Hi there,

Think geospatial mapping and aerial imaging and Google Earth tends to spring to mind for many. But Australian startup Soar is hoping to change that, combining satellite and drone imagery to create a decentralised ‘super-map’ with ‘dynamic, ever-changing data’.

The company, which already has around 10 petabytes of data, is on a mission to become the one-stop shop for the collection, distribution and monetisation of mapping imagery and is using blockchain to guarantee the crowdsourced imagery’s authenticity and create a marketplace platform.

In other news:

Qrious acquires NOW to grow data business
Algorithmic management = worker resentment
Instilling ethics in your AI project
Shapeshifting Roboats to the rescue

We also take a look at how one manufacturer and a local IT provider were able to resolve a complex and commercially sensitive data carve out from a competitor and get a new SAP system up and running quickly.

Enjoy the read,

Heather Wright
Editor
editor@istart.co.nz

DIGITAL IMAGERY

Just like Google Earth...only better?

Using satellites, crowdsourced drone imagery and the blockchain, a new startup is looking to offer a high-res Google Earth alternative…

From measuring the effects of a natural disaster to local townsite planning and infrastructure – not to mention security and defense, mining and the media – real-time imaging is the Holy Grail of digital map making.

“Soar generates dynamic, ever-changing data on our platform.”

[Read more]

ACQUISITION

Spark’s Qrious snaps up NOW Consulting

Acquisition another step in growing data as a service business…

Spark’s Qrious has snapped up NOW Consulting in an effort to extend its data consulting business and create a ‘unique’ offering locally.

“The combined business will offer customers access to a broader range of services, and a depth and breadth of capability unique in the NZ market.”

[Read more]

ALGORITHMS

Gig economy study: People hate being managed by algorithms

A study of Uber drivers in New York and London finds worker resentment and frustration with the company’s management-by-app approach to HR…

The gig economy was supposed to provide workers with something approaching autonomy.

“Both transparency and human support in time of need may help address the feelings of ‘dehumanisation’ drivers reported when left at the mercy of algorithms or the computerised system.”

[Read more]

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Overcoming the ethical challenges of artificial intelligence

First, ask the right questions…

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly entwined in daily life, questions are being raised about its ethical implications.

Having effective regulations and governance frameworks in place will become a vital part of any AI-related project.

[Read more]

ROBOTS

Taking robots to the water for on-demand autonomous infrastructure

AI powered robotic boats hit the water – and create bridges…

Shapeshifting robotic boats may soon play a role on Amsterdam’s waterways, offering not just transportation but pop up bridges.

“We can connect two sides of the canal using autonomous boats that become dynamic, responsive architecture that float on water.”

[Read more]

CLIENT INSIGHT

Data sync manager provides fast and secure build of new SAP system

Leading NZ manufacturer leverages EPI-USE Labs’ landscape solution to get a new business acquisition up and running quickly, with no downtime…

Daiken New Zealand manufactures world-class premium MDF products renowned for superior colour, consistency and quality.

With the new SAP solution, Daiken is well placed to standardise the operational and technical excellence and continue growing & innovating.

[Read more]

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