Video calls. Robot vacuums. Voice assistants. Thirty years ago, we only saw this technology in cinema or on TV. Today, they’re billion-dollar industries.
Many of the technologies now reshaping how we live and work first appeared in movies or on TV. While most viewers were happy to lose themselves in the narrative, an enterprising few may have seen those fictional gadgets and thought, “I could build that.”
The driving force? Vision and business smarts. These innovators simplified our lives while building rewarding careers and thriving brands.
Let’s check out some fiction-to-fact technology success stories—and see how you could help shape the next big thing.
Even when they only exist on the screen, technologies can spark real-world business innovation. Consider these global successes:
The first video call? “Metropolis,” from 1927. In this silent film, two men chatted by phone while watching each other on screens—in an era where no one even owned a TV.
Today, apps like Zoom, FaceTime, and WhatsApp connect people across the world by voice and video.
Zoom’s IPO arrived at the right time: just before COVID-19. Business skyrocketed. It’s free, right? Plan upgrades, hardware, and add-on features keep it profitable. Its latest revenue figures? $4.75 billion for the fiscal year ending July 2024.
Robot vacuums first popped up in the 1960s TV cartoon “The Jetsons.”
Robot vacuums hit store shelves in 1996 but didn’t really catch on until Roomba’s 2002 debut. Sales have surged every year since.
The 2025 robot vacuum market is expected to reach anywhere from $11 billion to more than $16 billion by year’s end.
The 1960s “Star Trek” TV series showed us mobile “communicators” that looked a lot like 1990s flip phones. And the communications officer took calls through a device that probably inspired Bluetooth earpieces.
Compact cell phones were introduced around 1989. Smaller, colorful flip phones came later.
And today? We don’t need to tell you how lucrative the smartphone market has become—you’re probably reading this article on one right now. As of 2025, the global mobile phone market is set to top $485 billion.
“2001: A Space Odyssey” (from 1968) may show the first touchscreen technology in cinema: a video tablet.
Touchscreens were in development in the 1960s, around the same time as the film. It was 2007’s record-setting touchscreen iPhone launch, however, that helped sales of touchscreen products skyrocket:
The 2013 film “Her” showed a man’s obsession with a device barely bigger than a credit card. Programmed with a natural-sounding female voice, the assistant could learn and create—even write music. Gradually, it became his “companion.”
The film came out shortly after Siri, the first modern voice assistant. Voice-enabled chatbots and robots are now performing an increasing number of tasks and providing companionship for some, including older adults.
The global voice assistant market could reach $15 billion by 2033.
A VR headset immerses you in a digital world you can explore and interact with. “The Lawnmower Man” gave us a scary glimpse back in 1992. In the movie, a scientist tried to boost a man’s brain power with drugs and VR-based training. The subject became superintelligent—and homicidal.
A VR technology in cinema trend followed. The theme appeared throughout 1990s films, including:
Consumer VR headsets launched in 2016 and are changing how we play games and watch movies. But entertainment is just one of VR’s applications, which also include:
The global VR market could reach $193 billion by 2030.
A chilling tale of AI gone rogue, the film “Demon Seed” showed a surprisingly accurate smart home—in 1977. The house featured automated, voice-controlled appliances, lighting, and security features throughout. (Even a doorbell camera.)
Smart home technology was developed in the 1960s. But “Demon Seed”-level smart homes? That technology wouldn’t arrive until the 2010s.
The 2024 U.S. smart home market reached $28.3 billion.
Ever hailed a Johnny Cab? (True, most people prefer “rideshare” now.) The 1990 movie “Total Recall” gave us Johnny Cab, with a chatty, human-like—but robotic—driver.
We can’t buy fully-autonomous cars … yet. But some semi-autonomous models are available, as well as driverless taxis. And some consumers are getting to test-ride personal autonomous vehicles, which may be parked in our driveways soon.
The 2024 global market for self-driving cars? $1.7 trillion!
Flying cars? Well, they aren’t here yet. But autonomous car technology shows promise for flying ones, too! Maybe you’ll be part of that future business boom?
Do screen stories inspire real-life technology, or is it the other way around?
Filming on “2001: A Space Odyssey” began shortly after touchscreens were developed. (Probably not a coincidence.) But on-screen depictions of compact, ergonomic flip phones and Bluetooth earpieces were clearly echoed in consumer product designs from later decades.
These products met a need we didn’t know we had. It took futuristic stories for us to realize it.
Business visionaries understand that consumers crave innovative gear. And once they get it, they can’t live without it. Is it also well-designed? Does it solve a real problem? Those combined elements can be a springboard to success.
There’s a huge opportunity for ambitious business leaders inspired by technology in cinema or TV—or who see untapped markets.
The entrepreneurs who brought movie tech to life had big ideas and knew how to execute them. They understood consumer behavior, identified market gaps, and built strategies to turn prototypes into products people actually buy.
Whether you’re inspired by technologies you’ve seen on screen or you’ve spotted an untapped market, you’ll need the same skills those innovators used: marketing principles, strategic management, and the ability to weigh market potential.
The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online business programs can help you build that foundation:
Develop essential skills with courses covering:
Ready to turn ideas into reality? Start your UTPB application now.
Sources:
https://screenrant.com/tech-inventions-movies-predicted
https://now.northropgrumman.com/4-examples-of-sci-fi-technology-predicted-by-media
https://www.cnn.com/2019/04/18/tech/zoom-ipo-video-conference
https://medium.com/@shazaibdanish4/the-history-and-future-of-smart-homes-from-sci-fi-dreams-to-reality-fe4cba633eb1
Video calls. Robot vacuums. Voice assistants. Thirty years ago, we only saw this technology in cinema or on TV. Today, they’re billion-dollar industries. Many of the technologies now reshaping how we live and work first appeared in movies or on TV. While most viewers were happy to lose themselves in the narrative, an enterprising few…
Forget everything you think you know about management roles, like the idea that for the rest of your life, you’ll be chained to a desk under a ceiling of fluorescent lights. That’s not what management looks like—or at least, it doesn’t have to be. A business management degree doesn’t condemn you to a cubicle; it…
“It’s a beautiful summer day …” your star employee says as they stare longingly out the window. And chances are, they’re not the only one. Summer tests even the strongest teams. As the dog days hit, bloggers and journalists love citing a 2012 survey claiming that productivity drops a massive 20% during the summer. But…
You can speak the same language as someone and still completely miss each other’s meaning. That’s part of what makes intercultural communication so important.
Whether you’re working with international teams, studying abroad, or connecting with people from different backgrounds, communication involves more than just choosing the right words.
Intercultural communication is how people from different cultures share ideas and make sense of one another. That can include differences in nationality, language, religion, age, gender, profession, or social identity.
In other words, it’s what happens when culture and communication interact.
Culture shapes how people interpret cues like tone, body language, authority, and politeness. When people from different backgrounds interact, misunderstandings can happen even when everyone has good intentions.
Intercultural communication helps people:
In a globalized world, those skills are useful in business, education, healthcare, media, and just about any field that brings people together across different experiences.
It’s important to phrase communications carefully, but words are just one small part of the message you’re sending. Cultural context also shapes how communication is sent and received.
A firm “no” in one culture might be a polite “maybe” in another. The same words can land very differently depending on who’s saying them, where, and how.
Here’s a few examples:
In many Western cultures, eye contact signals confidence and attentiveness. In countries like South Korea or Japan, intense eye contact can be seen as rude or confrontational.
Did you know that email etiquette also differs between cultures?
A German manager will usually jump straight to the point—for example: “Please send the quarterly report by Monday.” An American counterpart may soften the tone: “Could you please send over the quarterly report when you get a chance?”
The intent is the same, but the delivery reflects very different cultural norms.
Some cultures are comfortable with open emotional expression, while others place more value on restraint.
For instance, in the U.S., publicly showing emotion—such as expressing frustration—is mostly accepted. In countries like the United Kingdom, emotion is expected to be subdued (hence the British term “stiff upper lip”).
Certain hand gestures—like a thumbs up—are appropriate in the United States but offensive in some Middle Eastern countries.
That’s why strong intercultural communication isn’t just about speaking a language. It’s also about understanding the expectations and values that shape it.
The good news is that intercultural communication is a skill you can build.
A few ways to improve it include:
At its core, intercultural communication requires flexibility and self-awareness. It means being willing to adjust your approach instead of assuming your communication style is the default.
If connecting with people across cultures, contexts, or corners of the world sounds like your calling, why not make it into a career? The University of Texas Permian Basin’s 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Communication is designed to help you gain communication skills that you can apply in almost any field.
You can focus your studies with four specializations:
Do you see yourself as a future bridge-builder? Transcontinental journalist? International marketing professional? Find out with UTPB and turn your passion into your future.
Sources:
https://www.asme.org/topics-resources/content/communicating-across-cultures
https://iso.mit.edu/americanisms/eye-contact-in-the-united-states/
https://hbr.org/2014/05/one-reason-cross-cultural-small-talk-is-so-tricky
Picture Martin Luther King Jr. standing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, delivering his “I Have a Dream” speech to over 250,000 people gathered for the March on Washington. Could he have known, in that moment, that his words would terrify some, inspire many more, and echo across decades of social movements? King and…
You can speak the same language as someone and still completely miss each other’s meaning. That’s part of what makes intercultural communication so important. Whether you’re working with international teams, studying abroad, or connecting with people from different backgrounds, communication involves more than just choosing the right words. Intercultural communication is how people from different cultures share ideas and make sense of one…
AI is now an inseparable part of our classrooms, homes, and offices. Capable of performing trillions of calculations in a second, AI-powered machines dredge the depths of the internet to find and convey information in any style, language, or difficulty level. But don’t worry, AI is only here to lend a hand. At least, that’s…
Modern challenges like AI and global weather crises can stir up fear and controversy. But that’s for the scientists to sort out, right?
Not exactly. The humanities play a powerful, often overlooked role in technology and science. Trends in these fields can create ethical, moral, environmental, and philosophical dilemmas. The humanities equip us to navigate them—and open doors to diverse, impactful careers.
Let’s explore how humanities graduates can help tackle some of our greatest global challenges.
The scientific advances of this century have provided a staggering amount of data and technology. But we need humanities graduates to navigate the ethical, cultural, and human dimensions of these advances.
Some of today’s biggest challenges require an expert understanding of human behavior, ethics and values. Let’s examine two critical issues that show why we need humanities experts at the table.
AI is transforming the world with applications (and implications) for virtually every field. It’s given us new ways to heal, teach, learn, automate, and analyze. But there’s a dark side.
AI is controversial because it:
These aren’t just technical concerns—they’re ethical ones. And they’re not new. From the earliest days of computers, people have worried about information security. Now the stakes are even higher.
With AI offering clear benefits but raising ethical questions, our path forward isn’t clear. Ideally, we’ll need to establish policies that balance our technology needs with ethical guidelines.
Enter: humanities experts.
Humanities scholars excel in critical thinking, problem-solving, empathy, communication, and historical perspective. These critical skills are often absent in technology development and implementation.
Members of major humanities groups have contributed to crucial AI guidance:
2024 was the planet’s hottest year on record. 2025 began with the hottest January ever recorded. Hurricanes are growing so powerful that scientists now debate adding a Category 6. While debates rage about the source of climate challenges, one thing is clear: Extreme weather patterns are the new normal.
Addressing climate change isn’t just about technology—it’s about changing behaviors, building consensus, and making moral choices. We know the planet is warming: The hard part is getting 8 billion people to change how they live.
A humanities-based policy offers some critical insight. It asks:
Humanities graduates are tackling these questions on the job. Their work turns complex data and bold science into action most of us can understand—and join.
Working with national and global organizations, humanities professionals are becoming thought leaders in environmental responsibility:
Digital Humanities: Where Technology Meets Human Values
When you think of humanities, do you picture dusty books and ancient philosophy? Think again. Today’s humanities programs use cutting-edge technology to solve modern problems.
Technology advances all fields, including humanities. Digital humanities blends everything from literature and history to media, computer science, and, yes, AI. The result? Fresh ways of thinking. What started as a mix of arts and technology has grown to include machine learning, data science, and critical digital studies.
Here’s how it works in practice:
Humanities professionals work alongside technologists, scientists, and policymakers during development. They help ensure innovations have ethical, sustainable foundations before problems arise.
We all want to help the world overcome its challenges. An academic background in humanities can translate into real careers with real impact. Humanities graduates become:
Each role helps build a more ethical, sustainable future.
Don’t see what you’re looking for? Find more careers here.
Ready to tackle global challenges with human-centered solutions?
The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Humanities is your path forward. Our multidisciplinary program deepens your understanding of human cultures while developing the critical thinking skills employers demand.
You’ll learn to bridge the gap between technology and humanity, preparing for careers that make a real difference.
Ever found yourself humming an earworm and suddenly wondering, “Where did this come from—and who created it?” Music is a universal language. It conveys memory, rebellion, grief, joy, and identity. Across centuries, women have used the language of sound in a world where they’ve been told, repeatedly, to stay invisible. Here are some of the…
Modern challenges like AI and global weather crises can stir up fear and controversy. But that’s for the scientists to sort out, right? Not exactly. The humanities play a powerful, often overlooked role in technology and science. Trends in these fields can create ethical, moral, environmental, and philosophical dilemmas. The humanities equip us to navigate…
“Any form of art is a form of power; it has impact, it can affect change – it can not only move us, it makes us move.” — Ossie Davis, actor and activist October is Art and Humanities Month in the United States, a celebration that provides the perfect opportunity to consider how art helps…
Amazon started as a small online bookstore in the 1990s. Over time, it added more merchandise and offered its services to third-party sellers until it grew into the global powerhouse we know today.
Ever skipped the store and found yourself going straight to Amazon? You’re not alone—and it’s a glimpse into how e-commerce is reshaping businesses around the world.
Whether you’re thinking of launching your own online business or pursuing an international business career, understanding e-commerce is essential. Let’s explore how e-commerce works, how it’s changed global business, and what career opportunities await in this growing field.
E-commerce is short for electronic commerce. It describes any online transaction involving products, services, and digital goods.
While we often think of e-commerce in terms of large digital stores—like Amazon, Walmart, or Etsy—it spans a range of business models and transactions.
For example:
E-commerce covers a broad spectrum. Global businesses today can reach customers around the world with fewer barriers (and clicks) than ever before.
E-commerce is a $6.8 trillion global force, expected to reach $8 trillion by 2027. One-third of all purchases are made online. Companies can now sell to customers halfway around the planet without needing a physical storefront.
Here are six ways e-commerce is changing international business:
Ever noticed how many third-party sellers there are on platforms like Amazon or eBay? Small enterprises now have access to international markets without the financial and logistical barriers of setting up physical stores abroad. For example, Etsy allows artisans in small towns to sell their handmade goods to customers anywhere in the world.
Overhead refers to a store’s operating costs: the upkeep needed for physical stores, international shipping centers, and large staffs. Online platforms eliminate many overhead costs, so businesses can focus more on investing in digital infrastructure—like better online storefronts.
For example: Shopify allows businesses to set up online stores with minimal upfront costs. Expensive real estate and large teams? No longer needed.
Many e-commerce platforms streamline purchasing with integrated payment systems and digital currencies, which makes checking out a breeze.
For instance, Alibaba’s AliExpress allows for instant payments in multiple currencies. This makes it easier for consumers to purchase from international sellers without long waiting periods or high transaction fees.
Ever wonder how goods get from halfway across the world to your door in no time? Or why some packages get stuck in customs? Cross-border logistics between countries ensure:
Fulfillment centers around the globe—such as Amazon’s—reduce delivery times even for international shipments, which has helped create a more efficient global supply chain.
Real-time data collection gathered from online behavior offers countless insights to businesses. It allows them to track consumer preferences in real-time and adapt their offerings based on region and individual shoppers.
That’s how stores like Amazon can offer personal recommendations based on your browsing and shopping history. Real-time data collection provides insights into what products are trending in different countries, allowing businesses to respond to market demands instantly.
E-commerce has made it easier for customers to buy from anywhere in the world. Most stores offer multiple payment options, like PayPal, Stripe, or cryptocurrencies. Installment payments are also becoming more common, using payment platforms like Klarna.
Platforms like eBay and Shopify automatically adjust prices to local currencies, which removes barriers for international customers.
Digital influencers selling services and products on social media—like on TikTok, Instagram, or Reddit—and artificial intelligence are quickly redefining what it means to sell online.
Here are some trends to watch:
Artificial intelligence (AI) is already automating parts of customer service. (Think chatbots you can ask general questions or the AI that redirects your call to a human operator.) AI use is expected to surge by 37% annually between 2023 and 2031, and AI systems will automate customer service, personalize shopping, and predict trends.
Ever tried on a pair of glasses online before buying them, like on Zenni Optical? Or, if you’ve bought from IKEA, you may have even tried their augmented reality (AR) furniture visualization. VR/AR technology is improving quickly and will allow customers to effortlessly “try before they buy” online.
Platforms like Patagonia prioritize eco-friendly packaging and ethical sourcing. With the rise of eco-conscious consumers, this will only become more important.
Here’s what you need to know:
E-commerce is revolutionizing the world, and you could be part of it.
Do you dream of building your own online storefront, launching a global business, or creating the next generation of e-commerce tools? In a field that’s technology-forward and constantly evolving, it’s vital to stay up-to-date with credentials like The University of Texas Permian Basin’s entirely online Master of Business Administration with International Business concentration.
This program will help you build key knowledge to scale and manage businesses in a digital-first world, including:
Students from UTPB’s MBA program have turned their degrees into careers at global powerhouses like Google, Amazon, Charles Schwab, and Chevron.
Already earned your Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)? Good news—you can easily transfer your credits to UTPB.
With an online MBA in International Business from UTPB, you can start building your own global business and join a community of changemakers—no matter where you’re starting from.
Sources:
https://www.bigcommerce.com/articles/ecommerce/future-of-ecommerce
Clean energy comes in many forms. These renewable power sources create little to no pollution in the air, water, or soil, and some are even inexhaustible. Let’s look at a few clean energy sources, substantial clean energy efforts around the world, and energy business career potential—including salaries. Clean Energy Sources Some common sources of clean…
Not all heroes wear capes. Sure, doctors and surgeons wear scrubs—the unofficial capes of modern medicine—but what about the people working behind the scenes? The ones making sure our hospitals, clinics, and healthcare systems runs smoothly every day? They might not always get the glory, but they’re far from undervalued, especially in today’s job market….
A Master of Business Administration (MBA) can provide you with the education and skills needed to obtain a C-suite job or strike out on your own as an entrepreneur. Despite these benefits, many individuals—especially those with a mind for business—may have concerns about whether the time and cost required to earn a degree is an…
Imagine sending money across the world in seconds—without waiting for a bank transfer or filling out piles of forms. That’s the promise of cryptocurrency.
Cryptocurrency is digital money that doesn’t require banks. Instead, your funds are secured by encryption and passwords only you control. When Bitcoin launched in 2009, it introduced a new way to move money: one that’s public, secure, and completely decentralized.
Today, over 560 million people own crypto, and that number is growing fast. Whether you’re curious about investing, building a finance career, or simply understanding this digital revolution, here’s what you need to know.
Cryptocurrency is digital money built on a blockchain, a shared ledger that anyone can view but no one can alter without network agreement. Instead of a bank verifying your transactions, a distributed P2P (peer-to-peer) network of computers, called nodes, confirms and records them.
Think of it as a giant spreadsheet that thousands of people keep in sync at once, with no bank middleman or hefty fees. When you send crypto:
You may have heard the term “fiat money” if you’ve ever dabbled in crypto. That’s the name for government-issued money, like the U.S. dollar, Euro, or Japanese yen.
Traditional fiat money is received through traditional methods like cash, direct deposits, and bank withdrawals. But cryptocurrency transactions follow a different path.
There are three common ways to build a crypto balance:
While crypto isn’t replacing your bank card just yet, you can already use it in surprising ways:
Your crypto doesn’t sit in a physical wallet. Instead, you store it in a digital vault that holds your keys and lets you send and receive cryptocurrency.
There are two main ways to store your crypto:
These wallets give you control over your digital assets—no banks, no central authority. But if you lose your keys and seed phrase? Your assets are gone forever.
Regulations for crypto are evolving quickly—like the U.S. GENIUS Act and the European Union’s MiCA—but personal security is still your responsibility.
Scams happen. Watch out for fake “airdrops,” shady exchanges, or too-good-to-be-true returns. Do your own research and stay up to date. Like cash under a mattress, once a criminal steals your cryptocurrency, it’s gone.
Here’s how to protect your cryptocurrency assets:
By 2026, the number of cryptocurrency owners could climb close to one billion. The payment market alone is projected to reach nearly $100 billion by 2026.
Finance leaders need to stay ahead of this shift. Markets are evolving fast, and crypto is expected to become more widely accepted as legal tender. Financial experts will need to master new terms like:
Crypto is disrupting how people move money, how markets behave, and how regulation adapts. Understanding the basics of cryptocurrency now will ensure you’re ready to lead in a financial world that looks very different than it did ten years ago.
Think you’re up for the challenge?
Are you a future financial analyst? A fintech entrepreneur? Or maybe a crypto asset manager?
No matter where you are on your financial journey (or where you’re heading), The University of Texas Permian Basin can help you become a confident leader in the financial world of tomorrow.
Our programs combine finance fundamentals with insights to navigate emerging, innovative markets. Choose from the following online degrees:
You’ll keep up with new financial technology, master the market, spark innovation, practice smart risk management, and learn from key players in the world of finance.
Curious where your passion can take you? Explore UTPB’s online finance programs and start building the skills that will shape your future.
Source:
https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-proof-of-work-or-proof-of-stake
Financial planning for millennials isn’t about hitting milestones on the same timeline our parents did. If that were the standard, a large percentage of us would already feel behind. Instead, it’s about understanding your money, making informed decisions, and building stability in a changing economy. If that already feels refreshing, good. Because many millennials are managing student loans, rising living costs, career…
Ever opened your bank account and thought: “How do I have another bill due already?” You’re not alone. Financial stress affects 61% of adults ages 18 to 35, whether it’s from: Gen Z has been through a lot—from the COVID pandemic’s economic impact to inflation and job uncertainty. That’s why smart financial planning matters more…
Imagine sending money across the world in seconds—without waiting for a bank transfer or filling out piles of forms. That’s the promise of cryptocurrency. Cryptocurrency is digital money that doesn’t require banks. Instead, your funds are secured by encryption and passwords only you control. When Bitcoin launched in 2009, it introduced a new way to…
Ever wonder how elections actually work? The answer lies in electoral systems.
Not to be confused with the Electoral College, an electoral system is a set of rules for casting and counting votes and determining who wins. Different countries use different methods to choose their leaders. Some systems can declare a winner with just 34% of the vote. Others require over 50%. Some give voters multiple choices on one ballot. Others split power based on exact vote percentages.
These differences shape entire democracies. They determine whether your vote counts the same as everyone else’s, how many parties can compete, and how well your government represents what people actually want.
Let’s explore the most popular types of electoral systems and how they work in the real world.
Whoever gets the most votes wins. Seems fair and sensible, right? Both plurality and majority systems operate on this model, but there’s at least one major difference between them. Let’s compare:
Its alternate name, “First-Past-the-Post,” makes it sound more like a horse race, but plurality simply means that the candidate with the most votes wins. You’ll find plurality electoral systems in place in many areas globally:
Imagine three candidates are running. Candidates A and B each get 33% of the vote, and Candidate C gets 34%. In plurality voting, Candidate C wins. It represents the choice of the people—but in this example, just barely.
Seems straightforward, right? But Candidate C may not want to deliver that acceptance speech just yet. In a majority electoral system, they would not win the election.
Why? Because majority system candidates must earn more than 50% of the vote to win. Countries that opt for this type of system (like Australia and France) argue that an absolute majority—more than 50%—reflects the will of a greater number of voters.
What if elections worked like splitting a pizza? If your party gets 53% of the votes, you get 53% of the governing seats. No more, no less.
That’s proportional representation in action. This system focuses on parties rather than individual candidates and is most often applied to legislative bodies. Supporters argue it’s the fairest system because it best reflects what most voters want and virtually ends gerrymandering. New Zealand, Germany, and Hong Kong all use this type of electoral system.
Ever wished you could vote for your favorite candidate without “wasting” your vote? Preferential voting lets you do just that.
Instead of picking just one candidate, voters rank them in order of preference. If your first choice gets eliminated? Your vote automatically goes to your second choice. This continues until someone wins a majority.
Overall, voters have a greater say with this type of voting. You can vote for who you actually want (without worrying about helping your least favorite candidate win).
Where can you find this type of electoral system? Though we also mentioned it as a majority system, Australia is actually a mixed system that includes majority and preferential voting. When voting for members of their parliament, Australians use the preferential voting system.
What if a country wants to pick and choose from different electoral systems? In that case, they’re using a mixed system. Some countries use plurality or majority for some elections and proportional representation for others. Voters get two votes: one for a candidate and one for a party.
The advantages? Votes count proportionately, and local communities get fair representation. This system is called Mixed Member Proportional (MMP). You’ll find it used in:
Let’s quickly review what we’ve learned!:
Planning a career in politics, government, or law? Build the foundation you’ll need with The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.
Through courses like American National Politics, you’ll explore our electoral system and other aspects of government and compare political systems of other nations. Choose a program focus area to match your career or personal interests!
This program is available online exclusively at this UT System institution.
Sources:
https://aceproject.org/ace-en/topics/es/default
https://fairvote.org/resources/electoral-systems
From Congress to the White House to the Supreme Court, America’s political institutions shape every part of our lives. They decide how much you pay in taxes, whether your vote counts, and what rights you have. But are they working the way they’re supposed to? What Is a Political Institution? Political institutions are the organizations…
When people picture women who reshaped American politics, Ruth Bader Ginsburg often comes to mind first—and for good reason. RBG changed how the law sees gender equality from the inside of the Supreme Court. But here’s the thing: she wasn’t in Congress. Long before women were reliably winning elections—long before it was even legal for…
Ever wonder how elections actually work? The answer lies in electoral systems. Not to be confused with the Electoral College, an electoral system is a set of rules for casting and counting votes and determining who wins. Different countries use different methods to choose their leaders. Some systems can declare a winner with just 34%…
If you hop on a Citi Bike in New York City, you’re doing more than just getting across town. You’re helping create real-time data that city planners use to design new bus routes and bike lanes where they’re needed most. Convenient and essential, right?
Big data is reshaping our cities—and the future of public administration. Instead of relying on traditional paperwork, the public sector is shifting toward fast, informed action powered by data.
Every second, we create massive amounts of information through hospital records, traffic sensors, social media posts—and yes, even bike share rides—that governments can harness.
This is big data.
It’s an impressive undertaking. But what makes big data such a powerful tool for public administrators is the innovative ways people in the field are leveraging it.
Public administrators sift through this data to figure out what people actually need and how to make daily life run smoother. They look for answers to questions like:
While these questions are already shaping today’s decisions, they’re also pointing to where public administration is heading next. And that future looks dramatically different from today.
Cities like Boston use this data to inform their CityScore system, a dashboard that turns performance metrics into a daily score that the mayor and citizens can see. Leaders can spot problems quickly (like a dip in EMS response times) and address them before they escalate. Resources can be allocated based on need to prevent burnout.
In the future, citizens will know what happens in their city in real-time and can even take corrective actions themselves. They’ll also expect more transparency from policymakers and administrators, who will be held accountable every step of the way.
But what will this transformation actually look like?
Let’s explore five key areas where big data is revolutionizing how government works.
Cities like Boston use this data to inform their CityScore system, a dashboard that turns performance metrics into a daily score that the mayor and citizens can see. Leaders can spot problems quickly (like a dip in EMS response times) and address them before they escalate. Resources can be allocated based on need to prevent burnout. In the future, citizens will know what happens in their city in real-time and can even take corrective actions themselves. They’ll also expect more transparency from policymakers and administrators, who will be held accountable every step of the way.
Let’s look at some of the key points in this article:
Whether your path takes you into policy analysis, community planning, organizational leadership, or even smart-city design, The University of Texas Permian Basin’s fully online Master of Public Administration (MPA) program gives you the knowledge and tools to shape communities that last.
In the Permian Basin, data-driven planning is already part of daily life—like the $11 million investment in safer roads guided by real-time traffic data. As a UTPB graduate, you’ll take that same evidence-based mindset into leadership roles anywhere.
Data is only as important as those who can use it wisely. The future needs leaders who can see numbers and the people behind them. How will you help shape it?
Learn more and apply here.
Sources:
https://www.sas.com/en_th/insights/articles/big-data/big-data-government.html
So, you’ve decided to take the next step in your career with a Master of Public Administration (MPA). You’re eyeing your next promotion, eager to lead, and one click away from applying—then reality hits: tuition, fees, books. Your ambitions shouldn’t come with a heavy price tag, and the good news is, they don’t have to….
From firefighters and teachers to city planners and social workers, public servants play a quiet but essential role in keeping communities safe, healthy, and functioning. If you’ve ever ridden public transportation or even checked out a library book, you’ve benefited from public services. But what exactly are public services—and what kinds of careers exist in…
Anyone in a position of power can face ethical dilemmas. Effectively handling these challenges is central to maintaining a career and the respect of your employer—particularly when your employer is the tax-paying public, and you’re spending their money. Here we’ll discuss some of the ethical concerns public administrators may face. We’ll also provide some suggested…
Can speaking multiple languages boost your salary? Make travel easier? Even help prevent dementia? The answer is yes. But multilingual societies also face real challenges, from schools struggling with resources to entire languages disappearing.
Whether you’re considering learning a second language or wondering how multilingual communities work, this guide covers what you need to know. We’ll explore the career and personal benefits, examine the obstacles multilingual societies face, and show you how countries like Switzerland make it work.
Knowing multiple languages can improve your career, travel, brain health, and more. Here’s what research shows about the advantages.
Some jobs require you to know more than one language. For others, it’s an added skill that sets your resume apart. Either way, being multilingual can give you a professional advantage. It broadens your career options and can boost your paycheck. You might even have your pick of international positions.
Employers often value multilingualism in:
International travel goes more smoothly when you speak the local language. Whether you take business trips or vacations abroad, multilingual skills help. You’ll feel more confident talking with hotel staff, cab drivers, or anyone you meet.
But you don’t need to hop on a plane to use multilingual skills. Think about that neighbor, coworker, or barista at your favorite coffee spot who speaks another language. They’ll be surprised and delighted to know you speak it, too. Multiple language skills can help you make more friends and deeper connections.
Maybe you already speak some Spanish. But can you read and write it too? Multilingual skills can help your career and enrich your life. Reading a novel in its original language, for example, reveals details translations miss.
Learning a new language often leads you to explore a new culture and history. This cultural understanding helps you connect with new perspectives and develop empathy for different viewpoints.
Did you know that multilingualism can delay dementia? In fact, that’s just one way your brain benefits from knowing more than one language.
Want to perform better at school? Try learning a second language. Studies show that multilingual students have superior math abilities. There’s also evidence that they may be better readers.
Multilingual communities face real challenges. When different languages compete for dominance, some get pushed aside. Schools struggle with resources, and governments wrestle with policy decisions. Here are the main obstacles these communities encounter.
A language with many speakers can push other languages aside. In the 1920s, for example, Louisiana passed an English-only policy for its mandatory public school system. Creole and French languages and cultures there declined as a result. This pattern repeats worldwide when one language becomes dominant.
How do you educate a multilingual population? Separate schools can hurt societal unity. Integrated schools work better, but they require more resources: multilingual staff, materials, and curriculum.
And it’s not just schools. Libraries, government services, and community programs need resources that meet the needs of their multilingual population, which costs money many rural and underserved communities don’t have.
Governments in multilingual areas face tough choices: Will government sessions be conducted in multiple languages? Will documents be published in all languages, or just the primary one?
Canada shows how complex this dilemma can be: It has two official languages: English and French. But Quebec considers French its sole official language and has (unsuccessfully) attempted to secede from Canada several times.
You may understand the language, but do you understand the culture? Language barriers can lead to misunderstandings, bias, and harmful stereotypes. Knowing cultural norms, values, and traditions matter just as much as vocabulary.
With all these challenges, can multilingual societies actually succeed?
Switzerland proves they can. The country has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Children must learn their main local language, a second official language, and English.
The result? Switzerland maintains political stability, low crime rates, and high living standards while preserving multiple languages and cultures.
Let’s quickly review what we’ve discussed.
These challenges and opportunities create a need for skilled educators who understand multilingual literacy development. Graduate programs in literacy and bilingual education prepare teachers to support students learning in multiple languages.
Programs typically cover:
Help nurture language skills for a diverse world—and unlock lifelong opportunities for generations! Start with a CAEP-accredited program from The University of Texas Permian Basin:
Sources:
https://livexp.com/blog/why-knowing-languages-helps-business
https://www.forbes.com/sites/tracybrower/2023/10/01/improve-your-salary-and-career-by-speaking-a-second-language
https://www.lingoda.com/blog/en/cantons-switzerland/#What-is-a-canton-in-Switzerland
Texas teachers, here’s the reality: More than half of all K-12 students in the state are Hispanic, and nearly a quarter are enrolled in bilingual/ESL programs. That translates to over a million students who needed specialized language support throughout the 2023-2024 school year. Districts are struggling to find enough certified bilingual and ESL teachers. A critical shortage for schools? Absolutely. But…
Can speaking multiple languages boost your salary? Make travel easier? Even help prevent dementia? The answer is yes. But multilingual societies also face real challenges, from schools struggling with resources to entire languages disappearing. Whether you’re considering learning a second language or wondering how multilingual communities work, this guide covers what you need to know….
Bilingualism can come in handy for travel, work, and personal conversations. But did you know bilingual brains function better and longer? Bilingual people: Impressed yet? Let’s explore the cognitive advantages of a bilingual brain. How Does Being Bilingual Benefit Your Brain? Delayed Cognitive Decline People can stay sharp as they age by reading, playing word…
Ransomware, phishing, viruses: If it’s connected to the internet, someone’s probably trying to hack it. Threats are everywhere in today’s digital world, and now that factories run on smart technology, it’s not just laptops at risk.
Industry 4.0 has moved manufacturing from traditional methods to smart, automated systems (think robots and sensors on the factory floor). But with this shift comes a bigger risk: cyberattacks targeting vulnerable networks.
If you’re entering the industrial world, understanding cybersecurity isn’t optional—it’s survival. Here’s what you need to know.
A 2020 study by Ponemon Institute showed that the industrial technology sector spent $5 billion to fight cybersecurity data breaches that year. That number has only grown since, and phishing attacks have become scarily convincing. Industrial cyber-attacks aren’t isolated incidents but rather part of a growing trend.
Manufacturing has become the most-targeted sector for cybercriminals. Believe it or not, industrial tech accounts for over a quarter of known security incidents!
Industrial technology companies are high-value targets for cybercriminals because of how costly downtime is. If a hacker can break into a facility’s industrial control system, for example, they get immediate access to specialized computers and controllers that run machinery.
Think about what’s at stake with such an intrusion: Everything from assembly line robots to the valves in a chemical plant can be reprogrammed, altered, and controlled remotely. It’s like holding a victim hostage … except the victim is a robot, or even a company’s entire system.
Here’s a real-life example: In 2021, a hacker gained access to a water treatment plant in Florida and tried to change the water’s chemical levels. A plant operator discovered the breach in time to prevent harm—but imagine what could have happened if those chemical levels had reached the water supply.
How Industrial Plants Use Cybersecurity Protection
Most industrial plants employ two types of teams to manage cybersecurity:
Most modern factories use “defense-in-depth” strategies. Think of these as multiple walls of protection around their systems—like multiple firewalls. If one layer is breached, several others remain. This helps keep damage from spreading unchecked.
Common practices used against cyberattacks include:
A Siemens white paper found that the root cause of many security incidents was poor password practices—something many of us (we get it!) are guilty of. For instance, factory equipment installers often left systems with no password or reused the same easy-to-guess password on multiple machines.
The NotPetya malware outbreak in 2017 hit industrial firms hard, prompting large corporations like Siemens to ramp up security efforts, building security into their equipment and even retrofitting older systems.
Older machines weren’t designed around cybersecurity, which makes them easy targets. In the United States, many Texas-based companies (especially oil, gas, and manufacturing) are upgrading legacy systems with help from cybersecurity partnerships and local university programs like The University of Texas Permian Basin.
Industrial technology is the most-targeted sector for cyberattacks. To stay ahead of looming cybersecurity threats, companies must layer defenses like updates, network segmentation, backup plans—anything to make a hacker’s job harder.
The next wave of cybersecurity will likely include:
By 2026, the global market for industrial cybersecurity is expected to hit over $22 billion. This means professionals in industrial technology are becoming more essential than ever.
Think you’re up for the challenge?
Imagine building secure networks and encrypting hardware for next-generation industrial plants. Today’s industrial technology professionals are more than just engineers—they’re experts in security and artificial intelligence, as well.
In West Texas, UT Permian Basin’s new Cyber Center in Odessa-Midland is training future professionals to safeguard critical infrastructure. But you don’t have to be on-site to receive UTPB’s top-quality education.
UTPB offers two fully online industrial technology programs. If you’re just starting out, our online BS in industrial technology can help you learn:
Already working? Our online BAAS in industrial technology is an ideal fit for professionals looking to continue their studies. It’s the only one of its kind in the UT System.
As more industries go digital, there will be a growing need for cyber-literate industrial professionals. If you want to help protect the systems that power our factories, energy grids, and supply chains, then cybersecurity is your way in.
Want to be the one that protects the tech that powers the world? Start your future in industrial technology at UTPB.
Sources:
https://www.techtarget.com/iotagenda/tip/Operational-technology-vs-information-technology-explained
Ever check the tag on a t-shirt or appliance and see “Made in China” or “Made in Mexico”? Soon, you may be seeing more tags labeled “Made in the USA.” Today, there’s a reshoring trend that’s reopening factories, strengthening American manufacturing, and creating new opportunities for businesses and workers. As more companies move toward domestic…
Ransomware, phishing, viruses: If it’s connected to the internet, someone’s probably trying to hack it. Threats are everywhere in today’s digital world, and now that factories run on smart technology, it’s not just laptops at risk. Industry 4.0 has moved manufacturing from traditional methods to smart, automated systems (think robots and sensors on the factory…
Imagine a factory where machines, robots, and sensors are all talking to each other, like nerves sending signals to a brain. Before a human notices anything, the system’s already flagged a motor that’s starting to lag and adjusted a product’s assembly in seconds. This is connected manufacturing in action. Today’s smart factories run on connected…
Over 6,900 cyberattacks happen every second against Microsoft users alone. While it’s clear from that staggering number that criminals have gone digital, law enforcement is fighting back with new tools, training, and tactics.
The challenge? Digital crimes don’t happen in plain sight. They’re hidden in code, encrypted networks, and anonymous online spaces. For National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, let’s investigate how law enforcement is adapting to win the battle against cybercrime.
Law enforcement’s toolkit for fighting cybercrime is expanding. Agents now have access to a range of powerful, sophisticated technologies for their investigations:
So, if part of a suspect’s face appears in a video posted online, image enhancement tools can reconstruct the rest of the face. When that complete image is run through a facial recognition system against mug shots, international watchlists, and passport databases, law enforcement can target a suspect.
Modern law enforcement personnel must be able to stop threats like malware, ransomware, viruses, Trojans, and phishing quickly and effectively. In addition to traditional training focused on physical crimes, today’s officers need to understand:
Officers and agents aren’t the only ones leveling up their skills, though. Professionals from across the criminal justice spectrum are getting in on the act. The National Computer Forensics Institute (NCFI) offers them free digital forensics and cybercrime investigation training. Other resources offering similar training include:
Even with all these tools and partnerships, law enforcement faces serious challenges in their fight against resourceful, resilient cybercriminals. These outlaws hide their identities and locations using anonymization techniques and tools, from encryption to proxies to VPNs. Some use deepfakes to commit crimes disguised as other people.
Cybercriminals constantly switch tactics and technologies to stay ahead of the law—a cat and mouse game.
And that’s just the beginning:
So, is the battle against cybercrime worth it? Absolutely! It’s not easy, but it’s possible and necessary. Cybercriminals adapt their tools and methods, and law enforcement must follow suit if they’re going to ensure public safety and privacy.
Let’s look at the highlights of what we’ve discussed.
Despite the challenges they face, law enforcement is making real progress in the fight against cybercrime. Every successful takedown of a criminal network, prevented ransomware attack, and recovered stolen identity makes our digital world a little safer.
The key is staying adaptive. Criminals are constantly evolving their methods, so law enforcement must evolve faster. If you’re prepared to tackle cybercrime and whatever’s next in criminal justice, The University of Texas Permian Basin offers the flexible, convenient programs you need:
Our faculty bring real-world experience from the criminal justice field. Learn from experts who’ve fought these battles.
Sources:
https://www.cisa.gov/topics/cyber-threats-and-advisories/malware-phishing-and-ransomware
https://www.fbi.gov/investigate/cyber
https://www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-ccips/criminal-division-strategic-approach-countering-cybercrime
https://www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-ccips/criminal-division-strategic-approach-countering-cybercrime
https://bja.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh186/files/media/document/cyber_training_call_to_action_3-2016.pdf
https://leb.fbi.gov/articles/featured-articles/assessing-law-enforcements-cybercrime-capacity-and-capability-\
https://www.police1.com/investigations/articles/3-strategies-to-mitigate-cybercrime-QpK6jCaQXEX2T0HA
https://www.iacpcybercenter.org/officers/cyber-security/
https://fincrimecentral.com/cybercrime-challenges-2025-investigation
If you ask Dr. John Fisher, assistant professor and coordinator for UTPB’s criminal justice program, he’ll tell you that “serial killer” is a misleading term. “We need to change the nomenclature on that because it’s murder. It’s serial murder.” While the terminology may change, our widespread fascination with serial murderers seems unlikely to. For insight,…
If you work in the criminal justice field and are seeking new career advancement opportunities, earning a master’s degree may be your best path forward. For insight on the topic, we spoke to someone who knows both criminal justice and higher education intimately. Dr. John Fisher, whose background includes work in private corrections and state…
Often called the “highest court in the land,” the U.S. Supreme Court sits at the top of the American justice system. But despite its influence, the Court hears only a tiny fraction of the cases sent its way. Each year, the Supreme Court receives around 10,000 petitions, yet it only agrees to hear about 70…