Business Solutions & Software Group Blog

Lately, there's been a string of computer security issues making the news, like the vulnerability found within Internet Explorer, the Heartbleed bug, and the host of issues associated with the recently-expired Windows XP. Is it possible that the security patches issued by Microsoft are making the problem worse for users of older systems like Windows XP?

The other day, we introduced you to "the most connected human on Earth", Chris Dancy, and his story. Dancy had lost his job due to corporate downsizing, which in turn led the former IT manager to use his knowledge for the study of quantitative technologies and systems as part of a "quantitative life existence." In this second installment of our interview, Chris is going to explain how you too can lead a similar lifestyle.

Most tech-savvy people in this world will agree that if technology can provide the benefits it promises, it is worth giving a shot. However, these same people might feel uneasy about using technology to monitor so much of their personal lives. For Chris, it's about the differentiation between the "augmented self" that is displayed over the Internet, and your real-world self. Ultimately, the user has to lay down the fine line between shareable and non shareable, and it's up to you to determine what information you broadcast online and what you keep to yourself.

However, a person needs to be careful not to be too involved with their "augmented life". Rather, they should focus on finding balance between their online presence and their own earthly existence. Chris believes that taking advantage of as much technology as possible can ensure a successful future. Wired Magazine explains, "Dancy doesn't think that all tracking is necessarily positive, but he's fatalistic about the future. Even if workers reject more Orwellian surveillance from employers — or companies determine these measures to be counterproductive — individual workers will likely use self-tracking to gain a competitive edge."

How To Make Quantitative Technology Your Own
You might feel ready to get involved with quantitative technology, but you should carefully consider the benefits of it before doing so. There are so many types of technology that can be used to segue into a data-driven existence, and it might seem a bit overwhelming if you don't know what to look for. Chris offered Business Solutions & Software Group some advice for the average tech user wishing to adopt this new lifestyle.

• "Start at home. Put a nest thermostat in your house. Understand how the thermostat uses weather and behavior to self adjust. Watch it change as the climate changes. Watch it learn." With a smartphone-connected thermostat, you'll be able to adjust the temperature of your home from anywhere, and gather information at the same time. It's the perfect first step toward integrating more technology into your life.
• "Then get a fitbit. Wear it all the time, but only look at the data every two weeks. Then use that data and compare it to your schedule, see if you can find patterns." The fitbit, for Chris, has come with health benefits. Chris stated in an interview with FOX Business that he lost 100 pounds thanks to his lifestyle allowing him to track his health habits!
• "Stay off the 'news hype' 'tech fetish' cycle. There will always be something new and cool to talk about with peers and friends. Learn who you are and what you do. Work in 2020 is about awareness of information and how people will live a data-driven lifestyle."

With so much technology at his disposal, Chris is bound to have some favorites. We asked him the question, "If you had to limit yourself to five, which five would you choose?" In response, Chris selected a few of his favorites. So, if you are looking to quantify your life with lots of useful technology, these are a must.

1. A fitness tracker (anything on the market, like the Fitbit Flex)
2. Wireless scale (anything on the market, like the Fitbit Aria)
3. Automatic (a car sensor)
4. Cube Sensor (an environmental sensor)
5. Evernote

Outfit Your Business Plan For the Quantitative Revolution!
If you want your company to succeed in the near future, contact Business Solutions & Software Group. We can provide you with all of the skills you need to put your business at the head of the pack. We asked Mr. Dancy what his thoughts were about what to look for in an IT company when seeking to expand your technological horizons. Chris suggests that businesses ask about three specific technical topics when looking for a knowledgeable IT provider- "What is your time frame for 'location aware', 'proximity-based', and 'wearable' technology integration? If they can't answer at least one, change IT providers today."

• Location Aware - Devices that use technologies like GPS to deliver specific information based on your location.
• Proximity-Based Technology - A wide variety of devices that connect over WiFi, Bluetooth, or NFC (Near Field Communication) connections to deliver analytics and information.
• Wearable Technology Integration - Devices like smart watches, Google Glass, and fitness trackers, that makes Internet-connected technology even more mobile.

Business Solutions & Software Group knows all about the latest tech trends. Don't let the technology revolution leave your business in the dust. Call us at (954) 575-3992 today, and we'll help you transform your business into "the most connected business on Earth!"

Learn more about Chris Dancy by checking out his website: http://www.chrisdancy.com/

Chris Dancy is known far and wide for being "the most connected human on earth", but how exactly does he do it? It's much easier than some people think. He takes advantage of the numerous technologies and systems available, and they all work together to track his every move. Why would he want to do this? It's not for bragging rights, as some might say - rather, it is all about a "quantified life existence." To find out what this means, we got a chance to interview Chris about his tech journey.

Apple's iOS 7.1.1. operating system has been affected by a series of bugs throughout this month. The first bug was emails being sent unencrypted, but now a new threat lurks in the shadows - a lock screen flaw that allows hackers to access your contacts list without unlocking the phone.

Microsoft has announced that, unless you upgrade to Windows 8.1 Update (think of it like a service pack) users will no longer receive updates and support for Windows 8.1. The deadline was set for May 13th, but Microsoft bailed on this deadline the day before it would pass and, instead, extended the deadline. The update is crucial if you are using Windows 8.1 and desire to continue receiving patches for the operating system.