All posts by Matt Porter

EV, Hydrogen Vehicles

Renault’s HYVIA Unveils New Renault Master Van H2-TECH: A Leap into Hydrogen-Powered Mobility

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During the European Hydrogen Week, HYVIA, a venture of Renault Group, showcased its innovative approach to sustainable transportation at the SOLUTRANS motor show. The highlight was the new architecture of the Renault Master Van H2-TECH, a hydrogen-powered vehicle designed to meet the growing demands of professional users and contribute to a greener future.

Innovating for a Greener Future

HYVIA’s latest offering includes three new versions of the Renault Master Van H2-TECH: L2H2, L3H2, and L3H3, each tailored to different professional needs. The L3H2 version, already fitted out as a workshop vehicle, and the L3H3+ version for after-sales operations were showcased at the event. These models exemplify HYVIA’s commitment to providing versatile, eco-friendly transportation solutions for various commercial uses.

Innovating for a Greener Future
Innovating for a Greener Future

Advanced Features for Enhanced Performance

The new H2-TECH vans boast impressive features like zero emissions, a refuelling time of fewer than five minutes, and a range of up to 320 km in cold weather conditions. They also offer increased payload capacities and various conversion options, such as for emergency urban interventions or refrigerated vehicles. The integration of under-body hydrogen storage and a fuel cell in the engine compartment ensures a seamless design without compromising on load volume or payload capacities​.

A Step Towards Hydrogen-Powered Logistics

The L3H3+ version, which has been on the road since early 2023, is particularly suited for intensive logistics operations. This model provides a zero-emission solution with 405 km of autonomy, a payload of one tonne, and partners like CHRONOPOST and ENGIE among its initial users​.

A Future-Ready Approach

Looking ahead, HYVIA is developing a new generation of hydrogen-powered vans to be launched in 2025. This future line, based on the New Renault Master, will be produced at Renault’s Batilly plant in France and incorporate advanced hydrogen technology from the HYVIA site in Flint.

Supporting a Hydrogen Ecosystem

HYVIA isn’t just about vehicles; it’s about creating a sustainable hydrogen ecosystem. This includes HYWELL™ refuelling stations in partnership with Atawey, financing solutions tailored to customer needs, and strategic after-sales services through the Renault Pro+ network. These initiatives demonstrate HYVIA’s holistic approach to fostering hydrogen mobility​.

HYVIA’s unveiling of the new Renault Master Van H2-TECH marks a significant step towards sustainable commercial transport. With innovative designs, advanced features, and a comprehensive support system, HYVIA is paving the way for a greener, more efficient future in mobility. This exciting development reaffirms Renault’s commitment to decarbonizing road transport and its leadership in the hydrogen mobility sector.

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Apple Embraces RCS Messaging on iPhones: A Subtle yet Significant Shift.

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Apple’s recent announcement about supporting Rich Communication Services (RCS) on iPhones has caused quite a stir in the tech community. This move, which integrates a standard long-resisted by Apple, signals a significant shift in the company’s approach to messaging services. We delve into the implications of this development, guided by insights from Dario Betti, CEO of the Mobile Ecosystem Forum (MEF).

A Politically Balanced Approach

Dario Betti comments, “Apple had resisted integrating the standard until now: its CEO, Tim Cook, said it did not see customer demand for RCS in 2022. The announcement is a politically balanced approach: it introduces the new technology without celebrating it.” This reflects Apple’s strategy to incorporate new technology while maintaining its stronghold with iMessage and its business messaging ventures. Betti adds, “It is an RCS announcement, and not an ‘RBM’ (RCS Business Messaging), but the news is big – even if expected to an extent.”

Impact on the Messaging Ecosystem

While this announcement marks a notable change, Betti believes it’s too late to unsettle established players like WhatsApp. He states, “The announcement is too late to provide a real worry for a player such as WhatsApp. The change will not affect its usage base immediately.” However, he doesn’t rule out the potential challenges for Meta and other messaging companies if Google and Apple push for deeper integration of RCS in the future.

Why Now? The Driving Factors Behind Apple’s Move

The reasons behind Apple’s decision to support RCS are multifaceted. Betti suggests, “User Experience: SMS/MMS interconnection for advanced messaging was becoming unsustainable for Apple. Messaging is now much more advanced.” He also points out the growing RCS uptake, noting, “MEF announced in October that there are an estimated 1.2 billion devices supporting RCS globally, surpassing the number of iPhones.” Additionally, regulatory pressure from the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which aims for messaging interconnection, likely played a role in this decision.

Conclusion

Apple’s integration of RCS is more than a mere technical update; it’s a strategic move that balances its existing services with the evolving demands of the market and regulatory pressures. While it might not immediately disrupt the messaging landscape, it lays the groundwork for potential shifts in the future. Apple’s step towards RCS reflects a broader trend in the tech world – the continual evolution and adaptation to changing user needs and regulatory environments.

For more detailed insights on Apple’s RCS announcement, visit 9to5Mac. Stay tuned for more tech updates and analyses at The Gadget Man.

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The Gadget Man – Episode 176 – Navigating the UK’s Mobile App Landscape in 2023: Trends, Top Apps, and Starling Bank’s Innovative Service

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I was delighted to talk to Vic Minett on BBC Radio CWR this morning about app trends in 2023. Building on that exciting conversation, welcome to our tech blog, where we delve into the dynamic world of mobile apps in the UK. Today, we explore the prevailing trends of 2023, spotlighting the most popular apps and an exciting service from Starling Bank.

Mobile App Trends in 2023

The past few years have reshaped mobile app marketing. The pandemic-induced demand surge has now given way to a focus on long-term retention and privacy. Marketers must be adaptable, and efficient, and prioritize personalisation. As privacy regulations tighten, holistic performance assessment becomes critical​.

Popular Apps in the UK

In 2022, Facebook and Messenger led the pack, with WhatsApp and Instagram following closely. Notably, Instagram shows a notable gender disparity in its user base. In the realm of e-commerce, Amazon, eBay, and Apple dominated mobile shopping​.

Starling Bank’s “Share the Load” Service

In the midst of these trends, Starling Bank’s “Share the Load” initiative stands out. Aimed at fostering financial equality within households, this service exemplifies how financial institutions are innovating to meet modern needs. It’s a reflection of how apps are evolving beyond traditional confines to play more significant roles in our daily lives​​.

Apps to Watch

Video content remains dominant, with TikTok leading the charge. Gen Z’s preferences are steering the market towards platforms like BeReal​.

Conclusion

The mobile app landscape in 2023 is defined by privacy, personalization, and user experience. With apps like those from Starling Bank pushing boundaries, the sector continues to innovate and adapt. Stay tuned for more insights into the ever-evolving world of technology.

 

2023, BBC Radio Hereford and Worcester, Broadband, Ultrafast Broadband Rollout

Gadget Man – Episode 175 – The Copper Switch Off: A Necessary Evil or a Step too Far?

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This morning, I had an enlightening discussion with Tammy Gooding on BBC Radio Hereford and Worcester regarding the ongoing broadband infrastructure enhancements, particularly in light of the Copper Switch-off as announced by Openreach. This move is all about transitioning from the traditional copper wire systems to a more robust and faster digital infrastructure, aiming to future-proof our towns and villages.

However, not everyone seems to be on board with this tech transition, as exemplified by the recent uproar in the picturesque Worcestershire village of Broadway. The crux of the matter unfurled as broadband poles started sprouting up, much to the dismay of the local populace. It seems Full Fibre, the provider spearheading this initiative, hit a nerve when their wooden poles, standing tall at up to 11 meters, started altering the village skyline.

The discontent among the residents morphed into a full-blown protest, with nearly 80 individuals rallying to halt the erection of these broadband poles in Avrill Close. The agitation escalated when a 75-year-old villager, David Owen, took a stance quite literally by spending more than four hours in one of the lorries brought in by the contractors.

This brings us to the question – is the infrastructural overhaul a necessary leap towards a digital future or an imposition disregarding the public sentiment? I tend to lean towards the necessity of upgrading our digital infrastructure, especially when the world is rapidly shifting towards a more connected existence. The Copper Switch off, as discussed on Openreach’s blog post, is a significant stride towards ensuring that the UK’s telecommunications infrastructure is not left in the digital dust.

The saga in Broadway sheds light on the teething issues that such infrastructural transitions entail. On one side, we have Full Fibre asserting their commitment to addressing concerns and emphasizing the critical nature of their work in upgrading the UK’s digital skeleton. On the flip side, the residents feel slighted, their concerns seemingly brushed under the rug, as they see these poles as nothing more than “ugly eyesores” marring their beautiful village.

Lisa Kelly, a villager, encapsulated the general sentiment by stating that they already have satisfactory broadband speeds and do not see the need for these poles. The word “disenfranchised” was used, painting a picture of a community feeling left out of a decision that directly impacts them.

The episode also invited the presence of West Mercia Police officers to ensure the situation remained under control, illustrating the extent of discord between the advancement of digital infrastructure and public approval.

These infrastructural enhancements are a double-edged sword. They promise a digital leap but at the cost of unsettling the communal harmony, at least temporarily. The Broadway scenario is a microcosm of the broader dialogue between technological advancement and community consent.

The future is exciting, but the path there should be paved with understanding and cooperation.

Audio, Gadget Man, Matt Porter, Microphones, Review, Technology, The Gadget Man

Joby Wavo Boom Arm Review: The Perfect Companion for Content Creators

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Having recently adopted the Wavo Boom Arm into my streaming and podcasting setup, it’s hard to envision a time without it. This piece of equipment truly stands as a testament to Joby’s commitment to professional-grade products for the modern content creator.

Right off the bat, the arm is seamlessly tailored for the Wavo Pod Microphone. It boasts a steady, high-quality construction, ensuring that your microphone is held securely and remains in prime position throughout your recording or streaming sessions. With its impressive payload of up to 1kg, you have the flexibility to integrate various microphones, accommodating even the weightier ones with ease.

Joby Wavo Boom Arm Review: The Perfect Companion for Content Creators
Joby Wavo Boom Arm Review: The Perfect Companion for Content Creators

Aesthetically, the Wavo Boom Arm is a masterpiece. The multicoloured stripes ingeniously hide cables, lending to a clean and contemporary appearance that’s often missing in other boom arms. The matte black shell not only offers a chic look but also provides an added safety feature, shielding users from accidental pinches. Furthermore, the option to personalise the arm with red or black solid rubber covers allows users to maintain a tidy desk space, particularly useful for those like myself who can’t stand a cluttered workspace.

Joby Wavo Boom Arm Review: The Perfect Companion for Content Creators
Joby Wavo Boom Arm Review: The Perfect Companion for Content Creators

The universal attachment is yet another feather in its cap. It effortlessly supports both microphones and cameras, making it perfect for versatile content creation needs. Whether you’re streaming a podcast, or setting up for a top-down tech review, this boom arm is up to the task.

The innovative clamp design is a genuine game-changer. With rubber protections on both top and bottom, there’s no fretting over potential desk damage. It affixes firmly to any surface, ensuring the arm remains steady throughout its range of motion. Plus, the addition of a desk grommet option offers flexibility in setup, catering to individual workspace preferences.

Joby Wavo Boom Arm Review: The Perfect Companion for Content Creators
Joby Wavo Boom Arm Review: The Perfect Companion for Content Creators

But the pièce de résistance has to be the unique JOBY design integrating both a cup and headphones holder. It’s this sort of practical thinking that genuinely showcases the brand’s understanding of its user base. No more scrambling around for headphones or risking liquid mishaps; everything is neatly organised, optimising the entire content creation experience.

Priced at £86.95, it might appear as a hefty investment to some. But given its impeccable design, multifunctionality, and the sheer quality of material used – primarily aluminium – it’s worth every penny.

Really impressed with the build quality and ease of use. This is a really good addition to my setup and I love using it for sound recording.

Audio, Bluetooth, Earbuds, Music

Edifier’s NeoBuds Pro 2: The Pinnacle of Earbud Technology for Audiophiles

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In a world where the audio industry continually evolves, there’s always something fresh on the horizon for audiophiles. The latest entrant vying for a spot in the premium segment of personal audio devices is the NeoBuds Pro 2 by Edifier, a brand synonymous with quality and innovation. With its groundbreaking technology and elegant design, the NeoBuds Pro 2 is here to set new benchmarks in the realm of auditory experience.

Edifier's NeoBuds Pro 2: The Pinnacle of Earbud Technology for Audiophiles
Edifier’s NeoBuds Pro 2: The Pinnacle of Earbud Technology for Audiophiles

At the heart of this cutting-edge product is the patented Edifier Wide-Band Multi-Channel ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) technology. This feature broadens the noise cancellation depth to a staggering -50dB and the bandwidth to 5kHz, which is a notable advancement in the ANC domain. It’s not just about silencing the world around you; it’s about immersing you in a sound experience like no other.

One of the standout features of NeoBuds Pro 2 is the Spatial Audio with Visualized Head-Tracking technology. This innovative feature, aided by a built-in gyrometer and accelerometer, tracks your head movements to adjust the sound stage, offering a 3D auditory feast that surrounds you with lifelike audio from every angle. With the Edifier Connect App, you can visualize this technology in action, taking your listening experience to a whole new level.

Edifier's NeoBuds Pro 2: The Pinnacle of Earbud Technology for Audiophiles
Edifier’s NeoBuds Pro 2: The Pinnacle of Earbud Technology for Audiophiles

Now, let’s talk about the quality of music streaming. The NeoBuds Pro 2 makes streaming over Bluetooth, supporting up to 192kHz/24bit, a reality for the first time, thanks to the latest LHDC 5.0 HD codec. This is a leap from the standard streaming quality, offering audio enthusiasts high-resolution streaming over Bluetooth.

Edifier didn’t stop at just delivering superior sound quality; the brand went a step further to enhance the calling experience. With 4+4 built-in microphones paired with an AI voice pick-up algorithm, the earbuds effectively filter out environmental and wind noise, ensuring crystal clear calls, regardless of where you are.

The NeoBuds Pro 2 doesn’t shy away from showcasing its Hi-Res certification. Boasting a Knowles balanced armature driver, composite diaphragm dynamic drivers, and an array of audio coding including LDAC, LHDC, SBC, and AAC, these earbuds are truly a cut above the rest. The Superior Digital Signal Processing with Active Cross-Over further refines the audio signal, ensuring precise sound details and a rich presentation.

For gamers and those who love an immersive audio-visual experience, the low latency audio gaming mode is a boon. This feature significantly enhances the gaming experience by reducing audio lag, ensuring what you see on screen matches what you hear in real-time.

The design also embodies a blend of elegance and durability. With IP54 dust and splash resistance, these earbuds are your perfect companion whether you’re working out or caught in a drizzle. The fit is personalized with seven different sized ear tips, ensuring comfort for all ear shapes and sizes.

Battery life is often a concern with wireless earbuds, but not with the NeoBuds Pro 2. The fast-charging feature coupled with long playback capability provides 22 hours of battery life from the charging case alone, while a quick 15-minute charge offers two hours of playback time.

The aesthetic appeal is not left behind; the sleek design accompanied by a textured metal plate and changeable LED strip light mirrors the sophistication of a supercar.

Available at a price of £129.99, the Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 is a steal for the plethora of features it offers. It’s not just a pair of earbuds; it’s a statement of luxury and value for audiophiles seeking the next level of audio experience. Check them out here

With the NeoBuds Pro 2, Edifier has indeed raised the bar in the personal audio segment, proving once again that high-end audio technology can be both accessible and affordable.

Furniture, Gaming

Slip into ultimate comfort and cool with Trust’s latest range of gaming chairs

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A new generation of durable chairs, the GXT 703 Riye and GXT 714 Ruya support gamers in style on their adventures

Leading digital lifestyle accessories brand, Trust Electronics Ltd, is pleased to announce the launch of its latest gaming chairs, the GXT 703 Riye and GXT 714 Ruya. Both comfortable and stylish, they are built to be durable and breathable to support gamers for long periods of time. With each chair available in various colours with slightly different features and style, there will be an option to fit into any gaming setup. The Trust GXT 703 Riye Gaming Chair is available for RRP £129.99 from Very and the GXT 714 Ruya Gaming Chair is available for RRP £199.99 from Very.

Slip into ultimate comfort and cool with Trust’s latest range of gaming chairs
Slip into ultimate comfort and cool with Trust’s latest range of gaming chairs

Long gaming sessions require chairs that are just as much up to the challenge as the gamers who sit in them. With the launch of the Riye and Ruya Gaming Chairs, Trust unleashes a new generation of comfortable, stylish and durable chairs to support players on all gaming adventures.

With totally new designs, the Riye and the Ruya both represent a stylish shift towards the future for Trust’s line of gaming chairs. Specifically created with comfort and durability in mind, both consist of breathable fabric to keep gamers feeling fresh on even the hottest of days, along with durable PU leather and high-density foam that enable players to sink into unbeatable comfort for as long as they need.

Each chair has its own special features too: futuristic and predatory, the Riye allows gamers to fully express their personality with its sleek and stylish design. Height adjustable, it allows players to rise to new heights, and even has flip-arm armrests that offer support when needed and freedom of movement when not.

Alternatively, the Ruya’s clean and effortless design is ideal for gamers looking for a cool chair that will fit right into their bedroom or gaming space. With a fully adjustable height, backrest, 3D armrests and a tilt-lock feature, gamers can find the perfect position to win; whilst removable lumbar and neck cushions offer comfort from dawn till dusk. For the greener gamer, the Ruya also has a wooden frame made out of sustainable FSC®-certified wood.

The Riye is available in Black, Red and White whilst the Ruya is available in Black and Red, offering gamers a plethora of options to find the perfect fit for their gaming environment.

The Trust GXT 703 Riye Gaming Chair is available for RRP £129.99 from Very and the GXT 714 Ruya Gaming Chair is available for RRP £199.99 from Very.

BBC Radio Kent, Gadget Man, Retro Gadgets

The Relics of Technology: A Stroll Down Memory Lane

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In the rapidly evolving world of technology, it’s easy to forget the gadgets and gizmos that once dominated our lives. Today, we’ll take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminiscing about the tech tools that have faded into the annals of history.

  1. Floppy Disks and CD-ROMs:
    Once, the clunky floppy disks and shimmering CD-ROMs were our only recourse to data storage and transfer. They have now gracefully bowed out, making way for sleek USB drives, capacious external hard drives, and the omnipresent cloud storage that promises accessibility from every corner of the globe.
  2. VHS Tapes and VCRs:
    The ritual of rewinding VHS tapes and the magic of VCRs bringing images to life on screen are chapters from a bygone era. They’ve been overshadowed by the crisp clarity of DVDs, Blu-rays, and the instant gratification delivered by streaming services.
  3. Fax Machines:
    The whirring and buzzing of fax machines, once music to the ears of office-goers have been replaced by the silent, instantaneous delivery of emails and other digital communication channels.
  4. BlackBerry:
    Once the pinnacle of business communication with its iconic QWERTY keyboard, BlackBerry has been overshadowed by the touchscreen revolution led by smartphones that offer an array of features and applications making communication and management seamless.

    Once the pinnacle of business communication with its iconic QWERTY keyboard, BlackBerry has been overshadowed by the touchscreen revolution led by smartphones that offer an array of features and applications making communication and management seamless.
    Once the pinnacle of business communication with its iconic QWERTY keyboard, BlackBerry has been overshadowed by the touchscreen revolution led by smartphones that offer an array of features and applications making communication and management seamless.
  5. The Pager:
    The humble pager, a precursor to the mobile revolution, once clipped to belts, has quietly retreated to the shadows as smartphones dominate the communication landscape with various features unimaginable back in the day.
  6. Film Cameras:
    The instant gratification of digital photography has replaced the thrill of loading film and the patience of development. Though a niche of enthusiasts still cherishes the craft of film photography, digital cameras and smartphones have become our lenses to the world.
  7. CRT Monitors:
    The bulky CRT monitors that once occupied desks were replaced by sleek LCD and LED monitors, marking a significant leap in aesthetics and technology.
  8. Cassette Tapes and Players:
    The tactile joy of flipping a cassette tape is a forgotten pleasure. Digital audio and streaming services have ensnared the auditory senses with a promise of endless playlists.
  9. Typewriters:
    The rhythmic clacking of typewriter keys is a sound from a bygone era, replaced by the soft tapping on modern-day keyboards as computers and word-processing software took over.
  10. Rotary Phones:
    The nostalgic spin of the rotary dial has been replaced by the swift taps on touch-tone and mobile phones, making communication faster and smoother.

Each piece of outdated technology carries with it stories and memories that shaped the era they belonged to. As we embrace the new, it’s a sweet reminiscence to look back at the tech relics that paved the path for today’s digital wonderland.

You can also listen in to my chat with Steve Ladner on BBC Radio Kent by clicking on the play button at the top of the post

Apple, iPhone

Apple’s Transition to USB-C: Embracing a Universal Standard

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In an era marked by innovation and competition, even the tech giants must occasionally adjust their sails in the winds of change. Apple has recently confirmed that it will phase out its signature Lightning connector on its iPhones, a move prompted by the new European regulations. With the EU’s mandate that all smartphones sold after autumn 2024 use USB-C connectors for charging, the countdown for a universal charging standard begins.

Why the Regulatory Push?

The European Union’s decision to standardize charging ports comes from an environmentally driven perspective. Their aim is to:

  1. Reduce Electronic Waste: Multiple charging cables for various devices contribute significantly to electronic waste. A universal standard can potentially reduce the number of cables manufactured, thus lowering waste.
  2. Promote Consumer Convenience: With a single universal charging port, consumers won’t have to scramble for device-specific chargers or carry multiple cables.
  3. Foster Competition: A standardised charging solution can spur competition, driving manufacturers to innovate in other areas of smartphone design and functionality.

Apple’s Path Forward

While Apple’s decision to transition from the Lightning connector is primarily driven by the EU’s regulations, it also presents the company with an opportunity:

  1. Align with Other Products: Apple’s MacBook and iPad Pro have already adopted the USB-C standard. Transitioning the iPhone ensures a seamless experience across all Apple devices.
  2. Future Innovations: As previously speculated, Apple may be looking to develop a port-less iPhone relying solely on wireless charging and data transfer. The phasing out of the Lightning port might be a step in that direction.
  3. Access to a Broader Ecosystem: USB-C is widely adopted in a range of tech products. iPhones having USB-C can potentially integrate better with other tech products and accessories in the market.

Potential Challenges

  1. Transition Period: The switch may mean that many existing iPhone users with Lightning accessories, like earphones and chargers, might find them redundant. Apple might need to offer solutions or trade-ins for these accessories.
  2. Market Differentiation: One of the ways Apple maintained its unique ecosystem was through its proprietary ports and connectors. Moving to a universal standard might challenge Apple to find new ways to differentiate itself in the market.

Apple’s decision to adopt USB-C, while regulatory in nature, signifies an important shift towards a more standardised and environmentally conscious tech world. While challenges lie ahead, the move promises a future where convenience and sustainability are at the forefront of technological advancement.

Business, Helpful Articles, Helpful Guides

Three Ways To Elevate Your Business Success

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When running your own business, you should always be on the lookout for your next opportunity to grow. This will enable you to stay ahead of your competitors and become a leader in your industry while also increasing your revenue quite considerably. 

With that in mind, here are three ways in which you can begin to elevate your business success. 

Three Ways To Elevate Your Business Success
Three Ways To Elevate Your Business Success

Invest in the best equipment.

When first starting in the business world, you’ll likely look for ways to cut costs wherever possible. After all, this helps you to preserve your budget and can help you to increase your revenue. However, there are some aspects of your business that you should be willing to invest in, such as business tools and equipment.

For example, if you need to carry out underwater surveying and mapping, investing in products such as a side scan sonar can make the entire process much more straightforward and less time-consuming. Furthermore, it also means that your results are more accurate than if you were using outdated equipment or tools. As such, investing in this kind of equipment will bring forth a much greater ROI for your business.

Take care of your employees.

Taking care of your employees and ensuring their needs are met within the workplace is another great way to take your business from strength to strength. After all, when employees feel respected within the workplace, they’re likely to work harder. This means that you may notice productivity and efficiency rates skyrocket or that you reach targets much quicker than expected. It also means you won’t have to deal with too much employee turnover, which can also help to protect your bottom line. 

Fortunately, there are many ways in which you can begin to take better care of your employees. For example, you can use technology to your advantage and automate specific tasks or duties, reducing their workload quite considerably. This way, they do not feel overworked or burnt out. Additionally, you should provide them with access to plenty of growth opportunities, whether this be through on-site mentoring or training courses. This will help them take the next steps in your career, but the more skilled your team is, the better your business will perform, meaning it’s a mutually beneficial endeavour!  

Listen to your customers. 

While the phrase “the customer is always right” often sends shivers through the spine of anyone who has worked in customer service, it is crucial that you take the time to really listen to your customers when running a business. 

As such, moving forward, you should place a real emphasis on good customer service, both in-person and over the phone. After all, “81% of customers say that a positive customer service experience is what pushes them to make another purchase.” Furthermore, you should ask for regular feedback from your customers, whether this be through email or by hosting focus groups. You can take this feedback on board to make meaningful changes that strengthen your relationship and improve your business practices.