Low-code and Automation

BPMS (Business Process Management System) is a business process management system that helps implement the concept of process management in practice. It allows modeling company processes, automating their execution and controlling task completion. BPMS is based on models in BPMN notation, which the system converts into executable code. Learn more about automation approaches in the technologies section.

Source: term "BPMS (Business Process Management System)"

BPM (Business Process Management) is an approach in which the company's work is built in the form of clear algorithms. First, processes are modeled as diagrams, then automated in BPMS, and then analyzed to find bottlenecks. This allows bringing order to chaos and automating routine tasks. You can familiarize yourself with the basic principles in our glossary.

Source: term "BPMS (Business Process Management System)"

A BPM system (BPMS) is a program for modeling, automating, executing and analyzing business processes. It translates chaotic tasks and verbal agreements into a clear digital algorithm, uniting employees, data and IT systems into a single workflow. Any BPM system is based on a graphical process diagram in BPMN notation. Our products, such as SINTEZ-M, implement the full BPM cycle.

Source: term "BPMS (Business Process Management System)"

The abbreviation BPM has three main meanings. In music — Beats Per Minute, a tempo indicator. In medicine — heart rate. In business and IT — Business Process Management, the concept of managing an organization through processes. In the context of our work, BPM is a management approach implemented using BPMS. Read more about the methodology in the services section.

Source: term "BPMS (Business Process Management System)"

The main task of BPMS is to help companies define, automate and manage business processes. The system replaces long operations performed manually with optimized workflows in business applications. BPMS also collects metrics for analyzing bottlenecks and continuous process improvement. To build an effective automation architecture, use SINTEZ-M and our other products.

Source: term "BPMS (Business Process Management System)"

A BPMS administrator manages all applications of the BPM platform, including user access rights, process configuration, execution monitoring and integration administration. He is also responsible for training employees to work with the system. To train administrators, we offer training services and consultations on configuring SINTEZ-M and SKIF-BP products.

Source: term "BPMS (Business Process Management System)"

BPM (Business Process Management) is a management discipline and methodology, while BPMS (Business Process Management System) is the software that implements it in practice. BPM defines the approach — modeling, automation, monitoring and optimization of processes, and BPMS is the tool that automates processes modeled in BPMN notation. Our products, such as SINTEZ-M, implement the full BPM cycle in a single environment.

Source: term "BPMS (Business Process Management System)"

BPMN is an international language for drawing business process diagrams, understandable to both business and IT specialists. It allows clearly showing who, what and in what sequence does to achieve a goal. BPMN diagrams can be directly executed in BPMS systems, which eliminates the gap between design and implementation. You can familiarize yourself with the basic principles in our glossary.

Source: term "BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation)"

BPMN focuses on workflows and business processes, showing who and what does to achieve a business goal. UML is a universal language for designing software architecture, classes, databases and logic within information systems. BPMN is understandable to managers and analysts, UML — mainly to developers. BPMN diagrams can be directly executed in BPMS, and UML — transformed into program code. Read more about notations in the our technologies section.

Source: term "BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation)"

Professional editors are available for creating BPMN diagrams: Camunda Modeler (free, with execution support), Bizagi Modeler (for beginners), as well as online services Draw.io and Miro for teamwork. In corporate environments, Microsoft Visio is often used. If you plan to automate processes, choose tools with BPMN 2.0 support and integration with BPMS. Our products, such as SINTEZ-M, include a built-in BPMN model designer.

Source: term "BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation)"

A BPMN system (or BPMS) is software for automating business processes, where the work logic is built using graphical diagrams in the BPMN language. The system reads the diagram, converts it into code and automatically distributes tasks between participants, tracks metrics and allows making changes on the fly. Such systems are used to manage approvals, order processing and HR processes. Read more about the capabilities on the SINTEZ-M page.

Source: term "BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation)"

IDEF0 is a functional modeling notation that shows a system as a set of interrelated functions, but does not define the sequence of their execution in time. BPMN, on the contrary, is focused on workflows and time sequences, which allows not only describing, but also automating processes in BPMS. BPMN has strict formal semantics for machine interpretation, which IDEF0 does not have. Learn more about notations in our glossary.

Source: term "BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation)"

BPMN remains a relevant standard, especially in the AI era. Enterprises still need control tools, audit logs, retries and clear definition of responsible parties. If AI is the brain, then orchestration through BPMN is the nervous system for coordinated actions. BPMN models can be integrated with low-code platforms for rapid automation. Read more about application in the technologies section.

Source: term "BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation)"

BPMN 2.0 is an international standard (ISO/IEC 19510) developed by the Object Management Group and supported by all leading BPMS vendors. It provides a unified graphical language understandable to both business analysts and developers, and its strict formal semantics allow process models to be executed directly on a BPM engine without manual programming. This makes BPMN the de facto standard for process automation projects in banks, government bodies and industry.

Source: term "BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation)"

RPA (Robotic Process Automation) is a technology in which software robots imitate human actions at the computer. They "look" at the screen, press buttons, copy text and transfer data between programs faster and without errors. RPA bots work through the same interface as a human, so they do not require modifications of IT systems. Our SINTEZ-M platform includes a built-in RPA module. Learn more about the capabilities in the technologies section.

Source: term "RPA (Robotic Process Automation)"

RPA (Robotic Process Automation) is a technology for creating software robots that imitate human actions at the computer: clicks, text input, data copying. Robots work on top of existing programs (browser, Excel, CRM, 1C), freeing people from monotonous routine. The main difference of RPA is that robots work through the interface, so the company does not need to change IT systems. The RPA module is part of the SINTEZ-M platform. The training service will help master RPA development.

Source: term "RPA (Robotic Process Automation)"

RPA stands for Robotic Process Automation. It is a technology in which software robots imitate human actions when working with a computer. They interact with applications the same way an employee does, but faster and without errors. In our SINTEZ-M platform, the RPA module is integrated with BPMN processes. Read more about implementation in the services section.

Source: term "RPA (Robotic Process Automation)"

An RPA system (or RPA platform) is a software environment for developing, launching and managing robots that imitate user actions in digital systems. It includes a visual designer for creating bots, a control and monitoring console, as well as integration tools with external systems. Our SINTEZ-M platform includes a full-featured RPA module. The design service will help design a robotization architecture.

Source: term "RPA (Robotic Process Automation)"

The essence of RPA is the use of software robots to perform repetitive office tasks: data extraction, form filling, file moving, document processing. Robots work through the user interface the same way as a human, but faster and without errors. This allows freeing employees for more complex tasks. Our SINTEZ-M platform includes an RPA module integrated with the low-code environment. Learn more in the technologies section.

Source: term "RPA (Robotic Process Automation)"

RPA is best suited for automating repetitive, rule-based operations performed in large volumes: data entry, copying data between systems, filling in forms, generating reports and document processing. Such tasks are typical where systems have no open APIs or integration would be too expensive. Our SINTEZ-M platform includes an RPA module for automating such operations. Learn more in the technologies section.

Source: term "RPA (Robotic Process Automation)"

Yes, RPA can be studied independently through online courses and documentation. Many platforms offer free versions for learning. Training materials and courses are available for working with our SINTEZ-M platform. The training service from Fintech allows mastering RPA development under the guidance of experts. Read more about training approaches in the technologies section.

Source: term "RPA (Robotic Process Automation)"

In the business context, BPM means Business Process Management. It is a discipline that treats processes as organization assets and ensures their continuous improvement. BPM is implemented using methodologies and tools, including BPMS. You can familiarize yourself with the basic principles in our glossary.

Source: term "BPM (Business Process Management)"

The word BPM most often means Beats Per Minute in music and medicine or Business Process Management in management. In music, BPM shows the tempo of a composition, in medicine — the heart rate, in business — an approach to process management. In the context of our work, BPM is a methodology supported by BPMS and the BPMN notation.

Source: term "BPM (Business Process Management)"

The classic BPM life cycle consists of five stages: design (modeling in BPMN notation), implementation (automation on a BPMS), execution, monitoring (collection of metrics and KPI control) and optimization (bottleneck analysis). The cycle repeats continuously, ensuring constant evolution of the organization's processes. The SINTEZ-M platform implements the full BPM cycle in a single environment.

Source: term "BPM (Business Process Management)"

BPM is an approach in which the company's work is built in the form of clear algorithms. First, processes are modeled as diagrams, then automated in a special BPMS system, and then analyzed to find bottlenecks. This allows bringing order to chaos, automating routine and tracking where time and money are lost. Our products, such as SINTEZ-M, help implement BPM in your organization.

Source: term "BPM (Business Process Management)"

BPM turns an organization into a system of manageable end-to-end processes instead of isolated departments. This ensures transparency of operations, faster decision-making, lower costs and continuous improvement of quality. Properly organized process management allows the company to respond flexibly to market changes. To implement BPM, specialized BPMS and the BPMN notation are used.

Source: term "BPM (Business Process Management)"

The benefits of BPM include process transparency, reduced costs for routine operations, control over execution deadlines, identification of bottlenecks and data for making management decisions. Process management also improves customer satisfaction by reducing service times. Our products, such as SINTEZ-M, help implement these benefits in your organization.

Source: term "BPM (Business Process Management)"

Implementation of BPM begins with modeling key processes in BPMN notation, then the processes are automated on a BPMS platform, after which metrics are collected and bottlenecks are analyzed for continuous improvement. It is important to involve business analysts and process owners at every stage. Our products SINTEZ-M and SKIF-BP implement the full BPM cycle.

Source: term "BPM (Business Process Management)"

The main notations: BPMN (the standard for detail and automation, supported by most BPMS), IDEF0 (for high-level functional analysis), EPC (for process modeling in SAP). The choice of notation depends on the goal.

Source: term "Business process modeling"

The AS-IS model describes the current state of the process with all errors, delays and inefficiencies. The TO-BE model describes the target state after optimization and implementation of changes, including automation. The transition from AS-IS to TO-BE is the essence of business modeling.

Source: term "Business process modeling"

Process models (especially in BPMN notation) can be directly loaded into BPMS for automatic execution. The system guides users step by step, controls deadlines and automatically transfers tasks between performers. This reduces manual labor by 30-50%.

Source: term "Business process modeling"

BPMN editors (Microsoft Visio, Draw.io), specialized BPMS systems (low-code platforms with built-in editors) and corporate solutions for enterprise architecture modeling (for example, ARIS) are used for modeling.

Source: term "Business process modeling"

Basic BPMN modeling can be mastered in a few days. But professional modeling requires an understanding of enterprise architecture, analysis methodologies and industry knowledge. Training courses help quickly form the necessary competencies.

Source: term "Business process modeling"

Business process models should be reviewed and updated at least once a year, as well as for any significant changes in the company: reorganization, implementation of new systems, changes in legislation or strategy.

Source: term "Business process modeling"

The main mistakes: excessive detail, lack of coordination with real performers, modeling the desired instead of the actual, ignoring exceptions and errors, the absence of measurable performance indicators (KPI). Professional design helps avoid these problems.

Source: term "Business process modeling"

APCS (Automated Process Control System) is the general name of the entire automation system. SCADA is a part of APCS, specifically the software for supervisory control and data acquisition, which provides the human-machine interface (HMI).

Source: term "SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition)"

The Russian market offers SCADA systems: MasterSCADA 4D, KASKAD, Simple-Scada, Alfa Platforma, Rapid SCADA. Most of them are included in the Register of Domestic Software and used for import substitution at CII facilities.

Source: term "SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition)"

SCADA systems for CII facilities must comply with the requirements of 187-FZ. This includes channel encryption using CIPF, access control, logging of all actions and integration with intrusion detection systems.

Source: term "SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition)"

Yes, SCADA systems can work in isolated networks (without an Internet connection) for security. Remote access is implemented through secure VPN channels or dedicated communication lines.

Source: term "SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition)"

The cost of SCADA implementation depends on the scale of the system: the number of I/O points, the number of workstations, requirements for redundancy and integration. Basic solutions start from 7,500 rubles per license.

Source: term "SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition)"

Industrial protocols are used in SCADA: Modbus, OPC UA, DNP3, IEC 61850, Profibus and Profinet. The choice of protocol depends on the equipment.

Source: term "SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition)"

SCADA is the basis for collecting data that is then used in MES and ERP systems. This makes it possible to create digital twins of production, optimize processes and implement predictive analytics. SCADA is the foundation for the transition to Industry 4.0.

Source: term "SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition)"

BPMS is a full-fledged platform for business process management, including an interface for modeling, monitoring and administration. A Workflow Engine is the core of BPMS, a library or service that executes processes. A Workflow Engine can be embedded in an existing application.

Source: term "Workflow Engine"

Among the popular solutions: Camunda, Temporal, Activiti, jBPM. Russia is developing its own Workflow Engine based on the SINTEZ-M low-code platform.

Source: term "Workflow Engine"

Yes, some Workflow Engines (for example, Temporal, AWS Step Functions) use not BPMN, but their own process description languages. However, BPMN remains the most convenient for business users.

Source: term "Workflow Engine"

Low-code platforms use a Workflow Engine as a built-in component for executing business processes. The user models the process in a visual editor, and the Workflow Engine automatically executes it.

Source: term "Workflow Engine"

A Workflow Engine can exist as a standalone product (a library for embedding) or as the core of a BPMS system. Embedded Workflow Engines allow adding process management to an existing application.

Source: term "Workflow Engine"

A Workflow Engine uses transactionality mechanisms, guaranteeing that either each process step is fully executed or rolled back in case of an error. For long-running processes, timers and retry mechanisms are supported.

Source: term "Workflow Engine"

Yes, a Workflow Engine is well suited for a microservice architecture, providing orchestration of calls between microservices. In this case, the Workflow Engine acts as a coordinator.

Source: term "Workflow Engine"

A BPMN model is a static graphic description of a process. A digital twin is a dynamic model that uses real data to simulate the behavior of a process. A digital twin can be executed on a Workflow Engine and predict results in real time.

Source: term "Process digital twin"

Process digital twins are used in industry, logistics, banking, public administration and in document workflow systems.

Source: term "Process digital twin"

Simulation modeling tools (AnyLogic, Simio), Process Mining systems (Celonis), as well as BPMS and low-code platforms with simulation support are used.

Source: term "Process digital twin"

A digital twin allows testing changes without risk to current work. It shows how changes will affect execution time, staff load and financial indicators. A Workflow Engine is used to execute the model.

Source: term "Process digital twin"

Process Mining is a technology of automatic extraction of process models from event logs of information systems. These models are used to create digital twins that reflect the real state of processes.

Source: term "Process digital twin"

Event logs from information systems (ERP, CRM, BPM), data about operation execution time, resource load, operation cost, as well as input and output flow data are needed.

Source: term "Process digital twin"

Yes, a process digital twin is ideal for staff training. Employees can practice actions in a virtual environment without risk to real work.

Source: term "Process digital twin"

No-code completely excludes programming. Low-code assumes minimal coding for complex logic and high-load systems.

Source: term "No-code platform"

Landing pages, internal accounting systems, process automation, self-service portals, MVP prototyping.

Source: term "No-code platform"

Craftum, Nethouse, Bipium, UMA. For complex tasks, SINTEZ-M is used.

Source: term "No-code platform"

Most platforms use TLS/AES-256 encryption. For personal data, certified Low-code platforms with CIPF support are recommended.

Source: term "No-code platform"

Most No-code platforms handle up to several thousand users. For high-load systems, Low-code or classic development is better.

Source: term "No-code platform"

They allow quickly creating digital services without many developers. Critical systems use certified Low-code solutions integrated with SMEV.

Source: term "No-code platform"

No programming knowledge is needed. Understanding of business processes, logical thinking and data skills suffice.

Source: term "No-code platform"

A 3D model is a static image. A digital twin is a dynamic system receiving real-time sensor data and analyzing it.

Source: term "Digital twin"

IoT sensors, CAD/CAE models, ML algorithms, cloud platforms and visualization systems.

Source: term "Digital twin"

Energy, industry, construction (BIM), transport and the public sector (smart cities).

Source: term "Digital twin"

Yes, this is a process digital twin, created from BPMS data and process mining.

Source: term "Digital twin"

It is a complex project requiring sensors, data systems, models and training. Terms range from months to 2-3 years.

Source: term "Digital twin"

It predicts failures, models emergency situations and optimizes operations, improving reliability and reducing risks.

Source: term "Digital twin"

High-quality real-time data, historical data, standardized formats, synchronization under 100 ms and CIPF protection.

Source: term "Digital twin"

The functional approach focuses on departments and hierarchy. The process approach focuses on end-to-end business processes crossing several departments.

Source: term "Process approach"

Identify and document processes, appoint owners, develop KPIs, optimize and automate via BPMS or Low-code platforms.

Source: term "Process approach"

BPMS, Low-code platforms and document flow systems. SINTEZ-M and ELMA 365 are popular in Russia.

Source: term "Process approach"

It allows revising administrative regulations and reducing service delivery times, then automating processes through information systems.

Source: term "Process approach"

BPM, Lean, Six Sigma, Reengineering.

Source: term "Process approach"

The responsible person who manages the process, controls execution and is responsible for results, KPI and improvements.

Source: term "Process approach"

Using KPI: process time, cost, quality and customer satisfaction, measured through BPMS dashboards.

Source: term "Process approach"

IT architecture focuses only on the technical part. Enterprise architecture covers the business part too — strategy, processes and structure.

Source: term "Enterprise architecture (EA)"

TOGAF, Zachman, FEAF. In Russia, requirements for state information systems apply.

Source: term "Enterprise architecture (EA)"

It systematizes information about systems, identifies dependencies on imported software and plans the transition to domestic analogues.

Source: term "Enterprise architecture (EA)"

The Enterprise Architect or an architecture department.

Source: term "Enterprise architecture (EA)"

Business, data, application and technical architecture according to TOGAF.

Source: term "Enterprise architecture (EA)"

Constantly, at least once a year, considering changes in strategy, technology and regulations.

Source: term "Enterprise architecture (EA)"

ARIS, Sparx Enterprise Architect, BizzDesign, LeanIX and Russian analogues.

Source: term "Enterprise architecture (EA)"

Artificial intelligence is smart computer programs that can do what only a person could do before: write texts, draw pictures, translate languages, answer questions. The most famous examples are ChatGPT, Yandex Alisa and neural networks for creating images. About how AI works, read the article Machine learning.

Source: term "Artificial intelligence"

The best free AI depends on your tasks: for texts and ideas — ChatGPT, Claude and DeepSeek (with generous limits); for communication in Russian — GigaChat from Sber; for image generation — Bing Image Creator (15 free generations per day). All these services are available online. About how to choose AI for business, read the article Fintech.

Source: term "Artificial intelligence"

In Russia, it is better to use domestic neural networks that work without a VPN: GigaChat from Sber, Yandex Alisa (YandexGPT) and Shedevrum for creating pictures. Foreign services (ChatGPT, Claude) may be unavailable for users from the Russian Federation. Familiarize yourself with the current legislation. About how to use neural networks in Russia, read the article Import substitution.

Source: term "Artificial intelligence"

The best free neural networks for the phone: ChatGPT (official application), DeepSeek (Chinese chatbot), Shedevrum (image generation from Yandex), GigaChat (from Sber) and Perplexity AI (smart search with sources). All applications are available in Google Play and the App Store. About how mobile AI works, read the article Chatbot.

Source: term "Artificial intelligence"

Artificial intelligence is a general concept of creating "smart" machines. Machine learning is a specific method of creating AI in which the computer learns from data without direct programming. In simple words: AI is the goal, and machine learning is one of the tools for achieving it. Read more about the differences in the article Machine learning.

Source: term "Artificial intelligence"

The main risks of AI: disinformation (neural networks can invent facts), leakage of confidential data, algorithm bias, displacement of jobs and the hypothetical threat of losing control over superintelligence. Never transmit personal passwords, passport data and commercial secrets to AI. About data protection, read the article Digital footprint.

Source: term "Artificial intelligence"

Start by using ready-made AI tools — ChatGPT, Claude, Midjourney. If you want to create your own models, learn Python, linear algebra and probability theory. Free courses are available on Stepik and Coursera. About what skills are needed to work with AI, read the article Machine learning.

Source: term "Artificial intelligence"

Machine learning is a way to teach a computer to find patterns in data without rigid programming. Instead of writing rules for every situation, you give the algorithm thousands of examples, and it learns from them itself. For example, you show it 10,000 photos of cats and dogs, and it learns to distinguish them. Read more about related technologies in the article Artificial intelligence.

Source: term "Machine learning"

Artificial intelligence is a broad concept of creating "smart" machines. Machine learning is a specific method of creating AI in which the computer learns from data. We can say that machine learning is a subfield of AI, its main tool. Not every AI uses machine learning, but almost all modern AI systems are based on ML. Read more about the differences in the article Artificial intelligence.

Source: term "Machine learning"

Examples of ML are everywhere: the spam filter in email, film recommendations on Kinopoisk, voice assistants (Alisa, Siri), face recognition in the phone, weather forecasts, product recommendations in online stores. Banks use ML to assess credit risks and detect fraudulent transactions. About how ML protects banks, read the article Fraud monitoring.

Source: term "Machine learning"

The main language of machine learning is Python. Most neural networks are created in it thanks to a huge number of libraries (PyTorch, TensorFlow, Scikit-learn). R is also used (for statistics), C++ (for high performance) and Java (for corporate systems). For beginners, Python is the best choice thanks to its simplicity and huge community.

Source: term "Machine learning"

The salary of an ML engineer in Russia: Junior — 80,000–150,000 rubles, Middle — 150,000–250,000 rubles, Senior — 300,000–500,000+ rubles per month. In the USA, salaries are significantly higher: Junior — $90,000–$110,000 per year, Senior — $150,000–$250,000+ per year. Income depends on experience, technology stack and industry. About the ML engineer profession, read the article Low-code.

Source: term "Machine learning"

Yes, it is quite possible to learn machine learning on your own. Start with learning Python, the basics of mathematics (linear algebra, probability theory) and libraries (NumPy, Pandas, Scikit-learn). Free courses are available on Stepik and Coursera. Practice on the Kaggle platform with real datasets. The full path from beginner to Junior takes 6–12 months. About where to start, read the article Low-code.

Source: term "Machine learning"

Machine learning is a broad class of methods for finding patterns in data. Neural networks are only one of the machine learning algorithms, inspired by the structure of the human brain. Any neural network is machine learning, but not all machine learning is neural networks. For example, decision trees and linear regression are also ML, but they are not neural networks. Read more about neural networks in the article Artificial intelligence.

Source: term "Machine learning"

A chatbot is a virtual assistant that communicates with you in a chat. It can answer questions, help place orders, book services or simply maintain a conversation. Bots can be simple (button) and smart (AI-based). About how smart bots work, read the article Artificial intelligence.

Source: term "Chatbot"

The danger of chatbots is the leakage of personal data, phishing and account theft. When launched, the bot can see your ID and nickname. If you enter personal data, it can fall into the hands of fraudsters. Always check bots by reviews and do not transmit confidential information. About how to protect yourself from fraudsters, read the article Fraud.

Source: term "Chatbot"

A chatbot can answer questions, help place orders, book services, send notifications, collect contacts and conduct surveys. Depending on the complexity, the bot can understand live speech (using AI) or work only by buttons. About how AI bots work, read the article Artificial intelligence.

Source: term "Chatbot"

The cost of creating a chatbot depends on the complexity: from 0 rubles (independently through a builder) to 500,000+ rubles (turnkey development with AI and integration). Builders cost 1,000–3,000 rubles per month. A simple bot on freelance costs 5,000–50,000 rubles. A complex corporate bot — from 100,000 rubles. Read more about development in the article Low-code.

Source: term "Chatbot"

GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) is artificial intelligence that can understand and generate human text. It is trained on billions of pages of text from the internet. The most famous example is ChatGPT. GPT can write letters, articles, code, translate texts and hold a dialogue. About how language models work, read the article Artificial intelligence.

Source: term "Chatbot"

A bot can be distinguished by unnatural speech, too-fast answers, lack of emotions and misunderstanding of context. Bots often answer in a template manner, repeat phrases or do not catch sarcasm. To check, ask a non-standard question or sharply change the topic. A living person will catch the change of context, while a bot may "get stuck" on the previous question.

Source: term "Chatbot"

A regular chat is communication between two real people. A chatbot is a program that imitates a person. In a regular chat, the interlocutor thinks, makes mistakes and jokes. A chatbot works strictly according to an algorithm or based on AI: it answers faster, but may not understand complex questions and does not catch emotions. Modern AI bots, like ChatGPT, are already very close to humans, but still have limitations. About how AI bots work, read the article Artificial intelligence.

Source: term "Chatbot"

The internet of things is when ordinary things (a kettle, refrigerator, vacuum cleaner, car) connect to the internet and become "smart". They can communicate with each other and with you without your participation. For example, a smart kettle itself turns on the water when you wake up, and a refrigerator reports that the milk has run out. About how this works, read the article Machine learning.

Source: term "Internet of things"

Examples of IoT: smart light bulbs, robot vacuum cleaners, fitness bracelets, smart watches, "smart home" systems, water leak sensors, GPS trackers for cargo, "smart" water and electricity meters, industrial sensors in factories. In agriculture — soil moisture sensors for automatic watering. About the application of IoT in industry, read the article Fintech.

Source: term "Internet of things"

The main risks of IoT are security and privacy. Smart devices collect a lot of data about you: where you live, when you leave home, what habits you have. With weak protection, attackers can hack cameras, locks or other systems. Devices can also stop working without the internet. About how to protect data, read the article Digital footprint.

Source: term "Internet of things"

The internet of things includes: smart light bulbs, thermostats, sockets, locks, cameras, robot vacuum cleaners, smart watches, fitness bracelets, smart meters, GPS trackers, automotive systems, industrial sensors, medical devices (pacemakers, glucometers). In essence, any device with sensors and an internet connection.

Source: term "Internet of things"

IoT (the internet of things) is when physical objects connect to the internet and exchange data. This makes things "smart" — they can make decisions on their own without your participation. For example, a smart home itself regulates the temperature, and a fitness bracelet itself tracks your activity. Read more about the technology in the article Cloud security.

Source: term "Internet of things"

No, IoT and AI are different but complementary technologies. IoT collects data from devices, and AI analyzes this data and makes decisions. Together they create truly "smart" systems. Without AI, IoT simply collects information but does not analyze it. Without IoT, AI will have no data to analyze. About how these technologies work together, read the article Artificial intelligence.

Source: term "Internet of things"

IoT looks like a network of many "smart" devices that communicate with each other through the internet. For example, in a "smart home" these are motion sensors, cameras, thermostats, light bulbs and sockets that are united into a single system. You control them through an application on your phone or by voice. In industry, these are hundreds of sensors on equipment that transmit data to a single server for analysis.

Source: term "Internet of things"

A digital footprint is all the information you leave on the internet. These are your posts on social networks, search queries, likes, purchases, even how much time you spent on the site. If you use the internet, you have a digital footprint. About how to protect your data, read the article Cloud security.

Source: term "Digital footprint"

The digital footprint comes in three types: active (what you publish deliberately — posts, photos, comments), passive (what is collected automatically — search history, cookies, geolocation) and derived (data that algorithms compute on the basis of the first two — your psychological portrait, habits, preferences). Read more about data protection in the article DLP systems.

Source: term "Digital footprint"

The digital footprint is dangerous because it can be used against you. Fraudsters can steal personal data and take out a loan. Employers can see compromising publications and refuse to hire. Algorithms can manipulate your opinion through personalized advertising and news. About how fraudsters use data, read the article Fraud.

Source: term "Digital footprint"

Check yourself in search engines — enter your first name, last name, phone number and nicknames. Use the Have I Been Pwned service to check email leaks. Go to the Cover Your Tracks website to find out which trackers follow you. In Google, go to the "Results about you" page to see what contact data the search engine gives out. About data protection, read the article Incognito mode.

Source: term "Digital footprint"

It is impossible to completely delete a digital footprint — information can be stored in backup copies, archives or databases. But it can be minimized: delete old accounts, restrict the visibility of publications on social networks, use incognito mode, regularly clear cookies. In Russia, the "right to be forgotten" applies — you can hide irrelevant information from search. Read more about privacy settings in the article Incognito mode.

Source: term "Digital footprint"

Your digital footprint is used by companies to personalize advertising and services, employers to check candidates, banks to assess creditworthiness, fraudsters to steal data, and law enforcement agencies for investigations. In essence, anyone who can gain access to your data can use your digital footprint. About data protection in business, read the article Cloud security.

Source: term "Digital footprint"

Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication. Restrict the visibility of publications on social networks. Do not share personal information with strangers. Use incognito mode and ad blockers. Regularly check data leaks through Have I Been Pwned. About how protection tools work, read the article Incognito mode.

Source: term "Digital footprint"