Implementing a user-friendly and intuitive interface is crucial for software products, enhancing user engagement and satisfaction without the need for a manual. Interfaces should be easy to use, accessible, and aesthetically pleasing, utilizing familiar metaphors, visual aids, and helpful tips. Visual cues, explanatory text, and tutorials can make an interface more intuitive. The Nural app for iOS is recommended to help manage time and create SMART goals.

Voice-based communications in fixed-income markets are adapting to new technology, with trading turrets now available through touchscreen and in the cloud. The use of voice as market data is expanding into other stages of the trade lifecycle. Developments include LSEG sunsetting Redi EMS in favor of Tora, inventory management in market data, Hub planning to lay off 20% of staff, TS Imagine integrating LTX’s pre-trade analytics tool, and upgrades to Opra's datafeed. Communication and collaboration between tech, data, and leadership are emphasized for better results.

Libby Isenstein, chief product officer at Morning Consult, was recognized as the EDM professional of the year in the Witad Awards 2021. Her background as a graphic artist and reporter at the National Journal contributed to her passion for data and visual storytelling. The article also mentions other award winners from the Women in Technology and Data Awards, including Ludmilla Morgunova from BNP Paribas, Mina Wallace from SS&C Algorithmics, and Susan Bennett from Tradeweb. Additionally, it references Northern Trust's transparency improvements and awards in the asset servicing market.

Acin, a UK-based risk management company, won its first WatersTechnology award for the most innovative third-party tech vendor in trading, risk, and compliance. The company's Acin Terminal platform provides operational and non-financial risk intelligence in real time and is used by 14 Tier-1 banks. Acin's CEO, Paul Ford, highlights the platform's benefits in operational risk management and its contribution to a safer financial services industry. Acin recently secured $12 million in series A funding and plans to expand its services to asset management and other regulated industries.

Tethys Technology has won the award for best buy-side algorithmic/DMA product or service at the BST Awards 2020, ending Dash Financial Technology's two-year winning streak. Tethys offers a suite of algorithmic trading strategies for various asset classes and is planning to introduce new tools such as actionable transaction cost analysis and smart order routing in the near future. Nitin Gambhir, the CEO, highlights the company's continuous improvements and the importance of adapting to market volatility and complex structures.

Hamad Ali is a journalist based in London, known for his expertise in conducting interviews and writing features. His journalistic contributions have been featured in several notable publications, including Gulf News, The Guardian, The Scotsman, The Independent, New Statesman, and Open Democracy. Throughout his career, Hamad has had the opportunity to interview a diverse group of individuals, ranging from heads of state and Nobel Laureates to television anchors, ambassadors, economists, politicians, and financial executives. In addition to his writing, he has also served as a commentator and has been interviewed across various media platforms such as television, radio, and newspapers.