Meet Jorge Garcell

In every company, there are those standout individuals who make an indelible impact—people whose dedication, expertise, and attitude elevate the entire organization. Today, I want to shine the spotlight on one such remarkable employee whose contributions have gone above and beyond expectations: Jorge Garcell.

Not only does Jorge bring a wealth of knowledge and a work ethic that never falters, but his thoughtful approach to every task, no matter how big or small, has set him apart. 

A native of Venezuela and now a resident of New Jersey, Jorge has a deep appreciation for the country he lives in and a true zest for life. He always, no matter what, has a great attitude and positive outlook! He is a friend to all, passionate about life, his work and his family. He and his wife recently became grandparents to a beautiful baby girl named Emma! Jorge loves being a grandpa/abuelo and would be pleased to show you baby pictures upon request! 

Unmatched Expertise

One of the first things you notice about Jorge is his deep knowledge as a Senior Developer. He has a remarkable ability to grasp complex concepts and break them down into understandable, actionable insights. Whether it’s troubleshooting a tricky technical issue or explaining processes to clients or me, his expertise shines through. Clients have repeatedly praised his ability to quickly assess challenges and offer clear solutions. It’s not just what he knows, but how he conveys it that makes him so special. 

Hard Work & Dedication

Jorge is the epitome of a hard worker. He doesn’t just meet expectations—he exceeds them every single time.

He has consistently demonstrated that no task is too small or too big to tackle with the same level of commitment. Whether it’s staying late to ensure a project meets its deadline, deploying something over the weekend,  or putting in extra effort to make sure every detail is perfected, his work ethic has been a cornerstone of his success and a huge asset to the company.

Thoughtful and Empathetic

What truly sets Jorge apart, however, is his thoughtfulness. He’s not just concerned with getting the job done; he’s invested in making sure the experience is positive for everyone involved! He takes the time to listen to others, carefully considering their perspectives and concerns before taking action. This thoughtful approach builds strong, trusting relationships, and creates a collaborative, inclusive environment where ideas are shared freely.

It’s not every day that you come across someone as dedicated, knowledgeable, thoughtful and energetic as Jorge. He sets the bar high and his contributions have made a lasting impact on me and Digital Yalo! We are lucky to have him!

I know what you’re thinking: “SEO is dead. Again.” Our AI overlords are here and they’ve come not to harvest the energy of our body heat to power their hive mind (a la The Matrix) but to generate an endless onslaught of mediocre content and provide us with quick and easy answers that give us no reason to click into websites. Oh, the humanity.

But before you stock up on canned beans and crawl into the fallout shelter, hear me out. SEO has “died” at least a dozen times now according to every digital media news outlet and each time the practice has simply evolved. Let’s go over how AI is shaking up SEO, how you can use it to your advantage, and what you can do to keep organic traffic flowing

The Role of AI in Modern SEO

Content Creation

With tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Google Gemini, creating content with AI is not only easy, it’s extremely accessible to anyone with an internet connection. The temptation is strong to generate hundreds of blog posts for your business, copy and paste them straight onto your website, and call it a day. But if you’re getting the eerie feeling that it was all too easy, you’re right.

AI is a brilliant tool for quickly creating content, but it’s not a miracle worker. Keep these in mind next time you generate something:

• Factuality: If you ask a Large Language Model (LLM) like ChatGPT to write a page about your mattress store’s new deals without giving it all the info, it will make stuff up. It’ll tell everyone about the 90%, BOGO special that it decided would sound good and suddenly you look silly because you didn’t proofread before posting it. It is imperative to go through anything you generate with an LLM with a keen eye to ensure you’re telling the truth, otherwise you’re simply creating clickbait spam.
• Originality: LLMs are trained on internet content. So if you’re asking it to write a blog post, it’s not just making it up on the spot like a writer would do, it’s pulling from other relevant articles for both the words and structure. A writer taking inspiration is one thing but this is verging on plagiarism in the eyes of Google, even if it doesn’t read the same to you. Consider giving it a true outline (you know, like you used to give human writers) instead of a simple prompt, and reword anything that doesn’t read like your tone of voice.

AI Overviews

Taking a look from the user’s perspective, Google has made it easier than ever to get a quick answer to whatever’s on their mind with AI overviews. While I find this wonderfully convenient outside of work, you can imagine how interesting this makes my job. But all is not lost because Google does credit the websites it pulls the information from so we’re right back to “not dead, just different”. So we’re not just fighting for traditional rankings anymore, we’re fighting to be the source of truth for these AI overviews, and you may not like what you’ll need to do to get there:

• High-Quality Content: I know, it burns. But as mentioned above, you need to make sure everything you put out there is completely original and tells the truth. Keep the fluff to a minimum, get to the point of the article as soon as you can, and try not to make it sound like an advertisement. When your website becomes a true resource for your field, not only will Google reward you, but users will trust you.
• Patience: Your mom was right, patience is a virtue. If you’re starting from scratch, it’ll take a while to get the good rankings and be seen as a resource. If you’ve been around awhile but your content isn’t reference-worthy, you can get there quicker but you’ll need to clean up your content and ensure it’s all useful. As the age-old adage goes: “The best time to start a high-quality content strategy was 20 years ago, the next best time is now”

Keywords and User Intent

Yes, keywords still matter—hurray, something old and familiar! But the game has changed. It’s no longer enough to cram a few phrases into an article (and frankly it never was, but hey, it worked!) and call it SEO-optimized. AI-driven search engines use advanced algorithms to understand user intent, context, and even synonyms. That means you need to shift your focus from “how many times can I say ‘best tacos in Austin’ without sounding ridiculous?” to “how can I answer every question a taco lover in Austin might have?”

Instead of obsessing over exact matches, think about the big picture:

• Long-Tail Keywords: These are your secret weapon. Instead of “tacos Austin,” aim for phrases like “authentic street tacos” or “best vegan tacos in South Austin.”
• Semantic Content: Google and AI tools thrive on context. Sprinkle in related terms, like “corn tortillas,” “salsa verde,” or “late-night eats,” to show your article is well-rounded and authoritative.
• User Intent: Are people looking for a quick taco joint recommendation, or are they researching Austin’s taco scene for an upcoming trip? Tailor your content to match their needs.

Technical SEO

You might think AI makes technical SEO irrelevant, but you’d be wrong. If anything, it’s become a non-negotiable. Why? Because even the smartest AI can’t recommend your page if it never finds it in the first place.

Here’s where you need to focus:

• Site Speed: If your website takes longer to load than it does for someone to finish their coffee, you’ve already lost them. Optimize images, use lazy loading, and remove unused code.
• Mobile Optimization: With mobile-first indexing, your website needs to look and function flawlessly on a phone. You know when you go to tap on something and suddenly it shifts down 10 inches and suddenly you’ve clicked on an ad? That’s called Cumulative Layout Shift and we all hate it. You know the name now, scare your dev team by yelling at them about it.
• Structured Data: This is the cheat code to modern SEO. By using schema markup, you can help search engines understand your content better and increase your chances of snagging that coveted AI overview snippet.

Link Building in the AI Era

Ah, backlinks—the bread and butter of SEO. They’re still relevant, but the landscape has shifted. You can’t buy a few links and watch your rankings soar anymore. Today, AI algorithms scrutinize link quality like a hyper-vigilant editor.

Here’s how to stay in the game:

• Authority Matters: A single backlink from a reputable site in your industry is worth more than a dozen links from no-name blogs.
• Content Partnerships: Think guest posts, co-branded content, or industry collaborations. These don’t just build links—they build relationships.
• Internal Links: Don’t overlook what’s in your control. Strategically link between your own pages to help both users and AI understand your site structure.

Staying Ahead of the Curve

Here’s the thing about SEO in the age of AI: it’s dynamic. If I told you today that I have a bulletproof SEO strategy that will keep your website at the top of the search results for years to come, I would be a snake oil salesman. As it has always been, staying informed is your best defense. Follow trusted SEO blogs, experiment with new tactics, and don’t be afraid to pivot when something stops working.

Above all, remember this: SEO isn’t dead, and AI isn’t the enemy. It’s just the next evolution. Adapt, innovate, and—most importantly—keep creating content that people actually want to read. Because at the end of the day, that’s what SEO has always been about.

By Brittany Lavy

UX design is all about creating experiences that are easy to use and feel natural. One of the design practices commonly used  to improve how users interact with your site is by performing a UX Audit. Through this process, problem areas are identified  that make users feel frustrated, confused, or leave before they complete their journey. The ultimate goal of a UX audit is to fix issues and create a smoother, more enjoyable experience.

Why a usability audit matters 

A usability audit is the first step in spotting your users’ pain points, any bumps in their journey, and areas that could use some improvement on your site or digital product. Once we’ve done that, we can create a roadmap of areas to focus on and tweak to make sure your audience gets the best possible user experience.

Here are some ways UX audits can help improve your product: 

Usability problems throughout the product
If users get stuck, lost, or frustrated, they won’t stick around.  Definitely not what you want! This step helps ensure users reach their intended destination—both where they need to go and where you want them to go. 

We find usability problems by using well-known guidelines called  the 10 Heuristics. Developed by Jakob Nielsen, these general principles serve as a “rule of thumb” for how we can make UX easier and more effective. 

Streamlining a user’s journey
A website should guide users effortlessly to their goals. Some common user goals are making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or finding information. 

Simplifying the user’s journey and helping them achieve their goals boosts satisfaction, increases conversion rates, and strengthens brand perception.

Data-driven recommendations
When designing a site, we’re not always the ones using it, so we might make assumptions about the user’s experience. A usability audit helps us see how real users interact with your site or digital product, giving us a clear idea on how to make improvements.

Enhance accessibility
It’s important to make sure all users have an easy experience when interacting with your brand. Auditing the site or digital product can identify areas that may not be accessible for people with disabilities, like those with low vision or deafness, and adjust those areas to be compliant with general accessibility guidelines. Making sure your site meets accessibility guidelines means a better experience for all users.

Keeping costs low
Spotting UX issues in an audit can help save on development costs. By tackling problems early and designing with the user in mind, we can fix issues before diving into development or redesign. This not only saves time later on but also reduces the need for expensive changes further down the road.

User satisfaction and loyalty
Thanks to the UX audit, we can create a great user experience. When a product is simple to use, intuitive, and effective, users are more likely to enjoy interacting with it. This boosts satisfaction and helps build long-term loyalty with your users.

When should you do a usability audit? 

There are several moments when you should consider performing a usability audit. 

When redesigning a site or product
Starting with a UX audit on your current site or product helps spot areas for improvement and highlights what’s already working well. This gives us a solid starting point for wireframing and lets us fix usability issues early, so we can tackle them before development begins.

When you notice more help requests or a drop in conversion rates
A targeted audit can help pinpoint where users are getting stuck or abandoning the site. We can focus on specific pages or user journeys to see where things are going wrong.

When adding new features or pages
Before launching new features or pages, a usability audit helps us figure out how they’ll fit into the current experience. This way, we can address any issues that might affect user adoption before the feature or page goes live.

As part of regular maintenance
An annual or biannual audit keeps things running smoothly by identifying and fixing issues over time. It also sets up a routine for addressing usability challenges on an ongoing basis.

What level of audit makes sense for you?

Usability audits can vary in depth and scope depending on client goals, resources and timelines. There are four levels of a usability audit to choose from. 

1. A Quick Scan
   The goal of a quick scan audit is to identify usability issues with minimal time investment. A report of general findings and high-level recommendations will be created to address important issues quickly. This type of audit is ideal for quick deadlines and tight budgets.
   
2. A Standard Audit
   A standard level audit is used to uncover usability issues with detailed findings and recommendations. A standard audit can be used for product redesigns and regular ongoing maintenance. This is great for spotting user and industry trends that will improve your user experience.
   
3. A Comprehensive Audit
   A comprehensive audit is used to conduct a thorough analysis of the product when addressing major site redesigns, product pivots or addressing significant usability issues. This is perfect for companies looking for long-term investments and success into their products and user satisfaction.
   
4. A Specialized Audit
   A specialized audit is used to address specific concerns with the UX. This is used when certain areas need attention or compliance. Types of specialized audits include mobile usability audits, accessibility audits, a content audit and more. 

Where to start

Ready to elevate your user’s experience? At Digital Yalo we don’t just identify usability issues but we work to craft solutions. Whether you’re in need of a quick scan, a comprehensive deep dive, or a specialized approach, our team has the expertise to guide you along the way. 

Contact us today and let’s work together to create meaningful experiences for your users.

Meet Chris Dawson: Yalo’s Hot Dog Man and Tech Innovator

Welcome to Digital Yalo’s monthly employee spotlight. This space is held to shine a light on the talented thinkers and makers behind the scenes who make Digital Yalo the award-winning agency it is.

Our team boasts a diverse group of talented, smart, and dynamic professionals. And each spotlight will showcase and celebrate their unique contributions and impressive work.

So, without further ado, let’s meet this month’s star and discover the stories, skills, and obsessions that make Digital Yalo the hub of innovative thinking that it is.

Today, we’re excited to introduce Chris Dawson, a Senior Developer who’s been with Yalo for what feels like forever—and for good reason. Chris’s impact on the tribe and our clients is undeniable, and his expertise, leadership, and unique personality are key to his success.

Carrying Primrose to New Heights

Chris isn’t just a developer—he’s the driving force behind the success of the Primrose project, working closely with a contractor, Andrew, to turn the project around. Together, they optimized site speeds and tackled all other tasks necessary to bring Primrose to a great place. Thanks to their leadership and technical expertise, Primrose has become a strong success, with the client continuing to return for more. Chris’s problem-solving skills and ability to think outside the box have made him a standout figure within Yalo and with clients alike.

Mentorship and Leadership

Chris’s contributions go beyond code. As a mentor, he’s helped shape the next generation of developers at Yalo. Whether he’s guiding interns or supporting junior developers, Chris has a knack for making complex concepts simple while also pushing his team to grow and improve. His leadership isn’t just about teaching; it’s about empowering those around him to become better versions of themselves.

Beyond the Code: The Man, the Myth, the Hot Dog Enthusiast

Outside of work, Chris enjoys a mix of unique and entertaining interests. From baking and cooking to hitting the golf course or spending time at the range, Chris knows how to make the most of his time away from the computer. (He’s also known for asking the age-old question: Is a hot dog a sandwich? Feel free to debate that one with him!)

Living in North Carolina, Chris balances his love for tech with his love for the outdoors, which probably helps keep him sharp for the next big project.

Wrapping Up

Chris Dawson is more than just a Senior Developer at Yalo—he’s a mentor, a problem solver, and the backbone of many of our most successful projects. His leadership and innovative thinking keep Yalo at the cutting edge, and we’re lucky to have him on the team. Here’s to Chris and the amazing work he continues to do!

It’s 2025, and the marketing world is spinning so fast it can be hard to keep up. AI is everywhere, customers are demanding more personalized experiences, and AR/VR is no longer just for gamers. So how do you stay on top of the trends without losing your mind?

We’ve got you. Here’s our take on the biggest marketing trends of 2025 and how you can conquer the digital marketing landscape while keeping your cool.

1. Personalization Through Technology

AI: whether you view it as a friend or foe, it’s here to stay. AI doesn’t just help make tasks more efficient, it can also assist you in personalizing your marketing efforts so that your audience feels like you really ‘get’ them. From AI-crafted emails to quizzes that feel eerily spot-on, personalization is no longer optional—it’s expected. 

How You Can Apply This:

• Automate your life. Let AI do the heavy lifting with tailored emails, product recommendations, and even dynamic website content. Then, have your great human minds refine the content from there.
• Ask, don’t guess. Quizzes and preference centers aren’t just fun—they’re sneaky-smart ways to gather zero-party data.

Our Tip: Customers love feeling understood, but they also love privacy. Be transparent about how you use their info, and they’ll love you even more.

2. Immersive Experiences

Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are no longer the stuff of sci-fi. These tools are here, and they’re making brands more memorable. Throw in conversational tools like chatbots and voice assistants, and your customer experience game just leveled up.

How You Can Apply This:

• Invest in AR/VR. Let customers virtually see products in their space or take a VR tour of your commercial real estate. Bonus: It’s super cool.
• Don’t ghost your customers. Optimize for voice search and deploy chatbots that make interactions quicker and easier.

Our Tip: Don’t go AR/VR just because it’s trendy—make sure it genuinely enhances your customer’s experience. Otherwise, you’re just creating expensive gimmicks.

3. Data Is Your Crystal Ball

Big data isn’t just big—it’s colossal. Brands using predictive analytics are not only meeting customer needs but anticipating them before customers even know what they need.

How You Can Apply This:

• Use data like a psychic. Predictive marketing tools can help you time promotions and recommend products that your audience will actually want.
• Go omnichannel or go home. Make sure your customer experience is seamless whether they’re scrolling on Instagram, opening your email, visiting your website, or walking into your store.

Our Tip: Consistency is key. If your social media is quirky but your emails are all business, customers will feel the disconnect.

4. Digital Strategy: The Foundation You Can’t Skip

Despite advancements, nearly half of all businesses still lack a defined digital strategy. This gap limits growth potential and leaves opportunities on the table. Yikes.

How You Can Apply This:

• Conduct a digital marketing audit to identify strengths and weaknesses.
• Understand that an investment in strategy is a long-term one. Getting your marketing strategies up-to-speed earlier is much easier than scrambling to make a plan day-to-day.

Our Tip: No need to overhaul everything. Start with one underperforming area and build from there. If you need heavier lifting, consider reaching out to a marketing agency who can help (wink, wink). 

5. Purpose Over Profits

Customers want to know you care, and hiding behind just what you do or what you sell isn’t cutting it anymore. Brands that prioritize purpose-driven marketing aren’t just good for the world—they’re good for business.

How You Can Apply This:

• Walk the talk. Be authentic in your sustainability efforts, or risk being called out for greenwashing.
• Share your purpose. Purpose-driven campaigns connect with customers on an emotional level.

Our Tip: Don’t gloss over purpose. Dig into the ‘why’ behind your brand and what you want your audience to take away when they interact with your company.

6. Automation Meets Creativity

AI isn’t just helping with data—it’s creating, too. From AI-generated videos to automated graphic design, creativity just got an upgrade.

How You Can Apply This:

• Use AI tools for repetitive tasks like video editing or generating social media graphics.
• Channel your energy into storytelling. The tech handles the tedious stuff, leaving you to focus on the fun part—building emotional connections.
• Remember that AI is a tool, not a replacement. It can’t truly take over human creativity, but it can definitely help make your creatives more efficient.

Our Tip: Don’t let automation make your brand feel robotic. Keep the human touch alive.

7. Zero-Click Marketing and a Cookieless Future

AI-driven search features and the end of third-party cookies demand innovative approaches to engagement and attribution.

How You Can Apply This:

• Optimize for SERPs with clear, engaging answers to common questions.
• Embrace cookieless tracking methods while respecting privacy.

Our Tip: Shift your focus to building brand awareness and earning audience trust directly.

Marketing in 2025 proves that the digital landscape continues to grow at lightspeed. However, with the right tools and strategies, you’re not just keeping up—you’re leading the pack. With these trends, there’s no shortage of opportunities to make an impact.

So go forth and make 2025 your best marketing year yet. And if you need a little help? You know where to find us. 

By Josh Robinson

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to shake up the marketing and advertising world, it’s more important than ever to play by the rules and keep things ethical. AI can sift through mountains of data and create tailor-made marketing experiences that feel like they were designed just for you. But, like Uncle Peter says, “with great power comes great responsibility.” Let’s talk about why ethics are a big deal in AI-driven marketing and advertising, covering privacy, transparency, fairness, societal impact, and content generation.

Keeping the Data Safe

Think of personal data like your favorite secret recipe – you wouldn’t want just anyone getting their hands on it, right? In the world of marketing, AI often deals with a lot of these “secret recipes” to whip up personalized ads. It’s crucial to use this data responsibly. First off, people need to know what’s happening with their info – getting their permission is a must. Then, just like you’d keep that recipe card locked away, companies need to secure personal data to protect it from any nosy intruders. And hey, less is more: only collect the data you actually need, and don’t go snooping for extra ingredients.

No Magic Tricks Here

When it comes to AI, transparency is like a magic show where you get to see behind the curtain. Companies should be upfront about how their AI works, especially how it decides which ads to show you. This demystifies the process and builds trust. It’s also a good idea to tell people when they’re interacting with AI-driven content so they don’t feel like they’re being tricked. Also, if someone asks why they’re seeing a certain ad, give them a clear and simple answer. It’s all about keeping things open and honest.

Najah Phillips, a senior product marketing manager at Salesforce, states, “The future of consumer goods is Data + AI + CRM + Trust. You can’t think about these things in a silo and you can’t think about them as separate investments”​(Salesforce)​. This highlights how intertwined these elements are in building a transparent and trustworthy AI framework.

Leveling the Playing Field

AI can sometimes be like an overzealous referee, making calls based on old playbooks that are a bit biased. To keep the game fair, it’s important to regularly check and correct these biases. This ensures that ads don’t unfairly target or exclude people based on things like race, gender, or age. Plus, advertising should be inclusive and represent everyone in the crowd. AI tools should be accessible to all businesses, not just the big leagues, so that even the underdogs have a shot at success.

Timnit Gebru, a prominent researcher in AI ethics, emphasizes the need to be transparent about error rates and the potential for bias in AI systems. She points out the danger of systematizing societal discrimination through AI and underscores the importance of explicit disclaimers and ethical safeguards​ (Salesforce)​.

Thinking Beyond the Sale

AI-driven marketing and advertising can have ripple effects on society, kind of like tossing a pebble into a pond. It’s important to avoid exploiting consumer vulnerabilities or pulling any sneaky moves without their say-so. Marketers should also keep an eye on how their ads affect mental health, especially for kids and teens who might be more impressionable. And let’s make sure our ads respect cultural differences and steer clear of harmful stereotypes – it’s about promoting positive vibes and mutual respect.

Paula Goldman, Salesforce’s chief ethical and humane use officer, adds, “While I don’t necessarily subscribe to all the hype — or hysteria — around AI, I do believe in AI’s transformative potential and I’m encouraged to see Trust become as central to the AI conversation as the technology itself”​ (Salesforce)​.

It’s no Picasso, Unless it is

AI tools like MidJourney have become incredibly popular for generating visual content. These tools can create stunning images from simple prompts, making them a valuable asset for marketers. However, using AI-generated visual content for commercial purposes comes with its own set of challenges. One major concern is ensuring that the content does not infringe on existing copyrights. While AI can generate original images, the datasets they are trained on might include copyrighted material, raising legal issues.

To navigate these challenges, it’s essential to establish clear guidelines for using AI-generated visuals. This includes checking the terms of service of the AI tool, ensuring proper attribution where required, and possibly even using AI-generated content as a starting point for human artists to refine, thus adding a layer of originality. As noted by experts in the field, transparency and clear communication about the use of AI in content creation are vital to maintain trust with audiences and avoid potential legal pitfalls.

The AI Ghost Writer

AI-generated copy can be a game-changer for content marketers, providing everything from blog posts to ad copy. However, using AI-generated text comes with its own set of ethical considerations. Google’s algorithms are becoming increasingly adept at identifying AI-generated content, which raises questions about authenticity and originality. According to Google’s guidelines, while AI-generated content is not inherently penalized, it must adhere to the same quality standards as human-written content. This means it should be original, valuable, and not merely a rehash of existing information​ (Sprout Social)​.

For commercial purposes, it’s important to use AI as a tool to assist human writers rather than replace them. AI can handle the heavy lifting of data analysis and initial drafts, allowing human writers to focus on adding unique insights and a personal touch. This hybrid approach not only ensures high-quality content but also maintains the human element that is crucial for building trust and engagement with your audience​ (New Digital Age)​.

It’s a Tool, Not the Team

AI’s influence on the workforce is a critical area of ethical consideration. While AI can automate many repetitive tasks, increasing efficiency and freeing up employees for more strategic work, it also raises concerns about job displacement. According to research from McKinsey, up to 60-70% of current work activities could be automated by 2030 to 2060, leading to substantial productivity gains but also significant workforce disruption​ (New Digital Age)​.

Leaders must navigate these changes responsibly, ensuring that AI implementation does not lead to widespread unemployment or exacerbate existing inequalities. This involves investing in retraining and upskilling programs to help employees transition to new roles that require human creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex problem-solving skills—areas where AI currently falls short.

Playing by the Rules

Just like in any good game, there are rules to follow. Companies need to stick to data protection laws like the GDPR and the CCPA, making sure they’re respecting consumer rights. Following advertising standards and guidelines set by industry bodies and regulatory authorities is also key to keeping things ethical and fair.

AI ethics are crucial to avoid product failures and legal challenges, as noted in a report by ForceBrands. The EU’s AI Act aims to regulate AI use, providing ethical guidelines to ensure AI’s responsible application​ (ForceBrands)​.

Owning Up to Mistakes

Accountability in AI is all about owning up when things go wrong. Companies should take responsibility for any harm caused by their AI-driven advertising and offer remedies when needed. Regularly monitoring and evaluating AI systems ensures they’re running ethically, allowing for tweaks and improvements along the way.

Richard Socher, CEO and founder of You.com, notes, “There is a silver lining on the bias issue… It might be easier to fix an algorithm than fix the minds of 10,000 store managers”​ (Salesforce)​. This emphasizes the importance of continual oversight and correction in AI systems.

A Better Way of Working

In a nutshell, keeping AI in marketing and advertising ethical is crucial for protecting consumer rights, ensuring fairness, and building trust. By prioritizing privacy, transparency, fairness, societal well-being, and proper content attribution, companies can harness the power of AI responsibly. This approach not only boosts their marketing efforts but also upholds the highest ethical standards, making the world of advertising better for everyone.

Aiden Gomez, co-founder and CEO of Cohere, emphasizes, “If your users can’t trust the technology, you’re not going to bring it into your product. And so we pour a lot of resources and effort behind closing potential risk factors, like toxicity or bias, [so we’re] able to give our customers comfort about the data that was used as part of training”​ (Salesforce)​.

By adopting ethical practices in AI-driven marketing, companies can create a more inclusive, transparent, and fair environment. This not only benefits consumers but also helps businesses build stronger, more trusting relationships with their audiences. Ultimately, ethical AI in marketing and advertising is about doing the right thing, which can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved. So, while it may seem boring and necessary, embracing ethical AI practices is a smart and responsible choice that pays off in the long run.

To learn more about how Digital Yalo uses AI to improve client success, feel free to reach out at info@digitalyalo.com

In the ever changing business world, staying ahead of the competition requires more than just a keen eye for opportunities – it demands a strategic embrace of cutting-edge technology. The right tools can revolutionize the way you manage and analyze your business, paving the way for unprecedented growth and efficiency. Today, we’ll explore the myriad benefits of leveraging technology to propel your business forward.

1. Data-Driven Decision Making:

In the age of information, data is the new currency. Technology equips businesses with powerful tools to collect, process, and analyze vast amounts of data in real-time. With accurate insights at your fingertips, decision-makers can make informed choices, mitigate risks, and identify lucrative opportunities swiftly.

2. Efficiency Redefined:

Streamlining operations is at the heart of every successful business, and technology is the catalyst for achieving unparalleled efficiency. Automated workflows, project management tools, and cloud-based solutions empower teams to collaborate seamlessly, reducing time spent on mundane tasks and allowing employees to focus on high-value activities.

3. Enhanced Customer Experiences:

The right technology enables businesses to deliver personalized and immersive customer experiences. From advanced CRM systems to AI-driven chatbots, companies can engage with their audience in real-time, addressing queries promptly and tailoring products or services to individual preferences.

4. Scalability and Adaptability:

As businesses evolve, so do their needs. Technology provides the scalability and adaptability necessary to accommodate growth and changing market dynamics. Cloud computing, for instance, allows businesses to scale their infrastructure effortlessly, ensuring that technological capabilities grow in tandem with the organization.

5. Competitive Edge:

In a hyper-competitive market, staying ahead requires innovation. Businesses that harness the latest technologies gain a competitive edge, whether it’s through predictive analytics, artificial intelligence, or Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Early adopters often find themselves leading the pack, setting industry standards and trends.

The benefits of utilizing the right technology to manage and analyze your business are vast and transformative. Embracing these tools is not merely an option but a strategic imperative for those aspiring to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape. By investing in technology, you’re not just adapting to change – you’re shaping the future success of your business. So, let Yalo help you equip your enterprise with the tools it deserves and embark on a journey of innovation and unparalleled growth.

Taking a fresh look at blinds

Home Franchise Concepts (HFC) is one of the largest direct-to-consumer franchise companies in North America, comprised of eight brands including Budget Blinds. HFC was looking for a way that clients could better-visualize their window treatments in their own homes without having to carry around bulky blinds. 

Enter Augmented Reality marketing. And Yalo. 

An augmented approach 

Yalo was tasked with developing an augmented reality application for Budget Blinds’ franchisees to use during sales meetings. Clients would then be able to visualize exactly what each of the different blinds would look like inside their home. Seeing is believing when it comes to sales!

Yalo built the AR app, ProView by Budget Blinds, to visualize more than 50 different types of blinds in multiple colors and textures. ProView’s augmented reality marketing approach gives franchisees the opportunity to display Budget Blind’s products directly in the client’s home and workspaces. All visualizations can be scaled to match the window sizes down to 1/8^th of an inch for sizing specifications. Integrated directly with the Budget Blinds CRM system, the AR app allows client sessions to be saved, and to send visualized concepts directly to the clients as potent reminders of how great Budget Blinds’ blinds would look in their spaces.

Opening windows. And opportunities. Through Augmented Reality Marketing.

HFC was incredibly excited about the opportunities this app opened for them and has even moved forward with adopting it for another business unit. While testing continues on both apps, Yalo continues to move forward with this innovative approach to solving client issues. 

Interested in learning what we can do for your business via leading-edge augmented reality designs or our other App & Web Development services? We would love to have a conversation with you! Scroll down and contact us below. Meet the Yalo tribe here.

Adding strength to the Skinnygirl web presence 

Skinnygirl is a brand under the B&G family dedicated to providing the highest quality low calorie product options to consumers, including dressings, preserves, and snacks. As the Skinnygirl brand continues to grow, they are expanding their business into the Canadian markets. This created the need for a brand awareness push which included a Canadian website.  

The challenge was website design & development that would include both an English and French version. The French version needed to be fully translated and match the exact design of the English version of the website—all within a 30-day timeframe.  

Translation? Working smarter and faster. 

The Yalo team started by working with the client to get a feel for their wants and needs when it came to the new website. Once we decided on the look for the website, Yalo’s development team began building out the English version—while the translators simultaneously worked on the French translation. This strategy saved the Skinnygirl team time and allowed the English site to go live in the interim—meaning faster promotion of products.

We then had to merge the French and English versions into a seamless experience that the user could flip back and forth between with ease. The result? Two websites in one that stay true to the brand, all in a—rather skinny—timeline. 

Interested in what Yalo can do for your website design & development needs? Please scroll to the bottom of this page and click the Contact Us button to get started. You’ll be saying “Merci” in no time at all!

Digital Yalo started with a vision of helping small- to medium-sized companies connect with potential customers online via our marketing communication services and brand building expertise. Along the way, we realized we needed to improve file sharing and collaboration processes.

From the beginning, Digital Yalo founder and CEO Arnold Huffman and his team prided ourselves on taking a unique approach to client services, focusing on the effective and efficient delivery of products. Having experienced organic growth and a few small mergers and acquisitions, this became more important than ever. As the organization grew, that focus on efficiency was at odds with Digital Yalo’s cumbersome file storage and delivery system. A creative marketing and branding agency can go from working on video assets to Word documents in a single day.

“As we’ve grown, we’ve had to evolve our technology layer to enable that growth. That’s where Dropbox comes in,” Huffman says. 

Brandon Bradford, VP of Operations, led the push to create a process that would let everyone work independently while collaborating with external clients.

Through the mergers we’ve had over the previous years, Digital Yalo had several decentralized collaboration platforms: Dropbox, Box, and Microsoft. In our quest to simplify and unify collaboration, Digital Yalo turned to Positive Results, a third-party seller and technology partner, to help us choose the right solution.

Positive Results demoed multiple tools, including Google, Box and Dropbox. Before making the selection, it was critical to understand the workflows that were most important to our business operations. 

“We recommended Dropbox because of our deep partnership, the flexibility of the platform, and our ability to migrate a terabyte of data in under a week from Box to Dropbox without interruption to daily productivity,” says Positive Results CEO Dennis Kyle.

Ultimately, our success metric is team feedback. Dropbox has helped make everyone’s workflows simpler and seamless, enabling Digital Yalo staff to get to the soul of any brand faster than ever before. “Dropbox is one of the collaboration tools that allows us to be in sync with clients,” Huffman says. “It lets us be effective and efficient in processing either deliverables or changes to those deliverables so we get to the end point or stick the landing sooner.”

RESULT

Move quickly and get more done.

Moving from Box to Dropbox saved Digital Yalo about 57% in annual license fees. We also estimate a resource savings of 14% from time spent going back and forth between platforms and searching for updated document fragments.

Read more about our enhanced success in the case study below. Afterwards, why not give Yalo the opportunity to show you what our improved organizational finesse can do for your business? Our marketing and branding expertise is ready to serve your company’s needs – contact us and let’s have a conversation!

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Everyone is inundated with and providing ever growing quantities of structured and unstructured data. The opportunity is getting relevant information from this tsunami data. Information yielding resulting in strategies that create operational improvements, increase business value and a sustainable competitive advantage. Sentiment analysis identifies opportunities across industries.

At Yalo we have created a thoughtful method to sentiment analysis for our social media messaging. This has supported achieving the following analytics’ metrics performance:

• Linkedin followers have increased 125% in 12 months
• 40% increase in impressions
• Engagement rate yielding a 30% increase in website traffic year-over-year
• 7X daily traffic improvement

A  sentiment analysis engine and a lexicon modeled for our industry enabled managing our social messaging at the word level. Yielding the following sentiment analysis results:

• Virtual elimination of negative sentiment scores for our social media posts
• Average positive score for posts increased by 20%
• Maximum score on a post increased by over 40%
• Positive sentiment word choice is approaching 75%

The bottom line, Words Make the Difference. 

How much social media success (contacts to customer) attributed to skill, chance and/or environment elements beyond our control, is difficult to measure. Thoughtful application of sentiment analysis in creating content, supports influencing, driving a share of the outcome. But our experience indicates that sentiment analysis:

• Increased the quantity of social media traffic and its speed through the social media channels
• Used in addition to environment factors improves the predictability of social media diffusions
• Increased positive content increases social media acceptance and diffusion

Other Industries – Sentiment Analysis and Social Media

Banking – Analysis of social media campaigns to understand the meaning of comments for improving customer acquisition and identification and prioritization of causes of customer churn. Improved and extend equity investing research considering more unstructured resources (research data, news media, social media) for more companies in more markets. Unstructured data analysis provides insights on specific bonds or commercial paper and establish correlations between news events and securities performance in credit markets.

Healthcare – Locating disfunctions and gaps through analyzing patient feedback, surveys, and social media. Improving communications between providers and patients. It identifies patients’ challenges when interacting with providers and structures a scoring mechanism for departmental performance.

Consumer Brands – Collecting online and offline unstructured data to determine what people are saying about you.

“Your brand is what other people say about you when you’re not in the room.”

                                                                        Jeff Bezos

Monitoring and maintaining your brand requires careful use of key words in messaging, showing your customers that you care by asking and actin on feedback and keeping your messaging evergreen.

Sentiment Analysis Insights

The sentiment analysis insights are consistent across industries. The value is in bringing appropriate rate of change in reimagining business. Every industry should apply sentiment analysis for strategic measures relevant for their business for:

• Improving competitive position
• Aligning marketing messaging and campaigns to the voice of the customer
• Building new customer relationships
• Managing customer churn
• Improving product and services sales
• Reducing customer service costs
• Improving customer profitability

Sentiment Analysis Benefit Streams

Monitoring the strategics measures generates benefits in four significant areas:

• Product Insights
• Market Trends
• Competitive Analysis
• Brand Perception

How can Yalo help you achieve success in these areas by applying our proven social media best practices?Allow us to show you first-hand! Contact us at the very bottom of this page to get started, or use our easy form and then we’ll contact you. While you’re here, drop us your email address directly below and we’ll send you more informative and marketing-based blog posts to keep you in-the-know and firmly standing on the leading edge of the marketing world. It’s what we do!

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The Metaverse’s potential is considerable across Financial Services, Healthcare and Consumer Products. Currently, the most significant implementation progress is in providing user- generated games, groups, and other entertainment experiences. Pioneers in each of these segments have made notable inroads extending on the initial successes in entertainment and gaming. Financial Services is pursuing the Metaverse for converging a new market for value-added service with enhanced delivery for existing services. Healthcare’s Metaverse approach has focused on training and virtual delivery of medical services and access to expertise. Consumer products have used the Metaverse concepts as an extension of eCommerce to promote and extend brand loyalty.

Manufacturing operates by necessity in three physical dimensions. Dimensions are defined by the strategies to meet customer expectations. These expectations are based on how long a customer will wait to have an order filled and how long it takes to get materials, produce, and deliver the product. Product – customer combinations define the following strategies when considering product customization, production speed, inventory costs, labor costs and overhead. 

• Make-to-Stock: Forecasting and inventories meeting immediate customer needs for commodities or products with low switching costs (toothpaste, potato chips).
• Make-to-Order: Products built to customer-defined specifications (mining equipment, military aircraft).
• Assemble-to-Order: Assembling options or option sets for the required degree of customization based on customer demand (personal computers, automobiles).

Dimensions implementations combine product designs, production processes, and production/ transportation lead times. 

The supply chain is the key concept that defines a network for delivering products at the required level of customer service. Manufacturing is no longer an island with supplying vendors and deliver-to customers, it is a node in a network. A network of suppliers, supplier’s suppliers and customers and their customers. A network of nodes with each having a lead time and transportation links with their lead times dependent on mode selection. Each product has its own network defining the physical world that it operates in.

Digitizing the Physical World

With so many products and vendors, managing each network path and network node is challenging. So long before the Healthcare sector was thinking about a “digital twin,” the supply chain was digitizing operations to reduce lead times and cost while increasing customer service. This included Computer Aided Design to digitize both machining processes and factory flow to improve production speed. Before IoT, Internet of Things, manufacturing execution systems uploaded production quantities and quality control measurements and downloaded process setpoints and product formulations to/from business process. Supply chain management software controls and improves speed network flow reducing overall lead time and increasing customer service while being thoughtful on inventory investments to deal with potential disruptions. The end game is to provide greater visibility to the customer on supply chain operations and optimize supply chain operations across the entire network.

Entering the Metaverse

Digitization of the supply chain and manufacturing has focused on the physical aspects of operations. A Metaverse goal is to create a digital space that is persistent and can interface with the physical world. 

Digital Supply Chain: Through IoT, the supply chain digitization will accelerate and provide a comprehensive digital twin in the Metaverse with visibility for all stakeholders.

Product Development: With a shared virtual space, customers, vendors, and manufacturers will share collaborate on a 3D model, speeding new production introduction and support an explosion in new production introductions. 

Process Design: The digital twin will support simulation of potential production process alternatives specifying the ways that work can be completed with efficiency and safety. 

Customer Intimacy: Virtual design spaces can include customers in the rapid product design process. Upfront collaboration will increase product acceptance and reduce downstream quality issues.

Manufacturing: Virtual services will empower the customer in delivering mass customization. Simulation of product and process design will establish priorities for asset utilization and investments.

Purchasing: Supporting vendor collaboration for value creation across the entire network and transparency in cost negotiations. 

Supply Chain Transparency: ESG initiatives have all stakeholders demanding a clearer understanding material sourcing, and who and how product inputs are made. Through immersive experiences 3D representations, this will provide visibility on product creation, manufacturing, and distribution.

Metaverse will converge offered virtual services with will supply chain’s physical flow of vendor, producer, distributor, and customer. Will this reduce the importance of the supply chain? Or will it complement it through a “digital twin,” exponentially improving effectiveness and efficiency, reducing lead time and cost, and improving customer transparency? The evolution of manufacturing in the Metaverse will introduce new priorities for virtual services and resolve how the virtual and physical worlds will converge.

Next

Achieving the Metaverse hype will require continued development in the ability to capture and digitize supply chain operations. Data collection from business processes and integration across the supply chain will support the interoperability and immersive features of the Metaverse. The prize being the ability to design, evaluate, and confirm manufacturing and economic feasibility before any changes are made the physical supply chain. The feasibility confirmed through the collaboration of all stakeholders: customers, vendors, product designers, and manufacturing. Processes will be reconfigured or designed quickly delivering improved customer service, controlling costs, and reducing lead times.

Ready to continue with this conversation about the Metaverse and its possibilities? Please scroll down – there are related posts to read about Blockchain, healthcare in the Metaverse and more. Ready to engage with Yalo on marketing technology to give your brand a boost in the marketplace of ideas? Please scroll to the bottom of this page and click the Contact Us button to get the conversation started.

Emerging technologies are driving significant healthcare innovation. Notably, augmented reality and virtual reality (AR/VR) have enabled the following:

• Taking the learner inside the human body for a 360-degree view of patient symptoms.
• Duplicating real world procedures.
• Enabling virtual office visits.

The AR/VR growth projections are significant.

“…the market size was valued at USD 17.67 billion in 2020. It is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 43.8% from 2021 to 2028.”  GrandView Research

COVID significantly increased the number of healthcare procedures utilizing standalone AR/VR. AR/VR growth was also stimulated by other integrated technologies: IoT, cloud and quantum computing. Together they are improving healthcare and serving as entry points into the Metaverse. Expectations are high.

“The metaverse will be to VR and AR what the modern smartphones were to the first mobile phones a few decades ago.”  Paulo Pinheiro, Sagentia Head of Software

Although it is in its embryonic stage, the Metaverse is positioned to build on the advances that AR/VR have made in the healthcare sector.

Now

COVID motivated the acceptance of remote medical service by patients, providers, and insurance companies.

“Pre 2020, 43% of healthcare operations could provide remote treatment, now service coverage is 95%.” Forbes

This became a necessity, but all parties have appreciated both the effectiveness and efficiency of virtual office visits. Improvements extended to routine office procedures for intravenous injection and blood draws. Procedures that are facilitated by Accuvein’s application which displays vein maps on the patient. AR applications are simulating patient and surgical procedures, providing the opportunity for students to visualize and practice. Therapeutic VR applications are improving the quality of life for people living with dementia. One study with five environments over sixteen monitored sessions resulted in mood improvements and positive stimulation.

Future

The Metaverse promises to combine AR/VR and support interaction in a virtual world. The previously mentioned technologies coupled with artificial intelligence, connectivity and interoperability will create interactive and immersive activities. 

Headset utilization will address the distance barrier providing access to medical point of need care, anytime, regardless of where the expert is located. They will also assist in providing standard medical care to remote geographies.

Telemedicine overcomes the barriers to entry and the stigma of mental health and substance abuse services. People seeking help are more comfortable with a point of need remote therapy delivered by telemedicine. They are less anxious than when making a in person visit. With help “always on” to deal with episodes, events, or temptations reinforces new behaviors and reduce relapses. The Metaverse will enhance this delivery channel with more interactive and immersive features, especially for the younger generation who are early adopters.

Using a virtual duplicate of a person, digital twin, will be a powerful, non-invasive tool to understand more about each patient. It will support personalized medicine checking for drug interactions and effectiveness for each individual and understand previous treatments, and longer-term health and longevity benefits.

There are two potential benefits for surgery. The effectiveness of pre-surgery and post-surgery assessments, integrated with data science techniques applied on the digital twin will provide a more personal approach. This has the potential to replace the “standard of practice,” approach to delivering healthcare. Additionally, AR can provide the training and test data for surgery robots of the future, executing cancer tumor removal and spinal surgery. 

In achieving interoperability, the Metaverse will break down the technology and information silos that drive up complexity and costs. Real-time sharing of information will facilitate a patient focused delivery of healthcare and deliver personalized medicine. 

Advancing to the Metaverse will test the medical community, at least as much, if not more than the Metaverse’s delivering all the required technology. There will be resistance to change issues:

• Trust will need to be earned from the patients and providers.
• Senior citizens and others may be averse to the technology required to gain Metaverse access.
• Protecting patient privacy.
• Regulations for data security.
• Integration to existing medical technology.
• Funding start-up costs for hardware, and software.
• Data conversion addressing institutional knowledge and regulations.

Metaverse’s change will also extend to healthcare business models. Healthcare players will need to build strategic plans to address the following:

• Provide new compensation approaches for services delivered with a virtual approach.
• Payment systems will require new codes for claims processing for Metaverse services.
• Software and device compatibility for operating in the Metaverse.
• Physicians’ ability to prescribe medication and therapy virtually.

Next

Physical and cognitive treatment, and AR/VR support groups happened before the Metaverse craze started. For the Metaverse to get traction, it will need to deliver virtual services which are improvements over current alternatives. Acceptance and trust in technology as the delivery mechanism will be critical in overcoming resistance to change. Metaverse’s potential for healthcare is significant, but there is still much to discover to address industry complexity, costs and coexist within or transform current regulations.

Would an Intro to the Metaverse help?

Do you know how much IoT impacts your daily life?

Artificial Intelligence: Destructive or Disruptive? 

As with any new technology that comes along and soon becomes ubiquitous, it can be daunting to stay ahead of the curve and to keep up with all the new developments in Tech as it applies to culture and work. Digital Yalo makes it our business to do that for our clients, so that you look smart in the marketplace and can compete and excel in your industry. Take a look at what we’ve done for some of our clients already. Then, reach us here and let’s have a conversation about your next step in the world of 21^st Century marketing technology. We R here 4 U!

How we have lived and worked through COVID has prepared us for the next internet release, Web 3.0. The accelerated acceptance of new behaviors catapulted eCommerce growth of 25.7% in 2021. With consumers accustomed to digital shopping and socializing, brand managers are seeking new opportunities to expand their omnichannel approach for products and services.

There are consumer brands that are building their Metaverse presence. Early adopters are establishing a presence which boosts the likelihood of the Metaverse having decentralized control and interoperability. These companies shaping their virtual presence are taking advantage of the beachheads established in the gaming and entertainment industries. Their success creates opportunities for branded experiences becoming virtual and immersive sponsorships.

Pioneers

Companies pioneering in the virtual world are using strategies taking advantage of new techniques afforded by the Metaverse. Strategies which extend brand loyalty through unique and creative virtual experiences.

Facebook – Rebranding for the Future: making the image breaking effort of a new vision to bring the Metaverse to life with rebranding and new a $150 million investment in a new developer platform.

Nike – Maintaining Top Retailer Relevancy: capitalized on a Metaverse opportunity with an immersive experience linking their clothing, entertainment, and gaming with a future of selling branded sneakers.

Coca-Cola – Leveraging Brand Power for Charity; launched an NFT auction that demonstrated the power of digital assets raising $575,000 in 72 hours with $500,000 going to charity.

Wendy’s – Changing the Rules of the Game: gaming in Fortnite competing in, Food Fight event Wendy built their winning strategy on their marketing slogan, “fresh, never frozen,” boosting brand mentions by 119%.

Samsung – Brand Dance Party: 837x Metaverse experience with exclusive NFT’s and live mixed reality dance party promoting brand and experiences their products can unlock.

Gucci – Selling Digital and Physical Bags: sponsoring a virtual event on Roblox giving advertising campaign insights, purchasing digital clothing and bags in a limited time window with crypto virtual bag prices exceeding the real world bags.

Louis Vuitton – Happy Birthday: gaming celebrating the founder’s birthday, sharing fashion house legacy, innovation and NFT art while retaining collectibles during the game attracting new customers and solidifying brand loyalty.

Burberry – Two Can Play the Game: gaming with a memorable experience while showing fashions and the human/nature relationship. 

Balenciaga – Clothes Make the Avatar: Fortnite collaboration with new digital apparel highlighted in the game with the debut limited time launch of a matching apparel line offered at premier Balenciaga stores and their B2C channel.

Zara – Virtual/Physical Product Line Launch; utilized NFT’s to simultaneously launch an identically priced line (Zepeto) in their physical stores and Metaverse virtual shops. 

Hyundai – Mobility Adventure: first automotive company to enter the Metaverse with a virtual experience focused on younger consumers with avatar customization,  focus on gaining awareness of existing and future mobility solutions. 

Wal-Mart – All In

The greater the traction that commercial brands get using Metaverse features and capabilities, the sooner it will attain credibility as the next big thing.

Wal-Mart has benefited from Web 2.0 more than any other brand, except Amazon. Their success has changed who they are and grown their brand offerings. With a January 2022 filing, Wal-Mart  made their commitment to the Metaverse. They made extensive trademark filings indicating what they were going to make/sell for virtual goods, offering virtual currency and selling NFT’s. This included a downloadable application offering financial services for digital currency and digital token value for member use on a global computer network.

“Continually exploring how emerging technologies may share future shopping experiences.”

-Wal-Mart

The specific wording of the filings indicates that this is much more than a “me-too.” There appears to be significant planning for approaches addressing the Metaverse, cryptocurrency, and the virtual world. With a global brand of this magnitude making this commitment, all brands must pause and consider how they can protect their digital investments.

Next?

A Metaverse presence gives marketers another channel to introduce both Gen-X and Millennials to their brands and products. Brand participation in staking their claim in virtual worlds, is proof positive that there is commitment to defining the virtual worlds and augmented reality. This is consistent with the omnichannel strategy for reaching the consumer. By collaborating with gaming, there are opportunities for in-game purchases of avatar outfits and accessories. The optimism is reinforced by what we hear from the pioneers:

“…the same iconic and optimistic experiences they are used to in real life in the digital world.”   – Oana Vlad, Sr. Director Coca-Cola Global Strategy

“The collaboration is indeed a step forward to how fashion and gaming can emerge to attract and maintain clients.”  – Josie Zhang, President Burberry China

“2021 1WorldSync research found that nearly 7 out of 10 shoppers say a brand’s online presence compels them to seek out products when shopping in-store.” – 1 WorldSync       

Fast followers may give away an unsurmountable advantage to the leaders. The leaders will have a significant following and fast followers must consider risk/reward determining what, how and when for the Metaverse entrée. Sustained presence in the Metaverse will require quality product and content when interacting with the consumer. Because 81% of consumers value product quality over brand image.

Are you ready to build your brand? Learn how the future of retail brands will exist in the Metaverse with our Blockchain 101 blog. Learn about our Brand Strategy Bootcamp as a present-day solution for weak brands that need boosted and emboldened. Ready to discuss details? Please scroll to the bottom of this page and use the Contact Us button to get a conversation started.

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Grand Bazaar

Ecommerce changed the brick & mortar store paradigm. Best case, the traditional storefront is a convenience or extended distribution center, worst case it has simply disappeared. Ecommerce is a significant disruption on how goods and services are exchanged, and how brands are created. Web 3.0, or the “internet of the future,” promises to be the next disruption of how we interact both personally and professionally in the Metaverse. Privacy, security, and ownership concerns are key design considerations in how Web 3.0 is conceived. No one will be comfortable interacting, transacting, and sharing data in virtual worlds unless these concerns are addressed. 

As interactions and user communities form across multiple virtual worlds, the Metaverse’s potential of becoming the virtual Grand Bazaar will rely on the ability to track transactions and ownership of digital assets. Blockchain technologies form the backbone of the metaverse and are the one of the three key elements (blockchain, NFT’s and cryptocurrency) that differentiate Web 3.0 from today’s web2 internet implementation. With blockchain, the Metaverse will make the Mall of America, over 520 stores, look like the corner general store of the 1890’s. 

What is the Blockchain?

Blockchain supports the operations of a user- and community-based ecosystem in a virtual world of digital assets and data. Blockchain permanently captures transactions in a decentralized public data base called a ledger. The blockchain is decentralized in that each transaction is sent to all computers accessing the blockchain. With the ledger distributed, it is protected from tampering and external control. 

Blockchain was originally part of the cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, but has other uses including

• Banking – Faster payment with direct settlement and better tracking
• Education – Tamperproof credentials: transcripts, diplomas, certificates
• Real Estate – Property Registries: replacing paper with digital assets for ownership and tracking
• Supply Chain – Transparency from raw materials to customer’ doorstep 
• Space Technology – Space Traffic management of orbital assets and planned maneuvers
• Retail – Product Tracking guaranteeing product authenticity, reducing counterfeit exposure

Ethereum is a blockchain that is used as the backbone for virtual worlds: Cryptovoxesls, Decentraland and Somnium Space.

Basic Blockchain Operation

For transactions tracked with blockchain, the first step is to capture all the transaction information. Transactions are grouped into a block, like a page in an accounting ledger. Each block is time stamped. The time stamp confirms the right sequence for blocks entering the blockchain and that participants have the latest information. A hash (unique character string) which cryptographically calculated from the data in the block is developed for security purposes. The hash from one block goes into the next block and is part of the hash calculation for that block. This is how blockchain builds a trace into every block. Alarms are raised if there is an attempt to alter a previous block. If tampering is attempted there will be a mismatch of the hash of the altered block and the following block indicating an alteration in the chain. Since the blockchain is public, everyone has a copy, any tampering will be visible. When the hashes match, members of the chain know that their transaction has completed successfully and will be able to track its history. 

Decentralization

Decentralization is one the seven layers of the metaverse. Blockchain is one of the tools that are in this layer for planning and decision-making without central control. Although there will be technology giants (Microsoft, Meta, Apple) who will operate in the metaverse, there are other visionaries are developing their own virtual worlds. Maximizing the Metaverse’s potential these virtual worlds need to be interoperable. For virtual worlds’ interoperation will require blockchain to be track and prove ownership in multiple worlds. 

The Beginning

Metaverse and blockchain have a synergy that reinforces their development and acceptance. Together they will support the C change in how organizations and individuals work together. Tracking transaction history and ownership is important both in the virtual world and the use of cryptocurrency in both the metaverse and the real world. Security concerns will increase as the number of transactions within virtual worlds and across the Metaverse accelerate. There significant risks for fraud, phishing, and rug pulling especially if you are a novice. Managing these risks will be important for brands and original owners of digital assets to properly define the terms of ownership, use, governance and derivative works. Blockchain is metaverse’s backbone in controlling and managing what is bought and sold. The increased commerce will require blockchain to track the provenance of a digital asset, transactions and validate ownership. Everyone needs to be prepared to operate outside of their comfort zone of existing manual and automated processes. 

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The State of the Game

The Gaming industry provides some important foundational concepts and traits that are emerging as “must have’s” in the Metaverse. — This includes assuming personas with custom avatars and virtual “wearables”, ecosystems that support cryptocurrency-based transactions using NFTs and custom utility tokens, and even hosting and facilitating live events, gallery showings, concerts, and mixed reality experiences. Virtual worlds, quite different from how we appreciate the “real” world. We are now seeing businesses accessing the projected full Metaverse capabilities with connections in virtual worlds. Connections supporting both personal and professional interactions and conducting commerce in real and virtual worlds. 

Variations in Metaverse implementations range from simple to complex. From digitizing an image of the real world to converging the physical and virtual worlds. PwC projects the Metaverse market opportunity to go from $45.5 billion in 2019 to $1.5 trillion in 2030. This market offers potential for the financial services industry:

• New market for value-added financial services.
• Enhanced delivery mechanisms for existing services.
• New payment infrastructure for transactions in virtual worlds.
• Defi for staking, decentralized exchanges (swaps), and liquidity pools.
• Play to earn features within games rewarding players with cryptocurrency/tokens.

Still to be determined is whether financial services can take advantage of virtual opportunities engaging customers beyond a brick and mortar and/or smartphone experience.

Pioneers

Financial services pioneers have been using AR/VR to gain a foothold and understanding of the value proposition afforded by the Metaverse.

• eBankIT – 2015 implementation of augmented reality to bring printed materials to life on mobile applications.
• Proptech Firms – 2017 applying virtual reality for virtual tours of existing and planned properties.
• Bank of America – 2021 launch of VR training for 4300 branch personnel in client relationships, difficult conversation navigation and empathetic listening complemented with artificial intelligence coaching.

Early Adopters

Visionaries and Fintech companies have pursued Metaverse opportunities:

• EToro – launches an investment platform educating investors and an investment service for leading virtual worlds, cryptocurrency, blockchain and Metaverse enabling technologies.
• Kookmin Bank – created a “virtual town” with spaces for branches, public relations, recruitment, and social/relaxation. 
• Lynx – building an inclusive digital economy enabling existing financial services (money transfers) and an on-ramp to gain confidence in advanced Metaverse capabilities (play to earn).

When polled in the Fall of 2021, financial institution leaders see 1 out of 5 using AR/VR for completing daily transactions, going beyond gaming.

What’s Next

The future holds a two-fold challenge. First, how to use Metaverse capabilities to enhance the customer experience for existing financial services and find the right level of convergence between the “real” world and virtual worlds. Second, based on Metaverse’s evolution, financial services providers are positioning for supporting novel payment systems and other ancillary services totally within the Metaverse.

Extending What We Know:

• Interactive teller machines extended VR support
• 7 x 24 customer service regardless of customer location
• Virtual branches delivering personalized customer service

Virtual Services in Virtual Worlds

• Metaverse mortgages for purchasing virtual real estate
• Digital shopping hubs support for all virtual transaction types
• Visual assessment of financial scenarios and risks in environment specific to customer’s risk profile
• Explore global assets without leaving a virtual space
• Decentralized Finance
• Play to Earn (tokens/rewards)

Success

Traditional banking business models’ disruption is occurring due to blockchain, cryptocurrency, and crypto assets decentralized finance protocols. Add to this Goldman Sachs projecting digital economy transitioning to the Metaverse with growth estimated at $8.0 trillion. We could ponder how soon this is going to happen and consider that it took 20 years and a pandemic for eCommerce to become 20% of retail sales.  Regardless of which forecast one uses, the numbers are of sufficient magnitude that even if they are 50% correct, the Metaverse warrants thoughtful consideration in any financial services business strategy.

Achieving these forecasted market projections, will rely on Metaverse delivering its promise on:

• Enabling virtual personal and professional interaction
• Virtual training for customers and financial services professionals
• Enhancing existing services with the application of Metaverse capabilities
• Creation of novel payment systems and banking services existing within the virtual worlds

The end game being balancing the roles of existing services, Metaverse enhanced services, and Metaverse specific services for virtual worlds. Early Metaverse acceptance can be fueled by using virtual world capabilities to enhance existing services with thoughtful extension into the Metaverse. As with any new, new thing, success will depend on the impact on business outcomes. 

Are you game? Yalo has over 20 years of experience with financial services marketing, and top-notch interactive & IT development and virtual reality skills as well. Allow us to help your financial institution stay up-to-date with user experiences and the joys of banking in the Digital Age. Start a conversation with us below!

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When you hear the word, “metaverse,” what is your vision? One shared vision was:

The metaverse is a shared virtual space composed of virtual spaces united into one or more virtual worlds. Each with their own unique attributes for economy, currency, digital assets, and avatars. Users may enter a space to interact with other users, attend events, play games, and even transact with businesses and other individuals. Each virtual space supports types of motion (walking, flying, teleporting) and form of user-to-user communication (text chat, audio chat, video chat) within the space.

Technologies essential to the metaverse are cryptocurrency, blockchain, and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). An alternative metaverse vision is:

“What is the Metaverse? The immersive NFT-powered future internet.”
-Andrew Hayward Decrypt.co

This vision is bold, intriguing, and instructive, and presents NFT knowledge as the next step in increasing our metaverse awareness.

NFT Definition

An NFT is digital item is viewed and accessed on a public digital ledger called a blockchain. Metadata explains NFT contents which may cover ownership rights, use and resale. A Smart Contract is computer code which governs all the NFT’s contents. NFT’s are bought and sold on public marketplaces or in peer-to-peer transactions facilitated through use of blockchain and cryptocurrency technology. NFT applications continue to grow:

• Digital art and photography (or digital representations of physical art/photography)
• Music, video, and rich media
• Metaverse and virtual land plots, virtual objects (furniture, office equipment, etc.), wearables for avatars
• Membership cards – Coachella VIP lifetime pass NFT
• Tickets – with varying experience levels
• Access to special events, discounts, and merchandise
• Royalties for use or on resale
• Online Identity and Reputation

The programmable power within the Smart Contract and blockchain presents a host of supported business relationships:

• Investor
• Club Membership
• Brand Shareholder
• Loyalty Program Participation

NFT’s, as digital assets, created for scarcity by programming, fit nicely, in the metaverse for tracking virtual assets like access, digital apparel, play-to-earn games, created content and plots of land.

NFT Creation

NFT value is in its uniqueness and scarcity. NFT creation requires determining features such as scarcity (versions and copies) upfront because post NFT creation modification is not possible. Taking a digital item and creating a NFT on a blockchain is called minting. Once minted, the digital assets are secured and represented by the NFT. The NFT are bought, sold, and traded with all transaction history tracking supported by the blockchain. NFT creation involves the following:

• Secure rights to a digital/physical asset and convert to the appropriate format for minting (mp3, jpeg, pdf, etc.)
• Choose blockchain technology based on ultimate destination (Ethereum most popular)
• Setup a digital wallet – metamask, ledger
• Purchase cryptocurrency to pay for initial investment – gas fee (many will accept Ether)
• Research and select the best NFT marketplace for your asset type
• Follow the detail loading steps uploading the digital file to the marketplace becoming a marketable NFT
• Determine the monetizing strategy for your NFT (fixed price, auction(s)), secondary market, derivative work plan. 

These are just the basics and look deceptively simple. The technology is evolving, and you need to do your research and get appropriate help if you are a novice.

NFT Value

NFT’s future depends on their ability to differentiate from other business approaches. They must maximize the advantages they have in identity and scarcity of digital ownership. A community that shares in excitement of the NFT’s and has vibrancy and activity is critical for NFT value. Every NFT project should seek ways to provide easy access to membership in the community. Finally, the NFT value based on cryptocurrency exposes it to value fluctuation and financial regulations.

NFT Futures

Make no mistake, it is the wild West out there with this new and emerging technology. Progress and significant profits with NFT’s are being made in art, animation, collectibles, and music. Several sources are making forecasting significant opportunity, with Bloomberg estimating the metaverse market at $400 million by 2024 and Grayscale sees the future potential of a $1 trillion market. NFT’s play a critical role in these valuations, because they are a digital asset that affords the opportunity to simultaneously be an investor, club member, brand shareholder and profit from loyalty programs.

Are you ready to get Meta? Let Yalo help you with your first NFT and enjoy the sensation of cutting-edge Cool before all the other kids on your business block join in the fun. Start a conversation with us below and we’ll answer your questions and provide guidance from start to finish. NFT Design and development services too!

The Internet of things, or IoT, is a system of interrelated computing devices, mechanical and digital machines, objects, animals or people that are provided with unique identifiers (UIDs) and the ability to transfer data over a network without requiring human-to-human or human-to-computer interaction.

Frequently, we envision complex use cases for IoT. Vision-controlled robots on automated factory lines. Edge computing adding adaptive control at the device level utilizing artificial intelligence. Our focus on this vision, the infiltration of IoT into our daily lives has gone unnoticed. We have naturally embraced time saving and efficiency improving solutions such as: connected home hubs, smart thermostats, remote door opens and remote auto starters and many other mobile app-controlled devices. All are IoT solutions, they are devices connected to a communications network (Internet) that support remote operations and data collection. IoT’s successful integration into our daily lives has occurred because we value knowledge, convenience, and cost savings.

IoT Applications

IoT is providing benefits in the following:

• Home
• Fitness
• Healthcare
• Retail
• Manufacturing
• Home
• Utilities

The Future

Future applications will continue to proliferate. As we expand the capability to sense an input or environment, digitize it and connect to a computing source, there will be a growth in monitoring applications. Control of the process will be possible if we have intelligence processing the input and actuators to execute commands at the source.

Let us know if you are ready to connect to the future. With data analytics and Web & app development among our cadre of capabilities, Yalo can help you tap into the IoT for fascinating possibilities. Start a conversation by contacting us below.

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It was great watching the Foo Fighters concert on my couch in VR Sunday night after the big game! While there were a few glitches getting into the event, users were treated to a front row concert experience with the ability to interact with others watching the show. I decided to mute other attendees to focus on the music, but could see that being fun, especially if a group of friends were also there. The setting reminded me of the first time I saw Foo Fighters live at the Masquerade in Atlanta, GA when they first started touring in the 90s, minus the moshing.

This particular show was filmed in 180 degrees versus 360, which means half of the venue was streaming video and the other was filled with a 3D venue environment that one could move around in and move up-and-down between balconies to get the best view. There were also several cameras setup, so the viewpoint of the band would change throughout the show to keep it interesting for viewers.

The video played back well and the sound was great. Dave Grohl and team rocked out a 45 minute set, which was above-and-beyond for a free concert!

Not only featured in Meta’s Horizon Venues in the Quest 2 VR headset, the concert was also live streamed on Facebook and Instagram. This is a great strategy as the VR user base grows to reach the greatest number of fans.

Overall, had a great time and am looking forward to more immersive concerts from the comfort of home.

Didn’t make the show? Not to worry—you’ll be able to catch the replay over the next month via an Always On room in Venues or on Oculus TV.

Interested in learning more about how you can leverage the Metaverse, and all things AR/VR? We can help! Yalo offers virtual reality design and implementation services as part of our marketing and branding expertise in Atlanta, Cleveland and across America. Reach us below and let’s talk about how to get your VR campaign rock and rolling.

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We Have Been Here Before

Monitoring a process and tuning it based on feedback can be traced back to 3^rd century B.C. when Kteisbios of Alexandria created valves to control water clock levels. Heron, also from Alexandria, in the 1^st century BC created a fill valve like today’s toilet fill valves. The 1660’s and early 1700’s implemented controls by sensing pressure and temperature. The Industrial Revolution created controls focusing on making processes more efficient and replacing human labor. Continuous variable control with electronic sensors, proprietary network and PID controllers was introduced in the 1990’s. Today’s solutions are more sophisticated with the improvement in sensing operational variability, communicating changes to a central processing unit and sending adjustments to control units.

IoT Emergence

IoT or internet of things is part of everyday life. But it is just a variation on a theme. The ubiquity of the internet has boosted its acceptance. It is just “things,” with internet compatibility (open standard) sharing data with other “things,” on the internet. This affords the opportunity to collect, analyze and make decisions. Device sensitivity in identifying process variability, network communication speed and algorithms for managing outcomes determine the sophistication level of an IoT implementation.

IoT + AI

The algorithms are created by applying artificial intelligence to IoT. This marriage delivers system optimization, better decision-making insights, and enhanced data creation enabling machine learning. The sophistication level determines the solution implementation. At a basic level, artificial intelligence predicts in a forecasting mode or can improve quality and manage process risk. Intermediate artificial intelligence using logic-empowered sensors can act limiting outages and reducing safety risks. At the advanced level, artificial intelligence incorporates continuous data inputs allowing the system to learn and make optimal operational decisions without human intervention.  

Artificial Intelligence identifies data anomalies and patterns through data supplied from IoT intelligent sensors and devices. With IoT, it is only possible to notify when setpoints are exceeded, with the addition of artificial intelligence, machine learning predictions can be made 20 times faster with improved accuracy. How the IoT + artificial intelligence, or AIoT, achieves this is by building  intelligent machines which make optimal decisions with limited or no intervention.

Major Segments

IoT and AI markets are growing across four segments

• Wearables – wearable devices monitoring preferences and habits for applications in sports, fitness, and healthcare
• Home – leveraging appliances, lighting and electronic devices for automated support and energy efficiency
• Municipal – applications for urban life making improvements in traffic control, public safety, and energy management
• Industry – digitization of manufacturing improving efficiency, safety, and quality.

Applications that are generating value across these segments include:

• Predictive Maintenance
• Natural Language Processing (NLP)
• Fleet Management
• Banking Fraud Protection
• Insurance Premium Prediction
• Crime Scene Identification

Leveraging the addition of artificial intelligence is adding value to existing IoT installations and optimizing the value creation of new installations.

Use Cases

With facial recognition, Retail businesses are identifying customer’s gender, flow, and product preferences predicting behavior for store operations and locating products. Drone collected traffic data is input into algorithms which are deciding on how to improve flows through speed limit adjustments and light timing. Truck fleet management of routing and scheduling for energy saving, and predictive maintenance yielding reduced unplanned downtime. Risk prediction and automated decisions for managing process safety, monetary gain and addressing cyber threats. These are notable solutions where AIoT is generating significant value propositions.

IoT + AI + 5G + Big Data = Infinity

How do we soar higher with automated intelligence? With emerging technologies to turbocharge AIoT, 5G networks with next to zero latency will support real time data processing. Unlimited data feeding a variety of sources fueling machine learning yielding new knowledge sources for augmented intelligence. The digitizing of data will be more impactful with 5G speed delivery to algorithms and back to the process control point. Computing power complemented by IoT and 5G speed make the artificial intelligence and analytical toolset even more important than when they were originally conceived. 

Challenges

All this potential has its share of challenges. Artificial intelligence will get the most out of the combination of IoT +AI+5G+Big Data. Challenging aspects of AIoT include:

• Analyzing and creating value propositions with IoT data
• Predictable latency and accurate data analysis
• Balancing the need for speed and local smart devices vs. centralized control
• Providing personalization while protecting data privacy and confidentiality
• Protecting against increasing cyber-attack threats.

Are you ready to create your formula for success? Let’s get started! Please reach us below via the Contact button and let’s begin your new equation together.