The Middle East is flourishing. Middle Eastern countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman are becoming the home of more businesses with many people going to these areas to work from Europe and the United States.
The main reasons why people who can are choosing to work in the Middle East is the opportunity to earn tax free income. Many go to this area on a temporary basis to earn before moving back home a few years later. Many companies offer free accommodation which means expenses are significantly less than at home. It is not just businesses who want Western workers, but schools and other service based industries, such as hospitals.
Salaries are sometimes lower, but can be equal to Europe. As there is no tax the take-home pay is significantly more than in Europe. If we take the UK as an example, those earning over £37,000 a year pay 40 per cent tax, while those earning over £150,000 pay 50 per cent. If someone is earning the same in the UAE or Kuwait, for example, but tax free then in reality they are keeping much more. Even if earning a little less than in Europe the money employees keep at the end of the month will be higher.
On hziegler.com there is a comparison that shows just how much more can be earned in the Middle East. If we take their figures for the US and compare then to the UAE, we can really see the difference. If earning $60,000 annually in each, someone in the US is paying $15,000 in tax, while someone in the UAE is paying absolutely nothing. If provided, accommodation can also be nothing while in the US is an estimated $10,000 per year. Transport and utility costs are also more in the US meaning the total spent on these factors is just $2,100 in the UAE, but $31,400 in the United States, which means employees only have just over half of their earning left. According to the hziegler.com figures you end up $29,300 better off every year in the UAE as people are able to save the majority of their income. Even if someone spends another $10,000 a year, they still end up $60,000 better off after three years if working in the UAE compared to the US.
Other benefits of living and working in the Middle East are that there is usually six week annual holiday, medical needs are often paid for by companies, and many get paid a yearly service award, which is effectively a yearly bonus.
There are of course some negatives. It is often not possible to take your family, which is difficult for many, and the culture is very different to the West. This is why many work in the Middle East for a few years to save a significant amount of tax free income and then return home with this money left over.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Masahati is a portal for Kuwait Real Estate.
Hziegler Statistics
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
Basics of Graphic Design
There are many considerations when it comes to graphic design. Here are some of the general basic principles that cover all types of graphic design.
FONT
It is important to get the font size right. There are potential negatives if text is either too small or too large. If it is too small it poses an obvious problem; people can’t see it as well and may not notice it. Having it as large as possible is not necessarily a good thing either though, as it can detract from everything else, meaning the full message is not received by the audience. Text is vital. The majority of the time it is how you will get your message across so it does need to stand out. Emphasis should be given to the most important text; the text that portrays the core message. If there are a few words that really sum up the message then these should stand out above the rest, possible by being slightly bigger or using a different font style. Whether capitals or small lettering is used is something that needs to be thought about. Capitals obviously stand out more, but studies have shown that font where the first letter is a capital and the rest of the word has small lettering is easier to read.
There are many styles of font, and this decision is just as important. What stands out, what is easiest to read, and simply what looks good should all be thought about. It may be better to use a variety of fonts, or use the same throughout.
COLOUR SCHEME
The majority of the time colour works better than black and white, but there are times that black and white can be used artistically to make an impression. If Graphic Design is on behalf of a company then the colour schemes of the company and their logo should be used. It needs to be in keeping with the company’s image. As with decorating a room, how colours go together needs to be thought about with graphic design. Connotations need considering as well; which colours give certain connotations, and do you want to avoid or portray these connotations.
PICTURES
Pictures need careful consideration. It is crucial that any pictures fit the message or the company image, or what the company does. Pictures that have no coherence with this shouldn’t be used as they will confuse the audience and detract from the message. Choosing the wrong pictures is a missed opportunity as using the right pictures can be massively beneficial.
LAYOUT
Something that has to be thought about is where each element is on the page. Most importantly it needs to be easy to read and understand. Each element should work with all other element. They are not separate entities, but part of the same story. Where pictures are in relation to relevant text is an important factor. Simple can be best and it is not usually best to have big white spaces. At the same time it is not good for it to be too cluttered.
COMPANY PERCEPTION
Something else that should be thought about is the public’s perception of a company. If they are known for, and popular because of, certain aspects then this should be utilised. If it is a well known company this is even more important as it can be used to an advantage.
Andrew Marshall (c)
FONT
It is important to get the font size right. There are potential negatives if text is either too small or too large. If it is too small it poses an obvious problem; people can’t see it as well and may not notice it. Having it as large as possible is not necessarily a good thing either though, as it can detract from everything else, meaning the full message is not received by the audience. Text is vital. The majority of the time it is how you will get your message across so it does need to stand out. Emphasis should be given to the most important text; the text that portrays the core message. If there are a few words that really sum up the message then these should stand out above the rest, possible by being slightly bigger or using a different font style. Whether capitals or small lettering is used is something that needs to be thought about. Capitals obviously stand out more, but studies have shown that font where the first letter is a capital and the rest of the word has small lettering is easier to read.
There are many styles of font, and this decision is just as important. What stands out, what is easiest to read, and simply what looks good should all be thought about. It may be better to use a variety of fonts, or use the same throughout.
COLOUR SCHEME
The majority of the time colour works better than black and white, but there are times that black and white can be used artistically to make an impression. If Graphic Design is on behalf of a company then the colour schemes of the company and their logo should be used. It needs to be in keeping with the company’s image. As with decorating a room, how colours go together needs to be thought about with graphic design. Connotations need considering as well; which colours give certain connotations, and do you want to avoid or portray these connotations.
PICTURES
Pictures need careful consideration. It is crucial that any pictures fit the message or the company image, or what the company does. Pictures that have no coherence with this shouldn’t be used as they will confuse the audience and detract from the message. Choosing the wrong pictures is a missed opportunity as using the right pictures can be massively beneficial.
LAYOUT
Something that has to be thought about is where each element is on the page. Most importantly it needs to be easy to read and understand. Each element should work with all other element. They are not separate entities, but part of the same story. Where pictures are in relation to relevant text is an important factor. Simple can be best and it is not usually best to have big white spaces. At the same time it is not good for it to be too cluttered.
COMPANY PERCEPTION
Something else that should be thought about is the public’s perception of a company. If they are known for, and popular because of, certain aspects then this should be utilised. If it is a well known company this is even more important as it can be used to an advantage.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Friday, June 25, 2010
Basics of Web Design
FOCUS ON THE MESSAGE
It is important that the design of your website focuses on getting your core message across to the audience. So if you are a business you need to get across what you can do for your customers or any offers you may have. Most internet users visit a website only briefly if they do not immediately see what they want so it is very important to get to the point. Think about what the first thing visitors see when they visit your site.
A WEBSITE IS AN ADVERT
Remember that a website is essentially an advert. You need to give a positive impression to your visitors so they want to use your services or find out more. Focus on what you want to achieve from your website, whether it is selling your services, selling your products or offering information. Then design your site with this in mind.
BALANCE BETWEEN THE BASICS AND MAKING AN IMPRESSION
It is important to get the right balance between getting the basics right while still making an impression. You don’t want to over complicate things and make it difficult for visitors so a simple and concise design is something you should aim for. Web designers often make the mistake of trying to impress too much. You also need to make an impression though. If you don’t catch visitors’ attention in a few seconds they will look elsewhere. You need to give your target audience something to stay for, so it is a difficult balance.
LAYOUT & CONTRAST
It is usually best to choose a simply layout. This is what the majority of visitors want as more complex layouts can be confusing. The website needs to be easy to read. For the same reasons the colours of the background and the overlaying text need to contrast one another.
PAGES
Depending on the content of your site, you should have a number of pages with each of them focussing on something different. This simplifies the whole site and it gives it a flowing structure. It is important to think about what each page is going to say. You should plan the structure of the pages before you design the site. The homepage needs to get the overall message across. It should summarise what you and your website is about and point visitors to the relevant pages for more information.
GRAPHICS
Graphics can be very effective tools if used well, but can also be a distraction. Make sure you don’t overuse them. Most people use the internet looking for information so make sure this isn’t lost by overusing graphics. Make sure pictures reflect the theme of the text around them. Graphics should complement the rest of the site and not distract from it.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Moore Wilson are a Web Design Agency in London.
It is important that the design of your website focuses on getting your core message across to the audience. So if you are a business you need to get across what you can do for your customers or any offers you may have. Most internet users visit a website only briefly if they do not immediately see what they want so it is very important to get to the point. Think about what the first thing visitors see when they visit your site.
A WEBSITE IS AN ADVERT
Remember that a website is essentially an advert. You need to give a positive impression to your visitors so they want to use your services or find out more. Focus on what you want to achieve from your website, whether it is selling your services, selling your products or offering information. Then design your site with this in mind.
BALANCE BETWEEN THE BASICS AND MAKING AN IMPRESSION
It is important to get the right balance between getting the basics right while still making an impression. You don’t want to over complicate things and make it difficult for visitors so a simple and concise design is something you should aim for. Web designers often make the mistake of trying to impress too much. You also need to make an impression though. If you don’t catch visitors’ attention in a few seconds they will look elsewhere. You need to give your target audience something to stay for, so it is a difficult balance.
LAYOUT & CONTRAST
It is usually best to choose a simply layout. This is what the majority of visitors want as more complex layouts can be confusing. The website needs to be easy to read. For the same reasons the colours of the background and the overlaying text need to contrast one another.
PAGES
Depending on the content of your site, you should have a number of pages with each of them focussing on something different. This simplifies the whole site and it gives it a flowing structure. It is important to think about what each page is going to say. You should plan the structure of the pages before you design the site. The homepage needs to get the overall message across. It should summarise what you and your website is about and point visitors to the relevant pages for more information.
GRAPHICS
Graphics can be very effective tools if used well, but can also be a distraction. Make sure you don’t overuse them. Most people use the internet looking for information so make sure this isn’t lost by overusing graphics. Make sure pictures reflect the theme of the text around them. Graphics should complement the rest of the site and not distract from it.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Moore Wilson are a Web Design Agency in London.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Ways of Saving For Children
Many parents have decided to save for their children. There are many reasons why they may want to help their children once they become adults.
Many want to assist their children through their education. More and more young adults are choosing to go to university, something that can be a major expense. It costs several thousands of pounds a year, so savings to assist with university fees can be a great help. Housing is something that is an increasing problem for young people, with a shortage of affordable housing a common occurrence. Therefore, helping to get their children on the housing ladder is an incentive for many parents to save for their children. If parents have saved for eighteen years, for example, then there could be a significant amount to assist their children to take their first step on the housing ladder. The age of eighteen is the time that many people learn to drive. So another thing that money saved on their behalf can assist with is driving lessons or buying a car.
There are many affective ways of saving for children. The most basic is making payments into a bank or building society account. Many banks and building societies offer special account for the purpose of saving for children. This is the safest option of saving but interest rates tend to be relatively low so this doesn’t have the potential of some of the other savings methods.
Investing in the stock market is an example of a savings method whereby there is more potential for greater growth, but there are also more pitfalls. Stocks can increase very significantly but they can also crash. Over the long term though, most stocks will increase. Over a period of five, ten, fifteen or more years the likelihood of an increase is greater, as there aren’t the same risks as short term investments, which can suffer from short term dips. Stocks are likely to grow more than money paid into a savings account but there is no guarantee.
Using the services of an investment trust is a sensible way to manage investments in the stock market. Here, parents can make payments on behalf of their children and it will be invested by the investment managers. They take a cut, but they are experts in their field so they can usually be trusted to make good decisions. This also means you don’t have to worry about it and can leave it to them. If you lack understanding of the stock market then this is safer than investing in your own choice of stocks and shares.
However you choose to invest on behalf of your children it is a good idea to compare the various investment products on the market, looking at the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Jump Savings is a savings plan designed specifically for Savings For Children
Witan Investment Trust offers a variety of investment products to private investors.
Many want to assist their children through their education. More and more young adults are choosing to go to university, something that can be a major expense. It costs several thousands of pounds a year, so savings to assist with university fees can be a great help. Housing is something that is an increasing problem for young people, with a shortage of affordable housing a common occurrence. Therefore, helping to get their children on the housing ladder is an incentive for many parents to save for their children. If parents have saved for eighteen years, for example, then there could be a significant amount to assist their children to take their first step on the housing ladder. The age of eighteen is the time that many people learn to drive. So another thing that money saved on their behalf can assist with is driving lessons or buying a car.
There are many affective ways of saving for children. The most basic is making payments into a bank or building society account. Many banks and building societies offer special account for the purpose of saving for children. This is the safest option of saving but interest rates tend to be relatively low so this doesn’t have the potential of some of the other savings methods.
Investing in the stock market is an example of a savings method whereby there is more potential for greater growth, but there are also more pitfalls. Stocks can increase very significantly but they can also crash. Over the long term though, most stocks will increase. Over a period of five, ten, fifteen or more years the likelihood of an increase is greater, as there aren’t the same risks as short term investments, which can suffer from short term dips. Stocks are likely to grow more than money paid into a savings account but there is no guarantee.
Using the services of an investment trust is a sensible way to manage investments in the stock market. Here, parents can make payments on behalf of their children and it will be invested by the investment managers. They take a cut, but they are experts in their field so they can usually be trusted to make good decisions. This also means you don’t have to worry about it and can leave it to them. If you lack understanding of the stock market then this is safer than investing in your own choice of stocks and shares.
However you choose to invest on behalf of your children it is a good idea to compare the various investment products on the market, looking at the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Jump Savings is a savings plan designed specifically for Savings For Children
Witan Investment Trust offers a variety of investment products to private investors.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Types of VoIP Services
VoIP’s popularity is ever increasing. There are many different ways that VoIP can be utilised and some of these are outlined here.
CALLING BETWEEN TWO COMPUTERS
Calling from computer to computer is the original VoIP. It is the most basic type of VoIP whereby two people simple talk to each other through their computers. The caller and receiver make contact through a piece of software that they are both logged into. The main advantage is that these services are sometimes free, with Skype being the best known free VoIP provider. Each user will use a headset, or their computers’ speakers and microphone, to communicate. This type of VoIP has the reputation for not being of the best quality but it has improved over the last few years.
CALLING A PHONE FROM A COMPUTER
As well as using a computer to call another computer it is also possible to call a phone with a computer. You can call any number in the world in this way, including mobile numbers. It is easier than calling another computer as that requires both the caller and the receiver to be logged on and to be at their computers. This means that you can’t call someone unexpectedly as, unlike the phone, it won’t ring when called. An advantage of calling a phone is just that; that you can call at any time as it doesn’t need to be prearranged. So it has some of the advantages of using a telephone, but there is still the advantage of the cheaper calls VoIP offers. VoIP providers charge for this but it is significantly cheaper than calling between two phones. Many use it to call friends and family living abroad as international calls offer particularly large savings. With phone providers these can be very expensive but the difference between local and international calls is small by comparison when using VoIP.
VOIP PHONES
These are phone like devices that are designed specifically for VoIP. In fact, in terms of operation and look, they are extremely similar to regular telephones. Users speak through them and hear through them just as with a telephone. They also usually have answer phones and other features similar to phones. The VoIP phone is connection to the internet and can be used to call anyone by dialling the number just as you would with a telephone. Another major advantage is that people can call you, by entering a number that will ring your VoIP phone as it would with a regular phone.
VOIP ADAPTERS
VoIP adapters allow people to use their existing telephones to use VoIP. They are used to connect a phone to the internet connection therefore allowing the use of the VoIP system. This means there are the advantages of VoIP, such as cost savings, as well as the advantages the use of a telephone offers. The user experience is similar to using a VoIP phone.
Andrew Marshall (c)
CALLING BETWEEN TWO COMPUTERS
Calling from computer to computer is the original VoIP. It is the most basic type of VoIP whereby two people simple talk to each other through their computers. The caller and receiver make contact through a piece of software that they are both logged into. The main advantage is that these services are sometimes free, with Skype being the best known free VoIP provider. Each user will use a headset, or their computers’ speakers and microphone, to communicate. This type of VoIP has the reputation for not being of the best quality but it has improved over the last few years.
CALLING A PHONE FROM A COMPUTER
As well as using a computer to call another computer it is also possible to call a phone with a computer. You can call any number in the world in this way, including mobile numbers. It is easier than calling another computer as that requires both the caller and the receiver to be logged on and to be at their computers. This means that you can’t call someone unexpectedly as, unlike the phone, it won’t ring when called. An advantage of calling a phone is just that; that you can call at any time as it doesn’t need to be prearranged. So it has some of the advantages of using a telephone, but there is still the advantage of the cheaper calls VoIP offers. VoIP providers charge for this but it is significantly cheaper than calling between two phones. Many use it to call friends and family living abroad as international calls offer particularly large savings. With phone providers these can be very expensive but the difference between local and international calls is small by comparison when using VoIP.
VOIP PHONES
These are phone like devices that are designed specifically for VoIP. In fact, in terms of operation and look, they are extremely similar to regular telephones. Users speak through them and hear through them just as with a telephone. They also usually have answer phones and other features similar to phones. The VoIP phone is connection to the internet and can be used to call anyone by dialling the number just as you would with a telephone. Another major advantage is that people can call you, by entering a number that will ring your VoIP phone as it would with a regular phone.
VOIP ADAPTERS
VoIP adapters allow people to use their existing telephones to use VoIP. They are used to connect a phone to the internet connection therefore allowing the use of the VoIP system. This means there are the advantages of VoIP, such as cost savings, as well as the advantages the use of a telephone offers. The user experience is similar to using a VoIP phone.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
The Impact of Google Caffeine
Google Caffeine is the new Google indexing system, with the aim of providing better results for their 128 million worldwide users. So what is Google Caffeine and how will it affect Google’s users and website owners?
What is Google Caffeine?
Google caffeine is Google’s updated system of assessing websites to decide how to rank them in their search engine. Although some have referred to it as their new search engine, it is really more of an improvement of the existing one. Users will not notice any major physical differences but there will be some variations in results and the way that results are presented. It is, however, likely to have an impact on web designers and those who work in SEO (search engine optimisation)
What is the purpose of Google Caffeine?
The purpose is simple; to give users more accurate results. Google are always trying to give users the results that are most relevant to what they are looking for. Google wants to prevent spam sites from reaching the top of their results pages and return the best and most relevant sites instead. Through a number of measures they believe they have improved their search engine with Google Caffeine to assist users further. They are also attempting to give quicker news stories and make them more prominent when appropriate.
How does it work?
One of the issues that has become more important with Google Caffeine is the speed at which websites load. Sites which load slower could be penalised although it is unlikely to make a major difference. Some webmasters have panicked over this and looked for ways to speed up their sites. However, there are so many factors that contribute to Google’s rankings so this factor alone in unlikely to make the difference. The speed that Google returns results is also quicker with results being returned in up to half the time it was previously. However, as results are typically returned in under one second the speed increase will generally be unnoticeable.
According to the official Google blog, “Caffeine provides 50 percent fresher results”. They are referring to the higher prominence of news stories, With Caffeine news stories, blogs and forums are indexed quicker, so they are included in the results pages earlier. They will also be included more often where relevant. This is in keeping with the times and the evolution of blogs and social media sites. In fact websites in general will be indexed quicker further improving the results returned.
Unique content is likely to be more important. Therefore website that consistently update may see benefits in their rankings in the Google search engines. Websites that contain lots of useful information about their subject are likely to see improvements.
Who will benefit?
Simply, relevant website will benefit, while irrelevant websites will lose out. Sites with lots of original content relating to the subject they are targeting and which are genuinely about the subject they are targeting should find themselves better placed. Using white hat SEO techniques should become more important as Google hopes to prevent those using black hat SEO techniques from being successful. As mentioned above, news sites and blogs could also appear higher in Google.
Spam sites, sites with little text, and those generally trying to manipulate the search engines to appear in irrelevant results are likely to suffer with the integration of Google Caffeine.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Moore Wilson is a digital agency specialising in the following services:
Web Design London
Graphic Design London
SEO London
What is Google Caffeine?
Google caffeine is Google’s updated system of assessing websites to decide how to rank them in their search engine. Although some have referred to it as their new search engine, it is really more of an improvement of the existing one. Users will not notice any major physical differences but there will be some variations in results and the way that results are presented. It is, however, likely to have an impact on web designers and those who work in SEO (search engine optimisation)
What is the purpose of Google Caffeine?
The purpose is simple; to give users more accurate results. Google are always trying to give users the results that are most relevant to what they are looking for. Google wants to prevent spam sites from reaching the top of their results pages and return the best and most relevant sites instead. Through a number of measures they believe they have improved their search engine with Google Caffeine to assist users further. They are also attempting to give quicker news stories and make them more prominent when appropriate.
How does it work?
One of the issues that has become more important with Google Caffeine is the speed at which websites load. Sites which load slower could be penalised although it is unlikely to make a major difference. Some webmasters have panicked over this and looked for ways to speed up their sites. However, there are so many factors that contribute to Google’s rankings so this factor alone in unlikely to make the difference. The speed that Google returns results is also quicker with results being returned in up to half the time it was previously. However, as results are typically returned in under one second the speed increase will generally be unnoticeable.
According to the official Google blog, “Caffeine provides 50 percent fresher results”. They are referring to the higher prominence of news stories, With Caffeine news stories, blogs and forums are indexed quicker, so they are included in the results pages earlier. They will also be included more often where relevant. This is in keeping with the times and the evolution of blogs and social media sites. In fact websites in general will be indexed quicker further improving the results returned.
Unique content is likely to be more important. Therefore website that consistently update may see benefits in their rankings in the Google search engines. Websites that contain lots of useful information about their subject are likely to see improvements.
Who will benefit?
Simply, relevant website will benefit, while irrelevant websites will lose out. Sites with lots of original content relating to the subject they are targeting and which are genuinely about the subject they are targeting should find themselves better placed. Using white hat SEO techniques should become more important as Google hopes to prevent those using black hat SEO techniques from being successful. As mentioned above, news sites and blogs could also appear higher in Google.
Spam sites, sites with little text, and those generally trying to manipulate the search engines to appear in irrelevant results are likely to suffer with the integration of Google Caffeine.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Moore Wilson is a digital agency specialising in the following services:
Web Design London
Graphic Design London
SEO London
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Web Hosting advice for a New Business
Choosing the best web hosting provider is an important decision. For small businesses it can be a difficult one with many things to consider, such as the hosting requirements and the all important price. It is especially difficult for new businesses as they don’t necessarily know how many visitors their website will generate, and therefore the bandwidth they will require.
It is a good idea to opt for a cheap hosting package to begin with for the obvious reasons. Your income may not be particularly high as a start up business so you don’t want to be forking out high fees for a hosting package you don’t yet require. You don’t want a large outlay if not necessary so it is best to be a little cautious. Some therefore opt for free hosting, but this is short sighted and rarely a good idea for a business website. Free hosts often force their clients to carry adverts on their site as this works as their income stream (as you are paying them to host your website). This means your website will contain adverts that are not relevant to your site; something that may work against you as a business as it looks unprofessional. Another problem with free hosting is that you often don’t get to choose your own domain name, and the URL must carry the hosting companies name with an extension at the end for your individual site. This again looks unprofessional and means you are unable to use your brand name as the domain name, something that is expected by potential customers. This also makes it harder for SEO purposes (search engine optimisation) because it makes it more difficult to appear high in the search engines for your brand name, making it more difficult for people to find your website. This could have a major negative impact on your business. The cheapest packages, and especially free hosting, cannot cope with many visitors, so if you have a sudden rise in visitors it could pose a problem.
Although you shouldn’t pay too much for your web hosting when you first start out, the most basic packages (such as free hosting) should be avoided as well. You need to find a balance between not paying too much, but while having some scope for an increase in visitors above your expectations. So a fairly cheap and fairly limited package, but with some flexibility is probably the best option for most new businesses. This means some flexibility without the high prices of the most advanced packages.
As your business grows so will your website. As more people get to know your business more will want to check out your site to find out more information. This will mean that a basic package may no longer be adequate so an upgrade may be necessary. Although the prices will be higher, so will your revenue so it will pay for itself.
Managed Hosting is one of the better options once you require more advanced hosting. With Managed Hosting, your hosting is managed by the hosting provider so you don’t have to worry. This doesn’t only have the advantage of meeting your more advanced needs, but also means you won’t have to take care of your hosting as you can leave it to the Managed Hosting provider.
There are so called ‘Unlimited Managed Hosting’ packages available. Although nothing can be unlimited the limits are very high so you are unlikely to reach them. This will effectively mean your hosting is completely taken care of and allows you more time to focus on your core business. It may be more expensive but to many it is worth the extra cost.
Andrew Marshall (c)
It is a good idea to opt for a cheap hosting package to begin with for the obvious reasons. Your income may not be particularly high as a start up business so you don’t want to be forking out high fees for a hosting package you don’t yet require. You don’t want a large outlay if not necessary so it is best to be a little cautious. Some therefore opt for free hosting, but this is short sighted and rarely a good idea for a business website. Free hosts often force their clients to carry adverts on their site as this works as their income stream (as you are paying them to host your website). This means your website will contain adverts that are not relevant to your site; something that may work against you as a business as it looks unprofessional. Another problem with free hosting is that you often don’t get to choose your own domain name, and the URL must carry the hosting companies name with an extension at the end for your individual site. This again looks unprofessional and means you are unable to use your brand name as the domain name, something that is expected by potential customers. This also makes it harder for SEO purposes (search engine optimisation) because it makes it more difficult to appear high in the search engines for your brand name, making it more difficult for people to find your website. This could have a major negative impact on your business. The cheapest packages, and especially free hosting, cannot cope with many visitors, so if you have a sudden rise in visitors it could pose a problem.
Although you shouldn’t pay too much for your web hosting when you first start out, the most basic packages (such as free hosting) should be avoided as well. You need to find a balance between not paying too much, but while having some scope for an increase in visitors above your expectations. So a fairly cheap and fairly limited package, but with some flexibility is probably the best option for most new businesses. This means some flexibility without the high prices of the most advanced packages.
As your business grows so will your website. As more people get to know your business more will want to check out your site to find out more information. This will mean that a basic package may no longer be adequate so an upgrade may be necessary. Although the prices will be higher, so will your revenue so it will pay for itself.
Managed Hosting is one of the better options once you require more advanced hosting. With Managed Hosting, your hosting is managed by the hosting provider so you don’t have to worry. This doesn’t only have the advantage of meeting your more advanced needs, but also means you won’t have to take care of your hosting as you can leave it to the Managed Hosting provider.
There are so called ‘Unlimited Managed Hosting’ packages available. Although nothing can be unlimited the limits are very high so you are unlikely to reach them. This will effectively mean your hosting is completely taken care of and allows you more time to focus on your core business. It may be more expensive but to many it is worth the extra cost.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Friday, June 11, 2010
A look at Homelessness Statistics in the UK
In the England approximately 500 people sleep outside each night. This is a significant decrease compared with a decade ago when that statistic was nearly 2,000, four times as many. Over half of these spend their nights on the streets of London. In total about 380,000 are classified as homeless in the UK. This statistic includes those sleeping in hostels (permanently), homeless shelters and on other people’s floors.
Youth homelessness is a particular problem with a quarter of homeless people in the UK aged between 18 and 25. 6% are over the age of 60. The number of homeless male’s way outweighs their female counterparts, with 80% or more being male. The number of women who are homeless is rising though, while the male statistic is falling.
Ethnic minorities account for 25% of homeless people in the UK. Although this is only a quarter of the homeless total, it is relatively high, because the number of people in total who are from ethnic minority backgrounds is significantly less than that.
Up to a third of homeless people were at some point in care when they were a child. This suggests that the authorities are not dealing with children in care as well as they should be. The statistics show that those in care have a significant higher change of being homeless once they reach adulthood. Around 65% of the homeless population have no qualification, which shows the importance education, or lack of education, can have on people lives. Many people become homeless due to no unemployment and lack of career prospects.
Many homeless people come from homes where stepparents were involved. This suggests they may have become disillusioned with family life and felt they had no choice but to leave despite having nowhere to go. It is no surprise that a high number of homelessness is a result of violence at home. 45% had previously experienced violence at home, so it is understandable that they decided to leave. Half of homeless people have been to prison at some point. Some would suggest this shows the lack of help available to those released from prison and that many have nowhere to go afterwards. In fact 30% are said to have nowhere to go and end up on the streets immediately.
Although many accuse the homeless of being to blame for their own problems, statistics show that 38% of them don’t. They have no other alternative, with no option to live with family or friends.
If it isn’t already prior to homelessness, addiction becomes a problem for many when they have nowhere to live. 81% are addicted to alcohol or drugs. 65% are homeless because of previous addiction problems, but 80% of the homeless have started using a new drug since being on the streets. This shows that the problems of homelessness can spiral out of control and can lead to many more serious problems. 40% of beggars started because they were attempting to feed an addiction.
Unsurprisingly as they are often on the streets and vulnerable, the homeless are much more likely to be a victim of crime; both those committed by other homeless people or others. Life expectancy is much lower than the general public. Life expectancy for the homeless is only 42%, while it is between 74% and 79% for others. Suicide is also more common; with 35 times more homeless suicides than non-homeless suicides.
These statistics show the many problems homelessness can eventually lead to, and shows the importance of helping the homeless before it is too late.
*The statistics quoted above where taken between 2005 and 2008.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Youth homelessness is a particular problem with a quarter of homeless people in the UK aged between 18 and 25. 6% are over the age of 60. The number of homeless male’s way outweighs their female counterparts, with 80% or more being male. The number of women who are homeless is rising though, while the male statistic is falling.
Ethnic minorities account for 25% of homeless people in the UK. Although this is only a quarter of the homeless total, it is relatively high, because the number of people in total who are from ethnic minority backgrounds is significantly less than that.
Up to a third of homeless people were at some point in care when they were a child. This suggests that the authorities are not dealing with children in care as well as they should be. The statistics show that those in care have a significant higher change of being homeless once they reach adulthood. Around 65% of the homeless population have no qualification, which shows the importance education, or lack of education, can have on people lives. Many people become homeless due to no unemployment and lack of career prospects.
Many homeless people come from homes where stepparents were involved. This suggests they may have become disillusioned with family life and felt they had no choice but to leave despite having nowhere to go. It is no surprise that a high number of homelessness is a result of violence at home. 45% had previously experienced violence at home, so it is understandable that they decided to leave. Half of homeless people have been to prison at some point. Some would suggest this shows the lack of help available to those released from prison and that many have nowhere to go afterwards. In fact 30% are said to have nowhere to go and end up on the streets immediately.
Although many accuse the homeless of being to blame for their own problems, statistics show that 38% of them don’t. They have no other alternative, with no option to live with family or friends.
If it isn’t already prior to homelessness, addiction becomes a problem for many when they have nowhere to live. 81% are addicted to alcohol or drugs. 65% are homeless because of previous addiction problems, but 80% of the homeless have started using a new drug since being on the streets. This shows that the problems of homelessness can spiral out of control and can lead to many more serious problems. 40% of beggars started because they were attempting to feed an addiction.
Unsurprisingly as they are often on the streets and vulnerable, the homeless are much more likely to be a victim of crime; both those committed by other homeless people or others. Life expectancy is much lower than the general public. Life expectancy for the homeless is only 42%, while it is between 74% and 79% for others. Suicide is also more common; with 35 times more homeless suicides than non-homeless suicides.
These statistics show the many problems homelessness can eventually lead to, and shows the importance of helping the homeless before it is too late.
*The statistics quoted above where taken between 2005 and 2008.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Strange Divorce Stories
Over the years there have been some strange stories of divorce, including some humorous reasons why people are seeking a separation from their partner. Here are some of the strangest divorce stories.
STRANGE DIVORCE STORIES
We’ve all heard of couples splitting their assets after a divorce. But most don’t split them quite as literally as a couple in Cambodia in 2008. With some of his family and friends, the husband, who suspected his wife had been cheating on him, sawed their house in half.
A woman filed for divorce because her husband was eating too much. She claimed that by doing so he was committing a crime, and she didn’t want to be his accomplice.
A man filed for divorce claiming he was allergic to his wife’s sweat. When tests were performed it proved to be untrue.
In Long Island in the United States, a man filed for divorce claiming his wife had threatened him with a Samurai sword. Bizarrely the court did not deem this serious enough to grant the divorce for this reason, but did on other more common grounds.
In Saudi Arabia a man divorced his wife immediately after their wedding ceremony because his new wife’s (and soon to be former wife) brother took a photograph of the couple together. No entirely sure why he had an objection to this.
A Saudi Arabian woman filed for divorce after her new husband left her at an airport because she’d been on the toilet for too long. The couple were returning from their honeymoon in Malaysia when he returned home from Kuala Lumpur airport because she had been in the bathroom for too long. I’m not sure how long constitutes too long and an acceptable reason to leave without her.
STRANGE DIVORCE CUSTOMS
To get divorced Eskimos simply have to stop living together and they are no longer married. Now that’s a lot simpler than our way.
Divorce can be difficult for Aboriginal women in Australia. She must convince her husband to agree and divorce her. There is one more simple way out though - marry someone else. They are able to do this even when already married. This will simply dissolve the existing marriage.
Divorce was very much a family thing in ancient Chinese times. It was usual for women to leave their families (and no longer have contact with them) when they married and become part of their new husband’s families. If women wanted to divorce they could only do so if their family would agree to take them back. If he wanted to divorce though, a man needed his family to disapprove the behaviour of his wife. However it was simpler if he was divorcing on the grounds of adultery.
In ancient times in Turkey men had to agree to provide coffee for their wives. If they failed to she could divorce him.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Family Law in Partnership are a Family Law Solicitors who offer clients an ethical approach to their divorce or separation.
STRANGE DIVORCE STORIES
We’ve all heard of couples splitting their assets after a divorce. But most don’t split them quite as literally as a couple in Cambodia in 2008. With some of his family and friends, the husband, who suspected his wife had been cheating on him, sawed their house in half.
A woman filed for divorce because her husband was eating too much. She claimed that by doing so he was committing a crime, and she didn’t want to be his accomplice.
A man filed for divorce claiming he was allergic to his wife’s sweat. When tests were performed it proved to be untrue.
In Long Island in the United States, a man filed for divorce claiming his wife had threatened him with a Samurai sword. Bizarrely the court did not deem this serious enough to grant the divorce for this reason, but did on other more common grounds.
In Saudi Arabia a man divorced his wife immediately after their wedding ceremony because his new wife’s (and soon to be former wife) brother took a photograph of the couple together. No entirely sure why he had an objection to this.
A Saudi Arabian woman filed for divorce after her new husband left her at an airport because she’d been on the toilet for too long. The couple were returning from their honeymoon in Malaysia when he returned home from Kuala Lumpur airport because she had been in the bathroom for too long. I’m not sure how long constitutes too long and an acceptable reason to leave without her.
STRANGE DIVORCE CUSTOMS
To get divorced Eskimos simply have to stop living together and they are no longer married. Now that’s a lot simpler than our way.
Divorce can be difficult for Aboriginal women in Australia. She must convince her husband to agree and divorce her. There is one more simple way out though - marry someone else. They are able to do this even when already married. This will simply dissolve the existing marriage.
Divorce was very much a family thing in ancient Chinese times. It was usual for women to leave their families (and no longer have contact with them) when they married and become part of their new husband’s families. If women wanted to divorce they could only do so if their family would agree to take them back. If he wanted to divorce though, a man needed his family to disapprove the behaviour of his wife. However it was simpler if he was divorcing on the grounds of adultery.
In ancient times in Turkey men had to agree to provide coffee for their wives. If they failed to she could divorce him.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Family Law in Partnership are a Family Law Solicitors who offer clients an ethical approach to their divorce or separation.
The Effects of the Recession on the Steel Industry
The global recession over the last couple of years has had an effect on many, and the steel industry is no different. It has become less in demand as the recession has hit. The problem the steel industry has in such times is that the knock-on effect of the troubles of other industries often means a reduction in steel production. So many products use steel in some form so the knock-on effect can be massive.
A good example is the automotive industry. Steel is an essential material in all cars the demand for new cars has fallen during the current financial woes. There is hardly an automotive manufacturer whose production hasn’t lowered since the recession hit. As far as the steel industry is concerned it is simple; less cars being made means less steel is required. Cars are not cheap, so buying a new one ceases to be a priority for many during a time of economic uncertainty. In the UK the new car market has been helped somewhat by the scrappage scheme, whereby consumers are offered £2,000 off a new car if they trade in a car that is more than ten years old.
Steel itself is not a consumer product, but it is used in so many other products so any item that is produced less than previously leads to less steel production. In terms of production many manufacturers across all industries are being cautious. They are not producing as much as they normally would in fear of not being able to sell as much. Many are waiting for confirmed orders before purchasing raw materials. And with steel being an important material in so many products it obviously has an impact.
The positive of steel is that it is always needed. With it playing a role in so many products it will always be in some demand. But this can also be its problem. As it is used in almost everything whenever production is reduced, for any product and for any reason, it will have an impact on the steel industry. In a recession so many industries are affected all at the same time so its impact on steel can really be significant. It is not just consumer products that use steel but state construction in things like roads, bridges, schools and hospitals. Reductions or increases in the number of new homes also significant.
At its low point steel production in the United States went down to its lowest point since 1980’s and the so called Rust Belt years. This was a time when American steel was of poor quality compared with other countries so much steel was imported, therefore reducing the demand for American-made steel. American steel improved thereafter and steel manufacturing increased again. The current problems are for completely different reasons and not just confined to the United States. Production began to fall in August 2008 and by the end of that year had dropped to about half of the previous production. Four or five months on and production began to slowly increase again. It is still not at its previous level but is back on the increase as the world slowly comes out of recession.
As part of their stimulus to relieve the effects of the recession the U.S. government has put around $115 billion aside for improvements in infrastructure. The purpose of this is to create and protect jobs across a variety of industries. Because of its role in so much production the steel industry is amongst those who will reap the benefits.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Longulf - Steel Suppliers - Longulf Trading is a London based international trading company catering to distinct and diverse procurement needs of a number of industries across the globe, including steel, paper, chemicals, and food raw materials.
A good example is the automotive industry. Steel is an essential material in all cars the demand for new cars has fallen during the current financial woes. There is hardly an automotive manufacturer whose production hasn’t lowered since the recession hit. As far as the steel industry is concerned it is simple; less cars being made means less steel is required. Cars are not cheap, so buying a new one ceases to be a priority for many during a time of economic uncertainty. In the UK the new car market has been helped somewhat by the scrappage scheme, whereby consumers are offered £2,000 off a new car if they trade in a car that is more than ten years old.
Steel itself is not a consumer product, but it is used in so many other products so any item that is produced less than previously leads to less steel production. In terms of production many manufacturers across all industries are being cautious. They are not producing as much as they normally would in fear of not being able to sell as much. Many are waiting for confirmed orders before purchasing raw materials. And with steel being an important material in so many products it obviously has an impact.
The positive of steel is that it is always needed. With it playing a role in so many products it will always be in some demand. But this can also be its problem. As it is used in almost everything whenever production is reduced, for any product and for any reason, it will have an impact on the steel industry. In a recession so many industries are affected all at the same time so its impact on steel can really be significant. It is not just consumer products that use steel but state construction in things like roads, bridges, schools and hospitals. Reductions or increases in the number of new homes also significant.
At its low point steel production in the United States went down to its lowest point since 1980’s and the so called Rust Belt years. This was a time when American steel was of poor quality compared with other countries so much steel was imported, therefore reducing the demand for American-made steel. American steel improved thereafter and steel manufacturing increased again. The current problems are for completely different reasons and not just confined to the United States. Production began to fall in August 2008 and by the end of that year had dropped to about half of the previous production. Four or five months on and production began to slowly increase again. It is still not at its previous level but is back on the increase as the world slowly comes out of recession.
As part of their stimulus to relieve the effects of the recession the U.S. government has put around $115 billion aside for improvements in infrastructure. The purpose of this is to create and protect jobs across a variety of industries. Because of its role in so much production the steel industry is amongst those who will reap the benefits.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Longulf - Steel Suppliers - Longulf Trading is a London based international trading company catering to distinct and diverse procurement needs of a number of industries across the globe, including steel, paper, chemicals, and food raw materials.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
A Brief History of Kuwait
Kuwait is a sovereign Arab Emirate state situated in the northeast of the Arabian Peninsula in West Asia. The country, which borders Saudi Arabia and Iraq, has a long and interesting history.
The first known settlers in the area were the Greeks who settled on Failaka, an island just off Kuwait, around two and a half thousand years ago. The first time permanent Arab settlers are thought to have come to the area was in the 17th century, when the Bani Utbah people came to the area. Over the century that followed the area became a centre of trade and commerce with a major port developing between India and Mesopotamia. This lead to the development of one of the largest sea fleets in the Persian Gulf. Industries flourished, with the pearl industry a particular success.
In 1756 Sabah I Jaber was elected as the first Amir of Kuwait. The only time since there has not been an Amir was during Iraq’s occupation of Kuwait in 1990. In the early 1800’s Kuwait became part of the Turkish Empire, and the Turk’s took over much of the countries trading. This was a blow to the development of Kuwait. It once again changed ownership in 1899 when they entered into an agreement with the United Kingdom. Under the treaty the UK gained control over Kuwaiti foreign policy, and in exchange Kuwait was guaranteed protection and an annual subsidy. Britain broke the treaty, though, after the First World War, when they declared Kuwait a full member of the British Empire.
Eventually Kuwait gained full independence, but not until 1961. Since this time oil has become a major industry. The country owns vast oil reserves which has accounted for a large proportion of their GDP over the last fifty years.
The next major events in Kuwait’s history came in the 1980’s. The country helped to fund neighbouring Iraq’s war with Iran. The implications of this were vast. They suffered some attacks from Iran, but it became far more serious than this with Iraq themselves the culprits. Iraq requested that Kuwait write off the debt they had with them after the Iraq-Iran war. This request was refused though, and subsequently resulted in an invasion. Iraq invaded in 1990 and the Amir was replaced by a Kuwaiti Governor installed by Iraqi president Saddam Hussein. During the invasion 1,000 Kuwaiti civilians were killed. Kuwait was liberated by a United States led military invention as the Iraqi’s were driven out. During the events of 1990 much of the country was damaged, including many of its oil reserves. The country was forced to rebuild but is now largely recovered, as is its oil industry. There has been much political and social unrest in the surrounding countries (in particular relating to the US-UK war in Iraq) but Kuwait has been largely unaffected.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Masahati provide Kuwait Real Estate throughout the country.
The first known settlers in the area were the Greeks who settled on Failaka, an island just off Kuwait, around two and a half thousand years ago. The first time permanent Arab settlers are thought to have come to the area was in the 17th century, when the Bani Utbah people came to the area. Over the century that followed the area became a centre of trade and commerce with a major port developing between India and Mesopotamia. This lead to the development of one of the largest sea fleets in the Persian Gulf. Industries flourished, with the pearl industry a particular success.
In 1756 Sabah I Jaber was elected as the first Amir of Kuwait. The only time since there has not been an Amir was during Iraq’s occupation of Kuwait in 1990. In the early 1800’s Kuwait became part of the Turkish Empire, and the Turk’s took over much of the countries trading. This was a blow to the development of Kuwait. It once again changed ownership in 1899 when they entered into an agreement with the United Kingdom. Under the treaty the UK gained control over Kuwaiti foreign policy, and in exchange Kuwait was guaranteed protection and an annual subsidy. Britain broke the treaty, though, after the First World War, when they declared Kuwait a full member of the British Empire.
Eventually Kuwait gained full independence, but not until 1961. Since this time oil has become a major industry. The country owns vast oil reserves which has accounted for a large proportion of their GDP over the last fifty years.
The next major events in Kuwait’s history came in the 1980’s. The country helped to fund neighbouring Iraq’s war with Iran. The implications of this were vast. They suffered some attacks from Iran, but it became far more serious than this with Iraq themselves the culprits. Iraq requested that Kuwait write off the debt they had with them after the Iraq-Iran war. This request was refused though, and subsequently resulted in an invasion. Iraq invaded in 1990 and the Amir was replaced by a Kuwaiti Governor installed by Iraqi president Saddam Hussein. During the invasion 1,000 Kuwaiti civilians were killed. Kuwait was liberated by a United States led military invention as the Iraqi’s were driven out. During the events of 1990 much of the country was damaged, including many of its oil reserves. The country was forced to rebuild but is now largely recovered, as is its oil industry. There has been much political and social unrest in the surrounding countries (in particular relating to the US-UK war in Iraq) but Kuwait has been largely unaffected.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Masahati provide Kuwait Real Estate throughout the country.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Health & Safety at Work
Health and Safety laws state that employees have the right to work in a safe environment. This makes health and safety an important consideration for anyone who owns or runs a business. Employers must make sure that their employee’s safety is paramount during their time at work, or while undertaking tasks related to the job. The specific health and safety requirements on behalf of employees’ depends on the type of job. There are obvious dangers in certain sectors, such as builders and the police. The rules depend on the line of work. Whatever the line of work relevant safety equipment must be provided and maintained.
Employers can be held responsible if they do not provide a safe working environment. There have been an increasing number of cases in recent years of employees taking legal action against employers when they have been injured as a result of a work related accident. Due to this employers are being more cautious than even when it comes to health and safety throughout their workplace.
Some industries are very heavily regulated with others less so. The catering industry is a good example, with regular health inspections carried out at cafes and restaurants by inspectors to insure the health and safety of both staff and customers. Health and safety covers a large array of areas. This includes physical safety, so injuries are avoided wherever possible, but also mental health, especially in industries such as the police and armed forces where their experiences can lead to psychological problems. Computer safety is another factor that needs to be considered in the relevant working environments.
Below are some examples of how health and safety can play a role in different industries.
Fire Fighters
There are obvious dangers in the fire service. Of course some of these are inevitable and unavoidable, but there are many things that can be done to protect Fire Fighters. The best available equipment is used so they can cope with difficult fire conditions. These include protective clothing and breathing apparatus.
The Police
Just like with Fire Fighters, there are always potential dangers for the police force. They can have contact with potentially dangerous people so must be protected as much as possible. In certain circumstances they could encounter criminals with firearms so must be given bullet proof vests to minimise the danger.
General Offices
Although an office may seem like a safe working environment, there are still possible health and safety issues. If using computers repetitive strain injury (RSI) and eyesight problems are possible. It is therefore important that employees take regular breaks from using a computer. Electrical safety is also a potential problem, so PAT Testing should be carried out on computer equipment, as well as other electrical appliances.
Kitchens
Food safety is paramount in eateries, although this is likely to affect customers more than employees; although employees may also eat food prepared on the premises. Kitchens tend to be a fast working environment with quick decisions and actions have to be made. It is therefore important employees are careful as there is the potential for slipping on spills for example.
Supermarkets
Spillages are again a potential safety concern. Items falling off shelves are also a possibility, which could result in broken glass. Supermarkets can be extremely busy which makes health and safety even more important.
Factories
Machinery in factories has the potential to be deadly. There must be emergency stops buttons on machinery in case of an urgent situation. There are rules regarding jewellery, long hair and loose clothing to prevent things getting caught in machinery.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Employers can be held responsible if they do not provide a safe working environment. There have been an increasing number of cases in recent years of employees taking legal action against employers when they have been injured as a result of a work related accident. Due to this employers are being more cautious than even when it comes to health and safety throughout their workplace.
Some industries are very heavily regulated with others less so. The catering industry is a good example, with regular health inspections carried out at cafes and restaurants by inspectors to insure the health and safety of both staff and customers. Health and safety covers a large array of areas. This includes physical safety, so injuries are avoided wherever possible, but also mental health, especially in industries such as the police and armed forces where their experiences can lead to psychological problems. Computer safety is another factor that needs to be considered in the relevant working environments.
Below are some examples of how health and safety can play a role in different industries.
Fire Fighters
There are obvious dangers in the fire service. Of course some of these are inevitable and unavoidable, but there are many things that can be done to protect Fire Fighters. The best available equipment is used so they can cope with difficult fire conditions. These include protective clothing and breathing apparatus.
The Police
Just like with Fire Fighters, there are always potential dangers for the police force. They can have contact with potentially dangerous people so must be protected as much as possible. In certain circumstances they could encounter criminals with firearms so must be given bullet proof vests to minimise the danger.
General Offices
Although an office may seem like a safe working environment, there are still possible health and safety issues. If using computers repetitive strain injury (RSI) and eyesight problems are possible. It is therefore important that employees take regular breaks from using a computer. Electrical safety is also a potential problem, so PAT Testing should be carried out on computer equipment, as well as other electrical appliances.
Kitchens
Food safety is paramount in eateries, although this is likely to affect customers more than employees; although employees may also eat food prepared on the premises. Kitchens tend to be a fast working environment with quick decisions and actions have to be made. It is therefore important employees are careful as there is the potential for slipping on spills for example.
Supermarkets
Spillages are again a potential safety concern. Items falling off shelves are also a possibility, which could result in broken glass. Supermarkets can be extremely busy which makes health and safety even more important.
Factories
Machinery in factories has the potential to be deadly. There must be emergency stops buttons on machinery in case of an urgent situation. There are rules regarding jewellery, long hair and loose clothing to prevent things getting caught in machinery.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Friday, June 4, 2010
Reasons for Choosing VoIP
There are many good reasons to switch from a landline telephone service to VoIP, both for businesses and individuals.
The most obvious reasons that businesses switch to VoIP is that it is usually more cost efficient than regular telephones. For many (depending on specific requirements) a VoIP system can do the necessary job just as well as a telephone system but for less.
There was a time when VoIP services were far inferior to telephone services, especially for business purposes. The voice quality was poor, and no self respecting business can expect to be taken seriously if their customers and business partners are unable to hear them on the other end of the line. It was also necessary to talk through computers using a microphone and headset, which isn’t always convenient. Another problem was the lack of features so it was only possible to one person to call another, with no intercom system and each individual would have been on a different line.
These constraints are largely in the past though. The voice clarity is far superior now, and with the best VoIP providers unnoticeable when compared with a telephone service. This is the major improvement in VoIP over recent years. Another advance are VoIP phones and VoIP adapters, meaning users don’t have to talk through a computer, but can instead communicate as though they are using a phone. A VoIP phone is just as it sounds; a phone like device for communicating through VoIP. A VoIP adapter meanwhile, allows users to use their existing telephones for the use of VoIP.
There are a vast number of features now available. Many users can be using the same system while all being on the same number. This allows for call forwarding as well as other benefits. Video conferencing is possible so many people, all in different geographical locations can converse together. Answer phone systems and other services are also available; all meaning there is an integrated system that can be utilised for business purposes.
An advantage VoIP has over telephone services is that computers can be used to pick up calls from. This means that if someone is out of the office and there is a call for them, it can be diverted to their laptop and they can still receive the call. This is not possible with a phone system so the caller would have to call back at another time. In the long run this saves time.
VoIP can also be effectively utilised for individual use at home. With some providers it is even possible to call for free if calling from one computer to another. Very significant savings can be made when calling abroad; something extremely useful to those with family and friends living in other countries. Video calling is also possible so users can see each other using web cams. As with Business VoIP, VoIP adapters and VoIP phones are available for home use.
There are many reasons why many are choosing to switch to VoIP. The voice quality and general quality of the service is much improved compared to the past, and it is often a cheaper alternative to a regular phone service.
Andrew Marshall (c)
The most obvious reasons that businesses switch to VoIP is that it is usually more cost efficient than regular telephones. For many (depending on specific requirements) a VoIP system can do the necessary job just as well as a telephone system but for less.
There was a time when VoIP services were far inferior to telephone services, especially for business purposes. The voice quality was poor, and no self respecting business can expect to be taken seriously if their customers and business partners are unable to hear them on the other end of the line. It was also necessary to talk through computers using a microphone and headset, which isn’t always convenient. Another problem was the lack of features so it was only possible to one person to call another, with no intercom system and each individual would have been on a different line.
These constraints are largely in the past though. The voice clarity is far superior now, and with the best VoIP providers unnoticeable when compared with a telephone service. This is the major improvement in VoIP over recent years. Another advance are VoIP phones and VoIP adapters, meaning users don’t have to talk through a computer, but can instead communicate as though they are using a phone. A VoIP phone is just as it sounds; a phone like device for communicating through VoIP. A VoIP adapter meanwhile, allows users to use their existing telephones for the use of VoIP.
There are a vast number of features now available. Many users can be using the same system while all being on the same number. This allows for call forwarding as well as other benefits. Video conferencing is possible so many people, all in different geographical locations can converse together. Answer phone systems and other services are also available; all meaning there is an integrated system that can be utilised for business purposes.
An advantage VoIP has over telephone services is that computers can be used to pick up calls from. This means that if someone is out of the office and there is a call for them, it can be diverted to their laptop and they can still receive the call. This is not possible with a phone system so the caller would have to call back at another time. In the long run this saves time.
VoIP can also be effectively utilised for individual use at home. With some providers it is even possible to call for free if calling from one computer to another. Very significant savings can be made when calling abroad; something extremely useful to those with family and friends living in other countries. Video calling is also possible so users can see each other using web cams. As with Business VoIP, VoIP adapters and VoIP phones are available for home use.
There are many reasons why many are choosing to switch to VoIP. The voice quality and general quality of the service is much improved compared to the past, and it is often a cheaper alternative to a regular phone service.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Thursday, June 3, 2010
The History of Bespoke Tailoring
Bespoke tailoring goes all the way back to the 1300’s. The term bespoke originally came from the world renowned Savile Row in London, seen by many as the home of Men’s Bespoke Tailors. Bespoke means a product has been made specifically to a customer’s requirements and came from the statement originally used for men’s suits in Savile Row that a suit had ‘been spoken’ for. In other words, it is for a particular customer. The term is now used for a whole variety of products and not just within the fashion industry. The term tailoring originally meant the specific sewing and pressing techniques that were used for hand-made clothing, although this is now also used wider afield.
Clothing was originally simply a way of covering the body, both from other people’s eyes and from the weather conditions. It has over the centuries become a multi billion pound industry though. Hundreds of years ago people would make their own clothes and they were purely used for practical reasons. This gradually developed into the industry it is today. Some realised that they could earn from tailoring, by doing the job for others so they wouldn’t have to do it themselves. They would then get paid for this, either in currency or by receiving goods or services in return. This was way before the times of machinery so it was all done by hand. Many quality tailors began to appear as less and less people would make their own clothes – these days making your own clothes is extremely rare.
What started off as a practical solution has become a major fashion over time. First of all having tailored clothes for fashion purposes was exclusively for the higher classes. Gradually the fashions became more stylistic and in the 16th century highly decorative clothing with intricate pattern was the sought after trend. In the following century it became more practical again. There were still certain fashions but practicality became the prime focus. In stark contrast with the 16th century, by the early part of the 1800’s very sober colours and pattern were the norm. By the middle part of the 19th century top hats, umbrellas and frock coats became the fashion.
Now large clothing chains have largely taken over the clothing scene. There are therefore not as many specialist tailors as there once were. Due to the mass production the large chains are able to achieve the price of clothing has come down, but because of the lack of specialist tailors, the price of bespoke clothing has actually risen, meaning it is once again more suitable for the wealthy.
Despite the demise in the number of bespoke tailors, there is still a place for them. Although people will generally find clothes to fit in shops by finding the nearest size to them, bespoke clothing is made to fit the exact body shape of the customer. They last longer and are made from better quality materials. They are more expensive but few would deny the quality a hand-made bespoke suit, for example, can provide.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Clothing was originally simply a way of covering the body, both from other people’s eyes and from the weather conditions. It has over the centuries become a multi billion pound industry though. Hundreds of years ago people would make their own clothes and they were purely used for practical reasons. This gradually developed into the industry it is today. Some realised that they could earn from tailoring, by doing the job for others so they wouldn’t have to do it themselves. They would then get paid for this, either in currency or by receiving goods or services in return. This was way before the times of machinery so it was all done by hand. Many quality tailors began to appear as less and less people would make their own clothes – these days making your own clothes is extremely rare.
What started off as a practical solution has become a major fashion over time. First of all having tailored clothes for fashion purposes was exclusively for the higher classes. Gradually the fashions became more stylistic and in the 16th century highly decorative clothing with intricate pattern was the sought after trend. In the following century it became more practical again. There were still certain fashions but practicality became the prime focus. In stark contrast with the 16th century, by the early part of the 1800’s very sober colours and pattern were the norm. By the middle part of the 19th century top hats, umbrellas and frock coats became the fashion.
Now large clothing chains have largely taken over the clothing scene. There are therefore not as many specialist tailors as there once were. Due to the mass production the large chains are able to achieve the price of clothing has come down, but because of the lack of specialist tailors, the price of bespoke clothing has actually risen, meaning it is once again more suitable for the wealthy.
Despite the demise in the number of bespoke tailors, there is still a place for them. Although people will generally find clothes to fit in shops by finding the nearest size to them, bespoke clothing is made to fit the exact body shape of the customer. They last longer and are made from better quality materials. They are more expensive but few would deny the quality a hand-made bespoke suit, for example, can provide.
Andrew Marshall (c)
An Introduction to Ethernet and LAN and WAN Networks
Ethernet and LAN
Ethernet is a computer networking technology that typically connects LAN networks. LAN stands for Local Area Network, and refers to any computer network that involves more than one computer.
Examples of LAN Networks
An office where all the computers are connected to one another is a LAN network. Computers can all share hard drive’s allowing all users to gain access to the same files. They can also all be connected to the same scanners and printers meaning individual ones are not required for each individual. In the case of offices LAN networks can be extremely cost affective. Schools, colleges and universities also regularly use LAN’s for many of the same reasons. It means each individual work station can be used by anyone with access rights, therefore meaning that one computer per student is not necessary as they will not all be using them at the same time. Other institutions such as airports also make use of Local Area Networks. In this case it means the same information can be accessed from any computer, for example from all check-in desks.
Introduction to Ethernet
LAN networks are usually connected using Ethernet cables. Ethernet is a system of cables used to connect networks. It was invested by Bob Metcalfe and has been around since 1973 in one form or another. It is by far the most widely used standard used to connect LAN networks. There are other alternatives but Ethernet is the clear leader in terms of popularity.
Ethernet Cards
We are now in the times of the wireless network, meaning that in many cases large numbers of cables are not necessary. LAN connections and internet connection can often be achieved using wireless systems now. This means it is possible to gain access to the network anywhere within a certain area, depending on the reach of the wireless network. This means users can be more mobile and don’t have to be sitting at their desk in the same place all of the time with a cable plugged in. In the case of internet access this means users can move around the office or their home (or even garden) while still gaining access to it. For wireless networks, Ethernet cards are often used. These essentially do the same job as an Ethernet cable but without the necessity or the constraints of the cables.
WAN Networks
WAN stands for Wide Area Networks, which are networks that stretch over a much wider area than LAN’s, sometimes connecting systems throughout the world. The internet is an example of a WAN. The Ethernet standard is now also used for WAN’s in much the same way as for LAN’s. Airline systems that are used in airports around the world are a good example of a Wide Area Network.
Fast Ethernet
Fast Ethernet is simply a faster version of regular Ethernet. Whereas regular Ethernet carries traffic at a rate of 10Mbit/s, Fast Ethernet carries traffic ten times faster at 100Mbit/s.
Andrew Marshall (c)
Ethernet is a computer networking technology that typically connects LAN networks. LAN stands for Local Area Network, and refers to any computer network that involves more than one computer.
Examples of LAN Networks
An office where all the computers are connected to one another is a LAN network. Computers can all share hard drive’s allowing all users to gain access to the same files. They can also all be connected to the same scanners and printers meaning individual ones are not required for each individual. In the case of offices LAN networks can be extremely cost affective. Schools, colleges and universities also regularly use LAN’s for many of the same reasons. It means each individual work station can be used by anyone with access rights, therefore meaning that one computer per student is not necessary as they will not all be using them at the same time. Other institutions such as airports also make use of Local Area Networks. In this case it means the same information can be accessed from any computer, for example from all check-in desks.
Introduction to Ethernet
LAN networks are usually connected using Ethernet cables. Ethernet is a system of cables used to connect networks. It was invested by Bob Metcalfe and has been around since 1973 in one form or another. It is by far the most widely used standard used to connect LAN networks. There are other alternatives but Ethernet is the clear leader in terms of popularity.
Ethernet Cards
We are now in the times of the wireless network, meaning that in many cases large numbers of cables are not necessary. LAN connections and internet connection can often be achieved using wireless systems now. This means it is possible to gain access to the network anywhere within a certain area, depending on the reach of the wireless network. This means users can be more mobile and don’t have to be sitting at their desk in the same place all of the time with a cable plugged in. In the case of internet access this means users can move around the office or their home (or even garden) while still gaining access to it. For wireless networks, Ethernet cards are often used. These essentially do the same job as an Ethernet cable but without the necessity or the constraints of the cables.
WAN Networks
WAN stands for Wide Area Networks, which are networks that stretch over a much wider area than LAN’s, sometimes connecting systems throughout the world. The internet is an example of a WAN. The Ethernet standard is now also used for WAN’s in much the same way as for LAN’s. Airline systems that are used in airports around the world are a good example of a Wide Area Network.
Fast Ethernet
Fast Ethernet is simply a faster version of regular Ethernet. Whereas regular Ethernet carries traffic at a rate of 10Mbit/s, Fast Ethernet carries traffic ten times faster at 100Mbit/s.
Andrew Marshall (c)
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