Episódios
-
How does balancing human judgment with robotic precision revolutionize the device grading process in the secondary market?
In this episode, host Allyson Mitchell, VP of Sustainability at Apkudo, and Asa Gismervik, Apkudo’s Director Of Quality Assurance, discuss the challenges associated with cosmetic grading. The reality is that humans don't agree, which means humans and robots won't agree either. Apkudo is deploying a new alignment process to overcome the inherent limitations of subjective grading techniques to achieve greater accuracy.
(00:00) Allyson and Asa discuss the dual aspects of device grading: functional and cosmetic states. Asa explains the impact of grading on resale value and customer satisfaction, highlighting the potential consequences of overgrading and undergrading. (09:00) The collaboration between human insight and robotic precision in cosmetic grading. The importance of blind assessments to ensure unbiased results, and the risk of overfitting algorithms and the need for large sample runs to refine these algorithms, with the aim of achieving a standardized approach to grading across the industry. (14:00) Tools and guidelines used by human graders and the precision capabilities of machines in assessing device conditions. There is a complementary nature of human judgment and machine accuracy - humans provide intent and context that machines cannot inherently discern. (16:30) Asa outlines the risk of overfitting algorithms to specific datasets, how large sample runs are used to refine grading algorithms. (19:30) Establishing a standardized cosmetic grading approach, human intent teaching robots in grading process. (0:23:00) Future of human-machine collaboration in device grading. Asa is excited about transitioning from customer relationships to partnerships, emphasizing collaborative efforts to improve grading processes. The industry-wide impact and the ongoing efforts to refine grading standards, ultimately aiming for greater alignment and efficiency between humans, machines, and supply chain partners.
The conversation takes a deeper dive into this fascinating world of human-machine collaboration, exploring the pivotal role of blind assessments in ensuring unbiased evaluations. Asa shares his insights into the challenges of aligning human and machine interpretations and the dangers of overfitting algorithms to specific datasets. You’ll hear how large sample runs are crucial in fine-tuning algorithms to bridge the gap between manual and automated grading techniques. Ultimately, Apkudo seeks to establish a unified approach to cosmetic grading that harmonizes the efforts of humans, machines, and supply chain partners, paving the way for a more consistent and reliable secondary market for connected devices.
In this episode:Resources:
Apkudo LinkedIn
Apkudo
Apkudo Podcast
-
In this episode, host Allyson Mitchell, VP of Sustainability at Apkudo, dives into a compelling customer story with guest Manoj Sabhnani, the COO of Apkudo. The conversation explores the transformation of connected devices, highlighting Apkudo's innovative automated device testing solutions that simulate real-world scenarios to preemptively address issues, thereby reducing costly returns and enhancing customer satisfaction. During their discussion, Allyson and Manoj share how solving one customer’s initial challenge sparked interest from other internal stakeholders, which, in turn, expanded into a multi-faceted partnership that transformed their entire connected device operations.
Manoj emphasizes the importance of adapting to technological advancements, particularly the transition from LTE to 5G, and the rise of IoT in reshaping the industry. He underscores the significance of AI-powered analytics in revolutionizing operations and improving efficiency for carriers and third-party logistics providers. The episode concludes with a discussion on the evolving landscape of wireless technology and the growing importance of connected devices in everyday life, reflecting Manoj's forward-thinking views on the future of technology.
(00:00) COO Manoj Sabhnani and his 25-year career in the industry, how his role at Apkudo has evolved(04:26) How Apkudo has changed through the years, and a transformative customer collaboration with a US-based carrier, industry evolution, app-driven user experiences, challenges for carriers and OEMs, Apkudo's automated testing solution(10:22) Expanding the customer partnership to improve device testing, reduce returns, and build trust for ongoing collaboration(16:26) Transforming operations, cloud-based AI analytics transformed manual operations, providing real-time visibility, automation(19:58) Growth for carriers and third-party logistics providers, scaling and transforming solutions(26:25) Manoj emphasizes adaptability and proactive customer relationships for success.
In this episode:Resources:
Apkudo LinkedIn
Apkudo
Apkudo Podcast
-
Estão a faltar episódios?
-
Grant Cushny, Senior Director of Technical Delivery Management at Apkudo, takes us through his remarkable journey across continents and industries.
In this episode:0:00 Introduction and background Grant Cushny
1:09 Grant Cushny on the Connected Device Ecosystem
4:41 Significance of Q4 and Industry Impact of New Device Launches
10:36 Collaboration and Role of Returns Processors in Launches
17:10 Operating System Updates and Deviation Monitoring
23:38 Proactive Approaches and Calibration for New Devices
29:03 Key Takeaways and Common Oversights in Device Launches
32:35 The Role of Automation in Quality Assurance
37:23 Closing Remarks and Looking Ahead Subscribe, like, and send us your comments and ideas for future episodes!
Resources:
Apkudo Website -
Consumer demand for sustainable products is at an all-time high, with 77% favoring eco-friendly options. In this episode, host Allyson Mitchell welcomes guest Tony Altmann, Leader of Circular Innovation at Apkudo. Allyson and Tony explore the critical role of circularity in the connected device industry and share how Apkudo delivers a sustainable solution for connected devices that benefits our customers and advances the entire industry.
In the episode, you'll learn how Apkudo's innovative AI-driven platform optimizes reverse logistics processes and, in turn, helps tech giants meet their ambitious sustainability targets. The conversation delves into the complexities of impact reporting, shedding light on the diverse challenges companies face in different industries while striving to measure and report their environmental footprints accurately.The electronics and technology industry stands at a pivotal juncture, with significant advancements and challenges in achieving true device circularity. From evolving carbon emission calculations to avoiding massive CO2 emissions and e-waste, Allyson and Tony analyze the environmental impacts and hurdles that lie ahead. Tony also addresses the persistent barriers, such as linear device supply chains and reverse logistics challenges, emphasizing the importance of technology, automation, and AI in driving circular transformation. Tune in to learn about Apkudo's transformative solutions and approach that makes circularity possible for businesses and consumers alike.
Sustainability vs. circularity: what's the difference? Linear vs. circular economy The hierarchy of the circular economyGlobal focus on refurbished devices, ESG goals, UN initiatives The CPO effect (Certified Pre-Owned), Apple’s refurbished program 8 ways the circular economy outperforms linear business models Unique tech, AI, and data driving the industryApkudo's 2023 Impact ReportIndustry challenges going forward
In this episode:
Tony Altmann LinkedIn Allyson Mitchell LinkedIn Apkudo's Podcast
Resources: -
Allyson Mitchell and Chad Gottesman, President of Apkudo, explore how effectively leveraging data in the connected device supply chain can help you gain a data advantage and propel your business forward.
The rise of data in the connected device industry and AI Case study on reverse logistics and loss prevention, and the importance of data-driven decision-making in the connected device supply chain Leveraging internal and external data for sustainability and efficiency Four stages of Apkudo's data maturity modelUnleashing the power of AI for data and cosmetic grading Robotics and AI deliver consistent grading and high-quality data, resulting in better trust in the secondary market Connected device supply chain data management includes understanding sources, combining data, securing it, and intercompany sharingFrequently asked questions answered
Chad and Allyson discuss a case study demonstrating how machine learning and predictive modeling can drastically reduce device theft, translating into substantial annual savings. The conversation delves into integrating fragmented internal data with external market insights to optimize device lifecycle management, sustainability, and operational efficiency. In this episode, you’ll learn about the importance of trust in the secondary market, the role of consistent cosmetic grading facilitated by AI, and the need for robust data strategies. You'll also hear practical advice from Chad Gottesman on how assessing and improving data capabilities, ensuring data security, and breaking down data silos underscores the potential of advanced analytics to drive growth and innovation in the connected device industry.
In this episode:Resources:
Chad Gottesman LinkedIn Allyson Mitchell LinkedIn Apkudo Apkudo's Podcast -
What if you could save money while being sustainable with your tech gadgets?
Covid and the impact on devicesEmployee purchase programs - what are the benefits?Breakage and other issues are reduced or improved with web-based, employee-purchased devicesRemote notifications, meeting employees “where they are”Cost savings, carbon reduction, reducing logistics strainRolling out a program, data sourcesAdvice for rolling out a program for your organizationFrequently asked questions answered
Tim Esteb, Director of Customer Success at Apkudo, joins Apkudo’s VP of Sustainability, Allyson Mitchell, to unravel the untapped potential of employee purchase programs for connected devices. From their inception in 2017, these programs have transformed the management of remotely connected devices, gaining even more significance during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this episode, we dive into the many perks for both employees and businesses, including affordable device access for employees and impressive reductions in device breakage and repair costs. This episode also explores how employee purchase programs promote sustainability—by extending device lifecycles, contributing to the circular economy.
Tim and Allyson also discuss how companies can customize these programs to meet the varied needs of their workforce.
In this episode:Tune in for an insightful episode on how to harness the full potential of employee purchase programs for your enterprise.
Resources:
Tim Esteb LinkedInAllyson Mitchell LinkedInEmail Allyson MitchellApkudoApkudo Podcast
