At the Watercooler with Ferran Gállego of Code Factory

Describe your current role:
As CTO at Code Factory, I oversee the design and development of voice interface solutions. Leveraging our partnership with Cerence, I specialize in the integration of speech recognition and text-to-speech modules. I'm passionate about creating intuitive user experiences, and I champion the idea that voice interfaces aren't just for accessibility but can enhance technology interaction for everyone.

What inspired you to work in your industry?
My journey in the tech industry began as a C/C++ programming and database design teacher. Intrigued by the complexity of low-level programming, I joined Code Factory in 2006. Initially, our mission to develop assistive technologies for the visually impaired inspired me. We accomplished groundbreaking work, but with the advent of built-in accessibility in smartphones, our focus shifted. Now, I am inspired by our mission to improve how everyone interacts with technology, advocating for the broader benefits of voice interfaces beyond just accessibility. I am excited by the potential of voice interfaces to transform the way we use technology, making it more intuitive and user-friendly for all.

What do you enjoy most about your current role?
What I enjoy most about my role at Code Factory is the opportunity to shape the future of how people interact with technology. The field is dynamic, with new challenges and innovations continually emerging. Every project offers a chance to create more intuitive, accessible, and efficient user experiences. I particularly enjoy working on voice interfaces, seeing them as not just tools for accessibility but as a new standard that can enhance technology interaction for all.

What's a common misconception people have about what you do?
A common misconception is that voice interfaces are primarily tools for accessibility. While it's true that voice technology can significantly improve the user experience for people with disabilities, it has universal benefits. Well-designed voice interfaces can make technology more intuitive and user-friendly for everyone, irrespective of their abilities. At Code Factory, we're pushing to redefine this narrative and show the broader applicability and potential of voice interfaces. It's about taking the user experience to the next level for all users, not just a specific group.

What industry trends do you think don't get enough attention and why?
A trend that doesn't get enough attention is the universal applicability and robustness of voice interfaces. State-of-the-art speech technologies now enable us to create voice experiences that are resilient to challenging conditions, such as noisy environments and far-field audio capture. These advancements significantly expand the potential of voice interfaces, allowing them to be integrated into a variety of real-world scenarios. The notion that voice interfaces are merely accessibility tools or novel features for digital assistants is outdated. From healthcare to retail to hospitality, these interfaces can make interactions more intuitive, personalized, and efficient for all users, even in challenging conditions. This trend, combining universality and robustness of voice interfaces, represents a major step in human-technology interaction and deserves more spotlight in the industry discourse.

What do you do to have fun outside of work?
Outside of work, I engage in a variety of activities that help me unwind and enrich my life. I've been practicing Judo since I was 12, and it continues to be a source of physical and mental strength for me. I find it deeply rewarding and believe in applying its moral code to all aspects of life. My curiosity extends to the cosmos as well. I'm an avid astronomy enthusiast and spend my free time exploring the mysteries of the universe, whether through stargazing or reading about the latest discoveries. In quieter moments, I enjoy playing the guitar and writing, both of which allow me to express my creativity and relax. I also find playing chess mentally stimulating and enjoyable.

Are you involved in any charitable organizations that you would like to tell people about?
Yes, I am heavily involved in a non-profit initiative at my daughters' school where I volunteer my time to teach technology to children aged 12 to 16. This isn't a traditional charity organization, but it's a passion project of mine that I believe adds tremendous value. We cover a range of topics, from programming and 3D printing to artificial intelligence and mobile app development. I don't just aim to impart technical knowledge; my goal is to inspire these young minds. By sharing my professional experiences and global perspectives, I hope to kindle their interest in technology and encourage them to pursue their goals in this exciting field. I view this initiative as an investment in our future tech leaders, and it's been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.