Technology

Innovation Blooms at Powerscourt Estate: New accesso® Mobile App Enhances Visitor Exploration

Published

7 months ago

May 29, 2024

WICKLOW, Ireland, May 29, 2024 /CNW/ — accesso Technology Group (AIM: ACSO), the premier technology solutions provider for attractions and venues worldwide, has worked with Powerscourt Estate and Gardens to introduce an exciting new Powerscourt Gardens Audio Tour app, enhancing visitor engagement and sustainability efforts in the heart of County Wicklow, Ireland.

The newly launched app is now available for download on iOS and Android.

Powerscourt Estate, Ireland’s premier Sustainable Visitor Attraction* and one of Ireland’s top attractions, has teamed up with accesso’s Professional Services team to introduce an innovative digital solution aimed at enhancing visitor engagement and experience at the 3rd best garden in the World**, which encompass 47 acres of landscaped gardens.

The new Audio Tour app, offers visitors a seamless and immersive journey through the estate’s outdoor attractions, including its world-renowned Italian Garden, Japanese Garden, Walled Garden with a bee sanctuary, picturesque Triton Lake, the Herbaceous Border and enchanting woodland walks. By harnessing state-of-the-art technology, the app provides an interactive platform for guests to explore the estate’s rich heritage, curated tours, and sustainable initiatives.

The new Audio Tour app is designed to promote sustainability and enhance well-being by encouraging visitors to switch off from digital distractions and reconnect with nature. This innovative tool ensures that all guests, regardless of internet connectivity, can fully engage in the wonders of the estate. During the bus ride or upon arrival, visitors can scan a QR code and quickly download all the content they need via a simple, one-time set-up. With no further internet required after initial download, visitors can then explore the gardens at their leisure allowing the app to lead them through the natural beauty of Powerscourt.

This offline functionality minimizes the need for brochures or physical materials and supports Powerscourt’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The app is a great example of how technology can be used to enhance the exploration of nature without overshadowing it.

“We are very excited for the launch of the new Powerscourt Estate mobile app and are confident it will achieve our goals of enhancing the guest experience while engaging new audiences,” says Sarah Slazenger, Managing Director, Powerscourt Estates Ltd. “The new app not only enhances accessibility and engagement but also aligns with our commitment to sustainability and innovation while also giving us the ability to continuously add new and fresh content for our guests.”

“Having the right technology to support the guest experience is increasingly important for cultural attractions,” says Ben Mathews, Senior Vice President of Enterprise Solutions at accesso. “This app shows how technology can positively augment the way guests experience and enjoy an attraction like Powerscourt Estate.”

To learn more, please visit: powerscourt.com / accesso.com.

Key features of the Powerscourt Estate App include:

Audio Script Text Feature: Developed for Powerscourt Estate, this feature enables guides to provide narrations for visitors to read and listen to during their audio tour experience, enhancing accessibility and engagement.Audio Script Text Feature available in Five Languages: The narration for international visitors to read and listen to during their audio tour experience is available in English, Spanish, French, German and Mandarin.Seamless Content Download: The app allows users to download content on installation, ensuring uninterrupted access to tours and information even in areas with limited connectivity.Enhanced User Interface and Brand Identity: The app offers a user-friendly interface featuring the Powerscourt Estate unique brand, providing a cohesive and immersive experience for visitors.Sustainability and Accessibility: By replacing physical devices with a digital solution, the app eliminates the need for any printed materials or costly device rentals.

ABOUT ACCESSO TECHNOLOGY GROUP PLC

accesso is the leading global provider of patented and award-winning technology solutions that redefine the guest experience, drive increased revenue, streamline operations, and support data-driven business decisions for leisure & entertainment operators. Currently serving over 1,200 venues worldwide, accesso invests heavily in research and development to provide venues with technology that empowers them to deliver unforgettable guest experiences. Staffed by a team of attractions and cultural industry veterans, accesso partners with venues to increase their range of on- and off-site guest engagement to drive increased revenue through intuitive ticketing, point-of-sale, virtual queuing, distribution, professional services, and experience management technology. Learn more at accesso.com or follow accesso on X (Twitter) , LinkedIn and Facebook.

ABOUT POWERSCOURT ESTATE

*Powerscourt & Sustainability-

Powerscourt Estate is Ireland’s first premier visitor attraction to be certified by Sustainable Travel Ireland whose criteria are recognised by the UN mandated Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). Powerscourt, House, Gardens and Waterfall is the first major Irish visitor attraction to achieve such an accolade.

A pioneering spirit has always existed for environmental and nature protection at Powerscourt with the Estate originally being purchased for the use of hydroelectric power at Irelands highest Waterfall which is located on the Estate. Over the last few years some of the sustainability initiatives which have been implemented on the Estate include an integrated energy management system (developed in association with Cool Planet Group), a waste reduction plan and biodiversity rewilding initiatives such as wildflower meadows, a tree planting programme, and a bee sanctuary at the Walled Garden. The long-term overarching mission at Powerscourt Estate is for the Estate to be recognised on a global stage for its sustainability initiatives, and to be Net Zero by 2025.

“We see ourselves as custodians of Powerscourt for future generations and our aim is leave it in a better state for them. We see sustainability as vital for the future of Powerscourt. We have programmes for tree planting, wildflowers meadows, bee keeping and more as part of our environmental initiatives.”

Sarah Slazenger – Managing Director Powerscourt Estate.

** Named no. 3 in the World’s Top 10 Gardens by the National Geographic-

Powerscourt Gardens in County Wicklow has been named no. 3 in the World’s Top 10 Gardens by National Geographic, second only to the Palace of Versailles and Q Gardens in London. Powerscourt is the only one of the three that is not state owned.

The prestigious accolade comes from National Geographic’s “Top Ten” series of the best trips, adventures, and places to visit in the world. Other European countries to make it into the list included Chateau de Versailles in France (1st) and the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, England (2nd). Powerscourt Gardens was the only Irish entry included, and one of seven European countries to make it into the top 10. The 47-acre gardens are listed ahead of celebrated horticultural hotspots, such as Villa d’Este (Tivoli, Italy), Dumbarton Oaks (Washington DC) and Chatsworth House (UK).

Powerscourt Estate

Dating back to the 13th century, Powerscourt is a vast country estate noted for its magnificent Palladian-style mansion and 47 acres (190,000 m2) of formal landscaped gardens in the picturesque village of Enniskerry, County Wicklow. Set on a commanding hilltop position, against the backdrop of the Sugarloaf mountains, a sweeping terrace on the mansion’s southside opens onto a breath-taking, ornamental garden and lake.

The Gardens offer visitors a sublime blend of formal gardens, sweeping terraces, statues and ornamental lakes, secret hollows, and rambling walks. Managed by Head Gardener, Alex Slazenger, and a team of four gardeners, Powerscourt Gardens were designed from 1731 onwards, with the desire to create a garden that was part of the wider surrounding landscape. Powerscourt Gardens include The Walled Gardens, The Italian Garden, The Dolphin Pond, The Japanese Garden, Pets Cemetery, and Pepperpot Tower, among other features and attractions.

www.powerscourtestate.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/powerscourtestate

Twitter: https://twitter.com/@thepowerscourt

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/@powerscourt_estate

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/innovation-blooms-at-powerscourt-estate-new-accesso-mobile-app-enhances-visitor-exploration-302157400.html

SOURCE accesso Technology Group

Technology

Who’s Working Remotely? Virtual Vocations Survey Highlights Evolving Jobseeker Demographics

Published

9 hours ago

December 27, 2024

This survey underscores the diverse backgrounds and experiences of remote jobseekers, highlighting the growing demand for flexible work arrangements across various demographics.

TUCSON, Ariz., Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — With over 500 participants from the U.S. (69%) and international locations (31%), Virtual Vocations‘ 2024 demographics survey offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of remote work. By comparing responses across these groups, the survey highlights shared experiences and unique challenges faced by jobseekers worldwide.

“Whether based in the U.S. or abroad, jobseekers are embracing remote roles to align their careers with their personal goals, and we’re proud to be a part of their journey.” –Laura Spawn, CEO and co-founder of Virtual Vocations

Although Virtual Vocations is a U.S.-based company, it supports international jobseekers through its fully remote job board and career resources, addressing the global demand for remote work opportunities. The company frequently receives inquiries from international members seeking to access fully remote roles, punctuating the worldwide appeal of flexible work arrangements.

“The 2024 demographics survey results reinforce what we’ve known for years—professionals around the world are seeking flexibility, balance, and opportunities to work from home,” said Virtual Vocations CEO Laura Spawn. “Whether based in the U.S. or abroad, jobseekers are embracing remote roles to align their careers with their personal goals, and we’re proud to be a part of their journey.”

Fully Remote Jobs Remain Most Desired

A significant 43% of U.S.-based jobseekers and 42% of international respondents named fully remote, no-travel jobs as their top preference. These roles, which allow employees to work entirely from home, offer flexibility, aligning with both personal and professional goals. Although occasional in-person requirements may arise, fully remote roles are favored over hybrid, partially remote, and “work from anywhere” options. These positions provide businesses with access to a broader talent pool and enable employees to prioritize workplace values and culture.

Top Industries for Remote Jobseekers

The survey also highlights four key industries attracting remote jobseekers worldwide. Information Technology (IT) stands out as the leading industry for remote roles, with significantly more job postings than any other field. Healthcare follows closely, benefiting from the growth of telehealth and remote medical roles. Customer service offers engaging opportunities for professionals interested in client interaction, while education presents a wide array of roles in online teaching, tutoring, and instructional design, fueled by the expansion of virtual learning.

Jobseekers’ Common Frustrations

Both U.S. and international jobseekers shared frustrations, particularly with online job scams. Jobseekers expressed dissatisfaction with the prevalence of scams, especially when searching for work-at-home positions. Despite relying on online job boards, only a quarter (23% of U.S. respondents and 24% of international respondents) use dedicated remote job boards, like Virtual Vocations, where job postings are thoroughly vetted to ensure they are free of scams. Additionally, many jobseekers expressed frustration with excessive job requirements and employers failing to provide feedback or “ghosting” applicants during the hiring process, with one-third of respondents from both groups reporting these issues.

Income Insecurity: A Global Concern

Income insecurity remains a pressing issue for both U.S. and international jobseekers, with many reporting their earnings as insufficient for comfortable living. Sixty-five percent of U.S. respondents and 77% of international respondents reported inadequate household incomes. Nearly half (48%) of U.S. jobseekers earn less than $60,000 annually, while 68% of international jobseekers earn under $30,000. To improve financial stability, many jobseekers have set income targets, with 30% of U.S. jobseekers aiming for $60,000–$89,999 and another 30% targeting at least $120,000. In contrast, international respondents generally require lower salaries, with 38% seeking $30,000–$59,999 and 32% aiming for $60,000–$89,999.

For a comprehensive analysis and additional insights, read the full demographics survey report here: https://www.virtualvocations.com/blog/annual-statistical-remote-work-reports/remote-work-demographics-survey-results-2024/

ABOUT VIRTUAL VOCATIONS
Founded in 2007 by CEO Laura Spawn and her brother, CTO Adam Stevenson, Virtual Vocations is a small company with a big mission: to connect jobseekers with legitimate remote job openings. To date, Virtual Vocations has helped more than four million jobseekers in their quests for flexible, remote work.

In addition to providing a database of current, hand-screened, and 100% remote job openings, Virtual Vocations offers jobseekers a number of tools to aid in their job searches, including exclusive career courses, downloadable jobseeker content, and career coaching and resume writing services. Virtual Vocations also releases several data-driven reports each year on current trends in remote work.

Virtual Vocations, Inc. is a private, family-owned, and 100% virtual company incorporated in Tucson, Arizona.

Media Contact

Kimberly Back, Virtual Vocations, Inc., 1 (800) 379-5092 x. 703, kim@virtualvocations.com, https://www.virtualvocations.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/whos-working-remotely-virtual-vocations-survey-highlights-evolving-jobseeker-demographics-302339757.html

SOURCE Virtual Vocations, Inc.

Technology

Judge Baker Children’s Center d/b/a The Baker Center for Children and Families Provides Notice of Data Security Incident

Published

9 hours ago

December 27, 2024

BOSTON, Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Judge Baker Children’s Center d/b/a The Baker Center for Children and Families (“The Baker Center”), a nationally recognized provider of services for children’s mental health, has learned of a data security incident that may have impacted certain personal and / or protected health information. On December 27, 2024, The Baker Center formally notified potentially affected individuals with available address information and provided resources to assist them.

On July 28, 2024, The Baker Center discovered unusual activity within its local digital storage environment. After taking immediate steps to ensure the environment was secure, The Baker Center enlisted independent cybersecurity experts to conduct an investigation to determine what happened and whether sensitive information may have been impacted. According to the investigation, an unauthorized actor gained access to The Baker Center’s systems between July 26 – 28, 2024 and may have downloaded certain files. Following a thorough review of the impacted files, on October 28, 2024, The Baker Center determined that certain individuals’ personal and/or protected health information was potentially impacted during the incident.

The information affected during this incident varies between individuals but may have involved the following: name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, driver’s license or other government identification number, financial account information, health insurance information, medical treatment or diagnosis information, and/or clinical information.

On December 27, 2024, The Baker Center mailed notification letters to potentially impacted individuals with verifiable address information. The letters include information about this incident and about steps that potentially impacted individuals can take to monitor and help protect their personal and protected health information. The Baker Center has established a toll-free call center to answer questions about the incident and to address related concerns. The call center can be reached at 844-920-8988, Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM Eastern time.

The Baker Center takes the security and privacy of information in its possession very seriously and is taking steps to prevent a similar event from occurring in the future. The Baker Center deeply regrets any inconvenience or concern this incident may cause.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/judge-baker-childrens-center-dba-the-baker-center-for-children-and-families-provides-notice-of-data-security-incident-302339677.html

SOURCE The Baker Center for Children and Families

Technology

outboundIQ Achieves Certified Implementation Partner (CIP) Status with Five9

Published

10 hours ago

December 27, 2024

Delivering Optimized, Outbound-Focused Contact Center Solutions for Modern Businesses

LAUDERDALE LAKES, Fla., Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — outboundIQ www.outboundiq.com proudly announces its accreditation as a Five9 Certified Implementation Partner (CIP), a distinction that reflects its deep expertise in optimizing and streamlining outbound-focused contact center operations. With a team of seasoned Five9 veterans, expert programmers, and industry thought leaders, outboundIQ is uniquely equipped to help businesses of all sizes unlock the full potential of Five9’s Virtual Contact Center platform.

Optimized Solutions for Complex Contact Center Needs
outboundIQ specializes in providing expedited, outbound-focused contact center implementations, integrating advanced features such as inbound and outbound Voice, SMS, Chat, Email, Salesforce Integration, and other third-party app integrations. Clients can also leverage ongoing optimization engagements and monthly retainers for strategic consulting designed to support long-term, outreach-focused success.

“Who better to handle your domain configuration than the experts that understand the outbound contact center world. To be an outbound expert, you must know 3 things; how to configure the domain front end, how the architecture interprets that design, and how carriers respond to your dialing behavior as a result of the build. outboundIQ has the advantage of deeply understanding all 3 things. Our experts are seasoned professionals that will guide toward the best build for your business. You tell us about your business, your needs and your processes, and we will build you a domain fit for purpose. outboundIQ offers best in class Domain Optimization, Implementation and Consulting for customers of all sizes and complexity. Due to our methodology and proprietary automations, we are able to bring our customers’ projects to life within accelerated timeframes.”

– Jessica Clay, VP Support and Services

“We launched our business in June and were fortunate to connect with the incredible team at outboundIQ early on. Navigating the world of outbound calling and building efficient prospecting systems isn’t easy, but the entire team at outboundIQ brought our vision to life seamlessly. They implemented our ideas quickly and executed them flawlessly. Since partnering with them, our contact rates have significantly improved, our conversions have increased, and our overall business is thriving. We’re deeply grateful for this collaboration and look forward to continuing our work together on future endeavors!”

– Tim, Lit Financial

“I genuinely don’t know enough ways to thank the entire outboundIQ team. I inherited a domain riddled with mistakes, tangled beyond belief, and I had essentially planned to scrap the whole thing and start over. That’s when this team, led by Jessica Clay’s brilliance, took over to understand exactly what I wanted to create and completely revitalized my domain. We are all beyond thankful as they continue to consult for us to this day and I see no reason to stop. Thank you, Jessica, Jason, Rudy, Bruno, Sandy and everyone who gets the pleasure of working with these domain geniuses!”

– Michael, Lifetime Home Remodeling

A Holistic Approach to Outbound Excellence
Creating a competitive, consumer-focused outreach program requires more than just advanced technology. As outboundIQ explains, a thriving contact center functions like a high-performing racing team:

The Car: Five9 Virtual Contact Center provides a cutting-edge technology foundation.The Driver: Strong Dialer Administrators who skillfully manage operations.The Pit Crew: IT/Support teams ensuring seamless functionality.The Spotters: Data Analytics and Reporting experts optimizing performance.The Fuel: High-quality data driving better outcomes.

outboundIQ’s professional services team brings these critical elements together, ensuring clients achieve best-in-class outbound operations that prioritize consumer experience while maintaining a competitive edge.

A Call to Collaboration
With its new CIP certification, outboundIQ invites businesses to explore select partnership opportunities and projects to reimagine their contact center operations. Whether through expedited implementations or ongoing strategic consulting, outboundIQ is committed to driving measurable results for its clients.

About outboundIQ
outboundIQ delivers optimized, outbound-focused contact center implementations, combining years of Five9 expertise with cutting-edge strategies to help businesses achieve exceptional outreach outcomes. As a Five9 Certified Implementation Partner, outboundIQ provides tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of modern organizations.

About Five9
Five9 is a digital enterprise’s leading cloud contact center and software provider. The Five9 Intelligent CX Platform is reliable, secure, compliant, and scalable, designed to create exceptional personalized customer experiences.
www.five9.com

Media contact:
Sandy Tafur
Phone: 404-660-5314
mail: sandy@outboundiq.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/outboundiq-achieves-certified-implementation-partner-cip-status-with-five9-302339797.html

SOURCE outboundIQ