The Chicago Journal

The Chicago Journal
The Chicago Journal

Transforming Economies with No-code Platforms

The Chicago Journal Staff on April 24, 2024

By: Mr. Sapnesh Agrawal, Director of Engineering, Gathr Data Inc.

If you are searching for an adaptable software solution due to inefficiencies detected within your business, where the team is not performing optimally, and you seek to overcome barriers to efficacy and collaboration, you are aware of the urgent need for a flexible solution. The market offers countless possibilities primarily categorized into two options: software development and software acquisition.

The significant issue needs to be answered before you begin evaluating vendors: should you use a no-code development platform to build your own custom software, or should you buy off-the-shelf software to address the issue? Examine your company’s requirements in more detail and assess the benefits and drawbacks of each choice.

Build vs. Buy: What is it? 

First, clarify what ‘build’ and ‘buy’ mean in the context of software. When building software is chosen as the solution, it needs to undergo some engineering or development boost. A built solution makes it easier to customize software to meet a business’s requirements and gives the buyer the freedom to choose how the program will be used.

It used to take a lot of IT and development resources to implement and build solutions. However, as low-code and no-code technology have advanced and vendors have placed more of an emphasis on continuing support, build solutions have become less dependent on skilled coders and more commonly utilized throughout business operations.

Purchasing software denotes acquiring a solution that is ‘out-of-the-box’ and ready for use. Vendors create software specifically designed to address particular issues, which are then marketed to end-users in businesses. Purchased solutions typically allow for minimal customization and do not require developers to write additional code after purchase.

Point solutions are a common type of software purchase. They are designed to enhance specific business operations. While business users can easily adopt this software, it may not integrate well with other programs already in use. Point solutions—and purchased solutions in general—often fulfill specific requirements at the expense of other processes.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing Software

Ease of Deployment

An online point solution is a desirable option for many companies searching for a quick answer to a critical business issue. Neither hardware acquisition nor IT system upkeep is necessary. It is simple to deploy and immediately functional right out of the box. To help with common business processes like project management, IT service management, customer support, and HR onboarding, they receive a set of prebuilt features that they may use immediately. Additionally, since the service provider handles security, software updates, and scalability, they do not need to be concerned about any of it.

This might be the ideal solution for you, and it is for many businesses out there if your data and process needs are generic and static and you do not mind a one-size-fits-all approach.

Absence of a Custom Solution

Point solutions are meant for a wide range of users and specifically address issues in areas that all businesses use (like ITSM or CRM). Finding an appropriate out-of-the-box solution will, therefore, likely lead to disappointment if you are seeking custom software that falls outside the scope of typical mainstream operations, such as a system to more effectively support internal compliance efforts. Single-purpose, prebuilt solutions provide a “what you see is what you get” experience. They are not designed to be easily modified or improved in the future.

When choosing a stand-alone system approach to problem-solving, many businesses wind up installing several systems from various vendors. If systems can be integrated at all, it will be necessary to become familiar with their various data formats, comprehend their business principles, and use application programming interfaces (APIs) to establish connections.

How to Determine Whether to Build or Buy

The benefits and drawbacks of every kind of software have been discussed, but how can you decide if you should create your own or buy software? 

Here are some things to think about for your company when you make that choice:

Scope of Software

How many stakeholders will your new software require interaction from? A paid-point solution might work well if the user pool is limited to a small number of internal users and processes. A more comprehensive piece of software makes more financial sense if the task that the new solution is intended to solve calls for access from external users and input from several data sources.

Need for Adaptability and Customization

Is the process you plan to fix specific to one department or a component of larger inefficiencies inside the company? As things change over time, will you require any additional software? Software purchases are an easy fix if the issue is known. Custom building software is the way to go if several tasks need to be integrated into a single program or if you plan to gradually incorporate more processes into your solution.

Cost

The cost of developing versus buying solutions varies greatly based on functionality. Depending on the business case, more expensive, time- and resource-intensive solutions may be less cost-effective and have a lower overall value for the company.

You can create an app using no-code platforms for a fraction of the price of custom development. The subscription fee for the platforms represents your dedication to no-code creation. A start-up optimized plan typically costs between $100 and several hundred dollars a month. You might still want to go with no-code development for most of the apps, even if you have a large budget to deal with. It is easy to see why. Compared to manual coding, no-code is far more effective at transforming business processes into apps.

Time

Building a normal app with bespoke development takes two to five months on average. You can cut the delivery timetable in half by using no-code. An app can be available in two to three weeks instead of taking months to develop.

Time is a valuable resource, particularly for new business owners. If you utilize the no-code strategy, you will have the advantage over those who would spend months developing an app. In the least amount of time feasible, you can release the app onto the market and begin receiving user feedback.

Should you Buy or Build Software?

Transforming Economies with No-code Platforms

Photo Courtesy: Sapnesh Agrawal

The final question is: What should you select after learning about the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing software vs. developing custom software? And what important variables should you consider in the process? It depends on a straightforward response!

When you decide it’s time to purchase technology to solve an issue inside your company, you need to take several variables into account to determine which option is best for you.

For most firms, creating their own solution using a no-code development platform is the most efficient approach. Single-purpose apps are becoming less and less attractive as alternatives to platforms that let line of business executives create custom solutions without the need for expert coders. 

By using drag-and-drop components, no-code technologies shield users from the coding portion of software development. No-code platforms have given rise to aesthetically pleasing and practical programs from clever concepts. Businesses create apps by dragging the building blocks onto the app interface, rather than learning how to code.

Selecting no-code development results in easier and less expensive maintenance and updates, as you can modify the app without the assistance of professional programmers; it just requires adjusting the app’s building blocks.

Published by: Martin De Juan

Leonardo Gusmão Araújo Photography during Extreme Weather

The Chicago Journal Staff on April 24, 2024

Photography under extreme weather conditions can transform an ordinary scene into a stunning spectacle. Whether it’s capturing the ferocity of a storm, the elegance of a snow-blanketed landscape, or the drama of a desert at high noon, extreme weather offers unique opportunities for powerful imagery. However, these conditions also pose significant challenges, not only for capturing compelling images but also for protecting equipment and ensuring the photographer’s safety. This article provides practical advice for photographers like Leonardo Gusmão Araújo, who often venture into unpredictable environments to capture their breathtaking shots.

Understanding and Preparing for Weather Conditions

Research and Planning

Before heading out, it’s crucial to thoroughly research and understand the weather conditions you will be facing. Use weather apps and websites to track weather patterns and alerts. Knowing the forecast can help you prepare for the specific challenges of the day, whether that’s extreme cold, heat, rain, or wind.

Gear Preparation

Protecting your camera and lenses from extreme conditions is paramount. Use weather-sealed camera bodies and lenses when possible. For additional protection, consider using rain covers or even makeshift protections like plastic bags secured with rubber bands. In cold weather, keep spare batteries warm by storing them close to your body, as cold can drain battery life rapidly.

Techniques for Different Weather Conditions

Capturing Rain and Storms

Rain and storms can add a dramatic element to your photos. To capture rainfall, use a fast shutter speed. This freezes the raindrops, creating a sharp image of the rain in action. For a softer, more ethereal effect, a slower shutter speed will turn the rain into elegant streaks across the frame.

Lightning photography requires patience and safety precautions. Use a tripod and set your camera to a long exposure to capture multiple strikes. Always ensure you are a safe distance from the storm, preferably shooting from shelter.

Snow and Ice Photography

Snow and ice alter the landscape dramatically, offering a clean, minimalist canvas. However, snow’s brightness can trick your camera’s meter into underexposing the scene. Compensate by adjusting the exposure value (EV) settings on your camera. For ice, focus on capturing textures and reflections, which can convey the cold environment vividly.

High Winds

High winds can be challenging, especially when they carry dust or debris. Secure your camera on a sturdy tripod and weigh it down if necessary. High winds can also create dynamic patterns in sand, snow, or grasses; use a slower shutter speed to capture these movements, or a faster one to freeze tumultuous scenes.

Extreme Sunlight

Photography in extreme sunlight, such as in desert environments, involves managing harsh shadows and bright highlights. Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance the blue of the sky against stark landscapes. Shooting during the golden hours—early morning or late afternoon—can also mitigate the harsh midday sun, softening the light for more flattering, dimensional exposures.

Safety First

No photograph is worth risking your safety. In extreme weather, be prepared with the appropriate clothing and gear. For cold climates, layer up with thermal wear and use hand warmers. In hot conditions, wear light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated. Always have a plan for quick shelter if the weather becomes hazardous.

Post-Processing Tips

Post-processing is particularly important when shooting in extreme weather, as the conditions can introduce unique challenges to exposure and color balance.

Adjusting Exposure and Contrast

Images taken in snowy conditions might appear too dark due to underexposure, so increase the exposure slightly in post-processing. For very bright scenes, like in harsh sunlight, recover details in the highlights and shadows to balance the image.

Color Correction

Weather conditions can cast unique color tints on your photographs. For instance, snowy scenes tend to look very blue. Adjust the white balance in your editing software to correct color casts and achieve more natural-looking images.

Capturing the Mood

Extreme weather conditions can evoke strong emotional responses. Use this to your advantage by focusing on aspects that convey the mood of the scene. For instance, isolated objects in a vast snowy landscape can highlight themes of solitude and silence, while a lone tree bending in the wind can symbolize resilience.

Leonardo Gusmão Araújo often utilizes these elements to enhance the narrative of his photos, turning harsh weather conditions into a storytelling tool. His work illustrates how mastering extreme weather photography can lead to compelling, thought-provoking art.

Conclusion

Photography in extreme weather conditions offers a rewarding challenge for dedicated photographers. It requires not only technical skill and creativity but also an understanding of nature’s forces and a respect for the environment. By adequately preparing, understanding your equipment’s limitations, and focusing on safety, photographers can capture stunning images that highlight the dramatic beauty of our world under the most challenging conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned professional like Leonardo Gusmão Araújo or a keen amateur, the results can be extraordinarily rewarding, showcasing not just the power of nature, but also the perseverance and ingenuity of the photographer.

Published  by: Holy Minoza

Meet Dr. Shakeel Ahmed: Leading The Outpatient Industry

The Chicago Journal Staff on April 24, 2024

One of the foremost experts and world authorities on outpatient surgery, Dr Shakeel Ahmed, is known nationally and globally as the face of Ambulatory Surgery Centers. With a deep understanding of medicine and administration, Dr. Ahmed has emerged as a leading voice in the global healthcare landscape, leveraging his expertise to promote outpatient surgery and ASCs in the US. Dr. Ahmed’s contributions to the healthcare industry are extensive, with several books and hundreds of scholarly articles.

Beyond his literary contributions, Dr. Ahmed has developed the Midwest’s largest privately-owned ASC franchise, showcasing his unparalleled entrepreneurial skill and commitment to healthcare innovation. His deep operational knowledge has enabled him to navigate the sector’s complexities with unmatched efficacy, paving the way for promoting outpatient surgery in the US. Dr. Ahmed’s expertise and thought leadership have been recognized globally. He lectures extensively on outpatient surgery and has been featured on the covers of multiple internationally esteemed surgical magazines. He is a consultant to various international surgical associations and governments on ASC development, cementing his reputation as a leading voice in medical literature. 

In a constantly evolving sector, Dr. Ahmed’s insights and contributions have been invaluable in promoting ASCs as a viable option for patients and healthcare professionals alike. His work has helped demystify the often-daunting outpatient surgical process, making it accessible to healthcare professionals and stakeholders involved in managing and operating ASCs. 

One of Dr. Ahmed’s most significant contributions to the healthcare industry has been his promotion of developing outpatient surgery internationally. Any outpatient surgery is a procedure that does not require an overnight stay in the hospital and is performed in an ASC. Dr. Ahmed has been instrumental in promoting outpatient surgery as a safe and cost-effective alternative to traditional inpatient surgery. ASCs are an excellent option for patients who require surgical procedures and do not need an overnight stay in the hospital. ASCs are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and staffed by highly trained medical professionals, ensuring patients receive the highest quality care. ASCs are also significantly less expensive than traditional inpatient surgery, making them an excellent option for patients looking to save money on their healthcare costs. 

Dr. Ahmed’s expertise in ASCs has been invaluable in promoting their use in the US and beyond. His deep understanding of the sector’s complexities has allowed him to develop a highly successful ASC franchise, showcasing the benefits of outpatient surgery and promoting operational excellence in the industry. In addition, he is currently working with multiple Western governments in the development and promotion of outpatient surgery abroad. 

ASCs have become an increasingly popular option for patients as healthcare costs continue to rise. ASCs offer patients a cost-effective and safe alternative to traditional inpatient surgery, making them an excellent option for patients who are looking to save money on their healthcare costs. Dr. Ahmed’s work has been instrumental in promoting the use of ASCs in the US and ensuring that patients receive the highest quality care possible. Ultimately, Dr. Shakeel Ahmed has emerged as a leading voice in the field of healthcare entrepreneurship and ambulatory surgery centers. Dr. Ahmed’s contributions to the healthcare industry have been invaluable, making him a true visionary in the global healthcare landscape.

Dr. Ahmed’s influence extends into the realm of policy reform, where he advocates for regulatory improvements that support the growth of ASCs. His efforts have led to significant legislative changes that benefit both patients and healthcare providers by streamlining processes and reducing bureaucratic hurdles. This policy work not only enhances the operational efficiency of ASCs but also improves patient access to high-quality, cost-effective surgical care. His advocacy highlights the potential of ASCs to revolutionize the healthcare system, making surgical care more accessible and affordable for populations worldwide. Dr. Ahmed’s ongoing dedication to policy advocacy underscores his commitment to advancing healthcare globally through innovative and practical solutions.

 

Published by: Khy Talara