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Thursday, December 21, 2023

🚀 Coding and Management with Generative AI 🤖✨

Thrilled to dive into the transformative world of Generative AI in coding! 💻✨ As a Software Engineer, I've witnessed the game-changing impact of these intelligent systems on the way we write code. 🌐 Generative AI, powered by advanced algorithms, goes beyond conventional coding practices. It not only streamlines the development process but also enhances creativity by suggesting novel solutions to complex problems. 🚀✨

The ability of Generative AI to understand patterns and generate code snippets significantly accelerates development cycles, allowing us to focus on higher-level tasks and innovation. 💡💻 It's like having a coding companion that learns and adapts, making collaboration between humans and machines more dynamic than ever. As we embrace this paradigm shift, the benefits extend beyond efficiency. Generative AI fosters a culture of continuous learning, enabling developers to explore new languages, frameworks, and methodologies effortlessly. 🌐🔍

As a Technical Program Manager, leading a team that leverages AI in day-to-day operations is both exhilarating and strategically pivotal. The integration of AI into our workflow has not only propelled efficiency but also transformed the way we approach problem-solving and decision-making. Being at the forefront of this technological wave, I ensure seamless collaboration between our technical experts and AI systems, optimizing their symbiotic relationship. My role involves crafting strategies that align AI applications with our project objectives, fostering innovation, and maintaining a balance between human ingenuity and machine capabilities.

In this dynamic environment, I am the bridge between the technical intricacies of AI and the overarching goals of our projects. Facilitating cross-functional communication, I empower the team to harness the full potential of AI tools, creating a synergy that enhances productivity and drives continuous improvement. Moreover, I actively seek opportunities for professional development, ensuring that both myself and the team stay abreast of the latest AI advancements. This proactive approach positions me as a leader who not only embraces innovation but also guides the team in navigating the evolving landscape of AI, ultimately contributing to the success and future readiness of our projects.

Several AI-powered tools have emerged to assist developers in coding and design, streamlining processes, enhancing productivity, and promoting innovation. Here are some notable examples:

  1. TabNine:

    • Type: Code Completion
    • TabNine uses a machine learning model to provide highly accurate code suggestions as developers type. It understands context, making it a powerful and efficient coding companion.

  2. GitHub Copilot:

    • Type: Code Generation
    • Developed by GitHub in collaboration with OpenAI, Copilot suggests entire lines or blocks of code as developers write. Trained on diverse codebases, it's a groundbreaking tool for accelerating development.

  3. DeepCode:

    • Type: Code Review
    • DeepCode employs AI to analyze code and provide intelligent suggestions for improvements, catching potential bugs, security vulnerabilities, and style issues during the code review process.

  4. Sketch2React:

    • Type: Design to Code
    • For designers working with Sketch, Sketch2React utilizes AI to convert design elements into functional code components, fostering a smoother handoff between design and development teams.

  5. Runway ML:

    • Type: General-Purpose AI Toolkit
    • Runway ML is a versatile toolkit allowing developers to integrate various machine learning models into their projects, from image generation to natural language processing, without requiring in-depth ML expertise.

  6. Figma Auto Layout:

    • Type: Design Layout
    • While not strictly AI, Figma Auto Layout utilizes smart algorithms to automatically adjust design layouts based on content changes, reducing the manual effort in maintaining consistent designs across different screen sizes.

  7. Canva Pro:

    • Type: Design Assistance
    • Canva Pro incorporates AI-driven design tools, providing suggestions for layouts, color palettes, and fonts, assisting designers in creating visually appealing graphics and presentations.

  8. Adobe Sensei (within Adobe Creative Cloud):

    • Type: AI-Powered Creativity
    • Adobe Sensei, integrated into Adobe's suite of creative tools, leverages AI for tasks like image recognition, automated tagging, and content-aware fill, enhancing the overall design and creative process.


In our engineering journey, embracing Generative AI tools for programming has been transformative. These tools showcase the diverse applications of AI in coding and design, addressing various aspects of the development lifecycle and empowering teams to work more efficiently and creatively. My advice to the teams is twofold: First, treat AI as a collaborative ally, not a replacement. Leverage its prowess for code suggestions, but maintain your creative oversight. Second, understand the tool's strengths and limitations to optimize its usage. While it accelerates coding, critical thinking remains irreplaceable.

Security-wise, AI is a robust ally. Integrate it for anomaly detection, recognizing patterns indicative of potential threats. In stress testing, AI simulations mimic real-world scenarios, identifying system vulnerabilities and ensuring robust performance under pressure. My counsel is to embrace these AI applications judiciously, enhancing efficiency and fortifying our engineering endeavors. As we tread this innovative path, let's remain vigilant, striking a balance between AI-driven assistance and human ingenuity, ensuring a symbiotic relationship that propels us toward unprecedented engineering excellence.

I've also been excited to share to my fellow TPMs about integrating AI into our daily workflows can elevate our roles and boost project success. Embracing AI technologies offers a spectrum of benefits, from optimizing routine tasks to unlocking new dimensions of efficiency and innovation. I encourage all to explore AI's potential in your specific program management tasks. Start small, experiment, and gradually integrate AI solutions into your workflow. By doing so, we can collectively lead our teams into a future where the fusion of human expertise and AI capabilities propels us toward unparalleled project success.

Firstly, consider automating repetitive tasks. AI can handle mundane processes, freeing up valuable time for strategic thinking and complex problem-solving. This shift allows us to focus on the aspects of our projects that truly require human ingenuity. Next, leverage AI for data analysis. The power of AI in processing vast datasets enables us to derive actionable insights swiftly. By incorporating AI-driven analytics, we enhance our decision-making processes and gain a competitive edge in project management. Furthermore, AI-driven project management tools can enhance collaboration, streamline communication, and offer predictive analytics for better risk assessment. This not only optimizes project timelines but also ensures that we are well-prepared to mitigate potential challenges.

Four benefits of using AI in Project Management:

  • Enhanced Efficiency: AI streamlines project management by automating repetitive tasks, allowing teams to focus on high-impact activities. Time-consuming processes, such as data analysis and task prioritization, are expedited, leading to quicker project delivery.
  • Improved Decision-Making: AI-driven analytics provide real-time insights, enabling informed decision-making. Predictive analytics identify potential risks, allowing proactive measures. Managers gain a comprehensive view of project progress, resource allocation, and potential bottlenecks, facilitating more strategic and data-driven decisions.
  • Optimized Resource Allocation: AI tools analyze historical project data to optimize resource allocation. This ensures that the right resources are assigned to the right tasks, preventing overloading of team members and enhancing overall project efficiency.
  • Predictive Planning: AI enables predictive planning by analyzing historical project data and identifying patterns. This foresight helps in setting realistic project timelines, anticipating challenges, and adjusting strategies accordingly, contributing to a more agile and adaptive project management approach.

AI tools revolutionize program management, boosting efficiency and decision-making. Asana leverages machine learning to optimize task prioritization and workflow. Jira integrates AI for predictive analytics, identifying potential project bottlenecks. Trello employs AI for smarter task automation and resource allocation. Monday.com utilizes AI-driven insights to enhance collaboration and streamline project timelines. Smartsheet employs AI algorithms for data analysis, aiding in project planning and risk assessment. Clarizen harnesses AI for real-time project tracking, ensuring alignment with goals. By integrating these AI tools, program managers can elevate their capabilities, making informed decisions, and optimizing project outcomes.

Free AI utilities empower managers with quick solutions. ChatGPT streamlines communication through natural language processing, aiding in efficient team collaboration. Otter.ai employs AI transcription for meeting notes, enhancing documentation processes. Canva integrates AI for automatic design suggestions, facilitating visual content creation. Grammarly enhances written communication with AI-driven grammar and style suggestions. Google's AutoML simplifies the creation of custom machine learning models for specific business needs. Leveraging these free AI tools, managers can save time, improve communication, and streamline tasks, fostering a more efficient and productive work environment.

Excited about the future possibilities, I'm incorporating Generative AI into my coding and management toolkit at Expedia Group and beyond. Let's connect and discuss how this technology is reshaping the coding landscape. 🌐🔗

My IEEE Journey so far and way ahead - Anwar Jamal

In the dynamic realm of Software Engineering and Management, my professional journey has been marked by a passion for exploration, a love for meeting diverse minds, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As a dedicated traveler, I find joy in unraveling new cultures and connecting with people across the globe. Amidst this exciting journey, my focus on testing, quality, and cybersecurity has been complemented by my role as the founder of W3LC, a thriving forum for learners and tech enthusiasts.

For the past decade, my affiliation with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) has been an integral part of my growth story. From a humble start as a Student Member, I progressed through the ranks, earning the titles of Young Professional and, presently, a Senior Member. The IEEE community has not only been a source of cutting-edge research but a nurturing ground for personal and professional development. My involvement with IEEE has been multifaceted – from a diligent paper reviewer to a recognized presenter at multiple conferences. The honor of being an Ambassador for the IEEE Collabratec Platform and mentoring at an IEEE Hackathon added layers to my rich experience. Through IEEE, I have received opportunities for paper presentations and garnered well-deserved recognition, contributing to my journey's success.

As a Technical Program Manager at Expedia Group, IEEE has been my compass for cutting-edge research, invaluable networking, and industry insights. Engaging with conferences, publications, and Collabratec, I gain a competitive edge, ensuring my role evolves with the latest technological advancements. IEEE is my trusted ally in navigating the tech landscape. Navigating the vast landscape of IEEE, I have found invaluable resources through the Explore publication and Computer Society emails. These communications, covering themes like Technology Innovation, Job Alerts, and Standards Association updates, have been instrumental in keeping me abreast of the latest trends and insights in the tech industry. While I receive a plethora of emails, I selectively engage with those that align with my interests, skipping over some that may not directly contribute to my professional growth.

If you ask me what IEEE does well I would assertively say that IEEE excels in delivering comprehensive technical publications through platforms like IEEE Xplore, providing access to extensive research. The organization facilitates robust networking opportunities through global events, such as the IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation, fostering collaboration. IEEE's contributions to industry standards, notably the widely recognized IEEE 802.11 Wi-Fi standards, showcase its commitment to technological consistency. Educational resources, including the IEEE eLearning Library, support continuous professional development. Additionally, platforms like IEEE Collabratec contribute to building a strong professional community.

And if you ask me where IEEE can improve then I have some suggestions. Cost accessibility remains a challenge for some, with membership fees and event costs acting as barriers for some individuals. Continuous members of 3+ years should get additional discounts. Volunteering people should get additional discounts. Improving user interfaces, especially on platforms like IEEE Xplore, could enhance accessibility. Engaging younger members more effectively through interactive content, targeted outreach, and mentorship programs is an opportunity for growth. Clearer communication channels and information dissemination about events, updates, and membership benefits would enhance the member experience. Another help we can do is to have a limited earning potential as well eg presence of any paid activities. Ensuring global outreach by tailoring initiatives to diverse demographics is crucial for a truly inclusive IEEE. Addressing these aspects would contribute to a more dynamic and accessible experience for members.

My connection with IEEE extends beyond emails and publications. Regular visits to IEEE.org and active participation on IEEE Collabratec have been essential for accessing the latest research, publications, and engaging with the community. Attending the BVICAM Research Conference facilitated networking and exposure to cutting-edge research. Participating as a Hackathon Mentor through IEEE opened avenues for hands-on collaboration and skill-sharing. As a member for over ten years, I've witnessed the wealth of opportunities and knowledge that IEEE provides, albeit with a keen eye on refining its approach for the benefit of younger members. Reflecting on my evolving needs from IEEE, the organization has been a reliable companion throughout my career. While excelling in delivering technical publications and fostering networking opportunities, there's room for improvement.

To enhance the experience for younger members, I propose a strategic shift in content delivery. Utilizing more interactive and visual formats, diversifying topics, and personalizing communication can be key in capturing the attention of the tech-savvy younger generation. Emphasizing interactive platforms and optimizing social media presence, particularly on LinkedIn, would ensure that IEEE remains a relevant and engaging force in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. Accessing technical content primarily through IEEE Xplore, I acknowledge its importance in my professional life. However, I suggest exploring avenues such as podcasts to broaden accessibility and appeal to different learning preferences. Simplifying access to resources and incorporating smart suggestions in the input box can further elevate the user experience, aligning with modern navigation trends.

On average I get 1-2 emails daily from IEEE that help me explore content and learning materials from Explore publication, Computer Society delving deeper into specific themes. Featured article alerts cover Technology Innovation, Job Alerts, Standards Association updates, and Spotlights. Technology updates provide a quick overview of IEEE trends when time is limited. The Membership Benefits emails are particularly helpful, enhancing my overall experience with timely insights and updates. From Standards Association I can an email digest. Sometimes I get email from IESE Explore publications and sometimes calls for participation. I find these helpful. I regularly visit IEEE.org for the latest research, publications, and tech trends. I engage with IEEE.TV for informative videos on technological advancements. On IEEE Collabratec, I actively participate in conversations, finding it a valuable platform for networking, collaboration, and staying updated within the IEEE community. I follow IEEE and Computer Society both on LinkedIn. On YouTube I have subscribed to IEEE but I watch it very less. However, i think I'd be more inclined to explore IEEE's social media feed frequently if it featured concise tech updates, highlights from IEEE publications, and insider insights from industry experts. Instead of platform like Twitter, with its real-time nature and brevity, I find platform like LinkedIn or website of IEEE itself would be ideal for quick access to the diverse range of IEEE information I seek.

Active participation in professional activities and groups has been a cornerstone of my growth. Yet, cost and limited physical invitations have been barriers to deeper involvement. I propose more cost-effective membership options, enhanced event promotion, and embracing emerging technologies for interactive online engagement to overcome these challenges. As I continue to leverage IEEE for my professional journey, I extend my recommendations for recognition of research participants, transparent communication, and more physical speaking opportunities. These actions will not only enhance member engagement but also contribute to a stronger sense of community within IEEE. Further, I access technical content through IEEE Xplore, if I have access, examining abstracts to gauge relevance. For articles, I browse IEEE magazines to pinpoint key topics for deeper exploration. While satisfied with this approach, incorporating podcasts on select subjects could enhance accessibility. Exploring ways to broaden access to IEEE Xplore content or considering alternative platforms for wider reach would be beneficial for a more comprehensive and inclusive experience.

IEEE shapes my management skills by offering diverse perspectives through conferences, mentorship programs, and collaborative platforms like Collabratec. Engaging with industry leaders and accessing resources on IEEE enhances my decision-making and leadership abilities, contributing to my continuous growth as a dynamic manager. Watching global leaders share insights and experiences on IEEE platforms is inspiring. Learning from their expertise and diverse perspectives elevates my ability to manage technical programs at Expedia Group. It instills confidence, broadens my vision, and empowers me to navigate complex challenges with strategic finesse.

In conclusion, I express my gratitude to IEEE for its instrumental role in my career. I eagerly anticipate the implementation of these suggestions, propelling IEEE into a more dynamic and inclusive future. Here's to continued success, growth, and evolution within the vibrant world of IEEE. Eagerly anticipating further growth, my plans include leveraging IEEE resources for advanced insights, exploring emerging technologies, and fostering collaborative innovation. I aim to contribute more to the professional community, broaden my technical horizons, and enhance my role as a Technical Program Manager at Expedia Group. Exciting times ahead!

Saturday, January 14, 2023

Few Jokes on Unix Operating System and its functionalities *

I remember i wrote a joke on UNIX users a few years back in one of the blog. I was also sharing this with my colleagues in different offices i worked in. Few friends back there in Adobe system and Symantec used to love these kind of jokes. So i thought few more jokes that i have invented (or discovered or written ☺) since then.


The first one is:

Question - Why did the man using UNIX spend all day at the terminal?

Answer - Because he couldn't figure out how to use the "vi" command to exit!

This was a joke because of similar sound of bye and vi especially in some parts of the world.


Question - Why did the man using UNIX always wear sunglasses?

Answer - Because he was always 'ls'-ing in the sun!

Now this used the similarity between the word 'lying' and 'lsing'


Question - Why did the UNIX user wear a tie to the beach?

Answer - Because he wanted to be "root" in the office and "user" at the beach.


Question  - Why did the UNIX user put his computer in the freezer?

Answer - Because he wanted to "cool down" his "system".


Question  - Why did the UNIX user stare at the black screen for hours?

Answer - Because he was trying to "cat" the manual!


Please note that these are just jokes and should not be taken seriously. Unix users are just like any other group of people and should not be stereotyped or discriminated against based on their profession or preferences.

PS: The first of my such joke appeared here in 2013 - https://www.w3lc.com/2013/05/checking-file-system-directory-size-in.html



Warehouse management system and the Infoplus Cloud WMS

A warehouse management system (WMS) is a software application that helps companies manage and organize their warehouse operations. It provides tools for receiving, storing, and distributing products, as well as tracking inventory levels, monitoring warehouse activity, and generating reports. Some of the key features of a WMS include:

  1. Inventory management: A WMS allows companies to track inventory levels in real-time, so they always know how much stock they have on hand and where it's located. This helps prevent stockouts and overstocking, and helps companies make better decisions about when to reorder products.
  2. Receiving and putaway: A WMS helps companies process incoming shipments, including receiving and inspecting products, putting them away in the appropriate storage location, and updating inventory levels.
  3. Picking and packing: A WMS helps companies locate products quickly and efficiently when orders are received, and generate picking lists and packing slips to streamline the order fulfillment process.
  4. Shipping and tracking: A WMS helps companies prepare products for shipment, generate shipping labels, and track shipments as they make their way to customers.
  5. Reporting and analytics: A WMS generates a variety of reports and analytics, including inventory levels, order history, and warehouse activity. This helps companies make data-driven decisions about warehouse operations and improve overall efficiency.
  6. Automation: Many WMSs include tools for automation like barcode scanning, RFID tagging, and integration with other systems like ERP or accounting software, to automate many tasks in the warehouse.

A WMS can also include other features, such as cycle counting, kitting, and cross-docking. It can be used in different ways depending on the type of warehouse (for example, e-commerce warehouse, manufacturing warehouse, etc) and can be customized to fit the specific needs of a company.

Overall, a WMS is a powerful tool for managing warehouse operations, and can help companies improve efficiency, reduce costs, and provide better service to customers. With the help of a WMS, companies can gain better control over their inventory, streamline their order fulfillment process, and make data-driven decisions to improve overall warehouse performance.

Infoplus WMS (Warehouse Management System) is a cloud-based software solution that helps companies manage their warehouse operations. It provides tools for receiving, storing, and distributing products, as well as tracking inventory levels, monitoring warehouse activity, and generating reports. Some of the key features of Infoplus WMS include:

  • Automated inventory management
  • Barcode scanning and RFID tagging
  • Real-time inventory tracking
  • Shipping and tracking
  • Reporting and analytics
  • Mobile and offline capabilities
  • Integration with other software such as e-commerce platforms, accounting software, and transportation management systems.
Infoplus WMS is designed to be user-friendly and easy to use, and it can be customized to fit the specific needs of a company. It is also scalable, so it can grow with your business. With Infoplus WMS, companies can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and provide better service to customers. 

Thursday, September 29, 2022

Anwar's Learning Flow Taxonomy - A research oriented guide for school children and students preparing for competitions

 One effective way to study and organize study material is to use the "Pomodoro Technique". This involves breaking up study sessions into 25-minute intervals, with 5-minute breaks in between. During each 25-minute study session, focus solely on one task, such as reading a chapter or working on a set of problems.

Another way to organize study material is to create a study schedule that breaks up the material into manageable chunks. This can be done by creating a weekly or daily study plan, and allocating specific time slots for different subjects or topics.

Additionally, try to use different methods of studying such as flashcards, mnemonic devices, and summarizing the main points in your own words. Using different methods will help keep studying interesting and help you to retain information better. Another way to organize your study material is to use a visual method, such as creating mind maps, flashcards, diagrams or charts.

Lastly, to keep study material organized, consider using a system for keeping track of notes, flashcards, and other study materials. This could include using a physical binder or a digital tool such as a note-taking app.

Very similar to the importance of planning in above example, When researching for school projects or competitions, it is important to start by creating a research plan. This includes identifying a clear research question, outlining a research method, and determining what sources to use.

To find reliable sources, use databases and websites that are credible and peer-reviewed. Avoid using unreliable sources such as Wikipedia or personal blogs. It's also important to take detailed notes while researching, and to organize and cite your sources properly.

When writing your report or presentation, be sure to use your own words and to give credit to the sources you used. Avoid plagiarism by properly citing your sources.

Lastly, practice time management, try to work on the research in chunks and make sure to leave some time to proofread and edit your work before submitting it or giving the presentation.

Sharing here my research based snapshot of an ideal learning flow.