The North American Bengali Conference (NABC) in Chicago, held from July 4 to July 6, 2024, was a dazzling blend of culture, talent, and innovation. One of the event’s standout moments was the launch of “Beyond Binary: Design Thinking in the World of Software and AI” by Aryyama Kumar Jana and Srija Saha. The event, hosted at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel, brought together an impressive lineup of Industry Leaders, film stars and acclaimed singers.
On the afternoon of July 6, anticipation filled the air as Aryyama and Srija took the stage to unveil their groundbreaking book to an audience of technologists, literary enthusiasts, and business magnates. The response was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the significant impact of their work.
The authors, both luminaries in their own fields, have crafted a work that promises to reshape our understanding of design thinking in the digital age. Aryyama Kumar Jana, a software developer at Amazon, has been a key player in pioneering AI-driven solutions that have transformed industry practices. He is also a sought-after speaker and startup advisor, currently advising Tradies, a social media startup based in Arizona. Srija Saha, a Member of Technical Staff at Oracle, has been his collaborator on several research projects. The duo is no stranger to accolades, with their most recent achievement being the Times Power Icons Award in March 2024.
The Times Power Icons Awards, an initiative by the Times Group, recognize individuals who have made substantial contributions and demonstrated excellence in their respective fields. The awards, held annually by the publisher of The Times of India, which has been in publication since 1838, celebrate the achievements of those who have significantly influenced their industries. The Times Group, attracting over 150 million monthly visitors, ensures that the awardees’ work receives widespread recognition and acclaim.
The launch event was a masterclass in intellectual engagement. Aryyama and Srija’s presentation deftly combined deep technical insights with accessible narratives, captivating the audience. They explored the complexities of design thinking and its practical applications in technology, providing a comprehensive roadmap for innovators.
In an exclusive interview, Aryyama explained the book’s vision: “We aimed to bridge the gap between abstract design principles and practical tech applications. Our goal was to provide a roadmap for innovators to navigate the increasingly complex digital landscape.”
Srija added, “Empathy and creativity are at the heart of design thinking. We believe these principles are crucial for developing technology that truly serves humanity.”
The audience’s enthusiastic response was evident in the lively Q&A session that followed. Multiple prospective buyers and publishers expressed keen interest in their work. A tech entrepreneur in attendance praised the book’s innovative approach, stating, “Aryyama and Srija have done a remarkable job of demystifying design thinking for the tech community. This book is a must-read for anyone serious about innovation.”
The launch event was further elevated by the presence of cultural icons from the Indian film industry, adding a layer of glamour to the intellectual fervor. Celebrities mingled with tech enthusiasts, creating a unique blend of star power and scholarly discourse.
The Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel provided a fitting backdrop for this landmark event. Its modern, spacious halls buzzed with excitement, setting the stage for a memorable afternoon. The ambiance was both professional and inviting, fostering an environment where ideas flowed freely, and new connections were forged.
The successful launch at NABC Chicago marks a significant milestone in Aryyama and Srija’s careers, underscoring their vision and dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation. The book’s positive reception highlights its relevance and potential impact, promising to become a valuable resource for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Reflecting on the journey, Aryyama said, “It’s been an incredible experience, from conceptualizing the book to seeing it resonate with such a diverse audience. We’re excited to see how it will contribute to the field.”
Srija echoed his sentiments, adding, “This is just the beginning. We hope our work inspires others to explore new ideas and approaches in technology.”
As the NABC event drew to a close, the impact of Aryyama and Srija’s contribution resonated with attendees, promising a bright future for their innovative ideas. The book launch was not just a highlight of the conference but a guiding light for the future of design thinking in technology.
