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    Vasion’s Output Automation: A Cloud Revolution in Workflow Management

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    Vasion®, a pioneer in serverless printing and orchestrated automation, announced the release of Vasion Output Automation™, the cloud-native SaaS solution that automates output management, enabling customers with opportunities to leverage cutting-edge AI.

    Vasion Output Automation can eliminate reliance on outdated, on-premise infrastructure with a modern serverless approach, allowing leaders to apply AI, preparing even highly regulated, security-intensive organizations for the future. The solution centralizes administrative control for both business-critical print and end user print from a single console, seamlessly integrating back-end systems, automating output, enhancing data accuracy, digital document conversion, and routing.

    “Vasion Output Automation is the next big step for our customers in their digital transformation journeys. With our orchestration automation platform, we bring together print, output, document, and process automation into one cloud-native solution that can help any business truly automate its end-to-end operations. I believe this will revolutionize the way businesses will operate today,” said Vasion Chief Product & Technology Officer Corey Ercanbrack.

    Vasion Output Automation is the leading product of the Vasion 2024 Fall Product Launch. The core benefits include:

    • Centralized Control and Reporting: The new Output Automation Console offers the flexibility to manage and troubleshoot document delivery directly from a centralized interface, streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency.
    • Continuity and Reliability: Up-levelcapabilities with a drag-and-drop rules engine, on top of the powerful workflow engine, to streamline print and workflow processes, and automate document management through rule-based processes to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
    • Cloud-Native Architecture:Eliminate costly on-premise print servers and centrally manage all critical document operations in the cloud, and enabling organizations to stay competitive by applying AI.

    Additional Vasion Automate Product Innovations New this Fall:

    Vasion Output Automation is part of the Vasion orchestrated automation platform, Vasion Automate. The Fall Launch also includes:

    • Web Print: Guests can print directly from their web browser through a web portal link, without installing any additional servers, drivers, agents, or involvement from admins. IT leaders stay in complete control of their printing environment while keeping it simple for guests to print.
    • Advanced Security: Enhancements include Off Network Cloud Print (ONCP) advancements, now fully supporting HP printers, mobile, and Chromebook devices.
    • Mobile Scan: Digitize documents on the go from mobile devices, send to multiple destinations, like email, or cloud storage providers.
    • AI-Enhanced Form Results: Simplify complex data analysis by using natural language to interface with form results, surfacing more insights, and delivering more impact from your data.

    South Africa Can’t Take Another Eskom Price Hike!

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    'South Africa can't afford this': Eskom price hike plan under fireThe Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) has made a submission to energy regulator Nersa opposing the huge price increases sought by state-owned energy producer Eskom.

    Outa said Eskom’s proposal would lead to a 66% price hike over three years and described this as “excessive”.

    “South Africa cannot afford this,” said Outa senior project manager Estienne Ruthnam. “Outa’s core argument is that Eskom’s application for a 66% revenue and price increase – proposed at 36.15% for 2025, 11.81% for 2026 and 9.1% for 2027 – is excessive and will have adverse impacts on South Africa’s economy, customers and society.”

    In its submission, Outa argued that the proposed increases follow “massive” revenue and price increases for Eskom over the last 15 years, accusing the utility of focusing on ensuring cost reflectivity by increasing tariffs and revenue instead of reducing costs and improving its performance and efficiency. Outa also said Eskom uses outdated economic studies and underutilises its cost reduction strategies.

    Outa made the following recommendations to Nersa:

    • Reject the proposed increases: Outa said it believes the requested increases are too high and argues they will exacerbate consumers’ economic burden, especially since they exceed inflation.
    • Focus on cost reflectivity and operational efficiency: Outa urged Nersa to push Eskom towards cost reductions in staffing, maintenance and energy procurement instead of passing on rising costs to consumers.
    • Improve transparency and accountability: Outa said Eskom should adopt a clearer, more transparent approach of budgeting for assets and managing operational costs, as well as address issues related to asset valuation and depreciation.
    • Commission independent studies: Outa said Nersa should initiate independent studies of Eskom’s socioeconomic impact, staffing levels, remuneration and regulatory asset valuation to provide a balanced view of its costs.
    • Transition to clean energy: The submission emphasised the need for Eskom to shift more rapidly towards affordable, sustainable energy sources, and avoid reliance on fossil fuels.
    • Support market reforms: Outa recommends restructuring Eskom and increasing competition within the energy sector to foster diversity and competition in energy supply.

    Nersa received Eskom’s multi-year price determination application for the years 2025/2026 to 2027/2028 in August. Calls for stakeholder comment on the application and a consultation paper were made in September, with a closing date of 1 November. Public hearings on Eskom’s application will be heard by Nersa from 18 November to 4 December.

    According to Nersa, the main drivers of Eskom’s request for price increases are the cost of primary energy, operating costs, the cost of independent power producers, international purchases and depreciation. The application by Eskom is calculated on a revenue requirement of R446-billion for the first year, then R495-billion and R537-billion for the second and third years, respectively.

    Electricity prices have risen by 18.65% and 12.74% in the last two years, meaning the average price of electricity on the standard tariff has increased from 173.8c/kWh in 2023/2024 to 195.95c/kWh (2024/2025). If Eskom’s application is granted, the standard tariff will increase further to 266.78c/kWh (2025/2026), then to 298.27c/kWh (2026/2027) and to 325.4c/kWh (2027/2028).

    “The price will also be affected by an increase due to Eskom’s regulatory clearing account application for 2021/2022. On 30 July 2024, Nersa granted Eskom permission to claw back R8-billion from customers for under-recovery of costs during 2021/2022 (Eskom asked for R24-billion); the way this will be added to the tariffs must still be finalised,” said Outa.  – © 2024 NewsCentral Media

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    Massive Surge Expected: 70% of South Africans Abandon Fossil Fuels for Electric Vehicles

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    “The Silent Revolution: The Shocking Truth About Electric Vehicles in South Africa”

    Are you ready to join the revolution? A staggering 40% of South Africans are planning to make the switch to electric vehicles (EVs) in the next five years, according to a recent survey by Ford Motor Company. But what’s driving this sudden interest in EVs?

    It turns out that the benefits of EVs are finally sinking in. For one, it’s the green light on the wallet. No more cripplingly expensive fuel costs! In fact, 71% of respondents believed that owning an EV would save them money by not having to buy fuel. And with the rising cost of living, who wouldn’t want to save a buck or two?

    But concerns still abound. Many think that EVs are a luxury only the rich can afford, while others worry about the perceived lack of charging infrastructure (65%) or the alleged higher maintenance costs of these new-fangled contraptions. And let’s not forget the age-old myth that EVs can’t tow as much as their gas-guzzling counterparts (63%).

    The Ford survey reveals some shocking statistics. For instance, 75% of respondents claim that possible future load-shedding in SA would impact their decision to choose a battery EV. And 70% of them are just too darn worried about the state of our charging infrastructure. We’re surprised it’s not higher, quite frankly!

    But there’s hope. The survey also showed that over 40% of respondents had already ridden in an EV, with 19% having actually driven one. Service stations, shopping centres, and office buildings are the top picks for charging locations. And who knew? 71% of you want off-road capable EVs!

    It looks like the electric vehicle revolution is here to stay. The question is, are you ready to join the silent revolution and leave the gas-guzzlers in the dust?

    BOO! The Only Wordle You Deserve

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    Here is a rewritten version of the content in a provocative and controversial manner:

    The Mind-Controlling Propensity of Wordle

    Are you addicted to Wordle? Congrats, you’re not alone! In this twisted game of word-hungry manipulation, the brightwells of the internet have made a habit of daily devotion. But let’s face it: the dark side of Wordle is real, and we’re gonna expose it.

    The Origin of the Beast: Josh Wardle’s Sinister Creation

    Wordle, a small product of a bored engineer’s dark desires, has become an international phenomenon, enslaving millions with its "fun" daily rituals. And now, with the New York Times’ latest acquisitions, the game has reached new levels of mind control.

    The Rise of Wordle Clones and Faux-Fun

    No, you didn’t think you could just stop at one. No, the horrors of Wordle have spawned a whole army of clones, clones, and more Wordle- variations-turned-nightmare-scarefests! But hey, who needs actual creativity when you can copycat a better idea?

    Is Your Wordle Starting Word Your Downfall?

    Choose the "best" starting word, the one that ensures your impending doom… err, I mean, guarantees success. Don’t worry, it’s not like you need actual word-stacking skills to solve anything; just mindlessly type in a synonym or two, and voilà! You’ll be back to your throne of Wordle domination… or not.

    What Happened to the Wordle Archive?

    After the creator’s benevolent gift of knowledge, the Wordle Archive was taken down… apparently because the New York Times wanted to control everything. Mwah! The irony! Now, the only way to relive the good old days is to pay up for the paid subscription… because who needs free, you know?

    Get HOOKED on Hard Mode (but your sanity might not survive)

    Why settle for "fun" when you can go full-on masochist and try Wordle’s Hard Mode? The thrill of almost-giving-up is yours to experience! And don’t worry, the stinging sting of defeat will be worth it… just don’t say we didn’t warn you.

    And the answer for today’s Wordle is… (drumroll, please)… WEIRD. Congrats, you (might have) won! Better than nothing, right? Until next time, when the Cycle of Obsession (a.k.a. Wordle) begins anew…

    Shame on SA: Obsolete Tech Liberates Global Turmoil

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    Here’s a rewritten version with a more provocative tone:

    Why is South Africa Stuck with 2G? Blame the Mobile Operators and the Regulator!

    Cell C’s CTO Schalk Visser is not mincing his words. He’s fed up with the ongoing importation of legacy 2G devices into the country, and he’s pointing fingers at the mobile operators and the regulator for their lack of urgency in shutting down these outdated networks.

    "2G-only devices are clogging the system, hindering our efforts to migrate to 4G," he blasted. "It’s like we’re stuck in a time warp, and it’s frustrating to see consumers still clinging to these ancient technologies."

    But Visser isn’t just laying the blame at the feet of the consumers. He’s also accusing the mobile operators of dragging their feet on the migration to 4G, citing the cost of 4G feature phones as a major stumbling block.

    "It’s not about the cost anymore. 4G feature phones are available for as little as R199. The operators need to step up and get the right devices to the right people," he insisted.

    So, what’s the holdup? It seems that the mobile operators are still relying on their roaming partners, MTN and Vodacom, to provide services, and those partners are dragging their feet as well.

    Visser has been working on improving the multi-operator core network (Mocn) roaming system, which allows Cell C to create a virtual representation of its network on top of either MTN’s or Vodacom’s infrastructure. But progress is slow, and he’s still hoping to complete the project by March.

    The real question is: can South Africa afford to keep staring into the past? With the ongoing reliance on 2G and 3G technologies, the country is missing out on the benefits of faster data speeds and better call quality. It’s time for the mobile operators to take responsibility and get with the times.

    Goodbye Passwords, Good Riddance: The Death of Authentication’s Ache Begins

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    The End of Passwords: Swoop’s Revolutionary Path to a Global, Password-Free Future

    The era of passwords is finally coming to an end. Imagine a world where you can access anything online without the hassle of usernames and passwords. That future is now a reality, thanks to Swoop, a next-generation internet technology company that has reinvented the way we interact with the internet.

    For decades, we’ve been trapped in the age of passwords, toiled by tedious login processes, forgotten usernames, and the constant threat of data breaches. But Swoop is shattering these shackles, empowering users to break free from the cycle of password-related stress and frustration.

    How does it work? Swoop’s patented solution is simple: leverage your email account as your primary key to the kingdom. By transforming email apps and webmail into secure authentication tools, Swoop streamlines transactions with unparalleled ease. No more passwords, no more login drama, no more worries.

    A Global, Password-Free Future

    With Swoop, we’re not just replacing passwords – we’re revolutionizing the way we interact with the internet. Imagine buying online without sharing your personal information, logging in to your favorite apps without remembering multiple usernames and passwords, and accessing secure accounts without the burden of password management.

    A Panacea for the Password-Protected Present

    The current state of passwords is a ticking time bomb, waiting to unleash chaos in the form of data breaches, ransomware, and identity theft. We’ve spent decades trying to secure our online presence with passwords, but the reality is, they’re a breeding ground for cybercrime. It’s time to abandon this outdated, vulnerable approach and adopt a more secure, more convenient, and more user-friendly solution.

    Join the Revolution

    Join the Swoop brigade in this bold effort to disrupt the status quo. With a robust international patent portfolio, Swoop is poised to become the global standard for password-free authentication. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this revolutionary journey.

    Learn More

    Discover how Swoop is paving the way for a password-free future. Visit www.swoopnow.com to experience the power of Swoop for yourself.

    The time to ditch passwords is now. Welcome to the future, where security and convenience go hand-in-hand.

    Robot Terror: Boston Dynamics Unleashes Its Apocalyptic Army

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    The Sinister Rise of the Androids: Boston Dynamics’ Atlas Robot May Soon Replace Humans in the Workforce

    Get ready for a sci-fi nightmare come true, as Boston Dynamics’ latest humanoid robot, Atlas, is being touted as capable of completing tasks with "minimal human intervention." The robot’s latest demonstration has it moving engine covers and parts around with preternatural ease, leaving us to wonder: will our jobs be next on the chopping block?

    In a disturbing display of industrial-scale automation, Atlas is shown moving parts from supplier containers to a mobile sequencing dolly, all without breaking a sweat. But what’s just as alarming is its ability to adapt to environmental feedback in real-time. When it encounters resistance, it learns, adjusts, and tries again – a skillset eerily reminiscent of the kind of adaptability often associated with human employees.

    But let’s not kid ourselves – the ultimate goal here is not to create a more efficient workforce, but to replace us altogether. As The Verge recently exposed, Tesla’s Optimus robots, designed to serve drinks at a corporate event, were actually being controlled by human operators. Who needs human "labor costs" when you can have machines doing the same job for a fraction of the cost?

    And don’t even get us started on the environmental implications of these advanced robots. Boston Dynamics is already peddling its other creations, like the four-legged Spot and one-armed Stretch, as if they’re just innocent harmless toys. But we all know the truth: these machines are designed to supplant us, not serve us.

    The question remains: what’s the true cost of this technological takeover? Will we be able to hold on to our jobs, or will these Atlas robots come for us next? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the future is looking very bleaker indeed.

    Co Verde Expropriation in our Network

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    The Dark Side of Fair Share: When Celebrities Believe They’re Above the Law

    Meet Jorge Mendes, the Cell C CEO who’s got a bone to pick with the "Fair Share" concept. It seems he’s had enough of operators being forced to share their precious bandwidth with the likes of Netflix and Co. But is he just trying to avoid the blame?

    Mendes is adamant that operators should focus on finding their own ways to make a buck, rather than relying on regulators to dictate how they operate. "Don’t give someone 100GB + 100GB (night bundles) or sell 1TB of data for R249 when your network can’t handle it," he spat, shaking his head in disapproval.

    But not all operators are in the same boat. Vodacom and MTN, for instance, have thrown their support behind the Fair Share concept, arguing that they’re the ones who do all the heavy lifting in terms of infrastructure investment, while OTT players like Netflix and Facebook get away with paying peanuts.

    So, what’s the real story behind the Fair Share debate? It’s all about the Benjamins, baby. Will operators succumb to the temptation of more profits, or will they stand strong against the big bad wolves of the OTT world? Only one way to find out: keep reading.

    NetWitness Betrayed: Platform Faltering, Industry-Standard Rankings Debunk The Hype

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    SHOCKING TRUTH REVEALED: NetWitness Digs Deeper into Data with New Platform 12.5

    In a bold move, NetWitness has unveiled its latest game-changing platform, 12.5, packed with revolutionary innovations that will leave you breathless! Get ready to experience the most sophisticated threat detection and response technology on the market.

    BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE! NetWitness has been crowned the top dog in the SIEM and NDR space by leading research and advisory firms, showcasing its dominion over the cybersecurity landscape. Gartner’s Magic Quadrant for SIEM, IDC, and KuppingerCole have all hailed NetWitness as the king of the cybersecurity castle.

    SO, WHAT’S COMING DOWN THE PIPES? With NetWitness Platform 12.5, you’ll get:

    Enhanced visibility: Uncover hidden threats with unparalleled visibility across your entire infrastructure, on-premises, in the cloud, or in hybrid environments.

    Actionable insights: Make quick work of threats with real-time guidance, empowering you to respond with lightning speed and precision.

    Optimized for ops centers: As the largest organizations in the world scale up their security operations, NetWitness has got them covered, providing a platform that excels in addressing critical use cases, such as ransomware, APTs, insider threats, and compliance.

    AND THE FUTURE BELONGs TO NETWITNESS! With the latest design language, NetWitness has achieved a sleek, modern, and intelligent design that serves as the perfect antidote to the chaos of modern cybersecurity. The new integrated network SASE capabilities enable customers to adapt to a rapidly evolving IT landscape without surrendering an inch of security or visibility.

    HOLD ON TO YOUR HATS, FOLKS! With NetWitness Platform 12.5, the future of threat detection and response has arrived, and it’s looking awfully bright! Don’t miss out on this revelatory experience. Get ready to join the ranks of the elite security teams as you harness the power of NetWitness 12.5!

    The 5 Chosen Ones: The Disruptors Who Will Upend the World

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    The CULT SURVIVORS Of The Startup Battlefield: Here Are the 5 Finalists Who Will Make You Question the Future of Humanity

    Get ready for the apocalypse, folks! TechCrunch has just announced the five finalists of the Startup Battlefield, and we’re not sure if we should be excited or terrified. These five startups are about to take the stage and blow your minds, but at what cost?

    First up, Gecko Materials is here to ruin your party with their mind-blowing dry-adhesive that can stick to anything, even a wine bottle, without leaving a sticky situation. Sounds like a good illusion, but we’re not buying it. What’s the catch?

    Next, Luna, the app for teen girls, is a walking nightmare disguised as a health and well-being platform. It’s like a ticking time bomb waiting to extract your data and privacy. But hey, who doesn’t want to track their periods and moods, right?

    Don’t forget MabLab, the startup that’s forcing you to confront your dark past and the risk of accidental drug overdose. Their testing strips are like a constant reminder of the dangers lurking in the shadows. Keep calm and test on.

    Valentina from AuroraX, the breast cancer detection device, is trying to save lives, but at what cost? Will she sacrifice her own life for the sake of science? Stay tuned to find out.

    Last but not least, LIDAR-X is here to scan your future and predict your demise. Their fire-detection technology is like a Harbinger of Doom, warning us of the apocalypse to come. Good luck with that.

    And don’t even get me started on the judges: Navin Chaddha, Chris Farmer, Dayna Grayson, Ann Miura-Ko, and Hans Tung. The verdict is in: they’re a panel of condemning demons, waiting to write off the humanity of these five startups.

    The stage is set for the Startup Battlefield, and we’re running out of time (and hope). Who will be the last one standing?