Lenovo’s ThinkAgile vs. ThinkSystem: Which Infrastructure Solution Suits Your Business Best?

Hi Guys, 

By Dean Wolson, General Manager, Infrastructure Solutions Group, Lenovo Africa

Increasingly businesses and IT leaders are taking a critical look at their ageing data centre equipment and embarking on a mission to modernize their infrastructure. Rather than simply replacing outdated hardware, they sought to evaluate the best solutions to power their business-critical applications. Understanding that IT infrastructure is vital for meeting customer needs and supporting new initiatives for business growth.

In the same vein, many organizations today face the challenge of selecting the right IT infrastructure to support their evolving needs. Lenovo offers two compelling solutions: ThinkAgile and ThinkSystem. Each has its unique strengths and benefits, making it essential to understand their differences to make an informed choice. As an expert in IT solutions, I will guide you through the key considerations and advantages of both to help you determine which is best suited for your organization’s infrastructure needs.

Understanding the Fundamentals

Lenovo ThinkAgile is a hyper-converged infrastructure (HCI) solution that integrates computing, storage, and networking into a single, unified system. Its design focuses on simplifying deployment and management, providing a seamless experience for businesses looking to streamline their IT operations. ThinkAgile leverages software-defined technologies and is particularly suited for environments where agility and scalability are paramount.

On the other hand, Lenovo ThinkSystem encompasses a broader range of traditional and modular infrastructure solutions, including servers, storage, and networking products. ThinkSystem’s versatility allows it to cater to a diverse array of IT environments, from small and medium-sized enterprises to large data centres requiring high performance and reliability.

Evaluating Your Needs

When deciding between ThinkAgile and ThinkSystem, the primary factor to consider is your organization’s specific needs:

For businesses experiencing rapid growth or fluctuating workloads, scalability is key. ThinkAgile’s hyperconverged infrastructure offers unmatched scalability, with a modular design that allows seamless expansion, enabling you to adjust resources on demand without significant disruption. On the other hand, ThinkSystem provides a scalable solution through a blend of traditional and modular approaches, offering flexibility but potentially necessitating more complex management.

ThinkAgile excels in environments where ease of management and rapid deployment are critical. Its integrated management tools simplify monitoring and administration, reducing the burden on IT teams. ThinkSystem, while offering robust management features, may require more configuration and setup, which can be a consideration for organizations with limited IT resources.

For organizations with demanding performance requirements or specific customization needs, ThinkSystem’s array of options provides a high degree of flexibility. You can select components tailored to your performance goals, whether you need high-density computing, large-scale storage, or advanced networking capabilities. ThinkAgile, while offering impressive performance, is more standardized and may not offer the same level of customization.

Cost Considerations

Budget is often a key factor in infrastructure decisions. ThinkAgile’s all-in-one approach can lead to cost savings by reducing the need for multiple separate components and minimizing operational overhead. Its integrated design also supports lower total cost of ownership by streamlining management and reducing physical space requirements.

ThinkSystem, with its broader range of products, allows for more granular budgeting. You can tailor your infrastructure investments based on specific needs and priorities, which can be advantageous for organizations with precise budget constraints or unique requirements.

Future-Proofing Your Infrastructure

As technology continues to evolve, the ability to adapt is not just advantageous—it's essential. ThinkAgile’s hyper-converged model is strategically positioned for future growth, with its flexible architecture and software-defined capabilities that align seamlessly with emerging IT trends. Its robust support for cloud integration and advanced data management ensures sustained relevance as your organizational needs evolve.

ThinkSystem’s modular approach also supports futureproofing, allowing you to upgrade or expand individual components as technology advances. This flexibility can be beneficial for long-term planning, particularly if you anticipate significant changes in your IT environment.

Choosing between the two ultimately depends on your organization’s specific needs, budget, and long-term goals. By carefully assessing your requirements and considering the strengths of each solution, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your strategic objectives and positions your business for future success.

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Lenovo South Africa Unveils Commercial AI Innovations to Empower Local Businesses

Hi Guys, 

Lenovo South Africa is proud to unveil its latest AI-enhanced commercial lineup, embodying the company’s vision of leading and enabling Smarter Technology for All. With a commitment to creating a future of Smarter AI for All, Lenovo is transforming from a top device maker into a tech solutions leader powered by AI.

Lenovo’s vision for AI is built on three pillars: transformation, innovation, and citizenship. Transformation signifies Lenovo’s evolution into a tech solutions leader, leveraging AI to drive this change. Innovation is driven by customer and user insights, which are at the heart of Lenovo’s smarter technology and AI advancements. Citizenship reflects Lenovo’s commitment to making AI and technology inclusive, equitable, accessible, and sustainable.

For businesses, Lenovo’s AI capabilities streamline workflows, optimize performance, and enhance user experience. AI-driven content creation, predictive experiences, and intelligent decision-making evolve the workday, while predictive and proactive security, fraud detection, and cyber-resiliency bolster digital defence. For consumers, Lenovo crafts customized digital journeys through personalized and proactive solutions. AI solutions boost productivity, streamline operations, and expedite processes, delivering superior results with improved speed. Advanced hardware and software-level encryption empowers data sovereignty, ensuring a secure and controlled experience.

The Lenovo Aura Edition is a premium series of AI-enhanced laptops developed through a multi-year collaboration with Intel. This series includes the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13, designed for professionals and creative users alike. These laptops offer advanced AI features, powerful processing capabilities, and a sleek, modern aesthetic. Customizable Smart Modes dynamically adjust performance and system settings based on user activities. Shield Mode enhances security with Privacy Alert, Privacy Guard, and automatic VPN launch. Attention Mode blocks distracting websites and manage notifications to enhance productivity. Collaboration Mode optimizes video call settings with low light enhancement and background blur. Wellness Mode promotes digital health with reminders to take breaks, improve posture and reduce eye strain. Smart Share facilitates seamless AI-driven image sharing between smartphones and laptops, while Smart Care offers 24/7 real-time support through Lenovo’s Premier Support Plus service.

Yugen Naidoo, General Manager, Lenovo Southern Africa, said “"At Lenovo South Africa, we are committed to empowering local businesses with the latest AI innovations. The Intel Aura Editions exemplifies our dedication to providing advanced, user-centric technology that not only enhances productivity but also supports sustainable growth. We believe that by integrating AI into our solutions, we can help South African businesses unlock their full potential and drive meaningful transformation in the digital age. Our vision of ‘AI for All’ is about making these powerful technologies accessible to everyone, regardless of the size or sector of their business. By democratizing AI, we aim to level the playing field, enabling small and medium enterprises to compete on a global scale. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that all businesses can benefit from smarter technology, fostering innovation and driving economic growth across South Africa.”

The Lenovo Aura Edition represents Lenovo’s strategy to integrate advanced AI into its product offerings, positioning the company as a leader in AI-driven solutions. By combining personalized user experiences with sustainable design and cutting-edge technology, Lenovo is setting new standards in the industry and reinforcing its role as a solutions leader in the tech market.

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Safeguarding Your Digital Assets All Year Round @Lenovo_Africa

Hi Guys, 

By Dean Wolson General Manager – Africa Infrastructure Solutions Group, Lenovo Africa

Data breaches are becoming increasingly prevalent, and World Backup Day served as an important reminder of the critical importance of protecting our digital assets. Statistics reveal that 21% of individuals have never backed up their data, leaving them vulnerable to loss or theft. Every minute, an alarming 113 phones are either lost or stolen, potentially compromising sensitive information. Moreover, 29% of data loss incidents stem from accidental causes, highlighting the need for robust preventive measures. A staggering 30% of computers are already infected with malware, further underscoring the urgency of fortifying our defences against cyber threats.

Enterprises, in particular, grapple with the monumental task of managing and safeguarding vast volumes of data amidst an ever-evolving threat landscape. Lenovo recognizes these challenges and remains steadfast in its commitment to providing comprehensive data security and backup solutions. Partnering with industry leaders like Veeam, the business leverages cutting-edge technologies to bolster its data protection infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted operational continuity.

One such innovation is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into data management processes. While AI presents opportunities for cybercriminals to enhance their attacks, it also empowers businesses to proactively identify and mitigate risks. Through sophisticated algorithms, businesses can intelligently prioritize critical data for backup, thereby minimizing the impact of potential breaches. AI-driven encryption techniques, such as homomorphic encryption, offer an additional layer of security by processing data without decryption, effectively preventing unauthorized access.

AI and edge computing: Ushering in a new era of resilience in data protection

In tandem with AI, edge computing emerges as a game-changing solution for mitigating data vulnerabilities. By processing data closer to its source, edge computing minimizes latency and reduces reliance on centralized servers, thereby enhancing data privacy and security.

Lenovo's collaboration with Commvault further amplifies its commitment to safeguarding data assets. As trusted leaders in data protection and security, the entities offer comprehensive solutions tailored to the unique needs of modern enterprises. By integrating advanced security features and AI-driven insights, organizations are empowered to proactively defend against cyber threats. Here are some of the benefits:

Foundational security: Securing data, preventing unauthorized access, and ensuring compliance with hardened zero-trust architecture and out-of-the-box security protocols.

Proactive defence: Early warnings and real-time visibility that enable organizations to meet threats head-on and safeguard production and backup environments.

Faster recovery: Enables enterprise-wide data recovery across a wide breadth of hybrid workloads with rapid efficiency.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, prioritizing data protection has never been more crucial. Ensure that you onboard innovative solutions that underscore dedication to safeguarding critical data and ensuring the resilience of your business. By embracing cutting-edge technologies and robust security measures, enterprises can fortify their defences and navigate the complex terrain of cyber threats with confidence.

Note - Press release as supplied by Lenovo South Africa

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Businesses can Contribute to a More Sustainable Future @Lenovo_Africa

Hi Guys, 

How sustainability became a foundational pillar to building a successful business and tips for incorporating more sustainable practices in the office and beyond

By Thibault Dousson, Services and Solutions Group Lead, Lenovo MEA

Businesses play a crucial role in addressing environmental challenges and fostering sustainability. By incorporating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals into their operations, companies can make a positive impact while also gaining rapport with their customers.

By identifying the best ways to integrate ESG goals into their business strategies, companies can actively contribute to combating environmental challenges and build stronger relationships with their customers based on shared values of sustainability and responsible business practices. Here are some key areas for businesses to reflect on and consider when it comes to their ESG goals: 

Implement Sustainable Packaging

Reduce packaging or use recycled/reusable packaging where possible. In recent years, an increasing number of companies - from small start-ups to large corporations have made the switch from single-use plastic to more environmentally friendly materials in an effort to reduce their environmental impact and carbon footprint. Seek out FSC-certified packaging, look for plastic-free options, and if purchasing in large quantities, ask about bulk packaging to minimize waste.

In addition to the benefits of sustainable packaging, the optimization of the supply chain – choosing a mode of transportation that can help reduce carbon footprint such as ocean freight or cargo flights that use sustainable aviation fuel - can make a difference. 

Seek out More Sustainable Alternatives

Buy and use technology and products that prioritize sustainability. When in the market for new office necessities, be aware of recycled materials and components and make a conscious effort to seek out products that may be a more sustainable option.

Also, beware of “greenwashing” – when companies market their products to be more environmentally friendly than they actually are. With consumer demand exploding for more sustainable products, many marketers have pivoted their strategy to make theirs more appealing and at times, can over-state the true “green” aspects of said product – therefore, businesses and consumers alike should look for the details and a break-down of specifics behind every claim, particularly as new innovations emerge.

On that same note, companies should do their part and be careful on wording and use of terms like “environmentally friendly.” By its nature, technology and other related products are not friendly to the environment, but making significant efforts to reduce impact is what businesses should look for in vendors. Stay vigilant. 

Reduce Emissions When Possible

Work remote, when possible, to reduce emissions caused by commuting. With more and more companies - from large enterprises to small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) announcing their return to office – either in a hybrid or full-time capacity – many folks are back to spending a good chunk of their day driving to and from their jobs. If you and/or your employees have to commute, encourage alternative modes of transportation that can help reduce one’s carbon footprint: carpooling, public transportation, and low-emission/zero-emission cars are all great options to explore if compatible with your commute or budget.

Support Causes to Make an Impact

Donate to an environmental organization or cause that aligns with your brand. When thinking of the best ways for your business to support the sustainability cause, consider supporting an area where your brand can make an impact (i.e. automobile industry helping cut down emissions, CPG companies investing in recyclable packaging, etc.). If needed, also look for vendors who can assist or offer services to offset carbon emissions (such as Lenovo’s CO2 Offset Services,), especially for larger projects that need to be outsourced.

Ensuring an organic fit between your business and your cause will not only help the environment but also position your brand as an authentic partner in the collective effort to fight for sustainability.

Encourage Mindful Habits

Prevent over-consumption and wasteful practices. Regardless of how large or small your organization is, it’s key to reduce unnecessary waste. Incorporating simple practices such as encouraging the use of refillable water bottles, going paperless, or simply turning the lights off after leaving a facility may seem ridiculous to some but over time, can make a difference.

Lastly, encourage employees to bring forward their ideas for increasing sustainability in the office and beyond – that way no stone is left overturned or overlooked. When united with their body of employees, businesses are bound to establish a stronger response to combat over-consumption and waste.

Saving the planet is not just good for the world, it’s good for business – reflect on your sustainability goals this Earth Day to set your business up for long-term success that makes a lasting impact. By adopting sustainable practices, businesses can contribute to a more sustainable future while also reaping the rewards of a thriving and responsible business.

Aum Namah Shivay!

Till next time...Aashish

Thanks! Cheers!!!

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Technology in SA Classrooms – What Role Can Tech Companies Play? @Lenovo_Africa #Lenovo #Technology

Hi Friends, 

The topic of technology in our classrooms is not a new one, but it has of course resurfaced in recent months with the pandemic putting the focus squarely on digital in every arena in our lives. HolonIQ reports that schools and training centres are allocating more money and resources to digitise education, with global tech spend forecasted to increase from $152 billion in 2018 to $342 billion in 2025.

When it comes to tech and education in South Africa, however, one of the issues that are of concern to everyone is the widening of the digital divide. While for the lucky few the drive to digital became accelerated in some classrooms because of the pandemic, for many learners it remains painfully slow. South African learners were among the 1.5 billion students who were forced to stay home in 2020 due to school closures during the COVID pandemic. This figure, according to UNESCO, represents over 90% of the world’s learners.

Schools in our country are faced with multiple challenges in terms of education and tech, which all existed pre-pandemic. One of the most significant barriers is of course budget, which is at both individual school level and departmental level. Another is the use of technology, where decisions need to be made on what the specific needs of individual schools are and the best tech tools to address those gaps. For this to occur, accurate assessments on each school’s levels of technological readiness need to be conducted.

In addition, teachers need to be upskilled in the use of various technologies and this training needs to remain current as tools evolve. And last but definitely not least there is the hurdle of safety and security, where educational institutions with tech tools remain targets of theft.

Thibault Dousson, General Manager at Lenovo South Africa

There is much work to be done, therefore, before we start, or in some places continue, to institute technological transformation.

As with many issues that need to be tackled in our country, the partnership is key to addressing these challenges and helping us go beyond the white pages of the Education Charter. The primary way where a company like Lenovo can help in this drive to digital is access to technology and equipment. This access can take the form of providing infrastructures, such as servers, storage and connectivity; providing learning devices, namely PCs, tablets and laptops; as well as ensuring device security, for example, geolocation lock, passwords and other encryptions. Tech companies can also assist with deploying technological solutions and providing support.

On the other side of the partnership, coins are the Education Department and other stakeholders. While a company like Lenovo can facilitate access, the Department should focus on the learning and content side. This includes digitalising the content and curriculum, setting up the learning management system, providing training and development for teachers, and developing apps for learning.

What is important to bear in mind, too, is that digitising learning, as my comments above suggest, isn’t just about handing out tablets and putting PCs into classrooms. IT is the key to more efficient and effective productivity everywhere, and this is where the education ecosystem comes in. In my mind, this consists of four elements – infrastructure, administration, instruction and curricula. Good instruction, such as labs and libraries, for example, is only enhanced by digital textbooks, online coursework and online assessments. Solid IT infrastructure like data warehousing and servers make school administration like HR systems far better.

As a technology company, Lenovo uses an integrated product development process that brings together hardware, software, and security engineering expertise early and drives it throughout the design and development. Our security and compliance priorities are being built into marketing requirements and supported through the use of industry-standard certified components and features, and special attention is paid to BIOS design to ensure secure BIOS configuration and management. Design and engineering are done by qualified original design manufacturers (ODMs).

In addition, Lenovo is partnering with LanSchool, a software solution that delivers powerful digital classroom orchestration for teachers for both primary and secondary schools. It addresses control and security of students’ hardware, so is key for South African schools. We offer the first year for free when schools purchase our products.

I want to emphasise again that it is only through partnership and an appropriate assessment strategy that we can help to minimise the digital divide in our schools. A solid IT plan integrated into the Department of Education’s broader strategy is necessary to truly achieve transformation, and tech can help provide the tools to make education delivery stronger and more in line with a competitive world. We must remember, after all, that the future is global. South African children are not only competing against one another – they are in competition with kids from all four corners of the globe. According to Holon IQ, the next decade will see an additional 350 million post-secondary graduates across the globe.

Only a countrywide, integrated IT strategy in the classroom can truly help South Africa in its digital transformation drive.

It’s a huge task, but we at Lenovo are here to help.

Cheers!!!

Contact Aashish Rai Jain at thelifesway@gmail.com to collaborate and promote your brand, services and products. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra #9YearsofTheLifesWay. Follow me on www.instagram.com/thelifesway for all travel-related photo posts and subscribe to my YOUTUBE Channel too. Namaste!

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3 Million Pageviews on www.thelifesway.com #TheLifesWay

Hi Friends, 

3 Million Pageviews

8.5 Years of Blogging

300+ Brands and Companies

770 Posts Self-written content

The Life's Way started on 27-December-2012

1 Million achieved on 21-July-2016

2 Million achieved on 8-August-2018

3 Million achieved on 16-May-2021

2281 Total Blog posts on Lifestyle and Technology

www.thelifesway.com

It all started with a dream to take care of my free time and to get involved in some kind of creative pursuit so that I can find my mojo and also get into something which can take me places around the city as well as the world. I have been able to enjoy my life in the truest sense of The Life's Way and also thankful to all the brands, companies, PR agencies, People involved in all these creative industries to give me a chance to perform and be myself and promote their products from time to time. I am sure some of them I have failed, some of them are indifferent and some of them must be happy too. Over the years, I have met some people who were really happy to meet me in person and it used to astonish me as to what special I have done in their lives. I also got the opportunity to eat in certain restaurants where I would not have normally gone and also maybe won't be able to afford a meal or two but because of TheLife'sWay I was invited and enjoyed some vegetarian delicacies. I might have not drunk alcohol but if it was gifted to me some of my friends must be happy for that day when he drank that wine or champagne or whiskey. 

The power of social media platform I understood in my first year of participating in the Facebook contests and then migrating to the Twitter contests soon thereafter. With a strong presence in both these platforms, I was set to achieve something big when I started my blog inspired by the journey my friends took in their collaboration with the Indiblogger platform. I wanted to win some Soul by Ludacris headphones and that was the whole purpose of starting in the blogging industry but I could not win them since today. Though I got to win a lot of prizes on the Indbiblogger platform from earphones to headphones to laptops to cash to gift vouchers and build up my creative instincts as well as knowhows of blogging and in the process meet the biggest celebrities and eat at the 5-star restaurants in India. 

When I came here just before the first anniversary of TheLife'sWay, I came upon a different kind of struggle. The internet data was too expensive and I had no social media following locally as I created another Twitter handle @thelifesway to be using especially in South Africa only. I didn't know any PR companies and any brand and even when contacting those brands they were saying you only have 62 followers. Then slowly and steadily I built up my following and after more than 6 months (Nov-2013 to Apr-2014) of struggle, I got my first chance from Sony South Africa who was instrumental in putting me with Primedia to review each and every movie released in their theatres. Throughout my next many years, I continued to watch each and every movie twice a week non-stop unless it's some kind of load-shedding happening in the area. 

The second thing that happened around the same time was the Mission Samsung's Blogger Challenge Campaign for all the residents of South Africa and it was my dream to be winning one or at least be a part of the challenge. It came in newspapers and on Twitter handles and on their website - I read through the Terms and conditions as I wanted to win the same and put in a lot of effort to get to know about the challenge. It was their collaboration with Webfluential as well as SA Bloggers by Sandy. This contest really gave me a boost as it became my passion because I had missed the opportunity to become Samsung Blogger in India as I started my channel a little late and the contest was over by then where they chose certain bloggers who will get their products and will be getting invited to all their launch events. It was a really big dream for me to get involved with all the technology brands. 

I don't remember now when 1 Million and 2 Million pageviews were achieved but I will dig deeper maybe to check on the same. So after a lot of digging, I got the answer to the 2nd Million was done on 8 Aug 2018 after 5.5 years of blogging so it took me around 3 years to reach the 3 million mark. That's a lot of effort guys. The first million I was subscribed to a service where I paid the money annually to do the tweets which used to bring me a lot of traffic on the website and I used the service for 2 years. But I had to disconnect as many of the users blocked me as it was never-ending tweets about the same content again and again. The first million was achieved on 21 July 2016 as I used to tweet the daily progress of my blog those days. Such a time waste if I think about it. I think when I stopped posting that number for many years, people who used to follow me kept asking me how's your blog doing? I never understood the reason for their ask but now I am getting it as to why they used to ask me this question. 

So the fastest growth seems to be between the first and the second million pageviews as after the same, I started rejecting many brands who were just making use of my time and efforts and not giving anything in return at all. I have considerably reduced my time to be spent on my blog since the birth of my second child in January 2018 and focussed more on other social media platforms once again. My still belief is that I have got much more goodies from my social media presence on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter as compared to the blog which means that I have won several contests giving me much bigger prizes as compared to the goodies gifted by PR companies and Brands at their launch events. But this post is to celebrate the overall crossing of three million page views on The Life's Way and what it means to me? 

3 Million is just a number and I hope to reach 5 Million soon in some next years and I will continue to write the new articles and blog posts. I will also focus on shooting video blogs that will go on my Youtube Channel. If you have not followed me on the channel, kindly do so as I am still far from the first 1000 subscribers and just need around 228 new subscribers to reach that landmark. This can be done in a single day by my readers around the world. Kindly follow the link and subscribe to the TheLife'sWay Youtube channel, please. Your help will be greatly appreciated in this regard. 

I would also like to mention what I have received in terms of goodies or media gift pack during all these years from all the brands I have supported on my blog posts - 

1. Samsung South Africa - 139 Posts - Samsung Galaxy Note 20 (Won), Samsung Galaxy Buds Live (Gift), Samsung Powerbank 8700mAh (Gift), Samsung Launch Event trip to Cape Town for Note4, Samsung Launch Goodies - Snacks Packs (Gift), Samsung NX300 (Community Challenge Winner) Won, Samsung 65'' Curved UHD TV (Mission Samsung Grand Finale Winner) Won, Cape Town Trip for Grand Finale Mission Samsung

2. Huawei South Africa - 136 Posts - Huawei FreeBuds3 (Gift), Huawei Watch GT2e (Gift), Huawei FreeLace (Gift), Huawei Watch GT (Sponsored), Huawei Bands (Gift), Huawei Wifi Dongle (Gift), Huawei Gift pack and accessories, Huawei Tshirt and Shorts (Gift), Huawei Hoodie (Gift)

3. Montecasino, Johannesburg, South Africa - 85 Posts - I have shared so many posts for Montecasino and most of them are for the event tickets and never got any stay at any of their hotels or properties. I was recently again invited for their movie launch event where I won Tomato Watches and also some Coca-Cola goodies which I have made YouTube videos about. 

4. Indiblogger - 83 Posts - I have participated in a lot of their contest where sometimes I won Flipkart vouchers, sometimes goodies were sent to us, some of the posts were for cash also and overall it was a joyous collaboration with this blogger network in India. I have bought a lot of stuff using those Flipkart vouchers for sure. 

5. Disney South Africa - 68 Posts - Other than their annual showcase goodies along with movie tickets from time to time the gift packs includes generally some books, notepads, Mickey Mouse Volkano Bluetooth speaker and recently in 2021 time National Geographic Astrum Bluetooth Speakers which you can watch on Youtube channel. 

6. Acer South Africa - 67 Posts - R500 gift voucher to buy stuff from Shop.acer.com (used thrice), Acer Launch goodies like Pen drive 8GB, Paper stand, Typo calculator, pens and diaries. 

I have stopped sharing for Acer South Africa as I didn't get anything worthwhile sharing all their press releases and doing product reviews though I used to get invited to their local launch events and also some products to review. 

7. Sony South Africa - 53 Posts - Sony MDR-XP450AP Extra-Bass Wired Earphones (Gift), Diary, Pen, Sony Xperia XA Ultra, Sony Xperia XZ Premium

My love for Sony products is such that I bought so many products in London along with my earlier collection of products that when I came back to India, the Indian Country Manager of the Sony Headphones division wanted to visit my home and gift me with a new product but that couldn't happen as I travelled to South Africa before he could plan a visit. Anyhow, it remains my favourite company as I have kept hold of my old portable e-Reader, old noise cancellation headphones along with various other Sony products from Cassette player to MP3 Players to Portable CD player. I will start showcasing them on my Youtube channel soon. 

8. Silverstar Casino, Johannesburg, South Africa - 48 Posts - Silverstar Casino Marketing team provided me with a lot of staycations which I won during their several events and got to stay in their Presidential Suite also twice or thrice. I have got pen drives, Champagnes, Pens, Diaries, Casino vouchers, hotel stays, free movie tickets, Picnic sets, beach mats, Cheese cutter, Coffee maker and so many fun activities to be part of in terms of their event tickets. I am not getting invited anymore to their launch events but I have had a great run with the brand and I am so grateful to them. 

9. SterKinekor South Africa - 39 Posts - Movie tickets mainly and some launch events. 

Sterkinekor was the first company if I remember correctly to invite me to a movie night and gave my first goodies bag in South Africa which was a Diary and a Pen. I still have not used any of the items and kept them safe. 

10. rAge Expo South Africa - 36 Posts - rAge Expo Tickets, rAge Expo media goodies like Lego blocks or some kind of other goodies like caps, t-shirts, carry bags from their sponsor like MSI Gaming etc. 

It's always a pleasure to receive an invite to their expo which is a mad mad time to enjoy the best of the best games, memorabilia, gadgets and other technology-related products and goodies. I have been part of most of them since I came to South Africa and over the years the thing that remains with me is MSI  Lucky Dragon Bag which is a perfect fit to carry all the groceries and vegetables from the car to the home. All my 3 bags collected over the years are now at the end of the road and I need some new ones to carry on showcasing them in my shopping trolley. 

11. ZEE South Africa - 28 Posts - No benefits at all other than 1 invite to go to Zee launch event in a Chauffer driven limousine which was an experience in itself. That's my only experience in life to sit inside a limousine. 

12. LG South Africa - 25 Posts - Macaroons, Mobile Stand, Pendrive, LG X Screen, Mobile Photography Class at Vega 

13. Lenovo South Africa - 24 Posts - Lenovo Pen drives, Diary, Pen, Customised Laptop Sleeve, Yoga mats, Tshirts full sleeves, Lenovo Wireless Mouse

14. Microsoft South Africa - 23 Posts - Pen drives, Poncho, Scarf, Brainstorm magazine, Pens, Invite to their CIO-CTO Event, Cap

15. Uber South Africa - 21 Posts - Tshirt, Discount voucher (never used), Mobile Stand

So these are the top 15 brands in terms of the number of posts done and some of them I have also marked as brands that just wanted free promotion and vanished once I asked for something in return so there are around 60+ posts belonging to those brands. So this is the current number of posts for all these brands and maybe or not there will be more for them or not depends on the respect I get in return for my time and efforts. Here I have not talked about the thousands of tweets, Facebook posts and Instagram posts for all these brands which come along with attending the event, or sharing blog posts or receiving the goodies. Overall, it's has been a great journey so far and I generally do publish the yearly posts too which you can read and enjoy too. Thanks to each and every pageviews reader to make it happen! Thank You! 

Cheers!!!

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@Lenovo_Africa Introduces the #ThinkReality A3 — The Most Versatile Smart Glasses Ever Designed for the Enterprise

Hi Friends, 

New Smart Glasses Enhance Productivity for the Office Professional and Industrial Worker in Small Business or Global Enterprise, and Everywhere In-between

Today, during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES®), Lenovo™ introduced the ThinkReality™ A3 lightweight smart glasses. One of the most advanced and versatile enterprise smart glasses to come to market, the ThinkReality A3 is part of comprehensive digital solutions offering to deliver intelligent transformation in business and bring smarter technology to more people.

As increasingly distributed workforces and hybrid work models become the reality of a new normal, small and large businesses around the world are looking to adopt new technologies for smart collaboration, increased efficiency, and lower downtimes. From customized virtual monitors and 3D visualization to Augmented Reality (AR) assisted workflows and immersive training, the ThinkReality A3 helps transforms work across many levels of the enterprise.

The ThinkReality A3 tethers to a PC or select Motorola smartphones1 via a USB-C cable depending on the needs of smart workers anywhere. Versatile, portable, and comfortable, the ThinkReality A3 fits like sunglasses and can be enhanced with industrial frame options for safer and more durable use. Immersive but not isolating, the AR smart glasses are powered by the Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ XR1 Platform for high-quality performance and feature stereoscopic 1080p displays presenting the user with up to 5 virtual displays. An 8MP RGB camera provides 1080p video for remote expert use cases while the dual fish-eye cameras provide room-scale tracking.

“The A3 is a next-generation augmented reality solution – light, powerful and versatile. The smart glasses are part of a comprehensive integrated digital solution from Lenovo that includes the advanced AR device, ThinkReality software, and Motorola mobile phones. Whether working in virtual spaces or supporting remote assistance, the ThinkReality A3 enhances workers’ abilities to do more wherever they are,” said Jon Pershke, Lenovo Vice President of Strategy and Emerging Business, Intelligent Device Group.

PC Edition for Virtual Monitors

The ThinkReality A3 PC Edition tethers to a laptop or mobile workstation to enable users to position multiple, large virtual monitors in their field of view and use Windows software tools and applications. Virtual monitors expand the value of PCs, creating more productivity, privacy, and immersive experiences for industries like finance, architecture and engineering, as well as for any remote and mobile worker where space and privacy are limited.

Virtual monitors are optimized and compatible with Lenovo’s leading ThinkPad laptops and mobile workstations powered by Intel and AMD Ryzen™ processors.

Industrial Edition for Enhanced Decision Making in Complex Environments

The ThinkReality A3 Industrial Edition tethers to select Motorola smartphones1 for hands-free, AR-supported tasks in complex work environments. The Industrial Edition is supported by the ThinkReality software platform, which enables commercial customers to build, deploy, and manage mixed reality applications and content on a global scale, with global support.

For use in scenarios from factory floors and laboratories to busy retail and hospitality spaces, certified turnkey applications on the ThinkReality platform powers remote assistance, guided workflows, and 3D visualization. Now, industrial workers have a light, flexible and scalable set of smart glasses to increase productivity and safety while decreasing error rates in daily tasks.

ThinkReality Ecosystem of AR/VR Solutions

Lenovo’s ThinkReality platform is helping accelerate the adoption of the next generation of wearable computing — offering smarter technology to enable smarter workers. With the growing ThinkReality cloud-agnostic ecosystem of hardware and software solutions, enterprises have more choices in building and deploying mixed reality technologies to improve business.

Lenovo AR devices include the ThinkReality A3 smart glasses and A6 headset. The ThinkReality A6 features a full-featured sensor array, expandable memory, 1080p resolution waveguide optics, and a removable battery for extended use of the head-mounted display.

VR use cases in the enterprise are rapidly expanding from training and simulations to immersive experiences for sales and marketing, as well as other applications. The Lenovo Mirage™ VR S3 all-in-one headset is specifically designed for enterprise and is ready to scale for global operations and is ideal for soft-skill training solutions. For advanced, high-performance mixed reality and virtual reality applications, Lenovo offers a portfolio of workstations certified to work with various Varjo XR/VR headsets and is a reseller of Varjo’s human-eye resolution solutions.

Availability

The Lenovo ThinkReality A3 smart glasses will be available in select markets worldwide starting mid-2021. Visit the ThinkReality A3 web page to find out more, or contact your local Lenovo sales representative.

Visit the Lenovo StoryHub CES press kit for images and full specs and Lenovo’s CES homepage for more details.

About Lenovo

Lenovo (HKSE: 992) (ADR: LNVGY) is a $50 billion Fortune Global 500 company, with 63,000 employees and operating in 180 markets around the world. Focused on a bold vision to deliver smarter technology for all, we are developing world-changing technologies that create a more inclusive, trustworthy and sustainable digital society. By designing, engineering and building the world’s most complete portfolio of smart devices and infrastructure, we are also leading an Intelligent Transformation – to create better experiences and opportunities for millions of customers around the world. To find out more, visit https://www.lenovo.com, follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, Weibo and read about the latest news via our StoryHub.

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@Lenovo_Africa Brings World's First Foldable PC to #SouthAfrica #ThinkPadX1

Hi Friends, 

Lenovo has today announced that its latest technology breakthrough, the ThinkPad X1 Fold PC is soon landing in South Africa. The launch builds on Lenovo’s extensive history of evolving its ThinkPad sub-brand, leveraging the latest in foldable technology and connectivity to meet the requirements of agile working and staying connected while on the go.

Durable Design

The ThinkPad X1 reimagines the possibilities of mobile computing, by shifting from its compact and foldable form into a crisp 13.3-inch OLED display – weighing in at less than 1 kilogram. Constructed from lightweight alloys and carbon fibre, the X1 Fold offers both portability and durability, while its leather folio cover provides a premium look.

With more than four years of research and development behind the PC, the ThinkPad X1 Fold builds on the reliability and performance ThinkPad devices are synonymous with. The X1 Fold features multi-layer frames to support and protect the display, while a unique multi-link torque hinge mechanism ensures the smoothest folding experience. The OLED display has also undergone extensive performance and durability testing, ranging from ball dropping, to pen tapping and dynamic stress tests.

Seamless Performance

Co-engineered with Intel, the X1 Fold features an Always Connected PC, powered by Intel Core Processors with Intel Hybrid Technology. Users requiring additional speed and connectivity can also opt for a 5G-enabled version of the device.

For ease of use, the ThinkPad X1 Fold comes with unique mode-switching software, designed specifically for Windows 10. This technology enables the PC to seamlessly adapt to multiple use cases, depending on user preferences and their surrounding environment.

Multiple Modes

As an ultra-versatile device, the ThinkPad X1 Fold enables users to leverage two independent displays to optimize efficiency. Scenarios may include participating in a video call using the upper screen while taking notes or editing a presentation on the lower screen. Use cases include the flexibility to operate the X1 Fold in either portrait or landscape mode for added convenience.

When used in landscape mode, the integrated kickstand within the leather folio cover ensures optimal viewing angles. The X1 Fold comes with a Bluetooth Mini Fold Keyboard – a slim accessory that can be wirelessly charged inside the system and secured using magnets. For faster note-taking, signing of documentation and creative brainstorms, users can harness the Active Pen.

“Change-makers in South Africa has always been at the forefront of embracing new technologies to power their growth, which is why we are delighted to be launching this PC in the local market. The ThinkPad X1 Fold is unique in that it not only combines lightweight with durability, it also increases the screen size to enhance productivity – all while being easy to slip into a small bag. We look forward to seeing how users in the country leverage this device to accelerate their own achievements and we are confident in the positive impact it will make,” said Thibault Dousson, General Manager, Lenovo South Africa.

Pricing and Availability

The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold is available for pre-order now and comes with a Bluetooth Mini Fold Keyboard and Active Pen.

To pre-order the world’s first foldable PC, please visit https://www.shoplenovo.co.za/lenovo-thinpad-x1-fold. South African pricing starts from R69,999 – price is dependent on configuration and exchange rate. These prices can be viewed using the same link Shop Lenovo link (above).

The X1 Fold will land in stores in early 2021.

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Support me if you like reading this blog post by buying me a cup of tea or coffee - https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TheLifesWay Contact at thelifesway@gmail.com to collaborate and promote your services and products. Subscribe to my YOUTUBE Channel for giveaways, product reviews and mystery unboxings. #TheLifesWay #9YearsofTheLifesWay. Namaste!

How Tech Companies Have Managed to Stay Relevant During Covid-19? @Lenovo_Africa

Hi Friends, 

Digital Transformation by Thibault Dousson, General Manager at Lenovo Southern Africa

Covid-19 has redefined what we previously deemed as normal in all aspects of our lives. It has thrust digital transformation to the forefront of the business arena and shown that if you cannot innovate and adapt to this new norm, then the end is imminent.

How consumers engage with businesses has also changed dramatically over the last few months, with technology and digital processes being more prevalent than ever. Companies that have been innovative, have made their products and services readily available, and could easily adapt to digital transformation stood a better chance of succeeding. Technology companies are a prime example of this, and they are well-positioned to thrive in this new norm.

Keeping up with times

The tech companies that continued to thrive throughout the pandemic are those that were poised for change. With consumers being home and already engaging in the digital space, whether it be for leisure or business, it was easy for tech companies such as Amazon, Facebook, Microsoft (with collaborative software) and Netflix to have a big financial and social impact. The result of this impact was driven by the services offered by these tech companies, as it was what consumers wanted and needed, thanks to the new reality created by COVID-19.

The repositioning of some of these companies was integral to their success, along with the use of e-commerce, collaboration with competitors, as well as thinking outside the box. A great example of this was Amazon. Even though the company’s business model is based on e-commerce, they still had to make a slight pivot when the pandemic hit. Amazon has never really done well in terms of food sales but by changing their business model to suit the needs of quarantined consumers, their sales skyrocketed.

Unfortunately, not all tech companies thrived during these times, mainly because their services were in opposition to Covid-19 lockdown regulations. Some examples here are tech companies associated with the tourism and transport industries. It is important that small businesses learn from these tech companies, the good and the bad lessons, as they have mapped out the blueprint of continuing to forge ahead even through adversity.

Survival, rather than growth, is at the forefront during a pandemic. And for a business to survive it is important to safeguard your business’ culture and reassure employees and customers of a better tomorrow while still making the pivotal shift to adapt to the times. Should a business reposition its tools and skills correctly, surviving undoubtedly turns into thriving?

Thibault Dousson, General Manager at Lenovo Southern Africa

Going increasingly digital

Working from home and going completely digital during the pandemic was something that Lenovo was ready for and all that was needed was to implement the structures that were already in place. Due to Lenovo being fully digitised, by the time the pandemic hit, the shift to employees working from home was seamless, and it was surprising just how much more productive everyone was under these circumstances.

However, once lockdown regulations were lowered, we became cognizant of the fact that some of our employees wanted to return to the office, under the correct protocols of course, as a result of their home working situations being less than ideal. This was due to a number of reasons, for example, lack of a proper workspace, distractions at home, or just needing to interact with co-workers. Collaborative work between co-workers and various teams was at the top of the reasoning list for employees to return to the office.

Although some of our employees choose to now be back at the office, our approach is still digital, especially as many people are still working from home. Lenovo has not lost any of the lessons taught by this lockdown and continues to look for more innovative and efficient ways of working that provide our people with more flexibility and choice.

The success of this model has also resulted in us at Lenovo investing more into digital marketing and training, which included our annual Lenovo South African Channel Award going completely virtual, with our resellers, retailers and distributors not missing a beat. The event saw over 500 partners were glued to their screen on the 3rd of September, proving our ability to be agile and adapt to the times, whilst keeping our key stakeholders engaged. Furthermore, we also underwent thorough online training to learn about the latest Lenovo product ranges and services via live online training sessions, with participation being incentivised using Lenovo care packages and prizes that were distributed ahead of every session. This new norm still drew upon the inspiration of a one-to-one experience without contravening any Covid-19 protocols.

Weathering the storm and where to

Moving forward, it is paramount for businesses to understand the importance of digital transformation. By leveraging technologies such as the cloud and other remote working tools, businesses will continue to evolve and thus stay relevant. Most of us take for granted how Zoom, Google Hangout and Microsoft Teams kept us in touch with the working world. Although they have always existed, they were underutilised and can be said to have been the best tech innovations during this Covid-19 period. These applications gave businesses the opportunity to continue to connect and function in a world that had come to a standstill.

Tech companies have always been a step ahead because of their already digitised systems. The future is digital, is your business ready to embrace it?

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Contact Aashish Rai Jain at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate and promote your brand, services and products. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra #8YearsofTheLifesWay. Follow me on www.instagram.com/thelifesway for all travel-related photo posts and subscribe to my YOUTUBE Channel too. Namaste!

New Global Study @Lenovo_Africa Reveals How Tech is Impacting Our Human Values?

Hi Friends, 

Whilst few would refute that technology contributes to making our lives easier, new global research from Lenovo (HKSE: 992) (ADR: LNVGY) has found that a large proportion of those surveyed feel that technology has the power to make us more understanding, tolerant, charitable and open-minded.

The survey polled more than 15,000 people from the US, Mexico, Brazil, China, India, Japan, UK, Germany, France, and Italy and revealed that nine out of ten respondents (89 percent) think that technology plays a large role in their day-to-day lives. Meanwhile, 84 percent said that technology improves their lives.

Although we might presume the main ways in which technology impacts our lives is by helping us achieve our daily tasks – such as emails, streaming and so on – Lenovo’s research has found that in many cases, technology is actually having a strong impact on our human values.

For example, 38 percent of global respondents believe smart devices such as PCs, tablets, smartphones, and VR are making people more open-minded and tolerant. Meanwhile, over a third (35 percent) believe technology is making us more understanding and empathetic.

It is likely that the rise of social media and video sharing platforms is key to this, allowing people to connect with those from other countries and cultures, gaining an insight into their lives through social posts, video, and other content. The window into the world of other people’s lives through technology is also a key contributor to the 70 percent of respondents who believe technology makes us more ‘curious’.

The study also found that a third (32 percent) of people are of the opinion that technology makes us more charitable. This is likely the result of the increased prevalence of charitable giving platforms which allow people to make donations online, as well as enabling people to share their charitable endeavors via social platforms.

Respondents to the survey also believe emerging technologies could have an even more significant impact on our values in the future. Indeed, two-thirds (66 percent) say that VR has the potential to cultivate empathy and understanding, and help people be more emotionally connected with people across the globe by allowing them to see the world through their eyes.

The global nature of this survey has meant that interesting differences can be found around the world. In particular, Brazil, Russia, India, and China appear to have the most faith in the ability of technology to positively impact our values. For example, 90 percent of respondents in China think VR has the ability to increase human understanding, whilst that figure is 88 percent in India and 81 percent in Brazil. By comparison, just 51 percent believe this to be true in Japan, a country that is rather technologically advanced, whilst the lowest figure is in Germany (48 percent).

One respondent in the study remarked: “VR would give those who think the world is the perfect insight into other people’s world and make them realize the pain and suffering some people have to endure in their daily lives.”

There are of course two sides to every coin, and some respondents do feel that technology can instead divide people. For example, 60 percent of respondents in the survey agreed that tech makes people more judgmental of others, especially through the lens of social media.

The ‘immediate’ nature of the internet also has some side-effects. For example, 43 percent of respondents believe that technology is making us less ‘patient’, whilst 59 percent said it can make us ‘lazy’ and 49 percent said that it can make us ‘selfish’.

As a global technology company, Lenovo believes technology can be used for good and is important to lead as an example in actively promoting qualities like empathy and tolerance as technologies are developed for widespread adoption.

Psychologist, Jocelyn Brewer, comments:

“Technology is often blamed for eroding empathy, the innate ability most humans are born with to identify and understand each other’s emotions and experiences. However, when we harness technological advances for positive purposes, it can help promote richer experiences that develop empathetic concern and leverage people into action on causes that matter to them.”

“Developing the ability to imagine and connect with the experiences and perspectives of a broad range of diverse people can help build mental wealth and foster deeper, more meaningful relationships. Technology can be used to supplement our connections, not necessarily serve as the basis of them.”

Dilip Bhatia, Vice President of User and Customer Experience, Lenovo, comments:

“In many ways, society is becoming more polarized as many of us are surrounded by those who share similar views and opinions. This can reinforce both rightly and wrongly held views and lead to living in somewhat of an echo chamber. We believe smarter technology has the power to intelligently transform people’s world view, putting them in the shoes of others and allowing them to experience life through their eyes – leading to a greater understanding of the world and the human experience.”

“This could be through using smart technology to connect people from diverse backgrounds or allowing you to literally see their world in VR. The more open we are to diversity in the world around us, the more empathetic we can be as human beings – and that is a good thing.”

About the research

Lenovo surveyed 15,226 people in seven languages across 10 global markets, including the US, Mexico, Brazil, China, India, Japan, UK, Germany, France and Italy. The respondent sample was nationally representative of the online adult population (18+) in each market.

The survey was conducted March 31st – April 27th, 2019 and the overall margin of error is +/- 1 percentage point (at a 95 percent confidence level); the margin of error within each country is +/- 3 percentage points (at a 95 percent confidence level). The survey probed respondents on how they view the role of technology in their lives and in society, both today and in the future.

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