THINK

Tech Fundamentals

Understand transformative technologies with content crafted by MCD experts.

AI and Automation

What is Artificial Intelligence?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is technology that enables computers and machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as reasoning, learning, and problem-solving, often with a degree of autonomy.

What is Robotic Process Automation?

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) involves using software bots to automate repetitive, rule-based digital tasks, such as data entry or transaction processing, enhancing speed and efficiency in business operations.

What is Machine Learning?

Machine Learning (ML) is a method within AI where algorithms improve their performance by identifying patterns in data, allowing systems to make predictions or decisions without being explicitly programmed for each task.

Data and Insights

What is Data Visualisation?

Data visualisation utilises advanced graphical tools and libraries to transform raw datasets into intuitive charts, graphs, and maps for rapid comprehension and analysis.

Why use Dashboards?

Dashboards consolidate key metrics and data points into a single, interactive interface, enabling real-time monitoring and decision-making.

What is Data Reporting?

Data reporting automates the extraction, aggregation, and formatting of data into actionable reports, supporting data-driven decision-making and compliance auditing.

Field Operations

What are Digital Field Operations Tools?

These are specialised software applications designed to equip frontline teams with mobile access to data, workflows, and real-time communication.

How do Connected Devices Improve Field Efficiency?

Connected devices like tablets and smartphones enable seamless data capture, instant updates, and collaboration between field staff and back-office systems.

What Role does Offline Functionality Play?

Offline capability ensures field teams can continue working and syncing data without interruption, even in areas with limited or no network coverage.

System Integration

What is System Integration?

System integration connects disparate software applications and data sources to enable seamless information flow and unified workflows.

Why Integrate Disconnected Systems?

Integration eliminates data silos, reduces manual data entry, and enhances operational efficiency by synchronising business processes across platforms.

What are APIs and Their Role?

Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) enable different software systems to communicate and exchange data securely and in real time.

Mobile Platforms

What are Cross-Platform Mobile Apps?

Cross-platform apps are designed to run seamlessly on multiple operating systems, such as iOS and Android, using a single codebase.

Why are Mobile Platforms Essential for Field Teams?

They provide flexible access to tools and data, enabling teams to stay productive whether they are onsite, remote, or in transit.

How do Mobile Apps Handle Offline Functionality?

Offline capabilities allow data capture and task completion without network connectivity, syncing automatically when back online.

Sustainability

What is Sustainable Technology?

Sustainable technology includes digital tools and systems designed to reduce environmental impact through energy efficiency, eco-friendly production, or by enabling greener practices across industries.

What are IoT Sensors?

IoT (Internet of Things) sensors collect real-time data from physical environments to monitor energy use, equipment, and conditions, helping reduce waste, improve efficiency, and support sustainable operations.

How does Technology Support Sustainability in Maritime?

Technology helps cut emissions and fuel use by optimising routes, improving efficiency, and enabling predictive maintenance, making shipping cleaner and more sustainable.

Security and Resilience

Why is Cyber Security a Core Priority?

In an era of increasing digital threats, robust cyber security protects sensitive data, ensures compliance, and builds trust with users and clients.

What is Resilient Architecture?

Resilient systems are designed to withstand failures and recover quickly, ensuring minimal disruption through redundancy and fault tolerance.

How do We Ensure Scalability?

Scalable architecture supports growth by handling increasing users, data, or transactions without compromising performance or reliability.

Cloud Infrastructure

What is Cloud Infrastructure?

Cloud infrastructure refers to virtualised computing resources, such as servers, storage, networking, and platforms, delivered over the internet.

Why use Cloud Infrastructure?

Cloud platforms provide flexibility, cost-efficiency, and rapid deployment, removing the need to manage physical hardware.

What is Virtualisation?

Virtualisation is a technology that allows a single physical machine to run multiple virtual systems, enabling more efficient use of computing resources by dividing them across isolated environments.

Quality and Testing

Why is Software Testing Essential?

Testing ensures software behaves as expected across different conditions, helping to catch defects early and reduce costly rework.

What does Quality Mean in Software?

Quality is not just about functionality, it includes performance, usability, security, and reliability under real-world usage.

How do Automated Tests Improve Efficiency?

Automated testing speeds up development by providing fast, repeatable checks across updates, reducing human error and boosting confidence in deployments.

Ongoing Support

Why is Ongoing Support Critical After Launch?

Launch is just the beginning, regular updates, monitoring, and maintenance ensure the platform continues to meet evolving needs.

How do Feature Rollouts Add Long-Term Value?

Continuous delivery of new features keeps the product relevant, competitive, and aligned with user feedback and business goals.

What does Proactive Monitoring Provide?

Monitoring tools detect issues early, improving reliability and helping teams respond quickly to performance or security concerns.

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