webadmin September 2, 2020 No Comments

How to Convert Flash Websites to HTML5 Right Now!

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Over the years, Adobe Flash-ActionScript and HTML-JavaScript-CSS based development have been used as two of the main approaches for websites and other front-end web-based applications. But Flash has various limitations on smartphones and other mobile devices, which gradually have led to the emergence of HTML5. Further, some of the most popular internet browsers such as Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox have blocked Adobe Flash technology for speed and security reasons. One of the primary advantages of HTML5 is its ability to support multimedia (audio, video, animations) content and to fulfill the greater usability demands of varying screen dimensions of both mobile and desktop devices. This is the key reason why an increasing number of organizations have started to use HTML5 for their website development, and others have started to either migrate or upgrade their existing content from Flash to HTML5.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Below are some of the other reasons why there is an increasing demand for Flash to HTML5 conversion nowadays -” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1599036336723{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text] Many devices do not support Flash websites One of the main drawbacks of a Flash website is that it does not work on a number of mobile devices, including smartphones, which can quickly lead to loss of website visitors and sales leads. A Flash-based website affects your search rankings It is a well-known fact that Google’s bots do not consider Flash files as part of your website’s content. This makes all the preloaded audio-visual content on your website completely useless because you will not be getting the target audience on your website. The result will be a loss of market share without any benefit of search engine rankings and non-flash-driven competitors gaining a huge advantage.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Why Convert to HTML5?” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1599036681768{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]HTML5 has completely revolutionized the way HTML content is presented due to its various advanced features such as support of audio, video, SVG, Canvas, and many more file types. HTML5 is also one of the best alternatives to Flash Player as it has the native ability to perform well in various low battery-powered devices such as smartphones and tablets. Among other advantages of HTML5 are – Compatibility with all modern browsers across devices Support of Responsive Web Design (RWD) Functions without any browser plug-in Offers built-in support for rich media elements HTML5 output content consumes less memory Renders graphic content similar to Flash [/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Steps to Convert Flash Websites to HTML5″ font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1599037556852{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Here we are discussing the steps to help you get started with a successful transition from Flash websites to HTML5 – 1. Plan thoroughly Flash to HTML5 transition is a time-consuming process and could take up a great deal of time, based on the amount of content you have to convert.  So, it’s a good idea to prepare a detailed plan to be able to start with the actual work. This will eliminate all the hassle and stress from finding out more items coming up, and you’ll be able to go ahead with the process without any hiccups.  2. Collect the source files Before you begin Flash to HTML5 conversion, make sure that you have all the source files (XML, FLAs, etc.), including all the media and supporting files. 3. Extract media and content Extract all the media and content from the existing website, followed by copying the text and labels of navigation buttons in the GUI (graphical user interface) into a PPT or MS-Word document. 4. Use a robust authoring tool and follow the conversion process There are multiple tools that you can use for Flash to HTML5 conversion, including Adobe Captivate, Lectora Inspire, Adobe Wallaby, Google Swiffy, Sothink – Flash to HTML5 conversion tool, Apache FlexJS and Articulate Storyline.  Here are some of the most popular tools currently that you can use to convert Flash websites to HTML5 – Google Web Designer It is a free web editor for Flash to HTML5 conversion. You can use this tool by just paying an intrinsic price in terms of conversion quality, without having to pay for Adobe’s subscription. Adobe Animate CC Adobe Acrobat Animate CC is an excellent conversion tool for Flash to HTML5 projects, in which you have the .fla source files at hand. Since Adobe is the native platform of Flash, the tool does the best job of converting these types of projects to HTML5. Zoe Tool From CreateJS A part of a JavaScript library package and supported by Adobe, Microsoft, and Mozilla, Zoe is a stand-alone tool for converting .swf animations to sprite sheets that can be used in HTML5 Canvas. The highlight of this tool is its ability to auto-detect your asset dimensions and maintain the same frame labels, along with supporting nested graphics. 5. Follow the conversion process Here is how you can convert your Flash websites into HTML5 files- Open your Flash file in any of the Flash to HTML5 conversion tools such as Animate. Click Command > Convert to Other Document Formats The next step is to choose HTML Canvas and click OK Click Code Snippets and change Actions script Choose Convert to Bitmap to be able to Convert vectors to bitmaps by right-clicking Check Export all bitmaps as Spritesheets and check Convert text to outlines followed by clicking OK to Publish. 6. Test the website content Output the content in the HTML5 version and test it across the various web and mobile browsers.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Advantages of Flash to HTML5 Conversion” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1599037996806{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Below are some of the main benefits of Flash to HTML5 conversion – Fresh look and feel One of the advantages of performing Flash to HTML5 conversion is that the design or layout can be easily tweaked to bring a modern UI experience. Device compatibility HTML5 content works seamlessly across various mobile device browsers and

webadmin August 19, 2020 No Comments

Top 5 LMS for K-12 Education

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”What is a learning management system?” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1597845459244{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]A learning management system (LMS) is software used to create, deploy and deliver courses online. Most LMS today are cloud-based, allowing 24X7 access to course content from any location worldwide. The instructors and course admins can upload courses, assignments, homework, calendars, learning resources, and more on the LMS. They can also create forums and chat rooms to communicate with the students. Educators can also track student learning outcomes and access automated reports to analyze the effectiveness of a course and course delivery. Educational institutions are increasingly adopting LMS tools to reach geographically dispersed learners and enable anytime and anywhere access to learning materials, allowing students to pursue full-time or part-time employment to pursue their degrees. A dedicated K-12 LMS platform is also the ideal platform to disperse relevant supplemental material to students to enhance the education and training received in the classroom setting. Besides, it can also be used to deliver blended learning solutions combining classroom learning with online learning. Also Read: 10 Benefits of Moodle-based Learning Management System (LMS) Some learning management systems specifically address the needs of K-12 students. The main use of the K-12 LMS platform is to streamline learning in schools. Students gain access to additional online resources and can revisit topics and learn at their own pace. The teachers spend less energy on creating learning resources and on administrative tasks and have more time at hand to spend with students. LMS for K-12 learning also offers tools for online assessment in the form of tests and quizzes, which can be graded online based on predefined metrics. Also Read: K-12 Education in the Post-COVID Era[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Check out the List of 5 LMS for K12 Education” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1684400184549{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Here is a comprehensive list of the best k-12 learning management system you can use for your needs: Google Classroom: The Google G Suite Platform is an LMS with several interesting tools and features. Students who are familiar with Google Docs, Sheets and Slides, and other Google tools will find it easy to use and transition to online learning. The software is free to use, requiring minimal IT resources to set up and keep it running. Educators can use it to post course material, set assignments, and carry out quizzes. Students have to set up their accounts since they can’t use their accounts to access the services. This limits access to the virtual space and keeps data secure. This K-12 learning management system supports compliance with industry regulations and best practices. However, Google Classroom is more about providing students with a personalized learning experience rather than managing it. Also to keep in mind, Google Classroom is not a full LMS but it can be used as an add-on with other LMS such as Schoology and Edmodo. Besides, it also meets the Learning Tool Interoperability (LTI) standards. The LMS works on iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Chrome, and other browsers. Alma: This LMS for K-12 education provides learners with an intuitive learning experience based on their learning data. This K-12 LMS platform also empowers educators to make data-driven decisions. This flexible and scalable solution can fit in with all school needs and budgets. Alma neatly combines a student information system and LMS, allowing all stakeholders to access timely and meaningful information. Its modern and intuitive design makes it easy for administrators, teachers, students, and parents to easily and quickly access relevant information and take appropriate action. The LMS also offers schools a flexible technology infrastructure that can easily be integrated with their existing systems for a customized solution. Blackboard Learn: This is a proprietary solution, which means hosting rights can only be provided by BlackBoard or it can be leased to users. The platform is exclusively designed to increase student engagement, boost teachers’ productivity, and increase learners’ achievements. The LMS includes both synchronous and asynchronous learning tools, and can also be integrated with productivity tools such as Google and Microsoft. It has a responsive design and offers offline access to courses, thereby providing anywhere and anytime access. Blackboard Learn also has real-time data analytics and visualization to provide all stakeholders with the information they need to improve student’s learning outcomes. Students can also personalize the setting of the LMS interface to align with their personal preferences. Canvas: This platform includes a complete range of learning tools to enhance the students’ learning experience. It has assessment tools to understand a student’s or class’s progress. Besides, it also helps to meet the student’s social and emotional needs. Canvas also includes the Canvas Parent App to allow parents to monitor the progress of their wards. This app is available on all mobile platforms including iOS and Android. The app enables greater parental engagement in learning as it allows them to view course grades, assignment grades, and course announcements. Canvas is an open-source LMS, which means the admin users can access the source code and make enhancements. Its features support easy video uploads, one-on-one student-teacher communication, and web conferencing with a larger audience. Hurix LMS: Considered among the best k12 LMS, this proprietary K-12 content management system can integrate with existing school information systems for a seamless learning experience. This cloud-based, best-in-class solution for content integration and curriculum management is designed to meet all 21st-century eLearning initiatives including microlearning, mobile learning, social learning, and blended learning. This K-12 learning management system platform meets all instructional needs of educators including content development, course delivery and instructional activities, student assessment, data analysis, and reporting. Teachers and school administrators can view student performance based on auto-generated data. This K-12 platform is designed to allow educators to create interactive lessons and provide instructions in a highly visual and contextual setting. Students can also collaborate with peers and teachers, and thus, enjoy a highly engaging and immersive learning experience.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”In conclusion” font_container=”tag:h3|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1597845716075{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width:

webadmin August 16, 2020 No Comments

All You Need to Know to Ensure Web Accessibility

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The law requires people to have equal access to technology, irrespective of their limitations and disabilities. It is this requirement that brought several other laws, acts and guidelines such as Section 508, ADA and WCAG into practice. With internet being an ubiquitous presence around us, it is imperative that it is accessible too, without any form of discrimination. All these laws concerning accessibility basically have the same goal- to make digital technology and information accessible to people with disabilities.   Related Read: 5 Reasons Why Enterprises Need to be WCAG Compliant[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Here are some guidelines that govern the accessibility standards:” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1597576469520{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]508 Section 508 was made part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 in 1998. It is a federal law that requires US Federal agencies to make their electronic and information technology (EIT) accessible to people with disabilities. But it is not limited to federal agencies, it also applies to other companies that does business with a federal agency. Section 508 compliance testing tools allow for an organization to test whether their websites are compliant with the WCAG 2.1 AA guidelines. ADA The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law that prohibits the discrimination of people with disabilities in all areas of life, including when using electronic and information technology. This law is applicable to all public and commercial facilities as well as the state and local government services. The ADA has adopted WCAG 2.1 AA as its core guidelines for website accessibility and online content. Websites that discriminate against members of the public may be considered in violation of federal ADA laws. Make sure your website is an ADA compliance website to protect from lawsuits. EN 301 549 EN 301 549 is the European standard that pertains to digital accessibility testing. According to this standard, all Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the public sector must be fully accessible. The standard includes every type of digital technology, including software, mobile apps, websites, and more. Any multinational corporation partnering with a European organization will need to comply with these web accessibility standards. EN 301 549 has adopted the WCAG 2.1 AA as accessibility standards guidelines to ensure that people with different kinds of disabilities can use the websites. ATAG  The Authoring Tool Accessibility Guidelines (ATAG) 2.0 provide detailed accessibility standards for creating web content authoring tools. ATAG was developed by the Authoring Tool Accessibility Guidelines Working Group (ATAG WG), which is part of the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI). It shares WCAG 2.0’s three level conformance model: Level A (lowest), AA (middle), AAA (highest). ATAG guidelines explain how to make authoring tools accessible so that people with disabilities can create web content, and help authors create more accessible web content. WCAG Web Content Accessibilities Guidelines or WCAG 2.1 is the updated version of WCAG 2.0 which are a standard set of guidelines that explains how you should make your website accessible for people with disabilities. This was produced by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), and is designed to allow contents to be accessible to people with a variety of disorders including blindness, color blindness, learning disabilities such as dyslexia and ADHD, speech disabilities, limited movement, cognitive limitations and many more. Also See: Infographic: Website Accessibility and WCAG 2.1 It is essential that enterprises create a culture of understanding regarding accessibility concerns. There are currently more than 2 billion disabled people in the world, that is 37.5% of the world’s population. Designing websites under WCAG 2.1 make them more inclusive and mobile-friendly for this population. The tools and platforms used by an enterprise should be integrated with accessibility features in the designing or procurement stage itself, rather than as a later update on an ad-hoc basis.   WCAG 2.0 and 2.1 outline three levels of compliance. Level A is the highest priority and usually the easiest to achieve  Level AA is more comprehensive  Level AAA is the strictest, most comprehensive accessible design  WCAG 2.1 is backwards compatible, which means that content that conforms to WCAG 2.1 also conforms to WCAG 2.0. It includes more standards that benefit individuals with cognitive or learning disabilities, users with low vision, and users with disabilities on mobile devices. Also Read: WCAG – Quick Facts and Guide[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner css=”.vc_custom_1597642151152{background-color: #dee7f0 !important;}”][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″ css=”.vc_custom_1597642195329{margin-top: 10px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;margin-left: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text] White paper: WCAG – The Road to Making Businesses Accessible [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″ css=”.vc_custom_1597642170248{margin-top: 30px !important;margin-right: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”][button size=”mediumlarge_rd_bt” use_icon=”yes” icon_color=”#ffffff” t_color=”#ffffff” b_color=”#f55744″ b_hover_color=”#3ac77f” url=”https://stag.hurix.com/whitepapers/wcag-the-road-to-making-businesses-accessible/” target=”yes” position=”ta_right” icon=”wb-download”]Download Now![/button][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_custom_heading text=”WCAG’s 4 Principles of Accessibility” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1597576762888{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]According to the WCAG 2.1 guidelines, accessible websites must meet four standards – they must be perceivable, operable, understandable and robust. 1. Perceivable Information and user interface components must be presentable to users in ways they can perceive. Text alternatives for non-text content: There must be text alternatives provided for all multimedia content. Adaptable content: Provide publishable web content in different formats that can be perceived without losing information or structure. Distinguishable content: The content should be easier for users to see and hear, including separating foreground items from backgrounds. 2. Operable User interface components and website navigation must be operable. This means that users can operate interfaces, and it doesn’t require interactions that they can’t perform. Keyboard access: Businesses should make all functionality available from a keyboard interface without requiring specific timings for individual keystrokes, except where the underlying process requires the end user’s input or movement. Time controls: Users must be given sufficient time to read and use the content. They must also allow users to navigate and find content on the site. Photosensitivity awareness: Avoid designs that could provoke seizures or physical reactions. 3. Understandable Information and the operation of user interface must be understandable. The site must be designed in a way that is easy to navigate. Readable: Text content must be clear, concise and comprehensible. Predictable: Web

webadmin August 10, 2020 No Comments

Infographic: 5 Things You Need to Consider While Designing For Accessibility.

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”5 Things to Bear in Mind While Designing for Accessibility” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:16|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal”][/vc_column][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”29953″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text] For more insights write to us at marketing@hurix.com [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner disable_element=”yes”][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”23652″ img_size=”50×50″ alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” animation=”rda_flash” link=”https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A//hurix.com/infographic-5-things-you-need-to-consider-while-designing-for-accessibility”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”23649″ img_size=”50×50″ alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” animation=”rda_flash” link=”https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Infographic%3A%20Flash%20To%20HTML5%20Conversion%20at%20a%20glance%20via%20%40hurix_digital”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”23651″ img_size=”50×50″ alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” animation=”rda_flash” link=”https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A//hurix.com/infographic-flash-to-html5-conversion/&media=https%3A//hurix.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Flash_to_HTML5_Conversion_at_a_glance.jpg&description=”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”23650″ img_size=”50×50″ alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” animation=”rda_flash” link=”https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A//hurix.com/infographic-flash-to-html5-conversion/&title=Infographic%3A%20Flash%20To%20HTML5%20Conversion%20at%20a%20glance&summary=&source=”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

webadmin July 24, 2020 No Comments

Top Higher Education Trends Emerging in the Post-Covid Era

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Most countries across the world have temporarily closed down educational institutions as a means to arrest the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Figures show that about 1.3-1.5 billion students have been affected by the closure of their schools and universities, impacting about 72% of the world’s student population. The pandemic has made online education a buzzword. Online classes are the current trend in education, however, classes held over Zoom, Google Meets or Microsoft Teams cannot be equated to online education. While these classes have ensured some level of engagement between the teachers and students, this virtual replication of the classroom has actually resulted in bored students and exhausted teachers. Online education system requires a robust digital infrastructure which goes beyond virtual classrooms that includes labs, assessments, examinations, tools for communication and collaboration, and provide analytics for instructors, institutions, students and parents. Here, it is also important to say that the physical classrooms will not go away any time soon, and so what is needed is a blended learning model that incorporates both online and classroom teaching and doesn’t segregate them into two different watertight compartments. While the use of technology is increasing in the education domain, the COVID pandemic has accelerated the speed of its adoption, impacting all forms of learning. In the post-COVID era, while educational institutions will still be around, they would have to collaborate with eLearning development companies to improve the overall efficacy of the education system and student performance. In fact, with the initial shock wearing off, it is seen that school administrators, parents, teachers and students are now preparing for an academic life that includes both traditional and disruptive learning. Related Read: K-12 Education in the Post-COVID Era[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”While new perspectives, new learnings and new trends in education will emerge as we head into unchartered waters, here are a few current trends in higher education that have taken roots and are likely to grow in the near future.” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1595597174387{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text] Adoption of Digital Technology All schools and higher education institutions will have to adopt digital technology to make education more student-centric, empower their teachers, and improve their processes. It is common knowledge that each student learns at their own pace. The current trends in education will see data and technology play a crucial role in personalizing lessons for the students. Also Read: How Can Students Benefit from Digital Learning Empowering Teachers Teachers have been using the lockdown period to coach their students through remote classes and provide lessons and homework online. Going further, they would have to learn and adopt technology to upgrade their skills and engage their students. They would also have to prepare the students for this new situation and equip the parents to their new roles and responsibilities so that they can manage the online education of their children at home. Digital education will only succeed if there is massive re-education of teachers to change their mindsets and be adaptive to new innovative pedagogies and technology-based student-teacher interaction. Adoption of technology would also redefine their roles from a knowledge-giver to a facilitator supporting students on their own learning journeys. Besides, technology would be used effectively to perform tasks such as paper-setting, assessments and grading. With more free time at hand, they could focus more on teaching and course improvement. Adoption of the Blended Learning Approach While the physical classroom will remain, it will be supplemented with online coursework. The students will be expected to attend classes on a few days and be free to study at their own pace on the others. Since there is little or no supervision at home, the students will have to develop a high level of self-discipline to complete prior preparation and as well as post-online class sessions to assimilate the information and remain in sync with the rest of the class. Also Read: How to Deliver Blended Learning Courses Effectively Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Although AI has made inroads in education, its adoption and use will be fast-tracked by the COVID pandemic. Educators have already discarded the one-size-fits-all approach – the hallmark of the traditional classroom, in favor of digital technology to provide a personalized learning experience to each student. The blended learning approach to learning will give the students the opportunity to engage with different types of content such as audio, video, presentations, webinars, and podcasts, thereby increasing their ability to engage with the content. Adoption of Micro-learning The rules of the game are totally different when it comes to designing online courses and curriculum. In tune with the current trends in education, educators would have to repackage their course content in small bite-sized modules, usually in the form of audio or video, is about 3 to 5 minutes long and contains concise information about a particular topic. Students can consume microlearning content anywhere and anytime. Besides, microlearning ensures that there is no cognitive overload and students can better grasp and retain learning for the long-term. Since microlearning content can be consumed while on the go, the courseware also has to be designed for all types of accessibility platforms including tablets, laptops, PCs and the mobile. In fact, mobile learning is another fast-emerging new education trend that will gain momentum in the post-COVID era. Related Read: Learning in the Times of COVID-19 – How to Develop Your Online Learning Material Focus on Greater Interactivity Physical classrooms score over virtual classrooms as they offer higher interactivity among the teachers and students. These interactions help to break the monotony and also satisfy students’ need to socialize. While the current trends in higher education support collaboration, educators will need to add more elements of interactivity and collaboration in their online courses. Introduction of Short-term, Skill-based Courses The changing socio-economic scenario brought about by the pandemic has led to massive job losses. To remain agile and relevant to the workplace, higher education students would have to continuously update themselves with industry-ready courses. Schools and colleges would also have to impart the right skills to the students so they remain

webadmin July 15, 2020 No Comments

7 Reasons Why You Must Convert Flash Games to HTML5

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Adobe Flash ruled the internet for a long time. It was the go-to choice for web designers seeking to incorporate multimedia elements such as animation, video, and games into a website interface. However, owing to glaring security gaps, performance, and stability issues that Flash games presented on mobile devices, a need for change became more pressing. The advent of HTML5 – the open web standard – with versatile native multimedia features offered the alternative needed for a departure from Adobe Flash. Between 2014 and now, a large number of tech platforms have converted multimedia elements, games in particular, to HTML5, signaling an end of the Flash era. Let’s take a look at the differences between the software platforms and why you stand to benefit from making the switch.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”What is Flash?” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1594822462470{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Adobe Flash is a software platform designed to support multimedia content production and display. When it was first launched, this platform transformed the web spaces with its ability to create animations of images and texts that could be incorporated with games, videos, and other interactive elements and delivered to the end-user through a web browser. It accepts inputs from the end-users through a mouse, camera, microphone, or keyboard, thus supporting bi-directional streaming capabilities. 3D elements were also added to the platform in 2011. The interactive animation on this platform is created using the ActionScript programming language. In addition, it relies on Adobe Integrated Runtime (AIR), a cross-platform environment, for creating and delivering content to users on their desktop computers as well as mobile devices. However, Flash Player’s popularity began to decline sometime after 2010, given its vulnerability to malware attacks. Serious gaps in its security came to light every now and then. Two precarious vulnerabilities being exposed back-to-back in 2015, with Adobe conceding that it had no viable patch in place, came as the final blow to this platform’s universal appeal. From Apple to Google, all leading tech behemoths denounced this platform and began recommending an immediate deactivation of the Flash plugin. This effectively forced the hands of developers to convert their Flash games to another platform, and HTML5 emerged as the de-facto choice. Related Read: Time to Migrate eLearning Courses from Flash to HTML5[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”HTML5 – The Alternative to Adobe Flash ” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1594822729722{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]The emergence of HTML5 as the alternative to Flash is supported by a host of underlying causes. Of these, the most prominent is that HTML5 is an open web standard. This means that it can operate without requiring any additional plugins. Unlike Flash, HTML5 is not proprietary software, which means it is accessible to developers all over the world without licensing restrictions. Besides, multimedia content developed with HTML5 can be integrated into the website source code. This eliminates the need for an additional plugin, making the end-product more user-friendly. Due to this, it is also a more secure platform.[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner css=”.vc_custom_1594839370757{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;background-color: #dee7f0 !important;}”][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″ css=”.vc_custom_1594839408516{margin-top: 30px !important;margin-right: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;margin-left: 20px !important;border-right-width: 0px !important;padding-right: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text]White paper: Leveraging RPA for Flash to HTML5 Conversion[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″ css=”.vc_custom_1594839524945{margin-top: 30px !important;margin-right: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 30px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;border-left-width: 0px !important;padding-left: 0px !important;}”][button size=”mediumlarge_rd_bt” use_icon=”yes” t_color=”#ffffff” b_color=”#f55744″ b_hover_color=”#3ac77f” url=”https://bit.ly/2ZvTya5″ target=”yes” position=”ta_right” icon=”wb-download”]Download Now![/button][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_custom_heading text=”7 Reasons Why You Should Convert Flash Games to HTML5 ” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1594822846890{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]The major chunk of users, as well as the tech force today, comprises of millennials and Gen Y – both digital natives. For them, on-the-go access to content is a baseline expectation. Something that Flash cannot deliver. Therefore, converting Flash games to the HTML5 format becomes more of a necessity than an option. Besides, such conversions present the perfect opportunity to improve on the existing features and functionalities, fix issues, and consequently, grow your audience. In addition to these very clear benefits, here are seven reasons why you should convert Flash games to HTML5 – and do so on priority – 1. Mobile Device Compatibility Converting games from Flash to HTML5 makes them more mobile-friendly. It also brings in touchscreen support, which is a must for playing a game on the present-day smartphones. Both Android and iOS operating systems today support this open web standard platform, which means games designed on or converted to HTML5 can operate seamlessly on most mobile devices, delivering up to 60 FPS with ease. 2. Improved Performance  If you compare Adobe Flash and HTML5, the latter is undoubtedly faster and more efficient in terms of performance. Converting Flash games to this platform allows you to optimize them, remove redundant functionalities and code, as well as revisit its algorithms and make them more relevant to present trends. 3. Bug Fixtures for Improved Gameplay  HTML5 developers revisiting an existing game for conversion presents an opportunity for the game’s source code to be re-examined from a fresh perspective. They can not only fix known existing bugs but also discover new ones and eliminate them, thus, improving the gameplay experience. This, in turn, uplifts the user experience, encouraging them to spend more time on the game as well as explore your other offerings. 4. Introducing Web Analytics  Analytics rule the roost in all aspects of web operations today. The ability to gain insight into your traffic, user behavior, trends, and preferences can provide you a gold mine of information for improving your products. Knowing where your users get stuck in a game, at what point do they typically exit the game, how they behave during gameplay can be a game-changer for your existing and future products. Flash games conversion to HTML5 offers you the opportunity to take action based on the insights offered by analytics. 5. Customization of Gaming Interface  A wider outreach is the holy grail of business growth. The web offers you the opportunity to take your game to users across the globe by customizing its features and functionalities as

webadmin July 6, 2020 No Comments

All You Need to Know About Switching from Traditional to Online Learning

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The emergence of the digital era has brought about a paradigm shift in the way modern education and training systems operate. Traditional formats of face-to-face, uni-dimensional learning are no longer effective tools for training. Instead, an ecosystem of simple, efficient, and contextualized learning processes has been created. With the primary aim to enhance flexibility, reduce costs and thus, develop a customized, convenient and self-paced learning environment. This virtual learning architecture, which has streamlined information, improved access, and increased opportunities across the world, is known far and wide as – online learning. Related Read: Is Online Education Better than Traditional Education?[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”What is online learning?” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1594042740343{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Online learning, in simple words, is a specific type of learning which largely takes place over a variety of digital mediums. Rather than conducting classes in a physical setting, online learning focuses on providing knowledge through eBooks, videos, webinars, discussion forums, and live Q&A sessions. Owing to its immense potential, almost 77% of organizations around the globe have started incorporating eLearning into their current training programs while the remaining plan to do so by the end of 2020. Related Read: Investing in the Best Online Learning Platform for Education Therefore, as an enterprise, if you intend to use online learning over more conventional methodologies, here are a few advantages that you will be able to accrue from switching over – Greater Access Online learning provides greater physical access, especially in terms of narrowing of geographical distances. Irrespective of where your employees are located, with eLearning at your disposal, you can easily provide all of them with the same digital course. Doing so will permit you to eliminate the need for proximity and yet, impart the same training, everywhere. Reduced Costs Unlike their traditional counterparts, eLearning techniques do not require a massive barrage of unscalable resources. You don’t have to incur a huge amount of expenditure in buying equipment, hiring instructors, renting classrooms, or printing course material. Instead, you can simply design an internet-based course, which carries greater quality and maximum value. Personalized Delivery  Online learning, being sophisticated in origin and individualistic in extent, allows for training lessons to be delivered in a dynamic, transparent, and personalized manner. Lessons can be wrapped up within a single session, and specific areas that need attention can be focused on. Problems, issues, or doubts, if any, can also be immediately addressed. Also Read: Best eLearning Solutions for Digital Natives Quick Upskilling  The development of new technologies requires employees to upgrade their skills on a daily basis. If they opt for the traditional training mechanisms, it can cost them an arm and a leg! Online learning, on the other hand, enables employers to quickly upskill their employees (beginners & veterans alike) without enrolling them in a formal school. Better Outcomes With eLearning, getting feedback, tracing results, and measuring outcomes in an objective way becomes tremendously easy. You can quickly track the growth chart of each employee and follow their entire learning curve. This can equip you to make interventions and adjustments, as and when necessary, in order to improve productivity and augment performance. Also Read: How Mobile Learning is Changing the Educational Landscape And this is just the tip of the iceberg! Online learning also works wonders in facilitating understanding, enhancing pace, refining credentials, and reducing the carbon footprint of each organization.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”How to migrate from traditional learning to online learning?” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1594042991447{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]The good news is that converting your enterprise from a traditional learning environment into an online learning environment is not a challenging task. You are merely expected to make a few simple changes, and, as an organizational beneficiary, you are good to go. This migration process, which is presently being undertaken by almost 98% of companies in the world, essentially requires: 1. Choosing a Format The first thing you need to do while beginning your digital conversion journey is to identify and choose an appropriate eLearning format. In this regard, you can either go for – Synchronous learning– real-time, instructor-led & participatory Asynchronous learning– learner-controlled, flexible & self-paced Blended learning– an amalgamation of both, synchronous & asynchronous formats Depending on which training style suits your work culture, you can select either one of the aforementioned formats and build your online course around it. Related Read: Reflowable or Fixed Layout – Which is the Best Layout for your eBook 2. Examining Instructional Design  Once this is done, the next step is to research, examine, and pick a viable instructional design. The design you choose must make sure that the learning process it encompasses is safe, systematic, efficient, and expeditious. If you are a beginner, go for simple design models that include audio/video resources paired with live teaching & PowerPoint presentations. Start small and gradually build up your digital courses. 3. Organizing Content The key to migrating from traditional learning aspects to focused online learning is – organizing and managing course content appropriately. Chalk out a detailed schedule with clear learning objectives and divide it into smaller, digestible bits. Ensure that the content contains well-researched data, graphics, and statistics. Use animation/videos to put across a point. Update the content regularly to maintain progression and relevance. 4. Conducting Proper Interactions  Each course module in your eLearning attempts must include detailed, direct, and transparent interactions. This is because communication, when routed through proper channels, can help facilitate greater understanding. Try to streamline your interactions on three essential fronts – Mentor – Learner interactions Learner – Content interactions Learner – Learner interactions Micro-managing interactions on these three fronts won’t just make your learning module more communicative, but it would also make your learning outcomes more remarkable. 5. Evaluating Feedback Last but not the least, build a facility for obtaining instant feedback within your online learning design. This facility should cater to the needs of both instructors and learners. Evaluate the feedback received on a routine basis and make changes in accordance with it. Doing so will help you smoothen your

webadmin June 26, 2020 No Comments

Benefits of Using RPA for Flash to HTML5 Conversion

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Most companies dealing with digital resources have already moved to HTML, or are in the planning phase. The advantages of HTML5 are too lucrative for businesses and help them transform the whole content delivery and management experience. Switching from Flash to HTML5 can help businesses- Avoid security flaws and vulnerabilities Support multiple devices including smartphones Provide responsive learning Provide support for all browsers Take advantage of SEO for higher Google rankings The end of Flash has come as good news to most businesses. We have discussed in detail how the content industry can benefit most from the conversion in our Fast-tracking Flash to HTML5 Conversion – Modernization with a Purpose white paper. As a result, the conversion from Flash to HTML5 is seen as a way to boost efficiency, productivity, and profitability.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”The Role of Robotic Process Automation (RPA)” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1593182296875{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Robotic Process Automation or RPA is emerging as a strong technology that has the potential to revolutionize most industries through automation. It’s a facilitative technology that incorporates a user interface (UI) and on-surface features to automate repetitive, routine, and predictable tasks. RPA can help businesses make the transformation to HTML5 by improving operational efficiency and integrating legacy solutions with new formats like HTML5. The technology can perform various tasks just like a human and even learn from situations using machine learning and AI. RPA can be leveraged at every step of the Flash to HTML5 conversion process and ease tensions for businesses. According to Gartner, RPA is the fastest-growing enterprise software segment with a yearly growth rate of 63% in 2018. The industry is poised to grow from $850 million to $2.4 billion by 2024. The technology can be universally adopted in the next 5 years, as Deloitte has commented.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Advantages of RPA for Flash to HTML5 Migration” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1593182415966{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text] 1. Zero Errors RPA is like a software that can work independently of humans, which means it can never make any mistake or error. Whether RPA tracks the source files or updates new addresses in PDFs, businesses can expect 100% accuracy. An error-free conversion process guarantees fewer changes or edits later on. 2. More Work in Less Time The whole research and analysis process to identify resources for conversion can be done in a few hours using RPA. A company would need at least a few months to do the task using manual labor. RPA can help businesses get their conversion done faster for quick marketing. That means they can earn more returns on investment in a short time. 3. Improve Productivity RPA can boost productivity by almost 86%. Companies can save time, increase efficiency, and reduce errors to make the conversion more productive. Automation also saves precious human hours that can be spent to grow the business. 4. Easy to Scale RPA can be scaled seamlessly to suit the needs of businesses of all sizes. You can program the technology to analyze 100 or 10,000 courses with the same ease and efficiency. This benefit is really useful for big digital companies that have a huge amount of content, courses, videos, and so on. 5. Save Costs RPA can help businesses cut down the cost of Flash to HTML5 conversion considerably. Most of the processes can be automated to save human labor and wages. Interestingly, RPA can bring down the cost by 59% through its high level of automation. 6. No Upfront Investment RPA can be implemented without any considerable upfront investment. Businesses can also earn returns quickly for more profit.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”How Can Robotic Process Automation Facilitate Flash to HTML5 Conversion” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1593182833122{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]RPA has the potential to make the transition of Flash to HTML5 smooth and hassle-free for businesses. The greatest advantage is you can automate most of the processes that need human involvement. Apart from that, it can also help in planning and development. Flash to HTML5 conversion needs to consider many factors. You have a huge database of course materials, videos, and resources to analyze and go through. Then you need to derive insights, lay out the roadmap, determine the budget- the list goes on. Businesses that want to take advantage of the modern HTML features often get discouraged by such a long process. They also may not have the time or resources to do a full-fledged analysis. RPA can chip in and help enterprises gain the insights to develop a Flash to HTML5 migration plan. Businesses will not need to devote any human labor behind the process and can get ready insights. RPA can help businesses customize their Flash to HTML5 conversion roadmap according to individual needs. Those looking to make the switch can use RPA to determine the budget and manage expectations. eLearning companies use RPA to improve their overall learning strategy and even individual courses. The technology is ripe to ensure the timely conversion of content and discover potential opportunities for improvements. Robotic Process Automation can go hand-in-hand with Flash to HTML5 conversion and enhance the process to a great extent. Businesses can automate most of the time-consuming analysis and identify resources for conversion. RPA also helps in the actual process and afterward to ensure quality and user-friendliness. The technology can empower businesses to make the switch from Flash to HTML5 by taking care of their major responsibilities.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

webadmin June 24, 2020 No Comments

How Can Businesses Ensure Cloud Platform Security?

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Over the last decade, organizations around the globe have increasingly embraced cloud applications in order to innovate, transform their business, manage costs and handle their increased workload. Applications that automate various business functions such as HR management, sales processes, file sharing, and collaboration are growing fast, enabling companies to meet their needs in a shorter time frame. Cloud applications are now in use across all industries, particularly in insurance, banking and the public sector. A wide range of regulations and privacy laws make organizations directly responsible for protecting data and other regulated information. But when this data is stored on the cloud, companies have less control over leaks and thefts. The transition to the cloud has, therefore, brought to the forefront the issue of cloud platform security. The old method of adding static walls to on-site IT assets don’t work for cloud, implying that cloud platform security needs a more robust approach. Also Read: 10 Reasons Why You Should Outsource Your Cloud Management Some companies make the mistake of assuming that the basic cloud platform security they have is good enough. But data leaks headlines tell a different story. For instance, in 2019, a misconfigured Web application firewall enabled hackers to gain access to accounts and credit card details of 100 million customers of the financial corporation Capital One. The fact that data leak of such magnitude can occur means that cloud platform security is an extremely serious issue, which sometimes even big organizations are unable to deal with effectively. Cloud platform security involves the use of various procedures and technology to secure cloud computing environments from all kinds of cybersecurity threats, be it external or internal. These cloud security management best practices are designed to prevent any unauthorized access to confidential data and keep all information safe from cybersecurity threats. Also Read: How Can Enterprises Benefit from a Successful Cloud Migration[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”How to ensure cloud platform security for your business?” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1593006253861{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]A holistic approach to cloud platform security can help companies overcome the risks. Before you protect your data and information on the cloud, you need to know who has access to it. The following questions can help you identify your authorized users: Who should have access to the information on the cloud? How to identify what content is proprietary, sensitive, or regulated? Where will this data reside in the cloud? What kinds of privacy, disclosure and other laws apply to the data and other information? Also Read: 6 Best Practices for Cloud Cost Optimization[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”The next step is to protect this information by following cloud platform security best practices.” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1593006355752{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text] Encrypt Your Information: The first line of defence is to use a cloud service that encrypts your files both on the cloud and on your computers. This will ensure that your service providers or third-party administrators don’t have access to your private information. A baseline, unbreakable code can be used to encrypt sensitive information to protect it from unauthorized viewers. One way to achieve this is to install a cloud information protection platform at the network’s edge. This will ensure that your data on the cloud is fully protected before it leaves the organization. Also, it is a good idea to use an open platform which can support all cloud applications and integrate third-party tools to provide a stable platform for protection. Retain the keys: Once your data is encrypted, it is important that you have the keys to decipher the information when you need it. This will ensure that you have complete control over the information, and that you are in the loop for all information requests that are made, even if you are using third-party cloud services. Prevent Data Loss: To provide an additional layer of security and ensure complete control over your data, customize policies to scan, detect and take appropriate action to protect information based on its level of sensitivity. Use Anti-malware: A cloud transfers information over the Internet and so it is very important that you install a strong antivirus and anti-malware program on all your cloud-using devices including laptops, PCs, smartphones and tablets. These software help in blocking suspicious URLs and downloads, screen information exchanges, both internal and external, on cloud applications in real-time. Read the User Agreement: Before signing up for a third-party cloud-hosted service, make sure to sign the dotted line only after you have read the complete user agreement. This agreement details how they will protect your information and whether you are in any way giving them permission to use or sell your data.  Any time your service provider updates their privacy policy, they will inform you via email or an alert when you log in. Always read these notifications to ensure that the updates do not adversely impact your data and your cloud platform security is in no way affected. Set Up Your Privacy Settings: As soon as you sign up for a cloud service, immediately configure your privacy settings. With this in place you won’t end up sharing your information through apps that connect you to your service provider. After the initial set up, check and reconfigure your settings every few weeks to keep your information safe. Use Two-factor Authentication (2FA): First, use a strong password for your account. Research shows that more than 75% of cyber-attacks happen due to weak passwords. Avoid identifying information such as your name, birthday, or the name of your company. Use a combination of letters, special characters and symbols. Also, when provided with an option, use two-factor authentication, which means that apart from your password, you will need to put in additional information to sign into your account. Common methods for the second layer of identification include answering a secret question, providing a personal PIN or inputting a code that your service provider texts or emails you. Related Read: Top 8 Cloud Security Best Practices[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”In conclusion” font_container=”tag:h3|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1593006526523{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px