Tag: experience

  • Enjoy the wood-fired warmth of ‘Spring IMUA experience’ at Butcher’s Block, Raffles Hotel Singapore

    Enjoy the wood-fired warmth of ‘Spring IMUA experience’ at Butcher’s Block, Raffles Hotel Singapore

    The ‘Spring IMUA experience’ at Butcher’s Block Singapore
    The ‘Spring IMUA experience’ is a tribute to nature’s awakening. Photo courtesy: Butcher’s Block

    One of the fining-dining restaurants housed within Raffles Hotel Singapore, the wood-fire-driven Butcher’s Block presents an avant garde interpretation of traditional cooking methods close to nature. From March to May this year, Butcher’s Block brings the ‘Spring IMUA experience’ to Singapore foodies, as a tribute to nature’s awakening.

    Butcher’s Block is helmed by Chef de Cuisine Jordan Keao, born and raised in Hawaii, where cooking, fishing, hunting, and farming are a part of everyday life. The restaurant exhibits the highest quality of produce, meats, and seafood sourced from around the world and translated through fire.

    Complement the dining experience at Butcher’s Block with over 288 premium wines, including a meticulous selection of natural wines, from The Library.

    The 44-seat dining room of Butcher’s Block Singapore
    The 44-seat dining room. Photo courtesy: Butcher’s Block

    Spring is a very special season for Hawai’i — the warmer and longer days invite communities to gather and celebrate the season’s plentiful harvest and fresh garden delights.

    The Spring IMUA experience at Butcher’s Block captures the optimism and togetherness that define the essence of spring and Hawai’i’s eternal connection to nature.

    Jordan Keao, Chef de Cuisine, Butcher’s Block Singapore
    Jordan Keao, Chef de Cuisine. Photo courtesy: Butcher’s Block

    Drawing inspiration from Hawai’i’s natural splendour and guided by the spirit of IMUA — ‘move forward with strength and spirit’ — this menu experience mirrors the season’s blooming transformations. Chef Jordan has a commitment to sustainable, whole-animal butchery and zero-waste principles.

    A quartet of Chef’s snacks promises an expressive medley of island-inspired flavours.

    Begin with the popular duo of Big Eye Ahi Tuna Poké, a refined take on the well-loved Hawai’ian poké classic, and Wagyu Beef Pipikaula, which spotlights a deeply umami Blackmore rump and chuck roll cured in aged garlic shoyu and dry-aged for 25 days.

    Chef’s snacks, Butcher’s Block Singapore
    Chef’s snacks: Photo courtesy: Butcher’s Block

    Newly introduced, the Grilled Asparagus Rosti showcases the definitive Spring produce lacto-fermented for over 36 hours before being grilled and assembled with parsnip puree and Agria potato rosti.

    Another new snack takes the form of Taramasalata, which is inspired by Chef Jordan’s childhood days spent with his uncle, who was a fisherman. The collar of the Ahi tuna is first smoked before being made into a pate with the same consistency as taramasalata, and piped into a pain souffle pillow made with laksa leaf powder.

    The essence of Hawai’i’s spring flavours comes to life with Lomi Lomi, a term derived from the Hawai’ian term to massage. This celebrates a three-century-old side dish where fish was salted and preserved. Chef Jordan’s inventive rendition highlights smoked Japanese hamachi cured in paprika, paired with tomato sorbet and agua chile for a zesty tang. Finally, crispy Jerusalem artichoke tops the dish for a textural crunch.

    Western Plains Kalua Pork Dumpling, Butcher’s Block Singapore
    Western Plains Kalua Pork Dumpling. Photo courtesy: Butcher’s Block

    For dinner, guests may also delight in Western Plains Kalua Pork Ravioli, an innovative interpretation of the traditional Hawai’ian dish of Kalua Pork presented as a ravioli containing Western Plains pork shoulder that had been wrapped in banana leaf and slow roasted overnight. Cooked over the wood-fire, the dumplings are enlivened with taro leaf, sweet potato puree and fermented red cabbage, seamlessly marrying the flavours to perfection.

    Epicurean journey through the island’s heart

    Continue the bountiful feast of springtime with an array of main courses, including the signature Huli-Huli Dry-Aged Duck, a dish that embodies the island’s vibrant and unique identity.

    Malaysian farmed duck is first dry-aged whole for a week, then butchered into different parts: the breast undergoes further dry-ageing, then meticulously ‘huli’ (turned) over ambient heat above the fire and glazed with a luscious caramelised shoyu reduction. The duck leg is slow-cooked into a confit, and presented with a jus made from roasted duck bones. This reimagined classic pays homage to the smoky, flamekissed flavours of traditional Hawai’ian barbecue infused with the bounty of the season.

    Grilled Murray Cod takes centre stage, featuring the fillet of this sustainable, fatty fish paired with a turmeric-accented mousseline made with the trimming and collar from the same fish. Accompanied with beautifully charred kale alongside a luxurious bottarga cream and rich Koshihikari rice risotto, the dish delivers a symphony of umami complexities.

    Blackmore Farms Trio is a true reflection of Chef Jordan’s culinary prowess in wood-fired techniques and whole-animal butchery.

    Marvel at the artful presentation of prized Blackmore Farm wagyu showcased in three distinctly new ways — a grilled chef’s select cut, a luxurious beef bone marrow custard, and a beef fat financier — all created from the same half cow that the restaurant regularly brings in. English pea purée, shaved fennel and pea tendrils complete the dish with added freshness and texture.

    Blackmore Farm Wagyu with Bone Marrow Custard, Butcher’s Block Singapore
    Blackmore Farm Wagyu with Bone Marrow Custard. Photo courtesy: Butcher’s Block

    Finish off the evocative journey through Hawai’i’s stunning landscapes and lush greenery with Haupia, a classic Hawai’ian coconut pudding that includes Chef Jordan’s delightful twist of a scoop of gula melaka ice cream alongside fermented Ichigo strawberries and a sprinkling of toasted macadamia nut crumble atop, finished with a subtle lemon balm garnish.

    Alternatively, opt for the Baked Alaska from the Spring a la carte menu for a delightful sweet treat comprising layers of meringue, ice cream and cake, flambéed tableside with a Butcher’s Block exclusive cask of Eagle Rare 10 Year Bourbon

    Baked Alaska, Butcher’s Block Singapore
    Baked Alaska. Photo courtesy: Butcher’s Block

    Price: The Spring IMUA dining experience is available for lunch (SGD 178++) and dinner (SGD 228++) from now to 31 May 2025. Complement the flavours of Hawai’i’s scenic landscapes with a tailored wine pairing at SGD 158++ or the Dom Pérignon premium wine pairing at SGD 408++ per guest.
    Timings: Dinner: Tuesday to Saturday, 6pm to 9.45pm (last seating at 9.30pm); Lunch: Wednesday to Saturday, 12 noon to 2.30pm (last seating at 2pm) Closed on Sundays and Mondays.
    Address: 328 North Bridge Rd #02-02, Raffles Arcade S188719 (Accessible via the North Bridge Road entrance)
     Website: www.butchersblock.com.sg; www.rafflessingapore.com
    Dress code: Casual Chic

    An Easter feast like no other

    On 20 April 2025, celebrate Easter in true IMUA style with a spectacular brunch at Butcher’s Block. Be enthralled by a sumptuous spread spotlighting the Blackmore Farm Easter Roast that is specially created for Easter and showcases a succulent dry-aged wagyu cooked to perfection over wood-fire and complemented with potato purée, English pea purée and chimichurri.

    Butcher’s Block at home

    Savour scintillating avant garde wood-fired creations and fresh produce from the comfort of your own home with Butcher’s Block’s newly-launched takeaway menu, made available for purchase in the restaurant.

    Choose from a delightful assortment of items curated by Chef Jordan, including house-made milk bread, kombu butter, Western Plains Spam, dry-aged smoked duck breast, dry-aged Blackmore Farm burger patty, choice steaks and wines.

  • Genesys launches AI for supervisors to enhance efficiency, employee performance and customer experiences – CRN

    Genesys launches AI for supervisors to enhance efficiency, employee performance and customer experiences – CRN

    Olivier Jouve

    Genesys announced a suite of Genesys Cloud AI capabilities designed to empower supervisors. These innovations help organisations navigate the future of work both within and beyond the contact centre. As enterprises worldwide are looking for efficiency and scale, Genesys is enabling organisations to expand automation and augment employee performance for improved customer experiences, operational productivity and business impact.

    With Genesys Cloud Supervisor Copilot and Genesys Cloud Virtual Supervisor, organisations can automate routine tasks and provide managers the support and insights to accelerate speed, improve work quality and increase overall effectiveness. The capabilities offer organisations real-time assistance to analyse data, train employees, oversee processes and handle critical business operations.

    Genesys estimates that it’s possible to see a 40% reduction in quality evaluation time, 25% reduction in multilingual evaluations and 38% decrease in quality management administrative costs through utilisation of these Genesys Cloud AI capabilities for supervisors, providing an opportunity for significant operational gains.

    According to a recent Genesys report, 46% of customer experience (CX) leaders surveyed said that improving the employee experience through AI technology like copilots is an initiative they plan to implement within the next two years. eir, Ireland’s largest telecommunications company, is already driving ROI from this technology. 

    “Genesys Cloud has enhanced our customer engagement, with AI capabilities like Copilots for agents playing a key role in helping us improve efficiency and service quality. The result of our AI transformation with Genesys Cloud: a 63% boost in our customer effort score, a 60-second drop in handle time, a 5% rise in sales conversations, and our multi-year partnership projected to bring significant added value over three years,” said John Connors, director of business transformation at eir. “Supervisor Copilot and Virtual Supervisor are the next AI game-changers, which we anticipate will continue to help us elevate our operational agility and workforce for stronger customer experiences.” 

    Augmenting performance for greater impact with supervisor Copilot

    Supervisor Copilot, the latest addition to the Genesys Cloud Copilot suite, builds on last year’s launch of Genesys Cloud Agent Copilot to streamline contact centre operations. These AI-driven copilots reduce manual workloads, uncover insights and enhance business outcomes.

    Acting as a sidekick for managers, Supervisor Copilot provides prescriptive support for quality assurance, compliance and coaching. Powered by generative AI, it automatically summarises interactions, allowing supervisors to quickly review and make informed decisions. With advanced quality and conversational intelligence, Supervisor Copilot strengthens compliance and effectiveness across both human and AI-led interactions, sharing context, identifying issues and uncovering opportunities to improve the customer experience.

    Automating tasks for greater productivity with virtual supervisor

    Using large language models, Virtual Supervisor enables managers to automatically populate evaluation templates from an interaction, saving time, increasing efficiency and ensuring comprehensive review capabilities. This automation gives managers deeper visibility into agent performance, behaviours and skills through structured insights that inform decision-making.

    Managers configure the level of automation and oversight, including the criteria assessed and whether to accept its recommendations, ensuring that Virtual Supervisor aligns with organisational policies, regulatory requirements and operational goals. This enables managers to move beyond limited quality control to drive performance at scale.

    Available as optional configurations in Genesys Cloud, organisations can choose to start using Supervisor Copilot and Virtual Supervisor now. The capabilities work seamlessly with all native Genesys Cloud offerings, including conversational AI, event data and journey management, to deliver more contextual customer engagement. By continuously sharing data across both human and AI-led interactions, these innovations don’t just improve independently; they get better together over time, delivering greater business value.

     Genesys Cloud AI capabilities for supervisors already powers a variety of use cases with more coming in the future. A few examples of how organisation can leverage these capabilities include:

     AI translate: Supervisors don’t need to be multilingual to make an impact. AI translates interaction details, including full transcriptions and summaries, across more than 70 languages for easy analysis and rich context.

    • AI summary: AI summary helps streamline interaction reviews by automatically transforming conversation data into clear, concise, and actionable summaries. By contextualising details, it captures key points and essential insights from both customers and agents. This generative AI capability enhances workflows, reduces review time and enables faster, more informed decision-making.
    • AI scoring: AI scoring can help managers automate quality evaluations, providing faster, less biased and more consistent assessments. AI scoring reviews every interaction, flagging those that need attention and eliminating the limitations of manual sampling, helping supervisors improve efficiency and performance improvements.

     “As organisations navigate the future of AI, Genesys Cloud can help them stay ahead by augmenting human potential with deeper insights and automation,” said Olivier Jouve, chief product officer at Genesys. “Through our suite of AI for supervisors, we’re enhancing customer experiences and redefining how work gets done. With real-time intelligence and greater efficiency, organisations gain macro-level understanding for strategic management and micro-level precision to improve interactions so they can accelerate business value and operational excellence at scale.”

  • Gartner predicts over 20% of workplace apps will use AI-driven personalisation algorithms for adaptive worker experiences by 2028 – CRN

    Gartner predicts over 20% of workplace apps will use AI-driven personalisation algorithms for adaptive worker experiences by 2028 – CRN

    By 2028, more than 20% of digital workplace applications will use AI-driven personalisation algorithms to generate adaptive experiences for the worker, according to Gartner, Inc.

    Digital workers satisfied with work applications are nearly three times more likely to report being much more productive compared with those who are not satisfied. Yet, a Gartner survey of 5,141 employees conducted from April through July of 2024 found that only 23% of digital workers are completely satisfied with their work applications in 2024, down from 30% in 2022.

    “The apps used for work should feel as intuitive and empowering as the most popular consumer apps,” said Tori Paulman, VP Analyst at Gartner. “That’s exactly what employees are craving—a seamless, personalised, and omnichannel digital experience that mirrors the ease and consistency of mainstream consumer applications.

    “Yet, over the past ten years, the gap between consumer and enterprise app experiences has widened. Many work applications remain isolated, inconsistent, and rigid, leaving much to be desired in terms of user experience,” said Paulman.

    To enhance workplace applications and bridge the gap with consumer-like experiences, technology leaders should take five direct actions:

    • Implement best practices: Focus on AI-driven personalisation within workplace applications. These tools should analyse workstyles to provide personalised insights, prioritise tasks, and automate workflows, all tailored to enhance each employee’s productivity.
    • Ensure transparency: Clearly communicate how digital workplace algorithms function and adhere to ethical guidelines. Detail the decision-making processes and implement strong data privacy and security measures to protect employee information and build trust.
    • Prioritise key outcomes: Identify critical business goals, such as improving customer service first-call resolution. Determine which employee roles will benefit most from AI-driven personalisation and explore how adaptive user experiences can reduce friction and boost productivity.
    • Define clear requirements: During vendor selection, prioritise applications that feature AI-driven adaptive user interfaces, personalised task management, and designs centred around the employee experience to ensure intuitive and effective tools.
    • Monitor and adapt: Regularly assess the effectiveness of AI-driven personalisation. Collect employee feedback and make continuous improvements to ensure these tools align with evolving employee needs and organisational objectives.

    “In the realm of digital workplace applications, these algorithms can be game-changers for productivity by understanding and observing workers’ behaviour, preferences, and past interactions to provide crafted recommendations,” said Paulman. “The power of these algorithms brings valuable insights to the surface, streamlines information, prioritises tasks for workers, and even automates workflows to save time and make core work easier.”

  • Salesforce and Ather Energy limited join hands to redefine customer and dealer experience – CRN

    Salesforce and Ather Energy limited join hands to redefine customer and dealer experience – CRN

    Salesforce announced its partnership with Ather Energy Limited, one of India’s electric two-wheeler (E2W) manufacturers, to strengthen and expand dealership operations and elevate customer experiences. This strategic collaboration with Salesforce will bring together sales, support service, and dealer operations, improve operational efficiency, and provide an enhanced customer experience through a unified, AI-powered platform. With growth on the horizon, Ather Energy is looking to drive seamless and agile business operations, providing a competitive advantage for its growing ecosystem of dealers in India. Ather Energy currently has 350 dealers across the country and will be looking to expand its footprint in the coming months. The first-of-its-kind Dealer Management Solution (DMS) built in collaboration with Salesforce, will be made available on the mobile app empowering dealers to make decisions on the go directly driving both customer satisfaction and business growth.
    To support this exponential growth, Ather Energy has built ‘Ather Dealer Central’, a next-generation Dealer Management System (DMS) on the Salesforce Platform. This system integrates LMS (Lead Management System), CRM (Customer Relationship Management), and DMS into a single, scalable platform.

    Ravneet S. Phokela Chief Business Officer Ather Energy, said “At Ather, our approach to the dealer management system was to develop a solution that is agile, scalable, and truly customer-centric. Our collaboration with Salesforce and the implementation of ‘Ather Dealer Central’ – our new dealer management system, reimagines how EV dealerships operate and it represents our ambitious technological leap. Ather Dealer Central is a unified, intelligent platform that seamlessly connects every aspect of the dealer ecosystem, which will provide our dealer partners with unprecedented insights, mobility, and efficiency empowering them to deliver exceptional customer service. It is a strategic asset which we believe will shape the future of EV retail and customer engagement in India.”

    Commenting on the collaboration, Mankiran Chowhan, Vice President, Financial Services & Consumer Industries, Salesforce India, said “As India’s EV market matures, customer experience will be a key driver of business growth, with consumers seeking differentiated, seamless interactions while making eco-conscious choices. Our partnership with Ather Energy showcases how technology can redefine mobility, empowering businesses to deliver smarter, more connected experiences. By leveraging Salesforce’s solutions, Ather is setting a new benchmark for dealership management and customer engagement—creating a scalable ecosystem that drives sustainable growth and innovation in the industry.”

    She further added, “As businesses scale, AI-driven innovations are becoming essential to enhancing customer interactions. With Salesforce’s Agentforce—an AI-powered digital labor solution—companies can deploy autonomous AI agents across functions, boosting efficiency, optimising operations, and redefining customer engagement.”

    Salesforce Agentforce, a new layer on the Salesforce Platform, enables companies to build and deploy AI agents that can autonomously take action across any business function. Agentforce represents the next evolution of Salesforce‌ — ‌a platform where AI agents work alongside humans — a digital workforce that amplifies and augments human capabilities and delivers results with unrivaled speed.

  • Mahashivratri: The Divine Night Livestream on JioHotstar Attracts Over 3.9 Crore Views, Reinforcing the Future of Digital-First Cultural Experiences

    Mahashivratri: The Divine Night Livestream on JioHotstar Attracts Over 3.9 Crore Views, Reinforcing the Future of Digital-First Cultural Experiences

    The 15-hour live stream of Mahashivratri: The Divine Night attracted 3.9 crore views and clocked 21.8 crore minutes of watch time.

    mahashivratri 2025, kumbh mela, jiohtstar,

    March 3rd 2025; National: JioHotstar has reimagined the way India experiences tradition with Mahashivratri: The Divine Night, a groundbreaking 15-hour live stream that seamlessly integrated faith, spirituality, culture and technology at an unprecedented scale. With over 3.9 crore views and an astounding 21.8 crore minutes of watch time from the livestream, the digital journey heralded a landmark moment in the evolution of cultural storytelling. At its core was the deepest shared human emotion, devotion – which united millions in a collective celebration of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, reinforcing JioHotstar’s role in elevating shared cultural moments through live experiences.

    Streaming the Sacred: A Multi-Dimensional Experience
    Bringing together the timeless and the cutting-edge, JioHotstar’s multi-stream format offered a seamless experience, immersing audiences in devotion like never before. Multiple LIVE feeds from the sacred Jyotirlingas transported audiences into the heart of 20+ divine aartis and grand processions while night-time meditations and stirring cultural tributes elevated the spectacle.

    Mahashivratri livestream

    More than just a stream, the live event on the platform constituted 10+ live, concurrent streams allowing users to effortlessly switch between different facets of devotion, spirituality, mythology, culture, rituals, and community engagement:

    • Sacred Rituals: 20+ Live aartis from revered Jyotirlingas allowed devotees to partake in sacred moments of worship from the comfort of their homes. 
    • Spirituality: Dedicated live feeds from the Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore and Art of Living International Centre were available as part of the Mahashivratri Livestream on JioHotstar.  Sadhguru delivered spiritual discourses in the presence of Mr Amit Shah, Honorable Minister for Home Affairs of India. Transformational meditations by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar lent a personal and intimate touch to the night-long festivities 
    • Musical Dedications: Soul-stirring performances by singer/composer Sona Mohapatra and rapper Narci resonated deeply with audiences, infusing the night with reverence and artistic expression. Cultural performances from events hosted by Isha Foundation and Art of Living Centre also added to the immersive nature of the night. 
    • Mythology: An exclusive three-hour curated stream of Devo Ke Dev…Mahadev brought to life the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, underscoring the storytelling legacy of the platform.
    • Personal Devotion: Heartfelt stories of faith from Shiv Bhakts fostered an emotional connection, reiterating the universality of devotion. 

    Mahashivratri Digital Viewers

    Interactivity: From Passive Viewing to Active Participation
    Beyond the viewing experience, Mahashivratri: The Divine Night became a participatory cultural moment. Multi-feed switching allowed users to curate their own journey through devotion, choosing between live temple feeds, spiritual discourses, or musical performances. Real-time chants, virtual offerings, trivia, and live chats deepened engagement, while the Ask the Experts segment enabled users to have their Mahashivratri-related queries answered, making the experience more inclusive and interactive.

    Elaborating on the success, Sanjog Gupta, CEO-Sports at JioStar said “JioHotstar is redefining the paradigm of live-streaming by universalising access and scaling up shared moments of togetherness. The livestream of Mahashivratri: The Divine Night proved that technology can elevate our collective and deeply personal experience of faith by making it more immersive. We feel blessed that we could elevate this sacred occasion for millions and believe this is just the beginning. As we push the boundaries of live experiences across faith, culture, sports and entertainment, JioHotstar remains committed to ensuring audiences don’t just watch, but truly live moments of shared emotions.” 

    Infinite Possibilities for Brands in Live Experiences
    Brand partners like JK Super Cement, Country Delight, Nirma Advanced Detergent, and Hamilton Sciences (Brand: Denver) leveraged JioHotstar’s context-driven ad formats and immersive sponsorship integrations, demonstrating the potential of live-streamed cultural events as high-engagement, high-impact platforms for storytelling and brand connect.

    With Mahashivratri: The Divine Night, JioHotstar has unlocked a new dimension in live cultural entertainment, proving that when tradition meets technology, infinite possibilities emerge.

    ***

    About JioHotstar
    JioHotstar is one of India’s leading streaming platforms, formed through the coming together of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar. With an unparalleled content catalog, innovative technology, and a commitment to accessibility, JioHotstar aims to redefine entertainment for everyone across India.

  • Experiential retail: What is it, and how is it changing the shopping experience?

    Retail isn’t solely transactional – it’s experiential, too.

    As sellers have embraced the experiential retail concept by offering hands-on, engaging moments, you’ll likely have experienced workshops, displays, events, entertainers, interactive kiosks and more on sales floors and in dining establishments. Why? These unique experiences can’t be replicated online, encouraging consumers to shop in person.

    A retail report predicts 2025 is the year retailers will prioritize experiential moments in their stores. A poll of 15,700 customers across 10 countries shows that 59% of consumers expect more than half of the retail stores they visit to provide enhanced shopping experiences. And they’re willing to pay for it, too. The majority (81%) of those surveyed will shell out extra cash at stores offering games and other creative activities.

    Gamify your brick-and-mortar retail space

    Retailers can implement gaming elements — including the option to win prizes, earn points, engage with others and more — to boost customer loyalty, shopping enjoyment and revenue, according to MarketScale.

    How digitizing retail experiences boosts ROI

    Explore customer behavior with and the operational benefits of a complete digital retail ecosystem.
    Download Now

    Gamification might be a rewards program that accrues cash-back rewards or points redeemable for merchandise and services. Some retailers may implement a prize wheel to spin or scratch-off tickets as a creative way to offer a percentage off your purchase rather than advertising a store-wide sale.

    Buona Beef, a restaurant chain in Chicago, updated its food ordering experience to offer convenience to its in-store customer base. By implementing touchscreen Samsung Kiosks in restaurants, hungry patrons can order and purchase food, access reward options and accumulate points in their My Buona Rewards loyalty program. This all-in-one solution not only informs customers quickly of their rewards status, which can help motivate upsells, but it also expedites the ordering process. Win-win!

    Personalize the in-store shopping retail experience

    Elevate your consumer experience by speaking directly to the shopper, thanks to data analytics and creative software.

    For example, when you scan a loyalty card or pull up a customer’s in-house charge account, you likely see their name on the POS screen. Use it. Thanking the customer by name for their transaction can make the moment more personal and memorable.

    Consider tailoring in-store displays to your target audience. Panico Salon in Ridgewood, New Jersey, personalizes its high-end customer journey with 40 large format displays (LFDs), including QBR Series and QB13R-TM Series UHD LED displays, to create awareness for its products and services. At each stylist’s station, an LED display showcases before and after photos of happy patrons, making the pampering session even more exciting and memorable.

    Or, personalize your clothing, cosmetics, eyeglasses (and more!) sales floor with a Samsung VXT visual merchandising display. Customers can approach them at leisure and use the touchscreen interface to select products that match their style and needs, virtually try them on, and even customize products to their liking before placing an order.

    Sensitize your sales floor and public spaces

    Tantalize consumers by appealing to their core senses through sound, scent, sight, touch and taste. Experiential retailers are implementing the following:

    • Ambient music creates a calm environment, encouraging lingering and longer shopping experiences.
    • Voiceovers can educate consumers about sales, new product offerings and loyalty programs.
    • Aromatherapy influences mood, such as relaxation in a spa or focus in a car dealership.
    • Touchable samples, including fabric swatches in a furniture store or dress shop, allow customers to physically experience the materials.
    • Food samples in a grocery store or deli-style eatery entice customers to try new products or encourage immediate purchases.

    When it comes to appealing to the senses of sight and sound, interactive displays can show consumers how they will look or feel by using the retailer’s products. This storytelling approach builds a deeper connection to the brand while informing the consumer in a new way.

    Clothing retailer Good American offers inclusive fashion for women wearing sizes 00 to 32. In the store’s Los Angeles location, a 55-inch large format Samsung Interactive Display showcases the company’s top-selling denim collection. Users can easily tap and scroll to effortlessly view the various fits and styles.

    Offer your customers memorable retail experiences

    Shoppers want more than racks and shelves to browse. Help them become part of your business and mission through interactive moments, fun rewards programs, educational displays, sensory experiences and interactions with friendly salespeople.

    Learn more about Samsung’s digital display options, including custom video walls, LED signage, interactive educational displays, and digital menu boards, and how they can enhance the brick-and-mortar shopping experience for your clientele.

  • Upgrading to Finacle Ver. 10.2.25 by INFOSYS to Enhance Customer Experience and Drive Operational Excellence

    7th January 2025  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India In a dynamic financial landscape, the need for innovation is paramount. BHARAT CO-OPERATIVE BANK (MUMBAI) LTD was one of the few banks to implement Finacle as its CBS (Core Banking System) back in the year 2013-2014 with that legacy of being the early mover to adopt technology advancements, BHARAT BANK is now set to redefine the way it serves its customers, by enhancing the overall banking experience while strengthening its operational backbone. BHARAT BANK is proud to announce its technology upgrade to Finacle version 10.2.25, the latest version of the world-renowned core banking system (CBS) by INFOSYS, marking a significant step toward modernization. This upgrade is not just about embracing cutting-edge technology but is also part of a broader vision to enhance customer satisfaction, streamline operations, and set the stage for future growth.

    The financial services sector has been undergoing a dramatic shift with the increasing reliance on digital tools and automation. The bank has recognized the need to evolve and adapt to meet these changing demands. By upgrading to Finacle 10.2.25 version, BHARAT BANK aims to deliver an improved banking experience for customers. Finacle latest version 10.2.25’s robust features will provide customers with greater ease of access and faster processing times and also creating a seamless experience across multiple touch points—whether mobile, online, or in-branch.

    Operational excellence is a key area where the upgrade to Finacle 10.2.25 version will have a transformative impact. Finacle 10.2.25 offers an advanced suite of features that will streamline the bank’s operations, improving back-office processes and reducing manual intervention. With enhanced automation and integration capabilities, the bank will be able to manage transactions more efficiently, reduce errors, and speed up service delivery. This, in turn, will ensure that resources are utilized effectively, improving both productivity and cost-efficiency.

    The new system’s ability to manage complex banking operations with precision will also play a vital role in strengthening risk management, compliance, and governance protocols. These improvements will enhance the bank’s ability to provide accurate and timely reporting, ensuring that regulatory requirements are consistently met. As a result, the bank can continue to foster transparency and trust with its customers, reinforcing its commitment to responsible and ethical banking practices.

    This upgrade is not just about addressing current needs; it is also about preparing the bank for future growth. The adoption of Finacle 10.2.25 positions the bank as a forward-thinking institution that embraces the potential of digital transformation. The platform’s scalability and flexibility will enable the bank to introduce new products and services in a more agile manner, catering to the ever-evolving needs of the market.

    The new CBS also supports the integration of emerging technologies this will allow the bank to offer more personalized financial products and services, and make data-driven decisions that enhance business outcomes. By leveraging these advanced technologies, the bank is setting the stage for a more innovative, responsive, and customer-centric approach to banking.

    When spoken to Mr. Yashodhara D. Poojary, the Head of CBS at BHARAT BANK, he highlighted that the upgrade of Finacle version 10.2.25 marks a significant milestone in their journey towards becoming technologically advanced and customer-centric institution. With this upgrade, the bank is not only enhancing its operational efficiency but also delivering an exceptional and seamless experience for its customers. In addition to technological advancements, the bank has implemented increased security measures to ensure the safeguarding of sensitive data and compliance with evolving regulatory norms. By adhering to the latest standards in data protection and privacy, the bank ensures that it meets the demands of the new age world, providing both security and trust to its customers. As it continues to embrace new technologies and refine its practices, the bank is determined to position itself as a trusted partner for customers, ensuring they benefit from the best in banking services while maintaining the highest levels of security and compliance.

    The bank is working to support the new upgrade of Core Banking System (CBS) transformation, which is in the phase of initiation by the technology department. The management is focused towards driving excellent banking experience to its customers in the days to come.


    Rabindra

  • IIM Raipur welcomes Assam Students to Experience the Rich Culture of Chhattisgarh under Yuva Sangam Phase V

    IIM Raipur welcomes Assam Students to Experience the Rich Culture of Chhattisgarh under Yuva Sangam Phase V

    Mumbai, December 27, 2024: Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur recognised for #buildingbusinessowners, welcomed a delegation of 45 students and five coordinators from Assam University, Silchar, as part of the Ministry of Education’s flagship program, Yuva Sangam Phase-V, under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative. This cultural exchange program will run from December 26 to 30, 2024 and aims to foster connections among youth through shared experiences in tourism, traditions, development, and technology.

    The inaugural ceremony, held at IIM Raipur, was graced by Shri Sanjeev Kumar, DRM of North Central Railway, as the Chief Guest. Shri Kumar inspired the students to explore India’s diverse heritage and culture through such programs. He said, “India’s strength lies in its diversity, and programs like Yuva Sangam provide a wonderful platform for young minds to explore, experience, and embrace our nation’s rich heritage and culture. I encourage each of you to travel extensively, as it will not only broaden your perspective but also strengthen the bonds of unity that define our country.”

    Prof. Ram Kumar Kakani, Director of IIM Raipur, warmly welcomed the delegation and emphasized the importance of leveraging this opportunity to deepen understanding and unity among India’s youth. He added, “It is a privilege to host the enthusiastic students from Assam at IIM Raipur under the transformative Yuva Sangam initiative. This program, spearheaded by the Ministry of Education, is a golden opportunity to foster mutual learning, cultural exchange, and deep connections between regions. The rich culture of Chhattisgarh has a lot to offer. I urge the delegates to make the most of this experience and carry back memories and lessons that will last a lifetime.”

    As part of the event, program kits were distributed to the delegates, marking the beginning of an enriching five-day journey exploring the culture and traditions of Chhattisgarh. This exchange program strengthens the bonds between Assam and Chhattisgarh, with IIM Raipur and Assam University, Silchar, as the nodal institutions facilitating this endeavor.

    The meticulously planned 5-day visit for the Yuva Sangam delegates promises an engaging and enriching experience as they delve into the diverse cultural, historical, and developmental aspects of Chhattisgarh. Starting with ice-breaking activities at IIM Raipur, the cohort will be introduced to the vibrant traditions of the state through workshops and captivating Chhattisgarhi folk performances. The itinerary includes visits to iconic sites such as the Sirpur Archaeological Site and the Barnavapara Wildlife Sanctuary, showcasing the state’s heritage and natural beauty. Delegates will explore industrial growth at the Bhilai Steel Plant and visit the Purkhooti Muktangan, reflecting the state’s cultural richness. The program also encompasses interaction with the Governor, visits to prominent landmarks like the State Museum and the Governor House, and a city tour covering Budha Talaab and Vivekananda Sarovar. Culminating in a yoga session and a movie screening, the visit ensures holistic exposure to Chhattisgarh’s tourism, traditions, and advancements, leaving participants with unforgettable memories and valuable learnings.

  • Cloud UI Applications: Five Architectural Pillars Reshaping Digital Experience

    Cloud UI Applications

    As cloud computing revolutionizes the digital landscape, technology expert Rohit Sharma from Bangalore has identified five crucial architectural principles reshaping how user interface applications are built and scaled. With the cloud computing market projected to reach $1.5 trillion by 2030 and daily global data generation exceeding 328 million terabytes, these principles offer a framework for organizations to meet unprecedented digital transformation challenges.

    Elastic Scalability: The Foundation of Modern Cloud Applications
    Elastic scalability forms the backbone of next-generation cloud applications, dynamically allocating resources based on real-time demand. Research shows that a mere 100-millisecond delay in load time can cut conversion rates by 7%, emphasizing the importance of responsiveness. Auto-scaling enables applications to manage traffic surges of up to 150% during peaks without compromising performance while reducing costs during low activity. This adaptability ensures efficient operations, improved user experience, and cost-effective resource utilization, vital for modern digital services.

    Microservices: Breaking Down the Monolith
    The article examines how microservices architecture has become crucial for scalable cloud UI applications. With 84% of organizations increasing microservices usage and 86% planning expansion, this architectural approach enables independent component scaling while improving resource efficiency by up to 50% compared to monolithic systems. The modular design allows teams to work simultaneously on different services, boosting productivity and deployment frequency.

    Cross-Platform Compatibility: Bridging the Device Divide
    In today’s multi-device world, where mobile devices drive 54.8% of global website traffic, ensuring seamless cross-platform compatibility is essential. Responsive design principles and adaptive UI frameworks enable websites to deliver consistent, optimized experiences across various screen sizes. Research indicates that improving mobile page load times by just one second can boost conversion rates by up to 27%. This highlights the critical role of efficient design in enhancing user engagement and achieving business goals.

    Automation: The Key to Reliable Deployment
    The implementation of Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipelines has revolutionized application development and maintenance. Organizations adopting these practices report 50% less time spent on security issue remediation. Elite performers deploying code 208 times more frequently than their counterparts demonstrate the transformative power of automation.

    Security and Compliance: Protecting Digital Assets
    With the average cost of data breaches reaching $4.35 million in 2022, security has become paramount. A multi-layered security approach, incorporating network security, application security, and data protection, is essential. Organizations are responding, with 76% reporting increased cybersecurity investments in 2023.

    Economic Impact and Future Implications
    The implementation of these architectural principles extends beyond technical benefits, offering significant economic advantages. Organizations can reduce cloud spending by 20-40% through efficient scaling, while improved security measures help maintain customer trust, with 81% of consumers indicating they would cease engaging with brands following data breaches.

    Challenges and Opportunities
    Despite the clear benefits, organizations face challenges in implementing these principles, including technical complexity, resource constraints, and skills gaps. However, the potential returns in terms of improved user experience, operational efficiency, and business growth make these investments worthwhile.

    In conclusion, Rohit Sharma highlights the transformative power of the five architectural principles as foundational pillars for the future of cloud computing. Beyond technical blueprints, these principles form a holistic framework for building resilient, secure, and scalable applications that drive efficiency, elevate user experiences, and ensure competitiveness in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Their significance is underscored by compelling industry metrics: a potential 20-40% reduction in cloud spending through optimized scaling, 76% of organizations increasing cybersecurity investments, and 81% of consumers willing to abandon brands after data breaches. As cloud computing advances toward its projected $1.5 trillion market value by 2030, these principles will play a pivotal role in shaping innovative and sustainable digital ecosystems.

  • LG Unveils Free Audio Streaming Service with User-Friendly Experience

     LG Electronics Media Entertainment Solution Company

    SEOUL, Dec. 20, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) has launched LG Radio+, the company’s ad-supported audio streaming service, now available on LG smart TVs running webOS 6.0 and above. This new service allows users to effortlessly access a diverse selection of podcasts and radio programs. For a streamlined user experience, LG Radio+ will work with the LG ThinQ app,1 providing users with a convenient way to access and enjoy their favorite audio content no matter where they are in the room.

    To offer a curated list of audio streaming content, LG has partnered with global radio and audio provider Radioline, giving users an all-in-one audio platform allowing effortless access to news, sports, music and more. Available in the US and Korea, LG smart TV users can explore a range of live stations and podcasts, with options such as NPR, CNN Radio, Fox Radio or The Joe Rogan Experience in US, or popular local stations and podcasts in Korea.

    The LG Radio+ app can be accessed from the Content Store or Apps or by using the voice search function of the LG Magic Remote, providing a fast and convenient way to discover new listening content.

    For quick and easy exploration, LG Radio+ has an intuitive interface with a comprehensive channel list, presenting popular audio channels on the On Air page, alongside a personalized selection of favorite channels. Users can navigate the On Air and Podcast pages to access their desired audio streaming content, while the Featured page provides a dynamic view of trending music, updated in real-time to highlight the most popular or season hits. This enables users to search, discover and enjoy their preferred audio content with ease out of a large library of over 14,500 channels in US and over 440 available in Korea.

    As part of LG’s commitment to enhancing user convenience and connectivity across the company’s life-enriching products, listeners will be able to access LG Radio+ through the LG ThinQ app,2 enabling enjoyable audio streaming on LG audio devices with minimal effort. What’s more, LG Radio+ will also be available to access through the My button on xboom speakers in 2025.

    LG continues to elevate the user experience with a broad range of content and an intuitive user interface, making it effortless to explore and enjoy audio entertainment. To learn more about how LG is enhancing the audio experience, visit LG Newsroom.


    Sujata