#cloud databases comparison

[thedbahub]

Navigating Cloud Databases: Azure Cosmos DB and AWS Aurora in Focus

When embarking on new software development projects, choosing the right database technology is pivotal. In the cloud-first world, Azure Cosmos DB and AWS Aurora stand out for their unique offerings. This article explores these databases through practical T-SQL code examples and applications, guiding you towards making an informed decision. Azure Cosmos DB, a globally distributed, multi-model…

[materlux]

Psithurism

(n.) The sound of the wind through trees.

A distant signal halts the Luofu in its eternal travels, the general decides to play detective much to a certain charioteer’s chagrin. During the adventure the general meets a creature who once too traveled the stars, one who wishes to join their eternal journey.

CW: Fluff, monster!reader, mention of the dead (skeleton; vague). 2.6k

Honkai Star Rail | Main Masterlist

   This planet had experienced a catastrophic incident many amber eras ago, this has left its remaining life forms cut off from the rest of the cosmos. The people of this planet are, what the Genius Society would label, primitive. They do not understand the giant metal structures left behind by their forefathers, they have no knowledge of the aeons, or of the place they once occupied in the vast universe. To put it simply, it’s like someone pressed the ‘reset’ button on their civilization.

   By comparison the Xianzhou Luofu is far beyond advanced, currently it hovers just beyond the solar system. If it weren’t for an odd energy source they picked up off one planet in the system, they would have cruised on by. A signal like that wouldn’t be odd, they often picked up signals from other ships and planets in the area. The weird thing was, that according to the IPC’s database, this solar system was vacant. 

   So, what was making that signal? A crash landed ship calling out in distress? A new civilisation making first contact? A last ditch effort to save themselves from something terrible?

   While the Luofu is under no obligation to step in on matters like these, typically this would be something the IPC would deal with, if it was a distress signal, the residents may not have the time to spare to wait for an IPC unit. So the Xianzhou Alliance stepped in just this once, the IPC were on their way anyway, they were merely assessing the situation and would report back to the IPC. And if it was just first contact, shouldn’t the general himself be present? He thinks so at least.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

   The air of the new planet was warm and a bit humid, nothing like the perfectly crafted atmosphere of the Luofu. The general tugged at his uniform as he and a group of cloud knights make their way towards a small town, the town is walled off and guards walk by above at a leisurely pace.

   The cobblestone paved road lets out thuds as their boots make contact, the locals stop their daily activity to stare at them. As far as Jing Yuan could assess, no one seemed to be distressed or in immediate danger.

   An older gentleman, clad in what looked like an elevated version of the guards uniform stood in their path, his hand rested leisurely on the hilt of his sword. Jing Yuan, with his signature easy smile, went ahead of his unit and introduced himself.

   “Hello, I am General Jing Yuan of the Xianzhou Luofu, we picked up a signal from this planet and wondered if you were in need of our assistance.” The man before him’s shoulders tensed, his hand inched up to grip the hilt properly.

   “I am Captain Auron, I’m afraid I don’t follow, we haven’t sent any ‘signals’ as far as I am aware.” The captain kept an even tone as he spoke. Jing Yuan simply tilted his head in mild thought, “I see,” he muttered under his breath.

   “If that is the case, would you mind if we went looking for this signal, it may not have been yours, but someone else may be in need of our help,” Jing Yuan spoke with a hint of confusion, but overall this did not affect him, the mystery is thickening. He hasn’t had this much fun on a mission in a while, if you can even call this detective work fun.

   “I don’t personally mind, as long as you don’t cause any trouble.” Auron’s hand returned to its original spot of resting against the hilt. “But if I may, I have a piece of advice regarding what is beyond the wall.”

   “By all means, any help would be greatly appreciated.” Jing Yuan gestured for Auron to continue.

   “You probably saw it on your way here, beyond the wall there is a dense forest, it stretches for miles. I’d advise you to stay out of it, the place is cursed, and a monster lurks in its shadows.” Jing Yuan simply nodded and the two parted ways.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

   While Jing Yuan and his unit of knights would have liked to follow the advice of the Captain, it seems the signal is coming from within the forest. After a call back to the Luofu, and a moment of rest and prep, the group ventures in. The forest is indeed dense, the small winding paths force them to walk in single file lines. The further in they go, the taller the trees seem to grow, reaching into the sky. The air also gets more humid and water drips down from the leaves above.

   A knight startles and draws their weapon, for a moment the whole line is reduced to chaos, only the commanding voice of the general makes them settle down again. He manoeuvres his way through the line, and there, in the centre of all the commotion stands a small, white, somewhat human looking figure. It tilts its head and seems entirely unbothered by the previous commotion, its head clicks back into place and it runs back off into the undergrowth.

   The unit continues down the path, more on guard now, more of the small creatures have gathered around them. They trail behind them, mimicking the single file line even though they fit far better on the path. Some run ahead of the general, he pays them little mind, they seem harmless if only curious.

   By a fork in the road, the small creatures run down one path, a couple stop and click their heads at the unit. The general chuckles under his breath, before turning down the opposite path, the signal is getting stronger.

   By the end of the path a clearing opens up, an odd structure rests in the centre, almost completely overgrown. The signal must be coming from this clearing, from the odd structure Jing Yuan concludes.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

   High above, something both human in appearance and not, slinks from branch to branch near soundlessly. You, the only living remnant of the past civilization, observe the newcomers with much intrigue. You have, after many years and radiation, lost your ability to speak any known languages. The small creatures, ghosts you think of them, also left over from the catastrophe, gather around you. You can feel the cold of their bodies touching your skin, but there is no weight as they wander all over your back.

   A couple slide down the tree and startle the weary soldiers, you smile to yourself, you would tell them to relax, that the ghosts are harmless. But you are a far more frightening sight, and if the soldiers are scared of the ghosts who knows how they’d feel about you, not to mention you cannot speak.

   The ghosts gather at the foot of the tree and stare back up at you, to them you are the most obvious sight, and they click their heads at you. They want you to come down and greet the newcomers, much like you used to in the old days.

   A man, with long pale blond hair, walks over to the ruckus, he smiles gently at the ghosts and follows their line of sight. His eyes search the canopy above, their colour a striking shade of gold, one you somewhat recognise. An idea pops into your head, if you can’t speak to communicate, perhaps body language can speak for you.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

   The branches above shake and shiver before they fall silent, the small creatures too fall silent, whatever was in the canopy has left. “Cloud knights be on guard, we are not alone out here,” Jing Yuan calls out over the clearing.

   They begin removing moss and other plants from the structure, they soon discover a large window, a cockpit with seats behind. The seats are occupied by two bodies, both have been reduced to bones. The small creatures jump around and click as the knights work to reveal an entrance.

   Inside the ship a small red light blinks, the small creatures stay outside and simply observe the general through the glass. “This must be the signal we are picking up, so it was a distress signal, I’m afraid we are too late,” he speaks to the knights assessing the inside of the ship.

   Shouts echo from outside and the knights before him jump into action, they are staring past him out the cockpit window, the small creatures have started clicking their heads again. In one fluid motion Jing Yuan turns, summoning his weapon to his side.

   On the front of the ship, something that appears both human and not sits, you look back at him. The small creatures climb onto you and dangle off your arms, their clicks die down once they have gathered by and on your sides. Your arm extends out towards the glass, in your hand you hold a collection of bright gold flowers.

   Jing Yuan exhales after a moment of thinking, with a lazy smile and a wave of his hand the knights lower their weapons. He makes his way out of the ship and meets you by the front, you sit back on your haunches and extend the flowers out to him again. He graciously accepts them, they match his eyes near perfectly and you mentally pat yourself on the back for the right pick.

   “Thank you.” Jing Yuan has a somewhat bashful smile on his lips, it is not often the great general receives flowers. 

   “Peace,” you barely manage to croak out, your voice hoarse and thick from lack of use. The general hums and nods, the small creatures click in response, they too mean peace. 

   “Cloud knights, these beings come in peace, we can relax.” He addresses the knights around him. The knights are still wary of you and the small ghosts, their shoulders relaxed. The general looked over the flowers once again before offering them back to you, “peace,” he repeats. You accept them gently, mindful of your sharp nails.

   “Uh, General,” a knight says tentatively, “it- they look like something of the abundance.” Their eyes flicker between you and the general.

   “They do,” Jing Yuan agrees with a curious hum. You tilt your head, distantly you recall something about abundance that seems important, but ultimately this information eludes you.

   “The Captain also mentioned a monster in the forest,” a different knight speaks up, “could that not be them?” Other knights join in, nodding along, pointing out oddities and not-human characteristics that match with mara-struck.

   “Yes, yes,” the general waves a hand, quieting the group. “I do remember what the Captain said, and yes, I do agree their appearance compared to the locals is peculiar.” He looks you up and down, eyes lingering on the plant-like extrusions littering your body. “But, if they say they come in peace, we have to respect that and not respond with hostility.” The knights nod along and agree amongst themselves. You tilt your head, hardly understanding all their talk.

   You hover around the clearing, simply observing the knights as they clean the ship and gather what information they can, all preparations for when the IPC arrives and ask for all their findings. The knights are still bothered by your presence, but having faith in their general’s judgement, they leave you be only sending you weary glances when you move from one spot to another.

   Heavy foot falls wake you from your half nap on a large rock at the edge of the clearing, the sun is setting beyond the horizon casting golden light through the canopy. Before you stands the general, he regards you with a hint of mirth.

   “Resting in the evening sun I see.” He smiles as you blink slowly at him. “Were it not for my duties here, I may just join you.” You stretch your limbs out, ‘join you’, you mull over those words for a moment.

   A knight addresses the general and he turns to their attention, their conversation doesn’t reach your ears, far too busy considering his words. Vaguely you hear the knight list some letters, to which the general nods before he calls a set of orders over the camp.

   The group spends the night in the clearing, they sleep as much as they can, but it is abundantly clear to you, they aren’t used to camping out in a forest like this. You offer what reassurance you can by staying in the canopy and watching the paths around, the ghosts settle with you among the branches and keep watch. When the sun begins to rise you clamber back down the tree, the large structure made of metal is heated by the morning sun, and it makes a good resting place.

   Some time later commotion wakes you, with a stretch and a yawn you observe the knights flitting about the camp, packing bags and jutting down the last notes. The general leans on the front of the structure reading over some notes, his free hand rests on his chin. With careful movements you slide down the glass and sit behind him, distantly you recall something about personal space as you look over his shoulder.

   A smile tugs at the general’s lips, he turns his head to look over his shoulder. “Well good morning. I took the liberty to not wake you, you seemed far too comfortable up there, it’d be a shame to disturb you.” You tilt your head at him, eyes still lingering with sleep, he only smiles back at you.

   A pair of knights gather before him, he turns his attention around and is suddenly very serious. “General, all preparations are complete.”

   The general nods. “Call the men, gather by the path and wait for orders, we’ll be leaving soon.” The knights salute and leave, in a matter of minutes the knights are gathered by the path ready to leave.

   Jing Yuan makes a last round of the clearing, you observe him from above, once he’s done a circle he nods to himself seemingly pleased and approaches you.

   “I thank you for your peace, it helped keep the knights at ease.” You tilt your head at him, his tone is affectionate so you assume it’s good. “I bid you farewell for now friend, perhaps we’ll stop by this planet again once the IPC has had their look around. We’ll be leaving for home now.” He tilts his head down slightly. ‘Farewell’, for the first time you understand the meaning of the words he speaks, and it fills you with panic. You reach out, a sharp nailed hand grasping his arm, he turns back to you. 

   Why do you panic, you wonder, is it loneliness? You have spent the last centuries alone, you meet traveling merchants using shortcuts often enough, is it because these people were not hostile? Perhaps it is something deeper, a reminder of the person you once were, the civilisation you once lived in, one that was a part of the universe. Could it be because these people are from beyond the sky? You feel a longing to travel among the stars again, or you simply miss having a friend.

   “Is something the matter?” His voice breaks your train of thought, and while you don’t come to a conclusion as to why you panicked, you have decided something else.

   “Join you,” you repeat his words from earlier. He seems to think it over, looks back at the group waiting for his next orders, with a sigh he nods.

   “I don’t see why you shouldn’t be able to join us, so I’ll allow it.”

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

   Before your eyes the stars once more stretch endlessly, winking and shining, like they're welcoming you back. Somewhere distantly you can hear the general getting an earful from a woman. Jing Yuan, his name, one he spent the better half of the journey back home teaching you.

[muskanbarii]

Web Hosting: Choosing The Best One for Your Business Needs

Hosting is crucial for businesses operating online. Therefore, choosing the right web hosting is one of the most critical decisions for your website’s success. Depending upon the nature and size of your business, hosting will impact your website’s performance, security, and scalability.

As there are numerous hosting providers in UK, choosing one that serves your purpose is definitely a difficult task to do. However, choosing a cheap UK web hosting that’s appropriate for your website becomes easier with a few simple tips:

Analyse your website requirements

Assess your website’s needs by understanding the type of website you are building, traffic you are expecting, and advanced features (database, email hosting, and custom application), as well as your budget.

For a personal blog, resource requirements are minimal. However, big online stores have a more robust hosting requirements, considering the expectations like traffic, security, and loading time.

What would be the most suitable hosting type?

There are different types of hosting, like shared hosting (offering limited resources, it’s suitable for small websites),VPS or virtual private server hosting (a little expensive, it is suitable for growing businesses with moderate traffic), dedicated hosting (suitable for high-traffic websites), and cloud hosting (suitable for websites with variable or high-traffic).

Expected features

While choosing hosting providers, consider features like performance and uptime, scalability, security, customer support, and ease of use. All these features are crucial to determine the worth of your investment. A hosting that can’t accommodate your growing business needs doesn’t offer you any value.

Get recommendations and read reviews

It would be a great idea to get recommendations from your business networks who are already using great hosting services. Recommendations from industry experts and peers in your network can provide a valuable insight. You can also use online searches to come across some reputable hosting providers. To determine their credibility, check their online reviews and customer feedback.

Compare packages

Budget is an important factor for any business. Therefore, you can think of comparing prices and packages. Apart from that, also find out what features are included in the price, and if there are any hidden charges. Comparison allows you to settle with the best yet cheap UK web hosting for your business website.

Web hosting is a crucial service to let your business function online, so you need to practice caution to come across a reputable service provider and choose the best package.Take your time, do your research, and choose a host that sets your website up for long-term success.

[mentalisttraceur-software]

histdir

So I've started a stupid-simple shell/REPL history mechanism that's more friendly to Syncthing-style cloud sync than a history file (like basically every shell and REPL do now) or a SQLite database (which is probably appropriate, and it's what Atuin does while almost single-handedly dragging CLI history UX into the 21st century):

You have a history directory.

Every history entry gets its own file.

The file name of a history entry is a hash of that history entry.

The contents of a history entry file is the history entry itself.

So that's the simple core concept around which I'm building the rest. If you just want a searchable, syncable record of everything you ever executed, well there you go. This was the smallest MVP, and I implemented that last night - a little shell script to actually create the histdir entries (entry either passed as an argument or read on stdin if there's no entry argument), and some Elisp code in my Emacs to replace Eshell's built-in history file save and load. Naturally my loaded history stopped remembering order of commands reliably, as expected, which would've been a deal-breaker problem in the long term. But the fact that it instantly plugged into Syncthing with no issues was downright blissful.

(I hate to throw shade on Atuin... Atuin is the best project in the space, I recommend checking it out, and it significantly inspired the featureset and UX of my current setup. But it's important for understanding the design choices of histdir: Atuin has multiple issues related to syncing - histdir will never have any sync issues. And that's part of what made it so blissful. I added the folder to Syncthing - no separate account, no separate keys, nothing I must never lose. In most ways, Atuin's design choice of a SQLite database is just better. That's real, proper engineering. Serious software developers all know that this is exactly the kind of thing where a database is better than a bunch of files. But one benefit you get from this file-oriented granularity is that if you just design the naming scheme right, history entries never collide/conflict in the same file. So we get robust sync, even with concurrent use, on multiple devices - basically for free, or at least amortized with the setup effort for whatever solution you're using to sync your other files (none of which could handle updates from two different devices to a single SQLite database). Deleting a history entry in histdir is an "rm"/"unlink" - in Atuin it's a whole clever engineering puzzle.)

So onto preserving order. In principle, the modification time of these files is enough for ordering: the OS already records when they were last written to, so if you sort on that, you preserve history order. I was initially going to go with this, but: it's moderately inconvenient in some programming languages, it can only handle a 1-to-1 mapping (one last-modified timestamp) even though many uses of history might prefer an n-to-1 (an entry for every time the command was called), and it requires worrying about questions like "does {sync,copy,restore-from-backup,this-programmatic-manipulation-I-quickly-scripted} preserve the timestamp correctly?"

So tonight I did what any self-respecting drank-too-much-UNIX-philosophy-coolaid developer would do: more files. In particular:

Each call of a history entry gets its own file.

The file name of a call is a timestamp.

The contents of a call file is the hash of the history entry file.

The hash is mainly serving the purpose of being a deterministic, realistically-will-never-collide-with-another-history-entry (literally other causes of collision like hackers getting into your box and overwriting your memory are certain and inevitable by comparison) identifier - in a proper database, this would just be the primary key of a table, or some internal pointer.

The timestamp files allow a simple lexical sort, which is a default provided by most languages, most libraries, and built in by default in almost everything that lists/iterates a directory. That's what I do in my latest Elisp code in my Emacs: directory-files does a lexical sort by default - it's not pretty from an algorithmic efficiency standpoint, but it makes the simplest implementation super simple. Of course, you could get reasonably more efficient if you really wanted to.

I went with the hash as contents, rather than using hardlinks or symlinks, because of programmatic introspection simplicity and portability. I'm not entirely sure if the programmatic introspection benefits are actually worth anything in practice. The biggest portability case against symlinks/hardlinks/etc is Windows (technically can do symlinks, but it's a privileged operation unless you go fiddle with OS settings), Android (can't do hardlinks at all, and symlinks can't exist in shared storage), and if you ever want to have your histdir on something like a USB stick or whatever.

Depending on the size of the hash, given that the typical lengths of history entries might be rather short, it might be better for deduplication and storage to just drop the hash files entirely, and leave only the timestamp files. But it's not necessarily so clear-cut.

Sure, the average shell command is probably shorter by a wide margin than a good hash. The stuff I type into something like a Node or Python REPL will trend a little longer than the shell commands. But now what about, say, URLs? That's also history, it's not even that different conceptually from shell/REPL history, and I haven't yet ruled out it making sense for me to reuse histdir for that.

And moreover, conceptually they achieve different goals. The entry files are things that have been in your history (and that you've decided to keep). They're more of a toolbox or repertoire - when you do a fuzzy search on history to re-run a command, duplicates just get in the way. Meanwhile, call files are a "here's what I did", more of a log than a toolbox.

And obviously this whole histdir thing is very expandable - you could have other files containing metadata. Some metadata might be the kind of thing we'd want to associate with a command run (exit status, error output, relevant state like working directory or environment variables, and so on), but other stuff might make more sense for commands themselves (for example: this command is only useful/valid on [list of hosts], so don't use it in auto-complete and fuzzy search anywhere else).

So... I think it makes sense to have history entries and calls to those entries "normalized" into their own separate files like that. But it might be overkill in practice, and the value might not materialize in practice, so that's more in the TBD I guess.

So that's where I'm at now. A very expandable template, but for now I've just replicated basic shell/REPL history, in an a very high-overhead way. A big win is great history sync almost for free, without a lot of the technical downsides or complexity (and with a little effort to set up inotify/etc watches on a histdir, I can have newly sync'ed entries go directly into my running shells/REPLs... I mean, within Emacs at least, where that kind of across-the-board malleability is accessible with a reasonably low amount of effort). Another big win is that in principle, it should be really easy to build on existing stuff in almost any language to do anything I might want to do. And the biggest win is that I can now compose those other wins with every REPL I use, so long as I can either wrap that REPL a little bit (that's how I'll start, with Emacs' comint mode), or patch the common libraries like readline to do histdir, or just write some code to translate between a traditional history file and my histdir approach.

At every step of the way, I've optimized first and foremost for easiest-to-implement and most-accessible-to-work-with decision. So far I don't regret it, and I think it'll help a lot with iteratively trying different things, and with all sorts of integration and composition that I haven't even thought of yet. But I'll undoubtedly start seeing problems as my histdirs grow - it's just a question of how soon and how bad, and if it'll be tractable to fix without totally abandoning the approach. But it's also possible that we're just at the point where personal computers and phones are powerful enough, and OS and FS optimizations are advanced enough, that the overhead will never be perceptible to me for as long as I live - after all, its history for an interface with a live human.

So... happy so far. It seems promising. Tentatively speaking, I have a better daily-driver shell history UX than I've ever had, because I now have great reliable and fast history sync across my devices, without regressions to my shell history UX (and that's saying something, since I was already very happy with zsh's vi mode, and then I was even more happy with Eshell+Eat+Consult+Evil), but I've only just implemented it and given it basic testing. And I remain very optimistic that I could trivially layer this onto basically any other REPL with minimal effort thanks to Emacs' comint mode.

[taskflier]

Lead Management Software vs. Traditional Sales Tracking: What’s Best for Your Business?

In today’s competitive business landscape, capturing and converting leads efficiently is essential for sustainable growth. Companies across industries are continually looking for better ways to track, manage, and convert potential customers into paying clients. This leads us to a crucial question: Should your business rely on traditional sales tracking methods or invest in lead management software?

Let’s dive deep into the comparison between Lead Management Software and Traditional Sales Tracking, helping you decide which approach suits your business goals best.

What is Traditional Sales Tracking?

Traditional sales tracking involves the use of manual or semi-digital tools like spreadsheets, handwritten notes, or basic CRM systems to monitor customer interactions, follow-ups, and sales progress. It’s a familiar method used by many small and mid-sized businesses for years due to its simplicity and low cost.

Common Traditional Sales Tools:

Excel or Google Sheets

Paper-based logs

Phone call diaries or notebooks

Email chains or desktop folders

While this method might work for startups or micro-businesses initially, it becomes less efficient and prone to errors as the business scales.

What is Lead Management Software?

Lead Management Software (LMS) is a digital solution designed to automate, organize, and optimize the lead tracking process from first contact to final conversion. It helps businesses capture leads from multiple sources, assign them to sales reps, schedule follow-ups, and monitor lead status in real-time.

Features of Lead Management Software:

Centralized lead database

Automated lead capture from websites, emails, ads, etc.

Real-time activity tracking

Auto-reminders for follow-ups

Lead scoring and prioritization

Analytics and reporting dashboards

Integration with CRM, email, and marketing tools

Key Differences: Traditional vs. Lead Management Software

Feature Traditional Sales Tracking Lead Management Software

Data Handling - Manual data entry Automated data capture

Accessibility - Local files or papers Cloud-based access from anywhere

Follow-Up - Reminders set manually Auto-alerts and task scheduling

Scalability - Difficult to scale Easily handles thousands of leads

Team Collaboration - Poor visibility among team Real-time collaboration tools

Reporting - Limited or non-existent In-depth, real-time analytics

Error Rate - High (manual errors)Low (system-driven accuracy)

Benefits of Using Lead Management Software

1. Improved Lead Visibility

With a centralized dashboard, your team can instantly view each lead’s status, source, history, and assigned representative. This eliminates confusion and ensures no opportunity falls through the cracks.

2. Enhanced Team Collaboration

Sales reps, managers, and marketers can access the same data, communicate easily, and align their strategies for higher lead conversion rates.

3. Time-Saving Automation

Automated data capture, follow-up reminders, and lead assignment reduce manual workloads, allowing your team to focus on building customer relationships.

4. Data-Driven Decisions

With real-time analytics and reports, businesses can evaluate which campaigns are driving quality leads, what’s slowing down the sales pipeline, and how to improve team performance.

5. Better Lead Nurturing

Lead management software tracks engagement activities like email opens, call logs, and website visits, allowing for targeted communication and higher chances of conversion.

Limitations of Traditional Sales Tracking

1. High Risk of Human Error

Manually entering data into spreadsheets or note-taking leads to missed details, duplicate entries, and lost leads.

2. Lack of Real-Time Insights

You can’t make quick decisions when data isn’t updated in real time. Traditional methods often involve outdated information, affecting responsiveness.

3. Poor Lead Prioritization

Without lead scoring, your sales team may waste time chasing cold leads instead of focusing on high-potential prospects.

4. Time-Consuming Process

Manually checking leads, sending emails, and updating logs takes a significant portion of your team’s time — reducing overall productivity.

When is Traditional Sales Tracking Still Useful?

While Lead Management Software offers significant advantages, traditional methods may still work in specific scenarios:

Very small businesses or startups with fewer than 10 leads per week.

Solopreneurs managing their leads independently.

Organizations with very tight budgets and no immediate plans to scale.

However, even in these cases, transitioning to a basic or free lead management tool early on can save time and prepare the business for future growth.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business

Here’s how you can decide which method suits your needs: Business Factor Go Traditional If…Choose LMS If…Team Size1-2 people Growing sales team Monthly Leads Less than 2050+ leads Sales Cycle Very short Complex or multi-step Budget Very limited Flexible for tech investment Future Plans No scaling planned Scaling rapidly

Final Thoughts

In the battle of Lead Management Software vs. Traditional Sales Tracking, it’s clear that LMS provides efficiency, accuracy, and scalability that traditional methods lack. While manual tracking might suffice for very small or short-term operations, businesses aiming for consistent growth and professionalism should invest in smart lead management solutions.

With so many affordable and easy-to-use lead management tools available today, upgrading from spreadsheets and notebooks is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity for modern businesses.

[softwaretestingtraining]

Top 5 Low-Code/No-Code Test Automation Tools in 2025 | Software Testing Training Institute in Kerala

Automation testing isn’t just for seasoned coders anymore. Thanks to low-code and no-code platforms, QA professionals, manual testers, and even non-tech team members can now build automated tests faster, with minimal or no coding skills.

Whether you're new to testing or a developer looking for speed, this blog will walk you through the top 5 low-code/no-code test automation tools that are making waves in 2025. Let’s simplify testing without compromising quality.

Why Low-Code/No-Code Tools?

Before we dive in, let’s understand why these tools are booming:

Faster delivery: Build automation scripts in minutes, not days.

Less dependency on developers: Even non-coders can participate in QA.

Budget-friendly: Save on hiring specialist automation engineers.

Visual approach: Most tools offer drag-and-drop, record-and-playback, or block-based logic flows.

Now, let’s explore the top players leading the low-code/no-code automation space.

1. Testim (by Tricentis)

🚀 What Makes It Stand Out:

Testim uses AI to stabilize tests and reduce maintenance, which is a major headache in traditional automation. Its smart locators adapt to minor UI changes, making your test suite more reliable.

🛠️ Key Features:

Drag-and-drop editor for quick test creation

AI-powered self-healing tests

Seamless integrations with CI/CD tools

Chrome extension to record flows

Version control and team collaboration

🎯 Best For:

Agile teams needing scalable web app test automation with minimal code.

2. Katalon Studio

🚀 What Makes It Stand Out:

Katalon combines the best of both worlds—low-code for beginners and full-code for pros. Its dual UI lets testers start with visual test creation and gradually shift to scripting when needed.

🛠️ Key Features:

Record-and-playback feature for web, mobile, API, and desktop testing

Built-in test management and reporting

Pre-built templates and reusable test objects

Supports Groovy-based custom scripts

Integrates with JIRA, Jenkins, Slack, etc.

🎯 Best For:

Teams transitioning from manual to automated testing, especially in hybrid tech stacks.

3. Leapwork

🚀 What Makes It Stand Out:

Leapwork is a true no-code platform built with testers in mind. Its flowchart-based automation builder is intuitive, allowing users to map out test scenarios visually—no syntax required.

🛠️ Key Features:

Visual test flow creation with logic blocks

Cross-platform testing: web, desktop, and virtual apps

Centralized dashboard for monitoring and reports

Scalable for enterprise-grade testing

Reusable sub-flows for modularity

🎯 Best For:

Enterprise QA teams seeking robust, secure, and scalable no-code automation.

4. TestSigma

🚀 What Makes It Stand Out:

TestSigma lets you write tests in plain English! It's a cloud-based, AI-driven platform where test cases look almost like spoken instructions. Ideal for functional, mobile, and API testing.

🛠️ Key Features:

Natural Language Processing (NLP)-based test authoring

Supports web, mobile, API, and database testing

Built-in test data management

In-browser execution, no installation needed

Real-time reporting and debugging tools

🎯 Best For:

Cross-functional teams where business analysts, QA, and devs collaborate on automation.

5. Ranorex Studio

🚀 What Makes It Stand Out:

Ranorex is feature-rich and beginner-friendly. With its record-and-replay interface, you can build tests quickly, but it also allows full script editing for those with programming experience.

🛠️ Key Features:

GUI-based testing for desktop, web, and mobile

Drag-and-drop interface with flexible control identification

C# and VB.NET scripting support for advanced users

Smart test reporting with screenshots

Strong debugging capabilities

🎯 Best For:

QA teams handling complex, multi-platform applications.

How to Choose the Right Tool?

All tools listed above are strong contenders, but here’s a quick comparison checklist: CriteriaBest OptionNo-code simplicityLeapworkNLP-based authoringTestSigmaAI-powered stabilityTestimHybrid testing flexibilityKatalon StudioDesktop + mobile + webRanorex Studio

Ask yourself:

Do you want to involve non-technical stakeholders?

Are you testing across multiple platforms?

Do you want AI to reduce test flakiness?

Do you have DevOps pipelines to integrate with?

Your answers will guide your pick.

Future of Low-Code/No-Code Testing

In 2025 and beyond, these platforms will only get smarter:

AI will write better test suggestions based on user behavior

Self-healing tests will become standard

Voice-enabled test creation may emerge

Crowd-sourced testing libraries will speed up test development

With tools becoming more intuitive, testing will shift from being a bottleneck to a team-wide superpower.

Final Thoughts

Low-code and no-code tools are leveling the QA field. Whether you're just starting out or looking to optimize your team’s productivity, these platforms offer a fast-track to reliable, scalable, and maintainable test automation.

If you're looking to master these tools and launch your QA career, consider joining a hands-on, project-driven program at a trusted Software Testing Training Institute in Kerala like Obsqura Zone. Their curriculum includes practical training on top tools like Selenium, Postman, and even AI-powered platforms.

Testing is no longer just about finding bugs—it's about building quality, faster. https://www.obsqurazone.com/

[dy-patil-university-navi-mumbai]

B.Tech in Cyber Security vs Computer Science: Which Should You Choose?

For students passionate about technology, the decision to pursue engineering after 12th grade often leads to a new question, should you choose a B. Tech in Computer Science or a more focused course like B.Tech in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics?

Both fields are part of the tech ecosystem, but they differ in terms of curriculum, career paths, and skill development. Understanding these differences can help you make a more informed choice that matches your interests and future goals.

What is a B.Tech in Computer Science?

A B.Tech in Computer Science (CSE) is a four-year undergraduate program that covers the fundamentals of computing. The course includes:

Programming languages (C++, Java, Python)

Data structures and algorithms

Software development

Operating systems and databases

Artificial intelligence and machine learning

Web and mobile application development

This degree prepares you for a wide variety of careers in software development, data science, IT services, and tech startups. It offers flexibility and a broad skill set, ideal for those who want to explore different areas of technology.

What is B.Tech in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics?

A B.Tech in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics is a specialised course designed to prepare students for roles in information security, digital investigations, and cyber law enforcement. It includes subjects like:

Network security

Ethical hacking

Cryptography

Digital forensics and incident response

Malware analysis

Cyber law and regulations

This program is ideal for students who want to focus on defending systems from cyber threats, analysing digital crimes, and ensuring data protection in today’s digital world.

Curriculum comparison

While Computer Science offers a broader overview of computing, B Tech in Cyber Security and Forensics dives deeper into security protocols, data privacy, and investigation techniques.

Computer Science may be a better fit if you enjoy writing code, building software, or exploring AI and machine learning. But if you are interested in understanding how hackers operate, protecting systems, or tracing digital footprints, cyber security could be your calling.

Career paths and job roles

After B.Tech in Computer Science, common roles include:

Software Developer

Data Scientist

Web Developer

Mobile App Developer

System Analyst

Cloud Engineer

After B Tech in Cyber Security and Forensics, you can explore roles such as:

Cyber Security Analyst

Ethical Hacker

Digital Forensics Expert

Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst

Information Security Manager

Incident Response Specialist

The demand for cyber security professionals is growing fast across industries such as banking, healthcare, telecom, and government, making it a lucrative and future-ready field.

Skills you’ll develop

Cyber security students gain expertise in:

Penetration testing

Risk assessment

Cyber threat intelligence

Legal frameworks and digital ethics

Secure software development

On the other hand, computer science students focus more on:

Full-stack development

Algorithm design

Software project management

Application performance optimization

Choosing the right college matters

Whether you choose a general or specialised stream, studying at one of the top B Tech in Cyber Security colleges in India ensures you receive quality education, hands-on training, and placement support. Look for:

A curriculum designed with industry input

Labs equipped for network and cyber forensics

Internships and certification support

Mentorship from experienced faculty

Opportunities for research and innovation

Why DY Patil University is a great option

DY Patil University, Navi Mumbai, offers a comprehensive B Tech in Cyber Security and Forensics program designed to meet the evolving demands of the industry.

Key highlights include:

Expert faculty and real-time lab infrastructure

Industry projects and certification support

Partnerships with cybersecurity firms

Internship and placement assistance

Workshops, seminars, and guest lectures from security professionals

DY Patil University equips students not just with academic knowledge but also with the confidence and experience to succeed in high-stakes tech careers.

Final thoughts

Both computer science and cyber security offer promising futures. If you’re looking for a versatile tech degree with wide applications, Computer Science may be your path. But if you are drawn to digital protection, ethical hacking, or forensic investigations, B Tech in Cyber Security and Forensics offers a specialised and exciting route.

DY Patil University, Navi Mumbai, is among the leading tech in cyber security colleges in India, providing a strong foundation for students ready to defend the digital world.

[powerbisolutions1]

How Power BI Solutions Support Data-Driven Digital Transformation

In the era of rapid technological advancement, businesses are increasingly turning to data-driven strategies to remain competitive, agile, and customer-focused. Digital transformation has emerged as a vital objective across industries—from manufacturing to healthcare, retail to finance. A core enabler of this transformation is business intelligence (BI), and among the most effective tools available today is the Power BI solution from Microsoft.

What Is Digital Transformation?

Digital transformation refers to the strategic integration of digital technologies into all areas of a business. It goes beyond simply digitizing processes—it involves rethinking business models, customer engagement, operations, and internal workflows with a focus on innovation, efficiency, and scalability.

A Power BI solution plays a key role in this transformation by offering organizations the ability to collect, analyze, and visualize data in real time, turning raw data into actionable intelligence.

Power BI: The Catalyst for a Data-Driven Culture

1. Unified Data Access Across the Organization

One of the biggest challenges in digital transformation is breaking down data silos. Data often resides in disparate systems—CRM, ERP, cloud storage, spreadsheets, and databases—making it difficult to consolidate for analysis.

A Power BI solution seamlessly integrates with hundreds of data sources, including Microsoft Azure, SQL Server, Google Analytics, Salesforce, SAP, and more. This allows businesses to bring together scattered data into a unified view, laying the foundation for strategic decision-making.

2. Real-Time Insights for Agile Decision-Making

Digital transformation thrives on speed and responsiveness. Power BI enables real-time analytics and live dashboards that reflect the most up-to-date metrics across operations, finance, marketing, and sales. These real-time insights empower teams to respond proactively to market shifts, customer behavior changes, and internal inefficiencies.

For instance, a retailer can track live inventory levels and sales data, allowing immediate adjustments to promotions or supply chain decisions. A Power BI solution eliminates guesswork and replaces it with data-backed responsiveness.

Transforming Business Functions with Power BI

1. Finance and Operations

Power BI simplifies complex financial data into visual dashboards that highlight performance metrics like revenue trends, cost optimization, and cash flow. Finance teams gain transparency and can perform deeper analysis with predictive models and historical comparisons.

In operations, Power BI improves process visibility by tracking KPIs such as production efficiency, resource utilization, and turnaround times—enabling lean, optimized workflows.

2. Sales and Marketing

Sales teams use Power BI dashboards to monitor pipelines, lead conversions, territory performance, and customer lifetime value. Marketing teams benefit from campaign analytics, ROI tracking, and customer engagement trends.

With a Power BI solution, both departments align more closely with real-time performance indicators, leading to faster strategy pivots and higher ROI.

3. Human Resources and Employee Engagement

HR departments leverage Power BI to monitor headcount, employee satisfaction, hiring trends, and attrition rates. This data aids in workforce planning, talent management, and organizational health assessments.

Supporting Predictive and Prescriptive Analytics

True digital transformation requires organizations to move from descriptive analytics (what happened) to predictive (what will happen) and prescriptive (what should be done). Power BI integrates with advanced analytics tools such as Azure Machine Learning and R or Python scripts.

This allows companies to build and visualize predictive models directly within their dashboards, such as forecasting sales, identifying churn risks, or optimizing resource allocation. A Power BI solution turns BI from a reactive tool into a proactive strategic asset.

Enabling a Culture of Data-Driven Decision-Making

For digital transformation to be successful, data accessibility must extend beyond the executive level. Power BI promotes the democratization of data, meaning that employees across all levels can access and interact with business intelligence relevant to their role.

With user-friendly interfaces, drag-and-drop visuals, and natural language queries, a Power BI solution empowers non-technical users to explore data, generate reports, and derive their own insights, fostering a culture where decisions are based on facts, not assumptions.

Enhancing Collaboration and Communication

Power BI seamlessly integrates with Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and other collaboration tools, allowing cross-functional teams to share dashboards, tag team members in reports, and jointly explore data. This alignment of insights promotes collaboration and accelerates collective problem-solving.

Furthermore, automated alerts and scheduled reports keep stakeholders informed without requiring manual intervention, reinforcing transparency and communication.

Scalability and Governance

As businesses grow and their data expands, maintaining governance and data security becomes essential. Power BI offers robust governance features, including role-based access control, row-level security, activity monitoring, and compliance with industry standards like GDPR and HIPAA.

Whether deployed in a small team or across a global enterprise, a Power BI solution scales with the organization while maintaining high standards of governance.

Real-World Example

A healthcare provider undergoing digital transformation adopted a Power BI solution to consolidate patient records, monitor treatment efficiency, and track hospital performance. Within months, the organization reported:

30% improvement in patient throughput

Faster identification of care bottlenecks

Enhanced reporting for regulatory compliance

This transformation not only improved operations but also elevated patient care standards.

Conclusion

Digital transformation isn’t a one-time event—it’s a continuous evolution driven by technology, data, and a commitment to innovation. Microsoft’s Power BI solution acts as a strategic enabler in this journey by providing real-time visibility, actionable insights, and predictive capabilities.

Whether you're modernizing your business model, improving customer experiences, or optimizing internal processes, Power BI is a powerful ally in turning digital aspirations into measurable outcomes. For organizations serious about data-driven transformation, investing in a Power BI solution is a forward-looking and necessary step.

[bliiot]

Comparison of Ubuntu, Debian, and Yocto for IIoT and Edge Computing

In industrial IoT (IIoT) and edge computing scenarios, Ubuntu, Debian, and Yocto Project each have unique advantages. Below is a detailed comparison and recommendations for these three systems:

1. Ubuntu (ARM)

Advantages

Ready-to-use: Provides official ARM images (e.g., Ubuntu Server 22.04 LTS) supporting hardware like Raspberry Pi and NVIDIA Jetson, requiring no complex configuration.

Cloud-native support: Built-in tools like MicroK8s, Docker, and Kubernetes, ideal for edge-cloud collaboration.

Long-term support (LTS): 5 years of security updates, meeting industrial stability requirements.

Rich software ecosystem: Access to AI/ML tools (e.g., TensorFlow Lite) and databases (e.g., PostgreSQL ARM-optimized) via APT and Snap Store.

Use Cases

Rapid prototyping: Quick deployment of Python/Node.js applications on edge gateways.

AI edge inference: Running computer vision models (e.g., ROS 2 + Ubuntu) on Jetson devices.

Lightweight K8s clusters: Edge nodes managed by MicroK8s.

Limitations

Higher resource usage (minimum ~512MB RAM), unsuitable for ultra-low-power devices.

2. Debian (ARM)

Advantages

Exceptional stability: Packages undergo rigorous testing, ideal for 24/7 industrial operation.

Lightweight: Minimal installation requires only 128MB RAM; GUI-free versions available.

Long-term support: Up to 10+ years of security updates via Debian LTS (with commercial support).

Hardware compatibility: Supports older or niche ARM chips (e.g., TI Sitara series).

Use Cases

Industrial controllers: PLCs, HMIs, and other devices requiring deterministic responses.

Network edge devices: Firewalls, protocol gateways (e.g., Modbus-to-MQTT).

Critical systems (medical/transport): Compliance with IEC 62304/DO-178C certifications.

Limitations

Older software versions (e.g., default GCC version); newer features require backports.

3. Yocto Project

Advantages

Full customization: Tailor everything from kernel to user space, generating minimal images (<50MB possible).

Real-time extensions: Supports Xenomai/Preempt-RT patches for μs-level latency.

Cross-platform portability: Single recipe set adapts to multiple hardware platforms (e.g., NXP i.MX6 → i.MX8).

Security design: Built-in industrial-grade features like SELinux and dm-verity.

Use Cases

Custom industrial devices: Requires specific kernel configurations or proprietary drivers (e.g., CAN-FD bus support).

High real-time systems: Robotic motion control, CNC machines.

Resource-constrained terminals: Sensor nodes running lightweight stacks (e.g., Zephyr+FreeRTOS hybrid deployment).

Limitations

Steep learning curve (BitBake syntax required); longer development cycles.

4. Comparison Summary

5. Selection Recommendations

Choose Ubuntu ARM: For rapid deployment of edge AI applications (e.g., vision detection on Jetson) or deep integration with public clouds (e.g., AWS IoT Greengrass).

Choose Debian ARM: For mission-critical industrial equipment (e.g., substation monitoring) where stability outweighs feature novelty.

Choose Yocto Project: For custom hardware development (e.g., proprietary industrial boards) or strict real-time/safety certification (e.g., ISO 13849) requirements.

6. Hybrid Architecture Example

Smart factory edge node:

Real-time control layer: RTOS built with Yocto (controlling robotic arms)

Data processing layer: Debian running OPC UA servers

Cloud connectivity layer: Ubuntu Server managing K8s edge clusters

Combining these systems based on specific needs can maximize the efficiency of IIoT edge computing.

[sieyara]

How to Build a YouTube Clone App: Tech Stack, Features & Cost Explained

Ever scrolled through YouTube and thought, “I could build this—but better”? You’re not alone. With the explosive growth of content creators and the non-stop demand for video content, building your own YouTube clone isn’t just a dream—it’s a solid business move. Whether you're targeting niche creators, regional content, or building the next big video sharing and streaming platform, there’s room in the market for innovation.

But before you dive into code or hire a dev team, let’s talk about the how. What tech stack powers a platform like YouTube? What features are must-haves? And how much does it actually cost to build something this ambitious?

In this post, we’re breaking it all down—no fluff, no filler. Just a clear roadmap to building a killer YouTube-style platform with insights from the clone app experts at Miracuves.

Core Features of a YouTube Clone App

Before picking servers or coding frameworks, you need a feature checklist. Here’s what every modern YouTube clone needs to include:

1. User Registration & Profiles

Users must be able to sign up via email or social logins. Profiles should allow for customization, channel creation, and subscriber tracking.

2. Video Upload & Encoding

Users upload video files that are auto-encoded to multiple resolutions (360p, 720p, 1080p). You’ll need a powerful media processor and cloud storage to handle this.

3. Streaming & Playback

The heart of any video platform. Adaptive bitrate streaming ensures smooth playback regardless of network speed.

4. Content Feed & Recommendations

Dynamic feeds based on trending videos, subscriptions, or AI-driven interests. The better your feed, the longer users stay.

5. Like, Comment, Share & Subscribe

Engagement drives reach. Build these features in early and make them seamless.

6. Search & Filters

Let users find content via keywords, categories, uploaders, and tags.

7. Monetization Features

Allow ads, tipping (like Super Chat), or paid content access. This is where the money lives.

8. Admin Dashboard

Moderation tools, user management, analytics, and content flagging are essential for long-term growth.

Optional Features:

Live Streaming

Playlists

Stories or Shorts

Video Premiere Countdown

Multilingual Subtitles

Media Suggestion: Feature comparison table between YouTube and your envisioned clone

Recommended Tech Stack

The tech behind YouTube is serious business, but you don’t need Google’s budget to launch a lean, high-performance YouTube clone. Here’s what we recommend at Miracuves:

Frontend (User Interface)

React.js or Vue.js – Fast rendering and reusable components

Tailwind CSS or Bootstrap – For modern, responsive UI

Next.js – Great for server-side rendering and SEO

Backend (Server-side)

Node.js with Express – Lightweight and scalable

Python/Django – Excellent for content recommendation algorithms

Laravel (PHP) – If you're going for quick setup and simplicity

Video Processing & Streaming

FFmpeg – Open-source video encoding and processing

HLS/DASH Protocols – For adaptive streaming

AWS MediaConvert or Mux – For advanced media workflows

Cloudflare Stream – Built-in CDN and encoding, fast global delivery

Storage & Database

Amazon S3 or Google Cloud Storage – For storing video content

MongoDB or PostgreSQL – For structured user and video data

Authentication & Security

JWT (JSON Web Tokens) for secure session management

OAuth 2.0 for social logins

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for creators and admins

Analytics & Search

Elasticsearch – Fast, scalable search

Mixpanel / Google Analytics – Track video watch time, drop-offs, engagement

AI-based recommendation engine – Python + TensorFlow or third-party API

Media Suggestion: Architecture diagram showing tech stack components and flow

Development Timeline & Team Composition

Depending on complexity, here’s a typical development breakdown:

MVP Build: 3–4 months

Full Product with Monetization: 6–8 months

Team Needed:

1–2 Frontend Developers

1 Backend Developer

1 DevOps/Cloud Engineer

1 UI/UX Designer

1 QA Tester

1 Project Manager

Want to move faster? Miracuves offers pre-built YouTube clone app solutions that can cut launch time in half.

Estimated Cost Breakdown

Here’s a rough ballpark for custom development: PhaseEstimated CostUI/UX Design$3,000 – $5,000Frontend Development$6,000 – $10,000Backend Development$8,000 – $12,000Video Processing Setup$4,000 – $6,000QA & Testing$2,000 – $4,000Cloud Infrastructure$500 – $2,000/month (post-launch)

Total Estimated Cost: $25,000 – $40,000+ depending on features and scale

Need it cheaper? Go the smart way with a customizable YouTube clone from Miracuves—less risk, faster time-to-market, and scalable from day one.

Final Thoughts

Building a YouTube clone isn’t just about copying features—it’s about creating a platform that gives creators and viewers something fresh, intuitive, and monetizable. With the right tech stack, must-have features, and a clear plan, you’re not just chasing YouTube—you’re building your own lane in the massive video sharing and streaming platform space.

At Miracuves, we help startups launch video platforms that are secure, scalable, and streaming-ready from day one. Want to build a revenue-generating video app that users love? Let’s talk.

FAQs

How much does it cost to build a YouTube clone?

Expect $25,000–$40,000 for a custom build. Ready-made solutions from Miracuves can reduce costs significantly.

Can I monetize my YouTube clone?

Absolutely. Use ads, subscriptions, tipping, pay-per-view, or affiliate integrations.

What’s the hardest part of building a video streaming app?

Video encoding, storage costs, and scaling playback across geographies. You’ll need a solid cloud setup.

Do I need to build everything from scratch?

No. Using a YouTube clone script from Miracuves saves time and still offers full customization.

How long does it take to launch?

A simple MVP may take 3–4 months. A full-feature platform can take 6–8 months. Miracuves can cut that timeline in half.

Is it legal to build a YouTube clone?

Yes, as long as you’re not copying YouTube’s trademark or copyrighted content. The tech and business model are fair game.

[erpsoftwaredubaiuae]

How Dubai Businesses Are Reducing Procurement Costs with Smart Purchase Management Tools

In today’s fast-paced and competitive business environment, companies in Dubai are constantly seeking innovative ways to streamline operations and reduce overheads. One area that often offers significant cost-saving opportunities is procurement. Forward-thinking businesses in Dubai are increasingly turning to smart Purchase Management Solutions to optimize purchasing processes, eliminate waste, and drive cost efficiencies.

The Rising Need for Smart Procurement in Dubai

Dubai’s dynamic economy, characterized by sectors such as retail, construction, logistics, and hospitality, requires rapid decision-making and efficient supply chain operations. Manual purchasing systems and outdated processes often lead to overstocking, delayed orders, and human errors—costing companies time and money.

Smart Purchase Management Tools are designed to eliminate these inefficiencies by automating and streamlining procurement workflows. From requisition to approval and from purchase order to vendor management, these systems ensure visibility, control, and accountability.

Key Ways Dubai Businesses Are Saving Costs

1. Automated Workflows Eliminate Human Errors

Smart procurement solutions reduce reliance on paper-based processes and manual data entry, significantly lowering the risk of errors. By automating approvals and order tracking, businesses ensure accuracy, avoid costly mistakes, and cut down on rework or miscommunication.

2. Vendor Management and Cost Comparisons

Modern Purchase Management Tools help companies maintain a centralized database of suppliers, allowing them to compare prices, delivery timelines, and reliability. This empowers procurement teams to negotiate better terms and avoid overpaying.

3. Real-Time Inventory Insights

Integration with inventory systems enables businesses to keep track of stock levels in real time. This prevents over-ordering or stockouts, leading to smarter purchase decisions and reduced holding costs.

4. Budget Control and Spend Analysis

Advanced systems offer detailed analytics and reporting tools that track procurement expenses against budgets. Finance teams can monitor spending patterns and identify areas where costs can be cut or optimized.

5. Faster Procurement Cycle Times

Automation accelerates the procurement cycle—from requisition to payment—resulting in faster turnaround times and improved supplier relationships. Early payment discounts and fewer delays contribute to overall cost savings.

Real-World Impact: Success Stories from Dubai

Several businesses across Dubai have already reaped the benefits of adopting smart procurement tools:

Retail Chains: Large retail groups in Dubai have cut procurement costs by up to 20% through centralized purchasing and automated supplier evaluations.

Construction Firms: With tight project deadlines, construction companies benefit from better material tracking and order scheduling, reducing excess purchases and delays.

Hospitality Businesses: Hotels and resorts use real-time dashboards to track purchasing across departments, maintaining budget discipline while ensuring seamless operations.

Choosing the Right Purchase Management Solution

For businesses in Dubai looking to adopt a smart purchase management solution, here are key factors to consider:

Local VAT compliance

Cloud-based access and mobile support

Integration with existing ERP/accounting systems

Customizable approval workflows

Comprehensive vendor and contract management features

Conclusion

In a city as competitive and innovation-driven as Dubai,  Best Purchase Management Solutions Dubai  tools are no longer optional—they are essential. By embracing these solutions, businesses can significantly reduce procurement costs, improve operational efficiency, and stay ahead of the curve.

Whether you’re a growing SME or an established enterprise, investing in a robust purchase management system can bring measurable returns in both savings and performance.

[nmietbbsr]

Software Development vs. Web Development: Which Career is Better?

If you're choosing between software development and web development as a career path, here's the straight answer: both are excellent choices with high demand and rewarding prospects. But the "better" option depends on your interests, skills, and long-term goals. While top-tier institutions like IITs and NITs offer strong foundations in both, many of the best private engineering colleges in Odisha also provide solid programs that prepare students for either path—including colleges like NMIET, which often come up in discussions around tech education in the region.

Let’s Start with the Basics

Software Development is about building computer programs that run on desktops, mobile devices, and embedded systems. This includes everything from operating systems and games to enterprise applications and mobile apps.

Web Development, on the other hand, is focused on creating websites and web applications. This includes the front-end (what users see) and the back-end (the server, database, and application logic).

Though both fields overlap in some areas, their day-to-day tasks and required skill sets can be quite different.

Career Scope & Opportunities

Software Developers often work on large-scale applications, system architecture, cloud-based services, AI models, and mobile app development. Big tech firms like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft hire software developers with strong knowledge of programming languages like Java, Python, C++, and frameworks like Spring, .NET, or TensorFlow.

In contrast, Web Developers may work in design agencies, startups, or large IT companies. The rise of eCommerce, online platforms, and SaaS (Software as a Service) has skyrocketed the demand for full-stack web developers who are well-versed in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks like React, Angular, Node.js, and Django.

While software roles may offer slightly higher starting packages on average, web development allows quicker entry into freelance and entrepreneurial ventures. If you're someone who wants to build and launch your own website or startup, web development might feel more rewarding early on.

Learning Curve & Technical Skills

If you're aiming for software development, you'll need a strong foundation in data structures, algorithms, system design, and object-oriented programming. Most competitive coding platforms and tech interviews test heavily in these areas. Colleges that emphasize logical thinking and core computer science principles are a good fit.

In comparison, web development tends to have a faster learning curve. You can build and deploy simple web apps within weeks, which can be very motivating early in your career. However, mastering modern frameworks, performance optimization, security, and scalability still requires serious effort and continuous learning.

Some of the best private engineering colleges in Odisha are now updating their curriculum to include both paths. For instance, institutions like NMIET focus on practical coding labs and project-based learning—whether you're building mobile apps, designing web interfaces, or working on machine learning projects.

Job Roles You Can Expect

Software Development Roles:

Software Engineer

Mobile App Developer

Game Developer

Embedded Systems Engineer

Data Engineer

Web Development Roles:

Front-End Developer

Back-End Developer

Full-Stack Developer

UI/UX Developer

Web App Developer

Companies like Cognizant, Capgemini, and IBM (which also recruit from colleges like NMIET) have openings in both domains, depending on the project requirements.

Industry Demand & Future Outlook

The demand for both careers is strong and projected to grow. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, software developer jobs are expected to grow by 25% between 2022 and 2032. Web development is also expected to grow by 16% in the same period—faster than most other occupations.

AI, IoT, and cloud computing are expanding the horizons for software developers, while the no-code/low-code movement, headless CMS, and progressive web apps are shaping the future of web development.

It’s worth noting that companies today appreciate hybrid skill sets. A web developer who understands backend logic or a software engineer who can deploy code via cloud platforms stands out.

Which Should You Choose?

Here’s a simple way to decide:

Go for software development if you love problem-solving, want to build complex systems, and enjoy algorithmic thinking.

Pick web development if you enjoy creativity, visual design, rapid prototyping, and like seeing results fast.

Neither path is inferior. What matters is consistency and continuous learning.

If you’re still unsure, choose a college that allows you to explore both. For example, a student from a Bhubaneswar-based institute like NMIET might start with web development projects in the first year and transition to mobile app development or AI systems by their final year. That’s the beauty of today’s learning environment—it's flexible if the foundation is strong.

Final Thoughts

Software development and web development both offer exciting, future-proof careers. Your choice should align with your interests, not just industry trends or package comparisons. Fortunately, many of the best private engineering colleges in Odisha offer specializations, hands-on learning, and placement opportunities in both domains.

Whether you're aiming to work with a global tech giant or build your own digital product, both paths can take you there—as long as you're ready to learn, build, and adapt.

[onlineeducation1]

Online BCA vs Online BSc CS: Which One Should You Pick?

As the demand for skilled tech professionals continues to rise, students are increasingly turning to online degrees in computer science and IT. Among the most popular options are the Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) and the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc CS)—both now widely available online from accredited universities. But how do these two programs compare, and more importantly, which one should you choose?

In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences and similarities between Online BCA and Online BSc CS to help you make an informed decision based on your career goals, learning preferences, and interests.

1. Program Overview

Online BCA (Bachelor of Computer Applications)

Focuses on application development, programming, software tools, and database management.

Designed to prepare students for practical roles in IT, software development, and web applications.

More industry-oriented, with hands-on coding and project-based learning.

Online BSc CS (Bachelor of Science in Computer Science)

Focuses on the theoretical foundation of computer science, algorithms, data structures, mathematics, and system design.

More academic and research-oriented.

Great for students planning to pursue higher studies (like MSc CS or research).

2. Curriculum Comparison

Area

Online BCA

Online BSc CS

Programming Languages

Java, Python, C++, HTML/CSS, etc.

C, Python, Java, R, etc.

Math & Logic

Basic Mathematics

Advanced Mathematics, Discrete Math

Databases & Web

DBMS, Web Development, Networking

Operating Systems, Computer Networks

Focus Area

Software Development, Applications

Theory, Algorithms, Computer Science

Projects

More practical, real-world projects

Some projects, more theoretical

3. Career Opportunities

With an Online BCA:

Web Developer

App Developer

Software Tester

System Administrator

Technical Support Executive

With an Online BSc CS:

Data Analyst

Software Engineer

Research Assistant

System Architect

AI/ML Researcher (with further studies)

4. Which One is Easier?

Online BCA is generally considered more accessible for students without a strong background in mathematics or science.

Online BSc CS can be more challenging, especially due to its emphasis on theory and mathematical foundations.

5. Who Should Choose What?

Your Goal

Recommended Program

Want to enter IT quickly and start coding?

Online BCA

Interested in theory, algorithms, or further studies?

Online BSc CS

Prefer hands-on projects and building apps?

Online BCA

Strong in math and logic, aiming for research or deep tech?

Online BSc CS

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Pick?

Both Online BCA and Online BSc CS are excellent options with promising futures. Your choice should depend on:

Your academic background

Your career aspirations

Your interest in application vs theory

If you want a practical, job-ready degree to break into software development or IT roles, go with Online BCA. Online BSc CS is the better path if you want to build a strong theoretical base and pursue higher education or research.

Pro Tip:

Whichever program you choose, focus on building skills outside the syllabus—projects, internships, and certifications (like in Python, cloud, or data science) can boost your career significantly.

[datascraping001]

Scraping Capterra.com Product Details: Unlock B2B Software Insights for Smarter Decisions

Scraping Capterra.com Product Details: Unlock B2B Software Insights for Smarter Decisions

In the competitive world of B2B software, informed decision-making is everything. Whether you're a SaaS provider, market researcher, or software reseller, having access to accurate product details can drive strategic choices and better customer engagement. At Datascrapingservices.com, we offer professional Capterra.com Product Details Scraping Services that provide you with structured, reliable, and up-to-date data from one of the most trusted software directories in the world.

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Product Name

Vendor Name

Product Description

Category

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Deployment Type (Cloud, On-Premise, etc.)

Features List

User Ratings and Reviews

Review Count and Score

Product URL and Website Links

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Final Thoughts

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[govindhtech]

Chroma and OpenCLIP Reinvent Image Search With Intel Max

OpenCLIP Image search

Building High-Performance Image Search with Intel Max, Chroma, and OpenCLIP GPUs

After reviewing the Intel Data Centre GPU Max 1100 and Intel Tiber AI Cloud, Intel Liftoff mentors and AI developers prepared a field guide for lean, high-throughput LLM pipelines.

All development, testing, and benchmarking in this study used the Intel Tiber AI Cloud.

Intel Tiber AI Cloud was intended to give developers and AI enterprises scalable and economical access to Intel’s cutting-edge AI technology. This includes the latest Intel Xeon Scalable CPUs, Data Centre GPU Max Series, and Gaudi 2 (and 3) accelerators. Startups creating compute-intensive AI models can deploy Intel Tiber AI Cloud in a performance-optimized environment without a large hardware investment.

Advised AI startups to contact Intel Liftoff for AI Startups to learn more about Intel Data Centre GPU Max, Intel Gaudi accelerators, and Intel Tiber AI Cloud’s optimised environment.

Utilising resources, technology, and platforms like Intel Tiber AI Cloud.

AI-powered apps increasingly use text, audio, and image data. The article shows how to construct and query a multimodal database with text and images using Chroma and OpenCLIP embeddings.

These embeddings enable multimodal data comparison and retrieval. The project aims to build a GPU or XPU-accelerated system that can handle image data and query it using text-based search queries.

Advanced AI uses Intel Data Centre GPU Max 1100

The performance described in this study is attainable with powerful hardware like the Intel Data Centre GPU Max Series, specifically Intel Extension for PyTorch acceleration. Dedicated instances and the free Intel Tiber AI Cloud JupyterLab environment with the GPU (Max 1100):

The Xe-HPC Architecture:

GPU compute operations use 56 specialised Xe-cores. Intel XMX engines: Deep systolic arrays from 448 engines speed up dense matrix and vector operations in AI and deep learning models. XMX units are complemented with 448 vector engines for larger parallel computing workloads. 56 hardware-accelerated ray tracing units increase visualisation.

Memory hierarchy

48 GB of HBM2e delivers 1.23 TB/s of bandwidth, which is needed for complex models and large datasets like multimodal embeddings. Cache: A 28 MB L1 and 108 MB L2 cache keeps data near processing units to reduce latency.

Connectivity

PCIe Gen 5: Uses a fast x16 host link to transport data between the CPU and GPU. OneAPI Software Ecosystem: Integrating the open, standards-based Intel oneAPI programming architecture into Intel Data Centre Max Series GPUs is simple. HuggingFace Transformers, Pytorch, Intel Extension for Pytorch, and other Intel architecture-based frameworks allow developers to speed up AI pipelines without being bound into proprietary software.

This code’s purpose?

This code shows how to create a multimodal database using Chroma as the vector database for picture and text embeddings. It allows text queries to search the database for relevant photos or metadata. The code also shows how to utilise Intel Extension for PyTorch (IPEX) to accelerate calculations on Intel devices including CPUs and XPUs using Intel’s hardware acceleration.

This code’s main components:

It embeds text and images using OpenCLIP, a CLIP-based approach, and stores them in a database for easy access. OpenCLIP was chosen for its solid benchmark performance and easily available pre-trained models.

Chroma Database: Chroma can establish a permanent database with embeddings to swiftly return the most comparable text query results. ChromaDB was chosen for its developer experience, Python-native API, and ease of setting up persistent multimodal collections.

Function checks if XPU is available for hardware acceleration. High-performance applications benefit from Intel’s hardware acceleration with IPEX, which speeds up embedding generation and data processing.

Application and Use Cases

This code can be used whenever:

Fast, scalable multimodal data storage: You may need to store and retrieve text, images, or both.

Image Search: Textual descriptions can help e-commerce platforms, image search engines, and recommendation systems query photographs. For instance, searching for “Black colour Benz” will show similar cars.

Cross-modal Retrieval: Finding similar images using text or vice versa, or retrieving images from text. This is common in caption-based photo search and visual question answering.

The recommendation system: Similarity-based searches can lead consumers to films, products, and other content that matches their query.

AI-based apps: Perfect for machine learning pipelines including training data, feature extraction, and multimodal model preparation.

Conditions:

Deep learning torch.

Use intel_extension_for_pytorch for optimal PyTorch performance.

Utilise chromaDB for permanent multimodal vector database creation and querying, and matplotlib for image display.

Embedding extraction and image loading employ chromadb.utils’ OpenCLIP Embedding Function and Image Loader.