The Importance Of Multi Language Apps And How To Create Them August 31, 2018September 4, 2019 Rob LaPointeApp DevelopmentLeave a Comment on The Importance Of Multi Language Apps And How To Create Them There are 1.5 billion people on Earth that speak English. To put that into perspective, that’s 20% of the world’s population! English is one of the most spoken languages today and is even used as a “default” language for inventions created within the technology industry, such as websites and apps. Though the English language and culture are widespread, English is only one of the 6,900 languages that flourish on Earth. In fact, the first most spoken language is Chinese, followed by Spanish, then English, then Hindi, and so on. Clearly, there is a great deal of language diversity in the real and virtual world. In today’s global market, every business should have the ability to connect with non-English speakers to access a wider audience and tap into greater global market potential. By creating and deploying multi-language apps, your business can attract more customers with only the click of a few buttons. If you are a business thinking about creating a multi-language mobile app, you’re already on the right track. Follow these steps below to get started: 1. Choosing Between A Human Translator Vs. A Machine Learning Translator There are pros and cons to having a human or machine translator. First of all, machine translators have the power to translate a piece of text within a matter of seconds and can be a cheap option for a business with a budget. However, machine translators lack cultural awareness, creativity, and knowledge that a human translator would be able to provide. Choosing between a machine learning translation and human translation will be a factor that you will need to integrate when creating a multi-language app. 2. Localization Efforts Because many apps cross international boundaries, localization is implemented to connect the user to sites written in their local language. Implementing localization abilities usually involves using another software that can integrate localization elements into the application. This technique works for a few languages involved in the app. However, if your app involves translations of 10’s or even 100’s of languages, this method can spoil the apps UI and other elements such as the correct date, time, and location for each country. Overall, ensure that you have the proper software that works for your app goals to carry out the localization capabilities to allow any user in any country to use the app. 3. Create A Native Language Test Plan Use English to create a basic layout/plan for the app, and use the same plan for all other languages. However, it’s important to remember that each and every language addressed in your app should be treated with the same attention and dedication given to the English language. Check for incorrect translations or formatting of different languages that will throw off a user. Having native speakers complete the translation for you is the best route. You can also translate it and then have a native speaker edit it. Either way, you want to be sure your translation is correct. 4. Leave Space When writing English text in the original layout of the app, it’s important to leave extra space than needed. Because words from languages other than English can take up to 30% more space than English words, you will need to plan your layout design to accommodate longer words so the UI/UX will adhere to other languages. If you know ahead of time what languages you want your app in then you can easily adjust to fit each language appropriately. 5. Integrate Internalization Software Support By using internalization software support, you can ensure elements specific to each country such as time, dates, numbers, and currency appear correctly for global users. In addition, ensure that any symbols or images commonly used in one culture can be applied to the other cultures your app is addressing. Putting slang phrases into a one language site and not adjusting the words to accommodate the other translation may make the app confusing to the non-English speaking user. An English-speaking user will understand what “down to earth” means, but the transmute-language won’t make any sense to, for example, a Russian speaker. Creating a multi-language app can be a difficult task. You may run into many problems, such as creating a menu bar with three home pages with three different languages or incorrectly inputting different dates and times. When creating a multi-language app, each and every screen and button has to be translated. Also, localization efforts need to be implemented, hundreds of different cultures and languages will have to be addressed, and the list goes on and on. If any of these elements are inputted incorrectly, your user may feel encouraged to leave the app. Instead of tackling these problems on your own, it may be best to hire a professional to build your multi-language app. With the help of companies like SDI, the process of building your own multi-language app can become a lot easier. You need a company that has the power to translate each language within your app, submit the app on different stores, and optimize your app for each country related to each language. Don’t spend hours on end trying to implement these steps when an app development company can do it for you. If you’re interested in saving time and energy creating your multi-language app, Call us at 408.802.2885 or email at team@sdi.la today.
How to Successfully Get Funding from Family and Friends August 29, 2018September 4, 2019 Sakshi SharmaVenture CapitalLeave a Comment on How to Successfully Get Funding from Family and Friends Every business needs investors. Many entrepreneurs reach out to friends and family for investments at the beginning stages of creating their business, but some may see investments from friends and family as an insignificant step. In fact, the reality is that investments early on in the process, even if they stem from friends and family, will prove to be extremely important in getting professional investors to gain interest in your business. According to Fundable statistics, friends and family compose the majority of an investor’s funding source, with total investments of $60 billion in new ventures in 2017. Your idea may be great, but convincing people about your business’s future success is the hardest step, and that requires getting funding from family and friends first. In this blog, you’ll learn about the most effective strategies for gaining funding from family and friends so you can attract more investors as your business grows. 1. Treat Your Friends and Family Like Formal Investors Many investors first seek out very close friends and family and casually discuss their business idea. While these people may be close to you and trust you with their money, you should treat them as if they are formal investors. Test your elevator pitch and what you’re going to say to each investor. Ask them for advice to be prepared for the real run next time. Whether you are presenting to friends or professional investors you always want to be prepared. You should understand their reasoning for investing by getting inside their head and researching how people make decisions on their investments. 2. Logic and Passion Sells The Idea Present your idea in a simple, comprehensible way that doesn’t overwhelm your potential investor. If you start throwing statistics in their face without explaining the reason for the vision, the reason for creating your business, and the need for your product, your investor will end up confused and less likely to give you money. However, integrating some statistics isn’t always a bad idea. You want to show your investors that you are reliable and know what you’re talking about. Just ensure that you’re selling the big picture and not focusing on tiny details that can derail your investor’s attention. In addition, if you have a prototype, be sure to show your investors and give them an inside scoop into your business to make them feel valued. It’s important that you create a personal feel no matter who the investor is. 3. Give Financial Options and Explain How You Will Use The Funds Your family and friends may not be finance wizards, and may not know exactly how much to invest in a startup. It’s your job to give them some options and then explain what each of the amounts will be used towards. Give context for any financial assistance that you are asking for, and create a formal agreement as well. Making a formal agreement in the form of a contract is an important step. Don’t rely on empty promises or loose agreements. The road to creating a startup isn’t easy and you don’t want to lose supporters all because there wasn’t anything established in the first place. These steps will help you gain credibility and allow people to witness the amount of time, effort, and money you’re willing to put in to make your business a success. 4. Reveal Your Plan and Its Risks Your investors are giving you their money, so you’ll need to be able to explain what you’re going to do with it. Walk them through any details about your business plan, budget, testing procedure for the product and sales, and plans for creating a website and an app. However, on the same note, you need to communicate the risks. 70% of all startups fail within the first five years, so it’s important that your investor knows what they are getting into before making any contributions. While you’ll want to show investors how your business will reach success, tell them any obstacles your business may face, before promising anything. 5. Grow Your Network Wealthy relatives can seem like an appealing investor, but it’s also important to reach out to those with plenty of connections. After successfully converting your friends and family into investors, you’ll need to start looking for other investors, such as bigger companies or influencers. Ask your friends and family to connect you with anyone they may know in a related area. This is a better solution than using email or social media to reach out to untouchable investors. Yes, money is the end goal, but focusing on networking will help your business out in the long run. 6. Limit Investor Role in Business Though your family and friends have invested in your business, you don’t want to tangle them into your business affairs. At the end of the day, they decided to invest in your business, and you should do whatever you decide to make it a success. Getting them mixed up in your business may lead to relationships breaking up. Roles within the company should only be delegated to people with the right experience and skills. Starting a business and marketing a product is tough at first, but with the help of companies like SDI, your marketing campaigns will become successful in making your business grow. If you’re interested in starting your own business, growing your network, strengthening your brand, and attracting investors, call us at 408.621.8481 or email team@sdi.la for more information.
How To Monetize Your Mobile App August 24, 2018August 28, 2018 Rob LaPointeApp Development, Mobile Apps, UncategorizedLeave a Comment on How To Monetize Your Mobile App If you’re looking to monetize your own mobile app, you will need to implement well-planned marketing strategies for a successful launch. In this blog, you’ll learn about the best marketing and monetization strategies to increase the number of app downloads and generate revenue in a highly competitive market. If you are at the idea stage of our app you should check out how to build an app first. Marketing Before Monetization Displaying an app on the Apple App store is a popular choice, but the process can become a huge obstacle for a small app developer trying to launch their new app. With thousands of apps being submitted each day, the competition can be too overwhelming. In fact, the iOS 11 Apple App store design currently displays fewer apps on the main page, which makes it even harder for a new app by a new developer to be recognized. As a small app developer, you should focus on making your app easy to find. You can get your app to appear in a web search, rather than focus your time and energy on the app store. This way, you can increase the chances of people finding your app without having to waste time-fighting for a spot on the homepage of the Apple App store. Having a website that’s easily accessible by mobile devices can also increase the number of downloads and increase the conversion rate. Whenever a user browses through your website, they should see a banner ad with a link that can direct the user to a store allowing them to download the app. In this case, an interstitial ad won’t work as well. Though banner ads don’t convert as well as interstitial ads, Google usually negatively targets interstitial ads. In addition to using ads, successful marketing involves connecting with the right allies. One way to approach this is to combine the experience of your individual app with the experience that another app provides. This ultimately creates an app with extended benefits for the user. Partnerships will allow your app to be viewed and used by a larger audience and can make your app more useful to your users. Take, for example, the partnership between Yummly and Instacart. Yummly (a recipe app) and Instacart ( a shopping app) have combined to provide the user with a complete cooking experience. Yummly users find recipes on the app and then have the ability to shop for these ingredients through Instacart. This is just one example out of the numerous partnership strategies you can implement when creating your own app. Reaching out to influencers that can post on social media is another great way to promote your app. Alos, be sure to feature your app in emails, social media posts, and blogs, create a demo video, and apply for awards to increase awareness for your app. Encourage people to rate your app and ensure that you provide a great customer service experience. No matter what marketing strategy you pursue, ensure that you market over a course of multiple months in preparation for your app launch. Many beginners assume that marketing for only a few weeks is enough to increase awareness about the app. A few weeks is nowhere near enough time in the grand scheme of things. When the day of the app launch approaches, having those months of marketing preparation to back you up will help a lot. People will already know about your app and start downloading it. There is always monetizing on a global scale. Don’t forget the rest of the world. Make sure your marketing efforts extend to other countries as well. There is a lot of potential for your app out there and you don’t want to miss out. How To Monetize Your App Monetizing your app can come in many forms – making your app a pay-to-download app isn’t the only way to generate revenue. Apps such as Facebook, Spotify, Waze, and various other app types are free to download but run ads and other models that make money. Below is a list of ways that you can use to monetize your app. 1. In-App Ads – Native, Banner, Interstitial A native ad is non-disruptive advertising. These ads typically are formatted to match the design of the actual app so that the user doesn’t even realize it’s an ad. A banner ad is a web banner usually consisting of an image or animation. This is more obvious as it does not match the design of the app. An interstitial ad is a full-screen ad which is usually displayed during a pause in activity or between app pages. 2. “Freemium” Subscriptions Freemium subscriptions, or In-App subscriptions, offer a paid subscription-based model that gives the user access to better quality and service functionality. This model is usually implemented after the free-downloaded app. After the freemium subscription, the user can have the opportunity to buy the premium version of the app to get access to the best functions of the app. Certain subscriptions can also be sold which allow the user to experience the app without any ad interruptions. 3. Sponsorship Another monetization method is sponsorship. With sponsorships, the user engagement level will still be great since the sponsorship content can be valuable. 4. Upgrading to Remove Ads It’s pretty evident that many people don’t like seeing ads while using an app. This can actually be utilized by app developers that can create a free version with ads and an upgraded paid version without ads. 5. Rewarded Video Ads These types of ads can be used as an incentive for the user. An example of this would be found in the Spotify app. In the free version of Spotify, the user can listen to half an hour of music and then listen to a couple of minutes of ads. These ads play at half hour intervals. This allows the user to enjoy the app for a good deal of time without the ads being too intrusive on the experience. 6. Free-At-Launch App Making your app free at launch will greatly increase the chances of users downloading your app. Your app will become much more visible by making it free. 7. Paid Apps This type of monetization method is pretty self-explanatory. The user pays to download the app. However, with such a huge demand for free apps, you will need to showcase your app’s amazing features and reviews that will differentiate your app from the rest. 8. Combining Great Strategies You can also combine these monetization strategies to get the most profit possible. However, it’s important to know that too many ads and interruptions can drive your customers away. As a small app developer, it may be hard to launch your app and generate revenue in today’s booming mobile app market. It would also be helpful to take a look at popular iPhone and Android apps to see what they did. With the help of SDI, you can successfully launch your app and ensure that you generate revenue using the best marketing and monetization methods possible. For over a decade SDI has developed marketing and monetization strategies for apps used by enterprises, start-ups, entrepreneurs, and small/mid-sized firms. We have worked with our clients from the app development process to the launch and beyond, and will work with you to ensure that your app generates revenue, all while guaranteeing you 100% ownership of your app. Interested in marketing and monetizing your app? Call Rob LaPointe at 408.802.2885 or email him at rob@sdi.la
The Hottest Artificial Intelligence Technologies and Algorithms August 21, 2018September 4, 2019 Ananya SArtificial IntelligenceLeave a Comment on The Hottest Artificial Intelligence Technologies and Algorithms Artificial Intelligence is the theory that computer systems are able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence. AI has advanced its way into our lives by modernizing industries for healthcare, financial, education, transportation, and many more. An example is that artificial neural networks are used as clinical support decision systems for medical diagnosis in EMR software. From speech recognition to machine learning platforms, AI will soon be everywhere you look. Currently, in the market, there are different kinds of AI technologies that are helping people with everyday life and soon, AI is bound to be everywhere and in everything that we use. Let’s talk about the hottest technologies and algorithms AI is using today. 1. Virtual Agents: Be it an automated voice generator greeting you over the phone, or an actual human, customer service has been around for decades. Companies used to use only call centers until AI stepped in and has now taken over. From simple chatbots to advanced systems that can network with humans, AI is currently used in customer service and support. Companies such as Amazon, Apple, Google, IBM, Microsoft, and many more have already begun utilizing AI for their customer service. The star algorithm behind this creation is the Multinomial Naive Bayes algorithm for text classification and NLP (natural language processing). Let’s break it down: a. A set of sentences belonging to a particular class are given. b. With each new input to the sentence, each word is counted and accounted for its occurrence while each class is assigned a score. c. The highest scored class is associated with the input sentence. d. This allows word matching with the help of the equations. A simple example of a virtual agent is when you surf onto a new website and a chat box opens up with an automated message greeting you with “ Hi this is… how can I help you with our service today?” Virtual agents exist to help make customer service easier. At SDI, we can build virtual agents for your apps and websites using our software expertise and professional skills. 2. Text Analytics and NLP: NLP stands for Natural Language Processing which is a part of computer science and Artificial Intelligence where interactions between computer and human languages take place. In particular, it goes in-depth on how to program computers to process large amounts of natural language data by using text analytics and machine learning. Computational linguistics is the modern study of linguistics using tools from computer science. With the help of computer science, language has progressed further, allowing us to access it with faster speed, better results, and robustness. We have come a long way from computational linguistics to natural language processing, and simply broken down, NLP is the ability of a computer program to understand human language as it is spoken. NLP is currently used to detect fraud in security, text classification, machine translation, summarization, question answering, in healthcare facilities, and many more. Some examples include: a. Machine translation: It is a big challenge for our world to make information accessible to everyone across language barriers and places. We simply don’t have enough resources to make that possible by human translation, but machine translation completes that task by automatically converting one natural language into another while preserving the real meaning of the text, and successfully translating it. An example is Google, where they use a proprietary statistical engine for its translation service. b. Summarization: Living in the digital age our access to knowledge and information exceeds our ability to comprehend it. It does not seem as if we will slow down to process information so summarization of documents and information is where NLP flourishes. It is important because it allows us to absorb information from tons of data while helping us understand it. Now that you have knowledge about NLP, let’s take a look at the main algorithm that makes it possible for NLP to be successful. There are several different algorithms used in creating NLP for its use in machine learning, but text analytics is the key to creating NLP. According to SAS, “ Text analytics explore textual content and derive new variables from raw text that may be visualized, filtered, or used as inputs to predictive models or other statistical methods.” Are you interested in using AI in your website or application? With the help of our software development professionals, your company can utilize this technology to obtain the best service presented to you. SDI has created websites and applications for every size company for over a decade. At SDI we use algorithms used for NLP and Multinomial Naive Bayes algorithm to produce advanced software used to build your applications and websites. Talk with us today to learn more on how our use of NLP algorithms and the data that can help build your custom app and website. If you want to implement AI contact Sakshi at sakshi@sdi.la or 408.621.8481 for more information on how to get started.
How To Ensure Your Mobile App Is Delivered On Time August 17, 2018September 4, 2019 Sakshi SharmaMobile AppsLeave a Comment on How To Ensure Your Mobile App Is Delivered On Time Hundreds of apps are created and bought on the App store every single day. Creating a mobile app can bring in some extra income and be a rewarding experience, but it still requires a lot of work. Some apps like Flappy Bird can take only a couple of days to make, but some projects like Facebook can take up to a year or more. There are many reasons as to why apps can take a shorter or longer time to make, and it all boils down to finding the right app development company. Today, it’s not hard to find a company that can create a mobile app. However, it can be tricky to find and work with the right app development company to ensure that your app is delivered on time. Here are some tips on how to ensure that your app has incredible designs and delivered with timeliness for its launch. Find The Right Partner This ties into the other steps, but that’s because the step of finding the right partner is clearly the most important part of the app development process. If you get stuck with a bad partner after surrendering your money, then they could easily drag out the process and force you to pay more for your app to be fully developed. To ensure this doesn’t happen watch out for these signs. The developer should be interested in your business. When talking to them, they should be able to give you some information on experience with apps similar to yours or potential strategies and should know what type of apps work in the app store. This indicates that they’ve done their research and that they’ve worked with many clients. If you call them and only hear multiple versions of “yes” and empty praises, that’s a sign the company isn’t the right fit for you. Next, look into their portfolio, their website, and their apps to judge their UI/UX skills. Each of these elements should look great and have excellent interfaces. After all, 60% of the app is centered around how the user interacts with it. Check and talk to their references and find information that will help you determine whether the company can really deliver on their promises. Finally, find a company that you know you’ll be able to work with. The process of creating a mobile app is a long activity, which can range from a couple months to a year. You will need to ensure that you use a company like SDI who will provide timely updates and can maintain a relationship, even when the app is already launched. Communication Is Key In order for a development team to deliver your mobile app on time and within the scope, you must be dedicated and available for phone calls and emails. With a scope of work outlining the full UX, the development team can understand and create a GANTT chart for deliverables and dates. Keeping this open line for communication with your app development partner will prevent any major delays from occurring. Good app development companies will not only learn about your business but also show you the technical aspects of their job. Doing that will help you understand any improvements or challenges they’re experiencing with the technology. Having frequent communication will allow you to know what stages the development process is in and ensure that they’re not dragging out time so you’ll have to pay more. However, as the app idea creator, you need to keep up clear communication as well. Sure, you have paid your app development partner to do the technical work, but the process isn’t a one-sided job. If the team doesn’t get their questions, comments, or concerns answered about any of the work or your original idea for the app, then they may end up making a product you didn’t envision, waste your money, and waste time. Clarity and Decisiveness It’s important to have a clear vision of your app idea before you start the project. Along the way, many clients constantly change their minds about the app design, which can greatly delay the process. While it is completely fine to implement a few changes to some features during the design process (which your app development partner should be able to do), it’s important to note that every minor adjustment you make comes with added costs and timelines. It’s best to understand what you want and what you don’t want before initiating development and design. If you don’t change your mind during this process then the developers can create the app within a reasonable time frame and not charge you more money. You should also be able to take suggestions on app design since the developers have much more experience working in the field and know the market trends. You should listen to their ideas and work together on these aspects. Though a scope of work document would’ve been created at the beginning of the process, listing all app functions, a signed contract, and fixed pricing, each tiny detail can greatly alter this list and the development process. The average app usually takes 4-6 months to build if there aren’t too many changes. However, the length of time depends on the size, amount of communication between all the parties, and most importantly, the alterations implemented. Cheap ≠ The Best Option You may get a great price, and it may even seem to good to be true. 9 out of 10 times, your instincts are probably right. Apps that seem cheap to develop often become more expensive and take more time to develop due to bad, rushed designs, or other problems. It’s important to pick a company that will give you a reasonable price, one that isn’t too low or too high. This will ensure your app mirrors your vision and within the timeframe that you want. Though there are many steps to consider throughout the process of getting your app developed, the single most important one is finding the right partner. Companies like SDI that won’t take your money and run, has qualifications, knows which questions to ask, and has experienced developers are great options for you. Contact us to get answers to all your mobile app questions.
The 4 Most Useful Mobile Apps For Students August 15, 2018September 4, 2019 Ananya SApp Development, Education, Education appsLeave a Comment on The 4 Most Useful Mobile Apps For Students High school and college life can be exhausting for students with its ever-expanding list of responsibilities. Once you hit a certain age, you have to learn to fight for yourself and take charge, and what better way than to have a little bit of help along the way? There are numerous amounts of mobile apps on the market today that can get you the help you need. To get started, let’s look at a few mobile apps you can use in your day-to-day life that work wonderfully and can help you achieve your goals. myHomework Student Planner The alarm rings, your eyes open a little, and you suddenly realize you’ve still got a bit of homework to finish before your first class. The organization is the key to success. However, not everybody has the time to stay organized, so the myHomework Student Planner, available on a wide variety of platforms, can help you stay organized wherever you are. You get to keep track of your class schedule and homework, get reminders for upcoming tests, and sync it across all of your platforms. An app such as this can really help organize your day. Circle of 6 U Another key to college life is safety, which is a big issue, especially walking alone in the evening. On a college campus, walking home late at night can be scary, especially if your school has a history of predatory behavior. To ensure your safety, an app called Circle of 6 U helps you find your exact location (campus maps are built into the app), and it streamlines communication with your trusted friends. The app has great features to truly help you stay safe. Office Lens from Microsoft Another great app for students is Office Lens from Microsoft which can take pictures of documents, whiteboards, blackboards, magazines, receipts, and more. The app takes those pictures and converts them into editable and shareable text. It also allows you to take pictures at an angle and cleans up glares and shadows. These images can be saved as PDFs, Word, or Powerpoint files. It’s a great tool to quickly digitize items you are viewing in class. Sleep Cycle Alongside studying and having a social life, one also needs as much sleep as they can possibly get while being a high school or college student. Lucky for you, there’s an app for it. Getting enough sleep is essential to receiving a good education. Waking up rested isn’t just about how much you sleep; it’s about where you are in your sleep cycle when you wake up. The Sleep Cycle app uses your phone’s microphone and/or accelerometer to analyze your sleeping patterns. It processes this information to wake you up at the best possible time when you’re in your lightest sleep state, and this, in turn, helps you achieve a good night’s sleep. Schools should take advantage of all the technology out there and recommend it to students. You want to provide them the best possible education and technology can help. Although there is the technology that distracts them, there is also plenty that helps them focus and stay on task. The best way to provide a great education to your students is by providing a customized mobile app for your school. It should be beautiful to look at and easy to use. Keep that in mind next time you’re looking at educational technology to use in your school. Apps such as the ones listed above do a great job helping students in their daily life. However, if you are a student or educational institution and want to create a specific app which can cater to your needs, our professional mobile app developers at SDI are the right fit for you. We create custom apps that can truly help students succeed in life. Don’t wait any longer, contact us today and get in touch with one of our mobile app development specialists now.
Why You Should Use Machine Learning Within Your Website for Customers August 14, 2018August 14, 2018 Sakshi SharmaArtificial Intelligence, Web Development, Website DevelopmentLeave a Comment on Why You Should Use Machine Learning Within Your Website for Customers Machine learning may sound like an alien word to people, however it’s used in many appliances that we utilize. For example, Facebook uses machine learning to allow users to find new types of content and avoid spam. Self driving cars, Amazon’s Alexa, cancer detection, and numerous other appliances use machine learning as a way for computers to “learn” data and do the jobs they need to do. This type of artificial intelligence utilizes different algorithms to interpret and display data, allowing companies to find strategies and opportunities in revenue in order to improve their customers’ experience on their website. There are many types of algorithms used in machine learning. One algorithm doesn’t fit every problem. The machine learning algorithm best suited for your website is always dependent on the available data, the intended usage of the data, and the data scientist’s experience with the subject. Comprehending how and why the algorithms are different ensures that every predictive model built creates reliable results. What is a predictive model? A predictive model stems from the function Y = f(x), which serves as a foundation for the creation of algorithms. In this function, Y represents the predictions that could be made given X, the input variables. This function is used when we don’t have an idea of what the function looks like. (If this was known, then machine learning algorithms wouldn’t be necessary to interpret the data, since you could use the function directly). The predictive model, also known as predictive analytics, is formed from mapping Y = f(X), which can be used to make the most accurate predictions. As mentioned earlier, there are many types of machine learning algorithms like the Internet of Things devices and how they predict the likes and wants of people. It can be confusing to try and navigate them all. However, we’ve narrowed down the top 3 most popular machine learning algorithms to help you get started navigating the world of AI. 1. Logistic Regression Logistic Regression is a simpler type of machine learning algorithm, which can be easily implemented for a variety of tasks. Logistic regression is commonly used for problems with two class values. This type of problem, known as the binary classification problem, produces two outcomes which are affected by one or more variables. Unlike other algorithms, logistic regression enables the effect of each specific data feature to be interpreted. For this reason, logistic regression is used when the data needs to be collected with as much accuracy as possible. A type of real world example of a logistic regression problem is cancer detection, where the logistic regression algorithm would be used to detect if a patient has a type of cancer based on a screening picture that serves as the input. 2. Neural Networks Neural Networks is another type of machine learning that functions similarly to the brain. For example, let’s say you unexpectedly bump into a coworker at the supermarket. Your brain needs to work to recognize the face of the person and associate the name and your relationship with the person all in an instant. This is similar to how artificial neural networks function. Artificial neural networks consist of the input layer, the hidden layer, and the output layer, which all pass information to each other. The hidden layers are composed of interconnected neurons, the output layers of predictions, and the input layers of raw features. While information is being fed into the machine, the connections between the network produce highly accurate predictions. This is one of the most complex types of neural networks, which functions in areas of high-dimensional AI problems like natural language processing, image segmentation, and object and speed recognition. Without specific tools, interpreting data from neural networks can be extremely difficult. This type of machine learning is used when the data needs to be analyzed with extreme accuracy. 3. Random Forest A random forest is a collection of “decision trees”. Decision trees consist of nodes on a graph symbolizing a question about the data and branches that branch off from each node representing each questions’ potential answers. Random forests are highly accurate and are very popular, starting at a relatively low computation expenditure. Random forests are applicable to many types of problems. It runs on large databases with efficiency, can be built without a great deal of tuning, and is generally fast. How Do I Use Machine Learning In My Website? Using specific types of machine learning can greatly alter the way your company forms marketing strategies and takes advantage of any revenue opportunities that arise. As seen with major companies like Facebook, Apple, Amazon, and health and tech companies, machine learning is benefiting the customer experience and improving companies’ revenue. There are also multiple ways AI can help your website with its predictive capabilities. You may be wondering which one would work best for your website. That answer is dependent on many factors which a development company like SDI can help you determine. With the right Machine Learning technology your company could see drastic positive changes. Are you interested in using machine learning in your website? With the help of software development professionals from SDI, your company can utilize this technology to enhance the experience of the customer and increase conversion rates. If you want to implement machine learning in your websites, contact Sakshi at sakshi@sdi.la or 408.621.8481 for more information on how to get started.
How To Build Your First Mobile App August 8, 2018August 11, 2018 Ananya SApp Development, App Development Company, Mobile AppsLeave a Comment on How To Build Your First Mobile App You have the power to make the next billion-dollar mobile app that can break the market. Your idea could be the next Flappy Bird, Instagram, or Whatsapp. All you need is a simple idea and a great development company to guide you. How, you may ask can an app be built? You first have to understand the trend in the various apps on the market and how they are perceived by the audience. Next, you want to create an app that can grab everybody’s attention. Listed below are the exact building blocks on how to create your own app. 1. Finding a topic It is difficult to have an original idea in a world that is constantly being bombarded by new and creative inventions. Gather your thoughts and freewrite possible apps you would enjoy which either are already on the market (to improve them) or something unique that you would personally would like to use. Draw comparisons to other applications. For example, if you are thinking about creating something like a social media app, you can gain inspiration from Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, and several others. 2. Draw it out! Create a cluster-sketch where you write your main topic in the center of the page and surround it with sub-topics. This will help you brainstorm ideas which will provide you with various possibilities of apps and highlight some major options. This also helps you define the foundation for your app. Having a solid foundation for your app idea is incredibly important to take your time with this and be sure it’s exactly what you want. 3. List pros and cons Always remember that when an app gets released on the market, it is bound to have some advantages and disadvantages. List out the apps potential while not forgetting the likelihood that somebody out there will find a reason to complain- don’t give them the chance. The best way to do this is to think about who you are creating this for and what they would find the most useful. Then, think about the people that wouldn’t use this and why. The answers you receive will help you improve your ideas about what the functions are and how they work. 4. Fieldwork I Although you are set with your app idea, remember to run it by others to get their opinions so you are sure that the app you want to build is something that can be enjoyed by people you know. Post your app idea onto social media platforms such as Twitter or Facebook where you can ask your audience for some feedback as well. 5. Fieldwork II Now, it is time to take a look at the technical aspects of your app. You need to get in contact with companies such as SDI that can provide the wireframes, designs, and bring your storyboard (roadmap) to life. 6. Development A really good option to test out the potential of your app is to develop a prototype which is basically a simplified working version of your app. It wouldn’t have all the features only the main, most important ones. It is perfect if you don’t want to waste money on developing the whole app and people don’t quite take to it. This is also a great option if you want to get funding. It’s the best presentation tool to use for presenting to investors. You can, of course, skip that and jump right into developing the full app. Make sure you stick to the original scope of your app so it can be completed on time. Also, ensure you are using a reputable mobile app development company so your app gets created correctly. 7. Testing Once your app is in the final stages of development, it is time to test your app (or prototype app). If you are satisfied, ask your friends and family to test the usability of your app. Make sure that the people who are testing it provide you with honest feedback. 8. Publishing the app Once you have approved the app and it is ready, it can be submitted to the app store for millions of people to find and use. There are so many different kinds of apps on the market and many that are similar to one another. It can be hard to launch an application that hasn’t already been thought of. The biggest secret to pleasing your audience and gaining recognition is to create a unique version of an original as this opens doors for better apps. Find an application that you enjoy and add your own twist to make it unique! If you are ready to get started, contact Sakshi Sharma at 408.621.8481 or email her at sakshi@sdi.la because she can help you create an app that users will love and you can be proud of.
What to look for when choosing a Project Manager August 7, 2018August 7, 2018 Rob LaPointeCustom Software DevelopmentLeave a Comment on What to look for when choosing a Project Manager A project manager for a software development job should know a substantial amount about everything that goes on with a project. Out of all the team members, the project manager should have the most experience so they can effectively guide the project in the right direction. It’s not only important that they know how to communicate, how to resolve conflicts, how to motivate people to work, and how to strategize, but that they also have the technical skills to be able to understand each person’s role and tie the team together. Every team is different, and each has a different atmosphere and style that works for them. Here are the top 10 most important qualities that every software development company should look for when hiring a software development project manager. 1. First and foremost, know how to code. They may be the greatest leader of all the leaders ever, but what does it matter if they don’t have the technical skills to resolve problems related to coding or the software development process? Managers that don’t know how to code have no sense of what good programming techniques are, how long it takes to code, and how long it takes to test the code. Without this knowledge, the team can feel lost or may even lose sight of who the real leader is. Great project managers know how to code and can work with the team to reach their intended goals. 2. Understanding The Development Process The project manager should have the ability to bring suggestions to the table to improve the development strategy, keeping in mind UX and UI, and save time by recognizing faults in strategies early in the development process. They should also be able to provide direct influence over the methodology for software development, coding and testing standards, and hiring. They should be flexible in these areas to manage the team effectively. 3. Delegate Tasks Notice how the title says that a leader should be able to “delegate tasks”, not “delegate responsibilities.” It’s important that even though another person might be completing the task, it’s the project manager’s responsibility to ensure that the team is doing the right things. This will make for a more productive and settling feel amongst the team members. 4. Lead By Example Remember, a project manager isn’t just a person in charge with the authority of telling people what to do. The whole reason the position exists is so that the group can get some direction from the leader, and then be allowed to use their own smarts and skills to get the team to their goal. Great software development team managers should be able to work alongside the team on projects, constantly seeking better techniques, learning new programming languages, and bringing more goods to the table. Not only will this objectively propel the project forward, but it will communicate with the coworkers that they can listen to the manager since they truly understand what is going on. 5. Organization Having the ability to stay organized is very important. All information you receive from the team should be kept in a manner which is easily accessible and comprehensible so that no time will be wasted digging for knowledge that is essential to the progression of the team. 6. Regular meetings/check-ups with team members With all the progress from the team’s efforts, it’s important that the leader make connections with the team through regular one-on-one meetings to understand their current progress, motivate and challenge them, and ensure that the social dynamics within the team are balanced. 7. Praise If you want your software development team to be motivated, the project manager should ensure they praise each member and the team collectively, even when it comes to minor improvements. Psychologists have discovered that when one positively supports or reinforces a behavior, the person is more likely to continue that behavior in the future. The leader should focus on positive reinforcements rather than negative threats or tactics to motivate the team – these simply scare everyone involved and lead to a decrease in productivity. 8. Dealing with conflict In a team full of people with different programming backgrounds and ideas, there is bound to be at least some conflict amongst the team about which course of action to take. It’s important that the leader uses negotiation skills to resolve conflict and adjust the decision-making process so that it is in the best interest of the team. 9. Flexibility With today’s fast-paced and varying business environment, the team manager should be able to “go with the flow”. The ability to be flexible relies on self-awareness, the relationships that the leader has with coworkers, and the ability to ensure that everyone can share their views. The leader should be able to facilitate conversations rather than dominating them and should be willing to accept advice and constructive criticism without getting defensive. 10. Remembering The Position In the midst of the work environment within the development team, it’s important for the manager to remember that they are supposed to manage the people involved in a group effort. Teams can fail not because of technology, but because of the management style. Hiring, coaching, and managing people in a productive yet nurturing environment is essential for a software development project manager to steer the group in the right direction. In the case your company doesn’t want to hire someone externally or can’t find a person with all of these qualities, you still have the option of hiring other companies to do the software development for you. SDI has worked in the technology industry for over a decade, developing software for small and large companies, startups, and enterprises. Our software development professionals will use their skills and knowledge to ensure that your company reaches success. Interested in hiring professional software developers? Call Rob LaPointe at 408.802.2885 or fill out our contact us form for more information.