Business Startups – The Atlantic Bridge http://theatlanticbridge.com Tue, 13 Nov 2018 04:41:03 +0000 en-US hourly 1 3 Ways You Can Improve the Important Areas of Your Business http://theatlanticbridge.com/3-ways-you-can-improve-the-important-areas-of-your-business/ Tue, 13 Nov 2018 04:39:39 +0000 http://theatlanticbridge.com/?p=2329 The success of a business heavily depends on how you run its core areas. This is why, as a decision maker, you need to make sure that you are implementing […]

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The success of a business heavily depends on how you run its core areas. This is why, as a decision maker, you need to make sure that you are implementing the right process, hiring the right people, and reducing the risks your business may face. To do all that successfully, it is best that you invest in the constant improvement of the core areas of your business.

If you are a startup owner or you just forget how your business works specifically, here is a refresher course. Here are the three core areas your business should always focus on.

Area #1: Operations

The production side of your business should always be improved, as this is where products or services come from. This is where you should always try new technologies and methodologies to make your operations smoother and more efficient. If your business is efficient, you have fewer overheads, which is a good sign for your brand.

Area #2: Client Servicing

Your clients, on the other hand, are the source of your income. As such, you need to take care of them properly — probe into their needs and relay those details to your operations department so they can address them. Managing relationships with a client is an art, so you need to invest in training. You may want your team to get key account management courses for this one.

Area #3: Finance

The cash flow of the company is like the bloodstream, as it needs to continuously flow. Otherwise, the business will cease to exist. You always have to look into the financial health of the business, as it will help you know where your company stands and determine what its future will be.

These are just the three core areas of your business you need to focus on. If you are planning to implement a program, you should consult your partners first for transparency’s sake.

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3 Tips for Picking a Location for Your Business http://theatlanticbridge.com/3-tips-for-picking-a-location-for-your-business/ Fri, 09 Nov 2018 01:00:00 +0000 http://theatlanticbridge.com/?p=2302 There are many considerations to keep in mind when choosing a location for your business. This is not something that many business owners keep in mind, and they settle for […]

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There are many considerations to keep in mind when choosing a location for your business. This is not something that many business owners keep in mind, and they settle for locations that are affordable yet not visible.

Visibility is the purpose of the location. If you are not seen or noticed, how will you be able to get customers? This is something that you should always consider, especially if you are planning to start a restaurant, such as a subs franchise.

Nevertheless, here are some of the things to keep in mind when picking a location for your business:

1. Look at the Demographics

Your location should be targeting the right people. While your business may be leasing a visible area with a high traffic, it will never be a hit if the people living there or passing by are not attracted to your products. Put this in perspective; you will not want to place a hole in the wall restaurant in an upscale area where the competition includes high-end restaurants, will you?

2. Mind the Competition

Speaking of the competition, it is not always wise to battle your competitors head-on. You are just starting, and you are likely to fail if you do not have a proper plan. But if you are willing to risk a lot, then go for it—just make sure that you have a foolproof strategy.

3. Ask your Franchisor

If you are franchising a business, it would be wise to seek the advice of your franchisor. In many cases, the franchisor has a say on the location of the business. They may even have a connection that will help you in negotiating the rental or leasing price.

These are just some of the things to keep in mind if you are planning to pick a location for your business. Pick the place where your business will shine.

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Four Signs that You Need a New Furnace http://theatlanticbridge.com/four-signs-that-you-need-a-new-furnace/ Tue, 30 Oct 2018 20:27:08 +0000 http://theatlanticbridge.com/?p=2264 Winter is fast approaching, and the unbearably cold nights and days are about to set in. The days are getting shorter, and the weatherman is predicting a colder-than-usual winter. It […]

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Winter is fast approaching, and the unbearably cold nights and days are about to set in. The days are getting shorter, and the weatherman is predicting a colder-than-usual winter. It is the ideal time to ensure that your furnace is in great shape. Otherwise, it may not get you through winter. Here is how to know if you require a new heater:

1. Your Energy Bills Are Unbelievably High

Considering that the furnace is one of the electronic devices that require a lot of energy in the house, its consumption affects your energy bills considerably. Therefore, when the household energy consumption skyrockets, the furnace is likely to be the culprit. There is a chance that it requires some few repairs, and it can be that you need to change it. For both repairs and replacement, consider hiring reputable HVAC contractors in Knoxville, TN.

2. There Is Too Much Dust in the House

If you have been doing your best to contain the dust in your house but cannot seem to make any significant stride, it is possible that your furnace is letting you down. The heater should remove airborne particles from the warm air. Start by inspecting the furnace filters and clean them. If the issue persists, consider replacing the furnace.

3. You Hear Strange Noises

A furnace that makes odd noises requires repair or replacement. If you have had the heater for more than 15 years, replacement is the best option. Older furnaces usually make banging, squealing, popping, and rattling sounds. The noises are an indication of a faulty system.

4. The Rooms in Your House Have Varying Temperatures

One sign of an inefficient furnace is some rooms being warmer or colder than others. The probable cause is a duct system incapable of distributing heat evenly in the house. As such, your furnace may require replacing.

Even after you notice these signs, there is only so much that you can do. Therefore, when it is time for an upgrade, contact HVAC experts to fix or replace the furnace. The benefits of restoring an old heater are immense, from energy efficiency to warm winters.

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Could AI Be a Game-Changer for Construction Safety in Australia? http://theatlanticbridge.com/could-ai-be-a-game-changer-for-construction-safety-in-australia/ Wed, 24 Oct 2018 14:43:00 +0000 http://theatlanticbridge.com/?p=2240 A camera installed with artificial intelligence could be the game-changer for safety improvement in Australia’s construction industry. The technology could be beneficial at a time when the value of construction […]

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A camera installed with artificial intelligence could be the game-changer for safety improvement in Australia’s construction industry. The technology could be beneficial at a time when the value of construction projects are on the rise. In September, data from CoreLogic showed that the value of commercial work in the country amounted to $32 billion, up by a staggering 500 per cent from August.

RediPlant shares some information about this innovative construction technology.

The Value of Safety

The new AI-backed camera works by alerting machine operators about potential safety hazards in their immediate surroundings. The device could also warn people if objects within their vicinity are also prone to damages, which could eventually compromise safety.

Otherwise known as the Toolbox Spotter, the AI machine uses deep learning to analyse workplace risks and see whether they are man-made. After it recognises a threat, it sends a notification that could be received based on the user’s preferences. The camera would be particularly useful in excavation sites where there are plenty of blind spots for people and machines.

Commercial Work

Earthmoving plant for hire and other rental equipment would likely be more in demand as a result of the recent increase in commercial project values. Contractors should consider leasing equipment instead of buying new ones since the cost of buying and maintenance may be higher.

James Shang, CoreLogic's commercial research analyst, said that the increase in construction costs comes despite a weakening housing market. Based on Australian Bureau of Statistics data, Shang noted that the housing boom might be close to reaching its peak.

Safety becomes a focal point for the construction sector when there is an increase in the value of projects, as this indicates that more is at stake when accidents take place. Whether or not you use modern technology, one way to prevent such incidents is the use of durable and well-maintained equipment.

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Why a Finance Franchise Is a Unique Business Alternative http://theatlanticbridge.com/why-a-finance-franchise-is-a-unique-business-alternative/ Fri, 19 Oct 2018 13:30:36 +0000 http://theatlanticbridge.com/?p=2215 Owning a franchise is the quickest way to be a successful businessman. The idea of franchisor support alone halves the growing pains many startups experience. Mostly, people that buy a […]

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Owning a franchise is the quickest way to be a successful businessman. The idea of franchisor support alone halves the growing pains many startups experience. Mostly, people that buy a franchise choose types that are rich in customers (e.g., food franchise).

But why not explore finance franchise opportunities? It is a rare franchise type, but it is very profitable.

Types of finance franchises

There are many subfields of financial services, and each can be a type of a finance franchise. They include tax preparation, wealth management, and accounting. Two common finance franchise types are bookkeeping and controller services.

Bookkeeping is the regular recording of a business' daily transactions. Bookkeepers manage all of the company's financial data to help them in their decisions. The data recorded are also useful to external users. Investors, regulators, and financial institutions use them to aid them in their decisions as well.

Financial controller services cover all accounting and financial reporting duties of an organization. Apart from preparing reports, they do audit work and participate in drafting the budget. Comptrollers also have a part in the approval of technologies related to a company’s finance and accounting departments.

Why you should buy

A financial services franchise is an option rarely chosen by potential franchisees. One reason could be the absence of a finance or accounting background. But, this is a misconception. As an owner, you will undergo management training, not necessarily be one of the finance staff that do the dirty work.

There are many aspects of the finance franchise subsector that is yet to be explored. Think of the fact that only a few of such franchise networks exist and that there are only a few such services needed in the non-franchise world. It assures high-value work and returns.

A finance franchise is a unique proposition for those willing to learn and profit from the world of finance. Unlike other franchise types that cater to mass demand sectors, finance franchises serve the few but return-rich sectors.

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Types of Rental Property Inspections http://theatlanticbridge.com/types-of-rental-property-inspections/ Fri, 12 Oct 2018 14:39:54 +0000 http://theatlanticbridge.com/?p=2192 As a property owner, it is always prudent to hire property managers who will assess the condition of your assets regularly. Failure to do so might cause serious problems, such […]

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As a property owner, it is always prudent to hire property managers who will assess the condition of your assets regularly. Failure to do so might cause serious problems, such as being left with broken appliances, which would adversely affect the overall condition of your property. The ultimate result could be a potential decrease in its value, which could compel you to lower your rental rate.

So, what types of rental property inspection should your prospective property manager perform? Read on to find out.

Drive-by Inspections

This type of inspection is performed unannounced when the tenant least expects it. The assessor observes the exterior parts of the property and looks for any lease compliance concerns. These issues may include smoking within the property when it’s prohibited or having restricted animals in the building. If the assessor from the rental management company in Denver notices any irregularities, they will immediately inform the tenant in writing that they are violating their lease agreement, as well as schedule an interior inspection.

Move-In Inspection

This is done when a new tenant is moving in. It serves to document the condition of the house before a new lease agreement has been signed. Smartphones or cameras may be used to take records and images of every room. This way, a property manager will not forget any detail regarding the state of the property before a new tenant moves in.

Routine Inspection

This is an essential type of assessment that must be done on a regular basis to ensure that the property is well maintained and clean. During the inspection, your property manager will assess the building for any damages and maintenance issues that require immediate action. This form of examination helps the managers fix the damages before they become extensive and keeps the maintenance costs low.

Move-Out Inspection

When a tenant is moving out, your property manager will perform a final inspection to note any damages that the renter caused during their occupancy. Photographs should be taken as evidence of any changes in the property. An inspection report should be signed by both the property manager and the tenant.

Inspections are important in preserving the value of rental properties. They help keep the damages at a manageable level, which allows owners to maintain the proper condition of the entire building. These inspections also help ensure that a tenant complies with the lease agreement.

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Vaping: A Potentially Lucrative Business Venture? http://theatlanticbridge.com/vaping-a-potentially-lucrative-business-venture/ Wed, 10 Oct 2018 13:23:45 +0000 http://theatlanticbridge.com/?p=2186 There are now fewer smokers in the United States than there were many years ago. In a January 2018 press release, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention claimed that […]

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There are now fewer smokers in the United States than there were many years ago. In a January 2018 press release, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention claimed that cigarette smoking among adults decreased to 15.5 percent in 2016 from 20.9 percent in 2005. In that same period, the number of adults who have quit smoking increased from 50.8 percent in 2005 to 59 percent in 2016.

While there are a lot of reasons why people choose to quit smoking, one reason may be the steadily growing trend of vaping, which businesses advertise as a healthier, tobacco-free option to help curb smoking addiction. According to the World Health Organization, while the number of smokers worldwide has decreased to 1.1 billion in 2018 from 1.14 billion in 2000, the number of “vapers” have increased from seven million in 2011 to 35 million in 2016.

With the vaping industry growing, would it be a lucrative venture for franchisers and entrepreneurs setting up their own businesses? Based on the growth in the past few years, it may be.

The Vaping Industry

Franchisees and entrepreneurs may benefit from the increasing number of vapers. Based on data from Euromonitor International, the vaping industry is worth $22.6 billion in 2018, up from $4.2 billion in 2013. The United States dominates the industry with a market net worth of almost $13 billion, followed by Japan with $2 billion.

Business analysts say that the industry will only grow. Vapetrotter News compiled global forecasts and found that analysts predict the vaping industry will reach $43 billion up to $44.5 billion by 2023 to 2024.

Franchising a Vaping Business

According to VaporFi, the booming vape industry may see more businesses entering the market and more franchisees taking up vape franchise opportunities to get a share of the lucrative venture. While it may be an industry with a high worth, customers will want to do business with well-known brand names. Business owners may also benefit from operating under a recognized brand name.

The vaping industry may promise high profits for franchisees and entrepreneurs entering the market. However, it may be more beneficial for those new entrants to operate under a well-known brand name and study the industry with seasoned partners before they can achieve their success.

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Elements That Affect the Market Price of Cobalt http://theatlanticbridge.com/elements-that-affect-the-market-price-of-cobalt/ Tue, 09 Oct 2018 01:00:00 +0000 http://theatlanticbridge.com/?p=2165 Cobalt is among the essential metals in military and industrial applications. It is also useful in producing superalloys that make aeronautical engines. Cobalt production, however, depends on the production of […]

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Cobalt is among the essential metals in military and industrial applications. It is also useful in producing superalloys that make aeronautical engines. Cobalt production, however, depends on the production of abundant metals as it is a by-product. That makes its price relatively volatile.

Among the most significant factors that affect this fluctuation of price in the cobalt price chart include:

The Value of Dollar

The USA is the largest cobalt consumer in the world. As a result, the value of the U.S. dollar affects the price of cobalt; when the value of the U.S. dollar is high, the consumer buying power decreases. Any changes in the exchange rate can then dictate the pricing trend of cobalt.

Substitute

When there are metals that are good substitutes for cobalt, the prices lower drastically as that reduces the reliance of industries on cobalt. This further lowers its demand; therefore, driving the prices lower. The prices of cobalt reduce further when the supply of the substitute metals is high.

Economic Conditions

Like other metals, the prevailing global economic conditions affect the cost of cobalt. When the economy of the buying or manufacturing nation is steady, cobalt price increases, and vice-versa. Therefore, an ideal time to buy cobalt at low prices is when the economic conditions dip.

Geopolitical Issues

Whenever the countries that produce cobalt experience any political or economic instability, these geopolitical issues affect the mining activities in the negatively. As a result, the supply of cobalt in the market lowers and the prices increase due to the high demand from consumers.

Cobalt is among the trace metals in the world, a quality that adds to the volatility in the price range of the metal. Checking the cobalt price charts can help you identify the current and past prices of this precious metal. Traders, however, should then seek to understand the actual factors influencing its worth to plan their purchase schedules accordingly.

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Picking a Venue: 5 Considerations for a Success Business Meeting http://theatlanticbridge.com/picking-a-venue-5-considerations-for-a-success-business-meeting/ Thu, 04 Oct 2018 01:00:00 +0000 http://theatlanticbridge.com/?p=2132 The venue you choose for your business meeting is important in how effective it will turn out. The venue will affect other aspects such as travel arrangements, dress code and choice […]

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The venue you choose for your business meeting is important in how effective it will turn out. The venue will affect other aspects such as travel arrangements, dress code and choice of décor. While settling for the perfect venue can be an uphill task, considering different aspects will help you narrow down to an appropriate one. Here are factors to consider when picking meeting spaces in Boca Raton for your business.

Location

The location of your venue should consider the proximity of the attendees and accessibility through appropriate means of transport. Choose a venue that is centrally located to make it convenient. If the attendees are from within, a venue within your town will do. If you are setting up an international business meeting, consider one close to the airport.

Cost-effectiveness

Before settling on a venue, check if it meets your budgetary limit. Ideally, the cost of hiring it should be slightly below what you have apportioned the venue to cater for unexpected expenses. Be sure to check what the venue offers against what you are paying for and decide if it is worth it.

Safety

You should never overlook the venue’s security. Consider the in-house security, accessibility by unauthorized persons, and the emergency settings provided. Check out reviews from previous users to see if there have been a security issues.

Accessibility

Before booking it, check if the place is easy to access, bearing the personal profile of the attendants. Consider accessibility by road, air, and universal accessibility for the disabled depending on your guest list.

Accompanying Services

Check what other services the meeting location has to offer and see if they align with what you need. Some of the services you can check include catering, internet, décor, and audiovisual device systems.

When you consider the above, your final choice will likely be appropriate for your business and the attendees. You can then go ahead and set up other essential aspects of the meeting and be ready for a successful event.

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Vital Preparation Pointers Before Buying a Franchise http://theatlanticbridge.com/vital-preparation-pointers-before-buying-a-franchise/ Wed, 03 Oct 2018 16:53:56 +0000 http://theatlanticbridge.com/?p=2139 For those who believe putting up a business is the best way to earn, try franchising. But even if franchising may seem to an ideal option for those who want […]

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For those who believe putting up a business is the best way to earn, try franchising. But even if franchising may seem to an ideal option for those who want to start a new business, avoid jumping headlong into it. It’s better to ready yourself first with these efficient pointers.

Do Your Research

Before you get into any field of business, make it a point to study the ins and outs of that particular enterprise. Do your homework and brush up on updated information on franchising and the kind of industry you’d like to enter. To prepare yourself to take on the challenges of your chosen career path, take your search for knowledge up a notch by studying specific offers for food, printing or delivery franchise opportunities.

Assess Your Budget

As with every business venture available, it’s very important that the one you’ve set your eyes is on is well within your budget. This means, aside from the initial fees for franchising, reserve an amount for training and licensing payments as well. See that your budget will also include enough for maintenance and supplies. While you’re at it, inquire about other possible dues you need to pay to avoid getting caught off guard with hidden charges within your contract’s fine print.

Check The Track Record

It’s vital that you check a particular franchise’s track record and reputation before you commit to anything. Don’t just settle for the statistics a company has on their website or promotional materials. Look up third-party reviews to check if the said firm does deliver on what they offer franchisees. You can even confer with current franchisees to learn about their experiences with this particular company.

The prospect of having a successful franchise is enticing, but you mustmake sure that you know what you’re getting into. This involves your money and investment, after all, and a well-known brand is just part of the equation. Do the extra mile by ensuring that this venture suits you and soon you shall receive the profitable fruits of your labor.

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