Blockchain: Data Security solution for every Industry

With technology creeping into our professional and personal lives, data security has become of paramount importance. Statistics suggest that about 6 billion confidential files have been stolen just between the years 2017 and 2018. We again seek technology to solve the issues related to data security, which have been aroused by technology itself. Blockchain cybersecurity is the perfect solution. Blockchain development has solved many other industry problems related to business transactions. It provides greater data security with strong encryptions, minimal vulnerabilities, and effective data ownership. It is now being used across every industry including food industry, financial services sector, healthcare, oil& gas industry, and shipping & logistics. Every industry that deals with data and transaction is looking forward to Blockchain as a solution for data security.

What is Blockchain?

Blockchain is shared ledger that records and tracks the transaction in any business network. It also tracks the tangible and intangible assets to ensure the authenticity of every transaction. It is a fast and transparent platform of information, stored on an immutable ledger that can only be accessed by authorized members of that business network. The entire platform is very transparent and members have the access to the information of end-to-end transactions. One single person cannot make changes to the Blockchain system, making it tamper-proof.

Characteristics of Blockchain

The use of Blockchain technology in multiple industries is primarily because of its security-based features. Key characteristics of Blockchain are:

1. Digital ledger: Copies of all the information are shared with all the members. Participants validate information independently without any central authority. Any error by one member at one node does affect the other nodes in the network.
2. Digital platform: Completely digitized framework eliminates the need for manual paperwork which is susceptible to errors and damages.
3. Chronology: Information about every transaction is stored in blocks and each block is connected in a chronological chain. Thus, the system of records is maintained with a time-stamp.
4. Cryptographic security: The blocks are cryptographically sealed, making them resistant to edit, delete, and copy actions, creating a high level of trusted business network.
5. Consensus–based: Any transaction requires unanimous approval of all the parties of the network. This makes Blockchain a very transparent framework.

How Blockchain Improves Data-Security

Data security is one of the leading Blockchain use cases in every sector. The distributed ledger is based on a dispersed public key infrastructure model that secures every stored data.

Data encryption

All the information of a transaction is stored in blocks using cryptography. Every participant of the network is given a private key to be used as a digital signature. Each block is time-stamped and contains the cryptographic hash of the previous block. These hash values are unique to maintain the integrity of the system. Any alternation in the record makes this personal signature invalid and the peer network gets the notification that there has been an undesired altercation, raising a red flag for the malpractice. Every data in a transaction is very secure. This security makes unauthorized data modification very difficult.

Decentralization data storage system

The decentralized system makes Blockchain independent of association with any centralized system or organization. It runs on a peer-to-peer network without involving any central server. This reduces the dependency and trust on the other members of the network. This also cuts down any chances of any one member getting authority over the system. The creation and storage of any data in Blockchain is only dependent on the tamper-proof technology and not individuals.

Enhanced trust with smart contracts

Smart contracts in Blockchain ensure that the programs only run after the predetermined conditions are met. The execution can be automated to ensure no third-party interference. This increases the trust in the system and the transaction. The contracts and assets are tested using access control, business logic, authentication to instill greater confidence in the participants.

Data portability

Blockchain offers decentralized identifiers that help the users in retaining control of their identity. They can move their digital identity from one blockchain system to other. The user can reuse the uploaded data at their discretion. The user can directly connect with the service provider and address the issues of ‘switching costs’ in data portability. Blockchain is a perfect solution for personal data management where the user can change the location of the data without losing its integrity.

Secure Communication with Blockchain

All other network communication frameworks have community interactions with the dependency on intermediary institutions which is susceptible to failure. A Blockchain based-framework offers communication security with data encryption, distributed ledger, smart contracts, and other security features. There are many other security features such as pattern-matching schemes to detect inappropriate files. Every transaction and asset including data is time-stamped to trace its chronology. Blockchain is about a higher level of authentication, non-repudiation and integrity.

Blockchain Security and Implementation Tips

Blockchain framework is of different types and their application depends on the infrastructure of the organization. Certain factors need to be chalked out before choosing a Blockchain framework.

• The governance model of the organization
• The data for each block
• Relevant regulatory requirements and methods to meet them
• Identity and keys management
• Disaster recovery plan
• Minimal security posture for the participants
• Mechanism to resolve block collisions in Blockchain

The risks of the Blockchain security model need to be identified to reap maximum advantage. A risk model should be prepared to address all the challenges in governance, business, process, and technology. Next, a threat model should be prepared to evaluate the threats to the desired blockchain security framework. The security controls to manage these risks and threats should be established to start with the implementation of private Blockchain.

Conclusion

There are certain challenges that Blockchain faces with its implementation across the complicated internet-based infrastructure. However, it cannot be denied that it can serve as the standard solution for standing cyber security issues. Blockchain has immense capability to mitigate cyber security vulnerabilities. The IT decision-makers should keep inculcating the appropriate and latest developments in Blockchain to get the best results from its implementation. They also have to keep a tab on the industry and application framework for proper implementation of Blockchain. We are one of the established software development companies with long list of clientele for Blockchain application. We can help you in building the best Blockchain application for your enterprise. Contact us today to own a robust and sustainable blockchain application.

All-inclusive Guide on Hiring Healthcare App Developers!

The ever-increasing patient expectations, the emergence of innovative technologies, and tough competition amongst healthcare service providers have fuelled up the need for healthcare digitalization. And, the rapid adoption of smart medical equipment and software solutions by medical facilities has given rise to the trend of hiring healthcare app developers.

However, hiring developers for tailoring a suitable app/solution for your medical practice is not as easy as it sounds. While the right solution created by skilled developers can bring a lot to the table and boost your ROI; the wrong development methodology or a single developmental error can lead to huge disappointments, costly rework, and heavy losses. Hence, you need to choose your healthcare app development team with care.

This post provides you with all-inclusive guidance on hiring the right set of developers for your upcoming healthcare app development project.

Healthcare App Development Strategy: In-house Team or Freelancers or Outsourcing Agency?

In-house Team

If you plan to engage an in-house team of developers to build your healthcare software system, coordination will be outstanding. But you will face issues like high infrastructure & administrative costs, a limited talent pool, and loads of time and effort on team management.

Freelancers

Hiring freelancers may be the cheapest and most convenient option as it rules out any hiring hassles. Nevertheless, freelance developers are not so reliable and are likely to back out of the project mid-way, leaving you in deep waters.

Outsourcing Agency

Outsourcing software developers or development companies is the most popular and profitable approach as it comes with countless benefits. This approach allows you to choose from a wide range of talented healthcare app developers from across the globe, flexible hiring models like the pay-as-you-go option, more experienced teams, end-to-end product development cycles, and many more. Moreover, the Healthcare provider can entrust the IT development responsibility to partner firms and focus on their core industrial operations. Here, you get an entire development team or independent developers depending on your requirement.

This approach too has minor downsides like communication woes, time differences, and language barriers. But these issues can be easily avoided if you pick an experienced healthcare app development company with a good track record, maintain transparent communication throughout the development process, and enter into contractual agreements beforehand.

Hiring Healthcare App developers: Generic Factors to Consider

Background Research

Check the credentials, previous work history, and client feedback of the outsourcing vendor agency or healthcare app developers you have shortlisted. This can be done by visiting the software company’s website and checking their offerings, case studies, client reviews, etc.

Renowned online business listing platforms like Clutch, GoodFirms, etc. can also provide you with important information about the expertise of a healthcare app development vendor agency. These platforms display the profiles of numerous software companies mentioning their niche, client testimonials, awards and recognitions, project references, etc. Online platforms like Upwork provide information on thousands of skilled freelance developers and agencies around the globe.

Technical Expertise Validation

Extensive experience, innovative ability, talent, expertise, and the right skills as per your requirements, are the necessary prerequisites to look for in healthcare developers. You can prepare a questionnaire for validating their technical skills.

Agreement on SDLC and Signing of NDA

If you are hiring outsourced assistance, clarification on the SDLC and signing an NDA is essential during the project discussion stage.

You need to clarify which SDLC (Software Development Life Cycle) model will be used, the experience & expertise of developers who will be allocated to your project, and the tentative turnaround time for each stage of the SLDC. Usually, an agile development methodology is preferred over other models as it has turned out to be the most productive strategy around the world so far.

Signing service level agreements like an NDA (non-disclosure agreement), with the healthcare app development company or developers to whom you are outsourcing the project, is mandatory as per the HIPAA guidelines. An NDA is also crucial as this contract seals and legalizes the partnership agreement. You must also discuss and agree upon certain factors like payment timelines, the token amount, and payment terms and conditions prior to the commencement of the project.

Must-have Skillsets to promote Healthcare Interoperability

Semantic vocabularies

Semantic vocabularies are necessary to maintain the syntactic standards needed for seamlessly interpreting clinical data, and so, healthcare app developers must have some prior experience in working with the commonly used semantic vocabularies including LONIC, ICD9/10, SNOMED-CT, and RxNorm.

Healthcare Integrations

Interoperability between various apps, systems, and devices is a crucial prerequisite to regulating clinical workflow in the healthcare environment. And, interoperability can be successfully achieved by integrating frameworks in the right manner. Hence, healthcare app developers must be well versed in the frequently used medical frameworks such as Integrating the Healthcare Enterprise (IHE) and HITSP (Healthcare Information Technology Standards Panel).

Developers must also possess knowledge of the popular interoperability standards adopted in the realm of Healthcare technology. The most popular interoperability standard is the level- 7 2. X; other notable ones include HL7 v3CDA, ANSIX12n5010, DICOM, and NCPDP SCRIPT.

Necessary Technical Knowledge and Skills

Third-party Integrations

Large-scale healthcare services often need to partner with third-party providers and utilize their solution platform to efficiently manage their entire workflow. The most commonly used third-party integrations include in-app chat, payment APIs, in-app calling, etc. If these integrations are not executed properly during mobile app development, the app’s UX gets adversely affected. As such, the healthcare app developers whom you pick for tailoring an app or solution must be thorough with third-party integration standards like SOAP, HL7 FHIR, and REST framework.

API Development Capabilities

Most healthcare app projects involve API development. API components need to be added for authenticating a device to gain access to the central patients’ repository.

So, the healthcare app developers must possess sound knowledge of commonly used SQL databases such as PostgreSQL, MySQL, etc., and NoSQL databases such as Apache Cassandra, MongoDB, etc. Developers must have expertise in developing the RESTful API, REST (Representational State Transfer) being the standard development practice. The development team should be able to build effective API endpoints and create highly workable rules for API requests and API responses. Programmers also need to know the standard practices used for ensuring API security like encryption, the usage of safe API gateways, etc.

Cutting-edge Technologies

Healthcare app developers must have the necessary expertise in working with modern technologies. The most relevant technologies employed for building a healthcare app are IoT, Blockchain, and Artificial Intelligence.

IoT automates the workflow of a healthcare facility, enables remote health tracking, improves interoperability, and facilitates medical data exchange. It also drives the functioning of smart devices like wearables that are an integral part of telehealth apps and remote patient monitoring. 

AI has entered the healthcare industry as machine learning algorithms are increasingly being used for ushering in advanced automation and improving the efficiency and accuracy of healthcare functioning. Blockchain technology ensures security while health record sharing helps research scholars in genetic coding, and improves the efficiency of medicine supply management.

Essential Soft Skills for Healthcare App developers

1. Revenue Cycle Workflow

Healthcare app developers have to provide a clear picture to their clients on the working of the revenue cycle workflow. So, developers must have extensive knowledge about how the elements in a healthcare organization’s revenue cycle workflow function.  These elements include payment models, billing schedules, denials workflows, etc.

2. Capability to guide the Client in Planning Productive Strategies

The development team is expected to guide the client through the planning process. For this reason, the professionals should possess sound interpersonal skills like being able to comprehend dependencies, interoperability requirements, etc., and strong communication skills to convey those requirements effectively.

Recommendation on implementing effective app monetization strategies is of utmost importance as this will add value to your investment. Developers should be able to suggest the most reliable and productive monetizing strategies for optimum benefits.

 3. Awareness of Healthcare App Security Standards and Regulatory Compliances

The privacy and security of data are of utmost importance as the healthcare industry processes sensitive patient data and medical information. Therefore, security measures need to be adopted during the software development process itself. So, the developers must be aware of secure coding practices and the latest data encryption tools like next-generation firewalls, antivirus, etc. The other standard practices that developers need to know are implementing multi-factor authentication along with password protection, adopting measures to eliminate security threats like broken authentication, injection, etc., and incorporating “Compliance-as-Code” for conducting security and compliance testing in the CD/CI pipeline.

Furthermore, healthcare apps and solutions need to comply with several standard regulations like HIPAA, etc. mandated by the US government and other regulatory authorities. Developers must be well versed in these standard regulations so that they are able to effectively implement these during app building.

Bottomline:

The aforesaid practices are winning strategies for hiring Healthcare app developers. You need to team up with the right software development firm that will deliver your project timely without compromising on the product quality, identify issues instantly, and resolve bugs at once. Also, look for developers who have the necessary knowledge, understanding, technical expertise, and experience as per your project needs.

So, it is advisable to pick an IT agency that will take care of the entire healthcare app product lifecycle starting from app ideation to maintenance post-deployment.

All-inclusive Insights on the Metaverse Technology and its Future Potential!

Virtual reality has been one of the most fascinating contributions of the technological boom in the past decade. Metaverse, the most significant emerging tech trend of modern times, is set to elevate this experience to the next level. How about an immersive 3D digital experience that combines multiple virtual and physical worlds? Well, this is exactly what Metaverse promises. The concept is being considered the future iteration of the internet and will enable users to meet, socialize, play games, and work with other users within 3D spaces.

The term Metaverse was conceptualized by Neal Stephenson through his science fiction novel “Snow Crash” written in 1992. The novel envisaged that individuals can escape from the real world into a virtual world called Metaverse with the help of digital avatars and explore this virtual world to the fullest. Decades later, with the advent of innovative technologies like AR, VR, AI, ML, Blockchain, etc. it became possible to convert this fascinating concept into reality. Several brands like Facebook, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Decentraland have started to explore this theory over the past couple of years.

The Metaverse technology grabbed the spotlight and became a topic of keen interest recently, ever since Facebook changed its brand name to Meta in October 2021 and planned to focus on exploring Metaverse in full swing. This post speaks about the Metaverse technology in detail and provides glimpses of its future prospects.

How does a Metaverse work?

Metaverse is a virtual digital 3D universe formed by merging various kinds of virtual spaces. Users can enter this digital universe using their virtual identity in the form of digital avatars and can move across various metaverse spaces for shopping, hanging out, or meeting friends, just as they do in the real world. The only difference is users can enjoy immersive experiences from the comfort of their homes. Simply put, activities that happen within isolated environments in the real world will now happen virtually within the metaverse.

Examples:

For example, if a user taking a virtual tour within a Metaverse spots a store and shops there via immersive commerce, the order that they had placed will be delivered to the address provided. Other instances of Metaverse experience include participation in virtual social events, purchasing digital land & building virtual houses, joining fellow viewers of a virtual rock band concert, paying visits to virtual museums to view latest works of art, immersive learning through virtual classrooms, etc. Businesses can leverage this technology by carrying out interactions with digital humans for business purposes like employee onboarding, sales, providing customer services, and many more. Users can also utilize a metaverse for creating, sharing, and trading assets or experiences.

Unique Traits of Metaverse

The Metaverse is unique in its own way. It is an interoperable network comprising 3D virtual worlds rendered in real-time. An unlimited number of users can experience these virtual eco-systems persistently and synchronously. During this experience, a user’s individuality is maintained. Moreover, a metaverse is massively scaled and ensures the continuity of data like objects, identities, entitlements, interactions, payments, history, etc.

Who owns the Metaverse?

The virtual space offered by Metaverse is device-independent and collective, no single vendor owns the space. The transactions within a Metaverse are made using NFTs (non-fungible tokens) and digital currencies

Technologies that empower Metaverse

The functioning of a Metaverse requires a combination of several cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality, augmented reality, artificial intelligence, machine learning, Blockchain, an AR cloud, IoT (Internet of Things), spatial technologies, HMDs (Head Mounted Displays), 3D reconstruction. Apart from these avant-garde technologies, Metaverse will also need the support of software tools, apps, platforms, hardware, and content generated by users.

Blockchain will validate value transfer, credibility, and data storage within a Metaverse; AR will enable 3D visualization of objects, interaction in real-time, and merging of the virtual and real worlds; while VR will provide users with a sensory experience like the physical reality. However, while AR implementation needs only a camera-enabled device, VR requires more expensive equipment like multi-modal screens and HMDs. Metaverse technology is more likely to employ a combination of AR and VR popularly called extended reality.

Integration of AI, ML, and IoT will facilitate crucial functions like limitless interactions and seamless integrations of data.

3D reconstruction helps in creating virtual spaces that are realistic and looks natural leading to the formation of a digital eco-system that is almost like a real world. With the help of special 3D cameras, one can render accurate models of objects, buildings, and physical locations. These models are 3D photorealistic. Computers then process the 4K HD photos captured and the 3D spatial data for generating a virtual duplicate or digital twin of the real physical worlds that can be experienced by the users.

The Current State of Metaverse Implementation: Use Cases

Today, there exist several individual Metaverses that have limited features. Presently, the gaming sector provides the closest metaverse experiences as compared to other industrial domains.

Decentraland, a start-up created a unique virtual world for its website users in the year 2017. This virtual world has its own economy as well as currency. It integrates social elements with NFTs (NFTs represent cosmetic collectibles), cryptocurrencies, and virtual real estate. The players of this Blockchain game participate in active governance on the platform.

Microsoft launched mixed-reality smart glasses named HoloLens in 2016. The video game Roblox also provides non-gaming services like virtual meet-ups and concerts. Facebook, is in the process of creating a social platform powered by virtual reality. Furioos, created by Unity, streams entirely interactive 3D environments in real-time. Here, the environments are rendered by Unity’s GPU server infrastructure that automatically scales itself. SecondLive offers a virtual 3D eco-system that is being utilized for learning, socializing, and business. This metaverse also provides an NFT marketplace where collectibles can be swapped.

What does the Future of Metaverse look like?

In the near future, Metaverse is expected to consolidate all isolated immersive virtual eco-systems and merge them into a unified whole. The outcome will be a single huge-sized all-inclusive Metaverse just like the internet offering various websites that can be accessed using a single browser. For instance, a user working in a virtual office can conduct a mixed-reality meeting using an Oculus VR headset and can indulge in a Blockchain-powered game after finishing work. The user can then manage his/her finances and portfolio inside the same metaverse.

Metaverse will transcend beyond social media platforms and virtual gaming. The metaverses are expected to become more multi-dimensional in the near future owing to the usage of VR glasses and headsets. Using these VR gadgets users can, in reality, stroll around physical spaces for exploring 3D spaces. Metaverses have the potential to facilitate decentralized governance, establishing the digital identity of an individual, remote employee workstations, etc.

Challenges likely to arise while implementing a Metaverse

Tech experts have predicted certain challenges that are likely to be encountered by a Metaverse. The major challenges include controlling the privacy of users and businesses and authenticating the identity of individuals who are moving around the virtual world disguised as digital avatars. As a result, unscrupulous persons or even bots can explore the metaverse under the disguise of an individual; for scamming other users or damaging the reputation of business brands. Also usage of AR and VR with the camera can lead to data breach of personal information.

Concluding Thoughts:

Metaverse is a collective virtual open space developed by integrating virtually enhanced digital as well as physical reality, known for offering immersive experiences to users. Although this concept is in its infancy and has a long way to go for reaching stability, it possesses an immense potential to disrupt the AR/VR experience altogether. Several biggies including Facebook are heavily investing and working relentlessly to make this concept a big success in the coming years. Metaverse is expected to offer decentralized, persistent, interoperable, and collaborative business opportunities and models that will help companies to elevate digital business to unprecedented heights.

A GUIDE TO KNOW ALL ABOUT FULL STACK DEVELOPERS

 

Full-stack developer, frontend developer, and backend developer are some of the words common for any individual involved in software development. However, the case is not same for job seekers and employers. Job seekers end up being confused about the stream they should take up. They keep wondering if they can apply for full stack developer position. Similarly, the employers are in confusion about whom to hire for software and web application development. There is a lot of hue and cry around full stack developers. With this blog, we aim to provide more insight into full stack developers, and educate everyone about it.

What is Front-End and Back-End Development?

Every web application can be broadly differentiated into two parts: front-end and back-end. The front-end is the face of the software that interacts with the user. It includes UX and GUI. The front-end developers mostly work on HTML, Javascript, and CSS3. Front-end developers work on improving the user experience.

The back end includes the database and server. Back-end developers are responsible for the performance of the application. They create the backend using multiple languages like Python, PHP, .Net, Ruby, etc. The backend server act as the base for the front-end development. The addition of new features and new users is managed by the backend developers.

Who is a Full-Stack Developer?

While many developers specialize in front-end or backend, there are developers who have knowledge and experience in working on both front end & backend stack. They have extensive knowledge about creating a seamless overlap between the front-end and back-end development. A full-stack developer will have a higher skill set and proficiency in development stacks which is the reason behind their high demand in the market.

Responsibilities of a Full-Stack Developer

• Front-end development using CSS, HTML, and Javascript frameworks. They must deliver a highly interactive application that offers a great user experience.
• Backend development to create a robust architecture capable of interacting with the servers and fetching data.
• Database and server development, resilient to function with more functionalities and users
• Establishing cross-platform compatibility to ensure that the application runs smoothly on every compatible device and operating system
• API development for seamless and robust client-server interaction
• Implementing all the client requirements for front-end and backend

Why Become A Full-Stack Developer?

As a software developer, one gets multiple streams to grow into. We can choose to be front-end and backend developers. The industry has opportunities for both. However, having expertise in both domains can be more advantageous in terms of growth and remuneration. Being experienced in both the domains can fetch you fatter paychecks since you will be solely responsible for the performance and success of the web application. The second advantage is in terms of opportunities as you will have the chance to work as a front-end developer, back-end developer, and full stack developer. The third advantage is learning. With time, the full stack developers acquire expertise more than any front-end or backend developer of a similar experience. This raises the market value of full-stack developers.

How to Become a Full-Stack Developer?

Acquiring the right skill is the primary requirement for becoming any type of software developer. As a pre-requisite, you should outline the necessary technical skills for any full-stack developer. To start with, here are a few skills that must be on your resume ahead of a job search as a full-stack developer.

• Front-end development : HTML, CSS, and Javascript
• Backend development: Python, PHP, and Ruby
• API development: REST and SOAP
• Database creation: JSON, NoSQL, and SQL
• Knowledge about version control systems such as SVN and Git, and different servers
• Graphic design and other skills for visual communication

These are some of the basic skills that one can learn to get hired as a full-stack developer. You can pursue part-time and full-time courses to learn these skills. Moreover, there are many online courses designed for the user to learn the skills on their own. The interesting aspect of software development is that the organizations are keen to hire developers based on their skills rather than their certificates. Anyone can start learning and practicing these languages to become a full-stack developer.

Why Should an Organization Hire a Full-Stack Developer?

A full-stack developer is equipped with every skill set that one can find with a front-end developer or backend developer. Two different employees for web application development would consume twice for each resource like workstation, internet, air conditioners, conveyance, etc. The companies can save expenditure on all of these with a single employee for application development. Moreover, a full stack developer may develop a better backend architecture and front-end design since they will have visibility about both aspects. In addition to this, a full stack developer will have better expertise in handling front-end and backend overlap since everything would be developed by them. Hiring a full-stack developer is a better deal in every way.

How to Hire the Best Full-Stack Developer?

Every full-stack developer may have a similar skill set with a different level of experience. We generally give an upper hand to more experience. However, full-stack development is about expertise, and developers with lower experience can have higher expertise. Given below are the steps a company can follow to hire the best full-stack developers:

1. Connect with the developers using every channel

Today job portals are counted as just one way of hiring the right candidate. Besides the job portals, the organizations can reach out to the developers on different business-related social media platforms such as Linked in, and Freelancer.com. You can explore your social media groups on every platform to find the developers with the desired experience.

2. Conduct face-to-face technical interview

A technical interview can act as the passing stage for any developer. The organizations should let the architects and tech leads question the potential candidate about their knowledge and experience. They can be asked questions such as difficulties faced during development, the domain of expertise, and the development approach they would adopt for your project. The speed of development is the important query that can be made.

3. Hire software development companies

Many organizations choose to hire external companies for software development as they provide a complete package of application development that includes testing and support. The organizations can connect with different companies with their requirement and budget. The process gets easier in this case as a software development company brings in trust and expertise.

Conclusion

Being a full-stack developer is about being an expert in every aspect of application development. These developers are also good designers who help the companies in providing a higher user experience that directly influences the revenue. Hiring a software development company instead of a developer is also a great idea. You can connect with us for all your software development needs. We are one of the esteemed outsourcing software development companies with years of expertise in different domain. Our front-end and full-stack developers will ensure that you get the most robust and scalable application. Contact us today to build a mobile/web application that lets you stand distinguished in the industry.

 

 

The Significant Advantages of Cloud Computing in Healthcare!

Cloud computing in Healthcare is growing at a rapid rate. It refers to a third-party provider offering a ready-made cloud storage infrastructure consisting of remote servers, databases, and repositories to healthcare organizations or individual practitioners. Cloud services are used to store, manage, and process healthcare data. The healthcare entities availing of Cloud services usually pay as per the services consumed. With a growing trend for EMR integration to store patient data, Cloud computing services have become indispensable for customers.

Consequently, the demand curve for Cloud computing services is on the rise. Take a look at these amazing stats as reported by the online portal prnewswire.com:

The estimated market value for Cloud computing in healthcare for the year 2022 was 40.1 billion USD. The market value is expected to grow at a CAGR of 18.7% and reach 76.8 billion USD by the year 2026.

This post outlines the key offerings of Cloud computing services and their noteworthy benefits to Healthcare Service Providers.

What are the different kinds of Cloud Computing Models in Healthcare?

The core models of Cloud computing in Healthcare revolve around distribution and deployment.

The Cloud distribution models available are:

IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) – Customers are provided with an IT infrastructure as well as an OS that is used for deploying their apps.

SaaS (Software as a Service) – The customer deploys their app or software solution using the IT infrastructure offered by the provider.

PaaS (Platform as a Service) – The customer gets an entire ready-made platform that includes OS, IT infrastructure, software apps, and all other components needed.

The Cloud Deployment models available are:

Public Cloud (all stakeholders can access), Community Cloud (can be accessed by a group of medical entities), Private Cloud (can be accessed by a single healthcare organization and other facilities belonging to the same chain), and Hybrid Cloud (a combination of the existing deployment models).

Cloud Computing in Healthcare: Noteworthy Benefits

Effortless Collaboration & Seamless Interoperability

Earlier patients’ healthcare records were documented and maintained in files. There were separate files for every practitioner or specialist consulted, and each hospital or imaging lab visited. This complicated matters for patients as well as doctors. Patients had to carry every file for each doctor visit and physicians found it difficult to collaborate whenever they had to review a patient’s previous treatment history.

Cloud computing resolved this challenge by storing medical data on a secure platform with hosting solutions as well as virtual machines to enable quick access. Healthcare firms can either use Azure’s Blob storage or the AWS S3 service for storing and retrieving medical records. Patients’ medical records collated from different sources are consolidated in a centralized storage system powered by Cloud. These records can be collaboratively accessed and shared in real-time via web portals; by authorized stakeholders including doctors, nurses, and caregivers from any location. Cloud also offers additional perks like remote conferencing, providing prompt updates on patient conditions and healthcare developments.

Cloud computing saves time and efforts of both patients and doctors. Once patients’ medical records and lab reports are saved in EMR (Electronic Medical Records), they do not need to manage or carry files for doctor visits. Moreover, it becomes easier for specialists to review cases as the results of all previous doctor interactions are available in one single place. Improved visibility into patients’ medical history helps specialists to effectively co-operate with one another whenever there’s a need for consultation or recommendation. Furthermore, cloud storage allows physicians to analyze patient treatment data for future reference as well as research.

Storing patients’ medical data in the Cloud facilitates interoperability between various departments of a hospital and different sub-domains of the healthcare sector such as insurance firms, pharmaceutical companies, and imaging centers regardless of their geographical location. Cloud computing improves the overall efficiency of medical care and clinical decision-making and minimizes costly mistakes.

New and Effective Means of Big Data Implementation

These days most healthcare bodies employ healthcare app development services to digitalize their operations. This leads to the generation of loads of Big data that is accumulated via patient EMRs. This data holds a huge potential to elevate healthcare outcomes. Cloud-powered solutions for data storage have opened up new possibilities for effective implementation and utilization of Big data that was inaccessible during yesteryears. This is because the volume of data collected is humongous and could not be managed by one single server.

Cloud’s contribution to big data utilization is enormous. Big data, if effectively implemented, proves beneficial in detecting subtle correlations in patients’ ailments. This enables doctors to identify the correct cause of the disease and get insights into the most suitable treatment options for a specific set of symptoms. Big data also helps in predicting the occurrence of epidemics much before the epidemic manifests its obvious signs; this way the healthcare industry can detect public health threats well in advance and save lives.

Facilitates Medical Research and Data Analytics

Cloud computing allows researchers and medical professionals to reap the advantages of a high computing capability in storing and manipulating structured as well as unstructured data; and that too, at much lower expenses. With Cloud, huge volumes of relevant patient data collected from various sources can be securely stored and quickly processed using AI algorithms and Big data analytics tools for obtaining actionable insights. Therefore, it becomes easy for researchers to store data collected from various fields and condense this data to get a clearer and more advanced visibility of the research subjects. Advanced data analytics enables healthcare service providers to provide highly customized patient care, suggest personalized treatment plans, and make faster clinical decisions.

Minimizes the Cost of Data Storage, and Operational Overheads

Healthcare facilities that handle mobile apps, electronic medical records, patient portals, big data analytics, etc. can select from two options for the storage and management of data – an on-site data storage mechanism or services from a Cloud Provider. Medical companies opting for on-premise data storage need to spend heavily on setting up the required software infrastructure and investing in top-quality hardware drives for data storage so that data is securely stored and accessible whenever needed. And, since a huge amount of data is generated, all in-house software solutions are not capable of handling it. As such, medical bodies often have to invest in additional physical servers when the data load increases, ending up incurring extra expenses.

But, Healthcare firms availing of services from reliable Cloud providers get a good bargain - secure, efficient, and scalable services at much lower costs. Cloud providers manage all data storage prerequisites on behalf of the healthcare firm. Therefore, by hosting their ERP in the Cloud, healthcare providers can avoid infrastructure costs and the need for maintaining complex protocols, and they can pay for only those services that they avail of. Cloud computing also offers better support for operational functions like HR and administrative processes. Hence, cloud services are a cost-efficient option for medical providers who can outsource operational burdens and concentrate on their core service - patient care.

Elevates Patient Experience

Cloud computing improves patients’ engagement, communication, and awareness about their medical conditions. Patients can remotely access their healthcare data in real-time including treatment details, test outcomes, and doctors’ notes, they also receive instant notifications on updates. Cloud-based solutions ensure that no patient is overprescribed or advised unnecessary lab testing. Furthermore, Cloud computing supports telehealth solutions, the most popular and convenient healthcare service category amongst patients.

Cloud computing centralizes data storage so that patients can control and participate in decision-making processes. Moreover, Cloud simplifies data recovery; it offers automated data backups, and the data is maintained in a manner that there isn’t any single touchpoint of the stored data.

Enhances Scalability

Self-hosted storage solutions come with limited data capabilities and so, healthcare organizations using such solutions are unable to expand their bandwidth as per the scaling need and often need to employ extra servers during increased caseloads.

Contrarily, cloud models offer the flexibility to upscale or downscale the data storage capacity as per the demand based on the patient inflow. This way, medical providers can promptly respond to and handle surged loads arising due to unforeseen situations like increased patient activity during a pandemic. And, if medical services opt for the pay-as-you-go approach, this strategy proves cost-effective as well. Cloud providers also handle tasks like data security, patching, and upgrades on behalf of their clients.

Ensures Data Security

The more digital data, the more is it vulnerable to security breaches and cyber-attacks. And, it has been observed that healthcare data and sensitive patient information are soft targets for carrying out malicious practices. Here, Cloud computing plays a crucial role in securing data.

Cloud being a storehouse of sensitive data, providers adopt additional security measures and comply with mandated standards like HIPAA (Healthcare Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), GDPR (Europe’s General Data Protection Regulation), and HITRUST to protect their servers from cyber security violations. Cloud services also provide facilities like automated data backup, risk management plans, disaster recovery options, and continuous security monitoring. Hence, even in cases of data breaches or unauthorized access healthcare firm can recover their data effortlessly.

Final Thoughts:

Cloud Computing is the most viable option for Healthcare Service Providers to securely collect, store, manage, and maintain the PHI (personal health information) of patients. Cloud solutions come with endless offerings for consumers including customized patient care, data analytics, Big data utilization, and most importantly reduces operational costs. Cloud solutions enhance the overall efficiency of healthcare services and provide them a competitive edge over peers. So, it’s high time healthcare entities should seek technical assistance from dependable Cloud computing services.

Significant Telemedicine App Monetizing Strategies you need to consider in 2022!

Telemedicine app development has gained momentum over the last decade owing to several reasons. Young entrepreneurs and even giant companies are looking at this as an opportunity and are developing high-end telemedicine applications for healthcare organizations.

However, developing an exceptional telehealth app is not enough; you also need to monetize your app. And, one of the trickiest jobs for entrepreneurs or a telemedicine app development company is selecting the right monetizing model or strategy that would boost their ROI. In this article, we are going to give you insights on trending app monetization models and strategies that will prove beneficial to telemedicine app owners.

Trending Monetizing Strategies for Telemedicine Apps

Freemium Applications

This category comprises a combination of free and premium apps – offering two versions of the same app. The free version usually provides access to the basic features, while the premium or paid version comes with additional offerings like advanced features.

The key objective behind this model is to encourage users to download the app for free initially and learn about its usability. Once the app succeeds in engaging the users and fulfilling their needs; the free users will most likely get converted into paid users for accessing enhanced features. This enables the users to get information on what kind of services they are paying for. Moreover, positive feedback by users adds value to your app.

Premium Applications

This model involves charging users for downloading apps and is an ideal option for niche apps with a narrow target audience. Just create a merchant account in the Google Play Store or the App Store and then set the price for downloads. However, this kind of model may limit the monetization potential of your app.

Promotion of Certified Content

This monetization strategy is applicable for apps that provide peer-to-peer services, and that sell certified content that is vital for the practice of care providers instead of selling features. Take a look at this example. In telehealth apps, a fixed amount of free content is displayed for doctors. But, for gaining access to comprehensive content that is periodically updated, practitioners need to sign up and pay a recurring amount as a subscription.

Gamification

Introducing gaming into a telemedicine app enhances the app’s user-friendliness. This is so because the games are designed playfully as per the app’s basic idea and the users participating in these games have to achieve some levels based on the story created by the telemedicine app developers. The offerings through gaming include reminders about daily exercises, medicines, and doctor visits, and even provide fitness status after weeks of medication intake or exercising. Besides these, several innovative strategies like discounts, free prizes, or advice by practitioners can be also included. Thus, integrating gamification in a telemedicine app development solution enables users to set goals concerning fitness or healthcare as well as track their progress, thereby enhancing user engagement.

In-app Purchase Options

This is one of the commonest monetizing strategies for free applications. In telehealth apps, in-app purchases include refilling prescriptions, buying supplements, arranging for pre-pay doctor visits, etc. As such, this approach not only proves profitable for app owners but also benefits users. But remember that your app should function even if the users do not opt for additional purchases.

Fees for Subscription and Registration

Free healthcare applications that serve as effective platforms connecting patients to physicians can charge a registration fee from practitioners who use the app for filling in their free time slots. Moreover, you can establish a subscription monetization model which enables users to select the subscription plan based on their requirements and pay a fixed monthly/yearly/quarterly charge for app usage.

Sponsorship

This strategy refers to integrating sponsorship in your application. It includes embedding the sponsors’ logo within the application in the form of a pop-up or an icon on the splash screen or the footer. It may even include providing special offers or promoting the sponsors’ posts. Telemedicine app owners can rope in influential sponsors from the healthcare domain itself and establish a kind of barter system where they offer products, services, discounts, etc. based on the business domain. This approach proves highly profitable in the medical sector as it not only arouses users’ interest in the healthcare app but also enables app owners to accumulate crucial and valuable data.

Data Accumulation

Big data and AI are trending these days. Big data in the healthcare domain refers to all data concerning the patients’ health and is a valuable asset for several pharmaceutical firms, medical enterprises, fitness training centers, insurance agencies, etc. for effectively running their businesses. And, the healthcare app owners profit by selling this data to the interested parties. For instance, an app tracking the lifestyle of patients who were obese earlier and had gastric bypass surgery can sell the accumulated data to pharmaceutical/insurance companies, or fitness experts. Furthermore, this data serves as important statistics for usage in medical journals, reports, and magazines, and for assessing the advancement of the medical industry.

Localized Advertisements

The advertisements in telemedicine apps must be relevant to user interests, or else the UX may get hampered badly. Certain mobile advertising partners employ beacons, GPS, and Wi-Fi to localize advertising to allow mobile ads that target customers in real-time. These ads allow the apps to connect to the users on the spot. For example, users within close vicinity of a pharmacy store with a beacon may get a notification on their smartphone device informing them about the availability of a medication coupon or any other such healthcare-related stuff. However, users should be provided the flexibility to choose the brands from which they wish to receive notifications. This will not only increase the users’ interaction with ads but also enhance the value of the ad spaces, thereby attracting more brand partners.

Free Gifts

The words “Free services/products” are never missed by any user whereas complex or costly stuff is likely to be overlooked by most. So, free services are a smart way to attract new customers and motivate existing customers to use the app more often. They include:

• Providing free weight/calorie calculators to daily users

• Free consultation, advice, and tips for minimizing the risk of getting infected by various diseases

• Offering a free medicine kit comprising personalized medicines for a week to daily users who strictly adhere to their fitness/healthcare regime.

Conclusion:

It is important for healthcare app owners to pick a suitable monetizing strategy. It is advisable to choose a combination of monetization models for maximizing adoption and optimizing profitability. But, if you are not technical enough or require a customized telemedicine solution, seeking assistance from an experienced Telemedicine app development company will prove beneficial.

7 Profitable and Evergreen On-Demand App Ideas for 2022

On-demand apps have become a part of our daily lives. Our daily lives and economic activities are getting centered on online platforms where independent sellers are offering plentiful services using mobile applications. A recent report suggests that the on-demand economy is attracting 22.4 million consumers every year and this number will increase as we head towards a tech-savvy economy. Service providers are hiring on-demand app development companies to enhance their market reach and consumer penetration.

What Is an On-Demand App?

On-demand apps serve as the first layer of connection between the service provider and consumer. It offers two major benefits for the consumer. Firstly, the consumer gets to connect with the service providers directly. Secondly, they get time-efficient services. The service providers benefit in terms of marketing, branding, and profits. On-demand apps have shattered the conventional methods of online services where the platforms were crowded with multiple service providers, curtailing the chances of any one particular service provider garnering attention. These apps have proved their efficiency in meeting the rise in demand across multiple sectors including food, car rental, health services, etc

How Does It Work?

On-demand apps generally focus on one particular area. For instance, Airbnb helps people in finding housing. This defined domain area makes it easier for the consumers to use it. These apps provide different options to the users. Consumers can make service-based payments or get a subscription. Again, there are different types of subscriptions. The non-involvement of third parties or agents makes these apps very profitable where the service providers can directly pitch to the target audience. To cover the maximum audience, the service providers launch mobile apps as well as web applications.

 Evergreen on-demand App ideas

1. Transportation apps

We have been using dial-a-ride services for many years. We have pre-booked taxis for airports and out-station movement. Transport is an evolving domain where the demand for services only increases. As technology penetrated the transportation sector, the transport companies started using applications. Today, we have on-demand applications for transportation of goods as well as people. These applications help the service providers to serve the customers in real-time and enhance the customer experience. Have a look at one of our transportation app that monitors the weight of the load that truck is carrying and alerts the user if it goes beyond the baselined truck load weight.

2. Healthcare apps

Healthcare is inclusive of different types of on-demand services including on-demand doctors, medicine delivery, and fitness trainer. COVID-19 pandemic has further escalated the demand for these solutions where the user can get most of the necessary healthcare services from home. On-demand doctors and medicine delivery save a lot of transport and waiting time. The millennial and Gen z is more inclined towards fitness which increases the demand for fitness trainers. The middle-aged office-going generation and housewives who do not have the time to visit gyms are looking for such solutions. Healthcare is a very beneficial domain for on-demand apps with the rise in e-pharmacies and e-consultation culture.

3. Food delivery apps

Food delivery got instant hype amid the COVID-19 pandemic where everyone was restricted to homes. Consumers are enjoying the privilege of eating their favorite food in the comfort of their homes, miles away from any kind of physical contact. Takeaway counters can be easily seen in restaurants. However, many people wish to save time invested in traveling to these takeaway counters. Food delivery apps have emerged as a necessity for the working population. The demand for food delivery will continue in years to come, making it a great investment for food companies and restaurants.

4. Instant errand running delivery apps

We have dozens of errands to complete in one single day. Errands running apps have emerged lately and seem to be a profitable solution. Millions of people wish to save their time on running errands, visiting shops for very small work. They can rely on these delivery apps. The errand running services are marketing their services as fast solutions. For instance, the consumers can get all their orders within 10-15 minutes. The fact that these on-demand apps can deliver anything from grocery to medicines makes them a very profitable proposition. In the future, they may replace food delivery apps and grocery delivery apps.

5. Liquor delivery apps

People who consume liquor prefer it for every party and gathering. Currently, the liquor delivery is a very restricted space owing to the strict laws and regulations. However, going ahead in 2022, this domain may populate. There is a great profit margin in selling alcohol. The alcohol sellers are pushing to go online and kick start their business after the pandemic. The liquor delivery app can be very profitable in the coming years as the demand for alcohol will keep rising at its pace. The sellers can offer premium products and delivery casings to earn more profit.

6. Home services apps

On-demand home service makes a very lucrative area. It includes a variety of services including cleaning, repair, babysitting, pet care and many more. People have started experiencing the benefits of home services in recent years. An on-demand home service app offers many options such as price comparison, ratings, and premium services which are expected to increase the demand for these apps in the coming years. Moreover, these apps are a source of livelihood for millions of people. The on-demand app providers can give livelihood to thousands of people and make money from their fees.

7. Beauty Services apps

Beauty is an evergreen segment where the demand for beauty products and services never dies. People want quality services. This domain has a huge potential for service providers as there are only a few solutions in the market. At-home salon services and make-up professionals save a lot of time on traveling to the salons. Also, anyone can get services at the desired time in contrast to the conventional way of waiting for an appointment.

These 7 on-demand apps are expected to stay evergreen in the coming years. While the technology trends might change, the demand for the services will continue at its pace. On-demand apps are a great way to connect to the target consumers. The service providers can market new services, promote new offers, offer loyalty points, collect feedback and do many more things to increase their profits. Anyone can get started with these apps with the help of any developer or an on demand app development company. We can help you develop a highly responsive and user-friendly on-demand apps. We are an established software development company with 12+ years of experience. Our experts will help you design the most exclusive and attractive applications. Contact us today to launch an on-demand app to enhance your market presence.