seventabletsinc

[seventabletsinc]

How Does the Agile Mobile Development Process Work?

Businesses everywhere want the most efficient and flexible ways of achieving their software needs. As such, agile mobile development has quickly become the norm for companies looking to optimize their mobile strategy.

When a business chooses agile, it develops software on an incremental basis. So, instead of delivering the entirety of the app all at once, the developer will offer you the software in pieces, allowing you to make changes throughout the development process.

A Statista survey of software developers revealed that 91% of software developers had adopted an agile methodology by the end of 2018, up from 82% at the end of 2015. These statistics show that the software development world has embraced agile thanks to its comprehensive approach.

Here’s what you should know about the agile mobile development process and how it can help your organization.

Agile Mobile Development: The Basics

With agile development, a business can make adjustments during development based on changing needs. The developer will plan, design, build, test and review a phase of the app, then repeat this process every time a new element is added. Since you are in constant communication with the developer, you can rest easy knowing that you’re on the same page. Not only does agile development improve the app’s quality, but it also ensures that the app is easy to update or alter after its release.

Developers use the Agile Manifesto, which consists of 12 software development principles. These principles can be summarized as:

Ensuring customers are satisfied throughout the development process.

Being open to changing the software at any stage.

Daily cooperation between the business and the developer.

Team members should be motivated and trusted.

Working software and technical excellence are of the essence.

It’s important to work at a consistent pace.

The team needs to constantly find ways to become more effective.

These are the founding ideas behind agile development, but how exactly does this philosophy come to life?

How Agile Development Can Help Your Business

There are many ways that agile development can have a positive effect on your customers and your brand, including:

Better Quality: An app that is developed using the agile method will be stronger since the testing and QA process is more focused and thorough. With more attention being added to each element, the performance and quality of the app will improve.

Greater Transparency: When every party knows what is happening in the app development process, there will be fewer surprises later in the development pipeline. As a result, the whole process will go more smoothly.

Decreased Time to Market: We all want our apps to hit the public as quickly as possible without sacrificing quality. Fortunately, agile mobile development uses a technique called “sprints” to allow developers to adapt and deliver in a swift manner.

Bolstered ROI: In addition to releasing your app faster, your brand will also experience a quicker return on investment. After all, the costs associated with development will be reduced thanks to the shorter timeline.

Lowered Risk: With an agile methodology, you will face fewer risks since any issues in the app are identified and remedied sooner rather than later.

Agile creates a more collaborative development experience that ultimately benefits both your business and your users. The development team brings your vision to fruition while your customers chime in throughout the process to ensure their expectations are being met.

Understanding the Agile Mobile Development Process

The goal of an agile framework is to complete tasks faster and with increased accuracy. Because developers work on tighter deadlines, it pushes them to be sharper and more efficient. It also bolsters collaboration, ensuring everyone works together to reach the right conclusion every time.

This level of collaboration is accomplished through daily scrums—short meetings at the beginning of the day where every team member provides an update. The scrum master leads the meeting, making sure that everything is going smoothly. If something is off, then the issue can be addressed on the spot to prevent wasted time.

Following every agile sprint, the development team presents its progress to stakeholders so they know of any issues or successes. Lessons learned in one sprint often pave the way for the action statement of the following one. Once a scrum ends, the cycle is repeated the next day for the following sprint.

Getting Started with the Agile Mobile Development Process

Ultimately, agile development is a way to optimize your mobile app on a consistent basis, which leads to a superior product your business can be proud of. With this method, the development process will be shorter and you will see returns in the form of increased ROI sooner. In short, any business seeking to improve their operations would be wise to choose agile mobile development.

In order to do so, though, you will need a strong development team by your side. SevenTablets takes an agile approach to mobile app development. If you’re looking to integrate emerging technologies into your app, we can provide that as well, from Internet of Things to blockchain to artificial intelligence.

SevenTablets is headquartered in Dallas. However, we are also available to work with clients in Austin, Houston and beyond. If you’re ready to discuss your project, we hope you will contact us today.

Reach out to our team today!

hbspt.forms.create({ portalId: "1760668", formId: "7a1d929d-d378-443a-a048-9888a5e199a1" });

The post How Does the Agile Mobile Development Process Work? appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/how-does-the-agile-mobile-development-process-work/

[seventabletsinc]

There’s a New Wi-Fi Update Coming and This Time You Can Remember Its Name

It’s been quite the journey for Wi-Fi so far. Consumers have now had access to wireless internet service for 20 years and the technology continues to evolve. In fact, with the latest Wi-Fi update, we are moving away from Wi-Fi 802.11ac to make way for WiFi 6.

There are now more than 279 million public Wi-Fi hotspots worldwide, a figure that is slated to nearly double to 549 million by 2022, according to Statista. After all, Wi-Fi is becoming a bigger part of our day-to-day lives, as individuals often use it for work, entertainment and creative purposes.

The new wifi update will make it faster for consumers to browse the internet and easier for businesses to undergo a digital transformation. Here’s what you need to know about Wi-Fi 6.

How Has Wi-Fi Evolved?

The first iteration of Wi-Fi, originally known as 802.11b, was released in 1999. Now renamed as Wi-Fi 1, the wireless internet technology was capable of churning out speeds of 11 Mbps at a range of up to 150 feet. Wi-Fi 1 was the slowest version and home appliances or other networks at the same frequency would sometimes create interference.

Wi-Fi 802.11b was followed by 802.11a (now known as Wi-Fi 2). This version offered a more complex way of providing a wireless signal. It operated in a 5GHz frequency, which reduced the chances of interference and was capable of reaching 54 Mbps.

In 2003, 802.11g (or Wi-Fi 3) was released. It used the same technology as 802.11a and could reach speeds of 54 Mbps. However, Wi-Fi 3 existed in 2.4 GHz frequency (much like Wi-Fi 1), so wireless signals were sometimes bogged down by interference. Wi-Fi 3 is backward compatible with Wi-Fi 1 devices and vice versa, but Wi-Fi 1 devices could only connect to Wi-Fi 3 access points at the former’s speed.

Wi-Fi 4, originally called 802.11n, was faster and more reliable than its predecessor. Launched in 2009, this iteration could support wireless internet speeds of 300 Mbps, offering increased data without the need for a higher bandwidth. It can operate in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands.

The Wi-Fi that many of us use now is 802.11ac, released in 2014 and also labeled Wi-Fi 5. Speeds can reach anywhere from 433 Mbps to several gigabits per second, operating on 5 GHz frequencies. Wi-Fi 5 uses beamforming technology, so its antennae can transmit radio signals to specific devices and direct them to multiple clients at once while still offering lightning-fast speeds.

And now, the best version yet, Wi-Fi 6, is on the horizon.

Why Did the Name Change?

The Wi-Fi Alliance changed to a simple numeric naming system for several reasons, including the fact that it will be easier for consumers to understand what Wi-Fi they’re connected to. Moving forward, if you try to connect to a network, the device will inform you if one network is a “5” while another may be a “6.”

Also, businesses will likely use numbers to describe Wi-Fi types moving forward since the Wi-Fi Alliance represents most major companies. The Alliance usually makes decisions based on the direction of these companies, so the rebranding move will make it easier to market wireless connectivity.

The Wi-Fi Alliance added that the decision to rename Wi-Fi was done in a very transparent manner and no one will be forced to adopt the branding. Still, it’s likely that most businesses will opt to change Wi-Fi names to keep up with the times. Adoption of the new numerical names is likely to happen gradually, and Wi-Fi 6 devices will start coming out next year.

What Can You Expect from the New Wi-Fi Update?

The upcoming iteration of wireless internet will offer some considerable improvements, including:

Higher data rates and faster speeds.

The ability to handle higher load capacities while still maintaining high connection speeds.

Lower latency due to improved medium access control (MAC) signaling.

Devices supported by Wi-Fi 6 networks will consume less battery power.

Improved outdoor network connectivity.

That’s what we know so far about Wi-Fi 6, but don’t be surprised if it has other advantages that will be revealed later.

How Will the New Wi-Fi Update Affect Your Mobile Strategy?

A digital transformation can be an integral move for a business seeking to become more efficient, while a strong mobile strategy allows you to integrate mobile technology into every facet of your corporate strategy. Wi-Fi 6 could be a game changer for companies that are embracing the digital age.

Thanks to the increased wireless connectivity speeds, companies will be able to complete tasks faster. Developers will create new machine learning algorithms that can compile and analyze data at a faster rate. These insights will then be used to bolster a company’s applications, marketing strategy and user experience more rapidly than ever before. And for companies that have developed mobile apps, it will be easier to provide a positive user experience as consumers will enjoy faster speeds and lower latency.

Many retailers now have Wi-Fi systems that advertise their products or services whenever a patron enters a store or is nearby. When a consumer’s phone connects to the store’s internet, employees can garner valuable customer information, including how long they spend in the store, whether it’s their first time there and what aisles they visited. Retail businesses can then use this data to market products in a more targeted fashion. With Wi-Fi 6, store owners will be able to analyze customer data and unearth such insights at a faster rate.

There’s plenty to be excited about as we move closer to the release of Wi-Fi 6 devices and routers. From faster speeds to lower latency, businesses around the globe are set to benefit from the new Wi-Fi update.

In order to capitalize on Wi-Fi 6, though, you will need the right developer by your side. SevenTablets specializes in custom mobile app development and helping businesses develop the perfect mobile strategy. We’re also well-versed in many emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, predictive analytics and virtual reality.

SevenTablets is headquartered in Dallas. However, we are also happy to serve clients in Austin, Houston and beyond. If you’re ready to discuss your project, please contact us today.

Reach out to our team today! hbspt.forms.create({ portalId: "1760668", formId: "7a1d929d-d378-443a-a048-9888a5e199a1" });

The post There’s a New Wi-Fi Update Coming and This Time You Can Remember Its Name appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/theres-a-new-wi-fi-update-coming-and-this-time-you-can-remember-its-name/

[seventabletsinc]

Why You Should Consider a Digital Transformation in Healthcare

Technology has enabled the healthcare industry to make serious headway in recent years. In fact, shifting operations and systems to the digital realm—known as a “digital transformation”—helps medical organizations become more efficient, refine treatment options and cut costs. A digital transformation in healthcare could mean anything from digitizing customer records, moving data and applications to the cloud or improving the mobile strategy.

  The medical industry is constantly looking for ways to provide better care. Current advancements in technology are now allowing organizations to improve their practices in remarkable ways. Let’s take a look at why healthcare organizations should consider a digital transformation.

Telemedicine Makes Remote Care Possible

Lately, hospitals and clinics have been adopting a telemedicine approach, which refers to the ability to provide healthcare services to patients remotely. This approach expands access to healthcare for patients who may be in different time zones and even those on different continents. The technology is especially useful for helping patients located in remote areas where it’s challenging to find quality healthcare.

With telehealth, a patient could work with a renowned cancer specialist without having to fly across the country to meet them. Using the right technology, a local doctor can connect with the specialist to ensure the proper treatment begins as soon as possible. Telemedicine also makes treatment more affordable since healthcare organizations won’t have to spend as much money on travel and the transportation of medical supplies.

In addition to remote care, there are mobile applications that allow patients to monitor their health. For instance, an app can help a patient with heart disease to record their vitals or remind individuals with diabetes to take insulin. Such notifications can reduce the number of hospital visits, which saves a lot of money for healthcare organizations.

All in all, telemedicine is the way of the future for hospitals, helping to ensure that every patient, everywhere, gets quality treatment. However, in order to implement this approach, healthcare organizations need to undergo a digital transformation.

Using Big Data to Optimize Patient Care

Big data is a way of extracting insights and patterns from data sets that are too large for the average data-processing software to handle. In healthcare, big data is being leveraged to better manage treatment plans.

Hospitals and clinics can use data from wearable medical equipment and DNA analyses to create unique profiles for each patient. The technology can learn about the patient’s lifestyle while comparing it to other patients with similar attributes. Having all this data readily accessible assists doctors in determining the right treatment strategy.

Big data can also help professionals understand the biology of certain illnesses. The technology amasses every piece of data regarding a disease’s composition, including the DNA, organs, proteins, tissues and more. With this knowledge, big data can build optimized patient profiles and predict ways to treat their ailments.

Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare

If you’ve ever been to a doctor’s office to get blood work, a biopsy or a scan, chances are you’ve had to wait a while for the results—sometimes for weeks. In fact, it can take up to 48 hours just to get blood work results. Not only can long waits be nerve-wracking for patients but treatment could also be delayed. And delayed treatment can sometimes be fatal.

That’s where artificial intelligence comes in. The technology improves body scans and other services by working with deep learning methodologies that allow machines to recognize text or images. With these technologies, the platform can analyze CAT scans up to 150 times faster than a human radiologist could and can detect acute neurological events in only 1.2 seconds. This means that patients get accurate answers on the spot, reducing the wait time to minutes.

Artificial intelligence in healthcare can also provide insights into how to create better pharmaceutical products. Such advancements pave the way for speedier trials and better medicines in the future.  

Is it Time for a Digital Transformation in Healthcare?

If you want your healthcare organization to stay successful, consider getting started with a digital transformation. By moving your operations to the digital realm, you will be able to lower patient costs, reduce hospital expenditures and improve patient treatment paths. A digital transformation will allow your healthcare organization to reach new levels of efficiency, accuracy and efficacy.

Ready to take the plunge? The first step when implementing a digital transformation is selecting a developer. At SevenTablets, we are happy to walk you through every step of a digital transformation. We can develop custom mobile apps, help you refine your mobile strategy and optimize your security. In addition, we provide services related to a host of emerging technologies, including Internet of Things, predictive analytics, artificial intelligence and augmented reality.

SevenTablets is headquartered in Dallas, but we also serve clients in Austin, Houston and beyond. If you’re ready to discuss your digital transformation, contact us today.

Reach out to our team today! hbspt.forms.create({ portalId: "1760668", formId: "7a1d929d-d378-443a-a048-9888a5e199a1" });

The post Why You Should Consider a Digital Transformation in Healthcare appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/why-you-should-consider-a-digital-transformation-in-healthcare/

[seventabletsinc]

Making the Most of IoT: Benefits for Businesses

Internet of Things (IoT) smart devices can be found in many homes across the world. And while these devices have a lot to offer from an entertainment standpoint, the benefits they provide in the business world are perhaps even more impressive.

Image Source: Unsplash user NordWood Themes.

The IoT boom that’s transpired over the 2010s is showing no signs of slowing down. In fact, there were roughly 23.14 billion connected devices installed in 2019, according to Statista. This figure is expected to triple to 75.44 billion by 2025, signaling that the IoT space is becoming increasingly prevalent as businesses continue to adopt the technology.

Companies are bringing IoT into their fold thanks to its ability to increase operational efficiencies, garner new business opportunities, improve a company’s structure and more. Here are the IoT benefits for businesses your organization should keep in mind.

A More Efficient Workflow

Perhaps the biggest benefit that the IoT brings to businesses is its ability to optimize operations by helping employees work more collaboratively. When workers can connect with each other via mobile devices, they enjoy greater autonomy, flexibility, and ease of communication. Employees are more likely to work together since it’s easier to coordinate tasks, even if team members are in different physical locations.  

IoT can improve productivity by automating some repetitive tasks, allowing human workers to focus on more creative actions. These clever devices also gather data that can be used to reduce the amount of time spent on unproductive meetings. Instead, workers can focus on high-level ways to improve operations.

In addition, IoT technology optimizes operations by making sure resources are being used properly. For example, a retail business could develop an automated inventory management system that looks at customer data and data related to every level of the supply chain process. You can then combine historical demand with forecasted demand, processing times and the supplier’s response time to optimize the speed of your operations by eliminating any inefficiencies and resource waste.

IoT devices even mitigate risk by predicting whether any operations, devices or systems might fail. They can look at how these failures would affect a business in terms of safety, finances, environmental effects and regulatory compliance. This ultimately leads to more effective operations, reduced costs and a less stressful work atmosphere.

Happier Customers

IoT devices can collect customer feedback and usage data to determine new ways to offer value. They collect data through a user’s browsing history (for retail purposes), geographic location (useful in the logistics space), vitals (helpful in the healthcare field) and more. Having customer data available through IoT devices ensures that you stay connected with your customer base and provides the information needed to create better products and services. You’ll know where your business is falling short and if any bugs or breakdowns require your attention so you can take action right away.

You can also leverage this customer data to create a stronger marketing strategy. Knowing customer behaviors and habits means you will have a better idea of who your target audience is, how to appeal to them and how much you should spend on marketing.

A Safer Workplace

IoT devices can be equipped with sensors that keep tabs on any confined or dangerous places or operations. Thanks to their advanced data analysis tools, IoT devices can monitor sensor data to better understand any past hazards in order to prevent such situations in the future.

This ability is especially valuable in the manufacturing or energy industry where there are plenty of health hazards. IoT devices can monitor, in real-time, the temperature, humidity and structural integrity of a plant, oil site or mine. Plus, workers can wear heart rate monitors so managers will know immediately if someone is experiencing a health crisis.

Using artificial intelligence, IoT sensors can combine the data they compile from workers with factors such as the temperature or elevation of a job site to predict if a heat stroke may be imminent. IoT equipment can even react to any potentially hazardous changes in an environment without human intervention, informing workers if they need to exit the area.

IoT Benefits for Business Can Make All the Difference

All in all, adding IoT devices to your business will streamline operations from top to bottom, making every process easier and more efficient. Businesses that have yet to fully adopt the IoT should consider doing so soon, as this technology is a key way to stay competitive in today’s economy. It’s likely that integrating IoT devices will soon be the norm thanks to their ability to improve operational efficacy and efficiency while also making the workplace safer.

Ready to make the leap and add IoT to your business? If so, SevenTablets is here to help. We specialize in custom mobile app development with experience in Internet of Things solutions. We’re also well-versed in other emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, predictive analytics, augmented reality, and virtual reality.

SevenTablets is headquartered in Dallas. However, we are also happy to work with clients in Austin, Houston, and beyond. To discuss your IoT project, please contact us today.

  Reach out to our team today! hbspt.forms.create({ portalId: "1760668", formId: "7a1d929d-d378-443a-a048-9888a5e199a1" });

The post Making the Most of IoT: Benefits for Businesses appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/making-the-most-of-iot-benefits-for-businesses/

[seventabletsinc]

Why Mobile Apps Are Critical to Business Success [eBook]

As more and more business operations become digital, having a mobile app has become necessary in order for a company to remain competitive. Business mobile apps offer a slew of tempting benefits, including increased visibility, better customer engagement and more consistent revenue generation.

Mobile app download growth was projected to hit 205.4 billion in 2018 (as compared to 178.1 billion in 2017), and the number of retail mobile apps consumers used doubled between 2017 and 2018. These figures show that the mobile app development realm is expanding rapidly, a trend that is expected to continue. Plus, app development is more affordable than ever, and the latest advanced technologies are providing capabilities previous generations could only have dreamed of. As such, this is the perfect time for your company to develop a mobile app.

So, how exactly can a mobile app help your business achieve success? Let’s take a look.

Why Mobile Apps Are Critical to Business Success

Download your free eBook!

  The post Why Mobile Apps Are Critical to Business Success [eBook] appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/mobile-apps-business-success-ebook/

[seventabletsinc]

How Can You Use Augmented Reality in the Workplace?

Augmented reality (AR) is an exciting, cutting-edge technology that is set to disrupt a range of industries. While AR was originally known mostly for its role in the gaming sphere, its uses are expanding to include the business world.

Image Source: Unsplash user LinkedIn Sales Navigator.

From improving training techniques and increasing workplace safety  to implementing better onboarding practices, here are some of the ways that augmented reality in the workplace is changing the game.

Using Augmented Reality to Train Workers

The interactive nature of augmented reality makes it a valuable tool when training employees. Written instructions or even videos are not as effective compared to the experience of seeing a 3D demonstration of how to perform a task. It’s more engaging and interactive, stimulating the mind more than two-dimensional content.

The technology is especially relevant in fields that often lack a sufficient number of qualified applicants to fill positions since AR makes it possible to teach individuals who have no formal training to perform high-skilled tasks. For instance, consider the manufacturing sphere. Thanks to the interactive nature of AR, it’s easy for workers to learn the steps required to repair a machine. In fact, AR has allowed agricultural manufacturing company Agco to train workers 300% faster. Not only did the training time decrease but the new hires are also operating at a higher level than before. Soon, other companies will likely follow Agco’s example, using AR to make sure all their employees are learning in the most effective way possible.

AR Allows Employees to Work at a Higher Level

There will always be jobs that machines cannot replicate due to the complexity and intuitive decision-making skills required. However, technology can still bolster the capabilities of these employees, ensuring that they’re outputting the best work possible in the most efficient manner.

For example, Boeing is using apps coupled with AR headsets to help the employees who build intricate wire harnesses complete their work at a higher level. AR makes sure that every step is visible, so workers can operate without having to stop and check a computer for instructions. As a result of this initiative, it takes 30% less time to complete a job and quality has improved by 90%. The same concept could be applied in healthcare, using AR to lead surgeons through every step of the process.

Other businesses are equipping their workers with AR headsets that they use to check emails and perform other tasks using hand gestures rather than typing on a keyboard or clicking on a mouse. After all, charts that may be difficult to navigate on a screen become easier to comprehend in a 3D format.

Augmented Reality in the Workplace Makes for Quality Health and Safety Training

Keeping workers and equipment safe is a top priority for many businesses, and augmented reality can make it easier to meet this goal. Some businesses are using an AR app that allows workers to scan the logo of their company and attain virtual safety training in any language. AR can adapt to a worker’s needs and learning style, creating a personalized training regimen.

This ability is especially helpful in the construction and manufacturing fields. There are endless hazards in manufacturing areas that are always being updated, so workers need to constantly learn new skills and safety practices.

Working on 3D Models Remotely

Engineers and architects often create and adjust the dimensions of sketches and models before actually constructing the piece. Previously, every worker involved in design and development would have to be in the same room to make sure that everyone was on the same page. However, this is no longer the case thanks to augmented reality.

Engineering firm Aecomis is using AR to project 3D engineering models into a room. With all the information right in front of them, it’s easy for workers to identify any problems before the construction phase. The 3D model can be shared digitally, which means that everyone involved can take a look at it from the comfort of their local offices and discuss the project through a conference call.

There is no denying that the workplace is becoming more digital with every passing day, and augmented reality is playing an important role in creating a more connected work environment. From bolstering the training process to improving the safety of workers, the technology has already done a lot to enhance our day-to-day lives in the office, and there’s no telling how it could continue to evolve.

If you’re ready to integrate augmented reality solutions at your business, then turn to SevenTablets. We provide custom mobile app development with an emphasis on AR technology. In addition, we have experience with many other cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, predictive analytics and virtual reality.

Although SevenTablets is headquartered in Dallas, we also serve clients in Austin, Houston, and across the United States. To discuss your augmented reality project, contact us today.

Reach out to our team today! hbspt.forms.create({ portalId: "1760668", formId: "7a1d929d-d378-443a-a048-9888a5e199a1" });

The post How Can You Use Augmented Reality in the Workplace? appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/how-can-you-use-augmented-reality-in-the-workplace/

[seventabletsinc]

How Can Blockchain Improve IoT Security?

Most people are familiar with at least one Internet of Things (IoT) device, as the term refers to everything from smartphones to smart home hubs like the Amazon Echo. Statista predicts that the global IoT market will increase from $249.2 billion in 2018 to $457.29 billion in 2020, suggesting that the industry is the healthiest it’s ever been and shows no signs of slowing down.

Image Source: Pexels user Jessica Lewis.

However, IoT devices have some security vulnerabilities that sometimes make them the targets of cyber attacks. Enter blockchain, a digital ledger used to transmit data or make payments in a secure and decentralized manner. Blockchain is the backbone of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, but the technology is also revolutionizing cybersecurity.

When a business, individual or multiple parties use blockchain, it is harder for hackers to access sensitive user information because there is no centralized server to exploit. This quality makes blockchain a unique technology that can protect IoT devices all around the globe.

Common IoT Security Challenges

Anyone who owns an IoT device may fall prey to cybercriminals breaching their device and garnering their personal data due to the large amount of existing and projected data that each device processes. The more devices or data an IoT device is connected to, the higher the chances of a breach. It doesn’t matter what device, manufacturer or service provider you have; none of them have perfect security at the moment.

A Gartner survey found that organizations with IoT systems are more concerned about security than any other technical elements. With these concerns in their mind, it’s no surprise that business leaders are digging for ways to protect their IoT devices and services in a way that is simple, efficient and effective.

That’s where blockchain comes in. The technology may soon be the go-to method of protecting IoT apps and devices.

The Power of Smart Contracts

Blockchain security often goes hand-in-hand with smart contracts, which allow businesses to create, negotiate and confirm transactions or contracts without a third party. Smart contracts register and validate information in a network without a central system, eliminating threats such as denial of service or man-in-the-middle attacks for IoT devices.

Smart contracts pave the way for an IoT network to record metadata and results for regulatory purposes. They also securely store and share information on software updates. These updates carry with them a cryptographic hash to conceal the information within these updates. IoT devices running their security on blockchain can then use the hash to verify that everything is in order.

Plus, smart contracts manage and optimize transactions and interactions across devices. In other words, they allow two parties to reach an agreement without any confusion. Blockchain makes it possible for a ledger to ensure that both sides have met the conditions of the agreement, including the price of an asset in a business transaction.

Blockchain can also automate payments to businesses while opening the door for smaller payments across devices in some networks. Thanks to its decentralized nature, only the parties involved in the transaction can access the details, keeping cybercriminals in the dark.

Adopting Blockchain for IoT Security

Cybercriminals target IoT devices with hacking and other malicious activity that tampers with the data of the devices and its users. They can also lock users out of their devices, leading to larger issues such as the ability to shut down an entire IoT network. Such breaches are costly for businesses, as the criminals may require a large monetary sum to return access to the network, while others may publicly reveal the data of a network’s users.

Some companies are taking steps to curb the chances of being negatively impacted by these attacks, including Hyundai. The car manufacturer launched the Hyundai Digital Access Currency (HDAC), which uses blockchain and tokenization—replacing clear text with randomized characters—to protect its IoT network. The technology allows for encrypted communication across devices and makes it possible to conduct secure financial transactions.

Such solutions should be implemented in order to protect IoT devices moving forward. By eliminating the need for a third party to execute transactions and agree to terms for a contract, businesses can scale up with their IoT strategies without having to worry about their network being compromised.

Blockchain is one of the most exciting technologies in the world because of its ability to create a more secure digital environment. And this is especially key in the IoT space as more companies adopt the capabilities of smart device technology to expand their reach and bolster the link between their brands, workers and device users.

If you want to develop an IoT app or secure an IoT device, turn to SevenTablets. Our experienced developers offer digital solutions in IoT and mobile security. We’re also well-versed in other emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, predictive analytics, augmented reality, and virtual reality.

SevenTablets is headquartered in Dallas, but we also work with customers in Austin, Houston, and beyond. To discuss your IoT project, please contact us today.

Reach out to our team today! hbspt.forms.create({ portalId: "1760668", formId: "7a1d929d-d378-443a-a048-9888a5e199a1" });

The post How Can Blockchain Improve IoT Security? appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/how-can-blockchain-improve-iot-security/

[seventabletsinc]

How Does a Cloud Integration Platform Work?

Companies are constantly on the hunt for new ways to improve efficiency and increase the flexibility of their systems and operations. Among the most groundbreaking technological developments in the workplace are cloud integration platforms, which allow businesses to host data and applications in a centralized manner.

Image Source: Unsplash user Joseph Gruenthal.

According to Statista, the cloud integration industry is slated to bring in about $2.87 billion in revenue in the U.S. for 2019, more than $400 million higher than 2018. This increase in spending can be linked to businesses taking notice of the tangible benefits that incorporating a cloud integration platform brings to their fold.

There is no shortage of benefits associated with cloud integration, including enhanced scalability, better security and the ability to host applications remotely. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering implementing a cloud integration platform.

What the Cloud Integration Process Looks Like

A cloud integration platform essentially breaks down data silos, improving the interactions between datasets and optimizing business operations. This means that businesses have a more comprehensive view of their data and processes and can easily share information across cloud-based applications.

The cloud integration process involves combining the various services from your business into one unified location. To govern the new cloud-based database, you will need to develop a service-level agreement regarding your database’s security, performance and monitoring.

Naturally, you will need to find a developer with experience in cloud integration. These experts will understand how your servers link up from a business perspective and can be sure the platform is optimized to meet your exact needs.

Benefits of a Cloud Integration Platform

There are many advantages of a cloud integration platform, including:  

Cloud platforms often come with easy-to-read graphics that help users better visualize what is happening within their companies.

It is easy to create, deploy and monitor integrations across a company from one location. Centralized data and application management saves companies money and time, allowing workers to spend their time on more creative tasks.

The cost of cloud integration is affordable and flexible since these services are subscription-based.

Thanks to remote hosting capabilities, workers can access data and applications from locations outside of the office.

Cloud integration platforms automate the process of updating applications and data, fixing bugs and patching vulnerabilities.

These platforms support integration in real-time, processing and analyzing data in a low-latency manner.

The cloud offers improved security, including advanced fraud detection and real-time intruder alerts.

Automated audits and reporting screens make it easier to achieve regulatory compliance.  

From increased efficiency to tighter security, the cloud brings a host of valuable benefits. It’s no wonder so many businesses are adopting cloud integration platforms.

Useful Tools for Cloud Integration Platforms

When undergoing cloud integration, there are a number of tools you can use to improve the results. Here are some of the tools you should take into account:

Bi-directional integration reporting tools allow your platform to communicate in two directions for troubleshooting purposes, meaning they can monitor how your platform interacts with applications and data, and vice-versa. This ability allows you to control the bandwidth and server load of your platform.  

Hybrid integration tools can integrate various file types, including CSV, XML and Rest, creating a seamless integration and management experience. These tools ensure that your platform is always updated with the latest technologies.

Time scheduling tools check factors such as how often a file should be accessed, how frequently to update the platform and when to scan for bugs.

Security features and service-level agreements keep your cloud integration platform protected. They bolster your platform’s encryptions, data governance and cybersecurity threat monitoring.

Error handling and resolution tools address issues, such as an item that fails to update, and discover the reason for the problem.

The right cloud integration platform will link, map and transform all your data and applications in real-time. This results in simpler, more efficient workplace interactions.

The time for relying solely on on-premise solutions and legacy applications is over; these older systems simply don’t have the flexibility and efficacy needed in this day and age. Cloud integration platforms offer all the benefits of legacy systems while providing the cutting-edge features your business needs to stay competitive. By adding a cloud integration platform to your company, you will create a more seamless experience for workers and customers alike.

Of course, the first step when adding a cloud integration platform to your fold is finding a developer. The team at SevenTablets offers advanced cloud hosting services to help you optimize your mobile strategy. In addition, we are experienced with many emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, predictive analytics, augmented reality, and virtual reality.

While SevenTablets is headquartered in Dallas, we also work with clients in Austin, Houston, and across the nation. If you’re ready to discuss cloud integration, we hope you will contact us today.

Reach out to our team today! hbspt.forms.create({ portalId: "1760668", formId: "7a1d929d-d378-443a-a048-9888a5e199a1" });

The post How Does a Cloud Integration Platform Work? appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/how-does-a-cloud-integration-platform-work/

[seventabletsinc]

The Benefits of Adding AI to Your Existing Mobile Platforms

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been one of the most important technologies throughout the 21st century, and it continues to gain prominence today. In fact, a PwC study of 2,500 U.S. consumers found that 72% of business decision-makers see AI as offering a noticeable business advantage. This indicates that industry leaders are recognizing the value of implementing artificial intelligence into their mobile strategies.

Even better, a business does not have to build a new platform from scratch in order to enjoy the benefits of AI. Instead, you can simply add AI to an existing platform in order to reap advantages such as automating monotonous tasks and reducing human error.  

Automating Tasks and Making Better Decisions

For most companies, efficiency is the name of the game, and AI plays a key role in reducing the number of man-hours spent on monotonous tasks. Companies are using AI to automate mobile tasks, allowing workers to focus on more creative, high-value work.

With AI, mobile apps can make smart decisions backed by data through a process called automated reasoning. Essentially, this means that AI algorithms allow apps to churn out suggestions and complete tasks based on extensive data.

For example, doctors may use a healthcare app to determine the best course of treatment for a patient based on their biographical information and the severity of their symptoms. The app would use AI to compare the patient with past patients who had a similar trajectory and measure the success rate of different treatment routes. Automating patient analysis helps doctors focus on more complicated issues related to treating a patient. The same idea is true for other industries; by using AI to automate some of a company’s decision-making, employees can spend more time on high-level tasks.  

Reducing Human Error

Artificial intelligence makes it possible to increase the accuracy of the information that is added into apps—a major benefit in industries where even one mistake can be catastrophic. After all, to err is human, and it just takes one decimal point in the wrong place to turn an earnings report upside down.

Take the case of a real estate app. An agent who marks down his or her sales and commission numbers needs to be accurate with the calculations, as an error can cause grave issues for a company. To ensure accuracy, you could use an AI-equipped mobile app that calculates the commission percentage automatically. This reduces the chances of a real estate firm having to deal with an erroneous sales report, a headache that can cause internal strife and harm a brand’s reputation. Businesses of all fields are set to benefit from AI in their mobile apps since it allows each worker to perform their tasks with more accuracy.

Improving Personalization and User Engagement/Retention

AI can create a more personalized user experience by leveraging the user’s browsing history, past behaviors and more to optimize their app usage. Customers like to feel as if an app is catering to their unique needs, so this strategy leads to higher user engagement and retention rates.

Machine learning (ML), the cousin of AI, is also involved here. This technology consists of algorithms that learn patterns about users through the information they give out. Predictive analytics (PA) is then employed in order to predict what a user may want to do next with the app.

For instance, consider the retail industry. Machine learning and predictive analytics algorithms may consider a number of factors about a user’s shopping habits, including what items a user buys during certain times of the year, where they’re located and what search terms they use.

Knowing what products a user usually shops for then allows the app to offer personalized product recommendations. The resulting format appeals to the particular user based on the channels that led to them buying a product in the past. By personalizing the app experience, it is more likely that the user will become a returning customer.  

Use Case: Affordable Healthcare With Medibookr

A successful example of adding AI to a mobile platform is Medibookr, a digital healthcare marketplace designed to reduce the cost of healthcare services. The business helps out those with bad insurance, operating under the belief that everyone deserves affordable health care.

Medibookr uses natural language processing (NLP)  to understand a patient’s symptoms from what they say. The app then recommends specific healthcare professionals to help them out. In this way, it personalizes the experience for each user, considering the needs of each company’s health insurance plan and offering the best quality of care at the lowest price.

The app also automates the process of helping users find the right physician through geolocation technology, which looks at nearby doctors accepting new patients. Medibookr further optimizes the app experience by facilitating the way users go about booking appointments while also helping health providers bring in more patients.

There are many benefits of AI for businesses, from reducing human error to automating tasks to personalizing the user experience. All of these abilities add business value to your company, as your operations will become more efficient and your connection with your users will be stronger.

It’s easy to incorporate AI into your existing mobile platform with the right team of developers backing you. Here at SevenTablets, we specialize in custom mobile app development with extensive experience in artificial intelligence. We’re also well-versed in other emerging technologies, including Internet of Things, augmented reality, machine learning, predictive analytics and blockchain.

SevenTablets is headquartered in Dallas. However, we also serve customers in Austin, Houston, and across the nation. To discuss your project, please contact us today.

Reach out to our team today! hbspt.forms.create({ portalId: "1760668", formId: "7a1d929d-d378-443a-a048-9888a5e199a1" });

The post The Benefits of Adding AI to Your Existing Mobile Platforms appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/the-benefits-of-adding-ai-to-your-existing-mobile-platforms/

[seventabletsinc]

A Mobile App Security Checklist: What You Should Include

In a time when data breaches are affecting businesses from small startups to enterprises, mobile security is more important than ever. In fact, not having the right security measures in place can mean the difference between your mobile app thriving or facing a serious setback. Cybercrime is becoming more sophisticated with each passing day, so it’s critical that you cover your bases when implementing security measures for your mobile application.

Image Source: Unsplash user Becca Tapert.

The good news is that the latest technology provides several great ways to keep your app and its data on lockdown. We’ve created a mobile app security checklist to help you make sure you have all the mobile security features you need to prevent harmful breaches.

The Right Security Protocol

One of the most important security measures is the HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) tag. The last letter of this acronym represents a secure iteration of HTTP, meaning it ensures that communication can occur safely over computer networks. Without the S, HTTP has no encryption, validation or verification, and that situation paves the way for attackers to spy on users and potentially breach a system.

This type of protocol uses encryption known as Transport Layer Security (TLS) works alongside Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption to ensure the privacy and sanctity of the data that is transmitted across a server and application. The technology behind TLS helps to complete a number of security measures, including validating a server’s identity, verifying the authenticity of communications, and encrypting transmitted content. In fact, HTTPS encrypts everything from databases to files on a server to emails, hard drives and more.

Code Obfuscation

There is plenty of malware that targets vulnerabilities found in an application’s code. Criminals can attain a public copy of an app and reverse-engineer it. They can then steal the code and re-publish it as rogue apps with malicious code, placing them on third-party app stores. Some users will then install the rogue app instead of the correct one, thus compromising their devices. That’s why it’s critical that you encrypt the source code of your mobile app, also known as code obfuscation.

With code obfuscation, developers can encrypt either part of the code or the whole thing while also concealing or paring out any metadata that could share information about the code. This method of defense makes it virtually impossible for cybercriminals to read app code.

Other Forms of Encryption

Encrypting the app’s source code is helpful, but there are other facets of a mobile app that need protection. Because data is often stored on users’ mobile devices, you also need to encrypt that data. Certain modules can encrypt this data at both a file and database level. Doing so maintains the sanctity of the user experience by ensuring that data stored on the mobile device can’t be compromised. Hosting mobile apps on the cloud rather than locally also helps to eliminate this issue.

You also should protect the transmission of data from the client to the servers. SSL encryption is an effective form of protection when transmitting data and a virtual private network (VPN) helps users send and receive data in a more private manner. The combination of these forms of encryption for files, databases and the transmission of data is key to maintaining a secure app.

Managing an App’s Cache

The purpose of a cache is to remember data when it is saved in the app’s memory or some other form of storage, allowing users to complete tasks more quickly. The cache of a mobile device can include data about all the apps and websites that the user has accessed, so your app should have a function that ensures the cache is refreshed on a consistent basis. By automating this process, you can protect login data and other user information without having to manually clear the cache.

Developers can also configure apps to not cache web data by modifying the HTTP caching headers. In addition to protecting user data, such a feature can help prevent tricky bugs.

Putting a Mobile App Security Checklist to Work

By combining these security features, you can create the safest mobile app possible. Strong mobile security measures will help you build trust and loyalty among users, as they will be able to feel safe using your application. Plus, you can rest easy knowing that you have done everything possible to protect the app you worked so hard to build. It’s a win all around.

If your business is hoping to develop a mobile app, you will want to select a developer who can ensure your app stays safe. The team at SevenTablets develops mobile applications with the latest, most reliable security features available. In fact, our STAX framework offers 4096-bit SSL encryption while our Brigade platform protects messages. We also offer services related to many emerging technologies, including Internet of Things, machine learning, artificial intelligence and natural language processing.

We are headquartered in Dallas, but SevenTablets is also happy to work with clients in Austin, Houston and beyond. To discuss your app development project, contact us today.

The post A Mobile App Security Checklist: What You Should Include appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/a-mobile-app-security-checklist-what-you-should-include/

[seventabletsinc]

How to Use Predictive Analytics Tools for HR

In recent years, human resource teams have begun leveraging predictive analytics (PA) to automate certain tasks while helping employees complete their work at a higher level. From improving recruitment to helping companies overcome bias, predictive analytics tools for HR are playing an integral role in creating more balanced work environments far and wide. Today, we’re taking a look at several key ways businesses are using PA to improve their HR operations.

Image Source: Unsplash user rawpixel.

Improving the Recruitment Process

Some major players in the tech world have adopted predictive analytics to bolster their recruiting efforts. For instance, Google’s computers generate questions for prospective employees with the goal of finding candidates who will fit the organization’s culture. Then, candidates are asked these automated questions during interviews. An algorithm analyzes the answers to these questions and measures their likelihood of succeeding as a Google employee.

Microsoft has adopted a similar approach to examine how likely it is that a current employee might quit. In this case, a marketing professional leverages predictive analytics to determine who may be on their way out, considering factors such as their length of time with the company, performance reviews and more. If a good worker looks like they may leave the company soon, then the company can focus their retainment efforts by sweetening their employment package or offering them different responsibilities.

Using Social Media to Determine Competency

While a candidate’s professional skills are important, their social persona matters, too. A 2012 study used PA to garner an idea of how well a person would do at an organization and how likely the company is to hire them based on their Facebook profile. The PA model was able to predict 8% of the ways in which managers rated the job performance of these workers. While 8% may not seem like that large of a number, the system is still effective in examining an underrated part of a worker—the way they relate to co-workers and what they add to the company socially.

More HR departments are taking note of such technology, using predictive models that consider personality traits in addition to IQ tests and structured interviews. Social media platforms help with this because they provide a wealth of information about what matters to a person. As social media becomes a larger part of our lives, predictive analytics can use this information to help businesses find the right candidates.  

Eliminating Bias in the Workplace

Predictive analytics engines can also strengthen a company’s culture by reducing bias during the interview and vetting process. Financial giant Morgan Stanley is using a PA system that scans a candidate’s resume and cover letter to identify their strengths. Then it creates targeted interview questions based on these qualities. When people create interview questions, they may be swayed by personal bias—whether conscious or unconscious—to ask questions that lead in a certain direction or fail to accurately account for a candidate’s real strengths.

In fact, the Social Mobility Commission has discovered that multiple industries often don’t hire talented, young workers who hail from “less advantaged backgrounds.” Instead, some of these companies only hire graduates from a selection of top universities, usually middle- and higher-income candidates. A PA program, however, doesn’t care who your parents are. By considering candidates from a neutral perspective, the technology ensures that everyone is assessed based on their merits rather than their status. And because PA encourages companies to consider a range of potential employees, it tends to create a more diverse workplace.

This approach also helps to ensure that candidates are accurately representing themselves. Potential hires may be tempted to present themselves as more experienced or skilled than they really are, but PA algorithms can use data to accurately sort fact from fiction.

Predictive Analytics Tools for HR

Thanks to predictive analytics, HR departments are able to better assess whether a candidate is the right person for the job. Plus, current and future generations of workers are more likely to be hired at a place that truly values them. These systems are recognizing the unique strengths linked with a person’s social prowess, discipline, cultural background and drive. With this technology, more people will find their right match in the professional world as HR teams around the country adapt to a new future.

Is your HR team ready to take advantage of predictive analytics technology? If so, then reach out to the team at SevenTablets. We specialize in predictive analytics systems and a host of other cutting-edge technologies, including augmented reality, virtual reality, Internet of Things, machine learning, artificial intelligence and natural language processing.

SevenTablets is headquartered in Dallas, but we are also happy to serve clients in Austin, Houston, and beyond. To discuss your PA project, contact us today.

Reach out to our team today! hbspt.forms.create({ portalId: "1760668", formId: "7a1d929d-d378-443a-a048-9888a5e199a1" });

The post How to Use Predictive Analytics Tools for HR appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/how-to-use-predictive-analytics-tools-for-hr/

[seventabletsinc]

How Machine Learning and AI Benefit Healthcare [Infographic]

Reach out to our team today! hbspt.forms.create({ portalId: "1760668", formId: "7a1d929d-d378-443a-a048-9888a5e199a1" });

The post How Machine Learning and AI Benefit Healthcare [Infographic] appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/how-machine-learning-and-ai-benefit-healthcare-infographic/

[seventabletsinc]

Cloud Hosting for Mobile Apps: What are the Benefits?

While many businesses are still creating apps that store app data within users’ devices, this technique leaves user information vulnerable to data breaches and limits the types of platforms that are compatible with these apps. Fortunately, there’s a better alternative: cloud hosting.

Mobile cloud traffic has increased from 81% in 2014 to 90% in 2019, according to Statista. This means that more businesses are opting to use the cloud for mobile video and audio streaming, gaming, social networking and more. Moving forward, the percentage of mobile traffic that is not processed to the cloud will be below 10%, where it currently stands, eventually disappearing.

Cloud hosting for mobile apps offers a number of benefits, including reduced costs and improved scalability. In fact, cloud hosting for mobile apps offers so many advantages that it is hard to justify developing apps that are not hosted in the cloud.  

Hybrid App Development is Easier

With cloud hosting, it’s easy to develop apps for both iOS and Android devices at a reasonable cost. This freedom prevents the dilemma of deciding which platform to build for and makes it possible to develop a hybrid app that will reach a much wider audience.

Naturally, having your app on both the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store will bring more users in and lead to higher revenue. Hybrid app development also increases the success rate of your marketing campaigns since you won’t have to worry about alienating part of your target audience. And, since you only have to develop one app that will work on multiple platforms, the development process is cheaper and quicker.

Lower Costs and a Higher ROI

Choosing to host your app on the cloud lowers your costs, not just when developing the app but also after the launch. Without the cloud, you would have to invest in servers, security systems, backup solutions, storage hardware and more. With the cloud, you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank in order to set up an application.

Roughly 18% of apps cost more than $25,000 in maintenance after a year. Cloud hosting can help you reduce this cost greatly because maintenance becomes much easier and more accessible for workers. It’s also much simpler to configure an app in the cloud, which reduces the overhead spent on IT operations.

The power and utilization cost and upfront capital investments are also lower. It’s more costly to keep the servers that power an app running than it is to power the app through the cloud. All this means that less money is necessary to develop a high-caliber app, thus bolstering your bottom line.

Increased Data Security and Reliability

When you store data on users’ devices, an error, security flaw or malfunction within a device can cause the data to be lost or otherwise compromised. Cloud hosting improves mobile security because accessing the cloud offsite through an app protects centralized data from hackers even if the device goes missing.

The cloud also allows users to roll the app back to any moment in time or any specific version. This is a useful tool that makes it easier for users to handle any sort of disaster and reduces the amount of time needed to recover data.

Many apps store sensitive information about their users, including credit card numbers, addresses and other payment information. Your company can better protect your users’ data through the cloud, which ultimately helps to preserve your brand reputation and attract more users. Remember, even a single data breach can irrevocably harm your business’ reputation and cost you greatly in terms of revenue.

Improved Scalability

The ability to scale your mobile app’s servers up and down on demand is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity to compete in the digital era. Because the market is constantly changing, you need to be able to scale your apps to meets these shifting demands.  

With legacy systems, this process was quite tedious and expensive. However, the cloud makes it easy to increase or decrease the app’s capacity according to your needs, ensuring that your business is as productive as possible. Thanks to the cloud, you can roll out new features without asking users to update their apps.

  Technical difficulties are among the main reasons why users have poor mobile app experiences, and the scalability of the cloud eliminates instances of servers overloading. Similarly, you can save greatly on costs and resources by being able to scale seamlessly.

Why You Should Consider Cloud Hosting for Mobile Apps

When considering whether or not to opt for cloud hosting for mobile apps, the answer is simple. The cloud will help you lower the costs associated with developing and maintaining your app, reduce your time to market, enhance the security and management of your users’ data and scale up or down on demand. Combine all these factors and you have a more successful app than you would when developing an app outside of the cloud, thus improving your brand’s reputation and increasing your profit margins.

If you’re hoping to develop a cloud-hosted mobile app, the first step is finding the right developer. Here at SevenTablets, we specialize in cloud hosting and custom mobile app development. In addition, we provide services related to many cutting-edge technologies, including augmented reality, virtual reality, blockchain and natural language processing.

SevenTablets is headquartered in Dallas. However, we are also happy to work with clients in Austin, Houston, and beyond. To discuss your project, please contact us today.

Reach out to our team today! hbspt.forms.create({ portalId: "1760668", formId: "7a1d929d-d378-443a-a048-9888a5e199a1" });

The post Cloud Hosting for Mobile Apps: What are the Benefits? appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/cloud-hosting-for-mobile-apps-what-are-the-benefits/

[seventabletsinc]

How Much Does Virtual Reality Mobile App Development Cost?

Virtual reality (VR) is one of the hottest technologies in the mobile app development world thanks to its ability to deliver content in an immersive and interactive manner. The virtual reality and augmented reality (AR) industries have been growing at a furious rate, amassing a net worth of $27 billion by 2018. This figure is expected to grow to $192.7 billion by 2022, per Statista. Clearly, businesses are realizing the value of having virtual reality in their fold.

However, some businesses are wondering whether the investment is truly worth it. Does virtual reality mobile app development cost too much to deliver returns? Well, a VR app can typically be developed for anywhere between $3,000 and $150,000, depending on the size and complexity of the app. Here’s a detailed rundown of what you need to know about the costs and requirements associated with virtual reality mobile app development.

Factors That Affect Virtual Reality Mobile App Development Cost

One of the most important elements that will affect how much your VR app costs and how long development will take is the complexity of the software. Most VR apps can be developed in under a year, but this number varies. A simple VR application, such as a basic game, could take as little as 3 to 5 weeks. However, most VR apps of medium complexity—such as an e-commerce site with VR capabilities or a more complex game—will require 4 to 6 months of development. The most complex applications, such as an advanced tool for doctors, may take up to a year, maybe more.

Also, consider what platform you are developing your VR application for. Oculus Rift, Google Cardboard, Gohar VR and HTC Vive are all popular VR platforms, although there are other options as well. Choose a platform your target users are likely to use and keep in mind that the platform you are developing for will affect the cost of the app.

You will also have the choice of paying either a fixed price or paying for time and materials. The first option is better suited for simple apps or applications that you already have a solid design for. If you’re not entirely sure about everything that will go into developing the app or if it’s a more complex piece of software, the second option is the way to go; You’ll have more flexibility to modify the project while it’s being developed.

Once you have all these ideas in mind, you can start to figure out how much VR app development will cost you.

Determining How Much Your VR App Will Actually Cost

In the U.S. and Canada, virtual reality app development typically costs between $40 to $240 an hour, depending on your developer and the complexity of the app.  

The development process begins with the developer researching your market in order to determine the right solution for your brand. Next, the developer will compile and document all the requirements for the VR app, noting important deadlines along the way. The prototyping stage is designed to outline the features and functionalities of the app. Next is the design stage, when the specifics of the app are laid down clearly. At this point, it’s possible that the cost may increase depending on complexity. Then comes the programming or development process in which the developer writes the code. The app is then tested by the QA team before it is released to the public.

All in all, the simplest VR apps, such as games that require users to overcome simple obstacles, will cost between $3,000 and $9,000. More complex apps, such as online stores that allow you to display products in a three-dimensional fashion, will cost between $10,000 and $30,000. More complex games or apps that are more specialized will likely be between $30,000 and $85,000. The most complex apps can take up to a year to make—we’re talking about apps such as MMORPGs or real estate apps that offer virtual property tours—and can cost anywhere from $90,000 to $150,000.

The bottom line is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to developing a VR mobile app. A lot of variables come into play when creating a piece of software as sophisticated as a VR app, such as a price increase if the complexity of the project grows. Nevertheless, virtual reality apps are quite profitable for businesses of all kinds, proving that the development cost is a small price to pay for bolstering your brand and increasing your ROI.

How to Choose the Right Virtual Reality Mobile App Developer

Virtual reality is a cutting-edge technology that some developers simply aren’t equipped to handle. As such, be sure you select a company with a solid reputation. Although quality developers might cost a little more, this isn’t an area you should skimp on. After all, a poorly-designed app can cause damage to your brand or simply not be effective at reaching your goals.

Make sure you hire a software developer that guides you through the process of developing a VR app from beginning to end, breaking down the cost of the app throughout every phase. The best developers will work with you to be sure they really understand your unique needs. It’s also smart to consider the location of your developer; there are overseas developers that charge less, but the integral elements of your app could be lost in translation if you go this route. Plus, the quality of the coding and testing may not be up to par compared to a local developer that understands your market inside and out.

Having the right developer by your side can make all the difference when it comes to virtual reality mobile app development, and we hope you will consider SevenTablets for your VR development needs. We take a “business first” approach, working to be sure the virtual reality app we develop correctly reflects your goals and your vision. We’re also well-versed in other emerging technologies, including augmented reality, Internet of Things, machine learning, artificial intelligence and natural language processing.

Although SevenTablets is headquartered in Dallas, we also serve clients in Austin, Houston, and across the U.S. To discuss your virtual reality app development project, contact us today.

  The post How Much Does Virtual Reality Mobile App Development Cost? appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/how-much-does-virtual-reality-mobile-app-development-cost/

[seventabletsinc]

How Augmented Reality Apps are Transforming Visual Arts

The visual arts world requires creativity, precision and a passion for innovation. While some purists believe that technology should not play a role in art, artists are leveraging technology to approach their work in new ways.

One technology that is making waves is augmented reality (AR), which adds digital content to the real world via a smartphone’s camera. In fact, there are some sophisticated augmented reality apps for art that are revolutionizing the industry, allowing artists to expand their range and toolbox.

Enhancing the Real World With Augmented Reality Apps for Art

An AR app called Trace and Draw lets visual artists trace the real world onto their smart device. Artists can save an image to their mobile device and incorporate it into the live camera feed. Then, the user can trace the image while it’s on the screen of the mobile device. The ability to sketch real images onto a live camera feed helps streamline the process that many graphic designers go through when combining images.

Users can also make adjustments such as image transparency or add filters that help to minimize busy backgrounds. Plus, the app includes guiding lines that make it easier for users to determine the horizontal and vertical lines of the world in front of them.

Visual artists can use apps such as these to expand their creative endeavors or more effectively complete art for commercial applications, such as logo creation. They could even place their sketches over the real world to create graphics of historically important places in order to bolster that region’s tourism. It’s also conceivable that developers could create an app that captures videos of the real world with digitally-overlayed images, sketches and animations on top of them for marketing purposes.

Test What Artwork Will Look Like in Your Home

Homeowners hoping to see what certain art will look like hanging on their walls can now do so thanks to augmented reality. A few years ago, IKEA released an app that allows users to virtually examine what certain furniture would look like in their homes, considering lighting, shades and depth perception. Artsy developed a similar augmented reality app that allows users to examine what a certain painting or print would look like in their home. The Artsy app also makes it easy to add a piece to your cart and purchase it.

Art.com created a similar app. It includes more than 800,000 works of art and it sizes them accurately in order to see how they would look on your wall. Users can choose from different framing options and place multiple works of art next to each other to see how they would fit together in a gallery setting.

Apps such as these support artists by making it easier for consumers to select and purchase artwork. Art can be expensive, but augmented reality is helping consumers get an accurate idea of how a piece would fit into their home with a low margin of error so they can buy with confidence.

Changing the Modern Museum Setting With AR

Augmented reality is already impacting what is accepted in the art world by enhancing the role of 3D technology. In fact, some museums are adopting AR technology, as is the case with New York’s iconic Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Less than a year ago, a group of artists transformed the Jackson Pollock gallery into an AR wonderland.

To the naked eye, the Pollock gallery looked the same, consisting of drip paintings that are as disturbing as they are beautiful. However, users with the MoMAR Gallery app can see additional content via their mobile devices, transforming (or mutilating) the artwork into new creations with a digital twist. This could be just the beginning of a global movement to reinterpret museum artwork using the power of AR.

Augmented reality can also add history and context to artwork in museums. In 1990, thieves stole thirteen works of art from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston, costing the institution roughly $500 million. Later, a startup developed an AR app designed to recreate images of the missing paintings on their original frames. As a result, patrons with the app can still view the stolen paintings, in addition to learning more about how the heist happened.

Ultimately, augmented reality can serve as an additional tool for visual artists to expand their craft in a digital, three-dimensional environment. Artists and museums can also use it to transform classic works of art or offer more context on certain pieces. Individual artists, graphic design groups, museums and other teams of artists have been on the hunt for new ways to incorporate technology into their work, and AR is at the cusp of this movement.

Developing an augmented reality app for art requires a flair for both creative and solid technical skills. Fortunately, that’s precisely what you’ll find at SevenTablets. We specialize in custom mobile app development and augmented reality. In addition, we work with other emerging technologies, including Internet of Things, machine learning, artificial intelligence and natural language processing.

SevenTablets is headquartered in Dallas. However, we also serve clients in Austin, Houston, and beyond. If you’re ready to discuss your augmented reality app development project, we invite you to contact us today.

Reach out to our team today! hbspt.forms.create({ portalId: "1760668", formId: "7a1d929d-d378-443a-a048-9888a5e199a1" });

The post How Augmented Reality Apps are Transforming Visual Arts appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/how-augmented-reality-apps-are-transforming-visual-arts/

[seventabletsinc]

The Top 4 Mobile App UX Design Tips

There are many common mobile app user experience (UX) design mistakes that developers make when they focus on maximizing revenue from an impersonal, logical standpoint. An app should feel intuitive for users, helping to connect them with your brand on a more human level.  

A strong UX can increase customer satisfaction and loyalty rates, so it’s important to carefully consider how to craft the perfect experience for your users. Here are four of the top mobile app UX design tips you should keep in mind.

#1: Consider Your Target Audience

First, research your industry and determine the exact audience you’re aiming for. What do your users need or want and how can your app cater to those interests?

A good practice is to create a user persona. A persona is usually a one or two-page document that includes goals, skills, education, behavior patterns, attitudes towards the industry and biographical information for your typical user. By putting yourself in the shoes of your users, you can be sure your design will meet their needs.

You can even create charts that measure how adept your target users are at various skills such as social media, mobile apps, search engines and more. Personality charts are helpful as well, as you can measure factors such as how extroverted they are or what sorts of colors or patterns might capture their interest.

#2: Focus on the Core Features and Functionalities

Because mobile screens are smaller than desktops, mobile apps should have a more simplified, optimized design. So, lay out everything very clearly, showing your users the basic functionalities they can access.

The navigation process should be simple, containing as few words and images as possible to lead your user from one page to another. Adding too many features to your app for the sake of showing your technical prowess can actually negatively impact the UX, especially if users are overwhelmed with content and commands when they first open the app.

Instead, be sure your app is focused on the core features and functionalities that your users will want. If you find yourself getting lost in the weeds, it’s helpful to remind yourself of the main goal for the app.

A call-to-action (CTA) is an important design element as well, as this button activates the core functionality of an app. For example, the CTA of a retail app would be a button that allows you to complete a purchase. The CTA should clearly define the desired action to avoid any confusion. In retail, a poorly designed CTA could lead to chargebacks. The CTA button should also be as visible and approachable as possible so that users won’t get frustrated hunting for it.

#3: Simplify the Navigation Process

The navigation process is an integral part of the UX, and keeping it simple is essential. Even if your features are nearly perfect, poor navigation can be the death knell to the most promising of applications.

Your app should be unique in the sense that it mirrors your specific brand in a way that no other company can replicate. However, the UX still should feel familiar to your users, which means understanding the app design trends in your particular industry. Having navigation patterns that make sense to your users will help ensure they get to enjoy the full functionalities of your app.  

Transitions and other visual elements should not detract from the content; rather, they should be simple and sophisticated. Don’t get too flashy with your navigation features, as this can make things confusing for users. Ultimately, the simpler it is for your users to move from point A to point B in your app, the stronger the UX will be.

#4: Make Text Legible and Accessible

Your app should be accessible for everyone, not just users with 20/20 vision and nimble thumbs. As such, be sure any text is large enough for most individuals to easily read. The text size should be at least 11 points, as this will ensure that most users will be able to read the text without zooming in.

Font matters too, so choose a typeface that is legible in multiple sizes and weights. In addition, the color contrast between the text and the background is important; grey text on a pale blue background may leave readers squinting to make out the words. Be sure the colors you choose allow the text and other important elements to stand out.

Also, keep in mind that some users have large thumbs. There are few things more frustrating than clicking on a screen repeatedly without any response. When designing your app, check that the touch points are large enough for any user to access easily, regardless of what type of device they’re using. Plus, there should be a decent amount of space between touch points, as users may become frustrated if they try to click one button and end up on a different page frequently.

Leveraging Mobile App UX Design Tips

A successful mobile app UX design begins with putting yourself in the shoes of your target users and determining what would help them reap the most benefits from your application. Keep things simple in terms of content, features and navigation. Removing clutter and creating a straight path to the core functionality of your app will bolster the UX greatly, allowing users to truly make the most of your app.

Remember, a strong UX begins with a skilled developer. The team at SevenTablets provides custom mobile app development and is proficient in crafting effective, engaging UX designs. In addition, we are well-versed in many emerging technologies, including augmented reality, virtual reality, Internet of Things, machine learning, artificial intelligence and natural language processing.

While SevenTablets is headquartered in Dallas, we also serve clients in Austin, Houston, and across the U.S. To discuss your project, please contact us today.

The post The Top 4 Mobile App UX Design Tips appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/the-top-4-mobile-app-ux-design-tips/

[seventabletsinc]

2019-2020 Retail Forecast: The Top 5 Tech Trends

The retail industry has been evolving at a rapid pace in recent years thanks to the exponential growth of technological advancements designed to aid retail businesses. There are plenty of exciting new developments in the retail sphere that became more prominent in 2018 and are expected to reach even more companies in 2019.

Worldwide retail tech spending is slated to grow by 3.6% from 2018 to 2019, reaching $203.6 billion in 2019, according to Gartner. So, where is that money going? Well, our 2019 retail forecast shows that retailers are investing more money in technological operations designed to make the shopping experience more convenient and personalized for customers.

Predictive Analytics Will Transform Retail in 2019

Machine learning (ML), consisting of technology that gathers large amounts of data and identifies patterns within them, will continue to gain prominence. Predictive analytics (PA) takes this concept a step further by predicting future behavior and trends using data—an ability that is particularly useful in the retail sphere.

Retailers are focusing on ways to optimize the inventory management and stocking process, as having too much or too little of a product can hurt your bottom line. Fortunately, PA makes it easy for businesses to lower the amount they spend on inventory while also ensuring that the stock they’re buying leads to sales. Advanced analytical algorithms can determine high-demand areas and growing sales trends with the goal of optimizing delivery to ensure that the right items go to the right stores.

The technology also helps retailers set optimal prices—a process that has traditionally relied on historical data and seasonal trends. However, the growth of e-commerce has pushed many businesses to find new ways to set prices, as seasonal sales are not as significant when buying items online.

With PA, retailers can determine the best times to increase or lower prices gradually, which is more effective than drastically changing a price. ML and PA can consider inventory levels, prices from competition, and current demand. Based on this data, businesses can learn how they should adjust their prices. As a result, sales will increase and you will lose fewer customers to artificially inflated prices.

Improve the Return and Exchange Process for Everyone

Naturally, a high rate of returns and exchanges can be harmful to a retail business, and this is especially true now that worldwide online sales are increasing. To address this issue, startup ZigZag has been working alongside the likes of Gap to monitor the quality of returned products, retag them and send them back to the parent company for re-processing. This strategy provides clearer communication channels and more specific instructions for customers to help them with returns and exchanges.

Working with a business such as ZigZag eases the financial burden on retailers when it comes to returns and exchanges, but companies will also likely develop their own solutions. For instance, an e-commerce site could create a mobile app that includes a returns and exchanges feature that guides customers through the process of returning or trading an item. An internal app could also be developed to streamline the sorting and quality control process.

In addition to managing returns and exchanges, retailers need to find ways to reduce the number that occur in the first place. For instance, retailers can add videos alongside product descriptions online, giving consumers a clear idea of what the product is and how to use it.

Improving Security

Retailers, especially e-commerce sites, fear the possibility of a data breach exposing the personal information of its customers. In order to combat this concern, more retailers will migrate their data and applications to the cloud to protect their servers and databases. Cloud storage is more secure because it is typically easier for cybercriminals to tap into a centralized storage location such as a computer or mobile device. The cloud also offers more advanced encryption features.

In addition to traditional cybersecurity practices such as firewalls and having the https:// security protocol, more online retailers will add multi-factor authentication. Retailers may also require employees to use two-step logins that only allow workers who have both their computer and their mobile devices to log into the company’s servers.

Implementing such security features will go a long way towards keeping cybercriminals at bay. And as hackers become more sophisticated with their attacks, retailers will spend more to protect their data.

Real-Time Inventory Management and an Omnichannel Approach

Online retailers have been steadily shifting towards an omnichannel approach, meaning that they market to consumers through multiple channels such as mobile applications, email ads and desktop sites. The idea is that knowing how to reach consumers through the right platform will help increase sales and customer brand loyalty.

More businesses are investing in omnichannel marketing as purchasing behaviors continue to change. Real-time inventory management is a key element of this movement. After all, an omnichannel strategy can only succeed if a retailer’s supply chain, orders, and inventories are all in sync across every channel.

Such synchronization paves the way for offering multiple delivery options, which shows customers that your business is flexible enough to accommodate different shopping preferences. For instance, a retailer could deliver straight to customers’ doorsteps, let them pick up the item at a store, or let them return items in-store that they bought online.

In order to successfully run an omnichannel approach, there needs to be a single-echelon inventory control that updates your inventory. Single-echelon inventory control monitors and shares the location of items with all stores in real-time. This route also ensures that every store has the same information regarding item pricing, as lags in price updates can lower a retailer’s profit margin.

Tapping Into the Potential of Blockchain

Everyone’s heard of blockchain at this point and for good reason; the technology that serves as the backbone of cryptocurrencies has plenty of potential moving forward. Blockchain consists of decentralized digital ledgers designed to transmit financial information or other data.

When it comes to Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, blockchain offers retailers a more affordable way of accepting payments, helping to reduce transaction fees. Customer payments become more secure and customers can enjoy greater flexibility in terms of how they pay for items.

Additionally, blockchain can be used to track and trace an item from production to store to consumer. Such visibility helps ensure that retail businesses are meeting the necessary regulations and requirements in their industry.

Blockchain is also making it possible to share product warranty information from a retailer’s servers via the cloud, making it easy to update or transfer a warranty at a moment’s notice. This reduces some of the administrative roadblocks associated with managing product warranties.

2019-2020 Retail Forecast

In the upcoming year, we will see budding technologies expand in some very exciting ways. Thanks to these advancements, retail operations will become faster and more secure, with customers enjoying a more flexible and convenient shopping experience. It’s all about leveraging cutting-edge technology to help retail businesses reach their full potential.

Hoping to develop an app for your retail business? If so, you will need an experienced, talented group of developers by your side. The team at SevenTablets specializes in custom mobile app development with experience in the retail world specifically. We also offer services related to a host of emerging technologies, including augmented reality, blockchain, Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud hosting and predictive analytics.

SevenTablets has headquarters in Dallas, but we also work with clients in Austin, Houston, and beyond. If you’re ready to discuss your project, we hope you will contact us today.

The post 2019-2020 Retail Forecast: The Top 5 Tech Trends appeared first on SevenTablets.

from SevenTablets https://seventablets.com/blog/2019-2020-retail-forecast-the-top-5-tech-trends/