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If you have been running a business for many years then one of two things will have happened. You will have either changed with the times and embraced new developments, or you will have continued in your own ways as the market evolved around you. If the latter refers to you, then it is time to bring your business out of the past and update your processes. This article considers some of the common ways in which businesses remain out of date and how they can enter the present.

Management Systems

One of the most common problems with older businesses is an attitude of: ‘We’ve always done this so it must be right’. Many businesses are actually running in an incredibly inefficient manner without even realising. The main reason for this is a lack of strategy development because the owner is too focused on the day-to-day operations. It is important to step back from the subjective viewpoint of an owner and manager and look at your business objectively. This will largely help you to improve your processes. Seeking some management training may also give you an insight into where you can make improvements that you didn’t realise were lacking.

Operational Software

The operational software in use in many older companies is something that is actually dragging down their processes and slowing down efficiencies. This situation is often ignored, despite being noticed, simply because people think it would be too hard to transition to a new system. Thankfully this is not the case and transferring lotus notes to outlook, for example, is now actually a very easy and cheap process. Other updates are now equally as simple and you will be amazed at how profound an impact a simple shift to a better piece of operational software can have.

Online Presence

If you do not yet have a website then there is absolutely no doubt that you need to get one. Websites are now a way to locate a business, determine their services, place orders, communicate, share and experience. Even just having a website today is not enough. It is important to be attractive, interactive, exciting and mobile. Modern websites benefit hugely from being compatible with mobile devices and smartphones. If someone can place an order with you whilst they sit on a bus, then this is an order which you will receive instead of a sale for a competitor.

Products

Many businesses today are stuck in the past simply because of the products they sell. The product is obviously the core of any business so this is somewhat difficult to change, but there are ways that it can be done. A wide array of cheaper models and alternative solutions are now available from countries like China and Taiwan.  Whilst these alternatives may not fit into your business at present, it is likely that you are losing sales to them. Bringing them into your company and diversifying the range is a great way to ensure that you stay on top in the market.

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If you have bought a second business or are merging your own with another, it is often far more sensible to combine the management of them into one system which focuses on their diverse needs. Running a single business can be very hard work and can become stressful, but managing two individual and separate businesses can make this process ten times worse. This article considers how you can bring the management systems of two companies together as one.

Create Compatibility

It is unlikely that two diverse businesses will be compatible in the slightest when you first take the second on. This is not necessarily a problem, but it does make cross company management very difficult. Differences in storage and archiving systems in particular make things difficult because it means that data cannot be dealt with in the same manner. Thankfully it is possible to easily migrate lotus notes to Outlook so that these data sets can be collated and considered together. The first stage of any amalgamation should be to make the two companies compatible from top to bottom.

Centralise Systems

The systems of the two businesses should be centralised into one area. The accountancy for your two businesses, for example, will be far more efficiently completed with the centralisation of data in one accountancy department. Having one accounts department will make security management easier and it will be far more cost effective than splitting it into two. Other systems like IT and marketing should also be amalgamated into one area because these systems are not dependant upon the company for which they work. Advertising strategies will of course remain different for the separate businesses, but they do not need to be physically separated into unique departments. The centralisation of these systems will so far have eliminated three entire departments which would have otherwise needed managing and considering on a regular basis.

Collective Planning

When running two businesses, it is of course important to consider their directions on an individual basis, but it is also possible to consider their collective strategies. The strategy development for the two businesses should be intertwined to enable them to grow and to benefit one another along the way. If one company can branch out to complete a service which is beneficial to the other, for example, then this will reduce your costs and generally improve your processes.

Centralise the Management

Whilst the management of the companies needs to remain independent, it is wise to share expertise between the two businesses. Spreading the board of directors over the two companies, for example, will allow this expertise to be shared effectively. The role of directors is to ensure that the company remains on track financially, legally, and morally. The use of both company heads in this board of directors for both companies will undoubtedly provide a helpful exchange of ideas which will certainly be of benefit to the individual companies.

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Refining your business processes will improve everything from your profits to your productivity. The quest to improve processes should be an ongoing one which is considered everyday, but once in a while it is also important to take a step back and consider the business holistically. Sometimes a huge software shift from lotus notes to outlook is required and sometimes entire departments need to be axed. This article considers how you can refine and improve your business processes.

Top Down Reform

Many effective business process improvements can be implemented from the top down. In many cases, the inefficiencies stem from a complicated net of systems which do not work efficiently with one another. Taking a look at the strategic development of your business can provide you with the opportunity to take this big picture view of processes. The act of stepping back from your company and viewing it objectively will enable you to notice the major areas of fault and correct them through management leadership.

Bottom Up Reform

Often the people who truly realise where the inefficiencies in a company lie are completely ignored. Whilst it is easy to sit in a boardroom and postulate about potential fixes, you will be far better placed visiting the offices of your workers and discussing with them what needs to be fixed. Often there will be a small array of problems which have a large impact on the efficiency of the company from start to finish. Fixing these problems will improve morale and should have a positive impact on your bottom line.

Outsourcing

Outsourcing no longer means sending all phone calls to an overseas call centre. Outsourcing today relies on the use of skilled individuals to complete processes which would take longer and be more expensive in house. There are many things that can be outsourced and some companies actually outsource everything. This means that there is a far lower demand on office space, a far higher rate of production and a general improvement of efficiencies.

Outsourcing can range across many different areas. The most common outsourcing practice is that of IT systems and support. By outsourcing IT, it becomes possible to save huge amounts of space, expense and responsibility. An IT department within your company will cost you at least one full-time wage, an entire room and the value of the server. Outsourcing this process, however, will cost you a miniscule amount by comparison. Other popular areas of outsourcing include graphic design, copywriting and website construction.

Just In Time Supply

Another great way to improve efficiencies is to operate with just in time supply. This method of supply means that the goods you are selling or components of what you are producing arrive just in time for use. This system means that there is no need for storage space and only a very short period when the cash flow of the company is reduced. Just in time operations can be introduced to most business processes. It is essentially important, however, to ensure that the suppliers that you use are entirely reliable and that good contracts are put in place.

Australia 2009 (Photo credit: stoofstraat)

Australia is one of the best countries in the world to live in! The relaxed lifestyle, to-die-for beaches and lush bushland all draw millions of tourists each year to our shores. If you’ve decided to holiday here long term (good on ya!) you’ll need to get yourself organised with accommodation, visas, money, employment and insurance.

Accommodation

If you’re going to be in Australia for a while, the best thing you can do for accommodation is to look into a share house or a long-term housing option, like a serviced apartment. If you’re planning on staying in Sydney, for instance, you’ll find there are lots of Sydney apartments to choose from, but if you’re keen to save money, consider staying outside of the CBD (the CBD is best if you want to party!). Serviced apartments and shared housing will be much cheaper than a hotel and will save you lots of money in the long run.

Tourist Visas

Depending on where you’re from, you may need a visa to stay long term in Australia. A Tourist Visa will let you stay in the country for up to 3, 6 or 12 months. Other visas include the ETA and eVisitors Visa, which allow for a stay of up to 3 months, and a Sponsored Family Visa, where a member of your family in Australia (provided they are a citizen or permanent resident) can sponsor you to visit them for up to 12 months.  However, keep in mind that most of these visas won’t allow you to work – so you’ll need to be stocked up on cash.

Working Visas

If you do want to work on your holiday, you will need to apply for a Working Holiday Visa (or a Working and Holiday Visa, depending on where you’re from). Australian visa rules are very strict and failure to abide by them could see you getting shipped home.  You will need to pay attention to the visa working rules, as you may not be able to work for the full year you are here. Working holiday visas are also only available to people aged 18 to 30 (if you’re over 30, you will need to look into employment sponsorship).

If you intend to work, you’ll also need to sort out a Tax File Number with the Australian Tax Office to give to your employer. This can either be done in person here or online.

Money

Getting an Australian bank account sorted for your Australian stay is important, as you won’t want to be carrying around vast amounts of cash (or stashing the money in your apartment).

If you’re intending to work on Aussie shores, a bank account is essential, as most employers won’t transfer payments into a foreign bank account (or pay you in cash). If you’re unsure how to go about it, get help from an organisation (like YHA) who can help you set up a bank account before you arrive.

Employment

Once you’ve obtained a working visa, there are several jobs you can look into when you’re here. Casual jobs as bartenders, café waitresses, fruit pickers, farming hands, promo models, cleaners and receptionists are common in Australia. Jobs in the outback or along the coast are also a great way to make the most of the Australian landscape while you’re working.

If you’re keen on the outback, lots of unskilled mining jobs have also recently surfaced with the boost of Australia’s mining economy, though you may be up for some strong competition.

Health Insurance

Medical expenses in Australia can be very costly and if you’re going to be here for a while, it’s a good idea to get health insurance. You may be eligible for certain medical subsidies (depending on which country you’re from) but if you fall ill or become injured, health insurance could save you thousands in medical fees – and it could mean you also get to continue your holiday, rather than running out of money and having to head home.

interior design oxford rogue designs (Photo credit: rogue-designs)

Finding the right interior design inspiration can be difficult at times and while magazines are great there is nothing better than getting into the real world. Seeing how elements work in a real interior, such as ceiling fans with lights or how different colours can work together, is an indispensable way to gain inspiration.

Here are some ideas on where to look for your next interior design inspiration:

• Visiting historic buildings will give you a view into possible uses of antiques and historic design elements.
• Steal your friend’s ideas for your home when you love them, they will be flattered!
• Get outdoors and see how colours and shapes work in nature.
• Go overseas and see what kind of design is going on in different parts of the world.

The key to finding interior design inspiration is to keep your eyes open and your mind free. You never know where your next idea will come from and you may even combine a variety of ideas if you see enough.

Visiting Historic Buildings

Going to see an historic building can give you a brief glimpse in to a lost past of interior design. While many will have new furniture and even fittings the basic shapes and sometimes the colour schemes remain. If you want to see unique ceiling fans, decorative cornices and period colour schemes then try places run by historic trusts or societies. These types of houses will usually have a heritage listing and may even be decorated in a period style.

Going to Friends’ Houses

If you admire your friends’ taste in furniture or even colour then don’t be afraid to ask their advice or even steal their ideas.

Seeing a house that is actually lived in will be much more beneficial than a photo shoot from an interior design or house and garden magazine. This can also give you an idea of what you think doesn’t work for your home.

A Walk in Nature

Nature provides the inspiration for much of the design that is around the world. Not only does it expose you to amazing natural colours but will also give you some ideas for materials to use. Try going to a beach where there is sand and sandstone aplenty and you will start getting ideas for your beach themed home.

It is also a good idea to have a look at flowers and garden beds for interior design ideas. In fact, you can see many uses of colour and shape in landscape design which also applies to interior design. This will also allow you to tie your interior design to any landscaping you plan to do in the future.

An Overseas Adventure

Many overseas countries and cultures provide inspiration for interior design. One modern example is the popularity of Bali style features for both inside and outside the home. There are also specific furniture and art pieces from countries that look great with the right theme.

Wherever you find inspiration make sure you plan properly before purchasing or starting any projects.

Escher floor (Photo credit: Bert Werk)

Floating floorboards are an excellent alternative to having an expensive wooden floor installed in your home. They can be installed over any hard flooring with the installation of a film protection. Anything like laminate or carpet will, however, need to be removed before you can install a floating floor. The flooring is sold by the square metre and will take you around 10-12 hours to install in an average room. You will only need basic hand tools to install the flooring and possibly some cordless tools to prepare your floor if it is not ready. Installing floating floorboards is not as easy as the salesmen would suggest but there are simple procedures to follow to make sure you get it right. Here are some top tips on how to install a floating floorboard floor effectively:

• Remove all of the furniture out of the room before you begin. You will then need to remove any carpeting and underlay as well as carpet grips. After doing so you will need to vacuum the floor and clear any debris from the floor. If there is any floor damage or water damage then you will need to repair this before applying the new floating floor to prevent the problem from increasing.
• Use a piece of flooring and underlay to check that the floating floor will fit beneath the door frames and skirting boards. If they do not then use your Stanley tools to trim the bottoms and check that the boards will fit underneath all of the way around. It is essential that you do this before anything else because if it doesn’t fit then you will have greater problems later on. Be sure to vacuum sawdust up afterward so you can begin with a clean floor.
• Lay the underlay and attach the seams together. When laying the underlay it is important to secure the seams with duct tape so that it will remain in place. If there is a gap in the underlay then you will feel this through the floorboards so be sure to seal all gaps.
• Before beginning installation, trim the connecting lip off of the boards along the starting wall. Nail the trimmed side close to the wall leaving around 8mms for the floor to float and move once installed.
• Install the rest of the floorboards by gently hammering the lips into the existing floorboards to make the connection. Be sure to stagger where the planks join in each row to give a random appearance. This will look better and will also increase the strength of your floor dramatically.
• Trim the last row and use a pull bar to snap the boards into place against the far wall. Nail these boards in place against the wall leaving around 8mm of space for the floor to float.
• Use a silicone sealant to fill the gaps around the edges. This will still allow the floor to move but it will also prevent any liquids from seeping underneath the floor and causing damage.
• Replace the baseboards all around the room and fasten in place.
• Clean the floor and carefully replace furniture.

VuVuzella burglar alarm 6 (Photo credit: lesquigley)

It is common for people to think about protecting property with home security systems and alarm systems. However, personal protection is less considered. There are different methods of protecting oneself when going out or staying in. Basic steps in personal protection can mean the difference between a good night out and a terrible tragedy.

1. Personal Protection at Home

People in single households are most often the victims of burglary or home intrusion. For protection, a person living alone should never allow a stranger into the house without checking identification. If living in a security building, never allow anybody through the security doors. This protects the whole building from a potential threat.

If going on holiday, tell a trusted neighbour and ask them to watch your property. Also, do not leave spare keys in accessible areas close to the house and ensure that all doors and windows are locked. Arm alarm systems and make sure that all home security systems are working properly.

2. Personal Protection When Socialising

Socialising in clubs or pubs can be fun, but it can also lead to danger if common sense precautions are not taken.

Never leave money or valuables in sight and try to keep valuable items like phones and wallets on your person. Acting otherwise is an invitation for petty theft. Personal information may be obtained easily from a mobile phone, so be sure that it is locked with a password.

When drinking with friends, always ensure that drinks are attended. Spiking drinks is a common activity in many nightclubs. For this reason, it is wise never to accept drinks from a stranger.

In addition, alcohol can lead to irrational thinking and subsequent violence. Never get into a heated argument with a stranger, and never accept an invitation to fight. Both could lead to serious injury.

3. Personal Security on Transport

On transport, either private or public, it is better to be over cautious than unsafe. On public transport, always travel on buses and trains which are occupied.

On trains, always stay in crowded areas. Arrive at the station a short time before the train is due to arrive to avoid a long wait. A solitary person waiting for a long period is a target. When on the train, make sure you travel in carriages that are well populated. If the train is empty, choose the guard’s carriage.

When travelling by bus, always sit in areas with people. If the bus is empty, sit close to the driver for safety. Avoid the back of the bus as this is where more rowdy, alcohol affected patrons tend to sit.

If you catch a taxi, make sure that the taxi driver’s credentials are visible. Travel with friends and always use the back seat at night. If unsure about safety or if the driver is taking you in the wrong direction, demand to be taken to a safe, well-lit area.

4. Personal Safety when Walking

If walking home, stay with a group of people. Walk only in well lit areas and main streets. Walk confidently. Criminals target people who are look unsure or nervous.

Personal safety relies on taking sensible precautions such as securing belongings and staying in groups. If travelling alone, it is wise to stay near guarded areas and to be confident in stature and attitude. Simple actions can ensure security without compromising an enjoyable night out.

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

If you are lucky enough to have a holiday home, you have the added bonus of fitting out another kitchen.  Most people who have a holiday home like to do things on the cheap as they only spend a small portion of time in their holiday home in relation to the time spent in their normal home.  It will keep the cost down if you can fit out the majority of the kitchen yourself, although you will need the services of a qualified electrician if you have to do any rewiring.  Choose good quality appliances so that they last, such as a Westinghouse fridge.

Choose quality appliances

If you are buying new appliances, you are better off spending that little bit extra on good quality white goods that you know will last.  Buy yourself a good Westinghouse fridge that suits your needs.  Don’t get one that is too small on the assumption that you won’t be down at your holiday house that much so won’t need so much space.  It is highly likely that when you do use your holiday home you will have friends over to stay, so will need more fridge space for the extra food.  Having a dishwasher is a good idea so don’t see it as a luxury.  You don’t want to be on your relaxing holiday and have to spend all your time doing dishes by hand.  You probably don’t do it at home so why should you waste time doing it on your holiday.

Don’t overdo it

Less really is more when it comes to fitting out your kitchen in your holiday home.  If you are on a budget, get the necessities when it comes to crockery, pots and pans, glasses and decorative items and rather spend a bit more on good quality appliances that will last.

Do it yourself

You can work more easily to a budget if you do a lot of the work yourself.  If you are a bit of a handy man or woman, you will probably enjoy the project.  There is plenty of books and information available online when it comes to putting in a kitchen.  You can also go to your local hardware and find the right help for each and every job.  You will need to get a fully qualified electrician to come in if you need to do any electrical work, like rewiring.  You might also want to call in a plumber for any serious plumbing work.

Save money

You don’t need to spend a fortune when fitting out the kitchen in your holiday home.  You can find some great bargains, especially on sites such as eBay.  Sometimes you can be lucky enough to find a whole kitchen for sale, including the cabinets, the sink, the rangehood, the kitchen bench and the stove top and oven. You might find that you have to pull it out of the original home, but the savings will be well worth it.

The key to remember when fitting out the kitchen in your holiday home is to not go overboard.  Consider the amount of time you spend there during the year, how you want to spend your time there, and plan accordingly.

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Lilies are one of the world’s most popular flowers. Whilst roses are the flower of passion, a lily is the flower of purity. Lilies have been used for inspiration in religious iconography, songs, literature and as a sweet girl’s name.

1. The origin of the lily

Lilies are flowers that originated in the northern hemisphere. Many varieties are common in the United States and England. The lily grows from bulbs. They lie dormant in winter waiting for the spring and summer to return so that they can burst into brilliant blooms to delight the senses.

2. November lilies

November lilies are a species of lily popular in Australia. They are called November lilies because they bloom in November in the southern hemisphere. These lilies are natives of Japan and Taiwan. In the northern hemisphere, they are often called Easter lilies.

During World War 2, the lilies became rare in the United States, especially after Pearl Harbour when war was declared between America and Japan.

3. The lily in food and medicine

Lilies can be used as food or for their medicinal qualities. The Chinese use lily buds in cookery to flavour stir fries. They also use it as a medicine for respiratory problems. Native Americans have used lily roots boiled as a tea for stomach problems and as a wash for bruises. They also used it to relieve the pain from insect bites.

4. The lily in Christian iconography

A white lily is often seen in Christian iconography. The flower is often used in pictures of saints. Two saints who are often seen with lilies are St Anthony of Padua and St Joseph, Mary’s husband. St Anthony, the patron saint of lost objects, is traditionally pictured holding a white lily in his hand. This is a symbol of his purity. St Joseph is seen as holding a staff with lilies springing from its tip. This is due to a story that Mary chose her husband by collecting the staffs of eligible bachelors. She chose Joseph when flowers bloomed from the top of his staff.

5. The fleur de lys

The fleur de lys of France and French speaking nations is another example of lily iconography. The fleur de lys is said to originate from the tears of Eve when she was banished from the garden of Eden. An alternative explanation is that it came from the virgin Mary who gave it to an ancestor of the French king. The symbol signifies the divine right of kings.

6. Lilies in literature and song

The lily has been used as a symbol of purity in literature and song for centuries. Shakespeare used it to contrast with the passionate love symbolised with roses. Emily Dickinson and William Blake also used lily imagery in their poetry.

The most famous lily in contemporary literature is Lily Potter, Harry’s mother. Mrs Potter sacrificed her life to save Harry from Voldemort. Her sacrifice is represented as the ultimate act of love in the Harry Potter series.

There are several songs that use lily in the title. ‘Lily Marleen’ was a famous German song that was popular in World War 2, ‘pictures of Lily’ is a risqué song by The Who, and the Smashing Pumpkins also sang a song called simply ‘Lily.’

Lilies are beautiful flowers with a rich history in iconography, song and literature. They were used as herbal remedies and are a wonderful addition to a garden or a precious gift in a bouquet.

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Europe is a great place to drive through, purely for the fact that you get to see so many countries in a short amount of time! Whether you’re keen to twist through the snowcapped mountains of Austria, get lost in Spain or wind your way through Greece, we look at some of the best road trips through Europe. And we include a few driving tips, too!

Amalfi Coast Road, Italy

Thousands of travellers each year flock to the Amalfi Coast for some of Italy’s most beautiful holiday spots. The Amalfi Coast Road will take you through the coast’s most prominent towns including Salerno, Amalfi, Ravello, Praiano, Positano and Sorrento. Stopping off at the mountain-side towns is a must and you’re guaranteed some pristine views of this much-desired Italian paradise.

Romantic Road, Germany

Taking you through the south German provinces of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, the Romantic Road in Germany is one of the best. Here, you’ll encounter historical German towns like Würzburg, Tauber and Nördlingen, where you can explore castles, palaces and fortresses. For a special treat, stay for a few nights at the last town on the route, Füssen, which rests against the backdrop of the Alps and offers a wonderful finish to your German drive, before you cross over into Austria.

Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Austria

If you’re keen on breathtaking panoramic alpine sights, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road is a fantastic but challenging drive for tourists. Named after the highest peak in Austria, the road will take you through 48km of amazing twists and turns, from the Hohe Tauern National Park to the Grossglockner peak to the Pasterze Glacier. Check your travel dates, however, as the road will usually close in winter due to dangerous weather conditions.

Basque Circuit, Spain

It’s always a popular experience and the Basquet Circuit in Spain offers tourists something special outside of the central holiday spots of Madrid and Barcelona. From Bilbao through San Sebastian to the small, French town of Biarritz, this road trip will have you glimpsing stunning mountains and gorgeous seascapes. If it’s the right time of year, don’t forget to stop off in Pamplona to witness the famous ‘running of the bulls.’

Athens to Athens, Greece

Want to immerse yourself in some ancient culture? Driving around Greece is a great way to take in the historical sights as well as make the most of the incredible coastline and beaches. On this loop drive, you’ll pass through the ancient cities of Delphi, Nafplio, Corinth, Olympia, Methoni and of course Athens, where you’ll start and finish. In each place, you can visit the iconic sights, go for a swim or indulge in the finest Greek dishes.

A Few Driving Tips

Driving overseas can be exciting, but there are many precautions you’ll need to take, too:

• Do your research on your desired roads and ensure you’re confident about taking them on. If you’re going to be driving on more hazardous roads, consider a four-wheel drive.
• When hiring a car or vehicle, make sure you have the appropriate auto insurance. Make sure you also keep the number of a local car service or roadside assistance company on hand, in case you break down.
• Check to see if there will be any toll routes on your journey. If so, you’ll need to make sure you have the right amount of cash. If you’re crossing borders, you’ll need to ensure you have the right documents on hand as well.
• Learn the road rules of the country you’re in – familiarise yourself with road signs, road markings, speed limits, alcohol limits and other rules to ensure you don’t end up in an unwanted situation. Some countries will also require you to carry a mandatory first aid kit, but this is a good idea anyway, even if it’s not compulsory.