The Fast Company Impact Council is an invitation-only membership community of leaders, experts, executives, and entrepreneurs who share their insights with our audience. Members pay annual dues for access to peer learning, thought leadership opportunities, events and more.Most of us have heard the phrase supply chain disruption a few times too many in recent years. An extreme weather event or material shortage in one corner of the earth can ripple through thousands of global businesses, causing major delays. As the CEO of a company that builds data centers for some of the biggest technology providers in the world, its a concept Im all too familiar with. Its also one I refuse to accept as blanket reality.Truth is that many supply chain disruptions are born out of the transactional nature of supplier-business partnerships. Companies over-rotate on getting the lowest prices for materials and components, and in the process they miss an opportunity to pursue high quality, collaborative relationships with suppliers.My company set out to reimagine the supply chain a few years ago. We wanted to make our supply chain flexible, resilient, and a powerful source of innovation. The benefits have been countless: better utilization, faster timelines, lower total cost, new product and service models, and partners to help us thrive in a rapidly growing and changing industry.So how did we get here? We reframed the relationship and changed how we get the job done.We dont have a procurement function; we have an innovation function. This way of thinking and working was a natural extension of already strong, decade-long relationships.Anything but transactionalThe bottom line is, we treat suppliers like partners.Recognizing that no one is immune to supply chain disruptions, in 2021, we started meeting with our suppliers more frequently, at least weekly. These meetings gave us a chance to ask questions, better understand the issues, and avoid surprises.That transparency goes in all directions. We also meet with our customers frequently, relaying updates on potential issues. We take an all-hands-on-deck approach to keeping available materials in the pipeline, so projects stay on track. This transparency means we can find ways to mitigate the impact of supply chain disruptions in real time.According to McKinsey, companies that regularly collaborate with suppliers see higher growth, lower operating costs, and better profitability than peers. That makes a lot of sense. The collaboration that has come from our supply chain has certainly paid dividends.Problem solving with partners is a two-way streetAs data center development skyrocketed at the beginning of the decade, our partner Schneider Electric, who provides prefabricated power modules for data centers, needed to expand its footprint and bring additional integration facilities onlineand fast.We invited them to be our neighbor. We had land, power, and the ability to build the type of facility they needed. Schneider could expand without taking on too much risk and didnt need to start from scratch to find land, secure power, and develop building plans. Now, Schneider can integrate our power centers and test our uninterruptible power supplies close to our campus.This collaborative approach resulted in faster delivery times and improved efficiency across the board. There was so much trust between our two companies, it guaranteed that we were working toward a common goal and making us better able to weather the inevitable challenges.Intimacy might be the mother of inventionClose partnerships with suppliers also allow you to respond to market forces faster.Because of our close ties with Vertiv, we shaved months off the timeline to develop a new cooling system to meet the requirements of AI. Our customers were eager to adopt AI quickly, but not ready to say goodbye to traditional CPUs nor go down the high-cost path of a data center redesign or retrofit. To solve the challenge, we had to think inside the box and figure out how to adapt liquid cooling within our existing footprint. Retrofitting and re-engineering the buildings wasnt an option from a cost and timeline perspective.The result was a system that allowed deployments of AI to flex between air and liquid cooling, achieving the flexibility and energy efficiency our clients required while supporting the high-density computing needed for AI. Our engineers collaborated with Vertivs on this solution, and the initial units are already being deployed. With todays breakneck pace of AI innovation and adoption, this level of close collaboration was absolutely critical to meeting customer demand.One thing I know for sure: The supply chain can always improve. It can always be more flexible, more efficient, more resilient. Who knows where else well go with these partners, but knowing we share a continuous improvement mindset means every time theres a problem, well roll up our sleeves and figure it out. Temporary challenges always become long-term advantages if you use them to discover better ways of doing things.A closely-coupled supply chain is the futureTransforming the supply chain takes time, significant effort, and most importantly, mutual trust. Coming together with your suppliers can create transparency. It can also create a continuous improvement mindset. With flexible approaches, you tackle challenges and innovate together. You create relationships that become your competitive differentiator and are valued from the C-suite all the way to the field. Thats what a closely-coupled supply chain means to me, and I wouldnt have it any other way.Chris Crosby is CEO of Compass Datacenters.

Tiny homes seem to becoming larger, and not so tiny by the second. Today, the tiny homes on the market seem extravagant and luxurious, barely resembling the original micro homes that kickstarted such a beloved and popular movement. But we are still team tiny tiny homes, and theyre a more convenient and clever option if you are often on the road. This compact model is called the Shelly, and it features an open, airy, and free-flowing layout packed into one floor. It is also equipped with a solar power setup, that powers the dwelling no matter where it is parked or placed.Designer: Tiny Solar HomesThe Shelly is the smallest model offered by Tiny Solar Homes, featuring a usable length of just 7 meters (nearly 23 feet). This size is about half of Wind Rivers Cumberland and comparable to Havenwoods Joely. Built on a triple-axle trailer, it is finished with durable aluminum. The design includes an outdoor shower and tap, with the option to add a deck area.Access to the interior is through large double glass doors, with a layout that is arranged on one floor. The space is entirely open, except for the bathroom, making it perfect for use as a vacation home, though not ideal for family living. Upon entry, you step into the living room area, which features a sofa and a wall-mounted TV.The kitchen is placed adjacent to the cozy living room. It is designed to be a compact yet functional space, amped with a breakfast bar for two, and complemented by elegant stone countertops and ample cabinetry. It is equipped with an oven, a sink, and a two-burner electric cooktop, making it a practical area for meal preparations. There is also room for a washer/dryer and other appliances, and a hidden sound system with speakers discreetly tucked into the cabinets.The Shellys bathroom, located next to the kitchen, maximizes space efficiency. Its equipped with a shower, a sink, and a standard flushing toilet, though theres an option to upgrade to a composting or incinerating toilet if preferred. On the opposite side of this charming tiny home lies the bedroom. Thanks to its single-story layout, the bedroom offers ample headroom, allowing you to stand up and move around comfortablya rare luxury in tiny house living. This inviting space is furnished with a double bed and integrated storage solutions.As previously mentioned, the tiny house derives its energy from a solar panel array installed on the roof. This system is connected to a battery unit housed in an exterior storage box. There is also an option to upgrade with additional batteries, ensuring a continuous power supply regardless of weather conditions. The Shelly also offers a range of material upgrades for those interested in customizing the aesthetic and durability of their home. You can also install a second bedroom to accommodate more occupants or guests. It is priced at approximately US$80,000.The post Efficient & Elegant Dwelling Offers The Ultimate Modern Tiny House Living For Road Warriors first appeared on Yanko Design.

Hisense has announced a significant expansion of its popular CanvasTV lineup with the addition of new 75-inch and 85-inch models. These larger sizes join the existing 55-inch and 65-inch versions, addressing growing consumer demand for bigger screens that maintain aesthetic appeal within home environments.Designer: HisenseThe new models will be available in U.S. stores in late spring 2025, with the 75-inch model retailing for $2,499.99 and the 85-inch version priced at $3,999.99 representing a $500-$1,000 price advantage over comparable Samsung Frame models.Premium picture technologies remain consistent across the expanded lineup, including 4K QLED with Quantum Dot Color technology, anti-glare Hi-Matte display, and Dolby Vision support. Additional technical features include MEMC (Motion Estimation/Motion Compensation) and Black Frame Insertion, which reduce motion blur during fast-paced content. However, its worth noting that Hisense has not yet confirmed whether the larger models will include the 144Hz refresh rates, AMD FreeSync Premium, and Game Mode Pro features found in the 55 and 65 variants an important consideration for gaming enthusiasts.In my recent review of the CanvasTV for Yanko Design, I highlighted how the display transformed my sunroom with its dual functionality as both a premium television and sophisticated digital art piece.The Art Mode feature, which allows users to display curated artwork or personal photography when not watching content, remains a standout feature in these new larger models. The TV comes with 120 preloaded artwork pieces and supports user-uploaded photos. The included teak magnetic frame provides a refined finishing touch, while optional frames (sold separately) offer additional customization options.A key feature carried over to these larger models is the real-time RGB light sensor, which continuously adapts screen brightness and color temperature to match ambient lighting conditions. This ensures artwork displayed in Art Mode always appears natural and properly illuminated regardless of time of day or lighting changes. The system works in real-time, making subtle adjustments that maintain visual consistency throughout changing environmental conditions.The CanvasTV also includes a motion detector that primarily operates in Art Mode to conserve energy. This smart functionality allows the TV to reduce power consumption to less than 0.5W in standby by turning off when no one is present in the room, then automatically reactivating when movement is detected.This thoughtful addition not only saves an estimated 15-20% in annual power consumption but also enhances the illusion that youre looking at a framed piece of art rather than a television.Installation remains streamlined with the UltraSlim wall mount, which achieves a 1.4-inch depth for a flush, gallery-like presentation. The standard teak frame included with both new models provides a sophisticated, neutral option that complements most interior design schemes. Cable management has been thoughtfully addressed with a single slim cable design that minimizes visual clutter.Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the CanvasTV doubles as a centralized smart home controller via Google TV integration. Users can adjust lights, view security camera feeds (such as Nest Doorbell), and manage devices directly through the TV interface a feature that gives Hisense an edge over Samsungs Frame in ecosystem integration.The 2.0.2-channel surround sound system with DTS Virtual X enhances audio immersion, though audiophiles may still prefer external sound solutions.CanvasTV has always been about blending technology and design seamlessly, said David Gold, President of Hisense Americas and Hisense USA. The CanvasTV vision was never just about delivering a great image, it was about curating a personal space. Now, with these larger sizes, were taking that vision to the next level.The new models maintain comprehensive smart features, offering access to over 800 free live TV channels and 700,000+ movies and shows across 10,000+ apps via Google TV. Connectivity options include HDMI eARC for simplified audio setups, Wi-Fi 5 for reliable streaming performance, and compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit for seamless smart home integration.Hisense offers a 2-year warranty on these modelsdouble the industry standardhighlighting its confidence in product longevity. Additionally, the use of responsibly sourced materials and reduced standby power consumption aligns with eco-conscious design principles.For consumers seeking substantial screen sizes without sacrificing interior design considerations, these new additions to the CanvasTV family offer compelling solutions that transform from entertainment centerpieces to digital artwork with remarkable versatility. As the trend toward larger displays continues, Hisense has demonstrated that bigger screens need not come at the expense of aesthetic integration within thoughtfully designed living spaces.The post Hisense Expands CanvasTV Lineup with New 75 and 85 Models first appeared on Yanko Design.

The core stage of NASAs Space Launch System is now integrated with the rockets twin boosters.

A journalists inclusion in a national security discussion served as a reminder that you might not know every number in the chat and that could be a big problem.

The more people you have in your home, the more iPhones and other devices connect to your network. Netgear's premium Wi-Fi 7 mesh system offers everything you could need and more but for an eye-watering price.Netgear Orbi RBK973 review: This is one good-looking router, that's for sure.My home network is a busy one, and before the Netgear RBK973 system arrived it was problematic. Too many connections and constant use had it creaking at the seams so I was intrigued by this new setup.I had high hopes, as well I should given the specs of this range-topping gear. I've now been testing the system, powered by three access points, for a few weeks. And the results are in. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

Apple has revealed that the winners of the 2025 Swift Student Challenge will be announced on March 27, with the best among them set to receive a trip to Apple Park.Winners of the 2025 Swift Student Challenge will be announced on March 27.The Swift Student Challenge is an annual event that encourages up-and-coming student developers to practice their craft and win prizes. Participants must be over 13, enrolled in an academic institution or homeschool equivalent, and not employed as full-time developers.Participants are required to submit an interactive app playground scene that can be experienced within a three-minute timeframe. The submission must function without an internet connection and cannot be larger than 25MB. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

HOK has been selected to design a 2.8 million-square-foot expansion at Dulles International Airport by the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA). The expansion will add 22 new international gates to Concourse Tier 2 in its first phase and a new Concourse Tier 3 in the following. Also, HOK says: "It will honor the architectural significance of Dulles International Airports main terminal, designed by Eero Saarinen in the 1960s, while positioning the airport for future growth and innovation."The firms previous aviation/transportation work includes the 2019-2023 Chicago OHare Terminal 5 expansion and a new terminal for Salt Lake City International Airport from 2020.

March 26Elbridge Gerry1344 Reconquista: The Muslim city of Algeciras surrendered after a 21-month siege and was incorporated into the Kingdom of Castile.1651 The Spanish ship San Jos ran aground onto coasts controlled by the indigenous Cunco people, who subsequently killed the crew.1697 The Safavid Empire began a four-year occupation of the Ottoman city of Basra on the Persian Gulf.1812 The Boston Gazette printed a cartoon coining the term "gerrymander", named after Governor Elbridge Gerry (pictured), who approved the legislation that created oddly shaped electoral districts.1939 Nationalist forces began their final offensive of the Spanish Civil War, at the end of which they controlled almost the entire country.1999 A jury began deliberations in the trial of Jack Kevorkian, an American practitioner of physician-assisted suicide who was charged with murder in the death of a terminally ill patient.'Adud al-Dawla (d.983)Julie-Victoire Daubi (b.1824)Jrg Streli (b.1940)D.M. Thomas (d.2023)More anniversaries: March 25March 26March 27ArchiveBy emailList of days of the yearAbout

Nvidia is updating its computer vision models with new versions of MambaVision that combine the best of Mamba and transformers to improve efficiency.Read More