The Apple Vision Pro demo experience at Apple Stores offers a compelling glimpse into the future of spatial computing, blending cutting-edge hardware with immersive software ecosystems. As the founder of Digital Strada, my fourth hands-on session revealed nuanced insights into the device’s accessibility, enterprise potential, and Apple’s strategic vision for XR.
Key Features and Accessibility
The Vision Pro’s accessibility toolkit stood out, with features like Eye Tracking for hands-free navigation and Pointer Control alternatives (wrist, finger, or head movement) catering to diverse physical needs.
Adjustable headbands (Solo Knitted and Dual Loop) ensure comfort during extended use, though fit optimization is critical—Apple specialists emphasize balancing pressure between the forehead and cheeks to avoid discomfort.
Spatial Computing in Action
The demo highlighted apps with direct relevance to 3D Digital Twins:
Lowe’s Style Studio: Visualizes kitchen designs in mixed reality, allowing users to customize finishes/appliances in real-time.
JigSpace: Creates interactive 3D presentations anchored in physical spaces, ideal for product demos and training.
BILT: Delivers step-by-step 3D instructions for assembly/maintenance, blending digital guidance with real-world tasks.
Encounter Dinosaurs: Showcases high-fidelity 3D models that respond to user interactions, hinting at industrial simulation potential.
Freeform: Enables collaborative spatial brainstorming with resizable 3D boards.
Apple’s dedicated demo rooms, designed like minimalist cinemas, emphasize immersive storytelling while subtly reinforcing the device’s premium positioning. This curated environment mirrors the attention to detail seen in Apple’s hardware-software integration, such as the R1 chip’s low-latency passthrough and Vision Pro’s 23-million-pixel displays.
Strategic Implications for Digital Twins
As a 3D Digital Twins developer, the Vision Pro’s spatial persistence (anchoring virtual objects in real-world coordinates) and OpenUSD compatibility align with our workflow for creating immersive asset models.
The device’s ability to overlay real-time IoT data onto 3D environments could revolutionize industries like:
Construction: Virtual site inspections via apps like BILT.
Manufacturing: Interactive training simulations using JigSpace’s CAD models.
Healthcare: Preoperative planning with volumetric scans.
While the Vision Pro’s starting price of £3,499 price and 600–650g weight limit mass adoption, Apple’s developer labs and rumored lower-cost model (targeting ~£2,000 by 2026) signal long-term commitment.
Partnerships with NVIDIA AI for Omniverse streaming and enterprise-focused tools like ForeFlight Voyager further validate its role in professional workflows.
Conclusion
The Vision Pro demo transcends gadgetry—it’s a blueprint for spatial computing’s future. For Digital Strada, integrating Vision Pro’s 3D anchoring and SharePlay collaboration into our Digital Twins platform could enable clients to interact with infrastructure models in real-world contexts.
While current adoption faces hurdles (cost, battery life), Apple’s ecosystem play—mirroring iPhone’s app-driven growth—positions Vision Pro as a catalyst for industries transitioning from 2D schematics to immersive 3D Digital Twins.
As spatial computing matures, aligning our Digital Twins pipelines with visionOS’s capabilities will be critical to leading the next wave of Industrial Revolution.
🚀 Last week’sDigital Twin SME Network eventatGlandore Belfast, hosted byDigital Catapult, wasn’t just a gathering—it was a launchpad for Northern Ireland’s ambitions to lead the global digital twin revolution.
As the Founder ofDigital Strada, I’m honored to share insights from this transformative event and outline how our company’s cutting-edge research aligns with theUK Digital Twin Centre’svision.
🌍The UK Digital Twin Centre: A Game-Changer for Industry
Slated for launch in early 2025 with £37.6m in funding, the UK Digital Twin Centre (UKDTC) represents a seismic shift in how industries like aerospace, maritime, and smart cities will leverage virtual replicas. Backed by Belfast Region City Deal, Innovate UK, and Invest Northern Ireland, the Centre aims to:
Reduce development costsby 30% through shared infrastructure and AI-driven workflows.
Accelerate prototypingfor complex systems like offshore wind farms and autonomous vessels.
Train 500+ professionalsin digital twin deployment by 2026.
For Digital Strada, this initiative dovetails with our core work in 3D laser scanning, BIM integration, and drone-captured asset ecosystems. But we’re pushing even further—exploring next-gen technologies like Gaussian Splatting and Neural Radiance Fields (NeRF) to redefine reality capture.
🏢Delivering Value Today: Digital Strada’s Client-Driven Innovations
While advancing next-gen tools, we’re already deploying 3D laser scanning and reality capture to solve real-world challenges for clients across sectors:
1. Hospitality & Retail: Immersive Virtual Experiences By capturing accurate 3D models of hotels, restaurants, and retail spaces, we empower clients to:
Createvirtual toursthat boost booking conversions by up to 30%.
Safety auditsvia AI-analyzed point clouds to identify hazards like structural cracks or improper equipment placement.
3. Asset Management: Future-Proofing Investments For facilities managers, we can deliver digital twins that:
Map HVAC and electrical systems in 3D, cutting maintenance downtime by 40%.
Simulate flood/fire scenarios to optimize emergency response plans.
Integrate IoT data streams (e.g., energy usage, occupancy sensors) for predictive analytics.
These projects underscore how reality capture isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a bridge between physical and digital worlds, driving ROI today while laying groundwork for tomorrow’s AI-augmented twins.
💡Beyond Traditional 3D Modeling: Digital Strada’s R&D Frontier
While traditional photogrammetry and LiDAR remain staples, we’re pioneering advanced techniques to solve critical industry challenges:
1. Gaussian Splatting for Dynamic Environments
Unlike static mesh models, Gaussian Splatting enables real-time rendering of complex scenes by representing objects as millions of anisotropic 3D Gaussians. This approach, refined in our Belfast labs, allows:
Faster processingof drone-captured data for large-scale infrastructure projects.
Seamless integrationwith IoT sensor streams for live digital twin updates.
2. Neural Radiance Fields (NeRF)
Our experiments with NeRF—a deep learning method that synthesizes novel views from 2D images—are unlocking:
Photorealistic virtual walkthroughsfor real estate and hospitality clients.
Material property inference(e.g., thermal conductivity, structural stress) from visual data alone.
Lighting-agnostic modelsthat perform reliably in low-light industrial settings.
3. 3D Gaussian Splatting for Real-Time Radiance Fields
Building on SIGGRAPH 2023 breakthroughs, we’re researching on how to adapt 3D Gaussian Splatting (3DGS) to achieve >100 FPS rendering of radiance fields—a leap critical for applications like:
The Centre’s£61m economic impact and 230 high-skilled jobs forecast by 2033 align with our mission to position Belfast as a global deep-tech hub.
🌱Sustainability Through Innovation
Digital twins aren’t just about efficiency—they’re a climate imperative. By partnering with the UKDTC, we aim to:
Cut construction wasteby 25% via AI-optimized BIM workflows.
Reduce maritime emissionsthrough digital twin-guided route planning.
Extend asset lifespansusing predictive maintenance models trained on Gaussian-splatted data.
🔮The Road Ahead: Strategic Pathways for 3D Digital Twin Innovation
As the UK Digital Twin Centre gains momentum, Digital Strada is pursuing multiple routes to advance next-generation digital twin technologies while fostering market-ready solutions:
Academic-Industry Synergy By partnering with leading institutions in the tech sector, we’re refining neural rendering techniques likeNeRF optimizationto bridge the gap between theoretical research and industrial applications. These collaborations aim to solve challenges such as real-time data processing and adaptive model training for dynamic environments.
Sector-Specific Commercialization We’re targeting high-impact industries for pilot projects, including:
Retail: Developing real-time inventory tracking systems using 3D Gaussian Splatting (3DGS) and drone-captured 360° scans.
Construction: Integrating radiance field rendering with BIM workflows to detect design clashes and reduce material waste.
Energy: Deploying physics-informed NeRF models to simulate infrastructure stress under extreme weather conditions.
Democratizing Advanced Tools To accelerate industry-wide adoption, we’re exploring open-source frameworks that simplify Gaussian Splatting workflows for SMEs. This includes modular codebases for photogrammetry-NeRF hybrid pipelines and lightweight 3DGS libraries optimized for GPU-limited environments.
These pathways not only strengthen Northern Ireland’s position in the global digital twin ecosystem but also create scalable, interoperable solutions that address urgent needs in sustainability, automation, and data-driven decision-making.
🔗 Join the Revolution The future of digital twins is bright, interconnected, and built right here in Belfast.
Explore the UK Digital Twin Centre’s vision and after that choose to connect with us to learn how Gaussian Splatting and NeRF can transform your operations on top of 3D Laser Scanning and other Reality Capture assets.
🌐 At Digital Strada, we’re not just building digital twins—we’re engineering tomorrow’s reality. 🏗️💻
Advancing Digital Twin Technology 🔮
Digital Strada’s expertise in creating immersive, 4K-resolution, photo-realistic 3D digital twins for hotels, restaurants, venues, and various other building types aligns perfectly with the region’s focus on digital innovation. 🏨
Our technology has the potential to contribute significantly to the UK Digital Twin Centre recently announced for Belfast, which aims to revolutionize how industries develop products, services, and systems across the UK.
Growth and Innovation through Immersive Software 📊
🚀 As we embark on this journey, I’m filled with enthusiasm for the future of Northern Ireland’s software industry. At Digital Strada, we’re at the forefront of 3D Digital Twins technology, and I believe our perspective will be valuable in shaping the sector’s future.
🎉 Help your customers to Experience Immersive Communication with a Digital Twin for your hotel, resort, restaurant, museum, factory, real estate project or space.
☎️ Leave a comment with your business and let’s connect to deliver a 3D Digital Twin Solution for your Facility Managemnt Team.
🌟 Romania’s entry into the Schengen Area marks a historic milestone for European integration. The Nadlac border crossing, as Romania’s primary gateway to Central Europe, stands at the forefront of this transformation. Digital Strada envisions revolutionizing this crucial transit point through advanced 3D Digital Twin technology, enhancing cross-border operations and reducing the current 12-hour waiting times that cost the transportation industry billions annually.
🏗️ The removal of physical borders calls for innovative digital solutions that can bridge geographical distances and enhance business operations. Digital Twins, our specialty at Digital Strada, offer precise virtual replicas of physical assets, enabling seamless collaboration and decision-making across the Schengen Area.
Top 10 Digital Twin Applications for Romania’s Schengen Integration
🏢 Infrastructure Development
Nadlac Border Facility Management: Creating detailed 3D models of Nadlac Border Crossing for optimized traffic flow and international transit operations, enabling real-time monitoring of vehicle queues, customs processing, and infrastructure capacity to reduce waiting times
Border Crossing Facilities: Digital Twins of modernized checkpoint infrastructure for efficient traffic flow.
🏭 Industrial Applications 3. Manufacturing Plants: Virtual monitoring and management of production facilities for cross-border industrial collaboration 4. Warehouse Networks: Integrated 3D mapping of storage facilities across Schengen countries 5. Supply Chain Visualization: Real-time 3D tracking and optimization of goods movement
🏰 Cultural Heritage & Tourism 6. Historical Site Preservation: Detailed 3D documentation of Romanian cultural landmarks for European tourism promotion 7. Virtual Museum Tours: Interactive experiences connecting Romanian heritage with European cultural institutions
🌐 Smart City Integration 8. Urban Planning: Collaborative city development projects aligned with European standards 9. Transportation Hubs: Digital Twins of airports and railway stations for improved international connectivity 10. Emergency Response Centers: Integrated safety and security management systems across borders
Opportunity to build Digital Bridges 🚀
💫 The integration of Romania into the Schengen Area represents more than the removal of physical borders – it’s an opportunity to build digital bridges that transcend traditional boundaries. Through Digital Strada’s expertise in 3D Digital Twins, we’re ready to contribute to Romania’s digital transformation and strengthen its connections within the European digital ecosystem.
Advancing Digital Twin Technology 🔮
Digital Strada’s expertise in creating immersive, 4K-resolution, photo-realistic 3D digital twins for hotels, restaurants, venues, and various other building types aligns perfectly with the region’s focus on digital innovation. 🏨
Our technology has the potential to contribute significantly to the UK Digital Twin Centre recently announced for Belfast, which aims to revolutionize how industries develop products, services, and systems across the UK.
🤝 As we embrace this new chapter, Digital Strada stands ready to partner with Romanian organizations, helping them leverage cutting-edge 3D technology to thrive in the borderless European market. Together, we’re not just crossing borders; we’re eliminating them in the digital realm.
Growth and Innovation through Immersive Software 📊
🚀 As we embark on this journey, I’m filled with enthusiasm for the future of Northern Ireland’s software industry. At Digital Strada, we’re at the forefront of 3D Digital Twins technology, and I believe our perspective will be valuable in shaping the sector’s future.
🎉 Help your customers to Experience Immersive Communication with a Digital Twin for your hotel, resort, restaurant, museum, factory, real estate project or space.
☎️ Leave a comment with your business and let’s connect to deliver a 3D Digital Twin Solution for your Facility Managemnt Team.
Understanding the What3words App: A Game-Changer for Location Sharing 🌍
In a world where accurate location sharing is crucial, the What3words app has emerged as a revolutionary tool. By dividing the globe into 3m x 3m squares, it assigns each square a unique combination of three words, making it easier than ever to communicate precise locations. This innovative approach not only simplifies navigation but also enhances safety and efficiency across various sectors.
Precise Location Sharing: Each 3m square has a unique three-word address, allowing for pinpoint accuracy.
Offline Functionality: The app works without mobile data or signal, enabling users to access their location anywhere.
Multi-Language Support: Available in over 53 languages, making it accessible to a global audience.
Easy Integration with Navigation Apps: Users can seamlessly navigate to What3words addresses using popular apps like Google Maps and Waze.
Emergency Services Compatibility: Over 85% of UK emergency services use What3words for quick location identification during crises.
User-Friendly Interface: Simple design allows users to find and share locations effortlessly.
Save Favorite Locations: Users can categorize and save important addresses for quick access.
Social Media Integration: Share locations directly via social media or messaging apps with ease.
Business Applications: Used by logistics, delivery services, and hospitality to improve location accuracy and customer service.
Unique Addressing System: The algorithm ensures that every three-word combination is easy to say and remember, reducing confusion.
Top 10 Use Cases for What3words 🚀
Emergency Situations: Quickly communicate your exact location to emergency responders when traditional addresses are inadequate.
Delivery Services: Enter precise delivery points during online shopping to ensure packages arrive exactly where needed.
Outdoor Activities: Hikers and campers can share specific meeting points or hidden gems in nature with friends.
Event Planning: Organize meetups by sharing exact locations, eliminating the frustration of vague directions.
Travel and Tourism: Tourists can find attractions or accommodations without getting lost in unfamiliar areas.
Logistics Management: Businesses can streamline operations by using What3words for asset tracking and delivery coordination.
Real Estate Listings: Agents can provide exact property locations to potential buyers, enhancing visibility.
Accessible Entrances: Help visitors locate accessible entrances at venues or public buildings with specific addresses.
Social Gatherings: Coordinate gatherings in parks or large venues by sharing precise meeting spots.
Personal Safety: Individuals can share their location with friends or family during outings for added security.
Integrating What3words with 3D Digital Twins 🏗️
The synergy between What3words and Digital Strada’s 3D Digital Twins technology offers exciting possibilities. By combining precise location data from What3words with detailed digital replicas of spaces created through 3D scanning, users can enhance their understanding of environments.For instance, a user could navigate to a specific point using a What3words address and then explore that location in immersive detail through a 3D digital twin. This integration is particularly valuable in industries such as real estate, construction, and tourism, where visual representation complements accurate navigation.I n conclusion, the What3words app not only simplifies how we communicate locations but also enhances our ability to interact with the world around us. When paired with advanced technologies like Digital Twins, it opens up new avenues for exploration, safety, and efficiency in various sectors.
what3words enabled vehicles
See the full list of what3words enabled vehicles: https://digitalstrada.notion.site/15a59746275880ff9225ea0483a260e1?v=15a59746275881dbbcd5000cb94ca787
Advancing Digital Twin Technology 🔮
Digital Strada’s expertise in creating immersive, 4K-resolution, photo-realistic 3D digital twins for hotels, restaurants, venues, and various other building types aligns perfectly with the region’s focus on digital innovation. 🏨
Our technology has the potential to contribute significantly to the UK Digital Twin Centre recently announced for Belfast, which aims to revolutionize how industries develop products, services, and systems across the UK.
Commitment to Northern Ireland’s Tech Ecosystem 🌿
As a member of Software NI, we are committed to playing our part in establishing Northern Ireland as a global centre of software excellence. 🌍
We believe our specialized focus on 3D Digital Twins, virtual tours, and immersive experiences will contribute to the diverse and innovative software landscape that Software NI is fostering. 🕶️
Growth and Innovation through Immersive Software 📊
🚀 As we embark on this journey, I’m filled with enthusiasm for the future of Northern Ireland’s software industry. At Digital Strada, we’re at the forefront of 3D Digital Twins technology, and I believe our perspective will be valuable in shaping the sector’s future.
🎉 Help your customers to Experience Immersive Communication with a Digital Twin for your hotel, resort, restaurant, museum, factory, real estate project or space.
☎️ Leave a comment with your business and let’s connect to deliver a 3D Digital Twin Solution for your Facility Managemnt Team.
🚀 Exciting news from the heart of Belfast’s tech scene! As the Founder of Digital Strada, I had the privilege of attending the Software NI Working Group at Allstate Northern Ireland. Our focus? The crucial Sector Futures (Economic and Societal Impact) initiative, which is set to shape the future of Northern Ireland’s software industry.
🌟 The event was part of Software NI’s ambitious “50 and Five by 35” strategic vision, launched earlier this year. This forward-thinking approach aims to drive our industry forward through dedicated Working Groups, each tackling key areas of development.
Software NI’s mission 🌟
🏛️ At the core of Software NI’s mission is a three-point advocacy manifesto. First, they’re pushing for dedicated focus on the software industry across all relevant economic policies through a cross-departmental government forum. Second, they’re advocating for closer cooperation between education and industry to develop our software workforce from an early age. Finally, they’re calling for robust investment and entrepreneurial support to fuel growth for software companies in Northern Ireland.
Sector Futures Working Group 🚀
🔍 The Sector Futures Working Group, which I’m now proud to be a part of, is one of four key groups established. Alongside Education, Skills, and Sales and Scale, we’re tasked with establishing and maintaining strategic insights for our specific focus area.
📊 Our responsibilities include assessing the current status of the sector, identifying gaps, challenges, and opportunities, and proposing potential routes for improvement. We’ll be engaging with stakeholders across industry, academia, education, government, and community to ensure a comprehensive approach.
🤝 What’s particularly exciting is the collaborative nature of this initiative. Each Working Group has two Board Sponsors who support the Group Leader in managing and articulating our key areas. This structure ensures a strong connection between the working groups and the Software NI Board.
💼 As a Working Group member, I’m looking forward to the benefits this role brings. We’ll have access to a supportive and professional industry-focused Board, an expanded professional network, and opportunities for personal development. It’s a chance to increase our professional profiles while making a real impact on the software industry in Northern Ireland.
⏰ The commitment is significant but manageable – approximately two days per month. Our role is to be the voice of the industry in our focus area, gathering and articulating common needs and issues. We’ll be representing our sector to industry peers and external partners, demonstrating passion, collaboration, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
Advancing Digital Twin Technology 🔮
Digital Strada’s expertise in creating immersive, 4K-resolution, photo-realistic 3D digital twins for hotels, restaurants, venues, and various other building types aligns perfectly with the region’s focus on digital innovation. 🏨
Our technology has the potential to contribute significantly to the UK Digital Twin Centre recently announced for Belfast, which aims to revolutionize how industries develop products, services, and systems across the UK.
Commitment to Northern Ireland’s Tech Ecosystem 🌿
As a member of Software NI, we are committed to playing our part in establishing Northern Ireland as a global centre of software excellence. 🌍
We believe our specialized focus on 3D Digital Twins, virtual tours, and immersive experiences will contribute to the diverse and innovative software landscape that Software NI is fostering. 🕶️
Growth and Innovation through Immersive Software 📊
🚀 As we embark on this journey, I’m filled with enthusiasm for the future of Northern Ireland’s software industry. At Digital Strada, we’re at the forefront of 3D Digital Twins technology, and I believe our perspective will be valuable in shaping the sector’s future. Together with my fellow Working Group members, we’re committed to driving growth, fostering innovation, and maximizing the economic and societal impact of our thriving tech ecosystem. 🔮 Stay tuned for updates as we work towards making Northern Ireland a global hub for software excellence. The future is bright, and it’s being built right here in Belfast!
About Software NI 🔭
Software NI was established in 2022 by a group of independent companies as the representative body for software engineering companies in Northern Ireland.
Founding member companies have underwritten the organisation for its first three years of operation as it works towards an independent, fully sustainable industry funded model. The founding member companies are:
As a not-for-profit organisation, we exist to champion the NI software sector which contributes £1.7 billion annually and employs 23,000 people across approximately 2,200 businesses. We work with key decision makers to create the best conditions for people and companies in the sector. This includes the areas of Education, Skills, Sales and the future of the sector itself.
Vision
Our50 and 5 by 35vision is to double the Software job footprint in NI to 50,000 jobs by 2035, at which point we estimate the software industry will contribute around £5 billion in Gross Value Added to our local economy.
Mission Statement:
“We are the voice of the software industry in Northern Ireland. We exist to lobby and support strategy and policy development to ensure that Northern Ireland becomes the world leading region for innovative software businesses leading to a sustainable and prosperous economic future.”
Looking Ahead 🔭
We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as we integrate into the Software NI community. 🌠
Our team is eager to collaborate with fellow members, share our expertise, and contribute to the growth of Northern Ireland’s software sector. 🤓
By joining forces with Software NI, Digital Strada is not just expanding its network; we are actively participating in shaping the future of technology in Northern Ireland. 🔮
We look forward to this new chapter and the innovative solutions we will create together. 💡
🎉 Help your customers to Experience Immersive Communication with a Digital Twin for your hotel, resort, restaurant, museum, factory, real estate project or space.
☎️ Leave a comment with your business and let’s connect to deliver a 3D Digital Twin Solution for your Facility Managemnt Team.
We are thrilled to announce that Digital Strada has officially become a member of Software NI, the leading trade body representing the software industry in Northern Ireland with the Founder of Digital Strada becoming an individual member of Software NI 🎉.
This strategic move aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver cutting-edge 3D Digital Twin solutions and immersive experiences for businesses across various sectors. 💼
As a Belfast-based company specializing in 3D Digital Twins, we are excited to be part of Software NI’s ambitious ‘50 and Five by 35‘ strategy. 📈
This initiative aims to grow the local software sector to 50,000 jobs and £5 billion in gross value added (GVA) by 2035. By joining Software NI, we are positioning ourselves at the forefront of Northern Ireland’s burgeoning tech landscape. 🌱
Leveraging Opportunities for Growth 🚀
Our membership in Software NI opens up new avenues for collaboration and growth. We look forward to:
Participating in industry-focused forums and events 🗣️
Accessing valuable resources and support for scaling our business 📚
Contributing to the development of software workforce programmes 👥
Exploring potential partnerships with other innovative companies in the region 🤝
Advancing Digital Twin Technology 🔮
Digital Strada’s expertise in creating immersive, 4K-resolution, photo-realistic 3D digital twins for hotels, restaurants, venues, and various other building types aligns perfectly with the region’s focus on digital innovation. 🏨
Our technology has the potential to contribute significantly to the UK Digital Twin Centre recently announced for Belfast, which aims to revolutionize how industries develop products, services, and systems across the UK.
Commitment to Northern Ireland’s Tech Ecosystem 🌿
As a member of Software NI, we are committed to playing our part in establishing Northern Ireland as a global centre of software excellence. 🌍
We believe our specialized focus on 3D Digital Twins, virtual tours, and immersive experiences will contribute to the diverse and innovative software landscape that Software NI is fostering. 🕶️
About Software NI 🔭
Software NI was established in 2022 by a group of independent companies as the representative body for software engineering companies in Northern Ireland.
Founding member companies have underwritten the organisation for its first three years of operation as it works towards an independent, fully sustainable industry funded model. The founding member companies are:
As a not-for-profit organisation, we exist to champion the NI software sector which contributes £1.7 billion annually and employs 23,000 people across approximately 2,200 businesses. We work with key decision makers to create the best conditions for people and companies in the sector. This includes the areas of Education, Skills, Sales and the future of the sector itself.
Vision
Our50 and 5 by 35vision is to double the Software job footprint in NI to 50,000 jobs by 2035, at which point we estimate the software industry will contribute around £5 billion in Gross Value Added to our local economy.
Mission Statement:
“We are the voice of the software industry in Northern Ireland. We exist to lobby and support strategy and policy development to ensure that Northern Ireland becomes the world leading region for innovative software businesses leading to a sustainable and prosperous economic future.”
Looking Ahead 🔭
We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as we integrate into the Software NI community. 🌠
Our team is eager to collaborate with fellow members, share our expertise, and contribute to the growth of Northern Ireland’s software sector. 🤓
By joining forces with Software NI, Digital Strada is not just expanding its network; we are actively participating in shaping the future of technology in Northern Ireland. 🔮
We look forward to this new chapter and the innovative solutions we will create together. 💡
🎉 Help your customers to Experience Immersive Communication with a Digital Twin for your hotel, resort, restaurant, museum, factory, real estate project or space.
☎️ Leave a comment with your business and let’s connect to deliver a 3D Digital Twin Solution for your Facility Managemnt Team.
👨💼 As the Founder and Solutions Architect of Digital Strada, a UK-based 3D digital twins and 3D laser scanning company, I’m excited to share how our services can transform visual communication within industrial ecosystems.
🚀 Recent insights from the World Economic Forum have highlighted the potential of digital technologies in reshaping manufacturing landscapes, and I’d like to explore how 3D digital twins can specifically benefit factory owners and managers in enhancing communication and decision-making processes across their industrial ecosystems.
The Power of 3D Digital Twins in Industrial Ecosystems 💡
🌐 3D digital twins are visually rich, interactive virtual replicas of physical assets, such as factories, buildings, and equipment.
🏗️ Detailed 3D models offer an invaluable comprehensive view of a facility’s layout, infrastructure, and assets at an Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) level of detail. This enables manufacturers to visualize their industrial ecosystems more effectively, communicate ideas clearly, and make informed decisions about facility management and modifications within their broader industrial network.
🔄 Here are the top 10 reasons why leaders in industrial ecosystems should consider implementing 3D digital twins as visual communication assets:
Enhanced Stakeholder Communication in Industrial Ecosystems🗣️ Digital Strada’s 3D digital twins provide an intuitive, visual platform for communicating complex facility information to stakeholders at all levels of the industrial ecosystem. From supply chain partners to regulatory bodies, everyone can easily understand and interact with the facility’s layout and features.
Improved Project Planning and Visualization Across the Industrial Network📊 When planning facility upgrades or renovations that may impact the broader industrial ecosystem, our 3D digital twins allow you to visualize proposed changes in context. This helps in making more informed decisions and reduces misunderstandings between different teams and partners involved in the project.
Effective Training and Onboarding for Industrial Ecosystem Participants🎓 New employees and partners within the industrial ecosystem can familiarize themselves with the facility layout and equipment locations through interactive 3D models, even before stepping onto the factory floor. This visual approach enhances learning and reduces the time needed for physical orientation.
Enhanced Safety Briefings for the Industrial Ecosystem⚠️ Use the 3D digital twin to conduct virtual safety walkthroughs, highlighting potential hazards and emergency routes that may affect various participants in the industrial ecosystem. This visual approach makes safety information more engaging and memorable for all stakeholders.
Streamlined Contractor Briefings within the Industrial Network👷 External contractors and service providers within the industrial ecosystem can be given virtual tours of relevant areas before arriving on-site. This helps them prepare more effectively, reducing time spent on physical orientations and minimizing disruptions to ongoing operations.
Improved Cross-Departmental and Inter-Company Collaboration🤝 The 3D digital twin serves as a common visual reference point for different departments and companies within the industrial ecosystem. Whether discussing production flow changes, maintenance schedules, or safety protocols, all teams can refer to the same visual model, enhancing understanding and cooperation.
Enhanced Presentation of Facility Capabilities to Industrial Ecosystem Partners🎥 When showcasing your facility to potential clients, investors, or partners within the industrial ecosystem, a 3D digital twin provides an impressive and comprehensive view of your capabilities. It allows you to conduct virtual tours and highlight key features without the need for physical visits.
Simplified Regulatory Compliance Demonstrations for Industrial Ecosystem Oversight📋 While not at a millimeter-level accuracy, our AEC-level 3D models can still be used to visually demonstrate compliance with various regulations that govern the industrial ecosystem. This can be particularly useful when communicating with inspectors or auditors.
Efficient Space Utilization Planning within the Industrial Network🏢 The visual nature of 3D digital twins makes it easier to identify underutilized spaces and plan for better usage, considering the needs and interactions within the broader industrial ecosystem. Teams can collaboratively explore different layout options and visualize their impact before making physical changes.
Enhanced Historical Documentation of Industrial Ecosystem Evolution📚 As your facility and its role in the industrial ecosystem evolves over time, the 3D digital twin serves as a visual record of changes. This can be invaluable for understanding the facility’s development, planning future changes, and maintaining institutional knowledge within the industrial network.
The Digital Strada Advantage for Industrial Ecosystems 🌟
At Digital Strada, we specialize in creating visually rich and interactive 3D digital twins using advanced scanning and modeling techniques. Our services go beyond simple 3D rendering – we provide a comprehensive visual communication tool that can be easily understood and utilized by various stakeholders across the industrial ecosystem. 🔧Our approach involves:
Comprehensive 3D Scanning of Industrial Facilities 📸 We use advanced equipment to capture the overall layout and key features of your facility, focusing on creating a visually accurate representation at an AEC level of detail that highlights its role in the industrial ecosystem.
Interactive 3D Modeling for Industrial Communication 💻 Our team of experts processes the scan data to create an engaging, navigable 3D model of your facility, optimized for visual communication within the industrial network.
User-Friendly Interface for All Industrial Ecosystem Participants 👥 We ensure that the 3D digital twin is accessible through an intuitive interface, allowing easy navigation and interaction for users with varying levels of technical expertise across the industrial ecosystem.
Customization for Industrial Ecosystem Communication Needs 🎨 We work with you to highlight key areas or features in the model that are most relevant to your communication objectives within the industrial network.
Conclusion 🏁
In today’s complex industrial ecosystems, clear and effective communication is crucial. 3D digital twins offer a powerful solution, providing a visually rich, interactive representation of your physical assets that can be used for a wide range of communication and decision-making processes across the industrial network.
🌐 3D models AEC-level detail is more than sufficient for most communication needs in industrial settings. They serve as an invaluable tool for enhancing understanding, facilitating collaboration, and improving decision-making across all levels of your organization and its place in the broader industrial ecosystem.
🤝At Digital Strada, we’re committed to helping UK, Ireland and European manufacturers harness this technology to drive innovation in visual communication within industrial ecosystems. By partnering with us, you’re not just investing in a 3D model – you’re investing in a transformative tool that will enhance how you communicate about your facility, both internally and externally, strengthening your position in the industrial network.
💪 Don’t let your competitors gain the edge in effective communication within the industrial ecosystem. Contact Digital Strada today at digitalstrada.com to learn how we can help you create a 3D digital twin of your manufacturing facility and unlock its full potential as a visual communication asset for your entire industrial network.
🎉 Help your customers to Experience Immersive Communication with a Digital Twin for your hotel, resort, restaurant, museum, factory, real estate project or space.
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Global Innovation Summit 2024: Accelerating Sustainability and Economic Inclusion
🌟 The Global Federation of Competitiveness Councils (GFCC) 2024 Annual Meeting and Global Innovation Summit is set to take place at Queen’s University Belfast from November 11-15, 2024. This prestigious event, hosted by Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) and the Centre for Competitiveness (CforC), will focus on the theme of “Global Sustainability and Economic Inclusion”.
Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) and the Centre for Competitiveness (CforC) is hosting the Global Federation of Competitiveness Councils (GFCC) 2024 Annual Meeting and Global Innovation Summit in November, under the theme of Global Sustainability and Economic Inclusion.
This invitation-only leadership gathering offers a unique experience to participants from industry, government, academia, and civil society organisations to engage with peers, access first-hand global best practices, and take part in high-profile strategy conversations on the nexus connecting sustainability, innovation, and competitiveness.
The Global Innovation Summit engages a worldwide audience, policymakers, business leaders, and academics from five continents. The knowledge and best practices exchanged at the summit can inspire and shape the development of innovation strategies and policies.
At the core of the 2024 GFCC Annual Meeting and Global Innovation Summit is the understanding that global sustainability encompasses economic performance, protection of the environment and social inclusion.
The landmark event with key international political and corporate leaders will examine how, in an era of complex global challenges, innovation can act as the key driver of competitiveness, promoting global sustainability and economic inclusion on a worldwide scale.
Global Innovation Summit 2024 – Belfast – Day 1
🌐 It was a fantastic chance for me to connect with other international leaders and to gather insights on growing innovation and competitivenes beyond the UK.
🌍 Event Overview:
• Dates: November 11-15, 2024 • Location: Queen’s University Belfast, Northern Ireland • Theme: Accelerating Global Sustainability and Economic Inclusion
🎯 Key Objectives:
• Engage global leaders from industry, government, academia, and civil society • Exchange knowledge and best practices in innovation and competitiveness • Explore strategies for promoting sustainability and economic inclusion worldwide.
📅 Summit Structure:
The summit is organized into three main days, each with a specific focus:
Innovation is the Key to Sustainability (November 12)
Inclusiveness is a must for long-term sustainability (November 13)
The Power of Partnership (November 14)
🌟 Highlights:
• World-renowned physicist Professor Brian Cox as keynote speaker.
• Participation of global leaders from business, industry, and academia • Workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities • Site visits to innovation hubs and tourist attractions in Northern Ireland
👥 Notable Speakers:
• Professor Brian Cox CBE FRS – CERN Physicist and Broadcaster • Dr. Daniel Hulme – CEO of Satalia • Minette Batters – Former President of the National Farmers’ Union • Andy Burnham – Mayor of Greater Manchester • Cecilia Harvey – Tech Women Today Founder
🏆 Event Sponsors:
The summit is supported by various organizations, including:
• Queen’s University Belfast • Centre for Competitiveness • Global Federation of Competitiveness Councils • Invest Northern Ireland • Tourism Northern Ireland
🌐 Global Impact:
This summit aims to inspire and shape the development of innovation strategies and policies worldwide, engaging policymakers, business leaders, and academics from five continents.
🚀 Key Topics:
• Technological advancements driving sustainability • Social equity and inclusiveness in economic development • Collaborative approaches for innovation and progress • Decarbonization opportunities and challenges • Food security and One Health approach • Workforce preparation for the digital age • AI’s role in transforming productivity • Place-making innovation and regional economic development
The Global Innovation Summit 2024 at Queen’s University Belfast promises to be a landmark event, bringing together global leaders to address pressing challenges and explore innovative solutions for a sustainable and inclusive future.
Innovation is the Key to Sustainability
This first day will set the stage for the GIS 2024 and explore how technological advancements and creative solutions drive sustainability. Experts will discuss the latest innovations that are transforming industries and paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.
Hosted by Wendy Austin
DAY 1 | NOVEMBER 12
09:00
Whitla Hall
Welcome to GIS 2024: Day 1
09:30
Whitla Hall
Agenda Introduction and Logistics
09:35
Whitla Hall
Keynote Speaker: Brian Cox CBE FRS – CERN Physicist and Broadcaster
Exploring the Universe
Brian brings scientific discovery to life for millions. He is also a leading experimental physicist, helping to recreate the conditions 1/000000000th of a second after Big Bang “to confirm the universe’s underlying simplicity.” With breathtaking images, Brian shows how science shocks and excites our imagination, as well as bringing humanity together. He also sets out the case for co-ordinated investment in science as key to job creation and growth.
10:35
Whitla Hall
Panel: Accelerating Global Sustainable Development Goals and Economic Inclusiveness
The climate crisis remains a critical issue, and countries and businesses are struggling to address it without jeopardizing the lives of various segments of society. People in advanced economies are raising their voices to protest initiatives that are perceived as eroding their quality of life, while people in emerging nations demand to be included as partners in global prosperity.
This equation is compounded by technological change and the rise of AI, which brings great promise but will also cause major shifts in job markets and societies. Innovation is essential to address this complex scenario at all levels, from policy frameworks to education and training models, from business models to institutions. In this session, GFCC Board Members will review the state of competitiveness in the world and share insights and concrete recommendations on how to break perceived trade-offs between sustainability, technological acceleration, and inclusiveness.
11:20
Whitla Hall
Navigating the AI Revolution: Preparing for a World of Digital Transformation
Join AI expert Daniel Hulme, CEO of Satalia, for a thought-provoking session exploring the key issues emerging alongside the rise of AI and digitalization. Hulme will share his view of the ethical considerations, societal impact, and transformative potential of AI and other emerging technologies and offer insights for universities and businesses to navigate this evolving landscape and prepare for the future of work.
12:05
Whitla Hall
Launch of GFCC Call to Action
During this session, GFCC leadership will introduce the “Accelerate Global Sustainability and Economic Inclusiveness” Call-to-Action and comment on some of the key proposals highlighted in this flagship document co-created with the GFCC community.
12:15
Whitla Hall
GFCC Members and Fellows Photo
A photo of all GFCC members and fellows in attendance will be taken during this time.
12:20
Lunch
*Private Lunch for speakers/guests*
Time available for attendees to view exhibition space
13:30
Whitla Hall
Transforming the World via Innovation in Energy
The energy transition demands bold innovation. In this session, Stephen Gallagher, Director of Strategy for Energy Customer Solutions at SSE, will showcase cutting-edge innovations propelling the energy transition. Discover how SSE is leading the charge in developing and implementing solutions for a cleaner, more sustainable energy landscape. Gain valuable insights into the technologies and strategies shaping the future of energy.
13:45
Whitla Hall
Panel: Seizing the Decarbonization Opportunity
Decarbonization poses opportunities for investment and new business development while requiring innovation across the board. However, it also comes with risks and challenges, as the development of any new industry inevitably does.
To realize the energy transition opportunity and decarbonize industries, the world needs new technologies to be translated into real-world applications. Achieving acceptable price points and finding early adopters of these technologies is critical. In this panel session, participants will share lessons learned on how to navigate decarbonization processes from policy, business, and community perspectives.
14:30
Whitla Hall
Keynote Speaker: Minette Batters
Bridging Food security & One Health is pivotal to society
14:55
Whitla Hall
Panel Conversation: Harnessing Partnership to Advance Food Security and One Health
The challenge of providing the worlds growing population with access to safe, affordable and nutritious food all the time and in ways our planet can sustain and against backdrop of climate change and biodiversity loss continues to be a major challenge for society.
The Covid-19 pandemic has illuminated the deep connection between animals, humans and the wider planetary environment and a One Health approach is receiving increased political attention as a solution to some of the greatest health threats we face today including increasing zoonotic disease emergence, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), food safety and security. Our panel of experts will discuss the inextricable links between Global Food Security and One Health and argue that enhanced and accelerated innovation, investment and partnership are required to support society.
15:40
Peter Froggatt Centre
Transition to workshops
GIS 2024 organisers will introduce the workshops, explain the dynamics and direct participants to their respective locations.
The GIS 2024 workshops will be progressive dialogues that will build on the ideas discussed in the day’s plenary panel conversations. Each workshop will begin with the moderator highlighting key recommendations and ideas from the panels. Following this, kick-off discussants will provide their insights and suggestions for advancing the agenda related to the workshop’s theme.
After all discussants have shared their views, the floor will open for additional contributions, with the moderator potentially inviting comments from plenary session moderators present. The workshop will conclude with the moderator summarizing the three key recommendations for the thematic area.
15:55
Peter Froggatt Centre
Workshop 1: Seizing the Decarbonization Opportunity
15:55
Peter Froggatt Centre
Workshop 2: Transforming the World via Innovation in Energy
Transforming the World via Innovation in Energy
15:55
Peter Froggatt Centre
Workshop 3: Food Security & One Health: innovation to accelerate solutions and improve economic growth, climate resilience and the nation’s health
15:55
Peter Froggatt Centre
Workshop 4: Advancing Resources Productivity
15:55
Peter Froggatt Centre
Workshop 5: Accelerating Sustainability and Inclusiveness Through R&D
17:10
Whitla Hall
Panel Conversation: Advancing Global Sustainability – Key Recommendations & Feedback from Workshops
This final panel discussion on Day 1 will review the key recommendations that emerged from the workshops. Participants will engage in a lively discussion, share the key recommendations, and debate what is needed to turn those into action across sectors, from the local to the global level.
17:55
Whitla Hall
Wrap up
19:00
Queen’s Business School
Datathon at Queen’s Business School in Partnership with Alteryx
This is an exclusive event for 150 pre-selected students.
Queen’s Business School, Queen’s School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computing and Alteryx will conduct a dynamic datathon where 150 students will use their skills and creativity to solve a complex sustainability challenge and showcase their talent in a collaborative and inspiring environment.
🎉 Help your customers to Experience Immersive Communication with a Digital Twin for your hotel, resort, restaurant, museum, factory, real estate project or space.
☎️ Leave a comment with your business and let’s connect to deliver a 3D Digital Twin Solution for your Facility Managemnt Team.
On November 11, I had the incredible opportunity to attend theNorthern Ireland In-Person Export Networkingevent at Erskine House, Belfast. Hosted by the UK’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT) as part of their International Trade Week, the event brought together a network of driven entrepreneurs, business leaders, and experts with a shared vision: to support Northern Ireland businesses in going global.
🌐 It was a fantastic chance for #DigitalStrada to connect with others who have international ambitions and to gather insights on growing beyond the UK.
🌟 A Valuable Networking Experience The event was a true networking hub! Alongside businesses from Northern Ireland, we had the chance to present our own ventures and plans for global expansion, sharing our aspirations with supportive professionals and peers.
💬 It was energizing to meet and exchange ideas with employees from the Federation of Small Businesses in the UK, representatives from the Department for Business and Trade, and fellow attendees from Small, Medium, and even Large Enterprises.
🤝 With such a dynamic mix of participants, the atmosphere was both collaborative and insightful. We gained valuable perspectives from others, learned new approaches to tackling challenges, and had a genuinely great time connecting and learning together.
📈 Highlights from the DBT and the UK Export Academy One of the event’s highlights was hearing from Richard Elliott, Head of Creative Services at DBT, who provided practical advice and guidance on export growth strategies.
🎤 With years of experience in both public and private sectors, Richard’s insights emphasized the importance of effective strategy and preparation when aiming to enter international markets.
🌎 His presentation was especially relevant for businesses like mine, where the creative industry’s potential to attract global clients can be a game-changer.
✨ The event was also a chance to learn more about the UK Export Academy.
📚 For any business owner considering international expansion, this program is a crucial resource. Here’s what they have to say:
💬 “The UK Export Academy can support your business to grow by giving you the confidence and know-how to land your first, or next overseas deal. Over 18,000 businesses across the UK have already joined our free training programme. It’s totally free and takes only a few minutes to get started.”
🚀 With a foundation course, market access events, sector-specific webinars, and masterclasses, the UK Export Academy equips businesses with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in international trade. Having access to this type of expertise can be transformational, especially for small businesses venturing into exporting for the first time.
🌐 Export Support from the Department for Business and Trade
The Department for Business and Trade is dedicated to helping Northern Ireland businesses grow internationally by offering a range of programs and resources.
💼 With a network of market specialists across over 100 markets worldwide, DBT’s focus on Northern Ireland is helping to drive local businesses towards global success.
📊 Their team includes Sector Leads in key industries such as Advanced Manufacturing and Technology, Creative Industries, Agri-Food and Drink, and Health and Life Sciences.
🏆 This expertise makes them a valuable partner for businesses seeking to make informed, strategic moves into new international markets. 🌎
🌅 Key Takeaways for #DigitalStrada and Our International Ambitions
For #DigitalStrada, the event was a motivating experience.
💪 Meeting other business owners with similar ambitions was a great reminder of the wealth of support available for those looking to take their services overseas.
🚀 Our vision of providing world-class 3D scanning and virtual tours isn’t limited to the UK; we’re excited about the possibilities of working with clients in various markets who can benefit from immersive 3D experiences.
📸 With the resources from the DBT, the knowledge from the UK Export Academy, and the inspiration from networking with like-minded businesses, we’re energized to pursue our international goals.
🌐 The combination of strategic insights, practical support, and a community of export-minded entrepreneurs has strengthened our resolve to scale globally.
💼 Why Events Like This Matter for Businesses in Northern Ireland
Events like these are essential for Northern Ireland businesses, especially in today’s globalized economy.
🌎 They offer a platform for networking, peer-to-peer learning, and access to valuable information about the export process.
📊 The Department for Business and Trade’s continued support, combined with initiatives like International Trade Week, provides Northern Ireland businesses with the tools needed to thrive beyond borders.
🌐 For any business considering exporting or even expanding into a single international market, I can’t recommend these events enough.
🙌 With practical resources, industry connections, and the invaluable expertise of the DBT team, businesses of all sizes have the chance to take their first (or next) steps towards international growth.
🚀 If you’re thinking about taking your business global, don’t wait. Check out theUK Export Academyand see how its free training program can equip you with the skills and confidence to land your first—or next—overseas deal.
🎉 Help your customers to Experience Immersive Communication with a Digital Twin for your hotel, resort, restaurant, museum, factory, real estate project or space.
☎️ Leave a comment with your business name and let’s connect destinations around the world.
It was good to offer feedback about the gap I see in the tech industry from the support perspective.
⚠️ There has to be a place and an environment to help tech entrepreneurs grow their business AFTER they have been through Programmes like Go Succeed NI, but BEFORE they meet the requirements to become an Invest Northern Ireland client.
