#Data Analytics Introduction

[strategiadvizo]

Elevating Employability: Short-Term Course Suggestions for College Students

Empower your future with our latest blog on short-term courses for college students! 🚀 Enhance your employability and unlock new opportunities. Dive in to discover courses that fit your passion and career goals. #EmpowermentThroughEducation #SkillUp

“विद्या ददाति विनयं, विनयाद् याति पात्रताम्।” “Education bestows humility, humility leads to worthiness.” In a world that’s constantly evolving, the importance of education—especially for students from lesser-known colleges in India—cannot be overstated. Education not only paves the way for personal growth but also significantly boosts employability in today’s competitive job market. Here are…

[vuelitics1]

Unlock the power of Business Intelligence (BI) and elevate your business to new heights! In this video, we break down the fundamentals of BI, showing you how data-driven decisions can transform your company. Learn about the core components of BI, including Data Collection, Integration, Analysis, and Visualization, and discover why BI is essential for making informed decisions. Key Takeaways: Understand the basics of Business Intelligence Learn the key steps involved in BI Discover the benefits of BI for your business See real-world examples of BI in action Whether you're new to BI or looking to deepen your understanding, this video is for you. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights on how to leverage BI for your business growth! Helpful Resources: Explore our blog for more in-depth articles: https://vuelitics.com/blog

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[juliebowie]

Introduction to Big Data: Understanding the Fundamentals

In an era dominated by digital transformation, the term “Big Data” has become ubiquitous, symbolizing a seismic shift in how organizations collect, process, and utilize vast amounts of information. From enhancing business strategies to driving innovation across various sectors, Big Data has proven to be a cornerstone of the modern technological landscape.

This blog delves into the essence of Big Data, exploring its fundamentals, characteristics, sources, technologies, and applications, and concludes with an invitation to elevate your Data Science skills through Pickl.AI’s Data Science course.

Introduction

Big Data represents a paradigm shift in the way data is harnessed and leveraged for insights. Traditional data management techniques fall short in handling the volume, velocity, and variety of data generated in today’s interconnected world. Understanding Big Data is crucial for anyone aiming to thrive in a data-driven environment.

Definition of Big Data

Big Data refers to the massive, complex datasets that are beyond the capabilities of traditional data processing tools to manage and analyze. It encompasses data that is not only large in size but also varied in type and generated at an unprecedented speed. The defining characteristics of Big Data, often referred to as the three Vs — Volume, Velocity, and Variety — help in understanding its scope and challenges.

Volume: Refers to the enormous amount of data generated every second. Examples include data from social media platforms, sensors, transactions, and more.

Velocity: Describes the speed at which data is generated and processed. Real-time data processing is a key aspect of Big Data.

Variety: Encompasses the different types of data, including structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data such as text, images, video, and more.

Importance of Big Data in Today’s Digital Landscape

The significance of Big Data lies in its potential to unlock valuable insights and drive decision-making processes across various domains. Here’s why Big Data is vital in today’s digital landscape:

Enhanced Decision Making: By analyzing vast amounts of data, organizations can make more informed and accurate decisions.

Improved Customer Experience: Big Data allows businesses to understand customer behavior and preferences, leading to personalized services and improved satisfaction.

Operational Efficiency: Data-driven insights help in optimizing operations, reducing costs, and improving efficiency.

Innovation and Development: Big Data fuels innovation by providing the necessary insights for developing new products and services.

Competitive Advantage: Companies leveraging Big Data can gain a significant edge over competitors by quickly adapting to market trends and customer needs.

Characteristics of Big Data

Big Data is characterized by the following attributes, often expanded from the initial three Vs to include more dimensions:

Volume: Refers to the vast quantities of data generated from various sources.

Velocity: The speed at which data is generated, collected, and analyzed.

Variety: The diverse types of data, including structured, semi-structured, and unstructured formats.

Veracity: The quality and accuracy of data, addressing issues such as data inconsistency and uncertainty.

Value: The potential of Big Data to generate actionable insights and business value.

These characteristics highlight the challenges and opportunities associated with managing and analyzing Big Data.

Sources of Big Data

Big Data is generated from multiple sources, each contributing to the vast pool of information. Key sources include:

Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram generate vast amounts of user data through posts, comments, and interactions.

Sensors and IoT Devices: Devices connected to the Internet of Things (IoT) generate continuous streams of data from various applications, including smart homes, industrial equipment, and wearable technology.

Transactional Data: E-commerce sites, banking, and other financial services generate massive datasets from transactions and customer interactions.

Web and Log Data: Data generated from web traffic, server logs, and online interactions provide insights into user behavior and system performance.

Multimedia Data: Images, videos, audio files, and other multimedia content contribute significantly to Big Data, particularly with the rise of platforms like YouTube and Instagram.

Public Data: Government databases, research publications, and open data initiatives provide valuable datasets for analysis and innovation.

Big Data Technologies

Handling Big Data requires specialized technologies and tools designed to manage, process, and analyze large and complex datasets efficiently. Key Big Data technologies include:

Hadoop Ecosystem

Hadoop is an open-source framework that allows for the distributed processing of large datasets across clusters of computers using simple programming models. Key components include:

Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS): A scalable and fault-tolerant file system designed to store large datasets.

MapReduce: A programming model for processing and generating large datasets with a parallel, distributed algorithm.

YARN: A resource management layer for scheduling and handling resource requests from applications.

Hive: A data warehousing solution that provides SQL-like querying capabilities.

Apache Spark

Apache Spark is an open-source, distributed computing system known for its speed and ease of use in processing large datasets. It provides an in-memory computing framework, making it much faster than Hadoop’s MapReduce.

NoSQL Databases

NoSQL databases are designed to handle unstructured and semi-structured data, providing flexibility and scalability. Examples include:

MongoDB: A document-oriented NoSQL database.

Cassandra: A highly scalable, distributed NoSQL database designed for handling large amounts of data across many commodity servers.

HBase: A scalable, distributed database that supports structured data storage for large tables.

Data Processing and ETL Tools

Tools for extracting, transforming, and loading (ETL) data are crucial for preparing Big Data for analysis. Examples include:

Apache NiFi: An integrated data logistics platform for automating the movement of data between systems.

Talend: A platform that provides tools for data integration, data management, and data quality.

Data Analysis and Visualization Tools

Analyzing and visualizing Big Data requires specialized tools to uncover insights and present them effectively. Key tools include:

Apache Spark MLlib: A machine learning library for Apache Spark, providing algorithms for classification, regression, clustering, and more.

Tableau: A data visualization tool that allows for the creation of interactive and shareable dashboards.

Power BI: A business analytics service by Microsoft, providing interactive visualizations and business intelligence capabilities.

Applications of Big Data

Big Data has transformative potential across various sectors, driving innovation and improving efficiency. Explore how Big Data transforms industries through applications in healthcare, finance, retail, transportation, energy, and entertainment.

Learn how predictive analytics, personalized recommendations, route optimization, and smart grids enhance efficiency, improve customer experiences, and drive innovation across various sectors, making data-driven decisions a cornerstone of modern business strategies.

Healthcare

Big Data is revolutionizing healthcare by enabling personalized medicine, improving patient outcomes, and enhancing operational efficiency. With its features, Big Data can transform the healthcare industry. The following list shows the same:

Predictive Analytics: Identifying patterns and predicting patient outcomes, enabling proactive care and early intervention.

Genomic Research: Analyzing large-scale genomic data to understand genetic disorders and develop targeted therapies.

Operational Efficiency: Optimizing hospital operations, reducing wait times, and improving resource allocation.

Finance

The financial industry leverages Big Data to enhance decision-making, manage risks, and improve customer experiences. These include the following:

Fraud Detection: Using advanced analytics to identify and prevent fraudulent activities in real-time.

Risk Management: Analyzing market trends and customer data to assess and mitigate financial risks.

Customer Insights: Understanding customer behavior and preferences to offer personalized financial products and services.

Retail

In retail, Big Data helps businesses understand customer preferences, optimize supply chains, and enhance marketing strategies. Some of the key applications of Big Data in retail industry are highlighted below:

Customer Analytics: Analyzing purchasing patterns to offer personalized recommendations and improve customer loyalty.

Inventory Management: Optimizing stock levels and reducing waste by predicting demand and managing supply chains efficiently.

Marketing Optimization: Tailoring marketing campaigns to target specific customer segments and maximize ROI.

Transportation and Logistics

Big Data is transforming transportation and logistics by improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing customer experiences. The following list showcases how Big Data is used in the transportation and logistics industry:

Route Optimization: Analyzing traffic patterns and delivery routes to optimize transportation and reduce fuel consumption.

Predictive Maintenance: Using sensor data to predict and prevent equipment failures, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

Supply Chain Visibility: Providing real-time insights into supply chain operations, improving transparency and efficiency.

Energy

The energy sector leverages Big Data to optimize production, manage consumption, and improve sustainability. Some of its key applications are listed below:

Smart Grids: Analyzing data from smart meters and sensors to optimize energy distribution and reduce outages.

Predictive Maintenance: Monitoring equipment and infrastructure to predict and prevent failures, improving reliability.

Energy Consumption: Analyzing consumption patterns to promote energy efficiency and reduce waste.

Entertainment

In the entertainment industry, Big Data is used to understand audience preferences, optimize content delivery, and enhance user experiences. Here are some of the key applications of Big Data that are transforming the entertainment industry.

Content Recommendation: Using data analytics to recommend personalized content to users on streaming platforms.

Audience Analytics: Understanding viewer behavior and preferences to inform content creation and marketing strategies.

Revenue Optimization: Analyzing data from ticket sales, merchandise, and advertising to maximize revenue streams.

Conclusion

The advent of Big Data has fundamentally transformed the way organizations operate, providing unprecedented opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and growth. From healthcare to finance, retail to energy, Big Data is driving advancements and enabling data-driven decision-making across various sectors.

Understanding the fundamentals and applications of Big Data is essential for anyone looking to thrive in today’s digital landscape.

To harness the full potential of Big Data, a strong foundation in Data Science is crucial. If you’re ready to embark on a journey to become a proficient data scientist, consider enrolling in Pickl.AI’s Data Science course. This comprehensive program offers hands-on training and expert guidance to equip you with the skills needed to excel in the field of Data Science.

Start your journey with Pickl.AI and transform your career with the best Data Science program available. Join now and unlock the power of Big Data to drive your success.

[themanjeet]

Introduction to Data Analytics

In today’s world, businesses are generating more data than ever before. This data can be used to gain insights into customer behavior, identify trends, and make better business decisions.

https://medium.com/@rolandmack63/introduction-to-data-analytics-1dd13bef5ab8

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[peachesofteal]

Soap x Cypher's masterlist 18+ mdni / dark and twisty themes / dubcon / explicit, spanking Soap/female reader Sergeant MacTavish teaches you a lesson about honesty

"Cypher."

"Yeah?" You barely look up, too focused on the raw data that's filtering across your screen.

"Laswell asked for you." You don't hear it at first, the request. You're too lost in the lines and lines of code, numbers, letters, symbols all working together, where is it, where- "Cypher!" your coworker barks, and you jump.

"Shit. Sorry... what?"

"Laswell. Upstairs. Briefing room. Now?" Your lips quirk, head hanging. Yeah, guess you deserved that.

"Did she say for what?"

"No. And it's not my place to ask." They jerk their head, and you lockdown your console. Fine.

Station Chief Laswell scares you. She's probably one of the smartest people you've ever met, quick with analysis, observation, she can read a situation from top to bottom in less than three seconds. She knows everyone, and everything.

And, she handles the 141.

You don't have frequent interaction with her. You report to her, ultimately, but it's hard to understand where she falls on the org chart. It's hard to understand where you fall on the org chart, if you're being honest, since you're not military, just a civilian contractor. All of the authoritative titling and chain of command makes your head spin a little bit, and you've pretty much decided to ignore it all. Keep your head down, do your job, mind your ps and qs. Your yes sirs and no sirs.

You tap your knuckles against the briefing room door.

"Come in." It's a man's voice, a deep, smooth voice with a British accent, and it makes you pause, confused. I thought Laswell was up here?

You push the door open, hesitantly, and what you find makes your stomach nearly crawl up into your mouth.

The 141 are in here. You glance around hastily before finding Laswell, eyes a little wider than you’re comfortable with. They’re all seated at the table, looking at you, and when you peek at Sergeant MacTavish, he cocks his head so subtly, you might have missed it. Fuck. Shit. Why is he looking at you like that? You think you might pass out. Why do you feel like this around him?

"Gentleman. This is the civilian specialist I told you about." She gestures to you, giving them your government name before continuing, and they all nod. "This is Captain Price, Lieutenant Riley, Sergeant Garrick, and Sergeant MacTavish." She points to each, making the introductions to which you nod, and smile, trying as hard as you can to make eye contact so they don't think you're rude. When she gets to MacTavish, your stomach heats, and on instinct, your eyes drop to the floor before glancing back up to find him focused on you, jaw tight, eyes narrowed.

"You're Cypher." Lieutenant Riley comments, and you nod, surprised. How does he know you?

"That's uh... my nickname. Sir."

“Cypher is our resident analytics expert, and we believe she’s located your targets.” Laswell continues, tapping a key on her laptop that wakes up the black screen of the giant TV. You do a double take when you see your work up there, your lists of compiled data, cross matched and sorted. “I was hoping you could walk them through some of this.” Oh. Oh no. Talk to them?

“Uh okay.” Your fingers find each other, instinctually, trying to pick and tear at your skin as your heart rate speeds up. “This is-“ you glance at the screen, and then back at their expectant faces. Sergeant MacTavish is watching you, predatory gleam in his eyes, and you gulp. Is it hot in here? It’s hot in here. “This is a highlight of hot zones in two different target cities. It’s pulled from local agencies’ databases, everything from license plate readers to residency records, IP hits and census information. After cross matching with all possible identities for your targets, family members, associated persons, patterns of behavior, I confidently believe I've identified and located your subjects, and they reside in these areas.”

"You know who they are?" The Captain asks, surprised, and you nod.

“How confident are ye?” Sergeant MacTavish asks, and you blink.

“Uh, like ninety percent” He looks… displeased. “Sir.” You tack on at the end, hoping to see some sort of approval for it, and when it doesn’t come, the ache inside you widens.

“I like those odds. Heard you were good, but this is something' else. Our intelligence has been working on ID'ing these guys for months with no luck.” Sergeant Garrick raises an eyebrow, exchanging a look with his Captain, and you brighten a little bit. Okay, that’s good. Right? You did good?

“Not sure ninety percent is good enough.” Sergeant MacTavish answers, and Laswell nods like she agrees. You wilt. Welp. And now your boss agrees. “Can ye show me the raw data?”

“I- sure, it’s…” you snap your mouth shut abruptly when he stands, and motions for you to follow him out the door.

“Let’s go then.”

You don’t make it back down to your console. Instead, he pushes you inside a maintenance closet, hand firm on your shoulder, guiding you down to your knees in the back, behind a shelf.

“Sergeant I don’t understand, I-“

“Ye tryin’ to send us out on a wild goose chase?”

“What?” You stare up at him, jaw slack. He’s terrifying, lit by damp, yellow light, arms crossed in front of his chest. There’s something in the way he looks at you, something that makes your thighs press together instinctively and at the same time, your heart starts palpitating. “Sir, I don’t-“ his hand darts forward, pinching your cheeks between his thumb and forefinger, squishing them just a bit with a menacing smile.

"Are ye tryin' to send us on a wild goose chase? Yes or no, specialist."

"Nossir." It mushes together in your mouth, vowels trapped between your cheeks, and he nods.

"I didnae think ye were." He releases you, only to step closer, and you gulp when his hands find the waistband of your pants. "Take these to yer knees. Now."

"My... my pants?"

"Aye." When you don't move, he sighs. "Ye dinnae want me to have to ask a second time, do ye?" And no, you don't. Because you're sure whatever is coming will be far worse if you test his patience.

It's humiliating, dropping the pants to your knees, and the mortification gets even worse when his finger slips under the hem of your very boring, generic brand black cotton thong, pulling it with a yank so it jerks you forward and you almost trip.

"Sergeant... Sir, I'm sorry, I-"

"Why are ye sorry? Stay put." He turns away for a second, locating an old, fold up chair that he sets up where he was standing, settling into it with his knees spread. "Now, come."

"I'm sorry, I don't know why... why this is happening, I don't understand." You try to explain your confusion, but it all comes out as nonsense, and he nods, sympathetically, like he's sad for you, in a mocking, cruel way.

He taps his thigh.

"Hips here." He instructs, moving you like a doll when you start to bend down, pressing your belly against one leg, your breasts and collarbone against the other, ass in the air. "Bleedin' Christ. Ye sure are a sight." He squeezes you, fingers rough in the swell of your cheeks, before smoothing over the skin of your hip, pressing a firm palm to the small of your back. "Do ye know why we're doin' this?"

"No." You whisper, eyes closed. You don't know why you're doing any of this, why he's doing it. You don't know why he picked you, why he keeps you in his sights, why he has you bent over his knee. You don't know why you felt floaty and fucked up after the first time, why you dreamt about it, why you felt like you needed it. This is wrong. Isn't it? He swats your ass, barely a tap, and you flinch. "Sir. Sorry. Sir."

"Ye said you were ninety percent."

"I did."

"But I know, ye're better than ninety percent, aren't ye, my wee genius?" Your lungs are burning with the breath you're holding, and you let it out in a burst.

"Yes." You whisper to the floor.

"Why did ye lie?" The question is followed by a swing of air, and then a palm is stinging across your skin, pin prickles of pain making you whimper. "Count."

"One-e." You gasp. He doesn't pull his punches. He strikes fast. True. Twice in a row, the intensity making you choke on a whine. "Two, three. I didn't."

"Ye did." He rubs the point of impact, cooing at your ass like it needs comfort, before asking again. "Why did ye lie?"

"I wasn't, I-" Smack. This one comes in the exact same spot, a cruel choice, and you bite down on your lip, eyes scrunching shut. "Four."

"Why did ye lie?" You don't answer right away, and he swings, palm swatting down onto your other cheek, skin rippling beneath the hit. It steals your breath, and he prompts you again, with the same question, and you fail to answer, his response coming swiftly against you, smacking raw against burning skin. It's starting to shift now, the pain blurring the lines between uncomfortable and unbearable, while also taking on a different characteristic all together, one that has blood rushing beneath your skin, clit rubbing against the front of your pulled tight thong uncomfortably, not enough contact or pressure to do anything, but enough to drive you insane. You blink, trying to keep yourself together, trying to prevent floating away into space somewhere.

"Sir!" You pant, and he laughs, shadow of a hand swinging through the air, landing against you with a resounding crack.

"Tell me. Why did ye lie?"

"I-" You scramble for an answer. Why did you lie? Why didn't you just say the truth, the facts. What you knew, without a doubt. Why did you lie? "I was scared."

"Of what?"

"Of... of the room. Of making a mistake."

"But ye didnae make a mistake. Ye found a needle in a haystack." You nod. He's right, you did. "So the next time I ask ye how confident ye are, ye say one hundred. Ye tell everyone in that room, that ye did something other people can't, and ye own it."

"Y-yes sir." You whisper, and he runs a palm over the screaming skin of your ass.

"Good girl." He murmurs, your lower lip trembling. "Ye did good for me. So good."

"Thank you." You sniffle, and he shifts your body, lowering you to your knees in front of the chair, pants bunched under your bones like a little cushion.

"Sir?" You ask, confused as he pats your cheek, bending to press a long, hot kiss to your mouth, fingertips stroking across your pussy, overtop your underwear, before pulling back with a devilish smirk.

“Open.” He instructs, and your eyes widen. “Not goin’ tell ye again, sweet Cy. Open. Now.” You do, lips parting, mouth cranking wide, and he removes his fingers, hand drifting to his pants. Oh, fuck.

If your mouth wasn’t already hanging open, it would have dropped to the floor when he pulled his cock free. It’s long, long enough that it’s intimidating, and thick, probably as wide as your wrist, flushed red at the tip. There’s a bead of pre come dripping from the head, cozy crop of brown curls at the base.

“S-s-sir.” You squeak, and he smiles, cupping the back of your head as he taps your lips with it. "It won't- I can't, it's too-"

"I'll teach ye." He grunts, feeding you his cock slowly, tears falling down over your cheeks when he presses it into the back of your throat, as much as you can go, not even to the root yet. "That's it. Jus' like that, easy." He uses your mouth, your face, hand firm on the back of your head, stroking in and out between your lips until they go numb, faster and faster until you believe you might pass out, cock head jamming down past your tongue, blocking your airway with each thrust. You think you might black out. You could be blacked out right now, and not even know. You're not positive you're still in your body, the body with a sore, stinging ass, wet pussy, and occupied mouth, your Sergeant using you as he sees fit, determined to possess you like some sort of demon. You gag on him, throat seizing, and he pushes through it, bound and determined, your name a ragged whisper whistling through his teeth. "Fuck, swallow it. Dinnae lose a drop." He grits, and then plunges all the way, flooding you with sticky, sour salted earth that pours down your throat, hot come dripping down into your stomach.

You sit there, on your knees, after, stunned, unmoving. He shifts around you, pulling your pants up, fixing your hair, wiping your face. He's speaking to you too, murmuring soft words in your ear, lips touching your cheek, your temple, something about how good you are, how sweet, how he's not going to let anything happen to you, how you don't have to worry, because he's here now- and you slip into it like you're falling into your bed, closing your eyes and drifting away, melting into his side when he gathers you up, cradles you against his chest.

"C'mon sweet Cy. Let's get ye to bed."

[copperbadge]

I am so close to being done with Royals/Ramblers I can taste it, and it's one of those frustrating situations where the last remaining work to be done is just annoying. I have to write one damn scene, which of course is the most emotionally fraught and difficult one, and then pick from the *counts on fingers* three separate versions of the epilogue I wrote, none of which are very satisfying. I'll probably slam them all together and then sort it out somehow.

And then I definitely have to give the whole thing one more pass before I think about posting, because it's going to clock in at right around 150K words, and I already have notes on continuity issues that need fixing.

Anyway, please enjoy this scene, in which I realized at the same time Gregory and Eddie did what a great joke their names make. (Some brief context -- Joan uses she/her but doesn't like the word "princess", so she chose the gender neutral Princeps as her title.)

Friday evening, when Gregory came on the air for the address, Eddie was sitting next to him, and Joan was leaning on Eddie's shoulder. Her excitement was almost a visible thing; she'd been fussed over that afternoon, Gregory helping her pick out clothing followed by Jerry doing her makeup for camera and Eddie doing a slightly less clumsy job of braiding her hair than she generally did. 

"Good evening, Fons-Askaz, Askazer-Shivadlakia, our neighbors, and our viewers abroad," Gregory said. Behind the camera, Jerry mouthed the words along with him absently. "I'm pleased to greet you all this Friday evening and I hope you're well. I find myself, for the second time in a year, setting aside the usual issues of the day and questions from citizens to talk to you about family...."

His idea had been to talk about Joan's history just a little, then introduce her as the newest Royal, their daughter the Princeps. He could use that as a platform to present to the country his new funding package for adoptive families, meant to encourage adoption and support children coming out of the foster system. Each half of that would hopefully make the other half seem less random.

It went pretty smoothly; Eddie chimed in at all the right moments, and Joan got to say a few words of introduction at the end. After he signed off, he gave her a hug and a forehead-kiss and told her she'd done a great job. 

And then Noah, standing with Monday and Jerry behind the camera in the little studio, said, "Well, you crashed the internet again."

Gregory sighed. "Can't blame Eddie this time, can we?" 

"It was only the tourism website, and it wasn't on purpose," Eddie said. 

"He was always breaking my stuff when we were kids," Monday said.

"Nope, this one's all Joan," Noah replied. "As soon as you introduced her as your daughter, traffic started spiking -- palace website, tourism website, and every royals' Photogram."

"Katie in Communications says told you so," Jerry said, already on the phone with her.

"Joan's Photogram is down, looks like bandwidth-suck. And there goes mine, and yours," Noah said, nodding at Gregory. "There's two hashtags trending, PrincessJoan and PrincepsJoan." 

"Let me call my guy at Photogram," Eddie said, taking his phone out. 

"You have a guy just like, at Photogram?" Monday asked.

"Yeah, he handles my requests, I send him sausages," Eddie answered. 

"How is it you simultaneously live in the 22nd century and the 14th?" Monday asked. 

"Have him kill the Princess hashtag," Noah suggested.

"It's fine," Joan said. "They can use it for now, it'll keep things, um." She narrowed her eyes, searching for the word. "Segmented. Spread out the discussion a little."

"Someone's been reading my data analytics memos," Gregory said. 

"You leave 'em out," she pointed out. 

"Good news is people seem excited," Noah continued. "The hashtag's glitching, it's moving so fast, but overall pretty positive," he added.

"Well, we knew this would be intense," Gregory said. Joan, studying her own phone, squeaked. "Joan?" 

"Mas Corbin tagged me," she said, with possibly the most excitement they'd seen from her, at least since her first trip in the Jaguar. 

"The footballer?" Gregory asked, confused.

"Who?" Noah and Eddie chorused. 

"He's a Shivadh footballer, I think he's playing in Ireland right now," Gregory said, and his voice took on a slight edge as he considered some of the reasons a football player might mention his daughter. "What did he say?" 

"Dedicating my next game to my new Princeps JoanMac, long may she reign," Joan read, and Gregory relaxed. "Congrats to Gin&Tonic, she's cute as a button. Mas Corbin thinks I'm cute!"

"Gin and Tonic?" Gregory asked, and then said, "Gregory and Theophile," right as Eddie and Monday both began to laugh. "How did neither of us think of that before?"

"You get used to it," Noah said to Joan. "All kinds of famous people are going to have opinions on you."

"What do I do?!"

"Gram him back," Noah said. "Comment and say thanks and that you're a fan and you'll be watching the game."

"I'm gonna have to do a video with some gin and tonic recipes," Eddie said, as Noah and Joan debated the best wording for her response. Gregory leaned back in his chair, exhaling, and let the chaos happen around him for a minute. 

[lazystar]

Play Like a Gangster

Lee Felix x Fem!Reader 

University AU, Bad Boy!Felix Other idols mentioned: Other SKZ members, ITZY, Lily of NMIXX, Soobin of TXT Warnings: Alcohol consumption, use of unhealthy coping skills, negative self-image on reader’s part, Felix being a slight ass, Miscommunication!!! ANGST!!! Comfort tho is there! Word Count: 5K+ (~5400?)

Obligatory Note: please show your support by giving my work a simple reblog :) this is how tumblr’s algorithm operates and is an easy way to show support to your favorite writers on this site! a “hey this is so good” comment also works :) Thanks!

Your first day of year four of university had finally arrived. The hot August air weighed you down like a blanket of humidity, your thighs chafing as they rubbed against one another at the hemline of your denim shorts. You had chosen your classic first day of fall semester fit, a logo tee from the bookstore, and a pair of shorts along with your Converse. Comfortable, easy to fish out of your still packed suitcase, and cute. 

Fishing your schedule from your student portal app on your phone, you found your first lecture of the day. To your horror and dismay it was a gen ed course you had been dreading, Statistics 101 with Professor Park. You abhorred math more than anything and even more so when you threw in the Greek alphabet. You huffed and walked faster to the lecture hall to get a good seat, and when you arrived you guessed every other student had the same idea because the only seat left was one in the middle of the hall next to an intimidating looking boy with a sharp jawline, silver earrings and dusty blue hair. He looked the complete opposite of you. He was in all black, black tee shirt, long black cargo pants decorated with chains, and black converse. The shoe choice was the only identical fashion choice you both had made. 

“You gonna keep analyzing my outfit like this shit is project runway or are you going to sit down?” His deep Australian accent cut you out of your thoughts. 

“Oh sorry! Ummm I’m sorry — I already said that didn’t I? Anyways I’m Y/N nice to meet ya…” You stuck a hand out to him after setting out your notebook and laptop.

“You are far too cheerful for a 10 AM math lecture. Anyways the name’s Felix, before you ask I’m a senior graphic design major this is just a gen ed for me.” He seemed to notice you deflate as he answered your icebreakers before you could ask. He let out an almost placating gruff laugh after his introduction.

“I’m a senior as well, music marketing major so as much as I wish this wasn’t a required gen ed for me it sadly is. I fucking HATE math!” You sighed as the professor walked into the room. You didn’t notice Felix smile at your extroverted behavior. He knew he was about to become your friend, not by his own accord but he knew that he was now the familiar face in your Monday-Wednesday-Friday morning hour of hell. The professor droned on about the usual syllabus week materials and you began doodling some new logo ideas for your friends’ music group on your notebook paper. Your dissociation was cut off by the professor clearing his throat with an announcement. 

“Okay everyone! This lecture has 100 students, and unfortunately for me the department requires us to have you all complete a semester long project going over a trend of choice through data analytics. So you all will be working with the person sitting directly to your right! No, don't go switching seats, I see you in the back row!” You laughed as your classmates groaned around you at the news of being involuntarily being partnered up. You looked to your right where Felix was already looking your way with a raised brow and a smirk gracing his freckled face. 

“Please tell me you won’t be as high energy all semester” Your new statistics partner sighed almost defeatedly. “Now hand me your phone so I can put my number in it so we can work on this shit or whatever.” You laughed at his statement and handed your phone over to him. 

“Felix, just for the record,  I’m gonna change your contact to Grumpy Pants if you keep acting like this.” You stated as you looked at him through your peripheral vision as he texted himself from your phone. 

“Okay Bubbles.” He chuckled, handing your phone back to you. He had simply texted himself a ‘Hey :) – Bubbles’ making an involuntary grin stretch across your face as you turned to look at him.

“Bubbles?” 

“Powerpuff Girls? Did you grow up uncultured?” He raised a brow at your lack of knowledge of the cartoon. 

“I was only allowed to watch educational stuff as a kid.” 

“It shows.” 

“HEY!” You playfully punched his arm and flipped him off as a deep chuckle emanated from him. This was going to be an entertaining semester for sure.

The semester rolled along, like a slow cross country train ride. Throughout it you and Felix grew closer, much to the chagrin of your friends Lia and Yeji who had said the boy was “bad news”. You didn’t understand how they could judge him without knowing him like you did, how could anyone with such a beautiful smile be “bad news”. Sure he had some bad habits like sneaking a flask into the library for your study sessions, but could you blame him? Statistics would drive anyone to drink unless they were a math wizard like Pythagoras or Einstein. 

“Y/N are you texting him again?” Yeji groaned as she flitted about styling your hair for the party she insisted you attend with her and the other girls from the music group she and Lia were in. It was at the Sigma Kappa Zeta fraternity and you knew Felix was a brother of the frat, so regardless of your girls you always had an in. This though, was a secret from your dear friends as they had prejudged Felix and you didn’t want them to suddenly change their minds so they had an excuse to party.

“Yeah we have that project remember? Plus he was showing me this funny video from that one guy I like on instagram.” You fibbed. This seemed to satisfy her as you two finished getting ready for the ride to the frat house. Lia met you two in front of the dorm and your ride was outside just as you left. You were in for a good night, you could feel it in your bones.

Unfortunately for you, your bones were wrong. The stench of alcohol, weed, and body odor hit your nose like a freight train, you had lost your friends upon entering and Felix was nowhere to be found. One of his frat brothers, Hyunjin had saddled up to you as you made your way to the kitchen for a drink. 

“You’re Felix’s girl right?”He asked as he poured you a vodka and cola...very heavy on the vodka. Concerningly so actually You made a mental note to never ask him to bartend for you again, lest you want a new liver by twenty-five. 

“Oh no we’re just friends, we have a Stats class together, 101 with Professor Park.” You replied sipping on your drink and grimacing at the overly pungent taste of the cheap liquor in it. 

“Oh duh you’re Bubbles then! He always talks about how obnoxious you can be, he asked me once how anyone can be so… I shouldn’t have said that. Don’t-don’t listen to me,disregard anything I just said! I'm wasted.” Unfortunately for the panicking dark haired boy, you were not wasted. You were far too sober for this. Obnoxious? You? You were used to being sometimes a bit too extraverted for some peoples’ tastes but obnoxious? That stung. 

“Heh. No worries Hyunjin, I'll see you around.” With that the boy left. You stayed in the kitchen as your body went into autopilot, you downed your drink then snatched the vodka bottle up before wandering through the crowd to the back porch to find a corner to hide in. You didn’t know why you chose to chase the bile like feeling in your chest down with alcohol. You didn’t usually cope with your emotions in this manner. You were level headed, a marketing student, someone who dabbled with psychology courses for fun, someone who was the advice giver to her friends. Not someone who chose to use unhealthy coping mechanisms. But here you were bottle in hand walking to the porch to sip away the pain. 

“Y/N? Bubbles? What are you doing?” The Aussie you had been searching for before had somehow found you. His voice was riddled with concern, laughable amounts of it in your mind. How could a friend find you obnoxious but then act so caring? Friend, the word now made you almost nauseous. Fuck friends, fuck Felix, you thought. All you wanted was to be numb and alone. 

“Trying to not be obnoxious or something I don’t fucking know.” You grumbled taking a long swig of the liquor from the bottle. You didn’t even grimace this time as the taste had grown too familiar to you. 

“What’s that supposed to mean? Who upset you? Why the fuck are you chugging vodka like water? Who hurt you? I’ll kick their ass!” He barraged you with questions as he tried to slip down to sit beside you and take the bottle out of your hands. You fought back and held the bottle close to you, eventually he gave up seeing that you clearly were unwilling to let go of your vice. He was worried and he just wanted to see what was wrong. An uncomfortable silence filled the space between you two for a moment, until you cleared your throat and turned toward him with an unsettlingly dark look in your eyes.

“Felix, tell me why one of your frat brothers told me not even like twenty minutes ago that you found me obnoxious. Apparently you’re always talking about it. Fuck, the girls were right I should’ve just stayed your project partner and not your friend.” You hissed out and tried to stand, but the large amount of booze in your system made you stumble and nearly fall over like an unstable desk ornament.

“You’re not about to walk away from me in your condition in the middle of this conversation Y/N.”

“Fine then I’ll— I’ll fucking crawl away just leave me alone and find my friends for me. My actual friends who like me and don’t tell their friends I’m fucking obnoxious, too much, too loud, too happy, too bubbly, too ugh whatever you told your friends I’m too much of. Just. Leave. Me. The. FUCK. Alone.” The bite in your words made Felix physically flinch. He had never seen you so angry, especially not at him. You were usually so kind and uplifting to those you met. Not so, so aggressive. It hurt him to see your Y/E/C eyes, all tearful and rage filled. The beautiful eyes he was so used to seeing filled with unbridled happiness. 

“Okay, I’ll-I’ll go. Please just promise me one day you’ll allow me the chance to explain myself to you.” He pleaded, his head hung low, tears filling his own gaze. You have a noncommittal affirmation and he went off finding Yeji and Lia. While you clung to your knees with cries wracking your body, Felix was facing the wrath of the music group you knew as your best friends. 

Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and the newest addition Yuna all glowered at him from the couch as he explained you had gotten mad at him over a mistaken confession he had made when you two had just met. He had not experienced such unbridled happiness from one person before you stepped into his world and he was unsure how to feel. He had chosen his usual method of brisk dismissal and annoyance when discussing you to the frat members those weeks ago. But over the course of the past month or so you had wormed your way into his heart and he had grown fond of your random animal facts, boisterous laughter, and bright sun rivaling smiles. 

“Lee, you fucked up and she was correct in saying we warned her about you. Remember you broke our other friend, Heejin’s heart? You lead her on. You’re not about to do that to our Y/N. She’s our angel, and you sir are some demon for hurting her now. We’ll let you try to make it up to her but I swear to all that is holy if you don’t, you’re fucking dead.” Yeji’s voice carried over the bass that was shaking the house, her voice shook Felix to his very core. “Don’t expect any help from us, ITZY protects our friends, and Y/N is our best friend. Girls go get our baby. I know she needs you right now, I’ll call the uber. Lee Felix you go fess up to Chan and the boys that you fucked up.” She gave Felix a dismissal with her hand and collected you along with the girls in a tight hug. She had her own plan, she was going to recruit her other friend Lily and their mutual friend Soobin into a “Get Y/N over Felix” plan. She had detested the Australian for leading her friend Heejin on the previous fall. She hadn’t known though that it was honestly just an unrequited crush on Heejin’s part and that the Aussie and the other girl had made up. She was so focused on playing the role of mother to her friends she forgot sometimes to look past the details of the story as it was on the page, she didn’t read between the lines. What she witnessed had to be the truth, right?

The days after the party felt like you were in limbo, you had emailed your professors that you had a family emergency and would be out for the subsequent week. Thankfully they all were accommodating and gave you the materials to study in your absence. Felix hadn’t called or texted regarding your project which soon would be having its mid semester check on your progress. You had done your share and emailed him your part so he could work off of your work, you had practically done all you could to avoid him. But now it felt like you were doing too much, caring too much about someone who you had misjudged as someone who was more caring than their hard outer shell. You had read between the lines of who he was a bit too deeply, you had looked to find some sort of positive in someone who had portrayed himself as harsh and cold. Maybe he was just that, cold, uncaring, harsh, a liar. Yeah that’s what he was, a liar, an expert one at that.

You were lounging in your misery of stuffed animals and rewatches of Legally Blonde as Yeji, the girls, and your newer friend Lily barged into your room. 

“Go away girls, leave me to my misery and Elle Woods’ slaying the courtroom!” You groaned out into your pillow.

“Bitch if you don’t get your ass up! You have a date, no don’t give me that face you need some socialization.” Yeji pulled you out of bed and shoved you into the shower before you could protest. Two hours later your hair and makeup were done, you were dressed in a nice cropped sweater, jeans, and boots and shoved out the door to your demise date.

At the campus coffee shop with your favorite iced chai latte in hand sat Soobin. He was a fellow music marketing student and student musician you’d met through the girls. He was someone you’d known in passing, an acquaintance, not someone you expected yourself on a blind date with. But here you were, laughing at his jokes, cooing over photos of his pet hedgehog Odi and enjoying yourself in his company. It felt like getting to know an old friend from years gone by, not like a first date. But you knew in your heart feelings were unlikely to develop. You felt too platonic, too friendly, not flirty, flushed, not like a swarm of butterflies resided in your stomach. You didn’t feel like you did when Felix would offer to rest his jacket across your shoulders when the cold air conditioning of the library would kick on. 

As you sat on your couch talking with Yeji you came to the realization of why it hurt so bad to find out Felix has shit talked you. You liked Felix. His freckles, his smile that would take over his whole face, his blunt sarcastic sense of humor, his playful jabs, his affectionate teasing, you adored it all. 

“Yeji, don’t tell the others please but… I realize why I was so messed up over what happened at Sig Kap.”

“You liked him didn’t you?” She saw your eyes well up with tears as your head fell in what you could only describe as shame. 

“Not just like, I think I fell for him.” She only gave her best sullen smile as she walked across the living room to engulf you in a hug as tears fell like a torrential storm down your cheeks. She softly assured you that you would move on, like you always did when you fought the overwhelming urge to sink into your bed and not get out for days due to the weight of the world crushing your soul. You were strong, but love seemed to fight like a heavyweight champ, hitting you with blows left and right. Chaeryeong walked out of her room as the sound of a broken croak of tearful lament came from you. 

“Y/N baby girl what happened? Did he say something wrong again?” The other girl sat on your left and wrapped her arms around you effectively making you the saddest sandwich ever seen.

“Yeji… I think I really love Felix. I think that’s why I’m so hurt, I owe him a chance to explain himself to me. He looked like bad news but he was the sweetest guy I’ve ever met. I’ve had time to think about it all and I can’t just shut him out, it hurts worse than it helps.” Yeji froze, her comforting hand that had been rubbing your arm ceased, her heart tightened with a sense of urgency. You loved the man that effectively shattered one of her friend’s hearts. You deserved to know what he was like. You NEEDED to know. Before you let him back in, before he broke you more. 

“Y/N did I ever explain why I don’t like Felix?” You shook your head as it rested on her shoulder, her comforting hand resumed rubbing your arm in an almost motherly way. “Remember Heejin? My friend from my hip hop class? They used to talk, like last year. He was like how he was with you, romantic, kind, and sweet. But one day he just drops this bomb. He only saw her as a friend, he lead her on for like ever, they almost made out at the date party SKZ hosted last winter. She was messed up over it for a long time. I don’t want him hurting you more. Also Soobin really liked your date. Did you have a good time?” Her explanation stunned you that you didn’t even register the topic change. Felix was a player. You always picked the wrong guys. You had fallen for an act, a ploy to probably get into your pants and be left in the dust. That’s probably all it was. You shook your head from your spiral of misery and looked over at your friend as she playfully nudged you to encourage you to discuss the date she masterfully put together.

“Soobin was sweet, and really cute! But it felt more like a friendship than a potential relationship. I didn’t really see it going anywhere. On the bright side I think he’s going to make a great friend.” You sighed and sunk more into the couch. The overwhelming urge to cry came over you once again as Chaeryeong and Yeji hugged you tighter and cuddled you. They gently played with your hair and cooed comforting words to you trying to ease the stabbing pain in your chest.

Meanwhile at the SKZ house Chan was consoling a devastated Felix. Weeks had passed and the only word from you he would receive was an email with your slides from your project and some notes on the materials. You had gone from the girl he would destroy a city for to a stranger. It hurt him beyond words, your playful teasing and bubbly affirmations were ripped from his life so abruptly it was like his organs had been ripped out. 

“Chan I fucking love her, I didn’t realize until I lost her. Her friends only see me as a player because of the whole Heejin thing. I wish Heejin just explained that we’re cool now so I have a chance at winning my Bubbles back.” Chan nodded solemnly. 

“I know Lix, I hope she lets you explain soon I hate seeing you like this.”

Jisung overheard the conversation and had an idea, he walked over, bending down he whispered it to Chan with an expression that just screamed that he was some kind of love genius. “Han, that is so stupid it might just work.” Chan called a meeting for the five other house residents to join them at the couches. Operation Y/Nlix was in motion.

As night fell you sat in bed once again sadly watching Legally Blonde. You were about ready to recite the perm monologue as a loud thud of something hitting your window startled you. Going over to gaze out you couldn’t believe your eyes. Out on your apartment complex lawn stood all eight SKZ house residents holding up signs reading Y/N please hear Felix out! We beg! Felix held up his own sign, I know I’m an ass, just one chance please. Once they noticed you were looking at them Changbin cued up a speaker and I Want You Back by the Jackson 5 began blaring out for the whole neighborhood to hear. The girls all piled into your room and gave you the affirmative to go talk to him. You raced down the stairs to run over to the dancing and singing men. 

“Fine! Five Minutes.”

“Y/N uh shit I didn’t think this would work. Okay so I had been having a rough day just after we met and I couldn’t understand how someone could have so much energy and be just so positive all of the time. Your adorable ways of finding some good in everything honestly scared me. That’s why I’d ranted about you. I’m sorry.” He clutched your hands and had tears swelling up in his brown eyes, you gave him a nod and a small sad smile. 

“That doesn’t explain why you never told me about the Heejin situation. Ya know considering I have several mutual friends with her.” 

“Heejin and I talked things out in the spring, she liked me more than I liked her. We discussed how it was a whole misunderstanding.” He paused at your raised brow and doubtful expression. “I’m being serious, it was really a one sided crush and her being genuinely hurt. I understand that finding out someone you liked not liking you back really sucks and how she felt led on. I apologized and we’re cool now, she and I aren’t friends but we’re not enemies either.”

“Mkay I’ll take your word for it for now, you have some work to do to earn my trust back but I’m willing to give you a second chance.” His lanky arms engulfed you and he began rocking you side to side his laugh and smile warmed your heart once again. You knew he would have you falling for him all over again, and the thought didn’t scare you like it used to. It didn’t terrify you, it filled you with hope that your happy ending may actually exist this time around. 

The cool autumnal air began to make you shiver as the seasons changed, the semester’s end was closing in as the days flew by. The warmth of summer’s end was something you yearned for as you pulled your jacket closer to your body, your steps increased in speed as you made your way to the cafe you had met Soobin at previously. He had asked you on another date, one you had thought would be another friendly hang out. What you didn’t seem to realize was that your cheerful disposition had enamored the tall, bespectacled boy. He saw you as a radiant, angelic, hilarious, and of course beautiful girl. Someone whose mission it was to make those around her always happy. His analysis of you wasn’t incorrect by any means, however you were not reciprocative of his feelings. 

To you Soobin was sweet and adorable. His catlike smile, cute laugh, and goofy personality made you feel like he was someone you could be comfortable around. His energy was fairly similar to yours in a way that made you feel like you’d met yourself but as a boy. This made catching feelings for him a challenge for you, so alas Soobin’s crush on you was unrequited. Today, he was going to confess, so he had asked you to join him for coffee.

“Oh Soobin you didn’t have to buy my coffee for me!” You admonished as you sat across from him at the campus coffee shop. The pastel wall decor seemed to give you an angelic glow as he shyly smiled at you. 

“Of course I did angel! I invited you here after all! Now I have something I need to tell you.” You nodded and took a sip of the caramel flavored latte he had picked for you. You let out a soft sigh at the warm feeling it put in your chest after the cold air had frozen your bones during your walk. “Y/N, I-I like you um a lot. You’re beautiful, kind, funny, a wonderful listener, a genuinely wonderful person. I was wondering if I could get the chance to take you on an actual date?” His warm eyes reflected his desire for an affirmation that you reciprocated his emotions. 

“Oh wow Soobin I. I don’t know what to say. You are a wonderful guy, I genuinely do like your friendship a lot! You are someone I like being around. But, I just don’t see you the same way, I’m sorry.” You hung your head down apologetically and looked over to him to make sure he was okay. He nodded and gave you a half smile showing his dimples. You reached across the table for his hands and took them in yours. “I hope we can still be friends! I really like being your friend!” He smiled and nodded at that. You two stood and the tall boy wrapped you in a warm embrace. 

“I would love to still be your friend Y/Nnie you are so sweet.”

Meanwhile outside the cafe stood Felix, his dark attire reflecting the darkness that poured into his heart. He saw the way your face nuzzled into the taller male’s chest and how the pair of you seemed to clutch the other’s clothing to get closer. Who was the boy in the glasses? Why were you hugging him like that? Why did he get to hold you? Why were you smiling up at him like that? Why wasn’t it him? 

Felix’s inner turmoil began to swell as he watched the exchange, he couldn’t tear his eyes away as you and the taller boy interacted so happily. As you pulled away from Soobin your eyes locked with the brooding male’s through the cafe glass. Your eyes widened in surprise as the Australian visibly sighed and began to walk away, his head held low. You quickly excused yourself and bolted after the boy calling his name. 

“Felix! FELIX! WAIT!” His steps only seemed to grow faster as he marched away. Panic began to creep into your mind as you picked up the pace. You grabbed his shoulder and yanked him to a halt via his jacket. His eyes grew steely as he looked at you. 

“Did you just ditch your new boyfriend for me? Not a good look Y/N.” He grumbled as he tried to peel your grip off of him.

“Boyfriend? Huh? Felix, that's Soobin. Ya know? He’s a friend of the girls?” You tilted your head in confusion and scoffed lightly at his conclusion.

“You two looked awfully close. That’s all I’m saying Y/N.” His hair shook and his eyes grew cold and harsh as he cocked his head toward you.

“You almost always never call me by my first name what’s going on with you?” Your eyes grew pleading and you began to wring your hands anxiously as you silently begged for an explanation.

“Y/N, you offered me a very public second chance, then not even a week later I am seeing you acting like another man’s girlfriend. I thought I made it clear to you-” He cut himself off, shaking his head and scuffing the toe of his black combat boot against the ground. He let out a heavy sorrow filled sigh and slowly began to walk away. “Forget it. I’m happy for you, I’ll see you in stats.” Before he could step away your hands caught his wrist and you tugged him toward you. 

“Made what clear to me Felix? You’re jumping to conclusions like it’s an Olympic sport here! I’m confused.” You looked at him, your eyes swimming with hurt and confusion. With Felix everything felt one step forward, five steps back. You never seemed to move past the hurt you both felt from the party incident.

“Y/N don’t. Don’t do this.” His voice was barely a murmur.

“Do what Felix?”

“Don’t make me say it.”

“Say what Felix don’t play games with me.” Your voice grew laced with agitation and annoyance. He wasn’t like this what was going on? Who was this aggravated almost gangster like boy you knew as your friend? Why was he sad yet angry? 

“Please don’t make me admit how fucking in love with you I am.” With that you grabbed his face and pulled him into a heavy tear soaked kiss. Your arms wrapped around his neck as one of his hands found its home holding your waist and the other cupped your cheek. Your lips danced against one another as soft giggles and smiles made the kiss grow more playful. 

“You didn’t think I loved you too Grumpy Pants?” You teased as he sneakily tried to grope your butt with his hand. “Aye paws off the goods mister!” You laughed. 

“Well I clearly wasn’t thinking correctly seeing as you basically just swept me off my feet Bubbles.” He poked your cheek and wrapped his arms around you swaying you side to side gently. The cold autumnal air made you shiver slightly. 

“Y/N! Glad to see you found your person!” Soobin cut into your moment as he called from the cafe doorway. Your cheeks grew flushed as you hid your face into Felix’s neck. The boy just laughed and gave Soobin a nod as an acknowledgment. The next thing you knew your phone in your pocket began buzzing like a swarm of bees as your friends were all informed by the tall dark haired male of what happened. Felix encouraged you to check the texts. The only one that jumped out was Heejin on instagram wishing you well, she said she was happy that you as a mutual friend of hers found happiness. She also said she wanted you and Felix to find happiness together. It was sweet and you sent along your thanks.

The rest of the messages were just congratulatory ones from the SKZ boys and ITZY girls. As well as some teasing from both groups to not make them uncles and aunts any time soon. A smile graced your lips and you tilted your head as to give Felix another chaste kiss. 

“My place or yours baby?” You whispered into his ear. 

“For what angel?” He smirked thinking you were implying a rendezvous.

“Snuggles, video games, avoiding our project, and some snacking! What else?” You laughed as you saw a blush creep across his cheeks. “Oh you pervert! You wanted to hook up? At least ask me to be your girlfriend and buy me dinner first!” You bopped his shoulder and acted all scandalized which made Felix grow even more red faced and he sputtered out apologies mixed with deflections as to not make a scene. 

“Baby! Baby! Okay let’s go get dinner and I’ll get you some flowers and ask you the right way!” 

“Hmph. Fine!”

“Bubbles?”

“Yeah Grumpy Pants?”

“I love you!”

“I love you too! Now come on!!!! I want a penguin plushie and my flowers! Did you know penguins propose with rocks?”

“Your lack of good TV as a kid is showing.”

“HEY!” You both bursted into laughter, ear-to-ear grins stretched across your faces as you looked into one another’s eyes with pure adoration.

All was well, except for the fact that the two of you still had to do math work and not get distracted by your infatuation with the other. But, that’s tomorrow’s problem now isn’t it?

[depressed-undergrad]

27 August, 2024

I only had one lecture in the evening today so I spent the day catching up on all the hours lost during the weekend. I finished Module 3 of my course, took a short 20 minute break and finished Module 4. This means I will be receiving my first certificate as soon as I verify my ID. I spent some time updating my notion especially now that the new syllabus has been posted. I'd been putting it off for quite a while. I left straight for class because the friend who was with me in the library said he was heading straight for class so I decided to join him. After class, I did the homework. Then I filled a couple forms for some uni clubs (I'm hoping to get into pr & outreach, otherwise management) It was a pretty chill day tbh.

🎓 Google Data Analytics Course on Coursera

40 Minutes of Videos

2 Hr of Reading

4 Practice Quizzes (100% each)

2 Graded Quizzes (100% each)

📖 Lectures

Introduction to Electronics and Electrical Engineering (55 min)

[rmrkbl-marketing]

Maximizing Ecommerce Success: A Comprehensive Guide to Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Introduction

In the dynamic landscape of online retail, performance metrics are the compass guiding businesses toward success. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) serve as crucial milestones, directing ecommerce entrepreneurs to navigate the complex realm of sales, marketing, and customer service. In this comprehensive guide, we at RMRKBL Marketing delve into the intricate world of KPIs, offering profound insights to empower your business decisions and drive unparalleled growth.

Unveiling the Essence of Performance Indicators

A performance indicator, a beacon in the data-driven journey, is a quantifiable measurement aligning with specific goals. Picture an online retailer aspiring to boost site traffic by 50% in the next year – a noble ambition. Key indicators could include daily unique visitors, traffic sources (paid advertising, SEO, brand advertising), or the holy grail of customer lifetime value.

Decoding Key Performance Indicators

Amidst a plethora of potential metrics, the crux lies in identifying key performance indicators (KPIs) – impactful data points succinctly reflecting progress toward defined goals. In this pursuit, Shopify's robust reporting and analytics emerge as invaluable tools, boasting over 60 pre-built dashboards to illuminate trends and catalyze informed decision-making.

The Significance of KPIs

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Classifying Key Performance Indicators

KPIs, versatile in nature, span qualitative, quantitative, predictive, and historical dimensions, permeating various business operations. In the ecommerce domain, KPIs elegantly align with five core categories: Sales, Marketing, Customer Service, Manufacturing, and Project Management.

Sales: A Symphony of Success

In the realm of sales, mastering KPIs is akin to orchestrating a symphony of success. Ecommerce retailers can fine-tune their performance through vigilant tracking of crucial metrics such as total sales, average order

size, gross profit, average margin, and more. Each metric unveils a facet of your business, from understanding customer behavior through conversion rates and shopping cart abandonment rates to strategic insights on product affinity and competitive pricing.

Unlocking Sales KPIs

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Ecommerce success hinges on understanding sales patterns. Monitor sales on an hourly, daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and yearly basis to discern trends and capitalize on peak periods.

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Delve into customer spending habits with the average order size, a pivotal KPI reflecting the typical expenditure per order. This insight informs pricing strategies and product bundling opportunities.

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Measure business efficiency by calculating gross profit – the difference between total sales and the cost of goods sold. A nuanced understanding ensures profitability and strategic decision-making.

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Efficiency in converting visitors to customers is paramount. The conversion rate, expressed as a percentage, illuminates the success of your ecommerce site in turning visitors into buyers.

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Evaluate the effectiveness of your site in converting visitors into revenue. Low RPV prompts a deep dive into analytics, optimizing the user experience to drive more online sales.

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Strategically invest in customer acquisition by deciphering the cost of acquiring new customers. Analyze marketing spend breakdown to ensure efficient customer acquisition.

8. Inventory Levels

Maintain optimal stock levels by closely monitoring inventory metrics. Insights into stock turnover, product velocity, and sitting stock guide inventory management strategies.

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Benchmark against competitors by scrutinizing pricing strategies. An agile approach to pricing ensures your business remains competitive and attuned to market dynamics.

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Uncover cross-promotion opportunities through product affinity analysis. Identify products frequently purchased together, fueling targeted marketing strategies.

11. Product Relationship

Strategically plan cross-selling tactics by understanding which products are viewed consecutively. Leverage this KPI to enhance product recommendations and elevate user experience.

12. Churn Rate

Customer retention is paramount. The churn rate reveals how swiftly customers are departing. Swift action can mitigate losses and foster sustained loyalty.

13. Cost per Click (CPC)

For paid advertising success, track the cost incurred for each click. Optimize ad campaigns by aligning CPC with conversion rates, ensuring a balanced marketing budget.

Marketing Mastery: Unleashing Potency Through KPIs

Marketing KPIs wield immense power in sculpting the success story of your ecommerce venture. From driving website traffic to deciphering customer behavior, these metrics guide strategic marketing endeavors.

Navigating Marketing KPIs

1. Website Traffic

Website traffic serves as the heartbeat of ecommerce success. Monitor the total number of visits to your site, interpreting trends and refining marketing strategies accordingly.

2. New Visitors vs. Returning Visitors

Distinguish between first-time visitors and returning patrons. This insight aids in assessing the efficacy of digital marketing campaigns and tailoring strategies for diverse audiences.

3. Time on Site

Evaluate user engagement by analyzing the time visitors spend on your website. A deeper engagement with blog content and landing pages signals brand affinity.

4. Bounce Rate

High bounce rates demand attention. Investigate the reasons behind visitors exiting after viewing a single page, optimizing user experience and content relevance.

5. Page Views per Visit

Navigate user journeys by understanding the average number of pages viewed during each visit. Balance engagement with ease of navigation to enhance the user experience.

6. Average Session Duration

Dive into user behavior with the average session duration. Longer durations indicate profound interactions with your site, particularly with blog content and landing pages.

7. Traffic Source

Decipher the origins of website traffic through the traffic source KPI. Channel-specific insights guide focused marketing efforts, whether from organic search, paid ads, or social media.

8. Mobile Site Traffic

Optimize for mobile success by monitoring the influx of users accessing your store via mobile devices. A mobile-friendly site ensures a seamless experience for a diverse audience.

9. Newsletter Subscribers

Harness the potential of email marketing by tracking newsletter subscribers. Analyze demographics to tailor content and maximize reach, ensuring alignment with target audiences.

10. Email Open Rate

Elevate email marketing effectiveness by scrutinizing the percentage of subscribers opening your emails. Test subject lines and maintain list hygiene for optimal engagement.

11. Email Click-Through Rate (CTR)

Drive traffic to your site with a high email click-through rate. This KPI measures the percentage of subscribers clicking on links, a pivotal factor in conversion success.

12. Social Followers and Fans

Measure brand loyalty and awareness through social media metrics. The number of followers and fans on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter signifies audience engagement.

13. Return on Ad Spend (ROAS)

Evaluate ad campaign efficacy by gauging the revenue earned for every dollar spent on advertising. ROAS serves as a compass, steering advertising strategies toward profitability.

14. Cost per Click (CPC)

Unveil the cost incurred for each click on paid ads. Efficiently manage marketing budgets by aligning CPC with conversion rates, ensuring optimal returns on investment.

15. Social Media Engagement

Quantify brand engagement with social media followers through the social media engagement KPI. Active interaction signals a vibrant community and potent brand-consumer connections.

16. Clicks

Track the total number of clicks across various platforms – website, social media, email, and ads. A holistic perspective aids in refining content and optimizing engagement strategies.

17. Average Click-Through Rate (CTR)

Measure user engagement with the average click-through rate, revealing the percentage of users clicking on links. Optimize content placement and messaging for heightened effectiveness.

18. Average Position

Ascend the search engine ranks with insights from the average position KPI. Understand your site's SEO and paid search performance, striving for the coveted top position.

19. Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Traffic Volume

Evaluate the success of PPC campaigns by tracking traffic volume. Strategic adjustments based on PPC insights ensure targeted traffic influx to your site.

20. Blog Traffic

Uncover the impact of blog content by isolating blog traffic metrics. Compare blog traffic against overall site traffic for a nuanced understanding of content effectiveness.

21. Number and Quality of Product Reviews

Harness the power of social proof with product reviews. Track quantity and content to leverage customer feedback for SEO, brand credibility, and business refinement.

22. Banner or Display Advertising CTRs

Optimize banner and display ad performance by scrutinizing click-through rates. Insights into copy, imagery, and offer effectiveness guide strategic adjustments for enhanced engagement.

23. Affiliate Performance Rates

Leverage affiliate marketing with insights into performance rates. Identify successful channels, refining strategies to maximize the impact of affiliate partnerships.

Elevating Customer Service through KPI Excellence

Customer service KPIs stand as sentinels, guarding the gateway to customer satisfaction. Scrutinize these metrics to ensure your support teams exceed expectations and cultivate lasting customer relationships.

Pioneering Customer Service KPIs

1. Customer Satisfaction Score (CSAT)

Quantify customer satisfaction through the CSAT metric. Harness customer feedback to refine service strategies and foster a positive brand perception.

2. Net Promoter Score (NPS)

Measure customer loyalty with the Net Promoter Score. Identify brand advocates and detractors, directing efforts toward building a robust community of brand enthusiasts.

3. First Response Time

Efficient customer service hinges on swift responses. Monitor the time taken for the first response to gauge support team efficacy and ensure timely issue resolution.

4. Ticket Resolution Time

Expedite issue resolution by scrutinizing ticket resolution times. Streamline support processes based on these insights to enhance customer satisfaction.

5. Customer Retention Rate

A flourishing business thrives on customer retention. The retention rate KPI illuminates the success of your efforts in cultivating lasting relationships with clients.

6. Customer Complaint Resolution

Transform challenges into opportunities by mastering customer complaint resolution. Evaluate resolution times and customer feedback to fortify your support ecosystem.

7. Service Level Agreement (SLA) Adherence

Set and surpass customer expectations with SLA adherence. Track the percentage of support requests meeting agreed-upon response and resolution times.

8. Customer Effort Score (CES)

Simplify customer interactions with the Customer Effort Score. Minimize friction in customer journeys, fostering seamless and enjoyable experiences.

9. Contact Volume

Analyze contact volume to understand support team workload. Proactive adjustments to staffing and resources ensure consistent service excellence.

10. Customer Service Channel Performance

Decipher the effectiveness of various customer service channels – live chat, email, phone. Optimize resource allocation based on channel performance to maximize customer satisfaction.

11. Agent Performance

Empower support teams through insights into agent performance. Identify top performers and areas for improvement, ensuring a high standard of service across the board.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of KPIs for Ecommerce Triumph

In the intricate tapestry of ecommerce success, KPIs serve as the warp and weft, weaving a narrative of progress and prosperity. Unleash the potential of your online venture by embracing the nuanced insights offered by sales, marketing, and customer service KPIs. Propel your business forward, navigate challenges, and sculpt a legacy of unparalleled success in the competitive realm of online retail.

FAQs

Why are KPIs crucial for ecommerce success?

KPIs, or Key Performance Indicators, provide quantifiable insights into the performance of various aspects of your ecommerce business. They guide strategic decision-making, enhance customer experiences, and drive overall success by aligning actions with specific goals.

How can I use KPIs to improve my online sales?

Analyzing sales KPIs such as total sales, average order size, conversion rate, and customer lifetime value empowers you to optimize pricing strategies, understand customer behavior, and implement targeted marketing efforts for increased online sales.

What role do marketing KPIs play in ecommerce?

Marketing KPIs, including website traffic, engagement metrics, and return on ad spend, offer actionable insights into the effectiveness of your marketing efforts. These metrics help refine strategies, boost brand awareness, and drive targeted traffic to your ecommerce site.

How do customer service KPIs contribute to business growth?

Customer service KPIs, such as customer satisfaction scores, first response time, and ticket resolution time, play a pivotal role in fostering positive customer relationships. Meeting and exceeding customer expectations leads to increased loyalty, positive word-of-mouth, and sustained business growth.

Can KPIs really help in inventory management?

Absolutely. Sales KPIs related to inventory levels, product affinity, and competitive pricing provide crucial insights into stock turnover, product popularity, and market competitiveness. Effectively managing inventory based on these KPIs ensures optimal stock levels and minimizes wastage.

Are there specific KPIs for evaluating the success of PPC campaigns?

Yes, monitoring KPIs such as pay-per-click (PPC) traffic volume, cost per click (CPC), and return on ad spend (ROAS) provides a comprehensive view of your PPC campaign performance. These metrics help optimize ad budgets, refine targeting, and maximize the impact of your advertising efforts.

Can KPIs help me understand the effectiveness of my social media marketing?

Certainly. Social media KPIs like social followers, engagement metrics, and click-through rates provide insights into the impact of your social media efforts. Understanding these metrics enables you to refine content strategies, build brand loyalty, and expand your social media presence.

How often should I review and update my KPIs?

Regular reviews are crucial to adapt to changing market dynamics. Consider monthly reviews for short-term KPIs and quarterly or annually for long-term goals. Adjust KPIs based on business priorities, industry trends, and the evolving needs of your ecommerce venture.

[promodubiz]

The Evolution of Digital Marketing Solutions: Strategies for Success

In today's fast-paced digital world, businesses must adopt effective digital marketing solutions to remain competitive and relevant. As consumer behavior shifts increasingly online, traditional marketing methods alone no longer suffice. Digital marketing offers a vast array of tools and strategies that enable businesses to reach their target audience more efficiently and effectively. This article explores the evolution of digital marketing solutions and outlines key strategies for success.

Understanding Digital Marketing Solutions

Digital marketing Solutions encompasses all marketing efforts that use an electronic device or the internet. Businesses leverage digital channels such as search engines, social media, email, and websites to connect with current and prospective customers. Key components of digital marketing include:

Search Engine Optimization (SEO): This involves optimizing a website to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs), thereby increasing organic (non-paid) traffic. SEO strategies include keyword research, content creation, and technical website improvements.

Content Marketing: This focuses on creating and distributing valuable, relevant, and consistent content to attract and engage a clearly defined audience. Blogs, videos, infographics, and ebooks are common content marketing tools.

Social Media Marketing: Utilizing platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter to promote products and services, engage with customers, and build brand awareness. Social media marketing can be organic or paid (social media ads).

Email Marketing: Sending targeted emails to a group of subscribers to promote products, share news, or nurture relationships. Email marketing remains one of the most cost-effective digital marketing strategies.

Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising: This is a model where advertisers pay a fee each time one of their ads is clicked. Google Ads is a popular PPC platform that helps drive traffic to websites through paid search engine results.

Affiliate Marketing: Partnering with other businesses or influencers who promote your products in exchange for a commission on sales generated through their referral.

Influencer Marketing: Collaborating with influencers who have a large following to promote your brand. This strategy leverages the influencer's credibility and reach to connect with potential customers.

The Evolution of Digital Marketing

Digital marketing has evolved significantly over the past two decades. Early internet marketing efforts were largely experimental, focusing on basic website creation and banner ads. As technology advanced and the internet became more accessible, digital marketing strategies grew more sophisticated.

The rise of search engines in the late 1990s and early 2000s led to the development of SEO, a cornerstone of modern digital marketing. Around the same time, email marketing began to gain traction as businesses realized the potential of direct communication with customers.

Social media platforms emerged in the mid-2000s, revolutionizing how businesses engage with their audience. Initially used primarily for personal connections, social media quickly became a powerful marketing tool. The introduction of social media advertising further expanded the possibilities for targeted marketing.

Content marketing gained prominence in the 2010s as businesses recognized the value of providing informative and engaging content to attract and retain customers. This era also saw the rise of influencer marketing, driven by the growing popularity of social media influencers.

Today, digital marketing Solutions continues to evolve with advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and data analytics. These technologies enable more personalized and data-driven marketing strategies, improving efficiency and effectiveness.

Key Strategies for Success

To succeed in digital marketing, businesses must adopt a strategic approach that combines various digital marketing solutions. Here are key strategies for success:

Define Clear Objectives: Establish specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. Clear objectives guide your digital marketing efforts and help measure success.

Understand Your Audience: Conduct thorough market research to understand your target audience's needs, preferences, and behaviors. Create detailed buyer personas to guide your marketing strategies.

Create High-Quality Content: Invest in creating valuable and engaging content that addresses your audience's pain points and interests. Quality content builds trust and authority in your industry.

Leverage Data Analytics: Use analytics tools to track and analyze your marketing performance. Data insights help refine strategies, optimize campaigns, and improve ROI.

Embrace Omnichannel Marketing: Ensure a consistent and seamless experience across all digital channels. An omnichannel approach enhances customer engagement and retention.

Stay Updated with Trends: Digital marketing is dynamic and constantly evolving. Stay informed about the latest trends, technologies, and best practices to stay ahead of the competition.

Test and Optimize: Continuously test different strategies and tactics to identify what works best. Optimization is an ongoing process that enhances the effectiveness of your digital marketing efforts.

Conclusion

Digital marketing solutions have transformed how businesses connect with their audience, offering unparalleled opportunities for growth and success. By understanding the evolution of digital marketing and adopting key strategies, businesses can harness the power of digital channels to achieve their marketing goals. In an ever-changing digital landscape, staying adaptable, informed, and customer-focused is the key to thriving in the digital age.

[shantitechnology]

Manufacturing ERP:  The Top 10 ERP Systems for 2024

Introduction:

In the dynamic landscape of the manufacturing industry, the right technology can make all the difference in streamlining processes and enhancing overall efficiency.  Manufacturing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have become indispensable tools for businesses seeking to integrate various facets of their operations seamlessly.  As we step into 2024, the demand for robust ERP solutions continues to grow.  In this blog, we will explore the top 10 Manufacturing ERP systems that are poised to make a significant impact on the industry this year.

1.         SAP S/4HANA:  Pioneering Manufacturing Resource Planning System

One of the most trusted names in ERP, SAP S/4HANA stands out as a comprehensive Manufacturing Resource Planning System.  Its real-time analytics, integrated modules, and intelligent automation make it an ideal choice for businesses aiming to optimize their manufacturing processes.

2.         Oracle ERP Cloud:  Empowering Manufacturing Enterprise Resource Planning

Oracle ERP Cloud offers a scalable and flexible solution for manufacturing enterprises.  With its robust features, it caters to the diverse needs of businesses, ensuring a seamless integration of manufacturing operations.  Its cloud-based architecture provides the agility required for modern manufacturing environments.

3.         Microsoft Dynamics 365:  A Versatile ERP Solution

Microsoft Dynamics 365 is gaining prominence as a Manufacturing Enterprise Resource Planning software that offers versatility and integration capabilities.  Its user-friendly interface and interoperability with other Microsoft products make it an attractive choice for businesses, especially small enterprises.

4.         Infor CloudSuite Industrial:  Tailored Manufacturing ERP

Infor CloudSuite Industrial is designed with the unique needs of manufacturers in mind.  It provides specialized functionalities, including supply chain management and shop floor control, making it a standout choice among ERP solution providers.

5.         NetSuite ERP:  Unifying Manufacturing Operations

NetSuite ERP is recognized for its ability to unify diverse manufacturing operations into a single, cohesive system.  Its cloud-based platform allows for real-time collaboration and data accessibility, making it an efficient Manufacturing Enterprise Resource Planning Software.

6.         Epicor ERP:  Driving Growth for Small Businesses

Epicor ERP is particularly well-suited for small businesses in the manufacturing sector.  With its focus on driving growth and improving efficiency, Epicor ERP offers a cost-effective solution without compromising on essential features.

7.         IFS Applications:  Comprehensive ERP Solution

IFS Applications is a comprehensive ERP solution that covers a wide range of manufacturing processes.  Its modular structure allows businesses to tailor the system according to their specific requirements, making it a preferred choice for Manufacturing Enterprise Resource Planning.

8.         IQMS Manufacturing ERP:  Enhancing Shop Floor Control

IQMS Manufacturing ERP is distinguished by its emphasis on shop floor control and real-time monitoring.  It empowers manufacturers with tools to optimize production processes and make informed decisions, positioning it as a top choice among ERP solution providers.

9.         Acumatica Cloud ERP:  Scalability for Growing Businesses

Acumatica Cloud ERP stands out for its scalability, making it an ideal choice for growing manufacturing businesses.  With a flexible platform and advanced features, Acumatica supports businesses in adapting to changing demands and expanding their operations seamlessly.

10.      SYSPRO ERP:  Tailored for Manufacturing Success

SYSPRO ERP is tailored to meet the specific needs of manufacturing industries.  Its focus on delivering a user-friendly experience and addressing industry challenges positions it as a reliable choice for Manufacturing Enterprise Resource Planning.

Conclusion:

As manufacturing industries evolve, the importance of robust ERP systems cannot be overstated.  The top 10 ERP systems highlighted in this blog represent the cutting edge of technology, offering solutions that cater to the unique demands of the manufacturing sector.  Whether it's SAP S/4HANA's real-time analytics, Oracle ERP Cloud's scalability, or Acumatica Cloud ERP's flexibility, each system brings its own strengths to the table.

For businesses in Madhya Pradesh seeking Manufacturing Software for Small Business, these ERP solutions provide a pathway to enhanced productivity and streamlined operations.  Choosing the right Manufacturing ERP system is a critical decision that can impact a company's growth and competitiveness.  Evaluate the features, scalability, and industry focus of each system to find the perfect fit for your manufacturing enterprise.  Embrace the power of ERP in 2024 and position your business for success in the ever-evolving landscape of manufacturing technology.

[kaitlynwgst]

Week #4 (09/19)

What power do names hold?

Names are important, they are a piece of a person’s identity of who they are but names can hold more power than just the power we give our own. Someone’s name can affect the way that they move through the world the assumptions that are made because of a name can positively or negatively affect the opportunities a person is given. Some studies have shown that a person with a “white-sounding” name is more likely to be given a job opportunity than an equally qualified person with a “black-sounding” name (Benjamin). The introduction of tech and algorithms that read applications have been shown to show the same bias with the algorithms showing preference to “white-sounding” names (Benjamin).

Is tech ever truly neutral?

Technology and algorithms are often suggested as neutral, analytical, and unbiased but are they truly neutral when they often times reinforce inequality. Technology and algorithms can only ever be as neutral or unbiased as the data that they are made from and that data is influenced by a history of inequality and exclusion (Benjamin). This means that technology can not be unbiased when the very data it is made from is biased.

How is discrimination built into tech?

The same tech that is claimed to be objective has bias and discriminatory ideas built into its very frame work. While biased data plays a role in how this happens another large contributor to this problem is people. The formulas that algorithms are built on were written by people, the same people who have their own biased and sometimes sexist and racist ideals are the ones who are writing the codes for these algorithms (Noble). The biases of the people writing the codes, that make up the algorithms, are built into the code and this results in discrimination being built into the tech we use every day.

What is the effect of the discrimination in tech?

Technology bias has far reaching impacts well beyond job opportunities with governments and law enforcement using algorithms to who a risk. California’s database of gang members is one example of the far-reaching impacts of these biased algorithms. Eighty-seven percent of the people in the database are Black and Latinx and some of the names listed are of babies when questions were raised on why babies would be listed the explanation given was that “some combination of zip codes and racially coded names” made it so they were flagged as a risk. Once someone is added to this database, or one like it, it is nearly impossible to get it removed and the presence of a person’s name in these databases results on the lose of some of their rights and increased surveillance (Benjamin).

Benjamin, Ruha. 2019. Race After Technology.

Noble, Safiya. 2018. Algorithms of Oppression.

[omnitecuae]

Smart City Parking Solutions in UAE | Innovative & Efficient Systems - Omnitec UAE

Introduction to Smart City Parking Solutions

In today’s rapidly growing urban environments, efficient parking solutions are essential to manage traffic flow and improve city life. Smart city parking solutions, like those offered by Omnitec UAE, integrate advanced technology to enhance the parking experience in metropolitan areas. These solutions not only help reduce congestion but also improve sustainability and the overall efficiency of city infrastructure.

What are Smart City Parking Solutions?

Smart city parking solutions utilize a combination of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, real-time data analytics, and automated systems to optimize parking management. These systems are designed to make the process more convenient for drivers while providing city administrators with valuable insights into parking space usage, traffic patterns, and more.

Key Features of Smart Parking Solutions:

Automated payment systems: Drivers can pay for parking without physical transactions through mobile apps or online portals.

Real-time space availability: Sensors detect available parking spaces and provide live updates to drivers, reducing the time spent searching for parking.

Traffic management: By managing parking demand, cities can reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and enhance mobility.

Benefits of Smart City Parking Solutions by Omnitec UAE

Omnitec UAE is at the forefront of providing cutting-edge smart parking systems in the UAE. By leveraging advanced technologies, Omnitec delivers solutions that not only optimize parking but also address broader urban challenges. Here are some of the benefits that come with adopting smart city parking solutions:

Reduced Congestion With real-time data on parking availability, drivers no longer need to circle around to find an open spot. This leads to smoother traffic flow and significantly reduces congestion in busy city areas.

Environmental Impact Efficient parking management cuts down the carbon emissions caused by vehicles idling while looking for parking. This contributes to the overall sustainability goals of a smart city.

Enhanced User Experience Through the use of mobile apps and automated kiosks, drivers enjoy a seamless and stress-free parking experience. They can book parking spots in advance, make contactless payments, and receive real-time updates about parking availability.

Cost-Effective for Cities Smart parking solutions are scalable and adaptable, making them a cost-effective option for cities. These systems allow municipalities to monitor parking spaces and make data-driven decisions about parking infrastructure and city planning.

Security and Monitoring Advanced technologies such as ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) systems and CCTV surveillance integrated with smart parking solutions ensure the security of parking areas, reducing theft and vandalism.

How Omnitec UAE’s Solutions are Shaping the Future of Urban Parking

Omnitec UAE’s smart city parking solutions are designed to help cities evolve into smarter, more efficient, and greener environments. Their systems not only meet the needs of modern urban mobility but also address the key challenges of overcrowded city spaces, such as:

Dynamic Pricing Models: The system can adjust parking fees based on demand, encouraging drivers to park during off-peak hours, which helps distribute traffic flow more evenly throughout the day.

Data-Driven Insights: With detailed analytics on parking usage, city planners can make informed decisions about infrastructure investments and optimize space allocation.

Why Choose Omnitec UAE for Smart City Parking Solutions?

Omnitec UAE has a proven track record in delivering reliable, scalable, and future-ready parking solutions tailored for smart cities. Their commitment to innovation and technology sets them apart from competitors. Here's why you should consider Omnitec UAE for your city’s parking needs:

Experience and Expertise: With years of expertise in parking management solutions, Omnitec is a trusted partner for many smart cities.

Tailored Solutions: Whether you’re a city administrator, a business owner, or a real estate developer, Omnitec’s parking solutions can be customized to fit your specific needs.

Sustainability Focus: Omnitec’s parking systems are designed with sustainability in mind, helping cities reduce their carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly transportation options.

Conclusion

As cities continue to grow, the demand for efficient, innovative, and scalable parking solutions becomes more pressing. Omnitec UAE’s smart city parking solutions offer a comprehensive approach to urban parking, blending technology with convenience to meet the evolving needs of modern cities. Whether you're looking to enhance mobility, improve sustainability, or streamline parking management, Omnitec UAE has the expertise and technology to make it happen.

For more information on our Smart City Parking Solutions, visit our website. Explore our innovative solutions that are revolutionizing urban parking in the UAE.

[galaxyonknowledg]

Crafting an Effective Social Media Marketing Strategy: Key Steps for Success

Social Media Marketing Introduction:

Are you looking to enhance your social media presence and reach a wider audience? Crafting an effective social media marketing strategy is essential for any business looking to succeed in the digital world. In this article, we will explore the key steps you need to take to create a successful social media marketing strategy that will help you achieve your business goals.

Understanding Your Goals and Target Audience

The first step in crafting an effective social media marketing strategy is to clearly define your goals. What are you looking to achieve with your social media efforts? Whether it's increasing brand awareness, driving website traffic, or boosting sales, having concrete goals in place will guide your strategy and help you measure success. Additionally, understanding your target audience is crucial. Who are you trying to reach with your social media content? By identifying your target demographic, you can tailor your messaging and content to resonate with your audience and drive engagement.

Choosing the Right Platforms

With so many social media platforms available, it's important to choose the right ones for your business. Consider where your target audience spends their time online and focus your efforts on those platforms. Whether it's Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn, selecting the right platforms will ensure you reach your desired audience effectively.

Creating Engaging Content

Once you have defined your goals and identified your target audience, it's time to create engaging content that will captivate your followers. Whether it's eye-catching visuals, compelling captions, or interactive polls, crafting high-quality content is key to driving engagement and building a loyal following.

Developing a Content Calendar

Consistency is key when it comes to social media marketing. Developing a content calendar will help you stay organized and ensure you are consistently posting relevant content for your audience. Plan out your content in advance, including posts, stories, and promotions, to maintain a consistent presence on social media.

Engaging with Your Audience

Social media is a two-way street, and engaging with your audience is essential for building relationships and fostering loyalty. Respond to comments, messages, and mentions promptly, and encourage interactions with polls, contests, and Q&A sessions. Building a strong connection with your audience will help you build brand trust and loyalty.

Analyzing and Adjusting

Finally, analyzing the performance of your social media efforts is crucial for determining what's working and what's not. Utilize analytics tools to track key metrics such as engagement, reach, and conversions. Use this data to adjust your strategy as needed, optimizing your social media marketing efforts for maximum impact. In conclusion, crafting an effective social media marketing strategy involves defining your goals, understanding your target audience, creating engaging content, choosing the right platforms, developing a content calendar, engaging with your audience, and analyzing and adjusting your strategy. By following these key steps, you can create a successful social media marketing strategy that drives results for your business.

[dizzyanalyst]

introduction!

heyheyhey :] somehow got through five years of undegrad just lurking on studyblr, but now that i am switching careers and back to studying, i figured i could use the support!

always looking for friends, accountability buddies, or anyone to talk about the turmoils land joys of adulthood.

about me:

24, he/él

B.S in Psychology and B.A in English Literature

non-profit program coordinator -> data analyst! currently completing a bootcamp while working full-time

fluent in english and spanish. casually learning german.

adhd+Mad

simply working towards a better future, every day.

interests:

reading & writing. i am a fiction writer and i'm currently working on a series of children's books. i am a fan of literary fiction, historical fiction, and anything i can read in one day!

astrology, herbalism, and divination + cartomancy

baking shows........ currently binge watching halloween baking championship s4

why data analytics:

i just want... quality of life. structure. a break. i need space to breathe. the space to be creative..... i am not cut out for the type of work i am currently doing in the public sector.

full transparency, signing up for the bootcamp was a manic decision. desperate attempt to break free. and what do we do as adults? own up and make it work!!

i am projected to finish the course in december, but it is self paced, so i could finish earlier!

once i finish the course, as i transition out of my current job, my goal is to pick up contract work for supplemental income.

what i'll be doing here:

100 days of productivity - #dizzy100dop

language learning resources - #dizzygerman

data analytics stuff.... - #dizzyanalytics

posts of me trying to figure out my life lol - #dizzyanalyst