The impact of Elder Care issues on corporate America will continue to grow as our elderly population increases: Employees juggling job responsibilities with care giving are a reality in the workpl...
The impact of Elder Care issues on corporate America will continue to grow as our elderly population increases:
Employees juggling job responsibilities with care giving are a reality in the workplace of today and the future. Workers are torn between the demands of their job and the ability to provide quality care to their relative.
One out of three American workers is also managing the care of an older relative.
Loss of productivity resulting from time off to care for an aging relative is estimated at $6100 per employee per year.
Caregiver stress accounts for a 27% increase in use of company health insurance benefits.
Seventeen percent (17%) of caregivers quit their jobs to provide care for aging family members, and another 15% reduce their work hours to assist their loved ones. This shocking loss of employee productivity is hitting South Florida businesses very hard as more Boomers have senior parents who require caregiving.
To stop this workforce hemorrhaging South Florida companies are looking for methods to provide assistance in caregiving to employees to keep them on the job and productive, while being sensitive to the needs of the employee.
There have been attempts at Corporate Elder Care programs, however few as comprehensive at A Good Daughter, (http://www.agooddaughter.com - www.agooddaughter.com) based in Margate. According to Olga Brunner, President, "Our Corporate Elder Care program was developed to help employees balance job responsibilities and caregiving. Our Professional Care Managers plan and organize care and services for the employees of Broward and Palm Beach elderly population, affording families a peace of mind that their loved ones will find and secure services such as ongoing supervision of certified home care assistants, home maintenance and care, medication supervision, coordination of medical appointments and representation at these appointments, legal counsel, specialized air travel escorts, and many other services."
While A Good Daughter works with individuals, the Corporate Elder Care program is ideally suited to the mid-sized company with fifty plus employees.
A Good Daughter, Inc.
http://www.agooddaughter.com - www.agooddaughter.com
Olga Brunner
800-963-3877
Home » Archive for October 2016
South Florida Employees Reduce Work Hours by 15% to Care for Parents
Seventeen percent (17%) of caregivers quit their jobs to provide care for aging family members, and another 15% reduce their work hours to assist their loved ones. This shocking loss of employee produ...
Seventeen percent (17%) of caregivers quit their jobs to provide care for aging family members, and another 15% reduce their work hours to assist their loved ones. This shocking loss of employee productivity is hitting South Florida businesses very hard as more Boomers have senior parents who require caregiving.
The impact of Elder Care issues on corporate America will continue to grow as our elderly population increases:
Employees juggling job responsibilities with care giving are a reality in the workplace of today and the future. Workers are torn between the demands of their job and the ability to provide quality care to their relative.
One out of three American workers is also managing the care of an older relative.
Loss of productivity resulting from time off to care for an aging relative is estimated at $6100 per employee per year.
Caregiver stress accounts for a 27% increase in use of company health insurance benefits.
To stop this workforce hemorrhaging South Florida companies are looking for methods to provide assistance in caregiving to employees to keep them on the job and productive, while being sensitive to the needs of the employee.
There have been attempts at Corporate Elder Care programs, however few as comprehensive at A Good Daughter, (http://www.agooddaughter.com - www.agooddaughter.com) based in Margate. According to Olga Brunner, President, "Our Corporate Elder Care program was developed to help employees balance job responsibilities and caregiving. Our Professional Care Managers plan and organize care services for the employees of Broward and Palm Beach elderly population, affording families a peace of mind that their loved ones will find and secure services such as ongoing supervision of certified home care assistants, home maintenance and care, medication supervision, coordination of medical appointments and representation at these appointments, legal counsel, specialized air travel escorts, and many other services."
While A Good Daughter works with individuals, the Corporate Elder Care program is ideally suited to the mid-sized company with fifty plus employees.
A Good Daughter, Inc.
http://www.agooddaughter.com - www.agooddaughter.com
Olga Brunner
800-963-3877
Seventeen percent (17%) of caregivers quit their jobs to provide care for aging family members, and another 15% reduce their work hours to assist their loved ones. This shocking loss of employee productivity is hitting South Florida businesses very hard as more Boomers have senior parents who require caregiving.
The impact of Elder Care issues on corporate America will continue to grow as our elderly population increases:
Employees juggling job responsibilities with care giving are a reality in the workplace of today and the future. Workers are torn between the demands of their job and the ability to provide quality care to their relative.
One out of three American workers is also managing the care of an older relative.
Loss of productivity resulting from time off to care for an aging relative is estimated at $6100 per employee per year.
Caregiver stress accounts for a 27% increase in use of company health insurance benefits.
To stop this workforce hemorrhaging South Florida companies are looking for methods to provide assistance in caregiving to employees to keep them on the job and productive, while being sensitive to the needs of the employee.
There have been attempts at Corporate Elder Care programs, however few as comprehensive at A Good Daughter, (http://www.agooddaughter.com - www.agooddaughter.com) based in Margate. According to Olga Brunner, President, "Our Corporate Elder Care program was developed to help employees balance job responsibilities and caregiving. Our Professional Care Managers plan and organize care services for the employees of Broward and Palm Beach elderly population, affording families a peace of mind that their loved ones will find and secure services such as ongoing supervision of certified home care assistants, home maintenance and care, medication supervision, coordination of medical appointments and representation at these appointments, legal counsel, specialized air travel escorts, and many other services."
While A Good Daughter works with individuals, the Corporate Elder Care program is ideally suited to the mid-sized company with fifty plus employees.
A Good Daughter, Inc.
http://www.agooddaughter.com - www.agooddaughter.com
Olga Brunner
800-963-3877
Something From Nothing, With Something To Share
Betrayal, it can hit you like a load of bricks falling from thesky, leaving you with a pit in your stomach that no pill cancure.
Starting your own business is hard enough, however when yourinside people are working against you as well, it can make thetoughest of souls weak at the knees.
Let me take you back a few years, and share a little story withyou.
There I was, a fledgling in the corporate world, I had just quitmy (steady) job and sold everything I had to venture out intoentrepreneur life, when "it never could happen to me" happened.
My closest friend and business partner wiped out our bank accountbalance, leaving me with debt up to my eyeballs, and a lesson tobe learned.
I come from one of those attitudes that believe that everythinghappens for a reason, so what could this reason be, I pondered?
It was tough; let me tell you - faced with the biggest crossroadof my life.
A failing business with no cash to save me, a close friend'sbetrayal, and two roads leading into separate directions.
One, go after the person who did me wrong, obviously having aslam dunk case and would win in any court. Or two, use that sameprecious time and energy to focus in a more positive manner onrebuilding what I once had, and learn from the experience, ifnothing else, what I would never tolerate again.
What would you do?
For myself, I chose the second of the two, knowing darned well,that by wasting my thoughts and energy on ways to get back atthis person, and how I could make them suffer as I, there wouldbe little left to focus on what really mattered most:
-- > Creating the business model and dream that I had began in the first place.
What made me take this route, you ask?
There is an old saying that goes 'many receive good advice, yetfew actually profit from it.'
Since I chose to succeed, I went back and listened to all my oldmotivational tapes, thumbed through the books, and messages, gotmy focus back and quickly realized that we are all dealtobstacles in this world.
I mean, there will always be stumbling blocks in our lives,that's just part of life itself.
It's our "Attitude" toward these events that show the world whowe are as a person.
For, it's been said: we learn more about someone on one bad day,than on all their good days put together.
Have you ever wondered why some people seem to always have dramain their lives, while others simply go with the flow? Or why onegroup of people are happy and content most the time, while someseem to only attract anger and chaos into their lives?
I believe it's because what we feel and how we see ourselves onthe inside is the direct reflection on how we feel and see theworld around us.
Someone once said to me, "we can't control our circumstances allthe time, but we can control our attitude toward them." A truestatement I know, but come on - I was stuck in a tight spot here.
So, there I was - with a BIG decision to make and decided to takeon this challenge as just that.
A challenge.
I figured, if I could overcome this situation that seemed sograve at the time, and not only make it through it, but actuallygrew from it, perhaps, maybe - just maybe my business partnerdidn't fail me after all.
Here's what I did.
I moved on and buried the past. I went into the office the nextday, changed the locks on the door, rolled up my sleeves andnever looked back.
It's amazing what a new coat of paint can do to a dreary oldroom, and that's what I did for my business and attitude towardit. Out with the old, and in with the new.
When I called all my customers and explained what had happened,you wouldn't believe the response. It was like a brotherhood ofbusiness people. Each person I spoke with having more advice thatthe last. It was strange how I felt all-alone, and ashamed forletting someone take advantage of me, while others saw me as anew start up, and simply green behind the ears. Remember, we allmake mistakes.
There were many lessons learned that month, and I took the advicegiven to me by these people, by hiring the best accounting personI could find, and then one of the best of Tax firms to overseetheir numbers as well.
By doing so, guess what happened?
My business rose to the highest of dimensions, allowing me to setmy sights on growth rather than setbacks, and on the futurerather than the past.
That was many, many years ago. The company became a corporation,and eventually the corporation was sold to another.
Now I find myself here, writing this story as if it wereyesterday, remembering one of the greatest lessons I've learned.
In life - things will happen, both for the good and the bad. It'sthe way we handle these situations that make us who we are.
It's all right to feel anger; it's OK to sense pain, but in theend, when the story is written, which path will you have chosen?
Live in the past, or live FOR the future.
Best wishes, and what ever you do….
Keep Smilin'
Starting your own business is hard enough, however when yourinside people are working against you as well, it can make thetoughest of souls weak at the knees.
Let me take you back a few years, and share a little story withyou.
There I was, a fledgling in the corporate world, I had just quitmy (steady) job and sold everything I had to venture out intoentrepreneur life, when "it never could happen to me" happened.
My closest friend and business partner wiped out our bank accountbalance, leaving me with debt up to my eyeballs, and a lesson tobe learned.
I come from one of those attitudes that believe that everythinghappens for a reason, so what could this reason be, I pondered?
It was tough; let me tell you - faced with the biggest crossroadof my life.
A failing business with no cash to save me, a close friend'sbetrayal, and two roads leading into separate directions.
One, go after the person who did me wrong, obviously having aslam dunk case and would win in any court. Or two, use that sameprecious time and energy to focus in a more positive manner onrebuilding what I once had, and learn from the experience, ifnothing else, what I would never tolerate again.
What would you do?
For myself, I chose the second of the two, knowing darned well,that by wasting my thoughts and energy on ways to get back atthis person, and how I could make them suffer as I, there wouldbe little left to focus on what really mattered most:
-- > Creating the business model and dream that I had began in the first place.
What made me take this route, you ask?
There is an old saying that goes 'many receive good advice, yetfew actually profit from it.'
Since I chose to succeed, I went back and listened to all my oldmotivational tapes, thumbed through the books, and messages, gotmy focus back and quickly realized that we are all dealtobstacles in this world.
I mean, there will always be stumbling blocks in our lives,that's just part of life itself.
It's our "Attitude" toward these events that show the world whowe are as a person.
For, it's been said: we learn more about someone on one bad day,than on all their good days put together.
Have you ever wondered why some people seem to always have dramain their lives, while others simply go with the flow? Or why onegroup of people are happy and content most the time, while someseem to only attract anger and chaos into their lives?
I believe it's because what we feel and how we see ourselves onthe inside is the direct reflection on how we feel and see theworld around us.
Someone once said to me, "we can't control our circumstances allthe time, but we can control our attitude toward them." A truestatement I know, but come on - I was stuck in a tight spot here.
So, there I was - with a BIG decision to make and decided to takeon this challenge as just that.
A challenge.
I figured, if I could overcome this situation that seemed sograve at the time, and not only make it through it, but actuallygrew from it, perhaps, maybe - just maybe my business partnerdidn't fail me after all.
Here's what I did.
I moved on and buried the past. I went into the office the nextday, changed the locks on the door, rolled up my sleeves andnever looked back.
It's amazing what a new coat of paint can do to a dreary oldroom, and that's what I did for my business and attitude towardit. Out with the old, and in with the new.
When I called all my customers and explained what had happened,you wouldn't believe the response. It was like a brotherhood ofbusiness people. Each person I spoke with having more advice thatthe last. It was strange how I felt all-alone, and ashamed forletting someone take advantage of me, while others saw me as anew start up, and simply green behind the ears. Remember, we allmake mistakes.
There were many lessons learned that month, and I took the advicegiven to me by these people, by hiring the best accounting personI could find, and then one of the best of Tax firms to overseetheir numbers as well.
By doing so, guess what happened?
My business rose to the highest of dimensions, allowing me to setmy sights on growth rather than setbacks, and on the futurerather than the past.
That was many, many years ago. The company became a corporation,and eventually the corporation was sold to another.
Now I find myself here, writing this story as if it wereyesterday, remembering one of the greatest lessons I've learned.
In life - things will happen, both for the good and the bad. It'sthe way we handle these situations that make us who we are.
It's all right to feel anger; it's OK to sense pain, but in theend, when the story is written, which path will you have chosen?
Live in the past, or live FOR the future.
Best wishes, and what ever you do….
Keep Smilin'
Software Risk Evaluation And Offshore Risk Management
A risk can be defined as a problem that could cause some loss or threaten the success of of project. The potential risk factors may have an adverse impact on the cost, schedule, or technical success of the project. Thus, risk management is the process of identifying, determine and solve the potential problems before they can damage the project.
Offshore program and project management involves four critical activities:
1. Transition Management
2. Governance
3. Performance Management
4. Quality Management
Transition Management
The process of managing assets during a period of restructuring is defined as transition management. The role of the Transition Manager is to minimize the costs and risks thus ensuring that the process runs smoothly.
The real process starts when the contract is signed. Smooth transition management is the next issue to manage. Transition management is considered to be a critical success factor of offshore activities. Transition management is defined as the detailed knowledge of transfer and documentation of all relevant tasks, technologies and workflows The transition period is perhaps the most difficult stage of an offshore endeavor, taking anywhere from three months to a year to complete.
Transition management involves the following:
- Develop an initial transition plan (involving activities such as milestones, assets and benchmarks)
- Initiation of projects
- Internal procedures and processes
- Manage employees
- Document lessons learned to improve vendor management
Governance
after managing the issue of transition put the skills into practice by governing the offshore relationship - client management, third party contract. The approach focuses on the evolution of services provided, ongoing communication processes, and overall project management. Governance activities pertaining to areas of off shoring can make or break a project.
The Ongoing governance involves the following:
- Project management
- Relationship building and management -
- Risk management - describes the processes concerned with identifying, managing, and correction of outsourcing partnership risks.
Performance Management
As offshore outsourcing has become an important aspect for multiple business processes, the types and complexity of contracts and sourcing alliances are bound to explode. With organizations outsourcing almost every aspect of their operations, multiple vendors participating in sourcing deals, and activities occurring 24x7, it's a nonstop challenge to coordinate interactions, manage performance, monitor contract terms, track financial metrics, and maintain alignment.
Ongoing governance involves the following:
- Measures outsourcing effectiveness using appropriate metrics
- Implementing improvements and adjustments
- Evaluating feasibility of additional outsourcing
Quality Management
Quality is a huge concern with offshore outsourcing. Errors are more costly to fix and debugging becomes essential. A strict quality assurance and control program forms an integral part of every offshore delivery project.
Performance management aims at reviewing and continuous improvement of software development and business processes, validation and verification of work products and customized status reports.
Offshore program and project management involves four critical activities:
1. Transition Management
2. Governance
3. Performance Management
4. Quality Management
Transition Management
The process of managing assets during a period of restructuring is defined as transition management. The role of the Transition Manager is to minimize the costs and risks thus ensuring that the process runs smoothly.
The real process starts when the contract is signed. Smooth transition management is the next issue to manage. Transition management is considered to be a critical success factor of offshore activities. Transition management is defined as the detailed knowledge of transfer and documentation of all relevant tasks, technologies and workflows The transition period is perhaps the most difficult stage of an offshore endeavor, taking anywhere from three months to a year to complete.
Transition management involves the following:
- Develop an initial transition plan (involving activities such as milestones, assets and benchmarks)
- Initiation of projects
- Internal procedures and processes
- Manage employees
- Document lessons learned to improve vendor management
Governance
after managing the issue of transition put the skills into practice by governing the offshore relationship - client management, third party contract. The approach focuses on the evolution of services provided, ongoing communication processes, and overall project management. Governance activities pertaining to areas of off shoring can make or break a project.
The Ongoing governance involves the following:
- Project management
- Relationship building and management -
- Risk management - describes the processes concerned with identifying, managing, and correction of outsourcing partnership risks.
Performance Management
As offshore outsourcing has become an important aspect for multiple business processes, the types and complexity of contracts and sourcing alliances are bound to explode. With organizations outsourcing almost every aspect of their operations, multiple vendors participating in sourcing deals, and activities occurring 24x7, it's a nonstop challenge to coordinate interactions, manage performance, monitor contract terms, track financial metrics, and maintain alignment.
Ongoing governance involves the following:
- Measures outsourcing effectiveness using appropriate metrics
- Implementing improvements and adjustments
- Evaluating feasibility of additional outsourcing
Quality Management
Quality is a huge concern with offshore outsourcing. Errors are more costly to fix and debugging becomes essential. A strict quality assurance and control program forms an integral part of every offshore delivery project.
Performance management aims at reviewing and continuous improvement of software development and business processes, validation and verification of work products and customized status reports.
Software Automation Helps Increase Your Bottom Line
When you own a small business, time is money. And every time a task that should be automated is handled manually, it wastes your time and your business loses money. To make matters even worse, performing these tasks manually, in front of clients or prospects, projects the wrong image.
Even though technology is readily available and even affordable, many small business owners do not take full advantage of these powerful software packages. It may be hard to believe, but only a small percentage of business owners have the technical expertise necessary to handle the automation process. The others have neither the time to learn nor the ability to hire the experts to do the job.
But one thing is certain: One way to increase your business's bottom line is to get software that automates the tasks you do manually and consequently, inefficiently.
Something as simple as contact management software is so valuable. First and foremost, searching for contact information is never more than a few mouse clicks away. Some software will even allow you to access this data while away from you office.
Have you finally mastered your email system? Love the way it keeps you off the phone? If you're not careful, you'll soon be wasting as much time responding to your email as you did returning your phone calls.
There's not enough space to list all the benefits of using autoresponders or all the ways to utilize autoresponders in your business. Here are just a few - use them to send out product and pricing information, to capture contact names and addresses, to help with frequently asked questions (FAQs) lists, to deliver different chapters of an e-book - anything that keeps your company name in front of existing or potential customers can be handled more efficiently using an autoresponder.
Raise your hand if you're still carrying around your paperbound daily planner! Throw it away and get software to keep track of your appointments and those of all your employees. You'll appreciate how easy it is to know who's doing what and when.
And think about how much time you spend each year gathering the paperwork your accountant needs at tax time to prepare your company income taxes. Why allow your accountant to charge you his or her hourly rate to do the type of data entry you could have been doing all year long IF you had only purchased AND installed business accounting software.
If you think, "Well, I do this only once a year," you are right, but remember, there are many more income-generating things you can do with the time you are wasting. Every second of saved time helps your business operate more efficiently.
Even the most automated of offices is doomed should your hardware ever crash and your data not be backed up. And we're not talking about "if" this crisis will occur; we're talking about "when" it will occur. There are so many easy-to-use and affordable backup software programs available that you've no good excuse for not backing up your valuable data.
There are many other business tasks you can automate but there's not enough room to list them all. Tasks like project management, employee management and inventory management are more efficient when they are automated. You can even translate your paper marketing and sales information for fast and easy delivery via the Internet.
There's no end to the list of office tasks that can be automated using the software that is readily available today. Put together an office automation budget and decide which tasks are the most important to automate. Then get going - you've got work to do!
Even though technology is readily available and even affordable, many small business owners do not take full advantage of these powerful software packages. It may be hard to believe, but only a small percentage of business owners have the technical expertise necessary to handle the automation process. The others have neither the time to learn nor the ability to hire the experts to do the job.
But one thing is certain: One way to increase your business's bottom line is to get software that automates the tasks you do manually and consequently, inefficiently.
Something as simple as contact management software is so valuable. First and foremost, searching for contact information is never more than a few mouse clicks away. Some software will even allow you to access this data while away from you office.
Have you finally mastered your email system? Love the way it keeps you off the phone? If you're not careful, you'll soon be wasting as much time responding to your email as you did returning your phone calls.
There's not enough space to list all the benefits of using autoresponders or all the ways to utilize autoresponders in your business. Here are just a few - use them to send out product and pricing information, to capture contact names and addresses, to help with frequently asked questions (FAQs) lists, to deliver different chapters of an e-book - anything that keeps your company name in front of existing or potential customers can be handled more efficiently using an autoresponder.
Raise your hand if you're still carrying around your paperbound daily planner! Throw it away and get software to keep track of your appointments and those of all your employees. You'll appreciate how easy it is to know who's doing what and when.
And think about how much time you spend each year gathering the paperwork your accountant needs at tax time to prepare your company income taxes. Why allow your accountant to charge you his or her hourly rate to do the type of data entry you could have been doing all year long IF you had only purchased AND installed business accounting software.
If you think, "Well, I do this only once a year," you are right, but remember, there are many more income-generating things you can do with the time you are wasting. Every second of saved time helps your business operate more efficiently.
Even the most automated of offices is doomed should your hardware ever crash and your data not be backed up. And we're not talking about "if" this crisis will occur; we're talking about "when" it will occur. There are so many easy-to-use and affordable backup software programs available that you've no good excuse for not backing up your valuable data.
There are many other business tasks you can automate but there's not enough room to list them all. Tasks like project management, employee management and inventory management are more efficient when they are automated. You can even translate your paper marketing and sales information for fast and easy delivery via the Internet.
There's no end to the list of office tasks that can be automated using the software that is readily available today. Put together an office automation budget and decide which tasks are the most important to automate. Then get going - you've got work to do!
So you're thinking of having your own website?
If you're daydreaming about having your own website and you're reasonably new to the world of computers and the internet, there are a few basic things you really should consider first.
I've listed 10 baby steps to take first, that could possibly save you a world grief. Only wish I'd known it first!
Firstly, before writing anything down, ask yourself the following questions. It will give you a clearer idea of what your website is all about and open the doorway to possibilities that you may not have considered before:
What do you know about websites, web design, the World Wide Web?
Will your computer support a website? Mine didn't and I had to buy software that installed a web server.
What is the purpose of your website? Is it for business or pleasure?
There are thousands of websites out there. What will make your site unique?
Who do you know that can help you? How experienced are they?
What is your budget?
What are you willing or not willing to do in regards to your website? Work long hours; manage the site, continual development etc.
A website is like a baby, it needs loving attention and nurturing. Will you have the time to do this, or will you have backup?
Does your website fill you with excitement and a determination that it will work for you?
Are you open enough to listen to the advice of more experienced people?
Now that you've asked yourself some serious questions about your future site, the following baby steps will give you a broad idea of what's ahead for you.
You could use it as part of your marketing and business plan.
Start with thinking up ideas in your head, however outrageous they might sound, just to get the flow going. Once that starts get yourself a writing pad and pen, and plan, plan, plan and keep planning until you running out of things to plan.
Once you've got your list done, start at the very beginning and draw a mud map of your plan.
If you find the first two points challenging find yourself a suitable brainstorming partner and have some fun with it.
Note: If your plan is vague it can take many weeks to come up with a site design you're happy with, and if you change your mind halfway through the design stage, it can take a many more weeks after that.
During your planning phase, consider the way you want it to look, your logo, colour scheme, and branding (very important). You'll also need to consider your content, images, contact details, fonts etc. Once you've given the green light to all of the above - stick to it.
Will you need a shopping cart and merchant facilities? How many email accounts will you need? Do you have a privacy and disclaimer statement?
How do you know your website will produce an income for you, passive or otherwise?
Know who your competition is.
Get yourself an experienced web developer. If you know someone that knows someone that knows someone, organise a meeting with them. Find out what the developer can and can't do. Do you want self taught or someone that works in the industry?
Get a timeline for the completion of the different components of your site you want built - allow for some flexibility along the way - nothing runs smoothly all the time.
Shop around for a host and domain company. People talk, so ask those working in the industry who they'd recommend, read some IT forums and magazines, read the fine print with any host and compare features. I have a brilliant Host that was recommended to me by someone working within the industry.
Get yourself a basic reference book/manual and become familiar with some of the basic terms like .asp, html files, ftp (file transfer protocol) it can save you a lot of time!
There are many, many more things you can learn about websites. You can do on-line courses (some free some not), you could contact your internet provider and ask whether they have tutorials of FAQ's on websites, you can research the web or get yourself some good books or attend classes at your local college.
The last thing I will leave you with however is this, be prepared to spend some money. Depending on what you want will depend on the money you spend. It's pointless having a website that looks fabulous, cost a lot of money to set up and maintain, however it doesn't provide you with an income, passive or otherwise - that is, unless you can afford it.
Have fun!
I've listed 10 baby steps to take first, that could possibly save you a world grief. Only wish I'd known it first!
Firstly, before writing anything down, ask yourself the following questions. It will give you a clearer idea of what your website is all about and open the doorway to possibilities that you may not have considered before:
What do you know about websites, web design, the World Wide Web?
Will your computer support a website? Mine didn't and I had to buy software that installed a web server.
What is the purpose of your website? Is it for business or pleasure?
There are thousands of websites out there. What will make your site unique?
Who do you know that can help you? How experienced are they?
What is your budget?
What are you willing or not willing to do in regards to your website? Work long hours; manage the site, continual development etc.
A website is like a baby, it needs loving attention and nurturing. Will you have the time to do this, or will you have backup?
Does your website fill you with excitement and a determination that it will work for you?
Are you open enough to listen to the advice of more experienced people?
Now that you've asked yourself some serious questions about your future site, the following baby steps will give you a broad idea of what's ahead for you.
You could use it as part of your marketing and business plan.
Start with thinking up ideas in your head, however outrageous they might sound, just to get the flow going. Once that starts get yourself a writing pad and pen, and plan, plan, plan and keep planning until you running out of things to plan.
Once you've got your list done, start at the very beginning and draw a mud map of your plan.
If you find the first two points challenging find yourself a suitable brainstorming partner and have some fun with it.
Note: If your plan is vague it can take many weeks to come up with a site design you're happy with, and if you change your mind halfway through the design stage, it can take a many more weeks after that.
During your planning phase, consider the way you want it to look, your logo, colour scheme, and branding (very important). You'll also need to consider your content, images, contact details, fonts etc. Once you've given the green light to all of the above - stick to it.
Will you need a shopping cart and merchant facilities? How many email accounts will you need? Do you have a privacy and disclaimer statement?
How do you know your website will produce an income for you, passive or otherwise?
Know who your competition is.
Get yourself an experienced web developer. If you know someone that knows someone that knows someone, organise a meeting with them. Find out what the developer can and can't do. Do you want self taught or someone that works in the industry?
Get a timeline for the completion of the different components of your site you want built - allow for some flexibility along the way - nothing runs smoothly all the time.
Shop around for a host and domain company. People talk, so ask those working in the industry who they'd recommend, read some IT forums and magazines, read the fine print with any host and compare features. I have a brilliant Host that was recommended to me by someone working within the industry.
Get yourself a basic reference book/manual and become familiar with some of the basic terms like .asp, html files, ftp (file transfer protocol) it can save you a lot of time!
There are many, many more things you can learn about websites. You can do on-line courses (some free some not), you could contact your internet provider and ask whether they have tutorials of FAQ's on websites, you can research the web or get yourself some good books or attend classes at your local college.
The last thing I will leave you with however is this, be prepared to spend some money. Depending on what you want will depend on the money you spend. It's pointless having a website that looks fabulous, cost a lot of money to set up and maintain, however it doesn't provide you with an income, passive or otherwise - that is, unless you can afford it.
Have fun!
So You Want To Be An Affiliate Marketer.
Well, a lot of my selling is ... ... I like you want to make money at ... sites. Now I am told by the gurus to put up my own ... website with my own ad copy. That means to me t
Well, a lot of my selling is affiliate programs. I like you want to
make money at affiliate sites. Now I am told by the gurus to put up my
own affiliate website with my own ad copy. That means to me that I
have to build a website that people will stick around long enough to
read my ad copy. What do I have to start with? Headlines, headlines,
headlines. Grab them with your headline then they will stay long
enough to read your sales copy.
You must know your product inside and out to write a good sales
letter. So first of all to sell a affiliate product one needs to buy
the product and use it. Then write a review of the product in the form
of an article. People like to read the pros and cons of anything when
considering buying a product. I am as honest as I can be with any
product I am selling so that people will trust me when I recommend
another product. No hype, anyway hype is just not me. I am chatty and
feel I am authentic that comes across in a good sales letter. Spend
time writing this sales letter be sure you are listing all the
benefits to the customer. What this product can do for you goes a long
way in selling a product. So if you really believe in this product you
can endorse it.
Put up lots of links to other good articles on your site. Offer you
customer valuable content. Remember your job as an affiliate is not to
sell but to pre-sell so you are building trust here. Be sure you offer
them your contact information. I have a 800 number on my site and it
goes to a voice mail. I carry my cell phone at all times and answer
all calls within an hour. I offer my customers my instant messenger
numbers showing whether I am online or off line so they can chat with
me if they like while they are reading the article and if they have
questions. I also have my contact page on my page so they can email
me.
Offer a blog with a comment box just for that affiliate site. Keep
that blog updated with lots of articles that are geared toward
building trust, building a personal relationship with that person. The
search engines pick up blogs that are constantly being updated. That
way you are always getting traffic from the search engines.
Introduce back-end products that are closely related to your main
product. Place them stategicly throughout your affiliate site. That
way your customer is constantly being exposed to products they can buy
from you. Include articles that review these products too. Keep all of
the products closely related so when someone is searching for one they
will naturally search for other products along the same lines.
Create products that are yours and include them on your affiliate
site.
Build in a faqs and frequently ask questions section on your site so
people get their questions answered as soon as possible. Remember to
put your phone number, instant messenging number, a blog, and your
contact page so they can get hold of you as soon as possible.
One last comment here be sure all your links work on any site you have
up the most irritating thing one can encounter is to be all ready to
buy a product and then have the payment link not work. It is self
defeating for you and your customer probably will never come back. I
know I don't and you would be surprised how often this happens.
Article Tags: Sales Letter
Well, a lot of my selling is affiliate programs. I like you want to
make money at affiliate sites. Now I am told by the gurus to put up my
own affiliate website with my own ad copy. That means to me that I
have to build a website that people will stick around long enough to
read my ad copy. What do I have to start with? Headlines, headlines,
headlines. Grab them with your headline then they will stay long
enough to read your sales copy.
You must know your product inside and out to write a good sales
letter. So first of all to sell a affiliate product one needs to buy
the product and use it. Then write a review of the product in the form
of an article. People like to read the pros and cons of anything when
considering buying a product. I am as honest as I can be with any
product I am selling so that people will trust me when I recommend
another product. No hype, anyway hype is just not me. I am chatty and
feel I am authentic that comes across in a good sales letter. Spend
time writing this sales letter be sure you are listing all the
benefits to the customer. What this product can do for you goes a long
way in selling a product. So if you really believe in this product you
can endorse it.
Put up lots of links to other good articles on your site. Offer you
customer valuable content. Remember your job as an affiliate is not to
sell but to pre-sell so you are building trust here. Be sure you offer
them your contact information. I have a 800 number on my site and it
goes to a voice mail. I carry my cell phone at all times and answer
all calls within an hour. I offer my customers my instant messenger
numbers showing whether I am online or off line so they can chat with
me if they like while they are reading the article and if they have
questions. I also have my contact page on my page so they can email
me.
Offer a blog with a comment box just for that affiliate site. Keep
that blog updated with lots of articles that are geared toward
building trust, building a personal relationship with that person. The
search engines pick up blogs that are constantly being updated. That
way you are always getting traffic from the search engines.
Introduce back-end products that are closely related to your main
product. Place them stategicly throughout your affiliate site. That
way your customer is constantly being exposed to products they can buy
from you. Include articles that review these products too. Keep all of
the products closely related so when someone is searching for one they
will naturally search for other products along the same lines.
Create products that are yours and include them on your affiliate
site.
Build in a faqs and frequently ask questions section on your site so
people get their questions answered as soon as possible. Remember to
put your phone number, instant messenging number, a blog, and your
contact page so they can get hold of you as soon as possible.
One last comment here be sure all your links work on any site you have
up the most irritating thing one can encounter is to be all ready to
buy a product and then have the payment link not work. It is self
defeating for you and your customer probably will never come back. I
know I don't and you would be surprised how often this happens.
Article Tags: Sales Letter
SMS Marketing using SMS Software - Pros and Cons
SMS Marketing using SMS Software: The increasing mobile phone penetration globally has instantly resulted in SMS becoming an effective alternative to traditional modes of business communication. With over 1.2 billion mobile phones and increasing penetration among semi-urban, rural areas mobile text messaging (SMS) just cannot be ignored by marketing leaders.
SMS Software is an effective tool to send short, instant and personalised text message (SMS) to the target audience. Brand managers like to be in contact with their existing customers and prospects to inform them about new products, features and other value-added offerings for them using SMS Software.
Their main concerns for marketing leaders related to SMS marketing are security of their database, getting a flexible platform to run SMS campaign at a schedule convenient to them, doing the campaign effectively, irrespective of the numbers of messages to be sent.
The critical questions related to SMS marketing, from the perspective of marketing leaders, are as follows:
Whether the platform provided by service providers is secure?
Is the delivery being carried out using reliable channels?
Are the message delivery service levels measurable and is the client data is confidential?
Is there enough transparency e.g. online delivery and real time reports?
SMS Marketing using client application software:
A flexible and high throughput service using client software is the solution to marketing men woes. Companies such as ValueFirst Messaging Private Limited (http://www.vfirst.com - www.vfirst.com) provide highly effective SMS Service solution to marketing companies, advertising agencies to carry out in-house SMS marketing campaigns. In fact, such companies provide an end-to-end service using its software products for complete marketing activities which can be done on SMS.
The user is able to devise his own campaign and carry it out without any involvement of the service provider. The client software application products are installed at client premises and campaigns are carried out with clients getting on-line MIS. Delivery reports which are provided by the service provider help the user in cleaning-up his data-base. It is easier to do small campaigns, run contests and advertising agencies can use the platform to carry out simultaneous campaigns for multiple-customers.
SMS limitations: While SMS users enjoy several benefits like sending an instant, personal message which is always read, there are limitations associated with SMS. It is nothing more than 160 characters of text, devoid of sound, pictures and special effects of traditional print media. In spite of the limitations SMS has its own specific uses which help marketers give specific information to their customers. Incoming SMS on 4-digit or 5-digit short codes in conjunction with conventional media has become the most effective tool for generating leads and carrying out contests for promoting brands.
Article Tags: Marketing Using
SMS Software is an effective tool to send short, instant and personalised text message (SMS) to the target audience. Brand managers like to be in contact with their existing customers and prospects to inform them about new products, features and other value-added offerings for them using SMS Software.
Their main concerns for marketing leaders related to SMS marketing are security of their database, getting a flexible platform to run SMS campaign at a schedule convenient to them, doing the campaign effectively, irrespective of the numbers of messages to be sent.
The critical questions related to SMS marketing, from the perspective of marketing leaders, are as follows:
Whether the platform provided by service providers is secure?
Is the delivery being carried out using reliable channels?
Are the message delivery service levels measurable and is the client data is confidential?
Is there enough transparency e.g. online delivery and real time reports?
SMS Marketing using client application software:
A flexible and high throughput service using client software is the solution to marketing men woes. Companies such as ValueFirst Messaging Private Limited (http://www.vfirst.com - www.vfirst.com) provide highly effective SMS Service solution to marketing companies, advertising agencies to carry out in-house SMS marketing campaigns. In fact, such companies provide an end-to-end service using its software products for complete marketing activities which can be done on SMS.
The user is able to devise his own campaign and carry it out without any involvement of the service provider. The client software application products are installed at client premises and campaigns are carried out with clients getting on-line MIS. Delivery reports which are provided by the service provider help the user in cleaning-up his data-base. It is easier to do small campaigns, run contests and advertising agencies can use the platform to carry out simultaneous campaigns for multiple-customers.
SMS limitations: While SMS users enjoy several benefits like sending an instant, personal message which is always read, there are limitations associated with SMS. It is nothing more than 160 characters of text, devoid of sound, pictures and special effects of traditional print media. In spite of the limitations SMS has its own specific uses which help marketers give specific information to their customers. Incoming SMS on 4-digit or 5-digit short codes in conjunction with conventional media has become the most effective tool for generating leads and carrying out contests for promoting brands.
Article Tags: Marketing Using
Small Manufacturers Two Leasing Manufacturing Software Leader E-Z-MRP
E-Z-MRP, the leading ... software system for small ... ... ... April 15th, there will be a new pricing and product ... ... to Rocky Smolin, founder of Be
E-Z-MRP, the leading manufacturing software system for small manufacturers, announced effective April 15th, there will be a new pricing and product structure. According to Rocky Smolin, founder of Beach Access Software, makers of E-Z-MRP, "We see a distinction between those small manufacturers with less than five hundred parts in material resource planning, and those with a need for unlimited part numbers."
Smolin noted that some manufacturers will start with the under 500 parts version of E-Z-MRP, priced at $2995, and grow into the new unlimited version, priced at $9800. Beach Access Software credits the $2995 for customers who later choose to upgrade. Other small manufacturers who presently have more than five hundred part will start right away with the E-Z-MRP Unlimited version.
To accommodate the new pricing structure E-Z-MRP offers a Leasing program that ensure a rapid Return-on-Investment.
-Lease E-Z-MRP with two full years of support for just $169.96 per month.
-Lease E-Z-MRP Unlimited with two full years of support for just $495.00 per month.
For more information visit the company's web site: http://www.e-z-mrp.com - http://www.e-z-mrp.com, or call 858-259-4334.
Small manufacturers with more than one hundred parts can no longer manage the manufacturing process on an Excel spreadsheet. Since more than 84% of all manufacturers have less than fifty employees, there is a remarkable opportunity for cost-effective manufacturing systems like E-Z-MRP. Despite the extensive media coverage regarding ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), in most cases these small manufacturers do not require all the functionality offered, nor can many afford the price point.
Somewhere between Excel and ERP is the core process for most manufacturers. By offering the two versions of E-Z-MRP, no small manufacturer will be required to purchase more software than actually needed, while still having the ability to grow into the E-Z-MRP Unlimited version.
The EZ MRP package includes a full-featured Bill of Materials processor, plus a material planning and tracking module which tracks all sales orders, forecasts, work orders (planned, firm, and released), purchase orders, shortages, raw materials and finished goods inventories. It also records a complete audit trail on all inventory transactions. Also included is a physical inventory function and a purchase order module for printing purchase orders.
E-Z-MRP runs on any Windows-based PC or network, and requires only Access 2000, Access XP, or Access 2003 to run. No on-site or remote training is required. A comprehensive user manual with tutorials provides all the required instruction.
Beach Access Software
Rocky Smolin
e-mail protected from spam bots
###
E-Z-MRP, the leading manufacturing software system for small manufacturers, announced effective April 15th, there will be a new pricing and product structure. According to Rocky Smolin, founder of Beach Access Software, makers of E-Z-MRP, "We see a distinction between those small manufacturers with less than five hundred parts in material resource planning, and those with a need for unlimited part numbers."
Smolin noted that some manufacturers will start with the under 500 parts version of E-Z-MRP, priced at $2995, and grow into the new unlimited version, priced at $9800. Beach Access Software credits the $2995 for customers who later choose to upgrade. Other small manufacturers who presently have more than five hundred part will start right away with the E-Z-MRP Unlimited version.
To accommodate the new pricing structure E-Z-MRP offers a Leasing program that ensure a rapid Return-on-Investment.
-Lease E-Z-MRP with two full years of support for just $169.96 per month.
-Lease E-Z-MRP Unlimited with two full years of support for just $495.00 per month.
For more information visit the company's web site: http://www.e-z-mrp.com - http://www.e-z-mrp.com, or call 858-259-4334.
Small manufacturers with more than one hundred parts can no longer manage the manufacturing process on an Excel spreadsheet. Since more than 84% of all manufacturers have less than fifty employees, there is a remarkable opportunity for cost-effective manufacturing systems like E-Z-MRP. Despite the extensive media coverage regarding ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), in most cases these small manufacturers do not require all the functionality offered, nor can many afford the price point.
Somewhere between Excel and ERP is the core process for most manufacturers. By offering the two versions of E-Z-MRP, no small manufacturer will be required to purchase more software than actually needed, while still having the ability to grow into the E-Z-MRP Unlimited version.
The EZ MRP package includes a full-featured Bill of Materials processor, plus a material planning and tracking module which tracks all sales orders, forecasts, work orders (planned, firm, and released), purchase orders, shortages, raw materials and finished goods inventories. It also records a complete audit trail on all inventory transactions. Also included is a physical inventory function and a purchase order module for printing purchase orders.
E-Z-MRP runs on any Windows-based PC or network, and requires only Access 2000, Access XP, or Access 2003 to run. No on-site or remote training is required. A comprehensive user manual with tutorials provides all the required instruction.
Beach Access Software
Rocky Smolin
e-mail protected from spam bots
###
Small Manufacturers Two Leasing Manufacturing Software Leader Beach Access
E-Z-MRP, the leading ... software system for small ... ... ... April 15th, there will be a new pricing and product ... ... to Rocky Smolin, founder of Bea
E-Z-MRP, the leading manufacturing software system for small manufacturers, announced effective April 15th, there will be a new pricing and product structure. According to Rocky Smolin, founder of Beach Access Software, makers of E-Z-MRP, "We see a distinction between those small manufacturers with less than five hundred parts in material resource planning, and those with a need for unlimited part numbers."
Smolin noted that some manufacturers will start with the under 500 parts version of E-Z-MRP, priced at $2995, and grow into the new unlimited version, priced at $9800. Beach Access Software credits the $2995 for customers who later choose to upgrade. Other small manufacturers who presently have more than five hundred part will start right away with the E-Z-MRP Unlimited version.
To accommodate the new pricing structure E-Z-MRP offers a Leasing program that ensure a rapid Return-on-Investment.
-Lease E-Z-MRP with two full years of support for just $169.96 per month.
-Lease E-Z-MRP Unlimited with two full years of support for just $495.00 per month.
For more information visit the company's web site: http://www.e-z-mrp.com - http://www.e-z-mrp.com, or call 858-259-4334.
Small manufacturers with more than one hundred parts can no longer manage the manufacturing process on an Excel spreadsheet. Since more than 84% of all manufacturers have less than fifty employees, there is a remarkable opportunity for cost-effective manufacturing systems like E-Z-MRP. Despite the extensive media coverage regarding ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), in most cases these small manufacturers do not require all the functionality offered, nor can many afford the price point.
Somewhere between Excel and ERP is the core process for most manufacturers. By offering the two versions of E-Z-MRP, no small manufacturer will be required to purchase more software than actually needed, while still having the ability to grow into the E-Z-MRP Unlimited version.
The EZ MRP package includes a full-featured Bill of Materials processor, plus a material planning and tracking module which tracks all sales orders, forecasts, work orders (planned, firm, and released), purchase orders, shortages, raw materials and finished goods inventories. It also records a complete audit trail on all inventory transactions. Also included is a physical inventory function and a purchase order module for printing purchase orders.
E-Z-MRP runs on any Windows-based PC or network, and requires only Access 2000, Access XP, or Access 2003 to run. No on-site or remote training is required. A comprehensive user manual with tutorials provides all the required instruction.
Beach Access Software
Rocky Smolin
e-mail protected from spam bots
###
E-Z-MRP, the leading manufacturing software system for small manufacturers, announced effective April 15th, there will be a new pricing and product structure. According to Rocky Smolin, founder of Beach Access Software, makers of E-Z-MRP, "We see a distinction between those small manufacturers with less than five hundred parts in material resource planning, and those with a need for unlimited part numbers."
Smolin noted that some manufacturers will start with the under 500 parts version of E-Z-MRP, priced at $2995, and grow into the new unlimited version, priced at $9800. Beach Access Software credits the $2995 for customers who later choose to upgrade. Other small manufacturers who presently have more than five hundred part will start right away with the E-Z-MRP Unlimited version.
To accommodate the new pricing structure E-Z-MRP offers a Leasing program that ensure a rapid Return-on-Investment.
-Lease E-Z-MRP with two full years of support for just $169.96 per month.
-Lease E-Z-MRP Unlimited with two full years of support for just $495.00 per month.
For more information visit the company's web site: http://www.e-z-mrp.com - http://www.e-z-mrp.com, or call 858-259-4334.
Small manufacturers with more than one hundred parts can no longer manage the manufacturing process on an Excel spreadsheet. Since more than 84% of all manufacturers have less than fifty employees, there is a remarkable opportunity for cost-effective manufacturing systems like E-Z-MRP. Despite the extensive media coverage regarding ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), in most cases these small manufacturers do not require all the functionality offered, nor can many afford the price point.
Somewhere between Excel and ERP is the core process for most manufacturers. By offering the two versions of E-Z-MRP, no small manufacturer will be required to purchase more software than actually needed, while still having the ability to grow into the E-Z-MRP Unlimited version.
The EZ MRP package includes a full-featured Bill of Materials processor, plus a material planning and tracking module which tracks all sales orders, forecasts, work orders (planned, firm, and released), purchase orders, shortages, raw materials and finished goods inventories. It also records a complete audit trail on all inventory transactions. Also included is a physical inventory function and a purchase order module for printing purchase orders.
E-Z-MRP runs on any Windows-based PC or network, and requires only Access 2000, Access XP, or Access 2003 to run. No on-site or remote training is required. A comprehensive user manual with tutorials provides all the required instruction.
Beach Access Software
Rocky Smolin
e-mail protected from spam bots
###
Small Manufacturers Find Rapid ROI by Leasing Manufacturing Software
E-Z-MRP, the leading ... software system for small ... ... ... April 15th, there will be a new pricing and product ... ... to Rocky Smolin, founder of Bea
E-Z-MRP, the leading manufacturing software system for small manufacturers, announced effective April 15th, there will be a new pricing and product structure. According to Rocky Smolin, founder of Beach Access Software, makers of E-Z-MRP, "We see a distinction between those small manufacturers with less than five hundred parts in material resource planning, and those with a need for unlimited part numbers."
Smolin noted that some manufacturers will start with the under 500 parts version of E-Z-MRP, priced at $2995, and grow into the new unlimited version, priced at $9800. Beach Access Software credits the $2995 for customers who later choose to upgrade. Other small manufacturers who presently have more than five hundred part will start right away with the E-Z-MRP Unlimited version.
To accommodate the new pricing structure E-Z-MRP offers a Leasing program that ensure a rapid Return-on-Investment.
- Lease E-Z-MRP with two full years of support for just $169.96 per month.
- Lease E-Z-MRP Unlimited with two full years of support for just $495.00 per month.
For more information visit the company's web site: http://www.e-z-mrp.com - http://www.e-z-mrp.com, or call 858-259-4334.
Small manufacturers with more than one hundred parts can no longer manage the manufacturing process on an Excel spreadsheet. Since more than 84% of all manufacturers have less than fifty employees, there is a remarkable opportunity for cost-effective manufacturing systems like E-Z-MRP. Despite the extensive media coverage regarding ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), in most cases these small manufacturers do not require all the functionality offered, nor can many afford the price point.
Somewhere between Excel and ERP is the core process for most manufacturers. By offering the two versions of E-Z-MRP, no small manufacturer will be required to purchase more software than actually needed, while still having the ability to grow into the E-Z-MRP Unlimited version.
The EZ MRP package includes a full-featured Bill of Materials processor, plus a material planning and tracking module which tracks all sales orders, forecasts, work orders (planned, firm, and released), purchase orders, shortages, raw materials and finished goods inventories. It also records a complete audit trail on all inventory transactions. Also included is a physical inventory function and a purchase order module for printing purchase orders.
E-Z-MRP runs on any Windows-based PC or network, and requires only Access 2000, Access XP, or Access 2003 to run. No on-site or remote training is required. A comprehensive user manual with tutorials provides all the required instruction.
Beach Access Software
Rocky Smolin
e-mail protected from spam bots
# # #
E-Z-MRP, the leading manufacturing software system for small manufacturers, announced effective April 15th, there will be a new pricing and product structure. According to Rocky Smolin, founder of Beach Access Software, makers of E-Z-MRP, "We see a distinction between those small manufacturers with less than five hundred parts in material resource planning, and those with a need for unlimited part numbers."
Smolin noted that some manufacturers will start with the under 500 parts version of E-Z-MRP, priced at $2995, and grow into the new unlimited version, priced at $9800. Beach Access Software credits the $2995 for customers who later choose to upgrade. Other small manufacturers who presently have more than five hundred part will start right away with the E-Z-MRP Unlimited version.
To accommodate the new pricing structure E-Z-MRP offers a Leasing program that ensure a rapid Return-on-Investment.
- Lease E-Z-MRP with two full years of support for just $169.96 per month.
- Lease E-Z-MRP Unlimited with two full years of support for just $495.00 per month.
For more information visit the company's web site: http://www.e-z-mrp.com - http://www.e-z-mrp.com, or call 858-259-4334.
Small manufacturers with more than one hundred parts can no longer manage the manufacturing process on an Excel spreadsheet. Since more than 84% of all manufacturers have less than fifty employees, there is a remarkable opportunity for cost-effective manufacturing systems like E-Z-MRP. Despite the extensive media coverage regarding ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), in most cases these small manufacturers do not require all the functionality offered, nor can many afford the price point.
Somewhere between Excel and ERP is the core process for most manufacturers. By offering the two versions of E-Z-MRP, no small manufacturer will be required to purchase more software than actually needed, while still having the ability to grow into the E-Z-MRP Unlimited version.
The EZ MRP package includes a full-featured Bill of Materials processor, plus a material planning and tracking module which tracks all sales orders, forecasts, work orders (planned, firm, and released), purchase orders, shortages, raw materials and finished goods inventories. It also records a complete audit trail on all inventory transactions. Also included is a physical inventory function and a purchase order module for printing purchase orders.
E-Z-MRP runs on any Windows-based PC or network, and requires only Access 2000, Access XP, or Access 2003 to run. No on-site or remote training is required. A comprehensive user manual with tutorials provides all the required instruction.
Beach Access Software
Rocky Smolin
e-mail protected from spam bots
# # #
Small Business Tax Credit - Americans with Disabilities Act
Many small businesses complain when confronted with the expense of complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Most do not realize that there are a number of tax incentives available to offset the costs. Importantly, one tax incentive comes in the form of a tax credit, which is far more valuable than a tax deduction when it comes to creating tax savings.
Disable Access Tax Credit
If you make your small business accessible to persons with disabilities, you can take an annual tax credit. Your business is eligible if you earned one million or less the previous year or had 30 or fewer employees. If you meet this test, you can claim a tax credit of 50 percent of your expenditures to a maximum of $5,000. Since this is a tax credit, it is deducted from your total tax liability.
To claim this tax credit your expenditures must be paid or incurred to enable your business to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Expenditures might include:
1. Purchase of adaptive equipment or modification of equipment;
2. Production of print materials in alternate formats such as Braille or audio; and
3. Sign language interpreters for employees or customers.
Modifications to buildings or offices also qualify as long as two criteria are met. First, the modifications cannot be construction of something new. Second, the building must have been in service prior to November 5, 1990.
Barrier Removal Tax Deduction
All businesses can take a tax deduction for expenditures incurred to remove physical, structural or transportation barriers for disabled individuals in the work place. This tax deduction carries no restrictions in regard to revenues earned or number of employees. Businesses may claim up to $15,000 a year as a tax deduction. Expenditure amounts exceeding this amount may also be claimed, but are subject to depreciation calculations.
To claim the barrier removal tax deduction, your expenditures must be related to making a facility or vehicle accessible to disabled persons. Examples include:
1. Providing ramps and curb cuts;
2. Making restrooms accessible to persons in wheelchairs; and
3. Expanding the width of sidewalks to at least 48 inches.
Significant Tax Break
Small business owners can double their tax saving pleasure by claiming both of these tax incentives in the same tax year. If a small business spent $20,000 creating wheelchair access to an office, it could take a $5,000 tax credit and a $15,000 tax deduction.
These tax incentives are in place to significantly reduce the burden of complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you failed to claim the credit or deduction during the last three tax filing years, you should file amended tax returns to get a refund.
Article Tags: Small Business
Disable Access Tax Credit
If you make your small business accessible to persons with disabilities, you can take an annual tax credit. Your business is eligible if you earned one million or less the previous year or had 30 or fewer employees. If you meet this test, you can claim a tax credit of 50 percent of your expenditures to a maximum of $5,000. Since this is a tax credit, it is deducted from your total tax liability.
To claim this tax credit your expenditures must be paid or incurred to enable your business to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Expenditures might include:
1. Purchase of adaptive equipment or modification of equipment;
2. Production of print materials in alternate formats such as Braille or audio; and
3. Sign language interpreters for employees or customers.
Modifications to buildings or offices also qualify as long as two criteria are met. First, the modifications cannot be construction of something new. Second, the building must have been in service prior to November 5, 1990.
Barrier Removal Tax Deduction
All businesses can take a tax deduction for expenditures incurred to remove physical, structural or transportation barriers for disabled individuals in the work place. This tax deduction carries no restrictions in regard to revenues earned or number of employees. Businesses may claim up to $15,000 a year as a tax deduction. Expenditure amounts exceeding this amount may also be claimed, but are subject to depreciation calculations.
To claim the barrier removal tax deduction, your expenditures must be related to making a facility or vehicle accessible to disabled persons. Examples include:
1. Providing ramps and curb cuts;
2. Making restrooms accessible to persons in wheelchairs; and
3. Expanding the width of sidewalks to at least 48 inches.
Significant Tax Break
Small business owners can double their tax saving pleasure by claiming both of these tax incentives in the same tax year. If a small business spent $20,000 creating wheelchair access to an office, it could take a $5,000 tax credit and a $15,000 tax deduction.
These tax incentives are in place to significantly reduce the burden of complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you failed to claim the credit or deduction during the last three tax filing years, you should file amended tax returns to get a refund.
Article Tags: Small Business
Small Business Checks - Money Saving Options
Getting the most out of your office supplies means checking out the best vendors. Checks are not the most complicated supplies in your office, but they will save you money versus hiring a company to handle it for you.
When you go into business for yourself, there are many things to consider. What you don't want to worry about is spending too much money on unnecessary items. Business checks are one of those things. They don't have to be expensive. Your bottom line keeps your business going, and it is important to keep it that way.
Getting the most out of your office supplies means checking out the best vendors. Small businesses have the opportunity to have the control in most situations. You get to make the important decisions, and get to take the fall when they are bad.
Checks are not the most complicated supplies in your office, but they will save you money versus hiring a company to handle it for you. There are some good ways to go about the process of setting up your accounting department, even if you are the whole department.
There are some pretty basic options with business checks:
Desk set checks. These are the basic three-to-a-page sheets usually placed in a binder. They work for payroll and other payables, but don't offer much for tracking.
Computer checks. Many of these checks allow you to print them from the computer using financial software. You buy the check paper and they get printed with the click of a mouse.
Continuous Checks. These are also printed from the computer, but are utilized for larger quantities. Depending on your business, continuous feed checks be useful.
Finding a vendor to handle your blank business check supply is easy on the internet. There are many companies online that offer the printing services. You can expect to find the aforementioned styles of checks, and maybe a few more options specific to the printer. You pick the styles and designs that you find applicable to your business. There are many color schemes and designs, but there may be a better option.
New to the check world is the photo check. A few check printers allow you to submit a JPEG photo or graphic and they will print it on your checks. What this means, is that for a few dollars more, your business logo will be placed on your checks. You get more exposure for your business, and it really doesn't cost that much more.
The orders only take about a week of so, or faster if you rush the order. You'll find that many of these sites also provide many other needed office items like pens, paper supplies, and staples. When you buy all your stuff in one place, it leaves you with more time to get your business off the ground.
When you go into business for yourself, there are many things to consider. What you don't want to worry about is spending too much money on unnecessary items. Business checks are one of those things. They don't have to be expensive. Your bottom line keeps your business going, and it is important to keep it that way.
Getting the most out of your office supplies means checking out the best vendors. Small businesses have the opportunity to have the control in most situations. You get to make the important decisions, and get to take the fall when they are bad.
Checks are not the most complicated supplies in your office, but they will save you money versus hiring a company to handle it for you. There are some good ways to go about the process of setting up your accounting department, even if you are the whole department.
There are some pretty basic options with business checks:
Desk set checks. These are the basic three-to-a-page sheets usually placed in a binder. They work for payroll and other payables, but don't offer much for tracking.
Computer checks. Many of these checks allow you to print them from the computer using financial software. You buy the check paper and they get printed with the click of a mouse.
Continuous Checks. These are also printed from the computer, but are utilized for larger quantities. Depending on your business, continuous feed checks be useful.
Finding a vendor to handle your blank business check supply is easy on the internet. There are many companies online that offer the printing services. You can expect to find the aforementioned styles of checks, and maybe a few more options specific to the printer. You pick the styles and designs that you find applicable to your business. There are many color schemes and designs, but there may be a better option.
New to the check world is the photo check. A few check printers allow you to submit a JPEG photo or graphic and they will print it on your checks. What this means, is that for a few dollars more, your business logo will be placed on your checks. You get more exposure for your business, and it really doesn't cost that much more.
The orders only take about a week of so, or faster if you rush the order. You'll find that many of these sites also provide many other needed office items like pens, paper supplies, and staples. When you buy all your stuff in one place, it leaves you with more time to get your business off the ground.
Six Steps to Guarantee Your Business Success
The six key steps that guide an entrepreneur towards business success and help any visionary enrich their vision and achieve their business start-up goal.
Many of us slave away for years for one uninspiring company after another and dream of the day when we can sack the boss and go it alone.
If you're contemplating starting your own business then I'm here cheering you on from the sidelines because the best decision I ever made was to walk away from my well paid but oh so frustratingly boring job and start my own business from scratch.
I'd always believed in Bob Dylan's definition of success - "a man is a success if he gets up in the morning and goes to bed at night and in between does what he wants to do." And it was these words and this sentiment that drove me to seek out business success on my own.
While I was in the planning stages of things I read around a lot and discovered that there are six main steps that you can follow to give your business the best chance of survival and success. With hindsight I can confirm that these six steps do guarantee your business success, so here they are for you, use them as your guide: -
1) Plan to Succeed
"Action without planning is the cause of all failure. Action with planning is the cause of all success." - Brian Tracy.
You need to establish an intricate business plan that will guide you through the start-up hurdles and ongoing development of your business. Whether you're planning on establishing a global company that will eventually employ many individuals or you're intending to establish an on-line business from your bedroom that will employ only you, you must spend the necessary time and effort plotting out how exactly your company will be established, who your customers are, how you will reach them, how you will finance your ongoing operations and where exactly you're headed with your business.
"Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration. Accordingly a genius is often merely a talented person who has done all of his or her homework." - Thomas Edison
Be a business genius, remember the planning stages are critical to the future success of your business - don't rush them.
2) Money Matters
"Before you can really start setting financial goals, you need to determine where you stand financially." - David Bach
You need to look at your own personal financial situation and determine exactly how much money you will need to live on, how much money you have to invest in your business, how much money is required to start up and run your company and how exactly you're going to fund the future of your business. Get down to the financial nitty gritty before you get down to business and you will avoid the number one reason why businesses fail - namely, lack of capital.
Crunch those numbers and be realistic rather than fatalistic or optimistic! You can and will succeed, but first you must arm yourself with the boring facts and figures and then you can put in place the financing you need.
3) To Score Goals You Have To Set Goals
"Most people struggle with life balance simply because they haven't paid the price to decide what is really important to them." - Stephen Covey
Having mapped out your business journey intricately, having put in place the financing you will need to travel the path towards success you have to begin setting yourself business and personal goals. If you have nothing to aim for you will never achieve your target! Where do you want to be in one month's time, where do you want your company to be in one year's time?
Set stage goals for you, your company, your employees, your finances and your success. Follow your progress closely, keep one eye on your goals and you will never fail to succeed.
4) Sure Up Support and Understanding
"Getting things accomplished isn't nearly as important as taking time for love." - Janette Oke
No man is an island therefore your hopes, dreams, ambitions and goals should be shared with your loved ones and they need to give you the support and understanding required for success.
Starting a business is always challenging, it is at times stressful and it can take up a very large part of your life. If you explain what you're doing and why you're doing it to your loved ones they will give you the time, love and support you need to succeed.
At the same time it is critical that you do not lose your perspective and fail to take the time necessary to love and care for your family. All too often you hear tired and stressed out businessmen and women complaining of a lack of spousal understanding, whining that they are working so hard directly for the benefit of said spouse - this creates disharmony and acrimony on both sides - what a waste of a great life!
Get everything in perspective and keep everything in perspective at all times, and bring your family and friends on board for guaranteed success.
5) Protect What's Important
"Happy is the man who can endure the highest and lowest fortune. He who has endured such vicissitudes with equanimity has deprived misfortune of its power." - Seneca
To further deprive misfortune of its power you can put in place various insurance policies to protect yourself, your family, your current situation and your business from undue risk. Because there are no two ways about it, starting out on your own is a risky business - focus on the success of your business and follow these six steps and you will achieve all you want to. And in the interim protect what's important to you - for example, think long and hard before mortgaging your family home to fund your company! Get business and personal indemnity insurance in place, make sure health and life insurance policies are in place protecting you, your family and any key employees.
But - don't get hung up on this point because worrying unduly about risk will blinker your vision. Deal with this point and move on!
6) Face The Enemy - Deal Directly With Accountants & Lawyers
"Money is plentiful for those who understand the simple laws which govern its acquisition." - George Clason
Every single business has to act within the laws of the countries it operates in and deals with and every single business has certain reporting and taxation requirements. These are definite hurdles designed to restrict the visionary, but they are necessary hurdles to protect a company's consumers, a business' partners and a country's economy.
Take the time to establish a good working relationship with your company's accountant and lawyer. Make sure your company is properly structured from the start and that you fully understand and adhere to taxation and reporting deadlines and rules.
Know what is expected of you, understand why it's important to follow the rules and structures that have been put in place and have a system to deal with tax returns, pay runs, company disclosure and contract negotiations and remember:
"Taxes are not good things, but if you want services, somebody's got to pay for them so they're a necessary evil." - Michael Bloomberg
Use these six steps as the guide towards your business success and always strive to keep your vision alive because "vision is perhaps our greatest strength…it has kept us alive to the power and continuity of thought through the centuries, it makes us peer into the future and lends shape to the unknown." - Li Ka Shing
Many of us slave away for years for one uninspiring company after another and dream of the day when we can sack the boss and go it alone.
If you're contemplating starting your own business then I'm here cheering you on from the sidelines because the best decision I ever made was to walk away from my well paid but oh so frustratingly boring job and start my own business from scratch.
I'd always believed in Bob Dylan's definition of success - "a man is a success if he gets up in the morning and goes to bed at night and in between does what he wants to do." And it was these words and this sentiment that drove me to seek out business success on my own.
While I was in the planning stages of things I read around a lot and discovered that there are six main steps that you can follow to give your business the best chance of survival and success. With hindsight I can confirm that these six steps do guarantee your business success, so here they are for you, use them as your guide: -
1) Plan to Succeed
"Action without planning is the cause of all failure. Action with planning is the cause of all success." - Brian Tracy.
You need to establish an intricate business plan that will guide you through the start-up hurdles and ongoing development of your business. Whether you're planning on establishing a global company that will eventually employ many individuals or you're intending to establish an on-line business from your bedroom that will employ only you, you must spend the necessary time and effort plotting out how exactly your company will be established, who your customers are, how you will reach them, how you will finance your ongoing operations and where exactly you're headed with your business.
"Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration. Accordingly a genius is often merely a talented person who has done all of his or her homework." - Thomas Edison
Be a business genius, remember the planning stages are critical to the future success of your business - don't rush them.
2) Money Matters
"Before you can really start setting financial goals, you need to determine where you stand financially." - David Bach
You need to look at your own personal financial situation and determine exactly how much money you will need to live on, how much money you have to invest in your business, how much money is required to start up and run your company and how exactly you're going to fund the future of your business. Get down to the financial nitty gritty before you get down to business and you will avoid the number one reason why businesses fail - namely, lack of capital.
Crunch those numbers and be realistic rather than fatalistic or optimistic! You can and will succeed, but first you must arm yourself with the boring facts and figures and then you can put in place the financing you need.
3) To Score Goals You Have To Set Goals
"Most people struggle with life balance simply because they haven't paid the price to decide what is really important to them." - Stephen Covey
Having mapped out your business journey intricately, having put in place the financing you will need to travel the path towards success you have to begin setting yourself business and personal goals. If you have nothing to aim for you will never achieve your target! Where do you want to be in one month's time, where do you want your company to be in one year's time?
Set stage goals for you, your company, your employees, your finances and your success. Follow your progress closely, keep one eye on your goals and you will never fail to succeed.
4) Sure Up Support and Understanding
"Getting things accomplished isn't nearly as important as taking time for love." - Janette Oke
No man is an island therefore your hopes, dreams, ambitions and goals should be shared with your loved ones and they need to give you the support and understanding required for success.
Starting a business is always challenging, it is at times stressful and it can take up a very large part of your life. If you explain what you're doing and why you're doing it to your loved ones they will give you the time, love and support you need to succeed.
At the same time it is critical that you do not lose your perspective and fail to take the time necessary to love and care for your family. All too often you hear tired and stressed out businessmen and women complaining of a lack of spousal understanding, whining that they are working so hard directly for the benefit of said spouse - this creates disharmony and acrimony on both sides - what a waste of a great life!
Get everything in perspective and keep everything in perspective at all times, and bring your family and friends on board for guaranteed success.
5) Protect What's Important
"Happy is the man who can endure the highest and lowest fortune. He who has endured such vicissitudes with equanimity has deprived misfortune of its power." - Seneca
To further deprive misfortune of its power you can put in place various insurance policies to protect yourself, your family, your current situation and your business from undue risk. Because there are no two ways about it, starting out on your own is a risky business - focus on the success of your business and follow these six steps and you will achieve all you want to. And in the interim protect what's important to you - for example, think long and hard before mortgaging your family home to fund your company! Get business and personal indemnity insurance in place, make sure health and life insurance policies are in place protecting you, your family and any key employees.
But - don't get hung up on this point because worrying unduly about risk will blinker your vision. Deal with this point and move on!
6) Face The Enemy - Deal Directly With Accountants & Lawyers
"Money is plentiful for those who understand the simple laws which govern its acquisition." - George Clason
Every single business has to act within the laws of the countries it operates in and deals with and every single business has certain reporting and taxation requirements. These are definite hurdles designed to restrict the visionary, but they are necessary hurdles to protect a company's consumers, a business' partners and a country's economy.
Take the time to establish a good working relationship with your company's accountant and lawyer. Make sure your company is properly structured from the start and that you fully understand and adhere to taxation and reporting deadlines and rules.
Know what is expected of you, understand why it's important to follow the rules and structures that have been put in place and have a system to deal with tax returns, pay runs, company disclosure and contract negotiations and remember:
"Taxes are not good things, but if you want services, somebody's got to pay for them so they're a necessary evil." - Michael Bloomberg
Use these six steps as the guide towards your business success and always strive to keep your vision alive because "vision is perhaps our greatest strength…it has kept us alive to the power and continuity of thought through the centuries, it makes us peer into the future and lends shape to the unknown." - Li Ka Shing
Six Great Reasons to Hire a Professional Writer
Hiring a professional writer can give all of your materials greater impact. Powerful and clear copywriting will work to inform, persuade, and motivate your reader.
Most people can write. Some can even write well. But only a few individuals can write as quickly and persuasively as a professional writer. Effective communication requires a well-crafted message that is interesting to your audience. Anything less is a waste of your time and money.
Professional writers can develop a wide variety of documents including proposals, advertising and design copy, content for websites, sales letters, strategic plans, brochures, and newsletters. An organization looking for the best value should consider the following benefits of hiring a professional writer:
1. Save time: Your time is valuable. Effective writing and editing is labor intensive and can constrict your already-tight schedule. Hiring a professional writer allows you to focus on your many other priorities.
2. Meet your deadlines: Professional writers thrive on meeting deadlines. They can help your organization complete that pressing project on time.
3. Get your message across: Perhaps you are intending to sell a product, educate your audience, or improve staff morale. Your brochure, proposal, report, newsletter, or website should be effective and produce your desired results. Powerful and clear writing will work to inform, persuade, and motivate your reader to take action.
4. Research the topic effectively: Writing about a service, product, program, or person often requires fact gathering such as online research, interviews, supporting anecdotes, and statistics. Writers are experts in obtaining background information.
5. Clean and polish: Once you've written your rough draft, a professional writer can help you organize its structure, add additional information, tighten the copy, and spice it up with creative details. They can also help make your writing more compelling and persuasive.
6. Improve the effectiveness of design: A well-designed promotional piece requires strong copywriting. If you have compelling graphics, you'll invite people to begin reading. However, powerful content is what will keep them reading. Professional writing can ensure the success of your design efforts by keeping your audience interested.
Article Tags: Professional Writer
Most people can write. Some can even write well. But only a few individuals can write as quickly and persuasively as a professional writer. Effective communication requires a well-crafted message that is interesting to your audience. Anything less is a waste of your time and money.
Professional writers can develop a wide variety of documents including proposals, advertising and design copy, content for websites, sales letters, strategic plans, brochures, and newsletters. An organization looking for the best value should consider the following benefits of hiring a professional writer:
1. Save time: Your time is valuable. Effective writing and editing is labor intensive and can constrict your already-tight schedule. Hiring a professional writer allows you to focus on your many other priorities.
2. Meet your deadlines: Professional writers thrive on meeting deadlines. They can help your organization complete that pressing project on time.
3. Get your message across: Perhaps you are intending to sell a product, educate your audience, or improve staff morale. Your brochure, proposal, report, newsletter, or website should be effective and produce your desired results. Powerful and clear writing will work to inform, persuade, and motivate your reader to take action.
4. Research the topic effectively: Writing about a service, product, program, or person often requires fact gathering such as online research, interviews, supporting anecdotes, and statistics. Writers are experts in obtaining background information.
5. Clean and polish: Once you've written your rough draft, a professional writer can help you organize its structure, add additional information, tighten the copy, and spice it up with creative details. They can also help make your writing more compelling and persuasive.
6. Improve the effectiveness of design: A well-designed promotional piece requires strong copywriting. If you have compelling graphics, you'll invite people to begin reading. However, powerful content is what will keep them reading. Professional writing can ensure the success of your design efforts by keeping your audience interested.
Article Tags: Professional Writer
Show me the Money!!
Show me the money!!!
Are you ready to raise money for your startup?
Leslie Mitts, Managing Practice Leader at the Wharton SBDC and Lead
Advisor for the Wharton Venture Initiation Program, tells us that most
entrepreneurs coming through her programs are focused on raising
capital, even though there are higher priorities in many of their
businesses. Since fresh dollars help drive the business engine, this is
a natural entrepreneurial concern.
But are you ready to raise money?
Going to investors before you are really ready can damage your reputation and may actually hinder future funding efforts.
Team and a Dream uses a unique Fundability Diagnostic to help companies
assess their strengths in four key areas:
Team - This is the most frequently cited attribute examined by
investors. Many investors will invest in an A-level team and a B-level
product, but not the opposite. Having your Seed Team nailed is crucial.
Traction - Showing momentum is a critical element to demonstrating
progress and your ability to execute.
Perceived Pain - Do people really need your product? Why? Will they
need it in the future?
Product Eco-system - How does your product fit into existing and
emerging landscapes? Who else is out there and how big will this market
grow?
Find out what you need to succeed and discover your roadmap to getting
there. Take the quiz below to see how well you might expect to score
with investors. For each of the four sections outlined above, see
which hurdles you can clear given the current state of your business.
PROCEED WITH CAUTION: Only self-aware entrepreneurs should take these
results seriously.
ASSESSING YOUR TEAM
Part A:
If you or any member of your current team are not planning on being the
CEO, give yourself two points and proceed to Part B.
If someone on your team IS planning to continue on as CEO, then you’ll
need to answer yes to both of the next two questions in order to score
two points; otherwise, take a zero.
Our CEO has significant, previous management experience in a startup
or comparable operating environment (i.e. middle management in a large
company doesn’t count!) ( 1 point)
Our CEO is able to rapidly assess and prioritize our work with the
respect of the team ( 1 point)
Part B:
Score one point for each answer.
Someone on my team has significant experience in the domain space in
which we are starting the company ( 1 point)
Our team understands and acts as if they understand the difference
between tasks that are urgent, urgent and important, important, and
none of the above ( 1 point)
This team has terrific chemistry ( 1 point)
Your score (0-5) is your Total Team Score.
If you scored three or more, you pass the Team Hurdle.
TRACTION
Score one point for each item you can answer positively.
We have made a few initial sales and have positive indicators from
the marketplace for additional sales growth ( 1 point)
So many good things are happening I am bouncing off the walls with
excitement ( 1 point)
I have added a significant team member (besides myself!) in the past
two months ( 1 point)
In the past two months, I received press coverage that would be
acknowledged by my prospects as legitimate business coverage ( 1 point)
We recently have achieved a significant product or marketplace
milestone (includes a single, initial sale) ( 1 point)
Your score (0-5) is your Total Traction Score.
If you scored three or more, you pass the Traction Hurdle.
PERCEIVED PAIN
Award your Team the number of points indicated after each question that
you answer positively.
My product or service solves an important problem for a well defined
group of people ( 2 points)
My product or service will be in great demand in the future in order
to solve problems emerging from a new trend that has a large population
of prospects ( 2 points)
.My product or service takes advantage of newly available market
forces (technology, demographics, societal). The result is an offering
that will clearly appeal to an existing, well-known market demographic
( 1 point)
Your score (0-5) is your Total Perceived Pain Score.
If you scored three or more, you pass the Perceived Pain Hurdle.
PRODUCT ECO-SYSTEM
Score the stated number of points for each item you can answer
positively.
My product is unique in a clearly defined (i.e. I can describe the
difference in one or two clear sentences) and useful way ( 1 point)
My product is patented or can easily be patented or I have another
competitive barrier (e.g. trade secret, unique manufacturing process,
etc.) that will make it difficult for others to compete directly ( 1
point)
My marketplace is well established but fragmented or my product has
“category killer” potential because it is so unique to the market ( 1
point)
My marketplace is either very big (> $5 billion/year in sales) with
clear room for a product like mine or is rapidly growing with well
documented trend lines ( 1 point)
My marketplace is wide open and there are no competitors ( subtract 1
point)
Your score of (-1 to 4) is your Total Product Eco-System Score.
If you scored three or more, you pass the Product Eco-System Hurdle.
Now that you have completed the scoring, we shall take a look at how
“fundable” your company is. Before we do, it’s important to realize
that this is a snapshot in time. If you are not satisfied with your
score, there are plenty of things you can do to improve it. I’ve seen
many of my clients make tremendous progress along these dimensions by
extending their team, focusing on sales or tweaking their offering.
YOUR FUNDABILITY RATING:
Number of Hurdles Cleared: None
IMPLICATION
If you received this score and hope to receive funding, then you have a
lot of work to do.
Perhaps you just know you want to start a business and are looking for
ideas. If so, keep these criteria in mind as you formulate your plans.
If you already have a business concept, you should think long and hard
about “re-conceiving” some elements of it to improve your scores.
Many perfectly good “lifestyle” businesses may fall into this scale –
you just can’t get funding for them.
Number of Hurdles Cleared: One
IMPLICATION
Funding from your rich uncle may be possible
Number of Hurdles Cleared: two
IMPLICATION
Funding from family and friends network may be possible
Number of Hurdles Cleared: three
IMPLICATION
Professional investors will consider this, but you’ll need to be
prepared to explain how you’ll address your gaps.
Number of Hurdles Cleared: all four
IMPLICATION
Put the finishing touches on your business plan and hit the funding
trail!
You will have the best chances of success in fund-raising if investors
see that you can clear the hurdles in all four areas.
NOTE: Team and a Dream offers a professional version of this assessment
that offers additional detail and examines nuances that aren’t possible
to convey in a simple quiz. If you have an interest in the
professional assessment, please visit us at
http://www.teamandadream.com/contactus.htm - http://www.teamandadream.com/contactus.htm
Contact Information:
http://www.teamandadream.com - http://www.teamandadream.com
mailto:skip@teamandadream.com - skip@teamandadream.com
(610) 687-9195
Copyright (c) 2005, All rights reserved by Post Destiny, Inc. d/b/a
Team and a Dream(SM)
Are you ready to raise money for your startup?
Leslie Mitts, Managing Practice Leader at the Wharton SBDC and Lead
Advisor for the Wharton Venture Initiation Program, tells us that most
entrepreneurs coming through her programs are focused on raising
capital, even though there are higher priorities in many of their
businesses. Since fresh dollars help drive the business engine, this is
a natural entrepreneurial concern.
But are you ready to raise money?
Going to investors before you are really ready can damage your reputation and may actually hinder future funding efforts.
Team and a Dream uses a unique Fundability Diagnostic to help companies
assess their strengths in four key areas:
Team - This is the most frequently cited attribute examined by
investors. Many investors will invest in an A-level team and a B-level
product, but not the opposite. Having your Seed Team nailed is crucial.
Traction - Showing momentum is a critical element to demonstrating
progress and your ability to execute.
Perceived Pain - Do people really need your product? Why? Will they
need it in the future?
Product Eco-system - How does your product fit into existing and
emerging landscapes? Who else is out there and how big will this market
grow?
Find out what you need to succeed and discover your roadmap to getting
there. Take the quiz below to see how well you might expect to score
with investors. For each of the four sections outlined above, see
which hurdles you can clear given the current state of your business.
PROCEED WITH CAUTION: Only self-aware entrepreneurs should take these
results seriously.
ASSESSING YOUR TEAM
Part A:
If you or any member of your current team are not planning on being the
CEO, give yourself two points and proceed to Part B.
If someone on your team IS planning to continue on as CEO, then you’ll
need to answer yes to both of the next two questions in order to score
two points; otherwise, take a zero.
Our CEO has significant, previous management experience in a startup
or comparable operating environment (i.e. middle management in a large
company doesn’t count!) ( 1 point)
Our CEO is able to rapidly assess and prioritize our work with the
respect of the team ( 1 point)
Part B:
Score one point for each answer.
Someone on my team has significant experience in the domain space in
which we are starting the company ( 1 point)
Our team understands and acts as if they understand the difference
between tasks that are urgent, urgent and important, important, and
none of the above ( 1 point)
This team has terrific chemistry ( 1 point)
Your score (0-5) is your Total Team Score.
If you scored three or more, you pass the Team Hurdle.
TRACTION
Score one point for each item you can answer positively.
We have made a few initial sales and have positive indicators from
the marketplace for additional sales growth ( 1 point)
So many good things are happening I am bouncing off the walls with
excitement ( 1 point)
I have added a significant team member (besides myself!) in the past
two months ( 1 point)
In the past two months, I received press coverage that would be
acknowledged by my prospects as legitimate business coverage ( 1 point)
We recently have achieved a significant product or marketplace
milestone (includes a single, initial sale) ( 1 point)
Your score (0-5) is your Total Traction Score.
If you scored three or more, you pass the Traction Hurdle.
PERCEIVED PAIN
Award your Team the number of points indicated after each question that
you answer positively.
My product or service solves an important problem for a well defined
group of people ( 2 points)
My product or service will be in great demand in the future in order
to solve problems emerging from a new trend that has a large population
of prospects ( 2 points)
.My product or service takes advantage of newly available market
forces (technology, demographics, societal). The result is an offering
that will clearly appeal to an existing, well-known market demographic
( 1 point)
Your score (0-5) is your Total Perceived Pain Score.
If you scored three or more, you pass the Perceived Pain Hurdle.
PRODUCT ECO-SYSTEM
Score the stated number of points for each item you can answer
positively.
My product is unique in a clearly defined (i.e. I can describe the
difference in one or two clear sentences) and useful way ( 1 point)
My product is patented or can easily be patented or I have another
competitive barrier (e.g. trade secret, unique manufacturing process,
etc.) that will make it difficult for others to compete directly ( 1
point)
My marketplace is well established but fragmented or my product has
“category killer” potential because it is so unique to the market ( 1
point)
My marketplace is either very big (> $5 billion/year in sales) with
clear room for a product like mine or is rapidly growing with well
documented trend lines ( 1 point)
My marketplace is wide open and there are no competitors ( subtract 1
point)
Your score of (-1 to 4) is your Total Product Eco-System Score.
If you scored three or more, you pass the Product Eco-System Hurdle.
Now that you have completed the scoring, we shall take a look at how
“fundable” your company is. Before we do, it’s important to realize
that this is a snapshot in time. If you are not satisfied with your
score, there are plenty of things you can do to improve it. I’ve seen
many of my clients make tremendous progress along these dimensions by
extending their team, focusing on sales or tweaking their offering.
YOUR FUNDABILITY RATING:
Number of Hurdles Cleared: None
IMPLICATION
If you received this score and hope to receive funding, then you have a
lot of work to do.
Perhaps you just know you want to start a business and are looking for
ideas. If so, keep these criteria in mind as you formulate your plans.
If you already have a business concept, you should think long and hard
about “re-conceiving” some elements of it to improve your scores.
Many perfectly good “lifestyle” businesses may fall into this scale –
you just can’t get funding for them.
Number of Hurdles Cleared: One
IMPLICATION
Funding from your rich uncle may be possible
Number of Hurdles Cleared: two
IMPLICATION
Funding from family and friends network may be possible
Number of Hurdles Cleared: three
IMPLICATION
Professional investors will consider this, but you’ll need to be
prepared to explain how you’ll address your gaps.
Number of Hurdles Cleared: all four
IMPLICATION
Put the finishing touches on your business plan and hit the funding
trail!
You will have the best chances of success in fund-raising if investors
see that you can clear the hurdles in all four areas.
NOTE: Team and a Dream offers a professional version of this assessment
that offers additional detail and examines nuances that aren’t possible
to convey in a simple quiz. If you have an interest in the
professional assessment, please visit us at
http://www.teamandadream.com/contactus.htm - http://www.teamandadream.com/contactus.htm
Contact Information:
http://www.teamandadream.com - http://www.teamandadream.com
mailto:skip@teamandadream.com - skip@teamandadream.com
(610) 687-9195
Copyright (c) 2005, All rights reserved by Post Destiny, Inc. d/b/a
Team and a Dream(SM)
Should You Buy A Cheap Computer Desk?
Cheap computer desks are generally used or second-hand computer desks. Information about cheap computer desks is available in classified ads in the newspaper. It is also available in websites like e-bay, Amazon, Tigerdirect, Argos or in specific websites related to furniture.
Though they are used, cheap computer desks can be in pretty good condition. Second-hand furniture shops, "repo" men and flea markets are also good places to look for cheap computer desks.
Cheap computer desks can also have style while they also serve the purpose. A cheap computer desk is always better and more economical alternative to using a standard office desk as a computer desk. Since working on the computer needs certain ergonomic comforts, it is always ideal to go for a cheap computer desk.
There are some points to be considered while choosing cheap computer desks. They are: ensure that there is ample desktop space for the monitor as well as for other accessories such as the printer/scanner; there should be shelves for storing files, documents, CDs, books etc; there should be a slide out keyboard tray; there should be scope for expanding the size of the computer desk in future. Even cheap computer desks sometimes come with manufacturer's warranty.
Cheap computer desks can be corner, u-shaped, curved or just straight. Similarly, they can be roll-top, modular, or just practical. They can be made of wood, oak, glass, metal or fiber. They can be fitted with all kinds of shelves or storage racks or they can be just plain with the minimal drawers and shelves. With all of these options, you should be able to find a cheap computer desk that is right for you.
Though they are used, cheap computer desks can be in pretty good condition. Second-hand furniture shops, "repo" men and flea markets are also good places to look for cheap computer desks.
Cheap computer desks can also have style while they also serve the purpose. A cheap computer desk is always better and more economical alternative to using a standard office desk as a computer desk. Since working on the computer needs certain ergonomic comforts, it is always ideal to go for a cheap computer desk.
There are some points to be considered while choosing cheap computer desks. They are: ensure that there is ample desktop space for the monitor as well as for other accessories such as the printer/scanner; there should be shelves for storing files, documents, CDs, books etc; there should be a slide out keyboard tray; there should be scope for expanding the size of the computer desk in future. Even cheap computer desks sometimes come with manufacturer's warranty.
Cheap computer desks can be corner, u-shaped, curved or just straight. Similarly, they can be roll-top, modular, or just practical. They can be made of wood, oak, glass, metal or fiber. They can be fitted with all kinds of shelves or storage racks or they can be just plain with the minimal drawers and shelves. With all of these options, you should be able to find a cheap computer desk that is right for you.
Should You Allow Buyer To Rent During Closing?
Should You Allow Buyer To Rent During ... not uncommon for an investor to sell a house and have the buyer request the right to rent and occupy the property while the closing is being complete
Should You Allow Buyer To Rent During Closing?
It's not uncommon for an investor to sell a house and have the buyer request the right to rent and occupy the property while the closing is being completed.
You're a bad guy if you refuse and often in hot water of you agree. Here are the potential problems with renting before closing:
1. Buyer is in the home for two months and then the potential lender decides the buyer can't qualify for the mortgage loan. Now that's bad news!
2. Buyer is in the home for two months... gets a bad case of buyer's remorse and wants out of the deal. Now that's bad news!
3. Buyer is in the home for two months and comes to the closing table with a long list of needed repairs he has discovered during residency. Now that's bad news!
4. Buyer is in the home for two months during which time he does serious damage to the property and then disappears. Now that's bad news!
Is there any good news? Well, you are getting rent money for those two or so months.
Let's check the score card:
Bad News = 4
Good News = 1
I would say that the investor comes out on the short end of that game. Let's agree that the only time you rent during closing is if you are in dire need of that rental income.
If you must rent then you must carefully prepare a lease agreement. No handshake deals allowed!
If the buyer/renter refuses to close the deal for any reason, the only way you can get them out of the property is if you have a rental agreement that gives you the right to evict. It must also be a short term lease, so there is no misunderstanding about the buyer/renter remaining in the property if the deal goes bad.
In the purchase agreement you must spell out exactly, in a dollar amount, what repairs or improvements you will pay for. The agreement should indicate the buyer has had an inspection period and is buying subject to your limits on repairs and costs... now and in the future. If legitimate defects are found in the property during the rental period you can negotiate a solution.
You must collect sufficient security deposit to cover rent and potential damage the renter/buyer might inflict upon the property.
Look, if for some reason you feel you must accommodate the buyer during the closing period… pay for a motel room. Chances are it will be far cheaper in the long rund.
Should You Allow Buyer To Rent During Closing?
It's not uncommon for an investor to sell a house and have the buyer request the right to rent and occupy the property while the closing is being completed.
You're a bad guy if you refuse and often in hot water of you agree. Here are the potential problems with renting before closing:
1. Buyer is in the home for two months and then the potential lender decides the buyer can't qualify for the mortgage loan. Now that's bad news!
2. Buyer is in the home for two months... gets a bad case of buyer's remorse and wants out of the deal. Now that's bad news!
3. Buyer is in the home for two months and comes to the closing table with a long list of needed repairs he has discovered during residency. Now that's bad news!
4. Buyer is in the home for two months during which time he does serious damage to the property and then disappears. Now that's bad news!
Is there any good news? Well, you are getting rent money for those two or so months.
Let's check the score card:
Bad News = 4
Good News = 1
I would say that the investor comes out on the short end of that game. Let's agree that the only time you rent during closing is if you are in dire need of that rental income.
If you must rent then you must carefully prepare a lease agreement. No handshake deals allowed!
If the buyer/renter refuses to close the deal for any reason, the only way you can get them out of the property is if you have a rental agreement that gives you the right to evict. It must also be a short term lease, so there is no misunderstanding about the buyer/renter remaining in the property if the deal goes bad.
In the purchase agreement you must spell out exactly, in a dollar amount, what repairs or improvements you will pay for. The agreement should indicate the buyer has had an inspection period and is buying subject to your limits on repairs and costs... now and in the future. If legitimate defects are found in the property during the rental period you can negotiate a solution.
You must collect sufficient security deposit to cover rent and potential damage the renter/buyer might inflict upon the property.
Look, if for some reason you feel you must accommodate the buyer during the closing period… pay for a motel room. Chances are it will be far cheaper in the long rund.
Shick Tube-Veyor Selects ETO ERP Leader Encompix
Shick Tube-Veyor Corporation became Encompix's latest customer when they recently purchased a 35-user license for the ETO ERP software and several "Best of Breed" products. Encompix will be a strategi...
Shick Tube-Veyor Corporation became Encompix's latest customer when they recently purchased a 35-user license for the ETO ERP software and several "Best of Breed" products. Encompix will be a strategic partner as Shick are in the midst of reengineering their business to adopt industry best practices. Shick plans to go-live with Encompix in January 2006.
Shick Tube-Veyor Corporation was founded in 1956 by William F. Ungashick, an aeronautical engineer. Today, Shick is an industry leader in providing single source automated ingredient handling systems and equipment. Shick designs, manufactures, installs and services systems for customers primarily in the baking industry.
Headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, Shick has approximately 165 employees located in Missouri and Singapore.
According to ETO Institute (http://www.etoinstitute.org - www.etoinstitute.org) spokesperson, Thomas R. Cutler, "Encompix continues to take the leadership role in technology solutions for the Engineer-to-Order manufacturing sector. Too many providers claim to have solutions for this specific process. Encompix has consistently demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of the ETO process and nuances and it's little wonder that they hold the position of ETO marketshare leader."
Encompix (http://www.encompix.com - www.encompix.com) has filled the manufacturing software requirements of Engineer-to-Order companies since 1992. The company name reflects the commitment to developing business application solutions that encompass the complex areas of project-based and job-based manufacturing.
Encompix provides ETO manufacturers with a competitive advantage by improving bottom line results.
Shick Tube-Veyor Corporation became Encompix's latest customer when they recently purchased a 35-user license for the ETO ERP software and several "Best of Breed" products. Encompix will be a strategic partner as Shick are in the midst of reengineering their business to adopt industry best practices. Shick plans to go-live with Encompix in January 2006.
Shick Tube-Veyor Corporation was founded in 1956 by William F. Ungashick, an aeronautical engineer. Today, Shick is an industry leader in providing single source automated ingredient handling systems and equipment. Shick designs, manufactures, installs and services systems for customers primarily in the baking industry.
Headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, Shick has approximately 165 employees located in Missouri and Singapore.
According to ETO Institute (http://www.etoinstitute.org - www.etoinstitute.org) spokesperson, Thomas R. Cutler, "Encompix continues to take the leadership role in technology solutions for the Engineer-to-Order manufacturing sector. Too many providers claim to have solutions for this specific process. Encompix has consistently demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of the ETO process and nuances and it's little wonder that they hold the position of ETO marketshare leader."
Encompix (http://www.encompix.com - www.encompix.com) has filled the manufacturing software requirements of Engineer-to-Order companies since 1992. The company name reflects the commitment to developing business application solutions that encompass the complex areas of project-based and job-based manufacturing.
Encompix provides ETO manufacturers with a competitive advantage by improving bottom line results.
Seven Inexpensive, Not Cheap, Advertising Tactics
Discover low-cost ways to effectively make your advertising and marketing dollars work. Remember, "inexpensive" is not the same as "cheap"!
Most small businesses have limited marketing communication, aka advertising, budgets making it even more crucial to research thoroughly; select the best medium(s) and target prospects carefully.
The following list contains seven suggestions for achieving "champagne" results on a "beer" budget!
1. Develop one or several, robust customer referral programsAlthough most business owners acknowledge that customer referrals generate a great deal of their new business, very few have implemented a "formal" referral incentive program, even though this is one of the most effective, least risky way to acquire valuable customers… particularly if you're a service professional!Example: Offer current customers who refer a friend a free month/hour of service; instant "bottom of the bill" credit; or free merchandise AND a "spiff" for the "referee"! The details are up to you… I go into much greater detail of types of referral programs in my book, "Marketing" The Art and Science of Getting and Keeping Profitable Customers" if you'd like to learn more.
2. Dance with the Guy Who Brought YouThere is absolutely no reason to ditch old marketing collateral (marketing lingo for brochures; direct mail letters; signs; point-of-sale displays; ad copy; promotions, etc.) if they still work! It's okay to use the very same creative, send it to the very same prospects and/or run it in the very same publications over and over again, as long as it generates the desired results. However, it's always a great idea to continually conduct small, statically valid tests of new looks, offers and messages.
3. Don't overdo the quality and quantity of your advertising pieces or media mixSmart marketers know when to "put on the dog" and when it's a waste of money. Falling in love with fancy four-colored brochures; glitzy magazine ads; primetime TV spots; or silver-embossed letterhead is a huge mistake.
The sales vehicles, look and feel, and quality of all of your marketing communications must be appropriate for your product or service and most importantly, have a measurable impact on its effectiveness.
For example, variables like paper quality and graphics on a direct mail letter are far less important than the offer, so you could potentially save thousands of dollars by cutting back on the frills. The opposite is true when you're developing a professional brochure meant to represent your company to the outside world.
Bottom line: Don't do fancy for fancy's sake… it's a waste of money; unproductive and may even be totally inappropriate for your target audience.
4. Use studies, reports and articles to assist in educating potential customers about your products or servicesThis is a wonderful, low-cost way to add clout! Can you imagine including a New York Times article on obesity with your nutritional services direct mail piece? What an impact! Or perhaps the same nutritionist would enclose a reprint of a medical report that linked certain childhood diseases with poor eating habits?
5. Use Boiler-Plated Literature TemplatesWhat a simple, but powerful, tip! A very perplexing, and often expensive problem is how to develop market-appropriate material for diverse audiences without going broke.
The solution is simple. For instance, you can develop various sales letters using a "boiler plated" template; identical layout and content that are suitable for any audience. However, several predetermined sections are left blank for personalization. This is often called "modular literature".
6. Don't change your own car oilHow do you think I know this? You've probably had similar experiences… You know the ones… trying to save a few bucks by doing it yourself? So off you go… drive to the store; wait in line; ask questions; look at the merchandise; select the oil, pan, funnel; wait in line to check-out; pay the cashier $24.97; drive back home; try to jack up the car so you can get underneath it to put the pan in place; undo the screw; get some oil in the pan; get most of the oil on you; get the funnel and fill it with the new oil; close everything down; throw your oil-laden shirt in the trash; and take a shower.
Cost? $24.97 in stuff; $1.32 in gas; $25.00 ruined shirt; 3.25 hours of your time; $1,000,000 in frustration… All this, when you could have had it done for you for $32.00!!Lesson learned: Know what's best left in the hands of professionals. Low cost is not always best cost!However, there are times when doing it yourself is smart! If you've got better than average computer skills or design talents it's easy to create things like business cards, letterhead and bill stuffers… but please, unless you're an ad buyer by trade, do not try to buy, book or design ANY media (especially TV and radio) by yourself! Trust me, you'll waste more money than you'll save!7. Pay suppliers on timeNot only will you endear yourself to vendors, but you can take advantage of your suppliers' standard early pay discounts or create your own! This also saves money on late fees and will surely make vendors more likely to extend even better prices and offer you ongoing top notch service.
Most small businesses have limited marketing communication, aka advertising, budgets making it even more crucial to research thoroughly; select the best medium(s) and target prospects carefully.
The following list contains seven suggestions for achieving "champagne" results on a "beer" budget!
1. Develop one or several, robust customer referral programsAlthough most business owners acknowledge that customer referrals generate a great deal of their new business, very few have implemented a "formal" referral incentive program, even though this is one of the most effective, least risky way to acquire valuable customers… particularly if you're a service professional!Example: Offer current customers who refer a friend a free month/hour of service; instant "bottom of the bill" credit; or free merchandise AND a "spiff" for the "referee"! The details are up to you… I go into much greater detail of types of referral programs in my book, "Marketing" The Art and Science of Getting and Keeping Profitable Customers" if you'd like to learn more.
2. Dance with the Guy Who Brought YouThere is absolutely no reason to ditch old marketing collateral (marketing lingo for brochures; direct mail letters; signs; point-of-sale displays; ad copy; promotions, etc.) if they still work! It's okay to use the very same creative, send it to the very same prospects and/or run it in the very same publications over and over again, as long as it generates the desired results. However, it's always a great idea to continually conduct small, statically valid tests of new looks, offers and messages.
3. Don't overdo the quality and quantity of your advertising pieces or media mixSmart marketers know when to "put on the dog" and when it's a waste of money. Falling in love with fancy four-colored brochures; glitzy magazine ads; primetime TV spots; or silver-embossed letterhead is a huge mistake.
The sales vehicles, look and feel, and quality of all of your marketing communications must be appropriate for your product or service and most importantly, have a measurable impact on its effectiveness.
For example, variables like paper quality and graphics on a direct mail letter are far less important than the offer, so you could potentially save thousands of dollars by cutting back on the frills. The opposite is true when you're developing a professional brochure meant to represent your company to the outside world.
Bottom line: Don't do fancy for fancy's sake… it's a waste of money; unproductive and may even be totally inappropriate for your target audience.
4. Use studies, reports and articles to assist in educating potential customers about your products or servicesThis is a wonderful, low-cost way to add clout! Can you imagine including a New York Times article on obesity with your nutritional services direct mail piece? What an impact! Or perhaps the same nutritionist would enclose a reprint of a medical report that linked certain childhood diseases with poor eating habits?
5. Use Boiler-Plated Literature TemplatesWhat a simple, but powerful, tip! A very perplexing, and often expensive problem is how to develop market-appropriate material for diverse audiences without going broke.
The solution is simple. For instance, you can develop various sales letters using a "boiler plated" template; identical layout and content that are suitable for any audience. However, several predetermined sections are left blank for personalization. This is often called "modular literature".
6. Don't change your own car oilHow do you think I know this? You've probably had similar experiences… You know the ones… trying to save a few bucks by doing it yourself? So off you go… drive to the store; wait in line; ask questions; look at the merchandise; select the oil, pan, funnel; wait in line to check-out; pay the cashier $24.97; drive back home; try to jack up the car so you can get underneath it to put the pan in place; undo the screw; get some oil in the pan; get most of the oil on you; get the funnel and fill it with the new oil; close everything down; throw your oil-laden shirt in the trash; and take a shower.
Cost? $24.97 in stuff; $1.32 in gas; $25.00 ruined shirt; 3.25 hours of your time; $1,000,000 in frustration… All this, when you could have had it done for you for $32.00!!Lesson learned: Know what's best left in the hands of professionals. Low cost is not always best cost!However, there are times when doing it yourself is smart! If you've got better than average computer skills or design talents it's easy to create things like business cards, letterhead and bill stuffers… but please, unless you're an ad buyer by trade, do not try to buy, book or design ANY media (especially TV and radio) by yourself! Trust me, you'll waste more money than you'll save!7. Pay suppliers on timeNot only will you endear yourself to vendors, but you can take advantage of your suppliers' standard early pay discounts or create your own! This also saves money on late fees and will surely make vendors more likely to extend even better prices and offer you ongoing top notch service.
Negative Gearing - it's not to your benefit!
The concept of negative gearing has been originally developed to encourage real estate investment in Australia by allowing any income losses from property investment to be deductible from other income as a tax benefit. This means that the taxable income of the owner will be reduced after the deduction and therefore the total tax payable is also reduced.
In view of the fact that many of the profits from property investments are usually obtained as a capital gains at the time when the property is sold, but do not generate positive cash flow from rentals during the course of the holding period, negative gearing therefore came in to address this issue.
You lose either way
However, the flaw with negative gearing lies in its concept as well. If an investment generates a positive cash flow, the increased income will make the investor liable to pay more taxes as well. In the end, the investor loses either way. If he makes money from positive cash flow, he has to pay part of it off in taxes, while negative cash flow will take money out of his pocket. Therefore, with a negative geared property, it is not possible to get a positive cash flow and pay less tax at the same time.
No guarantees on property value appreciation
Investors who are encouraged to put their money into negative geared property should think twice. As these properties are expected to generate profits only through capital gains, the value in capital gains should then be greater than the total losses incurred over the course of the holding period. However, there is no guarantee that the value of the property will appreciate, or at least appreciate enough to cover your losses. Also, you can't possibly use your expected future profits now as it is not been realized yet.
Beware of attractive property packages
Who gains from this then? Well, investors who are seeking investment property will tend to seek out property developers or sales agents. In order to make a property seem attractive, they are packaged with elaborate financial models with expected returns on investment. However, commissions and profits to the developers have all been packaged into the sale price. With this, investors end up paying premium price for a property with negative cash flow, which is used to pay for hefty commissions to sales agents and developers.
The disadvantage of property depreciations
Another aspect that should be watched out for would be property depreciation for taxation purposes. While it is true that depreciation is applied and is used for tax deductions, however, accumulative tax deductions for depreciation costs on property with appreciating value may cause capital gains taxes to be large. This is because the greater depreciation you apply onto the value of your property, the lower its value will be on paper. Therefore, your difference between the sale price and the book value of your property at the time of sale will be great. This leads to larger taxes imposed onto you.
Do not purchase because of tax benefits
Finally, making a property investment requires careful planning and consideration. Extra caution must be put in especially when a property is projected to generate a negative cash flow. In the end, tax benefits should not the main reason for property purchase. You may end up losing a great deal of money in the end.
For more information, please visit
Mortgage Mall Australia.
In view of the fact that many of the profits from property investments are usually obtained as a capital gains at the time when the property is sold, but do not generate positive cash flow from rentals during the course of the holding period, negative gearing therefore came in to address this issue.
You lose either way
However, the flaw with negative gearing lies in its concept as well. If an investment generates a positive cash flow, the increased income will make the investor liable to pay more taxes as well. In the end, the investor loses either way. If he makes money from positive cash flow, he has to pay part of it off in taxes, while negative cash flow will take money out of his pocket. Therefore, with a negative geared property, it is not possible to get a positive cash flow and pay less tax at the same time.
No guarantees on property value appreciation
Investors who are encouraged to put their money into negative geared property should think twice. As these properties are expected to generate profits only through capital gains, the value in capital gains should then be greater than the total losses incurred over the course of the holding period. However, there is no guarantee that the value of the property will appreciate, or at least appreciate enough to cover your losses. Also, you can't possibly use your expected future profits now as it is not been realized yet.
Beware of attractive property packages
Who gains from this then? Well, investors who are seeking investment property will tend to seek out property developers or sales agents. In order to make a property seem attractive, they are packaged with elaborate financial models with expected returns on investment. However, commissions and profits to the developers have all been packaged into the sale price. With this, investors end up paying premium price for a property with negative cash flow, which is used to pay for hefty commissions to sales agents and developers.
The disadvantage of property depreciations
Another aspect that should be watched out for would be property depreciation for taxation purposes. While it is true that depreciation is applied and is used for tax deductions, however, accumulative tax deductions for depreciation costs on property with appreciating value may cause capital gains taxes to be large. This is because the greater depreciation you apply onto the value of your property, the lower its value will be on paper. Therefore, your difference between the sale price and the book value of your property at the time of sale will be great. This leads to larger taxes imposed onto you.
Do not purchase because of tax benefits
Finally, making a property investment requires careful planning and consideration. Extra caution must be put in especially when a property is projected to generate a negative cash flow. In the end, tax benefits should not the main reason for property purchase. You may end up losing a great deal of money in the end.
For more information, please visit
Mortgage Mall Australia.
Succession Planning - 10 Vital Points for Business Success
Succession Planning isn't just about preparing for boardroom changes or grooming your son or daughter to take over when you want to retire. It's much more about how those managing others create seamless changeovers, preparing who you have, for opportunities that might present themselves.
And it's about making managing people much more effective, creating spaces for whoever you are, with people management responsibilities, to focus on your job, not theirs. Through empowering them, you generate enthusiasm and engagement. Everyone thrives, especially your business or organisation your business.
By cranking up others development to meet your business needs, big or small, not just for right now, but for the future, you will find payoffs, big-time. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Building Relationships
By ensuring that you have informally built good relationships with every one of your team, you will have a head start when developing the intelligence needed for effective succession planning. This is not just about the business, it is about aligning with whatever is important to each individual and showing an interest in them.
Create a Vision
Clearly understanding what 'good looks like' is the first stage of planning for the future. Taking the time out to develop this is well worth the effort and provides a marker against which all decisions, people or otherwise are made. If possible, involve as wide a range of people in this activity.
Right People, Right Place, Right Time - Ignore Names
Once you have your vision, deciding who is need, when and where becomes easier. It important that you focus on the facts rather than the emotion first, so that you ignore individuals in this assessment. You can fit people in afterwards, as long as they will have the capability to deliver your vision for your business. Some may be a work towards.
Consistent Performance
By considering your key people, their aspirations and expectations for the future, you will gain an insight of where your gaps might come and then you can start planning to avoid problems. This will enable you to provide for anticipated change and start developing others to cover at least. This also helps when changes happen unexpectedly.
Confidence Grows
As individuals are involved in the possibilities for their future, without over-promising, they start to want more. They appreciate learning and developing as they see what might unfold for them. As they learn and experience more, their confidence builds and they want stretching.
It's Cultural
As your communication processes involve everyone in Succession Planning, a groundswell of positivity generates a shift in your business culture. Your people start to realise that there is more to this than a job - it's building their feelings of self worth and future. This culture becomes just 'the way we do things around here' and new employees commence at a higher, different level.
Many Winners
As you start to build the capacity of those around you, there is a lot that can be delegated safely as a development opportunity, suitably supported and coached. You crate space to do the more important things in your role. They develop and build confidence. With confidence comes improved customer relationships, greater efficiencies. So managers, employees, the business and ultimately stockholders all are winners.
Time Efficient
There is a certain amount of workload involved in creating a Succession Planning process. Once these initial stages are completed, only a small amount of time outside normal activities is required. In fact, with the added skills and development of your people, far greater efficiency and effectiveness results.
Manages Performance
Using a Succession planning process sits very appropriately with Performance Management. As potential has been identified, the next steps in development are constructive and clear. The individual takes accountability for their own development and practically self-manages their performance.
Value-Creating
By using management skills far more effectively, skilling up all the people in the business and creating seamless transitions when people move on, all improve business performance. Developing the latent potential of many of your people raises the bar for their performance - it is just shifted up several notches. And ultimately with greater sales and efficiency, bottom line profit is maximised.
And with these ideas in place, you will create more effectiveness and involvement in your people - which can only be good.
And it's about making managing people much more effective, creating spaces for whoever you are, with people management responsibilities, to focus on your job, not theirs. Through empowering them, you generate enthusiasm and engagement. Everyone thrives, especially your business or organisation your business.
By cranking up others development to meet your business needs, big or small, not just for right now, but for the future, you will find payoffs, big-time. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Building Relationships
By ensuring that you have informally built good relationships with every one of your team, you will have a head start when developing the intelligence needed for effective succession planning. This is not just about the business, it is about aligning with whatever is important to each individual and showing an interest in them.
Create a Vision
Clearly understanding what 'good looks like' is the first stage of planning for the future. Taking the time out to develop this is well worth the effort and provides a marker against which all decisions, people or otherwise are made. If possible, involve as wide a range of people in this activity.
Right People, Right Place, Right Time - Ignore Names
Once you have your vision, deciding who is need, when and where becomes easier. It important that you focus on the facts rather than the emotion first, so that you ignore individuals in this assessment. You can fit people in afterwards, as long as they will have the capability to deliver your vision for your business. Some may be a work towards.
Consistent Performance
By considering your key people, their aspirations and expectations for the future, you will gain an insight of where your gaps might come and then you can start planning to avoid problems. This will enable you to provide for anticipated change and start developing others to cover at least. This also helps when changes happen unexpectedly.
Confidence Grows
As individuals are involved in the possibilities for their future, without over-promising, they start to want more. They appreciate learning and developing as they see what might unfold for them. As they learn and experience more, their confidence builds and they want stretching.
It's Cultural
As your communication processes involve everyone in Succession Planning, a groundswell of positivity generates a shift in your business culture. Your people start to realise that there is more to this than a job - it's building their feelings of self worth and future. This culture becomes just 'the way we do things around here' and new employees commence at a higher, different level.
Many Winners
As you start to build the capacity of those around you, there is a lot that can be delegated safely as a development opportunity, suitably supported and coached. You crate space to do the more important things in your role. They develop and build confidence. With confidence comes improved customer relationships, greater efficiencies. So managers, employees, the business and ultimately stockholders all are winners.
Time Efficient
There is a certain amount of workload involved in creating a Succession Planning process. Once these initial stages are completed, only a small amount of time outside normal activities is required. In fact, with the added skills and development of your people, far greater efficiency and effectiveness results.
Manages Performance
Using a Succession planning process sits very appropriately with Performance Management. As potential has been identified, the next steps in development are constructive and clear. The individual takes accountability for their own development and practically self-manages their performance.
Value-Creating
By using management skills far more effectively, skilling up all the people in the business and creating seamless transitions when people move on, all improve business performance. Developing the latent potential of many of your people raises the bar for their performance - it is just shifted up several notches. And ultimately with greater sales and efficiency, bottom line profit is maximised.
And with these ideas in place, you will create more effectiveness and involvement in your people - which can only be good.
Starting a New Business
The biggest problem I had in "Getting Started" on making my idea into a practical business reality was my own fear. Whether it was fear of the unknown, fear of failure, or some other unknown fear I possessed, it was keeping me from reaching my potential. What I learned through experience, and to quote FDR, "The only thing to fear in starting your business, is your own fear itself".
With proper research, planning and delegation of responsibility, there is no reason your idea, service, or product cannot succeed. In your pursuit towards fulfilling the goals you have laid forth, you must stay focused on the management of your daily routine; however you should always be thinking toward the future. Remain creative in your approach towards using conventional tools, methods, and processes that are needed to succeed in business. In today's society, we have unparallel access to all the necessary resources and tools you would ever need to educate yourself on various business subjects.
The question becomes, how do I access the vast amount of resources that are available in the most productively efficient manner? The short answer is; visit a consulting firm which offers a step by step guide to starting your business. The Motivated Entrepreneur is a full service consulting firm that offers a wide range of services that vary from simple incorporation consultation packages at very economical prices, to more complex detailed full business packages which include business plan preparation, along with marketing, public relations, advertising, and financial services.
As far as information is concerned, there are numerous places to access business tools and information on the World Wide Web. As mentioned above The Motivated Entrepreneur is a great online source of business information. However, the best source on the internet to supply you with the documented information you are looking for is the Small Business Administration website, SBA.gov. No matter what route you choose to take, whether it is through business consultation or solely through your own hard work and ingenuity, you should always review the government information provided on their website to make sure you are heading in the right direction.
The next step is to start organizing your information and material so that you can develop a clear direction and begin to integrate this direction into your business plan & organizational structure. The first step is to develop a rough business plan, a rough business plan is necessary for you to verbalize your thoughts into a visual medium. This will allow you to gain an added perspective for use as critique on your own thoughts; it is a great aid to helping establish the type of legal form of organization that will best suit your structure of business from a tax perspective.
When approaching you rough business plan, you should break it down into sections. Below is a simple guideline that can be used to conceptualize your plan.
Introduction
- Give a detailed description of the business and its goals.
- List the skills and experience you bring to the business.
- Discuss the advantages you and your business have over your competitors.
Marketing
- Discuss the products/services offered; identify the customer demand for your product/service.
- Identify your market, its size and locations.
Financial Management
- Develop a monthly operating budget for the first year.
- Develop an expected return on investment and monthly cash flow for the first year.
Operations
- Explain how the business will be managed on a day to day basis.
- Discuss hiring and personnel procedures.
- Account for the equipment necessary to produce your products or services.
- Account for production and delivery of products and services.
Concluding Statement
- Summarize your business goals and objectives and express your commitment to the success of your business
Ok, you have your rough draft business plan together and you are interested in incorporating! Here's the next step… research, research, research! As I mentioned in the beginning of this article, in today's society our access to the enormous amount of information that exists gives us a great advantage. It is time to start thinking about your legal structure and the type of organization that will best suit your needs, not just now, but for the successful future you are seeking. I have listed below some information to consider when you begin thinking about incorporation. Another option is to use a full service consulting firm who can give you advice from different perspectives, such as legal and tax implications, as well as expansion management.
When organizing a new business, one of the most important decisions to be made is choosing the structure of a business. Factors influencing your decision about your business organization include:
Legal restrictions
Liabilities assumed
Type of business operation
Earnings distribution
Capital needs
The easiest form of incorporation is the Sole Proprietorship. It also is the least expensive and has the least barriers to incorporation. The majority of small businesses start out as sole proprietorships; sole proprietors own all assets and profits of the company. The business is easy to dissolve, if desired, which can also be a benefit. The downside, is that that sole proprietors have unlimited liability and are legally responsible for all debts against the business. In addition, they may be at a disadvantage in raising funds and are often limited to using funds from personal savings or consumer loans.
Another very popular form of incorporating is the Partnership. A partnership is easy to organize but must have an agreement. In a partnership, the partners have unlimited liability; however they receive all the income from the business. With more than one partner, the ability to raise funds is increased, but since decisions are shared disagreements can occur.
The last form of legal structure is the corporation. The corporation is considered by law to be a unique entity separate from those who own it. A business may incorporate without an attorney, but advice is highly recommended. The corporate structure is usually the most complex and more costly to organize than the other two business formations. Control depends on stock ownership. Persons with the largest stock ownership, not the total number of shareholders, control the corporation. Shareholders have limited liability for the corporation's debt's or judgments against them.
The process of incorporation requires more time and money than other forms of organization and corporations are monitored by federal, state and some local agencies, and as a result may have more paperwork to comply with regulations. There are different structures that may be best suited for your needs, such as the C-corporation, Subchapter S-corporation or Limited Liability Corporations. You should seek professional consulting advice before deciding to choose which form of corporation is most applicable to your business.
© Copyright 2004-05 by http://www.motivatedentrepreneur.com - www.motivatedentrepreneur.com
With proper research, planning and delegation of responsibility, there is no reason your idea, service, or product cannot succeed. In your pursuit towards fulfilling the goals you have laid forth, you must stay focused on the management of your daily routine; however you should always be thinking toward the future. Remain creative in your approach towards using conventional tools, methods, and processes that are needed to succeed in business. In today's society, we have unparallel access to all the necessary resources and tools you would ever need to educate yourself on various business subjects.
The question becomes, how do I access the vast amount of resources that are available in the most productively efficient manner? The short answer is; visit a consulting firm which offers a step by step guide to starting your business. The Motivated Entrepreneur is a full service consulting firm that offers a wide range of services that vary from simple incorporation consultation packages at very economical prices, to more complex detailed full business packages which include business plan preparation, along with marketing, public relations, advertising, and financial services.
As far as information is concerned, there are numerous places to access business tools and information on the World Wide Web. As mentioned above The Motivated Entrepreneur is a great online source of business information. However, the best source on the internet to supply you with the documented information you are looking for is the Small Business Administration website, SBA.gov. No matter what route you choose to take, whether it is through business consultation or solely through your own hard work and ingenuity, you should always review the government information provided on their website to make sure you are heading in the right direction.
The next step is to start organizing your information and material so that you can develop a clear direction and begin to integrate this direction into your business plan & organizational structure. The first step is to develop a rough business plan, a rough business plan is necessary for you to verbalize your thoughts into a visual medium. This will allow you to gain an added perspective for use as critique on your own thoughts; it is a great aid to helping establish the type of legal form of organization that will best suit your structure of business from a tax perspective.
When approaching you rough business plan, you should break it down into sections. Below is a simple guideline that can be used to conceptualize your plan.
Introduction
- Give a detailed description of the business and its goals.
- List the skills and experience you bring to the business.
- Discuss the advantages you and your business have over your competitors.
Marketing
- Discuss the products/services offered; identify the customer demand for your product/service.
- Identify your market, its size and locations.
Financial Management
- Develop a monthly operating budget for the first year.
- Develop an expected return on investment and monthly cash flow for the first year.
Operations
- Explain how the business will be managed on a day to day basis.
- Discuss hiring and personnel procedures.
- Account for the equipment necessary to produce your products or services.
- Account for production and delivery of products and services.
Concluding Statement
- Summarize your business goals and objectives and express your commitment to the success of your business
Ok, you have your rough draft business plan together and you are interested in incorporating! Here's the next step… research, research, research! As I mentioned in the beginning of this article, in today's society our access to the enormous amount of information that exists gives us a great advantage. It is time to start thinking about your legal structure and the type of organization that will best suit your needs, not just now, but for the successful future you are seeking. I have listed below some information to consider when you begin thinking about incorporation. Another option is to use a full service consulting firm who can give you advice from different perspectives, such as legal and tax implications, as well as expansion management.
When organizing a new business, one of the most important decisions to be made is choosing the structure of a business. Factors influencing your decision about your business organization include:
Legal restrictions
Liabilities assumed
Type of business operation
Earnings distribution
Capital needs
The easiest form of incorporation is the Sole Proprietorship. It also is the least expensive and has the least barriers to incorporation. The majority of small businesses start out as sole proprietorships; sole proprietors own all assets and profits of the company. The business is easy to dissolve, if desired, which can also be a benefit. The downside, is that that sole proprietors have unlimited liability and are legally responsible for all debts against the business. In addition, they may be at a disadvantage in raising funds and are often limited to using funds from personal savings or consumer loans.
Another very popular form of incorporating is the Partnership. A partnership is easy to organize but must have an agreement. In a partnership, the partners have unlimited liability; however they receive all the income from the business. With more than one partner, the ability to raise funds is increased, but since decisions are shared disagreements can occur.
The last form of legal structure is the corporation. The corporation is considered by law to be a unique entity separate from those who own it. A business may incorporate without an attorney, but advice is highly recommended. The corporate structure is usually the most complex and more costly to organize than the other two business formations. Control depends on stock ownership. Persons with the largest stock ownership, not the total number of shareholders, control the corporation. Shareholders have limited liability for the corporation's debt's or judgments against them.
The process of incorporation requires more time and money than other forms of organization and corporations are monitored by federal, state and some local agencies, and as a result may have more paperwork to comply with regulations. There are different structures that may be best suited for your needs, such as the C-corporation, Subchapter S-corporation or Limited Liability Corporations. You should seek professional consulting advice before deciding to choose which form of corporation is most applicable to your business.
© Copyright 2004-05 by http://www.motivatedentrepreneur.com - www.motivatedentrepreneur.com
Start with a Small Business Loan
Starting a small business? Having troubling finding financing? If you answered yes to the preceding questions don't get frustrated. You are not alone. Fortunately, there is hope for finding financing....
Starting a small business? Having troubling finding financing? If you answered yes to the preceding questions don't get frustrated. You are not alone. Fortunately, there is hope for finding financing. You just have to look in the right place.
In 1953 the Small Business Administration was officially established to serve small businesses. This government backed institution was formed to offer financial support to companies that cannot receive financing through the traditional channels. By lending to small businesses the government is able to encourage innovation and competition in the capital market, thereby providing a valuable service to both the benefactors of the loans as well as to end consumers. Thanks to the business loans served through the SBA loan process, more then 20 million small businesses have been afforded the opportunity to compete with their respective market leaders since the SBA's inception.
Today, the Small Business administration is as strong as ever. In addition to directly securing financing for small businesses, the SBA provides loan guarantees, contracts, and counseling services to ensure your business venture is successful. Many people are under the impression that the SBA only provides direct financing to small businesses but in fact, this is not at all true. The Small Business Administration also can serve as a guarantor on your small business loan, whereby you secure funding for your small business directly through a commercial lender and the SBA backs this commercial loan . In other words, should your small business fail and become unable to meet the payment schedule on the commercial loan, the SBA steps in and pays off the loan. In this fashion the SBA acts as insurance for your business venture. By guaranteeing business loans, SBA - with its limited loanable funds - is able to assist more small business obtain financing through other channels, such as commercial lenders.
The SBA has also moved to open up more services and products to everybody. They have developed programs to assist those involved in seeking minority small business ownership and obtaining microloans. The SBA has also been involved in producing Spanish language informational materials.
A small business loan can be used for a variety of purposes. Some past uses of small business loans include the following:
1. Buying real estate property to house the business
2. Construction, renovation or leasehold improvements
3. Buying furniture, fixtures, machinery, or other necessary equipment
4. For housing inventory and financing working capital
There are a variety of different loan types that can be obtained for your small business needs. For those interested in relatively small amounts of funds, one could apply for a microloan. A microloan can be issued for $5000 - $35,000 depending on the need of your business. These loans can be used for any legitimate business purpose. For many small startups not expecting to grow very fast, a microloan is a great choice.
Another option, offering higher loan amounts, involves dealing with your commercial lender and obtaining an SBA commercial loan directly through them that is backed by the Small Business Administration. SBA commercial loans offer the ability to obtain more financing for your small business, and the commercial lender is comforted by the fact that their risk on the loan is minimized thanks to the backing of the loan by the government.
These are just a few of your small business loan options. Now that you are empowered with knowledge on how to secure financing for your small business, continue your investigation into small business loans. You will find the small business loan service or product that meets all your needs.
Starting a small business? Having troubling finding financing? If you answered yes to the preceding questions don't get frustrated. You are not alone. Fortunately, there is hope for finding financing. You just have to look in the right place.
In 1953 the Small Business Administration was officially established to serve small businesses. This government backed institution was formed to offer financial support to companies that cannot receive financing through the traditional channels. By lending to small businesses the government is able to encourage innovation and competition in the capital market, thereby providing a valuable service to both the benefactors of the loans as well as to end consumers. Thanks to the business loans served through the SBA loan process, more then 20 million small businesses have been afforded the opportunity to compete with their respective market leaders since the SBA's inception.
Today, the Small Business administration is as strong as ever. In addition to directly securing financing for small businesses, the SBA provides loan guarantees, contracts, and counseling services to ensure your business venture is successful. Many people are under the impression that the SBA only provides direct financing to small businesses but in fact, this is not at all true. The Small Business Administration also can serve as a guarantor on your small business loan, whereby you secure funding for your small business directly through a commercial lender and the SBA backs this commercial loan . In other words, should your small business fail and become unable to meet the payment schedule on the commercial loan, the SBA steps in and pays off the loan. In this fashion the SBA acts as insurance for your business venture. By guaranteeing business loans, SBA - with its limited loanable funds - is able to assist more small business obtain financing through other channels, such as commercial lenders.
The SBA has also moved to open up more services and products to everybody. They have developed programs to assist those involved in seeking minority small business ownership and obtaining microloans. The SBA has also been involved in producing Spanish language informational materials.
A small business loan can be used for a variety of purposes. Some past uses of small business loans include the following:
1. Buying real estate property to house the business
2. Construction, renovation or leasehold improvements
3. Buying furniture, fixtures, machinery, or other necessary equipment
4. For housing inventory and financing working capital
There are a variety of different loan types that can be obtained for your small business needs. For those interested in relatively small amounts of funds, one could apply for a microloan. A microloan can be issued for $5000 - $35,000 depending on the need of your business. These loans can be used for any legitimate business purpose. For many small startups not expecting to grow very fast, a microloan is a great choice.
Another option, offering higher loan amounts, involves dealing with your commercial lender and obtaining an SBA commercial loan directly through them that is backed by the Small Business Administration. SBA commercial loans offer the ability to obtain more financing for your small business, and the commercial lender is comforted by the fact that their risk on the loan is minimized thanks to the backing of the loan by the government.
These are just a few of your small business loan options. Now that you are empowered with knowledge on how to secure financing for your small business, continue your investigation into small business loans. You will find the small business loan service or product that meets all your needs.
Starting a Franchise
Franchise oppotunities are all around us today. You may pop into Starbucks
for coffee and then head for lunch at MacDonalds before returning home and
ordering your dinner from another local franchise, Pizza Hut. Many of the
most popular outlets you visit may be franchises as they offer the security
of a brand name and the attraction of starting your own business.
The world of Franchise is certainly complex but many people are now
seriously looking at starting a franchise as they look to leave their
routine day jobs and embark on an exciting business opportunity and run
their own business. Indeed many franchise fairs and seminars are now the
perfect location to meet franchise experts and discuss funding and business
plans to determine what type of niche you may quickly recoup your investment
with.
Selecting the correct franchise opportunity is vital and you should research
the company history and seek advice from current franchise owners before
making important decisions. Many franchise opportunities allow you a great
degree of freedom with your marketing and advertising, however many others
have trademark guidelines and company policies which you must be aware of
before launching a promotion.
Joining your local chamber of commerce or business club is a good first
step as many business owners have experience in the franchise industry and
also have a great network of contacts that could give your franchise
business a great head start. Your local business enterprise will also be
able to help you formulate a business plan and budget as well as possibly
providing a small grant for start up costs.
Starting your own franchise has never been easier and you could even lead
you on the road to becoming a multi franchise where you also recruit others
to join your network.
Webmasters feel free to publish this article providing you leave the resource box below.
Kevin McNally
http://www.qwfranchise.com - http://www.qwfranchise.com
Quality World Franchise
for coffee and then head for lunch at MacDonalds before returning home and
ordering your dinner from another local franchise, Pizza Hut. Many of the
most popular outlets you visit may be franchises as they offer the security
of a brand name and the attraction of starting your own business.
The world of Franchise is certainly complex but many people are now
seriously looking at starting a franchise as they look to leave their
routine day jobs and embark on an exciting business opportunity and run
their own business. Indeed many franchise fairs and seminars are now the
perfect location to meet franchise experts and discuss funding and business
plans to determine what type of niche you may quickly recoup your investment
with.
Selecting the correct franchise opportunity is vital and you should research
the company history and seek advice from current franchise owners before
making important decisions. Many franchise opportunities allow you a great
degree of freedom with your marketing and advertising, however many others
have trademark guidelines and company policies which you must be aware of
before launching a promotion.
Joining your local chamber of commerce or business club is a good first
step as many business owners have experience in the franchise industry and
also have a great network of contacts that could give your franchise
business a great head start. Your local business enterprise will also be
able to help you formulate a business plan and budget as well as possibly
providing a small grant for start up costs.
Starting your own franchise has never been easier and you could even lead
you on the road to becoming a multi franchise where you also recruit others
to join your network.
Webmasters feel free to publish this article providing you leave the resource box below.
Kevin McNally
http://www.qwfranchise.com - http://www.qwfranchise.com
Quality World Franchise
Spruce Your Environment, Spruce Your Spirit
After a long winter, this is the time of year to spruce up your ... with a good Spring ... It's amazing what doing this can do for one's state of mind. Not only does a good spring cleani
After a long winter, this is the time of year to spruce up your environment with a good Spring Cleaning. It's amazing what doing this can do for one's state of mind.
Not only does a good spring cleaning seem to lift our spirits, it has actually been proven to preserve our home and office environment. Additionally, people tend to be more productive after a good cleaning.
Although the inclination is to want to be outside as soon as the great weather begins, by doing a good spring cleaning you are actually creating the feeling of spring inside your home and office. It is also a great way to get the entire family involved in doing something together. To do this though, it has to be viewed as a fun experience rather than drudgery.
If it is your office you are giving a good cleaning to you will find this to be a great team building opportunity. With the pressures all businesses experience day in and day out, doing something out of the ordinary will allow for a unique bonding opportunity that is sure to strengthen communication skills and team unity.
To make it enjoyable your attitude will set the tone. If you view the experience as fun, those around you are more likely to do the same. Something that is sure to help is to start from a place of gratitude. Yes, gratitude.
For The Home
Look around your home and realize you have a home to clean. What a gift this is. It doesn't matter the size of your home. What matters is what your home gives you. It gives you a place to enjoy time with family and friends. It gives you shelter from the elements. It gives you a space to relax in. That is of course if you have created it to offer these things.
For the Office
Think about all the ups and downs your business has been through in the last few years. Ups and downs many businesses have not survived. And yet, you have. Get your team involved in the process of acknowledging what it took to get to the point you are at. It is amazing the positive impact this can have.
The Process
Before you begin, find some good music you can enjoy while you clean. It's amazing what lively music can do for the spirit.
You will be most effective if you have all your cleaning materials available before you begin. Gather what you need ahead of time so that you don't have to stop midstream to run to the store for a bottle of window cleaner or furniture polish. Also make sure you have plenty of garbage bags, storage boxes and anything else that will make your job easier.
Give yourself a break from the phones, especially if you are making this a family experience.
As you clean each room, organizing what you have, be willing to let go of what you no longer need. There are plenty of people who would find incredible use from something you haven't touched in years.
You can either give the items to a family you know, a charity or you can have a garage sale. In the case of a business, do you have old equipment it is time to let go of? What about multiple items that are simply taking up space or collecting dust?
When you release what you no longer need or want you create the space for something new in its place.
You may want to focus on one room at a time cleaning and rearranging from top to bottom. One of the most exciting parts of spring cleaning is the joy you feel as you remember how special items came into your life.
I often hear stories from people who have gotten a teddy bear from my shop and relived the original feeling they had when they first got the item. I have been told what an incredible feeling they get when they spring clean and carefully rearrange their bear collection. They have a renewed feeling of pride over their collection because of the care they are taking in preserving the precious gifts.
In each room it is recommended to begin from the top and work down. This is true for cabinets, dusting, and washing.
When you are done, enjoy what you have just accomplished. Sit back and look around, take in the fresh fragrances and appreciate a job well done. Reward yourself with a good meal and quiet time.
For the office project, take the team out for a fun meal or order in. Acknowledge the gift of a fresh, inviting home or office you are blessed to enjoy. You will be glad you did.
After a long winter, this is the time of year to spruce up your environment with a good Spring Cleaning. It's amazing what doing this can do for one's state of mind.
Not only does a good spring cleaning seem to lift our spirits, it has actually been proven to preserve our home and office environment. Additionally, people tend to be more productive after a good cleaning.
Although the inclination is to want to be outside as soon as the great weather begins, by doing a good spring cleaning you are actually creating the feeling of spring inside your home and office. It is also a great way to get the entire family involved in doing something together. To do this though, it has to be viewed as a fun experience rather than drudgery.
If it is your office you are giving a good cleaning to you will find this to be a great team building opportunity. With the pressures all businesses experience day in and day out, doing something out of the ordinary will allow for a unique bonding opportunity that is sure to strengthen communication skills and team unity.
To make it enjoyable your attitude will set the tone. If you view the experience as fun, those around you are more likely to do the same. Something that is sure to help is to start from a place of gratitude. Yes, gratitude.
For The Home
Look around your home and realize you have a home to clean. What a gift this is. It doesn't matter the size of your home. What matters is what your home gives you. It gives you a place to enjoy time with family and friends. It gives you shelter from the elements. It gives you a space to relax in. That is of course if you have created it to offer these things.
For the Office
Think about all the ups and downs your business has been through in the last few years. Ups and downs many businesses have not survived. And yet, you have. Get your team involved in the process of acknowledging what it took to get to the point you are at. It is amazing the positive impact this can have.
The Process
Before you begin, find some good music you can enjoy while you clean. It's amazing what lively music can do for the spirit.
You will be most effective if you have all your cleaning materials available before you begin. Gather what you need ahead of time so that you don't have to stop midstream to run to the store for a bottle of window cleaner or furniture polish. Also make sure you have plenty of garbage bags, storage boxes and anything else that will make your job easier.
Give yourself a break from the phones, especially if you are making this a family experience.
As you clean each room, organizing what you have, be willing to let go of what you no longer need. There are plenty of people who would find incredible use from something you haven't touched in years.
You can either give the items to a family you know, a charity or you can have a garage sale. In the case of a business, do you have old equipment it is time to let go of? What about multiple items that are simply taking up space or collecting dust?
When you release what you no longer need or want you create the space for something new in its place.
You may want to focus on one room at a time cleaning and rearranging from top to bottom. One of the most exciting parts of spring cleaning is the joy you feel as you remember how special items came into your life.
I often hear stories from people who have gotten a teddy bear from my shop and relived the original feeling they had when they first got the item. I have been told what an incredible feeling they get when they spring clean and carefully rearrange their bear collection. They have a renewed feeling of pride over their collection because of the care they are taking in preserving the precious gifts.
In each room it is recommended to begin from the top and work down. This is true for cabinets, dusting, and washing.
When you are done, enjoy what you have just accomplished. Sit back and look around, take in the fresh fragrances and appreciate a job well done. Reward yourself with a good meal and quiet time.
For the office project, take the team out for a fun meal or order in. Acknowledge the gift of a fresh, inviting home or office you are blessed to enjoy. You will be glad you did.
