The cost of using unlicensed software

Findings in Software Management: Security Imperative, Business Opportunity, the 2018 Global Software Survey from BSA | The Software Alliance, complement the results of Microsoft's recent Asia PC Test Purchase Sweep, which showed that as many as four in five PCs (83%) come with pirated software.

Tarun Sawney, Senior Director – Asia Pacific, BSA, noted that unlicensed software continues to be widespread. Unlicensed software accounts for 37% of software installed on personal computers globally – a 2% drop from 2016. The commercial value of unlicensed software remains significant though it dropped 8% in constant currency, at US$46.3 billion globally.

While unlicensed software is a selling point for various merchants around the world, the BSA says that malware from unlicensed software costs companies worldwide nearly US$359 billion a year, and that CIOs say avoiding data hacks and other security threats from malware is the No. 1 reason for ensuring their networks are fully licensed. On the flip side, companies which implement a software asset management (SAM) and software license optimisation programme can increase profits by as much as 11% and save up to 30% in annual software costs.

Source: 2018 Global Software Survey from BSA. Rates of unlicensed software installation in the Asia Pacific region for 2017.

Sawney also shared that the Asia Pacific region has the world’s highest percentage rate of unlicensed software use and greatest amount of dollar losses. More than half (57%) of all software is unlicensed in the region. The commercial value of unlicensed software in this region fell to US$16.4 billion, compared to US$19.1 billion in 2015, but remains the highest in the world.

Within the region:

▪ Bangladesh has the highest rate of unlicensed software use at 84%, followed by Indonesia and Pakistan, both at 83%

▪ Japan and New Zealand, both at 16%, and Australia with 18%, have the lowest rates of unlicensed software use. All three economies registered a 2% decrease, which can be partly attributed to the growing use of the cloud and software subscription services among enterprises

▪ All Asia Pacific economies surveyed had showed a decline in the rate of unlicensed software use with China and Vietnam registering the biggest drops. China decreased its rate from 70% in 2015 to 66% in 2017, and Vietnam went from 78% in 2015 to 74% in 2017.

▪ Significant decreases in shipments (-22%) and installed base (down 17%) in Hong Kong and Singapore (-13% and -12% respectively) helped intellectual property protection efforts in both these economies

According to the survey, a decline in both enterprise PC shipments and the PC installed base, and a drop in the consumer share of PC shipments across many economies in the region, have influenced the statistics. Other factors include increased enforcement and legalisation efforts by governments in Asia Pacific, and an increase in the use of software-as-a-service (SaaS, or cloud) subscription models.  

Sawney introduces the BSA at Microsoft's Digital Trust Asia event in Singapore.

In the Middle East and Africa, unlicensed software rates are just behind that in Asia Pacific at 56%, but with the software valued at just over US$3 billion. In Yemen 88% of software is unlicensed, while in Iraq that figure is 85%.

Source: 2018 Global Software Survey from BSA. Rates of unlicensed software installation in the Middle East and Africa region for 2017.

Sawney explained that rates are falling partly because companies are more more aware of the risks now. There is a high correlation of 0.78 between unlicensed software and malware encounters in each country, the IDC study has found. The economic costs of addressing malware attacks are now at US$10,000 per infected PC in enterprises worldwide, he added.

"CIOs recognise the link between malware and unlicensed software. Previously they couldn't be bothered," he said.

Another reason could be legal consequences. He lauded China for opening courts dedicated to intellectual property cases, making those infringing software licences much more accountable. "In China these courts are making laws that is good IP law. Based on the decisions that they are making they are very effective. For the 1^st time we are seeing decisions that are consistent," he explained.

"Previously nothing happened, now you will be found out. There was a legitimate threat to them for using unlicensed software, not a cybersecurity threat, more of a legal threat."

Many factors have to come together to create the right environment for enforcement, he added. The legal system must move forward at the same rate as technology, and there have to be people specialised in intellectual property law, he said. In addition, courts have to have enough capacity to actually hear each case.

Explore:

The 2018 BSA Global Software Survey was released in June 2018. Download the report (PDF)

Read the WorkSmart Asia blog post about the PC Test Purchase Sweep

*BSA’s Global Software Survey, conducted in partnership with IDC, estimates the volume and value of unlicensed software installed on personal computers in 2017, across more than 110 national and regional economies. It also reveals key attitudes and behaviours related to software licensing, intellectual property, and emerging technologies based on a global survey of more than 20,000 respondents and nearly 23,000 responses from consumers, employees, and CIOs.

TINA ERP system supports GCC VAT calculations

Source: dcs plus. Graphic for the TINA travel ERP software.

Romania-headquartered dcs plus has announced support that its TINA web-based ERP system for the travel industry now supports value-added tax (VAT) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. The company has an office in Dubai, UAE.

As of January 2018, all member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) will introduce VAT as per the VAT Framework Treaty signed in October 2016. 

TINA collects the bookings from all selling channels, fits them into standardised, ready-to-automatise workflows. TINA travel ERP allows businesses to: 

• Calculate the VAT for each service that is introduced in the system: either based on the region where the service is offered - domestic, regional or international, or by customer type - company or individual, and even segmented by price component - supplier tax, service fee, and city tax 
• Allocate the right percentage of VAT automatically 
• Access reports regarding all transactions 

Cristian Dinca, CEO of dcs plus said: "TINA is used in more than 25 countries worldwide, helping and supporting large travel companies to automatise the process of VAT calculation and application, for almost 14 years now. Given our vast experience, we can assist GCC companies in adopting and implementing the new VAT framework, thus giving them more time to focus on growing their businesses."

Cloud-based accounting solution designed for non-accountants

Asian Business Software Solutions (ABSS) today announced the launch of Financio, a cloud-based automated accounting software for micro and small businesses in Singapore that gives companies access to a secure solution that tracks business finances.

Developed by ABSS and powered by Microsoft Azure, Financio does not require any accounting knowledge to operate and is designed to be used by non-accountants. Users can track sales, purchases and miscellaneous transactions through a simplified dashboard, and automatically generate financial reports and tax records or forward transactions to recipients via email and inventory tracking. Through Financio Connect, businesses are also able to collaborate seamlessly and share documents on the platform.

Paul Conway, CEO, ABSS said: “SMEs make up 99% of Singapore’s enterprises, employ two-thirds of the workforce, and account for about half of Singapore’s GDP. As Singapore embarks on its Smart Nation journey, it is crucial for companies to start their digital transformation journey and gear up for the new digital economy. Through Financio, businesses are able to leverage accounting technology to boost productivity, drive collaboration and stay on top of their finances.

“Financio is intuitive and simple to use - it takes away most of the bookkeeping process from the business, and all users need to do is put in the sales and purchase figures. The system will do the rest such as double entries, generating reports and GST tax records.”

In Singapore, Clove Bridal Studio is an early adopter of Financio’s premium version. The professional photography agency is relying on Financio to streamline its financial processes. Fiona Liu, Sales Director, Clove Bridal Studio said: “As entrepreneurs in this information age, we were looking for an all-in-one solution that could help us simplify the traditional time consuming bookkeeping methods, and putting our focus on delivering more value for our customers and growing the business. With Financio, we have digitised our accounting operations with the cloud and will save over S$1,000 and 100 man hours a year.”

Jye Eng, CTO, Financio said: “Financio is currently powering more than 4,500 small businesses across Southeast Asia today, and saving over 384,000 man hours a year. We are seeing more customers adopting software-as-a-service (SaaS) on a subscription service basis, and realising the benefits of accessing data on the go. Companies that are processing information offline should now be looking to do this online.”

Financio also offers features that include multicurrency support, real time backup, Singapore GST support, file storage for attachments to transactions and is also available in Malaysia. ABSS is also looking to deploy its solution to SMEs in Philippines, Hong Kong and Indonesia.

Interested?

Small business owners can use Financio for free for up to 10 invoices monthly, and upgrade to the premium version from S$9.95 a month. Register

Kofax releases version 9 of Readsoft Online

Kofax, a provider of software to simplify and transform the first mile of business, has launched release 9 of ReadSoft Online, a cloud-based capture and invoice processing solution.

ReadSoft Online gives small and medium sized business (SMB) customers an affordable, flexible way to automate accounts payable processes.  ReadSoft Online captures invoices, extracting invoice data and exporting verified data to enterprise resource planning (ERP), accounting and other applications. Built on Microsoft Azure, it can be set up quickly and requires much fewer IT resources than an on-premise solution.

"The cloud is changing the face of accounts payable (AP) automation," said Reynolds C. Bish, CEO, Kofax. “ReadSoft Online R9 leverages the cloud to offer the best capture, extraction and validation solution for invoice processing and AP automation. The solution provides immediate ROI and generally yields up to an 80% reduction in costs due to fewer labour intensive, manual processes and improved cycle times.”

ReadSoft Online R9 builds on previously released features including multi-language support, line item extraction, supplier recognition and Excel import for master and purchase order data and reporting. As a cloud-based solution, updates and enhancements are deployed in an automated manner allowing customers to access new features as they are incorporated into the product.

Key enhancements include:

+A new HTML5 interface that makes it easier for developers to make changes with little or no training.

+Upgraded data capture capabilities such as easy identification of country-specific invoices, improved custom extraction fields and enhanced auto learning

+Better extraction of key analytical data for reporting

+Third party integrations made seamless

Rawstream launches free protection for Dropbox files

Internet security company Rawstream is launching free cloud antivirus software that protects cloud-based files on Dropbox for emerging market users who only use mobile devices.

Said Rawstream founder Brian Azzopardi: "We always thought it was unfair that people in developed markets had their Norton and McAfee antivirus software protecting their files on their laptops and PCs while emerging market users really had no protection. After all, Dropbox doesn't offer antivirus protection to users so their files in the cloud - everything that is important to them - are completely vulnerable to attack.

"SkyAV is for the people who don't have the iPhones, the Galaxies and other high-end Android phones. We made it free for them because we know that in many, if not most, cases they couldn't afford to buy it."

SkyAV is security-as-a-service. It scans files for viruses and malware from the cloud, so there is nothing to install on the phone and therefore no impact on phone performance. SkyAV also helps consumers save Dropbox storage space by compressing documents.

Interested?

The first release of SkyAV on December 15 scans Dropbox folders. Google Drive support will launch in the second quarter of 2017.

Get SkyAV

Kaspersky Lab offers software updater to help users keep on top of patches

Kaspersky Lab has released Kaspersky Software Updater – a free application for Windows computers that makes it quick and easy to update software, to help eliminate potential security holes.

The more popular the application, the more actively criminals will scrutinise it for vulnerabilities that, for example, allow malware to invisibly penetrate devices. In 2016, Kaspersky Lab has detected over four million exploits that use vulnerabilities in popular applications and operating systems as of mid-December.

Software developers regularly patch any vulnerabilities they discover by releasing new versions of their applications, but many users do not check for updates regularly or install them. According to Kaspersky Lab data, only half of people update their most exploitable software within a week of an update being available.

The Kaspersky Lab solution works by scanning a device for popular programs* that need to be updated, and provides a report to the owner. Updates that are critical are marked accordingly, so that users do not miss them among other, less important, updates – such as those due to new features or software code blips. From this report, users can select which programs to update, and the application can automatically download the latest software from the developer sites, replacing all out-of-date versions in one stroke. A user can benefit from regular automatic checks or launch scans manually.

"Our main task is to improve the level of user protection against cyberthreats,” says Vyacheslav Zakorzhevsky, Head of the Anti-Malware Research Team at Kaspersky Lab. “Software vulnerabilities are now a critical problem, as they allow cybercriminals to secretly gain control of a user’s PC. We believe it is better to prevent a threat rather than combat it, and that’s why we call on all users to regularly update their operating system and the applications installed on it.”


Interested?

Kaspersky Software Updater is available ​​online at free.kaspersky.com, or as part of Kaspersky Security Scan – an application designed to scan Windows-based computers for malware infections and hazardous settings.

*The list of programs that are checked, as well as the technical requirements for optimal operation of the solution, are available at: http://support.kaspersky.com/11827

Parallels Desktop 12 for Mac does more, faster

Source: Parallels. A new virtual machine offered in Parallels Desktop 12 for Mac.

Parallels, a global player in cross-platform solutions and creator of software for running Windows applications on a Mac, today launched Parallels Desktop 12 for Mac. Parallels Desktop 12 is macOS Sierra ready, includes up-to 25% performance improvements, and features more than 20 simple single-function tools and utilities which are also available as a standalone Parallels Toolbox for Mac app. In addition, all Parallels Desktop 12 for Mac customers will receive a one-year subscription to backup solution Acronis True Image, which includes a fast incremental backup feature that reduces the time and size of subsequent backups ups and provides up to 500 GB of free online storage.

New utilities featured in all editions of Parallels Desktop 12 for Mac make it easy to perform common tasks with simple single-function tools for both the Mac and Windows virtual machines (VMs). Parallels Desktop for Mac Pro and Business Edition subscribers, and Parallels Toolbox for Mac subscribers, also receive free updates of additional tools which will be made available every quarter. Initial tools include:

· Distraction-free presentation modes for both Mac and Windows VMs, including:

o Hide Desktop Files
o Do Not Disturb
o Keep Mac Awake.

· Archive, encrypt and password protect all of your files.

· Capture screen shots or record video of a screen, window or area.

· Download videos from YouTube, Facebook and other websites with a single click.

· Time management tools—an alarm, timer, date countdown and stopwatch.

· Unpack files from ZIP, RAR and many other formats.

“Parallels Desktop 12 for Mac joins our long history of innovations in ease of use and personalization,” said Jack Zubarev, Parallels president. “In addition to delivering our best Windows-on-Mac performance and experience, Parallels Desktop 12 for Mac simplifies a number of everyday tasks for millions of our customers in all walks of life.”

Parallels Desktop 12 for Mac also adds the ability to purchase Windows 10 and simply install it via the Parallels Desktop Wizard, and a Scheduled Windows Maintenance option so Windows Updates and maintenance can take place overnight or at times when it is not disruptive to a user’s workflow.

PC and Xbox game players will get increased support in Parallels Desktop 12 for Mac. Parallels engineers worked with Blizzard Entertainment and optimised Parallels Desktop 12 for Mac to support Overwatch, a 2016 PC and Xbox game that has sold more than 15 million copies in just over two months. Parallels Desktop also supports the Windows 10 Xbox app, enabling people to stream and play Xbox games on their Mac devices.

Parallels Desktop 12 for Mac feature highlights include:

· Parallels Toolbox for Mac: 20 tools that simplify everyday tasks on your Mac

· Simplified backup: One year of Acronis True Image 500 GB cloud backup storage, which can backup new incremental changes to a virtual machine (VM), instead of having to save an entire VM every time changes are made.

· Support for Blizzard Entertainment’s Overwatch PC game.

· Support for the Windows 10 Xbox app, for streaming and playing all Xbox games on a Mac

· Schedule Windows updates for an appropriate time at night to avoid time-consuming disruptions during the day.

· Control storage space used by VMs directly from the Optimized Storage feature in macOS Sierra.

· Store Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer passwords in Mac Keychain.

· Assign special behaviours to Windows apps, such as 'Always Open Full Screen' or 'Always Hide Other Apps,' so they play even better on the Mac.

· Cancel time-consuming VM actions.

· Open documents from SharePoint and Office 365 in Microsoft Office for Windows desktop applications directly from a favourite Mac browser.

· Keep Windows ready in the background, instead of suspending the VM, to instantly open Windows applications and documents.

· Outlook for Windows now features your recently accessed documents, both Mac and Windows, so they are conveniently available to select when you add attachments to your emails.

· Improved Retina support for resizing Windows VMs.

· Archive VMs to save space in the Pro Edition.

· Set resource usage limits for VMs in the Pro Edition.

· Network Conditioner in the Pro Edition now features preconfigured network profiles (including Edge, 100% loss, 3G, DSL, 'very bad network' and Wi-Fi) to make testing a breeze, as well as customisable settings.

Parallels Desktop 12 for Mac performance improvements include: *

· Up to 90% faster Snapshot creation.

· Up to 60% faster suspend of VMs.

· Up to 25% faster Shared Folders performance.

· Compile Visual Studio projects on shared folders up to 25% faster.

· Up to 10% battery life improvement.**

· Enjoy improved VM responsiveness when your Mac is low on free memory.

Interested?

Parallels Desktop 12 for Mac, Parallels Desktop for Mac Pro Edition and Parallels Desktop for Mac Business Edition are available today for subscribers and upgraders from Parallels Desktop 10 and 11. General availability is August 23 online and at local retail and online stores worldwide.

The recommended retail price (RRP) of Parallels Desktop 12 for Mac is S$108. Upgrades for existing Parallels Desktop 10 and 11 for Mac perpetual license customers are S$68, with an introductory offer to upgrade to a Parallels Desktop Pro Edition subscription for S$68 per year for life.

Parallels Desktop Pro Edition and Parallels Desktop Business Edition are available to new customers for US$99.99 per year. Parallels Desktop Pro Edition and Business Edition include a complimentary Parallels Access subscription to remotely access up to five Mac or Windows PCs from any device.

Parallels Toolbox for Mac is a feature of all versions of Parallels Desktop 12 for Mac which will also be available as a standalone subscription product for US$9.99 per year, including all new tools and updates planned for release every few months. Starting August 23, download a full-featured trial for 14 days for free, or purchase a subscription

CyberLink PowerDVD now supports 360 degree video

Source: CyberLink. Couple exploring part of a 360 degree-compatible video.

CyberLink, the consumer multimedia software company, has updated its flagship media playback software PowerDVD with features that enable users to watch 360 degree video.

When playing a 360 video using PowerDVD, users can pan and rotate the perspective to watch content from different angles, immersing themselves into the environment. “Three hundred and sixty-degree video is an ideal medium to introduce people to the immersive world of virtual reality,” said Dr Jau Huang, Chairman and CEO of CyberLink. “However, consumption is just one side of the equation, and CyberLink will be making some very exciting announcements in the coming weeks regarding immersive content creation.”

Interested?

Owners of PowerDVD 16 Ultra can download and install a free update providing 360-degree video support. Subscriptions, perpetual licenses and upgrades are available at the following prices:

• PowerDVD Live: US$44.99 per month for 12 months or US$14.99 per month for three months PowerDVD 16 Ultra: US$99.95
• PowerDVD 16 Pro: US$79.95
• PowerDVD 16 Standard: US$59.95
• Upgrades start from US$44.95.

GoDaddy provides Office 365 to SMBs

GoDaddy, the technology provider dedicated to small businesses, has launched a new offer in collaboration with Microsoft, through which Microsoft Office 365 will be offered to small businesses across Asian markets. The move supports GoDaddy’s ongoing push to deliver premium small business management solutions globally.

By offering Office 365, GoDaddy is providing customers with seamless access to professional email connected to a domain name, secure cloud storage, and a comprehensive set of productivity and collaboration capabilities.

“GoDaddy’s small business expertise combined with Microsoft’s email and productivity offering provides small business owners in Asia with solutions to make the business of running their business much easier,” said Roger Chen, Vice President of Asia, GoDaddy.

“Our research shows consumers are  nine times more likely to choose a company that uses a professional email address with its own domain name. We’ve created an experience that makes this simple for businesses of any size.”

“Office 365 also includes enterprise-grade, built-in security features that help deflect malware, spam, phishing attacks and other threats,” said Parri Munsell, Senior Director O365, Microsoft.

Interested?

Microsoft Office 365 from GoDaddy is now available in 13 markets across Asia, including: Singapore, Hong Kong (English and Traditional Chinese), Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia (English and Malay), Philippines (English and Filipino), South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

posted from Bloggeroid

Parallels has Labour Day offer on Parallels Desktop 11 for Mac

Parallels is offering a 20% discount on Parallels Desktop 11 for Mac from Labour Day, May 1. The software allows Windows applications to be run side-by-side with Mac apps without having to reboot.

The integration between Windows 10 and Mac OS X enables:

· Using the Mac Quick Look feature on files on the Windows desktop;

· Accessing the Windows 10 Action Center from the Mac desktop;

· Dragging and dropping of files across desktops;

· Copying and pasting text and formatting from Windows to Mac, and vice versa

Interested?

The deal will take effect from 1 May 2016 and is available while stocks last in Singapore at Best Denki, Challenger, EpiCentre, iStudio, nübox and other Apple Authorised Resellers.

Visa creates Visa Business Hub to help SMBs with technology and strategy

· Visa Business Hub to provide software-as-a-service (pay as you use) services that can help SMBs save up to 25% on IT expenses

· A Business Academy on the hub will provide latest trends on a range of topics via videos and expert opinions

· Malaysia and Singapore are the first markets to try the hub

Visa has set up the Visa Business Hub for small and medium sized businesses (SMBs) to help them navigate potentially confusing technology and gain insights on managing their companies better. Singapore and Malaysia are the first markets where the hub has been launched.

About 80% of companies in Singapore say in a survey that their decision to acquire SaaS/cloud was because of ‘best practice’ – that this technology is seen as ‘the way forward’ and not a fad. Among users of SaaS/cloud, 37% expect to upgrade or take on more software. Upgraders are motivated by cost saving, efficiency, but most of all just by ‘keeping up with technology’.

According to the survey, about half of Malaysian businesses conduct international trade. CRM software is the least adopted software, but like other software, it increases in adoption with larger SMBs (30+ employees).

The hub incorporates software-as-a-service that Visa says can help companies save up to 25% on IT expenses. The pay-on-use model  reduces upfront costs and implementation time for IT. A Business Academy section will provide tips on business success via videos and expert opinions. The hub includes resources related to sales, marketing and customer communication, work collaboration, project management and customer relationship management (CRM), human resources, accounting and legal, and website building and hosting. 

The platform is also designed to help banks increase usage of commercial cards (also called corporate cards, or cards that are issued to companies for corporate use) by allowing offers and discounts relating to SaaS and cloud services to be paid for through a commercial card.

“SMBs are a key segment for Singapore, given that they contribute to almost 50% of our country’s GDP and 70% of the workforce. At Visa, we constantly look to create solutions that are innovative and meet the needs of our clients. The launch of Visa Business Hub will be able to address the key strategies that SMBs mall are looking for, including improving customer service and increasing productivity through streamlining of processes,” said Ooi Huey Tyng, Visa Country Manager for Singapore and Brunei. 

Awareness of cloud services is at 76%, and overall usage is at 34%. The survey also revealed that 40% of businesses might consider SaaS or cloud services in the future, showing that there is a need for a platform such as the Hub.

Vikram Kshettry, Head of Small Business Products, Asia Pacific, Visa said, “Modern businesses face increased demands from their stakeholders to be digitally-enabled and this is often daunting.  With the portal, SMBs can improve cash flow, optimise business processes, while reducing IT spend and complexity.  SMBs can also access advice and coaching from industry leaders on how to stay competitive.  For Visa clients, the portal will ensure deeper engagement with SMB customers and differentiate their solutions.”

Interested?

Visit the Visa Business Hub. The first six digits of a Visa commercial card must be input to enter the site.

View the associated video

HubSpot for Startups makes entry easier for young companies

HubSpot, a marketing and sales automation technology provider, has introduced HubSpot for Startups, designed for startups working with accelerators, incubators and entrepreneurial organisations.

The solution helps small businesses gain traction on their marketing and sales with a 90% discount on HubSpot products, which include customer relationship management (CRM), sales, and marketing solutions.

"HubSpot for Startups allows young, growth-driven companies to maximise their marketing and sales efforts right from the start and helps set them on a path to success,” said Itai Boublil, Global Marketing Lead at Impact Hub Network, and former CMO at Impact Hub Singapore. Impact Hub Network is a global business Incubator that offers an ecosystem of resources, inspiration, and collaboration opportunities for members.

"At Impact Hub we build ecosystems that inspire, connect and empower people to realise enterprising ideas for sustainable impact, supporting them from early-stage startups to mature ventures in their local market and beyond. The access to the HubSpot software, and the support that comes along with it through the HubSpot for Startups programme is a complete game changer in helping to make that happen."me

In 2015, HubSpot saw 150% year-over-year programme growth and has more than 250 certified member accelerators and incubators, with accelerators, incubators and startups in 26 countries.

As a former startup, HubSpot understands the unique pain points of young companies. HubSpot Co-founder and CTO Dharmesh Shah said: “HubSpot is dedicated to helping high-growth businesses grow and succeed. We’ve been there, and this programme is a way to expand our commitment to entrepreneurs and help excellent new businesses get ahead.”

Interested?

Apply

posted from Bloggeroid

TeamAhoy launches people-focused project management software

Source: TeamAhoy.
Bramanis.

Australia-based TeamAhoy (formerly Birds Eye View) have launched the first public version of their project management software, which the startup says is more people-focused than the competition.

Founder Damian Bramanis said: "Team members are human but most project management software don't take this into account. TeamAhoy is an application for managers that is simple, and puts people first."

With TeamAhoy, managers have a landscape view across their team and can see members' priorities, provide quick feedback and add descriptions, checklists, images and attachments to tasks. A weekly report feature allows managers to provide regular feedback and speak with their team members about their priorities, achievements and challenges.

"Our software increases communication between managers and their teams so that staff feel they are being heard and managers can give regular feedback," Bramanis stated. "Good project management should be uncomplicated and people-focused." 

Interested?

Register for the 30-day free trial or watch the demo

Businesses not maximising mobile app investments: Accenture

The vast majority of executives recognise the value of mobile apps for their business (87%), but very few are prepared to successfully deploy and maintain those apps, finds a global Accenture study*.

Source: Accenture.

The Growing the Digital Business: Spotlight on Mobile Apps report surveyed nearly 2,000 senior decision makers across 15 countries. It found that during the design and build stages of app development, only 52% employ a testing programme that includes user feedback. Nearly half (48%) carry out usage reporting or analytics to understand any user pain points in live apps.

Senior decision makers expect enterprise apps to play a major role in adding value to their business, according to the survey findings: 

• Eight in 10 (82%) of respondents see apps as integral to their organisation
• Eight in 10 (85%) believe that apps are the dominant user interface of the future
• Nearly nine in ten believe apps to be a portal to the digital business (87%).

In Asia Pacific, a major proportion of respondents said apps are necessary to fully realise the benefits of digital technology, from 98% in India, 97% in China, 94% in the Philippines and 93% in Japan.

Abhijit Kabra, Mobile Applications Practice Lead, Accenture Digital - Mobility, noted that many companies are not bothering to improve their existing apps, which could put their investment in jeopardy.

“Businesses are not keeping a close eye on their apps. Nine out of 10 respondents told us that they see high customer demand for effective mobile apps, but despite that half of respondents felt that mobile apps cannot be appropriately secured for business purposes, and only 45% of them have crash reporting in place,” he said.

"To get the best results from apps, businesses must do rigorous testing before launch and robust app management once deployed. Not only does this help to provide the best possible user experience, but it will also help make sure that security challenges are addressed as an ongoing priority.”

App management throughout the app lifecycle helps avoid impaired performance that can frustrate users and create a poor user experience, or lead to weak security. 

“Apps are becoming critical to access business data for real-time decision making, whether it’s to manage industrial processes, employee collaboration, training programs or the customer experience,” said Kabra. “So, user experience and app performance are more important than ever. Our research shows that business leaders clearly need to raise their game in app management to make sure they make the most of their investment.” 

Interested?

Download the report

View the infographic online

*The study is based on a combination of online and telephone interviews, conducted in December 2014 and January 2015, with 1,925 senior decision-makers for digital strategy and technologies. Participating companies represented 15 countries and nine industries, and over 85% had revenues of more than US$1 billion.

Pixelglow Software updates Instaviz, launches free lite version

Source: iTunes.
Instaviz 2.1 screen.

Pixelglow Software today launched Instaviz 2.1 to support Apple's iPhone 6s, 6s Plus and the iOS 9 update. The intelligent diagram sketcher now works with iPad multitasking in both Slide Over and Split View modes, allowing users to run another app at the same time. The developer also launched Instaviz Lite, a free app that showcases the core sketching features of Instaviz.

"Our customers absolutely love our rebuilt Instaviz 2, giving us 75% 5-star reviews since our relaunch in June," says developer Glen Low, winner of two Apple Design Awards. "With the new free Instaviz Lite, even more users will see how easy it really is, turning doodles into diagrams."

Instaviz users create formal diagrams by beginning with rough sketches of shapes, typing in some text, then linking the shapes together. Instaviz and Instaviz Lite neaten and rearrange them as the users work. With the paid app, the users can refine their ideas with different fonts, colours, styles and shapes. The diagrams can be shared on the paid app in different formats and through different channels, including email, message, print, AirDrop, and a number of popular social networks such as Facebook, Flickr, Pinterest, Twitter or WhatsApp.

"This is the best simple visual thinking, simple diagramming or back-of-the-napkin thinking app available for the iPhone and iPad," said Dr George Huba, a prominent mind-mapping and healthcare advocate. "And, unlike the napkin you draw on at lunch, diagrams from the program can look good enough to use in books and professional journals without further enhancements. And unlike those napkins, the diagrams from Instaviz come without ink smears, coffee cup rings, and grease stains from errant French fries, freedom fries, chips, British fish and chips, sweet potato fries, tempura, or pizza!"

Instaviz is built on two key technologies: Recog and Graphviz. Recog is a new shape recognition library. Trained on over 2,500 sketches drawn by real users, Recog uses advanced fuzzy logic and sophisticated geometric algorithms to recognize sketches in a split second. Graphviz is an automated graph layout engine. The industry standard for automated graph layout, Graphviz represents over 20 years of AT&T information visualisation research.

Interested?

Download version 2.1 of Instaviz or Instaviz Lite

View a collection of Dr Huba's mind maps

Watch the associated video

Download the PC/Mac companion app, Instavue (Instaviz app on a mobile device required)

Singapore raid uncovers fake software sold as the genuine article in Asia Pacific

A fake COA featuring the product name printed on the label with no anti-copy security features.

Microsoft has revealed that the case of a reseller in Australia caught for possessing counterfeit Certificates of Authenticity (COAs) and other counterfeit software and components has been traced back to a supplier in Singapore. 

COAs are stickers or labels that are usually attached to the retail packaging of products such as Windows, Office or Windows Server to certify the software’s authenticity. While COAs have no commercial value and cannot be sold independently, they give the impression that the pirated software is licensed and legitimate when it is not.

A genuine COA features the product name printed on the label and also contains anti-copy security features such as: an interwoven security thread – this is built into the paper and random paper fibres are visible when the thread appears at the surface – and colour shifting ink, which changes from green to magenta when viewed from different angles. 

Earlier this month, the Intellectual Property Rights Branch (IPRB) of the Singapore Police Force raided the reseller’s retail premises at Sim Lim Square, where over 1,000 pieces of counterfeit Windows 8.1 COAs and another 1,000 counterfeit software and counterfeit components, worth an estimated S$167,000, were seized. This marked the largest counterfeit COA seizure in Southeast Asia to date, and the biggest cross-border counterfeit COA case involving Singapore.

Detailed investigations over the past few months has yielded evidence that the reseller has been distributing large quantities of counterfeit COAs to new and refurbished computer resellers located in Singapore and overseas. These resellers would then mislead consumers into believing that the pirated software installed in their devices are genuine. 

In this case, Microsoft was alerted by its team in Australia who had been investigating the case of a reseller selling over 500 pieces of fake COAs. The team subsequently traced this back to the the perpetuator in Sim Lim Square in Singapore.

Following the raid, Microsoft has issued an advisory to remind consumers and small businesses to be wary of hugely-discounted software offered by resellers, and to purchase software only from authorised retailers to avoid the unintentional purchase and use of counterfeit software. This advisory is also especially timely for consumers as Windows 10 will be available as a free consumer upgrade to qualified new and existing devices running genuine Windows 7, Windows 8.1 and Windows Phone 8.1.

Genuine software typically carry COAs featuring the product name printed on the label and containing anti-copy security features such as interwoven security thread and colour-shifting ink edge. 


"COAs deploy numerous security features that are usually hard to replicate but if the consumer does not pay attention, they may not realise what they had purchased is counterfeit and would have paid good money for fake software. As such, consumers must be extra vigilant when making their computer purchases. We strongly encourage consumers to make their purchases from a reputable computer dealer and insist on only genuine software in order to avoid any potential issues in the future,” said Jonathan Selvasegaram, Corporate Attorney, Digital Crimes Unit, Microsoft Asia.

“Software piracy has evolved and we are now seeing cross-border cases such as this where the fake COAs were found in Australia before tracing it back to the source in Singapore. While the motivation factor for purchasing counterfeit software in emerging markets boils down to cost, the situation in developed markets such as Singapore are different as we are seeing consumers being duped in believing that the software they are purchasing are genuine. Software piracy remains a major concern for everyone, because of the damage it could cause for unsuspecting users. Such software could expose computers to spyware, malware and viruses that can lead to identity theft, loss of personal data, and unexpected system failures. The risk is also very real for businesses as operational disruptions caused by malware and viruses could potentially lead to heavy financial losses for them.” 

According to data collated by the Microsoft Cybercrime Satellite Centre in Singapore, which serves as the Asia Pacific hub for Microsoft’s Digital Crimes Unit to undertake cybercrime and cybersecurity initiatives in the region, more than 4.1 million malware pings have already been detected from 8,400 Singapore IP addresses in this week alone. These pings indicate attempts by malicious botnets installed in these computers to contact the cybercriminals that are controlling them, presenting imminent threats to consumers and businesses located here. 

Additional analysis of the data revealed that the current top threat in Singapore and Southeast Asia is posed by the Bladabindi/Jenxcus (B106) botnet – a malware family that has the ability to steal sensitive information from users. If the malware is not being actively disrupted, unsuspecting consumers and businesses could face the potential loss of important information that might fall into the hands of malicious cybercriminals.

Separately, a joint study conducted by International Data Corporation (IDC) and the National University of Singapore (NUS), titled 
The Link Between Pirated Software and Cybersecurity Breaches, released in March last year, found that enterprises in Asia Pacific (APAC) are expected to spend nearly US$230 billion to deal with issues caused by malware deliberately loaded onto pirated software. The majority of the cost (US$170 billion) will go into dealing with data breaches, while the remainder will be utilised to deal with security issues. In addition, the study revealed that 65% of APAC consumers survey said their greatest fear from infected software is the loss of data, files or personal information, followed by unauthorised Internet transactions (48%) and potential identity theft (47%).

”The majority of businesses in the Asia-Pacific region do not have a full understanding about the security and malware risks that counterfeit and unlicensed software brings, and that needs to change with urgency. According to our BSA Global Software Survey conducted last year, a striking 62% of software installed on computers in this region in 2013 were not properly licensed – this represents a 2% increase over the same figure in 2011. While Singapore has one of the lowest rates of unlicensed software use in the Asia-Pacific region, it is still important for both consumers and businesses to be vigilant in face of the rising security threats and increasing sophistication of cybercrime across the world,” said Tarun Sawney, Senior Director – Asia-Pacific, BSA | The Software Alliance.

Singapore has one of the most stringent copyright laws where offenders, if found guilty in the court of law for the manufacture for sale, sale of infringing copies and possession or importation of infringing copies, are liable to a fine not exceeding S$10,000 for each infringing copy, up to a total of S$100,000 per charge, or imprisonment for up to five years. Offenders may also be liable to both a fine and imprisonment if found guilty.

Interested?

Verify the origin of Microsoft products at the Microsoft website.

Read the WorkSmart Asia blog post about a Microsoft raid in 2014.

Read the TechTrade Asia blog post on IDC-NUS study about the cost of malware in pirated software.

iOS conceptualisation tool Instaviz 2.0 debuts

Pixelglow Software, which focuses on developing intuitive business applications, has launched Instaviz 2.0. Released in December 2008, Instaviz allows users to visualise, refine and share ideas and concepts, and is one of the most popular diagramming apps on the iOS platform.

Source: Pixelglow Software. Click on the image to view a larger version.

Instaviz is regularly seen in the Top 100 Business Apps list at the App Store, and over 17,700 copies have been purchased, Pixelglow says. Users have rated it three-and-a-half out of five stars at the App Store.

"Here's what I like about it," said Terry White, Worldwide Design Evangelist for Adobe Systems. "I don't have to worry about picking tools to draw the various shapes. I have a tool right here: it's my finger!"

Users start by sketching some rough shapes, adding some text, then linking the shapes together. Instaviz neatens the shapes and arranges them elegantly as the users work, turning them into coherent diagrams that can be customised with different fonts, colours, styles and shapes. The work can be shared through email, messages, or AirDrop, as well as on social media such as Facebook, Twitter or WhatsApp.

Version 2.0 is a major rewrite of what the company says is the first iOS diagram sketcher. Diagrams, mind maps and flowcharts can be shared more easily with the new version, said Australia-based Pixelglow Developer Glen Low.

"I've always seen Instaviz as an extension of my mind," Low said. "When I have an idea or relation in my head, I want to get it down quickly without fussing about where to place the concepts, or getting stuck in endless popups and modes. In pursuing that seamless experience for all users, I've rebuilt the app from the ground up over 4.5 years to create this new version."

Low has revamped the user interface and included help demo videos for the upgraded app. New features include:

• Fresh graphics, icons and toolbars
• Improved layout, text, animation, interaction and rendering
• Enhanced font, colour and style settings
• Sharing through email, message, print, over-the-air and social media
• Help demo videos
• Support for iOS 7 and 8
• Compatibility with iPhone 5, 6, and 6+ screen formats

Instaviz 2.0* is US$7.99 and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store Productivity category. Existing users can upgrade for free. Multiple languages are supported, including English, Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), and Japanese.

Interested?

Purchase the app

*Device requirements: iPhone 4, iPad 2, iPod Touch 5G or better; iOS 7, 8 or better; 4MB of space.

itSeez3D updates 3D scanner app for iPad

Source: itSeez3D page on the App Store.

ItSeez3D, a mobile scanning software maker, has updated to its 3D scanner application, also called itSeez3D. Designed to work with the Occipital Structure Sensor 3D sensor for mobile devices, itSeez3D now allows the iPad to create realistic full-body models from 3D scans.

The updated app provides a convenient tool for the 3D printing industry, allowing for the scanning of a colour figurine model in less than two minutes. A new option allows scanning of textures at more than 50% higher resolution.

The iPad app basically works with the Structure Sensor to collect 3D data of a scanned object, using the iPad's RGB camera as an additional source to collect images from multiple viewpoints. It then reconstructs the object's shape online to provide visual feedback and guide the user through the scanning process. Once scanning is complete, the app sends all data over to the cloud, where an algorithm stitches 3D point clouds and RGB images from multiple viewpoints into a single colour 3D model that is then sent back to the iPad. This model can be printed with a colour 3D printer.

According to Victor Erukhimov, CEO, itSeez, there is demand for 3D printing from industries that create figurines, virtual clothing and medical applications, including scanning for plastic surgery.

"itSeez3D provides a fast and easy way to capture a very realistic colour model of a human body," Erukhimov said. "We have invested a lot of thinking into making our cloud service convenient for integration with 3D printing and other practical use cases. We also believe there is a lot of potential for full body scanning in the entertainment industry. Eventually, 3D photos will become as essential as 2D photos are today."

The new version of the itSeez3D app is available for download in the App Store. The app is free for non-commercial use, while businesses are charged per printed model. Comments as of early February note that the scanner does not seem to work with the iPad Air 2.

HTC launches smartphone, imaging ecosystem components in Singapore

HTC has launched the RE, a new type of camera, the HTC Desire EYE smartphone, the HTC Eye Experience imaging software, and Zoe, a collaborative video editing community, in Singapore. 

"Back in 1997, we allowed people to leave their laptops at home in favour of powerful, pocket-sized smartphone computing. Today we are taking a similar leap forward - combining incredible hardware with unrivalled software," said Jack Yang, President of South Asia, HTC Corporation. “HTC is reinventing the way we think about imaging. We are taking you out from behind the viewfinder and putting you back where you belong, at the heart of the action and some amazing new innovation in software to enhance the use of technology.” 

HTC also shared pictures taken by the RE, which show its wide angle and adaptive exposure capabilities:

The HTC Desire EYE will available in Coral Red and Submarine Blue, from 27 November 2014, launching at the SITEX Show through StarHub and M1 at a recommended retail price of S$728 including GST. The RE will be available from 19 December 2014 for S$348. Updates will be announced on the HTC Singapore Facebook page. 

Read the blog posts about the launch here and here.

Singapore police raid local computer vendor, find counterfeit Microsoft software

Microsoft has called on consumers and small businesses to be wary of the unintentional purchase and use of counterfeit software. This advisory was issued following a raid of a computer vendor located at Kembangan Plaza yesterday by the Intellectual Property Rights Branch (IPRB) of the Singapore Police Force. 

It is understood that the company operating at the shop had advertised the sale of unauthorised “Microsoft license keys”, claiming they were genuine. Customers could also purchase branded computers and laptops bundled with counterfeit software at highly discounted prices via an online store. These computers were sold with fake Certificates of Authenticity that could mislead customers into believing the software installed were genuine.

During the raid, the authorities also seized 43 units of laptops installed with suspected counterfeit copies of Windows 7 Pro and Office Enterprise 2007 and affixed with fake Certificates of Authenticity. The total commercial value of the seized goods is estimated at S$80,000. The Lenovo, Dell and HP laptops seized are believed to be originally preinstalled with DOS operating systems.

Pirated software often leads to increased security risks and threats from malware and viruses. Honest computer vendors are also put to a disadvantage as they are unable to compete with dealers offering counterfeit software that are often lower in cost. In this case, Microsoft was alerted by a concerned computer vendor when their customer demanded a refund of a genuine copy of software he bought because he claimed the same software was sold by the raided vendor at a cheaper price.

Roland Chan, Senior Director, Compliance Programs – Asia-Pacific, BSA | The Software Alliance (BSA) said, ”Most people do not know what is installed on their systems, and that needs to change. While Singapore has one of the lowest rates of unlicensed software use in the Asia-Pacific region, it is still important for both consumers and businesses to be vigilant in view of the security and malware risk counterfeit software potentially brings. 

"According to our BSA Global Software Survey, the risk of security threats from malware is the chief reason why computer users around the world avoid the use of unlicensed software. Among the risks associated with this, 64% of users cited unauthorised access by hackers as a top concern and 59% cited the loss of data. Consumers and business should actively take steps to prevent the potential risks at hand and to protect themselves from unwanted exposure to potential loss of privacy and data.”

Singapore has one of the most stringent copyright laws in the world. Offenders, if found guilty in the court of law for the manufacture for sale, sale of infringing copies and possession or importation of infringing copies, are liable to a fine not exceeding S$10,000 for each infringing copy, up to a total of S$100,000 per charge, or imprisonment for up to five years. Offenders may also be liable to both a fine and imprisonment if found guilty.

The recent raid was one of several that has been conducted by the authorities in recent months. In September this year, a 20-year-old man pleaded guilty and was fined S$20,000 for selling unauthorised software products or license keys in several local online websites, the maximum fine under the Copyright Act for a first-time offender.

Jonathan Selvasegaram, Corporate Attorney at the Microsoft Digital Crimes Unit (DCU) said, “Software piracy is a major concern for everyone, because of the damage it could cause for unsuspecting users. Such software could expose computers to spyware, malware and viruses that can lead to identity theft, loss of personal data, and unexpected system failures. The risk is very real as this has dangerous repercussions, especially for businesses where operational disruptions caused by malware and viruses could potentially lead to heavy financial losses for them. 

"In fact, a quick anti-malware scan on a new branded laptop purchased earlier from the raided vendor revealed that it contained adware. While good adware can enable you to enjoy apps for free, bad adware can turn your system into a zombie computer that is part of a botnet and is sending out spam, phishing emails, and even attacking other computers. The DCU team hopes to be able to examine the computers seized by the Police in greater detail once the case is over.

Selvasegaram made the remarks in reference to a joint study conducted by International Data Corporation (IDC) and the National University of Singapore (NUS) released in March this year which found that enterprises in Asia Pacific (APAC) are expected to spend nearly US$230 billion to deal with issues caused by malware deliberately loaded onto pirated software. Breaking this down further, the majority of the cost (US$170 billion) will go into dealing with data breaches, while the remainder will be utilised to deal with security issues. 

The study, titled The Link Between Pirated Software and Cybersecurity Breaches, also revealed that 65% of APAC consumers surveyed said their greatest fear from infected software is the loss of data, files or personal information, followed by unauthorised Internet transactions (48%) and potential identity theft (47%).

According to the study, government officials also expressed concern about the potential impact of cybersecurity threats to their nations. The survey outlined that APAC governments are most worried about the unauthorised access to confidential government information (57%), the impact of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure (56%), and the loss of business trade secrets or competitive information (55%). It is estimated that governments worldwide could lose more than US$50 billion to deal with the costs associated with malware on pirated software.

Microsoft reminds buyers and retailers to ensure they obtain their software products only from trusted vendors and local authorised sources. To guard against the unintentional purchase and use of counterfeit software and to find out how to verify the origin of Microsoft products, consumers can visit this Microsoft website.