Refer-a-friend Incentive Campaign with Amazon Gift Card 100,000 yen!Please refer your friends and acquaintances who are speaking Japanese and are considering changing jobs with IT experience!If your friends join a company via GTalent, you will receive a ¥50,000 Amazon Gift Card.Available conditionsYour friends and acquaintances who meet the following conditions are available!Foreigners living in Japan.Those who can speak Japanese（More than JLPT N3 level）.IT Engineer and Those who studied programming at universitiesPlease refer your friends and acquaintances who are speaking Japanese and are considering changing jobs with IT experience!※Those who have already registered with G Talent are not eligible.IncentiveIf your friend successfully do job change with using G Talent, you will receive a 50,000 yen Amazon gift card!You will get an email with Amazon gift card within one week from the day one month has passed since the friend who joined the new job.Campaign DeadlineRegistration by June 30, 2020*You can get the incentive even if the friend who you refer to us change job after the deadline.EntryPlease register below!Refer-a-Friend Incentive Campaign Entry FormPlease let your friend who you refer to us know in advance that he/she will be contacted by G Talent.We look forward to introducing your friends!

Amazonギフト券10万円プレゼント！友人紹介キャンペーン日本語が話せてITの経験を持つ転職を検討している友人・知人をご紹介ください！以下の３つの条件を満たすご友人・知人を紹介いただき、ご紹介いただいた方がGTalentを通じてご就業されましたら、あなたにAmazonギフト券を50,000円分をプレゼントいたします！ご紹介の対象者以下の条件を満たす友人・知人の方が対象となります。日本国内に在住の外国籍の方日本語ができる方（JLPTでN3以上）ITエンジニアとしての経験や大学などでプログラミングを学んだ方日本語が話せてIT関連の経験を持つご友人・知人をご紹介ください！※すでにGTalentにご登録いただいている方は対象外となります。キャンペーン内容ご紹介していただいた友人がGTalentを利用して転職に成功したら紹介者にAmazonギフト券5万円分をプレゼントAmazonギフト券のプレゼントは、紹介者してくれた友人が転職先に入社をして1ヶ月を経過した日から１週間以内にメールでお送りいたします。 エントリー方法以下のエントリーフォームからご登録ください。友人紹介キャンペーンエントリーフォームご友人にGTalentから連絡が入ることを事前にお伝えください。ご友人のご紹介お待ちしております！

Studying in Japan for a long period of time, such as for study abroad, working holiday, and job hunting, can be a pleasure, but at the same time, you may be worried about illness and injury.In this article, we would like to explain the conditions for taking out a medical insurance in Japan, the types of medical insurance, insurance premiums, and procedures for foreigners who are planning to stay in Japan for a long period of time.Is it Absolutely Necessary to have government medical insurance?If you are covered by the government’s medical insurance, the co-payment of medical expenses to hospitals is basically 30% for people between the ages of 6 and 70. For example, when a medical cost is 10,000 yen, you can only pay 3,000 yen if you show your health insurance card to the hospital. This is the advantage of medical insurance in Japan.In other countries, it is generally up to the individual to purchase medical insurance, but in Japan, all citizens (regardless of nationality) are required to have some type of medical insurance. In other words, all foreigners who are staying in Japan for a long period of time other than a short stay (3 months) are required to take out a medical insurance policy.What kind of Medical Insurances are available in Japan?In Japan, there are two types of medical insurance in general.1.Social health insurance (Shakai-hoken) The health insurance is for company employees in Japan.2.National health insurance (Kokumin-kenko-hoken) The health insurance is for housewife, freelancer, students with more than 20 years old and so on. In case of foreigners, it’s foreign students and foreigners who came to Japan on a working holiday and so on.From now on, we would like to explain these two types of medical insurance briefly.What is Social Health Insurance for Companies Employees?Social insurance (shakai-hoken) consists of five components: health insurance, employees’ pension insurance, long-term care insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, and unemployment insurance, health insurance is included in this social insurance (shakai-hoken).In Japan, full-time, contract, and part-time employees who meet the following requirements are eligible for social insurance: employees who work 20 hours a week, earn at least 88,000 yen a month and have been working for at least one year. Whenever a company hires an employee who meets certain requirements, it is obligated to have he or she joins the social insurance system.How much is the Insurance Fee for Social Insurance (shakai-hoken) ?The amount of social insurance fee varies depending on the area you live in, your income, and which health association you belong to. Therefore, the fees paid by a person working in Tokyo and Osaka are different.And the payment of social insurance premiums is usually made by the company. The company deducts the monthly social insurance fee from the employee’s monthly salary, so the employee does not have to go through the payment process.In case of employees and family members working for small and medium-sized companies who joined “Association Health Insurance” (Kyokai-kenpo), the health insurance premium rate in Tokyo from April 2020 will be 9.87% of their monthly salary as a monthly health insurance fee.However, instead of paying the entire amount individually, the company and the individual will pay half of the insurance premiums. Therefore, half of the 9.87% of your monthly salary will be deducted from your salary as health insurance premiums.In addition to the health insurance premiums, there are other social insurance fees such as employee pension insurance, which are generally deducted from your monthly salary.※The following links are for information about health insurance.What is a Health Insurance Society?Table of health insurance and employees’ pension insurance premiums since April 2020/ Association Health InsuranceWhat is National Health Insurance (kokumin-kennko-hoken) ?It is a health insurance program run by local governments and is available to those who are listed on the Basic Resident Register and are not covered by the company’s health insurance. You are obliged to purchase this insurance if you are staying in Japan for more than three months for purposes other than tourism. For example, foreign students who are studying in Japan or foreigners who are coming to Japan on a working holiday are required to join the National Health Insurance.If you want to know more about National Health Insurance, please take a look at the links that explain National Health Insurance in English, Spanish, Chinese, and other languages. National Health Insurance in English, Spanish, Chinese and other languages. ((About National Health Insurance / Multilingual))How much is the National Health Insurance Premiums?Insurance premiums vary greatly depending on the city, town, or village you live in, your income, and other factors. The following website provides a simulation of the national health insurance fees. However, please note that fees vary from city to city and town to town, so please use it as a guide only.National Health Insurance Premium Simulation (Japanese)Procedures and the Time Frame Required to Obtain Medical InsuranceProcedures for Health Insurance (social insurance) for full-time, contract, and part-time employeesHealth insurance (social insurance) is medical insurance that foreigners who come to Japan to work. He or She can enroll in when they join a company. Therefore, the first condition for enrollment is that the foreigner must have a labor visa.The application for social insurance (health insurance) is not to be completed by the foreigner him/herself, but together with the company where he/she joins the company. The company and the employee will fill out the documents prepared by the company and submit them to the health insurance association with necessary documents such as the validated residence card, passport, and my-number card.How long it takes for health insurance (social security) to become available?Using the “Association Health Insurance” (Kyoukai-kenpo) as an example, you will receive your insurance card in about 7 to 10 days from the date the company submits the documents. However, it tends to arrive later during the busy season in April and other months when people enter and leave the company. Since this is only an example, the period of time may vary depending on the health insurance association you join.National Health Insurance ProceduresIf you want to apply for National Health Insurance, you must apply for it within 14 days from the date of entry into Japan, the date of your move to another city or prefecture in japan, or the date you lost your social insurance membership (e.g., the date you resigned). Even if you resign from your current employer, you do not need to apply for National Health Insurance as long as you start working at your new employer within 14 days of the date you resigned.In Japan, it is compulsory to enroll in health insurance, so if there is a delay in the application process, you will be billed for the delayed amount at a later date, so please be careful. If you visit a hospital or other medical facility while you are not covered by the insurance, you will be responsible for 100% of the cost of the visit.We would like to introduce what you need in order to enroll in the National Health Insurance.Foreign Students (Ryuugakusei) PassportResident card (Zairyu-card)Student ID cardWorking HolidaysResident cardPassportWhen you lose eligibility for social insurance (when you leave a company)Residence Card or Special Permanent Resident CertificateOne of the following: certificate of disqualification (health insurance), release form, retirement certificate, or tax withholding certificate (with the date of retirement entered)How long it takes for National Health Insurance to become Available?Unlike health insurance (social insurance), you can apply for National Health Insurance at the city hall. The National Health Insurance card is issued on the same day as the application and can be used at hospitals and other facilities from the same dayConclusionIn Japan, it is compulsory to purchase medical insurance so that all citizens can easily go to the hospital even for minor symptoms such as “slightly feverish” or “feeling sick”. Because of this, the amount of money that an individual actually pays at the hospital is about 30% of the total cost.In addition, there is a system called the high-cost medical care benefits system, which sets an upper limit for monthly medical expenses based on income, so if you have a surgery or hospitalization that results in high medical expenses, you can receive a refund for any medical expenses that exceed the upper limit of your copayment.

This year, Google acquired Appsheet, a platform for no-code development, and also Amazon released Amazon Honeycode, a no-code tool, and no-code development has become a hot topic worldwide.In this article, we would like to explain NoCode development and its popular tools, which have been getting a lot of attention in Japan recently, for foreigners and IT engineers who are interested in Japanese web and smartphone app development trends.What is NoCode?NoCode tools are software development platforms that allow non-technical people to build their own applications without having to write codes or even a programming language. These tools often feature a simple user interface with drag-and-drop functionality, allowing you to easily visualize the development process and define the underlying business logic.The terms NoCode and LowCode themselves are often thought of as being similar, but as the names suggest, there is a big difference. NoCodeThe NoCode platform allows users to build software with essentially no programming language. LowCodeLowCode platforms may require an amount of coding and require users with no programming knowledge to work with the developers (knowledgeable ones) during some or all of the development process.※To learn more about LowCode, please take a look at this link. (What is LowCode)Benefits of using NoCodeNo programming knowledge requiredIf you are building an application with NoCode, you don’t need to have any programming knowledge to code from scratch. This is different from app development in the past and makes it possible for people with no knowledge of programming languages to develop apps.For example, people working in various business units who are not part of the IT department will be able to develop systems that can solve everyday business problems on their own, or people who have great ideas for new systems and services, but without any programming experience.Shorter development timeNoCode development eliminates the time it takes to code by hand, so the time from app or service conception to development and release can be significantly reduced.Faster development is required to meet diversified needs and to survive in the midst of numerous innovative companies and businesses. With the speed of new business ideas, the no-code approach to development will take on greater significance in the future.Featured NoCode ServicesWe would like to introduce you to the NoCode service that is getting a lot of attention and its features.Bubble  Bubble 9 tweets123 users5721 pocketsThe most powerful no-code platformhttps://bubble.ioBubble introduces a new way to build a web application. It’s a no-code point-and-click programming tool. Bubble hosts all applications on its cloud platform.  Flexible development from the front end to the back end of a web application is possible.Uses an intuitive interface with a drag-and-drop editor.There are plenty of free and paid templates created by Bubble’s own designers.It has about 1,000 different plug-ins for connecting with external services.Bubble is the most popular development tool in NoCode tools and is used by many users in Japan as well as abroad for its rich customizability and easy-to-understand development procedures.Adalo  www.adalo.com 37 users1097 pocketsAdalo – Build Your Own No Code Apphttps://www.adalo.comAdalo makes creating apps as easy as putting together a slide deck. Turn your idea into a real native app — no code needed!  It is possible to develop both web and smartphone apps on a single tool.Since it is linked with “Zapier”, it made easily linked with external services such as “Gmail” and “Google Spreadsheet”, it is a tool that can be used as a tool for business automation.UI parts for screen building are available, so users can build a system by simply dragging and dropping the parts that match the system they want to build.Appsheet  AppSheet 42 users1001 pocketsAppSheet : mobile apps from spreadsheets :https://www.appsheet.comMake apps with no-code. AppSheet's no-code app building platform allows you to quickly build apps to collect, or connect to, data. Start building for free now.  It has been in the spotlight in Japan since it was acquired by Google in January 2020You can create a number of apps for your internal operations, such as budget apps, webinar apps, quote and proposal apps, and moreReusable code blocks for manipulating data and the ability to manually customize the code to make it unique to your contentRetool  retool.com 46 users3106 pocketsBuild internal tools, remarkably fast.https://retool.comRetool is the fast way to build internal tools. Drag-and-drop our building blocks and connect them to your databases and APIs to build your own tools, instantly. Connects with Postgres, REST APIs, GraphQL, Firebase, Google Sheets, and more. Built by developers, for developers. Trusted by startups and Fortune 500s. Sign up for free.  Works with useful drag and drop editor.A feature-rich component library (tables, text entry, etc.) allows you to build internal tools faster.Reusable code blocks for manipulating data and the ability to manually customize the code to make it unique to your content.ConclusionThe no-code platform has revolutionized the business of IT, making it easier than ever to get up and start using feature-rich enterprise software. While there will always be a need for human-driven software development, the no-code platform fills an important space for businesses and industries of all sizes.If you are a foreign IT engineer interested in working for a Japanese company and would like to work for a Japanese company, register with G Talent, a recruitment agency for foreign IT engineers. Our professional consultants will help you find a job at a Japanese technology company for free.

今年に入り、Googleがノーコード開発のプラットフォームの「Appsheet」を買収したことやAmazonがノーコードツールの「Amazon Honeycode」を公開するなど、ノーコード開発が世界的に大きに大きな話題となっております。開発にかかるコストの削減や開発スピードを劇的に向上させることからIT人材が不足している日本でも注目を浴びるようになりました。この記事では、最近、日本で多くの注目を浴びているNoCode（ノーコード）開発とその人気ツールについて、日本のWebやスマホアプリの開発トレンドに興味を持っている外国人やITエンジニア向けにご説明をしたいと思います。NoCode（ノーコード）とは何か？NoCode（ノーコード）ツールとは、技術者ではない人でもコード、つまり、プログラミング言語を書くことなく、独自のアプリケーションを構築することができるソフトウェア開発プラットフォームです。これらのツールは、多くの場合、ドラッグ＆ドロップ機能を備えたシンプルなユーザーインターフェイスを特徴としており、開発プロセスを簡単に可視化し、基礎となるビジネスロジックを定義することができます。NoCode と LowCode （ローコード）の用語自体はよく同様に思われる場合が多くありますが、名前が示すように大きな違いがあります。 NoCodeNoCodeプラットフォームでは、ユーザーが基本的にプログラミング言語を用いることなくソフトウェアを構築することができます。 LowCodeLowCodeプラットフォームは、限られた量のコーディングが必要となる場合があり、開発プロセスの一部または全部の間、プログラミングの知識がないユーザーが開発者（知識のあるもの）と協力して作業する必要があります。※LowCode についてもっと詳しく知りたい方はこちらのリンクをご参考にしてみて下さい。（ローコード開発とそのメリットについて）NoCodeを用いるメリットプログラミング知識が必要ないNoCodeでアプリケーションを作るのであれば、1からコーディングを行うためのプログラミング知識は必要ありません。これまでアプリ開発とは異なり、プログラミング言語の知識がない人でもアプリ開発をすることが可能になります。例えば、IT部門の人材ではない各事業部で働く人たちが、自分で普段の業務課題を解決できるシステムを開発することや新しいシステムやサービスの素晴らしいアイデアを持っている人が、プログラミングの経験がなくても、そのアイデアを実現できるようになります。開発期間を短縮できるNoCodeの開発では手書きのコーディングにかかる時間がないため、アプリやサービスの発案から開発・リリースまでの期間を大幅に短縮することができます。多様化したニーズに応え、数多くの革新的な企業や事業がある中で生き残るためには、よりスピーディーな開発が要求されます。新たなビジネスアイデアの速度に対応することで、ノーコードという開発手法が今後大きな意味を持つことになると言えるでしょう。具体的なNoCodeサービスこれからは、注目を浴びているNoCodeサービスとその特徴をご紹介したいと思います。Bubble  Bubble 9 tweets123 users5721 pocketsThe most powerful no-code platformhttps://bubble.ioBubble introduces a new way to build a web application. It’s a no-code point-and-click programming tool. Bubble hosts all applications on its cloud platform.  Webアプリのフロントエンドからバックエンドまで柔軟に開発をすることが可能ですドラッグ＆ドロップエディタによる直感的なインターフェースを利用していますBubble自身のデザイナーが作成した無料・有料のテンプレートが豊富です外部サービスと連携するための約1,000種類のプラグインを持っていますNoCode開発ツールの中ではトップの知名度を持ち、豊かなカスタマイズ性と分かりやすい開発手順から、海外だけではなく日本でも多く利用者に愛用されています。Adalo  www.adalo.com 37 users1097 pocketsAdalo – Build Your Own No Code Apphttps://www.adalo.comAdalo makes creating apps as easy as putting together a slide deck. Turn your idea into a real native app — no code needed!  1つのツール上でWebアプリとスマートフォーン向けのアプリを両方とも開発することが可能です「Zapier」と連携しているため、外部サービスの「GMail」や「Google Spred Sheet」などとも簡単に連携ができ、業務自動化のツールとしても活躍することができるツールです画面構築に活用するUIパーツが準備されているので、ユーザーは自分の作りたいシステムにマッチするパーツをドラック＆ドロップするだけでシステムを構築することが可能ですAppsheet 2020年1月にGoogleにより買収されてから日本でも注目を浴びるようになりました予算アプリ、ウェビナーアプリ、見積と提案アプリ、などの社内の業務に関するアプリが数多く作成できますUI/UXは既に用意されている10種類以上のものから選択しカスタマイズ可能となっております  AppSheet 42 users1001 pocketsAppSheet : mobile apps from spreadsheets :https://www.appsheet.comMake apps with no-code. AppSheet's no-code app building platform allows you to quickly build apps to collect, or connect to, data. Start building for free now.  Retool  retool.com 46 users3106 pocketsBuild internal tools, remarkably fast.https://retool.comRetool is the fast way to build internal tools. Drag-and-drop our building blocks and connect them to your databases and APIs to build your own tools, instantly. Connects with Postgres, REST APIs, GraphQL, Firebase, Google Sheets, and more. Built by developers, for developers. Trusted by startups and Fortune 500s. Sign up for free.    便利なドラッグ＆ドロップエディタを使用しています機能豊富なコンポーネントライブラリ（テーブル、テキスト入力など）により、内部ツールをより速く構築できますデータを操作するための再利用可能なコードブロックと、手動でコードをカスタマイズする機能があり、独自性のあるコンテンツに仕上げることが可能ですまとめノーコード・プラットフォームはITビジネスに革命をもたらし、これまで以上に簡単に機能豊富なエンタープライズ・ソフトウェアを立ち上げて使い始めることができるようになりました。人間主導のソフトウェア開発の必要性は常にありますが、ノーコード・プラットフォームはあらゆる規模の企業や業界にとって重要なスペースを埋めています。日本のWEBやスマホアプリの開発に興味があり、日本の企業で働きたいという外国人のITエンジニアの方は、外国人ITエンジニアの転職エージェントG Talent（ジータレント）にご登録ください。プロのコンサルタントが無料で日本のテクノロジー企業への転職をご支援いたします。

At present, there has been a remarkable advancement in the technology of image recognition and analysis in the world. In China, image recognition and analysis technology has been used to arrest more than 5,000 fugitives and has been effective in a variety of fields such as automated driving.In this article, we would like to introduce some of the hot companies in Japan and abroad for engineers who are interested in companies that are making a splash in image recognition and analysis technology.What kind of Technology is “Image Recognition & Analysis”?First of all, we would like to explain what image recognition and analysis is.Image recognition is a technology that allows a computer or machine to identify what exactly is in an image. This is one of the pattern recognition technologies that read features such as color and shape from an image and put those features into various learning machines to recognize new images.Reference: Ledge.ai / Web Media Specializing in AITranslated from Japanese to English by GtalentTo illustrate with an example, the technology allows AI to analyze features such as “fluffy, small, tail, ears, eyes, and shape” from an image and recognize that the thing in the image is a “cat”.Mechanism for Image Recognition and AnalysisThe basic mechanisms of image recognition and analysis can be classified into two types: “Recognition/Analysis” and “Detection”.（Table Reference：IMagazine /Image Recognition & Analysis, Table translated from Japanese to English by GTalent)“Recognition and Analysis” is the stage of classifying the various information in an image by features. For example, if an image has human features, it is used to determine how many people are present in the image by collecting them. Also, “Detection” is the stage where the information gathered so far (people, cars, etc.) is used to determine where in the image it is located.International Companies that are in the SpotlightWe are going to introduce four companies that are providing Image Recognition & Analysis Technology services that are gaining worldwide attention.ChinaSenseTimeThe company, said to be one of the world’s top-valued venture firms, aims to apply its image recognition technology to a wide range of fields, and is also involved in businesses other than face recognition, such as automated driving and medical image analysis. In addition, SenseTime is also actively collaborating with government companies, and its investor, Alibaba, is expanding its reach into smart city projects.SenseTimeFACE++Face++ is the first company that uses artificial intelligence for facial recognition and is one of the most notable AI startups in the world. In addition to its introduction in the Beijing police force, Face++ authentication systems have also been introduced in several major banks, the Alibaba-affiliated payment service Alipay, and the major car dispatch service Didi.FACE++USAGumGumGumGum is a new type of advertising platform that specializes in creating brand engagement aligned with premium editorial content that is guaranteed to be seen. It is best known for creating in-image advertising.The company is so high-profile that it does business with more than half of AdAge’s top 100 U.S. ad spenders, including Disney, L’Oreal, Toyota and Samsung.GumGumSwitzerlandScanditScandit is changing the way businesses and consumers interact with everyday objects, enabling businesses and consumers to use smartphones, tablets, wearables, drones, and robots to scan barcodes and extend the real-time data obtained by recognizing text and objects in the physical world. Many of the world’s innovative companies are already reaping the benefits of Scandit’s next-generation mobile data capture platform. Clients include world-renowned companies such as Ahold, Levi Strauss & Co, Coop, Macy’s, Louis Vuitton, DHL, Cardinal Health, NASA, and Verizon Wireless.ScanditImage Recognition Technology Companies in JapanWith the growing interest in image recognition and analysis technology in Japan, we would like to introduce some Japanese companies that have already succeeded in expanding their business overseas and companies that provide familiar services using this technology.Manufacturing IndustryYE DIGITALYE DIGITAL has developed MMEye, an AI image evaluation service that uses AI technology to allow for real-time inspection of defective products at the manufacturing site. It is one of the Japanese companies that has become a hot topic not only in the Japanese manufacturing industry but also overseas.YE DIGITAL / AI Image Analysis ServiceDENSODENSO is one of the world’s leading suppliers of advanced technologies, systems, and auto-parts for the automotive industry.Customers include the world’s major car manufacturers such as Toyota, Daihatsu, AUDI, BMW, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, and many others. Globally, it is a large company that can have more than 200 subsidiaries and affiliates in 38 countries and territories.Denso is focusing on image recognition and analysis, also it is said to have the world’s top-level automated driving technology with its strengths in “image sensing” and “automated driving algorithms”.Denso / Automatic DrivingMedical IndustryHoloeyesHoloeyes is a company that is introducing VR and MR-based services to the medical field and medical education. The company provides services using image recognition and analysis technology that allows data to be converted into 3D and stored as a digital library, which can be viewed at any time.Holoeyes / Medical VRApparel IndustryFirst RetailingStyleHint is an application developed jointly by UNIQLO and G.U, group companies of First Retailing that uses image recognition and analysis technology to search for outfits.The app allows you to search for images of similar clothing outfits from your smartphone’s camera roll, Instagram, and other photos as well as UNIQLO and G.U. products that are similar to those images.StyleHint / UNIQLO & G.U.Chaos Map of Japan’s Image Recognition & Analysis TechnologyFinally, here’s the chaos map of Japanese image recognition & analysis technology published by AISmiley (as of June 2020). In addition to the services we’ve covered so far, there are many other companies offering services.Reference: AISmiley / Chaos Map of Japan’s Image Recognition & Analysis Technology 2020 (Article in Japanese)ConclusionIn recent years, many services that use image recognition and analysis technologies have been created in Japan, and the Japanese image recognition and analysis industry is a great place to grow for IT engineers who want to develop products that have a social impact using such technologies.If you are a foreign IT engineer looking to work for a company with Japanese image recognition and analysis technology, register with G Talent, the leading recruitment agency for foreign IT engineers. Our professional consultants will help you find a job at a Japanese technology company for free.

The pandemic has made Japanese spend most of their time browsing the internet and shopping online. With the increasing e-commerce activities, businesses have shifted their resources and focus on internet marketing requiring the expertise of more developers in the country.Since more people own smartphones than laptops and desktop computers in Japan, what should developers focus on? Should it be the improvement of mobile web experience or mobile application development? The tech industry is taking this opportunity to suggest an emerging technology that can improve mobile user experience.What is a Progressive Web Application?Progressive web applications (PWAs) are websites that use the combination of web and mobile application technologies. It can deliver an app-like experience to users accessing a site or online store through their mobile website. But how exactly are they different from native apps?A native app is a software program similar to a Microsoft Office application. It only works for use on a specific platform or device. However, a PWA works like Google Docs that perform functions similar to native programs but on an internet browser.Though both applications almost perform the same tasks, the PWA’s app-like interface has made it popular among businesses and the IT industry nowadays. But since it’s new in the market, aspiring developers are looking for more information about its qualities and importance in their field.Features of PWANative and mobile applications have been in the industry longer. However, in the past few years, several IT companies have emerged specializing in creating PWAs as more businesses have seen its benefits in terms of sales and shorter development time.Here are some of the features highlighted by developers that make PWA the next big thing in the industry.1. ProgressivePWAs can work on different operating systems, such as Android and iOS, and browsers available in the market. Its progressive enhancement allows it to work on any platforms, unlike native apps.2. Responsive.The PWA’s responsive design can allow the technology to function on mobile devices and a desktop. The UI can also be designed to have a similar interface, like a native app.3. Connectivity IndependentOne of PWA’s selling points is that it can function with either limited or no connectivity due to the enhanced service workers. The loading time of websites is shortened since the website’s content is cached, which also enables offline site usage.4. App-likeUsers can add the page from the website to the device’s home screen like a mobile app.PWA Trends in JapanAn internal team of front-end developers can easily build PWAs as the technology is based on common web standards like JavaScript, CSS, and HTML.The newest PWA frameworks have allowed developers to turn a site into a PWA without issues. They can support the front-end from the platform’s back-end while supporting sales and marketing teams as well.In Japan, companies have been turning some of their business websites into PWAs. Two good examples are the Japanese newspaper company Nikkei, which has shifted from the native mobile app to PWA in 2017, and the gourmet news website Retty. The faster loading times and performance have increased traffic and conversions on their websites.Outlook in JapanNot much attention is paid to PWA since most mobile devices used by the Japanese are powered by iOS. However, in 2018, Apple added a service worker, a core function of PWA, into Safari. Other PWA features such as push notifications, background synchronization, and web manifest, are expected to be developed soon.As Apple continues expanding its PWA plugins and features, the trend for the use of this technology is seen to rise in the coming years. Thus, developers with the knack for PWA are needed in the country.Tools for PWAJapan has seen the need for PWA developers in e-commerce, and with the recent pandemic, the need for fast page display is becoming more evident.Though developers can seamlessly convert mobile websites into PWA, there are cases where they encounter complicated business websites and online stores. Thus, any changes in PWAs are to be made with extra caution. Developers should have the skill to use the right framework and tools for PWA development.Here are some widely used tools used by PWA developers in Japan.1. PolymerThis built-in PWA tool by Google contains templates and provides the best documentation among the open-source PWA tools available. It simplifies the whole development process and shortens the work needed for PWA development.2. AngularJsAngularJs is a widely used PWA tool among web development companies in the world. It has a Jason Configuration and JavaScript to build a dynamic PWA. Since it’s one of the oldest tools, it has the largest community support.3. ReactFacebook created this PWA tool in 2013. It serves as a JavaScript library for interface design and is currently one of the dominant libraries for front-end web interface design. It has better scalability, making it the top choice for building robust applications. Social media giants such as Twitter, Instagram, and WhatsApp have also used this PWA tool.4. VueBig companies like Alibaba and Laravel use this open-source PWA tool. It has easy coding and rendering features, and clear and detailed documentation. The number of Vue developers are limited, which makes them in demand today.5. Apache CordovaThis open-source PWA framework uses plugins to simplify communication between a native web and JavaScript code on the native Android platform. It is a suggested tool for developing PWA for Android. Cordova plugins include battery status, file access, and ringtones, and also supports two other PWA tools: Adobe PhoneGap and Ionic.Will PWAs be The Next Big Thing in Japan?Leading tech companies have been promoting the benefits of PWAs over native apps. It has made its way in the market and has garnered everyone’s attention in the industry for its notable features. Will it overshadow native apps in Japan? Major brand names have started moving from native apps to PWAs, and better things await as this technology continues to develop.When it comes to iOS, Apple has encouraged more of its users to create web applications instead of native apps. As Apple rolls out more PWA features into Safari, Japan will have more iOS compliant PWAs and will need more PWA developers in the future.Sources:https://itegration.com/progressive-web-apps-pwa/https://divante.com/pwabook/chapter/08-features-of-pwa.html#the-core-features-of-a-pwahttps://buildfire.com/pwa-mobile-the-next-big-thing-in-mobile/https://customerthink.com/5-best-tools-for-building-progressive-web-apps/https://www.iflexion.com/blog/progressive-web-app-frameworkhttps://medium.com/@firt/progressive-web-apps-in-2020-c15018c9931c

現在、世界で画像認識・解析を用いられた技術の進化が目覚ましいものとなっております。中国では5000人以上の逃走犯の逮捕や自動運転まで様々な分野で画像認き・解析技術が効果を発揮しています。この記事では、画像認識・解析技術で話題となっている企業に興味を持っているエンジニア向けに、日本と海外の注目企業をご紹介していきたいと思います。画像認識・解析はどのような技術？画像認識技術について聞いたことない方はおそらくいらっしゃらないと思います。念のため、最初に画像認識・解析とは何かを説明したいと思います。画像認識とは、画像のなかに一体何が写っているのか、コンピューターや機械などが識別する技術。画像から色や形といった特徴を読み取り、その特徴をさまざまな学習機に入れて新たな画像を認識できるようにしたパターン認識技術のひとつ。参照：Ledge.ai / AI特化型Webメディア例を用いて説明しますと、AIが「ふわふわである、小さい、尻尾や耳、目、形」などの特徴を画像から解析し、画像のものが「猫」であることを認識できる技術のことです。画像認識・解析の仕組み画像認識・解析の基本的な仕組みは「認識・解析」と「検出」の2種類に分類することができます。「認識・解析」は、画像にある様々な情報を特徴ごとに分類する段階です。例えば、1つの画像に人間の特徴があれば、それらを集めて人間何人いるかを見極める段階です。また、「検出」は、これまでに集まった情報（人間、自動車、など）を画像のどきにあるかを見極める段階です。（画像：IMagazine / 画像認識・解析）画像認識・解析の仕組みを簡単でより詳しく説明されていますのでご興味がある方は是非お読みになってください。（IMagazine / 画像認識・解析）海外で注目を浴びている企業これからは、世界で注目を浴びている画像認識・解析技術サービスを提供している4社をご紹介します。中国SenseTime（センスタイム）世界トップクラスの評価額を誇るベンチャー企業といわれる同社は、画像認識技術を幅広い分野で応用することを目指しており、顔認証以外の分野でも自動運転や医療画像解析の事業も行っています。そのほか、政府系企業との連携を積極的も行なっており、出資者であるアリババも熱心なスマートシティ事業などにも手を広げつつあります。SenseTime（センスタイム）FACE++顔認識に人工知能をはじめて搭載した企業であるといわれており、世界的に注目度が高いAIスタートアップのひとつです。北京の警察における導入実績に加え、複数の大手銀行やアリババ系の決済サービスのアリペイ（支付宝）、配車サービス大手の滴滴出行（Didi）などにもFace++の認証システムが導入されています。FACE++アメリカGumGum（ガムガム）GumGumは、見られることが保証されているプレミアムエディトリアルコンテンツに沿ったブランドエンゲージメントの創出に特化した新しいタイプの広告プラットフォームです。イン・イメージ広告を生み出したことで知られています。ディズニー、ロレアル、トヨタ、サムスンなど、AdAgeの米国広告費上位100社の半数以上と取引をしているほど注目を集めている企業です。GumGum / JapanスイスScanditScanditは、企業や消費者が日常の物との関わり方を変え、スマートフォン、タブレット、ウェアラブル、ドローン、ロボットを使ってバーコードをスキャンし、文字や物を認識することで得られるリアルタイムデータを物理的な世界で拡張することを可能にしています。世界の革新的な企業の多くが、Scanditの次世代モバイルデータキャプチャプラットフォームのメリットをすでに享受しています。クライアントには、Ahold、Levi Strauss & Co. 、Coop、Macy’s、Louis Vuitton、DHL、Cardinal Health、NASA、Verizon Wirelessなどの世界的な有名企業が含まれますScandit日本企業の画像認識技術日本でも画像認識・解析への注目が高まる中、既に海外への展開に成功している企業や、この技術を用いて身近なサービスを提供している企業をご紹介したいと思います。製造業YE DIGITALYE DIGITALは、AI技術を利用し、製造現場での不良品などをリアルタイムで検品できるAI画像判定サービス「MMEye」を開発。日本の製造業だけではなく、海外でも話題となっている日本企業の1つであります。YE DIGITAL / AI画像判定サービスDENSO（デンソー）DENSO（デンソー）は、先進技術、システム、コンポーネントを提供する世界有数の自動車部品サプライヤーです。顧客には、トヨタ、ダイハツ、AUDI、BMW、ボルボ、ベンツ、などの世界の主要自動車メーカーが含まれています。世界的には、38の国と地域に200以上の子会社と関連会社を持っていうる大企業です。デンソーは、画像認識・解析に力を入れており、「画像センシング」と「自動運転アルゴリズム」を強みに世界トップレベルの自動運転技術を持っていると言われています。Denso / 自動運転医療業界HoloeyesHoloeyesは、VRやMRを活用したサービスを医療分野や医学教育に導入を行っている企業です。データを3D化させ、デジタルライブラリとして保存し、いつでも閲覧することを可能としている画像認識・解析技術を用いたサービスを提供しています。Holoeyes / 医療VRアパレル業界ユニクロとジーユー「StyleHint（スタイルヒント）」は、ユニクロとジーユーが共同開発を行った画像認識・解析技術を活用した着こなし検索アプリです。このアプリでは、スマートフォンのカメラロール、Instagramなどの写真・画像から、それに類似した服の着こなし画像やその画像に似たユニクロやジーユーの商品を検索できます。StyleHint / ユニクロ・ジーユー日本の画像認識技術のカオスマップ最後に、AISmileyが発表した日本の画像認識技術のカオスマップをご案内します（2020年6月時点）。これまで取り上げたサービス以外にも様々な企業がサービスを提供しています。参照：AISmiley / 日本の画像認識のカオスマップ（2020年）まとめ近年、日本においても画像認識・解析技術を用いたサービスが多く生み出されており、このような技術を使って社会的にインパクトあるプロダクをを開発したいITエンジニアにとって、日本の画像認識・解析業界は大きく成長できる場であると言えるかもしれません。日本の画像認識・解析技術をもつ会社で働きたいという外国人のITエンジニアの方は、外国人ITエンジニアの転職エージェントG Talent（ジータレント）にご登録ください。プロのコンサルタントが無料で日本のテクノロジー企業への転職をご支援いたします。

Developing successful software is one of the most challenging but rewarding feats to accomplish in the ever-evolving technological field. Factors such as rapid technological advancement, increasing customer demands, limited resources, and time limitations are enormous hurdles for development teams to overcome.For brand new software to be realized, the entire development staff must be knowledgeable about essential aspects such as programming, programming languages, frameworks, and APIs.The launching of successful software is also difficult without the perfect collection of individuals and programming experts dedicated to completing the same mission. A development team needs to secure the right project sponsor, product owner, project manager, subject matter experts (SMEs), software developers, technical lead, user acceptance testers, and software testers.Software testers play a pivotal role in development companies; that’s why they are in high demand in a country like Japan. High-quality products, superb services, and technological innovations and breakthroughs from companies are anticipated in the country.But what qualifications do employers in Japan require from aspiring software testers? Discover the prerequisites needed from software testers and the types of responsibilities they’ll have once they join the Japanese workforce.What is a Software Tester?Software testers are some of the essential individuals in software development, as they ensure the overall quality of the products before being introduced in the market. They will inspect the software of any errors, defects, and bugs.During the planning and preparation stages, software testers will review and contribute test plans. Aside from this, they will also handle the assessment, review, and analysis of technical requirements and design specifications.Software testers also play a hand in identifying test conditions. They are crucial in creating test designs, test cases, test procedure specifications, and test data. Plus, they also automate or help in automating the tests.Software testers also assist in development by setting up test environments or support system administration and network management staff in completing this step. They administer the tests and oversee the test environment.Testers are also responsible for documenting the tests, evaluating results, and identifying issues. Throughout the entire process, they will review everything plus write an account of defects and test outcomes.About JSTQB (Certification)Japan Software Testing Qualifications Board (JSTQB), which operates under the rules of the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB), is a qualification system that was created to examine and improve software engineers’ capabilities in testing. These qualification systems were first implemented in partnership with the Japan Science and Technology Federation. For software engineers and testers to work in Japan, they must obtain the JSTQB test engineer qualification certificates.The JSTQB certification test will only be available in Japanese. So, if foreign software testers want to take the exam in a foreign language, they are advised to take it under an “outside company” that conducts the same tests. Foreigners are reminded to check if these exams are administered by a certified company that is also a registered member of ISTQB and complies with ISTQB standards. The tests done by outside companies do not follow the regular JSTQB schedule.JSTQB has 3 types of tests: the Foundation Level, Advanced Level Test Manager, and Advanced Level Test Analyst. Applicants need to have the foundation level certificate and 3 years of work experience to take the two advanced level tests. Foundation level exams are held once every 6 months (mid-February to late August), and the advanced ones don’t have a definite schedule.Both foundation and advanced levels have a multiple-choice format questionnaire. But some items may prove to be tricky, as some questions will require examinees to choose multiple correct answers.Foundation level exams have a time limit of 60 minutes while advanced level exams end after 180 minutes. Examinees can finish the foundation level and leave the examination area for as early as 30 minutes, and advanced level takers can leave after 60. But JSTQB imposes strict guidelines and will not allow the examinees to re-enter the premises after submitting their exams.JSTQB is adamant in keeping the questions a secret, so applicants will have to rely on their overall knowledge, study approach, and work ethic to prepare for the certification exams. Luckily for software testing aspirants, ISTQB publishes the exam’s syllabus on their website.Foundation level takers can check the syllabus here: https://www.istqb.org/downloads/syllabi/foundation-level-syllabus.htmlWhile advanced level applicants can check the syllabi here:https://www.istqb.org/downloads/syllabi/advanced-level-syllabus.htmlQualifications of a Software TesterJapanese application development companies want to ensure that they are hiring the best possible candidates for the job, as they want to compete with or prevail over other development companies. Aside from the JSTQB certification, companies also require software testers to meet additional standards.Companies in Japan are looking for software testers with the necessary educational background. So, software testers who have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or engineering will have the upper hand during the application process.Software testers also need to have the skills to back up their credentials. As mentioned before, testers need to monitor and document test plans and procedures, execute tests, review results, and document problems.They need to understand methodologies and software testing platforms or environments and be knowledgeable about testing tools. They need to master UNIX, Linux, and Windows and be familiar with scripting and command-line tools. Testers are required to be proficient in various programming languages, such as C# or C++, PHP, Java, JavaScript, Python, SQL, and Ruby on Rails.Software testers can improve their chances of employment by having some seminars and training under their belt. But seeing as the entire world is under the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, it would be hard for software testers to attend huge gatherings such as seminars. Fortunately, there are several excellent resources available online.You can attend seminars online (webinars) through the Association for Software Testing (AST)’s Youtube channel. Microsoft Virtual Academy also offers training such as Software Testing Fundamentals course and Live Unit Testing in Visual Studio course online.ConclusionSoftware testers are sought after by companies developing innovative software, as their expertise brings a lot of value for their working and future projects. For an advanced country like Japan where technology companies are everywhere, opportunities for software testers are aplenty.You can apply for software testing jobs in Japan as soon as the COVID-19 crisis is over. Discover openings and useful tips on our website below. Good luck with your future endeavors, and we hope all of you stay safe!

Due to the impact of the new coronavirus (COVID19), travel to and from Japan has become increasingly difficult. This article is divided into two sections, “Departing from Japan to a foreign country” and “Entering Japan from a foreign country,” with information on reference websites and the current status of travel information for foreigners.Travel Conditions for Entering JapanDue to the spread of the new coronavirus, the entry of tourists and outgoing foreign residents into the country has been restricted since mid-March, and as of July 24, 2020, those who have been in countries subject to denial of landing will not be able to enter the country unless there is a special reason.More detailed information about the countries subject to refusal of entry to Japan and more detailed information is available on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (link below).Note that foreigners (including those from the countries and regions where the entry bans do not apply) who will arrive in Japan with a flight via any of those 146 countries or regions which are subject to denial of permission to enter, with a purpose of refueling or transit, will also be denied to enter Japan in principle. This will apply regardless of whether they have entered those countries or regions or not. Foreigners from the countries and regions, where visa restrictions (suspension of visa validity or suspension of visa exemption measures) do not apply, will also be subject to entry bans if transiting through the 146 countries or regions.Reference:Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan / Border enforcement measures to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19)Information is updated on a daily basis, so be sure to check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website every time you have to travel.Permission to re-enter Japan for foreign residents and studentsRestrictions on entry to Japan have reached more than 120 countries, and the period of restriction is much longer than expected due to the lack of improvement in the pandemic caused by the new coronavirus around the world. There was no guarantee that a person would be able to enter Japan, even if he or she had to return to their home country to take care of a family member who was in their home country for an emergency, or if he or she was studying in Japan and left Japan for a vacation period.However, taking this circumstance into account, the government announced that on July 29, 2020, they will consider re-entry for those with residency status.On August 29, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that expatriates and international students with a status of residence in Japan would be allowed to re-enter the country on a conditional basis from August 5, in order to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus. Until now, foreign nationals who had departed from a country or region subject to denial of entry were, in principle, not allowed to re-enter the country.Reference：Re-entry of foreign residents / JiJi.com Translated from Japanese to English by GtalentAs stated in the above news article, the government has announced that from August 5th foreign nationals holding residence statuses, such as international students, permanent residents, long-term residents, and work visas, will be officially allowed to re-enter the country.※Foreigners are not yet allowed to enter Japan for the purpose of tourism. There is also a wide range of residency statuses, so please make sure to check the statuses carefully.What do I need to enter Japan again? What’s the procedure?As mentioned above, the Japanese government announced on August 5 that not only Japanese people are being allowed to re-enter the country, but also foreigners with residency status. Since the number of people coming from the countries subject to refusal of entry is much higher than before, the government has begun to strengthen its quarantine measures to prevent more people from becoming infected in the country.From now on, we would like to explain the documents required to re-enter the country.Documents required for re-entry COVID-19 Test ResultThe prescribed format for the certificate must be completed by the local medical institution and signed or stamped by the doctor.Process and Required Documents for Re-entry Confirmation of Submission of Reentry Related DocumentsYou can download the necessary documents for re-entry on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Application for Confirmation of Submission of Reentry Documents PassportA valid re-entry permit (including a deemed re-entry permit) must be affixed. Resident Card (zairyu-card)It must not have expired.Pre- and Post-Reentry ProceduresYou must take a PCR test within 72 hours of departing from the country / region in which you are currently residing and certify that the test result is negative.You will need to receive a “Confirmation of Re-Entry Document Submission” from the diplomatic mission in your country or region.When you arrive in Japan, you must take the PCR test again, regardless of your country or region of origin.You must do self-isolation for 2 weeks. The place of isolation will be designated by the laboratory director, and you may be required to stay in the hospital or at home.Can you go abroad during corona season?There are many foreign employees and students who have to leave Japan to take care of their parents, relatives, and children, but there are many countries like Japan that prohibit or restrict the entry of people who have stayed in countries with high numbers of infected people (countries subject to refusal of entry).From now on, we are going to provide information on travel from Japan to other countries for foreigners and international students who have been planning to leave Japan or are considering leaving the country.Travel Information for Leaving JapanMore and more countries are gradually easing their travel restrictions and accepting visitors from Japan. As the measures and documents required for arrival in each country differ, we would like to introduce some websites where you can check the travel situation in each country.Website of the Ministry of Foreign AffairsThe Ministry of Foreign Affairs is arguably the most reliable source of information in Japan.The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website has a detailed list of entry restrictions for travelers from Japan to each country. It has a detailed list of restrictions on the entry of travelers from Japan to each country.  Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan 1 user79 pocketsBorder enforcement measures to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID…https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/page4e_001053.html   Trip.comTrip.com is an online travel agency that provides up-to-date information on travel conditions in each country. The website provides detailed information about travelers from Japan in each country. jp.trip.com 1 userhttps://jp.trip.com/travel-restrictions-covid-19/https://jp.trip.com/travel-restrictions-covid-19/提携ホテルは120万軒以上、200ヶ国以上を網羅。3000万件を超えるユーザーレビューで、お客様にぴったりの宿選びも簡単。航空券は5,000以上の目的地からお選びいただけます。24時間・年中無休の日本語カスタマーサポートで、お客様の旅をいつでもお手伝いいたします。 ※For countries not listed on the above two sites, please contact the embassy or consulate for details.ConclusionCurrently (as of August 6, 2020), most countries are experiencing a second wave of infections. As a result, information on travel is constantly being updated. It is always a good idea to check with your home country’s embassy or other authorities for final information based on the information and websites provided in this article.