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The Self-Driving Project: Using Artificial Intelligence to Deliver Project Success
Citizen Development: The Handbook for Creators and Change Makers
A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge: PMBOK 7th Edition 2021
PMP Project Management Professional Exam Study Guide
Microsoft Project Step by Step
Microsoft Project
Managing Enterprise Projects: Using Project Online and Microsoft Project Server
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Citizen Development: AI is NOT Just ChatGPT: Exploring the Diverse World of Artificial Intelligence
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AI is NOT Just ChatGPT: Exploring the Diverse World of
Artificial Intelligence Watch this video HERE
When people think of artificial intelligence (AI), many
immediately picture ChatGPT, the conversational AI developed by OpenAI. While
ChatGPT is a remarkable example of AI’s capabilities, it represents just one
facet of a vast and diverse field. AI encompasses a wide range of technologies
and applications that extend far beyond chatbots and conversational agents.
The Breadth of AI Applications
AI is a multidisciplinary field that integrates computer
science, mathematics, engineering, and cognitive science to create systems
capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. These
tasks include learning, reasoning, problem-solving, perception, and language
understanding. Here are some key areas where AI is making a significant impact:
- Healthcare:
AI is revolutionizing healthcare by enabling early diagnosis and
personalized treatment plans. Machine learning algorithms analyze medical
images to detect diseases like cancer at an early stage. AI-powered
systems also assist in drug discovery, predicting patient outcomes, and
managing healthcare records efficiently.
- Finance:
In the financial sector, AI is used for fraud detection, algorithmic
trading, and risk management. AI systems analyze vast amounts of data to
identify patterns and anomalies that may indicate fraudulent activities.
Additionally, AI-driven trading algorithms can execute trades at high
speeds and optimize investment strategies.
- Manufacturing:
AI enhances manufacturing processes through predictive maintenance,
quality control, and supply chain optimization. By analyzing data from
sensors and machines, AI can predict equipment failures before they occur,
reducing downtime and maintenance costs. AI also ensures product quality
by identifying defects in real-time.
- Transportation:
Autonomous vehicles are one of the most visible applications of AI in
transportation. Self-driving cars use AI to navigate roads, recognize
obstacles, and make real-time decisions to ensure passenger safety. AI
also optimizes traffic management systems, reducing congestion and
improving overall transportation efficiency.
- Education:
AI is transforming education by providing personalized learning
experiences. Intelligent tutoring systems adapt to individual student
needs, offering customized lessons and feedback. AI also assists educators
in grading and administrative tasks, allowing them to focus more on
teaching.
AI in Project Management
The Project Management Institute (PMI) highlights the
importance of AI in project management (Detais HERE). AI tools can analyze project data to
predict potential risks, optimize resource allocation, and improve
decision-making processes. By
leveraging AI, project managers can enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and
increase the likelihood of project success.
MIGSO-PCUBED, a leading global consultancy in project,
program, and change management, exemplifies how AI can be integrated into
project management. They use AI to
predict project outcomes, manage resources, and ensure timely delivery of
projects.
Their approach combines AI with human
expertise to transform concepts into realities across various sectors like
aeronautics, defense, and energy Details HERE.
Note that MIGSO-PCUBED is a partner of PMI. Details HERE.
Beyond Chatbots: The Future of AI
While ChatGPT and similar conversational agents have
garnered significant attention, the future of AI holds even more promise.
Advances in AI research are leading to the development of systems that can
understand and generate human language with greater accuracy, recognize complex
patterns in data, and even exhibit creativity.
AI is also becoming more accessible, with user-friendly
tools and platforms that allow businesses of all sizes to integrate AI into
their operations. This democratization of AI technology is driving innovation
across industries and enabling new applications that were once thought to be
the realm of science fiction.
Conclusion
AI is not just ChatGPT. It is a dynamic and rapidly evolving
field with applications that touch nearly every aspect of our lives. From
healthcare to finance, manufacturing to transportation, and education to
project management, AI is transforming industries and creating new
opportunities for growth and innovation. As we continue to explore the
potential of AI, it is essential to recognize and appreciate the diverse ways
in which this technology is shaping our world.
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The Intersection of AI, Project Management, and the CEO
Watch video HERE
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into project management is transforming how organizations operate. This transformation is particularly significant for CEOs, who must navigate the complexities of AI adoption while steering their companies towards success. The Role of AI in Project ManagementAI is revolutionizing project management by automating routine tasks, enhancing decision-making, and improving efficiency. Traditional project management often involves manual processes that can be time-consuming and prone to human error. AI, however, can automate scheduling, resource allocation, and risk management, allowing project managers to focus on strategic planning and problem-solving. For instance, AI-powered tools can analyze historical data to predict project outcomes, identify potential risks, and suggest mitigation strategies. This predictive capability enables project managers to make informed decisions, ensuring projects stay on track and within budget. Additionally, AI can facilitate real-time collaboration by providing insights and updates, fostering a more agile and responsive project management environment. The CEO’s PerspectiveFor CEOs, the integration of AI into project management presents both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, AI can drive significant improvements in productivity and efficiency, leading to cost savings and competitive advantages. On the other hand, CEOs must address concerns related to data privacy, security, and the potential displacement of human workers. To successfully leverage AI, CEOs need to foster a culture of innovation and continuous learning within their organizations. This involves investing in employee training and development to ensure the workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to work alongside AI technologies. Moreover, CEOs must prioritize ethical considerations, ensuring that AI is used responsibly and transparently. Strategic ImplementationThe successful implementation of AI in project management requires a strategic approach. CEOs should start by identifying areas where AI can add the most value, such as automating repetitive tasks or enhancing data analysis capabilities. It is also crucial to select the right AI tools and technologies that align with the organization’s goals and objectives. Collaboration between the CEO, project managers, and IT departments is essential to ensure a smooth integration process. This collaboration should include setting clear expectations, defining success metrics, and continuously monitoring the impact of AI on project outcomes. By taking a proactive and collaborative approach, CEOs can maximize the benefits of AI while minimizing potential risks. The Future of AI in Project ManagementAs AI continues to evolve, its impact on project management will only grow. Emerging technologies such as machine learning, natural language processing, and robotic process automation will further enhance the capabilities of AI-powered project management tools. For CEOs, staying ahead of these trends is crucial to maintaining a competitive edge. In conclusion, the integration of AI into project management offers significant benefits for organizations, from increased efficiency to improved decision-making. For CEOs, embracing AI requires a strategic and ethical approach, focusing on fostering innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. By doing so, they can navigate the complexities of AI adoption and lead their organizations towards a successful and sustainable future.
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Enhancing Team
Communication through Generative AI
Watch this video HERE
Introduction
In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence
(AI), the ability to effectively communicate with generative AI applications is
becoming an indispensable skill. Known as 'prompt engineering,' this practice
involves crafting inputs that elicit the most accurate and relevant outputs
from AI systems. As a seasoned expert with three decades of experience in
leading teams and pioneering prompt engineering techniques, I assert that
mastering this skill can significantly enhance team communication and
collaboration. This article delves into the nuances of prompt engineering and
its profound impact on team dynamics.
The Essence of Prompt Engineering
Prompt engineering is not merely about interacting with AI;
it's about understanding the underlying mechanisms that drive AI responses. A
well-constructed prompt can lead to outputs that provide insights, solutions,
and even foster innovation within a team. Conversely, poorly designed prompts
can result in irrelevant or misleading information, causing confusion and
inefficiency.
The Correlation Between Prompt Engineering and Team
Communication
Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful
team collaboration. Similarly, prompt engineering requires clarity, precision,
and a deep understanding of language nuances. By honing the skills necessary
for prompt engineering, individuals inherently improve their ability to convey
ideas and instructions more clearly to their team members. This parallel
development in communication competencies is not coincidental but rather a
direct consequence of the cognitive processes involved in both domains.
The Cognitive Synergy
With what we know, one could suggest that the cognitive
processes employed in prompt engineering and team communication are
synergistic. The act of deconstructing complex ideas into concise, clear
prompts for AI mirrors the process of breaking down project goals into
actionable tasks for team members. This synergy enhances an individual's
capacity to analyze, articulate, and adapt their communication style to
different audiences, whether AI or human.
Case Studies and Real-World Applications
As stated by Josh Morton in his article entitled “Using
Prompt Engineering to Better Communicate with People”, we should choose our
words as wisely with people as we do with generative AI. He provides six
guidelines to consider when initiating discussions with stakeholders, whether
they’re customers, partners, or employees:
1.
Structure your prompts the right way.
2.
Utilize reflective and thoughtful probing.
3.
Convey empathetic language and humility.
4.
Harness humor, playfulness, and emotions.
5.
Acknowledge key challenges.
6.
Be a good (and patient) listener.
Read full article here: https://hbr.org/2024/01/using-prompt-engineering-to-better-communicate-with-people
In the article “Using AI to Enhance Employee
Communications” by Lin Grensing-Pophal we learn Generative AI tools like Copilot,
ChatGPT, Gemini or PMI Infinity can:
1.
Create and enhance employee communications,
making them more comprehensive and targeted.
2.
Analyze employee feedback to gauge feelings and
perceptions, helping to improve HR practices and engagement1.
3.
Segment employees for personalized messages and
translate communications for global workforces.
4.
Help in analyzing large volumes of data and
scaling communications, especially in large, distributed workforces.
Read full article here: https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/news/technology/using-ai-enhance-employee-communications
Conclusion
The art of prompt engineering extends beyond the realm of AI
interaction. It is a transformative tool that can elevate an individual's
communication skills, thereby enhancing team performance and cohesion. As AI
continues to integrate into our professional lives, the value of prompt
engineering cannot be overstated. It is not just a technical skill but a
fundamental component of effective leadership and team management in the 21st
century.
Valuable Links:
· Sembly AI: https://www.sembly.ai/?fpr=rich13
·
AI in Project Management: http://www.aiinprojectmanagement.com
· PMI Infinity: https://infinity.pmi.org/chat · Prompt Engineering for Project Managers Training
Course: https://www.pmi.org/shop/p-/elearning/talking-to-ai-prompt-engineering-for-project-managers/el128
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Current Trends in Project Management - June 2024
The landscape of project management is continually evolving,
and as of 2024, several key trends have emerged at the forefront of this field.
Here are the current top five trends in project management:
1. Increased Focus on Automation: Automation is becoming
increasingly integral to project management. By automating routine and
repetitive tasks, project managers can focus on more strategic aspects of their
projects. This includes leveraging AI for generating performance insights, supporting
decision-making processes, making predictions, optimizing resource scheduling,
enabling data visualization, and performing risk analysis.
2. Generative AI (GenAI): GenAI is transforming project
management by assisting in project planning, execution, and delivery. It helps
in designing project plans, accounting for potential risks, preparing resource
allocation, monitoring project progress, and generating content for reporting
and documentation. The adoption of GenAI tools is expected to become the norm
in project management practices.
3. Advanced Resource and Project Management Software: The
development and adoption of sophisticated project management software continue
to rise. These platforms are designed to handle complex projects and facilitate
collaboration among virtual, remote teams. They integrate various
functionalities such as big data analytics, AI, IoT, and machine learning to
provide comprehensive project insights and enhance efficiency.
4. Hybrid Project Management Methodologies: There is a
growing preference for hybrid methodologies that combine the strengths of both
traditional and agile approaches. This trend reflects the need for flexibility
and adaptability in managing projects, allowing teams to tailor their methods
to the specific needs of each project.
5. Laser Focus on Data: Data-driven decision-making is
becoming a cornerstone of project management. With a laser focus on data,
project managers can make more informed decisions, predict project outcomes,
and drive improvements. This trend underscores the importance of data analysis
skills and tools in the modern project management toolkit.
These trends highlight the dynamic nature of project
management and the importance of staying updated with the latest technologies
and methodologies to ensure success in this field.
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"Empowering Innovation: The Rise of Citizen Developers
in the AI Era"
Watch video HERE
The future of AI and its relationship with Citizen
Developers is a fascinating and rapidly evolving area. As AI continues to
advance, it is becoming an increasingly powerful tool for Citizen Developers,
who are non-professional developers that create applications using low-code or
no-code platforms. These platforms enable individuals without extensive
programming knowledge to build applications, thereby democratizing the app
development process and allowing for rapid innovation within businesses.
AI is significantly impacting the role of Citizen Developers
by providing them with advanced tools that assist in coding, debugging, and
optimizing applications. This collaboration between AI and Citizen Developers
is not only accelerating the development process but also enhancing the
performance and quality of the applications produced.
One of the primary benefits of AI for Citizen Developers is
the simplification of complex coding tasks. AI can automate repetitive and
intricate parts of the coding process, allowing Citizen Developers to focus
more on creativity and functionality. Additionally, AI provides real-time
feedback and suggestions, which improves code quality and maintains high
standards without the need for deep technical expertise.
Moreover, AI-driven analytics offer insights into user
behavior, leading to better app design and the creation of user-centric
applications that meet the specific needs and preferences of the target
audience. This is crucial for businesses looking to stay competitive in a
market where understanding and catering to customer needs is paramount.
The integration of AI into app development tools is
enhancing efficiency and productivity. Citizen Developers can build
applications faster, reducing the time-to-market, which is essential in today's
fast-paced business environment. AI automates routine tasks, freeing up
developers to focus on innovation and strategic initiatives.
From a cost perspective, utilizing AI-driven development
tools can be more cost-effective than traditional development methods. This
cost-efficiency makes app development more accessible to startups and small
businesses, fostering a more competitive market.
Despite these benefits, challenges remain. Citizen
Developers may face limitations due to their limited technical expertise,
especially for complex projects. However, AI tools are continually evolving to
bridge this gap, and many low-code platforms offer comprehensive training
programs, community support, and AI-based guidance to assist Citizen
Developers.
The future landscape of app development looks promising with
AI and Citizen Developers at the forefront. We can expect more advanced AI
tools that cater to the evolving needs of Citizen Developers. Increased
collaboration between professional developers and Citizen Developers will
likely drive further innovation and contribute to the digital transformation
journeys of companies.
In conclusion, the synergy between AI and Citizen Developers
is shaping the future of app development, making it more accessible, efficient,
and user-focused. As AI tools become more sophisticated and intuitive, the
potential for Citizen Developers to contribute significantly to the digital
economy will continue to grow. The future of work in this domain appears to be
one where AI amplifies human skills and productivity, allowing highly skilled
engineers to focus on complex tasks while Citizen Developers handle more basic
technical tasks, thus creating a balanced and inclusive approach to
technological advancement.
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What is Project Contols? Watch video HERE
Project controls are integral to the field of project management, serving as the mechanisms through which project managers can ensure that a project adheres to its planned scope, time, and cost constraints. These controls are a combination of tools, techniques, and processes that work in unison to help project managers monitor and control project variables. The six primary project constraints that project controls aim to manage include time, cost, scope, quality, risk, and resources. Effective project controls are proactive, allowing managers to identify potential issues before they become problems and to make informed decisions that keep the project on track. Implementing project controls involves several key practices: 1. Schedule Management: Establishing and maintaining a project timeline that reflects all activities, their sequence, dependencies, and duration. 2. Cost Management: Tracking and controlling the budget to ensure the project is completed within the approved financial plan. 3. Scope Management: Ensuring the project includes all the work required, and only the work required, to complete the project successfully. 4. Quality Management: Overseeing activities and tasks to ensure that the project's deliverables meet the agreed-upon standards. 5. Risk Management: Identifying, analyzing, and responding to project risks to minimize the impact on the project. 6. Resource Management: Allocating and utilizing resources in an efficient manner while ensuring that resource availability does not become a constraint. Project controls are not static; they are dynamic and should be adjusted as the project evolves. They are set up throughout the project life cycle, from initiation to closure, and can take many forms, such as a RACI matrix, a work breakdown structure (WBS), or the critical path method (CPM). Additionally, project management software can be utilized to facilitate project controls, offering features like Gantt charts, kanban boards, and project dashboards to collect data, report progress, and manage the critical path. While project controls are a subset of project management, they are distinct in their focus. Project management covers a broader spectrum, including planning, executing, and closing projects, whereas project controls specifically target the measurement and regulation of project constraints to ensure the project's success within its defined parameters. In summary, project controls are essential for the successful delivery of projects. They provide the structure and processes necessary to manage the complexities of modern projects, enabling project managers to deliver results that meet the expectations of stakeholders. Implementing robust project controls is a critical skill for any project manager looking to ensure their projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
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Project Management: What is the difference between a Product Backlog, Release Backlog, and Iteration
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The difference between a Product Backlog, Release Backlog,
and Iteration Backlog is as follows:
- Product Backlog: The product backlog is a list of all the
product backlog items, such as user stories, requirements, or features, that
need to be delivered for a solution. The items in the product backlog are
ranked in order of business value or importance to the customer and are
continuously updated throughout a product’s life cycle or a project’s duration.
The business analysis effort for any product backlog item focuses on making
sure that product backlog items meet the definition of ready. Making a product backlog item ready helps the team refine its
business understanding of that item to the point where it has enough
information to begin development.
- Release Backlog: The release backlog is a subset of the
product backlog that contains the items that the team has committed to
delivering in a specific release. The release backlog is created by selecting,
in prioritized order, those items that the team is about to commit to deliver
in an upcoming release. The release backlog is continuously updated throughout
the release cycle.
- Iteration Backlog: The iteration backlog is a subset of
the release backlog that contains the items that the team has committed to
delivering in a specific iteration. The iteration backlog is created by
selecting, in prioritized order, those items that the team is about to commit
to deliver in an upcoming iteration. The iteration backlog is continuously
updated throughout the iteration cycle.
In summary, the product backlog is a list of all the items
that need to be delivered for a solution, the release backlog is a subset of
the product backlog that contains the items that the team has committed to
delivering in a specific release, and the iteration backlog is a subset of the
release backlog that contains the items that the team has committed to
delivering in a specific iteration.
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Introduction Welcome to the transformative world of project management, where artificial intelligence (AI) is not just a buzzword, but a game-changer in the way Project Management Offices (PMOs) function. Hi there, my name is Rich Weller. I have been in the Project Management profession for nearly 30 years. Throughout my career, according to experts tracking the stats, I have witnessed incremental improvements in project success rates. I sincerely believe that understanding and implementing standardized and proven processes has helped. I also believe that in the recent past, Agile principles, processes and techniques have added to our improved success rate. However, what got us here will not get us there! It’s time for a paradigm shift. We can’t just keep chasing the latest incremental improvements in the process. We need to leap! As PMO Leaders, we need to adopt a fresh perspective. Instead of focusing solely on processes, we need to turn our attention to technology, particularly the potential of Artificial Intelligence.
Understanding AIBefore we delve deeper, it’s crucial to define what we mean by Artificial Intelligence. The term “AI” often conjures up images of “The Terminator,” or, as I have seen more recently, is associated solely with ChatGPT. However, both these representations are far from the truth! Here is part of our problem: at this point in time, there is no agreed-upon definition of AI. And, depending upon which definition you choose, this dictates what technologies would be considered as an AI tool. For our purposes, we will use Microsoft’s definition: “Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the capability of a computer program or machine to mimic human-like behavior.” This definition was extracted from this course Microsoft’s definition allows us to include not only well-known AI tools like: - ChatGPT
- Microsoft Copilot
- Google Gemini
- X’s Grok
But also, a plethora of other tools fit under this umbrella. For instance, at this moment in time, the website, There’s an AI For That, lists over 12,000 AI tools, with over 50 specifically designed for Project Management.
But let’s back up and take a closer look at that definition again; “AI is the capability of a computer program or machine to mimic human-like behavior.” We can see that using this definition allows us to expand our technological scope beyond Generative AI. We can incorporate Robotic Process Automation (RPA), a technology that executes predefined rules or instructions to perform repetitive, predictable, or standardized tasks. RPA can: - Streamline processes
- Reduce errors
- Enhance efficiency
- Save time
By using technology like Microsoft Power Automate, Microsoft Copilot Studio, IFTTT, Nintex, UIPath, Automation Anywhere, Blue Prism, and many others as found here, we can automate processes, thereby “using a program to mimic human-like behavior.” In essence, we are leveraging AI.
Harnessing AIIn our organization, MIGSO-PCUBED, we’ve been using technology to digitally disrupt organizations since 1991. We focus on leveraging these AI tools to improve processes as well as decision-making capabilities. As demonstrated, AI includes a wide array of software and tools designed to assist organizations, project managers and teams in planning, executing, and monitoring projects. It’s time for PMO Leaders to embrace this AI revolution and harness its potential to drive project success. But now the question moves to “How?” or maybe better, “Where do I begin?” - First, you must understand where you are currently. In order to do this, conduct a “Current State Assessment.” But use caution here; you need to look beyond just your tools. In addition to tools, you need to assess things like:
– Strategy – Culture – Processes – Governance – That oh-so-important area of data
- Once you have a good handle on your “Current State,” you must define your targeted “Future State.” Where do you want to be?
- And with those goalposts in place, the next step is to create a Roadmap that moves your PMO from where it is currently to that desired future state.
- The final step is to Execute! Run the play! Deliver!
As a PMO Leader, you are uniquely positioned to drive this change that is needed, not only to add value to your organization, but also to improve the project management profession as a whole. The Future PMO The future PMO lies in the successful integration of AI into our daily operations. AI can help us: - Predict project outcomes.
- Identify risks before they become issues.
- Provide real-time updates on project status.
- Automate routine tasks, freeing up our time to focus on strategic decision-making.
AI can also help us improve communication within our teams. With AI-powered chatbots, we can ensure that all team members have access to the same information, reducing misunderstandings and improving collaboration. Moreover, AI can help us make better decisions. With AI’s ability to analyze large amounts of data quickly and accurately, we can: - Gain insights that were previously impossible.
- Identify trends.
- Spot anomalies.
- Make data-driven decisions.
Conclusion
As PMO Leaders, we need to embrace the AI revolution. We need to understand that AI is not just ChatGPT; it’s about enhancing our capabilities, improving our decision-making, and ultimately, driving project success. The future PMO is here…right now, and it’s powered by AI. If you agree with the statement above, I highly encourage you to join our team at www.AIinProjectManagement.com and help us drive this change!
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Preparing for meetings can be a time-consuming task, but with Copilot in Microsoft Edge, leaders can streamline this process and ensure productive and focused discussions. Here's how Copilot can enhance your meeting preparation:
- Generating Meeting Agendas Leaders can use Copilot to create detailed agendas that align with their objectives. For instance, by providing Copilot with a list of goals and topics, it can organize these into a structured agenda with time allocations for each topic.
- Creating Pre-Meeting Briefs To help participants come prepared, Microsoft Copilot can generate comprehensive pre-meeting briefs. These briefs can include summaries of background information, previous meeting notes, and updates on relevant data.
- Crafting Questions for Discussion Copilot can also formulate thought-provoking questions to encourage deeper discussions during the meeting, ensuring that all important topics are covered thoroughly.
- Role-playing and Scenario Analysis Leaders can prepare for potential objections or questions by using Copilot to simulate scenarios that might arise, allowing for seamless handling of challenges during the actual meeting.
By leveraging Copilot in Microsoft Edge for agenda creation, pre-meeting briefs, discussion questions, and scenario analysis, leaders can conduct well-organized and highly productive meetings. As AI continues to advance, its role in business practices like meeting preparation is becoming increasingly valuable for efficient leadership and decision-making.
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