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Benelux NIS2 Is Coming: Here’s What You Need to Know

Open invitation to YOU! In the beautiful city of Antwerp, we will get together with some of the brightest minds, where they will share their unique insights on the NIS2 Directive, covering everything from the legal aspects to practical applications and insurance implications.

BONUS CONTENT: We will also be discussing our new Women in Tech Initiative and brainstorm ways how we can join forces to make a real, lasting impact in this space on a global scale. Plus, we will delve into the topic of "Future-Proofing Your Company: Embracing New Management Styles" to ensure your organization stays ahead of the curve.

We look forward to welcoming you in Antwerp for our meeting. You are welcome to bring your colleagues and friends along. All we ask is that participants register for the event.
AGENDA can be found here

DATE: Thursday, 8 February 2024
START TIME: 08:30 Registration and Breakfast
NETWORKING: 17:00 Dinner & Drinks
LOCATION: Lindner WTC Hotel & City Lounge Antwerp
Lange Kievitstraat 125, 2018 Antwerpen
T.: +3232277700 [email protected]

CompTIA Member Benefit Meetup - Cybersecurity Programs 1 February

Don’t miss our monthly virtual CompTIA Member Benefit Meetup on February 1 at 10:00 a.m. CST/4:00 p.m. GMT to hear the latest updates, ask questions about your membership, meet your member reps, and network with your peers.

Chris Johnson, senior director of Cybersecurity Programs, will provide an overview of the CompTIA Cybersecurity Trustmark program. The CompTIA Cybersecurity Trustmark is more than just a certification, it's a way for CompTIA members to differentiate themselves and demonstrate their dedication to cybersecurity and cyber resilience. Join us to delve into its implications and benefits for your business, during the meetup.

You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with the CompTIA Community, find out how other members are using their benefits, and get more value from your membership.

Date: Thursday, February 1, 2024
Time: 10:00 a.m. CST/4:00 p.m. GMT
Topic: CompTIA Cybersecurity Trustmark
Register Now
This webinar is open to CompTIA Community members only.

Please contact [email protected] with any questions.

A Deep Dive into IoT Standards and Interoperability

In the ever-expanding realm of technology, the Internet of Things (IoT) stands as a transformative force, interweaving connectivity into the fabric of our daily lives. At the heart of this interconnected web lies the critical concept of standards and interoperability, orchestrating a symphony of devices to work seamlessly together.

This discussion post, crafted with insights for developers and guided by the vision of an IoT development company, delves into the intricate landscape of IoT standards, exploring their pivotal role in ensuring devices speak a common language. As we embark on this journey, we unravel the significance of interoperability, laying the foundation for a profound understanding of the protocols that enable our devices to harmonize, fostering innovation and efficiency in the vast ecosystem of IoT. Join us in unlocking the gates to seamless connectivity in the world of IoT.

Importance of Standards in IoT

Ensuring Compatibility Across Devices
In the dynamic tapestry of the Internet of Things (IoT), standards emerge as the linchpin, guaranteeing a universal language that diverse devices comprehend. Compatibility is paramount, allowing devices from various manufacturers to communicate effectively, fostering a cohesive IoT ecosystem.

Facilitating Scalability IoT's true power lies in its ability to scale, connecting an ever-growing multitude of devices. Standards play a pivotal role in this scalability, providing a structured framework that accommodates expansion seamlessly. This ensures that as the IoT landscape evolves, the infrastructure remains robust and adaptable.

Enhancing Security Measures As the IoT landscape expands, so does the surface for potential vulnerabilities. Standards act as a shield, fortifying the security posture of IoT networks. They establish common security protocols, ensuring a baseline of protection across devices, mitigating risks and fortifying the entire IoT ecosystem against threats.

Looking forward to your thoughts and insights on this topic.

Read the article: https://smestreet.in/iot-ai/a-deep-dive-into-iot-standards-and-interoperability-2389714

Critics of D.E.I. Forget That It Works

Subject: The Importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the Workplace

Recent studies suggest that support for corporate and academic DEI efforts may be dwindling, even though the majority of us strive for the same goal: a competitive organization where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. This is a concerning trend, and one that we must actively work against.

As professionals with years of experience in various fields, we have seen organizations struggle to meet this objective. We have witnessed companies that excel in recruiting diverse talent but falter when it comes to managing this diversity effectively. This often leads to frustration and cynicism, and in some cases, premature declarations of failure.

Inclusion, as we define it, is about creating an environment where everyone can thrive. It's about valuing our differences as varied, multidimensional individuals. It's about ensuring that every team member is not only tolerated but also valued for their unique perspectives and contributions.

The benefits of DEI are manifold. When we fully embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion, we create an organization that is greater than the sum of its parts. We foster a culture where every team member feels valued, heard, and empowered to contribute their best work.

Let's remember that DEI is not just about ticking boxes or meeting quotas. It's about creating a culture of respect and understanding, where everyone feels valued and has an equal opportunity to succeed. It's a journey, and like any journey, it requires commitment, patience, and perseverance.

Let's continue to work together to make our organization a place where everyone feels welcome, valued, and empowered to succeed. Your thoughts, ideas, and feedback are always welcome as we continue on this journey.

Read the article: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/21/opinion/diversity-equity-inclusion-dei.html

Will Blockchain Usher in a New Economic Era?

I wanted to initiate a discussion on a topic that has been making headlines and stirring debates globally - Cryptocurrencies and Blockchain technology.

Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin have sparked interest and speculation as potential catalysts for a new economic era. Advocates envision a world of decentralized finance, seamless transactions, and enhanced individual control over financial assets. However, skeptics remain doubtful, raising concerns about volatility, scalability, and regulatory challenges.

The Case for a New Economic Era

There are several compelling reasons to believe that Cryptocurrency and blockchain could herald a new economic age:

  1. Decentralization: Blockchain technology eradicates the need for central intermediaries, such as banks or governments, in financial transactions. This could lead to more efficient, transparent, and inclusive financial systems.
  2. Increased Access to Finance: Blockchain-based solutions could provide financial services to the unbanked and underbanked, estimated to be over 1.7 billion people worldwide.
These factors present a compelling case for the transformative potential of cryptocurrencies and blockchain. However, it's important to consider the challenges and uncertainties that come with these technologies.

I invite you all to share your thoughts and perspectives on this topic. How do you see cryptocurrencies and blockchain impacting our economic systems? What challenges do you foresee, and how can they be addressed?

Looking forward to a lively and insightful discussion.

Read the article: https://businessday.ng/sponsored/article/will-blockchain-usher-in-a-new-economic-era/

AI far too expensive to replace humans in most jobs, MIT study finds

I wanted to share some interesting findings from a recent study conducted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The study aimed to address the growing concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) replacing human labor across various industries.

In one of the first comprehensive investigations into the feasibility of AI displacing labor, the researchers modeled the cost attractiveness of automating different tasks in the US, focusing on jobs where computer vision was employed, such as teachers and property appraisers.

The results were quite revealing. They found that only 23% of workers, measured in terms of dollar wages, could be effectively replaced by AI. In many other cases, due to the high costs associated with installing and operating AI-assisted visual recognition systems, humans were found to be more cost-effective.

This study provides valuable insights into the current limitations of AI and its potential impact on the labor market. It's a reminder that while AI has the potential to revolutionize many aspects of our lives, its application is not without challenges and limitations.

I encourage everyone to consider these findings as we continue to explore and implement AI solutions in our work. Let's remember that AI is a tool to assist us, not replace us.

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on this.

Read the article: https://fortune.com/2024/01/22/ai-jobs-humans-cost-mit-study/

UK & Ireland The Untold Story of a Cyber Attack Slide Deck

The above event held in Birmingham on 18 January was a huge success. Feedback from attendees is that they learned so much to implement back in their businesses. The valuable content delivered by 12 speakers gave them real food for thought and tangible takeaways. We heard from a range of speakers covering all aspects of an attack from an ethnical hacker, an MSP that had been hacked, an insurance company about ensuring your business is as covered as possible, a press expert about how to deal with the press aspect of an attack and much more.

If you were there then you know what I'm talking about. If you weren't then I hope you can take something from the attached slides and do try and join us in Manchester on 5 March for our CompTIA Community UK&I meeting https://connect.comptia.org/events/view/comptia-community---uk-ireland-meeting.

See you soon!

Leanne

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[Abstracts Due Feb 26] DARPA's Building an Adaptive & Competitive Workforce Track

Hi All! I wanted to share an exciting announcement that the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has just launched the Building an Adaptive & Competitive Workforce track through the Tools Competition and is now accepting abstracts through Feb 26.

This track will award a total of $750,000 to tools that support adult learners in developing skills that meet the changing needs of today’s national security workforce.

Join Wil Corvey, DARPA Program Manager, at the info session on January 29 at 1pm ET and get your questions answered by organizers: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/794453119667?aff=oddtdtcreator

DARPA is specifically seeking innovations that help adults upskill and reskill in complex subjects required for the continuously advancing 21st century, like STEM and data science skills.

This track invites technologists, digital learning platform experts, researchers, students, and educators from the United States to participate.

Abstracts are due on February 26. Learn more here: https://tools-competition.org/workforce
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Middle Managers Are The Missing Key To DEI Success

I recently came across an insightful Catalyst report that revealed a concerning disconnect in our efforts to promote inclusion in the workplace. According to the report, a staggering 86% of men express a personal commitment to interrupting sexist behaviors when they witness them at work. However, only 31% feel confident enough to do so. This data suggests that while there is a strong desire to be part of the solution, there is a lack of confidence and fear of potential repercussions that hinder these intentions.

This disconnect is particularly evident among managers, half of whom belong to the dominant group. As we strive to build more inclusive work cultures, it's crucial to address this gap between leadership and the front lines, where historically marginalized groups are often overrepresented.

The report suggests that this disconnect may be fueled by the fear of saying or doing the wrong thing, leading to inaction. This fear could stem from concerns about reputation risk, feeling less relevant, or a zero-sum-game mentality.

This brings us to an important discussion point: How can we better equip our managers and staff with the skills and confidence to drive inclusion in our workplace? How can we ensure that our DEI efforts are not seen as a zero-sum game but as a strategy to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all?

Read the article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/juliek...e-missing-key-to-dei-success/?sh=78d8c4e540ad
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Top 6 Different Types Of Blockchain Suitable For Significant And Different Business Needs

As we continue to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of Blockchain technology, it's important to recognize its diverse applications across various industries. Different types of businesses have unique requirements, and tailoring the choice of blockchain to specific needs is crucial.

Blockchain technology, originally designed for the digital currency Bitcoin, has found its way into many other areas of the business world. It's not just for financial transactions anymore. Industries from healthcare to supply chain management are finding innovative uses for this technology.

The type of blockchain a business chooses to use can greatly impact its operations. For instance, a public blockchain might be suitable for a business that requires transparency and openness, such as a charity. On the other hand, a private blockchain might be more appropriate for a business dealing with sensitive data, such as a healthcare provider.

In this discussion, let's explore the nuanced relationship between business types and the types of blockchain that best suit their objectives. How can we tailor our blockchain solutions to meet the specific needs of different industries? What factors should we consider when choosing a type of blockchain for a particular business?

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and insights.

Read the article: https://blockchainmagazine.net/types-of-blockchain-for-business-needs/

4 Ways Artificial Intelligence Is Making Companies More Efficient

Let's Discuss: The Impact of AI on Business Efficiency and Decision-Making

I recently came across an interesting article on the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in business operations across various industries. The article highlighted some compelling statistics and insights that I believe are worth discussing.

According to research from IBM, over 35% of companies are currently using AI, and another 42% are considering its adoption in the future. Furthermore, a study from Adobe revealed that 92% of workers using AI reported a positive impact on their individual and organizational performance.

AI's integration into different sectors is not only revolutionizing efficiency and reducing operational costs but also paving the way for innovative approaches. The influence of AI on business efficiency is profound, extending from automating routine tasks to more complex areas like data analytics, customer engagement, operational optimization, and strategic decision-making.

One of the most significant impacts of AI is its ability to process and analyze vast quantities of data swiftly and accurately. This capability is transforming decision-making processes, making them more informed, strategic, and timely. As Kshitij Jaggi, Founder and CEO of RISA Health, points out, "AI's capability to analyze data and provide actionable insights is invaluable. It assists in making informed decisions quickly, reducing the time and potential for human error."

How do you think AI could impact your work? Are there areas in your operations where you think AI could bring significant improvements? Could AI help us make more informed and timely decisions?

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and ideas.

Read the article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jiawer...ing-companies-more-efficient/?sh=62d02d92545a

UK & Ireland 18th of January from 12 – 7 p.m - CompTIA UK&I Cybersecurity Committee

We are thrilled to announce that the CompTIA UK&I Cybersecurity Committee is organising an exclusive in-person event, The Untold Story of a Cyberattack.

Join us at Millennium Point in Birmingham, UK on the 18th of January from 12 – 7 p.m. for an enlightening afternoon and evening.

If you are an MSP, this event is tailored just for you. The session will provide a comprehensive view of a cyberattack, featuring insights from a variety of perspectives, including:

A hacker/pen tester who will delve into the motives and mechanics behind hacking

An MSP that was compelled to pay £500k to hackers

A cyber insurance representative discussing essential safeguards

A media professional advising on preparedness in case of an attack

And more...

This event is free to attend, but the seats are limited. We encourage you to register now to secure your place. Come prepared to learn and have all your questions about cyberattacks answered.

The event will kick off with a networking lunch at noon, followed by the session. We will conclude the day with networking canapes and drinks, wrapping up at 7pm. A detailed agenda will be shared soon.

I hope that you can join us in Birmingham.
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BVLOS Curriculum: A Necessary Tool for Longitudinal Job Security

Hi folks,

My name is Ben Fenigsohn, I am a Client Solutions Engineer at Censys Technologies, a BVLOS drone manufacturer out of Daytona Beach, Florida. My responsibilities primarily are working with the public sector, so I get to look at both sides of the drone market, but also with an ear to the different types of ConOps. I'd like to explain a little bit why BVLOS is such an important skill to have.

Currently, "UAS Pilot" is not listed in the IRS' SOC code, so instead jobs like these fall under more generic "pilot" or "engineer" classifications. In my encounters with schools, this omission is a big hinderance to adoption since it's so difficult to measure the job expectations upon graduation. Instead, schools must rely on their own empirical data, or figure out another way to measure success.

Nevertheless, Part 107 curriculum adoption is booming. Time and again, I'm finding enterprising department heads who see drones as a gateway to job security: not "the same accounting job for 40 years," security, but instead as a skillset that empowers pilots to choose where they work, and how, for as long as they're active.

BVLOS represents an even more exaggerated version of this power shift. Indeed, one must first be a Part 107 pilot before receiving BVLOS training, but the waiver system in USA is dependent on the pilot. Coupled with the fact that BVLOS trained pilots are already hard to come by, companies large and small are incentivizing BVLOS pilot retention not just to maintain their competitive edge, but to also keep their waivers in place.

This is the scenario we give schools to encourage BVLOS adoption. Censys' Sentaero 5 has been described as "the Cessna 172 of BVLOS," which is a nerdy way of saying it's great platform on which to both learn and work. We try to position it so students are matriculating from their private or public training academy into a large corporate job using the same equipment. To us, that means longitudinal success career-wise.

My point here is not just a hardware discussion. Curriculum initiatives that are forward looking in support of BVLOS are paying off for institutions, employers, and most importantly, students, in a way that is rare to foresee. We all know the regulations are opening up in the direction of greater access, so it's only a natural that getting a head start puts these parties at an advantage.

A Futurama scenario will be here soon enough. Not tomorrow, but when it does come, we'll rest comfortably in the truth that the pilots are trained appropriately by mutually invested administrators. At that point hindsight will indeed be 20/20.

Company membership

Good day to all members.. just a quick concern I have for being a CompTia certification holder for over 20 years -- In 2022 I decided to enroll my company into the CompTia Corporate membership and give my employees a try at the benefits and also attend the 2023 CompTia conference in Vegas.

All in all, we are neutral for the company subscription so for now we are wanting to take a temporary pause on the membership.

On Dec 1st, 2023 we received our notification that our corporate membership would renew so we contacted the membership team (via the email address they provided) to have it cancelled. We waited until the 19th of December and have not heard back from Comptia.
I have now called CompTia 4 times since then and every time I call they either say to call back or submit another ticket. (2 tickets have already been submitted and one person said duplicates usually will get ignored so they decided to escalate the oldest).
That being said, the membership site on Compita basically says the only way to cancel is to contact the membership team.
So my question to the community here is:
What is a reasonable and measurable expectation to get CompTia to respond and complete this request? In my professional opinion, almost a month is unrealistic and unprofessional, but I have been very patient when considering everyone has compressed work schedules for the holidays and vacations.
My main goal is to be proactive and get it cancelled before CompTia attempts to renew the membership fees, which only will create a second ticket in an attempt to get a refund.
In all seriousness, if this is the "normal" process CompTia uses to complete something so simple, I am considering the cancellation of all 4 of my certifiations and CE fees entirely.

Thank you.

-- Robert Vorce

🌟 Empowering Women, Empowering Everyone 🌟

As we navigate through our professional journeys, it's essential to remember that supporting and empowering women isn't just about gender equality - it's about creating a more diverse, inclusive, and innovative workspace for everyone. Thank you to @Lieve Van de Voorde @Sibyl Jacob @Yasemin Usanmaz @Nele Lariviere

When we uplift women, we uplift entire communities. Women bring unique perspectives, ideas, and leadership styles that enrich our organizations and drive innovation. They challenge the status quo, break barriers, and inspire future generations to do the same. Join the Advancing Women in Technology group here: https://forms.office.com/Pages/Resp...Q9Cn2LwVUN1lIOFo2VU1JTVRDWlY4VTZFM09HTFlHVS4u


Being part of a community that values and supports women has been a game-changer for me. It has broadened my perspective, challenged my biases, and taught me the importance of empathy and understanding in leadership. It has made me a better listener, a better collaborator, and ultimately, a better professional.

Let's remember that supporting women is not just a women's issue - it's a human issue. It's about creating a world where everyone, regardless of their gender, has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

So, here's to the women who lead, innovate, and inspire every day. And here's to the communities that support them. Together, we can create a more equitable and inclusive future.

I look forward to meeting up with the CompTIA Community - Benelux on the 8th of February to build a community supporting women in technology. Join us in Antwerp https://connect.comptia.org/events/registration?eventid=BENFEB24

#WomenEmpowerment #Inclusion #Diversity #Leadership #Community

Leave a comment if you would like to get more involved.

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Navigating the Future: A Comprehensive Guide to Deploying Polygon PoS Nodes

Polygon, a powerful Layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum, has garnered attention for its ability to address scalability issues and facilitate faster, cost-effective transactions. At the heart of Polygon's success lies its Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism, and for those looking to actively participate in securing and maintaining the network, deploying a Polygon PoS node is a strategic move. In this blog, we'll explore the step-by-step process of deploying a Polygon PoS node, empowering users to contribute to the network's consensus and scalability.

Understanding the Significance of PoS Nodes on Polygon

Polygon's PoS nodes play a crucial role in validating transactions, proposing new blocks, and maintaining the overall security of the network. By participating in the PoS consensus mechanism, nodes contribute to the decentralized and efficient operation of Polygon, making it an attractive platform for decentralized applications (DApps) and developers.

Challenges and Considerations

While deploying a Polygon PoS node brings numerous advantages, participants should be aware of potential challenges. These may include technical complexities associated with node setup, ensuring continuous uptime, and addressing potential security vulnerabilities. Staying informed and actively participating in the Polygon community can help navigate these challenges effectively.

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Optimistic Rollups Infrastructure: Unlocking Scalability and Efficiency in Blockchain

The quest for scalability and efficiency in the blockchain space has led to the emergence of Optimistic Rollups, a layer 2 scaling solution that promises to address the limitations of existing blockchain networks. In this blog, we delve into the foundational elements of Optimistic Rollups infrastructure, exploring how it works and the transformative impact it brings to the world of decentralized applications (DApps) and smart contracts.

Understanding Optimistic Rollups:

Optimistic Rollups are a category of layer 2 scaling solutions designed to enhance the scalability of existing blockchain networks, particularly Ethereum. The term "optimistic" reflects the optimistic approach taken to transaction execution, assuming that most transactions are valid and only resorting to on-chain validation in the event of disputes.

Challenges and Future Developments:

While Optimistic Rollups offer promising solutions to scalability challenges, there are considerations such as data availability and potential vulnerabilities. Ongoing research and development aim to address these challenges and enhance the overall security and efficiency of Optimistic Rollups.

Conclusion:

Optimistic Rollups infrastructure stands as a beacon of innovation in the blockchain space, offering a pragmatic approach to scalability without compromising on security. As developers and users increasingly embrace these solutions, the landscape of decentralized applications and blockchain interactions is poised for a transformation, unlocking new possibilities for efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and widespread blockchain adoption.

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A Deep Dive into Substrate Chain Deployment

Substrate chain deployment is a transformative process that turns a conceptualized blockchain into a functional, live network. It marks the transition from theoretical ideas to tangible solutions, allowing developers to showcase the practical applications of their innovations. Substrate chain deployment is the culmination of meticulous planning, coding, and testing, and it opens the doors to a decentralized world of possibilities.

Key Steps in Substrate Chain Deployment:

  1. Define Use Case and Requirements: The deployment journey begins with a clear understanding of the use case and specific requirements of the Substrate chain. Developers must define the purpose, functionality, and goals to lay a solid foundation for subsequent steps in the deployment process.
  2. Select and Customize Substrate Modules: Substrate offers a modular design with various pre-built modules that developers can choose from. These modules serve as the building blocks for custom blockchains. Developers select and customize these modules based on the features required for the targeted use case, optimizing the chain's functionality.
  3. Define Consensus Mechanism: Substrate supports multiple consensus mechanisms, such as proof-of-stake (PoS) or proof-of-authority (PoA). The choice of consensus mechanism is a critical decision, impacting security, scalability, and the nature of the Substrate chain. Defining the consensus mechanism aligns the network with its intended characteristics.
  4. Node Setup and Configuration: Nodes are the backbone of any blockchain network. Strategic node setup and configuration involve deploying nodes that validate transactions, participate in the consensus mechanism, and contribute to the overall security and reliability of the Substrate chain.
  5. Genesis Block Creation: The genesis block is the foundational block of the Substrate chain, containing the initial state of the blockchain. Developers create the genesis block by specifying the initial distribution of tokens, validators, and other essential parameters. This block sets the stage for the Substrate chain's entire history.
  6. Implement Governance Structures: Governance mechanisms are crucial for the functionality and evolution of a blockchain. Developers implement governance structures within the Substrate chain, determining how decisions are made, proposals are voted on, and upgrades are implemented. This step ensures adaptability and ongoing governance.
  7. Testing and Optimization: Rigorous testing and optimization are essential before deploying a Substrate chain into production. Developers thoroughly test the functionality of the chain, identify and address potential issues, and optimize its performance for efficiency. Iterative testing ensures the Substrate chain meets desired standards.

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Ten Ways AI Is Transforming Marketing

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Firms will soon be able to decode the unsaid when interacting with consumers – in fact, some already do.
Firms have so far used a mix of human intuition and traditional analytics to engage with their customers. But the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and more sophisticated data interpretation is heralding a new era of business-customer interaction.

Instead of merely responding to expressed needs and wants, firms will proactively anticipate them, reaching a level of foresight never experienced before. This will revolutionize the nature of customer interactions and reshape industries.

Here are ten predictions as to how the multifaceted applications of AI – including generative AI – will transform marketing, and examples of how such changes are already underway.

1. Predictive analytics will anticipate clients’ desires

Forget mere lead scoring. AI-powered predictive analytics will anticipate desires before they are articulated. AI might craft multifaceted client profiles, predicting not just purchasing behavior's but also emergent needs. It will capture biometric signals, such as eye movement on a webpage or scroll speed, to decode a user's unsaid preferences and emotional reactions.

Consider the titan of streaming, Netflix. It already employs sophisticated machine-learning algorithms to anticipate viewers’ preferences. Beyond the shows a user has watched, it looks at subtler cues like when they paused a show, which episodes they skipped and how long they pondered over a particular title.
Such intricate data points allow Netflix to predict not just what a viewer might watch next, but also emerging content preferences. It can then tailor its original programming accordingly.

2. AI-driven content will birth next-generation storytelling

AI’s growing role in content generation will focus on resonance. AI might tailor content narratives in real-time, adapting to live user interactions. Such content will be based not just on overt actions but also on underlying subconscious preferences and unspoken sentiments of users.
In this regard, OpenAI stands out as a trailblazer. Its advanced language models have begun to lay the groundwork for content that dynamically adapts to user input by detecting underlying user sentiments and responding accordingly.
For example, these models can dynamically create short stories, adapt characters or even propose plot twists, while ensuring the narrative resonates with the user's unspoken preferences. Such innovations promise a future in which content, be it in literature, gaming or virtual experiences, can foster a high level of emotional connection between producers and end consumers.

Continue reading: https://knowledge.insead.edu/marketing/ten-ways-ai-transforming-marketing

Top 3 Blockchain Languages Shaping The Digital Age

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From the moment hand prints emerged on cave paintings, language emerged as the advent of change. With the resulting unity of disparate cultures came the unison of different minds, creating an urge to change the world and birthing curiosity to develop an understanding of what’s around us. This linguistic evolution evolved into math, the first universal language that united the world through the desire to make change. With time came technological evolution, bringing about a digital era. As digital transformation started to knock, blockchain emerged, bringing more universal language and harmoniously weaving this new digital age.

In this article, we step into what will become a new historic moment for future generations to explore three of those transformative languages.

Solidity

EthereumETH 0.0% brought about the advent of smart contracts that have transformed blockchain for the better. Smart contracts, which automate the mundane and facilitate the creation of a truly "trustless" ecosystem, can be implemented by the first universal language we will discuss - Solidity.

An object-oriented language, Solidity is a statistically typed language using an ECMA Script-like syntax with which web developers are already familiar. Solidity enabled the creation of complex smart contracts, which allowed blockchain technology to come out of its isolation and offer real-world benefits, complementing this ease of use.

Solidity’s Origins And Evolution

A decade ago, the blockchain ecosystem was synonymous with BitcoinBTC 0.0%. People only came out of this gross misrepresentation after Vitalik Buterin pushed the envelope and brought Ethereum to the fold. However, while his dream of “one computer of the entire planet” was admirable, it was not plausible, not until Gavin Wood came to the fold and proposed a language that could help with the creation of smart contracts.

The goal was to create a language that was complex but expressive, easy to use but facilitated the creation of complex codes, and most importantly, compatible with the EVM (Ethereum Virtual machine).

Continue reading: https://www.forbes.com/sites/digita...ages-shaping-the-digital-age/?sh=6b7c5523b082

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