April 15th marks National ASL Day, a time to celebrate American Sign Language, a vital aspect of cultural identity for many Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in the United States. National ASL Day is not just a celebration but a profound recognition of the language that offers accessibility and empowerment to millions.

📜 History and Significance

National ASL Day commemorates the date in 1817 when the American School for the Deaf was founded in Hartford, Connecticut. This school was the first of its kind in the United States and played a pivotal role in the development and spread of ASL. The founding of the school marked a new era of education and inclusion for Deaf individuals, enabling them to have a dedicated language to communicate, learn, and flourish.

American Sign Language is more than a means of communication; it is an intricate language with its own syntax, grammar, and expressions. It embodies a rich cultural heritage and is integral to the identity of the Deaf community in the U.S. and across North America.

🇺🇸 Celebrations Across the Country

Celebrations of National ASL Day are as diverse as the language itself. Schools, universities, and community centers host educational workshops, storytelling sessions, and performances all in ASL. These events are designed not only to entertain but to educate and inspire attendees about the importance and beauty of ASL.

Social media platforms also buzz with activity, as users share videos and posts using ASL, spreading awareness and expressing solidarity with the Deaf community. Prominent figures in the Deaf community often take this opportunity to advocate for better resources, education, and recognition of ASL.

💡 Impact on Awareness and Inclusion

The observance of National ASL Day has significant implications for awareness and inclusion. It highlights the ongoing need for accessible services and education in ASL, pushing for advancements in technology and policy that support ASL users. Furthermore, it encourages hearing individuals to learn ASL, thus bridging the communication gap between Deaf and hearing communities.

The day also serves as a reminder of the challenges that Deaf individuals face and the strides taken to overcome these obstacles. It is a day of pride, celebration, and hope for a more inclusive future that fully embraces American Sign Language and the people who rely on it.

🌟 Moving Forward

As we observe National ASL Day today, let us commit to recognizing the importance of ASL not just as a language, but as a lifeline that connects us to our fellow human beings. It’s a call to action for continued support and recognition of the Deaf community, ensuring that ASL remains a thriving and dynamic part of American cultural life.

In the burgeoning field of technological innovation, Directed Analytics is carving a unique path by melding engineering principles with non-engineering applications through their proprietary software, 4SightGPS. This startup is not just another tech company; it stands out by using sophisticated machine learning algorithms to tackle complex social issues, particularly focusing on enhancing employability for neurodivergent individuals.

Founded on the ethos of inclusive technology, Directed Analytics recently completed a notable Phase I project under the National Science Foundation’s Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program. The project’s aim was to develop and refine machine learning algorithms specifically designed to automate and improve the development of employability skills for neurodivergent people, who often face unique challenges in traditional employment settings.

The success of their Phase I initiative has set the stage for their next endeavor—submitting a proposal for the National Science Foundation’s Phase II. This next phase promises to expand on their initial research, bringing their innovative solutions closer to widespread implementation and potentially benefiting a broader audience.

The core of Directed Analytics’ offering is 4SightGPS, a framework that applies engineering problem-solving techniques to diverse areas beyond engineering. This software stands out for its flexibility and adaptability, qualities that enable it to be effectively utilized across various use cases. One of the standout applications of this technology has been in creating and managing internship programs for neurodivergent individuals. Currently, Directed Analytics is collaborating with a major company to stand up and operate such a program, which is already showing great promise.

Additionally, Directed Analytics is working with a workforce development program aimed at empowering underserved and underrepresented groups. Here, the focus is on developing crucial employability skills, thereby opening up new opportunities for individuals who might otherwise be overlooked by the mainstream job market.

What makes Directed Analytics particularly innovative is their use of an agnostic approach to technology application. This means that while their solutions are rooted in advanced technological practices, they are designed to be applicable in various contexts, whether it’s enhancing corporate internship programs or improving skill development in marginalized communities.

As Directed Analytics gears up to submit their Phase II proposal, the potential impact of their work is immense. By bridging the gap between complex engineering methodologies and everyday problem-solving in non-engineering fields, they are not just pioneering a new kind of technology application but are also paving the way for more inclusive and equitable employment practices.

The journey of Directed Analytics is one to watch, as they continue to break new ground and demonstrate the power of technology as a force for social good.

Far from being a small startup and releasing their own Visor headset soon, but I was invited to a beta testing by Immsersed.com on the Apple Vision Pro. In the ever-evolving landscape of virtual reality and productivity tools, Immersed has made a significant leap forward with its latest update – the integration of Apple Vision Pro support. This innovative stride not only enhances the capabilities of virtual workspaces but also marks a significant milestone in the VR industry – low latency, seamless integration, good text clarity.

Effortless Setup: A Seamless Integration

The addition of Apple Vision Pro support to Immersed.com’s already impressive array of compatible devices stands out for its user-friendly setup process. Users of Apple Vision Pro can now dive into their virtual office environment with minimal fuss, thanks to the intuitive and straightforward integration process. The platform’s commitment to a hassle-free setup allows users to quickly capitalize on the benefits of a VR workspace without the typical technical hurdles.

Unmatched Clarity: A Visual Feast for the Eyes

One of the most striking features of using Immersed.com with Apple Vision Pro is the crystal-clear text clarity. This advancement addresses one of the long-standing challenges in VR: the difficulty of reading text. The enhanced clarity makes working on detailed documents, coding, or any text-intensive task a breeze, ensuring that productivity is not just maintained but significantly improved.

Low Latency: The Smoothest VR Experience Yet

The combination of Immersed.com and Apple Vision Pro shines in its exceptionally low latency, with their Wifi Direct technology. This advancement ensures a smooth, responsive VR experience that’s critical for maintaining a natural workflow. Whether it’s navigating through multiple virtual monitors or engaging in collaborative sessions, users can expect a fluid and seamless interaction, akin to working on a high-end physical workstation.

Closing Thoughts: A Milestone for VR Productivity

The integration of Apple Vision Pro support by Immersed.com is more than just a technical update; it’s a testament to the platform’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of VR productivity. The blend of effortless setup, unparalleled text clarity, and low latency makes it a compelling choice for professionals seeking an edge in their virtual work environment.

As we continue to witness the growth of remote and flexible working arrangements, Immersed.com’s commitment to enhancing VR workspace solutions places it at the forefront of this technological revolution. The future of virtual productivity looks brighter than ever, and with Immersed.com at the helm, users can expect a continually evolving and improving VR experience.

Staying with the fashion industry still for a while – the second startup I would like to introduce is Clostech. Clostech is a company, trying to revolutionize the fashion industry with augmented reality and AI.

In the dynamic world of online shopping, Clostech emerges as a visionary startup, aiming to address the perennial problem of dissatisfaction among online clothing shoppers. This innovative platform is set to transform the virtual clothing shopping experience through cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

The Clostech Solution: A New Virtual Try-On Experience

Clostech’s breakthrough solution allows users to virtually try on clothing and outfits before making a purchase or, most importantly, after amassing a set of clothes you trying to match, addressing the challenges of matching clothes. With Clostech, the limitations of online shopping are replaced by a limitless and personalized virtual shopping experience, tailored to each user’s body type and style preferences, and with the ability to manage your clothing portfolio.

Key Features and Value Proposition

• Virtual Dressing Experience: Users enjoy a realistic and interactive way to match clothes.
• Creativity Without Limits: Personalized and limitless fashion styling and outfit creation.
• Inclusive Virtual Store: A platform that caters to diverse body types and style preferences.
• Time Savings and Efficiency: Streamlined shopping and matching experience, reducing time and effort.
• Interactive Community: Users can participate in a community for shared fashion interests.
• Climate Adaptation: Outfits are personalized not just for style, but also for suitability to the current weather conditions.

Meet the Team Behind Clostech

Clostech is led by a team of young, energetic entrepreneurs passionate about innovation. Founder & CEO Sufyan Ahmed, along with key team members like Chief Product Officer Sebastian Liviero and CTO Emanuel Quintanilla, brings a mix of creativity, technological expertise, and business acumen.

Conclusion

Clostech stands at the forefront of a fashion revolution, offering a unique, personalized, and efficient way to shop for clothes online and match existing acquires. So, please do check out them, and reach out if you feel like there is a connection 🙂

The first startup I would like to shortly introduce is called Glyph. They invented a unique material pattern called Glyph, that enables you to replace on the fly the surface of an object. The printed material can be on a piece of cloth, on a hard surface of a car, etc., enabling you to replace the look and feel on the fly. It works even if the material is torn, cut in half, rippled, bent, folded, stretched, etc., giving it a highly customizable way to change materials on your video mirroring, on large or small scale fabric in a place, etc. It is a game changer for digital and physical fashion industry, industrial design, and more.

Mixing this with 3D and 4D printing of meta materials, the possibilities are really endless. For more details, do check out Glyph Platforms!

In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, IT startups are often at the forefront of innovation. However, while technical expertise is a strong suit, these startups frequently face challenges in business development, an essential ingredient for sustainable growth. This article delves into how external business development skills can be pivotal in propelling IT startups towards success. I was recently involved with some really awesome startups, so will try to introduce a few of them in the coming days.

Understanding Business Development in IT Startups

Business development in IT startups encompasses a range of activities — from identifying new markets and partnerships to brand building and strategic planning. For startups with a strong technical background, mastering these aspects can be challenging. That’s where external business development skills come into play. By leveraging external expertise, startups can complement their technical know-how with robust business strategies.

Key Areas of Focus

1. Market Analysis and Strategy Formulation: External experts can assist in analyzing market trends, identifying target demographics, and crafting strategies that align with the startup’s technology strengths. This can include expansion plans, both geographically and in terms of product offerings.
2. Partnership and Network Building: Establishing valuable partnerships is crucial for growth. Business development professionals can help in networking and negotiating strategic alliances that open up new avenues for sales, innovation, and brand exposure.
3. Sales and Marketing Expertise: Effective sales strategies and marketing campaigns are essential for any business. External experts can provide insights into the latest marketing trends, digital marketing techniques, and sales funnel optimization specific to the IT industry.
4. Financial Planning and Investment Attraction: Startups often struggle with financial planning and attracting investors. External business development skills can be instrumental in preparing solid business plans, understanding market valuation, and pitching to potential investors.
5. Brand Development and Public Relations: A strong brand is vital in the crowded IT space. Professionals in business development can guide startups in creating a compelling brand narrative and managing public relations effectively.

The Benefits of External Expertise

• Fresh Perspectives: External professionals can offer new viewpoints, untainted by the company’s internal culture, which can be crucial for innovative strategy development.
• Specialized Skills: They bring specialized skills and experience that may not be present internally, especially in areas like marketing, sales, and finance.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Hiring external experts can be more cost-effective than employing full-time specialists, particularly for startups operating on tight budgets.
• Flexibility: Startups gain the flexibility to engage these skills as needed, allowing for scalability and adaptability in a fast-changing market.

Implementing External Business Development Skills

To effectively integrate external business development skills, startups should:

1. Identify Specific Needs: Clearly define what areas require external expertise.
2. Choose the Right Partners: Select professionals or agencies with a proven track record in assisting IT startups.
3. Ensure Alignment with Vision and Culture: Ensure that the external team aligns with the startup’s vision, culture, and long-term goals.
4. Set Clear Goals and Metrics: Establish clear objectives and key performance indicators to measure the impact of the external expertise.
5. Foster Collaboration: Encourage a collaborative environment where internal and external teams can work synergistically.

Conclusion

For IT startups, external business development skills are not just a luxury but a necessity in today’s competitive environment. These skills bridge the gap between technological innovation and market success, enabling startups to grow, scale, and make a lasting impact in the tech world. With the right approach and partnerships, startups can harness these skills to chart a path towards sustainable and dynamic growth.

I am thrilled to announce that I have been selected as an ambassador for the FINOS (Fintech Open Source Foundation). This unique opportunity allows me to contribute more significantly to the burgeoning world of open source finance.

As a FINOS Ambassador, I will be deeply involved in organizing events, contributing thought-provoking articles, sourcing speakers for influential podcasts, actively participating in community events, and developing insightful case studies on various FINOS projects. This role enables me to advocate for the adoption and contribution to open source initiatives within the financial sector, a cause I am passionately committed to.

The ambassadorship also allows me to connect and collaborate with other professionals in this field, furthering my knowledge and expanding my network. The program’s goal to foster a vibrant, inclusive community aligns perfectly with my vision of a collaborative and innovative future in financial technology.

I am excited to embark on this journey with FINOS and contribute to shaping the future of open source finance technology. Stay tuned for more updates on my experiences and contributions in this new role! And as you can see, the number of different roles and co-chairships and similar does not seem to stop – Thanks for Keith O’Donnell for depicting me as someone with one more new role 😀

The adage “We learn 95% of what we teach others” reflects a profound understanding of human learning and knowledge retention. While the specific percentage might be an approximation rather than a scientific fact, the underlying principle holds significant truth. This article delves into the mechanics of this phenomenon, exploring how the act of teaching reinforces our own learning.

The Learning Pyramid
The concept often gets linked to the “Learning Pyramid,” sometimes attributed to the National Training Laboratories in Bethel, Maine. The pyramid suggests various retention rates for different teaching methods. Although the specific percentages are debated among educators for their accuracy, the hierarchy itself underscores a valuable point: active learning methods, like teaching others, are often more effective than passive ones.

The Process of Teaching as Learning
When we teach, we are not merely reciting information. The process involves several steps that enhance learning:

1. Preparation: In preparing to teach, we organize our thoughts, structure the information logically, and anticipate questions. This preparation deepens our understanding and retention.
2. Articulation: Explaining concepts in our own words requires a clear grasp of the subject. This translation process solidifies our knowledge.
3. Feedback and Adaptation: Teaching involves interacting with learners, getting feedback, and adjusting explanations. This responsive process further cements the knowledge in our minds.

Psychological Aspects
Teaching others also engages various psychological factors:

• Confidence Building: Teaching reinforces our self-confidence and belief in our understanding of the subject.
• Social Reinforcement: Positive social interactions during teaching, such as acknowledgment and appreciation from learners, enhance motivation and retention.
• Cognitive Dissonance: When faced with questions or different perspectives from learners, we are challenged to rethink and possibly strengthen our understanding.

Empirical Evidence
Several studies support the notion that teaching others is an effective learning strategy. For instance, research indicates that peer teaching can enhance learning outcomes for both the tutor and the tutee. Moreover, the act of teaching has been shown to activate unique neural pathways, further contributing to knowledge retention.

Application in Education and Training
Recognizing the value of teaching as a learning tool, many educational systems and corporate training programs now incorporate peer-teaching and train-the-trainer models. These approaches not only improve comprehension and retention among students but also build a culture of collaborative learning.

Conclusion
While the “95%” figure might be more symbolic than scientific, it points to a vital truth about learning: teaching others is one of the most effective ways to deepen and retain our own knowledge. This understanding has significant implications for how we approach education and training, emphasizing active participation and the sharing of knowledge as key drivers of learning.

In a world that often equates being right with success, it’s surprising to discover a rare trait among high performers: they actually enjoy being wrong. This counterintuitive quality is not about celebrating failure but about embracing the opportunities that come from recognizing one’s mistakes. This article delves into how this mindset not only distinguishes high achievers but also fosters a culture of growth and innovation.

The Paradox of Being Wrong

Traditionally, success has been linked to certainty, confidence, and always having the right answers. However, high performers break this mold. They understand that being wrong is an integral part of the learning process. This paradox lies at the heart of their growth mindset. By embracing their mistakes, they open themselves up to new perspectives and continuous learning.

The Power of Different Viewpoints

One key aspect of enjoying being wrong is the willingness to consider different viewpoints. High performers are not threatened by opinions that contradict their own. Instead, they see them as an opportunity to understand a broader range of perspectives. This approach leads to more well-rounded decision-making and fosters a more inclusive environment where all voices are valued.

Owning Mistakes: A Catalyst for Growth

Admitting and owning mistakes is not a sign of weakness but of strength. High performers are quick to acknowledge their errors, not to self-flagellate, but to learn and improve. This attitude transforms setbacks into stepping stones. By owning their mistakes, they set an example that encourages others to take risks and innovate without fear of failure.

Cultivating a Growth Mindset

The crux of enjoying being wrong lies in cultivating a growth mindset. Carol Dweck, a renowned psychologist, defines a growth mindset as the belief that one’s abilities and intelligence can be developed over time. High performers embody this mindset. They view challenges as opportunities to grow, rather than insurmountable obstacles. This mindset keeps them resilient and adaptable in the face of change.

The Ripple Effect in Organizations

When leaders and high performers in organizations embrace being wrong, it creates a ripple effect. It fosters a culture where learning from mistakes is valued over pretending to be infallible. This culture encourages innovation, as team members feel safe to experiment and propose unconventional ideas.

Conclusion

The rare trait of enjoying being wrong is a hallmark of high performers. It signifies a deeper understanding that being right all the time is not only unrealistic but also a barrier to growth and innovation. By embracing different viewpoints, owning their mistakes, and cultivating a growth mindset, these individuals not only achieve personal success but also contribute to creating a more dynamic, inclusive, and forward-thinking environment. This mindset, perhaps paradoxical at first glance, is indeed a powerful catalyst for continuous improvement and enduring success.

In a world where the pace of change is constantly accelerating, it’s easy to equate speed with progress. We often admire those who act quickly, deliver rapid results, and push for immediate change. However, the true essence of progress lies not in how quickly we move, but in the direction we choose to go.

Understanding Progress Beyond Velocity

Traditionally, progress is measured by how fast one can achieve goals. This perception is reinforced in our fast-paced society, where speed and efficiency are highly prized. However, this outlook can be misleading. Progress should be seen as a journey towards a worthwhile goal, not just a race to the finish line. It’s about moving forward in the right direction, even if that means taking slow and deliberate steps.

The Direction Matters

The direction of our efforts dictates the quality and sustainability of our progress. For instance, a company may rapidly increase its profits, but if this is done at the expense of ethical standards or environmental health, can it truly be considered progress? A student might quickly finish an assignment, but without thorough understanding, the learning is superficial. Real progress happens when we align our actions with our values, goals, and the greater good.

The Tortoise and the Hare: A Modern Interpretation

The classic fable of the tortoise and the hare teaches us that slow and steady wins the race. In our modern context, this translates to a deeper understanding that perseverance and consistency, combined with the right direction, lead to meaningful accomplishments. The hare’s swift pace is impressive, but it’s the tortoise’s unwavering commitment to the end goal that ultimately brings success.

Long-Term Vision

Progress with a sense of direction often requires a long-term vision. It’s about looking beyond immediate gains and considering the broader impact of our actions. This could mean investing time in learning new skills without immediate rewards or a company prioritizing sustainable practices over short-term profits. The focus is on where these actions will lead us in the future, rather than the immediate results they yield.

The Role of Reflection and Adjustment

Staying true to the right direction for progress also involves continuous reflection and adjustment. It’s important to regularly evaluate if the path we’re on aligns with our ultimate objectives. This might mean changing course, even if it requires slowing down or retracing our steps. Adaptability, in this sense, is a crucial component of making real progress.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the essence of progress is more about moving in the right direction than moving quickly. It requires a deep understanding of our goals, the patience to pursue them consistently, and the wisdom to make necessary adjustments. As we navigate through life’s challenges, it’s important to remember that the value of our journey lies not in the speed with which we travel, but in the paths we choose to follow.