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Power of AI for Community Inclusion, Integration, and Cohesion

In today’s rapidly evolving world, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not just a technological advancement; it’s a catalyst for positive change in community dynamics. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a newcomer to the concept of AI, this blog post will explore the incredible possibilities AI brings for fostering community inclusion, integration, and cohesion.

Demystifying AI for Beginners:

AI, or Artificial Intelligence, refers to machines or computer systems that are designed to mimic human intelligence. These systems can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as learning, problem-solving, and decision-making. Think of AI as the brain behind the machine, capable of processing vast amounts of data and making informed decisions.

AI’s Potential for Community Inclusion:

One of the most remarkable aspects of AI is its ability to bridge gaps and ensure that no one is left behind. In the context of community inclusion, AI technologies can be tailored to accommodate diverse needs, making information, services, and opportunities accessible to everyone. However, this feat depends on the availability of timely and integrable data.

  • Personalised Assistance: AI-powered virtual assistants, like voice-activated devices and chatbots, can provide personalised assistance to individuals with different abilities or language preferences, ensuring that everyone can access information and services effortlessly.
  • Language Translation: Breaking down language barriers is crucial for inclusive communities. AI-driven language translation services can facilitate communication among individuals who speak different languages, promoting understanding and collaboration.

Integration through AI-driven Innovation:

AI serves as a powerful tool for community integration by fostering innovation and creating solutions that address shared challenges. Here’s how:

  • Smart Urban Planning: AI can optimise urban planning by analysing data on traffic patterns, energy consumption, and public services. This data-driven approach leads to more efficient and sustainable communities, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
  • Education and Skill Development: AI-powered educational tools can cater to diverse learning styles and speeds, ensuring that education is accessible to everyone. These tools can also provide personalised learning experiences, helping individuals develop the skills needed for the jobs of the future.

Cohesion through Data-Driven Insights:

AI’s analytical capabilities enable communities to make informed decisions based on data. By leveraging data-driven insights, communities can enhance cohesion in various aspects:

  • Community Health: AI can analyse health data to identify patterns, forecast disease outbreaks, and optimise healthcare resource allocation. This proactive approach to healthcare contributes to the well-being of the entire community.
  • Social Services: AI-driven algorithms can streamline the delivery of social services by identifying areas of need and allocating resources efficiently. This ensures that support reaches those who need it most, fostering a sense of collective responsibility.

In conclusion, AI is not just a technological marvel; it’s a transformative force that has the potential to redefine how communities function.

As we embrace the possibilities of AI, let’s work together to harness its power to create inclusive, integrated, and cohesive communities that thrive on diversity and collaboration. The future is here, and it’s AI-driven – let’s make it a future where no one is left behind.

Uncategorized

IFB Gaming Reflects on 2023 and Unveils Goals for 2024

We are delighted to address you today with a profound sense of pride and gratitude as IFB Gaming reflects on the remarkable achievements of the past year. Together, we have not only marked significant milestones but have also laid the foundation for an exciting future in the realms of gaming, business, inclusion and community development.

Get Online Week 2023 was a resounding success, and we also want to express our deepest appreciation to our founder, John Adewole, for his visionary leadership. The initiative’s impact in Empowering Futures, mitigating health inequalities and fostering digital inclusivity has been truly inspiring. We have bridged gaps, connected communities, and paved the way for a more inclusive data collection and analysis digital landscape in the London Boroughs of Southwark and Lambeth.

In addition to the success of Get Online Week (2023), we are thrilled to announce that IFB Gaming has been shortlisted for a Southwark Business Excellence Award which takes place at Southwark College on the 15th of February 2024. This recognition underscores our commitment to business and innovation, research and education, and making a positive impact in the communities where we operate. The shortlist is a testament to the passion, dedication and hard work of every employee at IFB Gaming.

Looking ahead to 2024, our goals remain bold and ambitious. We remain committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation within human-focused technological or digital solutions and sustainable community development and integration.

We will continue to invest in research and development, connecting Higher Education, The Third Sector, Technology and Telecommunications industries, Lawmakers and relevant organisations to timely, practical and usable data and insights and hard-to-reach communities. Ultimately ensuring that IFB Gaming remains at the forefront during technology adoption maturity and beyond.

IFB Gaming shortlisted for Business excellence award in Southwark

2023 Key Achievements

NHS Digital: Achievements with NHS Digital during the lockdown have seen our current contract extended to early 2025. We continue to work with NHS Digital’s User Experience and User Research teams to ensure that healthcare solutions are accessible, usable, and relatable to everyone in England.

NHS England: Following the anticipated merger of NHS digital merger with NHS England in January of 2023, IFB Gaming has actively explored new ways of accessing hard-to-reach groups and communities and working with the NHS on inclusive healthcare solutions.

Inspiring Minds! Empowering Futures!!: The maiden outreach empowering futures was a resounding success which involved players from our 7 pillars of Digital Exclusion: Citizenship, Living, Commerce, Education, Healthcare, Governance, Safety and Security.

Community as Service (CAS): 2023 was a brilliant start to our maiden outreach CaS initiative. Community as Service (CaS) saw new knowledge and operations partnership acquisitions with charities and community organisations in London.

Southwark Business Excellence Award: As a games-based research and learning organisation, it is truly a delight as well as an honour to be noticed and shortlisted by Elephant and Castle Town Centre and the London Borough of Southwark for this prestigious award. Especially in the Contribution to Community category. We look forward to continuing our work in London communities in 2024 and beyond.

Gaming as a Sustainable Community Development Tool: Once again, IFB Gaming has practically manifested the efficacy and vitality of the gaming paradigm as a practical construct and social penetrator and accommodator for insecurely attached individuals and communities.

With 40% of all profits now going into CAS, community engagement will remain a cornerstone of our mission. We aspire to expand our initiatives, not only to promote digital inclusivity but also to empower charities, Higher Education, Lawmakers, the Third Sector, businesses and lawmakers.

As we embark on this exciting journey, we are confident that with your continued support and partnership, IFB Gaming will reach new heights of success. Together, we will shape the future of English research and communities, inspire creativity, and contribute to a connected and inclusive nation and world.

Thank you for being an integral part of IFB Gaming. Here’s to a year of innovation, growth, and shared success!

Contact IFB
Artificial Intelligence , Sustainable Development

Beyond Profits: Unpacking the Triple Bottom Line

In today’s blog update, we delve into a fascinating concept that’s transforming the way we view business success— the Triple Bottom Line (TBL).

This framework goes beyond traditional profit-centric approaches, emphasising a broader spectrum of values. Now, let’s dissect the concept and explore its implications for businesses, institutions and governments aiming to make a positive impact on their communities, economy and the world.

Understanding the Triple Bottom Line (TBL)

The Triple Bottom Line (TBL) is a framework for evaluating organizational performance based on three interconnected dimensions: social, environmental, and financial. Developed by John Elkington in 1994, the TBL concept proposes that businesses should not only measure their success based on financial profits (the “bottom line”) but also consider their impacts on people (social) and the planet (environmental).

  1. People: At the heart of the TBL is a commitment to social responsibility. Businesses are recognising the importance of fostering positive relationships with employees, customers, and the broader community. From fair labour practices to community engagement initiatives, the People aspect of the TBL acknowledges the profound impact businesses can have on individuals and society.
  2. Planet: Acknowledging environmental sustainability is a crucial component of the TBL. Companies are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, reducing their carbon footprint, and incorporating sustainable sourcing and manufacturing processes. The Planet aspect recognizes that a healthy business environment is intertwined with a healthy global environment.
  3. Profit: While the TBL expands the scope of business considerations, it doesn’t neglect the financial bottom line. Profit remains a crucial factor, but within the TBL framework, it is viewed in conjunction with social and environmental impacts. Businesses are encouraged to find a harmonious balance where financial success aligns with positive contributions to society and the environment.

Benefits of the Triple Bottom Line:

  1. Enhanced Reputation: Embracing the TBL can bolster a company’s reputation. Consumers and investors increasingly gravitate towards businesses with a commitment to ethical practices, sustainability, and social responsibility.
  2. Risk Mitigation: Considering the broader impacts of business decisions helps mitigate risks. Companies that proactively address social and environmental concerns are better positioned to navigate evolving market expectations and regulatory landscapes.
  3. Employee Engagement: Businesses prioritising the People aspect of the TBL tend to foster a positive workplace culture. Engaged employees contribute to innovation, productivity, and overall business success.
  4. Long-term Sustainability: Embracing the TBL positions businesses for long-term sustainability. By addressing social and environmental challenges, companies can contribute to a healthier planet and society, creating a legacy that transcends immediate financial gains.

Challenges and Considerations:

While the TBL offers a holistic approach, it’s not without challenges. The TBL framework encourages organizations to adopt a more holistic and integrated approach to decision-making and performance evaluation, balancing economic prosperity with social responsibility and environmental stewardship. By considering the triple bottom line, businesses can better understand their overall impact on society and the environment, identify opportunities for improvement, and create long-term value for stakeholders, communities, and the planet.

Balancing competing priorities and measuring social and environmental impacts can be complex. However, the growing acknowledgement of the TBL’s importance signals a paradigm shift in how businesses define success.

In conclusion, the Triple Bottom Line challenges us to move beyond the narrow focus on profits and consider the broader implications of business activities. As consumers, employees, and investors increasingly demand responsible practices, the TBL provides a roadmap for businesses to thrive while making meaningful contributions to people, the planet, and profit.

Thank you for joining us in exploring this transformative concept.

Community Development , Digital Inclusion

Our work is featured in Community Southwark’s case studies

Hello!

We hope you are doing well, in high spirits and good health. We hope you are looking forward to the holiday as much as we are here at IFB Gaming. IFB Gaming’s work in London Communities has been featured in Community Southwark’s Success Stories – Case Studies.

Learn more on Community Southwark’s Website

We are particularly excited about the end-of-year and festive season because we have lots of insights, knowledge and practical and actionable solutions to impart into the New Year.

We wish you a Happy Holiday!

Connect with us on social media

Community Development , Digital Inclusion

IFB’s been shortlisted for a Business Excellence Award (2023) in London

Hello!

We hope this news finds you well, in high spirits and in good health. We hope that you are looking forward to the holiday as much as we are here at IFB Gaming. IFB Gaming has been shortlisted in the Contribution to Community Category in Southwark’s Business Excellence Award 2023 sponsored by Elephant & Castle Town Centre.

Learn more on the Southwark Awards Website

We are particularly excited about the end-of-year and festive season because we have lots of insights, knowledge and practical and actionable solutions to impart into the New Year.

We wish you a Happy Holiday!

Connect with us on social media

#IFBOfficial

Get Online Week

Can Digital Unite Communities & Organisations Towards a Shared Vision? A Look at Get Online Week 2023

Let’s pretend for a second that this is not IFB Gaming. That our CEO, John Adewole, did not explore the efficacy and vitality of the gaming paradigm for project management and as a social accommodator for the insecurely attached through a longitudinal virtual ethnography. Let’s pretend that during his study, he did not capture the extent of modality switching from the gaming paradigm.

What happened during Get Online Week

IFB Gaming united charities and community organizations in Southwark for our 6th Get Online Week campaign in London. Get Online Week is championed by the UK’s leading digital inclusion charity, Good Things Foundation. The annual event sees the National Digital Inclusion Network get together to reinvigorate our pledges to eradicate digital inclusion and data poverty through collective action.

Now in its 16th year, the annual campaign has supported thousands of organisations to support millions of individuals at the risk of digital inclusion and data poverty.

2023’s Get Online Week unfolded on Kennington and Brandon Estates in the London Borough of Lambeth and Southwark, respectively. Community development initiatives frequently necessitate educational programs, and during Get Online Week, we employed a dedicated educational app called Learn My Way.

The organisations that supported GOW 2023 include The NHS, NHS Digital, Good Things Foundation, Future Dot Now, Vodafone’s Everyone.Connected, Metropolitan Police, and Virgin Media O2.

During the week;

  • We conducted focus groups with the Brandon Estates TRA committee and residents
  • We supported Seniors to master the new NHS appointment booking process via Swifqueue
  • We supported individuals through the National Databank
  • We supported individuals with basic digital skills using the EDS Framework
  • We empowered Women through Business Information Technology workshops
  • We explored new ways of doing research with NHS England in London communities
  • We conducted a Digital Skills and Needs Assessment with residents of Brandon Estate

So, can digital unite communities and organisations towards a share vision and goals? In our operational research experience, we certainly have the data and insights to say yes! Digital can sustainably unite individuals and communities from the gaming paradigm towards a shared vision and goals, however, we are yet to establish whether it can from real world context.

Unlike real world context where motive and motivation may differ significantly, the motive and motivation for presence in the gaming paradigm is playing and fun.

Ensure you are following our social media channels for more updates on the efficacy and vitality of digital to sustainably unite communities.

In the Press

– Thank You for Inspiring Minds and Empowering Futures during Get Online Week in Southwark – John Adewole PMP

– Get Online Week “Empowering Futures” – IssueWire

– Kennington estate to host computer skills workshops for local residents – Southwark News

– Success Story: Get Online Week with BREAKTHEBARRIER CIC – Community Southwark

– Get Online Week

Community Development

Food as a Catalyst for Community Development

Today, we delve into a topic that is not only close to our hearts but also integral to the very fabric of our communities – food. We’ll explore how food isn’t just about nourishment; it’s a potent tool for fostering community development.

So, let’s uncover why food holds the power to transform our neighbourhoods and make them thrive.

The Heart of Community:

Food

Food has a unique ability to bring people together. Think about the last time you shared a meal with friends, family, or neighbours. You laughed, shared stories, and felt a sense of togetherness. It’s this fundamental social aspect of food that makes it an indispensable part of community development.

1. Food Fosters Connection:

Community development is built on connections. Food gatherings, whether potlucks, community dinners, or farmers’ markets, create opportunities for people to meet, share experiences, and build relationships. These connections can lead to stronger, more resilient communities.

2. Food Preserves Culture:

Food is a key component of cultural identity. Recipes passed down through generations and traditional dishes connect us to our heritage. Celebrating cultural diversity through food not only honours our roots but also enriches our understanding of others.

3. Food Sparks Conversation:

Imagine a town square bustling with people enjoying local food. It’s a natural hub for conversation, idea-sharing, and community engagement. Food-related events can become platforms for important dialogues about local issues and initiatives.

4. Food Empowers:

Teaching community members about food, nutrition, and sustainable practices empowers them to make healthier choices. It’s a way to enhance people’s quality of life while fostering self-sufficiency and independence.

5. Food Supports Economic Growth:

Local food systems create jobs and stimulate economic growth. By supporting local agriculture and food-related businesses, we contribute to the economic well-being of our community, allowing it to flourish.

6. Food is About Resilience:

Strong local food systems enhance community resilience. When external supply chains are disrupted, a community with reliable local food sources can better weather the storm.

7. Food Promotes Environmental Sustainability:

Sustainable food practices reduce the environmental impact of agriculture. Local, eco-friendly food production contributes to the overall environmental sustainability of our community.

8. Food as a Tool for Education:

Food education, from teaching children about nutritious choices to demonstrating sustainable farming practices, equips community members with the knowledge and skills to lead healthier lives.

9. Food Alleviates Poverty:

Effective food systems can reduce poverty by providing employment opportunities and improving access to affordable, nutritious meals. A flourishing local food economy can uplift the entire community.

A Bountiful Future

In essence, food is not just nourishment; it’s a catalyst for community development. It’s the thread that weaves our communities together, fostering connection, culture, conversation, and empowerment. By embracing the power of food, we can build healthier, more resilient, and more prosperous communities.

So, let’s savour the delicious journey of using food as a tool for community development. Together, we can cultivate a future that’s not only filled with good meals but also with strong, vibrant, and connected communities.

Research

Unveiling User Perspectives through Focus Groups and Usability Testing

Welcome to our latest update! In this edition, we dive into the world of user research with a closer look at two essential methods: Focus Groups and Usability Testing. Discover how these techniques unlock valuable insights into user perspectives and help refine the user experience of tech products. Let’s explore the power of understanding user opinions and improving usability. Read on!

A focus group is a qualitative research method in which a small, diverse group of participants (usually 6-12 people) is brought together to discuss a specific topic, product, or concept in a structured, facilitated discussion. The purpose of a focus group is to gather insights, opinions, and perceptions from participants about the subject under discussion. It is often used to explore people’s attitudes, beliefs, and feelings, as well as to generate ideas and uncover issues related to a particular topic.

Usability testing, on the other hand, is a method used to evaluate the user-friendliness and effectiveness of a product, typically a software application, website, or device. Usability testing involves having participants (usually individual users) perform specific tasks using the product while their interactions and feedback are observed and recorded. The primary goal is to identify usability issues, such as difficulties in navigation, user interface design, and task completion, in order to improve the product’s overall user experience.

In some cases, a combination of both methods may offer the most comprehensive insights into tech use.

User Research Methods

Focus groups and usability testing are both valuable methods for collecting data about tech use, but they serve different purposes and have distinct advantages. Here’s a comparison of the two:

Focus Groups:

  1. Diverse Perspectives: Focus groups are excellent for gathering diverse opinions and insights. They bring together a small group of participants who can discuss their experiences, preferences, and attitudes regarding tech use.
  2. Idea Generation: They can be instrumental in generating new ideas and understanding the broader context in which technology is used. Participants can share their thoughts and brainstorm solutions.
  3. Perceptions and Feelings: Focus groups are useful for exploring participants’ perceptions, feelings, and social dynamics related to technology. This is especially valuable for understanding the emotional aspects of tech use.
  4. Cost-Effective: They are generally cost-effective compared to usability testing, as they involve fewer participants and can uncover a wide range of issues in a single session.

Usability Testing:

  1. Task-Oriented: Usability testing is task-oriented and focuses on how users interact with technology to complete specific tasks. It provides detailed insights into the user experience and identifies usability issues.
  2. Objective Data: Usability testing collects objective data, often through observations and metrics like task completion times and error rates. This data is valuable for making concrete improvements to the technology.
  3. Identification of Usability Issues: It is highly effective at identifying usability problems and bottlenecks in the user interface. This is critical for refining the user experience and optimizing tech use.
  4. Iterative Improvement: Usability testing is well-suited for iterative design and development. It provides actionable feedback that can be used to make incremental enhancements to a tech product.

Focus groups are best for gathering qualitative data on user opinions, perceptions, and social dynamics related to tech use. They are excellent for idea generation and understanding the broader context. Usability testing, on the other hand, is task-oriented and provides objective, quantitative data on how users interact with technology. It excels at identifying usability issues and supporting iterative improvements.

Both methods are valuable for different research objectives and can provide valuable information for product development and decision-making.

The choice between focus groups and usability testing depends on your research goals. If you want to understand user opinions and experiences broadly, focus groups are a good choice. If you’re focused on identifying and solving specific usability problems, usability testing is more appropriate. In some cases, a combination of both methods may offer the most comprehensive insights into tech use.

Community Development , Digital Inclusion

Embracing Gamification for Digital Inclusion and Community Resilience

What is Gamification?

Gamification is the application of game elements and principles to non-game contexts, often with the goal of increasing engagement, motivation, and participation. It involves integrating features commonly found in games, such as points, badges, leaderboards, challenges, and rewards, into various activities and systems, like education, business, marketing, and more. You can learn more about the history and academic attempts to define gamification here.

The aim is to make these activities more enjoyable and to encourage desired behaviours, such as learning, productivity, or customer loyalty, by leveraging the psychological aspects of gaming, such as competition, achievement, and a sense of accomplishment. Gamification can be a powerful tool for enhancing user engagement and motivation in a wide range of applications.

One of the profound debates around gamification is its practicality for real-world community development. In our just completed Get Online Week‘s: Inspiring Minds! Empowering Futures!, we transformed a South London community into GTA. So, yes, gamification can be used effectively in real-world contexts and for community development. Here’s how:

  1. Community Engagement: Gamification can encourage community members to actively participate in events, initiatives, and projects. It can turn tasks like volunteering, attending meetings, or contributing to community clean-up efforts into engaging and competitive activities.
  2. Education and Skill Development: In community development, there is often a need for educational programs. During Get Online Week, we used a dedicated educational App called Learn My Way. Gamification can be used to create interactive and enjoyable learning experiences, promoting skill development and knowledge sharing within the community.
  3. Culture and Behaviour Change: Gamification can be applied to change or create cultures and encourage positive behaviours within a community, such as recycling, conserving energy, trying one thing online, or adopting healthy lifestyles. It can use rewards, challenges, and competitions to motivate individuals to make a positive impact.
  4. Community Building: Games and challenges can bring people together, fostering a sense of community and belonging. For example, a community scavenger hunt can encourage residents to explore their neighbourhoods and interact with each other.
  5. Data Collection: Gamified apps or platforms can be used to collect valuable data and feedback from community members. For instance, a mobile app could encourage residents to report issues like potholes or graffiti while earning points or rewards.
  6. Advocacy and Awareness: Gamification can be utilized to raise awareness and advocate for important community issues. Interactive campaigns can educate people about local problems and motivate them to take action.
  7. Community Improvement Projects: Community projects, such as park beautification or mural painting, can incorporate gamified elements to make the work more enjoyable and to track progress and achievements.
  8. Volunteer Management: Gamification can help manage and recognize volunteers. Volunteer leaders can use gamified systems to track contributions, offer rewards, and foster a sense of accomplishment.

By integrating gamification into community development, you can make the process more engaging, inclusive, and effective. It has the potential to inspire participation, boost motivation, and ultimately lead to more successful and sustainable community initiatives.

At IFB Gaming, we firmly advocate that gamification holds great potential for community development and we are delighted to spearhead its adoption in this growing field. Community development initiatives frequently necessitate educational programs, and during Get Online Week, we successfully harnessed the power of a dedicated educational app called Learn My Way.

Through gamification, we endeavour to craft engaging and enjoyable learning experiences that foster skill development and facilitate the sharing of knowledge within the community. This approach promises to enhance the educational and interactive aspects of community development efforts, making them more impactful and enjoyable for all involved.

Artificial Intelligence

Augmented intelligence, artificial intelligence and augmented reality: Are they the same?

No, augmented intelligence, artificial intelligence, and augmented reality are not the same; they are distinct concepts and technologies. Here’s a brief overview of each:

  1. Artificial Intelligence (AI):
    • AI refers to the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as learning from data, recognizing patterns, making decisions, and problem-solving.
    • AI encompasses a wide range of techniques, including machine learning, natural language processing, and robotics.
    • The primary goal of AI is to create machines that can mimic or simulate human intelligence, and it is used in various applications, from virtual assistants to autonomous vehicles.
  2. Augmented Reality (AR):
    • AR is a technology that superimposes digital information, such as computer-generated images, sounds, or data, onto the real world. This digital information is presented in the context of the user’s physical environment.
    • AR enhances the user’s perception of reality by adding contextual digital elements to their view, typically through devices like smartphones or AR glasses.
    • AR is commonly used in applications like gaming, navigation, education, and industrial training.
  3. Augmented Intelligence (AI):
    • Augmented Intelligence is a concept that combines human intelligence with artificial intelligence to enhance human decision-making and problem-solving rather than replace it.
    • It leverages AI technologies to assist humans in making better decisions, providing insights, and automating routine tasks.
    • Augmented Intelligence aims to empower individuals and businesses by using AI as a tool to enhance their abilities in areas such as data analysis, healthcare diagnostics, and customer support.

While there is some overlap in the use of technology, these concepts have distinct purposes and applications. AI focuses on creating intelligent systems, AR enhances the real world with digital elements, and Augmented Intelligence uses AI to enhance human capabilities. They are often used in combination to create advanced and interactive experiences, but they are not the same thing.

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