Charles McGinnis - Fair Trade Info Inc

Business

Key Things to Consider Before You Choose a Business Entity

Charles McGinnis Posted on 17/02/202320/05/2024

When starting a business, one of the first decisions you must make is what type of business entity to form. This decision can be difficult, as there are many factors to consider. In this blog post, we will discuss essential things to keep in mind when choosing a business entity. Considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and goals.

Tax Treatment

The tax treatment of different business entities can vary significantly. For example, C corporations are subject to double taxation on their profits (once as a company and then again when dividends are paid out). At the same time, LLCs have the same pass-through taxation as partnerships or sole proprietorships. Thus, it is crucial to understand the tax implications of each type of entity before making your decision.

Personal Liability

When choosing a business entity, it is vital to consider the level of personal liability you are willing to accept. Corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs) provide their owners with limited personal liability protections, meaning that they are not personally liable for debts or obligations of the business. On the other hand, sole proprietorships do not offer such protections, and owners are personally responsible for any obligations of the company.

Complexity

Another critical factor to consider is the complexity of the business entity. Corporations, for example, require more formalities and paperwork to comply with applicable laws. LLCs typically have fewer formal requirements than corporations, but they may still need some paperwork, such as filing annual reports. Sole proprietorships are generally the least complex type of business entity, as they require no formal paperwork or filing requirements.

Consider Cost

The cost of forming and maintaining a business entity can vary significantly. For example, while LLCs may be relatively inexpensive to form, they often require ongoing fees such as annual registration fees. Corporations may also require more up-front costs due to the need for legal paperwork and filings. Thus, it is vital to consider the cost of forming and maintaining a business entity when deciding.

Choosing a business entity can be a complicated and overwhelming process. Considering the factors discussed in this blog post, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and goals. Remember that while certain entities may offer particular advantages, they may also have drawbacks or require more up-front costs.

Business

Benefits of ERP Software

Charles McGinnis Posted on 06/08/201910/11/2019

Integrating ERP software, or what people refer to as Enterprise Resource Planning, in your business systems, can offer valuable benefits. However, note that the statement only applies to those who understand how the system works and how it can help both the company and the staffs. The company also needs to consider several things when choosing the best software for certain needs. Experts usually break down the system into three stages, and they include discovery, implementation, and result.

The first stage refers to the process of installing the system and informing the staff about the software. The implementation means checking if the system works well and cooperate with the existing systems. The third stage includes assessing the efficacy to see the results. With all these stages, it is important to know the benefits of the software first. One common problem is that not all companies understand the benefits below, so they prefer not to install the software and go through all the stages. Thus, below are some advantages of ERP software that every company needs to know.

Increased Efficiency

Efficient line of work is always one of the leading goals echoed by all companies, both small startups or big consortiums. For that reason, they need to come up with the best systems, depending on the actual condition in the field, to ensure efficiency and efficacy. Efficient line of work leads to better results, higher performance, and quality services. Fortunately, the ERP software is available to boost the performance. The entire process often includes making sure that the right people will work on the right tasks based on job descriptions. This way, the company can manage the workflow well, and the staffs can work efficiently, resulting in effective and better results.

Lower Production Costs

The term production does not always refer to the literal production where goods and commodities are being manufactured. Sometimes, what happens in the staff rooms can also be defined as production. In short, being productive is another definition of production in its broader sense. This type of production also requires daily funding and expenses. With the software, the company can opt for lower production costs as a result of a more efficient workflow.

Paperless Campaigns

Instead of having every file and document printed, the ERP software ensures paperless operations. Things are done digitally these days, and it is also one of the leading advantages of having the systems installed in the office. This way, the company can participate in the global green movement that calls for paperless ways of life.

Tech

Tips for Choosing a Mobile App Developer

Charles McGinnis Posted on 04/06/201908/08/2019

Mobile applications play an essential role in the manufacturing industries and the business sector. With the innovation of new OS and mobile devices, business people are looking for new mobile apps to present their services and products. Business people should have the necessary skills and business knowledge for them to develop user-friendly applications.

This write-up is going to share the useful tips that everyone must consider when choosing a app development company for his/her businesses. Working with an experienced mobile app developer will make the process of creating a business app easy and straightforward. In general, you should have adequate strategies for you to develop a successful mobile application for business growth.

Research

Doing research can help you in understanding customer demands, trends, and market. It is crucial to conduct market research before giving your business app a technological touch. Business people can get useful insights from market analysis reports. For instance, they can learn more about the strategies used by their competitors. Research can also help you understand why specific applications are very popular in the market.

Experts believe that learning from other people’s mistakes is better than learning from your own mistakes.
Furthermore, you should have a look at the customers’ reviews when doing research. These reviews can give you an insight of customer choice and preference, likes and dislikes, and future demands.

In general, research can give you a better opportunity of preparing a robust application and planning better from the beginning.

Identifying Your Target Audience

It is imperative to identify the target audience of your mobile app. Remember that the future of your mobile business app depends on the target audience. These are the people who play an essential role in determining future growth and expansion of your business mobile application. You should aim at creating an app that adds value to your users and meets their expectations. Such a business app will not only become popular but also help you in generating more revenue.

Knowing Your Budget

As mentioned earlier developing a successful business app requires strategy and knowledge. It is essential to come up with a comprehensive budget for every stage of application development.

Some of the important aspects of application development that require one to invest money in include app maintenance, development, marketing, and updating. You should also set aside some money for testing your application. Knowing your budget will help you in creating a business application that fulfills your user’s requirements.

Business

How to Choose the Right Contract Management Software

Charles McGinnis Posted on 29/05/201913/12/2019

Embracing technology in business is something that will propel it to greater heights. It will help make your work easier and also increase productivity. One area where you may be required to incorporate the use of technology in your company is contract management. Contracts play a crucial role in daily operations and also the future of a business. Employees are the people responsible for managing contracts. Failure to do so may result in missing out on agreed deadlines or breaking of the agreed terms.

You can reduce all this mess by incorporating the use of contract management solutions that will simplify all the work for you. A contract management software is a type of software that enables you to store and organize all the contracts in your company. The benefit of using this type of software is that you will have an easy time retrieving all the agreements when you need them which is different compared to when you are using manual procedures.

You can also set reminders for timelines when specific contractual deadlines are supposed to be met. This will reduce the chances of a breach of contract. You will stay away from any legal expenses from any contract related suit filed against your company. It will also boost management in your business. You should look for the right contract management software that will offer quality service. The following should be factored in when choosing one.

Retrieval Procedures

You must look at the methods of retrieving some of the stored agreements in contract management software. You will find some that have a very complicated process that will give you a difficult time. Look for software that will give you a comfortable time looking up for some of the stored contracts.

Fee

You will also get some that charge a subscription fee for these services. Upgrade to higher packages so that you get the best services. You can also compare the packages between different software companies and choose one that is charging reasonably. Do not forget to consider the type of service offered.

Customization Options

A software that can be customized to meet your company’s needs when it comes to contract management is the best. You should look for one that can be customized easily. There are times you may want to alter how the contracts have been arranged or labeled. Look for a software that will enable you to do this with ease.

Health

Why You Need to Switch to a Touch-Free Soap Dispenser

Charles McGinnis Posted on 22/05/201923/06/2020

Instead of installing regular holders for bar soaps, there are good reasons why you need to switch to a wall mounted soap dispenser. While it is true that different type of soap is required, all the reasons relate to how the item will improve the quality of hygiene in your home. However, one problem is that choosing one among the many options, including models, features, and prices, can be a challenging task.

However, let us not forget the fact that a wall mounted dispenser is a vital component to keep your family healthy. It is how family members can access antibacterial soap liquid to clean their hands after outdoor activities or before meals. Instead of using it straight from the pouch, the dispenser proves to offer several benefits related to health. Studies mention that the dispenser can reduce the risks of bacteria up to eighty percent, making it a much safer option if you aim to have a better living standard.

Healthier People

The first benefit that you will get is improved quality of living. It includes lower risks of illnesses and less germ contamination. Statistics show that companies that do not install no-touch soap dispensers are likely to receive more sick calls from the employees. However, they can change the condition with one small act, which is to install touch-free soap dispensers. It indicates that the quality of bathroom facilities plays a vital and significant role in keeping people healthy and away from diseases. Since the containers eliminate the chance of germ contamination through skin contact, it is safe to conclude that it is a healthier and safer option for shared facilities, such as public bathrooms and sauna.

Improved Hygiene Standards

Now, let us talk about the use of the item in domestic domains. If you keep campaigning the importance of using the dispensers in public place, you should as well start to use the containers at home. One simple logic about the statement is that if it works for larger groups of people, it will undoubtedly and effectively work for your family. Thus, it is advisable to switch to this type of soap dispenser if you aim for healthier family members.

Those who argue that the chances are lower for family members to be sick at home need to change their opinion immediately. Research finds out that germ contamination is a general case, meaning that it can happen anywhere.

Business

Beginner’s Guide To UPC Codes For Business

Charles McGinnis Posted on 19/04/201811/05/2019

These codes are also known as the EAN codes, and people use them to code their products as they sell them whether in a physical store or online store. In some online businesses, you need to have these codes to operate a successful business. While many beginners may find it a challenge to go about this, it is equally important to comply as it has numerous benefits. You can get upc codes for amazon if you follow this guide.

Beginner’s guide to UPC codes for business

How to get the UPC codes

Basically, there are two common ways people can get these codes for their products in business. They include the following;

Through the GS1 – This globally recognized organization offers each business a prefix number which is unique. It is the most popularly used procedure by most business people in the world. From here, they can proceed to add other numbers to each of their products.
Purchasing from a secondary market – There are various websites that sell UPCs that are no longer in use in an auction like environment. If you want to buy them cheaply, then use this method although it relies on availability.

What to consider before buying the UPC code

Before you settle on either buying from the GS1 or any other company, a business person ought to consider whether the cost is sustainable or not. In fact, these companies sell these codes differently. GS1 requires one to register before making a purchase, and this sends to the total cost to the roof.

Another consideration to make is how legit others UPC codes selling companies are. We all know that GS1 is a legit seller, but nothing much about the others. Therefore, one ought to do detailed research on them. You can check on reviews to see if their codes are genuine or not.

How UPC codes work

A beginner may wonder why a lot of emphasis on these codes and how they work. If you are selling products on Amazon, for instance, you will need UPS codes from GS1 or any authorized seller. Any other business would also follow this step. Secondly, you need to assign all your products a unique code for each category. At this level, you are all set to order your barcodes after determining how you want them to be displayed.

As a beginner, this is the best procedure to follow for a successful business whether online or in a brick and mortar establishments.

Services

Key Considerations When Ordering Wedding Invitations

Charles McGinnis Posted on 16/04/201811/05/2019

Wedding invitations are very important when it comes to planning for a wedding as they communicate the details on the dates and the venue of the event and some other information. They are also certainly the first impression that the guests get of the ceremony and give a hint of the wedding style. Couples and their planners are usually under so much pressure while looking for wedding invitation as they mean a lot to them. The aim of this article is to highlight some key considerations when ordering wedding invitations.

Considerations

Correct spellings and design

The names of the bride and the groom as they appear on the invites must be correctly spelled. At times, parents’ names may be included, and it may be offensive to misspell them especially for sensitive relationships like those of step parents. Names of the venues for the wedding such as the church, hotels or wedding gardens should also be correct in spelling to avoid miscommunication or confusion.

The design, color and other features of the invites should also match the style of the wedding. Wrong spellings or design may mean extra expenses for reprints or give a bad impression of the style and taste of the couple.

The number of Invitations

The number of invitations should go hand in hand with the number of the invited guests. It is crucial to come up with a list of all the invitees to have a good idea of the number. While compiling the list, the invitees should be classified as single persons, couples, and groups.

Each of these categories should be allocated an invitation thus the number of the invitations to order. It is prudent to include some extra invitations just in case some guests may have been left out in the list or mistakes are done while addressing the invitations necessitating using a new one. Also the envelopes should be more to cater for any error while writing the names or address of the invitees.

The size of the envelope

Some invitations come together with their customized envelopes in which case the size of the envelope is not an issue. In the instances where envelopes are to be bought separately, it is crucial to consider the size of the invitations so that they fit the various sizes of the envelopes in the market. The design of the card regarding shape and size should conform to some envelopes already available in the stationery shops.

Other extra stationery

Some extra stationery such as RVSP cards or reply cards may be necessary. The groom and the bride or their planners need to confirm how many of the guest will turn up. This will allow them to plan well for the meals and sitting space if they intend to have a dinner or a brunch.This necessitates requesting the invitees to reply to the invitation which may be done in the form of an enclosed card. Each invitation may come with a reply card or several reply cards in case of invitation sent to groups.

Time of Sending Invitations

The invitations should be sent out latest two months to the wedding date and earliest four months to the day. The guests should be allowed ample time to plan and prepare to attend.The ordering of the invitations then should be done within those time frames to have enough time to send them out.

Construction

Common Materials Used In Construction Projects

Charles McGinnis Posted on 26/08/201711/05/2019

Any material that is used in the construction process of any structure is known as a building material. Such materials are made of a variety of natural products for example leaves, clay, twigs, sand, and many others. Additionally, there are other building materials that are man made. It is interesting to note that there are countries where different building materials are manufactured to be used for the different aspects of the construction process. This can either function like plumbing or even house carpeting.

Construction building materials

Building material can be grouped into two major categories, we have natural building materials, and we also have those materials that are synthetic or manufactured by engineering companies. Both of them have functions that they can serve. It is also important to note that people across the world use these building materials to construct their structures depending on the suitability of the materials as per their local weather conditions. In this article, we are going to look at some of the most common building materials that are mostly used in construction projects.

Rock

When you mention a construction project, this is the first building material that comes to the minds of individuals. It is one of the materials that have been used for long in building. Although it offers durability and it is very protective, it is very heavy for construction workers to carry around hence needs machinery when constructing, and it is not that effective in keeping the occupants of the house that is constructed of rocks warm.

Thatch

This one has been used in construction projects since time immemorial. Even though it does not have a long lifespan, each type of it has a lifespan of its own. It was mostly used in traditional house construction, but it has since been replaced by iron sheets

Brush

A brush is another commonly used construction material that is made from some unique plants that are found in tropical rainforest climatic regions. But brush itself is commonly used in construction projects that occur in tropical and subtropical areas. In most cases it is used in combination with rocks, to fill in the gaps that are left between the stones.

Ice

This can come as a surprise to many. When one thinks of structures that are built of ice, we are referring to units and igloos. But it might surprise you further to encounter large structures and buildings that are constructed out of ice. A good example is the many hotels that are made out of ice in Scandinavia.

Cement

Of course, cement is one of the most commonly used construction material and hence it needs no introduction. It has been used in structural constructions for centuries because of the durability that it offers.

Metal

It is very important as any structural framework of any building will be made up of metallic parts. Steel is the most common metal that is used in construction. It is used in the construction of small structures to skyscrapers.

Glass

This is usually used in the construction of those buildings that the owners want the light to penetrate into them. In recent times, solar glasses have been used in construction as they absorb energy from the sun.

Some other commonly used building materials include Hempcrete, Bamboo, Recycled plastics and even Ferrock.

Home

Tree Removal And Maintenance – Why Should You Go With The Pros?

Charles McGinnis Posted on 19/08/201711/05/2019

Your home should be your sanctuary. It needs to be a place where you can feel perfectly safe and comfortable. After spending your day at work, you should come home and be able to relax and recharge your batteries for the challenges that lie ahead. That is why you want your house to be as clean, and as aesthetically appealing as possible.

For that reason, many people decide to put beautiful gardens in front of their houses, with all kinds of trees, shrubs, and flowers, so as to enhance the look and feel of their homes. However, when some of these add-ons, especially trees, are not properly maintained, they can pose a risk to the property as well as people. For that matter, many people opt to remove the trees, in order to eliminate the potential risks.

Better call the pros

However, tree care work can be pretty hazardous, especially tree removal. Successfully cutting and removing a tree requires extensive knowledge of tree biology, physics, cutting techniques, advanced and potentially dangerous tools, and more. Homeowners who attempt to remove or maintain trees on their own, usually end up getting injured by improper equipment handling, falling limbs, and the trees themselves. Therefore, if you have trees that need cutting, stay away from DIY techniques, and look for the pros, such as the ones found at www.treecarekingwoodtx.com.

What are some of the most common risks of tree removal?

Power lines

Cutting trees that are near power lines can be extremely risky. In this case, you should always assume that the lines are in working order. If the tree, your tools, or you yourself hit a power line, you could leave your entire neighborhood without power. Worst case scenario and you will end up severely or gravely injured. Professional tree removal experts know exactly how to deal with this scenario and have all the appropriate tools and techniques necessary in order to avoid any unpleasant scenarios.

Decaying wood

A dying or dead tree is typically decaying from the inside-out, which makes it very unstable. To properly deal with such trees, professionals are known to use cranes and other heavy machinery. If you think your trees have started decaying, waste no time and hire the services of professional tree removers as soon possible. Wait for too long, and the tree will fall without any warning.

Inappropriate equipment

All reputable tree removal experts are required to wear durable protective gear from head to toe. Additionally, they are also trained in using a variety of equipment, including ropes, chainsaws, wood chippers, and cranes, with the aim of safely cutting and removing a tree. To do this job on your own, you will need all the previously mentioned equipment and the expertise to use it properly. Of course, this is highly unlikely, thus leaving the tree removal experts as your best option.

Dealing with gravity

Once the tree is cut and it starts falling, you will have absolutely no control over its fall trajectory. There are high chances it will not fall the way you expect it to. This can happen even if you try to influence its fall with ropes of cut indentations. Poor calculations and judgment can easily cause the tree to fall on power lines, homes, cars, or people.

Halloween

Fairtrade Action Network

Charles McGinnis Posted on 12/06/201711/05/2019

NEWS
Trick’n’Treating the Fair Way
In North America, Halloween is coming up with ghosts, witches and other evil creatures wandering the streets, knocking on the doors of unsuspecting citizens and asking for a treat in exchange for not performing wicked tricks – an unfair trade indeed.
Greetings from Fairtrade Action Network seminar in Estonia
Fairtrade enthousiasts from 13 countries joined the seminar “Fairtrade and the environment” in Tallinn, Estonia 6.-8.6. The weekend consisted of lectures and a panel discussion about Fairtrade cotton production and the environmental impact of Fairtrade. The weekend offered also a chance to exchange action ideas and plan future actions together. Read more!

Pumpkins

About
Are you experienced or willing to learn more about Fairtrade volunteer activities? If so, join the effort for the development of the international Fairtrade movement! Join the volunteer e-mail list!
We are looking for people who are enthusiastic about spreading information about Fairtrade and willing to shape a Europe-wide mission of Fairtrade volunteerism. If you are interested in creating a new international network for campaigning and sharing ideas around Fairtrade advocacy, this network is meant for you.
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Old street

Real Estate

The benefits of living in a condo

Charles McGinnis Posted on 22/03/201711/05/2019

People have a lot of options when it comes to choosing a place to live in. For one, people can begin from scratch and build their own residences. Another option is to purchase pre-owned real estates. An individual can also buy or rent out new houses, apartments or condos. In recent times more and more people are investing in condos than other housing options since condos can provide more benefits. To have a deeper knowledge, below are some of the benefits of living in condos:

Appealing locations

One of the main advantages of residing in a condo is people can stay in appealing locations. The location is a paramount consideration when it comes to choosing a place to live in. Apart from the beautiful views you get, it is crucial to ensure that condos are located in areas where individuals can go to the metropolis with ease. In this way, it is efficient to go to work, school or even the mall. Additionally, condominium residences provide you and your family with a secure place to live since their residences are fitted with the latest and most advanced security devices.

Top-class quality

Another great benefit that people experience when living in condos is that you have the assurance that you are residing in a top-class property. This comes about since the buildings are designed and constructed by leading, reputable and reliable real estate developers. Due to this, people are assured that property styles and features can match their needs. In addition, condos are created from durable and top-class materials that improve their durability.

Better access to transportation

Better access to transportation is also a major benefit for individuals who stay in condos. This is necessary to enable you to go to work smoothly. Luckily, some condos are situated near train or bus stations. Apart from that, some condos are near major roadways. Because of this a lot of convenience is achieved, and there is less wastage of time. Moving in the area is also made much easier.

Attractive pricing

Another great benefit of living in condominium residences is that they are offered at attractive prices these days. This is made possible because some developers can offer various payment options. Moreover, some condos also offer rental options. With these options, people are able to ensure that they find the right condominium for themselves and at a price that can be accommodated by their budget.

Business

How to maximize your office space

Charles McGinnis Posted on 22/03/201711/05/2019

Maximizing office space can be very beneficial in achieving cost savings and efficiency. It can also ensure that overheads are minimized. With the constant increase of rent prices for premium office space, any start-up business will have to engage in every endeavor to make the most out of their working environment. Below are some valuable tips to utilize in maximizing your office space:

Get creative with storage

Today offices are becoming more paperless. This is beneficial in decreasing the necessary storage space, and it is also good for the environment. Storage methods that utilize the minimum amount of floor space are the most preferable. A practical choice is the vertical unit that rises from the floor to the ceiling. It can vary in design to comprise of lockers, cabinets or shelves. This can provide adequate space for unavoidable paper, while also keeping the workplace clutter free.

Minimize desk space

An easy solution to make the floor space in the office seem more spacious is to make use of compact desks or workstations. A brilliant method to determine the size of the office furniture is to come up with a scale drawing of the office layout and the available space. Accurately access the needs now and in the future to make sure that the workspace is spacious and comfortable enough for the whole workforce.

Create flexible space

An office that has multi-functional space provides a flexible space to work. A room whose sole purpose is to conduct meetings can consume a lot of floor space and will mostly be left empty. An excellent way to utilize this space is to come up with a temporary meeting room that is easily made using office screens. Partitions that are short-term are easy to erect in a few minutes.

Mezzanine floor

A mezzanine floor is an addition to the office space that contains the available overhead space. By creating a mezzanine floor, it is possible to come up with a second floor that can make a practical storage space. Additionally, this can make an inexpensive way to increase space without having to move to a bigger and more expensive place.

Office accessories

You should carefully consider the purchases for the daily running of the business. It is simple to fill an office with equipment such as a large photocopier or fax machine, but if this type of devices are not essential, it may be possible to do without them. This minimally cluttered office is certain to provide the most comfortable working space.