Hyper-Collaborative Modern Workplace: Back to Basics

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Today, the modern workplace has gone through a lot of positive changes. Due to the changing demographics and dispersed workforce across the planet, the definition of workplace collaboration has also been changed. These days, face-to-face meetings have now been replaced by internet-enabled video conferencing and real-time messaging. In this article, we are going to talk about the hyper-collaborated modern workplace. Read on to find out more.

Nowadays, there is a lot of competition between organizations. Therefore, they must provide their workforce with a collaborative environment to stay ahead of the competition and keep talented employees. Aside from organizational culture, there should be necessary communication devices and collaborator software to create a hyper-collaborator workplace.

Opting for the best solutions based on your usage model

Since there is a lot of communication tools, such as cloud-based file sharing, video as a service (VaaS), and conventional telephone, it is difficult for organizations to opt for the best solution. If you are in this situation, we have some tips for you to go for the most appropriate solution. Given below are some of the tips.

For large groups, whiteboards can be an ideal solution. With these solutions, participants can edit and view content at the same time. Apart from this, they can distribute, and transcribe content to touch mobile PCs.

Small teams can use wireless solutions that allow them to connect to conference room projectors. Therefore, mobile computers can create a small network for sharing work.

One-on-one collaboration can come up with virtual meeting rooms for quality audio and video conferences. They can do so with the help of touch mobile devices. Therefore, they can edit and share documents without any problem.

Successful transformation

In the United States, many institutions have created student-teacher collaboration tools to cover the needs of online and overseas students. If there is no collaborative strategy, the heads of University departments can go for the technology gap and buy collaboration tools.

Try your desired systems before implementation

Technological tools and solutions can help you enjoy a lot of benefits. Apart from this, you need to make sure that these technologies are compatible with each other. On the other hand, if they don’t sync properly, they can create a lot of problems for it professionals. As a result, there can be a lot of organizational inefficiencies and cyber security loopholes.

In other words, organizations need to test these tools before implementing them. By trying out different solutions, we can go for the best one. Besides, they also need to compare the user-friendliness of these solutions.

The idea is to make sure that these systems make it easier for the entire team or students to collaborate with each other without any problem. This is how they can get the most out of their efforts. And this can also so make the organization more efficient in more ways than one.

Long story short, this was a brief introduction to the hyper collaborated modern workplace. If you have never tried this system, we suggest that you consider them today.

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Source by Shalini M

The New BMW X1 XDrive28i BMW Twin Turbo Power

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Characteristics.

* New BMW X1 xDrive28i as a pioneer of an innovative combination of driving pleasure typical of the brand and efficiency.

* First four-cylinder gasoline engine with BMW twin turbo power, significant increase in performance while significantly improving the efficiency, maximum output: 180 kW/245 hp, maximum torque: 350 Newton meters.

# Completely newly developed 2.0 liter engine with all-aluminum crankcase, design principle, closely based on the technology of the inline six-cylinder engine with TwinPower turbo technology, consisting of the highly effective charging system for the twin-scroll principle, more precise fuel injection High Precision Injection with innovative solenoid valve injectors and again further developed version of BMW’s patented Valvetronic variable valve timing.

# New generation of engines as the current innovation highlight of BMW EfficientDynamics, 2.0 liter engine with increased torque over the previous engine, and outstanding fuel economy and low emissions.

# Six-speed manual transmission as standard, optional eight-speed automatic transmission, extensive BMW EfficientDynamics technology including Auto Start Stop function (manual transmission).

# New BMW X1 xDrive28i further optimized with agility at the same time significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions, average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 7.9 litres/100 km (down 1.5 liters), CO2 rating: 183 g / km (down 38 g ), acceleration from zero to 100 km / h in 6.1 seconds (manual transmission) and 6.5 seconds (automatic minus 0.3 seconds).

# Intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel drive as standard with optimized dynamics vote Performance Control as an option.

# M Sport package as a new option for all model variants of the BMW X1.

# Unique vehicle concept in the premium compact segment, typical design characteristics and features of a BMW X model, a high variability in the interior, uncompromising premium characteristics through outstanding quality workmanship and material selection, high quality fittings and innovative options of BMW ConnectedDrive, including apps for web radio reception and use of Facebook and Twitter.

Driving pleasure and efficiency in a new dimension: the new BMW X1 xDrive28i BMW twin turbo power

His expressive, sporty and elegant design, superior agility, high functionality and innovative features have made the BMW X1 to the forefront of driving pleasure in the premium compact segment. Once again, the premium car manufacturer BMW, the vehicle concept of the BMW X models are successfully transferred to a new class of vehicle, creating a unique offering. Now make the BMW X1 in implementing the development strategy BMW EfficientDynamics pioneering work. The new BMW X1 xDrive28i is the first model of the brand, from a four-cylinder gasoline engine with TwinPower turbo technology, consisting of High Precision Injection, charging after the twin-scroll principle, variable camshaft control Double VANOS and variable valve timing, Valvetronic, is driven.

The introduction of this technology package features the new BMW X1 xDrive28i with the heralded new generation at the 2.0-liter gasoline engine from BMW. The new, combined 180 kW/245 hp power unit which compared to the previous engine again increased performance and torque characteristics with significantly reduced fuel consumption and emissions. The new BMW X1 xDrive28i brings this dual progress in an impressive way to advantage.

It can accelerate from zero to 100 km / h, it takes 6.1 seconds (automatic: 6.5 seconds) or 0.7 seconds (0.3 seconds) is less than that offered only with automatic transmission predecessor. Its average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is reduced by 16 percent to 7.9 liters per 100 kilometers. The CO2 level is 183 grams per kilometer.

The engine: A new standard for efficiency and dynamics

BMW X models feature a specific expression of the brand’s typical driving pleasure. The BMW X1 xDrive28i combines this experience with a competitive environment in its class unsurpassed efficiency. Sporty power delivery at a level that has been achieved only by six-cylinder engines, goes with this new engine variant of the BMW X1 along with outstanding fuel economy and emissions.

This is made possible by the use of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, the latest generation, distinguished by its pioneering use of innovative technology components. The drive of the BMW X1 xDrive28i meets in a special way the objectives of the development strategy BMW EfficientDynamics, which is consistently focused on continuous improvement of driving pleasure with falling between consumption and emission levels. With a displacement of 1997 cm3 and with the unique BMW TwinPower turbo technology, which includes a charging system for the twin-scroll principle, High Precision Injection, double-VANOS and Valvetronic, created the new engine a maximum power of 180 kW / 245 hp at an engine speed of 5000 min-1. This exceeds the power unit of the new BMW X1 xDrive28i the value of the hitherto strongest 2.0-liter gasoline engine from BMW by 55 kW.

Premiere: BMW twin turbo power now available in four-cylinder.

The new BMW four-cylinder with twin turbo power that comes from power in regions that are accessible only by naturally aspirated engines with a higher number of combustion chambers and a much larger displacement. Compared to a similarly powerful six-cylinder engine is equipped with the all-aluminum crankcase, including derived from motorsport bedplate design of compact and easier to drive. This directly affects the efficiency and thanks to the lower front axle load on the agility of the BMW X1 xDrive28i.

BMW X1 xDrive28i (Modell E84, ab 2011)

The pulling power of the new drive exceeds the level of the previously used normally aspirated engines. Its maximum torque is 350 Nm and is available at an engine speed of 1250 min-1 are available. This a very spontaneous response is guaranteed. The new engine already provides just above idle speed for a fascinating and spirited force development, which continues until uniform in higher load ranges. The new BMW X1 xDrive28i accelerates in 6.1 seconds from zero to 100 km / h (6.5 seconds with automatic transmission). He completed the standard sprint by 0.7 or 0.3 seconds faster than with a six-speed automatic transmission-equipped predecessor. The maximum speed of the new BMW X1 xDrive28i is 240 km / h.

The charging system of the new drive corresponds to the twin scroll principle in which both the exhaust manifold and the turbocharger, the channels of two cylinders are separated from each other. The flow rates will be lead to a spiral turbine wheel. The result is a particularly low exhaust back pressure results at low speeds. Thus, the dynamics of the pulsating gas streams is ideally used to delay the supercharger blades and powerful to put in motion. This leads to spontaneous reactions to any pedal movement and the early developing revving, which is characteristic of BMW engines

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Source by Zain Ahmad

What Did Thomas Edison Invent in 1879?

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Thomas Edison in 1879 invented the incandescent light bulb to replace the candle. This light bulb is the one that we normally see but in 2012 we will have to use a new type of light bulb. This new light bulb that some of us may have seen or use is called the compact fluorescent or CFL. It has the same type of base but a spiral bulb on top. On Wednesday December 19, 2007, the U.S. Congress in Washington D.C. approved a new energy law to stop the manufacturing of the old fashion light bulb to a new less energy using light bulb.

Question: Why are they taking the old fashion light bulb away?

Answer: It is a low cost way to reduce electricity use and greenhouse gases from power plants.

Question: CFL’s cost more, about six times as much, why buy them?

Answer: CFL’s use about 75% less energy, so you save money on your energy bill.

Question: How long do they last?

Answer: CFL’s last for five years instead of for a few months just don’t turn them on and off all the time.

Question: Are the CFL’s bad for the environment?

Answer: There is some mercury in them, 100 times less than a thermometer, but they should be recycled without any problems.

Question: Is this it for any new lighting for another 100 years?

Answer: Manufactures are working on better CFL’s and LED lighting, which are used in some holiday lighting.

In conclusion, President Bush should sign this new energy law. Our Congress is doing a good job of protecting our environment and trying to save us money. Almost anyone can afford to change to these new bulbs. It is less money than installing a new home heating system or new windows throughout a home. My home already has CFL lighting in almost all of our fixtures and lamps. I think this is an enlightening idea!

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Source by D DeAngelis

Choosing Light Bulbs For Aesthetics

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Now when you have designed your new interior scheme and picked the lighting you do not want to go and ruin it all by selecting ugly light bulbs. There are definitely different alternatives that are available for energy saving light bulbs with different technologies, energy consumptions and aesthetics. So you need to select your light bulb for both energy saving efficiency and aesthetics. Lets look at some of the alternative bulbs that strike the balance between aesthetics and efficiency.

Halogen Light Bulbs

Halogen Bulbs are definitely aesthetically pleasing and they will save around 30% in electricity costs against the traditional incandescent bulb. As an example if you choose a clear candle halogen bulb for your chandelier then the clear light will really make the most of the sparkle from the crystals. Then if you really want that aesthetic design edge go for the candle flame tip halogen bulb which will enhance the look of your chandelier considerably and the light bulbs will really contribute to the overall looks. Clearly the bulbs will never look like real candles with a glowing flame but the simple clean design of the flame tip candle bulb is the best choice for an electric light bulb.

Compact Fluorescent Lamps- CFL’s

The energy saving bulbs which use the compact fluorescent lamp technology are certainly good from an energy efficiency perspective saving around 80% against a traditional incandescent bulb, but the aesthetics can be far from pleasing. This is just fine if the light bulb is tucked away inside a lamp and is not visible, but if the light bulb is seen under the shade or there is no sconce at all then be sure to pick the right choice. The original linear CFL’s look awful and now at least the full spiral energy saving light bulbs have improves aesthetics, but the visual appearance is still far from ideal. The best choice is to go for the globe design CFL and if you pick one with a nice spherical shaped energy saving globe light bulb, then the look can be highly desirable. This way you can get the best of both worlds with a beautiful looking bulb that will pay for itself in electricity savings in a matter of months. That has got to be a win-win situation on the light bulb front!

LED Bulbs

If you want the ultimate in energy efficiency then the best choice is the LED bulb which will save you around 90% in electricity although the initial outlay for the light bulbs is considerably higher. However, be aware of the appearance to be sure that they are right for your lighting application. Now if you have simple halogen downlighter then there are some very elegant LED MR16 bulbs available that will produce the equivalent of say 25W halogen output from a 3W LED. That is a great energy saving bulb and the aesthetics are good too.

If you have a chandelier with say 20 bulbs then if you use 40 watt traditional bulbs then you will be consuming a massive 800 watts which is enough to heat the room if it is not mod winter! This means then you really need an energy efficient bulb scheme. You can go for the halogen bulbs as mentioned above but alternatively you could fit say 3W LED candle flame bulbs which will give you a light output per bulb of around 25 watts. The aesthetics are not as pleasing as the halogen bulbs as the multiple LED lights can look rather high tech, but if you build that into your interior design scheme then the result can be quite pleasing.

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Source by Paul Nigel Towers

Where Can I Buy the Jabulani Official Soccer Ball?

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Jabulani is the Official Ball of the World Cup 2010 in South Africa and it is already one of the most sought after soccer balls in the history of the game. Maybe, this is because more interest has been generated for the 2010 World Cup Match than any other FIFA World Cup in history, but I think it’s because the Jabulani looks so exotic, so African and also, it is a new kind of soccer ball for fans and players alike. The Adidas Company designed this 2010 World Cup ball, as they do for every World Cup and they have really raised the bar for football technology and style with this latest new soccer ball.

The 2010 World Cup Official Match Ball from Adidas is being sold all over the world, mostly online, though some soccer shops carry one or two. You can buy an official or replica Jabulani ball at online World Cup Souvenir Shops where you can have your ball shipped to you anywhere you are. The best deal on an official size 5 Jabulani can be found at online World Cup Football Shops right now for as low as $59.00 US! This is a way lower price than the official Adidas Site which is selling the ball for $150.00! Shipping costs will depend on where you want your ball sent. If you want to spend less money, consider buying a replica Jabulani, available in size 5, 4 & 3 for practicing, teams, & kids collections. The replica Jabulani sells for as low as $18.99 and looks virtually identical to the official ball.

Jabulani means “to party on or celebrate” in the Zulu language, which represents one of the many tribal cultures of South Africa. The design contains 11 different colors in an African styled woven elliptical pattern that spiral around the ball on a shiny white background. The 11 colors used on the weave grpahic are symbolic of the 11 players on each team, the 11 official & tribal languages spoken in South Africa, and the fact that the Jabulani is the 11th Adidas World Cup Match Ball. For a sports ball, this one is total eye candy and sometimes I find myself enjoying watching the ball as much as the players! So gorgeous, so cool; only to be kicked around the world by hundreds of the strongest football players and possibly millions of aspiring fans and future soccer stars. You would think that it would not even matter WHAT the soccer ball looked like; It’s who wins the match that counts, right? Well maybe not entirely! The Jabulani soccer ball, designed for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Soccer event is just so beautiful to look at, that everyone wants one, even non-soccer fans. Adidas designs a different official ball for every World Cup and many fans around the world collect them, keep them in special display cases or original packaging to retain the ball’s mint condition. This fan behavior can finally be comprehended now that such a looker of a ball has been released.

The new technology that makes the Jabulani ball different are; the air and traction grooves that are moulded into the surface are designed to provide increased grip & control, but they may be responsible for the extra flightiness and trajectory spin as well. The jabulani apparently has a more perfectly spherical overall shape that was supposed to have provide greater shot accuracy but we do not see that playing out on the pitch just yet. I wonder if all the players had enough time to practice with the new ball? The other new technology used to create the Jabulani is that it is put together with only 8 panels that are seamlessly molded and thermally bonded. NO stitches to interfere with the balls spinning motion. The Jabulani really does spin like a dervish, you can actually see the difference when you watch it flying across the stadium on those long long passes.

Though there has been lots of the usual grousing & complaining about the Jabulani from some players, it really is the coolest soccer ball ever. It goes faster and has trajectory differences that are creating a little leeway in the game that means that the players need to perfect some twisted new spinning skills. Scoring has been on the low side so far in the World Cup tournament and perhaps the Jabulani is making it more challenging for the scorers to control the ball at longer distances. Obviously, the ball presents challenges for the goal keepers as well as it is more difficult to get an exact read on where the heck the Jabulani is going next on a long shot. Just wait until there’s wind! Some players have noted that it is too light and moves like a beach ball! Ouch!

After the first few days of matches, it looks like the players are getting a grip on the new type of ball; there has been improvement already as the matches roll out and the ball is in play more. There is no changing the official ball once the World Cup has started so players will just have to adjust. Every player will have the same adjustment to make, so the playing field is level even it it does present a few new twists in how to play the ball. These are the very best soccer players on earth and they are quite capable of understanding and acting on any small changes in the ball. Weather always has a fairly profound effect on the ball anyway and players have had to adapt to these differences in ball motion due to temperature and altitude since the game began.

The Jabulani is now the most well known ball by name in the history of World Cup Match Balls; most soccer fans cannot even name any other ball. This one is very special and will long be remembered for its beauty, street cool and controversy much like the African continent itself. Congrats to the Adidas company for a great design and interesting interpretation of African culture.

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Source by Dee Lennox

Fast Vs Slow Juicers For Wheatgrass Juicing

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Large amounts of heat and air are incorporated in the juice extracted by a fast centrifugal juicing machine. This is due to a high-speeds of these kind of machines.

While the fast juice machine extracts the liquids quickly, it leads to some loss of nutrition which does not happen in a cold press machine.

Which juicing machine is better?

Should you buy a cold press that extracts maximum nutrition or go for the convenience of a fast juicing machine?

What is a better choice?

It depends on you, the user.

As juicing took off in a big way in response to living healthy trends, manufacturers have come up with more and improved appliances using latest technology to help you extract maximum liquid with minimal loss of nutrition and wastage of produce.

These machines replace the mechanical devices like citrus press and even our hands which was the traditional method of getting at the fluid part of the produce. When people fell sick or children needed extra nutrition juice was the go-to choose.

If you plan on drinking freshly squeezed liquids without any processing for nutritional benefits go for a cold press slow juicing machine as it preserves and extracts maximum nutrition from the fresh produce.

In centrifugal juicing machines the rapid spinning of the disc causes heating of juice and the oxidation due to the air entering the juice due to the turbulence generated. The cold press slow juicing machines on the other hand rotate very slowly with hardly any agitation of juice.

Due to these factors juice extracted by this process has maximum minerals, vitamins and antioxidants which means your body gets the best possible nutrition from every glass.”

Most masticating juicing machines have a reverse button which can be used to unclog the appliances it gets clogged or stops working. There’s no need to open up everything.

This button is also useful to clean the slow juicing appliance. The 7-spiral auger rotating at 80 rpm squeezes every bit of juice from the produce leaving behind a dry pulp.

The slow juice appliance has a powerful motor that drives the auger to extract juice from any produce you feed into it.

The Breville machine is a juicing machine of sizeable capacity as it can juice large quantities of fresh produce to make several cups of juice.

Fast machines often do well with hard fruits and vegetables as well as citrus fruits. The design and looks are stylish and sleek evoking admiration from all.

More important than looks are the very user-friendly features of the centrifugal juice appliance. For instance, it has safety locking arm which prevents any accidental operation of the gadget by either kids or unprepared adults.

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Source by Cumba Gowri

Comparison Between Agile and Traditional Software Development Methodologies

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The early software development methodologies were limited to “code and fix” with little long-term planning, that worked fine for a small set of systems, but as the systems grew they became susceptible to bugs and were harder to run efficiently. Newer methodologies brought planning and discipline in the software development process, with the aim of making software development more efficient and flexible. The advancement of technology and greater market competition added different sets of approaches to software development methodologies. Some companies over the years have introduced their own set of customized methodology for developing their software, but the majority of the worldwide companies follow two kinds of methodologies: heavyweights and lightweight.

The traditional “heavyweight” methodologies are more structured – are process and tool oriented, and follow a predictable path, requiring comprehensive and detailed documentation. Some of the popular traditional methodologies are Waterfall, Unified Process and Spiral. These methodologies are based on a sequential series of steps in which work begins with the elicitation and detailed documentation of an overall requirements, followed by architectural and high level design development and with checkpoints & deliverables at each phase. Due to a long set of processes and relatively inflexible approach, this methodology got the name as heavyweight.

The newer “lightweight” methodology also known as “agile” modeling is a set of values or philosophy. Agile exposes organizational dysfunction. Unlike traditional methods, agile methodologies embrace iterations rather than phases. Agile employ short iterative cycles, small/short releases, simple design, refactoring continuous integration and rely on tacit knowledge within a team as opposed to documentation. Some of the popular agile methods are Extreme Programming, Scrum, Lean, Kanban, Dynamic System Development Method, Feature Driven Development and Adaptive Software Development.

The key difference between heavyweight and agile methodologies is the adaptability factor. In an agile methodology if any major change is required, the team doesn’t freeze its work process; rather it determines how to better handle changes that occur throughout the project. The verification process in agile method occurs much earlier in the development process. On the other hand heavyweight methods freeze product requirements and disallow change. It implements a predictive process and relies on defining and documenting a stable set of requirements at the beginning of a project.

Agile model delivers a working version of the product and direct user involvement in the development process is very early compared to traditional methodologies. The testing cycle for Agile is continuous and comparatively short to traditional methods, because testing is done parallel with development. Most traditional models are very rigid and doesn’t entertain changes and are relatively less flexible than the Agile model. Because of all these advantages, Agile has a comprehensive response to the most of the challenges organizations’ face in a rapidly changing, competitive global market.

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Source by Vishwajyoti Bhattacharjee

What Are Different SDLC Phases and Its Methodologies?

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SDLC in software engineering concept of many types of software development methods. These methods provide a framework for planning and monitoring the development of an information system: the process of software development.

Overview

Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a logical process used by the systems analyst, an information system, including requirements, validation, training, and the user (interested parties) property. Each SDLC must meet a high quality lead and exceed customer expectations, to achieve the timely completion and cost estimates, works effectively and efficiently with existing and planned infrastructure, information technology and cheap to maintain and strengthen profitable.

Computer systems are complex and often (especially with the recent increase in Service-Oriented Architecture) connecting multiple legacy systems, possibly from different software providers charge. To have created this complexity, a number of systems development life cycle (SDLC) management models: “Cascade”, “Fountain”, “spiral”, “construction and repair, rapid prototyping,” progressive “and synchronize and stabilized. ” [Edit]

SDLC models can be described in the flexibility of repetitive sequence. Agile methods like XP and Scrum, focus on the process of light mass change rapidly along the development cycle. Iterative methods such as Rational unified process and Dynamic Systems Development Method, which limited the scope of the project and the expansion or improvement of products through many iterations. Successive over-or design-forward (BDUF) models such as waterfall, the focus directed at a comprehensive planning and correcting serious hazards and works for positive and predictable.

Some advocates of agile and iterative SDLC confused by the term sequential processes, or “traditional” but CCES is a general term for all methods for the design, implementation and exit the software.

In project management, a project can also project lifecycle (PLC) and a SDLC in which activities should be defined somewhat differently. According to Taylor (2004) «life cycle of the project includes all activities of the project, while focusing the entire lifecycle of system development to meet the requirements of the product.

History

The life cycle of systems development (SDLC) is a type of methodology used to describe the process of building information systems for collecting information on the systems in a very deliberate, methodical and structured, reaffirming each phase of the cycle life development. The life cycle of systems development, created by Elliott & Strachan and Radford (2004), “in 1960 for the development of system management functions in an era of big business. Information Systems activities focused on the heavy data processing and number crunching routines.

Several senior development systems are partly based on SDLC as a structured system analysis and design method (SSADM) products based in the United Kingdom Office of Government Commerce in the 1980s. Since, according to Elliott (2004), “approaching the traditional life cycle of systems development have been increasingly replaced by alternative approaches and frameworks have attempted to overcome some shortcomings of the traditional SDLC.

Phases of SDLC

Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC) comply with the basic channels are essential for development, such as planning, analysis, design and development, and the next section. There are several models of systems development life cycle. The older model, initially as a Systems Development Life Cycle “model is the waterfall: a sequence of stages where each stage of production is contributing to the next. These steps broadly follow the same steps discussed basically but many different methods give different stages of cascade name and number of steps seems to vary from 4 to 7 There is no definitive right system development life cycle model, but measures can be classified and divided into several stages.

The CCES may in ten stages when identifying the products will be distributed jobs created or modified. The tenth stage occurs when the system is configured and the work performed, either eliminated or transferred to other systems. The functions and working results for the various phases described in the following chapters. All projects will require that the phases are executed sequentially. However, the phases are interdependent. Depending on the size and complexity of the project phases can be combined or may overlap.

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Source by M Vilson

The Rise of Temp Work and Flexible Jobs: The Opportunity It Brings for Staffing

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It’s hard to believe we’ve now lived almost a full year in the pandemic. Since March I’ve written articles about ways to adjust business strategy, how to adapt to the changing times, utilizing technology to stay successful, and more. When I wrote my first article related to the pandemic back in March, I never thought almost a year later the pandemic would still be as present as it is in our lives today.

What’s changed though in the past 10 months, are the opportunities the pandemic brought to the staffing industry. A lot has changed since March and companies adapted to this change. We’ve seen major increases and decreases in industry demand. We’ve also seen a significant increase in working at home, among many other changes. Now, we are beginning to see some of the long-term effects these industry changes have brought to the workforce. The rise of temporary help and flexible jobs for the foreseeable future is among these changes.

Cause of Increase in Temporary Jobs

There are several reasons experts predict there will be a rise in contract jobs going forward. In general, the staffing industry has seen that temporary jobs have recovered faster than direct hire jobs.

COVID-19 has actually added a lot of the jobs to the temporary workforce, such as temperature checkers and contact tracers. Currently there is a major demand for jobs assisting with the vaccine rollout, which could be a great opportunity for staffing companies if you’re able to get the trained staff that is needed.

Besides the addition of COVID-19 jobs, the pandemic has caused an increase in demand for contract work in other areas. Some companies are still treading water and are cautious about bringing employees back on full-time. Contract workers are less of an investment, which is better in times of uncertainty and as companies are getting back on their feet. The job is still able to get done without the added expense of benefit packages and other costs associated with a new full-time hire.

More workers have also turned to do freelance work as it helped bring in income for jobs that were lost during the pandemic. According to a survey conducted by Upwork between June and July of 2020, 36% of the American workforce had freelanced in the previous 12 months. 12% started freelancing during the pandemic (54% out of necessity) and 75% in search of financial stability. Of those that were surveyed, 88% said they are likely to freelance in the future.

In general, workers are also looking for a flexible work environment. More people have an interest in doing a variety of work and are looking to be able to control their schedule. According to a recent Monster survey, 92% of respondents said they think now is a good time to look into a gig economy. 57% of respondents also said they would take a gig job in-between jobs and 52% said they would like a long-term contract with flexible hours.

All of these reasons are the cause for the increase in demand for temp help. Whether it is the demand for COVID-19 jobs or the way the pandemic has caused the workforce and employers to shift the way they are used to doing things. In the process, we’ve adapted to these changes and it has brought on new opportunities for both workers and employers.

Cause of Increase in Remote Work

As we all know and have probably experienced it at one point or another, there has been an increase in remote work. I personally never worked remotely fulltime, until March hit. Now I’ve been working remotely for the past 10 months and it has truly become the new normal. When I think back to the days, we all went into the office, it seems like so long ago now. Workers and employers are beginning to feel this same way, if they aren’t already feeling it. Remote work has become a new normal and it is here to stay in some capacity.

From an employer stand-point, companies have seen that working from home can work. They’ve seen employees still able to complete their tasks and, in some cases, have seen an increase in productivity. Operating costs have also probably gone down as they are spending less money with employees working remotely (no more café snacks, employee lunches, etc.) With this, employers will be thinking about incorporating more work at home opportunities in the future and/or eliminating an office all together. According to a survey performed by Verizon, 86% of global companies believe the digital workplace will coexist with the physical workspace post COVID-19 and 78% expect to increase remote working.

Employees have also gotten used to the work from home environment and prefer keeping it in some shape or form. This may include going into the office a few days a week or working remotely full-time. In a survey conducted by PWC, over half of employees (55%), want to work remotely three days a week or more.

Remote work though is not just for permanent employees. The staffing industry has seen a rise in remote work from temps, since the pandemic started and it’s predicted that more temps will continue to work remotely post-pandemic. Employers who are used to temporary workers being on location, have learned that this doesn’t necessarily have to be the case. Not all temp jobs require the employee to work on location and the pandemic has proven that. This opens up significant opportunities for employers hiring temporary help.

Opportunities it Brings for Staffing

So, what does the rise of temporary help and flexible jobs actually mean for the staffing industry? It opens up the door to new horizons. Now is the time to begin planning both your short and long-term strategy. Statistics show the workforce will be making this shift for the foreseeable future. By adapting to the change now, staffing companies can stay ahead of the curve. So where can you begin?

Discuss Temporary Opportunities with Employers that Typically Hire Full-Time

The rise of temporary help is not just for companies that employ contract workers. It can be a new opportunity for companies that typically look to hire full-time. If a client would be open to the idea of contract work, it could be a good opportunity to discuss the rise and benefits of it versus hiring a full-time employee. It’s not only less costly, as discussed early, but it opens the door to explore more qualified candidates that are looking for contract work. Not all positions may be suited for contract work, but it is certainly an avenue that can be explored if the client is open to it. To test the waters, you could even propose a temp-to-hire plan. If the contract worker ends up working out and they want to stay at the company, they can be brought on full-time.

Flexible Jobs Add Another Layer of Opportunity

As temporary jobs are no longer just for companies that look to contract, flexible jobs are no longer just for permanent placements. As statistics have shown, more workers are looking to have the opportunity to work remotely. This brings new opportunity for both contract and permanent placements. It allows staffing companies to expand your search for qualified candidates outside of the state. It also offers the opportunity to find more qualified candidates based on their preference to work at home. There may be highly skilled individuals that you could be missing out on if they prefer not to work at a physical location.

The opportunity to offer more flexible jobs will ultimately help increase the candidate pool. If a client would be open to remote work, now is a good time to discuss the increased interest in it and also the benefits. Not all jobs can be performed from home, but think about the jobs that could be and the opportunity it brings for the client.

Take Advantage of the Industries in Demand

There are several industries in demand now that will continue to be in demand and offer opportunity to employ contract and/or remote workers. Below are just a few of theses industries that could bring new opportunities for staffing companies.

As mentioned earlier, there has been an increase in COVID-19 related jobs. The pharmaceutical and healthcare industries are both booming and are in desperate need of assistance to meet the vaccine rollout demand. This is a great opportunity to partner with these industries and help them employ contract workers.

The information technology industry also boomed in 2020 and will continue to spiral upward. These jobs have been more stable during the pandemic because they haven’t relied on having a physical location. Most IT jobs can be performed online and offer an agile work at home environment. There has also been an increase in helpdesk/PC support jobs as more organizations are working at home. With the rise of IT jobs and the flexible work environment they bring, it’s another great industry for staffing companies to explore.

Customer Service representatives and call center agents have also seen an increase in demand in healthcare, IT, and online retail. As more businesses move virtual, there is a greater need for customer service help related to software and applications to help run teams remotely. More people are also shopping online, so there is a greater demand for online retail Customer Service Representatives. Customer Service Representatives can also offer the opportunity to work remotely.

Industrial and Manufacturing have also seen increases in demand. Manufacturers that produce essential goods have needed to increase staff significantly since the start of the pandemic. If staffing companies haven’t already looked into manufacturing companies of essential goods, this could be an opportunity to employ contract workers. Manufacturers of non-essential goods are also beginning to increase production. Business orders for durable goods such as tools, appliances and new cars rose for eight months in a row. This shows manufacturers are increasing their goods production in anticipation of strong sales in 2021 and may need to hire more staff now or in the near future.

These are just a few of the industries in demand now and for the foreseeable future. By doing research into industries that are booming and are expected to grow, staffing companies will set themselves up for future success. If they can incorporate contract and/or remote work into these industries, it will be a win, win.

Running with Opportunity

The pandemic has certainly brought on it’s challenges this past year, but the silver lining is it’s brought some new opportunities for the staffing industry to take advantage of. Change can be scary, but now is the time to run with the opportunities that present themselves and prepare for the changing future!

References:

UpWork Survey

Monster Survey

Verizon Survey

PWC Survey

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Source by Terri Roeslmeier

Can Stair Lifts Go Around Corners?

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Stair lifts are accessibility solutions designed for people with restricted mobility to help them move between the different floors in the house without seeking help from others. With advancements in technology, a wide range of safer and more reliable home stair lifts are now available in the industry.

When buying chair lifts, an important question in your mind may be “can stair chair lifts go around corners?” The answer to your question is yes. There are home chair lifts designed to go around corners. You can buy stair chair lift models with exclusive functionalities that go well with curved as well as straight and spiral staircases.

Stair lift systems are available in two types — straight and curved. The one ideal for you will depend on the kind of stairs you have in your house. Straight stairway lifts are designed to be used on straight stairway configurations whereas curved stair chair lift systems are used on stairways with angles, bends, curves and intermediate landings.

Curved Stair Lifts to Go around Corners

Designed to go around corners, curved chair lifts can be customized to the required shape and size to suit the curves and landings of the staircase. In terms of installation, straight stair lifts can be set up easily, whereas curved stair lifts require more time. These stair lifts are available in AC and DC models. The DC model comes with battery back-up and is more expensive.

Branded Stairlifts for Flawless Functioning

Exclusive models of stair chair lifts for straight, curved and spiral stairways are available from well-known manufacturers including ThyssenKrupp Access, Savaria and Bruno. All models are incorporated with advanced safety features and user-friendly controls to ensure safe and smooth floor to floor movement. Comfort, Levant and Flow II, Electra Ride-LT, Electra-Ride Elite, Step Saver Straight stair chair, Electra-Ride Elite Outdoor, Electra-Ride II and Electra-Ride III are some of the popular models you can choose from.

Advantages of using Stair Lifts

• Provides easy and comfortable access

• Strong and durable

• Virtually maintenance free

• Real space saver

• Does not require any architectural modifications

• Best suited for indoor and outdoor use

• Offers a smooth, comfortable and safe ride

• Increases the value of your house

If you are planning to invest in an electric chair lift, it is very important to avail of professional assistance from reliable dealers. A reputable and professional company can offer you trouble-free installation, repair and maintenance service, and timely inspection for your curved stairway lift. With such value-added services you will be able to utilize the equipment without any difficulties for a long term. An experienced dealer can also provide valuable advice that will help you choose the right chair lift for your use. When buying stair lifts for your home, the core points to consider include the extent of disability of the user, stairway design, safety options and budget.

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Source by Jai Gaitonde