Archive for July, 2008

Creativity and Innovation Management – Core Competencies and Competitive Advantage

Sunday, July 20th, 2008

Following is a brief definition of core competencies and competitive advantage and their fit with creativity and innovation management.

Core Competence:

A core competence is one which critically underpins the organisation’s competitive advantage. Companies can differentiate themselves from their competitors with specific core competencies, but often not for long. The differentiation is difficult to sustain and can often be imitated by competitors.

The integration (and attainment) of constituent skills that is the distinguishing mark of a core competence, is achieved and sustained through developing strong dynamic capabilities, particularly in a world of innovation based competition.

Competitive Advantage:

Whilst a core competence is a source of competitive advantage, not all competitive advantages arise from core competencies. Often seemingly unassailable advantages prove transitory because of a change of underlying factors. The very existence of competitive advantage sets in motion creative innovations that, as competitors strive to level the playing field, cause the advantage to dissipate.

Recognition of, and adaptation, to change is thus a pre-requisite of successful strategy. For many organisations, the only truly sustainable advantage comes from out-innovating the competition.

These topics are covered in depth in the MBA dissertation on Managing Creativity & Innovation, which can be purchased (along with a Creativity and Innovation DIY Audit, Good Idea Generator Software and Power Point Presentation) from http://www.managing-creativity.com. You can also receive a regular, free newsletter by entering your email address at this site.

You are free to reproduce this article as long as no changes are made and the author’s name and site URL are retained.

Kal Bishop MBA, is a management consultant based in London, UK. He has consulted in the visual media and software industries and for clients such as Toshiba and Transport for London. He has led Improv, creativity and innovation workshops, exhibited artwork in San Francisco, Los Angeles and London and written a number of screenplays. He is a passionate traveller. He can be reached on http://www.managing-creativity.com.

The Nokia 6110 Navigator Worthy of Consideration

Saturday, July 19th, 2008

The Nokia 6110 Navigator has proved a real winner for Nokia since its release in March 2007. Compared to some of the more successful mobile handsets for the price the 6110 Navigator is quite well featured. The styling of this phone is not as good as other #models# from Nokia Nokia.

The battery life the 6110 Navigator is 1:30 talk time and 265 hours reserve charge. The Nokia 6110 Navigator is supplied with a Li-Po 900 mAh battery cell. The Nokia 6110 Navigator comes equipped with bluetooth, for convenient compatibility with the vast majority of accessories. Moving on to the display the handset is equipped with a 2.2 inch screen, which is an average display taking into consideration other possibilities you could get for the money. A TFT, 16M colors display is fitted to this phone. Colour wise the Nokia 6110 Navigator comes in, White and Black. Weighing in at 125 g this handset is pretty light. The 6110 Navigator is one of the more compact phones on the market. The ring-tones enabled on the 6110 Navigator are Polyphonic (64 channels), MP3, AAC as well as a vibration alert. The Nokia 6110 Navigator has support for 2G GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 and 3G HSDPA 2100. The 6110 Navigator is fitted with a 2 MP, 1600×1200 pixels, video(QVGA), flash; secondary QVGA videocall camera. For those that need access to the Internet on the move a WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML browser is included.To allow mobile Internet access a WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML browser is included. The 6110 Navigator also has, Integrated handsfree, Voice command/memo, PIM including calendar, to-do list and printing, GPS receiver (built-in maps), Office applications, Push to talk, Stereo FM radio, MP3/AAC/MPEG4 player, Java MIDP 2.0 and Video calling.

Even though this is a relatively new model, the Nokia 6110 Navigator has already been out classed. This means it is pretty easy to pick up a great bargain on this mobile handset. Because there are now so many online stores it has never been quicker or as cost competitive to purchase a mobile. Purchasing online will save you a lot of money, incredibly it is possible to get a Nokia 6110 Navigator with free line rental for 6 months , which will not cost a dime.

Hydroponics Gardening – An Introduction To Hydroponics Gardening For Beginners (Part 1) Starting Out

Wednesday, July 16th, 2008

The Basics of Hydroponics Gardening.

What is hydroponics gardening?

Derived from the Latin Hydro, meaning water and Geoponics, meaning the study of agriculture, hydroponics is the science of growing plants using a solution of suitable nutrients instead of soil. Most types of plant can be grown very successfully using hydroponics.

In conventional gardening the plants are grown in soil and take their nourishment from the chemical compounds contained within that soil. The hydroponic gardener replaces the soil with a balanced, nutrient rich, solution that the plant can absorb with ease. Because the plant does not have to work so hard to absorb the available nutrients it saves energy which can then be utilised for stronger growth.

Because of this energy saving, plants grown using hydroponic methods outperform conventionally produced plants in both growth and fruit production. Due to the consistent results and good profit margins, more and more commercial growers are turning to hydroponic production. Totally organic production is possible using specially designed organic nutrients, giving excellent, inexpensive, vegetables and herbs.

There are several different types of hydroponic system, but all share the same basic principle of supplying the plants with nutrients and water. The most common systems are:

Water Culture, Aquaculture, or Nutriculture.
This is a Hydroponics system in which the plant roots are immersed in water containing a complex mixture of dissolved nutrients. A simple example of water culture is the Hyacinth bulb growing in a wine goblet shaped glass, its roots growing down into the hollow goblet stem.

Aggregate Culture.
In this system a material such as sand, gravel, or marbles supports the plant roots. It is important to note that the support material, unlike soil, does not absorb nutrient. It merely traps it in the spaces between the grains or stones allowing the plant roots to freely take up the liquid.

Continuous Flow Hydroponics Systems.
In these types of system the nutrient solution flows constantly over the plant roots. This is the most commonly used system for commercial production.

Aeroponics.
This system is one in which the plant roots hang in the air and are misted regularly with a nutrient solution.

There are a number of pre-packaged hydroponics systems available for both the commercial grower and hobbyist. Individuals, who lack building skills, or are inexperienced plant growers, should consider one of these kits as an introduction to hydroponics, a fascinating and challenging hobby. Similar systems can be built at lower cost, however, by those of you who have the expertise.

The requirements for healthy, strong, disease-free plants are covered in my next article entitled – - What do your plants need?

Copyright (C) 2004, 2005, John R Haughton – All Rights Reserved

A partner in a thriving retail hydroponics supply business, Rickie Haughton is the owner of http://www.hydroponics-gardening-information.com Your First Choice For Hydroponics Gardening Information, the Hydroponics-Gardening-Information website is packed with good content about all aspects of hydroponics gardening and offers a free Hydroponics Gardening Information Club membership to all subscribers.

Copyright (C) 2004, 2005, 2006, John R Haughton – All Rights Reserved

Shingles Natural Treatment

Monday, July 14th, 2008

In the past ten years recent studies and research with alternative treatments for shingles has shown it is possible to recover in less than one week and to reduce outbreaks of lesions and pain in three days.

Shingles is a serious health condition and it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations. Traditionally, most doctors prescribe painkillers for the temporary symptomatic relief of the pain and an antiviral drug to suppress the virus. This form of treatment with drugs reduces the severity and frequency of outbreaks but does not eliminate it from the body. This course of treatment can take six weeks or more and does very little for the patient. The pain associated with shingles can continue long after the initial outbreak.

Some doctors prescribe steroids or itch-relieving creams that contain steroids. Recent studies question the effectiveness of steroids in relieving shingles and suggest avoiding any treatment with steroids. Monitoring by your doctor is recommended, if steroids have been prescribed. It is best to find alternative treatments with your doctor and to seek out natural remedies.

The virus herpes zoster causes shingles and is the same virus that causes chicken pox. Shingles is an infection of the central nervous system and may affect the elderly, those with a compromised immune system, anyone under severe stress or those who have been exposed to the chickenpox virus again. Symptoms may include burning, itching, or pain in one part of the body. A few days later, blisters and a rash appear. The infection may run along a nerve path and look like a branch of a tree. Shingles usually appear on the trunk area and the chest but can also be found on the face. Shingles can cause blindness if it affects the eyes. If an outbreak occurs on the face the patient should get immediate medical care.

Natural Remedies For Shingles

A good starting point for treating shingles is a diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables. A good diet and reducing daily stress will help boost your immune system

A simple remedy for lesions is to apply a cool or cold wet washcloth or towel to the affected area. A wet towel can be put into the freezer for a while after wetting it to make it colder.

Eliminate sugar from your diet and add these important nutrients to your daily diet – vitamin E, vitamin B12 and vitamin C.

* Vitamin C is suggested with an initial diagnosis of shingles. You may start with 1,000 mg. (+)

* Vitamin E taken daily before meals may reduce the pain of shingles (Study published in the Archives of Dermatology) (+)

* Vitamin B12 injections may reduce the pain of shingles (Study published in the Journal Geriatrics) (+)

(+) It is recommended that you consult with your doctor before starting any vitamin program.

* E capsules can be squeezed directly onto lesions.

* Avoid heat as well as tight clothes and itchy fabrics like wool.

* Calamine lotion may relieve the pain and help dry the lesions.

Shingles is a serious illness and before starting any treatment program you should consult with your doctor. Shingles is the same virus as chicken pox. You cannot catch shingles from someone else unless you’ve never had chicken pox. If you have shingles you should use caution being around pregnant women who have not had chicken pox – you could infect both the woman and her unborn baby.

Copyright 2005 Wayne McDonald

Wayne McDonald is a health care professional and public speaker for safe natural treatments of annoying and burdensome health challenges. Learn more at http://www.OurFamilysHealth.com/shinglestreatment.html

How Often Should Sugar Glider Cages, Toys, Etc. Be Cleaned?

Friday, July 11th, 2008

You can clean your sugar glider’s cage, pouches, toys and other things frequently if you like. It is best to clean these things twice in a week. You can use different materials for cleaning like unscented baby wipes, soapy water and dish washing soap etc. There are different types of washing materials available in the market but I found the Dawn the best for washing pouches, toys and cages.

You must completely sterilize and clean the cage about 4 times in a year. You can sterilize the cage by using the pressure water technique, if you have the ability to do so, or you can use hot soapy water to rinse off the dirt from the cage. After sterilization, you must scrub the cage. You can also use sterilization spray for this purpose. You can sterilize the toys, cages, pouches, bottles, bowls, artificial plants and decoration pieces in your home. You must daily clean and wash out the dishes and bottles which are in daily use. You can use dish washing soap or liquid for this purpose.

Pouches must be cleaned regularly. You can simply toss them in your laundry and dry them for further use. You must use the cold water for washing the pouch and must not bleach it. Artificial plants and baby toys must be cleaned on a regular basis, but you can wash them when you want. You can soak the toys and artificial plants in hot, soapy water for a few hours and then wash them with simple water. You can slightly scrub them while washing. You can repeat this process every two weeks, but you must at least do this process every 90 days. Washing, cleaning the toys, artificial plants and other decoration materials enhance the durability and life of these things.

Truck Loads of Freight? Learn How to Win in the Trucking Industry

Wednesday, July 9th, 2008

As a trucking company owner, you know that the transportation industry is very profitable. And, it’s safe to say that the industry will grow steadily for the years to come. If only because people are buying more things and someone needs to haul the stuff around. There has never been a better time to own a trucking company.

There are three keys to growing your trucking company successfully.

First, find truck loads of cargo and freight

The key to winning in the trucking game is to find clients with truck loads of freight that need to be hauled. There are a few ways to do this. Many owners rely on the internet and go to freight boards or load boards to try and get loads. This is a good strategy because there are a number of reputable boards that can certainly keep your business humming for a long time. Another advantage of truck boards is that they help you reduce your infamous deadhead trips – trips where you are returning home without hauling anything.

Second, work with reputable clients and freight brokers

Although load boards are great, you also want to work with established freight brokers reputable freight broker will help you get loads so that your trucks are always running. They will also help with the proper paperwork and documentation, and lastly, they will ensure that you get paid.

However, not all freight brokers or clients are created equal. Be sure to check them out before doing business with them. You can do this by asking them for references or by checking their commercial credit.

Lastly, get the right financing

Waiting up to 60 days to get paid for your freight bills can put your trucking business in neutral very quickly. Your best option is to finance your freight bills using factoring. Freight bill factoring provides you with money for your slow paying freight bills, giving you the funds to pay for fuel, drivers and repairs.

Putting it all together

Making it big with a trucking company is not hard – you just have to be smart. Be sure to get the right clients and the proper financing, and watch your business grow.

Commercial Capital LLC

Moving truck loads and freight loads of cargo? Freight bill factoring can help finance your growth. Call Marco Terry at (866) 730 1922 for a free quote.

Discover Why Women Should Clean Vibrators Every Other Day

Wednesday, July 9th, 2008

Daily washing of sexy toys is essential to reduce gross transmission or infection. of sexually transmitted infections. While some STIs kill off once the fluid they lives in dries, other sexually transmitted diseases such as Hep C and HIV might often live for many days or months outside of the host. If you desire to prevent pregnancy, it is additionally vital to take off any sperm that can often be on the martial toy before playing near or actually the love tunnel. It is essential to keep the sex aid instructions for scrubbing the marital aid and to follow them to the letter. If you feel that disinfecting the sex toy legitimately would be too much hard work or time consuming for you, consider securing a different sex aid. The information provided later on provides a rough overview for cleaning particular varieties of sensual aids and isn?t really here to replace the dong manufacturer?s instructions. Get a bargain with Cheap Dildos from Sex Bomb.

For basic sensual aid care, remove any batteries. Use a wet soapy rag to wash your sensual aids, preferably with mild cleanser. Never put electrical components under water. Keep vibrators stored in a pouch or cupboard to keep it dry and in a cool, dry place. Double dildos can be marvellous toys to play with so please make sure guys are safe and clean with your sessions with martial toy cleaners.

Auto Parts Fast Features the New 2007 GMC Yukon Denali and Top Quality GMC Parts

Monday, July 7th, 2008

The sale of SUVs has slightly abated recently due to rising prices of fuel but GMC seems not daunted by this phenomenon. Just last October 5, 2005, GMC unveiled the 2007 Yukon and the flagship Yukon Denali full-size SUV at the California International Auto Show in Anaheim. In GMC’s words, these new Yukon editions are the most powerful, agile, fuel efficient and refined among GMC’s sport utilities. Inside and out the new GMC Yukon and Yukon Denali models offer the best that you can ask for from a full-size truck.

The Exterior

Both models feature sleek and brawny body. The wraparound front and rear fascias give the two distinct look, obviously different from the previous models. Yukon and Yukon Denali exude a more contemporary look and stands more confidently this time. Its finely styled GMC mirrors, crystal clear GMC lights, doors extending over the rockers, integrated running boards, and perfectly aligned GMC wheels are some of the most exciting exterior features to look forward to in these new SUVs.

The GMC headlights are noticeably larger and taller. They use halogen bulbs that emit stronger and brighter beam. Aside from enhancing the vehicle’s styling, these lights also significantly improve these SUVs’ safety. The new GMC taillights give the rear end a different look as well. They have superbly designed crystal clear lenses that further enhance illumination.

The Interior

What you see is what you get. The 2007 Yukon and Yukon Denali’s interior are just as excellently designed as the exterior. Buyers can choose between cloth and leather-trimmed versions with rear or four-wheel drive. These new models are roomier than earlier models. Cargo space has also improved. Expect thinner sculpted seat designs with very detailed trims. The seatback recline angle of the second row seats is increased so you can comfortably move them as you please.

Upscale styling and superior craftsmanship is revealed by every interior detail of these SUVs. All interior GMC parts are designed with precision, giving the interior a luxurious feel. Softer and low-gloss materials are used for the instrument panel and other trim pieces. The uniquely designed center console has wood trim that cover cupholder pockets. Your ride will surely be comfortable with the standards automatic Tri-Zone climate control. A superb audio, entertainment and info system are also provided to add comfort to the occupants.

Performance

Powering the Yukon is a Gen IV 5.3L small-block V8 engine that delivers 320 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque. Standard on the 4WD models is a Flex-Fuel E85 version that runs on E85 ethanol fuel or a mixture of E85 and gasoline. Two-wheel drive models also have this in its option list. The 5.3 engine features a Displacement On Demand technology that allows up to 25% gain in fuel economy.

The Yukon Denali on the other hand is powered by a 6.2L engine that features super light parts that add to its efficiency. It generates a whopping 380 horsepower and a generous 415lb-ft of torque.

With the Yukon and the Yukon Denali’s heavy duty powertrain, you can expect more exciting ride even off-road. Suspension components are likewise perfectly engineered to give you superb handling and very responsive driving experience.

While you wait for these extraordinary vehicles to go on sale by the first quarter of 2006, you can upgrade your old GMC SUV’s performance and style. By doing so you get a more satisfying ride with your old driving buddy while you increase its resale value.

You can find OEM-quality GMC parts at Auto Parts Fast. Featured in this auto parts store are thousands of GMC lights, GMC alternators, GMC wheels, GMC mirrors and so much more.
———————–
As a former news correspondent for an auto-related website, Stacey has gathered extensive knowledge and experience in the automotive industry. This 34 year old mother of two from Memphis is a genuine car lover.