The automotive industry has changed tremendously over the years, and things continue to evolve as time goes by, all thanks to the technological advancements that are being introduced in this sector. Research has concluded that automakers will save billions of dollars in the years to come, and these predictions are made by experts who have studied the industry and have analyzed the current climate of the market and the potential changes that might occur. There are different factors that link a potential cost reduction to technology trends. The following information shows the technological revolutions the automotive industry is headed towards and the milestones expected to be reached in the future:

IHS study conclusions

Recently, IHS has made the results of their study public, showcasing the monetary predictions revolving around the automotive industry. According to the information shared, it seems like over-the-air software updates will save carmakers somewhere around 2.7 billion dollars this year alone, and by the end of the year 2022, this figure could rise to even an astonishing 35 billion. What over-the-air software updates bring to the table is the capability for automakers to handle repairs and boost the car’s general performance in a wireless manner. Infotainment and telematics systems will benefit from extended updates, generating thus the majority of cost savings. According to IHS, the automotive climate has only recently embraced OTA updates, and just a few automakers are already using software upgrades with the purpose of boosting the performance of car features, starting with navigation systems. Tesla, BMW, and Volkswagen are the first players in the game to adopt the mentioned technology trends. (1)

OTA saves automakers money – the why

Considering how much fuss has been made around the subject of OTA updates, people are looking into the whys, trying to conclude what cost-saving advantages these tech upgrades actually promise. According to the same source, IHS, warranty costs will be easily lowered in the future, the completion rates of software-related recalls will reach higher numbers and carmakers will also have the capabilities necessary to enhance car features in general. All of these factors will naturally come with a powerful influence on the production budget and on sales, giving automakers the possibility to get better control of the expenses involved. The topic has been discussed in the online environment quite a lot lately, Auto Wise and other car news sites releasing numerous articles that underline the most important details on the matter. Software expertise has started to become critical in this industry, and that is what specialists from the field continue to claim. Appropriate software platform strategies and software development and execution are done by the book will be essential for the proper implementation of OEMs. OTA updates are expected to be plenty, but the most popular ones are likely to revolve around electronic control, telematics, apps, maps, and infotainment. The vehicle’s programming code can be tweaked later on to improve the pre-packed features or add new ones entirely.

OTA updates and Tesla

Major carmakers have already started to put in quite a lot of effort and attention towards completely revaluing their processes with the main focus on technology. The most powerful example here is obviously Tesla. Tesla Motors is the main automaker to already incorporate appealing OTA updates, the company’s vehicle excelling in terms of technology. The summon and self-parking features everyone in the industry is talking about nowadays is the most recent update that this automaker has implemented. Drivers could let a Tesla vehicle drive itself, in specific road conditions, and parking might also be done automatically in some cases. These futuristic characteristics that are already available highlight the potential amazing improvements that cars, in general, might benefit from in the future. The Tesla Model S sedan comes with other amazing capabilities, such as a location-based air suspension, which has the role of remembering potholes and adjusting its circuit to avoid them during future drives. Tesla drivers can share and access data for traffic-based navigation. Teslas are the most advanced vehicles from a tech point of view at the moment, and the wide variety of impressive features these cars come with have inspired other automotive brands to follow this company’s example. (2)

Competition – a common trigger of interest

The boosted interest automakers show towards technology has been triggered by multiple factors, but competition remains one of the most relevant ones. With the standards set by Tesla on OTA updates, it’s only natural for other carmakers to want to keep up with what Tesla is offering. While there might be drawbacks involved, upon proper research, any automaker can conclude that the benefits outweigh these cons. OTA’s true potential has started to be noticed once Tesla Motors has gained such a competitive advantage. Adding new technology to cars will become more common with the increase in production of electric vehicles.  More car buyers are starting to consider electric cars over traditional versions, which naturally determines automakers to keep up with the change in demands. 

Adding value

Saving money isn’t the only aspect that has made all the players in the automotive industry take into account the potential of tech updates. Carmakers understand that today’s consumers are highly attentive of their choices, and car buyers want to receive the highest value for their purchase. Using OTA will become a strategy for the regular automaker to add value to their brand. When something new and useful is being offered, the image of an automotive company will likely be improved. Carmakers are considering every aspect and those that want to stay ahead and maintain their products relevant need to keep up with new technologies.

The automotive industry has had a lot to benefit thanks to technological advancements. The amount carmakers will be able to save by the year 2022 clearly illustrates how much tech has revolutionized the entire sector. While the outcomes that will be experienced by both consumers and automakers are not exact ones, the status of this industry is quite promising. The figures could actually skyrocket to a  higher amount than it is currently predicted.

The popularity of marijuana is reaching all-time heights.

It’s becoming legal or at least decriminalized in many parts of the Western world, and now, for instance, you can simply go to a local weed dispensary in Canada and make a choice from a wide selection of strains.

Today, there are also many ways to extract essential oils and cannabinoids from the marijuana plant with the help of processes like ethanol extraction, so the drug is not only much more accessible but of a much higher quality and diversity as well.

However, even though marijuana remains hugely popular as a recreational drug, its uses in medicine are being recognized on a much broader spectrum as well.

New research has shown that weed can be incredibly useful for treating, preventing, or at least helping to manage symptoms of a wide range of illnesses, and it’s already helping millions of people in the U.S. and Canada improve the quality of their lives.

But how exactly can marijuana be helpful?

Learn more about the benefits that marijuana can have in treating various medical conditions.

Helps Prevent and Reduce Symptoms of Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s is one of the most devastating illnesses in the U.S., affecting the lives of almost six million people.

And unfortunately, the treatment options are still limited, with no permanent cure that could potentially change the situation in the near future.

However, marijuana has proven to be surprisingly effective at helping to manage the symptoms and help people live relatively normal lives.

Cannabis-based drugs can help to reduce aggression and anxiety, and even contribute to the reduction of a protein beta-amyloid which accumulates in the patient’s with Alzheimer’s brain, slowing down the progression of the disease.

While further studies are required to determine to what extent marijuana could help Alzheimer’s patients, the initial research is promising, and many patients have shown through personal experience that it can make a significant difference.

In fact, it’s possible that weed could even help to reduce the risk to develop Alzheimer’s symptoms in people who have an increased risk to get it because of their family history.

It Can Reduce Arthritis Symptoms

One of the most significant benefits that marijuana can offer is the ability to reduce inflammation processes in the body, which is what makes it so effective in helping reduce the symptoms of arthritis and helping patients who suffer from it.

Arthritis can be a debilitating illness that causes severe pain, sometimes completely immobilizing a person, but with weed, inflammation can be reduced, lowering or even eliminating pain and other symptoms without the need for painkillers which can have more severe side-effects and can be much more addictive.

Even though studies regarding marijuana’s application for treating rheumatoid arthritis are limited and inconclusive, wide-ranging studies have proven the anti-inflammatory properties of weed, and many real-life witnesses have attested to the effectiveness of the drug for helping treat arthritis.

Decreases Anxiety Levels

Anxiety can be absolutely debilitating to a person’s ability to function in society.

Fear and stress over going out, traveling, or even performing the simplest tasks can cause a person to become isolated and unable to take care of himself, and prescribed meds that work are hard to come by and can have severe side-effects that make them an unwelcome choice for many people.

That’s where medicinal marijuana can be very effective.

Certain strains of weed have calming and relaxing properties that help people calm down, find a better emotional balance, and cope with anxiety symptoms much more effectively.

Use of marijuana, combined with therapy, can help a person learn to manage his anxiety symptoms and learn to face his daily challenges at a pace that is comfortable to him, while at the same time serving as a way to help deal with the more severe symptoms that anxiety can cause.

Speeds Up the Healing of Bones

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One of the lesser known and more surprising ways that marijuana can be beneficial is its positive effects on the process of healing broken bones.

According to a study performed by the University of Tel Aviv, certain marijuana compounds can have a significant effect on the body’s ability to heal bones quicker, while at the same time helping the bones become stronger than ever before once they have recovered.

Marijuana can not only help heal fractures but also help with conditions such as osteoporosis that weaken the muscles and increase their chance of breaking.

The bone-strengthening qualities that are found in marijuana compounds have wide-reaching implications in how quickly people might be able to recover from accidents or various injuries, although further studies need to be performed to determine the extent of the possibilities.

Slows Down Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye disease that increases pressure on the optic nerve because of a buildup of fluids, leading to damage of the nerve and progressively worsening sight, even causing blindness in its late stages.

Today, the only possible treatment involves taking medicines that reduce the pressure, and no solution exists that could serve as a more lasting cure. These medications often have numerous side-effects and can be a disruption to a person’s life on their own.

In some instances, a surgery may also be an option, but even that isn’t a permanent solution, and the risks involved mean that surgery is usually only performed when the medication is no longer working effectively.

That’s why many people are turning to cannabis to help manage their symptoms – it has shown to be a very effective way to reduce the pressure on the optic nerve, and can do so without the side-effect of traditional medication.

While the effects of marijuana only last for a few hours, it can still serve as a viable alternative to medicine at least some of the time, or be used as a complementary way to help manage the symptoms and control the progression of the disease.

You may have considered remodeling your bathroom at some point but you don’t have an idea of how to go about it. Refurbishing your bathroom is one of the most hectic tasks there is but, with the right tools and information, it’s doable. However, it’s not something you can wake up and decide to do; you need proper planning and guidance from some experts. It is time-consuming and requires a substantial budget. There are ways and tips to make it simpler and more affordable. But you need a good plan and some flexibility to achieve that.  

Consult a contractor

You may have some ideas about the work you want taken care of in your bathroom. But, consulting with an expert from Geotechbuilt can help you put everything into perspective and help you chart a plan on how to achieve your desired results. There are some details about remodeling a washroom that you may not know about that a qualified contractor would be preview to. He will guide you on what you need regarding material, retaining walls and the timings for the remodeling and perhaps a cost range.

With a contractor, you will have a more realistic picture about how to actualize your ideas. So, it is critical that you choose an experienced and qualified Toronto plumber expert at the start.

Set a realistic time line

Many contractors say that a complete remodeling of the bathroom can take up to six months. That may seem like a long time to get the work done but, it’s realistic. You have to make many considerations for such work, which in itself requires plenty of time.

There is tearing down the existing bathroom, getting the required supplies, plumbing, and the actual remodeling. In some instances depending on the resources available, it may take longer, but your contractor will advise on that. However, don’t rush the process. By trying to cut corners in bid to save time, you may incur substandard results that will cost you more money and time in future when doing proper repairs.

Plan around your supplier’s timing

One mistake that people make when ordering some custom items for their bathroom remodel is that they set the timeframe. Most suppliers have to deal with hundreds of customers and they need to satisfy all of them. Your timelines and that of the supplier might be different. It’s recommended to plan with the supplier’s timeline in mind especially when you want the materials delivered for you.

When you place your order, request for a realistic timeframe for when you will receive the supplies and work around that. Do not try and reduce the timeline given by your supplier. In fact, you should have a buffer period around it to reduce the chances of disappointment and stalling the work. Base your plans around that, and everything should be fine.

Try and implement what is trending

Everyone has unique ideas when planning how they would like their remodeled bathroom to look like. However, there is nothing wrong with working with trends to realize your dream bathroom. The best thing about taking this path is. It’s easier for you to get everything you need for the work.

For example, pastels are still in this season, so it is easier to find everything you need without having to wait weeks for supplies. It may reduce the timeframe for the work and will make your bathroom look modern and in season. When going for the permanent pieces, it’s best to go for all-timers. If you go for what is in season, you might want to change the pieces as soon as the trend changes which can be expensive.

Consider large windows for natural light

You don’t need to continue having your lights on in the bathroom during the day. That is why if your bathroom is dark, have your contractor create a way to install some large windows to let in more natural light. This is not only a great way to save on your electricity bills, but it will make your bathroom, look more prominent, feel fresher and look more beautiful.  Add a window privacy film for security and a bit of flair. If you want something even more magnificent, think about getting a skyline done. It is not as expensive as you may think since it lets in light and will save you money in unnecessary bills.

Don’t move the plumbing

One of the most complex parts about remodeling the bathroom is fixing the pipes. It is a costly affair that takes a lot of time so if you can opt out of it, please do. If you don’t have a good reason to move the taps and plumbing around, it’s best to leave it as it. Redoing the pipes and redirecting them takes time, money and requires you to call in a professional which might stretch your budget thin.

Check your electrical system

Remember to check whether the electrical system is working fine and even consider an upgrade. You can add more outlets for shavers and hair dryers. Consider adding some modern lighting fixtures that will give your bathroom a different feel especially at night. There is a lot you can do with lights to completely revamp your washroom. Talk to a lighting expert for ideas that you can implement, and you won’t get any disappointments.

Prepare yourself for anything

When remodeling, always expect the unexpected. Even if you have an excellent plan that has included every aspect, one or two things may go wrong or pop out of the blue. It is normal, and you should be ready to handle it. You can consult your builder on the best way to handle such a situation, and forge a way to work together to solve it. Remember you also need a budget surplus for these incidences since your existing budget may not cover them.

Remodeling your bathroom is an exciting experience that you should enjoy. Let all your bathroom ideas run wild and settle on a design and theme that you love. Remember that this is not something you may have the chance to redo, so it is essential that it’s done correctly.

The numbers confirm emerging working arrangements. At least 70 percent of people worldwide work away from the office and in their homes, rental offices, etc. once a week, according to CNBC. The same report reveals that over 50 percent spend more than half of their week telecommuting.

Whether your employees spend all day in the office or have the flexibility to work anywhere else, it’s a great idea to send them outdoors once in a while. It’s not solely a matter of fun; the move for more outdoor activities goes as deep as a way of boosting employee engagement, productivity, and satisfaction. And these reasons speak in favor of taking your workers out for a day of fun, learning, and volunteer work.

Awaken and Build the Team Spirit

It’s true that your workforce is doing a great job despite your work arrangements. You have tools that monitor their deliverables, such as CMS, and reports from the direct managers. You are also on videoconferences and online meetings regularly to discuss statistics and other concerns that affect the workflow.

Amid all these processes measuring efficiency and performance, there is one avenue that you can explore so your employees can work better. If you need more convincing about outdoor activities being good for your organization in the long run, these reasons build their case.

Reason No. 1: Your Team Can Take a Break

Working from home is a dream that doesn’t work at all times. Common issues that arise from being home-based and coworking are dealing with distractions, losing the line between work and private time, and missing human interaction. People working in the office also have to deal with commuting on top of meeting deadlines.

Against this backdrop, let your employees take time off their computers and enjoy another view outside of spreadsheets, documents, and screens with their coworkers. It will rest their minds even for a day and allow them to come back refreshed and motivated to work.

Reason No. 2: Your Team Can Brainstorm

Is it just you, or do you feel that there is a dearth of viable ideas from the marketing folks? A change of scenery may help clear their minds and come up with fresh concepts and pitches. You can do your next brainstorming session where it is open, airy, and conducive for an exchange of ideas.

You can moderate the meeting from where you are with your laptop and Polycom CX5500. Add your members to the call and engage in a round-table discussion with the outdoors as a beautiful backdrop. For a seamless flow of ideas, ensure all ends have a good, working internet connection.  

Reason No. 3: Your Team Can Break Down Barriers

For all the games people play, outdoor team buildings are known to break the ice and the barriers that may have emerged because of personality classes or tensions, perhaps. And while chat groups and emails are ever helpful, some things are better explained in person.

Getting people together for games gives them an opportunity to mingle and build rapport. Whether the activities involve physical strength or a sit-down affair like the truth-and-lies game, the goal is for everyone to huddle and enjoy. These outdoor games are also excellent venues for small talks that can clear up misconceptions.

Reason No. 4: Your Team Can Get a Sense of Purpose

Some of your workers may feel isolated, like a lone wolf that exists solely for himself or herself. One effective way to deal with this disassociation in the workplace is by recognizing their worth and accomplishments. Ultimately, build a company culture that makes your workers feel engaged and valued, and add volunteerism to your corporate social responsibility practices.

Allow your employees to take the day off with pay to volunteer in their chosen charity, join coastal cleanups, or participate in meaningful activities for the community. This outdoor activity does good for their mental health and gives them a sense of purpose, as the linked Forbes article notes.

When your employees are satisfied and given opportunities for growth, they strive hard or even exceed their current performance. When’s your next company outing?