Throughout homes in North America, the impact of the home improvement boom has covered every square foot of the house except the most neglected and cluttered space, the garage. While large companies like Whirlpool Corporation have entered the high-end do-it-yourself garage organization market with its Gladiator™ GarageWorks line, the market is open for companies providing complete service including installation.
GarageTek is the industry pioneer with over 67 franchises in the business since 2000. GarageTek uses patented PVC wall panels providing durability and flexibility in design. With garage organizer installations costing from $1000 to $10,000, the primary market is upscale. Targeting the garage organization market means catering to the affluent male market.
Driving Force: According to Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, the Remodeling Activity Indicator (RAI) saw homeowner improvement expenditures increasing again to an estimated $129.3 billion dollars on home improvements and repairs. Driven by low interest rates and a solid housing market, home improvements continue to grow, making the new home improvement category of garage organization poised for more growth.
Risks: This business opportunity is driven by the booming real estate market and the low-interest rate environment. Can this housing boom continue? "Increasingly Americans view houses not primarily as places to live but as foolproof, can't-lose investments. The passionate faith that money poured into real estate will magically multiply is creating a self-fulfilling speculative frenzy that's bound to end badly," says Shawn Tully in Fortune magazine's feature "Is the Housing Boom Over?" Whether or not the boom is a bust, any smart business owner will run some worst-case scenarios to have a contingency plan in place.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Everything's Poker
Opportunities in this gaming market can range from customized poker chip production to poker boot camps. In this hyper-competitive market more mosaic routes might be best.
One such entrepreneur to take advantage of the poker boom is 27-year old Bhu Srinivasan. With the launch of a new poker magazine called "All In", Srinivasan fills a niche in a fast-growth market. Magazine corporate sponsors include Belvedere Vodka and Samuel Adams with feature stories from top poker players like Howard Lederer and Chris ‘Jesus’ Ferguson.
Poker skills are not a requirement to participate in this hot business opportunity. The WorthGroup of Nevada specializes in the construction of casinos making $45 million in 2003. Fast enough growth to make the Inc 500 list in 2004.
Driving Force: Shows like ESPN's World Series Of Poker and Bravo's Celebrity Poker Showdown have helped popularize the poker craze. Add the overall growth of the gaming business to poker and you have a business opportunity hit.
Risks: Whether poker is viewed as a game of skill or game of chance, there are legal and moral issues involved in the gaming business. Using legal counsel to interpret government laws and regulations is in the best interest to reduce some of the potential risks of a venture in this category.
One such entrepreneur to take advantage of the poker boom is 27-year old Bhu Srinivasan. With the launch of a new poker magazine called "All In", Srinivasan fills a niche in a fast-growth market. Magazine corporate sponsors include Belvedere Vodka and Samuel Adams with feature stories from top poker players like Howard Lederer and Chris ‘Jesus’ Ferguson.
Poker skills are not a requirement to participate in this hot business opportunity. The WorthGroup of Nevada specializes in the construction of casinos making $45 million in 2003. Fast enough growth to make the Inc 500 list in 2004.
Driving Force: Shows like ESPN's World Series Of Poker and Bravo's Celebrity Poker Showdown have helped popularize the poker craze. Add the overall growth of the gaming business to poker and you have a business opportunity hit.
Risks: Whether poker is viewed as a game of skill or game of chance, there are legal and moral issues involved in the gaming business. Using legal counsel to interpret government laws and regulations is in the best interest to reduce some of the potential risks of a venture in this category.
Friday, June 13, 2008
The Student Boom Helps College Admissions Consulting
Demographics don't lie. The Echo boom generation who grew up on boy bands and Britney Spears are entering college. The Baby Boom generation has changed society so too will the Echo kids with high expectations of a great career.
College admissions consultants help students target the best schools for their abilities and aspirations, review test scores, and provide application advice. Consultation charges range from $100 to $500 for an initial talk to a 3-hour college consultation.
College admissions consulting is not just for kids. With the adoption of a life-long learning mind-set by the adult population, college admissions is an important issue for professional and graduate programs. Further opportunities exist in the specialized area such as MBA admission consulting or medical school consulting.
Driving Force: Student-to-counselor ratio for all levels of public schools is at 485:1; the NACAC recommended ratio is 100:1. Add to the mix an all-time record college student population of 15 million, intense competition, and admission office budget cuts resulting in a hot market.
Risks: Acting in the best interest of the client and the college is a delicate balancing act for college admission consultants. With over 300 members, The Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) provides ethical guidance for consultants. IECA stresses "avoid actions which may give the appearance of an attempt to influence an admission placement."
College admissions consultants help students target the best schools for their abilities and aspirations, review test scores, and provide application advice. Consultation charges range from $100 to $500 for an initial talk to a 3-hour college consultation.
College admissions consulting is not just for kids. With the adoption of a life-long learning mind-set by the adult population, college admissions is an important issue for professional and graduate programs. Further opportunities exist in the specialized area such as MBA admission consulting or medical school consulting.
Driving Force: Student-to-counselor ratio for all levels of public schools is at 485:1; the NACAC recommended ratio is 100:1. Add to the mix an all-time record college student population of 15 million, intense competition, and admission office budget cuts resulting in a hot market.
Risks: Acting in the best interest of the client and the college is a delicate balancing act for college admission consultants. With over 300 members, The Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) provides ethical guidance for consultants. IECA stresses "avoid actions which may give the appearance of an attempt to influence an admission placement."
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Making Holiday Necklaces
Ring in the spirit of the season with a fun necklace. It's the perfect way to show your holiday cheer. Or, share the joy by giving friends and family special homemade Christmas necklaces.
In this section, we'll teach you how to make holiday necklaces. With a little hard work, these Christmas crafts can turn into real family keepsakes.
Merry Marble Necklaces
These fun necklaces are a charming way to highlight your Christmas cuties.
You'll Need:
Photos, images, words
Clear, flat, glass decorative marbles
Scissors
Hot glue gun, glue sticks
Craft knife
Pendant tails
Silver acrylic paint
Paintbrush
Jump rings
Crystal beads
Eyepins
Wire cutters
Needle-nose or jewelry pliers
2 small charms
Chain necklace
1. Resize favorite photos or images so they fit behind marbles. Print out words on your computer to make word bubbles on cardstock, or buy scrapbooking words that fit size of marbles. Cut out photos, images, and words. You'll need 3 per necklace. Test them under marbles; glass acts as a magnifier so you may need to make them smaller. Hot glue photos, images, and words to flat side of marbles. Press firmly for a few seconds until dry. Trim excess cardstock with craft knife. (Craft knife is for adult use only.)
2. Turn marbles over so rounded side is down. Hot glue a pendant tail to each marble back. Paint back of charm with silver paint; let dry. Attach a jump ring to top of each pendant tail.
3. Create mini bead charms by threading beads onto eyepins, and trim eyepin, leaving enough wire to create loop with pliers. Attach a jump ring to each eyepin loop and both charms.
4. Place charms and beads across middle front of chain necklace. Attach jump rings through individual chain links, and close jump rings with pliers.
we will weet 15th june......
In this section, we'll teach you how to make holiday necklaces. With a little hard work, these Christmas crafts can turn into real family keepsakes.
Merry Marble Necklaces
These fun necklaces are a charming way to highlight your Christmas cuties.
You'll Need:
Photos, images, words
Clear, flat, glass decorative marbles
Scissors
Hot glue gun, glue sticks
Craft knife
Pendant tails
Silver acrylic paint
Paintbrush
Jump rings
Crystal beads
Eyepins
Wire cutters
Needle-nose or jewelry pliers
2 small charms
Chain necklace
1. Resize favorite photos or images so they fit behind marbles. Print out words on your computer to make word bubbles on cardstock, or buy scrapbooking words that fit size of marbles. Cut out photos, images, and words. You'll need 3 per necklace. Test them under marbles; glass acts as a magnifier so you may need to make them smaller. Hot glue photos, images, and words to flat side of marbles. Press firmly for a few seconds until dry. Trim excess cardstock with craft knife. (Craft knife is for adult use only.)
2. Turn marbles over so rounded side is down. Hot glue a pendant tail to each marble back. Paint back of charm with silver paint; let dry. Attach a jump ring to top of each pendant tail.
3. Create mini bead charms by threading beads onto eyepins, and trim eyepin, leaving enough wire to create loop with pliers. Attach a jump ring to each eyepin loop and both charms.
4. Place charms and beads across middle front of chain necklace. Attach jump rings through individual chain links, and close jump rings with pliers.
we will weet 15th june......
Anti-Aging Spas Are Forever Young
In today's image conscious society, aging gracefully implies using various methods to stay forever young. Anti-aging spas offer an aging population a chance for rest, rejuvenation, and reversal of the signs of aging. According to the International Spa Association, the spa industry generates over $10 billion yearly. Spas offering the latest in age fighting procedures such as botox injections, chemical peels, and collagen injections, can expect a healthy business.
About.com Spa Guide, Anitra Brown recommends for those entering the business to realize “..there is a lot of anti-aging technology out there, and some of it works and some of it doesn't. The machines can be expensive, so research it to make sure you're buying something that is really effective. It helps to have a passion for skin care -- and enough training to know how to sort out the claims. It's important to believe in the services you're offering.”
If you have a great idea for serving the anti-aging market and are short on capital, consider the "$10,000 Boomer Business Plan Competition." Put your idea through the rigors of business planning to finalize the opportunity and gain access to small business financing.
Driving Force: An aging baby boomer society combined with powerful "stay young" imagery from the media creates this booming business. "Anti-aging products demand in the US will grow 11.1 percent annually through 2007, propelled by a stream of new and improved products that offer health and appearance enhancing benefits. Fastest gains are projected for memory improvement and sexual dysfunction/impotence products, while botulinum toxin and pharmaceutical active ingredients lead gains by chemical," as reported by The Freedonia Group Anti-Aging Report 2007.
Risks: The birth of any new industry brings about regulatory and legal risks. Just as fitness companies have been restricted in making specific claims around their business, the same level of ethics applies to the anti-aging business. The FDA regulates this industry and any entrepreneur considering this market would be wise to investigate the legal and regulatory aspects of the business and avoid false claims.
About.com Spa Guide, Anitra Brown recommends for those entering the business to realize “..there is a lot of anti-aging technology out there, and some of it works and some of it doesn't. The machines can be expensive, so research it to make sure you're buying something that is really effective. It helps to have a passion for skin care -- and enough training to know how to sort out the claims. It's important to believe in the services you're offering.”
If you have a great idea for serving the anti-aging market and are short on capital, consider the "$10,000 Boomer Business Plan Competition." Put your idea through the rigors of business planning to finalize the opportunity and gain access to small business financing.
Driving Force: An aging baby boomer society combined with powerful "stay young" imagery from the media creates this booming business. "Anti-aging products demand in the US will grow 11.1 percent annually through 2007, propelled by a stream of new and improved products that offer health and appearance enhancing benefits. Fastest gains are projected for memory improvement and sexual dysfunction/impotence products, while botulinum toxin and pharmaceutical active ingredients lead gains by chemical," as reported by The Freedonia Group Anti-Aging Report 2007.
Risks: The birth of any new industry brings about regulatory and legal risks. Just as fitness companies have been restricted in making specific claims around their business, the same level of ethics applies to the anti-aging business. The FDA regulates this industry and any entrepreneur considering this market would be wise to investigate the legal and regulatory aspects of the business and avoid false claims.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Trash Removal One Man's Treasure
In this day and age of high tech, trash removal appears to be a drab and unexciting business. Brian Scudamore of Vancouver, B.C. found opportunity in a business lacking in professionalism and good business practices. Scudamore's business 1-800-GOT-JUNK? is the first junk removal franchise with 129 franchises throughout North America. With a friendly, professional image, 1-800-GOT-JUNK is cleaning up the fly-by-night industry.
Junk removal companies typically will remove any junk from furniture and sod to old computers except hazardous materials. To keep dump yard costs low, a good practice is to donate or recycle as much of the junk as possible. Anticipate more business in the spring and summer as junk removal demand peaks. Investments include a clean, professional truck and business insurance.
Driving Force: The main force of the junk removal business is the same change that shaped the painting and lawn care industries; a focus on the customer. Customers want a professional image, exceptional service, and fair pricing. Any industry that fails to meet these essential needs is ripe for change.
Risks: The lack of viable barriers to entry into the market represents a bigger risk. Be prepared to innovate especially if this fragmented industry decides to clean up its act with better trucks, branding, and exceptional customer service.
Junk removal companies typically will remove any junk from furniture and sod to old computers except hazardous materials. To keep dump yard costs low, a good practice is to donate or recycle as much of the junk as possible. Anticipate more business in the spring and summer as junk removal demand peaks. Investments include a clean, professional truck and business insurance.
Driving Force: The main force of the junk removal business is the same change that shaped the painting and lawn care industries; a focus on the customer. Customers want a professional image, exceptional service, and fair pricing. Any industry that fails to meet these essential needs is ripe for change.
Risks: The lack of viable barriers to entry into the market represents a bigger risk. Be prepared to innovate especially if this fragmented industry decides to clean up its act with better trucks, branding, and exceptional customer service.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Medical Transcription A Doctor's Best Friend
As described by The American Association for Medical Transcription (AAMT), "medical transcription is the act of translating from oral to written form (on paper or electronically) the record of a person's medical history, diagnosis, prognosis, and outcome." Transcriptionists transfer medical voice recordings made by doctors and health professionals into documentation including: operating room reports, autopsy reports, and physical examination documentation.
Currently, over 20% of people working in the profession are self-employed. According to an AAMT study, self-employed medical transcriptionists charge 12 cents per standardized line. Top earners make about $18/hr. Not a high earning potential business opportunity but a flexible and challenging home business for many.
What does it take to succeed as a self-employed medical transcriptionist? The AAMT recommends building a medical and business library, find a local mentor, attend seminars in business and gain experience or education in areas such as: anatomy, physiology, English grammar, medical language, and business practices. Necessary skills can be gained by working for a medical transcription company and obtaining certification from a reputable medical transcriptionist educational trainer.
Driving Force: The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics states "the employment of medical transcriptionists is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2012." A growing, aging population will increase demand for medical transcription services as a result of more hospital visits and medical testing.
Risks: The medical transcription business requires careful execution of health record confidentiality requirements. Any changes in the laws and regulations can affect business profitability. An additional risk is the occupational hazards of computer-keyboard work resulting in eye strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and wrist or back problems.
Currently, over 20% of people working in the profession are self-employed. According to an AAMT study, self-employed medical transcriptionists charge 12 cents per standardized line. Top earners make about $18/hr. Not a high earning potential business opportunity but a flexible and challenging home business for many.
What does it take to succeed as a self-employed medical transcriptionist? The AAMT recommends building a medical and business library, find a local mentor, attend seminars in business and gain experience or education in areas such as: anatomy, physiology, English grammar, medical language, and business practices. Necessary skills can be gained by working for a medical transcription company and obtaining certification from a reputable medical transcriptionist educational trainer.
Driving Force: The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics states "the employment of medical transcriptionists is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2012." A growing, aging population will increase demand for medical transcription services as a result of more hospital visits and medical testing.
Risks: The medical transcription business requires careful execution of health record confidentiality requirements. Any changes in the laws and regulations can affect business profitability. An additional risk is the occupational hazards of computer-keyboard work resulting in eye strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and wrist or back problems.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Smart Clothes
Smart clothing conjures up images of space-age Jetson style apparel. However, smart clothing is more about functionality than far-out space suits. Smarter apparel encompasses the customization of clothing to special markets ranging from performance apparel, sun protection, and aging-friendly clothing.
Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award winner, Kevin Plank, knows performance apparel is the best ticket. Plank has grown his company, Under Armour into a $100 million business. Under Armour is the originator of performance apparel with a line of microfiber clothing that pulls perspiration away from the skin to keep athletes cool and dry during physical activity.
John Barrow found business success in sun protection. Started in 2001, Coolibar offers a unique range of sun protective clothing, sun hats, and sun protective swimwear. The company website explains the benefits of this unique line of smart clothing, "Sun protective clothing is an excellent sun protection tool as it provides a physical block that doesn’t wash or wear off and can shade the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Coolibar’s clothing differs from standard attire by blocking 97% or more of UV rays and providing an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 30 or greater." The company has even received The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation.
Driving Force: A mature industry with most manufacturing moved overseas has left the apparel business in need of creativity and innovation. Consumers are open to ideas that meet their specialized needs.
Risks: The challenge of entering the smart clothing market is selecting a niche that's not too mainstream allowing bigger competitors to swallow market share before you get established. Conversely, a market too narrow can present problems with attaining break-even points and profitability. Success in the smart clothing industry will require the ability to outmaneuver large retailers who influence the apparel business. Selling to select markets (i.e. skateboard shops) and outsourcing the manufacturing process overseas can help to maintain profit margins.
Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award winner, Kevin Plank, knows performance apparel is the best ticket. Plank has grown his company, Under Armour into a $100 million business. Under Armour is the originator of performance apparel with a line of microfiber clothing that pulls perspiration away from the skin to keep athletes cool and dry during physical activity.
John Barrow found business success in sun protection. Started in 2001, Coolibar offers a unique range of sun protective clothing, sun hats, and sun protective swimwear. The company website explains the benefits of this unique line of smart clothing, "Sun protective clothing is an excellent sun protection tool as it provides a physical block that doesn’t wash or wear off and can shade the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Coolibar’s clothing differs from standard attire by blocking 97% or more of UV rays and providing an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 30 or greater." The company has even received The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation.
Driving Force: A mature industry with most manufacturing moved overseas has left the apparel business in need of creativity and innovation. Consumers are open to ideas that meet their specialized needs.
Risks: The challenge of entering the smart clothing market is selecting a niche that's not too mainstream allowing bigger competitors to swallow market share before you get established. Conversely, a market too narrow can present problems with attaining break-even points and profitability. Success in the smart clothing industry will require the ability to outmaneuver large retailers who influence the apparel business. Selling to select markets (i.e. skateboard shops) and outsourcing the manufacturing process overseas can help to maintain profit margins.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Garage Organizer Services the Last Frontier
Throughout homes in North America, the impact of the home improvement boom has covered every square foot of the house except the most neglected and cluttered space, the garage. While large companies like Whirlpool Corporation have entered the high-end do-it-yourself garage organization market with its Gladiator™ GarageWorks line, the market is open for companies providing complete service including installation.
GarageTek is the industry pioneer with over 67 franchises in the business since 2000. GarageTek uses patented PVC wall panels providing durability and flexibility in design. With garage organizer installations costing from $1000 to $10,000, the primary market is upscale. Targeting the garage organization market means catering to the affluent male market.
Driving Force: According to Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, the Remodeling Activity Indicator (RAI) saw homeowner improvement expenditures increasing again to an estimated $129.3 billion dollars on home improvements and repairs. Driven by low interest rates and a solid housing market, home improvements continue to grow, making the new home improvement category of garage organization poised for more growth.
Risks: This business opportunity is driven by the booming real estate market and the low-interest rate environment. Can this housing boom continue? "Increasingly Americans view houses not primarily as places to live but as foolproof, can't-lose investments. The passionate faith that money poured into real estate will magically multiply is creating a self-fulfilling speculative frenzy that's bound to end badly," says Shawn Tully in Fortune magazine's feature "Is the Housing Boom Over?" Whether or not the boom is a bust, any smart business owner will run some worst-case scenarios to have a contingency plan in place.
GarageTek is the industry pioneer with over 67 franchises in the business since 2000. GarageTek uses patented PVC wall panels providing durability and flexibility in design. With garage organizer installations costing from $1000 to $10,000, the primary market is upscale. Targeting the garage organization market means catering to the affluent male market.
Driving Force: According to Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, the Remodeling Activity Indicator (RAI) saw homeowner improvement expenditures increasing again to an estimated $129.3 billion dollars on home improvements and repairs. Driven by low interest rates and a solid housing market, home improvements continue to grow, making the new home improvement category of garage organization poised for more growth.
Risks: This business opportunity is driven by the booming real estate market and the low-interest rate environment. Can this housing boom continue? "Increasingly Americans view houses not primarily as places to live but as foolproof, can't-lose investments. The passionate faith that money poured into real estate will magically multiply is creating a self-fulfilling speculative frenzy that's bound to end badly," says Shawn Tully in Fortune magazine's feature "Is the Housing Boom Over?" Whether or not the boom is a bust, any smart business owner will run some worst-case scenarios to have a contingency plan in place.
Monday, May 26, 2008
2nd Best Small Business Opportunities
Small Business Opportunity: The World of Business Brokers
Business brokers are the matchmakers of the business world bringing together buyers and sellers of small and mid-sized companies. "The majority of business brokerage firms handle the sale of everything from the corner dry cleaner to the local quick print to the local liquor store – and every thing in between." says Tom West, founder and former president of The International Business Brokers Association (IBBA).
IBBA estimates there are approximately 3500 business brokerage firms in America with surveys indicating that 35 percent are sole practitioners.
The field of business brokerage continues to match buyers and sellers each year. Sunbelt Business Advisors began franchising in 1993. Since 2000 the company has grown from 232 franchises throughout the United States and internationally to over 397 in 2004. VR Business Brokers of Ft. Lauderdale have also experienced rapid growth, adding 72 franchisees over 5 years.
According to Mr. West, earnings in the business broker field are "well above average and a six figure income is certainly attainable for many. Commissions range from 10 to 12 percent of the purchase price with firms charging a minimum fee of at least $10,000 to $15,000, for smaller businesses. The average price of a business that sells today goes for about $250,000 not including inventory or real estate."
Driving Force: Corporate downsizing and aging baby boomers wanting to cash out of their business for retirement provides optimism for the business broker industry.
Risks: Turning potential buyers into real buyers is the challenge of the business. Much like the real estate business, brokers need people skills and the ability to overcome rejection to be successful says Tom West.
.........we will meet 2morrow the 3d Best Small Business Opportunities ..........
Business brokers are the matchmakers of the business world bringing together buyers and sellers of small and mid-sized companies. "The majority of business brokerage firms handle the sale of everything from the corner dry cleaner to the local quick print to the local liquor store – and every thing in between." says Tom West, founder and former president of The International Business Brokers Association (IBBA).
IBBA estimates there are approximately 3500 business brokerage firms in America with surveys indicating that 35 percent are sole practitioners.
The field of business brokerage continues to match buyers and sellers each year. Sunbelt Business Advisors began franchising in 1993. Since 2000 the company has grown from 232 franchises throughout the United States and internationally to over 397 in 2004. VR Business Brokers of Ft. Lauderdale have also experienced rapid growth, adding 72 franchisees over 5 years.
According to Mr. West, earnings in the business broker field are "well above average and a six figure income is certainly attainable for many. Commissions range from 10 to 12 percent of the purchase price with firms charging a minimum fee of at least $10,000 to $15,000, for smaller businesses. The average price of a business that sells today goes for about $250,000 not including inventory or real estate."
Driving Force: Corporate downsizing and aging baby boomers wanting to cash out of their business for retirement provides optimism for the business broker industry.
Risks: Turning potential buyers into real buyers is the challenge of the business. Much like the real estate business, brokers need people skills and the ability to overcome rejection to be successful says Tom West.
.........we will meet 2morrow the 3d Best Small Business Opportunities ..........
Sunday, May 25, 2008
1st Best Small Business Opportunities
This year's top 10 best small business opportunities list provides something for everybody, from the hot poker craze to anti-aging spas and smart clothing.
Each small business opportunity presented covers the birth of new industries as well as businesses in the later stage of development. Finding a small business opportunity is only half of the equation to owning a successful company. It's equally important to know if the presented opportunity represents the best for you. Take some time to explore your entrepreneur personality type and match it up with your ideal business.
As an added bonus this year, we have added a poll. Proceed to the last page and vote for the top business opportuntity of 2005 you like best.
Small Business Opportunity: The Business Coaching Craze
Over the past ten years, coaching has gradually risen to a billion dollar industry while outpacing the growth of the consulting business. How does coaching differ from consulting? "Coaches motivate people to action. They help them prioritize their projects and goals. They help them plan their work and work their plan---but they don't necessarily give them the actual strategies to execute, steps to take, business or marketing plans to follow, nor do they give financial or legal advice," states Janet Switzer in "How Experts Build Empires: Developing and Selling Coaching Programs."
One individual to discover the coaching craze is Action International's founder Brad Sugars. Action International has grown to over 600 franchisees who typically target small businesses with $500,000 to $10 million in sales. Action International charges $1500/month on a one-year agreement per client for 1 to 1.5 hours of coaching a week. Training includes a 10 day boot camp and 12 week academy.
Driving Force: Why is business coaching hot? "Over 85% of small and medium-sized businesses fail in the first five years. There is a huge market to help these small businesses. Also, it is not just the tools; it's the accountability that makes coaching work. Most business owners are not accountable to anybody," says Action International U.S. Sales Manager, Richard Bernstein.
Risks: Although the coaching profession has experienced strong growth, coaches can run into the same problems that have crippled consulting businesses. The heavy spending days of corporate consulting has reduced engagements from long-term to short-term with CEO's demanding a better return on investments. Business coaches will have to prove their value to small business owners.
.........we will meet 2morrow the 2nd Best Small Business Opportunities ..........
Each small business opportunity presented covers the birth of new industries as well as businesses in the later stage of development. Finding a small business opportunity is only half of the equation to owning a successful company. It's equally important to know if the presented opportunity represents the best for you. Take some time to explore your entrepreneur personality type and match it up with your ideal business.
As an added bonus this year, we have added a poll. Proceed to the last page and vote for the top business opportuntity of 2005 you like best.
Small Business Opportunity: The Business Coaching Craze
Over the past ten years, coaching has gradually risen to a billion dollar industry while outpacing the growth of the consulting business. How does coaching differ from consulting? "Coaches motivate people to action. They help them prioritize their projects and goals. They help them plan their work and work their plan---but they don't necessarily give them the actual strategies to execute, steps to take, business or marketing plans to follow, nor do they give financial or legal advice," states Janet Switzer in "How Experts Build Empires: Developing and Selling Coaching Programs."
One individual to discover the coaching craze is Action International's founder Brad Sugars. Action International has grown to over 600 franchisees who typically target small businesses with $500,000 to $10 million in sales. Action International charges $1500/month on a one-year agreement per client for 1 to 1.5 hours of coaching a week. Training includes a 10 day boot camp and 12 week academy.
Driving Force: Why is business coaching hot? "Over 85% of small and medium-sized businesses fail in the first five years. There is a huge market to help these small businesses. Also, it is not just the tools; it's the accountability that makes coaching work. Most business owners are not accountable to anybody," says Action International U.S. Sales Manager, Richard Bernstein.
Risks: Although the coaching profession has experienced strong growth, coaches can run into the same problems that have crippled consulting businesses. The heavy spending days of corporate consulting has reduced engagements from long-term to short-term with CEO's demanding a better return on investments. Business coaches will have to prove their value to small business owners.
.........we will meet 2morrow the 2nd Best Small Business Opportunities ..........
Saturday, May 24, 2008
How to make christmas JEWELRY
Christmas is the time to wear great jewelry. With the numerous parties throughout the season, you'll have plenty of opportunities to show off your neckline. In this section, we'll show you how to make beautiful fine necklaces that you'll want to wear everywhere.
Hematite and Gold Tassel Necklace
Elegance and beauty are combined in this stunning necklace. Reminiscent of the Twenties, this gift will captivate your mom, sister, or best friend. Stringing beads may be time consuming, but look at how lovely the results are. You might want to double the amount of beads you buy just in case you can't part with the finished necklace -- then you can make two.
You'll Need:
3 tablespoons hematite-color seed beads, 10 degrees
1 tablespoon matte gold seed beads, 10 degrees
3 tablespoons hematite-color bugle beads, 4.5mm
35 round hematite stone beads, 4mm each
2 round hematite stone beads, 6mm each
10 round hematite stone beads, 8mm each
1 round hematite stone bead, 10 mm
1 gold split ring
Gold fluted endcap, about 7/8 x 1/2 inch
2 gold oystershell endtips
1 gold necklace clasp
1 gold eyepin, 2 inches
Seed beading needle
Nylon seed beading thread
Instant-set glue
Beeswax (optional)
Wire cutters
Round-tipped pliers
To Make Hematite and Gold Tassel Necklaces:
1. Mix together hematite and gold seed beads and use them randomly unless otherwise noted. Do not mix in bugle beads. To make tassel fringes, thread nylon beading thread directly from spool onto needle. Wax beading thread if desired.Using the thread single, string about 31/4 inches of seed beads, a 4mm hematite bead, and 3 hematite seed beads. Skipping the last 3 beads, thread needle back through all other beads. Cut thread from spool 4 inches from last bead. Repeat until you have 17 fringes.
2. Open eye of eyepin and set aside. Divide tassel fringes into a group of 9 and a group of 8. Arrange fringes so they line up at top. Holding a group in each hand, tie thread ends together in a square knot, stopping after first half of knot to adjust fringe lengths. Finish square knot, making sure knot is as close to beads as possible. Tie thread ends around open eye of eyepin with another square knot. Drench knots with glue. Let dry. Close eye of eyepin. Trim thread ends to about 1/8 inch from knot. Thread eyepin through fluted endcap, pulling knots and tops of fringes inside endcap. Thread 10 mm hematite bead onto eyepin. Trim wire to about 7mm from end of bead. Using round-tipped pliers, turn a loop in end of wire. Slip loop into split ring.
3. When stringing necklace, use seed beads randomly, and put in a few bugle beads occasionally. Always separate bugle beads with a seed bead. Cut a 72-inch length of seed beading thread and use doubled. String beads, repeating instructions between brackets as indicated: 3 inches of seed and bugle beads, [a 4mm hematite bead, an 8mm hematite bead, a 4mm hematite bead, 11/2 inches of seed and bugle beads] 4 times, a 4mm hematite bead, an 8mm hematite bead, a 6mm hematite bead. Take beading thread through split ring, on tassel. This is the center of the necklace. Thread second half of necklace to mirror first half. Adjust thread so ends are equally long at each end of necklace.
4. The remaining strands of necklace will run through hematite stone beads that are already on first strand. Cut another 72-inch length of thread and using thread double, string beads: 3 inches of seed and bugle beads, [take thread through the 4mm hematite bead, 8mm hematite bead, and 4mm hematite bead, which are already strung on first strand; then on the new strand only, string 11/2 inches of seed and bugle beads] 4 times. Take thread through 3 hematite beads and split ring at center of necklace. Thread second half of necklace to mirror first half. Adjust thread so ends are equally long at each end of necklace.
5. Repeat step 4 with a third strand of beading thread.
6. Thread all 6 thread ends at an end of necklace into an oystershell beadtip, so that oystershell opens away from beads. Separate strands in half, and tie them together into a square knot, tightening knot so it nestles into open oystershell. Thread half of the strands through a seed bead. Pick up remaining strands, and tie another square knot around seed bead. Drench knots with glue. Let dry. Trim ends close to knot.
7.Use pliers to squeeze oyster-shell closed around knots and seed bead. Hang half of necklace clasp from hook on oystershell beadtip. Use round-tipped pliers to close hook into a loop.
8. Repeat Step 6 for second half of necklace.
Black Facet Necklace
What a wonderful treasure to find in your stocking on Christmas morning. This dazzling beaded necklace looks elaborate yet is easy to make. It's the perfect complement to any special occasion outfit.
What You'll Need
3 gold bails, 7mm
3 black facet pendants, 9 x 32mm
6 gold eye pins, 2-inches long
4 gold jump rings, 6mm
85 black facet beads, 4mm
79 gold facet beads, 4mm
79 crystal facet beads, 4mm
1 black facet bicone bead, 16 x 18mm
10 black facet bicone beads, 10 x 13mm
20 gold flower spacers, 8mm
2 gold fluted endcaps, 7/8 x 1/2-inches
1 necklace clasp
64 inches waxed linen cord or beading cord
Wire cutter
Round-nose pliers
Needle-nose pliers
Scissors
Craft glue
To Make Black Facet Necklaces:
1. Attach bails to pendants. Insert bail ends into pendant holes and gently squeeze to secure.
2.Pendant Dangles: Use wire cutter to trim 1/4-inch from end of 1 eye pin. Trim 1/2-inch from end of another eye pin. Use round-nose pliers to turn a small loop at the end of the 2 trimmed eye pins and at the end of 1 untrimmed eye pin. Use needle-nose pliers to open a jump ring. Slip bail of 1 pendant and eye of 1 eye pin on jump ring. Close jump ring with needle-nose pliers. Repeat with remaining 2 eye pins and pendants.
3. Beaded Eye Pin: Thread the following beads on an eye pin: 4mm black bead, flower spacer, 4mm black bead, 16 x 18mm bicone bead, 4mm black bead, flower spacer, and a 4mm black bead. Trim eye pin, leaving 1/4-inch from end of last bead. Turn a small loop at end of eye pin. Loop should be snug against last bead.
4. Open a jump ring. Thread 3 pendant dangles and beaded eye pin on jump ring to form the necklace pendant. Close jump ring. Cut two 32-inch pieces of waxed linen cord. Thread both cord pieces through the eye of necklace pendant and center on cord. Set aside two 4mm black beads. Mix together the remaining 4mm black, crystal, and gold beads to use in a random pattern for the necklace.
5. Thread the following bead pattern on one half of necklace: On each strand of cord, string eleven 4mm beads. Then thread both strands through a flower spacer, a 10 x 13mm bicone bead, and another flower spacer. Repeat 3 more times. After bead pattern is complete, thread 14 more 4mm beads on each strand of cord. Thread both strands through a flower spacer and a 10 x 13mm bicone bead to complete one half of necklace.
6. Open the eye of 1 eye pin. Thread ends of both beaded strands (from completed half of necklace) through open eye and tie strand ends in a double knot. Secure knots with a dab of glue. Trim cord to about 1/8-inch from knots. Thread eye pin through a fluted endcap, making sure the bicone bead is snug against the wide end of endcap. Then thread a 4mm black bead on the eye pin. Trim eye pin, leaving 1/4-inch from end of last bead. Turn a loop at end of eye pin. Do not close loop yet. Thread eye of one half of necklace clasp on loop before closing it completely. Close loop, making sure it is snug against last bead.
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 for other half of necklace.
In the next section, we'll show you how to make fun necklaces to show off your holiday spirit.
we will meet 2nd part on 30.5 2008
Hematite and Gold Tassel Necklace
Elegance and beauty are combined in this stunning necklace. Reminiscent of the Twenties, this gift will captivate your mom, sister, or best friend. Stringing beads may be time consuming, but look at how lovely the results are. You might want to double the amount of beads you buy just in case you can't part with the finished necklace -- then you can make two.
You'll Need:
3 tablespoons hematite-color seed beads, 10 degrees
1 tablespoon matte gold seed beads, 10 degrees
3 tablespoons hematite-color bugle beads, 4.5mm
35 round hematite stone beads, 4mm each
2 round hematite stone beads, 6mm each
10 round hematite stone beads, 8mm each
1 round hematite stone bead, 10 mm
1 gold split ring
Gold fluted endcap, about 7/8 x 1/2 inch
2 gold oystershell endtips
1 gold necklace clasp
1 gold eyepin, 2 inches
Seed beading needle
Nylon seed beading thread
Instant-set glue
Beeswax (optional)
Wire cutters
Round-tipped pliers
To Make Hematite and Gold Tassel Necklaces:
1. Mix together hematite and gold seed beads and use them randomly unless otherwise noted. Do not mix in bugle beads. To make tassel fringes, thread nylon beading thread directly from spool onto needle. Wax beading thread if desired.Using the thread single, string about 31/4 inches of seed beads, a 4mm hematite bead, and 3 hematite seed beads. Skipping the last 3 beads, thread needle back through all other beads. Cut thread from spool 4 inches from last bead. Repeat until you have 17 fringes.
2. Open eye of eyepin and set aside. Divide tassel fringes into a group of 9 and a group of 8. Arrange fringes so they line up at top. Holding a group in each hand, tie thread ends together in a square knot, stopping after first half of knot to adjust fringe lengths. Finish square knot, making sure knot is as close to beads as possible. Tie thread ends around open eye of eyepin with another square knot. Drench knots with glue. Let dry. Close eye of eyepin. Trim thread ends to about 1/8 inch from knot. Thread eyepin through fluted endcap, pulling knots and tops of fringes inside endcap. Thread 10 mm hematite bead onto eyepin. Trim wire to about 7mm from end of bead. Using round-tipped pliers, turn a loop in end of wire. Slip loop into split ring.
3. When stringing necklace, use seed beads randomly, and put in a few bugle beads occasionally. Always separate bugle beads with a seed bead. Cut a 72-inch length of seed beading thread and use doubled. String beads, repeating instructions between brackets as indicated: 3 inches of seed and bugle beads, [a 4mm hematite bead, an 8mm hematite bead, a 4mm hematite bead, 11/2 inches of seed and bugle beads] 4 times, a 4mm hematite bead, an 8mm hematite bead, a 6mm hematite bead. Take beading thread through split ring, on tassel. This is the center of the necklace. Thread second half of necklace to mirror first half. Adjust thread so ends are equally long at each end of necklace.
4. The remaining strands of necklace will run through hematite stone beads that are already on first strand. Cut another 72-inch length of thread and using thread double, string beads: 3 inches of seed and bugle beads, [take thread through the 4mm hematite bead, 8mm hematite bead, and 4mm hematite bead, which are already strung on first strand; then on the new strand only, string 11/2 inches of seed and bugle beads] 4 times. Take thread through 3 hematite beads and split ring at center of necklace. Thread second half of necklace to mirror first half. Adjust thread so ends are equally long at each end of necklace.
5. Repeat step 4 with a third strand of beading thread.
6. Thread all 6 thread ends at an end of necklace into an oystershell beadtip, so that oystershell opens away from beads. Separate strands in half, and tie them together into a square knot, tightening knot so it nestles into open oystershell. Thread half of the strands through a seed bead. Pick up remaining strands, and tie another square knot around seed bead. Drench knots with glue. Let dry. Trim ends close to knot.
7.Use pliers to squeeze oyster-shell closed around knots and seed bead. Hang half of necklace clasp from hook on oystershell beadtip. Use round-tipped pliers to close hook into a loop.
8. Repeat Step 6 for second half of necklace.
Black Facet Necklace
What a wonderful treasure to find in your stocking on Christmas morning. This dazzling beaded necklace looks elaborate yet is easy to make. It's the perfect complement to any special occasion outfit.
What You'll Need
3 gold bails, 7mm
3 black facet pendants, 9 x 32mm
6 gold eye pins, 2-inches long
4 gold jump rings, 6mm
85 black facet beads, 4mm
79 gold facet beads, 4mm
79 crystal facet beads, 4mm
1 black facet bicone bead, 16 x 18mm
10 black facet bicone beads, 10 x 13mm
20 gold flower spacers, 8mm
2 gold fluted endcaps, 7/8 x 1/2-inches
1 necklace clasp
64 inches waxed linen cord or beading cord
Wire cutter
Round-nose pliers
Needle-nose pliers
Scissors
Craft glue
To Make Black Facet Necklaces:
1. Attach bails to pendants. Insert bail ends into pendant holes and gently squeeze to secure.
2.Pendant Dangles: Use wire cutter to trim 1/4-inch from end of 1 eye pin. Trim 1/2-inch from end of another eye pin. Use round-nose pliers to turn a small loop at the end of the 2 trimmed eye pins and at the end of 1 untrimmed eye pin. Use needle-nose pliers to open a jump ring. Slip bail of 1 pendant and eye of 1 eye pin on jump ring. Close jump ring with needle-nose pliers. Repeat with remaining 2 eye pins and pendants.
3. Beaded Eye Pin: Thread the following beads on an eye pin: 4mm black bead, flower spacer, 4mm black bead, 16 x 18mm bicone bead, 4mm black bead, flower spacer, and a 4mm black bead. Trim eye pin, leaving 1/4-inch from end of last bead. Turn a small loop at end of eye pin. Loop should be snug against last bead.
4. Open a jump ring. Thread 3 pendant dangles and beaded eye pin on jump ring to form the necklace pendant. Close jump ring. Cut two 32-inch pieces of waxed linen cord. Thread both cord pieces through the eye of necklace pendant and center on cord. Set aside two 4mm black beads. Mix together the remaining 4mm black, crystal, and gold beads to use in a random pattern for the necklace.
5. Thread the following bead pattern on one half of necklace: On each strand of cord, string eleven 4mm beads. Then thread both strands through a flower spacer, a 10 x 13mm bicone bead, and another flower spacer. Repeat 3 more times. After bead pattern is complete, thread 14 more 4mm beads on each strand of cord. Thread both strands through a flower spacer and a 10 x 13mm bicone bead to complete one half of necklace.
6. Open the eye of 1 eye pin. Thread ends of both beaded strands (from completed half of necklace) through open eye and tie strand ends in a double knot. Secure knots with a dab of glue. Trim cord to about 1/8-inch from knots. Thread eye pin through a fluted endcap, making sure the bicone bead is snug against the wide end of endcap. Then thread a 4mm black bead on the eye pin. Trim eye pin, leaving 1/4-inch from end of last bead. Turn a loop at end of eye pin. Do not close loop yet. Thread eye of one half of necklace clasp on loop before closing it completely. Close loop, making sure it is snug against last bead.
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 for other half of necklace.
In the next section, we'll show you how to make fun necklaces to show off your holiday spirit.
we will meet 2nd part on 30.5 2008
Friday, May 23, 2008
Blu-ray Disc
Blu-ray Disc (also known as Blu-ray or BD) is an optical disc storage media format. Its main uses are high-definition video and data storage. The disc has the same dimensions as a standard DVD or CD.
The name Blu-ray Disc is derived from the blue laser used to read and write this type of disc. Because of its shorter wavelength (405 nm), substantially more data can be stored on a Blu-ray Disc than on the DVD format, which uses a red (650 nm) laser. A dual layer Blu-ray Disc can store 50 GB, almost six times the capacity of a dual layer DVD.
Blu-ray Disc was developed by the Blu-ray Disc Association, a group of companies representing consumer electronics, computer hardware, and motion picture production. The standard is covered by several patents belonging to different companies. As of April 2008, a joint licensing agreement for all the relevant patents had not yet been finalized.[2]
As of April 5, 2008, more than 530[3] Blu-ray Disc titles have been released in the United States, and more than 250 in Japan.
During the high definition optical disc format war, Blu-ray Disc competed with the HD DVD format. On February 19, 2008, Toshiba — the main company supporting HD DVD — announced it would no longer develop, manufacture and market HD DVD players and recorders,[4] leading almost all other HD DVD supporters to follow suit, effectively naming Blu-ray the victor of the format war.
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