Why Digital Transformation Is Crucial for Businesses?

A critical point for success

Digital transformation is an ambiguous term that has become very popular is this fast paced business environment. Every company is using digital technologies to alter their existing processes. Some are integrating Artificial Intelligence in their systems to provide a better experience to their customers while others are making changes in their entire supply chain model to make the most out of machine learning. 90% of companies are transferring their data to the cloud because of its immense benefits including cost effectiveness. According to the World Economic Forum, the overall value of digital transformation will be not less than $100 trillion by the year 2025. However, in order to embrace digital transformation, firstly it is essential for companies to give up on their traditional mindset and think of new ways that spur them towards growth. 

Here are some reasons why they should modernize their operations, transform their organizational culture and optimize their systems.

Better Customer Experience

Digital transformation has raised customer expectations. They want businesses to deliver valuable and timely solutions for the issues they face. The banking sector is a major example, since people are obsessed with the updated and modern technologies, companies had to push themselves towards the creation of online banking apps for the ease of carrying out transactions.

Data Driven Insights

Digitalization has helped companies to track metrics and to analyze large amounts of data that is gathered from the digital marketing practices. This data can be used to achieve better outcomes as businesses can optimize their strategies. Data based insights allows companies to work on hyper personalization and get real time feedback. Companies can also connect better with their target audience as business processes get consolidated. DHL, a leading logistics company used Chatbots, Big data and Artificial Intelligence to get delivery related information and ensure quality.

Development of Skill Sets 

Digital transformation enhances knowledge of individuals as companies look for people with specialized skills, especially soft skills i.e. problem solving and critical thinking. Side by side, the demand for AI and ML specialists as well as Data Analysts have been exigent. It is becoming crucial for employees to continuously learn new skills through training so that a business can have a competitive edge in this highly digitalized era.

Overall, digital transformation promotes growth and increases agility. Businesses can lower their cost, attain operational efficiency and generate more revenues. 
 

Best Animation Software to Use

Tools that won’t cost you a dime!

As an animator or a graphic designer, you have to sift through a lot of animation software before you decide which one is the best in terms of quality, cost and features. There are plenty of 2D and 3D animation software to use, however, not all are budget friendly. But don’t get into a flap because we have got a list of tools for you which will be very useful to create free animations on both Mac and Windows. Another good news is that these programs will enhance the skills of beginners as well as professionals. The list of these software programs is mentioned below. So, keep reading!

Synfig Studio

This software is used for Mac to make animated videos. But it might be a bit tricky for beginners as it takes time to learn and get accustomed to its features. However, there is a detailed guide available for them on Wikipedia. They can even take video courses or tutorials which are available in different languages. The good side of this software is that you can create multiple layers at a time, add filters, transformation, audio, geometric, or other sound effects to give a vibrant touch to your animations. The bone system allows you to create animated videos through vector art or the bitmap images. It has two downloadable versions, one is the stable version which you can use for seamless animation editing while the development version helps you to use the latest features.

DAZ Studio

If you are a 3D animation lover then this is the finest option for you to create 3D games for entertainment on Windows. This program has an easy to understand interface but initially you might face difficulty in learning. Moreover, it is royalty free and the interactive lessons it offers, can make you a professional 3D animator. The Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) gives better rendering results and you can avail the benefits of 3D morphing, video editing and animation.

K-3D

This is a perfect tool for those who want to design and create simple 2D or 3D models, though it has a quite old interface. This software can be downloaded on your Mac without any charges. Also, it can be installed on your Windows or Linux systems. Its undo and redo features allow you to make changes and corrections. With its parametric workflow you can get immediate results and get used to the features in real time. Furthermore, its node-based visualization pipeline helps you to create diverse combinations of animation.

Wrapping up

The list of such software is exhaustive, but it is up to you to choose the best software that is in line with your requirements. By using your creative mind and these animation maker programs you can surely create something out of the world. 

How Brands Are Using Augmented Reality?

All around the world, Augmented Reality has dazzled people with its stunning features (many people call it the "technology of the moment"). Multinational corporations and their customers are drooling over this powerful technology because of the way it mingles the virtual world with the physical world. Customers who love to try and use new gadgets and technologies have also expressed a strong desire to personally experience it. Thus, almost every brand is incorporating AR technology in one way or another, so let’s see how it has evolved them.

A number of brands are increasingly relying on AR to form an emotional connection between their target audience and the brand. Such ads are attention grabbing and provide real time interaction to the viewers which lead to higher conversion rates. 

L'Oréal Paris

LOreal initiated its ModiFace experience in the year 2018 by introducing an AI and AR powered app through which the customers could check which makeup shade suits them. This app allowed them to apply and test makeup on their photos or video clips. Users don’t have to apply and then remove makeup from their face over and over again. Instead, they can choose the foundation shade that perfectly matches their skin tone by relying on their pictures.

Adidas and Gucci

We all have seen how the pandemic deprived us from visiting a store to shop or make a purchase. It was at that time when Adidas came up with its iOS app by taking full advantage of Augmented Reality Technology. This app allowed customers to check how a pair of sneakers looks on their feet, even while running or walking. Similarly, Gucci was amongst the first companies to use AR as its digital marketing tactics. Users were allowed to virtually try on a pair of shoes before deciding whether to purchase it or not. This in turn led to customer satisfaction and retention and ultimately increased their sales.

Burberry

Consumers can experience Augmented Reality both in stores and online through a company’s app or website. Burberry decided to increase the number of their customers paying a visit at their stores prior to the launch of their Olympia bags. The fascinating thing about this was that visitors could witness statues moving around in stores which they could capture in their smartphones and later post it on their social media. This was a powerful strategy to increase its brand visibility.

In essence, Augmented Reality is both sophisticated and budget friendly for businesses. Marketers should not be tentative in adopting this technology because it offers an interactive experience to their customers that boost their sales.

 

 

The Trends in Ecommerce

Shoppers these days can buy anything from anywhere. Thanks to the ecommerce facility that has eliminated the barriers of time and distance. Undoubtedly, ecommerce has greatly reduced friction in the buying process by offering convenience and a compelling experience to both buyers and sellers. Amazon, Walmart, Flipkart and eBay are among the soundest companies that are relying on social media platforms to gain the attention of their target market. 

This article discusses some of the trends that will be shaping ecommerce in the coming years.

1. Prioritizing Personalization for Customers

Marketers have an in-depth understanding of their customers and they know that they demand products, services and experiences that are in line with their needs or preferences. Thus, companies are utilizing their customers’ data efficiently by tailoring it to an individual's needs. They are following a customer centric approach by going for personalized marketing campaigns, customization of products and through product recommendations. There will be more focus on personalization in the years ahead as technologies such as Artificial Intelligence will be upgraded with time. This will help companies to deliver highly focused experiences to individuals. 

2. The Use of Voice Powered Technology

Virtual Assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri and Google Home have added a spark by making customer interaction with the ecommerce platforms more versatile. Customers don’t have to touch the screen for order placement or while searching for different items. This voice activation feature for online buying is still new and has a massive room for improvement.

3. Social Media Platforms for Marketing

In order to target new markets, attract more customers and to increase online selling, it has become inevitable for companies to rely on social media platforms. Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Pinterest are using shopping features through which their users can directly make a purchase with the help of their profiles. Businesses should come up with content that is both indulging and shareable so that their customers end up making a purchase. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality VR) have provided an immersive shopping experience to customers. They can virtually try on clothes, makeup or accessories and even check and place furniture in their homes before making the final purchase. This can lead to a higher level of customer satisfaction and can further increase brand engagement. So, incorporating such technologies will benefit both the company and its customers.

4. Increase in Mobile Usage and Introduction of Chatbots

Mobile ecommerce is becoming more and more popular as a growing number of people are using mobile devices to browse and shop from different websites. So, companies should create mobile friendly apps and websites and focus on marketing strategies that are mobile specific. Almost every business that is operating online is using chatbots that are backed by Artificial Intelligence. This is a quick, personalized and efficient way to solve customer queries and reply to their frequently asked questions.

5. Socially Responsible Customers

Customers are well aware of the fact that their actions positively or negatively contribute to the environment so they look for brands that value sustainability or prioritize green marketing and take full responsibility for their actions. While managing their ecommerce platforms, businesses should also strictly adhere to strategies that minimize the environmental impact in the long run.

Leaping to conclusion, ecommerce businesses must embrace the latest technologies to better connect with their customers and to earn a name in the highly competitive industry.

 

 

Top 3 Augmented Reality Apps for Shopping

Nowadays, consumers are techy and want to keep themselves up to date with the latest gadgets and technologies. Likewise, they have been curious to learn about the much-awaited Augmented Reality Apps. Marketers know their customers’ psyche well so they are unfailingly surprising them by using AR technology, both online (through their websites) and in their stores.

We all are well aware that AR refers to the placement of 3D visuals in our real world to make our experiences more interactive and realistic. It has been widely used in the gaming industry but now it is making your shopping experience worthwhile too. There is no need to go to the try room and don the clothes over and over again. Through this technology you can have a look at yourself from head to toe and see whether a shirt suits you or not. You can even check if a chesterfield perfectly fits in your living room. Let’s have a look at some AR apps and see how some of the prominent brands are incorporating this technology.

1. IKEA Place

The Swedish furniture company IKEA is known for its exquisite quality and minimalistic designs. IKEA Place offers AR apps for interior and home décor. Shoppers whether they are Android or iPhone users can check and place the products at their homes, prior to buying and without worrying about its assembly. This app gives you a wall to wall view and includes the entire floor plan of your home, so that you can check which thing suits or fits where. This app offers a number of features including color, size and drag and drop option, making your experience more engaging, just like that of a physical IKEA store.

2. Walmart

Walmart, the multinational retail corporation has implemented AR technology as its chief strategy to attract customers. The company recently purchased Zeekit which is a virtual try room to change and try outfits. They can even ask for suggestions by sharing their snaps or videos with their dear ones. Their new app called the "Me@Walmart" has amazing Augmented Reality features which reduce the time for retrieving products from the warehouse. This associate app allows their employees to check which items are currently in stock for sale. Walmart has given 740,000 new smart phones to their workers for this purpose.

3. Sephora Virtual Artist

Sephora Virtual Artist app allows customers to try and get a virtual makeover. They also provide you a customized and step by step guide according to your facial tone and features. The app detects an individual's face including the eyes, eyebrows, cheeks and lips, jawline and forehead. Customers can even get a makeup look that matches with their outfit and later share it with their friends. 

There are tons of other companies and apps that are incorporating AR technology to provide customers a multidimensional way to interact with a brand, enhancing their shopping experience.

 

Economic Survival Strategies for Game Makers

Following innovation and creativity, and eventually taking risk is the only way to stand out from the competitors in an incredibly packed and highly competitive market. It’s a fact that our economic forecast is not as phenomenal as it used to be. However, that does not mean profit cannot be made, especially when you depend on your game designers’ ability to come up with distinctive and engaging products.

Below are some strategies for game makers which they can execute to stay ahead in competition and deal with the potential economic downturn. 

Stick to uniqueness 

Numerous games are released every year. In order to remain unique from the crowd it is important for the designers to focus on gameplay when making games. Their eye should be on different mechanics and themes that have not been used or implemented by other gamers before, no matter what products or services the business provides. In this way, your offering will appear more attractive to your target market.

Be mindful and prudent while offering value added components

It is essential to be careful of the costs that can incur when offering value-added components. For example, accessories, apparels and miniatures can have greater perceived value. Your business might end up in hot water or insolvency, if the total cost of molds and development is greater than the costs of producing the actual product. Keep in mind the cost of production as well as the sales projections, especially for the first outing.

Reach out to other product designers and publishers

In the gaming space, collaboration with a number of designers or publishers is crucial if you want to reach out to a large number of audiences and establish a wide customer base. Also, this will help you out in minimizing the production cost or the expenses that might incur in the different stages of your product development. You can go through your playbook and then see if collaborating on elements such as the design, development or the production of product is suitable for both the parties.

Establish your online presence but also focus on cost

Since we are living in a digitally competitive age, it is very difficult for us to have a strong online presence. For the promotion and marketing of your product and to interact with potential customers, you can take help from the low-cost social media platforms. Blogs, forums, tech enthusiasts or influencers are some of the best options to utilize. Go for those strategies that have the largest return on investment and also keep in mind the cost associated with paid advertising and other internet marketing strategies. 

In the gaming industry, only those companies that are successfully able to implement their economic survival strategies can flourish. You can surely be the next if you are a risk taker and innovate skillfully.

 

Technology and Economic Development

Technology is the backbone of all countries and their economies. The profound role it has played in the progress of every developed and developing country can never be belittled. We have seen that global trade has improved, industries have changed the way they operate, productivity has been enhanced, manufacturing processes have boosted, digital transformation has increased connectivity and a lot of other significant changes have occurred in just a decade. The way nations are heading towards economic growth and prosperity is incredible, so let’s see how technology has revolutionized them.

Automation of processes and improvement in productivity

With the rise in automation, mechanization and robotics, manufacturing and production of goods have become faster. In turn, the cost of production has reduced and efficiency has increased. Workers can focus on the tasks that are critical and of high value. Monotonous and repetitive activities can be performed by automated machines which allows companies to achieve better output. Overall, the country's GDP per capita increases which in turns raises the standard of living of people. Countries become competitive enough (in terms of quality and quantity) to take part in global activities such as trade.

Global Reach for SMEs

Technology and digital platforms have eliminated the barriers to entry. Therefore, small and medium enterprises can market and sell their products and services to their global target market or customers. The growing use of cloud computing and technologies such as Software as a Service (SaaS), has helped companies in activities such as finance or operations. Also, this has minimized cost and created employment opportunities for people. 

Reshaped Industries

The emergence of a number of technologies such as Augmented Reality, Internet of things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence, Big Data Analytics and Blockchain have improved sectors such as healthcare, transportation, education, finance and agriculture. With all this, service delivery has become more efficient and decision making is now more effective. Digital governance has streamlined activities and it has become easier for businesses to work and operate. Government can keep a check on corruption and considerably reduce it. In turn, more investors will be attracted which will give way to economic development (i.e. foreign direct investment contributes to infrastructure development) and reduces the unemployment rate.

In a nutshell, countries all around the globe are installing advanced technologies and investing in them in order to update all of the sectors of their economy. This has allowed them to achieve economic growth and be more competitive, globally.