ISSUE #4
THE TRADE IN SERVICES MAGAZINE OF THE BCSI
Inventing the First Search Engine <nav> <ul> <li><a href=”#nowhere” title=”Lorum ipsum dolor sit amet”>Lorem</a></li> <li><a href=”#nowhere” title=”Aliquam tincidunt mauris eu risus”>Aliquam</a></li> <li><a href=”#nowhere” title=”Morbi in sem quis dui placerat ornare”>Morbi</a></li> <li><a href=”#nowhere” title=”Praesent dapibus, neque id cursus faucibus”>Praesent</a></li> <li><a href=”#nowhere” title=”Pellentesque fermentum dolor”>Pellentesque</a></li> </ul> </nav>
Engineering and ICT
User Interface Design
20 12 14
ICT
in a 21st century barbados www.bcsi.org.bb
2
T H E
E X P O R T E R
OUR SPONSORS
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
Ministerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s address
As Minister charged with the responsibility for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation,
the Caribbean and Latin America. However, it
provide this special address to all you readers
BCSI has chosen to place a focus on the
it is indeed my honour to
of The Exporter Magazine. Research over the years has shown that Science, Technology, Education and Mathematics (STEM) is closely related to increased job opportunities and higher paying jobs in the global economy. In this regard, the quality of life which our future
the Hon. ronald jones Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation
3
generations will have, will be related to our adaptation, development and exploitation of technology today. However, though these fields are expected to be the drivers of international trade in the near future, it is also important that as a nation we develop the skills which are necessary to fully exploit innovation within this sector such as entrepreneurship, microfinance, marketplace competitive skills, and negotiation skills. These are the vehicles which will allow Barbados to turn our industrial estates into Silicon Valleys and our Broad Streets into Wall Streets. This publication has done a wonderful job in identifying individuals and enterprises in Barbados who are on the cutting edge of the digital revolution. The 2015 Global Innovation Index listed Barbados as the 37th most innovative economy in the world, and the leading economy as it relates to innovation in
is imperative that as a nation we transfer this innovation into foreign exchange earnings and a growing economy. With 2017 identified as the national year of productivity in Barbados, it is timely that the ICT industry for this edition of The Exporter Magazine.
Technology
has
long
been
identified as a catalyst for productivity. This is because efficient use of technology allows for the national labour force to use less time to complete more complex and strenuous tasks. Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s generation is growing up in an era where ICT solutions are being used to combat every difficulty, from areas of engineering, law and even animation, ICT is so much more than what we traditionally know it to be. The world is changing and in this regard, I offer my sincerest thanks to the BCSI team for playing their role in preparing our nation for the exponential digital tide to come. I must commend the Executive Director, the entire team at BCSI and other valued stakeholders for
putting
forward
such
an
excellent
publication and for all the work they do as it relates to uplifting the services industry in Barbados. I do wish you every success in all of your future endeavours.
04
T H E
E X P O R T E R
Welcome to this 4th edition of the EXPORTER,
that idea of being king of the exchange has taken
which coincides with our recently rebranded
behaviour changes and purchase patterns move
Services Weekend Barbados (SWB) scheduled
to companies, products and services that are more
for November 10th - 12th. This edition focuses on
responsive to the growing needs and expectations
ICT in a 21st century Barbados. This topic along
of the consumer. So companies that don’t have
with the need for innovation and transformation
an active social media presence for example,
in our business practices and culture in Barbados
and who aren’t able to respond to changes in
will be thoroughly explored during our weekend
consumer demands in real time will be left behind
of activities. To be considered as an innovative
in this growing digital environment.
on an even greater dimension. Customer loyalty is fast becoming an old paradigm as buyer
EDITOR’s notes
country or people does not necessarily mean that everyone must be an innovator. In a typical
On that note, we commend this edition to you,
population, probably 2.5 to 5.0 percent of that
and we are privileged to have the endorsement
population would be considered in that category
of the Minister of Education, Science, Technology
of innovators . What is more important is that we
and Innovation – The Hon. Ronald Jones, who
build a culture of support around our potential
has provided a special feature address for the
innovators. This would involve early identification,
magazine. We are also very pleased to have some
relevant training and mentorship, and of course
very stimulating perspectives from a number of
adequate investment so that they are not
key multi-disciplinary professionals who examine
frustrated in their pursuits and ultimately end up
the link between ICT and business. For example,
falling through the cracks.
we have Ms Marla Dukharan, Chief Economist with BITT (Barbados) who writes on ICT in Finance; Dr
According to The Global Information Technology
Depradine from the University of the West Indies
Report 2013, this ability to innovate is essential
on ICT and User Interface; Attorney-at-Law Bartlett
in the current information revolution that is
Morgan on ICT and Law and Sonia Franklyn on ICT
transforming economic and social transactions
in Animation. For one of our untold stories, we are
in our societies . The report further suggests that
honoured to highlight the pioneering work of one
the benefits of ICTs are now widely recognised
of our Barbadian innovators - Alan Emptage who
everywhere as an important source of efficiency
invented the first Search Engine for the Internet.
gains for companies which will allow them to optimise their production function and liberalise
We launched this magazine exactly one year ago
resources toward other productive investments.
(in November 2016) as part of our activities for National Services Week. And with each succeeding
One thing that should not be lost in this discussion
edition, we have seen significant improvement in
on technology change and adoption within
its attractiveness and content quality. The scope
companies is the impact on people – particularly
of contributors to the publication has broadened,
the consumer. From a marketing perspective, the
and there has been an increased distribution
consumer has always been considered king in the
among our network, and the publication has
business transaction, but with the proliferation
attracted greater sponsorship from among our
and integration of ICTs by companies worldwide,
members and partners.
GRAHAM CLARKE Graham Clarke is a Chartered Marketer and Current Executive Director of BCSI
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
05
Contents ICT in 21 century barbados 06 Developing the ICT Sector in Barbados 08 ICT in Finance 12 The Power of ICT in Engineering 16 ICT, Apps, and User Interface Design 20 Cultural Industries: The Way Forward 22 BIMAP’s Animation Training 24 ICT and Social Media 28 CARIFESTA 2017 untold Stories 28 Inventing the First Search Engine 30 The Future of Dining is Here 32 Apps and ICT in Travel IN-HOUSE News 37 Services Weekend 2017 39 Music Workshop Review
ICT in 21st century barbados
Members’ corner 42 Girls in ICT
06
T H E
E X P O R T E R
While the global ICT industry has realised unprecedented growth, the experience of the Caribbean and Barbados has been more conservative. We are a region whose opportunities for e-commerce eludes us in areas such as the creative industries sector.
DEVELOPING THE ICT SECTOR IN barbados
However, it hasn’t all been a disappointment. Barbados, as well as the majority of its neighbours across the region, have benefited tremendously from millions of dollars in investment in broadband and fibre optic communications to customers’ premises. As a result, there has been a rise in above average Internet connection rates and extraordinarily high social media engagement. But this phenomenon alone is simply but one aspect of national ICT enabled development. Other necessary components are entrepreneurship, human capital, and an environment which enables this dynamic industry to thrive. Barbados has the basic legislative elements to promote the enabling environment. However, it is still missing some critical pieces of legislation. The Data Protection Act, which remains in draft form, and a Freedom of Information Act, are necessary to strengthen the 2005 Computers’ Misuse Act as well as
Steven williams President of the Barbados ICT Professional Association & Owner of Sunisle Technology Solutions
the 2000 Electronic Transactions Act. However, Acts and Regulations alone do not create demand or make industries flourish; they are simply rule books which business must follow. Technology needs to be used to drive commerce by influencing the creation of new products and services and establishing markets
What’s needed is a cohesive and creative vision for the country ...
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
for them. Likewise, if ICT is to be effectively leveraged
For this to be a reality, our educational systems must
to
and
evolve to develop human capital that is dynamic and
competitiveness, the expansion of the ICT sector itself
responsive to the changing requirements of the ICT
needs to be aligned with the needs of the industries which
revolution. No longer can we sit and teach ICT in a vacuum
it seeks to support.
that perpetuates a disconnect between technology,
advance
business
efficiency,
innovation,
commerce
and
development.
Smart
Partnerships
What’s needed is a cohesive and creative vision for
between learning institutions, especially at the tertiary
the country that would drive sustainably ICT enabled
level, and critical industry sectors, such as Tourism, could
commercial development. That vision could include
be implemented to identify problems to which ICTs can
a component that would see Bridgetown becoming
be applied to provide solutions which would strengthen
a true ‘Digital City’, a place where automation and
sector development and create commercial opportunities
computerisation are at the core of customer and business
for budding ‘Tech Entrepreneurs’.
services. It’s an opportunity that would encompass
tourism and heritage sites around the area, where
What is clear is; Barbados has the capability to become
interactive displays give tourists and locals alike, digital
a more successful participant in global ICT value chains,
experiences with infinite possibilities. An initiative such
having comparable or in some cases, more development
as ‘Digital Bridgetown’ would transform urban planning
inputs than many other emerging nations have had; who
and development. It would promote better business
are exploiting those value chains more successfully than
to business; and business to consumer interfaces by
Barbados is currently.
improving access to information and facilitating mobile commerce with digital payments. Such an initiative would
So what is needed is a single national vision along with
cut across industries and radiate benefits to other aspects
the will. As well as the imagination of the ICT stakeholders
of civil society, business and government.
which every Barbadian can rally behind because ICT is critical to our economic development and future.
07
08
T H E
E X P O R T E R
In the Caribbean, due to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;de-riskingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, as a region, we are becoming increasingly financially excluded on a regional level.
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
ICT in finance
09
10
T H E
E X P O R T E R
In a world that relies so heavily on modern technology, the role of digital finance has become increasingly important in addressing social challenges. Despite the growing reliance on technology in our daily lives, 85% of world’s transactions still occur in cash. Furthermore, almost half the world’s adults—2.5 billion people— lack access to basic financial services. They are outside the financial system, using alternative financial services.
Digital technology – bridging the financial divide
In the Caribbean, due to ‘de-risking’, as a region, we are becoming increasingly financially excluded on a regional level. Declining financial inclusion will only exacerbate poverty, which is already at about 40% in the Caribbean. Digital technology has already been proven to lift people out of poverty. In Kenya, the mobile money transfer service M-PESA has lifted as many as 194,000 households – 2% of the population – out of poverty and has been effective in improving the economic lives of poor women and members of female-headed households. Digital financial payments and remittance capabilities reduce the likelihood of
marla dukharan Chief Economist, Bitt Inc.
becoming poor due to a crisis; and have the capacity to boost security, speed, and transparency of transactions, at a much lower cost. As much as 10% of disposable income is currently spent on unnecessary fees and interest expenses. In fact, 10-15% of remittances, which supports the poorest families and earns valuable foreign exchange for many Caribbean countries, is also lost to fees. Banking costs will only rise, making innovation like digital currency inevitable.
How digital currency works and what it means for the Caribbean In 2016, Bitt became the first company in the world to issue a digital fiat currency (the digital Barbados dollar) onto a public blockchain, with Central Bank of Barbados oversight. Like traditional currency, this digital cash can be used to make purchases, or send and receive money, using Bitt’s mobile wallet. Bitt intends to digitise other fiat currencies in the Caribbean, in much the same way.
contributor profile Marla Dukharan is recognised as a top economist and thoughtleader in the Caribbean, leading discussions and publishing reports on regional issues such as the Caribbean implications of Brexit, US relations with Cuba, and changing US and Chinese policies, among other geopolitical developments. Marla has become a leading voice in the call to reduce gender and income inequality, increase financial and economic inclusion, promote new models for growth and to attract foreign investment, and to introduce fiscal responsibility frameworks.
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
While this is a first step in addressing challenges at the
monetary authorities participate via the same rules of
national level through innovation, Bitt is taking it a step
engagement driven by accountability and transparency.
further to create a synthetic Caribbean monetary union using national digital dollars. By building a multilateral
Foreign reserves in most countries in the Caribbean are
clearing and settlement facility for the Caribbean region,
already declining, and it is time for our financial ecosystem
we can virtually eliminate the need for USD to conduct
to evolve. Digital finance could add USD3.7 trillion to the
financial transactions intra-regionally, thereby solving
GDP of emerging economies within a decade, according
the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;de-riskingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; problem for intra-regional financial
to a recent report by the McKinsey Global Institute. At Bitt,
transactions.
we have already begun addressing the inefficiencies of the current systems of banking and trade, innovating to bridge
Under this model, a smart contract would be designed to follow the rules of a trade-weighted effective exchange rate index, utilising the Caribbean Digital Currencies. This smart contract would ensure a multilateral exchange rate index is driven by an autonomous system where all
the financial divide.
11
12
T H E
E X P O R T E R
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
The power of ict in engineering
13
14
T H E
E X P O R T E R
Maintaining the thrust of advancing integrated coastal zone management, the Government of Barbados embarked on the Coastal Risk Assessment and Management Programme in February 2011. This project is the most
ICT In engineering
recent of five major projects funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) since the inception of the Coastal Conservation Project Unit in 1983. The major elements of the Programme are as follows: 1. Data collection and modelling of coastal processes 2. Hazard Risk Assessment and Vulnerability Analysis 3. Institutional Strengthening and the incorporation of Disaster Risk Management and Climate Change Adaptation into the Integrated Coastal Zone Management framework The first element of the programme consisted of six (6) baseline studies including the Geotechnical Surveys and Investigations study (GSI). The primary objectives of the GSI were to provide an accurate mapping of the cliff instability zones that exist around the coast of the island and to define and delineate the land slippage hazards that exist within the Scotland District. Precise survey measurement of cliff-face and undercut geometry at selected locations of particular geological relevance around the island were identified as important inputs for the overall analyses and assessment of coastal risk areas required in the GSI. Given the highly irregular geometry of the cliff faces, conventional survey methods were previously acknowledged as being of limited use, and unable to provide the level of detail required. Considering that the majority of cliffs of most technical interest were inaccessible, it was deemed essential that high-resolution digital imagery of the cliff faces, combined with digital photogrammetry, be collected from optimum positions offshore.
RIcardo Arthur Project Manager at Coastal Zone Management Unit
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
To obtain the imagery from a stable
processing, and digital terrain model
platform, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV)
(DTM) development. The UAV fieldwork
or remotely operated â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;dronesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; were used to
and digital imagery data collection for the
collect the data, rather than assembling
cliff geometry/undercut measurements
data from other conventional means.
were carried out in January 2016. During this time, the drone work, offshore imagery
These data were subsequently used to
and digital surveys were conducted at 38
generate high precision, geo-referenced,
cliff sites located on the south, southeast
3D point cloud models from which detailed
and north coasts of the island.
topography, contours, three-dimensional surface models and two-dimensional
Regulatory stakeholder agencies have
cross-sections could be obtained, and
been quite pleased with the results of the
further geological feature assessment
GSI data collection via UAV, noting that
conducted.
the policies which will derive from the programme will be based on such high-
HELImetrex Pty Ltd., Brisbane, Australia, performed the drone survey and were selected
based
on
their
extensive
experience in this type of data collection,
quality data and modelling inputs.
15
16
T H E
E X P O R T E R
Not a day passes without someone, somewhere using a mobile device,
such as a
smartphone. Mobile devices keep us in touch with essential services like banking, shopping and of course social media. The secret sauce is, of course, the apps. No one could have imagined how revolutionary the introduction of apps would become when the iPhone App Store launched in 2008. Apps have become part of everyday life, and we take them for granted, very rarely acknowledging the tremendous effort that goes into designing those apps.
Over the years, apps have
become progressively easier to use enabling users of all ages to pick up and use a mobile device in a matter of minutes. So what makes apps so easy to use and intuitive in nature? It is an area within Computer Science called User Interface Design (UD), which is a subarea of Human-Computer Interaction. UD involves the creation of interactive computing systems and as the name implies, is the study of how humans interact with computers or related devices through software.
UD research has resulted in the development
of
techniques
and
guidelines that define best practices when creating apps. It is one area that major software vendors spend significant sums of money studying in order ensure the best possible
apps and the art of user interface design
experience for their customers. In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s competitive world, a large part of app development focuses on the user interface. Attributes such as usability and ease of use are essential parts of user interface design. In fact, the quality of the available apps, in large part, affects a customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decision-making
process
when
selecting a smartphone or tablet.
Dr Colin Depradine
Customers not only expect that their
Senior Lecturer of Computer Science at the UWI (Barbados)
favourite and required apps will be available but also be easy to use and are reliable. Consequently,
in
order
to
submit
an app to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, developers must adhere to the user interface design rules set by the vendors. This is what ensures consistency in behaviour and appearance across all apps, within a particular store. With the arrival of app stores, Caribbean customers can access apps developed by software developers from around the
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
17
world. For Caribbean software developers to be competitive in this mobile world, they must have a deep understanding of user interface development. It should be noted that software vendors have also paid close attention to the inclusion of accessibility features for users with disabilities. These features enable this group of users to fully access and participate in the digital world. With their growing economic power, this is a category of user that Caribbean developers are advised to take notice of when developing their apps. To truly be competitive in the Caribbean Region, the user experience is key. Gone are the days when anything you put out there has to be bought. In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world, customers expect more than just functionality. They expect the product to be a pleasure to use.
contributor profile Dr Colin Depradine is currently a Senior Lecturer of Computer Science at the UWI (Barbados) and the Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology. In 2008, he won the Vice Chancellorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Award for Teaching Excellence and the Teaching and Learning Champion Award in 2013. His primary area of research is Human Computer Interaction, focusing on universal design techniques for the creation of software for science education with a special emphasis on users with disabilities.
Custo m only e ers not x their pect tha f t a v o requir urite be ava ed apps w and also b ilable bu ill and ar e easy to t e relia use ble.
18
T H E
E X P O R T E R
The dynamics of the global economy Are evolving and transforming at
a
rate for which only Information and Communication Technology can be held accountable. ICT is deemed one of the biggest game changers for developing countries and their Small and Mediumsize Enterprises (SMEs).
well as macro levels of the economy because it provides the opportunity for developing countries to have a “fair chance” or to be an integral player in the global economy. This is why ICT had been embraced by the region and particularly by the services sector. are
finally
many
different
becoming
tradable and more traded regionally, internationally and multilaterally. ICT can directly facilitate international trade in services, particularly information intensive services because it facilitates global disaggregation of the production process and ease of doing business. ICT infrastructure and the availability of the internet for commercial transactions have a positive and significant impact on the volume of international trade; this phenomenon is called e-commerce.
forms
has provided ways to facilitate
easier
and
more efficient methods of doing business and making
sustainable
development
easier
to attain. According to Richard Escalante, “E-commerce accelerate
ICT have pervasive effects at micro as
Services
The birth of e-commerce in its
can economic
development”, and this can lead to sustainable development. Traditionally
there
are
specific issues that exist for most SMEs such as; lack of financing, difficulties in exploiting technology, low productivity and regulatory burdens but e-commerce has provided ways to help alleviate such issues. It can be less time consuming, where time is of the essence. Less time spent on each transaction means more
a l l o w s
transactions can be achieved.
for and
greater
connectivity.
This is highly beneficial for businesses
the
because
eradicates
it
increases
profits;
by
efficiency
ubiquity
of
Lastly, e-commerce
geographical
barriers
simultaneously increasing sales and
because your business can virtually be
reducing costs. It reduces red tape and
everywhere.
eliminates intermediate obstacles, its cost-effectiveness
and
convenience
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
19
20
T H E
E X P O R T E R
Businesses in Barbados amass a significant amount of data relative to persons they interact with.
From client lists to
email lists, enterprises hold significant amounts of valuable data on existing and potential customers, suppliers and other actors and entities. At the onset, it is important to note that the collection and retention of private information is not just a relevant consideration for sophisticated tech-focused startups. Indeed, many brick-and-mortar businesses in Barbados routinely collect private
The Why and How of Taking Privacy Seriously: The Beginners Guide for Barbadian Businesses Using ICT
information of their customers and clients. If you run a business, consider the last time you had a promotion (like a raffle) or had persons sign up via pen and paper for some service you were offering. In Barbados, matters related to privacy and the protection of personal information are often relegated to the back burner by business enterprises. This is partly because the law does not mandate the protection of the private information of individuals, which the business may come into contact with. Notwithstanding this, there may be good reasons for businesses in Barbados to begin considering integrating selfimposed privacy standards into their businesses.
Why is the Protection of Privacy Important?
bartlett morgan Attorney-at-Law Lex Caribbean
While the notion of self-imposed privacy standards may seem counterintuitive, entrepreneurs and service providers should begin rethinking this view of privacy for the following reasons:
It will soon be the law Given the general trend across the Caribbean and the world, towards the passage of legislation geared towards the protection of privacy information, it is no longer a question of if, but rather when your business will be legally obligated to consider its handling of private information. While Barbados has no general laws dedicated to privacy, a draft Data Protection Bill is already in circulation. Much has been made of recent developments out of Europe concerning the passage of the General Data Protection Regulation (the â&#x20AC;&#x153;GDPRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;). The GDPR comes into full effect on May 25, 2018, and has garnered significant buzz outside of Europe for one main reason: the GDPR is extraterritorial. In plain terms, this means that the GDPR may apply to individuals and companies
contributor profile Bartlett D. Morgan is an attorneyat-law at Lex Caribbean, a panCaribbean commercial law firm. Bartlett is a member of the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) and is the At-large Advisory Committee representative for Latin America and the Caribbean at the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). He writes on issues at the intersection of law and technology in the Caribbean at bartlettmorgan.com
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
even though they are located outside of Europe. Thus, if
and why, of your current data protection practices.
your business monitors or targets persons in Europe in order to provide goods or services then it is possible that
• Increase awareness within your organization
your business may be required to comply with provisions
Expose relevant staff members to the finer points
of the GDPR on the protection of privacy, although your
of protection of data and general privacy principles.
business is based outside of Europe.
Professional training and certification are ideal. However,
It develops your customer’s trust
at a minimum, staff should be made aware of generally accepted privacy principles, such as those contained in the OECD Guidelines on the Protection of Privacy. Those
Perhaps the key reason why members of the business
persons who interact with and manage private data
community should consider implementing systems
should be targeted, including members of the C-suite, I.T.,
to ensure the private data of customers and clients
marketing and compliance/legal staff.
is adequately protected is its capacity to build and develop trust in their service offerings. Recently, Deloitte
• Publish your company’s privacy policy
conducted a survey in the United States, which indicated
Businesses should take the practical steps of publishing a
that 83% of persons surveyed considered security
publicly available privacy policy. This privacy policy should
breaches of personal data stored with consumer product
expressly provide answers to fundamental questions
companies to be a serious or moderate problem. That
about your business practices, such as:
same study also revealed that 59% of persons surveyed
(a) who will have access to private information and under
felt that knowledge of a data breach at a company would
what circumstances;
negatively impact their likelihood of buying from that
(b) whether information will be shared with any third
business. The message is clear: the more customers
parties;
trust a company, the more likely they are to do business
(c) what kind of information will be collected;
with that entity. To the extent that protecting personal
(d) the reason for the information;
data is linked to trust, it is simply good business to take
(e) how long the data will be held for;
it seriously.
(f) and what your business will do in the event of a data
Practical methods for protecting private information within your organisation
breach.
If you have decided that privacy should be an essential consideration for your business, here are a few steps that can be taken: • Audit your current practices Your company should audit its current practices and policies to determine the who, what, where, when, how
• Consider implementing Privacy by Design principles The concept of Privacy by Design holds that a business should build privacy into its processes and practices. There are several specific principles that have become accepted as means of ensuring privacy by design, but the key underlying idea is to ensure that the systems employed by the business keep the privacy considerations of individuals - including its customers - foremost.
21
22
T H E
E X P O R T E R
Geared towards continuous economic growth
parts, scenes and landscapes create
,
used primarily as a story-telling medium
the human resource development of
and illustration platform that conveys
Barbados has been primarily focused
information, provides entertainment
on management and productivity in
and creates an outlet for the expression
traditional fields of work. In modern
of ideas. Put simply; it is bringing your
times, the advancement and increased
ideas to life using a virtual drawing
availability of technology has created
medium.
the illusion observed and brings the animated character to life. Animation is
looking towards the future: BIMAPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Animation training
more contemporary job opportunities for the technologically savvy individual.
Internationally, the overall animation,
This wave of new applications drives
gaming
all walks of life to embrace the digital
is regarded as a key area of growth
world as it becomes ingrained in the
for the next level of technology and
business environment. With employers
employment
and employees accepting technology
includes e-Education, web designing,
as a tool to be utilised in accomplishing
digital
company
entertainment.
for
goals,
training
in
the
need
various
arose
computer
and
infotainment
generation.
marketing
and
These
industry
Animation animation
opportunities
Dr. sonia greenidge
allow for revenue sharing worldwide.
applications. BIMAP, one of the leading institutes in workforce development,
Presently, Barbados has very few
has
qualified
embraced
the
challenge
to
animators
who
possess
develop and deliver courses to provide
the skill or quality work required by
individuals with the relevant training
employers.
required to operate some of the current
more qualified persons, who meet
computer applications available in
international standards, through our
business. One such field of work is
basic,
Animation.
Animation courses.
BIMAP aims to produce
intermediate
and
advance
marquita phillips
or
Looking toward the future and in an
appearance of movement that is
effort to cultivate interest in the industry,
achieved by showing stationary images
BIMAP hosted a summer camp for
in a sequence. The linking together of
youth 12 to 17 years old.
these images sequentially frame-by-
extremely enthusiastic young persons
frame with subtle changes in body
participated in this novel experience.
Animation
is
the
simulation
Twelve
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
Campers were taken on a journey of the evolution of animation and introduced to the basic tools and techniques used to create animations. Excitement grew as the young persons gained an understanding of how to create three-dimensional shapes, space, volume, weight and balance and add light and shadow.
Enthusiasm
was even more significant once character design and antagonist versus protagonist style and expression were added. By the end of the camp, all participants were familiar with the basics of the art of framing, creating poses and adding movement. What surprised them most were the various job opportunities that are available in this field and the potential to become entrepreneurs and earn a living by providing this service.
Founded in 1972, the Barbados Institute of Management and Productivity (BIMAP) is an integrated strategy and organisational development institution which specialises in developing and delivering relevant management education, training and consulting services to meet the needs of the workforce. Our aim is to provide exceptional management education to both business and governmental entities and to assist organisations in their quest to attain corporate competitive advantage through processes, strategies and systems.
Put simply, it is bringing your ideas to life using a virtual drawing medium.
23
24
T H E
E X P O R T E R
There has been a paradigm shift. The influence the digital age has and continues to hold over contemporary culture is undeniable. Organizations have no choice but to move alongside this shift or run the inevitable risk of being left behind by their customers. Civil Society Organisations are no different, using social media for the development of your organisation is a must. The Inter-American Development Bank recently
social media and civil society organisations
held a seminar for Civil Society Organizations, highlighting how media should be used for development.
Including a digital framework into a company can be a very tedious and timeconsuming process. Many roadblocks may be encountered, for starters; inconsistency, and an unwillingness to change by employees and even by management. Creating a digital strategy requires time, money and in some cases continuous training of employees. • Setting your goals - Before any good digital strategy can be executed there must be a plan. You need to specifically list what your organisation expects as a direct result of your digital strategy. • Choosing the right platform - There are several social media platforms, each created differently to support specific types of content. Companies should know exactly what their goals are and select the appropriate social media platforms to align with their goals. • Ensuring that everyone is on the same page - It is imperative that everyone in your organisation understands the importance of having a digital strategy for your strategy to be its most effective. • Following your Schedule - A posting schedule should be carefully developed based on the ‘peak times’ of activity on your social media page.
Evaluating your results -
It is important to evaluate the results from your
digital strategy, to figure out what is or is not working and adjust to suit. Not only companies are developing digital strategies; many individuals are leveraging social media in their favour as well. One of our local talents is doing just this.
BCSI Secretariat
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
Nadia â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Aidanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Homes, a very talented
When Aidan released her single Life Nice
Barbadian musician is using social media
on Youtube, it received recognition that
to develop her brand. In this day and
was not expected. Weeks after its release,
age, it is much easier to reach a wider
another artist based in the United States
demographic without having to go through
performed a cover of the song. Years
the channels of having a manager and
ago this would not have been possible
taking your music to a label. Aidan utilises
as it would have been highly unlikely that
social media platforms such as Facebook,
he would have heard the song in the first
Instagram, Youtube, Tunecore ( iTunes /
place. Music travels and technology is the
SoundCloud ), Spotify and other sharing
vehicle.
applications to reach fans outside of Barbadosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 166 square miles.
Whether a corporation or an individual, a digital strategy can be used to create or
Gone are the days where it was virtually impossible to reach markets outside of Barbados, they are now literally just a click away. With so many breakthroughs in technology, social media is an essential way of staying current. As an artist, one must be aware of various technological advances in order to develop professionally and artistically.
enhance your brand.
25
26
T H E
E X P O R T E R
WE DO: BRANDING CREATIVE STRATEGY WEB DESIGN
letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk. 1 (246)
547 8419 idscreativeinc hello@idscreativeinc.com www.idscreativeinc.com
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
untold stories
27
28
T H E
E X P O R T E R
<Perspective/> on {ICT} From the inventor of the first search engine_|
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
As we approach the end of the second decade of the 21st Century,
it is abundantly clear that
the Internet - a technology which was limited to academics and corporate research departments, a generation ago, has transformed almost every aspect of life for all of us, whether or not we use it or even have access to it.
And in some ways, the changes have only just begun. As with all technologies, ICT is a double-edged sword, which can be used in
Many of you may not know that the inventor of the first search engine was Barbadian Alan Emtage. Having recently been inducted into the Internet Hall of Fame, we reached out to him for a few words.
both positive and negative ways, encompassing a vast range of capabilities. Take for example the Internet search engine, a technology that has given us the combined knowledge of humankind at our fingertips, from anywhere in the world, at any time. It has, in some sense, made us all “omniscient”, all-knowing beings that our ancestors could have hardly imagined. But of course, knowledge is more than mere access to data or information. And what happens when (rather than “if”) the technology is corrupted to conceal rather than illuminate, to deliver fake news rather than the truth, to provoke and incite rather than inform? What defences do we have against this? Even more disturbing - how would we even know when it was happening?
This is but just one example. The challenge for small countries like Barbados is to keep pace with these ever-changing technologies, particularly in education, but also in deployment and expertise. To have local know-how, those who can be called upon to advise
Alan emtage
both the Public and Private sectors will become increasingly important. Artificial Intelligence, quantum communication and computing, Big Data, The Cloud - these are all major forces that will continue to change the world we live in, ever more rapidly. We must rise to that challenge, or get left behind.
29
30
T H E
E X P O R T E R
Eat With a Stranger (EWAS) apps are popping up all over the digital world. A subset of ICT-enabled mobile apps: EWAS, essentially provide a means to book and dine at the homes of people you have never met. What’s the appeal, you ask? Like Uber, Lyft, and Airbnb these apps are part of the “sharing economy,” a peer-to-peer exchange often facilitated through community-based or online services. The “sharing economy” benefits both the service provider and
The future of dining is here: Enjoying meals in local homes
the end-user. For example, in the case of dining hosts, they earn extra income and road-test new menus. Diners, on the other hand, experience a more cultural and varied experience, often at a cheaper rate than a restaurant. Mobile apps or mobile-adaptive platforms make doing so simple and seamless. Isle&Dine is a mobile-enabled web platform for people dining in Barbados. Currently in “concierge” phase, we are inviting diners singly or in groups, to enjoy meals in local homes and meet new people. Our guests so far have been a combination of adventurous, savvy locals and visitors to the island who want to try immersive and off the beaten path experiences. They want more than the sun, sea and sand; and Isle&Dine creates a platform for visitors to engage more intimately with a key selling point of our tourism product - Bajan people. And what is more intimate than eating and enjoying a meal in the home of a stranger or soon-to-be friend? ICT-enabled mobile technology enhances the Isle&Dine experience by allowing hosts to have access to a broader pool of potential diners, and diners a vast range of options. The technology can also facilitate meal selection based on location. The overall beneficial impact is ease and choice and a peer review system online that helps to create credibility and trust.
HEATHER Barker
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
Isle&Dine has the potential to bring
having our pitch decks broken
much-needed
apart and rebuilt, networking and
foreign
exchange
into the local economy.
mentoring followed by pitching
We have also created a platform
before judges.
for Isle&Dine to give back to our communities. Isle&Dine recently
Isle&Dine made it to semi-finals.
participated in Charity Chicks’ local
We were also included in the top
initiative - #Food4Change, where
five who were awarded grants
helped raise funds to buy nutritious
to help take their startups to the
foods for communities in need.
next level. It was a gruelling but rewarding process which reinforced
We also participated in the PitchIT
the validity of Isle&Dine’s value
Caribbean Challenge 3.0 in St.
proposition.
Kitts and Nevis organised by the Caribbean
Mobile
Innovation
We look forward to you dining with
Project. Over 20 entrepreneurs
us and joining our community of
from across the region gathered for
#DineAdians. Because life tastes
an intense boot camp that included
better shared!
contributor profile Heather Barker is the co-founder of Isle&Dine where she is the #DineAdian responsible for strategy, operations and communications. She is also the Managing Director of the boutique communications agency, Clearly Content Communications Inc. She enjoys travelling, writing fiction, painting en plein air, and experimenting with desserts. Peoples’ desire for her chocolate tarts, flapjacks and peanut butter bars are quelled with, ‘Keep calm. You can have seconds’. Reach her at heatherb@isleanddine.com. Visit www.isleanddine.com and www.facebook.com/IsleandDine for more.
31
32
T H E
E X P O R T E R
When the iphone launched in 2007, no one could foresee that it would revolutionise the way we communicate and interact with everyday circumstances.
Apps and ict in travel
In fact, with the creation of the app store, a whole new industry was formed as web developers and coders quickly realised the power of the handheld mobile devices that became known as smartphones.
there is no industry that has been touched by ICT like travel and hospitality.
Mobile applications, apps, went from being solely for our entertainment and passing time with games like minesweeper, snake and various iterations of the ever popular scrabble to apps that facilitated productivity and made life easier. As we became more reliant on smartphones, integration of apps into our lives to solve problems, schedule events and keep track of just about everything became less of a luxury and more of an essential. Developers began, as any good innovators do, to seek out customer
Israel mallett
pain points and creation ICT solutions through apps to address
Chief Creative IDS Creative Inc
those needs. But that is enough history. We live in a world where ICT, through apps and mobile devices, is essential to how things work and getting things done. There is no industry that has been touched by ICT like travel and hospitality, and this was driven home for me on a recent trip from Barbados to Jamaica through Miami; thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what happens when you wait too late to book your flight.
contributor profile Israel Mallett is a creative consultant, entrepreneur and part-time tutor with an interest in technology integration and innovations for the future.
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
By now, most of us are used to getting reminders in
I was impressed enough to download the app and create
our emails of upcoming flights. If you are an avid Gmail
an account even though I have yet to use it, as the service
user like myself, when an airline or travel agent sends a
is not available here.
reminder about your flight, your inbox prompts you to add it to your calendar to be reminded closer to the date and
While I was in Jamaica I needed access to more funds.
time of check-in.
Using the mobile banking app on my phone I was able to transfer funds to my visa debit card, then go to an ATM and
Almost all airlines now allow certain classes of passengers
withdraw in local currency.
to check in online. On the way back from Jamaica there were several delays. I travelled on American Airlines and did just that. Upon
I got my usual email notification but this time with a twist.
arrival at the airport I was able to scan my passport at the
I was prompted to add my boarding pass to apple wallet.
kiosk, print my boarding pass and avoid the long line of passengers waiting to do things the conventional way.
This was new for me.
In Miami we went to the mall between connecting flights.
Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d never used apple wallet before, being a bit sceptical of
Instead of hiring a yellow taxi, catching the bus or the mall
surrendering my credit card and account details to an app,
Shuttle, we used Uber. For the first time in my life; yes, I am
but I tried it out.
late, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t judge and thanks. It turned out to be the most helpful thing I could do on my Two cars were booked in the app; the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name,
trip. With several delays and bad weather causing a poor
picture and vehicle make and model were sent through for
travel experience all around, with gates changing and
verification. Because of the nature of the app no money
boards not being updated, Apple wallet saved the day.
passed hands; the associated credit or debit card the user has attached to their account was charged, the system
Even before the announcements were made over the PA
received payment and the driver would be paid his share.
system at the airport, a push notification would appear on my screen that there was a change to my flight time and
Paperless. Contactless. Smooth.
gate assignment.
33
34
T H E
E X P O R T E R
Within the app, the new gate number and boarding time
Airbnb has been faced with pushback from hoteliers
were highlighted, as if someone had circled them with a
especially in the Caribbean where tourism is a major
highlighter.
mainstay of many local economies. Some cite that by allowing homeowners to rent out rooms or entire homes
Using Apple wallet made what could have easily been an
may devalue the overall tourist product. Then there is the
annoying experience, an easy transition to the right gate.
regulatory issue of zoning for commercial use. Should a property be registered for business use with the authorities
And that’s just one side of travel. With services like Airbnb
or not in order to operate in such a manner? And does it
connecting travellers with those willing to rent space,
stop someone from listing his or her property for rent for
despite the regulatory issues it has faced or created in
the short or long term through a service such as this?
some markets, it has revolutionised the way people search
Should it?
for and book accommodation, especially budget travellers. The next thing to consider would be who then screens the There can, however, still be challenges with these services;
individuals who list their homes or rooms for rent? Who in
bugs and kinks to be worked out. While in Miami, someone
turn screens the person who takes them up on their offer?
in the group had to keep going back into the airport to get
Is it secure? Do they have the proper hospitality training?
Wi-Fi to access the Uber updates, as they didn’t want to incur hefty roaming charges and the Wi-Fi didn’t work
One thing is for certain: travel and hospitality have been
beyond the terminal or for more than half an hour. If apps
changed by ICT and the world of Apps and smartphones.
are to be integrated more into our lives, a more seamless
There is no going back.
integration would be possible if service providers would make transitioning from local to international networks
But to move forward, these are all questions that would
less painful on your wallet, thus creating a more seamless
have to be answered in our social and cultural context to
experience without having to stand on one spot and milk a
make the integration of apps with travel and hospitality
spotty Wi-Fi connection.
more cohesive, beneficial and safe to all parties involved.
Uber has had it’s share of security issues - that it has been able to for the most part overcome - but faces a cultural and regulatory challenge in the Caribbean as it looks to make in-roads in Trinidad and Tobago. When Uber started it was seen as a status symbol, something the ‘überrich’ did, when they didn’t want to drive. That ethos may compete with the Caribbean notion that one’s car often is considered one’s status symbol. Will Uber be able to cross the cultural divide?
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
in-house news
35
36
T H E
E X P O R T E R
On Tuesday, October 24th, the press launch for Services Weekend Barbados got underway at the BCSI headquarters. We welcomed Ms Anies Jordan, the Vice President of the Association of Music Entrepreneurs as well as Mr Roger Hennis, senior manager in consulting at Deloitte Barbados. Mr Hennis, who will also be the keynote speaker at the Digital Strategy Seminar, gave a few words on digital strategy and just a taste of what participants should expect at the upcoming seminar. Executive Director of BCSI, Graham Clarke expressed the need for a digital strategy should a business hope to succeed globally. He encouraged all entrepreneurs to take part in the seminar. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Digital Forum will seek to answer the question of not only what needs to be done to improve exports, but how in fact it can be done. This is a forum for all service providers and entrepreneurs.â&#x20AC;? It was also announced that BCSI will be partnering with PM Splash, BIMHAUS and the Association of Music Entrepreneurs for the cultural showcase Firefly.
Services Weekend Barbados press launch
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
Services Weekend Barbados 2017 BCSI Secretariat
It’s that time of year again where service providers from all walks of life gather together to share, learn and develop. That’s right, Services Weekend Barbados (SWB) 2017 is right around the corner. This year our celebration of services will take the form of three events aimed at highlighting and developing of our Services Industry. Not only will our participants be given a platform to showcase their skills, but also gain knowledge and tangible rewards centred at uplifting their personal brands. From November 10th-12th the Barbados Coalition of Service Industries (BCSI) will host three events under the theme “Transitioning Towards a Digital Economy” these are:
A Digital Strategy Forum: 21st Century Barbados is moving away from analogue and venturing deeper into the digital world. This interactive forum, which takes the form of four separate breakout sessions, will give participants a deeper understanding of how to develop a digital strategy as well as appropriately apply it to their business model to see the best results. With each session being led by an experienced Industry Expert, participants are sure to walk away inspired and ready to take on the digital world. This forum takes place on Friday, November 10th from 9:00 am- 1:00 pm at the Radisson Aquatica Resort.
An Entrepreneurship workshop and Funding Clinic: The Secretariat will host a business development workshop and funding clinic geared towards
37
38
T H E
E X P O R T E R
entrepreneurs, entitled, “Access to Finance: Cracking the Code to Business Expansion” on Saturday, November 11th, 2017 at 10:00 A.M at the Radisson Aquatica Resort. This workshop is targeted towards the more vulnerable groups in society, specifically women and youth, with the aim of equipping them with the necessary tools to better access financing options.
Our Cultural Showcase ‘Firefly’: At the peak of SWB 2017 will be our Cultural Showcase, ‘Firefly’. Firefly is a fresh and creative space for emerging Barbadian visual artists, designers and musicians to showcase and develop their talents. Come out on Sunday, November 12th from 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, the George Washington House will transform as Firefly promises to be an unforgettable cultural showcase and best of all, it’s FREE!
Be sure to contact the BCSI Secretariat for any additional information regarding these events including registration.
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
Music Workshop: a Review
The Barbados Coalition of Service Industries (BCSI) was fortunate enough to host one of the events in the recently concluded CARIFESTA XIII calendar of events.
BCSI Secretariat
The Conduits to Commerce Music Workshop, which explored the world of music synchronisation, was held in collaboration with CRS Music and the Cultural Industries Development Authority (CIDA). Industry experts Sean Mulligan and Laurence Malpass journeyed from Los Angeles and the United Kingdom respectively to present to an audience of popular local musicians, past and present music executives as well as artist managers. They all gathered together at the Coconut Court Hotel to learn about all of the opportunities available to them as it relates to music synchronisation. Also notably present was Minister of Culture, The Honourable Stephen Lashley. Prior to the start of the workshop, the audience was briefly serenaded by local artiste, David Kirton and then Minister Lashley shared his views on our local artists utilising music synchronisation as a platform to gain
39
40
T H E
E X P O R T E R
revenue all the while developing their craft.
not do so due to the uncertainty of who
He noted that “Initiatives such as these
was the legal owner. They also stressed
provide
opportunities
the importance of creating music that was
for service providers within the creative
both understandable and relatable to an
industries. Such activity will prove to be
audience outside of Barbados’ borders.
net foreign exchange earners and will
These songs are played on some of
allow for Barbadians to diversify not
television’s most popular platforms and
only their income portfolio but also the
therefore reach a worldwide audience
export industries of Barbados, making
who need to be able to understand the
the country less susceptible to external
words of the particular song. Artistes
economic shocks.”
were urged not to be shy or wait until they
tangible
export
were approached by sync departments At the close of the press conference, the
but to get ahead of the game by sending
music workshop got underway with a
the songs they wished to be considered
detailed presentation by Sean Mulligan,
beforehand.
the VP creative of Entertainment One in Los Angeles.
Mulligan provided an in-
By the ending of the workshop, it was
depth behind the scenes look into the
clear to everyone present in the room that
minds of music synchronisers and what
music synchronisation could take their
they look for when selecting music to be
music to the next level by exposing them
played within some of the most popular
to large markets that they perhaps would
TV shows, advertisements and movies.
not have been able to access before and
He urged artists to not only create music
also provide them with a source of income.
but to always get ahead of their business,
The workshop created a space for those
especially when it comes to knowing who
within in the music industry to learn from
owns the publishing rights to their songs.
experts while simultaneously networking
Establishing agreements and creating
with their peers. We were pleased to host
paperwork at the beginning could save
such an event as a part of the activities
an artist quite a bit of headache in the
for CARIFESTA XIII and look forward to
future, particularly when faced with the
uplifting our cultural sector even further
opportunity to have their song synched.
during our upcoming Services Weekend
Both experts recounted many stories
Barbados on November 10th-12th.
where clients were interested in placing the song of a particular artist but could
Photo courtesy of Loop News
WWW.BCSI.ORG.BB
41
MEMBERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; CORNER
42
T H E
E X P O R T E R
girls in ICT
Since its inception, the world of Information Communication Technology (ICT) had been dominated by males, in more recent times however we are seeing more and more females gravitating towards studying Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM). Facilitators worldwide are making it a point to close this gap, one of these being the International Telecommunication Unionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (ITU) Girls in ICT Day initiative. This is a global effort with the purpose of encouraging young girls to explore studies and eventually careers within the field of ICT. This year the Caribbean came together in their celebrations with a regional hackathon where young women from Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago and Barbados gathered at each Campus of The University of The West Indies (UWI) to create apps geared at solving current problems.
Some of the highlights
44
T H E
E X P O R T E R
MINAR th E S Y G E T A R T S r 10 , 2017
be T oveAm FridISSaOyN,AN QUATIC RESOR RAD TIME: 8:30 A.M
ip h s r u e n e r p e r t n E
P O H S K R O W 17 0 2 , 1 1 r e b m e v o N , y Saturda th
RESORT RADISSON AQUATICA TIME: 9:00 A.M
th 2017 , 2 1 r e b m e v o N SundayAS, HINGTON HOUSE GEORGE W TIME: 4:00 P.M