Technology Blog
I write blog posts looking at technology and the changes transforming how we live and work today and might in the future.
Please contact me for a quote to write blog posts for your business.
AI Guide For Small Businesses
Most business owners are managing a mix of rising costs, changing regulations, unpredictable markets and the need to deliver products and services customers want. Artificial intelligence can feel like yet another technological wave demanding attention and resources, but it is of concern not only to large companies with specialist teams and large IT budgets, but also small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). This article provides an introduction to the practical use of AI by SMEs, to help them benefit from the potential of AI and achieve measurable goals.
…
AI and The Future of The Open Web
Generative artificial intelligence, LLMs (large language models) and AI search are built upon the shoulders of centuries of accumulated human knowledge and experience. This was made possible by free access to the open web. However, lack of concern for the interests of people who create and own the rights to high quality original content might derail AI projects.
…
Cognitive Thinking Skills and AI
The idea that we can only know what we think was expressed by Rene Descartes in the phrase ‘I think, therefore I am’. Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius described the nature of our thoughts shaping our mind and soul. We should consider such concepts in relation to the influence of artificial intelligence on our cognitive thinking skills and decision making, that form our sense of self and perception of reality.
…
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence
There is disagreement among experts regarding the possible impact of artificial intelligence, but most believe it will radically alter how we live and work. While some highlight the benefits and opportunities of AI and claim it will deliver increased prosperity, others fear AI could lead to mass unemployment, loss of social cohesion or even civilisational collapse. In this article I explore some of the issues related to the use of AI, particularly regarding individuals and small businesses.
…
Predicting The Future
When competing to sell products and services that return a profit on investment, business owners seek opportunities to meet or create customer demand. Rather than reacting to change, an organisation that anticipates and prepares in advance can benefit from early mover advantage. Whether in the private or public sector, delivery of projects over a number of years can be influenced by as yet unknown future economic, demographic, social, geopolitical, environmental or regulatory factors, scientific discoveries and technology innovations. Predicting the future using futurology might provide insights that inform decision making and increase the probability of success. …
The Industrial Revolution
Parallels have been drawn between the impact of the Industrial Revolution and increasing use of artificial intelligence and robotics. Many concerns regarding employment, economic inequality, environmental and social issues voiced today are similar to those discussed during that period. When seeking answers to the challenges confronting us in the twenty-first century, we might learn something by having a better understanding of what people experienced in the past. …
What Is Good Design?
Every day we encounter many different products and services, each designed to serve a particular purpose. Performance, usability and aesthetics shape our perception of value and our preference for a particular product or service. Most business owners recognise the importance of good design, which can generate leads and increase sales. However, too often we experience poor design, in relation to customer experience, performance or reliability. …
Green Technology Opportunities and Challenges
Across the world governments have pledged to reduce carbon emissions and put measures in place to support green technology initiatives. However, at the same time there is increasing demand for electricity generation and distribution across grids that are being pushed to capacity. There are many green technology opportunities and challenges in building a future with sustainable technology. Getting there will involve some difficult decisions being made. …