<h1>Digital transformation: (re)thinking about the digital inclusion of refugees and IDPs.</h1>&nbsp;When the COVID-19 pandemic broke out two years ago, much of the world moved online, accelerating a digital transformation that has been underway for decades. The crisis contributed to show the potential as well as the social implications of digital technologies in a wide range of sectors such as education, jobs, health, government services, and even social interactions.&nbsp; &nbsp;Technological advances such as artificial intelligence, automation and robotics are progressively shaping the world of work and creating new job opportunities while making others obsolete.<a href="#_ftn1">[1]</a> For instance, the disruptive and transformative effects of the new technologies on our economies and work resulted in a steep rise in demand for skilled IT workforce.&nbsp;<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">The&nbsp;World Economic Forum, estimated that 90% of the workforce will need digital skills by 2023.-&nbsp;</li></ul>Ramifications of these changes on the economy and labor market differ from country to country, especially based on their development and adaptation level.&nbsp; A 2019 UNCTAD Report, revealed a consistent digital inequality within and among countries. The United States and China create the vast majority of wealth in the digital economy, accounting for 75% of all patents related to blockchain technologies, 50% of global spending on the “Internet of Things” (IoT), more than 75% of the cloud computing market, and as much as 90% per cent of the market capitalization value of the world’s 70 largest digital platform companies.The rest of the world, particularly LDCs and countries in Africa and Latin America, are trailing considerably behind.&nbsp; Therefore, countries need to have a workforce equipped with skills to adopt technological advancements. Failing in this will create an income gap that will lead to sharpened social injustice and tension.&nbsp;As a matter of fact, it is noted that digital inequalities persist alongside other factors such as economic class, gender, sexuality, race and ethnicity, aging, disability, healthcare, education, rural residency, networks, and global geographies.As a result, digital inequalities are leaving those without resources ever further behind. But what are the implications of this digital transformation in the world of work for refugees and forcibly displaced persons who are often one of the most vulnerable groups in the labour market?&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">To harness the positive potential of this digital transformation for the future of work and reduce its harmful impact, global action and planning must give more attention to populations that are economically and politically marginalized, such as refugees. ILO -2021</li></ul>&nbsp;DIGITAL REFUGEES LIVELIHOODSAccording to the UNHCR, at the end of 2020, 82.4 million people worldwide were forced to move because of persecution, conflict, violence or human rights violations. 26.4 million are refugees, and 48.0 million are internally displaced persons (IDPs). Besides, an estimated 35 million (42%) of the 82.4 million forcibly displaced people are children below 18 years of age.Considering the entity and the proportion of the&nbsp; number of refugees and displaced persons around the world, the increasingly importance of internet and ICT, as well as the possibility that the digital transformation can sharpen the social inequalities,&nbsp;there is an imperative need to (re)think the digital inclusion of refugees and IDPs.Technology can provide refugees and IDPs with several social and economic benefits, including but not limited to, internet connectivity and access, communication with family and friends, education and employment opportunities, access to market and finance, skill development and entrepreneurship support.What is the potential that digital skills training and digitized employment have to offer for the refugees’ economic inclusion?A 2021 ILO report, reveals that the current digital transformation has far-reaching implications for forcibly displaced persons and refugees who are in search of employment and secure livelihood for themselves and their families.&nbsp;The new technologies and the promise of the digital economy can connect refugees with access to decent jobs, which is the most suitable alternative for these vulnerable groups to overcome gender and market barriers and the entrenched war economy. In fact, digital economy, particularly digital platform work, represents a promising alternative especially in war-torn countries where local labour markets are often exploitative, restrictive, and highly dependent from informal economy or humanitarian aids.&nbsp;Besides, home-based remote work, including types of online work, seems to be an attractive option for many refugees, especially for refugees’ women as it offers security and flexibility in choosing and scheduling work, it&nbsp;can mitigate childcare challenges, and can address other cultural elements such as a preference for gender-segregated workspaces.&nbsp;<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">According to the Online Labour Index, which tracks the supply and demand of online freelancing, the utilisation of online labour has grown steadily, and by 45% between 2016 and 2019 alone.</li></ul>&nbsp;Digital entrepreneurship is another sector of the digital economy with a great potential for the integration and empowerment of refugees and IDPs. For instance, several case studies and research, show that refugees with digital skills and ICT knowledge, can create entrepreneurial opportunities, even in restrictive and difficult environments, contributing to the local society and economy of the host country. In 2017, a total of 8,367 new Syrian companies were&nbsp;founded in Turkey. In the Zaatari refugee camp in Jordan, there were more than 3,000 Syrian-run businesses&nbsp;with a total value of US$13 million per month.&nbsp;However, despite the potential benefits of the digital transformation, refugees in host countries continue to face a number of specific challenges, including travel restrictions, restrictions on banking and financial services, limited funding and investment options, language and cultural barriers, psychosocial trauma, social exclusion, legal restrictions, and uncertain futures. These dire issues have serious consequences such as increased poverty, long-term social frustration and disillusionment resulting from unemployment, which can lead to a greater sense of marginalization and exclusion, both at the individual and the collective levels. This in turn could lead to extremes in individual behaviour and even a collective sense of generational exclusion and resentment with serious health and psychological impact on youth from host and refugee communities. &nbsp;<hr><a href="#_ftnref1">[1]</a> ILO, “Technological Changes and Work in the Future: Making Technology Work for All,” Future of Work: The Centenary Initiative (Geneva, 2016), http://www.ilo.org/global/topics/future-of-work/WCMS_534201/lang--en/index.htm.

<h1>Digital transformation: (re)thinking about the digital inclusion of refugees and IDPs.</h1>&nbsp;When the COVID-19 pandemic broke out two years ago, much of the world moved online, accelerating a digital transformation that has been underway for decades. The crisis contributed to show the potential as well as the social implications of digital technologies in a wide range of sectors such as education, jobs, health, government services and even social interactions.&nbsp; &nbsp;Technological advances such as artificial intelligence, automation and robotics are progressively shaping the world of work and creating new job opportunities while making others obsolete.<a href="#_ftn1">[1]</a> For instance, the disruptive and transformative effects of the new technologies on our economies and work resulted in a steep rise in demand for skilled IT workforce.&nbsp;<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">The&nbsp;World Economic Forum, estimated that 90% of the workforce will need digital skills by 2023.-&nbsp;</li></ul>Ramifications of these changes on the economy and labour market differ from country to country, especially based on their development and adaptation level.&nbsp; A 2019 UNCTAD Report, revealed a consistent digital inequality within and among countries. The United States and China create the vast majority of wealth in the digital economy, accounting for 75% of all patents related to blockchain technologies, 50% of global spending on the “Internet of Things” (IoT), more than 75% of the cloud computing market, and as much as 90% per cent of the market capitalization value of the world’s 70 largest digital platform companies.The rest of the world, particularly LDCs and countries in Africa and Latin America, are trailing considerably behind.&nbsp; Therefore, countries need to have a workforce equipped with skills to adopt technological advancements. Failing in this will create an income gap that will lead to sharpened social injustice and tension.&nbsp;As a matter of fact, it is noted that digital inequalities persist alongside other factors such as economic class, gender, sexuality, race and ethnicity, aging, disability, healthcare, education, rural residency, networks, and global geographies.As a result, digital inequalities are leaving those without resources ever further behind. But what are the implications of this digital transformation in the world of work for refugees and forcibly displaced persons who are often one of the most vulnerable groups in the labour market?&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">To harness the positive potential of this digital transformation for the future of work and reduce its harmful impact, global action and planning must give more attention to populations that are economically and politically marginalized, such as refugees. ILO -2021</li></ul>&nbsp;DIGITAL REFUGEES LIVELIHOODSAccording to the <a href="https://www.unhcr.org/refugee-statistics/">UNHCR</a>, at the end of 2020, 82.4 million people worldwide were forced to move because of persecution, conflict, violence or human rights violations. Of these, 26.4 million are refugees and 48.0 million are internally displaced persons (IDPs). Besides, an estimated 35 million (42%) of the 82.4 million forcibly displaced people are children below 18 years of age.Considering the entity and the proportion of the&nbsp; number of refugees and displaced persons around the world, the increasingly importance of internet and ICT, as well as the possibility that the digital transformation can sharpen the social inequalities,&nbsp;there is an imperative need to (re)think the digital inclusion of refugees and IDPs.Technology can provide refugees and IDPs with several social and economic benefits, including but not limited to, internet connectivity and access, communication with family and friends, education and employment opportunities, access to market and finance, skill development and entrepreneurship support.What is the potential that digital skills training and digitised employment have to offer for the refugees’ economic inclusion?A 2021 ILO report, reveals that the current digital transformation has far-reaching implications for forcibly displaced persons and refugees who are in search of employment and secure livelihood for themselves and their families.&nbsp;The new technologies and the promise of the digital economy can connect refugees with access to decent jobs, which is the most suitable alternative for these vulnerable groups to overcome gender and market barriers and the entrenched war economy. In fact, digital economy, particularly digital platform work, represents a promising alternative especially in war-torn countries where local labour markets are often exploitative, restrictive, and highly dependent from informal economy or humanitarian aids.&nbsp;Besides, home-based remote work, including types of online work, seems to be an attractive option for many refugees, especially for refugees’ women as it offers security and flexibility in choosing and scheduling work, it&nbsp;can mitigate childcare challenges, and can address other cultural elements such as a preference for gender-segregated workspaces.&nbsp;<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">According to the Online Labour Index, which tracks the supply and demand of online freelancing, the utilisation of online labour has grown steadily, and by 45% between 2016 and 2019 alone.</li></ul>&nbsp;Digital entrepreneurship is another sector of the digital economy with a great potential for the integration and empowerment of refugees and IDPs. For instance, several case studies and research, show that refugees with digital skills and ICT knowledge, can create entrepreneurial opportunities, even in restrictive and difficult environments, contributing to the local society and economy of the host country. In 2017, a total of 8,367 new Syrian companies were&nbsp;founded in Turkey. In the Zaatari refugee camp in Jordan there were more than 3,000 Syrian-run businesses&nbsp;with a total value of US$13 million per month.&nbsp;However, despite the potential benefits of the digital transformation, refugees in host countries continue to face a number of specific challenges, including travel restrictions, restrictions on banking and financial services, limited funding and investment options, language and cultural barriers, psychosocial trauma, social exclusion, legal restrictions, and uncertain futures. These dire issues have serious consequences such as increased poverty, long-term social frustration and disillusionment resulting from unemployment, that can lead to a greater sense of marginalization and exclusion, both at the individual and the collective levels. This in turn could lead to extremes in individual behaviour and even a collective sense of generational exclusion and resentment with serious health and psychological impact on youth from host and refugee communities. &nbsp;<hr><a href="#_ftnref1">[1]</a> ILO, “Technological Changes and Work in the Future: Making Technology Work for All,” Future of Work: The Centenary Initiative (Geneva, 2016), http://www.ilo.org/global/topics/future-of-work/WCMS_534201/lang--en/index.htm.

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When the COVID-19 pandemic broke out two years ago, much of the world moved online, accelerating a digital transformation that has been underway for decades

digital transformation

When the COVID-19 pandemic broke out two years ago, much of the world moved online, accelerating a digital transformation that has been underway for decades. The crisis contributed to show the potential as well as the social implications of digital technologies in a wide range of sectors such as education, jobs, health, government services and even social interactions.

How can digital transformation benefit marginalized communities?

المعلومات الرقمية

moved online, accelerating a digital

Artificial intelligence (AI) – the simulation of human intelligence in computers and machines – keeps influencing thousands of products and services we use in our everyday lives, including vehicles and cars. Indeed, much of today’s in-vehicle technology is based on AI.&nbsp;AI has gained over the time a privileged role in all the automotive lifecycle, being essential for the design and development phase as well as for the testing and production one.&nbsp; The automotive companies are increasingly gathering data generated by car sensors, which are powerful sources of information. Their analysis, gathering and interpretation provide, in fact, essential instructions for improvement in many fields: design, maintenance, users’ preferences, control and, most of all, car safety.&nbsp;One of the opportunities AI has to offer in this field is increasing passenger’s safety, protecting drivers and passengers as well as bicyclists and pedestrians.&nbsp;Helping drivers and passengers to stay safe&nbsp;According to a Stanford Law School report, at least 90% of all motor vehicle crashes are caused fully or in part by human error. In particular, of this 90%, a large percentage of them result from some type of driver negligence such as speeding, distracted driving and drunk driving.The same report argues that automated vehicles and driver assisting technologies could eliminate the human error factor and thus reduce road accidents, prevent injuries, and save lives.AI use in driver’s safety and assistance include a wide spectrum of diverse applications ranging from AI-generated dialogue - communication with the drivers about the weather and/or the traffic-to AI safety detection system. Currently the machine industry is working on the system which will notify drivers seven seconds in advance that they must retake control over the wheel.&nbsp;&nbsp;The U.S. National Highway Traffic Authority has estimated that the deployment of autonomous vehicles could save USD 300 billion by 2025, reducing collisions and enabling safe driving-&nbsp;Many vehicles today already include safety features that assist drivers in specific circumstances, such as autopilot function, collision avoidance systems, pedestrian and cyclists’ alerts, cross-traffic alerts, and automatic braking.&nbsp;Autopilot: learning from the past&nbsp;Some autonomous vehicles are already using AI to operate an autopilot function that assists drivers on the road.&nbsp;Autonomous cars use many kinds of technologies to sense their environment. This includes high-definition cameras, radar and LIDAR. Radar and LIDAR use specific technologies whose aim is to detect objects such as traffic lights, people riding bikes, or even people walking or crossing the street!&nbsp;Artificial intelligence (AI) in automotive market is expected to witness a lucrative growth of over 45% CAGR from 2020 to 2026-&nbsp; &nbsp;The system continuously learns from the driver’s behaviors and past performances, to adapt and react accordingly. All the systems, in fact, are based on AI algorithms which consistently learn from past experiences, relying on the analysis of specific data. In this way, when the system finds itself in similar situations, it can act promptly.Predictive Maintenance - Vehicle data analysis&nbsp;Vehicle breakdowns are bothersome and potentially dangerous. However, a standard diagnostic system does not signal a problem until it has already occurred, and the driver has to monitor the vehicle’s state by performing preventive maintenance.In contrast, artificial intelligence uses, gathers, analyses, and compares the historical data of the vehicle’s conditions to detect faults before they happen. In this way, AI enables a predictive maintenance mechanism to occur, improving road safety.To enhance and implement this mechanism, several modern automotive technology companies are already collecting different types of vehicle data to gather and build systematic and valid dataset.Even smarter every dayThe Future of Artificial Intelligence is very bright as it is now improving the technologies and the foundation of the car-safety systems.&nbsp; AI has the potential to make driving easy for everyone while making it safer.&nbsp;The sector is continuously expanding, bringing many benefits such as the prevention of collisions, reduction of loss time, safer roads and better visibility while driving at night.&nbsp;We can expect many more AI-based innovations to be added in the years to come, as the role of AI in personal vehicles is increasing.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Artificial intelligence (AI) – the simulation of human intelligence in computers and machines – keeps influencing thousands of products and services we use in our everyday lives, including vehicles and cars. Indeed, much of today’s in-vehicle technology is based on AI.&nbsp;AI has gained over the time a privileged role in all the automotive lifecycle, being essential for the design and development phase as well as for the testing and production one.&nbsp; The automotive companies are increasingly gathering data generated by car sensors, which are powerful sources of information. Their analysis, gathering and interpretation provide, in fact, essential instructions for improvement in many fields: design, maintenance, users’ preferences, control and, most of all, car safety.&nbsp;One of the opportunities AI has to offer in this field is increasing passenger’s safety, protecting drivers and passengers as well as bicyclists and pedestrians.&nbsp; &nbsp;Helping drivers and passengers to stay safe&nbsp;According to a Stanford Law School report, at least 90% of all motor vehicle crashes are caused fully or in part by human error. In particular, of this 90%, a large percentage of them result from some type of driver negligence such as speeding, distracted driving and drunk driving.The same report argues that automated vehicles and driver assisting technologies could eliminate the human error factor and thus reduce road accidents, prevent injuries, and save lives.AI use in driver’s safety and assistance include a wide spectrum of diverse applications ranging from AI-generated dialogue - communication with the drivers about the weather and/or the traffic-to AI safety detection system. Currently the machine industry is working on the system which will notify drivers seven seconds in advance that they must retake control over the wheel.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The U.S. National Highway Traffic Authority has estimated that the deployment of autonomous vehicles could save USD 300 billion by 2025, reducing collisions and enabling safe driving-&nbsp; &nbsp;Many vehicles today already include safety features that assist drivers in specific circumstances, such as autopilot function, collision avoidance systems, pedestrian and cyclists’ alerts, cross-traffic alerts, and automatic braking.&nbsp; &nbsp;Autopilot: learning from the past&nbsp;Some autonomous vehicles are already using AI to operate an autopilot function that assists drivers on the road.&nbsp;Autonomous cars use many kinds of technologies to sense their environment. This includes high-definition cameras, radar and LIDAR. Radar and LIDAR use specific technologies whose aim is to detect objects such as traffic lights, people riding bikes, or even people walking or crossing the street! &nbsp;Artificial intelligence (AI) in automotive market is expected to witness a lucrative growth of over 45% CAGR from 2020 to 2026-&nbsp; &nbsp;The system continuously learns from the driver’s behaviours and past performances, to adapt and react accordingly. All the systems, in fact, are based on AI algorithms which consistently learn from past experiences, relying on the analysis of specific data. In this way, when the system finds itself in similar situations, it can act promptly. &nbsp;Predictive Maintenance - Vehicle data analysis&nbsp;Vehicle breakdowns are bothersome and potentially dangerous. However, a standard diagnostic system does not signal a problem until it has already occurred, and the driver has to monitor the vehicle’s state by performing preventive maintenance.In contrast, artificial intelligence uses, gathers, analyses, and compares the historical data of the vehicle’s conditions to detect faults before they happen. In this way, AI enables a predictive maintenance mechanism to occur, improving road safety.To enhance and implement this mechanism, several modern automotive technology companies are already collecting different types of vehicle data to gather and build systematic and valid dataset. &nbsp;Even smarter every dayThe Future of Artificial Intelligence is very bright as it is now improving the technologies and the foundation of the car-safety systems.&nbsp; AI has the potential to make driving easy for everyone while making it safer.&nbsp;The sector is continuously expanding, bringing many benefits such as the prevention of collisions, reduction of loss time, safer roads and better visibility while driving at night.&nbsp;We can expect many more AI-based innovations to be added in the years to come, as the role of AI in personal vehicles is increasing.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

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Harness the power of AI: car and road safety 

Artificial intelligence (AI) – the simulation of human intelligence in computers and machines – keeps influencing thousands of products and services we use in our everyday lives, including vehicles and cars. Indeed, much of today’s in-vehicle technology is based on AI.&nbsp;

How to Make Traveling Safe with Artificial Intelligence

The artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) define the combination of two powerful technologies:The Artificial Intelligence (AI) and The Internet of Things (IoT).AI is currently a growing technology. The global AI market size was estimated at USD 62.35billion in 2020 and is expected to reach 266.92 billion by 2027. Besides, some studies revealedthat AI can boost business productivity by an average of 40% as it enhances data collection,automation, decision making, and cybersecurity.IoT is also expanding. The total Internet of Things (IoT) market worldwide was worth around 389billion U.S. dollars in 2020. In ten years the number of Internet of things (IoT)&nbsp; connecteddevices worldwide is forecast to reach 15.9 billion, developing a total data volume of 79.4 zettabytes(ZBs) by 2025.If on one hand, these data are symptomatic of a technological revolution that is progressivelyspreading through our life; on the other reveal the need to manage the large volume of dataavailable. Therefore, in this scenario, AI can be expected to be a useful and essential tool to developinsight and high-performance solutions. &nbsp;What is Ai and IoT?To fully understand AIoT and its several applications, it is first necessary to introduce the conceptof the Internet of Things as well as the one of AI.IoT describes the network of ‘things’ that can connect with and be recognized by other devices andthat can exchange, collect and process data over the internet. These ‘things’ range from ordinaryhousehold objects (refrigerator, stoves, washers and dryers, coffee machines, slow cookers) to smartassistants and security systems (amazon, Alexa, smart locks and smart doorbells) to sophisticatedindustrial tools. In the industrial setting, IoT has contributed to enhancing many existing processes,including but not limited to communication, control, logistic, machine, and quality control as well asanalysis and intersection of massive amounts of data.AI is the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. Itfocuses on three cognitive skills: learning, reasoning, and self-correction. The learning process isbased on data acquisition and algorithm development, which provide computing devices withinstructions to fulfill a specific task. The reasoning process is about choosing the right algorithm toget the desired outcome, while the self-correction process makes sure to improve the whole processby self-adjusting. Some well-known AI-empowered devices are car smart sensors, autonomousvehicles, robot-assisted surgery, cybersecurity devices, AI farming, language translators, and drones.Bernard Marr provided a quite insightful and catchy definition to understand AIoT, defining theinternet of things devices as the digital nervous system and the artificial intelligence as the brain ofa system. Therefore, when AI is combined with IoT , the devices embedded with sensor anda cloud system can analyze data and make decisions accordingly, without human interventions.While the concept of AIoT is still relatively new, its application and benefits in several fields arealready discussed. In general, the combo between AI and IoT enhance decision-making processes,data management and analytics while making more efficient IoT operations.Here are a few practical examples of AIoT applications:The combo between AI and IoT enhance decision-makingprocesses, data management and analytics while making moreefficient IoT operations.&nbsp;Monitoring Traffic with DronesThe expansion of the city and the urbanization did not result in an equal increase in thetransportation infrastructures. Traffic congestion and road (un)safety has thus become a social issueas the social costs of traffic increased.AIoT can offer traffic management solutions by monitoring traffic and suggesting adjustments.Through IoT, data concerning the traffic flow and eventual congestions can be captured and thentransmitted to a centralized platform. AI, on the other hand, can analyze the data and make promptand useful decisions, such as redirect traffic and adjust speed limits or traffic lights’ timing in orderto reduce congestions and guarantee a safer and more comfortable drive experience.Smart Office BuildingsMany buildings already have IoT devices installed, such as sensors, cameras and building controls.The sensors can detect and change the temperature and the lighting of the building to create a morecomfortable and eco-sustainable environment. Besides, technologies such as real-time videosurveillance and facial recognition, are becoming widely used to help ensure personnel safetywhile checking the employees’ performances and behaviors.Autonomous Delivery RobotsAnother example of AI combined with IoT concerns autonomous delivery robots. Intelligent servicerobots use sensors and big data technologies to detect environmental and external behaviors anddynamics to interact, make decisions and move autonomously. Their applications are countless,ranging from healthcare, navigation, entertainment, and customer services to food distribution.Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)A wide range of businesses and industries has already embodied the technologies of the IndustrialInternet of Things (IIoT) to gather data and explore new ways of production efficiency andbusiness’ management. &nbsp;

The artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) define the combination of two powerful technologies:the Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT).AI is currently a growing technology. The global AI market size was estimated at USD 62.35billion in 2020 and is expected to reach 266.92 billion by 2027. Besides, some studies revealedthat AI can boost business productivity by an average of 40% as it enhances data collection,automation, decision making, and cybersecurity.IoT is also expanding. The total Internet of Things (IoT) market worldwide was worth around 389billion U.S. dollars in 2020. In ten years the number of Internet of things (IoT)&nbsp; connecteddevices worldwide is forecast to reach 15.9 billion, developing a total data volume 79.4 zettabytes(ZBs) by 2025.If on one hand, these data are symptomatic of a technological revolution that is progressivelyspreading through our life; on the other reveal the need to manage the large volume of dataavailable. Therefore, in this scenario, AI can be expected to be a useful and essential tool to developinsight and high-performance solutions. &nbsp;What is Ai and IoT?To fully understand AIoT and its several applications, it is firstly necessary to introduce the conceptof the Internet of Things as well as the one of AI.IoT describes the network of ‘things’ that can connect with and be recognized by other devices andthat can exchange, collect and process data over the internet. These ‘things’ range from ordinaryhousehold objects (refrigerator, stoves, washers and dryers, coffee machines, slow cookers) to smartassistants and security systems (amazon, Alexa, smart locks and smart doorbells) until sophisticatedindustrial tools. In the industrial setting, IoT has contributed to enhance many existing processes,including but not limited to communication, control, logistic, machine and quality control as well asanalysis and intersection of massive amounts of data.AI is the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. Itfocuses on three cognitive skills: learning, reasoning, and self-correction. The learning process isbased on data acquisition and algorithm development, which provide computing devices withinstruction to fulfil a specific task. The reasoning process is about choosing the right algorithm toget the desired outcome, while the self-correction process makes sure to improve the whole processby self-adjusting. Some well-known AI-empowered devices are car smart sensors, autonomousvehicles, robot-assisted surgery, cybersecurity devices, AI farming, language translators and drones.Bernard Marr provided a quite insightful and catchy definition to understand AIoT, defining theinternet of things devices as the digital nervous system and the artificial intelligence as the brain of &nbsp;a system. Therefore, when AI is combined with IoT , the devices embedded with sensor anda cloud system can analyze data and make decisions accordingly, without human interventions.While the concept of AIoT is still relatively new, its application and benefits in several fields arealready discussed. In general, the combo between AI and IoT enhance decision-making processes,data management and analytics while making more efficient IoT operations.Here are a few practical examples of AIoT applications. &nbsp;-The combo between AI and IoT enhance decision-makingprocesses, data management and analytics while making moreefficient IoT operations- &nbsp;Monitoring Traffic with DronesThe expansion of the city and the urbanization did not result in an equal increase in thetransportation infrastructures. Traffic congestion and road (un)safety has thus become a social issueas the social costs of traffic increased.AIoT can offer traffic management solutions by monitoring traffic and suggesting adjustments.Through IoT, data concerning the traffic flow and eventual congestions can be captured and thentransmitted to a centralized platform. AI, on the other hand, can analyze the data and make promptand useful decisions, such as redirect traffic and adjust speed limits or traffic lights’ timing in orderto reduce congestions and guarantee a safer and more comfortable drive experience.Smart Office BuildingsMany buildings already have IoT devices installed, such as sensors, cameras and building controls.The sensors can detect and change the temperature and the lighting of the building to create a morecomfortable and eco sustainable environment. Besides, technologies such as real-time videosurveillance and facial recognition, are becoming widely used to help ensure the personnel safetywhile checking the employees’ performances and behaviors.Autonomous Delivery RobotsAnother example of AI combined with IoT concerns autonomous delivery robots. Intelligent servicerobots use sensors and big data technologies to detect environmental and external behaviors anddynamics to interact, make decisions and move autonomously. Their applications are countless,ranging from healthcare, navigation, entertainment, customer services to food distribution.Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)A wide range of businesses and industries has already embodied the technologies of the IndustrialInternet of Things (IIoT) to gather data and explore new ways of production efficiency andbusiness’ management. &nbsp;

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Intersection of the Internet of Things with AI (AIoT)

The artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) define the combination of two powerful technologies:the Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT).

AI and IoT: The perfect combination of powerful technologies

The freelancer market is fastly growingEven before the COVID-19 pandemic, and the resulting restrictions on workers’ mobility,Freelancing was touted as one of the fastest-growing employment sectors in the world. The reason issimple: benefits and large potential for either businesses or workers. If on one hand, businesses seelarge benefits and growth potential in hiring freelancers, on the other, more and more workers haveadapted to the freelancer lifestyle: autonomy and flexibility while enjoying a better work-lifebalance.The economic challenges in 2020 and the rise of remote work, contributed to even more growth inthe number of global workers taking on freelance work. During and after the pandemic, companiesfelt pressured to complete their digital transformation in order to survive. Their strategy was tomake some jobs permanently remote, digitize as much processes as possible and hire highly skilledprofessionals.The digital transformation boosted by the pandemic, showed also that individuals can work on theirown terms while many workers discovered that they prefer working from home. As consequence,the global freelance market has grown considerably, exceeded all the estimates – last year itrepresented 35% of the global workforce. - In 2021 there will be an estimated 1.1 billion freelancers worldwide. -&nbsp;The world is assisting to a consistent shift in the labour market, where companies are increasinglyhiring freelancers to meet work demands rather than full-time employees. What makes freelancersso appealing to corporations?According to Finances Online, companies prefer hiring freelancers over staffing firms because theycomplete projects faster, reduce costs and increase transparency in the process.Here are five reasons why a business should hire a freelancer.Pros of hiring a freelancer1. Cost-effectiveness – If you can’t build skills, borrow themTraditional full-time employees mean additional costs for a company, such as training costs,benefits, health insurance and paid time-off. By contrast, freelancers do not require training,equipment or much additional expenses or efforts from the hiring-company. Besides,freelancers do not need a workspace, as they can work whenever they like.In particular, freelancers are an important resource for start-ups. A start-up has often limitedresources, like time and money, but, at the same time need diversified skilled staff indifferent sectors- such as software development, web designing, branding, marketing andcontent writing. &nbsp;2. Specialized skills and expertiseFreelancers usually have great expertise in more than one area. Companies can rely onhighly skilled and experienced workers without spending any money in training courses.Besides, freelancers are able to work independently, with no need of a supervisor. At the endof the project, freelancers need a good feedback from the companies, hence a goodperformance is encouraged while the companies can hire a freelancer according to their pastwork portfolio. In this way, quality and high productive standards are guaranteed. &nbsp;3. Time Saving&nbsp;Companies can hire a freelancer according to a specific sector and their specific needs. Thefreelancer has the skills needed for that particular job, unlike many full-time hires, and canspend less time training and more time doing.Secondly, a company has to post a job offer, go through CVs and conduct long run ofinterviews in order to find a full-time employee: all steps that can be skipped by hiring afreelancer.-On average, companies with at least 11% of freelancing staff earned $6,400 more than thosethat employed fewer freelancers. (Web Planet, 2021)--Employers save $11.6 an hour per employee by hiring freelancers. (Web Planet, 2021)-4. Flexible Schedule of FreelancersFreelancers are very flexible when it comes to their schedule. They are available to be hired24/7, meeting any kind of emergency and last-minute task a business might need.Freelancers are thus an excellent option for meeting quickly approaching deadlines.5. Fresh MindFreelancers have broad experience as they have been in the business for many years, workingwith different individuals and companies. Hiring a freelancer means working with someone whocome from a background and who has a mindset different from the one rooted in your company. &nbsp;5 REASONS WHY COMPANIES SHOULD HIRE aFREELANCER FROM SUBUL &nbsp;1. COMPETITIVE PRICESubul is a platform that connect more than 500 freelancers with international companies. In theplatform you can find freelancers for jobs of any size or budget, across several skills. Ourprices are competitive raging from # to # 2. SKILLS AND PROFESSIONALISMOur freelancers are professionals with years of expertise. All of them followed a vocational trainingat the Maharat Academy, which provide Syrian women, men, and disabled persons in Syria andTurkey with competitive ICT skills, guiding them towards sustainable employment and preparingthem for the freelancing market. Besides, our freelancers are consistently monitored to ensure highperformances and standard.3. OUR ACHIEVEMENTS AND TRANSPARENCYIn 2020, we successfully established partnerships with over 25 clients in Europe and the UnitedStates, implementing over 75 outsourcing projects and generating more than 91 000 euros. ThroughSubul, more than 240 Syrians in Turkey and in Syria were trained and provided with jobs. 4. SUBUL AND THE SDGsSubul contributes to the SDG 8 for decent work and economic growth by alleviating the suffering ofthose most vulnerable, as well as addressing basic needs and preventing large numbers of Syriansfrom falling deeper into poverty. Through Subul, the technological skills of Syrians are exportedinto the international market through the online freelancing platform to provide a sustainablekickstart for vulnerable local economies.The solution impacts a myriad of livelihood indicators by allowing freelancers, especially youth andwomen, to access employment opportunities outside of Syria. &nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/xEN3yPUT_JJQj752ezZ4MsdB9DUi57JvcxI-jyjV9fweGdk1cnGtUKMEUfCf5JY5exJvRcRkgrxw7AnXNZxiSNgKPTQyZpMAlClCUzdmPp911lf3Rw6x-79bwRlkrzU5OJGsZApH=s0"></figure> &nbsp;5. GENDER EQUALITYParticularly in the MENA region, women are significantly under-represented in ICT at every levelof higher education and in decision-making positions. The main reasons lie in women’s lack ofcareer opportunities, access to skills development, and social mobility required to access toprofessional careers, overlayed by deep-rooted cultural norms.Subul is also a tool to empower women and girls in Syria with ICT by connecting them tointernational employers. The platform provides a market for home-based work, including types ofonline work in which many Syrian refugee women could be very active; and in principle, it canoffer greater flexibility in choosing and scheduling work.Finally, our freelancing team is over 50% female, and we proudly ensure total gender parity in themakeup of every freelancing team for every project we undertake. &nbsp;

The freelancer market is fastly growingEven before the COVID-19 pandemic, and the resulting restrictions on workers’ mobility,Freelancing was touted as one of the fastest-growing employment sectors in the world. The reason issimple: benefits and large potential for either businesses or workers. If on one hand, businesses seelarge benefits and growth potential in hiring freelancers, on the other, more and more workers haveadapted to the freelancer lifestyle: autonomy and flexibility while enjoying a better work-lifebalance.The economic challenges in 2020 and the rise of remote work, contributed to even more growth inthe number of global workers taking on freelance work. During and after the pandemic, companiesfelt pressured to complete their digital transformation in order to survive. Their strategy was tomake some jobs permanently remote, digitize as much processes as possible and hire highly skilledprofessionals.The digital transformation boosted by the pandemic, showed also that individuals can work on theirown terms while many workers discovered that they prefer working from home. As consequence,the global freelance market has grown considerably, exceeded all the estimates – last year itrepresented 35% of the global workforce. &nbsp;- In 2021 there will be an estimated 1.1 billion freelancers worldwide. - &nbsp;The world is assisting to a consistent shift in the labour market, where companies are increasinglyhiring freelancers to meet work demands rather than full-time employees. What makes freelancersso appealing to corporations?According to Finances Online, companies prefer hiring freelancers over staffing firms because theycomplete projects faster, reduce costs and increase transparency in the process.Here are five reasons why a business should hire a freelancer.Pros of hiring a freelancer1. Cost-effectiveness – If you can’t build skills, borrow themTraditional full-time employees mean additional costs for a company, such as training costs,benefits, health insurance and paid time-off. By contrast, freelancers do not require training,equipment or much additional expenses or efforts from the hiring-company. Besides,freelancers do not need a workspace, as they can work whenever they like.In particular, freelancers are an important resource for start-ups. A start-up has often limitedresources, like time and money, but, at the same time need diversified skilled staff indifferent sectors- such as software development, web designing, branding, marketing andcontent writing. &nbsp;2. Specialized skills and expertiseFreelancers usually have great expertise in more than one area. Companies can rely onhighly skilled and experienced workers without spending any money in training courses.Besides, freelancers are able to work independently, with no need of a supervisor. At the endof the project, freelancers need a good feedback from the companies, hence a goodperformance is encouraged while the companies can hire a freelancer according to their pastwork portfolio. In this way, quality and high productive standards are guaranteed. &nbsp;3. Time Saving .Companies can hire a freelancer according to a specific sector and their specific needs. Thefreelancer has the skills needed for that particular job, unlike many full-time hires, and canspend less time training and more time doing.Secondly, a company has to post a job offer, go through CVs and conduct long run ofinterviews in order to find a full-time employee: all steps that can be skipped by hiring afreelancer.-On average, companies with at least 11% of freelancing staff earned $6,400 more than those &nbsp;that employed fewer freelancers. (Web Planet, 2021)- &nbsp;-Employers save $11.6 an hour per employee by hiring freelancers. (Web Planet, 2021)-4. Flexible Schedule of FreelancersFreelancers are very flexible when it comes to their schedule. They are available to be hired24/7, meeting any kind of emergency and last-minute task a business might need.Freelancers are thus an excellent option for meeting quickly approaching deadlines.5. Fresh MindFreelancers have broad experience as they have been in the business for many years, workingwith different individuals and companies. Hiring a freelancer means working with someone whocome from a background and who has a mindset different from the one rooted in your company. &nbsp;5 REASONS WHY COMPANIES SHOULD HIRE aFREELANCER FROM SUBUL &nbsp;1. COMPETITIVE PRICE &nbsp;Subul is a platform that connect more than 500 freelancers with international companies. In theplatform you can find freelancers for jobs of any size or budget, across several skills. Ourprices are competitive raging from # to # &nbsp;2. SKILLS AND PROFESSIONALISM &nbsp;Our freelancers are professionals with years of expertise. All of them followed a vocational trainingat the Maharat Academy, which provide Syrian women, men, and disabled persons in Syria andTurkey with competitive ICT skills, guiding them towards sustainable employment and preparingthem for the freelancing market. Besides, our freelancers are consistently monitored to ensure highperformances and standard. &nbsp;3. OUR ACHIEVEMENTS AND TRANSPARENCY &nbsp;In 2020, we successfully established partnerships with over 25 clients in Europe and the UnitedStates, implementing over 75 outsourcing projects and generating more than 91 000 euros. ThroughSubul, more than 240 Syrians in Turkey and in Syria were trained and provided with jobs. &nbsp;4. SUBUL AND THE SDGs &nbsp;Subul contributes to the SDG 8 for decent work and economic growth by alleviating the suffering ofthose most vulnerable, as well as addressing basic needs and preventing large numbers of Syriansfrom falling deeper into poverty. Through Subul, the technological skills of Syrians are exportedinto the international market through the online freelancing platform to provide a sustainablekickstart for vulnerable local economies. &nbsp;The solution impacts a myriad of livelihood indicators by allowing freelancers, especially youth andwomen, to access employment opportunities outside of Syria. &nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/xEN3yPUT_JJQj752ezZ4MsdB9DUi57JvcxI-jyjV9fweGdk1cnGtUKMEUfCf5JY5exJvRcRkgrxw7AnXNZxiSNgKPTQyZpMAlClCUzdmPp911lf3Rw6x-79bwRlkrzU5OJGsZApH=s0"></figure> &nbsp;5. GENDER EQUALITY &nbsp;Particularly in the MENA region, women are significantly under-represented in ICT at every levelof higher education and in decision-making positions. The main reasons lie in women’s lack ofcareer opportunities, access to skills development, and social mobility required to access toprofessional careers, overlayed by deep-rooted cultural norms.Subul is also a tool to empower women and girls in Syria with ICT by connecting them tointernational employers. The platform provides a market for home-based work, including types ofonline work in which many Syrian refugee women could be very active; and in principle, it canoffer greater flexibility in choosing and scheduling work.Finally, our freelancing team is over 50% female, and we proudly ensure total gender parity in themakeup of every freelancing team for every project we undertake. &nbsp;

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5 REASONS WHY COMPANIES SHOULD HIRE A FREELANCER

efore the COVID-19 pandemic, and the resulting restrictions on workers’ mobility,Freelancing was touted as one of the fastest-growing employment sectors in the world. The reason issimple: benefits and large potential for either businesses or workers. If on one hand, businesses seelarge benefits and growth potential in hiring freelancers, on the other, more and more workers haveadapted to the freelancer lifestyle: autonomy and flexibility while enjoying a better work-lifebalance.The economic challenges in 2020 and the rise of remote work, contributed to even more growth inthe number of global workers taking on freelance work. During and after the pandemic, companies &nbsp;

Top 5 Reasons Hiring a Freelancer is the Best Bet: and How Subul is Making it Even Better

Robot aligned with entry trajectory on phantom head. [Image from ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern]The application of robots in surgery is about 35 years old, experiencing significant growth in the last two decades thanks to the rapid progress of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Despite its history being relatively recent, the benefits of applying robotics in surgery procedures are already evident, while its practical applications are surprising the public and innovating surgery and healthcare.Less blood loss during the procedure, a shorter hospital stay, more precise surgery, significantly less pain after the procedure, less risk of infection and blood loss, in many cases better clinical outcomes: these are just few of the many benefits robotic surgery has to offer to the patients and doctors both. The application of AI technologies in surgery allows, in fact, minimally invasive procedures to be performed, where the surgeon administers the instruments by using a tele manipulator or through computer control.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, AI in surgery is not limited to robotic surgery, and by leveraging the potentials of Deep Learning (DP), Computer Vision (CV), Machine Learning (ML), and Natural Language Processing (NLP), important results in doctor-patient relationship, diagnostics, pre-operative planning, practice and learning,&nbsp; can be achieved.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Here follow three examples of how AI has already brought notable benefits in detection and diagnostics, intraoperative guidance and surgery.&nbsp;AI and Robotic Surgery&nbsp;Robotic surgery is based on machine learning data collected from surgeries performances. Thanks to this big data and complex algorithms, AI can identify procedure, movements and best practices to be applied during the surgical procedure, improving accuracy, precision and saving a lot of time.&nbsp;Another promising application of AI in healthcare is using machine vision to analyse scans and detect cancerous cases.&nbsp; These AI systems are based on a principle called deep learning. They have, in fact, access to immense amounts of data, people scan, some with cancer and some without. By acquiring this information, the deep-learning systems can identify for themselves which are the features that the cancer possesses and detect the disease early.&nbsp; The need to detect the cancer at its first stage is essential to boosting the survival chances of thousands of people.“AI can learn from hundreds or thousands of surgical procedures simultaneously, but a surgeon learns from one surgery at a time” – Daniel Hashimoto, surgical artificial intelligence and innovation fellow&nbsp;Another example of how AI is improving the surgery procedures’ efficiency is the DASH Analytics High-Definition Care Platform which predicts risk of surgical site infections (SSIs) and suggests ways to reduce them in real time. The platform reduced SSIs by 74% in 3 years at the University of Iowa Hospitals &amp; Clinics.&nbsp;Robots in surgery: a promising startIn 1985, a robot assisted for the first time in a surgical procedure. That year, a computed tomography was used to guide a robotic arm, the PUMA 560, in inserting a needle into the brain to perform a biopsy. The neurosurgical procedure, considered very delicate as it is subjected to many errors such as hand tremors, was successful, marking the beginning of the robotic surgery’s history.&nbsp;Since then, the field of robotic surgery has grown to become a successful option in neurological, urological cardiothoracic, gynaecological and many general surgical procedures.&nbsp;The reason is simple: robotic surgery is at the cutting edge of precision and miniaturization in the realm of surgery.&nbsp; The surgeons can count on years of practice and knowledge, but skills and expertise could be hindered by a loss of motor skills and fatigue, especially in long-lasting surgery.&nbsp;An example where the microscopic accuracy of the robot is very beneficial is the eye surgery. In 2016 Robert MacLaren, Professor of Ophthalmology assisted by Dr Thomas Edwards, Nuffield Medical Fellow, performed the world’s first eye operation using a robot. They used the remotely controlled robot to operate inside the eye through a single hole smaller than 1 mm in diameters. The main difficulty was to stay still, as the operation consists in going in and out the eye several times, without piercing it again but using the same hole.&nbsp;Besides, robotic surgery has proved to be an important assistant to reduce collateral damage which could arise after the surgery.&nbsp; For instance, there are many procedures in the field of cardiothoracic surgery that can now be done with robotics and that reduce the collateral damages while decreasing the recovery time.&nbsp;Another example is the cochlear implant. To implant a cochlear implant, surgeons usually have to create an access point behind the ear through the skull. Then an electrode is manually put into the cochlea through this access point. Working on this microscopic scale, the slightest imprecise movement can cause irreparable damage. As a result, about 30 to 35% of patients who received this treatment suffer loss of residual hearing. However, the use of surgical planning software and a robotic drill allow a minimally invasive procedure to be performed, reducing drastically the possibility of incurring in collateral damages.&nbsp;Surgical robots represent an important help as they are able to highly control the trajectory, speed, and depth of their movements, being extraordinarily useful in the long surgical procedures. Robots can, in fact, remain completely still for the whole duration of the surgery, significantly reducing the workload for the doctor as well as the risk of infections and after-surgery complications for the patients.An ongoing history&nbsp;Currently, the worldwide most diffused robot system used in surgery is Da Vinci by Intuitive Surgical, whose cost remains high (US$1–2.5 million per device). However, robotic surgery evolution is far from over and alternative models are already developing. In the future, a greater availability of robot systems alongside the technology advancements could bring more autonomous surgical devices in more hospitals and medical centers. &nbsp; History has already proven that the combination of AI with surgical robotics has the potential to optimize outcomes, improve the patients’ lives and increase access to care, leaving space to innovation and future research.&nbsp; &nbsp;

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Robot aligned with entry trajectory on phantom head. [Image from ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern]

Robot aligned with entry trajectory on phantom head. [Image from ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern]The application of robots in surgery is about 35 years old, experiencing significant growth in the last two decades thanks to the rapid progress of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Despite its history being relatively recent, the benefits of applying robotics in surgery procedures are already evident, while its practical applications are surprising the public and innovating surgery and healthcare.

The Future of Surgery: How AI-powered Robots Are Making It Safer

AI and Robotic Surgery: a promising start

During the Marketing’s Customer Experience Conference held in 2016, Christina Liam, Chief Marketing Officer in Residence, said:&nbsp;“It is a time where profitability is a result of customer happiness. It is an age where the customers are the CEOs.”With these words, Liam highlighted the substantial shift occurring in the buyers’-seller relationship, in favor of the customers.&nbsp;For instance, customers are today more connected than ever. Any experience with a product or a brand can be shared on social media, while customers’ reviews and feedback are increasingly influencing online and in-store shopping. It is estimated that nearly 93% of all purchase decisions are now influenced by online reviews.In this new relationship, a marketing campaign represents the privileged channel to reach out to consumers who, on the other hand, are acquiring more and more control over their customer journey. On this account, marketing strategies had to reinvent and change in order to meet the new consumers’ behaviors and needs; and AI technologies have proved to be a strategic tool to achieve these goals.The term ‘AI’ refers to different techniques and technologies which all involve computer intelligence and the simulation of the human mind in machines. In the field of digital marketing, AI translates into two main blocks:&nbsp; Machine Learning Techniques and AI Applications.&nbsp;Machine learning uses algorithms and complex formulation to analyze and elaborate large datasets, creating patterns between historical data and future predictions. AI applications consist of different technologies that are able to perform tasks usually associated with human intelligence, as they can be considered more ‘creative’ – such as content generation, web design, interactions with the customer, and PPC ads.&nbsp;4 Ways AI Can Benefit MarketingContent generation, predictive analysis, PPC ads, web design, and ads generation are only a few of the possible applications for AI marketing. Let’s take a look at how AI is extensively impacting marketing strategy.Predictive Analysis: Know What Your Consumer Wants&nbsp;Social media and the internet are like pools of data and information on the consumers’ behavior and preferences. Every click and past choice, individual’s online surfing and buying habits, can be useful for the enterprises and businesses aiming to increase their visibility while offering a customized experience.&nbsp;However, considering the large amount of data collected, the human mind cannot analyze them easily. Using machine learning and big data analysis, AI is able to analyze these data providing businesses and enterprises with useful and smart insights on the consumer’s past and future preferences.&nbsp;In fact, data analysis, algorithms and models are important tools in predicting the consumers’ future behaviors, and they can help marketing teams to redirect their strategy towards a specific product and a specific time.&nbsp;More and more companies are already harnessing the power of AI to create a valid marketing strategy, and the results are already visible. It is estimated that companies with a clear marketing strategy based on predictive analytics are able to increase their revenue by 21% year-over-year, compared to an average of 12% for those which do not.&nbsp;Content GenerationContent marketing leverages the potential of AI to generate and curate content to better engage the visitors of your website. The examples are several, ranging from blog content, and personal messaging to product recommendations.&nbsp;AI can, thus, help in creating more relevant messages and targeting the right audience. This mechanism will benefit the brands and the consumers both, as the first one will see their revenues drive up for brands, and in turn, the customer will receive content tailored to their interests.&nbsp;AD PersonalizationToday, the great majority of digital advertising strategies are powered by AI-based systems and technologies. These technologies operate autonomously, without human intervention, offering the right advertisement to the customer.&nbsp;In other words, AI technologies study the customer’s preferences and behavior to create a personalized adv. If content does not raise the interest of the consumer, they simply close the window. If this happens, the advertisers lose money.&nbsp;AI can be an important ally in avoiding this cycle by showing relevant content to relevant viewers.&nbsp;Voice search and search marketingVoice recognition allows machines to process, interpret, and respond to human language. In a consumer context, voice search and voice assistants make it easy to do business, as consumers can get quick and clear information they might need before the purchase. More global brands are progressively integrating voice assistants into their marketing strategy to connect with their consumers. For example, a voice assistant can investigate the consumers’ preferences, needs, and what they are looking for; then it can provide them with information and suggestions about a suitable product.&nbsp;According to Capgemini, 24% of internet users prefer using a personal assistant rather than visiting a website to interact with a company.Better consumer experience, quick information, communication, and more consumer engagement, are only a few of the benefits voice assistants have to offer in digital marketing, and consumers appreciate these new modalities of interaction. For instance, Google reports that 27% of the online global population is using voice search on mobile, while more than 35 million consumers in the US are expected to shop using the voice search feature in 2020.&nbsp; This number is expected to further rise in the future.&nbsp;ConclusionEmpathy, story-telling, and original ideas are all variables that AI cannot simulate, or at least not yet. The human touch in developing a marketing strategy is still something unique that relies on the human mind. However, no one knows what the future will bring in the realm of AI. What is clear is that AI technologies’ applications have already reshaped the way marketing is done, AI has the potential to change and reshape a business economy too, improving its profitability and competitiveness.&nbsp; &nbsp;

During the Marketing’s Customer Experience Conference held in 2016, Christina Liam, Chief Marketing Officer in Residence, said:&nbsp; &nbsp;“It is a time where profitability is a result of customer happiness. It is an age where the customers are the CEOs.” &nbsp;With these words, Liam highlighted the substantial shift occurring in the buyers’-seller relationship, in favour of the customers.&nbsp; &nbsp;For instance, customers are today more connected than ever. Any experience with a product or a brand can be shared on social media, while customers’ reviews and feedback are increasingly influencing online and in-store shopping. It is estimated that nearly 93% of all purchase decisions are now influenced by online reviews. &nbsp;In this new relationship, a marketing campaign represents the privileged channel to reach out consumers’ who, on the other hand, are acquiring more and more control over their customer journey. On this account, marketing strategies had to reinvent and change in order to meet the new consumers’ behaviours and needs; and AI technologies have proved to be a strategic tool to achieve these goals. &nbsp;The term ‘AI’ refers to different techniques and technologies which all involve computer intelligence and the simulation of the human mind in machines. In the field of digital marketing, AI translates into two main blocks:&nbsp; Machine Learning Techniques and AI Applications.&nbsp; &nbsp;Machine learning uses algorithms and complex formulation to analyse and elaborate large datasets, creating patterns between historical data and future predictions. AI applications consist of different technologies that are able to perform tasks usually associated with human intelligence, as they can be considered more ‘creative’ – such as content generation, web design, interactions with the customer and PPC ads.&nbsp; &nbsp;4 Ways AI Can Benefit Marketing &nbsp;Content generation, predictive analysis, PPC ads, web design, and ads generation are only a few of the possible applications for AI marketing. Let’s take a look at how AI is extensively impacting marketing strategy. &nbsp;Predictive Analysis: Know What Your Consumer Wants&nbsp; &nbsp;Social media and the internet are like pools of data and information on the consumers’ behaviour and preferences. Every click and past choice, individual’s online surfing and buying habits, can be useful for the enterprises and businesses aiming to increase their visibility while offering a customized experience.&nbsp; &nbsp;However, considering the large amount of data collected, the human mind cannot analyse them easily. Using machine learning and big data analysis, AI is able to analyse these data providing businesses and enterprises with useful and smart insights on the consumer’s past and future preferences.&nbsp;In fact, data analysis, algorithms and models are important tools in predicting the consumers’ future behaviours, and they can help marketing teams to redirect their strategy towards a specific product and a specific time.&nbsp; &nbsp;More and more companies are already harnessing the power of AI to create a valid marketing strategy, and the results are already visible. It is estimated that companies with a clear marketing strategy based on predictive analytics are able to increase their revenue by 21% year-over-year, compared to an average of 12% for those which do not.&nbsp; &nbsp;Content GenerationContent marketing leverages the potential of AI to generate and curate content to better engage the visitors of your website. The examples are several, ranging from blog content, personal messaging to product recommendation.&nbsp;AI can, thus, help in creating more relevant messages and targeting the right audience. This mechanism will benefit the brands and the consumers both, as the first one will see their revenues drive up for brands, and in turn the customer will receive content tailored to their interests. &nbsp;AD PersonalizationToday, the great majority of digital advertising strategies are powered by AI-based systems and technologies. These technologies operate autonomously, without human intervention, offering the right advertisement to the customer.&nbsp;In other words, AI technologies study the customer’s preferences and behaviour to create a personalised adv. If a content does not raise the interest of the consumer, they simply close the window. If this happens, the advertisers lose money.&nbsp;AI can be an important ally in avoiding this cycle by showing relevant content for relevant viewers.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Voice search and search marketingVoice recognition allows machines to process, interpret, and respond to human language. In a consumer context, voice search and voice assistants make it easy to do business, as consumers can get quick and clear information they might need before the purchase. More global brands are progressively integrating voice assistants into their marketing strategy to connect with their consumer. For example, a voice assistant can investigate the consumers’ preferences, needs and what they are looking for; then it can provide them with information and suggestions about a suitable product.&nbsp; &nbsp;According to Capgemini, 24% of internet users prefer using a personal assistant rather than visiting a website to interact with a company. &nbsp;Better consumer experience, quick information and communication, more consumer engagement, these are only few of the benefits voice assistants have to offer in digital marketing, and consumers appreciate these new modalities of interaction. For instance, Google reports that 27% of the online global population is using voice search on mobile, while more than 35 million consumers in the US are expected to shop using the voice search feature in 2020.&nbsp; This number is expected to further rise in the future.&nbsp; &nbsp;ConclusionEmpathy, story-telling and original ideas are all variables that AI cannot simulate, or at least not yet. The human touch in developing a marketing strategy is still something unique which relies on the human mind. However, no one knows what the future will bring in the realm of AI. What is clear is that AI technologies’ applications have already reshaped the way marketing is done, AI has the potential to change and reshape a business economy too, improving their profitability and competitiveness.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Resources

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