Digital Strada Founder Joins Software NI Working Group: Sector Futures – Shaping the Future of Northern Ireland’s Tech Sector

Digital Strada Founder Joins Software NI Working Group: Sector Futures – Shaping the Future of Northern Ireland’s Tech Sector

by | Nov 27, 2024 | 3D, 3D Virtual Tours, Belfast, Blog, Business Events, Digital Twins, Immersive, Ireland, News, Northern Ireland, Software Development, Spatial Data, UK | 0 comments

🚀 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.

You can Connect with us with us on Software NI Directory: https://softwareni.glueup.com/my/memberships/1978998/

🌟 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  

Our 50 and 5 by 35 vision 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. 💡

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Revolutionizing Industrial Ecosystems with 3D Digital Twins: A Visual Communication Asset for Manufacturing

Revolutionizing Industrial Ecosystems with 3D Digital Twins: A Visual Communication Asset for Manufacturing

by | Nov 20, 2024 | 3D, 3D Virtual Tours, Belfast, Blog, Digital Twins, Facility Management, Immersive, Ireland, Matterport, Northern Ireland, Spatial Data, Sustainability, UK, Uncategorized, Virtual Tours | 0 comments

👨‍💼 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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. 

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🚀 See our Digital Twins portfolio and Contact us for a new project.

🎉 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.

Unlocking Global Growth Potential at Northern Ireland’s In-Person Export Networking Event with the Department for Business & Trade (DBT) and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) in Belfast

Unlocking Global Growth Potential at Northern Ireland’s In-Person Export Networking Event with the Department for Business & Trade (DBT) and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) in Belfast

by | Nov 12, 2024 | 3D, 3D Virtual Tours, Belfast, Blog, Business Events, Digital Twins, Ireland, Northern Ireland, UK, Uncategorized | 0 comments

Northern Ireland In-Person Export Networking

On November 11, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Northern Ireland In-Person Export Networking event 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 the UK Export Academy and see how its free training program can equip you with the skills and confidence to land your first—or next—overseas deal. 

 

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Driving Positive Change: Matterport’s CEO Charts a Greener Path with Digital Twins for a Sustainable Future

Driving Positive Change: Matterport’s CEO Charts a Greener Path with Digital Twins for a Sustainable Future

by | Dec 12, 2023 | 3D, 3D Virtual Tours, Blog, Digital Twins, Heritage, Heritage Rehabilitation, Heritage Restoration, Immersive, Matterport, Restoration, Sustainability | 0 comments

In his recent letter, Matterport’s Chairman and CEO, R J Pittman, addresses the multifaceted challenges faced by businesses and the world over the past year. He emphasizes the significance of the current era, marked by uncertainty but also abundant opportunities for positive change. Pittman outlines Matterport’s pivotal role in addressing global challenges, working towards a brighter future, and contributing to a better world for the next generation.

Matterport’s Digital Twin Platform takes center stage in this commitment. It goes beyond mere property visualization, fundamentally altering how people interact with and understand their surroundings. The core values of accessibility, inclusivity, and sustainability are not just buzzwords but integral aspects of Matterport’s business model, deeply embedded in its values, workplace culture, and overall ethos. Pittman stresses that this commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles is the driving force propelling Matterport forward.

The technology itself, with its 3D digital twins and AI data capabilities, is hailed for its positive impact in connecting the world. Pittman proudly notes that this technology is freely accessible to anyone with a smartphone. An exemplary initiative, the Exploration to Equity philanthropic program, opens virtual doors to cultural and historic sites, bringing them to life for those who might not have the opportunity to experience them in person. Simultaneously, it aligns with Matterport’s goal of democratizing access to physical spaces.

For Matterport’s customers, the journey starts with a digital twin, offering unique insights and versatile assets. This empowers effective property marketing, management, and construction processes. The technology’s potential to digitally transform operations in the vast landscape of existing buildings and structures worldwide, numbering approximately four billion, is underscored. The AI-powered capabilities, driven by Matterport’s technical leadership in spatial data, computer vision, and deep learning, facilitate faster and smarter decision-making. Furthermore, the introduction of new automated capabilities serves the dual purpose of reducing the need for frequent site visits and contributing significantly to customers’ sustainability goals.

Pittman provides a glimpse into the future through innovations that expand the application of digital twins, enabling customers to address an array of business-critical questions swiftly from anywhere in the world. A notable highlight is the upcoming tool designed to help customers measure their carbon emissions reduction, emphasizing Matterport’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Internally, Matterport has taken substantial steps in its ESG journey. The release of the first ESG Report in 2022 was a significant milestone, showcasing the company’s commitment to transparency. Efforts to reduce the carbon footprint involved scrutinizing facilities, setting clear expectations for suppliers, and revamping the entire Pro3 camera supply chain for enhanced sustainability. The partnership with an external carbon accounting firm demonstrates a commitment to continually understand and improve the company’s environmental impact.

Pittman concludes the letter with a personal touch, expressing a deep belief in Matterport’s purpose and potential. He acknowledges the global Matterpeeps, the driving force behind the company’s innovation and dedication to creating a positive impact. Proud of the accomplishments in 2022, Pittman looks ahead with optimism, expressing a commitment to further improvements in the days and years to come.

Source: matterport.com

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