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kattechsystems · 2 years ago

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How To Build A Successful Team With IT Staff Augmentation

IT staff augmentation has emerged as a common strategy for businesses to create effective teams in today's fast-paced business environment. Rather than hiring permanent workers, IT staff augmentation entails engaging external IT specialists to work on a project. There are many advantages of this approach, such as more flexibility, cost savings, and access to specialized knowledge and abilities.

Here are some ideas you should consider before creating a IT staff augmentation team:

Plan your project's objectives and requirements.

Know your project’s objectives and specifications before in creating an IT staff augmentation team. This way you will understand the knowledge and abilities that people must meet to successfully handle your project. Make sure you are absolutely clear about the timeline of your project, budget and specific skills and experience.

Choose the best IT staff augmentation company.

Make sure you choose the right IT staff augmentation provider if you want to succeed. Find a provider who has knowledge of your sector and can offer the necessary expertise. When selecting a provider, take into account aspects like price, location, and communication abilities. A competent service provider must offer you a group of IT specialists who are knowledgeable about your industry, have the required qualifications, and can collaborate easily with your current staff.

Analyse the IT staff's abilities.

Make sure IT staff members have the proper training and experience before recruiting them by evaluating their skills. Select the correct team members and think about conducting interviews or skill evaluations. Make sure to find the candidates who have the right skills and expertise to complete your project successfully.

Create open lines for communication

Every project needs effective communication to succeed. Make sure your IT staff augmentation team has open lines of communication. This involves frequent check-ins, status reports, and feedback meetings. You can assure the success of your project by keeping everyone informed.

Encourage cooperation

Members of the IT staff augmentation team may operate remotely or be spread out around the globe. Set up clear guidelines for communication, feedback, and deadlines to make sure your team is collaborating. Promote team meetings and video conferences on a frequent basis to improve communication and promote cooperation.

Determine success

Establish precise metrics of achievement for your IT staff augmentation project to guarantee its success. Monitor your success frequently against these criteria and change your strategy as necessary. To keep everyone inspired and involved, celebrate successes and achievements with your team.

Conclusion

Proper planning, communication, and teamwork are essential to creating a productive team with IT staff augmentation. These guidelines will help you assemble a group of IT specialists who are knowledgeable, adept, and committed to the success of your project. You can accomplish your project's objectives and promote business prosperity with the right people in place.

We at Kat Tech systems are one of the best staff augmentation companies in Chicago, USA. We deliver a tailored solution to address the demands of our clients because we have a thorough awareness of their needs. Our highly qualified staff members can successfully collaborate with one another to give the proper IT Staff Augmentation solutions. Our pricing is simple, straightforward and the best in the industry.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call us at 001-630 233 8643.

#it consulting firms in chicago #best it consulting firms in chicago #best it solutions in chicago #best staff augmentation services #software development company in chicago

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benevolentbones · 10 months ago

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I have an idea for an angst/fluff. Bare with me because this is my first request. Spencer notices reader has small reactions to yelling, slamming doors, stomping, etc. Maybe it’s from arguing parents as a child or they got a bit of trauma on a case and had been hiding it from the team (maybe both. Like arguing parents and then a traumatic experience brought it all back up). She hid her anxieties from the team because she knows she’s safe with them and is slightly embarrassed by the reactions. Spencer only noticed because he pays such close attention to her (he’s got a crush!) and starts doing things to help reader. Like changing the subject when an argument is coming on, distracting them after someone slams a door, etc. I’m not a writer so i have no idea how to end this. Thx 💓

silent support | spencer reid x reader

warnings: brief mentions of bad childhood. spencer fluff! gender neutral reader

word count: 1.5k

a/n: thank you for the request! i hope you enjoy<3 reblogs n comments n requests always appreciated

spencer reid wasn't the kind of man to overlook details. his job demanded meticulous observation, and he'd long since developed a knack for noticing things others missed. this skill, however, extended beyond crime scenes and into his everyday interactions, particularly where you were concerned.

you had joined the bau team almost a year ago, and from the very beginning, spencer had found himself drawn to you. he admired your dedication, your intellect, and your ability to connect with victims and suspects alike— and of course he thought you were the most beautiful person he ever laid eyes on. but recently, he began noticing something else about you—small, subtle reactions to loud noises and arguments.

it started one evening in the bullpen. hotch and morgan were in a heated debate about a case direction, voices rising steadily. you sat at your desk, seemingly focused on your work, but spencer saw the way your shoulders tensed at each raised voice. when morgan slammed a file down in frustration, your hand jerked slightly, knocking over your coffee cup.

spencer's eyes narrowed as he took in your quick, shaky breath and the way you forced a smile when jj handed you a napkin. the pieces of a puzzle began to form in his mind. he had read your file—he probably shouldn’t have but—he knew about your difficult childhood, the endless nights spent listening to your parents argue, the fear that came with every slammed door. and he suspected there was more, something you hadn't shared with anyone on the team.

his suspicions were confirmed over the next few weeks. during a particularly rough case in phoenix, a suspect's sudden outburst caused you to flinch noticeably. you recovered quickly, laughing it off, an embarrassed blush covering your features, but spencer didn't miss the way your hands trembled slightly as you continued with your questioning.

he wanted to say something, to let you know he understood and was there for you, but he also knew how embarrassed that might make you feel. so instead, he began to find small ways to ease your anxieties.

when arguments started brewing in the office, he would subtly steer the conversation in a different direction, diffusing the tension before it could escalate. if someone slammed a door, he would immediately engage you in conversation, pulling your focus away from the noise. these actions were small, almost imperceptible to the rest of the team, but he hoped they made a difference to you.

one particularly tough case in chicago brought everything to a head. you had just finished interviewing a suspect who had a penchant for yelling, and spencer saw the strain in your eyes as you walked back to your desk. garcia was arguing with an it technician about a software glitch, her voice raised in frustration. when she slammed her laptop shut, you visibly jumped, the color draining from your face.

before you could retreat into yourself, spencer was there, standing beside you with a gentle smile. "hey," he said softly, "did you know that the world's largest snowflake on record was 15 inches wide?"

you blinked at him, momentarily distracted from the chaos around you. "really?" you asked, your voice slightly shaky.

he nodded, his smile widening. "yeah, it was found in fort keogh, montana, in 1887. pretty fascinating, right?"

you managed a small smile in return, the tension in your shoulders easing. "that is pretty interesting, spencer….thanks."

he shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant. "just thought you might like to know."

over the next few days, spencer continued his quiet campaign to help you. he found ways to be near you whenever the atmosphere in the office grew tense, offering bits of trivia or starting conversations to distract you. you noticed his efforts, of course, and though you were slightly embarrassed by your reactions, you were also deeply grateful.

one evening, after the team had wrapped up a particularly grueling case, you found yourself alone with spencer in the conference room. the rest of the team had gone home, but you were both still reading over files, trying to wrap up loose ends.

"spencer?” you said quietly, breaking the comfortable silence, "can i ask you something?"

he looked up from his file, his expression attentive as he studied your form. "of course."

you hesitated, choosing your words carefully. "i've noticed... you've been going out of your way to help me lately. distracting me when things get tense. why?"

spencer's cheeks reddened slightly, and he pushed his hair back nervously. "i... i noticed that loud noises and arguments seem to bother you. i know you had a tough childhood, and i figured maybe it was bringing up some old anxieties. i just wanted to help..."

your heart swelled with gratitude, and you felt a lump form in your throat. "thank you, spencer. it means a lot to me. i... i haven't really talked about it, but you're right. —there was something that happened on a case a while back that... well, it just made everything worse." you chewed on your lip, meeting his gaze.

spencer reached out, his hand covering yours. "you don't have to talk about it if you don't want to, but just know that i'm here for you. i promise.”

you squeezed his hand, feeling a sense of comfort and safety wash over you. "thank you, spencer. it helps more than you know."

in that moment, surrounded by files and the remnants of a long day's work, you realized just how much spencer reid meant to you. he wasn't just a colleague or a friend—he was someone who truly cared, who saw your vulnerabilities and accepted them without judgment.

the days following that conversation were transformative for you. knowing that spencer understood your struggles and cared enough to help made a world of difference. you found yourself growing less anxious about your reactions. spencer's quiet support gave you the strength to face your fears head-on.

one evening, after a particularly stressful case, the team decided to unwind at a local bar. laughter and conversation filled the air, but you couldn't shake the lingering tension from the day. as you sat nursing your drink, you watched the interactions around you. hotch and rossi were deep in conversation, garcia and jj were dancing to the jukebox, and morgan was charming a group of women nearby.

spencer slid into the seat next to you, a gentle smile on his face. "you okay?" he asked softly.

you nodded, though you knew he could see the truth in your eyes. "just a lot on my mind."

he studied you for a moment before speaking. "want to take a walk?"

grateful for the escape, you agreed. the two of you slipped out of the bar and into the cool night air. the streets were quiet, the only sound the distant hum of traffic.

eventually, you found yourselves at a small park. you sat on a bench, the silence between you comfortable and reassuring. spencer looked at you, his expression earnest.

"you know," he began, "i've been doing a lot of thinking about what you told me. about your past and what you’ve experienced. and i just want you to know that it's okay to feel the way you do. there's no shame in it."

you looked down at your hands, feeling a mixture of vulnerability and relief. "it's just... i thought i had it all under control, you know? but then things happen, and it all comes flooding back. i feel weak."

spencer's hand found yours, his touch gentle and reassuring. "you're not weak. you're incredibly strong. you've been through so much, and you're still here.”

tears welled up in your eyes, and you blinked them away, not wanting to cry. "you always know the right thing to say."

he smiled, a soft, genuine expression that made your heart ache. "i'm just glad i can be here for you. you mean a lot to me, you know."

your breath hitched slightly at his words, and you felt a warmth spread through your chest. "you mean a lot to me too. more than you know."

spencer's eyes softened, and he reached out to take your hand. "i'm here for you. always."

spencer’s eyes flickered over your features, the harsh street lights casting a soft glow over you, taking in how beautiful he found you.

you took a deep breath. "there's something else i need to tell you. something i've been feeling for a while now."

he looked at you, his features softened, the warm light catching pieces of his dark hair causing them to almost look golden. "what is it?"

"i... i think i'm falling for you.” you admitted, your voice barely above a whisper. "you've been so caring and kind to me...more than anyone in my life."

a look of pure, unfiltered joy spread across spencer's face, and he squeezed your hand. "from the moment you joined the team, there's been something about you that drew me in. and the more i got to know you- the more i fell for you..”

relief and happiness flooded through you, and you leaned in, your lips meeting his in a soft, tender kiss. it was a moment of pure connection, a promise of support and love.

as you pulled back, you rested your forehead against his, a smile playing on your lips. "thank you. for everything."

he cupped your face in his hands, his eyes shining with affection. "no, thank you. for trusting me, for letting me in. i wouldn't have it any other way."

taglist!! @0108s22m @rainoftearss @potatovoyager @rac00ns-are-c00l4 @luvmia222 @shardsofmarxx @silver138 @lover-of-books-and-tea @thedancingnerdmermaid @khxna @cynbx

#criminal minds #criminal minds x reader #spencer reid x reader #spencer reid #spencer reid x you #spencer reid fluff #criminal minds requests #criminal minds fluff #spencer reid request

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archoneddzs15 · 10 months ago

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Sega Mega CD - Shadowrun

Title: Shadowrun / シャドウラン

Developer/Publisher: Compile / LMS Music

Release date: 23 February 1996

Catalogue No.: T-66024

Genre: RPG

Shadowrun. Many games come into our lives and alter who we are, becoming a part of us for the rest of our lives. Shadowrun is one such series that after the first time I played it I had become heavily engrossed in everything to do with the canon behind it. This game is an especially strange beast if you've played the SNES (Data East) and Sega Genesis (Bluesky Software) Shadowrun games.

You see, at the end of 1995, we saw the last Mega CD releases. In the US, the last game to be released for the Sega CD is a half-arsed update to "Demolition Man", a run-n-gun based on and featuring grainy FMV clips from the Sylvester Stallone movie. Then, in Europe, came The Adventures of Batman and Robin. That game was clearly based on *just* the driving levels from Mega CD Batman Returns and greatly expanded on, and featured splices of an "original episode" of Batman the Animated Series specifically for the game.

For a while as the year 1996 began spinning into rotation, there would be no new games for the Mega CD, making it seem like The Adventures of Batman and Robin was indeed the last ever Mega CD game to be released.... which it did end up being if you lived in Europe. That is until, in some miracle on the 23rd of February 1996, Compile resurrected the aging Mega CD devkits and worked together with Japanese tabletop RPG distributor Group SNE and Chicago-based tabletop RPG company FASA Corporation to release one last Mega CD game once and for all. That game would end up being based on a tabletop RPG that, since its inception in 1989, has remained among the most popular role-playing games. This is Shadowrun.

Mega CD Shadowrun is a pretty good game. You play as one of four characters: Rokudou, Shikumo, Mao, and D-head and battle your way through Tokyo in the year 2053 while discovering a massive conspiracy that could potentially destroy the city of Tokyo as we know it. The game is divided into a few sections: a "digital comic" mode similar to Snatcher and Dead of the Brain, a top-down RPG mode outside of battle similar to the original Legend of Zelda, Golvellius or Ys, the Battle mode which triggers within the top-down view and plays in the same way as how games like Final Fantasy 6 do it, and a "Matrix" mode where your characters hack into the Matrix supercomputers.

The main character (Rokudou) acts pretty cool and a little harsh at times but is quite appealing because of it, and the story has some nice ideas, but is maybe a little muddled in places thanks to the language barrier. The action scenes play like an average Squaresoft Super Famicom RPG game, but look nice enough so the game gets away with it. Good enough to satisfy the role-playing fever for a while. My only complaint that I can level against the game is that I can't really recommend this game to those that can't understand Japanese at a native level, and that there are no voice acting or CD redbook music to be had here. All the music is generated via the Mega CD's PCM sound chip combined with the Mega Drive's YM2612 FM synth, though there are two hidden CD audio tracks, none of which are used.

Another weird point is that the characters look good in the visual novel scenes due to Compile making use of the Mega CD's scaling features, but during the RPG segments, they look super tiny and cute. It's a damn shame that games like this never get a complete playable English translation. I really wish that would happen though, but it seems like an English translation to Mega CD Shadowrun is currently suffering from development hell and may never be completed. What a shame.

youtube

#sega cd #sega genesis #shadowrun #Youtube

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blackjackkent · 2 years ago

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Hi, I'm Roz! She/her/they/them; I'm a fanfic writer, Twitch Streamer, and software/web developer. This is primarily a BG3 hyperfixation zone, with (at the moment) a side helping of Dragon Age.

I also provide pro-bono software development tutoring, as well as webmaster and web development support for organizations working for progressive change; see the sections at the bottom of this post for more info!

Thanks for stopping by my blog!

Writing

Lots of fandom writing here! I often reblog ask meme prompts, and also welcome unsolicited prompts if you have an idea you'd like to see me tackle!

Jaheira Fanfiction

Lately my particular writing niche is Baldur's Gate 3, and specifically exploring the character of Jaheira. If you've arrived here looking for more of this, I've added all of my Jaheira-related writing to a single collection on AO3 for ease of access!

If you're newly arrived, I recommend checking out the intro to A Harper's Bonds, which is an anthology collection of shorter pieces and prompt fills and contains a summary and timeline of the headcanons and worldstate within which I like to write Jaheira.

Gaming Liveblogs and Other Writing

My other fanfic (mostly also Baldur's Gate, but some other fandoms as well) can also be found on AO3.

I also liveblog my experiences with various story-based RPGs, writing out the story and growth of my characters as I go in a sort of extended fanfic. This writing is always tagged consistently, so you can block it if you're trying to avoid spoilers or just don't want the dash spam. These days I now also move completed ones to AO3 as well for an easier reading experience!

Current Liveblog: Dragon Age: The Veilguard

ArchiveOfOurOwn: BlackjackKent

Past Liveblogs Saved on AO3: Baldur's Gate 3 Dark Urge Baldur's Gate 3 Tav

My OCs: Listed here

Older Liveblogged Games: Listed here

If you have thoughts or questions about my writing or my OCs, or would like to request a fic, please send me a message; I guarantee you'll make my whole week! <3

Tag List

Like THIS POST if you would like to be tagged when I post things on AO3.

Like THIS POST if you would like to be tagged when I post ANY writing, including both AO3 and short-form/ask prompt fills.

Like THIS POST if you would like to be tagged in writer memes like WIP Wednesday.

What else do I post?

When I'm not actively producing fan content, my queue usually consists of a mix of:

video games

cute animals

funny puns

software development

social justice

the fundamental goodness of the world and of people

misc stuff that I find neat

Twitch and Discord

I stream three times a week at http://www.twitch.tv/blackjack_kent. Drop by and say hi anytime! <3

Monday Night Skill Check 6PM-9PM Central Soulslikes and other mechanically demanding game fun. Friday Night Game Brigade 9PM-12AM Central Variety stream of everything from shooters to point-and-click, just hanging out and having a good time. Sunday Afternoon Code Squad 12PM-2PM Central Livecoding on web development projects and answering questions or just chatting.

I have a Discord server for my stream community and beyond! We talk gaming, programming, other nerdy stuff, and general chat; you can join the server at http://discord.gg/k4gDad5! Anyone is welcome, just don't be a jerk! <3

Free Tutoring - Software and Web Development

I am really passionate about bringing new people into the software dev industry (particularly people from traditionally underrepresented groups). I offer free tutoring sessions and would love to help you with whatever you're working on! Just fill out this Google form to let me know that you're interested!

Pro-Bono Web Development

I offer web development and other technological support pro-bono to organizations working for positive change in the Chicago area and elsewhere, including but not limited to:

Community and mutual aid groups

Humanitarian organizations

Civil rights and advocacy organizations

Charity and social service organizations

Environmental organizations

If you work with an organization in need of web dev or tech support, please reach out; I'd love to see what I can do to help you!

-----

And that about sums it up. Be well, be good to one another, and thank you so much for checking out my blog! Feel free to drop me an ask any time if you'd like to chat, have questions, or just want to say hi. :)

#bjk talks #pinned post

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aisolutions95 · 1 month ago

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Fast, flexible, and powerful React Native web!

React Native Web delivers speed, agility, and capability to web application development so that you can develop high-quality apps from one codebase. Picture crafting a frictionless, responsive web experience built on the same React Native components used to build mobile apps. Developers can simplify workflows, save development time, and keep platforms in harmony with React Native Web. Its fast rendering provides seamless performance, and its adaptability enables customizability to suit a variety of user requirements. From launching a new startup to scaling an enterprise app, React Native Web seamlessly integrates, providing a native-like experience on the web. Bye-bye to the hassle of dealing with two codebases for mobile and web—React Native Web bridges the gap with precision and agility. Future-proof your web apps with this groundbreaking technology and deliver an engaging user experience. Ready to transform your web app? Start building with React Native Web today!

#react native app development company in Qatar #react native development agency #react native app development agency #react native agency #react native mobile app development company #react native app development company Qatar #react native app development company #react native app development services #react native development agency in chicago #react native development services chicago #business development #developers & startups #software #web developers #software development

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bocceclub · 4 months ago

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Cell-site simulators mimic cell towers to intercept communications, indiscriminately collecting sensitive data such as call metadata, location information, and app traffic from all phones within their range. Their use has drawn widespread criticism from privacy advocates and activists, who argue that such technology can be exploited to covertly monitor protestors and suppress dissent.

The DNC convened amid widespread protests over Israel’s assault on Gaza. While credentialed influencers attended exclusive yacht parties and VIP events, thousands of demonstrators faced a heavy law enforcement presence, including officers from the US Capitol Police, Secret Service, Homeland Security Investigations, local sheriff’s offices, and Chicago police.

Concerns over potential surveillance prompted WIRED to conduct a first-of-its-kind wireless survey to investigate whether cell-site simulators were being deployed. Reporters, equipped with two rooted Android phones and Wi-Fi hotspots running detection software, used Rayhunter—a tool developed by the EFF [Electronic Frontier Foundation] to detect data anomalies associated with these devices. WIRED’s reporters monitored signals at protests and event locations across Chicago, collecting extensive data during the political convention.

...According to the EFF’s analysis, on August 18—the day before the convention officially began—a device carried by WIRED reporters en route a hotel housing Democratic delegates from states in the US Midwest abruptly switched to a new tower. That tower asked for the device’s IMSI and then immediately disconnected—a sequence consistent with the operation of a cell-site simulator.

“This is extremely suspicious behavior that normal towers do not exhibit,” Quintin [a senior technologist at the EFF] says. He notes that the EFF typically observed similar patterns only during simulated and controlled attacks. “This is not 100 percent incontrovertible truth, but it’s strong evidence suggesting a cell-site simulator was deployed. We don’t know who was responsible—it could have been the US government, foreign actors, or another entity.”

#tech tag #awesome times we live in

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chiragqlanceblogs · 2 months ago

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How a Logistics Software Development Company Can Streamline Your Supply Chain

In today's fast-paced world, logistics companies are under constant pressure to deliver goods efficiently while maintaining cost-effectiveness. Embracing digital transformation is no longer optional; it's a necessity. As a leading logistics software development company, iQlance specializes in creating cutting-edge solutions that enhance supply chain visibility, optimize routes, and automate documentation.

The Importance of Digital Transformation in Logistics

The logistics industry has evolved significantly, with technology playing a pivotal role. Traditional supply chain management systems often lead to:

Inefficient tracking and routing

High operational costs

Delivery delays

Lack of real-time visibility

With a robust logistics software solution, businesses can overcome these challenges, streamline their operations, and enhance customer satisfaction.

What is Logistics Software Development?

Logistics software development involves creating tailored applications designed to manage and optimize supply chain operations. From warehouse management to real-time fleet tracking, a well-built logistics app can address the specific needs of logistics companies.

Key Features of Logistics Software:

Real-time GPS tracking to monitor shipment progress.

Route optimization algorithms for faster deliveries.

Inventory management to maintain stock levels.

Automated documentation for reducing paperwork.

Data analytics for actionable insights.

Benefits of Logistics Software

Real-time Tracking

Monitor vehicle locations and delivery statuses in real time.

Enhance customer experience with accurate ETA updates.

Route Optimization

Advanced algorithms find the most efficient delivery routes.

Reduce fuel consumption and improve delivery times.

Automated Documentation

Generate invoices, shipping labels, and reports automatically.

Reduce human errors and administrative workload.

Enhanced Visibility and Control

End-to-end supply chain transparency.

Identify and resolve bottlenecks quickly.

How iQlance Can Help

At iQlance, we offer specialized Supply Chain Software Development Services to solve your logistical challenges. Here's why we stand out as a leading logistics software development company:

Industry Expertise: Our developers understand the nuances of the logistics sector.

Tailored Solutions: Every business has unique needs; we provide customized software aligned with your goals.

Scalable Systems: Our solutions grow with your business, ensuring long-term usability.

Seamless Integration: Connect existing systems like ERP, WMS, and TMS for unified operations.

Case Study: Transforming Supply Chain Efficiency

Client: A leading logistics provider in Chicago. Challenge: Inefficient route planning and lack of real-time tracking. Solution: iQlance developed a comprehensive logistics management app with route optimization and real-time tracking features. Results:

25% reduction in fuel costs.

30% faster deliveries.

Improved customer satisfaction.

Conclusion: Partner with iQlance for Superior Logistics Solutions

If you're looking for a Software Development Company in Chicago that understands the complexities of logistics, iQlance is your trusted partner. Our tailored Supply Chain Software Development Services will help you optimize your supply chain, reduce operational costs, and enhance delivery efficiency.

Ready to transform your logistics operations? Contact iQlance today to learn how we can build the perfect solution for your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is logistics software development?

Logistics software development involves creating digital solutions that manage supply chain operations, optimize routes, track shipments, and automate documentation.

2. How can logistics software improve my business?

It enhances real-time visibility, reduces operational costs, automates processes, and helps in faster and more accurate decision-making.

3. Why choose iQlance for logistics software development?

With years of expertise, iQlance offers tailored solutions designed for scalability, seamless integration, and operational efficiency.

4. Can iQlance integrate logistics software with existing systems?

Yes, our software solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly with your existing ERP, WMS, or TMS systems.

5. How do I get started with iQlance for my logistics software needs?

Please feel free to contact us through our website for a free consultation. Our experts will take a look at your needs and propose a tailored solution for your business.

#Logistics Software Development Company #Software Development Company #Software Development Company in Chicago #Software Development #Logistics Software Development

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spectralgecko · 9 months ago

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Hey Artists!

Especially artists - or really anyone who works with visual media - who don't want AI training off their work.

Glaze and Nightshade are two programs developed at University of Chicago designed to protect your art.

How do they work?

Glaze is a protective software - it makes pixel based changes to your file that are imperceptible to the general eye, but that make it really hard for AI to properly train from your art. In particular, it prevents style training. It will alter your art so that, say, your watercolor style piece to humans still looks like water color, but to an AI looks like an abstract charcoal. The AI can't mimic your style because Glaze puts an invisible trench coat on your style.

Nightshade is a poisoning software. Where Glaze shields your work, Nightshade actively poisons the AI by giving it bad information. If I put an image of a bird through Nightshade, to us it's a bird, and to AI it might be a flower pot. It deliberately feeds the AI garbage that confuses its training keywords.

I personally recommend using Glaze especially, and then adding Nightshade on top if it strikes your fancy.

Where do I get these?

The link above will take you to the Glaze websites, or you can look up "Glaze Project" or "Glaze AI."

Once on their site, go to the downloads tab at the top, where you can download one or both.

Both are free and exist for multiple CPU's and OS systems.

When you download, you'll get a long-ish download ending in a Zip folder. Unzip the folder, look inside, and look for the file with the app logo and name. If you have file extensions turned on you'll see ".exe" at the end. Pin this to your taskbar or start for easy access, and run the program! It'll take another moment to download its resources properly, and you're good to go.

Nightshade may set off your computer's protection software - that's just because it's an unknown and beta application. It's safe, don't worry. Run it, and viola!

Now you have two ways to protect your art from AI scraping, and give it a kick in the pants to boot.

#sqarlettalks #ai training #ai #glaze #nightshade #art #artist support #artists on tumblr #there's probably more tags this should have #let me know if you think of any #or Reblog and add them yourself so this reaches people!

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dustedmagazine · 4 months ago

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Ernst Karel & Bhob Rainey — 47 Gates (Erstwhile)

First-time duos make up a significant chunk of the Erstwhile Records catalog. Typically, the label invites two artists who haven’t previously worked together to come up with an album, and sometimes music results. While this encounter qualifies, one wonders if Bhob Rainey and Ernst Karel relinquished the word “first” over the course of a partnership that was initiated in 2015 and finally yielded 47 Gates in 2024. Whatever fresh ideas were sparked when Erstwhile initially commissioned the duo to make a record have likely undergone recurrent interrogation in order to make the final cut and be included in this immaculately interwoven construction made from environmental, instrumental and processed sounds.

And while music is a big and often beautiful thing, 47 Gates defies the term’s boundaries. On their respective websites both Rainey and Karel assert at the top of their respective bios that they work in sound. Rainey is identified as an improvising soprano saxophonist, an instrument and practice that he has exercised with the duo Nmperign and the larger ensemble BSC. But he’s also developed sonic accompaniment for dance and theatre, as well as sound-manipulating software. Likewise, Karel has wielded a trumpet, and if you’re acquainted with albums made in Chicago during the 1990s on which rock, improvisation, and experimental practices jostled for space, you’ve probably heard him. But nowadays he performs occasionally with electronics, and mostly collects and manipulates environmental sounds that tend to end up in films.

If either man blew a horn on 47 Gates, they aren’t admitting to it; both are credited with electronics and recordings, and Rainey is also credited with piano. Two of its four tracks also feature contributions by a clarinetist and a string quartet. Each has moments where the combination of made and found sounds will confound efforts to determine where one ends and the other begins. But the album also moments when the divisions are not only clear, but essential to its periodic musicality because they establish periodic divisions that could be characterized as rhythmic. Wind gusts and low electronic tones begin “Weather Imprint,” alternating so that one feels like one is being buffeted by a stuttered cadence of meteorological events. But the piece doesn’t stop there; first voices that sound like they’ve been lifted from shortwave radio broadcasts utter phonemes, and then objects are heard being moved.

Every included element is material, something one can use to make something else. Karel and Rainey don’t prioritize their choices of material by type, but by utility at any given moment; droning strings or a blast of antique Indonesian pop that sounds like it’s blowing up an AM radio speaker can be just as handy as the sound of a fly flitting back and forth between speakers.

Bill Meyer

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