Oct, 2020

What Are the Methods for Managing Logistics (Part 2)

This post is a continuation from Part 1 on What Are the Methods for Managing Logistics? Lately, we have gone through:

– Logistic transport: management of the dispatch of goods

– Several modes of logistical transport according to distance

– The additional services of logistic transport

Part 2 will now cover the following:

– Sending parcels: choose a mode of transport

– A single or grouped parcel shipment?

– Complementary services to the sending of parcels

Parcels’ sending is, together with express transport, one of the most widespread couriers’ services.

Sending parcels: choose a mode of transport

Depending on the parcel’s size, destination, and transport type according to time requirements, transportation will differ.

Here are the different modes of delivery that exist:

THE MODES OF SENDING PARCELS

Type of transport	Package size	Destination	Hourly requirements
Bike courier	Small parcel.	Urban area.	Suitable for express parcel delivery from less than 1 hour to 24 hours.
Motorcycle courier	Small parcel.	Urban area.	Suitable for express parcel delivery from less than 1 hour to 24 hours.
Car courier	Small and medium parcels.	Local, regional or national shipping.	Delivery between 1 h and 48 h.
Truck courier	Parcels and pallets.	Local, regional, national or international shipping.	Delivery between 24 h and 72 h.

A single or grouped parcel shipment?

The sending of parcels by the courier can be done in a unit or grouped way.

Sending unitary parcels: 2 formulas to choose from

Sending unit packages consists of sending one box at a time.

The courier comes to collect a single package from the sender, and according to the chosen formula, will make a delivery:

– directly to the recipient,

– will group the delivery with other deliveries to be made in the delivery area.

Grouped parcel shipment: frequent and numerous shipments

Grouped parcel shipping consists of sending several parcels at the same time.

– It is also sometimes referred to as bulk distribution.

– This is advantageous for trading companies or companies that exchange many parcels with their supplier every day.

Additional services for sending parcels

When sending a package, the couriers offer their customers other services:

– express transport: the courier undertakes to ensure that the parcel is delivered within a few hours,

– On-site pick-up and hand delivery: the package is picked up directly from the sender and handed over to the recipient in person,

– signature of the transport order upon pick-up and delivery,

– Real-time monitoring of the evolution of the delivery:

◦ on the internet,

◦ via a call center,

◦ by sending SMS, etc.;

– parcel insurance, etc.

– Express transport: shopping with a time imperative

– Conditions: geographical area covered and parcel standards

Express transport: the ideal service for urgent errands

Courier companies offer a wide range of services in the field of courier transport:

– the sending of parcels,

– express transport,

– or logistic transport.

Express transport: trips with a time imperative

Express transport is a service offered by courier companies for urgent errands.

It is carried out with a guaranteed delivery time from one point to another.

This service can be offered with several levels of speed:

– in a defined time,

– with delivery before a specific time.

Examples of this are:

– a company wants a letter to be delivered within 1 hour to an administration,

– a company wants its customer to receive his package before 9:00 am or before noon the next day.

With this service, customers know in advance the delivery times.

Please note: express transport can be offered both nationally and internationally and whatever the type of goods.

Conditions: geographical area covered and parcel standards

The acceptance of a shipment in express transport is subject to certain conditions:

– a destination served,

– packages or folds meeting the carrier’s requirements.

Destination of an express transport: covered by the network

For a courier to provide express transportation, the shipment destination must be part of its network.

– Before requesting this type of service, the sender must ensure that the courier offers the desired destination.

– Indeed, some couriers only work in defined geographical areas.

Carrier requirements: parcels that meet the standards

Carriers require standards for folds, packages, or pallets, particularly concerning:

– packaging,

– the format,

– content, etc.

Attention! Most carriers do not deliver on Saturdays.

Express transport: the advantages of a courier

Courier companies mainly offer express transportation.

This type of company offers several advantages in the handling of an urgent errand:

– the race is entrusted to the available courier closest to the pick-up area,

– the company is bound to the customer by a contract and must comply with its conditions,

– the company can take care of the administrative and customs formalities in case of shipment abroad.

If you wish to contact a provider of this kind of service, you can visit Drayage Florida Inc., and don’t forget to tell us about your experience in the section below.

Oct, 2020

How Do I Make a Wedding Table Plan?

Summary

– Wedding table plan: how to place your guests?

– Table Layout

Whether your reception takes place in a wedding hall, a restaurant, a magnificent castle or even outdoors in a wedding tent, you will have to decide on a wedding table plan.

A lot of tact and diplomacy will be required to establish a successful table plan. It is a rather difficult step, so it is advisable to organise it within two to three months before your wedding.

However, take into account that you will have last-minute cancellations or additions of guests (new conquest). In this case, it will be necessary to readjust it according to the guests present.

Wedding table plan: how to place your guests?

Originally, the table plan was designed to mix the two families to get to know each other better.

Today, this is a bit of a thing of the past, and if you want to avoid “breaking the mood” so that everyone has fun, is happy and is not bored for hours on the day of your wedding meal, we advise you to place your guests preferably by affinity.

Be aware that there is no well-defined rule of good manners on the table plan.

Placement of the bride and groom

The bride and groom are seated at the so-called “table of honour”, which is placed at the centre of the reception hall and usually welcomes relatives and witnesses.

Depending on who will be sharing the bride and groom’s table, you may want to consider guests who get along well and who you particularly like. Don’t forget that you will move from table to table to exchange with your guests.

The bride and groom may also choose a head table on a dais. They will be placed face to face or face to face with their guests.

In all cases, do as you feel, the wedding should look like you, be joyful and warm and please your entourage.

Placement of guests in general

It is, therefore, preferable to place guests by affinity, taking into account the personality of each and their ages.

This is often a real headache where it is necessary to harmonise the tables between them to avoid the blunders and odd ones which can “plummet” an evening. Tact and delicacy will therefore be ethe order of the day

It is thus strongly advised not to place at the same table:

– people who don’t get along, even if you want them to make up that day;

– the ex-fiance(e) close to the bride and groom.

You can try to create your next “love story” by placing a few singles together.

In some cultures, boyfriend and girlfriend gangs are very happy to get together, especially if they haven’t been seen for a long time. So it’s a good idea to leave them together.

Placement of single people

Yes, there are always single people who are invited to a wedding. Don’t forget them! They need to have fun and meet other people on your wedding day.

Place them according to their interests and professional background, and this will open the discussion.

Placement of parents

You have the choice between mixing the two respective families or making one table per family. It is up to you to decide, and you can also discuss it with them. Or, you can also place them with their friends.

Placement of the children

Of course, all the children should be together and if possible, have their own space. The same goes for babies.

Don’t hesitate to ask for a wedding babysitter so that all parents can enjoy the meal and the evening.

Table layout

The table plan also depends on the shape of your tables. Whether rectangular or square, tables often seat 8 or even 10 people. However, round tables are much more user-friendly. You can also opt for the traditional large U-shaped table.

Ask the wedding venue estate for advice. They will be able to help you, and this will be of great help to them because they must be able to organise their service in the best conditions.

Customise tables

To raise the atmosphere if you are numerous, do not hesitate to give a name to your tables according to the wedding theme (islands, flowers, movies, writers, animals). There is no lack of ideas to personalise your tables.

Display names of tables with the table plan at the entrance of the room so that your guests can easily find their way around. Also, install a small placeholder on each table with the name of each guest. This will save a lot of time, and the service can start with peace of mind.

Don’t forget to decorate your tables with your wedding theme and use a variety of wedding decorations: centrepieces, bouquets, balloons of all colours, chair covers, etc. To learn more about wedding table plan and how to organise other important events, you can get in touch with Summerfields Estate & Country House in Melbourne’s south eastern suburbs.

Oct, 2020

Choosing the Right Dog for Your Family

The family usually decides to have a dog in the house. However, sometimes you may walk by a pet store, fall in love with a puppy and instantly decide to take him home. Dogs can bring you many benefits. They are good companions, play companions and a source of security against intruders. It is therefore important to choose the right breed according to your preferences and needs. In general, it is recommended to choose a fido that fits your lifestyle and needs rather than adapting to the dog’s needs. Before bringing your furry companion home, it is imperative to consider the following points.

Consider the size of your family.

One of the most important considerations you need to take into account when looking for a fido is the size of your family. You need to ask yourself questions such as: how many people do you have at home? Do you have enough room for a large dog? How old are your children? Do all your children live at home? If you have younger children, you should consider getting a smaller but stronger hunting dog that will stand up to your children’s abuse. Also, you wouldn’t want a big mongrel that is stronger than your children. This can cause injury to your youngsters.

Set a good budget.

Before welcoming a stray dog into your home, it is a good idea to check your disposable income after all the bills have been paid. Ask yourself if you can afford to buy dog food in the long term. Think about how you will pay for veterinary visits. It is essential to realize that a poodle can cost as much as a child. That’s why you need to be prepared to have one, just as you do when you’re expecting a new baby. If you have a small budget, you should consider an affordable breed, such as Jack Russell. On the other hand, if you have the financial means, you can quickly opt for a premium breed such as the St. Bernard.

Look at your living space.

Your living space is a special consideration before choosing this type of animal. Some breeds need large spaces to play and run. If you live in a small apartment where space is limited, you should choose a smaller dog. A pug will do the trick because it doesn’t need a lot of space to run. In addition, the dog rarely barks, so it won’t bother your neighbors much.

Why do you need a dog?

Different people get a pug for different reasons. You may need a loyal dog for companionship, a helpful dog because of a disability, or a fleabag for safety. Therefore, the goal of getting a dog will play an important role in identifying the right breed. Labradors are fun, playful and intelligent and as a result, they make good friends. On the other hand, Dobermans and German Shepherds are aggressive breeds. They are perfect for the safety of your home.

They fit the lifestyle.

It is important to examine your lifestyle before you make a best friend. For example, if you live in an urban apartment, you should avoid having hunting dogs because you don’t have enough space for them to exercise and play. A breed such as the Border Collie is not suitable for such environments. Therefore, choose a breed that fits your lifestyle.

Consider grooming needs.

Some breeds, such as the standard poodle, require a lot of grooming. If you don’t have the time to take care of these regular tasks, consider choosing a breed that requires less grooming. In such a situation, short-tailed poodles will make an excellent choice.

Whether you’re looking for a good friend, companion or protector, you need to carefully consider your options. Getting enough information on the different breeds of dogs will greatly help you make the right decision.

Oct, 2020

Effective Debt Consolidation Techniques That Are Guaranteed to Work

Dealing with bills every month can be very much like waging a war against weeds. Every time you think that you have them under control, another one sprouts up somewhere and ruins your plans. So, what do you do when your personal finances can no longer stretch to cover all your expenses? Stop going out to eat? Give up your monthly entertainment subscription fees? Ice your credit cards?

Before taking drastic measures, ask yourself this question. Wouldn’t it be much easier if you could somehow roll up all your debt into a single fee? If so, you may want to consider what millions of consumers like yourself are doing, and looking into debt consolidation.

Debt consolidation basically involves merging multiple debts into a single loan or credit card at a significantly lower interest rate that what you would pay collectively for all your scattered loans. Another beneficial aspect of debt consolidation is that it makes dealing with your debts much more manageable, since you don’t need to keep track of several different repayment dates and making sure you have the money to cover each one.

That’s not so say that debt consolidation is a catch-all solution that will always get you out of financial trouble. It is a long process that will require some commitment from you to ensure that it works properly. Here are a few tips that will guarantee your plan to become debt-free is successful.

Make a realistic budget

For debt consolidation to work effectively, you need to have a clear plan of action. It’s not enough to simply calculate how much you can afford to set aside for repayment after deducting food expenses, contributions to a retirement or health insurance plan and maybe an emergency fund. A savvy budget will also account for infrequent expenses like car registration fees and times where expenses tend to run higher, for example around the holiday periods.

Make sure to account for leisure and fun

Working towards getting rid of your debts does not mean living like a hermit and not having fun. Most people who try this tend to feel like they deserve to be pampered after a while and end up splurging. Acting this way is counterproductive, since your ‘splurge’ ends up costing you way more than you expect or can manage. Instead, account for the things you love. If you enjoy watching VOD, get that Netflix premium subscription, but maybe give up on the Amazon Prime and Hulu Plus. If you enjoy going out for a drink every weekend, limit it to every other weekend instead.

Don’t let your plans for becoming debt free get in the way of you living your best life within your means.

Quit using your cards

A cardinal rule of consolidation is not using your credit cards as you pay off debt. Giving how ingrained credit cards are to our everyday consumer habits, people have turned to very drastic measures, including cutting up cards or freezing them in blocks of ice, to ensure that they don’t get tempted. If these ‘commitment devices’ work for you, by all means use them, but we would recommend keeping one around in case of dire emergencies. Another way to stay committed is to write down the reasons why you want to remain debt-free and how often you will make payments, then setting periodic reminders that track how well you’re doing.

Not using credit cards does not mean closing down your accounts as this can negatively impact your credit rating in the long run. Financial experts also advice making a nominal charge on your card every few months – which you should pay on time and in full – to keep the account active and your credit intact. We live in a credit-based environment, so it makes sense to ensure you have a good credit history to guarantee easier loan applications in the future.

Get support for your goal

Debt may feel like a shameful topic, but peer support is a powerful motivator and can hold people accountable. There are plenty of support groups online that can help keep you on track, or you can simply confide in trusted friends and family.

We hope this article will prove useful to your goal of ridding yourself of debt in the near future. For more in-depth advice, we recommend speaking to the financial experts over at Grange Finance Pty Ltd today.

Oct, 2020

What is Die Casting?

Summary:

1. Introduction
2. Elements of mould and the production cell 3
3. Traditional Die Casting
4. Vacuum die casting
5. Alloys for die-casting
6. Quebec foundries offering the die casting process
7. Semi-solid die casting

1. Introduction

The low melting point of aluminium allows the use of a permanent mould, made of steel, to make castings. In die-casting, an injection piston pushes the liquid aluminium into the mould cavity and then compresses the part during solidification. Typically, the liquid metal reaches up to 60 meters per second and the pressure applied can reach up to 800 m bar during solidification. To contain pressure on that part, the moulding press keeps the mould closed with a closing force that depends on the size of the cavity and pressure of the piston. The smallest presses have a 1000 kN capacity while the largest have 35000 kN (3500 T). The press force is therefore directly related to the projected surface of the moulded part.

The die-casting process occurs in 6 phases: liquid metal transfer, the injection approach phase, rapid injection, intensification, ejection and mould lubrication. Each step is optimised to maximise the production rate and minimise the number of rejected parts.

There are three variants of this process:

i. Traditional die casting
ii. Vacuum die casting (for structural applications
iii. Semi-solid die casting (not too common).

This process has a fast rate of production, which lowers production costs and allows us to approach mass markets such as the automotive industry. The rapid cooling provided by the metal mould produces an excellent metallurgical structure on the surface called the skin, which contributes to obtaining good mechanical properties. Surface finish and dimensional tolerances are flawless. On the other hand, design freedom is limited to the opening axis of the mould. The process is low in labour but high in capital and tooling costs. For large production runs of more than 10,000 parts, the die casting process offers the lowest production cost per piece among the foundry processes.

The major disadvantage of that traditional process (where no vacuum is applied in the cavity) is the presence of porosity at the centre of the die-cast parts. This is due to the air trapped during injection which causes blistering when the part is heated and do not allow standard solution heat treatments to achieve optimal mechanical properties (T6); this phenomenon also limits the use of welding or the application of certain baked paints. Fortunately, mechanical resistance is ensured by the skin of the casting, which means that many traditional die-castings are still successfully cast by this method, representing more than 50% of the aluminium castings produced. In traditional die-casting, secondary (recycled) alloys are often used, with a high proportion of alloying elements (iron and zinc) which give good mechanical strength despite an elongation of less than 3%. A type T5 heat treatment is used to increase the mechanical strength of die-cast alloys without causing blistering of the parts.

Outstanding part quality is obtained by using vacuum in the cavity to reduce the presence of trapped air and by real-time control of the casting cycle. The high-vacuum (<50 m bar) pressure process combined with the development of low iron content primary alloys (primary melting) allows maximum elongation at break. It makes heat treatment possible for parts dedicated to structural applications. These developments are motivated by the lighter weight of land vehicles, and vacuum die-casting provides the ideal solution for a high-speed casting process for structural aluminium castings. The development of this process and dedicated alloys is currently the most active in the foundry industry.

This post will continue in part 2 in our next publication. Stay posted and remember to leave your comments below.

Oct, 2020

How to Propose in 2020 (Without Screwing It Up)?

Are we to be blamed for the end of romanticism? The renegade of love stories that collapsed the box office for decades, the transformation of personal relationships, the change in the way of understanding feelings and emotions, and, most palpably, the annual decrease of weddings and celebrations speak for themselves. In 1990, the marriage rate was 9.8 weddings per 1,000 people in the US, a figure falling considerably year after year (although there was a small rise following the crisis). In 2018 it stood at just 6.5 per 1,000 people of the population.

But why kill off love when you can establish a set of rules in this new romanticism? – Rules that promote respect and equality as fundamental pillars of any human relationship and seek to rid us of archaic stereotypes and traditions that, in many cases, discriminate against the LGBTQ community! However, there are still questions about whether there is always room for certain norms (such as asking for someone’s hand) in this emerging vision.

Today, this act’s meaning has changed considerably and has become emblematic, almost the last shred of traditional romanticism. So, we can say that this kind of proposal still holds its place in this new generation, although there are certain aspects to bear in mind to make it flawless. And the most important one is that it is a genuinely voluntary, generous, and love-driven act (as corny as that may sound). For all the romantics willing to dive into the thing in 2020, here’s a little guide to propose to your significant other flawlessly!

Who Asks Who?

We’re all for that oh-so-romantic proposal moment, but listen up, when you are all ready to propose, please don’t just buy a ring and get on your knees!

Not only because romanticism cannot put an end to the female initiative, but because establishing roles about gender leaves LGBTQ couples out of the game. So, whether you are a man or a woman, and regardless of your partner’s gender, don’t wait for the other person to ask you simply because tradition dictates. Let’s get rid of stereotypes!

The Gift

Ring for them, watch for them. Traditionally, this was the default combo for the time of engagement. But in 2020, the rules are set by you and, if she does not wear rings or there is no budget to spend on a watch, you can create your tradition, providing a detail (material or not) with emotional value and symbolism for both. If we move to the extreme of romanticism, we will say that it is the ring if something is expendable in all this. There’s no better gift than getting down on bended knee and propose in front of that person and asking them to spend the rest of their life with you!

A Memorable Spot

In this new millennial romanticism, the place is much more relevant than the gift that is given to ask for the other person’s hand. That does not mean that you have to climb to the top of the Empire State Building to swear eternal love, but that the setting you choose is meaningful to both of you. The first city you traveled to together, the beach you escape to every summer, the bar where you had your first date, or, without going any further, the living room of your house. If requesting the other side of the planet is incredibly exciting for both of you, go ahead, but it is not always necessary to magnify every detail.

The More Private, the Better

The violinist putting the soundtrack to the beautiful picture in a trendy restaurant or the flash mob with all his friends and family can be exciting in a Hollywood comedy. But in real life, proposing to your partner in a public place or at a family gathering can be catastrophic. It would be best if you chose a moment of intimacy, where the other person feels comfortable and in confidence, to avoid embarrassing moments and, above all, if the answer is not as expected.

Above All: There Is Prior Consensus

If you have reached the end of this article, it is because, possibly, you plan to propose to your partner soon. Here’s our last (and most important) tip: make sure you have that conversation before you jump in the pool. We want to think that, in 2020, no one asks for marriage if there is the slightest doubt that the other person can reject the request. So, make sure you are both on the same page and share that illusion by walking down the aisle together. And long live the bride and groom!

Sep, 2020

8 Different Types of Stones to Choose From for Your Wedding Ring

More than just a wedding band, a ring represents the visible sign of a mutual commitment and marriage. This is why the ring must correspond to your liking since you’ll be wearing it every day. If you want to have a wedding ring with a design of your own, there are many more choices than just traditional diamonds. Here are some different types of stones that you may use to create a unique wedding ring if your price range allows it.

1) Amethyst

For your wedding ring to stand out, you can pick one with a purple stone. Moreover, if you like purple, this stone will be stunning on a wedding ring when well-cut. It is also very durable and less expensive than a diamond. You can choose to have the stone set with other colours for a truly distinctive look. For instance, if you fancy rose gold, amethyst is the ideal stone to set on a rose gold wedding band.

2) Turquoise

If you are looking for something more modern, the versatile and trendy turquoise ring can be an excellent choice. This stone comes in bright blue or a little lighter, with copper and aluminum reflections. Additionally, it is very stylish and can be found in many ethnic, gypsy and bohemian jewelry collections. What more could you ask for?

3) Ruby

The ruby can be the ultimate choice when it comes to wedding rings. It is one of the few gemstones that will look as alluring as the first day you bought it, even several years from now. Similar to diamonds, this red beauty is also very durable. However, they can be more expensive than diamonds due to their high values, origin and colour.

4) Citrines

One can easily see why citrine has emerged as a preferred choice for wedding rings. Citrine colours can range from light yellow and lemon to gold and even champagne brown. The famous “Madeira” citrines boast a rich orange colour with red highlights and are the priciest. Like amethyst, citrines are also very durable and make magnificent ring stones.

5) Pearls

Pearls are making a strong comeback in contemporary wedding rings. Simple and elegant, they have become trendy, especially for those who prefer minimal designs. The myriad of choices available, including freshwater pearls, saltwater pearls, and cultured pearls, make it effortless to find a ring that matches your budget and style. With a little care, pearls can also last a lifetime. Remember that pearl necklace your grandmother left you?

6) Opals

The names of the different types of precious opals evoke their beauty and grandeur: white or black, fire opal, harlequin, crystal, cat’s eye, pinfire, and many others. From shimmering eggshells hues to brilliant reds and blues, opals are available in nearly an infinite number of colours and have been leaving lovers mesmerized for centuries. Moreover, they can also be cut in various shapes, and none of them look alike!

7) Peridot

The remarkable green of peridot is usually not appreciated by brides, but it makes a fantastic match complemented with diamonds and will look gorgeous on darker-skinned brides. To create a strikingly colourful engagement ring, combine peridot with ruby, sapphire, and citrine.

8) Topaz

This is another stone that exists in multiple colours, meaning that it will suit almost every bride. The colour fluctuations are due to “imperfections” in the stone, but as it is said, there’s beauty in imperfections! The lighter the topaz stone, the more colourless it will be, which signifies the topaz’s robust quality and natural state.

If you’re having issues choosing your wedding ring, visit the team at Hofland Diamonds INC in Toronto. Their exquisite gems and diamonds, combined with unrivalled craftsmanship, will allow you to have wedding bands to your specifications and personal taste!

How Business Consulting Services Can Improve Your Company’s Situation

Business consultants provide management consulting to help organizations improve their performance and efficiency. These professionals analyze businesses and create solutions while also helping companies meet their goals. Business owners should consider hiring business consultants when they need help or perspective on their chosen path or a catalyst for change in their companies.

What does a consultant do?

There are several reasons business owners should consider hiring consultants. Consultants offer a wide range of services, including the following:

Providing expertise in a specific market
Identifying problems
Supplementing existing staff
Initiating change
Providing objectivity
Teaching and training employees
Doing the “dirty work,” like eliminating staff
Reviving an organization
Creating a new business
Influencing other people, such as lobbyists

The first step for any business consultant is the discovery phase, where the goal is to learn the client’s business. A good business consultant takes the time to learn as much as possible about the business from the owner and employees. This can include touring the facility, meeting with the board of directors and employees, analyzing the finances and reading all company materials. During this process, the business consultant will uncover the details of a company’s mission and what operations are in place.

Once the business consultant has developed an in-depth understanding of the company, they enter the evaluation phase, where the goal is to identify where change is needed. This phase includes identifying the company’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as current and foreseeable problems. These issues can include problems that ownership and management have already identified, as well as new problems the business consultant discovers because of their objectivity. A business consultant should also identify opportunities to grow the business, increase profits and boost efficiency.

In addition to identifying these problems and opportunities, a business consultant should develop solutions to problems and plans for capitalizing on opportunities. Perhaps a company has a particularly strong sales department but a weak marketing department. This is an opportunity for the company to increase marketing resources and capitalize on the sales staff. During this phase, it’s important for the consultant and the company’s employees to maintain open, clear communications.

Constructive criticism

It’s important for a business owner to take the business consultant’s advice at this stage as constructive criticism. The owner should not take this criticism personally, as the business consultant brings objectivity and a fresh viewpoint. The owner may be personally close to the business, which can be an obstacle to positive change and growth. The owner should have feedback and provide opinions to the business consultant, which the business owner should consider, and revise plans as necessary.

Once the owner and the consultant agree on a plan, the consultant should enter the third phase of consulting. This is the restructuring phase, or the implementation of the plan. In this phase, the consultant builds on assets and eliminates liabilities. They also monitor the plan’s progress and adjust it as needed.

How to find a business consultant

Finding the right business consultant may be the most difficult part for the owner or management. The consultant should have a passion for their work, a drive for excellence and an eye for organization and detail. It’s important to find a consultant who has expertise in your industry or experience with the kinds of problems your business faces. Also, make sure they have solid referrals.

In addition, ensure the business consultant has any necessary certifications that are relevant to your industry. You should vet the consultant through their website and materials. Look for professional images and well-documented information about their services. It’s a good idea to request examples of past successes and to speak to those businesses. A prime example of a great business consultant firm is John Mollica & Associates in Fairfield, VIC.

What is the typical background for a consultant?

The right background for the consultant you choose depends on your industry and needs. If you want someone to help your company develop new proprietary software or computer-based workflow, you may want to engage a technical consultant. But outside of specific needs, companies usually work with management consultants when they want to improve their bottom line, customer satisfaction or employee morale.

Regardless of the type of consultant you work with, their background is critical. It helps you understand how likely they are to improve your business. Here’s what to consider when reviewing potential consultants:

Do they have hands-on experience? This can be especially important in the business world. If someone came directly out of college marketing themselves as a consultant, do they really know anything more than you do? Consider looking for consultants who have successfully owned or run small businesses, enterprise organizations or specific departments.
Is their experience applicable? A former bank CEO may seem impressive, but do they have the knowledge and experience to turn your cupcakery into a profitable small business? They might, but if you’re also considering a former restaurant owner who now makes a living successfully helping small eateries grow, this consultant may be a better match for your business. Look for consultants who have worked in your industry and with businesses that match yours in style, size, needs and goals.
What’s their track record with consulting? You don’t just want a consultant who has the right experience; you want a consultant who has demonstrated success with companies like yours. Ask for a portfolio or list of brands the consultant has worked for, and request references. Look for a consultant who has helped businesses overcome the types of challenges you’re facing or who has grown businesses very similar to yours and reach out to those companies to find out if they were satisfied with the services.

Business consultants are an expense, but their feedback and planning can help increase business and boost profits while eliminating problems and identifying opportunities to ensure future success.

Choosing the Right Caterer for An Institutional Event

When selecting a caterer for an institutional event, you have a lot to think about as there might be more to the institute than good food as you will cater to both young adults and adults. So, it is better to choose a caterer who is able to manage all that you require and be present for all your needs. Just ask your guests and they will probably not remember as much about the decor or entertainment, but they will definitely remember whether or not their meal was remarkable.

When food is a part of your institutional event you must choose a catering service wisely. How your guests remember your event will greatly depend on what they thought of the food and service. Those memories, good or bad, will influence them when it comes time to think about attending your next institutional event.

Advance preparation is the key. Many venues that you select will have a restricted list of catering services that may be used. Some may insist you use their in-house catering service. Others may have no restrictions at all. No matter which position you find yourself in, you must allow sufficient time to explore your catering options before you make your choice.

Here are the main considerations in choosing a catering service:

List Your Catering Needs

In order to receive accurate bids for your fundraisers meal you must provide a listing of your catering needs. Important items to include are:

Date and time of your event.

Location of your event.

Indoor or outdoor.

Is there a kitchen on site?

How many guests (check for minimums with your catering services)?

Dietary concerns (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, etc.).

Alcohol needs.

Serving needs: buffet style, traditional sit-down dinner, family style, food stations or cocktail reception.

Time available to set up and to break down the event?

Be clear about what type of event you are planning. Alert them to any theme or style for your event that could or should be reflected in the menu.

Do not assume that a buffet or food station is less expensive than a sit-down dinner. It all depends on the type of food served, not how it is served.

Some lower cost options include H’ordeurves Reception or Deli/Party Trays Reception, a Salad Luncheon, a Dessert Party, a Tea Party, or a Cake and Punch reception. If you are not planning to host a full meal, it is best to schedule your reception or party during a non-standard mealtime (between 2-4pm or after 7pm).

Some catering services are more ridged in their menu choices and options. Good questions to ask are:

Do they have set menus, or can they customize menus according to the style of your event?

Are they able to accommodate guests with food allergies?

Do they work with fresh or frozen foods?

What are my beverage options and cost: water, milk, soft drinks, coffee, tea, etc.?

When will I need to finalize the menu?

When will they need a final head count?

Portion Sizes & Presentation Ask to see photographs of the food that has been served at previous events. You are looking for portion size and presentation. Nobody wants to be surprised with small serving sizes or a sloppy looking plate. A picture of a set table (silverware, dishes, glasses, napkins, butter dishes, salt & pepper, and salad dressings) should be checked to make sure it is up to your standards.

Taste Test

If you are using a new catering service, you should ask to sample their menu. Ask if there is a fee for a sample tasting?

If you feel the need, you may also request a tour the catering facility, especially the kitchen. This could be combined with the sample tasting.

Alcohol

If you are planning on having alcohol at your event it is generally recommended using the same catering service provide the bar and service to keep things simple.

You will have to decide whether to have an open bar or cash bar. Will the beverages be served at the bar, buffet style, and do the wait staff refill drinks at the tables?

If you are supplying the alcohol and they are bringing the mix & set-ups, what is the price per person? If you are providing the alcohol, will the caterer charge you a corkage fee?

There are many other issues for you to consider when serving alcohol at your institutional event. An experienced catering service will guide you through all the hurdles.

Who is in Charge on Site?

Ask your caterers who will be in charge of the meal being served. Hopefully, but not always, your caterer will be on site. If not, make sure and secure the name of the person in charge. In case of problems or difficulties you will need to work with this person closely. Make sure you are introduced to the person in charge before the event or on the day of the event.

Wait Staff

Good service, like good food, has a way of making an event memorable. Slow service can also adversely affect the pace and timetable of your event.

Ask what the ratio of servers to guests will be for your event. A good rule of thumb for a sit-down dinner is one server for every 8-10 guests.

Get a commitment from your caterer for how many waiters, busers, and bartenders will be provided. On the day of the event check and make sure they all show up. If they do not all make it, you have a good case for asking for a reduction in the price you are paying.

What will the wait staff wear? Make sure the wait staff is dressed appropriately for your event.

Rental Equipment

It is very important to be perfectly clear about what the needs of your event are and what your caterer will be supplying and how much it will cost.

Does the price include table linens, napkins, dishes, and glassware? Ask to see samples.

Are there any color choices for the table linens and dinnerware?

Some catering services will also have available skirted tables, tables, chairs, furniture, and other rental items including tents too.

Decorations

Some catering services will provide table decorations, usually for an additional price.

Centerpieces, flowers, and candles may be available.

License, Permits & Insurances

A catering service that is licensed and has the appropriate permits and liability insurance always tries their best to follow safe food handling practices and health code guidelines. Obviously, this is in your best interest. Nobody wants a sick guest as the result of the food that was served at your event. And if there is a problem, your caterer’s liability insurance should cover the problem. Make sure the caterer’s employees are covered by workers’ compensation so if something goes wrong the caterer is liable, not your organization.

References

Ask your potential catering services for recent past references. Make sure and call these references! Ask about the caterer’s food, professional skills, personality, and ability to handle anything unexpected.

Hidden Costs

Are gratuities included in the food prices? If not, what is the gratuity charge? What is the policy for payment? Some caterers request cash, others accept checks or credit cards. Make sure your pricing includes any taxes to be paid. Know what your catering services overtime policy is and how overtime charges are calculated. If your event runs long or has a delay these charges may kick in, even if the cause is not your fault.

Financial Arrangements

Each catering service may calculate your institutional events meal differently. To ensure you are comparing apples to apples it would be wise to create a simple check list. Use the check list to confirm that each catering service is providing the same services.

Always inquire how much deposit is needed and when the final balance is due.

After you have selected your caterer, they should provide a written contract for you to sign. You should also be provided a copy of the contract signed by your caterer. The contract should also detail the cancellation and refund policy.

Conclusion

Finally, always look for a catering service that you can be comfortable with. Having confidence in your caterer is important. You do not want to preoccupy yourself with second guessing their every decision. Look for enthusiasm. It is important to find someone who will treat you like their most important customer, no matter what the size of your event. Sarah Brown Catering is one such caterer who is a full-service catering firm that provides everything from setup to cleanup.

Apr, 2020

Factors to Consider When Opting for An Insurance Plan

Opting for the right health insurance plan is crucial as this will help you get the best treatment for yourself, your entire family as well as your four-legged family members. However, deciding which health insurance to choose isn’t an easy task! There are tons of insurance companies in every city these days that provide high-quality insurance plans. Nearly half of all employers with 250 or more employees offer more than one policy, all with different copayments, benefits, premiums and deductibles. But how do you go ahead and pick the right insurer? Here are a few things to keep in mind when selecting the best health insurance plans for your family –

Look at Out-Of-Pocket Costs

Focusing on the monthly premium is one thing, but keeping track of the deductible, copayments and co-insurance is also a key factor. These three elements are your maximum expenses. Under the Affordable Care Act, the maximum reimbursable expenses are $7,150 for a single person and $14,300 for a family policy.

Consider Your Life Stage

Let’s assume the next coming years turn out to be just like the past five. You go for regular medical checkups two to three times. Your partner is as healthy a horse (as long as he/she swallows his cholesterol pill every day). And your kids, well, let’s just say they have an average of one cast and 15 stitches a year. And therefore, choosing an appropriate insurance plan tailored to your individual needs is crucial.

While taking cheap health insurance plans, it is essential to consider your health, age and financial situation. Selecting a policy with a lower deductible and copayments is recommended if you’re suffering from one or more health problems that require ongoing care (such as heart disease or diabetes) or expecting a baby. Of course, you’ll be paying a higher premium, but your overall out-of-pocket costs may be lower. The insurance agent can help you make a better decision with your health insurance based on all of this information.

Number of Family Members

Are you taking health insurance or term insurance that covers all your family members? Along with the number of family members, their life stages matter too. The cover amount needs to be able to support everyone’s lifestyle and spending capacity in case of any unfortunate incident where the insurance will be used.

Check the Drug List

All insurance plans generally provide a detailed medication list and copayment covered. So, be sure to buy an insurance plan that offers a prescription drug benefit high enough to cover all your needs. If your drug isn’t on the list of medications covered, you may have to pay 100% of the cost. It is also an excellent idea to check whether your insurance plan includes a mail-in prescription option; it can save you some bucks on your regular prescriptions.

The benefit should typically cover at least $1,000 per year. With only a few prescriptions, you can easily reach this amount, especially if your doctor prescribes a medicine with no generic substitutes.

Go Over the List of Benefits

Usually, all individual and small business plans should cover prescription drugs, hospitalization, emergency services, mental health and addiction treatment, preventative services and rehabilitation services, maternity and newborn care, pediatric services (including vision and dental care), laboratory tests and out-patient care. However, the specifications of the plans available through your employer may vary, so make sure to read the plan’s Evidence of Coverage.

Also, don’t forget to double-check your prescription coverage each year when re-enrolling in your insurance plan. Many insurance brokers tend to amend their policies and drug coverage frequently. So, it is wise to look for another insurance provider if your daily medications are abruptly withdrawn from your coverage.

Maximum Age Renewal Option

Although you don’t really use your health insurance when you are young, as you get older, health care costs increase and you will have a greater need for health insurance coverage. So, make sure to check whether your health insurance plan features a more comprehensive renewal option with the best pricing. Opt for lifetime plans with renewability options available beyond age 65 – it will pay off in the long run for you and your family.

Choose the Right Insurer Too

While you’re reviewing all these policies and benefits, it’s also wise to choose the right insurer. Look for insurance companies with higher stakes settlement rates (so you don’t have to fight over your claims). Are you looking for a trusted insurance agent or an insurance quote in Florida? Get in touch with BREVARD INSURANCE & MARKETING – they are experts in the protection of your possessions and those of your family.

When shopping for the best insurance policy, you’ll surely be spoilt for choice. Therefore, if you want to pick the crème de la crème, simply do your homework! Hopefully, these smart tips can help simplify your selection process.