garage in Nice is a critical addition to our network of Garages across Europe and globally, and will help our clients to more quickly build with IBM Cloud,” said Steve Robinson, General Manager, Client Technical Engagement of IBM Cloud. “IBM Cloud offers companies the most rapid on-ramp, and most robust toolset, for their developers to create the apps they need to succeed and compete.”
To learn more about IBM Cloud, visit: https://www.ibm.com/cloud-computing/
To learn more about IBM Bluemix Garages, visit: https://www.ibm.com/cloud-computing/bluemix/garage/
1. Stack Overflow: http://stackoverflow.com/research/developer-survey-2015#profile-geo
2. Dow Jones Venture Capital Report
3. Fundacity European Accelerator Report 2014 http://www.fundacity.com/european-accelerator-report-2014 f
NetSuite Appoints Zakir Ahmed as VP and General Manager of Asia
Veteran Executive Joins NetSuite to Drive Company’s Strong Momentum in the Region
NetSuite Appoints Zakir Ahmed as VP and General Manager of Asia
NetSuite Appoints Zakir Ahmed as VP and General Manager of Asia
Wireless Network Services
Wireless network services have now become a must for almost all businesses. Whether it is a coffee shop, a book store or large corporation, having wireless access gives employees and customers access to the Internet or company networks right away.
Depending on the kind of setup you choose to deploy, it can be expensive and for small businesses, a cost effective solution that is secure, reliable, and scalable is always the way to go.
Wireless Network Services
GoDaddy Launches Cloud-Based Servers
GoDaddy, once known for the eccentric antics of its former CEO, Bob Parsons, racy TV commercials and cheap domains, is entering a new era of respectability, refashioning itself as a major player in the cloud computing industry.
Announced this month, GoDaddy is expanding its hosting services to include two new offerings, Cloud Server and Cloud Applications, which are intended to help Web developers build, test and scale cloud solutions, often in less than a minute, with minimal coding required.
GoDaddy Launches Cloud-Based Servers
Trident nuclear defence updated to protect against hackers
It’s a tough enough job protecting your home computer, or your business network, against the rising threat of malware and determined hackers… imagine if you were responsible for the security of Britain’s nuclear deterrent?
As The Telegraph reports, “legitimate concern” has been raised that the computer systems responsible for the Trident nuclear missile system could be at risk of attack from terrorists or hackers sponsored by foreign nations.
Trident nuclear defence updated to protect against hackers
Meet Remaiten - a Linux bot on steroids targeting routers and potentially other IoT devices
ESET researchers are actively monitoring malware that targets embedded systems such as routers, gateways and wireless access points. Recently, we discovered a bot that combines the capabilities of Tsunami (also known as Kaiten) and Gafgyt. It also provides some improvements as well as a couple of new features. We call this new threat Linux/Remaiten. So far, we have seen three versions of Linux/Remaiten that identify themselves as versions 2.0, 2.1 and 2.2. Based on artifacts found in the code, the authors call this new malware “KTN-Remastered” or “KTN-RM”.
In this blog we will describe the unique spreading mechanism of Linux/Remaiten, its different features, and the differences between the versions found in the wild.
Meet Remaiten - a Linux bot on steroids targeting routers and potentially other IoT devices
Sichuan Rural Credit Union and Cooperative Bank Turns to BMC to Enable Digital Transformation
Southwest China's largest bank meets demand to deliver digital banking services by
first revolutionizing its own IT service management
RSS Content - BMC Software
first revolutionizing its own IT service management
RSS Content - BMC Software
Solutions - 20V, 20A Monolithic Synchronous Step-Down Regulator with Ultralow DCR Current Sensing for Higher Efficiency
MILPITAS, CA - March 28, 2016 - Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC7130, a constant frequency peak current mode synchronous step-down DC/DC converter with temperature-compensated ultralow DCR current sensing and clock synchronization. The device’s unique architecture eases compensation and offers the ability to directly parallel multiple ICs for higher current capability. It also enhances the signal-to-noise ratio of the current sense signal, enabling the use of a very low DC resistance power inductor to maximize efficiency in high current applications. This feature also reduces the switching jitter commonly found in low DCR applications and improves current limit accuracy. The LTC7130’s 4.5V to 20V input range supports a wide variety of applications, including most intermediate bus voltages, and is compatible with many battery types. Integrated N-channel MOSFETs can deliver continuous load currents as high as 20A at output voltages ranging from 0.6V to 5.5V, making it ideal for point-of-load applications such as high current / low voltage DSP / FPGA / ASIC reference designs. Other applications include telecom/datacom systems, distributed power architectures and general high power density systems.
Solutions - 20V, 20A Monolithic Synchronous Step-Down Regulator with Ultralow DCR Current Sensing for Higher Efficiency
Solutions - 20V, 20A Monolithic Synchronous Step-Down Regulator with Ultralow DCR Current Sensing for Higher Efficiency
Deal with Twitter Trolls in 3 Simple Ways
Trolls exist on every social platform that’s out there. Whether it’s a blogging site or Instagram, you will almost always find an increase in “haters” when there’s an increase in your following. Such users exist at varying degrees and call for different responses and management methods.
Bearing that in mind, dealing with online negativity can be incredibly difficult when you’re confined by 140 characters on Twitter. For that reason, it’s best to determine which method is best for the Twitter trolls you’re dealing with — and proceed with a very deliberate course of action.
Deal with Twitter Trolls in 3 Simple Ways
Patented Firmware Repels Large-Scale DDoS attacks on DNS Services | Fortinet Blog
Domain Name System (DNS)-related distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks are on the rise because hacktivists and cyberterrorists are finding it easy to use botnets to stage large volumetric reflection and amplification of queries DDoS attacks to overwhelm servers.
When these attacks succeed, Internet services are not available—as we saw on New Year’s Eve 2015, whenBBC.com experienced a large-scale DDoS attack. Whether the target is an enterprise, organization, or hosted services provider, a DDoS attack frustrates users and customers, and often results in lost revenue and brand equity. Plus, during the chaos of DDoS attacks, hackers can easily capture users’ credentials, credit card info, and passwords for illicit use.
Patented Firmware Repels Large-Scale DDoS attacks on DNS Services | Fortinet Blog
Dell Security Eases Management of Converged Networks | Dell
Dell Security today announced the release of SonicOS 6.2.5 for Dell SonicWALL SuperMassive, NSA and TZ Series firewalls. This new firmware extends security to Dell switches, wireless access points and firewalls by consolidating the management of the converged network infrastructure. The release also significantly advances capabilities associated with inspecting encrypted traffic, a major threat vector in today’s malware economy, and meets strict certification requirements of the US Department of Defense.
Dell Security Eases Management of Converged Networks | Dell
Dell Security Eases Management of Converged Networks | Dell
Unique Perspectives on the Threat landscape of Today’s Healthcare Networks | Fortinet Blog
A recently released executive level report by Fortinet included a brief overview of key findings resulting from Fortinet’s Cyber Threat Assessment Program (CTAP) running across a multitude of organizations nationwide for a period of four months.
The findings showed that the landscape of cyber threats were in constant motion and evolving quickly. The rapid development of new malware, the exposure of software flaws, the onslaught of organized cybercrime, and the rising value of data are all contributing factors to the challenges that IT leaders face daily in the battle to protect their corporate resources.
Unique Perspectives on the Threat landscape of Today’s Healthcare Networks | Fortinet Blog
Internet In Danger: Analysis of ISC Bind Patch (part 1) | Fortinet Blog
The Internet Systems Consortium just released a couple of days ago a new patch (version 9.10.3-P4) to fix some issues in the most popular DNS server software in the world.
The release note is available at https://kb.isc.org/article/AA-01363/81/BIND-9.10.3-P4-Release-Notes.html
Internet In Danger: Analysis of ISC Bind Patch (part 1) | Fortinet Blog
Odem Global Launches All-in-one Marketing Dashboard
Marketing technology company Odem Global just announced the release of a new platform that integrates cross-channel online and offline marketing with paid, earned and owned media. The all-in-one marketing dashboard, suitable for use by small businesses and enterprises alike, consolidates marketing activity and is designed to save time and increase efficiency.
Odem Global Launches All-in-one Marketing Dashboard
Odem Global Launches All-in-one Marketing Dashboard
Banks 'should not compensate' victims of online fraud
UK Metropolitan police commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe has advised banks not to offer compensation to victims of online fraud, arguing that the increased risk will encourage people to better protect themselves against cybercrime.
Speaking in an interview with The Times, Mr. Hogan-Howe suggested that by removing the safety blanket of compensation, internet users would think twice before making bad decisions online.
Banks 'should not compensate' victims of online fraud
AVT-PR-Avnet Expands Relationship with Stormshield into Southern Europ
BRACKNELL, UK - Avnet, Inc. (NYSE: AVT), a leading global technology distributor, today announced it has expanded its relationship with Stormshield into southern Europe to deliver quality cyber security solutions to partners in Italy and Spain.
AVT-PR-Avnet Expands Relationship with Stormshield into Southern Europ
AVT-PR-Avnet Expands Relationship with Stormshield into Southern Europ
Juan D. Nepomuceno Sons Fuels Rapid Business Growth with NetSuite
Philippines Real Estate Developer Deploys NetSuite for Greater Speed, Visibility and Scalability
Juan D. Nepomuceno Sons Fuels Rapid Business Growth with NetSuite
Juan D. Nepomuceno Sons Fuels Rapid Business Growth with NetSuite
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Plonked: Search Engine That Means Business
If Google and LinkedIn had a child, it would be Plonked, a newly-minted search engine designed to discover, analyze, and connect searchers with businesses for the purpose of building a sales pipeline, securing venture capital, or finding employment.
Currently, Plonked’s database only contains a list of 250,000 tech companies, but efforts are underway to include all of the 24 million businesses in the U.S. by year-end. Once it accomplishes that feat, it plans to set the bar even higher and include all companies worldwide.
Plonked: Search Engine That Means Business
Boost Your Web Traffic with These 5 Proven Tips
No matter how much Web traffic you get, you always want more. After all, the more traffic your website receives, the more customers you have, at least in theory.
But maybe you’ve struggled to get even 100 visitors a month to your website. How do other small businesses manage to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors? Below are five tips to boost your Web traffic as well as your sales.
Boost Your Web Traffic with These 5 Proven Tips
combined company will become an IT and BPO solutions powerhouse for the healthcare industry | Dell
NTT DATA, Inc. and Dell Inc. today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement for NTT DATA to acquire Dell Services, an IT services provider recognized for its depth in vertical industries and for its offerings around infrastructure services, cloud services, application services, and business process outsourcing. The agreement reflects NTT DATA’s continued focus on expanding its brand and leadership position globally.
combined company will become an IT and BPO solutions powerhouse for the healthcare industry | Dell
combined company will become an IT and BPO solutions powerhouse for the healthcare industry | Dell
Intuit Announces Rise in Online TurboTax Use Among Americans
Intuit announced its fiscal 2Q16 results and posted revenues of $923 million, up 23 percent over last year. An important highlight was the growth in the sales of online TurboTax units to 12 percent versus the comparable prior-year period. And Intuit reports self-prepared e-filings increased approximately 3 percent, while assisted e-filings decreased 5 percent over the same period.
In a prepared statement, Brad Smith, Intuit’s chairman and chief executive officer added, “We’re out of the gates strong in the first half of fiscal 2016. We grew revenue 23 percent in the second quarter, and exceeded our guidance across the board. We also saw record QuickBooks Online subscriber growth in this quarter, with over 80 percent of customers new to the Intuit franchise.”
Intuit Announces Rise in Online TurboTax Use Among Americans
Will 2016 Be the Year of Digital Wallet Adoption?
Consumer use of mobile devices to shop both online and in-store is pushing merchants to adopt the use of digital wallets. The term describes electronic devices and programs used to make payments for purchases digitally, without presenting a physical credit card, debit card or cash. Apple Pay, Android Pay and Samsung Pay are all examples of digital wallets.
A recent study by Citi Retail Services found that shoppers are embracing digital wallet adoption at a growing pace, due in large part to convenience and ease of use.
Will 2016 Be the Year of Digital Wallet Adoption?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)