#cloud data virtualization
Explore tagged Tumblr posts
cloud00024 · 11 months ago
Text
Tumblr media
Best Cloud Service
The primary reason to have Secure Cloud Service is active and practicing internet activity, allowing you to have necessary data easily, being fast and secure from cyber threats.
Cloud24 offers data encryption, scheduled data backup, DDoS service and offer the evaluation of website requirements and security.
Cloud24 is safe Cloud hosting to save your data, guarantee the site’s stability and gain the audience’s trust to help you succeed online.
3 notes · View notes
infomen · 2 months ago
Text
Next-Gen 2U Server from HexaData – High Performance for Cloud & HPC
The HexaData HD-H261-N80 Ver: Gen001 is a powerful 2U quad-node server designed to meet the demands of modern data centers, AI workloads, and virtualization environments. Powered by up to 8 x Intel® Xeon® Scalable processors, it delivers unmatched density, performance, and flexibility.
This high-efficiency server supports Intel® Optane™ memory, VROC RAID, 10GbE networking, and 100G Infiniband, making it ideal for HPC, cloud computing, and enterprise-grade applications.
With robust remote management via Aspeed® AST2500 BMC and redundant 2200W Platinum PSUs, the HD-H261-N80 ensures reliability and uptime for mission-critical workloads.
Learn more and explore configurations: Hexadata HD-H261-N80-Ver: Gen001|2U High Density Server Page
0 notes
goodoldbandit · 2 months ago
Text
Networking Reimagined: How SDN & NFV Are Shaping the Future of Connectivity.
Sanjay Kumar Mohindroo Sanjay Kumar Mohindroo. skm.stayingalive.in Explore how Software-Defined Networking and Network Function Virtualization empower agile, programmable, and efficient networks for cloud and data center environments. #SDN #NFV #Networking A New Dawn in Networking Opening the Door to a Smarter Digital World Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function…
0 notes
tudipblog · 2 months ago
Text
What is Cloud Computing in Healthcare?
Tumblr media
Cloud computing for the healthcare industry is the way of implementing remote server access through the internet for storing, managing, and processing healthcare data. In this process,  on-site data centers aren’t established for hosting data on personal computers and hence provides a flexible solution for healthcare stakeholders to remotely access servers where the data is hosted.
Shifting to the cloud has two-fold benefits for both patients and providers. On the business side, virtualization in cloud computing has been beneficial to lower the operational spend while enabling healthcare providers to deliver high-quality and personalized care.
The patients, on the other hand, are getting accustomed with fast delivery of the healthcare services. Healthcare cloud computing increases involvement of patients by giving them access to their healthcare data, which ultimately results in better patient outcomes.
The remote accessibility of healthcare added with the democratization of data free the providers and patients which breaks down the location barriers to healthcare access.
What are the Benefits of Cloud Computing in the Healthcare Industry?
Tumblr media
Cost-effective solution:The primary premise of healthcare cloud services is real time availability of computer resources such as data storage and computing power. Both healthcare providers and hospitals don’t need to buy data storage hardware and software. Moreover, there are no upfront charges linked with the cloud for healthcare, they will only have to pay for the resource they actually use. Applications of cloud computing in healthcare provides an optimum environment for scaling without paying much. With the patient’s data coming  from not only EMRs but also through healthcare apps and wearables, a cloud environment makes it possible to scale the storage while keeping the costs low.
Easy interoperability: Interoperability is establishing data integrations through the entire healthcare system, regardless of the origin or where the data is stored. Interoperability powered by healthcare cloud solutions, makes patients’ data available to easily distribute and get insights to aid healthcare delivery. Healthcare cloud computing enables healthcare providers in gaining access to patient data gathered from multiple sources, share it with key stakeholders and deliver timely protocols.
Ownership of data by patients:The combination of cloud computing and healthcare democratize data and give the patients control over their health. It increases participation of patients in decisions related to their health, working as a tool to better patient involvement and education. The importance of cloud computing in the industry can also be seen by the fact that the medical data can be archived and then retrieved easily when the data is stored on the cloud. With an increase in the system uptime, the redundant data reduces to a huge extent, and the data recovery also becomes easier.
Improved collaboration:The implementation of cloud for healthcare has a major role in boosting collaboration. By storing the Electronic Medical Records in the cloud, patients don’t need to have separate medical records for every doctor visit. The doctors can easily view the information, see the outcome of previous interactions with the specialists, and even share information with each other. This saves their time and enables them to provide more accurate treatment.
Enhanced patient experience:With the help of cloud for healthcare, doctors have now the power to increase the patient involvement by giving them anytime access anywhere to medical data, test results, and even doctors’ notes. This gives the patients control over their health as they become more educated regarding their medical conditions. In addition to this, cloud computing in healthcare provides a check for the patients from being overprescribed or dragged into unnecessary testing as doctors can find in the medical records.
Click the link below to learn more about the blog What is Cloud Computing in Healthcare? https://tudip.com/blog-post/what-is-cloud-computing-in-healthcare/
0 notes
fusionfactorcorp · 7 months ago
Text
Fusion Factor Corporation provides reliable IT solutions and support for small and medium-sized businesses. They specialize in managed IT services, cybersecurity, cloud solutions, and IT consulting, helping companies work smarter and stay secure.
With a focus on customer care, Fusion Factor ensures your technology runs smoothly, so you can focus on growing your business. Their team offers 24/7 monitoring, proactive support, and tailored solutions to meet your unique needs. Fusion Factor makes IT simple, so you can achieve more.
0 notes
productiveandfree · 7 months ago
Text
How Technology is Transforming Business Communication and Management
In this world of business, technology has become the single most pivotal force in shaping organizations to communicate, manage operations, and interact with their clients.
The rapid advancements in communication tools, automation in processes, and management systems have let businesses achieve more efficiency, competitiveness, and agility toward market dynamics. This transformation has not only aligned the internal processes but has also revolutionized customer engagement, team collaboration, and decision-making.
The article now goes through how technology is changing business communication and management, highlighting key trends and tools that drive such change.
Cloud-Based Communication Platforms
Among the many innovations in business communication, cloud technology is likely the most impactful. Traditional phone systems and on-premise email servers are giving way to flexible, scalable, and more economical cloud platforms.
Unified Communication as a Service (UCaaS)
The latest of these is Unified Communication as a Service (UCaaS). With UCaaS, voice, video, messaging, and conferencing are all integrated into one solution accessible from any device capable of accessing the internet. In other words, work teams can communicate in real-time is the technology that has made working from home and hybrid workplaces possible, as companies remain productive and their workers communicate effectively over-dispersed geographies.
Reduced Infrastructure Cost
With the use of cloud-supported communication tools, a company isn't required to invest in hardware and other maintenance costs of conventional systems.
Instead of investing in a PBX system or an on-premise data center, companies can invest in subscription models that scale as required. This has made access to enterprise-level communication tools easier for small and medium businesses without heavy upfront investments.
Improved Security and Data Privacy
Cloud communication platforms are also integrated with strong security functions, including encryption, multi-factor authentication, and adherence to data privacy laws. This means that sensitive business communication will be safe from unauthorized access and prevent the leakage of critical business information.
Mobile Technology for Remote Management
Mobile technology has made it possible for business leaders and employees to stay connected and manage tasks from anywhere, at any time. A prime example of this transformation is the role of mobile connectivity in facilitating seamless communication during business trips. With tools like mobile project management apps and communication platforms, remote work has become more seamless.
For esim international travel, professionals can easily switch between networks without the hassle of changing SIM cards, ensuring they remain connected wherever they go. This ensures that even when traveling internationally, business leaders can access important documents, attend virtual meetings, and stay in touch with their teams without interruptions.
AI in Communication
The use of AI is redefining business-customer interaction and internal communication in organizations.
●     AI-Powered Customer Support: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants have indeed completely transformed customer support. Such applications can process hundreds of queries simultaneously in real-time and promptly respond with accuracy to the customers 24/7.
●     Natural Language Processing (NLP): This is a branch of AI-engaging computers to perceive and interpret human language. Companies are leveraging NLP in email, chat, and customer feedback analyses to understand major trends and problems in communication.
●     AI in Internal Communication: Coupled with communication with customers, AI also enhances the internal processes of communication. AI-driven tools could automate routine tasks of meeting scheduling, reminders, and keeping the workflow organized.
Team Management Collaboration Tools
Collaboration tools have now played a very important part in team management, with many employees embracing the concept of working from home and hybrid work models.
Project Management Software
Project management tools allow your team to organize work, follow through on progress, and collaborate in real-time. On the platform, members can delegate tasks, set deadlines, and communicate effectively so there is no miscommunication or a lost deadline.
They even give insights into the timeline of projects to ensure people are on the same page about what is happening with the status of a project.
Real-Time Collaboration on Documents
This has been further improved through other platforms, whereby many users can edit one document simultaneously. A team can edit a document spreadsheet or presentation, comment, and even suggestions that can be reviewed. This certainly has taken collaboration to a new level, more so when the team members are scattered in different locations.
Virtual Meeting Tools
Built-in integrations like screen sharing, virtual whiteboards, and breakout rooms make remote meetings truly far more interactive. The hybrid way of working has made these platforms do magic, connecting all the employees, those in-office and working remotely, to one platform where every single one of them has equal opportunity to participate and contribute.
Automation in Business Management
Automation is another crucial technology transforming how business activities are managed in any business to reduce workloads and further enhance operational efficiency.
●     Workflow Automation: This helps businesses automate repetitive activities. It could also mean that customer data is routed automatically to a CRM system, instead of having to be keyed in when a new lead is created or a customer makes a purchase, reducing chances of human error and thus assuring speedier processing.
●     Automated Reporting and Analytics: Automation tools will immediately report, at a frequency defined by the business rules, to make sure that managers and leaders have access to current information for making informed decisions.
●     Human Resources and Payroll Automation: Automation has also brought a sea change in HR and payroll practices. This ensures further compliance with labor laws and frees up administrative burdens on HR teams to focus on employee engagement and development.
Improved Customer Relationship Management
The application of CRM in business is central to the handling of interactions with clients and prospects. Advanced modern CRM systems, leveraging AI and automation, may unlock deeper insights for businesses into customer behavior and preferences for personalized communication and marketing strategies.
AI-Driven CRMs
CRM systems apply AI toward identifying patterns in how customers interact and then predict their future behaviors. This can include automation of things like lead scoring on the likelihood to convert, suggesting next steps for sales teams, and personalized marketing content to better engage prospects.
AI-driven CRMs offer improvements in business-customer relations because they ensure that the communication is timely, relevant, and personal.
Omnichannel Communication
The modern CRM system unifies multi-channel communications like email, social media, phone, and chat - all within one system. This ability to engage the customer across the touchpoints allows for a consistent and seamless experience in engaging them.
When the customer calls the business, writes an email, or reaches out via social media, the CRM system monitors all of these interactions to enable insight into the big picture of the customer's journey.
Data Analytics and Business Intelligence (BI)
It has indeed brought about an absolute revolution in the way businesses make decisions-from insights into performance, customer behavior, and market trends.
Real-Time Data Insights
This allows the organization to realize the data in real-time to make informed strategic decisions. These tools aggregate data from various sources into comprehensible dashboards. Based on the observation of KPIs, business executives make fact-based decisions instead of gut-based decisions.
Predictive Analytics
Artificial Intelligence and machine learning-driven predictive analytics can help businesses to accurately predict future trends and outcomes.
For example, companies can estimate the rate of churn in customers, optimize inventory levels, and even predict market demand using historical data. Using this technology, predictive analytics enables a business to pre-emptively make decisions that will enhance efficiency and profitability.
Conclusion
Technology is transforming business communication and management on an unprecedented scale. Business managers leverage these innovations on everything from cloud-based communication platforms and AI-powered customer support to automation tools and data analytics.
As technology continues to evolve, only companies that adopt new tools will remain flexible in changing market conditions, enhance customer experience, and ensure long-term success. This is what will allow businesses to continue to be competitive and thrive in the high-speed world of business today.
FAQs
1.At which points does the utilization of cloud-based communication tools improve the way business is conducted?
Cloud-based tools make communication easier, the cost of the infrastructure is reduced, and it allows for working remotely.
2.What part does AI play in improving customer service?
AI empowers businesses by providing constant support through chatbots and virtual assistants, enhancing response time and customer satisfaction.
3.Why is automation important for business management?
Automation reduces human effort to the lowest level, reduces errors, and speeds up operations in many business processes.
Daniel Martin
Dan has had hands-on experience in digital marketing since 2007. He has been building teams and coaching others to foster innovation and solve real-time problems. In his previous work experiences, he has developed expertise in digital marketing, e-commerce, and social media. When he's not working, Dan enjoys photography and traveling.
LinkedIn Profile
Share in the comments below: Questions go here
0 notes
nitor-infotech · 1 year ago
Text
What's the difference between cloud and virtualization?
Tumblr media
Cloud computing and virtualization are often mixed up, as they both involve crafting functional environments from abstracted resources. 
Cloud computing is all about using IT setups that take resources, group them, and share them over a network so they can be scaled up or down as needed. On the other hand, virtualization is the technology that makes it possible to split one physical computer into several “virtual” ones, each acting like a separate machine. 
So, think of cloud computing as the whole workspace or service that you use, and virtualization as the clever trick behind the scenes that makes it all possible. 
What is Cloud Computing 
Cloud computing is using the internet to access storage, software, and processing power instead of relying on your own device's hardware. This allows you to store files, run applications, and use services from anywhere with an internet connection, making it flexible and convenient. The cloud service provider manages the hardware and infrastructure, so you don't have to. 
What is Virtualization 
Virtualization is a technology that allows you to create multiple simulated environments or virtual machines on a single physical hardware system. It essentially divides one physical computer into several smaller, isolated virtual computers, each with its operating system and applications. This helps maximize the use of hardware resources, improve efficiency, and reduce costs by allowing multiple tasks to run on a single machine. 
Cloud computing vs. Virtualization 
Here's a practical comparison between cloud computing and virtualization: 
Cloud Computing: 
Usage: Ideal for businesses and individuals needing scalable resources without the hassle of maintaining physical hardware. The data and apps can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. 
Management: Managed by a third-party service provider. They handle the infrastructure, updates, and security. 
Scalability: Easily scalable. You can quickly add or remove resources based on your needs. 
Cost: Often subscription-based or pay-as-you-go, which can be cost-effective for varying workloads. 
Examples: Google Drive for file storage, Microsoft Azure for various services, and Amazon Web Services (AWS) for hosting applications. 
Virtualization 
Usage: Commonly used in data centers to maximize hardware utilization by running multiple operating systems and applications on a single server. 
Management: Typically managed internally by the organization. Requires expertise to set up and maintain virtual environments. 
Scalability: While scalable, it often requires additional physical hardware as demand grows. 
Cost: Initial setup can be costly due to hardware and software requirements. However, it can save money in the long run by maximizing resource utilization. 
Examples: VMware for server virtualization, VirtualBox for desktop virtualization, and Hyper-V from Microsoft for both. 
Key Differences 
Accessibility: Cloud computing provides remote access to resources, whereas virtualization usually operates within a controlled environment (like a company’s data center). 
Resource Management: Cloud computing outsources resource management to a third-party provider, while virtualization requires in-house management. 
Cloud Computing with Virtualization 
Cloud computing and virtualization go hand in hand. Virtualization is the key technology that allows cloud services to be flexible and scalable. It lets multiple virtual machines (VMs) operate on a single physical server, which makes the most of hardware resources and provides separate spaces for different users and applications. This setup gives cloud services the ability to quickly adjust to user needs, scaling applications up or down without being limited by physical hardware. 
Additionally, the combination of cloud computing and virtualization brings about cost savings and better management. Since virtualization reduces the need for lots of physical hardware, it also cuts down on maintenance and energy expenses. Cloud providers can then offer more cost-effective models to their users. 
Conclusion 
Cloud computing and virtualization complement each other to enhance IT infrastructure. Together, they improve software development by enabling rapid prototyping, testing, and deployment.  
By leveraging both, development teams can focus more on innovation, leading to better software development outcomes. 
Discover how Nitor Infotech can serve as your ultimate solution for cloud-based virtualization. 
1 note · View note
techtoio · 1 year ago
Text
How to Create Stunning Graphics with Adobe Photoshop
Introduction
Adobe Photoshop is the preferred software for graphic designers, photographers, and digital artists worldwide. Its powerful tools and versatile features lead to the foundation of an essential application that one needs to create the best kind of graphics. Mastering Photoshop can improve your creative-level projects, whether you are a beginner or an experienced user. In this tutorial, we will walk you through the basics and advanced techniques so you can create stunning graphics with the help of Adobe Photoshop. Read to continue
0 notes
francescolelli · 1 year ago
Photo
Tumblr media
Phd or Postdoc in Switzerland for International Students: On Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
This is a short preview of the article: Do you have a fresh master or PhD and are you considering Phd or Postdoc in Switzerland? The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship offers young researchers from around the world who have completed a master’s degree or PhD the opportunity to start or continue their research careers in S
If you like it consider checking out the full version of the post at: Phd or Postdoc in Switzerland for International Students: On Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
If you are looking for ideas for tweet or re-blog this post you may want to consider the following hashtags:
Hashtags: #BigData, #CloudComputing, #DigitalDecisionMaking, #DistributedSystems, #Fellowship, #HumanBehaviourInformatics, #InternetOfThings, #IoT, #PhD, #PostDoc, #ServiceOrientedArchitecture, #Swiss, #Switzerland, #VirtualReality
The Hashtags of the Categories are: #BigData, #CloudComputing, #InternetofThings, #Job, #Job/Fellowship, #MachineLearning, #Programming, #Research, #SoftwareEngineering
Phd or Postdoc in Switzerland for International Students: On Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships is available at the following link: https://francescolelli.info/job/phd-or-postdoc-in-switzerland-for-international-students-on-swiss-government-excellence-scholarships/ You will find more information, stories, examples, data, opinions and scientific papers as part of a collection of articles about Information Management, Computer Science, Economics, Finance and More.
The title of the full article is: Phd or Postdoc in Switzerland for International Students: On Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
It belong to the following categories: Big Data, Cloud Computing, Internet of Things, Job, Job/Fellowship, Machine Learning, Programming, Research, Software Engineering
The most relevant keywords are: Big Data, Cloud Computing, Digital Decision Making, Distributed Systems, fellowship, Human Behaviour Informatics, internet of things, IoT, PhD, Post-Doc, Service Oriented Architecture, Swiss, Switzerland, Virtual Reality
It has been published by Francesco Lelli at Francesco Lelli a blog about Information Management, Computer Science, Finance, Economics and nearby ideas and opinions
Do you have a fresh master or PhD and are you considering Phd or Postdoc in Switzerland? The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship offers young researchers from around the world who have completed a master’s degree or PhD the opportunity to start or continue their research careers in S
Hope you will find it interesting and that it will help you in your journey
Do you have a fresh master or PhD and are you considering Phd or Postdoc in Switzerland? The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship offers young researchers from around the world who have completed a master’s degree or PhD the opportunity to start or continue their research careers in Switzerland. The scholarship supports research endeavors for a…
0 notes
debajitadhikary · 2 years ago
Text
10 Most important Technologies that IT Advisors use to Navigating the Future of Information Technology
Introduction as IT Advisors In the dynamic realm of Information Technology (IT), staying ahead requires a powerful arsenal of cutting-edge technologies. IT advisors, the guiding force behind digital transformations, leverage a spectrum of tools to optimize operations, enhance security, and propel their clients into the future. In this exploration, we’ll delve into the tech landscape that…
Tumblr media
View On WordPress
1 note · View note
rajaniesh · 2 years ago
Text
Unlocking the full Power of Hybrid Runbooks for Azure Automation
In today's rapidly evolving cloud computing landscape, mastering the art of automation is crucial. 'Unlocking the Power of Hybrid Runbooks for Azure Automation' dives deep into how Azure Automation can revolutionize the way you manage and automate cloud.
In the ever-evolving landscape of cloud computing, efficiency, and automation are not just buzzwords but essential strategies for managing complex cloud environments. Azure Automation emerges as a pivotal tool in this realm, offering a robust, cloud-based automation service that helps you focus on work that adds business value. By automating frequent, time-consuming, and error-prone cloud…
Tumblr media
View On WordPress
0 notes
luckyonexcel · 2 years ago
Text
Future of the Internet | Unlocking Tomorrow's Digital Frontier
The Internet has become an integral part of our lives, connecting people worldwide in ways unimaginable just a few decades ago. As we embark on a new era of technological advancements, it is essential to examine the future of the internet and its potential to shape our societies. And the way we interact with the digital world in the years to come. We will explore the exciting possibilities and…
Tumblr media
View On WordPress
1 note · View note
infosectrain03 · 2 years ago
Text
You may have heard about a data breach at a major cell phone company that compromised the personal data of approximately 40 million customers. According to reports, hackers disclosed 18.8 billion records in the first six months of 2021. 
0 notes
ourjobagency · 2 years ago
Text
Top 7 Trends in Salesforce to Watch in 2023
Salesforce has been a trailblazer in the world of customer relationship management (CRM) software for years, helping businesses connect with customers, streamline processes, and drive growth. As we step into 2023, the platform continues to evolve, introducing new features and capabilities to meet the ever-changing demands of businesses and consumers alike. In this blog, we'll explore the top seven trends in Salesforce that are shaping the CRM landscape in 2023 and beyond.
AI-Driven Personalization:
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the way businesses engage with their customers, and Salesforce is no exception. In 2023, expect to see AI-driven personalization take center stage, allowing companies to tailor customer interactions based on their preferences, behavior, and historical data. This will not only enhance customer satisfaction but also boost conversion rates and drive customer loyalty.
Integration of IoT and Salesforce:
The Internet of Things (IoT) is reshaping various industries, and Salesforce is embracing this trend by integrating IoT data into its CRM platform. This integration will enable businesses to gather real-time insights from connected devices, optimize operations, and provide proactive customer support. Expect to see IoT-enabled Salesforce solutions gaining traction across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and retail.
Blockchain for Secure Data Management:
Data security and privacy are paramount concerns for businesses and consumers alike. In 2023, Salesforce is likely to incorporate blockchain technology to enhance data integrity and security. Blockchain can provide a tamper-proof, decentralized data storage mechanism, ensuring sensitive customer information remains safe from cyber threats and unauthorized access.
Hyper-Personalization with Customer Data Platforms (CDPs):
Customer Data Platforms (CDPs) are becoming increasingly popular as they consolidate customer data from various sources into a unified profile. Salesforce is expected to leverage CDPs to achieve hyper-personalization in 2023. By understanding customer behavior across channels, businesses can deliver highly targeted and relevant marketing campaigns, fostering deeper customer connections.
Low-Code/No-Code Development:
In 2023, we will witness an acceleration in low-code/no-code development on the Salesforce platform. These user-friendly tools enable businesses to build custom applications and automate processes without extensive coding knowledge. This democratization of development will empower organizations to innovate and respond quickly to changing market demands.
Extended Reality (XR) for Enhanced Customer Experiences:
Extended Reality (XR), which includes Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), is gaining traction in the CRM space. Salesforce is likely to integrate XR capabilities to offer unique and immersive customer experiences. From virtual product demonstrations to AR-powered customer support, XR will redefine how businesses engage with their audiences.
Voice Technology Integration:
As voice-activated devices become increasingly popular, Salesforce is expected to integrate voice technology into its CRM platform. This integration will simplify user interactions, making it easier for sales representatives to access information on-the-go, analyze data through voice commands, and improve overall productivity.
Conclusion:
Salesforce continues to be at the forefront of CRM innovation, and 2023 promises to be an exciting year with these emerging trends. AI-driven personalization, IoT integration, blockchain-enabled security, and hyper-personalization through CDPs are all set to revolutionize customer engagement. Furthermore, low-code/no-code development, XR integration, and voice technology will shape the future of the Salesforce platform, making it more accessible, immersive, and efficient for businesses worldwide.
As these trends continue to evolve, businesses must stay agile and adapt their strategies to leverage the full potential of Salesforce and gain a competitive edge in the dynamic world of CRM. Embracing these trends will not only enhance customer experiences but also drive revenue growth and long-term success.
0 notes
becuzitisbitter · 4 months ago
Text
When computer scientists gain entry, as they’re doing, into the presidential palaces and mayors’ offices of the world’s largest cities, it’s not so much to set up shop as it is to explain the new rules of the game: government administrations are now competing with alternative providers of the same services who, unfortunately for them, are several steps ahead. Suggesting their cloud as a way to shelter government services from revolutions — services like the land registry, soon to be available as a smartphone application — the authors of The New Digital Age inform us and them: “In the future, people won’t just back up their data; they’ll back up their government.” And in case it’s not quite clear who the boss is now, it concludes: “Governments may collapse and wars can destroy physical infrastructure but virtual institutions will survive.” With Google, what is concealed beneath the exterior of an innocent interface and a very effective search engine, is an explicitly political project. An enterprise that maps the planet Earth, sending its teams into every street of every one of its towns, cannot have purely commercial aims. One never maps a territory that one doesn’t contemplate appropriating. “Don’t be evil!”: let yourself go.
To Our Friends, The Invisible Committee, 2014
495 notes · View notes
mostlysignssomeportents · 9 months ago
Text
Cars bricked by bankrupt EV company will stay bricked
Tumblr media
On OCTOBER 23 at 7PM, I'll be in DECATUR, presenting my novel THE BEZZLE at EAGLE EYE BOOKS.
Tumblr media
There are few phrases in the modern lexicon more accursed than "software-based car," and yet, this is how the failed EV maker Fisker billed its products, which retailed for $40-70k in the few short years before the company collapsed, shut down its servers, and degraded all those "software-based cars":
https://insideevs.com/news/723669/fisker-inc-bankruptcy-chapter-11-official/
Fisker billed itself as a "capital light" manufacturer, meaning that it didn't particularly make anything – rather, it "designed" cars that other companies built, allowing Fisker to focus on "experience," which is where the "software-based car" comes in. Virtually every subsystem in a Fisker car needs (or rather, needed) to periodically connect with its servers, either for regular operations or diagnostics and repair, creating frequent problems with brakes, airbags, shifting, battery management, locking and unlocking the doors:
https://www.businessinsider.com/fisker-owners-worry-about-vehicles-working-bankruptcy-2024-4
Since Fisker's bankruptcy, people with even minor problems with their Fisker EVs have found themselves owning expensive, inert lumps of conflict minerals and auto-loan debt; as one Fisker owner described it, "It's literally a lawn ornament right now":
https://www.businessinsider.com/fisker-owners-describe-chaos-to-keep-cars-running-after-bankruptcy-2024-7
This is, in many ways, typical Internet-of-Shit nonsense, but it's compounded by Fisker's capital light, all-outsource model, which led to extremely unreliable vehicles that have been plagued by recalls. The bankrupt company has proposed that vehicle owners should have to pay cash for these recalls, in order to reserve the company's capital for its creditors – a plan that is clearly illegal:
https://www.veritaglobal.net/fisker/document/2411390241007000000000005
This isn't even the first time Fisker has done this! Ten years ago, founder Henrik Fisker started another EV company called Fisker Automotive, which went bankrupt in 2014, leaving the company's "Karma" (no, really) long-range EVs (which were unreliable and prone to bursting into flames) in limbo:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fisker_Karma
Which raises the question: why did investors reward Fisker's initial incompetence by piling in for a second attempt? I think the answer lies in the very factor that has made Fisker's failure so hard on its customers: the "software-based car." Investors love the sound of a "software-based car" because they understand that a gadget that is connected to the cloud is ripe for rent-extraction, because with software comes a bundle of "IP rights" that let the company control its customers, critics and competitors:
https://locusmag.com/2020/09/cory-doctorow-ip/
A "software-based car" gets to mobilize the state to enforce its "IP," which allows it to force its customers to use authorized mechanics (who can, in turn, be price-gouged for licensing and diagnostic tools). "IP" can be used to shut down manufacturers of third party parts. "IP" allows manufacturers to revoke features that came with your car and charge you a monthly subscription fee for them. All sorts of features can be sold as downloadable content, and clawed back when title to the car changes hands, so that the new owners have to buy them again. "Software based cars" are easier to repo, making them perfect for the subprime auto-lending industry. And of course, "software-based cars" can gather much more surveillance data on drivers, which can be sold to sleazy, unregulated data-brokers:
https://pluralistic.net/2023/07/24/rent-to-pwn/#kitt-is-a-demon
Unsurprisingly, there's a large number of Fisker cars that never sold, which the bankruptcy estate is seeking a buyer for. For a minute there, it looked like they'd found one: American Lease, which was looking to acquire the deadstock Fiskers for use as leased fleet cars. But now that deal seems dead, because no one can figure out how to restart Fisker's servers, and these vehicles are bricks without server access:
https://techcrunch.com/2024/10/08/fisker-bankruptcy-hits-major-speed-bump-as-fleet-sale-is-now-in-question/
It's hard to say why the company's servers are so intransigent, but there's a clue in the chaotic way that the company wound down its affairs. The company's final days sound like a scene from the last days of the German Democratic Republic, with apparats from the failing state charging about in chaos, without any plans for keeping things running:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/03/07/east-germany-stasi-surveillance-documents/
As it imploded, Fisker cycled through a string of Chief Financial officers, losing track of millions of dollars at a time:
https://techcrunch.com/2024/05/31/fisker-collapse-investigation-ev-ocean-suv-henrik-geeta/
When Fisker's landlord regained possession of its HQ, they found "complete disarray," including improperly stored drums of toxic waste:
https://techcrunch.com/2024/10/05/fiskers-hq-abandoned-in-complete-disarray-with-apparent-hazardous-waste-clay-models-left-behind/
And while Fisker's implosion is particularly messy, the fact that it landed in bankruptcy is entirely unexceptional. Most businesses fail (eventually) and most startups fail (quickly). Despite this, businesses – even those in heavily regulated sectors like automotive regulation – are allowed to design products and undertake operations that are not designed to outlast the (likely short-lived) company.
After the 2008 crisis and the collapse of financial institutions like Lehman Brothers, finance regulators acquired a renewed interest in succession planning. Lehman consisted of over 6,000 separate corporate entities, each one representing a bid to evade regulation and/or taxation. Unwinding that complex hairball took years, during which the entities that entrusted Lehman with their funds – pensions, charitable institutions, etc – were unable to access their money.
To avoid repeats of this catastrophe, regulators began to insist that banks produce "living wills" – plans for unwinding their affairs in the event of catastrophe. They had to undertake "stress tests" that simulated a wind-down as planned, both to make sure the plan worked and to estimate how long it would take to execute. Then banks were required to set aside sufficient capital to keep the lights on while the plan ran on.
This regulation has been indifferently enforced. Banks spent the intervening years insisting that they are capable of prudently self-regulating without all this interference, something they continue to insist upon even after the Silicon Valley Bank collapse:
https://pluralistic.net/2023/03/15/mon-dieu-les-guillotines/#ceci-nes-pas-une-bailout
The fact that the rules haven't been enforced tells us nothing about whether the rules would work if they were enforced. A string of high-profile bankruptcies of companies who had no succession plans and whose collapse stands to materially harm large numbers of people tells us that something has to be done about this.
Take 23andme, the creepy genomics company that enticed millions of people into sending them their genetic material (even if you aren't a 23andme customer, they probably have most of your genome, thanks to relatives who sent in cheek-swabs). 23andme is now bankrupt, and its bankruptcy estate is shopping for a buyer who'd like to commercially exploit all that juicy genetic data, even if that is to the detriment of the people it came from. What's more, the bankruptcy estate is refusing to destroy samples from people who want to opt out of this future sale:
https://bourniquelaw.com/2024/10/09/data-23-and-me/
On a smaller scale, there's Juicebox, a company that makes EV chargers, who are exiting the North American market and shutting down their servers, killing the advanced functionality that customers paid extra for when they chose a Juicebox product:
https://www.theverge.com/2024/10/2/24260316/juicebox-ev-chargers-enel-x-way-closing-discontinued-app
I actually owned a Juicebox, which ultimately caught fire and melted down, either due to a manufacturing defect or to the criminal ineptitude of Treeium, the worst solar installers in Southern California (or both):
https://pluralistic.net/2024/01/27/here-comes-the-sun-king/#sign-here
Projects like Juice Rescue are trying to reverse-engineer the Juicebox server infrastructure and build an alternative:
https://juice-rescue.org/
This would be much simpler if Juicebox's manufacturer, Enel X Way, had been required to file a living will that explained how its customers would go on enjoying their property when and if the company discontinued support, exited the market, or went bankrupt.
That might be a big lift for every little tech startup (though it would be superior than trying to get justice after the company fails). But in regulated sectors like automotive manufacture or genomic analysis, a regulation that says, "Either design your products and services to fail safely, or escrow enough cash to keep the lights on for the duration of an orderly wind-down in the event that you shut down" would be perfectly reasonable. Companies could make "software based cars" but the more "software based" the car was, the more funds they'd have to escrow to transition their servers when they shut down (and the lest capital they'd have to build the car).
Such a rule should be in addition to more muscular rules simply banning the most abusive practices, like the Oregon state Right to Repair bill, which bans the "parts pairing" that makes repairing a Fisker car so onerous:
https://www.theverge.com/2024/3/27/24097042/right-to-repair-law-oregon-sb1596-parts-pairing-tina-kotek-signed
Or the Illinois state biometric privacy law, which strictly limits the use of the kind of genomic data that 23andme collected:
https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=3004
Failing to take action on these abusive practices is dangerous – and not just to the people who get burned by them. Every time a genomics research project turns into a privacy nightmare, that salts the earth for future medical research, making it much harder to conduct population-scale research, which can be carried out in privacy-preserving ways, and which pays huge scientific dividends that we all benefit from:
https://pluralistic.net/2022/10/01/the-palantir-will-see-you-now/#public-private-partnership
Just as Fisker's outrageous ripoff will make life harder for good cleantech companies:
https://pluralistic.net/2024/06/26/unplanned-obsolescence/#better-micetraps
If people are convinced that new, climate-friendly tech is a cesspool of grift and extraction, it will punish those firms that are making routine, breathtaking, exciting (and extremely vital) breakthroughs:
https://www.euronews.com/green/2024/10/08/norways-national-football-stadium-has-the-worlds-largest-vertical-solar-roof-how-does-it-w
Tumblr media
Tor Books as just published two new, free LITTLE BROTHER stories: VIGILANT, about creepy surveillance in distance education; and SPILL, about oil pipelines and indigenous landback.
Tumblr media Tumblr media
If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:
https://pluralistic.net/2024/10/10/software-based-car/#based
577 notes · View notes