Season Greetings

Seasons Compliment may all your ideas lead you to a profit.

Embrace the digital universe.

The term "digital universe" typically refers to the vast amount of digital data that exists in various forms, including text, images, videos, audio recordings, sensor data, and more. This term encompasses all the data created, stored, and shared in digital formats across the internet, computer systems, mobile devices, and other digital platforms.

The digital universe is continuously expanding at an exponential rate due to factors such as the proliferation of internet-connected devices, the growth of social media, the rise of e-commerce, the adoption of cloud computing, and the increasing use of big data analytics. It includes everything from personal emails and social media posts to corporate databases and scientific research datasets.

The digital universe is a dynamic and evolving entity that shapes how we communicate, work, conduct research and interact with the world around us. Managing, analyzing, and harnessing the power of this vast digital data landscape are essential challenges and opportunities in the modern era.

The digital universe presents challenges, including data quality issues, information overload, data governance, and ethical concerns related to data use and manipulation.

The digital universe has transformed business models, created new industries (e.g., data analytics and cybersecurity), and led to economic growth through the monetization of data-driven insights and services.

The digital universe has facilitated scientific research and innovation in various fields, including astronomy, genomics, climate modeling, and social sciences, by providing access to vast amounts of data for analysis and experimentation.

Our physical Universe finds a mirror in this digital counterpart. Think of it as the collective knowledge, experiences, and creations captured in bits and bytes.

Have a great season! and See you at the Top.

Be a Creative Producer

There is talk of a double dip recession, based on the fact that the world economies are taking too long to recover from the last economic downturn.

Goldman Sachs in 2001 predicted that Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRICs) would dominate global economic markets. At that time, it seemed like a fairytale, but in 2010 China surpassed Japan as the second largest economy, while in 2011 Brazil surpassed UK as the sixth largest economy in the world.

China by market capitalization is home to the three largest banks in the world and also home to the world's biggest reserve of Rare Earth.

India is closing in on Germany as the fourth biggest economy, while Russia with big oil reserves and high human capacity will only need a little fiscal adjustment to also close up the gap.

Why are these BRICS and very few western companies achieving such incredible momentum?

What can we learn?

How can we apply these lessons to our personal economies?

We know that Google was started by two guys at Stanford hostel. We know that Bill Gates dropped out of Harvard and sold DOS without even owning it. We also know that Steve Jobs started Apple while understudying his mentor.

Apple, as you know, makes its own mobile device hardware as well as software. As a result, Microsoft is now talking with Nokia about Windows smartphones. So, it only makes sense that Google is seeking similarly tight integration between its mobile hardware Motorola.

One common theme with momentum is the creative production for world market.

There are very few places where you can practice both skills.

Zazzle allows you to be creative and productive at the same time.

Zazzle also allows you to design your own products online and to sell those products directly through zazzle, ebay or amazon as well as having your affiliates promote them.

Sounds great, zazzle is currently the best place to design products online and have them dropshipped direct to your buyers.

This is the best season to launch your creative production.

Online holiday shopping reached record levels in 2010. And e-commerce spending is already up this year. All signs point to consumers spending even more online this holiday season.

Best wishes, lets us know how much momentum you are gaining.

Innovators Business Ideas

 

Apple had 90 days working capital on hand when Steve Jobs took over — in other words, Apple was only three months away from bankruptcy.

Steven Paul "Steve" Jobs (February 24, 1955 – October 5, 2011) was an American entrepreneur and inventor. He was co-founder, chairman, and former chief executive officer of Apple Inc. Jobs also previously served as chief executive of Pixar Animation Studios; he became a member of the board of directors of The Walt Disney Company in 2006, following the acquisition of Pixar by Disney. He was credited in Toy Story (1995) as an executive producer.


When describing his period of exile from Apple — when John Sculley took over — Steve Jobs described one fundamental root cause of Apple's problems. That was to let profitability outweigh passion: "My passion has been to build an enduring company where people were motivated to make great products. The products, not the profits, were the motivation.

Sculley flipped these priorities to where the goal was to make money. It's a subtle difference, but it ends up meaning everything."

There were thousands of layoffs. Scores of products were terminated. He knew the company had to make money to survive, but he transitioned the focus of Apple away from profits.

Adopted as a baby, Jobs recalled as a child once confronting his parents in tears about why his real parents had rejected him. His parents sat him down and said, "No, you don't understand. We specifically picked you out."

Profit was viewed as necessary, but not sufficient, to justify everything Apple did. That attitude resulted in a company that looks entirely different to almost any other modern Fortune 500 company. It's almost the opposite of what is taught in business school. Apple is just the opposite: It thinks of great products, then sells them. Prototypes and demos always come before spreadsheets."

While growing up Steve Jobs will go unbathed for several days his managers at Atari made him work the night shift because his co-workers complained about his body odor, and he drove a Mercedes with no license plate because he didn't want people tracking him.

Everything — the business, the people — are subservient to the mission: building great products. And rather than listening to or asking their customers what they wanted; Apple would solve problems customers didn't know they had with products they didn't even realize they wanted. They can do it because Apple hasn't optimized its organization to maximize profit. Instead, it has made the creation of value for customers its priority.

A driven eccentric and sometimes cruel man who grew more reflective and fatalistic in his later years.

A Professor at Harvard Christensen's predictions on Apple: "There's just something different about those guys. They're freaks."

Jobs was profoundly influenced by the Innovator's Dilemma — took Apple from bankruptcy three months away, to one of the most valuable and influential companies in the world.

Steve Jobs was initially a Buddhist, and he began to have Faith after developing Cancer.

Jobs' legacy extends beyond his contributions to technology; he was also known for his unconventional thinking, creativity, and relentless pursuit of perfection. His philosophy emphasized the intersection of technology and liberal arts, and he believed in the power of design to shape human experiences.

Steve Jobs passed away on October 5, 2011, leaving behind a profound impact on the technology industry and popular culture. He remains an inspirational figure for entrepreneurs, innovators, and creatives around the world.

Innovators are the bold thinkers, the visionaries, and the creators who drive progress and change in our world. They are the individuals who challenge the status quo, push boundaries, and bring fresh ideas to life. Innovators can be found in every field, from technology and science to art and business. They're not afraid to take risks, embrace failure as a learning opportunity, and persist in the face of adversity to bring their ideas to fruition. Whether they're inventing groundbreaking technologies, designing revolutionary products, or pioneering new approaches to solving problems, innovators play a crucial role in shaping the future and driving human advancement.

I Wish You Great Success

Profit From Public Domain

The term "public domain" refers to a state of intellectual property where certain works are no longer protected by copyright, trademark, patent, or other forms of legal protection. When a work enters the public domain, it means that it is freely available for use by anyone for various purposes, including reproduction, distribution, modification, and public performance, without the need for permission from or payment to the original creator or copyright holder. Here are some key aspects of the public domain:

Expired Copyright: In most countries, copyright protection has a finite duration, typically extending for the life of the creator plus a certain number of years (e.g., 70 years in many countries). Once the copyright term expires, the work enters the public domain.

No Copyright: Works created by the government or its employees as part of their official duties are often automatically in the public domain. These may include government reports, publications, and data.

Dedication: Some creators choose to dedicate their works to the public domain intentionally. They may use tools like the Creative Commons CC0 license to waive all their copyright and related rights.

Historical Works: Older works whose copyrights have expired are often considered part of the public domain. This includes classic literature, art, music, and historical documents.

Lack of Originality: Some materials do not qualify for copyright protection because they lack originality, such as factual information or basic data.

Public Domain Databases: Some organizations curate databases or collections of works that they explicitly designate as being in the public domain for public use.

Derivative Works: Once a work is in the public domain, others can create derivative works based on it without infringing copyright. For example, they can adapt, remix, or build upon public domain content.

Access to Knowledge: The public domain plays a crucial role in ensuring that knowledge, culture, and creativity are accessible to all. It promotes innovation, education, and the free exchange of ideas.

Cultural Heritage: Many culturally significant works, such as classical music compositions and ancient texts, have entered the public domain, preserving and sharing cultural heritage.

It's important to note that copyright laws can vary by country, and the determination of when a work enters the public domain may depend on local regulations. Additionally, some works might be in the public domain in one country but still under copyright protection in another due to differences in copyright terms.

Before using a work from the public domain, it's a good practice to verify its status and ensure that it has indeed entered the public domain in your jurisdiction. Public domain works can be valuable resources for various creative, educational, and research endeavors.

Typically, 'public domain' describes literary, musical, artistic and other creative works that are no longer protected by copyright, alongside others that never were subject to copyright. As such those items can be picked up and turned into valuable commercial products such as books, films, postcards, prints, calendars, and countless other high profit products.

The fact is there are many millions of articles in the public domain, covering a massive range of topics. In fact, especially in the United States, there are articles printed as recently as the 1970's packed with valuable up-to-date information and no longer subject to copyright.

I Wish You Great Success

The Land of the Free

We've seen free hands-on workshops for computers, chess, knitting and more. You can learn a new language at FSI-language-courses.org, learn to draw at Drawspace.com, or improve your golf game at Golf.com, just to name a few resources.

Free Hobbies
Want to learn something new in your spare time? Many local retailers offer free workshops. For instance, you can improve your culinary skills. At REI, take advantage of free clinics on bike maintenance, backpacking, camp cooking and more.

Free Investing Apps
Stay up to date on the financial markets with free apps on your iPhone, Blackberry or Android.

Bloomberg for up-to-the-minute stock quotes and breaking news, Morningstar for mutual fund research at your fingertips, and Yahoo Finance for the latest financial headlines, stock news and videos.

Free E-Books
If you own a Kindle, iPad or other electronic reader, you can populate your e-library without breaking the bank. E-books commonly sell for $9.99 -- less than hardcovers but about as much as paperbacks. But at Gutenberg.org or the University of Pennsylvania's online books page, you won't pay a cent to legally download thousands of books whose copyrights have expired, including War and Peace, Moby Dick and Little Women.

You can also search for free e-books at Amazon.com, Barnesandnoble.com, iTunes.com and Kobo.com. Or check your public library, where you can get newer titles for free too.

Free Tax Help
Understanding the U.S. tax code can be, well, taxing. But Kiplinger.com is here to help. During tax season, we publish a tip a day to make sure you get every dime you're due. Also check out the discussion board at HRBlock.com, which is monitored by tax professionals during tax season.

The IRS wants to help, get answers from the people who enforce the rules. You may also qualify for free face-to-face help from a tax pro volunteer. See the IRS's list of free tax return preparation resources for details.

Free Outings
You can entertain friends, family or even a date for free -- without looking cheap. Many top-notch museums, galleries and zoos offer free admission year-round, including the Getty Center in Los Angeles, and Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo. Others, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York, let you in for free on certain days of the week or month. And many college campuses host free concerts and student art exhibits.

Every October, select theaters nationwide give free performances. 

Go to FreeNightofTheater.net to learn more. 

Enjoy the Savings

The Business of an Entrepreneur

 

An entrepreneur is willing to accept the risk of starting and managing the type of business that lets them do the kind of work they want to do, and offers them a balanced lifestyle.

That is a good way of describing what we are all doing or at least aiming to do? Just consider the following common themes that unite the various money-making opportunities we can follow:

* Low entry barrier - Thanks to the likes of eBay and Amazon, international trade is no longer just for those with warehouses. With the explosion of e-readers like the Ipad it means anyone can now self-publish to a global audience.

* Controlled risk: - As the upfront investment is low (or sometimes zero) the actual financial risk involved is minimal.

* Home-based - You do not need an office building and the inherent travel cost. With a laptop, an Internet access you can run a global enterprise from home.

* Low start up & running costs - The investment required to start and run your enterprise is low or even zero, and once successful the business can be self-financing.

* Fun & personally fulfilling - It is not only possible to use your interests and hobbies as part of your business; it should be at the very core of your decision.

* Flexi-time -Due to the leveraged nature of many of the strategies, it's possible to greatly magnify the potential gains compared to the time and effort invested.

* Unlimited upside - Your earning potential is unlimited.

I Wish You Great Success

Securing the Digital Universe

The term "digital universe" refers to the vast and ever-expanding collection of digital data and information that exists in various digital formats, stored across numerous devices, systems, and platforms. It encompasses all the data generated, transmitted, and stored by individuals, organizations, and systems in the digital age. 

Here are some key aspects of the digital universe:

Data Types- The digital universe comprises a wide range of data types, including text, images, videos, 

audio, sensor data, structured and unstructured data, and more. This data is generated by humans, 

machines, and various digital devices and systems.

Data Sources- Data in the digital universe originates from various sources, including social media interactions, internet browsing, online transactions, mobile apps, IoT (Internet of Things) devices, 

sensors, scientific research, and business operations.

Data Growth- The digital universe is characterized by exponential data growth. Advances in technology, increased connectivity, and the proliferation of digital devices have contributed to the rapid expansion of this universe.

Big Data- Much of the digital universe falls under the category of "big data" due to its volume, velocity, variety, and complexity. Analyzing and extracting insights from this data can be challenging but also 

highly valuable.

Data Privacy and Security- With the vast amount of data in the digital universe, concerns about data privacy and security are paramount. Safeguarding personal and sensitive information from unauthorized access and breaches is a significant challenge.

Approximately 75% of the digital Universe is a copy, only 25% is unique, while enterprise account for 20% of the data generated, they are liable for 80% of the data created and by 2020 more of this data will live or pass through the cloud.

In terms of sheer volume of data to be protected from 2009 to 2020 the amount of data in the Digital Universe is expected to grow by a factor of 44times to 35 trillion gigabytes. Although identity, financial account and credit card data are the most sought after even surpassing illicit drugs as organized crime most desirable commodity.

The compromise of system data i.e. configurations, settings and log files can be the gateway for access to this data and needs continuous monitoring and protection.

I Wish You Great Success

Privacy Versus Secrecy

Privacy and secrecy are related concepts that involve controlling access to information, but they are distinct in terms of scope and context.

To the older generation privacy is about secrecy and once something is no longer secret it is no longer private.

To the younger generation privacy is about control, a lot of data is shared with government agencies, employers and social media, but when you can control the flow of your data and who is granted access then it is considered private

Privacy and secrecy are related concepts that deal with the protection of information, but they have distinct meanings and implications.

Privacy refers to an individual's right to control their personal information and data, as well as the freedom to keep certain aspects of their life or activities confidential from others.

The scope of Privacy encompasses a broad range of personal information, including but not limited to communication, financial details, medical records, and lifestyle choices.

Privacy often emphasizes giving individuals control over their personal information, allowing them to choose what information they share and with whom.

Secrecy, on the other hand, pertains to intentionally keeping information hidden or confidential from others. 

It is often a deliberate act of concealing specific information or knowledge.

The scope of Secrecy can apply to various types of information, including personal, organizational, 

or government-related details. It may involve trade secrets, classified information, or confidential business strategies.

Secrecy may require the implementation of security measures such as restricted access, encryption, and authentication to prevent unauthorized disclosure.

While privacy and secrecy share the common goal of controlling access to information, privacy is typically more concerned with protecting individual rights and personal data, while secrecy often extends to a broader context, including organizational and governmental matters. Both concepts, however, play crucial roles in maintaining trust, security, and ethical standards in various aspects of personal and collective life.

The Team

 

The odds are incredibly high that YOU are doing all the work to grow your business. And that's where the overwhelm, overwork, and frustration comes from. After all, growing a business takes a lot of work.

But, if you, and you alone, are doing all the work to grow your business, it means that your business is designed wrong. Because while it's true that growing a business takes a lot of hard work - it doesn't mean that YOU have to be the one doing all the hard work.

What I am talking about is designing your business, so you satisfy, better than your competitors, the essential needs, unconscious expectations, and perceived preferences of everyone your business interacts with.

That includes employees, outsourcers, affiliates, joint-venture partners, prospects, customers, suppliers, and anyone and everyone else your business relies on.

The Team culture refers to the shared values, beliefs, behaviors, and norms that define how members of a team interact with each other and work together. It encompasses the overall atmosphere, attitudes, and relationships within the team. A positive team culture contributes to increased collaboration, communication, and productivity.

In other words, you build a business that every member of your team understands the business culture and knows how the business makes money.

The mistake most entrepreneurs make is they neglect everyone other than themselves. They design or default into a business where they are the only ones who truly benefit from the business. And if that's the case, it shouldn't come as any big surprise that they are the ones who are going to have to do all the work to grow it.

If you do all the work to grow your business, you end up with a job that owns YOU instead of a business that you own.

I Wish You Great Success

Global Water Crisis

The global water crisis refers to the widespread and growing shortage of clean and safe freshwater resources in many parts of the world. It is a complex and multifaceted issue driven by various factors, including population growth, climate change, pollution, mismanagement of water resources, and unequal distribution of water access. Here are some key aspects of the global water crisis:

Water Scarcity- Water scarcity occurs when the demand for water exceeds the available supply. According to the United Nations, more than 2 billion people worldwide lack access to safe drinking water, and over 4 billion people experience severe water scarcity at least one month a year.

Unequal Access- The global water crisis disproportionately affects vulnerable and marginalized populations, often leading to social and economic inequalities. In many cases, communities in low-income countries lack access to clean water and sanitation, leading to health problems and limiting opportunities for development.

Climate Change- Climate change exacerbates the water crisis by altering precipitation patterns, causing more frequent and severe droughts, floods, and extreme weather events. These changes disrupt water availability and quality.

Water Pollution- Pollution from industrial, agricultural, and domestic sources contaminates water supplies, making them unsafe for consumption and damaging ecosystems. Polluted water can lead to serious health issues and reduced agricultural productivity.

Over-Extraction- Over-extraction of groundwater for agriculture, industry, and urban use has led to the depletion of aquifers in many regions. Once depleted, these underground water sources can take decades or even centuries to recharge.

Ecosystem Impact- The global water crisis also has a significant impact on ecosystems. Reduced water flow in rivers and wetlands, for example, threatens aquatic life and biodiversity.

The global water crisis is a critical issue that requires concerted efforts from governments, organizations, and individuals to ensure a sustainable and equitable future for all.

Potters for Peace will help reach the bottom of the pyramid in these communities; access clean water, improve hygiene, educate and financially empower.

Water.org wants to access 100million people in 5 years, with your help they can.

The Market Place

An online marketplace is a digital platform where multiple sellers can list their products or services, 

and customers can browse, compare, and make purchases. These marketplaces have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their convenience and the wide variety of products and services they offer. If you're interested in creating or operating an online marketplace, 

Here are the key steps and considerations:

1. Choose a Niche or Industry- Decide on the specific niche or industry your marketplace will focus on. 

Specialization can help you target a specific audience and stand out in a crowded market.

2. Market Research- Conduct thorough market research to understand your target audience, their needs, 

preferences, and pain points. Identify potential competitors and gaps in the market.

3. Technology Stack- Choose the technology stack and platform for building your online marketplace. You can develop a custom platform or use existing marketplace software and platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento, or use a software-as-a-service (SaaS) solution like Sharetribe or Marketplace.

4 Seller Onboarding- Develop a seller onboarding process. Sellers should be able to easily create accounts, list their products or services, and manage their profiles.

5. User Experience (UX) Design- Design an intuitive and user-friendly interface for both sellers and buyers. A clean and responsive design is crucial for a positive user experience.

6. Payment Gateway Integration- Integrate secure and reliable payment gateways to facilitate transactions between buyers and sellers. Ensure that financial transactions are secure and comply with relevant regulations.

7. Trust and Safety Measures- Implement measures to build trust in your marketplace, such as user reviews and ratings, dispute resolution processes, and fraud prevention tools.

If you have ever traded online, you have probably used ebay as a platform for your trades.

I suggest you consider these alternative platforms that could be cheaper than ebay depending on your trades.

Amazon is another great site to sell and good alternative to ebay................

Have a profitable trade and enjoy the new experience.

I Wish You Great Success

Brand Effect

Brand image refers to the perception that consumers have of a brand based on various elements such as visual identity, messaging, customer experiences, and overall brand associations. It is the way a brand is perceived in the minds of consumers and plays a crucial role in influencing purchasing decisions. 

Here are key components and factors that contribute to a brand's image.

Brand Identity:

• Logo- A visual representation of the brand.
• Color Scheme- Consistent use of colors associated with the brand.
• Typography- Font styles used in branding materials.

Brand Messaging:

• Tagline- A concise and memorable statement that captures the essence of the brand.
• Brand Voice- The tone and style used in communication materials.

Product or Service Quality:

The perceived quality of a brand's products or services influences its image.

Brand Loyalty:

A positive brand image contributes to customer loyalty, as consumers are more likely to stay loyal to brands they perceive positively.

What image does your brand conveyed about its users.

For example:

• Marlboro cigarettes convey customers as rugged and manly...
• Mercedes conveys that customers have arrived financially and can afford the finer things in life...
• The Wall Street Journal conveys readers as educated, center-right, and upwardly mobile...

Branding is an old concept, but still relevant in today's market if it is consistent over time.

Most people are no longer sure about their goals and purpose and the meaning of their lives. Nowadays, the average person changes career a minimum of five times and changes social relationships, homes, and social roles even more often. Which means most people are struggling to find purpose.

A consistent brand like purpose can be a source of hope and a great marketing tool.

I Wish You Great Success

Creativity in Partnership

Partnership is a single-purpose, shared business activity that can create massive profits...

Without a lot of expenditure on your part...

Simply put, Partnerships are:

- The fastest way to make a fortune.

- The easiest way to make a fortune.

- The safest low-risk way to make a fortune.

- The best way to create/leverage business relationships that make you a fortune.

Keep in mind that workable deals take time to mature and finalize.

Here are a few ways to creativity contributes to partnership success.

Market Differentiation- Creativity in branding, marketing, and communication strategies can help partners differentiate themselves in the market. This distinctiveness can attract customers and set the partnership apart from competitors.

Cross-Pollination of Ideas- Partnerships bring together individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and skills. Creative collaboration allows for the cross-pollination of ideas, fostering an environment where different perspectives contribute to more robust and well-rounded solutions.

Agile Decision-Making- Creativity promotes flexibility and agility in decision-making. Partners who are open to creative approaches can respond more quickly to changes in the business landscape, making their collaboration more adaptable and resilient.

Cultural Alignment- Creativity is essential in aligning organizational cultures within a partnership. Finding innovative ways to integrate different work cultures and values contributes to a harmonious and productive collaboration.

Long-Term Value Creation- Creativity contributes to the generation of long-term value by identifying and capitalizing on emerging trends, customer needs, and market shifts. Partnerships that can creatively adapt to these changes are more likely to succeed over time.

In summary, creativity is a catalyst for success in partnerships by fostering innovation, encouraging collaborative problem-solving, and promoting a dynamic and adaptable approach to business challenges. Partnerships that prioritize creativity are better positioned to navigate complexity, differentiate themselves, and create lasting value.

Merry Xmas and enjoy your Holiday.

Why Joint Ventures

A joint venture is a business relationship.

- hopefully, a mutually advantageous one

- between two (or more) parties.

It is not a merger, a general partnership, or an ongoing business agreement.

It's not you buying someone's company or them buying yours. It's not an equity sharing or 

equity position in anybody's company. It's not a private placement.

Most joint ventures are unique, and the best ones will be the result of applying your 

own imagination and creativity to form the best win/win situation for you and your partner.

The success of your joint ventures will be limited by only two things, your own creativity and your own sense of what's possible. Make sure your joint ventures are profitable for all involved, meet legal guidelines, and operate in an ethical manner - and the sky is the limit!

Creativity plays a vital role in the success of joint ventures by fostering innovation, problem-solving, and collaborative growth. 

Creativity can contribute to joint ventures success by:

Innovative Solutions- Creative thinking allows partners to approach challenges and opportunities with fresh perspectives. This can lead to the development of innovative solutions that address specific needs or gaps in the market, providing a competitive advantage.

Joint Product Development- Partnerships often involve the creation of new products or services. Creative collaboration can result in the development of unique offerings that combine the strengths and expertise of each JV partner, appealing to a broader audience.

Collaboration- When challenges arise, a creative mindset enables partners to work together to find effective and unconventional solutions. This can strengthen the partnership by demonstrating resilience and adaptability.

See You at The Top

Bribery in a Security Perspective

“Security is mostly a superstition. It does not exist in nature, nor do the children of men as a whole experience it. Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. Life is a daring adventure or nothing at all.”............ Helen Keller

Bribery from a security perspective is a form of corruption that severely undermines both public 

and national security. It often acts as a facilitator for insecurity by allowing illegal activities 

to flourish, such as smuggling, human trafficking, arms trading, and enabling terrorist movements. 

Bribery of security personnel at checkpoints or borders can provide safe passage for criminals 

and terrorists, compromising the safety of citizens and entire states.

The Bribery Act 2010 comes into force in April 2011 in UK, and it is important we are all well-informed about it. The Act creates offences of individuals or commercial organizations giving or receiving a bribe. If a commercial organisation has committed an offence, any senior officers who have consented or connived are also liable. 

The Act creates a new, separate offence of bribing a foreign official. It also creates an offence of failing to prevent bribery.

The offence of bribery can be committed by anyone associated with the company -- this will capture employees, subsidiaries, agents, joint venture partners and anyone who provides a service for the organization. The bribery can take place anywhere in the world and the Act specifically makes no allowance for local custom or practice in foreign jurisdictions. It is a strict liability offence, and a statutory defense is only available if the organization can show it had "adequate procedures" in place to prevent Bribery.

Consider the recent events in China.

GSK CORRUPTION

China has barred a GlaxoSmithKline executive from leaving the country as it turns up the heat on the drug maker over allegations of corruption.

Steve Nechelput, finance director for GlaxoSmithKline China, has been prevented from traveling outside China since June.

The U.K. drug maker has been accused by China of using a network of more than 700 travel agencies and other firms to channel bribes to health officials since 2007.

It would be an interesting terrain to observe.

Bribery also facilitates corruption within political, military, social, and economic systems, 

weakening institutions that uphold security and rule of law. This corruption creates 

vulnerabilities that criminal and insurgent groups exploit to further violence and instability. 

In many cases, the misuse of public funds and bribery in security sectors leads to diminished 

accountability and increases opportunities for organized crime and terrorism

I Wish You Great Success

Technological Trend

The trend here is for new technologies to be made available for the consumer market before they are available to the business market.

The consumer market and the business market (also known as the business-to-business or B2B market) 

represent two distinct segments of the economy with different characteristics, buying behaviors, 

and marketing approaches

Here are the key differences between the consumer market and the business market:

Target Audience.

Consumer Market- Targets individual consumers or households as end-users of products or services.

Business Market- Targets organizations, businesses, or institutions as customers.

Buying Decision.

Consumer Market- Typically involves individual or family decision-making units. Purchases are often made for personal use.

Business Market- Involves a more complex decision-making process with multiple stakeholders, including various departments and decision-makers within an organization.

Purchase Volume.

Consumer Market- Involves smaller, individual transactions. Purchases are usually made in smaller quantities.

Business Market- Involves larger, bulk transactions. Purchase volumes are often higher due to business needs.

Businesses are under pressure to use these new technologies. Younger employees simply are not satisfied with using outdated technology. They're either going to figure out ways around the corporate security rules or change jobs to a trendy company.

With cloud computing a lot more employee computing devices are nothing more than dumb terminals with a browser interface; When corporate e-mail is all webmail, corporate documents are all on Google Docs, and when all the specialized applications have a web interface, it's easier to allow employees to use any up-to-date browser.

Senior management may also pressure security out of the way, they may want to get to the company's databases from their brand-new iPad.

With these pressure from employees and senior management, it is going to be harder and harder to say no to consumer tech.

 

I wish You Great Success.

Social Media Data

User data refers to the information collected from individuals while they interact with various online platforms, services, or devices. Here are some important facts about user data:

Types of User Data.

Personal Information- Includes names, addresses, phone numbers, and other identifiers.

Demographic Information- Age, gender, income, education level, etc.

Behavioral Data- User actions, preferences, browsing history, and interactions with content.

Collection Methods.

Explicit Data Collection- Users provide information willingly (e.g., filling out forms).

Implicit Data Collection- Data is collected without the user's direct input (e.g., cookies, tracking pixels).

Data Privacy.

Concerns- Users are increasingly concerned about how their data is collected, stored, and used.

Regulations- Various data protection laws, such as GDPR in Europe and CCPA in California, aim to protect user privacy and give individuals control over their data.

Data Security.

Encryption- Protects user data during transmission and storage.

Security Breaches- Incidents where unauthorized individuals gain access to user data, emphasizing the need for robust security measures.

Monetization.

Business Model- Many online platforms monetize user data by using it for targeted advertising and personalized services.

At the back end, social networking sites can monetize all of the data. Generally, by selling targeted advertising, users often do not mind if a site uses its data to target advertisements, but users are less appreciative when it sells that data to third parties.

Free Services- Users often exchange their data for free access to various online services.

There are different ways to look at user data.

Some of it you give to the social networking site in confidence, expecting the site to safeguard the data.

Some of it you publish openly, and others use it to search for you. 

some of it you share only within a circle of other users.

Different social networking sites give users different rights for each data type.

Some are always private,

some are always public.

Some can be edited or deleted. 

Some can be viewed, and some cannot.

It is fundamental that users should have different rights with respect to each data types. Users should be allowed to export, change, and delete disclosed data.

I Wish You Great Success

Developing the Business Model

Developing a successful business model is a fundamental step in starting and growing a business. A business model outlines how your company creates, delivers, and captures value. Here's a step-by-step guide to developing a business model.

1. Understand Your Target Audience:

Define your target market and understand their needs, preferences, and pain points. Your business model should cater to your customers' demands.

2. Identify Your Value Proposition:

Determine what unique value your product or service offers to customers. This should address a specific problem or need.

3. Choose a Revenue Model:

Decide how your business will make money. Common revenue models include selling products, charging subscription fees, offering freemium services, licensing, or generating revenue through advertising.

4. Define Your Customer Acquisition Strategy:

How will you attract and acquire customers? This may involve marketing, advertising, partnerships, or referrals.

5. Outline Your Distribution Channels:

Determine how you will deliver your product or service to customers. This could include online sales, 

brick-and-mortar stores, distributors, or a combination of channels.

6. Develop Your Key Resources:

Identify the key assets and resources your business needs to operate effectively. This may include physical assets, intellectual property, technology, or partnerships.

7. Consider Key Activities:

List the critical activities your business must perform to deliver value and maintain operations. This could include manufacturing, research and development, marketing, or customer support.

8. Define Your Cost Structure:

Understand the costs associated with running your business. These can be divided into fixed costs (rent, salaries) and variable costs (materials, marketing expenses). Create a budget to manage expenses effectively.

9. Assess Key Partnerships:

Determine if your business model relies on strategic partnerships or collaborations. Partnerships can help expand your reach, reduce costs, or access new resources.

I wish You Great Success.

Ebook Versus Published Books

The choice between eBooks and paper books depends on your reading preferences, lifestyle, and specific circumstances. Many readers enjoy a combination of both formats, using eBooks for convenience and paper books for the joy of a physical reading experience.

Ebooks and paper books both have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between 

the two often depends on personal preferences and circumstances. 

Here's a comparison of eBooks and paper books:

Ebooks

Advantages:

Portability- eBooks can be stored on electronic devices like e-readers, tablets, or smartphones, allowing you to carry an entire library in a single device.

Space Efficiency- eBooks don't take up physical space, making them ideal for those with limited storage space.

Accessibility- eBooks can be downloaded instantly from the internet, making it convenient to acquire new books.

Search Functionality- eBooks often come with search features that allow you to quickly find specific content or keywords within a book.

Adjustable Text- You can customize the font size, style, and background color, making it easier for people with visual impairments or preferences.

Highlighting and Note-Taking- eBooks allow you to highlight text and take notes without damaging the book.

Eco-Friendly- eBooks don't require paper production, reducing the environmental impact associated with paper books.

Disadvantages:

Screen Fatigue- Extended screen time can lead to eye strain and discomfort for some readers.

Battery Life- E-readers and devices need to be charged, which may be inconvenient if you're reading for an extended period.

Digital Rights Management (DRM)- Some eBooks have DRM restrictions that limit sharing and transferring between devices.

Lack of Tangibility- eBooks lack the physical sensation of holding and flipping pages that some readers enjoy.

Paper Books

Advantages:

Tangibility- Many people appreciate the sensory experience of holding a physical book, flipping through pages, and the smell of paper and ink.

No Screen Fatigue- Paper books don't emit blue light, which can cause eye strain and disrupt sleep patterns.

Collectability- Collecting physical books can be a hobby, and some editions or rare books can have significant value.

No Battery Required- You can read a paper book without needing to worry about battery life or recharging.

Sharing- You can easily lend, borrow, or give away paper books to friends and family.

Artwork and Design- Physical books often feature cover artwork and design that can enhance the reading experience.

Disadvantages:

Space and Storage- Paper books take up physical space, which can be a challenge if you have limited storage.

Portability- Carrying multiple paper books while traveling can be cumbersome.

Accessibility- Accessing a specific paper book may require a trip to a physical bookstore or library.

Environmental Impact- The production of paper books can have a higher environmental footprint compared to eBooks.

Sony claims eBooks is set to overtake paper BOOKS in 5years. What does this mean to your business?

Within five years there will be more digital content sold than physical content, the initial prediction was for ten years, but as Sony is experiencing the same patterns in the digitization of music and photography this will be repeated in the book market within the next 5 years.

I wish You Great Success.

Keeping International Business Simple

The Internet has exponentially increased the ease of working with international customers and suppliers. The Internet Technology eliminates a lot of boundaries and makes it convenient to conduct business globally.

Doing business overseas.

1.Start simple. Start with Anglo-Phone countries with a legitimate banking system and established regulations.

2.Unique Product. Offer Uniqueness otherwise someone in a different country will undercut you on price.

3.Get Help. Get professional advice, it does not have to be expensive, there are lots of free resources provided by the government on brokers and freight forwarders.

4.Exercise Caution: There are plenty of fraudsters ready to prey on the Ill-Informed Entrepreneur. Remember; there is no Free lunch.

5. Communication:

a. Develop Key Messages: Craft clear, consistent, and truthful key messages that address crisis, and response.

b. Spokesperson: Designate a credible and well-trained spokesperson to communicate with the media and stakeholders.

c. Media Relations: Establish a protocol for interacting with the media, including press releases, interviews, and press conferences. Respond promptly to media inquiries.

d. Social Media: Use social media to provide real-time updates and engage with concerned individuals. Monitor social media channels for feedback and misinformation.

6. Legal and Compliance:

a. Legal Counsel: Consult with your legal counsel to ensure that your actions and statements are in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

b. Documentation: Maintain detailed records of all actions taken during the crisis for future analysis and potential legal issues.

7. Convenience and Accessibility:

Make it easy for customers to do business with you. Streamline processes, offer convenient payment options, and provide accessible customer support. Optimize your website and mobile apps for user-friendliness and accessibility.

Regularly gather and analyze customer feedback to identify areas for improvement.

Encourage a culture of continuous improvement within your organization, focusing on enhancing the customer experience.

I wish You Great Success.