Opinion

The WTF series: ‘API’

On a daily basis, Ben Kittrell translates the jargon-filled world of technology for clients of his tech consultancy. The Words that Frustrate (WTF) series aims to offer readers some clarity in an industry dominated by techies’ confusing argot. APIs — or Application Programming Interfaces — are everywhere. You just don’t see them everyday. Unless you’re…

Lacking a cybersecurity plan is costing you clients

Apprameya Iyengar is a technology and securities attorney with Polsinelli PC. His work focuses on commercial technology needs, ranging from small and mid-cap emerging companies to Fortune 500 companies. For technology startups, maintaining strong security controls remains vital to winning new business opportunities and strengthening existing relationships. Despite the global spike in cybersecurity attacks — there…

What’s a ‘smart city’ and why should KC care?

Aaron Deacon, managing director of KC Digital Drive, was instrumental in forming the Kansas City area’s Digital Playbook in 2012, which aimed to capitalize on the opportunity afforded by Google Fiber. His organization works on tech projects to boost Kansas City’s economy and is hosting a fundraising bash to further that mission. Smart phones. Smart…

The WTF series: ‘Rockstar developer’

On a daily basis, Ben Kittrell translates the jargon-filled world of technology for clients of his tech consultancy. The Words that Frustrate (WTF) series aims to offer readers some clarity in an industry dominated by techies’ confusing argot. Every time I’m in a meeting with a client, someone uses a word or acronym that cues…

Schukman: 5 ways social entrepreneurs inspire teamwork

Social entrepreneurs are excellent at rallying people around a mission. For example, Life Equals is a Kansas City-based company that energizes its employees around the idea of bringing nutrition to malnourished children all over the world.  It does something powerful to people when they know they are working for a cause greater than themselves, and…