“Smart World” by David Leblanc is a book that aims to explain the characteristics of innovation and analyze its economic and political issues to a general audience. To write this book, the author, who is an expert in computer science, met with leaders of innovative companies to better understand their journey. Among the many companies mentioned in the book are Arduino, Rethink Robotics, iRobot, Airinov, and Decathlon. Through their stories, the author observes the impact of inventions on society and how they transform it. The attitudes and lifestyles of citizens are evolving with new technologies, crises, and changes brought about by progress. Using examples and graphs, the author also provides an overview of the major trends and movements of our time, which he considers to be new opportunities for innovators.
Some of the interviews are available in English on https://smartworldbook.com/extraits-des-interviews/.
A sample of the subjects from the book
- The Internet of Things (IoT) – The concept of connecting everyday objects to the internet, allowing them to communicate and share data with each other. This can include things like smart home devices, connected cars, and industrial equipment.
- Big Data – The vast amounts of data generated by connected devices and systems, which can be analyzed to gain insights and make better decisions.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) – The use of computer algorithms and systems to mimic human intelligence, such as machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision.
- Smart cities – The use of technology to improve the efficiency and livability of urban areas, such as smart traffic systems, energy management, and public services.
- Smart transportation – The use of technology to improve the efficiency and safety of transportation systems, such as connected cars, autonomous vehicles, and intelligent traffic management systems.
- Smart buildings – The use of technology to improve the energy efficiency, safety, and comfort of buildings, such as smart lighting, heating and cooling systems, and building management systems.
- Cybersecurity – The protection of connected devices and systems from cyber threats, such as hacking, malware, and data breaches.
- User experience – The overall experience of a user when interacting with a product or service, including factors such as ease of use, design, and functionality.
- Business models – The ways in which a company generates revenue and profits, such as subscription models, advertising, and data monetization.
- Innovation culture – The mindset and approach that a company takes towards innovation, including factors such as experimentation, risk-taking, and open communication.
David Leblanc
David Leblanc is an autodidact who learned computer programming in high school because he wanted to help the librarians of his school to manage the use of computer stations. Five years later, he launched a project of an autonomous underwater robot within his engineering school and led his team to the final of a competition organized by NATO that brought together prestigious European universities. As an IT engineer, he quickly made his mark and became a project innovation manager in a large French aerospace company. He then created the association Shy Robotics and its website on which he would share his passion. “Smart World” is the result of his experience, a deep research on innovation, and an incredible synthesis of encounters. The book also includes filmed interviews and complementary materials which can be found on smartworldbook.com/i and detailed articles on shyrobotics.com/i
