Coding Evolved: The Past, Present, and Future of Programming

The incredible story of coding, the essential engine powering our modern digital world, begins much earlier than many realize. The rudimentary form of programming came into existence in the 1800s, when people manipulated punch cards to control the operations of devices like Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine. This marked the first time human instructions were translated into a format readable by a machine, paving the way for the age of automation and the digital revolution.

The Revolution of High-Level Languages

The mid-20th century marked a significant turning point in the history of coding with the emergence of high-level programming languages. The first among these was Fortran, an innovative creation by IBM that revolutionized the landscape of programming.

Fortran stood as a beacon of change in the coding world, simplifying the intricate processes that had once dominated the domain. Unlike the low-level languages of the era, it did not demand programmers to delve into the complexities of the machine language or the architecture of the computer systems.

Instead, Fortran provided a more abstract way of programming, using a syntax that echoed English language constructs. This represented a dramatic leap from the complex, machine-specific code that programmers were accustomed to, facilitating a more intuitive and less error-prone coding environment..

The development of Fortran streamlined the coding process, leading to a significant reduction in debugging and coding time. Programmers could now produce efficient code more quickly and with fewer errors, enhancing productivity and spurring further technological advancements.

The arrival of high-level languages such as Fortran was indeed a transformative shift, paving the way for the myriad of high-level languages we see today. This revolution underscored the potential of abstracting away from hardware specifics, leading to the development of more complex software systems, ultimately driving the digital age forward.

Transition to Object-Oriented Programming: A Paradigm Shift

High-level languages set the foundation for more sophisticated forms of programming. The decades of the 60s and 70s witnessed the birth of languages like ALGOL, COBOL, and C These languages empowered programmers to shift their focus from the hardware they were coding on to the logic of the code itself.

This transition reached its pinnacle in the 1980s with the emergence of object-oriented programming (OOP). Languages such as C++ and Java, embodying the principles of OOP, allowed developers to write reusable code, enhancing efficiency, and managing larger software projects with more ease. This was particularly beneficial for businesses adopting enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, as the modular nature of OOP enabled scalable solutions.

Coding in the Internet Age: The Arrival of Scripting Languages

create and manage dynamic web content, driving the emergence of scripting languages. These high-level languages, such as JavaScript, PHP, and Python, have propelled the development of interactive web pages and are integral to the modern web we know today.

JavaScript, for instance, became the lifeblood of dynamic web content, allowing for interactive elements like forms, animations, and other user-driven content. PHP, on the other hand, brought dynamism to the server-side, enabling developers to create web pages with real-time access to databases.

Python, though not exclusively a scripting language, gained traction for its simplicity and versatility. It found numerous applications, from web development to data analysis, becoming an omnipresent force in coding.

These scripting languages not only enhanced the capabilities of developers but also made coding more accessible to newcomers, contributing to the evolution of coding in the internet age.

The Rise of Low-Code/No-Code: Democratizing Coding

The ascendance of low-code/no-code platforms represents a profound shift in the world of programming, one that is democratizing the act of coding and expanding its reach beyond the realm of trained developers. By simplifying the application development process, these platforms are redefining what it means to be a coder and breaking down barriers that have traditionally separated programmers from non-programmers.

Low-code/no-code platforms allow individuals and businesses to create software applications using intuitive, graphical interfaces that minimize the need for traditional, manual coding. Instead of writing complex lines of code, users can now manipulate prebuilt components and functions to design and deploy applications rapidly and efficiently. This reduction in the need for specialized coding skills is expanding access to software development, enabling a more diverse range of people to create solutions to address their specific needs.

These platforms are not only transforming who can develop software, but also how software is developed. They enable rapid prototyping, iteration, and deployment of applications, significantly reducing the time from idea to implementation. This agility is particularly beneficial in the fast-paced digital world, where the ability to quickly respond to changes can provide a significant competitive advantage.

As such, the rise of low-code/no-code platforms signifies a democratization of coding, opening up the benefits of software development to a wider audience and fostering a new era of innovation and inclusivity in the digital world.

The Future of Coding: A New Horizon

As we venture into the future, the realm of coding continues to evolve, bringing forth revolutionary concepts that promise to transform the way we create and interact with software. A striking development in this domain is Quantum computing, It challenges traditional coding paradigms with its superposition and entanglement principles, introducing a whole new approach to problem-solving.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are also set to play a pivotal role. They are fostering the creation of intelligent algorithms capable of learning and improving over time. These technologies not only promise to automate mundane coding tasks but might even help to generate complex code in the future.

Moreover, the low-code/no-code movement and advancements in cloud computing are pushing towards making coding more accessible, enabling more people to create applications without needing to understand complex syntax.

The future of coding is indeed a new horizon, filled with unlimited possibilities.

Learn more about Power MPS and how they can help office equipment dealers

Online Shopping Security Matters: What You Need to Know

While physical retail might be making a comeback, it will be hard for retail storefronts to compete with the convenience, variety, and availability of the worldwide web. Unfortunately, online office supply sales are no exception to the rule. While overall sales have continued to increase as companies begin to return to normal operations, online purchases have continued to outpace those in physical retail establishments.

But the continued and growing reliance on digital purchases has opened up a bigger problem for companies; online security and the risk of company data falling into the wrong hands.

Online shopping has been available for years. But the rapid growth and significant boost seen since the end of 2020 has also made businesses offering online sales options even more of a target than before. With more traffic, fraudsters see more opportunities to attack unsuspecting businesses and their customers. In some cases, legitimate businesses are even willing to resort to underhanded tactics to take down the competition.

When Online Stores Crash

There have been multiple instances in the news where online retailers are flooded with so much website traffic that it causes long wait times or even completely crashes the site. If a company or page has been featured in a popular show or showcased heavily, this might be real business reaching levels overwhelming the host server. But for print management, services, and supplies that serve the needs of corporations and business offices, attracting that much website traffic is highly unlikely. The more likely scenario is a Distributed Denial of Service Attack or DDoS.

A DDoS attack employs utilizes bots to significantly raise traffic on an eCommerce site to the point where it crashes or stops performing normally. For businesses looking to take out the competition, the disruption in regular service can degrade client confidence in the company’s ability to meet convenience and supply expectations. In 2021, there were a record-breaking 9.84 million DDoS attacks in the USA.

For cybercriminals, the tactic can be used as a diversion to mask other, more nefarious activities such as planting malware or backend hacking to steal data. The fallout for small eCommerce from a DDoS attack can reach as high as $50,000 per incident.

Other Types of Online Fraud

While DDoS is one of the most common tactics used against online stores, there are several other ways criminals attempt to take advantage of businesses and their customers.

• Interception fraud is an order placed as usual with a matching shipping address and stolen credit card information. However, the actual purchaser intercepts the order by calling the shipping company or customer care representative to change the final delivery address once the order is accepted.
• Account takeover fraud occurs when criminals log into a customer’s account. They have usually gained access to the account by purchasing passwords from the dark web or through phishing schemes. Once logged into the account, criminals will make orders or change customer details.
• Triangulation fraud is performed by setting up a storefront with pricing that will attract customers. They then use stolen credit card numbers to purchase goods from other eCommerce sites to fulfill their orders. As a result, their customers receive their goods, but the original store and the owners of the stolen credit cards are victims of fraud.
• Friendly fraud is based on standard customer care practices for legitimate grievances. For example, criminals will order a product and then cite a problem with the product or delivery to either request their money back from the business or initiate a chargeback directly with their payment processor.

Identifying Commercial Fraud

Many online store platforms have the technology to help guard against the most common forms of fraud. However, office printer industry businesses should be aware of the critical signs of criminal eCommerce behavior to add an extra layer of protection for the company and its customers. Some things to look out for include:

• Inconsistent order details are a big signal of potential fraud. For example, if the zip code and city don’t match or the IP address of the shopper and their email address don’t match, it is most likely a sign of attempted fraudulent activity.
• When a client suddenly places a larger than average order, it is a giant red flag. It might be good to contact the customer to confirm the quantity and other details before processing the transaction.
• Customers usually order using a specific IP address. Therefore, anytime a customer logs in from a new IP, it is advisable to require additional login steps and follow up with the customer for an order confirmation.
• If a customer was not initially set up with multiple shipping addresses and is suddenly expanding the number of delivery locations, it could be a sign of criminal activity.
• The timeframe is another item to watch closely. Criminals usually utilize bots and will trigger a series of activities in a short timeframe, such as multiple orders, multiple credit cards, or initiating several declined transactions in a row.

With the rapid increase in online shopping platforms and the ongoing move of consumers to digital channels, fraudsters are thriving on attacking businesses and their customers. Those who are new to the eCommerce space are especially vulnerable. Therefore, companies planning to operate or already use an online store should make sure they are training staff and taking steps to secure themselves and their customers.

As we head into May, temperatures are starting to rise, signaling the transition from spring to summer. Just as our homes and offices need adjustments to adapt to the changing climate, our budgets and expenses require some fine-tuning as well. One area that often gets overlooked is office expenses. With a few smart strategies, you can significantly reduce the costs associated with running your business.

In this post, we’ll explore some of the best ways to lower office expenses, using everything from energy-efficient practices to strategic drywall repairs. Let’s dive in!

Energy Savings: Keep Your Cool

As the mercury rises, so does the need for air conditioning. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, cooling accounts for 15% of a commercial building’s total energy consumption. One simple way to reduce your energy bill is by investing in energy-efficient air conditioning units, programmable thermostats, and proper insulation.

Consider using drywall to improve insulation in your office space. By repairing or replacing damaged drywall, you can prevent energy loss and keep your office comfortable during the warmer months. Additionally, you can explore other energy-saving techniques like turning off lights and equipment when not in use or using natural daylight whenever possible.

Embrace Telecommuting

As more and more companies embrace remote work, the demand for physical office space has decreased. In fact, Global Workplace Analytics reports that the number of remote workers in the U.S. has grown by 173% since 2005. By allowing employees to work remotely, you can reduce the need for large office spaces, ultimately lowering your rent and utility expenses.

To facilitate this, invest in tools and software that enable seamless communication and collaboration. This includes video conferencing platforms, project management tools, and secure cloud storage solutions.

Implement Paperless Initiatives

The transition to a paperless office is not only good for the environment, but it can also save you money. According to The World Counts, approximately 50% of the waste generated by businesses is composed of paper.  By going paperless, you can significantly reduce your office supply expenses.

Begin by digitizing your existing documents and implementing digital solutions for document storage and sharing. Additionally, encourage employees to use digital note-taking apps and other productivity tools to reduce the need for physical paper.

Opt for Cost-Effective Furniture and Equipment

Office furniture and equipment can be quite expensive. However, you don’t need to break the bank to create a comfortable and functional workspace. Consider purchasing second-hand or refurbished furniture, which can be more affordable than brand-new options. You can also explore leasing or renting office equipment, such as copiers and printers, which allows you to spread the cost over time.

Another strategy is to repurpose and repair existing furniture and equipment. For instance, if your office walls have seen better days, a simple drywall repair can breathe new life into your space without the need for costly renovations.

Streamline Your Subscriptions and Services

Today’s businesses often rely on a variety of software subscriptions and services, from CRM systems to team collaboration tools. While these tools can improve productivity, they can also add up in terms of cost. Regularly review your software and service subscriptions to ensure that you are only paying for what you actually use.

Consider consolidating tools by opting for all-in-one solutions or negotiating with vendors for discounted rates. You can also take advantage of free alternatives to paid software, provided that they meet your business requirements.

3 Ways Service Businesses Benefit from Selling Online

Office print services are often very hands-on programs. Size of printers and positioning within the office setting are merely two of the essential considerations for efficient printer service. In addition, printer configurations can require on-site surveys, interviews with departmental managers, and information pulled from any current printing equipment. And after installation, maintenance and service also need in-person access.

Despite the very necessary in-person components for office printer services, taking advantage of online sales platforms can move a surprising number of day-to-day processes into the client’s capable hands. And these changes can not only save time and money but build better relationships and provide greater convenience for office print partners. Here are three ways office printer service businesses can benefit from embracing online sales.

Your business can be Available 24/7

Global e-commerce business-to-business (B2B) sales are expected to grow by approximately 17% and reach $1.8 trillion over the next few years. Online sales growth is beginning to play a larger role in how office printer businesses provide goods and services. As a result, many are jumping on the wave of eCommerce to improve business and increase profits.

One of the most significant ways online sales are helping office printer companies is by extending business hours beyond standard brick-and-mortar capabilities. Of course, physical stores must be watched over by actual employees. But online stores can be configured to respond to basic questions, provide standard information, and even take orders for goods and services at any time of day or night.

So, whether it is new client inquiries or current customers looking to order supplies and services, online sales platforms allow office printer services businesses to give clients access to their schedules. As a result, customers can shop when they need to rather than wait to make a call.

Making Maintenance and Service Scheduling Easier

Online buying and selling increase convenience not just for buyers but for the sellers too. One way they manage this is by making service and maintenance scheduling easier.

Online service scheduling can allow busy clients, like the growing number of Millennial IT managers, to use their computers or mobile devices to quickly address issues they are having with their office printers. But this online capability does more than make things faster and easier for the customer. Online scheduling also helps alleviate the number of calls routed to the customer service and scheduling desk.

With fewer phone calls, customers will encounter fewer wait times and have less reason to complain about terrible hold music. In addition, service representatives can stress less about lowering wait times and focus on managing more dire service issues as they happen.

As a bonus, scheduling requests made after hours can either be automatically scheduled or addressed first thing as the office opens. In either instance, customers are provided the ability to take action when their needs arise, alleviating stress and providing a better overall experience.

It’s Possible to Measure What Matters

Online sales platforms allow print service providers to measure just about anything. And that data enables companies to streamline their business more than ever before. For example, office print service providers can easily track their clients’ supply usage and order patterns using the latest technologies. This information allows for simpler management of ink, toner, and paper inventories. In addition, it provides accurate data to help negotiate with suppliers in ways that can lower costs and match the demands of their clients.

It is also easier to keep track of preferred service days and times as well as trends for when and how machines break down. This information can help create appropriate staffing for service technicians. It can also aid in determining more in-depth decisions on printer placement and parts ordering, and stocks.

Finally, tracking online ordering helps businesses manage supply availability and address the needs of current clients in a faster and more efficient manner. The information gathered about online activity, sales, and service provides managed print services and other office printing providers the data they need to help them understand client preferences. It also aids in determining general printing trends to help them make educated recommendations for supplies, printing practices, and maintenance scheduling for their clients.

Leveraging Online Sales Systems

Hands-on and in-person will always remain essential to the office print services business. But adding an online sales platform can prove to be an innovative and potentially lucrative opportunity for managed print services, printer leasing, and office printer maintenance businesses.

The vast amounts of information that can be collected coupled alone provide a range of opportunities to cater to the growing demand for self-service worldwide. Today’s IT managers and office administrators will quickly gravitate to online platforms to make their orders and address their needs independently at their convenience.

Regarding office print services, providing clients with an online sales platform positions businesses to meet client demands and, as a result, reap the rewards of more satisfied customers. Because a happy office print partner is more likely to stay loyal, provide positive feedback, and recommend their preferred partners to other companies.

Need to know more about creating your own e-commerce for Managed Print?  Check out Power MPS here