2019: will it be the year of the coolest tech?

Business Innovations

08 March 2019

2019: will it be the year of the coolest tech?

  • Posted by Awfis Editorial

There is no doubt that tech is finding newer, better and more extraordinary ways for businesses to connect with the consumer. You can’t really say technology is evolving anymore as that would indicate it builds on existing tools; instead, technology today is disruptive. It challenges the status quo and comes up with answers to questions that haven’t even been asked yet.

When we scoured the internet for cool tech finds of 2019, we were truly taken aback by the sheer array of amazing ideas and innovations that are coming up. There are hundreds of super cool tech gadgets and gizmos that have made it into 2019, and our hearts. But in all the din that is the latest and the craziest, only these six have made it to our list of the coolest tech of 2019.

Family Hub Refrigerator

There was a time when the kitchen or the dining area would bring the whole family together. Today, if Samsung has its way, this role looks primed to be taken over by a single gadget in the kitchen – the Family Hub Refrigerator. The Samsung Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled family refrigerator comes with a 21” touchscreen and a Bixby voice control that takes food refrigeration to a whole new level. The Family Hub synchs up food storage, better connects the family and can also be networked with the Samsung SmartThings ecosystem allowing consumers to control their washing machine and smartphone from the refrigerator’s console.

You can digitally label foods with expiration dates, check the content of your fridge from the grocery store using your smartphone, and also leave a digital note for other family members on things to get done before you return. You can even synch up the screen to your Samsung television so you don’t miss the action while cooking.

A television that rolls away when not in use

If you are in the market looking for a new television that blends in with the décor of your home, how about looking for a television that can disappear?

LG’s OLED TV R is a television that simply rolls out of sight when you are done with it. The screen drops away slowly into its console with the push of a button to come out when you beckon it again. Besides this truly amazing feature (and we really can’t get over it), the rolling television has support for Alexa voice controls as well as the Google Assistant. Hold on, there is more. The television has also integrated Apple’s AirPlay2 for seamless media playback. And you can do all this when your television is rolled out of sight.

Foldable phone by Samsung

If you are still dazed by the rolling television, here’s something just as extraordinary, but for something that fits your pocket (but maybe not your wallet).

The Samsung Galaxy Fold (umm, a less obvious name would have been fun) can be literally folded to half its size depending on your need. There are two screens, a full one when the phone is open and a smaller one for when it is closed. The layout of the intuitive UI will immediately change depending on whether the phone is open or folded. You will also get app continuity. So, if you are using an app in the folded screen and you open the phone, the app will automatically continue there. The larger open screen will allow you to run three apps simultaneously on the display, taking multitasking to a new dimension altogether.

The phone has three rear cameras like the earlier Galaxy A7, but the ones on the foldable phone promise to be more powerful. Now it’s simply a question of waiting for the phone to come out so we can snap it up in a jiffy.

First ever Quantum computer

When it comes to computers, there’s a new kid on the block – quantum computers – and both IBM and Google are racing with each other to see who can build the nextgen supercomputers first.

Quantum computer

Without getting into the details of quantum mechanics, let’s just say that these computers deal with atoms and molecules. This will allow the machines to work with far greater precision than ever imagined on tasks like complex chemical processes which our current crop of machines can’t even wrap their heads around. It’s like comparing two digital cameras, identical in all respects except that one has more pixels than the other.

It can get tad technical, so if you want to read a bit more about quantum computing, this should help.

5G: the possibilities are just getting better

The next thing after 4G, fifth generation or 5G, is expected to be better and faster. Yes and yes, and so much more.

5th Generation

5G capabilities include higher data rate (cheers to that!), reduced latency, cost reduction, energy saving (cheers to these two!), higher system capacity and improved device connectivity. Basically all your cellular woes thrown out the window. The biggest draw of 5G is that it will be 100 times faster than the current cellular technology. While the first phase is expected to be completed by April this year, the technology will be available to all consumers by 2020. It seems a long way off, but it is definitely something worth waiting for.

Nreal Light Mixed Reality Glasses

It might seem cool to own funky digital glasses, but the sheer size and image quality of a lot of players left much to be desired.

So when a Chinese startup, Nreal, jumped into the market with something interesting, it was worth giving a second look. These are low-profile mixed reality glasses that look and feel just like ordinary sunglasses but let you do so much more.

These glasses project digital imagery on the real life scene unfolding in front of your eyes. So you get the best of both worlds. Lightweight, and with a host of features like dual microphones, brightness control switches on both arms, and even Bluetooth headphones if you wish, the possibilities with the glasses are mindboggling – video games, entertainment, telepresence calls and more. Have prescription lenses? No problem. The Nreal takes care of that so you don’t need to wonder what to do with your existing pair.

Conclusion

Six cool tech ideas that have got the whole world excited. We can’t wait to see some of them in person. While the costs for a few might be prohibitive for some of us, there’s no harm in checking them out when they hit the stores soon.

 

What’s been your favourite tech gadget till date? Also, let us know which of these excited you the most

 

What is the Significance of Meeting Rooms in a Coworking Space?

Business Innovations

04 April 2023

What is the Significance of Meeting Rooms in a Coworking Space?

  • Posted by Awfis Editorial

Are you tired of working from home or in coffee shops and craving a more productive work environment? Coworking spaces may be the perfect solution for you. With an array of amenities, including meeting rooms, coworking spaces are becoming increasingly popular among freelancers, entrepreneurs and remote workers. But what makes meeting rooms in a coworking space so significant?
In this blog post, we will explore how these spaces can benefit your business and why they are essential to any successful coworking community. So, let’s dive in!

Meeting Rooms in Coworking Spaces – An Overview

Coworking spaces have been around for decades, yet their popularity is just starting to spread. The market’s thirst for startups and freelancing is driving up demand for the coworking space in Mumbai, Bangalore, Gurugram, and other major cities. This growth is due in part to the increasing popularity of coworking spaces and the benefits they offer. They offer a collaborative setting for freelancers, entrepreneurs and remote workers to work together.
Meeting rooms are an important part of coworking spaces as they provide a space where members can come together and exchange ideas. They can also be used for presentations, workshops and other events. Presentations and workshops can help to educate members on new topics and provide them with new skills. They can also be used to showcase the work of members and help to build relationships with potential clients.
According to a survey conducted by GCUC, 84% of coworkers are more motivated when working in a coworking hub. Meeting rooms can help to create a sense of community and collaboration, which can help to motivate coworkers. Meeting rooms can also provide a space for members to network and build relationships with other members.

Meeting Rooms in Coworking Spaces – Benefits

Meeting rooms are one of the most important features of coworking spaces, providing a dedicated and professional space for members to conduct meetings, collaborate and brainstorm.
Listed below are some of the key benefits of meeting rooms in coworking spaces:
Professional Environment: Meeting rooms provide a professional environment for conducting business meetings. Members can use them to host meetings with clients, investors, or partners and convey a more polished image of their business.
Privacy and Confidentiality: Meeting rooms offer a secure and private environment for members to discuss confidential information or sensitive topics without worrying about eavesdroppers or interruptions.
Technology and Amenities: Meeting rooms in coworking spaces often come equipped with high-speed internet, audio and visual equipment, whiteboards and refreshments, which can further enhance the meeting experience.
● Reduced Distractions: Meeting rooms offer a quiet and distraction-free environment, allowing members to focus on their work and avoid the noise and interruptions of a busy workspace.
● Collaboration and Brainstorming: Meeting rooms offer a collaborative space for members to work on projects, exchange ideas and brainstorm new concepts. This can to foster a sense of community within the coworking environment.
Flexibility and Convenience: Meeting rooms are easy to book and offer flexible booking options, such as hourly, daily, or weekly rates. This accessibility and convenience make it easier for members to manage their schedules and plan their workdays more effectively.
Cost-effectiveness: Coworking spaces offer meeting rooms at an affordable price, eliminating the need for expensive office space or renting hotel conference rooms.
Professional Support: Coworking spaces often have a professional support team that can assist you with booking the meeting room, setting up the equipment and providing administrative support, making the process hassle-free.

Meeting Rooms in Coworking Spaces – Types

Coworking spaces should provide their members with a selection of meeting rooms to suit their requirements. Depending on the size and number of members, these may include private rooms, small group areas or larger conference rooms. Some spaces also provide special features like whiteboard walls or video conferencing capabilities.
Private meeting rooms are ideal for one-on-one discussions or small group gatherings. Usually equipped with tables and chairs, these rooms may also feature additional amenities like a whiteboard or TV.
Small group meeting rooms are ideal for team discussions, brainstorms and any other type of small group interaction. These typically contain tables and chairs as well as additional amenities like a whiteboard or TV.
Large conference rooms are ideal for large group meetings, presentations and any other type of event that requires plenty of space. Usually equipped with a large table and chairs as well as additional amenities like a projector screen or sound system, these rooms can easily accommodate up to 200 attendees.
Video conferencing rooms are great for remote meetings or presentations. These rooms usually have a large screen with camera and microphone capabilities, as well as extra amenities like a whiteboard or TV.

Meeting rooms in coworking spaces – How to make the most out of it?

Meeting rooms in coworking spaces are valuable resources that can help you collaborate with others, build relationships and grow your business. To make the most out of your coworking space meeting room, here are some tips to follow:
Plan ahead: Before booking a meeting room, take some time to plan your meeting. Determine the purpose, agenda and participants. This will help you choose the right meeting room size and amenities and ensure that everyone is prepared and focused.
Choose the right meeting room: Consider the type of meeting you will be hosting, the number of attendees and the amenities you will need. For example, if you are hosting a presentation, you will need a room with a projector and screen. If you are hosting a brainstorming session, a room with a whiteboard or flip chart will be helpful.
Arrive early: Arriving early at the meeting room will give you time to set up any equipment you need, such as a laptop or projector. It will also give you time to ensure that the room is clean and ready for your meeting.
Use technology: Take advantage of the technology available in the meeting room, such as video confer software, online collaboration tools and virtual whiteboards. These tools can help you communicate and collaborate more effectively, especially if your team is dispersed across multiple locations.
Manage time effectively: Set a clear agenda and stick to it. Use a timer or clock to keep track of time and ensure that the meeting stays on track. Be respectful of everyone’s time and avoid going off-topic or getting sidetracked.
Encourage participation: Encourage participation from all attendees by asking open-ended questions and providing opportunities for everyone to speak. Use techniques like brainstorming or group discussion to generate ideas and encourage collaboration.
Take breaks: Taking breaks during the meeting can help everyone stay focused and engaged. Use break times to stretch, grab a drink or snack, or just take a quick breather.
Follow up: After the meeting, follow up with attendees to ensure everyone is clear on the next steps and action items. Use email or a project management tool to keep everyone on the same page and ensure progress.

FAQs

Q. What are the things needed for a meeting room?

Basic meeting room necessities include
● Table and chairs
● WiFi
● Power
● Digital AV solution (screen or projector with speakers)
● Shared writing surface
● Office supplies
● Access to refreshments

Q. What is the purpose of a meeting room?

A meeting room allows teams to discuss issues, collaborate on projects and make decisions.

Q. How much space is needed for a meeting room?

A conference room for one to two people would require 25-50 sq. ft, whereas for two – six people — 100-150 sq. ft.

Q. What is a meeting room layout?

A conference room layout is a set up of chairs and tables in a conference space. The most compelling conference room layout depends on the size and style of the meeting.

Q. What are smart meeting rooms?

Smart meeting rooms provide employees with video conferencing tools that make collaboration in the workplace simple, enjoyable and inclusive.

Meeting rooms are an invaluable tool for businesses that want to maximize their productivity in a coworking space. They provide the perfect place for teams to collaborate and engage with one another so that they can achieve success. Not only do meeting rooms allow coworkers to come together, but they also give them the opportunity to get away from distractions and focus on their work.
With their flexibility and convenience, meeting rooms make it easy for companies of all sizes to create more efficient workflows and increase overall productivity in a coworking space.

5 Apps to Increase Productivity at Work

Business Innovations

25 August 2021

5 Apps to Increase Productivity at Work

  • Posted by awfis

Life has become much easier with the advent of technology. With access to latest technology, work has become less strenuous. The biggest contribution to technology has been the invention of smartphones. They have not only made communication easy, but also play core to organize our lives. The hundreds of ‘add on apps’ have made life stress-free and have definitely helped increase productivity, in every possible way.

App

Here are some applications that we feel will help you outperform at work.

  1. WandurList:

As the name suggests WandurList is an app that helps you in maintaining a number of lists. It is a clean application which enables you to make multiple lists under various folders. It is available for Android, iOS and web users, but what makes it stand out is that WandurList enables you to access the lists from anywhere and from any device. The lists that you make are saved in the cloud, thus letting you share the lists with the other users. So the next time you are out of your office and need to assign work or access previous work, WandurList will be your go to app.
wunderlist.com

  1. Shoeboxed:

Tired of keeping track of your expense receipts before submitting for tax reduction every month? We have a perfect solution for you. Use shoebox and say goodbye to the strenuous process of filling out forms. Shoeboxed is perfect for people who are up and about in the name of the business. Shoebox can access either via android, iOS mobiles or also via the web. Scan the bills and Shoebox sorts out and collates the receipts for you and also generates an expense report.  By the end of the month all you will have to do is send it out to your accounts team.
shoeboxed.com

  1. Speek:

Conference calling is an important aspect of how work happens in the business world. With growing business environment one needs to connect to people from various parts of the world and that’s where Speek steps in. It is an application that enables you to have a con-call by eliminating the process of dialling the numbers and the pin codes. Speek gives you a personal link which has to be shared with the people you want to have the conference call with and all they have to do is click the link to join in via their laptop, smartphone or the computer. So want to make a conference call? It’s just a link away now!
speek.com

  1. Keeper:

Have a lot of passwords of various platforms to keep track of? Tired of sending email to the IT to retrieve your passwords? This application takes that burden of remembering passwords off your shoulders. You have one master password that has all the passwords stored in it. If any hack is attempted all the passwords are automatically erased to maintain secrecy. This application can be accessed via a phone, laptop or a computer with the android, IOS software or by using the web.
keepersecurity.com

  1. Prezi:

Need to make flawless presentations that capture your client’s attention? We have a unique cloud based presentation application – Prezi. This app lets you put down all the information on one canvas and mark it out instead of making separate slides. It uses Adobe Flash Technology to animate the presentation. The application is easy to use and is also compatible for Windows, chrome, iOS and the Web.
prezi.com

Try the apps out and see the increased productivity that these applications bring about in your work life!

Join our business centre in Bengaluru, or our co-working space in Delhi.

Freelancers Work Better in Office Spaces than Coffee Shops

Business Innovations

25 August 2021

Freelancers Work Better in Office Spaces than Coffee Shops

  • Posted by awfis

You would have seen freelancers and solopreneurs working intensely at coffee shops, buying a cup of coffee accompanied with something to bite on now and then, more to keep the table occupied rather than ordering by choice! But working out of a coffee shop comes with a set of challenges. Being in such a relaxed, casual ambience for work, you are not really motivated enough and you can only rely on self-motivation to keep you going.

Thankfully, this is something that can be resolved by working at collaborative office spaces. Leased workspaces and desks that you can find on a reliable collaborative working website like https://www.awfis.com/inspiration/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/shutterstock_3835072871.jpg.com will also give you access to all amenities that you need when you work in an office, like free Wi-Fi and unlimited tea and coffee to keep you fueled up.

Freelancers in office spaces

Freelancers are looking for offices spaces with a positive atmosphere to conduct their work. More often than not, freelancers have a lonely job. They are at their laptops doing their work. However, at home, they have several distractions to keep them away from their desk. Coffee shops do not make the best talking environments for productive business meetings as a plethora of distractions come your way. No such worries exist in a collaborative working space where you are paying rent to be at your desk for work.

Let’s talk about the motivation factor now. Because you are in a roomful of people working on their desks, you are motivated to be a part of that workforce. You can make some great professional friends. As a freelancer, you cannot deny that working alongside others is a much better feeling that being a lone wolf, especially on days when things are a bit rusty. The general working ambience keeps you afloat, something that you find in plenty of plug & play rented office spaces.

If you have not considered working in a collaborative working environment, now is a good time to do that. All your criteria will be met and your business will commence in a cheerful and inspiring environment. After all, your venture deserves only the best.

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