The Ironhack Blog

The secret is out - it’s time to announce our next Ironhack US campus! Since the early beginnings of Ironhack, our goal has been to be one of the most student success driven tech bootcamps at scale. Every decision we’ve made thus far has been with the student experience in mind. As we expand our presence further to continue changing lives and helping people build a fulfilling career in tech, we felt it was the right time to open a new campus in the US. Choosing our second US campus was no easy feat. After months of research, location sourcing, and making sure our next location has the best environment for our students, we’re happy to announce that Ironhack will be opening in Tampa,FL. We chose Tampa, FL as our next location because it’s one of the top emerging tech cities! The city is responsible for more than 25% of Florida's tech jobs and over 50 software and IT companies call Tampa home. According to the Tampa Bay Business Journal, more than 2,000 new tech jobs are expected this year making Tampa the place to start a career in tech! Not to mention that Tampa is a multicultural city with coastal views, great weather, big city life with small town charm, a passion for tech, and a thriving job market. It’s an environment that’s prime for developing a new career, networking, and achieving goals! To make sure that every student who enrolls in Ironhack Tampa has the freedom to learn from any location, we’re also introducing our Hybrid Campus Model. This means you can take Ironhack’s Remote-Live courses while having a dedicated hub to collaborate in a co-working space multiple times throughout the cohort. We partnered with DeskPass to give our students the flexibility of enjoying co-working spaces throughout Tampa to study, meet up with classmates and teacher assistants, grow your network, or simply grab a beer and have fun at our events. All while taking our remote-live online bootcamps from wherever you want. We've come up with this novel concept to support you with a community and give you the flexibility you need to fit your learning style. But the fun doesn’t end there! To celebrate the opening of Ironhack Tampa we’ve also partnered with our financing partner, Climb Credit to to give away $1,000 scholarships . This is the first of many scholarship contests that will be available throughout the year! In total, over 20 students in 2022 will win tuition assistance through various Climb + Ironhack scholarships. Keep an eye out for more opportunities! If you’re in the Tampa-St.Petersburg area you can take advantage of our Hybrid Campus and have the opportunity to win a scholarship for the bootcamp course of your choice. To take advantage of this scholarship giveaway make sure to review the scholarship rules and apply before February 25th, 2022. Scholarship winners will be chosen by ​​Climb and Ironhack based on the answer to the short answer questions in the application. Winners will be chosen by March 4th, 2022. Get the full details here. We’re so excited to have you at Ironhack Tampa! If you’re ready to build your career in tech in a city where you can be surrounded by innovation, culture, and a supportive community, now is the time to apply to the next Web Development, UI/UX Design, or Data Analytics cohort. See you in class! Apply Now to Ironhack Tampa

As we progress through 2022, it’s an exciting time to plan goals, form new habits, and build an actionable plan for achieving big milestones. If there’s one thing that the Ironhack team has learned from helping over 9,000 students break into tech it’s that goals and milestones are truly achieved when one takes massive action, learns new skills, and uses past experiences to move forward. This is why we pride ourselves on teaching students hand-on skills and assigning practical projects that build off one another. But when it comes to building a career in tech, learning the tools and technology to help you get the job is just the beginning. The journey to the top comes from hard work, consistency, resilience, and an amazing portfolio. To show you what’s possible when you put these traits into action, we’re showcasing the top 5 projects of 2021 from students at Ironhack US who took our Web Development and UI/UX programs. The projects shown below are listed in no particular order. Although we’re only listing 5 projects, it’s important to mention that we’re so proud of what all of our Ironhackers have developed for their portfolios. We can’t wait to see them take the tech world by storm! Without further ado, here are the top 5 Ironhack student projects off 2021: Cuddle 2 Death by Michael Power Cuddle 2 Death was created by Michael Power as part of one of his Web Development projects. We must admit that it’s definitely one of those projects that the Miami team loves revisiting. This “Street Fighter” inspired game brings us memories of button smashing afternoons in arcades. The contrast between cuteness and action makes this a project to remember. Check it out for yourself. Grove App redesign by Alejandro Terra Alejandro was part of our UI/UX program and for his final project he was paired up with Groove, a members only community and app that makes it easy to find hot spots when searching for nightlife venues. This was an exciting project to be part of because Groove was developed by two Ironhack Miami Alumni. His redesign included a 3D map of the neighborhoods with nightlife venues and an easy to follow details page for each venue. Alien on Earth by Carlos Cordon Carlos Cordon created this fun “Mario” inspired game for his 2 week challenge of our Web Development Bootcamp. What’s there not to love about a jumping little alien collecting coins! From the theme of the game, to the design, and overall usability, Alien on Earth is definitely a great project for the books! Play the game here. Natured Ease Website Redesign by Diane Morales For her final project, Diana was paired up with Natured Ease, a broad-spectrum hemp CBD company. She redesigned their website to be more user friendly and have a modern/minimalist aesthetic. Here’s what she has to say about her minimum viable product: “My MVP is to create a referral program for new and existing users to promote customer acquisition. In addition, I will revamp the Natured Ease CBD education on their website to ensure that users understand what they are buying and how it is superior to others in the market. This will bring Natured Ease into the blue ocean of high quality and high educational impact.” Let's Sip by Michael Porreca, Dragan Cicic and Dario Formoso Want to have fancy cocktails at your next dinner party but you’re not sure what to make? Well, this project by some of our Miami Web Development graduates will make finding cocktail recipes easier. Let’s Sip is a web app where you can create, find, and share drink recipes. It’s simple, to the point and easy to follow which is exactly what we need from recipe websites. Not to mention that they even added an exclusive Ironhack cocktail called the “Ironhack Mule.” Check out the recipe here. And that’s a wrap! We can’t wait to see all of the amazing projects the classes of 2022 will make. Ready to be an Ironhacker that will design or build the next big app, game, or website? Apply for the upcoming Web Development, UI/UX Design, or Data Analytics bootcamp cohort before classes fill up. See you in class!

Mariana is from Brazil but has been living in Amsterdam since 2019. She joined the Ironhack Full Stack Web Development bootcamp in May 2021 and we interviewed her about her experience during and after the bootcamp. You always dreamed of being a magistrate of a criminal court. Why did you change your mind? I have always considered myself a very fair person and wanted to use that to make my country a better place to live. But after doing a postgraduate degree in digital law, my curiosity to learn new things led me to do an online Udemy Bootcamp about web development. And after 10 years in law, I realized that I want to change the world in a different way. I started planning a career transition and, after finishing the online Bootcamp, I joined the Full-Stack Web Developer Program at Ironhack in May 2021, which I finished at the end of July. I'm an adaptable and focused person who likes to plan things carefully and keep them tidy. On a personal level, I love traveling and learning about different cultures. The Ironhack Experience My experience at Ironhack couldn't have been better. I learned a lot about development but I also developed other skills like communication. In addition, they helped and encouraged me during my job search; it’s very challenging and tiring, but it’s definitely worth it. Before Ironhack I used to be a lawyer in Brazil. My last permanent job was at the same law company that I had been working at since I left university. I kept my job when I moved to the Netherlands, but then I decided I wanted to have work experience here in the Netherlands and I looked for a company that outsourced catering services. I worked for a while as a dishwasher at the company where my boyfriend works as a developer; I discovered a new universe for myself and started to open my mind to new things. A year later, I started thinking more seriously about transitioning my career, so I took a Udemy course on full stack development to see if I would like it before investing in a bootcamp. I joined the Ironhack bootcamp later that same year. Why did you decide to make a career change? Because I wanted to have more space to explore my creativity.  In addition, technology is an area that grows every day and encourages a flexible work culture. I chose web development because I liked the idea of ​​being able to reach the whole world with my work and because of my personality, I like being able to test things I do before presenting them to other people. And being a lawyer has helped me focus on finding solutions and meeting deadlines. After Ironhack I’m currently at an agency and work on several projects, which helps to enhance and develop different skills. I found my job through Ironhack . When I finished the course, I was a little insecure about looking for a job, mainly because I was going to spend three months in Brazil at the end of the year, restricting my job options. But through a "Meet Our Partners" meeting promoted by Ironhack, I met Strangelove, which is a company that combines a remote-first approach together with flexible office spaces and I applied for the position through my career coach, Carla Martin. What I can highlight about my work is flexibility. Now I'm in Brazil, visiting my family, and I can still work. Expats certainly know that this is a huge advantage. And as a front-end developer, I find being able to build things that people in different places can use very rewarding. Advice for future Ironhackers Changing careers is certainly not easy, especially when you spent a lot of time in our previous role.  But it's never too late to pursue your dream and with effort and dedication, everything is possible. If you feel inspired by Mariana’s story and are interested in making a career change, check out our Web Development bootcamp and take the leap!

Today’s professionals have no qualms about changing jobs and careers as the need arises. Making a switch in your 30s isn't always hassle free, but it's also not a difficult thing to do and it generally has positive results. In fact, if you're thinking of changing path, it's common to feel reservations. However, most of these reservations are easy to exaggerate. For instance, here are a few common stereotypes about changing careers when you're more than 30 years old which can put people off: Your age might turn off some potential employers. Actually, most employers are looking for employees with past working experiences. It might be too late to try something new. That's nonsense. Those in their 30s blend experience and energy, and they still have at least an additional 30 years to build a new career. You’ve wasted time and resources investing in your previous role. On the contrary, you’ll discover that you can transfer multiple skills and experiences to your new position. Don't be a slave to your fears. Instead, read on to discover how you can leave your current job and begin a new career with confidence. Know the reason behind the career change Your parents, baffled friends, and surprised co-workers will want answers about the sudden change in heart, so take time to craft responses to the “Why?” question. Most importantly, these answers are essential for your own sake. While your friends may be concerned about your choice, there’s little doubt that they’ll be willing to support you. All the same, you need to approach this change with a clear mind. Perhaps your initial career change resulted from peer pressure, or you’ve become interested in an emerging field. Or you’ve experienced a significant perspective change that currently drives your thought processes. Ensure that you verbalize your specific reasons – they’ll come in handy, especially when you face challenges along the way. Master the language of your new career Try to learn the nitty-gritty of your new field. Job descriptions and profiles of professionals in your new industry could be an excellent place to start. Also, take note of keywords that appear repeatedly. If you don’t understand specific terms, take time to research them. Subscribe to relevant podcasts and blogs by thought leaders to learn more about your new field. These knowledge-sharing opportunities will help you master your craft’s language with ease. And if you aren't sure about your knowledge, invest in intensive courses to brush up. A few classes can make a huge difference to your confidence. Understand what you’re giving up Although changing careers is surprisingly easy, you need to keep a couple of things in mind when leaving an established role. For one, you need to be conscious of the sacrifices that you’ll have to make. You might need extra education for your new position, meaning that you may have to forfeit the regular income from your present job. So there may be a transitional period which, eats up some of your financial reserves as you build your skills. As you make the career switch, you should also prepare yourself to start your new journey from scratch. Don’t expect to begin from a place of influence, especially if you change fields. Such realities and trade offs shouldn’t discourage you from pursuing your dream. Just assess all the variable and be ready for a period of adjustment. If you're committed and talented, it won't last long. Make the most of your previous experience During your first days in a new job, we often feel like newbies alongside experienced colleagues. But don’t let your new circumstances intimidate you! While you have a lot of things to learn, don’t belittle what you already know. By your 30s, you've built a portfolio of personal experiences and skills that will come into play. Keep an eye on any transferable skills and any projects or challenges that taught you something valuable in the past. They could help you make significant contributions in your new field and make entering new workplaces easier. It also helps to perform an honest self-assessment to leverage your skills while mitigating your weaknesses. That way, you won't linger on your shortcomings. Instead, you can accentuate the positives as you start a new journey. Network effectively When you switch careers past 30 years old, it helps to build the right connections to find new roles. Reach out to your present networks and ask them to introduce you to potential connections in your new field. Always remember that effective networking is only possible in a win-win situation. Ensure that you offer value to your networks rather than simply asking for favors. For instance, learning relevant skills will impress contacts and show that you are engaged in yr new field. Do enough research, learn some skills, and build a reliable network that will help you make your way through your new surroundings. Consider lateral moves in your company It's not always necessary to completely overhaul your career. Rather than making a radical career switch, you could also investigate lateral employment migration within your company. This involves switching careers within a business whose culture, expectations, and processes you understand fully. In most cases, you can also maintain a steady wage as you change your career focus. At the same time, your current employers already have your track record and know what to expect from you. Your competency, professionalism, and work ethic will precede you and ease your transition into your new role. Obviously, lateral moves aren't always available. But you can often move from roles like marketing to coding, and companies will often provide support to do so. Build your skills to take a bold move forward A career change after 30 years old should not be a far-fetched idea. Today’s professional world accepts and often rewards individuals who choose to begin new careers. So be bold. There's no taboo against career switches any more. It's built into the system. Even so, you can still give yourself a major boost by optimizing your skills. At Ironhack, we support countless workers as they make career changes in their 30s. Take a look at our tech boot camps and give yourself a head start as you change track. There's nothing to fear. Dive in and turn your life around.

So you've committed to college - perhaps for a standard two-year course after school, or perhaps for a longer programme of training and education that will lead to a qualification. But the question remains - what exactly can I do after college? For many of us, college is simply a way to build on the foundation of learning that we achieved at school; we may not yet have a clear idea of what we want to do with our lives. And that's completely understandable, especially in a world that is changing so quickly and where new careers - and even industries - are constantly emerging. For example, jobs in cybersecurity, fintech, blockchain or cloud computing were probably never mentioned by your school careers officer - if those roles even existed at the time! So if you're wondering what to do after college, and perhaps getting a bit stressed at the thought, here are some things to bear in mind: Three key points when considering what to do after college 1. Education never stops In a rapidly evolving world, it makes sense to develop a 'lifelong learning' approach in order to develop and grow as fully as possible - perhaps in a certain specialization or as a generalist who can apply their skills to a number of industries, lifestyle situations and job positions. 2. You needn't feel too much pressure Most of us will have between 10-12 careers in our lifetimes that suit our changing lifestyle and needs - and this figure is based on the world as it stands now. The post-pandemic economy, in particular, looks very different to how it did just two years ago. Trends such as homeworking, flexible working, blockchain development, cloud deployment and broader adoption of the 'Internet of Things' (IoT) means that the working world in five years time will look very different again. The more flexible and responsive to change you can be - the better. 3. Tech will be the great enabler Most of the challenges currently facing the world - such as the need to limit climate change and protect the environment - will be primarily supported through new and developing technologies. This means that people with tech skills will be highly in demand. You might consider developing a coding specialization or look at the business end for lifestyle apps, but the important thing is to become familiar and comfortable with tech - and to build as many skills in the field as you can. Practical considerations to ask yourself If you currently don't have a clear path or intended route for your working life after college, then a good place to begin is by developing solid technology and digital skills that can be applied to any industry or business problem, and then asking yourself key questions that will help to pinpoint your ideal future direction. For example: 1. What is my purpose or vision? You may not have one yet, but you probably already have things that you are passionate about, or that guide you in a certain direction. Try creating a mood map that helps you to see certain trends or areas that light your spark and make you feel excited. Can you already think of ways that you could improve these areas, create new solutions or change the ways in which existing things are done - for the better? These could be potential areas for you. 2. Do you want to work for someone else - or for yourself? The modern digital world means that you don't necessarily need to work for another company to create your own fulfilling career path. You might be interested in becoming a freelancer, setting up your own side-gig or eventual business or taking a more independent route to career development? Or you may prefer the idea of working for a big company and learning the ropes on the job, to progress within a large firm with exciting career routes within a structured organisation. This is a useful area to consider while you are at college, and - again - you may choose to take a hybrid route, such as by beginning your career in a business to learn the ropes and the broader operating context, while you look to develop your own business on the side. The world is your oyster, especially if you have a strong technical skillset and the ability to develop digital tools that customers want. 3. What is your preferred mode of learning? Some people prefer traditional full-time college, but most now prefer the flexibility of intensive BootCamp style courses which can be taken at a time that suits and in a way that stimulates rapid knowledge acquisition in a certain target specialization - ideal for moving ahead fast in your chosen field, especially in rapidly growing areas such as web development, UX / UI, cybersecurity and data analytics. Once qualified the world is your oyster whether you prefer to develop your own app, become a tech apprentice, go straight into an employed role or set up your own digital business! The world of technology desperately needs ambitious, fast-learning and motivated individuals of all ages, backgrounds and experiences; in fact, diversity is key to a successful tech future. So whatever your interest, background and desired career goal, a foundation in tech and digital can get you there fast. Visit Ironhack today to learn more about our immersive technology bootcamps , delivered remotely, part-time or full-time on campus to suit, with full ongoing careers support.

You know what they say… New year, new me? And with 2022 here, we come with new beginnings. We are excited to announce that Ironhack is expanding our remote hybrid immersive courses across the US. We’re expanding our presence further to continue changing lives and helping people build a fulfilling career in tech. You’ll notice that our social media handles have all been renamed from IronhackMIA to IronhackUS . This will allow us to keep an inclusive community and hub for those taking part in Ironhack from all over the United States. If 2021 taught us anything, it’s the power of working and learning from anywhere in the world. At the same time, collaborating and building communities makes us stronger and more resilient. We believe the future of learning is all about combining both with technical skills. Our expansion will cover remote and hybrid programs focused on full-stack web development, UI/UX design, and Data Analytics in new US cities. With this expansion the Ironhack team looks forward to enriching local tech communities and becoming the best coding bootcamp in these new cities (announcement coming soon!). If you’re wondering which program is for you here are all the details: Ironhack Miami - This location is perfect for those located close to campus and looking to take part in in-person immersive bootcamps. Classes will be in person every day out of our US hub in the heart of Miami Tech. Mingle with like minded students and spend time networking and collaborating with our co-working space neighbors. Ironhack Remote - A fully remote online program where zoom is your virtual classroom. This allows you to take Ironhack from anywhere in the world to become that digital nomad you’ve always dreamed of. Ironhack remote online courses consist of live instruction all from the comfort of wherever you need to be. Ironhack Hybrid - Why not have the best of both worlds! Take Ironhack Remote-Live courses while having a dedicated hub in your city. Students will be able to collaborate in a co-working space multiple times throughout the cohort. The goal is to empower you to work together while providing you the community to grow your network, get immersed in the tech scene, and build your tech career. As we expand our coding bootcamp programs to new cities, you will find our emphasis on virtual collaboration as well as meetups with bootcamp graduates, speaker series with tech industry professionals, one-on-one time with our career services team, and much more. This gives us the ability to not only support students but also future employers and tech companies looking to hire local talent and give back to their community. Investing in local communities is key to upskilling and building a talent pipeline that empowers communities. Ironhack Miami will always be our flagship US campus. We love this beautiful city that created the blueprints for the future of Ironhack campuses. Rest assured, we will continue to operate in person coding bootcamp cohorts and community events out of our home at Building.co. At Ironhack, our goal is to be one of the most student success driven tech bootcamps at scale. We do this every day by putting our students first in everything we do. So, stay tuned for the next Ironhack campus announcement. It might just be in your city! Ready to enroll? - Applications are open for all of our 2022 courses. Apply today to get started on your new career in tech.

If you've heard of digital currencies such as bitcoin or Ethereum, then you've probably also heard of the blockchain - the global network of nodes, or computers, that allow digital currencies to be traded. On the blockchain, every single digital currency transaction is recorded on a public ledger. And this is where smart contracts come in, as the mechanism that governs this decentralized, cutting-edge form of currency. If you're asking 'what is a smart contract?' then you're certainly in good company as it's been one of the most commonly asked questions in the digital space over the past year. So let's deep dive into what smart contracts are and how they are used. What is a smart contract? A smart contract allows digital currencies - or other forms of digital contract and transactions - to be self-executed on a computer-controlled trusted network. When were they invented? Smart contracts were invented in 1994 by a cryptographer, Nick Szabo, as a means of recording digital contracts and their data in code. When certain conditions were met, the contract was activated. The new approach acted to remove the need for third-party, trusted bodies - such as financial institutions. The only issue was that the blockchain didn't exist in 1994 - even though the theoretical concepts were in place. By 2009, blockchain was in place thanks to Bitcoin. And several years later, other digital currencies such as Ethereum were in circulation, with smart contracts coming into play by 2015. Key things to know about smart contracts 1. Smart contracts are written in computer code data 2. They operate on the blockchain, meaning that their data are stored publicly in an accessible ledger and on a permanent basis. 3. The contracts can be held between two or more people or entities. 4. Smart contract transactions are processed via blockchain, which enables them to be automatically sent without the need of a third party to administer the transaction. 5. The agreed transactions will only take place when the agreed conditions of the contract are met. What can smart contracts be used for? The scope of smart contracts is as broad as the scope of blockchain itself - vast! The most obvious example might relate to digital currencies, but smart contracts can also be used for the sales of physical goods, where the transaction is being delivered via a digital currency. Here's an example: Say Duncan wants to buy Scott's car. They make an agreement using bitcoin and a smart contract. The smart contract is between Duncan and Scott and it says 'when Duncan pays Scott 500 bitcoin, Scott will transfer the car ownership to Duncan'. Once the agreement is in place, it is permanent and cannot be changed. Duncan can safely pay Scott the agreed price of sale without any trust issues. No third parties are needed - such as banks, brokers or legal advisors. No commissions are paid, no delays result and there are no third-party administration issues. Once the condition of the contract is met - e.g. the payment is initiated, the contract is automatically executed. Already, smart contracts are being used for insurance sales, financial services and trades, legal processes, credit approval, crowdfunding arrangements and supply chain management. Businesses can run their payroll using blockchain smart contracts and governments can manage voting processes fairly and accurately. These are just some of the myriad examples that show the huge scope and application of this fascinating technology. How blockchain makes smart contracts possible Trust Because smart contracts cannot be changed once agreements are in place, they are inherently trustworthy. This is because they are recorded in the shared database of the lockdown which is owned by a vast number of people (decentralised) and not under the control of any entity, government, company or individual. Enhanced cybersecurity Its decentralised nature also means that it's basically impossible to hack the blockchain, vastly improving cybersecurity. For a hacker to attack the blockchain itself or its smart contracts it would need to be able to successfully hack into over 50% of the nodes on the system. How are smart contracts initiated? Smart contracts can be built across a variety of blockchain platforms, such as NEO and Ethereum. They are developed in the platform's coding language. this is just one reason why the demand for coders is rocketing as the world locks on to the vast potential of digital currencies, blockchain and smart contracts. How smart contracts could change our world Because smart contracts remove the need for third parties, there are potential benefits to be had. For example: Customers will no longer need to pay commission to intermediaries. Consider how many third parties can be involved in complex transactions, such as a house sale, and you can see just how much scope there is to strip out third-party middleman costs and time. Transactions can be far quicker without middlemen and their own checks and processes Fraud is reduced and cybersecurity improved thanks to the decentralised, permanent and open-access nature of blockchain. Find out more Interested in learning more about data, cybersecurity, smart contracts, coding, UX / UI and a multitude of other digital topics that will help to advance your career? Ironhack can help you to reach your goals faster - with accelerated bootcamps delivered by experts in the field . Learn flexibly, using the mode and pace that suits you, and position yourself for an exciting new career in an industry where businesses need skills and talent - fast!

Cryptocurrency, a fascinating piece of technology, is considered a potential curse on bankers as it has the potential to render them obsolete. The way the internet of things (IoT) and data technology, revolutionized information, cryptocurrency does the same for money. Criminals have taken advantage of this platform to commit crimes against innocent internet users. Transactions are free of charge, and users enjoy a lot of anonymity. You can still lose your password or money by paying the wrong person. A computer security course can help you avoid becoming a victim of cybercrime. Cryptocurrency: The End of the Money? Money can be described as the catalyst for the best and worst human endeavors; it has been vital in global economic growth. The recent invention of Bitcoin, the first cryptocurrency, has made money to exist virtually or digitally, and each transaction is secured using cryptography. Digital money can be created, stored, and exchanged online, just like regular money. Unlike ordinary money, which bankers create, cryptocurrency is based on mathematical truths that stand alone. In the real world, you rely on 3rd parties like banks to keep track of money as it moves from one account to another, and they usually charge handsomely for that. These middlemen are removed, making cryptocurrency cheaper. A cryptocurrency like Bitcoin has an open-source code that is readable and shareable. Anyone or everyone can use the code; any change made to it is open and transparent. The deregulation of cryptocurrency attracts criminals who enjoy being anonymous while defrauding someone. Types of Cryptocurrency Fraud that Affect Cybersecurity Fake money can be invented but creating a counterfeit cryptocurrency is impossible. This may be the biggest win cryptocurrency has against money. Every system has a flaw that criminals can exploit. No one person, institution, or government keeps tabs on any transactions made on the cryptocurrency platform. Activities like money laundering are easily carried out without governments noticing. The anonymity found when using cryptocurrencies has boosted businesses that involve illegal drugs and pirated items. Businesses that accept bitcoins as a form of payment also face risks that could affect their daily operations. These information technology security concerns may arise from: A ransomware attack: Imagine your files or database being encrypted, rendering systems and files that rely on them unusable. For them to be decrypted, you have to pay a ransom, probably a large amount of money. When payment is made through banks, the malicious actors are traceable. The only perfect way to stay hidden is to receive the ransom in the form of cryptocurrency. The anonymity nature of cryptocurrency makes it impossible to associate a person or a group with such an attack. Ever since cryptocurrencies came to life, ransomware attacks and payments have risen. After a cyber-attack, companies have paid up to $11 million to anonymous addresses. Investment scams: Cryptocurrency came in with a big buzz; everyone was excited about this new form of currency. Scammers got wind of this and started luring victims into fake investment opportunities. Websites promising huge returns from investing in crypto are created. Supposedly, the more money you put in, the bigger the return. But when you want to withdraw your profits, the site asks for more crypto from you. In the end, you get nothing back; usually the website becomes disappears after a while. Giveaway scams: Cryptocurrency investors can be duped into sending a certain amount of crypto to an address to receive a giveaway prize from a major cryptocurrency exchange. Crypto transactions are irreversible, and as soon as you realize it is a scam, it is too late. Fake mobile software: Scammers have developed apps and uploaded them on mobile stores; they are meant to trick crypto investors. They can ask you to invest your crypto for fake returns. Although these apps usually are brought down, it still gets away with your data and crypto. Crypto-jacking: This is when your computer is used to mine cryptocurrency without your authority. A hacker can persuade you to click a malicious link that puts crypto mining codes in your operation system. The link can also lead to a website or an ad that contains a JavaScript code that will execute and steal your data once loaded in your browser. Enhancing Information Technology Security Crypto cybercrimes have recently skyrocketed since this type of currency provides the kind of camouflage criminals are attracted to. Even though crypto is a game-changer, its security has to be enhanced to protect its users and their personal data. By visiting IronHack and taking a course in computer security, you will be able to protect yourself and others from any form of cyber-attack. The course could also be a career changer for you since there is a current need for cybersecurity professionals. Any crypto user has to check for red flags before putting money on a website in the name of crypto investing. Having prior knowledge of cybersecurity is vital, it becomes crucial when using platforms like Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. Even though the cryptocurrency has high levels of anonymity, do not forget to report any fraud or other suspicious activities involving cryptocurrency to bureaus such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). With emerging technologies like cryptocurrency, some knowledge from cybersecurity will help you enhance your virtual protection. A school like Ironhack offers courses in cybersecurity, web design, UI/UX, and data analysis. Check them out!

Sectors such as health, travel, and hospitality have recently taken a keen interest in data analytics (DA). Data collected by such sectors are used to draw conclusions and make crucial decisions. Being a data analyst does not require a four-year stay in a university. What is Data Analytics A lot of raw data cannot be consumed by human beings; they require the help of algorithms that can make sense of them. Data Analytics are responsible for coming up with the algorithms. For example, health records can undergo data analytics procedures to improve the services offered at the hospital. For the shopping industry, it is a powerful tool that reveals metrics and trends associated with customers. This mass of information assists shop owners to improve their customers' experience when shopping. For manufacturing companies to work at peak capacity, data collected from the runtime, downtime, and work queues of machines are analysed. Information collected from the data is then used to increase the company's efficiency. The data analyst points out parts that are slow during production. The gaming industry also requires data analytics to make reward schedules for active players. Data is crucial for content creators; it helps understand their audience. The data can help creators re-organize their content so as to retain or increase their followers on the social media. Data analytics is a science that will assist you in making conclusions about any information. Choosing to work as a data analyst, you will develop systems that you will also have to deploy to improve work flow in a company. You will be responsible for the tools used collect, extract, and categorize data so that it is analysed more efficiently. Ways to Start Learning Data Analysis Skills Professional data analysts handle data in different ways, but ordinarily, a data analyst has some must-have skills. They include: R or Python statistical programming Data visualization Machine learning Microsoft Excel Structured Query Language (SQL) Critical thinking and problem-solving For now, the terms named above are daunting, and it’s wise to start everything from scratch. Data Analytics is a rich subject that involves everything from information perception to information control. First, start mastering common skills such as Python, SQL, MS Excel, and machine learning. But you remember there is no ideal approach to start with; it all comes down to your studying style. A lot of learning material to choose from are provided when you sign-up for the Data Analytics course at Ironhack. Having some business abilities like relational abilities, logical critical thinking, and imaginative reasoning are mandatory for a data analyst. These business gifts are essential; you will often find yourself applying them when concluding your data analysis Without the required information, your work as a data analyst is absolute. Gather the starting information, depict it, and look at its quality to ensure it has the information you want. Your data source should be well defined having relevant to your investigation. Your source could be the government or non-profits; they usually have published data. After getting the data, try to perform data modelling and evaluation on it. It assesses different connections between different points on the data. You must focus on your objective to come up with a suitable model. In the beginning, it won't be easy getting the correct technique, but with time, after studying and experimenting, you will be a guru. At this point, you will discover a lot about your data, and you will be able to generate the last report on it. Why You Should Study Data Analysis Skills? You may still wonder whether taking an analytic data course is worth it. For starters, an anticipated growth for data specialists is expected. According to the Bureau of Labour Statistics, data analysts’ positions will increase by 20% by 2028. That is a lot of vacant positions, and taking a course on data analytic will at least guarantee you a piece of the pie. Companies require data analysts because they lean on the information collected from their customers to make decisions. These decisions are used to increase the company’s sales. After collecting and analyzing the information, data analysts often have a presentation in a board room to explain their findings. Money is always the biggest motivator for a career change, and picking an analytic data job will not disappoint you. PayScale, a survey company, reports that an entry-level data analysis job can earn you a salary of between $50,000-80,0000 annually. But after some experience in the field, you will be able to earn up to $110,000 annually. These figures may change depending on the company; still, be assured you will not be underpaid. Find a course for you If you are keen on taking a Data Analytics course to join the rush of information assortment visit the Ironhack website. You will get everything you need to start studying data analysis. You can choose to take a full-time or part-time course. The platform also offers online or in-person interactions studying on one of their campuses. After finalizing your course, you can work as a junior data analyst, but it depends on your previous work experience.

For people who are interested in a cybersecurity career or those who want to develop their skills in the industry, a short bootcamp is a good place to start. These carefully constructed programs allow students to deepen their general knowledge of online safety, as well as learning more about specific threats such as Trojan viruses, identity theft, malware and more. You will be trained in building cyber resilience into business systems and be informed of new developments in the world of internet security. Students can choose to graduate within three or six months. Whichever option you prefer, you’ll leave with the expertise necessary to minimize the risk of cyber-attacks. Whether you want to develop your existing talent or boost your career with new skills, continuing your education can prove to be a life-changing experience. Here’s a closer look at the best ways to start learning cybersecurity. Consider what you want to achieve This part of your learning journey will involve asking questions about yourself and doing a little research. Think about the level of experience you currently have in tech security or IT and which skills you’d like to enhance. Find out where you can get more experience, and, if necessary, look for internships where you can learn on the job. Readiness to study and improve will come across as impressive to future employers. As a result, they are more likely to offer you a permanent post when the time comes. Think about your personal strengths It’s often said that in order to understand the threat environment, cyber safety engineers need to think like a cybercriminal. Whilst that’s true, there are an equally essential range of soft skills that will serve you well in the industry. Primarily you should be willing to regularly review and relearn your craft, as the field of information security changes constantly. Furthermore, you should have solid customer service and presentation skills, as communicating effectively with all levels of staff is essential. This ability makes it easier to present complex information in accessible terms to colleagues and management. Think about your professional strengths Looking back on your employment history and previous experience can be helpful when evaluating what you do well at work. Be honest with yourself regarding what your preferences are. From planning to networking and policy creation, there are many positions on offer in IT security, so it’s advantageous to know which one is right for you. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, read more about that area and use any educational resources available if you start a course of study. Take a course to plug your knowledge gaps A college degree can be helpful, but that level of qualification is not necessary for a career in cybersecurity. If you are prepared to work on open source projects, take short courses to upskill yourself and attend conferences, your career options will soon expand. From large companies to government departments, most employers expect potential recruits to have studied computer security in some way. That can get your foot in the door, even if you don’t have a background in tech or IT. Introductory courses designed to get you into IT security in months are ideal. Studying in this way builds up your confidence and skills, as well as providing an insight into the world of online security. Choose a modular course to see difficult concepts broken down into manageable sections. Get a head start by learning from home A huge number of people employed in the digital industry work from home. They need to be self-starters with the ability to remain on task, despite the distractions around them. Online study teaches you to blend work and home commitments successfully, before starting a job. This means that once you’re employed or in business, maintaining your focus, compartmentalizing your day and getting the job done is second nature. With this ability under your belt, carving out a career in online security from the comfort of home is a real possibility. Reach out to the cybersecurity community online Getting in touch with people who are currently employed in the industry is a smart way of making useful connections. There is a huge online community of network security workers, many of whom are happy to give advice and tips on what interests you. Furthermore, most towns and cities have in-person groups and associations that hold regular meetings. By joining up or just going along to meet people, you can gain access to a network of projects and contacts – all of which will be advantageous in future. Widen your knowledge of IT and programming Experienced cyber engineers gain an intrinsic understanding of systems. To become more competent yourself, practice asking the questions they would when approaching an IT problem. Think about what the designer had in mind when creating a system, the type of losses which could occur and how an issue might arise. Another fundamental proficiency is programming and the languages this process uses. An expert level of knowledge can take years to attain, but in the early stages of your career, even a basic comprehension of programming languages will be beneficial. As so much of modern life is based around the digital world, understanding and tackling the complex challenges of cybercrime is vital. A cybersecurity course will not only improve your personal safety online, but allow you to identify the threats which could harm your business or your employer’s business more effectively.

Technology is undoubtedly the biggest enabler of our modern society, and the speed at which the digital landscape is evolving is quite dizzying - throwing up a huge array of fantastic business and career opportunities for those with the skills, will and motivation to succeed. Why study user experience and interface design? Although the terms are used interchangeably UI defines the appearance of a digital product, and UX defines how each of the elements interacts to deliver a seamless, integrated user experience. Often, the two key deliverables are handled by the same digital developer. The designer will first carry out user testing to ascertain what customers want and then produce visual mockups and wireframes to propose solutions. These will be tested and user feedback will be gathered to inform next step changes and to finalise the look, feel and functionality before the system goes live. How can I best become a UX and UI design expert? There are two main routes to take, whether you prefer academic study or on-the-job development (or potentially, a blended approach.) For example: Traditional college routes You could attend a traditional college or university course and devote several years to studying the topic via a traditional, lecture-based programme, with modules delivered by semester. There are pros and cons to this approach. For example, the university approach may allow you to combine different subjects to prepare yourself for the world of work and to enjoy a typical student experience. However, it can be a slower approach to achieving your goals and will not necessarily position you for a job at the end - particularly in the digital industry which is constantly changing and where university programmes may not be completely up to date with what the market needs. If academic progress and attainment is your primary goal, this could be a good, traditional route, but if you are keen to move fast and to put your newfound skills into immediate, hands-on and practical use, a more targeted approach to a qualification could be better for you. On-the-job If you are already in a digital role or a role with the potential to grow your digital capabilities, then on-the-job study could be an option for you. You could do this via an apprenticeship for example, and combine training with hands-on work, or you could ask your employer to sponsor you to train on a targeted digital development course as part of your own personal development. There are various advantages to this approach. Firstly, you will already be in a role and have the ability to put your new-found skills into action immediately. Secondly, the training that you undertake will allow you to progress your career with your current employer. A bootcamp When you want to get to grips with UX UI fast, a targeted bootcamp may well be the ideal way to achieve your goals. This mode of study is ideal for rapidly gaining the skills, knowledge and expertise that you need. For example, if you choose to do a UX UI BootCamp with Ironhack you can study everything that you need to become an effective UX UI designer in as little as nine weeks on the full-time programme, or in 24 weeks on the part-time programme. You also do not need prior IT experience and you will study everything that you need to cover, such as user experience, Figma, research, user interface and design thinking, positioning you strongly for a new career once you graduate from your boot camp. The Ironhack UX UI BootCamp is also extremely flexible and can be taken at a campus, either part-time or full-time or via remote study, depending on your needs. It is delivered by highly experienced and knowledgeable experts in the field, with ongoing careers support to help match you with the right employer and right role once you have successfully completed your course. This is the newest form of learning and it is ideally suited to match the needs of the technology world where change is rapid and constant. By learning in an intensive and immersive BootCamp environment you can be sure that you are learning the latest skills and abilities -driven by what employers actually want to hire for. The resulting match is perfect for accelerating your career or for leapfrogging you into a new career without delay or the expense of a traditional 3-4 year higher education course. Do your research! UX UI design courses vary greatly, so it makes sense to do your research to find out which one will be right for your needs. Ask yourself questions such as: What is my desired outcome? For example, a certain focus area of learning, a qualification, a rapid route to knowledge and so forth. Does the course that I'm interested in offer the right level of flexibility? For example, can I study at home or around my other commitments or do I need to attend a campus? What are the financial implications of the course that I am interested in? What are the career prospects associated with the study method I'm interested in? Does the course provider offer support to help me find work as a UX UI designer? What have other students said? Consider these factors carefully to make the right decision about how to best learn UX UI design and accelerate your own career and prospects!

User interface design is the process of planning and designing the website pages that a user will see and interact with. This is referred to as the interface. Building a seamless, logical interface so that the user has a comfortable experience is crucial to the success of any website or app. The overall layout should be clear and easy to navigate. UI and UX designers work on designing these aspects - the terms are What is UI sketching? It is the process of drawing - either digitally or on paper - how the user interface for a website or app should look. This helps teams to visualize a project and ensure that everyone is on the same page. It also helps with problem-solving at an early stage of development. UX design beginners can and should take part in the process - it can be a great form or research into the user journeys that will be available on a website. Planning the layout and overall design of an app or website puts the creators in the mind of the users. Understanding the purpose of the product is crucial as this will inform the various user journeys that may be required. UI sketches should be quick and dirty, essentially. They are not full blown plans, rather, they quickly represent ideas and let teams communicate effectively about the direction a project should move in. This process usually comes at the ideation phase of website development - this is in the early stages before development has actually begun. Tips for planninguser interface design If you wish to plan a new website or app digitally, one very useful tool for user interface design is a platform called Sketch. It is a platform that lets teams collaborate easily, share ideas, and brainstorm how the final product should look. It opens up the design process and gives everyone strong impression of how the project could potentially appear to the end user. To get started with this tool you can sign up for a free 30 day trial on their website and test out the program. There is also a very thorough user guide and documentation available for users. Other tips to start using Sketch include the following: Sign up for one of the platform's courses. There are a few different courses available for beginners, as well as for more experienced users. These include Sketch Master, Design+Code and Learn UX. Explore the platform's various plugins that are available. This will give you an insight into the tasks that can be performed and the vast range of functions that are possible with the tool. Sign up for an account and create a workspace for your team. This is one of the best ways for beginners to get started. Once you have a workspace set up, you will be able to play around with the tool and start planning projects. Assign one team member as an admin and any others as editors. Each workspace requires at least one editor. Roles can be changed if needed once the workspace set up is complete. Invite people to your workspace and let the collaboration begin. Members can be assigned either 'edito'r or viewer 'roles'. Where possible, it is good to get all team members on board and contributing to the design process on the platform. It is a very collaborative tool and it's good to have all hands on deck. This program can also be used for general website and app updates, not just for the launch of a new project. Lastly, take a look through all of the platform's educational material. There is a lot of information about protoyping, importing and exporting files, designing, and plugins. It is good to explore all possiblities and functionalities The main goal with this process is to ensure that everyone is on the same page in terms of layout and design, as well as to spot potential pitfalls before development begins. It is likely that a website or app will require many different iterations along its journey, regardless of any initial plans and goals. The opportunity to plan, test and retest is crucial in the web development process, and UI design places a huge emphasis on this. Other important aspects of UX design include the principles of user-centred design, and conducting research to find out user needs. Design thinking is often used in user experience design. Lean and agile methodologies are also important in the UX design process. Benefits of planning by hand The main benefits to using this process when planing the interface include speed and making sure everyone is aligned. It is the quickest way to visualize and communicate ideas among developers, designers and project managers and a great way to make sure everyone is on the same page. It also helps teams to anticipate issues, whether it's with the implementation of a particular feature, or a gap in the user journey. Once the plan is in place, the next steps are wireframing, prototyping and coding the website. The fine details of appearance or functionality are not urgent at the planning phase. Keeping things broad and general supports the creation of new ideas and allows for lots of 'outside the box' thinking, which is very valuable in web development. Is this not just wireframing? Although wireframing is also a fast planning process in web development, it is more focused on the placement of certain elements and the overall website hierarchy. It goes a little beyond the initial plans and is less focussed on the user experience. For a user experience designer, how the user navigates the site is crucial, rather than how the various pieces of the website sit and function together. It is more about the journey and user's perspective than the behind-the-scenes functionality. User Experience Bootcamp Beginners can learn about the entire process of designing for user experience in Ironhack's UI Design Bootcamp . The course covers everything from theory and methodologies to practical implementation of skills. It will leave you well-equipped to start a new job as a designer with skills in Figma, design thinking, agile methodologies and user research. Interaction design principles and information architectures are also covered. Building your first interactive prototype is part of the Bootcamp and this involves lots of practical skills application.

Cryptocurrency markets seem unstoppable at the moment, with new and established products growing 24/7. The blockchain lies at the heart of this relentless development, which is challenging traditional banking infrastructure and offering exciting new opportunities. But what is the blockchain and why is it so crucial to the direction of economic development? Let's explore more and answer some fundamental questions to build a deeper understanding of how the crypto-economy functions. What is Blockchain Technology? At its simplest, a blockchain is a shared ledger which records transactions and tracks assets while building trust among users by making every operation transparent. Most blockchains function as distributed databases that are shared by several nodes in a computer network. As a database, it stores electronic information in encrypted form that is virtually incorruptible. When changes are made to this database, the whole distributed chain is updated so that the information presented to the users is always accurate and up to date. This allows the blockchain to act as a real-time economic ledger that stores encoded data of financial transactions. But it can be used to store other data as well. A key fact is that no one person owns a blockchain. As mentioned before, it runs on interconnected computers. Multiple nodes host a blockchain simultaneously, and anyone with an internet connection can access its data. A Brief History of Blockchain Technology In economic terms, the idea behind the blockchain is to enable transactions with less friction and more trust between sellers and buyers. This concept was first described in 1991 by Stuart Haber and Scott Stronetta, who sought a practical solution for time-stamping digital documents such as orders and invoices. In 2004, Hal Finney introduced the concept of Reusable Proof of Work (RPoW), which developed into the digital cash we know today. RPoW later developed into RSA-signed tokens that one could transfer to other people, solving the problem of double-spending. Later in 2008, Satoshi Nakamoto developed the concept of a distributed blockchain that allowed the addition of blocks to an original chain without needing signatures of the trusted parties. This liberated the technology to function as a currency delivery system, and it now forms the backbone of the cryptocurrency sector. Components of a Blockchain A blockchain consists of different components which combine to keep the system running. These include: Nodes — Nodes are devices that form the basic blocks of the blockchain architecture, with each node having an independent copy of the complete blockchain ledger. Blocks — The data structures used to keep transactions well distributed among nodes in the network. Transactions — These are records or information that are encoded onto blocks of the blockchain, describing any changes or additions. Chain — The connection of several blocks in a specific order, providing a record of how the ledger has developed. Miners — The means of adding new blocks. Before they can be added to the blockchain, blocks undergo a verification process. Miners are the specific nodes that conduct these verifications. Consensus protocols — A set of rules and regulations governing the operations in a blockchain. How Does the Blockchain Work? A standard blockchain consists of transactions (or changes) and blocks. Each block has a cryptographic hash that is unique and links them to the previous change. Every block also has a storage capacity, which, when closes when filled and is linked to the previous filled block. All participants on the blockchain can see the block, and they can verify or reject changes. The entries from these changes are recorded into the block as a ledger and secured by cryptographic technology. Blockchains can record all sorts of information, but transactions are the most common, and Bitcoin is their most famous application. When a transaction happens: It is transmitted to the peer-to-peer computer network scattered all over the world These computers solve the equations required to validate the transaction Upon confirmation, the information is clustered into a block, chained to a previous and next transaction When full, the block chains to another full block Benefits of Blockchains Blockchains revolutionized the field of finance, with a range of potential benefits. Most importantly, blockchain-based currencies are seen to be more secure than storing cash digitally and physically. Consider a case where a hacker wants to hack into Bitcoin and steal some crypto. Once they alter their own copy of the blockchain ledger, it becomes different from the copies in other nodes. As a result, the hacker stands out during the cross-referencing of entries, which raises an alarm in the cybersecurity network of the chain. That's a big plus for banks, insurance companies, and individuals sending money to each other. But there are other advantages, too: You can minimize costs with the peer-to-peer network that cuts out intermediaries and saves time Blockchains can often be fast and convenient Blockchains are transparent, since each transaction has a link to transactions before and after in the block. This transparency builds trust in networks or currencies, adding to their value It provides a secure and private alternative to banking, avoiding reliance on corporations or government intervention Drawbacks of Blockchains However, we need to be realistic. Blockchains also come with some negatives. For instance: Cryptocurrencies have historically been used in illegal activities, making them unappealing for some users and posing problems for governments Mining involves the use of expensive tech which also has a huge environmental impact There are storage limitations, and no chain is limitless Conclusion: Get to Know Crypto Tech with Ironhack Blockchain is the foundation of the cryptocurrency world, providing a safe, secure, and transparent record of all transactions. As we've seen, this technology has huge potential, with cybersecurity advantages, transparency and efficiency benefits. And this has also meant that a huge tech industry has arisen to build crypto apps and infrastructure. Whether you want to know more about crypto to inform investments or you're keen on coding in the sector, Ironhack's bootcamps can help . We're on the cutting edge of tech, so get in touch and book a course today. It's an exciting area, with so much to discover.

Web development is an ever-growing field with evolving coding languages and libraries. The basics, however, remain the same and are essential for anyone who wishes to embark on a career in this field. Web development is split into front-end and back-end developing and it is worth understanding the requirements for both, no matter what type of developer you wish to become. Those that can code and work on both front and back -end projects, however, are known as full stack developers and people in these roles require in-depth knowledge of both areas. Getting Started Developing is a vast field. There is a lot to learn and most of it is best learned by doing. It is good to approach the knowledge in a structured way, going step by step as you go. Understanding the basics of how websites are constructed and work is a great place to start. The first coding languages to focus on when studying front-end developing are HTML, CSS and Javascript. If you take a Bootcamp course with Ironhack, you will study HTML and the basics of CSS at the beginning of the course, along with responsive web design and JavaScript basics. Theory aside, the best way to start learning web development is by putting your new coding knowledge into practice. Developing a game using JavaScript is part of the first module in Ironhack's course. This will truly cement your skills and knowledge of the topic and is the best way to develop your ability. The opportunity to test, re-test, fail and succeed while practicing code is the quickest way to understand how all the different components of web developing fit together. The front-end The front end of a website is the part that the user sees, browses and interacts with and it is usually one of the first things to focus on when learning web development. The front-end is built with 3 types of files - HTML files, CSS, and JavaScript. HTML is the basis for all websites and is one of the first things you will study when it comes to development. It features tags that correspond to various parts of a website and can be adapted and updated over time. CSS is where design and layout come in - it basically lets you add colour and shape to the website. Anyone who wants to specialise in front-end developing should hone their CSS skills and know as much as possible about this code. JavaScript lets you create dynamic on-page content. Any form that a user can fill in, for example, or a widget, will be built using JavaScript. One of the most popular front-end frameworks is ReactJS. For this reason, understanding the framework and how to work with it is essential for anyone who is studying to become a developer. This technology was developed by Facebook engineers and is used by a lot of the big tech companies around the world. It is constantly evolving and being updated by a tribe of independent developers. It is also important to understand concepts like component-based frameworks and SPAs (single page apps) Other popular JavaScript frameworks to familiarise yourself with are Angular and Vue. These have pre-built structures and can be used to quickly build apps when starting from the very beginning. Responsive Design An important aspect of front-end developing, responsive design is an area that ensures your website will look great on all devices. This is often checked according to screen size. So, whether the user is browsing on a tablet, laptop or smartphone, the layout and overall aesthetic will be correct. The back-end Once you have mastered HTML, CSS and JavaScript, it's a good idea to focus on the back-end. All websites are hosted on a server and this is part of back-end work. Creating a server with a tool such as NodeJS, ExpressJS, or Handlebars is a good place to get started with this - it is well worth playing around with these tools, as well as MongoDB, and getting acquainted with how they work. Knowing how to make HTTP requests is also an important skill to acquire, along with integrating APIs into an application. Again, putting these skills into practice is the best way to study web development. Back-end developer languages include Ruby, Java, Python and PHP. You will also need to understand how to work with databases. These can be used to store website information, for instance, if a user fills in an on-page form or if the website requires logins, this data will need to be stored somewhere. In most cases, databases use SQL and are run on a server such as MySQL or Microsoft SQL Server. Full-Stack Developer Bootcamp Ironhack's Bootcamp is designed to qualify you as a full-stack MERN developer. This acronym stands for: MongoDB, ExpressJS, React and NodeJS. To cement all of your new knowledge and skills, it is a great idea to put the theory into practice in a full-scale project. Creating a full stack application is the best way to put your new knowledge to the test, plus, it is a fun and practical way to consolidate your skills. Showcasing a full stack application with your CV or portfolio will place you as a highly desirable candidate when searching for jobs - these positions always have a very high demand. Check out Ironhack's Web Development Bootcamp today and equip yourself with all the skills required to start out strong on this exciting career path.

A product manager plays a critical role in an organization. The manager is in charge of recommending and making an evaluation of a company’s product. As a manager, you are responsible for the blueprint and strategy of that product. The head of product combines various expertise such as design knowledge, strategy, and customer needs to realize a valuable product. The manager will study the competitive market conditions and create a product based on the customer’s demand. A product manager guides his/her team and motivates them to achieve their goals and success in selling a product. The manager should understand and coordinate the different abilities of his/her staff. The objective of a manager is to optimize sales and increase profits for a company. Roles of a Product Manager The head of product is responsible for the product in its whole life cycle. Two significant roles of a head of product are: Setting strategy The head of product should set the product strategy and develop a road map to help implement the vision of the company. A manager does extensive research about the market, the customer, and the problem you plan to solve. You analyze the available information, including statistics, customer feedback, and research. As a result, you develop a vision that you share with your company. The manager should then develop a product strategy. It entails the customer base the product will serve and how it will benefit them. Additionally, product strategy establishes the company’s goals for development in its entire life cycle. During the development of a product, some issues come up that distort the plan and development of the product. A clear product strategy is essential as it acts as a reference to you and your team, allowing you to adjust accordingly. And make intelligent strategic decisions in case unexpected changes crop up. Defining Releases A product lead handles product release, which essentially means launching a product. Together with his/her team, the manager turns the product strategy into a working plan against a timeline. It requires planning work phases, identifying risks, and meeting clear expectations. A successful release requires meticulous coordination of tasks, dates, and people. Customer feedback and evaluation of product progress goals help achieve successful freedom. It is crucial to have a release roadmap to help the team track milestones and dependencies. As a result, the stakeholders are aware of the progress and well informed about the plan. Essential Skills Required by a Product Manager The following are the essential competencies required by a head of product for him/her to excel at work: Strategic thinking: As a manager, you need to possess strategic thinking to develop a product vision. Then, it would help if you created a roadmap on how you will achieve it. Empathy: A manager must engage his/her customers and develop a solution to their needs. It takes skills to be able to relate to your customer’s needs. Leadership: As the term dictates, a manager has the leadership qualities to lead a group of teams. A good leader is diplomatic and compassionate and can handle his/her team without being a dictator. Communication: Without a doubt, to be an exceptional manager, you need to possess excellent communication skills. A manager should effectively and pass critical information to different stakeholders, including customers, salespeople, developers, and executives. No information should be lost when giving information across the board. Research: A good manager should be able to understand your customers and market. You should carry out extensive research to not miss out on anything that will help you actualize your product vision and bring customer satisfaction. A great manager then consolidates all the information and shares it with his/her team to reference. Technical: A manager should have basic tech knowldege. You do not have to be at the level of an expert, but you need a handle of the basic technological knowledge. These skills come in handy, especially in making release plans. IronHack has ample programs that can boost your technical expertise. Financial: A manager should analyze several financial elements such as operational costs, pricing, and generated revenue. Part of your team includes the accountants and the salespeople. Working together cohesively and sharing information across the board will help you gain some financial knowledge. Analytical: Data analytics is crucial for product development, especially in strategic planning. Data analytics analyzes raw data to look for trends and metrics on a dataset. A manager should have the tremendous analytical skill to find patterns and understand the metrics. The designs and trends found once data analytics help improves a business’s efficiency and performance. Project management: Developing a product and launching it takes a lot of coordination. A manager coordinates a team that has different personnel from different departments. You need to bring them together cohesively to develop and launch a product. Through IronHack, you can boost your career by learning superior product management expertise. Presentation: A manager is responsible for giving demos and presentations at conferences. Realize you need to provide presentations to your customers, your production team, and the management. Presentations should be concise, engaging, and relevant for your audience. A manager ensures a presentation has passed the information it should give. Conclusion At times the managers’ job descriptions may appear to overlap. However, each role adds distinct value to an organization. You offer strategic directions that help in achieving product goals. Moreover, you oversee the efficiency of the tech team. As a product lead, you will also act as the organization’s link to external customers, end-users, and partners. Product heads can join IronHack’s global tech community to sharpen their technical competencies. Or if you're thinking of a career change, Ironhack can help you develop the required skills on an intensive bootcamp, or studying remotely throughout the year. Find the course that suits you today.

Data mining and analytics are central to an organization’s performance. An organization’s competitive edge is determined by its ability to exploit data. Data refer to different numbers and values collected. After processing, it becomes factual information reliable for decision making. Data analytics and mining of data are co-related and used together to optimize the performance of businesses. Data Analytics Data analysis is a deep analysis of raw data to look for patterns, trends, and metrics on a dataset. Specialized computer systems work on raw data to identify trends and make conclusions. It involves many different types of data analysis. The patterns and trends found in this analysis improve a business’s efficiency and performance. A successful data analytic process will tell you the position of your business and predict the future. You will know what you need to improve your products and services. At IronHack you can acquire a wide range of data analysis skills. Types of Data Analytics There are several types of data analysis. Descriptive analytics usually describes what has happened in the past. Have your sales gone up? Are there more customers coming? Which products are fast-moving? In diagnostic analytics, you apply a bit of hypothesis here. Diagnostic analytics tell you why something happened. You use the results from the descriptive analytics to find out why things happened that way. Did the last advertisement campaign bring any changes to your sales? Predictive analytics tells you how things will be in the future. It will use previously collected data and denote if it will happen again. Prescriptive analytics helps to make decisions on what should be done. Specialized computer systems do prescriptive analytics to find patterns from large volumes of data. Data Analysis Steps Data analysis begins with determining how to group the data. Data can be put in different categories, including age, gender, or income. The next step is collecting data through various sources. You then use specialized programs to organize the data collected. Finally, you ensure the data is correct and accurate before being processed. Data Mining Mining data is finding useful information from large volumes of data. It is done systematically and successively to uncover hidden trends and patterns in an extensive dataset. These hidden patterns and trends tell you about your customers and help you make decisions that bring more sales. It provides reliable information beneficial for marketing campaigns. Also, mining data can help identify where you can cut costs to reduce your operational expenses. Additionally, mining data creates machine learning models used in artificial intelligence. Types ofData Mining There are different types of mining data such as: Smoothing: To remove noise from the data, you use an algorithm. Smoothing helps to visualize trends. Clustering: This is putting together groups with the same characters. Marketers can identify groups within their target market. Classification: This comes after clustering, whereby you put items or persons into categories. Classification puts new data into the right group. More details on classifications are available on IronHack’s website. Association: Which dentifies data that are somewhat connected. Anomaly detection: This quickly detects fraud by finding data that doesn’t fit the normal pattern. Anomaly detection is beneficial in banks and businesses to help detect fraud. Regression: A statistical tool that helps to predict the future. Text mining: Text mining determines how often individuals use certain words. It can alert if there are data leaks by employees of a business. Summarization: It helps to put a group of collected data into a form easily understood. You can use it to calculate the average from a particular data set. Data Mining Steps The first step is to eliminate conflicting information. Different data sources are then integrated and connected. The next step is to select data from the dataset. Thereafter, executing aggregation operations to transfer data into a form applicable for mining follows. Next is the application of intelligent methods to extract data. The last step involves presenting the result to the customer through visualization. 7 Differences Between Data Analytics and Data Mining Below are seven differences between data analysis and mining of data: Workforce: A single person who should preferably be a specialist with coding skills is responsible for mining data. In contrast, a team of specialists does data analysis. Function : In mining data, you want to find the hidden patterns in the data sets. However, in data analysis, you analyze the data sets. Goal : Your goal in mining data is to make the information you have usable. Also, you want to identify patterns. For data analysis, your goal is to make data-driven decisions and hypotheses. Method : You apply mathematical methods such as algorithms in the process of mining data. In data analysis, you use business intelligence to carry out your study. Data sets : In the process of mining data, you use large volumes of data collected in the data warehouse. As for data analysis, you can use either small, medium, or large volumes of data. Knowledge : You apply machine learning in the mining of data. However, in data analysis, you need to use subject and computer science knowledge. Output: The output you get from mining data is data patterns and trends. As for the data analysis, your results are actionable insights and hypotheses. Wrapping Up Before you get valuable information from the data, it is important to recognize patterns and learn the trends. Therefore, you need to data mine before carrying out data analysis. As a business, you need to apply both to optimize your business’s performance and cut your operational costs. And, most importantly, increase the sales of your company. Ironhack has additional resourceful information that both individuals and businesses can use to polish these two vital skills. From part-time flexible learning to intensive courses you can tailor the bootcamp to suit you as you deep dive into the world of tech.

Whether you're new to bictoin or a seasoned investing professional with digital currency, you may not yet know too much about NTFs beyond the big headlines that scream about multi-million-pound sales! So what exactly are these digital assets and what is their link with the art industry exactly? Let's take a closer look. What is an NFT? Bictoin, Ethereium, and other digital technologies have been touted as a modern alternative to old-fashioned physical currencies, and now NFTs have taken the spotlight as the digital equivalent for collectables. Despite usually being a beautiful piece of digital creativity, NFT stands for the rather-less inspiring term, 'Non-Fungible-Token'. In economics, fungible assets are unit-based assets that can be easily exchanged - such as cold, hard cash. For example, swap £20 for two £10s and you end up with the same total value. When an asset is non-fungible, this simple and equal exchange can't happen - the asset has some kind of unique property which makes it impossible to be interchanged with another, similar thing. Non-fungible assets are unique - a one of a kind, such as a house, a sculpture or a piece of design. You can buy copies, but there will only be one original. In the digital world, these one of a kind non-fungible assets are like bitcoin in that they can be traded like anything else, but they have no physical form. Instead, you buy the ownership certificate for a physical or virtual asset. And when it comes to art, you buy the digital original which you can then reproduce at will - because you have the original ownership rights. How do they work? A traditional painting, sculpture or craft can be extremely valuable for investing purposes because it is unique and only exists in its original form. This contrasts to digital files which can be endlessly and easily duplicated. With non-fungible tokens, pieces of work can be tokenised to create digital ownership certificates. These certificates can then be traded to transfer ownership in sales transactions. Interestingly, this form of digital token can also be created with an accompanying smart contract - perhaps to give the creator a future cut from any token sales down the line in a commission arrangement. The blockchain link As with bictoin, the ownership record of digital art investing is held on the blockchain; the shared, public and permanent ledger of transactions that records every crypto-currency transaction. Because the blockchain is maintained across a vast network of thousands of global computers, it is extremely secure and records cannot be hacked into and forged. How much are NFTs worth? There has been a great deal of interest in this form of digital creativity, especially as some very high profile pieces of work have sold for hundreds of thousands of pounds. Even some memes have sold for vast amounts, such as the flying Nyan cat meme of 2011 which sold for over £365,000 this year! And Grimes, the musician and girlfriend of billionaire Elon Musk, sold her own digital painting pieces for over $6 million. It's not just design that is being tokenised and traded either - Jack Dorsey, the founder of Twitter, has received bids of over $2.5 million for the platform's first-ever tweet! Even football cards are being sold for multi-million-pound sums. The issues As with all internet-based activity, there is a concern that this form of token simply adds an environmental burden to the blockchain - as carbon is released every time someone carries out an action online - a click, view, transfer or update to the blockchain for example. There is also nothing to stop people from copying, sharing and reproducing digital designs, even though it will be owned by someone. For example, Beeple recently sold a piece of digital art for $69 million, and the image itself has been replicated and shared numerous times. In many instances, the copyright ownership is still retained by the creator, so they can continue to produce copies and sell them. But the NTF owner is the token holder and this gives them proof of ownership to the original - whatever that means in practice! A good analogy could be the purchase of an autographed print; a collector piece which special attributes that are seen to be valuable by the purchaser. Will this form of digital currency last? Some people think that we may currently be seeing a flurry or bubble of excitement that will eventually burst. Mike Winkelmann, better known as Beeple, has said that there will be a bubble and that it may currently be peaking. Others simply see NFTs as being official collectables and the modern digital equivalent of trading cards. Traditional auctioneers, such as Charles Allsopp from Christie's has said that the concept is senseless and unlikely to last. But whether or not this is the case, the fact is that some artists are already making money from this type of sale, and with the metaverse now a 'thing', perhaps token owners will soon be decorating their own digital real estate with authentic 'owned' art as the ultimate status symbol! Find out more At Ironhack, we offer targeted digital bootcamps that take you from zero to hero fast on the digital topics that matter to you, to employers - and to your future career. Whether you dream of being a website developer, coder, or digital consultant, our boot camps will supercharge your career and take you further. Visit us to find out more!

Whether you've just graduated and are looking for a career in web design, are about to start a new job, or are established in the world of web designers, gaining a new technology skill is always a positive step. While you don't need a knowledge of coding to build a website, being familiar with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript makes you a great asset to any multidisciplinary design team. In its simplest form, coding allows us to communicate with computers, telling them what to do and how to behave. It is the basic building block for designing any digital product. Add coding to your knowledge of User Interface (UI), User Experience (UX), and Search Engine Optimization (SEO), and you have the skill sets to become a talented and employable web designer. At Ironhack , we have bootcamp courses designed to develop these skills. Still not convinced that learning coding will boost your design career? Then, these seven advantages may persuade you. 1. It gives you another transferable skill There is never a downside to learning a new skill. Learning the fundamentals of coding helps you develop a better understanding of the whole design process. With this knowledge, you'll see the scope of what is possible with any design project as well as an idea of where future difficulties may lay. You'll also have given yourself the tools to overcome these difficulties. On a personal level, acquiring new skills keeps your mind agile and develops your creativity. This is a bonus in both your personal life and your career. 2. It increases the range of design tools available to you While coding know-how isn't essential for web designers, some newer design tools are more effective with at least a basic knowledge of it. For example, to get the best out of Framer, some knowledge of JavaScript is essential. Once you have mastered one type of coding, you're better able to master other codes you encounter. 3. It helps you maintain control of your design project As a web designer, you're going to be responsible for creating a consistent visual language for the final product. This visual language translates into a problem-free user experience. Trying to explain your vision to a coder without something getting lost in the translation can be tricky. However, with some knowledge of how to code, the number of errors that may occur between design and implementation is reduced. By giving your web developer, some code instructions along with your design documents, you'll maintain greater control of the finished product. Having this control leads to a reduction in project time, saving the customer money and freeing you up to tackle other design commissions. 4. It adds a dose of realism to your ideas You have this wonderful idea for your web design, visualizing an impressive finished product. But, are these ideas realistic? When you know how to code, you can be more realistic about your design parameters. You'll know what is or isn't possible. You may even have an idea for making the impossible possible. 5. It allows you to communicate effectively with your design team As a web designer, you'll probably be working as part of a development team. Having at least a basic knowledge of what other team members are doing makes this collaboration work smoothly and effectively. When you understand the basics of languages such as HTML and CSS you are better able to communicate professionally with your tech colleagues. Having this common language lets you pitch your ideas confidently and ask team members questions while giving the right instructions for bringing your ideas to fruition. 6. It's fun! You may discover a new passion Having graphic design skills is a great career opener but learning how to code as well opens an entirely new door into the design world. It changes how you view the design, enabling you to be even more creative and innovative. Being able to start a design project totally from scratch is inspirational, the limit to what you can create depends only on your ideas and vision. And, by knowing how to code, your career may turn into your hobby as well. 7. It makes you more employable Every modern company has ongoing web design needs. This means that there is no shortage of career prospects in digital design. These careers come with satisfying salaries, location flexibility, and very often, the chance of setting your own hours and work-life balance. The more design skills you can demonstrate on your CV and during the interview process, the more attractive you become to employers who are looking for truly multidisciplinary teams. Once established in a career, learning a new skill opens doors to promotion. With the ability to both design and code, your value to your employer soars. Instead of bringing in outside coders with the expense that involves, your skills can be utilized. Plus, you'll be much more confident in pitching ideas and advising clients. If you've decided that learning how to code will enhance your value in the employment market, then Ironhack is ready to help you. Sign up to our Ironhack Web Development Bootcamp and learn all the skills you need to operate fully in the fast-growing tech industry. Our full-time courses are nine weeks long while part-time courses run for 24 weeks. They introduce you to commonly used languages such as HTML, CSS, React, and JavaScript by immersing you in real-world scenarios. We're so confident that you'll succeed, your training costs nothing if you haven't landed your dream design job within six months.

There are linear life paths and people who have always known what they wanted to do. Jordane Lelong is not one of them. Between passion, questioning, and personal quest, her story is like each of ours: unique . Whether you are a student or a professional in transition, you may find yourself in her story. But regardless of that, her story will not leave you indifferent. And for those who are a little lost in finding their "way," just like Jordane, we invite you to discover the excellent advice that she shares at the end of this article. From Education to Passion Jordane was a young woman of 28, passionate about music and travels "even if it's a bit complicated to travel at the moment." Product designer at Free since last July and co-founder of “ UX Challenger ” that she created with another Ironhacker, Morgane Favchtein , Jordane seems to be really fulfilled today. But it wasn't always like this. Like many, she was asked at 18 what she wanted to do with her life without having any idea how to choose. Her taste for school was limited, "except for English, art and computer science" and without really anyone to help her, she settled on a "safe" choice: that of a career in international trade "because there are more opportunities in this field.” But several years later, with a master's degree in hand, her questions were still there and none of the jobs that her studies could lead to appealed to her. As creative as she is passionate, Jordane turned to the only environment that really attracted her: music. This was followed by 6 years as an event manager organizing concerts all over the world. But far from a life of dreams, as an intermittent performer, she had to face a lot of dedication, difficulties, and sacrifices. At the beginning of 2020, a burnout, and the first confinement later, her job and her health were gone. So it was time to "think about what I wanted to do with my life." Being Inspired by Others Beyond her incredible personality and proven creativity, Jordane's independence and need for freedom is striking. It's not surprising that, while searching on social networks, she was drawn to videos of women explaining how to avoid depending on a salary. That's when she first heard about web design and her future job. Little by little, Jordane trained herself in "no code" tools and started to create her first websites for friends. By the end of 2020, not only was she financially successful thanks to several projects and clients, but she also discovered a new and growing interest in web design and UX/UI issues. Thanks to her thirst for learning and her unlimited curiosity, Jordane managed to completely turn her career around in a few months. So why jump into a bootcamp when everything is so well (re)launched? You probably know the answer. It's sometimes really difficult to fight against imposter syndrome and to succeed in thinking that you are ready to jump into a new sector or job. That's why she joined Ironhack: to learn the basics and apply them on concrete projects, but also to join a community of enthusiasts. She had a lot of hesitations and fears: "3 months is short, what's going to happen after?" "I'm a woman, do I really belong here?" “What if I fail in this area?” Becoming an Ironhacker However, thanks to her determination and the help of an Indeed scholarship created especially for people who lost their jobs during the pandemic, she quickly joined the bootcamp. From that moment on, all her doubts evaporated: theory combined with practice every day was her magic formula. She learned to trust herself by practicing, by "putting her hands in it," and especially by seeing how much she was able to progress day after day. Not to mention the fact that, at Ironhack, you learn in a group. Having feedback, being able to share her questions, and receiving support when things weren't going well were all essential elements in her learning process. Knowing how to do things and knowing how to behave were the two keys that allowed her to unlock the door to the self-confidence she was missing. What asked what the bootcamp did for her, she said: "I came out of it energized. I was a new person, prepared for this new adventure that I was about to embark on. [...] Ironhack taught me that I can start from nothing and go far. [...] I had a really bad experience when I left the music business because of my burn out, my world collapsed and with the bootcamp I proved to myself that I was not an old dinosaur who could not do anything anymore, quite the contrary. Too often we think we are too old to learn new things, change careers, start a business, but we are not. In general, habits condition too much our way of doing things and of apprehending changes. You need to have a good environment and a good mindset to learn new things, that's what Ironhack gave me". Staying True to Herself Jordane finally reconciled her life as a freelancer and a salaried employee by joining an agency just a few weeks after the bootcamp and later, the Free group: "I didn't think I would find a job so quickly. Ironhack has a very good reputation in the UX world and companies are impressed to see the work we manage to do in 9 weeks. I felt confident talking about my background and I wasn't ashamed at all when I walked out even though I didn't have a specialized profile." To stay in line with her convictions (editor's note: she has been vegan for 8 years and practices "0 waste"), she had given herself the mission to accompany entrepreneurs in the field of ecology, health, or well-being. Finally, she finds her usefulness not only in these projects but also at Free on a daily basis. Her job consists in taking a more responsible approach towards the user, putting them at the center of the strategy so that "technology is at the service of people and not the other way around." One might think that Jordane is already quite busy with all this, but that's not knowing her well. As if that wasn't enough, she set up a volunteer project “ UX Challenger ” with another Ironhacker, Morgane Favchtein , whom she met during the training to "give back what she benefited from." The principle is simple: 1 pitch = 1 project. Between the two of them, they regularly launch "design challenges" so that young designers can practice and they offer mentoring after the project is submitted. "The designers in the making are very happy to have constructive feedback that will help them progress". Spontaneity is Key As you can see, her desire to help is matched only by her passion for her job. Here's her advice: "If I had met myself back when I was lost, I would have said to myself: stop overthinking and trust yourself. It's too easy to compare yourself to people, especially on social networks, you have to take a chance and go for it. Ironhack was almost a spur-of-the-moment thing but I had nothing to lose. At first, I felt bad about making a decision so quickly but, in fact, it takes spontaneity to shake things up. If someone had told me a year ago where I would be today I would have laughed. When the bootcamp is over, we continue to learn, that's when the work really starts. Then it's a different kind of learning, you're confronted with reality, with business problems, you have to deal with all parts of the company. You have to tell yourself that every opportunity is good to improve. That's how you learn who you are and what you want to do, or not do.” Want to be like Jordane? Start your UX/UI, web developer, data analyst, or cybersecurity journey today by taking one of Ironhack’s Bootcamps . Our courses will equip you with the essential skills to get started on a career path in the dynamic and exciting tech industry.

Have you ever abandoned a company website because of clumsy payment portals or hard to navigate product listings? If so, you'll appreciate how important user experience (UX) is to the modern economy. User experience refers to the way site visitors interact with content, from search boxes and web chat bots, to help portals and product listings. And it's a rapidly growing area of the digital sector, as companies are locked in competition to provide the best possible experience. At Ironhack, we teach beginners and experts alike. And here are some of our guiding principles to help user experience professionals as they reshape the way we use the web. 1. Consistency is key First of all, user experience designers need to keep a laser-like focus on consistency. This means referring to brand guidelines and house style for aesthetics and language. But more importantly from a user experience perspective, it means ensuring that all user journeys feel the same, with similar mechanisms for different processes on the site. Consistency has another key benefit: when users visit websites, they want to feel comfortable and familiar with every page they use. So good UX modelers incorporate elements that are familiar from similar websites, and work hard to make users feel at home from the first time they visit. 2. User needs are everything In the world of user experience, everything has to revolve around what users need and feel. There's nothing more important when crafting website or apps that are intended to hold attention, provide experiences, and generate conversions. Because of this, beginners need to learn how to put themselves in the place of users, so they can understand how visitors actually engage with their designs. Creating user personas is a useful heuristic here. They let you model different demographics and behaviors, so that sites can be optimized for everyone from students to seniors. 3. Learn how to sketch site hierarchies Another crucial skill for UX beginners is the ability to create visual representations of how sites work. In general, this means understanding how the elements of a particular site fit into a larger hierarchy. Hierarchies can be primary or visual, and both matter. Primary hierarchies are the most familiar, dealing with the way content is organized on sites. This includes things like home pages, product categories, individual product listings, and additional pages like terms and conditions or the all-important "about us" section. Visual hierarchy is just as important. This refers to the way site elements are placed on the overall design. Which graphics are the most prominent? How large should navigation buttons be? Everything should come together in a way that encourages visitors to explore content and make conversions. 4. Function comes before beauty When crafting your UX models, it's essential to keep this maxim in mind: usability trumps beauty every time. While there's nothing wrong with beautiful digital creations, if they aren't easy to use and efficient, sites will tend to deter visitors, resulting in a sub-standard user experience. Beginners shouldn't feel unable to experiment with the look of their designs. But it's a good idea to test and double test every page to make sure that aesthetic improvements don't compromise usability. As you develop your skills, you can work more fluently, but UX auditing is always a sound starting point in the early days of your career. 5. Does the site cater for every context? Contemporary user experience professionals need to cast their net widely. It's not sufficient to create sites that look and feel good on Chrome. You need to take into account the experience of smartphone users, tablets, diverse browsers, and even specialized apps. Beginners need to contextualize their projects and make sure they work for every situation. Does your site provide a solid UX for people who are checking their phone while out shopping? Is it quick enough to use when commuting? And does every version provide access to the content users require? 6. Don't design without considering accessibility Alongside devices, user experience creators need to foreground accessibility. You wouldn't design a school or hospital without providing wheelchair access. And you wouldn't create pedestrian systems without taking into account the partially sighted. Things are no different in website design, where many different types of person access the same resource. Think about how those with disabilities will interact with your site. For instance, you might want to fine tune the color scheme to make sure that the site is optimized for visually impaired users. And it's important to simplify every page to create flows and content delivery mechanisms that make life easy for everyone. 7. Keep project progress under control UX projects have a couple of things in common. Firstly, they tend to pass through similar project milestones. And secondly, if you don't maintain control over project progress, they can quickly become very, very complex. However, beginners can make it far easier to manage their projects by referring to which phase they have reached in the modeling process. Phases stretch from ideation and planning, through to creating proof of concept and prototype sketches, refinement of those prototypes to create working models, and then completion of the most effective model to create a finished, ready-to-use website. Complete planning before prototyping, and make sure your testing is complete before putting final element in place. That way, you'll feel more confident about completing projects on schedule and the results will be more impressive as well. 8. Keep things simple In website design, the principle "less is more" should guide everything you do. Think about your own web usage. Have you ever appreciated complex language, clicking through 3-4 portals to reach payment pages, or having to open multiple tabs to access the information you need? Probably not. It's not always easy for beginners, but try to cut out as much as possible without compromising the overall user experience. Use simple language at all times. Stick to clear typography for messages and buttons. And avoid clutter at all costs. Become a user experience expert with Ironhack's assistance UX is a booming sector in the digital economy. Companies across the world need an army of engineers to build websites that deliver what users desire, and they are often willing to pay a lot of money for that expertise. Starting a user experience journey is easier than you think. Just enrol in one of Ironhack's bootcamps for UX UI Designers and start delivering beautiful solutions which make life easier. Anyone can do it, as long as they have a passion, creativity and dedication.

In the digital world, every eCommerce site and every portal needs a front end. That's where the User Interface (UI) comes into play. Without a good user interface, companies will struggle to maximize conversions and retain visitors. Whether you're running a Fantasy Football game or selling apparel, the front end makes the first impression, and first impressions matter. In this article, we'll look at the people who model these interfaces. As we'll see, anyone can become a master of interface design, and with the right learning choices, it can be a lucrative and easy career switch. So let's find out more. UI design: the basics User interface designers have a key role to play in the modern economy. They model the systems web users encounter whenever they visit websites or use mobile apps. As such, these professionals need to take on board specific learning about how to create easy to use interfaces, and certain skills are more important than others. When creating user interfaces, coders have to take into account various elements, including: Inputs - The text fields, buttons and links that visitors will interact with when using the website. Navigational elements - Things like sliders and pagination marks which help to move through content seamlessly. Information - Additional content that appears on the interface, helping to contextualize the site and make it more intelligible for users. Containers - In many cases, content will also be stacked vertically via "accordion" style containers, helping to display large amounts of information in an uncluttered style. These are the basic building blocks behind most user interfaces, and to master them involves learning plenty of different techniques. For instance, you'll need to know about drop-down menus and notifications, as well as breadcrumbs and sliders. However, with the right courses and instruction, none of that is overwhelming. Especially if you understand the core roles of a UI designer. What are the main tasks of user interface creators? The job of the UI creator begins after a decision has been made to create or remodel a website front end. As an interface creator, you probably won't be taking big decisions about the overall strategy of an eCommerce site or app. But you will be expected to feed into discussions about user interface composition and planning. At lower levels, user interface professionals work underneath senior engineers who handle the strategic element. For junior staffers, day-to-day UI creation will involve specific tasks linked to the overall plan. In some cases, these processes take place in-house and there's little contact with third parties. In others, interface technicians will need to work closely with clients to understand their desires. They may have a certain "feel" in mind for their website. Some could be very demanding, while others may be hands-off. Being a good user interface creator therefore often involves learning how to step back and serve clients, instead of imposing your own ideas about what works best. However, the best front end creators still have the courage to speak up when briefs aren't workable. After all, they are the experts, and are expected to use that expertise to carry out projects effectively. What happens during the UI design phase? Once briefs have been discussed and strategies are understood, user interface creators have a chance to show off their portfolio of skills. And the tasks could be extremely varied. We've set out a broad definition of what UI design entails already, but there's more to it than sticking to those core areas. Inputs and navigational elements need to be implemented in ways that meet the needs of brands and companies. This means imposing a "visual language" that blends pure functionality with the right aesthetics . The creation phase also involves a constant learning process. At first, user interface elements might look good, but fail where it really counts: user experience . Because of this, interface engineers have to constantly assess their work and test their creations to refine them until they achieve exactly the right results. You might need to create a series of options for each page and model user behavior, visualizing how real world visitors interact with websites. The key thing is to make designs responsive to how actual users will behave. Additionally, user interface creation generally involves tailoring websites for different formats . For instance, you'll need to check that interfaces work well on browsers like Chrome or Firefox. And most sites will need to be optimized for mobile users and tablets. When that's all done, the plans can be sent to web developers to turn them into working interfaces. From prototyping to working websites The user interface creation process will vary from project to project, but in most cases learning a standard procedure will help to make things run smoothly. The first step tends to involve sketching out plans in team environments to get a feel for how each page will look. This doesn't have to be detailed, but needs to give a clear direction for the project, and every team member needs to be involved. After that, coders leap into action and create clickable prototypes according to the initial plans. These aren't live, but they look as close to the finished version as possible. If those static screens meet project specifications, the next step is to refine the look and elements of the pages so that everything coders need is clearly laid out. With the right level of clarity and detail, any web development errors can be minimized. Launch a UI creation career with Ironhack If you have a passion for design, a creative side, and an understanding of how the web works, user interface creation could be the perfect career switch. Interface modelers are always in demand across every business sector, and they don't need to be coding masters. At Ironhack, we offer a bootcamp in UX UI Design for anyone who is interested in learning the secrets of user interface modeling. Sign up and discover a rewarding, engaging new career with our effective online learning packages.

What divides elite programmers from the rest? Is it simply natural ability, or are there personality traits and skills that everyone can learn to help them enter the top tier of digital talent? Actually, it's a bit of both. If you have zero talent, you won't cut it as an elite programmer. But even great coders can struggle if they don't work on their skill profile. So let's discover the 5 characteristics that make coders stand out from the crowd. 1. They aren't paralyzed by risks The best programmers aren't afraid to break things. In fact, they embrace risk when working with codebases, knowing that progress isn't possible unless you try things that could - inevitably - make things worse before they get better. Sure, you want to add functionality without damaging what already exists. But that's only applicable in a perfect world, and whenever you add or change modules you're bound to encounter some problems. The trick is to use those problems to find solutions which improve what already worked, while achieving your project goals. So don't feel paralyzed by the fear of ruining code. In fact, it might sometimes help to deliberately break your code and work from there. That way, you can identify issues with user experience and general functionality that might have been missed. Breaking down systems can often be the best way to achieve coding breakthroughs. Just taking the safe option might work for a while, but the best programmers always take risks. 2. They know how to work as a team Programmers aren't always known in the wider world for their personality and soft skills. However, in complex work environments the best coding talents are often those who interact effectively with those around them. Why is that? Soft skills help you understand what each project requires. Good listeners can take on board specific parameters and goals, making it easier to tailor code to meet the needs of bosses or external clients. And by listening well, you can also ask relevant questions to refine project briefs. That way, it's possible to go beyond the goals set by managers who may not have in-depth coding knowledge. Even if you're a programmer first and foremost, you can develop soft skills into your professional personality. Boot camps and courses can help, alongside reading the right experts and adopting practices like self-reflection and meditation. Just don't discount working on your personality. It's something that all elite coders have time for. 3. They always know their limitations and take action accordingly Another key characteristic of a successful programmer is their ability to visualize what they don't know and where they need to improve their knowledge base. All of us have our limitations. It could be integrating graphics, understanding new coding languages, or using AI. But not all of us are willing to admit our shortcomings. And most of us stick to what we know, rather than developing our weaknesses aggressively. However, that's never the case with an elite programmer. Their personality is built around constant improvement, learning new skills and seeking to understand gaps in their knowledge. They set aside time for training and learning (and may even enlist in annual boot camps to refresh their skills). This might sound taxing for busy coding professionals, but there are shortcuts. For instance, applying the Feynman technique works well. Devised by physicist Richard Feynman, this technique advises that coders imagine having to teach a room full of students about a specific point of knowledge. If you can't teach that point with authority and depth, it's time to return to the books for some additional training. 4. They are always willing to edit, and edit again Have you ever written an essay only to find it returned with red marks and criticisms across every paragraph? If so, you probably weren't thinking like an elite programmer when you submitted your text, and you almost certainly didn't spend enough time editing your essay to refine its contents. The best programmers have a thorough personality which seeks to achieve efficient, effective results every time. This means editing code, and then re-editing it to identify areas of improvement and redundancy. It also means spending a little more time on every task to ensure quality control, which is why the best programmer won't usually be the fastest worker. Fortunately, there is a method to apply which can turn shoddy writers into super-efficient coding masters. Firstly, write a draft version of your code to act as "proof of concept." This lets you get a feel for the task and understand whether you have found the right approach. Secondly, return to the code and find a way to make your approach work. It doesn't have to be ultra-efficient at this stage. Just iron out any obvious errors and get the code functioning, however clumsily. Finally, edit your working code to refine it and create a finished result. By flowing from proof of concept to finished code, you can usually achieve better results than throwing ideas at a project, editing haphazardly, and complaining when managers or clients return with critiques. 5. They love to code The final aspect of top tier coding is the willingness to code at every opportunity. Coding is like writing, playing sports, or painting. The more you practise, the better you get. Constantly practising is also a great way to encounter new techniques and tools, helping you maintain a relevant skill set. That's why sites like Github have such a huge user base (56 million and counting). They let coders share their projects, and bring users together to share expertise. Hackathons are another popular method of refining programming skills, and sites like Major League Hacking have developed a huge following. So if you have time away from professional work, get involved. Every programmer can benefit from a little extra-curricular practise, and communities are always happy to help. Develop your programming skills with intensive bootcamps Are you thinking about switching careers to programming or web development? If you have these five characteristics it's probably a sound move. And as we've seen, most key coder skills can be developed with a bit of application. The best way to build your programmer skills is via online courses and Ironhack's professional level bootcamps . Learn the core skills every coder needs and turn your personality into a career-changing asset with our educational tools.

One of the most common questions among future Ironhack students is how and where to start if they want to prepare before starting the bootcamp. If this is also the case with you, we recommend our guide to surviving a bootcamp . Most Ironhack students have no previous experience or knowledge in the tech sector; in addition, it is their first time doing a bootcamp - maybe, like you, they have just discovered exactly what a bootcamp is - and they want to prepare to make the most of this experience. What are the necessary steps or previous knowledge required to complete a bootcamp? When it comes to Ironhack everything is thought of in advance: there is a mandatory online prework that you must complete and present before starting a class. In this article, our Lead Teacher at the Data Analysis bootcamp in Madrid answers the most frequently asked questions about Ironhack prework. 1. How much time do I have to do the prework? You have access to the prework from the moment you enroll in the program, except in the Cybersecurity bootcamp, where you will be given access about 20 days before the start of the course. The bootcamp must always be completed one week before the start of class, so that the teachers can correct it; sometimes it is allowed to deliver up to 72 working hours before depending on the date of registration. 2. What is the prework like? The prework consists of a theoretical part and a practical part, like the whole bootcamp. It acts as an introduction to the minimum knowledge required before starting so that the first few classes are accessible for all. Prework requires time and hard work, like the bootcamp itself, but it is just as satisfying and very effective in acquiring basic knowledge. If you study the theory and do the exercises calmly but consistently, you will have a minimum foundation of the topics which we will later deepen and solidify. 3. Where to start the prework? As always, start at the beginning. It is best to follow all the steps one by one, combining each part of theory with its exercises. It’s important to check in on all tasks in order. It's like building a house: if you start with the roof... It won't work. The same thing happens during the bootcamp: you have to let yourself be carried away by the established script and trust that later all the pieces will fit together. Sometimes it may seem that the prework is general; that is because many technologies will be explained in class later. So, it is important to understand each part and trust that, at some point, everything will be connected. It is also very important not to get frustrated and fully understand the entire technical base, in the case of programming languages, since it is a language that will be learned from scratch and will be used throughout the bootcamp. 4. How long should it take to complete it? You should take the amount of time indicated on each task (usually between 40-60 minutes) using the time to look for solutions working on the computer. This can vary from person to person, there is no penalty for taking longer. If this is your first time entering the world of tech, there are likely to be several modules that take you slightly longer as you work hard to grasp the basic knowledge. 5. What happens if I can’t complete one of the modules? Nothing will happen if you it you don’t complete a module. But it is very important that you have at least tried to complete them all. Striving and perseverance are expected from everyone who attempts the bootcamp. Class explanations are not always enough to finish the labs , because the exercises are more complicated so it’s important have a self-taught and authentic warrior attitude to ensure your learning has no limits. Google searches will be a vital tool both during the bootcamp and your prework. Even so, nothing happens if you don’t get 100% of the exercises, as after the first week of bootcamp the prework will feel like child’s play in comparison. 6. Can I ask for help during prework? Of course! At Ironhack we work with slack, which is a messaging tool that you must have installed on all your devices and check regularly. You can ask for help from your classmates, former students, even the Ironhack staff are available to help you on these channels. It may seem that you’re all alone as you face your prework, but that isn’t the case. There is a large community of Ironhackers willing to lend you a hand. Take help from the community, and give back and you’ll soon find things feel a lot easier. 7. Is prework easy? Nothing is easy at Ironhack. But difficult is not synonymous with impossible. A bootcamp is a very intensive and hard style of training, you have to work hard and have to come to the program with a warrior mentality. At first, prework can seem very complicated, you just have to face it head on with a positive attitude and work hard. 8. What is the purpose of the prework? The main goal is to get to class with an idea of what to expect from the training So that when you arrive it doesn’t feel as though the teachers are speaking in another language. It helps to make sure that all students enter class on the first day with the minimum knowledge so that classes can progress at a normal pace and we can complete all the content within the 9 weeks. Everyone is on the same level, it doesn't matter if you know more or less, everything starts at the prework level, so as long as you try hard and complete the work, you’ll be prepared for what is coming. If you want to be an Ironhacker and start the prework needed to make the job change you are looking for, you can submit your application here .

The last two years ushered in a massive change in the way we think about work. We no longer view our jobs as a means to an end. We want careers that offer freedom and flexibility. We want passion and profit to seamlessly intertwine. The good news? That’s totally possible. But what does that look like in today’s career landscape? And how does that align with your desire to future proof your career with tech savvy and digital expertise? Welcome to the age of the portfolio professional If you haven’t heard the term “ portfolio career ”, chances are you will in the very near future. It’s a booming space in the world of work, one that is growing increasingly more popular every day. So what does it mean to have a portfolio career? Put simply, a portfolio professional is someone who earns money in a variety of different ways, whether that be through freelancing, running a side hustle, working as a part-time consultant or even juggling a number of roles simultaneously. The fact of the matter is that the ‘career for life’ concept has fallen out of fashion - and organisations are becoming wise to this. During the pandemic, businesses were forced to become more agile and remote. That opened new opportunities for independent talent to step in and provide vital services. Now, newly formed businesses offer remote as standard. To keep costs low, they turn to portfolio professionals . That’s good news for tech experts like you. According to Upwork’s Freelance Forward report, 75% of people who started freelancing during the pandemic make the same or more money now than they did in traditional work - 58% plan on remaining independent. This is the new normal. So how can you find your footing in the world of portfolio careers and what leverage does having tech expertise give you? Here are 4 ways having tech skills will benefit your portfolio career and launch you ahead of the competition. 1. Being tech proficient will keep costs down As a portfolio professional, you’re in charge of what you spend and who you outsource your work to. Let’s say you want to build a website to showcase your services. That is likely to cost a bit of money. So is the upkeep of that website. If you learn to build and maintain a website yourself, you’re putting the money you would have otherwise spent on hiring someone else back in your pocket. Let’s break it down. A website developer can cost anywhere from $30-200 per hour. A good one will be towards the top end of that range. Then you’ll have to think about the images and website copy. Will you have to pay someone else to provide those for you? Things quickly start to add up. Our advice? Think of a coding or web development course as an investment. Once you have those skills you can apply them a thousand different ways, whether that’s building your own website or getting paid to build websites for other people. The more skills you have, the more you can monetise them. Who knows, website building may even become a fundamental part of your regular income! 2. Technology opens doors for better collaboration If you want to grow your portfolio career, you need to know how to collaborate, both with clients and with other professionals in your field. Understanding technology will not only make collaboration easier, but it will make your skills even more valuable, ultimately resulting in higher rates. Then there is the opportunity to collaborate with people around the world. We’re no longer limited by geography. Technology has given freelancers and portfolio professionals in all countries the ability to connect with a global marketplace. You could be based in Spain but work with a designer in the Philippines. The same can be said for work opportunities. Tech skills are not bound by any particular language, meaning you can work for anyone, anywhere. The portfolio lifestyle opens you up to new opportunities, and your tech skills push you over that line. 3. Tech skills have never been more in-demand The good thing about a portfolio career is that there’s no limit to what you can do. That being said you don’t have to specialise solely in tech. You can be a lawyer AND a UX designer; a personal trainer AND an app developer - it’s totally up to you. Earlier this year, tech employment was predicted to grow by 37,000 positions in 2021 alone . The pandemic forced employers to realise that tech was needed for long-term growth and success. New technologies and needs are emerging every day, and if you’re ahead of the game, you can make a pretty penny on the side or even shift into one of these fields as your full-time focus. If you do decide to develop a highly-sought after tech specialisation like data science or software engineering, you can work with a growing number of tech companies that are hiring freelancers to fill gaps in specialised fields. The opportunities are truly endless. 4. Tech savvy makes you more versatile No matter what you do, technology is bound to be a fundamental part of your industry. Every career is becoming technology-focused and software-reliant. So if you know how to use the latest tools and understand the right data, you’ll be miles ahead of the competition when you want to pivot your focus or try something new. The most important thing is staying relevant, because tech changes - fast. That’s why upskilling and learning is so important in any portfolio career . It’s not simply a case of learning something once and you’re done. Rather, it’s about flexing your new tech muscles and being aware of any changes that are happening. Think a portfolio career is right for you? The good news is that you can transition as quickly or as slowly as you like. If you want to dive straight in and start freelancing, that’s fine. If you want to keep your full-time job and pick up some tech work on the side, that’s fine too! In the end, it’s about building a career you love and that makes the most of your skills, talents and interests. Want to learn more about the routes available and build a more focused portfolio career path? Come along to The Portfolio Collective’s free weekly Career Focus Workshop . If you have any questions, feel free to join their community and connect with other portfolio professionals. You might be surprised by what you discover! This article was written by The Portfolio Collective , the fastest growing global community for portfolio professionals. We’re on a mission to transform millions of portfolio professionals into accomplished entrepreneurs through an immersive blend of learning, collaboration, support and paid work opportunities.