Year: 2011

From Mashable: Smart Grid + Social Media?

Posted on by Altia

A recent article on Mashable illuminates a growing niche that appears to be leveraging the tail end of the Web 2.0 movement. It weds the social side of the web with emerging smart grid technologies and products.  Mashable is known for their social media angle, so it makes sense for them to connect these dots — especially because many consider green tech and smart grid as the next “sexy” thing.  (Just ask the VCs.)

A match made in heaven?
It’s not immediately clear how these two fields intersect. Social media is driven by an online model (think Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn), while smart grid is largely a “real-world” issue. A plethora of new companies (some very well-funded, too) are looking for this connection. It looks to me like these are traditional smart grid products with a social cherry on top.  Real-world products connected to an individual’s home that sends information to a larger social network for visibility, management, and even competition.
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Taken For a Ride in Paris

Posted on by Mike Juran

On the road to Embedded World, a naïve American discovers an auto industry dark horse.

On my way to Embedded World in Germany, I stopped off in France to visit a key automotive customer. Although it was not always the case, I’ve learned to love Paris. More importantly, I’ve developed a healthy respect for Parisians. They suffer millions of uncouth and naïve visitors who bulldoze through their beloved city like Kanye West at a Taylor Swift fan club meeting. I have to admit, I’m sympathetic and impressed that the Paris locals maintain their sense of dignity, style and high standards for cuisine, fashion and service. (Yes, I said service. I know, conventional reputation dictates otherwise, but they really do take care of tourists.)
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