| |
 |
May 17, 2012
|
|
Anyone who’s ever navigated the depths of public databases in search of information knows just how frustrating the task can be. But lately there’s been a hint of change in the air—a movement towards sharing data more openly. For businesses, this means increased productivity; in politics, more engagement with with the public; and for the average punter, better access to information on everything from housing to transport and crime.
But getting that data has taken the determined efforts of a bunch of streetwise Kiwis. Nat Torkington and Glen Barnes kick-started things by launching the Open Data Catalogue, an independent directory of government datasets at open.org.nz. Now the Government has responded with data.govt.nz, its first centralised list of publicly available databases—and even acknowledged the Open Data Catalogue for leading the way. It’s a first step towards more official transparency, which can only be a good thing. Bring it on, we say, in our story on open data and the New Zealanders who are bringing it to life, in the current issue of Idealog and on our website.
More …
Save for later with Instapaper
|
|
|
Finally, the wait is over: the latest Idealog is in the mail today, so subscribers, keep an eye on your letterbox! It’s packed, as always, with creative ideas and business innovations.
We’ve teamed up with some of the country’s top innovation experts to bring you a revolutionary 40-page guide on
turning your ideas into successful products, businesses and brands.
It’s all broken down into easily digestible, bite-sized steps, so if you’ve got a fantastic idea but need some help to turn it into reality, this will be your bible.
And what else is in there? Subscribers, of course, will find out very soon; the rest of you will have to wait till Thursday when the new issue is officially on sale. Of course, you can expect our trademark mix of ideas, inspiration and creative thinking—and rest assured that our cover story on saving science does not include the usual lecture on more government investment. Quite the opposite, in fact. The contents page is online now and we’ll have more on this issue in next week’s Weekly.
More …
Save for later with Instapaper
|
|
|
Know anyone freezing their asses off in London? Do them a favour and brighten up their day—42 BELOW have 50 cocktails to give away to Idealog readers to send to their friends. Visit 42relief.com to find the price of sending one 42 BELOW cocktail back to New Zealand, and email idealog@42relief.com with the answer. This is limited to the first 50 entries only and you must be over 18 years old to enter.
More …
Save for later with Instapaper
|
|
Iron Curtain 2.0
US army trucks are getting an upgrade. The Humvee-mounted Iron Curtain system uses radar and optical sensors to detect any projectiles aimed in their direction and destroys them before impact. Perfect for a post-peak-oil Sunday afternoon drive. Watch it in action below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_yz_ONZltA
|
|
|
Every writer needs exposure, and AUT is looking for two talented Kiwis to showcase. You could see your work published in Idealog, hear your song performed on bFM or secure a respected writing mentor to help you polish your craft. Submit your story or song by January 31 to be in to win.
More …
Save for later with Instapaper
|
|
Mastering the market
Robert Cooper, product development guru and all-round innovator, is heading down under and you could benefit from his expertise. He’s delivering a 2010 Innovation Master-Class workshop on maximising profit from new products, targeted at directors, managers, and marketing and R&D professionals. The Auckland event, supported by Idealog, will be held on March 15 and 16 at the SkyCity Convention Centre. Register online as an individual or team; book by December 31 for earlybird discounts of up to 20%.
|
|
|
 |
|
_bacon_portrait.jpg)
_bacon_portrait.jpg)
