When looking for a home improvement idea for your home’s exterior, it is advisable to go for something that blends protection and aesthetics. Your home’s walls are the first thing that a visitor sees and as they say, first impressions matter.

Due to exposure to weather external surfaces age faster and need constant maintenance or replacement. Whatever the location of your home, you can now use high quality raised panel shutters not only to protect your home but also add a dash of old-world style. These shutters give your home a classic touch which is evocative of traditional colonial design. There are so many colors to choose from and they all dress your home’s exterior with easy sophistication. When you shop for high-quality materials from a premium brand, you will get solid wood look shutters that offer optimal protection for your windows and the home’s occupants. The materials used to manufacture these shutters are fade resistant and offer high thermal resistance. You can choose between wood and vinyl depending on your styling needs but both materials guarantee a lower energy bill as they reduce the cost of heating and cooling. This guide will help you understand more about this classic style home improvement idea.

Like every homeowner, you are most likely worried about the exterior look of your home. When you buy a new home or finish building your own, the exterior looks spectacular but that’s before the effect of weather and age start showing. You will need to be creative to maintain your home’s façade looking immaculate.

Most of the styling ideas in the market require a lot of maintenance and this means higher cost of maintaining your home. Worse still, you might select a home improvement project that does not blend easily with your desired home décor. Many homeowners have been forced to change styling for their walls and window covers which comes at a great cost.

Boosting Curb Appeal with Classic Styling

In the current economic environment, any home improvement idea you choose must be aesthetically appealing, low-maintenance, customizable and functional. This is exactly what you get with the classic style raised panel shutters. These installations offer a unique solid and add substantive appeal to your home.

There are various other reasons to opt for this shutter system and not any other in the market today. Take a look:

Legends Shutters supplies the most versatile range of decorative shutters to give your look a classic look. They have a wide selection of products which you can choose based on material or style to spruce up your home’s exterior look. If you are looking for high-quality shutter systems, this company adheres to the highest industry standards and all their products come with industry-leading warranties.

Raised panel shutters offer every homeowner a chance to give a sophisticated look to their home while also enhancing protection against inclement weather. These shutters borrow from the 1800s Southern plantation architecture which is warm and rustic and they are guaranteed to give your home a dash of class and authenticity.

The most important thing for you to keep in mind before making home improvements is that you know what you are doing. In this article, we will present some valuable home improvement information. People of all experience levels can benefit from this information.

When you are installing new cabinets yourself. Start with the top set first. This way you will have plenty of room underneath to stand and navigate as you hang the top ones. The bottom set is much easier to install as there is no holding up a heavy cabinet while it gets screwed in.

One thing that a lot of homes seem to be missing is plants. Adding some plants to your living environment can spruce up your home infusing it with some life. Plants are not only a great design element, but make your home decorations seem complete and add a touch of nature to your rooms.

You can make really neat one of a kind plant stands from old stools. You can buy some old stools from yard sales, garage sales or your local thrift shop. The older the better and the more unique your plant stand will be. Weathered stools that you use as a plant stand can add a touch of unique country to your home decor.

You can also add a different style of rugs in the kid’s room. I sure they would love it. Because the floor is a great place to have fun. But the thing is how you can buy suitable rugs? Let me help out with you. On Rugknots You can buy huge collection of kids’ rugs. Even I bought it for myself.

If you are taking on your project alone, consider hiring a interior designer for a consultation. An hour with a professional can help clarify what you want to do and help steer you away from those projects that sound good in your head but would be a nightmare to complete.

If you are concerned about adding value to your home, do not put in a swimming pool during your next home improvement project. The upkeep on a pool is very time consuming, and they are also difficult to clean. Your energy would be better spent on a project (such as a garden) that will give you a better return on the amount of money you are spending.

Whenever you are doing an electrical home improvement job, overestimate the number of sockets each room needs. No matter how generous your plans are, an extra duplex outlet in most rooms will prove itself a wise investment over and over. When it comes to your home’s resale value, “there are too many plugs in here” is a phrase home buyers never say.

For the budget-minded homeowner working on a plumbing home improvement project, plastic PVC piping makes an entirely suitable substitute for expensive copper piping. PVC has been extensively tested and used for years without danger or failure. It is easy to work with and highly durable. The money saved by using PVC can be applied to more visible, usable home improvements.

Hire an electrician to install the outlet above the microwave cabinet. This can make plugging your microwave in really easy, and the cord won’t be easily visible. This helps to minimize the jumble of electrical cords that plague many kitchen counters.

Create a showcase in your kitchen. By removing cabinet doors, you can display your favorite dishware. Group together by color, similar items or shapes, for a look that will grab people’s attention. If your dishware is white or clear glass, be sure to paint the inside of the cabinet in a color that will show it off.

Plumbing and electrical issues should be fixed before you begin doing cosmetic improvements. You generally want to do these prior to other jobs since they require access to the inside of your walls. In addition, it is generally easier to have needed maintenance on your wiring and plumbing done if you have walls torn open for renovations anyway.

Shop around for the best estimates and compare your contractor candidates carefully. Be clear about what needs to be replaced or repaired and keep the list consistent between contractors. If you constantly alter the details, it will be very hard to find the best value for your money.

You can do most home improvement projects on your own. Naturally, if a certain home-improvement job is extensive, you may make things worse if you don’t have a professional handle it for you. It is possible for non-professionals to tackle some plumbing work, drywall repairs and painting projects. One of the nicest things about this is that it will save quite a bit of money.

As you can now see, you must know what you’re doing when making improvements to your home. This article is for do-it-yourselfers of all skill levels. Utilize these tips when it is time to make home renovations.

Six Sigma is becoming a proven approach for businesses and organizations to improve their performance. The spectrum of companies actively engaging in Six Sigma today is wide from industrials like Celanese, Caterpillar, GE, Honeywell, and 3M to service/retail organizations like Starwood Hotels, Sears, and Home Depot. Six Sigma has even started in the financial industry with Bank of America and JPMorgan Chase initiating major deployments in the past two years. Probably the most exciting area is in the public and healthcare sectors with success stories emerging from city government and John Hopkins Medical.

So what is all this excitement about? Haven’t these quality tools been around for years? Is it just the fact that people have strange names like Champion, Green Belt, Black Belt and for the chosen few, Master Black Belt? Okay, if it is not the names then what? Six Sigma’s success revolves around the fundamental elements needed for any successful organization. Six Sigma starts with a vision of delivering products and services to customers with no defects from the eyes of the customers. For companies it is vital to deliver these products and services at a profit. Once the organization has created their own vision of Six Sigma, the business leaders need to define their organization’s objectives in numerical terms. These “high-level metrics,” often called big Y’s in Six Sigma, are the foundation for identifying project y’s that Six Sigma Belts will execute projects on. With big Y’s in hand, business leaders called Six Sigma “Champions” breakdown these organizational level Y’s into smaller y’s a project leader called a Green Belt or Black Belt can work from.

So what’s next, do business leaders take a hands-off management by objectives (MBO) approach of, “I don’t care how you do it as long as you get results!”? For Six Sigma organizations the answer is a loud “NO.” Champions do care how projects are executed and have appointed highly trained Master Black Belts to assist and mentor project leaders in applying the Six Sigma method to manage their projects. I believe this is the key to Six Sigma’s success. In a past life I participated in a high-level meeting with executives from the world leader in the production of a product we all know. The purpose of the meeting and visit was to evaluate a critical new product design. All of the high-tech executives were dressed in dark Italian business suits complemented with gold and diamonds. I listened closely to each question these executives asked. I never once heard “how much?”, “when?” or even “why?” – every question was “by what method?.” Methodology is what Six Sigma is about.

Six Sigma Methods

There have evolved two key methods for carrying out Six Sigma projects. The first method is the most well-defined and works best if you have a problem with an unknown solution in existing products, processes or services. This method is called DMAIC or Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control. The newest method, which is in the developing stages, is called Design for Six Sigma or DFSS. The goal of DFSS is to develop a new product, process or service that is defect-free in the eyes of the customer. A number of consulting companies have invented roadmaps for DFSS like IDOV (Identify, Design, Optimize and Validate) and DMADV (Design, Measure, Analyze, Design and Verify).

Six Sigma and Design of Experiments

Once an organization has decided on the method and the project y’s, Belts are marched off to training “waves” bringing management-approved projects to class. DMAIC Green Belt training is normally two one-week sessions separated by one month. Black Belt training waves are extended by two additional months with two more weeks of training. The emphasis during the extended two weeks of Black Belt training is often on learning more details about advanced tools such as Design of Experiments (DOE).

So where does Design of Experiments fit into Six Sigma? Six Sigma is about understanding and controlling the variation of key process variables known as inputs or x’s in order to obtain improved results on project outputs or y’s. In Design of Experiment terms these inputs or x’s are often referred to as factors and the outputs are referred to as responses. In nearly all Six Sigma projects the relationship of the project y’s takes on the form of y=f(x1,x2,…xn). Wait a minute, isn’t this what Design of Experiments is all about? Of course, for almost 100 years Design of Experiments has been proven to be one of the best known methods for validating and discovering relationships between responses and factors. In Six Sigma terms it is discovering the relationship between outputs called y’s and inputs called x’s. Today’s Six Sigma Belts are primarily taught to focus their use of Design of Experiments in the Improve phase of DMAIC and the Optimize phase of IDOV. For DMAIC Six Sigma training the most common experimental designs taught are factorial and fractional factorial designs. Some curriculums introduce response surface designs and optimization designs at a high level. DFSS includes the experimental designs taught in all levels of DMAIC training and often expands to include the concept of robust designs. As an alternative to the classical approach, there are also a number of consulting companies teaching Taguchi designs as the preferred method for robust design.

Final Remarks

Six Sigma looks as though it is here to stay and even in today’s slow economy one of the few areas where there still are a number of new positions. The Six Sigma process is a great step toward creating learning organizations with its well-defined roadmaps and management structure. As with most new methodologies Six Sigma will mature and grow as it expands into new areas such as DFSS. As Six Sigma professionals learn more about the power of properly planned experiments, Design of Experiments will be integrated into most phases of the Six Sigma roadmap and not just considered an advanced tool for the improvement and optimization phases. Experienced practitioners of statistical methods like Design of Experiments should learn the language of Six Sigma and help integrate new methods into the Six Sigma process to improve its effectiveness.

Kathy, a skilled massage therapist, called me to discuss what she needed to know to start her own massage therapy clinic. She had been in the industry for over ten years, and was very skilled at working with her clients.

She worked for another clinic and felt she was ready to start a business of her own. However, like many want-to-be entrepreneurs, she possessed the technical skillsmassage therapybut possessed little business management experience, and no self-employment experience.

For many want-to-be entrepreneurs, discovering why businesses fail is a smart research project. It helps to uncover personal weaknesses, as well as begin to build up inherent strengths before investing in becoming self-employed.

It also helps them better understand the dynamics of the industry they will be competing. For example, if competition is intense because of a large number of massage therapists in a geographic area, we can expect that there will be less market share per clinic, downward price pressure, and lower profit potential; this makes for difficult going, especially in the start-up phase of the business.

Following are 10 reasons why small businesses fail to thrive. If you have an existing business, it might help to determine why your business is not growing.

1. Mistaking a business for a hobby. Just because you love something does not mean you can successfully convert it into a business. Too often we feel others share our passion, and we bank starting a new business on it. Research your business idea and make sure it is viable.

2. Poor planning. Yes, you must have a business plan. It can be a 3-page plan for the simplest of businesses or a 40+-page plan for a more complex business opportunity. The point is you are prepared to focus on your business’ goals and vision, and you have a good idea of what you need to do to put your plan into action. By going through a business planning exercise, you also may have unearthed what problems may arise, and how you are going to handle them, if they do. In addition, financially can you launch the business? It takes a lot of time to build a business; 60% of business start-ups fail within six months after opening. Lack of cash flow and undercapitalization is the culprit.

3. Entrepreneurial excitement. Entrepreneurs often get excited about new ideas, but are unable to determine if they have a “true opportunity”. Part of an effective business strategy (here is the business plan, again) is determining which markets you will and will not serve, as well as what products you will or will not offer. Before deciding to undertake a new business activity ask yourself, “Do I have the time and skill to implement this?”

4. Risking everything on one endeavor. Too often, small business owners will have just one product, one service, or one big client. However, what if this one thing disappears? Diversification will allow you to ride the flow of ebbs and tides in business.

5. Poor record keeping and financial controls. You must review your revenue and expense records each month, and understand what they mean! Accounting is the language of business. If you do not know how to speak it, get help from someone who does.

6. Poor cash management. A good rule of thumb is that you can live for one to two years without income when getting started because new businesses are usually slow to get off the ground. If you have created a business plan with a realistic budget, you will already have determined what I have just written!

If your plan shows you earning a high income in the first six months, it may be a good idea to go back and review your budgets.

7. Poor time management. Putting off tasks you do not enjoy will sink your business fast! We get into a business because we love massage therapy. However, have we thought about all the other things that go along with running a business, like bookkeeping, banking, sales, and marketing activities, talking with accountants, attorneys, dealing with customer problems, collecting receivables, and slow cash flow? Getting help with administrative tasks that eat up your time is a sure-fire way to spend time doing what you do bestdeveloping new ideas and revenue for your business.

8. Ineffective marketing. Learn the basics of marketing and track the success or failure of each technique you use. Dump ones that are not working for you in three months time.

9. Ineffective sales techniques. Once you have generated interest in a client, how are you going to convert them into a sale? Understand the basics of selling; take a class, read a book; get some professional help.

10. Entrepreneurial burnout. Owning your own business requires a huge investment of time, money, energy, and emotion. Are you ready to ride the rollercoaster of the highs and lows associated with each of these items? I can guarantee you, it will happen! Motivation and creativity can suffer in the most challenging times, and a pessimistic attitude may prevail.

Be sure to schedule time for yourself. Take time off from your business. It will help you manage the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, and give you fresh perspectives.

As Kathy and I ended our counseling session, she made a list of areas where she needed to grow, and created a task plan. With planning and an objective look at both your personal and your business’ strengths and weaknesses, you can be successful.

© 2006, 2008. Bonita Richter and Profit Strategies. All rights reserved.

The Debt solution for the individual customers and small business is the biggest challenge after recession.

Small business and individuals customers are facing tough time today.

Individual
customers and small businessman are not able to make regular payments
like salaries, payment to creditors, suppliers etc. The entire
operation of a small time business man today is standing still due to
the financial crisis. They are looking forward for relief services as
much as any financial institution in distress.

Individual
customers and small business owners should start planning the budget
more accurately. Based on the budget one should plan the debt payment.
Usage of credit card and other such products should be avoided.

The
customer should talk to their creditors and ask them to forgive a
portion of the debt and they would make the payment for the rest.

Before
filing for bankruptcy or to evade harassment at the hands of the
creditors the customer should talk to a debt settlement company and get
his debt settled at the earliest. The rules of settlement for unsecured
debts are the same in case of small business debts and personal
unsecured debts. In a business venture if the unsecured debts are $
10,000 or more the business owner can as much look for debt
consolidation services as an individual. Debt Settlement Company helps
small business owners to eliminate 55 % or more of their unsecured
debts.

In case of unsecured debts as there is no collateral
attached to it. In case of non payment there is no fixed asset which
the financial institution can claim and sell to reclaim their money.
Financial institutions tend to regain their money in the first few
months of lending at a very high interest rate.Business owners should
look for good debt settlement companies through the debt settlement
network.

Therefore selection of good settlement company must be
after proper research and reference check. It can result in drastic
reduction of debt for the customers.

If
you want to get out of debt and hire a debt settlement company for debt
negotiation then I have an important piece of advice. Do not go
directly to a particular debt settlement company but rather first go to
a debt relief network who is affiliated with several legitimate debt
companies. In order to be in the debt relief network, the debt
settlement companies must prove a track record of successfully
negotiating and eliminating debt. This way you can be assured that you
will find a legitimate debt settlement company.

Free Debt Advice.

Fear of starting a business can be overwhelming but is achievable without a lot of risk. This is a guide to starting a small business using ideas from the Internet.

Thinking about starting a business? Here are some hints:

Getting into business can be overwhelming but is achievable without a lot of risk. This is a guide to starting a small business. One of the great things available when starting a business is the Internet.

Even if you are still at the idea stage or have taken some small steps to get started, finding advice will be an essential part to your success! In this guide to starting a small business, there are some items that will improve the odds of success:

1.Recruit a Team of People.

Studies have shown that if you employ staff in your business you have a greater chance to survive the start up years. If you can afford to hire staff do it without hesitation.

2.Startup Capital.

Have start up capital equal to at least 6 months of trading. Undercapitalization is a major contributor to failure in business. You need cash to cover the expenses you incur while you build sales and cash flow.

3.Training.

Get education and learn business skills. Passion and desire alone won’t get you through. You might be the smartest kid on the block and have the best product in the world, but if you have no business skills, you’re destined to fail.

4.Become A Frugal Mogul.

You’ve heard the story of the golden goose. Well in business, keep costs low and don’t take cash from your business until it is mature enough to lay ‘golden eggs’ [metaphorically speaking]. Businesses that begin this way and then expand once matured have a higher success rate.

Free Counseling and Advice

There are plenty of small business centres to help you get started. I have used: ww.sdi.qld.gov.au/virtual/index.cfm.

I recommend: Use the free services local government and chambers of commerce offer. Even major banks have websites dedicated to helping small business. Alternatively you can post a question to me on my website and I will provide an answer you can bank on.

Using Microsoft

Here is something fresh and new to help small business. The Microsoft ‘Startup Center’ lists the key tasks you can access to start your business. Even though it is a self promoter it still has good information.

I recommend: Start at this address: ww.microsoft.com/SMALLBUSINESS/startup-toolkit/default.aspx?pid= home page. Use the tabs at the top of the page. You will find advice on selecting a business structure and other valuable information. Ensure this information is relevant to your state laws and conditions. You can also download a free business plan template here: ttp://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/TC010175201033.aspx?pid=CT101172331033.

Tips & Tactics

Some last points to help you on your journey

The reasons business fail in the first 5 years are competition, mismanagement, high rent and insurance costs, high debt, inability to get financing, loss of clients, difficulty with collections and lack of profitable sales.

This guide to starting a small business still advocates you must study your chosen market before spending a cent. Even though the odds to have a great small business are good you still need to do your homework.