Construction industry is very labor-intensive and one of the major sources of employment in the world. The industry is experiencing low productivity with minimum technological innovations for decades. In recent times, various automation technologies including 3D printing have received increasing interests in construction. 3D printing in construction is found to be very promising to automate the construction processes and have the potential of saving laborious work, material waste, construction time, risky operation for humans, etc. There has been a comprehensive body of research conducted to understand the recent advances, future prospects and challenges of large-scale adoption of 3D printing in construction projects. Being one the labor-intensive industries, this study also investigates the possible impact on the labor market with increasing adoption of 3D printing in construction. It is found that 3D printing can reduce significant number of labors which can solve the labor shortage problem, especially for the countries where construction is heavily dependent on immigrant workers. In contrast, 3D printing might not be favorable for the countries where construction is one of the main workforces and labor is less expensive. Moreover, 3D construction printing will also require people with special skills related to this new technology.
In the biological sciences there have been technological advances that catapult the discipline into golden ages of discovery. For example, the field of microbiology was transformed with the advent of Anton van Leeuwenhoek's microscope, which allowed scientists to visualize prokaryotes for the first time. The development of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is one of those innovations that changed the course of molecular science with its impact spanning countless subdisciplines in biology. The theoretical process was outlined by Keppe and coworkers in 1971; however, it was another 14 years until the complete PCR procedure was described and experimentally applied by Kary Mullis while at Cetus Corporation in 1985. Automation and refinement of this technique progressed with the introduction of a thermal stable DNA polymerase from the bacterium Thermus aquaticus, consequently the name Taq DNA polymerase. PCR is a powerful amplification technique that can generate an ample supply of a specific segment of DNA (i.e., an amplicon) from only a small amount of starting material (i.e., DNA template or target sequence). While straightforward and generally trouble-free, there are pitfalls that complicate the reaction producing spurious results. When PCR fails it can lead to many non-specific DNA products of varying sizes that appear as a ladder or smear of bands on agarose gels. Sometimes no products form at all. Another potential problem occurs when mutations are unintentionally introduced in the amplicons, resulting in a heterogeneous population of PCR products. PCR failures can become frustrating unless patience and careful troubleshooting are employed to sort out and solve the problem(s). This protocol outlines the basic principles of PCR, provides a methodology that will result in amplification of most target sequences, and presents strategies for optimizing a reaction. By following this PCR guide, students should be able to: ● Set up reactions and thermal cycling conditions for a conventional PCR experiment ● Understand the function of various reaction components and their overall effect on a PCR experiment ● Design and optimize a PCR experiment for any DNA template ● Troubleshoot failed PCR experiments
Accounting automation has emerged as an essential tool in the business environment, offering significant advantages for both SMEs and large corporations. SMEs, with more agile structures, can adapt quickly to technological innovations, although they face challenges related to limited resources. On the other hand, large companies, despite their vast resources, face challenges in integrating new technologies due to complex organizational structures. Ongoing staff training and education is crucial for both, ensuring that the benefits of automation are maximized. Data security has become a priority, with the need to ensure the integrity and protection of accounting information. In conclusion, accounting automation is not just a trend, but a necessary evolution. Companies that adopt and adapt to it will be better positioned to thrive in a competitive and digitized future. It is imperative that organizations, regardless of size, recognize the potential of accounting automation and take proactive steps to implement it in their operations.
The Congress of the Fundación Salud, Ciencia y Tecnología 2024 brought together 417 authors and 142 research papers that addressed current challenges in key areas such as organizational culture, human talent management, constitutional principles in public employment and applied technological innovations. The importance of organizational culture in fostering innovation and adaptability was highlighted, while research on human talent underscored the need to balance automation with employee well-being in a post-pandemic environment. Legal studies highlighted fairness in public selection processes, while omnichannel strategies in customer service emphasized personalization and consistency. In addition, human resources management in hybrid environments and the impact of interdisciplinarity in the solution of social problems were discussed. The event reaffirms the commitment to academic excellence and social progress.
Effective resource management plays a vital role in such an efficient, cost-effective, and scalable infrastructure when most organizations depend on IT infrastructure. Classical approaches often break down in complex modern environments of IT. Artificial intelligence presents transformative abilities in the management of resources in IT by applying predictive analytics, automation, and optimization. This paper addresses the integrating theme of AI in IT resource management from methodologies to applications, technological frameworks, to ethical considerations. Deeper insight is provided to the AI-driven tools in resource allocation, predictive capability planning, and cost optimization on metrics and technical data. Challenges in privacy, scalability, and fairness are discussed, and future innovations comprise edge computing and self- governing IT systems.
Munachi Ijeoma Ononiwu, Ononiwu, Obianuju Clement Onwuzulike
et al.
This study undertakes a comprehensive comparative analysis of cost management strategies in banks, focusing on operational improvements in the United States (US) and Nigeria. The primary aim was to identify best practices by evaluating how regulatory environments, technological adoption, and cultural factors influence cost management approaches in these distinct regions. Through an extensive review of the banking landscapes, the study found that US banks rely heavily on advanced technological solutions such as artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and fintech innovations to drive operational efficiency and reduce costs. In contrast, Nigerian banks, constrained by infrastructural and economic challenges, prioritize process optimization, strategic outsourcing, and workforce management. The study also highlighted the significant role of regulatory and cultural differences in shaping cost management strategies. While the US benefits from a stable regulatory environment that fosters digital transformation, Nigeria’s regulatory landscape requires banks to adopt adaptive strategies tailored to their unique challenges. Furthermore, cultural factors deeply influence operational practices and decision-making in both contexts. The study concludes that effective cost management requires a tailored, hybrid approach that integrates technology, process improvements, and cultural adaptability. For banks operating in diverse environments, balancing these factors is crucial for achieving sustained cost efficiency and competitive advantage.
Digital innovation has become a crucial factor in creating competitive advantage for startups in the e-commerce industry. In the fast-paced digital economy, startupreneurs must leverage technological advancements to differentiate themselves and ensure sustainable growth. This research aims to explore how digital innovation is utilized by startupreneurs in e-commerce to gain a competitive edge, focusing on the strategies that enhance market presence and customer loyalty. A mixed-method approach was adopted, combining surveys and in-depth interviews with e-commerce startupreneurs, along with a comprehensive literature review to provide a theoretical foundation. The findings indicate that startups implementing digital innovations such as automation, data analytics, and personalized customer experiences see significant improvements in customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. These innovations play a pivotal role in helping e-commerce startups maintain competitiveness in a saturated market. In conclusion, this study highlights the practical importance of adopting digital innovation for e-commerce startups and contributes to the theoretical understanding of how digital tools can drive entrepreneurial success in modern markets
This article examines the significant impact of ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) on management control in modern organizations, based on the Marroy case study. Exploring the deep integration between ERP and critical management control functions, this essay offers an in-depth analysis of key benefits such as task automation, business process optimization, and improved decision-making. The study highlights the challenges associated with ERP implementation, and proposes effective solutions for maximizing the benefits of this technology in the context of today's digital transformation. By offering an essential perspective on the evolution of management control practices thanks to the technological innovations of ERP, this article contributes to the understanding of modern strategic and operational strategies in organizations.
A. H. Hilmi, Asna Rasyidah Abdul Hamid, Wan Abdul Rahman Assyahid Wan Ibrahim
Manual material handling (MMH) tasks are a significant contributor to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs), particularly in industries where repetitive motions, awkward postures, and excessive loads are common. Recent advances in ergonomic interventions aim to mitigate these risks, enhancing worker safety and reducing the incidence of injuries. The integration of automation technologies, such as robotic assistants and human-machine interfaces, has proven effective in reducing human involvement in monotonous tasks, thereby alleviating physical strain. Additionally, passive back-support exoskeletons have emerged as promising tools to provide mechanical support during heavy lifting, bending, and repetitive movements, effectively reducing musculoskeletal risks. Technological innovations, including wearable sensors and AI-driven tools, have further improved ergonomic assessments by providing real-time monitoring and feedback on workers’ posture and movements. These advancements allow for timely adjustments and preventive measures, ensuring a safer and more efficient working environment. However, challenges remain regarding the long-term effects and user acceptance of exoskeletons and other ergonomic interventions. Studies also highlight the importance of ergonomic risk assessments, utilizing tools such as the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) and fuzzy logic models to identify and mitigate high-risk tasks.
Tajeddine Benbarrad, Marouane Salhaoui, Soukaina Bakhat Kenitar
et al.
The accelerated growth of new technologies, along with the optimization of the manufacturing systems, are forcing companies to change their traditional methods of production and step up to industry 4.0. Quality control is one of the production processes most susceptible to be enhanced by introducing technological innovations. Accordingly, machine vision will be a critical part of automation systems in Industry 4.0. The data accessible by vision equipment will be used to identify and report defective products, understand the causes of deficiencies and allow rapid and efficient intervention in the Industry 4.0 factory. From this perspective, the machine vision model proposed in this paper combines between the identification of defective products and the continuous improvement of manufacturing processes by predicting the most suitable parameters of production processes to obtain a defect-free item. The proposed model exploits all data generated by various technologies integrated in manufacturing chain, thus meeting the requirements of quality management in the context of Industry 4.0, based on the predictive analysis to identify patterns in data and suggest corrective actions to ensure product quality.
M. M. H. Atanasious, Valentina Becchetti, Alessandro Giuseppi
et al.
Claims management is a complex process through which an insurance company or responsible entity addresses and handles compensation requests from policyholders who have suffered damage or losses. This process entails several stages, including the notification of the claim, damage assessment, settlement of compensation, and, if necessary, dispute resolution. Fair, transparent and timely claims management is crucial for maintaining policyholders’ trust while also limiting the financial impact on the insurer. Technological innovations, such as the use of artificial intelligence and automation, are positively influencing this sector, enabling faster and more effective claims management. This study reports on Insoore AI, an insurtech solution that aims to automate a portion of claims management by integrating a computer vision solution based on some latest developments in deep learning to automatically recognize and localize car damage from user-provided pictures.
This Foresight paper discusses the application of future studies and strategic foresight in legislative processes, particularly concerning digitalization in post-pandemic Europe. The paper highlights the imperative for laws to be designed for the future – and the rights of future generations – to safeguard intergenerational justice and international solidarity. The analysis begins with an exploration of the challenges and opportunities that digitalization presents in a Europe recovering from COVID-19, which has significantly accelerated technological adoption across various sectors. It examines how laws can be designed to embrace these developments while ensuring societal resilience to future crises. Providing a concise overview of future studies and strategic foresight, the paper identifies gaps and blind spots in EU policy-making that can be filled by integrating foresight studies into policy-making structures.The paper proposes institutionalization strategies and advocates for an ethical framework, suggesting ‘digital humanism’ as a value foundation to guide future-orientated policy decisions. This framework is aimed at ensuring that legislative measures not only address present issues but are also adaptable and considerate of future societal needs. The contribution ends with a presentation of proposals for institutionalizing strategic foresight, advocating for a value-driven approach anchored in digital humanism.
Abstract Technological innovations are increasing the opportunities to develop technically and economically feasible Smart Products. However, the development of Smart Products requires knowledge and capabilities that single companies usually do not possess, thus creating new opportunities for cooperation through the establishment of innovation ecosystems focused on Smart Products. Hence, this study aims at understanding possible configurations for these ecosystems by considering the required characteristics they should display to allow the development of Smart Products from their early stages. We conducted a case study in an electro-electronic and automation industrial cluster of 120 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), based on 37 interviews with key participants in the ecosystem: 15 SMEs executives, 8 academics, 2 R&D center representatives, 8 large manufacturing customers, 3 business associations and 1 state government representative. As a result, we developed a conceptual framework that presents the required characteristics of an innovation ecosystem to offer Smart Products, and discloses the relationships among these characteristics.
Background: The unprecedented supply chain disruptions caused by the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic forced many firms to change their way of doing business dramatically. These changes include quickly responding to the growing demand for online orders and the corresponding direct shipments to customer locations. These changes have been further accelerated by rapid technological innovations resulting from the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0). One of the most notable technological transformations that we have witnessed is the growing popularity of smart warehousing concepts. Although smart warehousing may represent a wave of the warehousing future, the published literature rarely documents its underlying principles, specific application targets, and potential impacts on supply chain performance. This research aims to identify key drivers of the digital warehousing revolution and describe important value propositions for warehousing automation. Methods: To help companies develop smart warehouses successfully as an integral part of a supply chain link, I conceptualize an ideal smart warehousing system, design its basic architecture, propose specific milestones for monitoring the progress of smart warehouse development, and then, identify critical success factors for its full utilization in today’s volatile warehousing environment. This paper employed qualitative content analysis to conceptualize smart warehousing development and establish a smart warehousing framework. Results: A smart warehouse will bring many managerial benefits, including warehousing cost efficiency, labor productivity, and agility in the era of the knowledge economy. Conclusions: This paper will enable companies to accelerate digital transformation and improve their competitiveness amid the post-pandemic industrial revolution.
Alejandro Valencia-Arías, Sebastián Cardona-Acevedo, Sergio Gómez-Molina
et al.
Smart homes represent the complement of various automation technologies that together make up a network of devices facilitating the daily tasks of residents. These technologies are being studied for their application from different sectors, including the projection of their use to improve energy consumption planning and health care management. However, technology adoption depends on social awareness within the scope of cognitive advantages and innovations compared to perceived risk because although there are multiple benefits, potential users express fears related to the loss of autonomy and security. This study carries out a systematic literature review based on PRISMA in order to analyze research trends and literary evolution in the technological adoption of smart homes, considering the main theories and variables applied by the community. In proposing a research agenda in accordance with the identified gaps and the growing and emerging themes of the object of study, it is worth highlighting the growing interest in the subject, both for the present and its development in the future. Until now, adoption factors have been attributed more to the technological acceptance model and the diffusion of innovation theory, adopting components of the Theory of Planned Behavior; therefore, in several cases, the attributes of different theories are merged to adapt to the needs of each researcher, promoting the creation of empirical and extended models.
Health technology assessments (HTAs) are typically performed as one-off evaluations and can potentially become out-of-date due to the availability of new data, new comparators, or other factors. Recently, living approaches have been applied to systematic reviews and network meta-analyses to enable evidence syntheses to be updated more easily. In this paper, we provide a definition for ‘Living HTA’ where such a living approach could be applied to the entire HTA process. Living HTA could involve performing regular or scheduled updates using a traditional manual approach, or indeed in a semi-automated manner leveraging recent technological innovations that automate parts of the HTA process. The practical implementation of living HTA using both approaches (i.e., manual approach and using semi-automation) is described along with the likely issues and challenges with planning and implementing a living HTA process. The time, resources and additional considerations outlined may prohibit living HTA from becoming the norm for every evaluation; however, scenarios where living HTA would be particularly beneficial are discussed.
There is a growing focus on digitisation, datafication, automation and artificial intelligence in migration studies. This report reviews accounts of these technological innovations with a particular emphasis on their impacts for how migration is conceived and governed. The discussion overviews research that identifies and describes forms of digitisation and datafication, examines the role of automation and artificial intelligence in migration management, and discusses the links between and ethics of digitally mediated migrations and digital solidarities with mobile people. In closing, the report raises questions about the intellectual and political agenda of a purported sub-field of digital migration studies.