The tenth edition of Mediatech Africa delivered on its promise to ignite the imagination of exhibitors and visitors alike during its three-day run at the TicketPro Dome in Johannesburg, between 17 and 19 July. Despite the challenges of a shrinking economy – the 2019 expo was well supported with a strong exhibitor profile. The show drew record crowds - attracting 7 700 unique visitors from four continents, representing a six percent increase in attendance since the last iteration of the show. The Mediatech showroom floor played host to one hundred exhibitors, representing some of the leading local distributors and an impressive contingent of international equipment manufacturers who showcased their most cutting–edge products on their company stands. Commenting on the depth of the exhibitors present, Mediatech show director, Simon Robinson says, “We are proud to confirm that more than 30 international equipment manufacturers had their own brand presence at Mediatech Africa 2019, demonstrating a strong vote of confidence not only in the show, but in the African market as a whole.” As an expo Mediatech Africa presents the only opportunity for major players in six niche sectors to view and assess the latest media and entertainment technologies on home ground. The event showcases the same advanced technologies seen at the likes of international events such as NAB, and presents a rare networking opportunity for sector professionals from across the continent. According to Robinson, the exhibitors, many of whom participate in every Mediatech Africa, reported that the 2019 edition was as slick as any similar event abroad. “Mediatech Africa prides itself in providing a platform for engagement not only for the South African market, but for the continent as a whole. We had visitors from all over Africa, including Zimbabwe, Zambia, Uganda, Swaziland, Lesotho, Botswana, Nigeria and Namibia – many of who came to the show to seek out professional tech solutions to …
What to do when 100 million customers come knocking at your door
Retail banks and similar ‘high touch’ businesses operating in the digital world must deliver uncompromised security without detracting from the overall customer experience, or risk alienating their generation X, Y and Z clients. Marius Agenbag, CEO of Ubusha Technologies, says that the speed with which digital businesses scale is just one of the factors that identity security specialists face. Others include the sheer number of systems, legacy or otherwise, that users require access to and the variety of user types with different credentials. The information technology (IT) universe has changed drastically over the past two decades. “Security started out as securing the perimeter, putting ‘walls’ around a client’s IT systems – and IT firms sold thousands of firewalls so that companies could keep the bad guys out,” says Agenbag. The arrival of cloud computing and ‘software as a service’ meant that systems were no longer bound to physical locations. Security firms thus shifted focus from securing the perimeter to securing individual devices. “A further evolution saw the emergence of a single user accessing systems across multiple devices, forcing us to focus on the most significant common denominator – identifying and securing the person,” says Agenbag. By way of example a bank customer who accesses his or her bank accounts from a mobile smartphone, from a tablet, from a computer, or through systems at a bank branch must be identified and authenticated from each device. This process must take place seamlessly, no matter which device the customer chooses to use. Identity and Access Management (IAM) involves playing the role of a digital doorman who screens thousands of employees and millions of customers each day, deciding in milliseconds whether to allow or deny access to the systems, and additionally point out which areas of the systems those who make it through the door may visit. “Our identity security solutions must verify the person behind every …
Mercury Launch Initiative with CNet Training to Get More People into The Network Infrastructure Industry
London, England, Aug 01, 2019 -- Mercury has announced that it plans to put 50 Trainee Data Technicians through the Certified Network Cable Installer (CNCI®) technical education program over the next three years as part of its trainee schedule and an industry initiative to encourage more people to consider a career in the Network Infrastructure Industry. Mercury is an Irish-based European contractor. Its expertise is in building and managing complex engineering projects that reimagine how people work and live in the built environment. Its determination and focus enable it to deliver leading-edge construction solutions across a range of key sectors including data centres, healthcare, life sciences and technology, fire protection, building services, and technical support services (tss). Mercury employs almost 2,000 people across Ireland, the UK and Europe, and had an overall turnover of €770m in 2018. Mercury’s trainee program will prove extremely beneficial to both the individuals and the company as it offers on the job experiences alongside high-quality knowledge and education gained from undertaking the renowned CNCI® program, designed and delivered by CNet Training. The trainee program also allows Mercury to train staff to have the exact skills needed for the business and in turn it is investing in the future of the business with qualified and certified teams to deliver consistent results, significantly reducing risk and increasing quality of service to their clients. The Trainee Data Technicians at Mercury will undergo a 3-year training program equivalent to an apprenticeship whereby they will learn the principal roles and responsibilities of a Data Technician. Learners will receive off-the-job technical training at a number of Educational providers including RWL Advanced Solutions in Dublin where the CNCI® program will be delivered by one of CNet Training’s industry leading expert instructors. Keith Foran, Mercury, “We are delighted to be working …
Malaicha.com makes Life Easier for Zimbabweans in South Africa
A new app created by Hello Paisa makes it possible for Zimbabweans in South Africa to send essential goods and groceries back home. For Zimbabweans who are far from home, ensuring that their family is fed and looked-after is one of their most fundamental goals. This is often easier said than done, when faced with costly solutions, the potential for damaged goods and uncertainty of whether or not their groceries may even reach their final destination. Malaicha.com has revolutionised the manner in which Zimbabweans in South Africa are now able to send goods and groceries to their loved ones. Already renowned for their international money transfer service – Hello Paisa is recognised for offering a person-to-person, outward remittance service for migrant workers across the continent. – the new ‘Malaicha’ app will complement the company’s existing financial services suite. According to Moosa Manjra, CEO of the Hello Paisa, “We are constantly looking at ways to improve our customer’s lives, and Malaicha.com is just another way of doing that. Shopping in SA and getting your goods in Zimbabwe the very same day is a game-changer for any Zimbabwean.” “Not only does Malaicha allow workers to provide the essentials for their families back home, but it is designed to do so in the simplest manner possible. In fact, only three steps are required: a quick KYC onboarding, adding the recipient; shopping for goods and groceries, and finally making payment.” Manjra explains that ‘Malaicha’ is a Ndebele word meaning ‘transporting goods to and from’’. “The Malaicha.com service is currently only available for Zimbabwean customers; we initially launched here due to the pressing need for a service of this nature. It goes without saying that the Malaicha.com service is one we will look to drive into more countries in the near future.” Today Malaicha.com is available for same-day collection and free delivery in the following areas: Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, Masvingo and …
Mobile To Power Growth As Video Shopping Launches
Latest figures show that consumer spending in South Africa declined to 1.94 billion from 1.95 billion in the first quarter of 2019. This small but significant reversal of an historically upward trend is especially bad news for a purchasing-led economy as ours. “Last year, South African consumers bought more than they have ever bought and this consumption of primarily locally-made goods and services helped plug certain GDP holes,” says Shaun Rosen, CEO of Johannesburg-based mobile advertising firm, Mobiclicks. “While also making provision for savings, South Africans need to keep spending to keep the economy ticking over. With the country’s smartphone penetration rate now over 80%, according to ICASA, its great news Mobiclicks has launched technology to make videos shoppable,” Mr Rosen says. He explains that Mobiclicks this month signed an agreement with UK-based Smartzer that will enable South Africa’s 20 to 22 million smartphone users to click on videos playing on their mobile handsets and instantly be able to buy the items displayed on screen. This agreement with the world’s leading mobile video monetiser delivers a much-needed shot in the arm for the SA economy in the form of millions of purchase-ready mobile users. “South African brands now have access to interactive video tagging software and all the commercial opportunities that brings. Millennials now spend more time looking at videos on their mobile screens than they spend looking at traditional television screens. “Mobile video clips are being consumed globally at the rate of hundreds of millions every singe day. It’s clear that there are tremendous opportunities in video for the mobile marketer and we’re pleased to be able to help brands monetise a growing trend,” concludes Mr Rosen. Mobiclicks is Africa’s leader in mobile advertising technology, with product suites consisting of platforms that empower clients to understand their customers and reach them effectively, providing …
The Doctor That Does House Calls
Why your air-conditioner is an important part of your overall health Winter is here once again and so is the cold and flu season. We suddenly find ourselves reaching for tissues as if they were lifelines. The sneezing, coughing, and runny noses seem to hit everyone and touching elevator buttons or shaking hands seem like unnecessary risks. And with air viruses all around, it is also crucial to keep the air fresh at home. Air-conditioning puts us in control of our comfort and frees us from the discomfort, risk and uncertainty of the weather. Modern technology has a healthy prescription for better health. Samsung’s Wind-Free™ air-conditioners have Virus Doctor – ground-breaking technology that helps individuals and families – importantly families with children, who are fragile to airborne allergies. In order to prevent harm from dusts, viruses and bacteria which cause serious diseases, it creates fresh and healthy air by reducing viruses and neutralizing active oxygen radicals. It’s revolutionary technology that keeps the family safe from harmful bacteria that cause sickness. Of course, there are other essential ways to stay healthier in your home. Quick tips to prevent illness* Wash out – Use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser which effectively kills cold and flu germs. Be a little less friendly – Doctors strongly recommend avoiding hand shaking during the cold and flu season. Hands off – Sanitise key touch points in your home including doorknobs light switches and cupboard handles. Go to bed – Winter is a good time to hibernate and its ultimately good for your health. Turn up the heat – Hot foods like soup, stews and tea help loosen up congestion and keep you hydrated. Get switched on to 365 days of comfort with Samsung’s air-conditioner that heats you in summer and cool you in winter. Nothing beats an air-conditioner that looks after your health but also does its primary job to perfection. Samsung’s Wind-Free™ technology is an example of …
Super Simple Microwave Recipes
Make the most of busy days with delicious meals, whipped up in minutes Time is a gift many of us just don’t seem to have enough of these days. This means we often resort to fast food meals to feed a hungry home. Fortunately, thanks to the microwave, there is a satisfying fast food option that’s right in our kitchens. “The microwave is an iconic example of technology designed for convenience. It saves time and money without compromising quality. At Samsung, we are committed to creating products that make life easier. Our customers already experience this with the Samsung Hotblast™. Its innovative functions are tailor-made to make life simpler, “says Tracy Gordon, Head of Product – Home Appliances at Samsung South Africa. When you’re trying to satisfy the cravings of little ones, teens or group of family and friends, each of these simple recipes work with just a few ingredients, your microwave and surprisingly little effort. Microwave Oatmeal Bars Prep/Total Time: 20 minutes + Chilling | Makes: 10 servings Ingredients • 2 cups quick-cooking oats • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar • 1/2 cup butter, melted • 1/4 cup corn syrup • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips Directions • In a large bowl, combine oats and brown sugar • Stir in butter and corn syrup. Press into a greased 9-in. square microwave-safe dish • Microwave, uncovered, on high for 1-1/2 minutes • Rotate a half turn; microwave 1-1/2 minutes longer • Sprinkle with chocolate chips • Microwave at 30% power for 4-1/2 minutes or until chips are glossy; spread chocolate evenly over top • Refrigerate 15-20 minutes before cutting Honey-Lemon Chicken Enchiladas Prep/Total Time: 30 minutes | Makes: 6 servings Ingredients • 1/4 cup honey • 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice • 1 tablespoon canola oil • 2 teaspoons chili powder • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder • 3 cups shredded cooked chicken breast • 2 cans (About 280g each) green enchilada sauce • 12 corn tortillas (15cm), …
Summer Bodies Are Made in Winter
How to keep your fitness goals firmly on track It’s that time of the year when winter embraces us in an icy grip and our beds seem like the only place to be. This is exactly why few of us consider keeping up a regular gym routine. However, we still want to look fit when Summer arrives. Thankfully, there is a lot of truth in the fitness mantra “Summer bodies are made in winter”. So for those planning on emerging out of the cocoon of Winter as a bright new butterfly, now is the time to work on it. To help, here are a few helpful insights: Habits you start in winter are powerful *Research indicates that habits you form in the wintertime are more likely to stick. This is because you’ve mastered your resistance against strong temptations like comfort food and the thousands of tasty calories. When Summer arrives, so does the sundowners after work, farmer’s markets and the braais we love so much. But by creating healthy habits in Winter, you’ll find that by the time the party season comes around you’ll already know ways to fit your workouts into your days and nights out, rather than finding excuses for skipping them. Technology can be one of your best fitness friends Monitoring your success and creating goals to match your needs is always a good idea. Smart technology can lend a helping hand here. Strap on a device like the stylish, sporty Samsung Galaxy Watch Active, to help keep track of your progress. It takes a holistic approach to monitoring everything that matters most. Its exercise, sleep, stress and health tracking features make it a personal lifestyle coach you’ll appreciate. And with plenty of motivational apps to download you can customise your daily goals and put them to use next time you head out the door. Of course, everybody needs down time which is why having a world of connectivity and entertainment on your wrist, is yet another reason why you’ll appreciate every second with the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active. Conquering the cocoon is the …
Game On: Why Curved Screens Are a Winner
How Samsung’s 24” Curved monitor gives gamers the edge • Immersive gaming experience with Curved screen • Flawlessly smooth gameplay with 144hz refresh rate & AMD FreeSync™ • Enhanced gaming experience with game mode Curved monitors are a fairly recent innovation but is already being embraced by avid gamers across the planet. The awesome benefits of a curved screen have already been around without many of us realising it. For example, a screen in a movie theatre is curved to make the experience more immersive. A curved monitor is also easier on the eyes, which helps, as many gamers can spend hours in a game. The arc of the curved monitor matches the natural curvature of the human eye. This means your eyes feel more comfortable with a more natural viewing experience because light is directed from all angles you can see more, which means you’re able to react faster. That’s just one reason why the Samsung 24” Curved gaming monitor has captured the imagination of gamers everywhere. The Curve Champion Samsung has led the curved monitor market since being the first to introduce the innovative displays to the world in 2015. With industry-leading technology in a full line-up, Samsung’s curved monitors are consistently number one in market share and more importantly a game changer in a big way. Here are a few great reasons why: • You Can Dive Right In With a deeply rounded 1800R curved screen, you are better equipped to win more, as sharp focus on the screen gives you heightened concentration. This means gaming for longer with less eye strain and the ability to play on and on. • It Has Smooth, Fast Visuals A refresh rate of up to 144Hz puts you ahead, even in the most demanding games. You will spot the enemy instantly and notice tiny crucial changes in every scene. Also, if needed the refresh rate can be easily changed to 60Hz, 100Hz or 120Hz. • It Adapts to The Game With the curved monitor you choose the ideal settings for your game. Game …
Eworks Manager partners with SmartWitness to offer video telematics functionality
Eworks Manager workforce management software have partnered up with SmartWitness to provide video telematics functionality to all of their global clients. A range of SmartWitness solutions will be launched this week (w/c 22nd July 2019) to Eworks Manager customers ranging from single dashcams to live multi-channel systems. Eworks Manager provides comprehensive job management solutions to 1,000s of businesses in construction, electrical, HVAC, glazing, horticulture and cleaning services, and many of those clients are keen to add live video telematics to their offering. Eworks Manager have clients of all sizes from multi-nationals to sole traders and provide a platform to manage their workflow, including quotes, inventory, assets, employee scheduling, monitoring and invoicing. The partnership with SmartWitness now means that they can add video telematics easily and with little or no vehicle downtime. Eworks Manager Global Business Director David Taylor said: “Our clients need to protect themselves against the “blame game” of road incidents. If a firm cannot provide video evidence of what happened in a road incident, they are laying themselves open to potentially expensive and time-consuming legal disputes. And he added: “The reason we have chosen SmartWitness for this partnership is because the support they can give to help us grow in the video telematics space and because they have the best products on the market.” “This is a partnership between ourselves and SmartWitness and it means we have little or no capital expense up front but we can pass on economies of scale to our clients, so everybody’s happy. “The SmartWitness product range suits all the requirements of our clients, from blue-chip construction firms needing connected multi-camera systems for their fleet, to a one-man-band needing just a dashcam for his van. “Also SmartWitness has offices in the USA and UK which are our main two territories so we have video experts on the ground …