Author: Scott Dylan

In a move that surprised both patrons and industry experts, JD Wetherspoon has decided to eliminate all its social media accounts.This decision was officially made public via Twitter, where the company communicated its intent to cease its activities on all major social media platforms.The Decision to DisconnectJD Wetherspoon, the renowned pub chain, recently made a bold decision that sent ripples through the business world. The company announced the closure of its social media accounts, including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. This decision, communicated to its 44,000 Twitter followers, marks a significant departure from the norm in a time when digital presence…

The technology sector in the North West is grappling with a significant skills shortage. Companies find themselves compelled to raise wages to stay competitive.According to Manchester Digital, nearly half of the tech firms in the region have increased salaries by an average of 10% across various roles.Rising Wages in Developer RolesIn recent years, developer roles have seen an unprecedented wage increase, with a 16% rise marking the highest inflation for five consecutive years. Businesses are struggling to fill these roles, with 49% reporting a shortage of suitable candidates. This wage inflation is a testament to the fierce competition for developer…

Virgin Trains East Coast, in collaboration with Razor, has embarked on a transformative project to enhance staff efficiency through innovative technology solutions.This initiative not only aims to assist staff but also significantly improve customer experience, reflecting the evolving dynamics of service delivery in the railway industry.Revolutionising Staff Support with TechnologyVirgin Trains East Coast has taken a significant stride in enhancing staff efficiency through the integration of new mobile technology, developed in collaboration with Sheffield-based Razor. This venture introduces a blend of commercial products and bespoke applications tailored by third-party developers to revolutionise on-board assistance. The primary aim is to facilitate…

The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has announced an investigation into Ebiquity plc’s proposed sale of its advertising intelligence division. This move is set to scrutinise potential impacts on market competition, following Ebiquity’s agreement to sell to Nielsen.Ebiquity, a leading marketing and media analytics consultancy, aims to streamline its operations with this sale. The transaction represents a significant shift in Ebiquity’s business strategy, allowing it to concentrate on its accelerating media, analytics, and tech services.Ebiquity plc, a prominent player in marketing and media analytics, is in the process of offloading its advertising intelligence unit to Nielsen. This strategic decision…

In today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape, diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords. They are crucial to innovation and success, as evidenced by ThoughtWorks’ proactive initiatives.With a global footprint, ThoughtWorks stands out for its comprehensive approach to diversity, setting a precedent for how tech companies should cultivate inclusive environments.ThoughtWorks has been at the forefront of advancing gender diversity within tech. For over three years, its graduate program has consistently seen over 50% female entrants, primarily in software development roles. This commitment is further validated by accolades from the Anita Borg Institute, ranking ThoughtWorks above major tech giants like Google and…

In today’s fast-paced work environments, maintaining high levels of productivity is crucial. The traditional reliance on coffee may soon be challenged by an innovative solution: personal oxygen purifiers.Manchester-based Radic8 is pioneering this shift with their INBair O2 device, which has already received significant backing on Indiegogo. This non-medical unit promises to combat workplace fatigue by providing concentrated oxygen, aiming to reduce caffeine dependency and improve focus.The Science Behind Oxygen PurificationOxygen levels in office buildings often decline as the day progresses, leading to the common phenomenon known as the ‘afternoon slump’. According to Richard Greenwood, CEO of Radic8, this slump results…

SWORD Health’s digital physiotherapy platform has secured substantial funding, marking a critical milestone.The recent $4.6 million investment will fuel the expansion of its AI-driven technology.SWORD Health, a trailblazer in digital physiotherapy, has secured $4.6 million in seed funding to boost the development of its groundbreaking platform. This innovative solution leverages artificial intelligence and high-precision motion tracking sensors to offer personalised rehabilitation plans. Supervised remotely by expert physiotherapists, patients can enhance their recovery within the comfort of their homes, presenting a more accessible healthcare option.This investment indicates strong market confidence in SWORD Health’s potential to revolutionise the healthcare sector. Green Innovations…

Aqua Running, founded by Terry Nelson, a former athlete turned entrepreneur, is revolutionising aquatic rehabilitation with cutting-edge sensor technology. Through perseverance, Nelson overcame personal challenges to position his hydro buoyancy suits at the forefront of sports technology.A Vision Born from AdversityTerry Nelson’s promising football career was cut short due to severe health challenges, including kidney failure and a leg amputation. Undeterred, Nelson channelled his passion into creating Aqua Running, which now collaborates with elite sports teams such as Real Madrid and Manchester United, providing innovative training solutions.Nelson’s vision materialised through his perseverance and the support of UK scientists who helped…

The United Kingdom stands on the brink of leading a transformative revolution in artificial intelligence. The House of Lords Select Committee’s recent report outlines the potential for the UK to spearhead ethical AI development, leveraging its existing strengths.With an emphasis on ethical considerations, the report underscores the importance of integrating ethics into AI development and usage. As AI continues to permeate various sectors, the need for a robust ethical framework becomes more apparent, ensuring technology enhances lives and maintains public trust.UK’s Potential as a Leader in Ethical AIThe UK finds itself in a unique position, poised to become a global…

Liverpool is uniquely positioned to embrace digital innovation and expand its reach on a global scale. Mark Whitworth of Peel Ports highlights the city’s potential and capability in leveraging new technologies to bolster its brand internationally.Digital platforms are integral to Liverpool’s strategy for accessing a worldwide audience. These platforms can effectively bridge the gap between local businesses and international markets, offering unprecedented opportunities for growth.Investments in infrastructure and technology are crucial for Liverpool’s sustained growth. The recent developments at the Port of Liverpool exemplify the city’s commitment to enhancing its global profile through strategic investments.By investing in education and skills,…