We keep our ear to the ground for the interesting stats, insights and discussion points you need to feel in the know.

1. A rail revolution far, far away

Container cargo freight ship-terminal in Hong Kong

Manufacturers, these are the droids you’re looking for. Groundbreaking satellite technology is transforming the rail industry. With data from Earth observation satellites and advanced AI, rail network management becomes more effective, efficient, and safer. Satellites offer consistent monitoring of rail tracks, allowing for early problem detection and improved resilience. By using the power of satellite data, the rail sector can enhance infrastructure resilience, reduce costs, and improve overall performance. But realizing the exponential value may be a few years down the road. May these 4 strategies manufacturers must adopt help them remain relevant…

Why manufacturers need smart connected products

2. Force of green

Do you consider yourself a city dweller? More than half of the world’s population live in cities now, and that number is on a steep climb to 70% by the year 2050. The pulse of a city beats strongest in its environment — a dynamic hub for living, working, and leisure. Cities that fail to adopt sustainable environmental practices risk dimming their appeal to investors, professionals, and families. Urban policymakers are rising to the occasion, shaping neighborhoods that are both livable and lovable by streamlining public transport and implementing green and equitable policies. Building a city that stands the test of time requires city leaders to earn trust, involve citizens at every step and cultivate the ideal mindset and frameworks. For cities needing to become more resilient and sustainable in the face of climate change there can be no try, only do…

Six ways cities can be more resilient and sustainable

3. Tech awakens

Young woman in wheelchair working on her laptop in an office

Imagine a world where paperwork doesn’t bury passion, where social workers are free to forge deep, impactful connections, and where every vulnerable individual is not just a case number but a human story waiting to be heard. Artificial intelligence, automation, and other emerging technologies are the keys to unlocking these possibilities. AI will augment and ultimately improve services to enable social workers to build meaningful relationships and provide essential support. By embracing AI, we can create a future where social care is not only efficient and accessible, but also profoundly human. Fear is the path to the dark side — it’s time to stop worrying and focus on how AI can help some of the most vulnerable in our society…

How embracing AI can revolutionize human services

4. Galactic innovations

Shot of a young programmer using a digital tablet and computer at night in a modern office

In a galaxy not so far away, human-machine interfaces are going to help us rethink the future. The point of interaction between humans and machines, like touchscreens, keyboards or voice commands, launch the staggering potential for AI to catalyze enterprise-level transformations. As businesses embark on this journey, they’re poised to unlock unprecedented levels of human intelligence and creativity, reshaping industries and propelling us into an exciting future. As we know, AI is a powerful tool for democratizing access to technology and until now, digital exclusion has been more often talked about in the context of those with disabilities such as sight or hearing loss. AI can be a game-changer for tackling that exclusion. Assistive technology can help people who are blind or visually impaired to use computer screens, while dynamic transcription tools can enable people with hearing disabilities to participate more actively in meetings. Yet while AI is potentially a great democratizing agent, we should be mindful that it could also exacerbate existing inequalities…

How will human-machine interaction enable us to rethink our future?

5. All aboard the starship

Industrial photography. Turbines in the main engine room of the Zeya hydroelectric station

Boards are crucial in steering companies through uncertainty, with a duty to prioritize long-term vitality. But research indicates a significant data gap at the board level; only a minority excel in sustainability leadership, and most lack the metrics necessary for proper oversight and strategy shaping. Essential to decision-making are robust metrics; and that’s especially true for ESG investment assessments. Boards therefore need targeted training to enhance their capacity for critical inquiry, which in turn drives management towards sustainable outcomes. Rather than taking on managerial roles, boards should focus on challenging and steering business practices to align with sustainability targets. How can boards convert sustainability from a wish to a winning reality? They must safeguard long-term organizational values, engage in rigorous questioning to obtain thorough responses, and advocate for reporting that bolsters sustainable business decisions. These aren’t just advantageous; they’re crucial to business survivals…

How can Boards Convert Sustainability from a Wish to a Winning Reality?

If you do one thing:

Remember, “Do or do not. There is no try.”

– Yoda

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