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The Chattahoochee Hill Country (CHC) is a 65,000 acre area southwest of Atlanta.  It is one of the last undeveloped and rural areas located within 30 minutes of Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, the busiest airport in the world.  It includes rolling hills, streams, forests and farms and a population of about 3,000 people.

This web site presents the CHC through the lens of the Chattahoochee Hill Country Conservancy, Inc. (the “Conservancy”).  The Conservancy is a non-profit organization which seeks to preserve the natural fields and forests that comprise our rural vistas.

 

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4 CRM Reports Every Business Needs

How many consumer emails and requests have you received today, and how many of them have you responded to? Surely, you can guesstimate or even count them one by one, but that won’t get you too far.

If you have outgrew this manual method of generating sales reports and monitoring customer requests, then it’s time to automate and upgrade to CRM system. This integration provides fast and accurate sales reports and turns raw figures into centralized data that everyone in your enterprise can view and access.

Customer relationship management software provides an overview of your customer service requests, so you can easily keep track of them, allowing you pinpoint the areas where you can improve, plan your workload and most importantly create strategies to meet your clients’ needs and expectations.

Here are four cloud CRM reports that your company here in Singapore should always have on-hand for better customer service support.

1. Number of customer requests receiver per day
This data will show how many requests you received in the previous day, giving you an insight to help plan your workload and effectively schedule your staffs’ shifts.

One example is when your CRM software reports higher requests on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. If this happens, it may be necessary to schedule your support team to work on weekends.

Another example is the sudden increase of requests overnight because of an effective email marketing campaign. So, next time you send out another marketing campaign, you already know you need to schedule more staff the next day to answer customer requests in a timely manner.

2. Average time to respond
According to e-commerce experts, the major factor to excellent customer service is being able to resolve issues and address concerns quickly—the reason why this report exists.
Average time of respond is measured from the moment the request was sent by the consumer to the time a support agent was able to send back his reply to the request. The shorter time the agent was able to respond to the customer, the better service he delivers.

If the CRM system reports show that it takes so much time to respond to a request, it could be because the agents or the right department does not receive the requests and that the delay could be due to the action of having to reroute the requests to the right personnel.

Another possible reason is that the responses itself are taking too long to be sent. Are the support team members creating the reply from scratch? Know that composing lengthy emails is time consuming and can affect your average response speed.

This is where CRM tools for building client relationships offered in Singapore come to picture. You can automate customer emails in a way that the same agent will handle the same customer requests to avoid confusion and delay. This stresses the importance of building relationships with clients. For example, a support staff responds to a request and then the customer replies again, the same staff will receive the customer reply and handle the request until it is resolved. Another way to use CRM software is to create canned email messages that all your agents can use, so they can respond to requests quickly.

3. Number of customer requests responded by user
This sales management report will let you know the number of requests each of your support staff was able to close. With this data, you will be able to gauge the performance of every agent you have, providing you an idea how efficient each of your agents is and how many customer requests they handle in an average.

However, not all agents who have answered more requests mean they are great agents. Some could be ‘cherry picking’ the easier requests over the difficult ones, so they can answer more compared to the rest of your team. An easy way to solve this issue is to automatically allocate the next pending request to the next available staff, so all received inquiry emails or calls are distributed equally among your support team members.

Another thing is when you notice that an agent is handling too few requests. It could be that that the agent is struggling. If so, then you know you need to consider conducting a seminar or training session for the team. This report helps you find out what’s slowing down your team’s productivity and come up with ways to boost their workflow.

4. Average time requests are handled
This report will show how much time it usually takes for your staff to resolve an issue or request from the customer. Like the response time, your team’s average time to handle requests is important to achieving excellent customer service. Your consumers here in Singapore expect not only fast response time from you, but also quick resolution to their queries.

For this report, you want to see a decline in the length of time needed for your agents to complete requests. If you notice a consistent increase in time, it could mean that your staff is in need of additional training. An efficient service staff handles customer requests in a shorter time by using a CRM software to help them find the customer’ profile, use the right canned email template and call the right personnel if a a customer inquiry or request is in need of a more advanced knowledge.

When there is so much information available, you can easily get distracted by reading the less important sales management reports. And there is no reason of keeping data without knowing its relevance to your business. The reason why you need these reports is to for you to make an educated decision every time and help your team to be more productive at work.

By taking advantage of report generators of your cloud CRM, you can effortlessly keep track of employee productivity and customer satisfaction, which both contributes to a better bottom line.

International vs. Local Freight Forwarding: What’s the Difference?

Freight forwarding is a business that specializes in coordinating with different shipping companies that have their own cargo transportation. Also known as Non-Vehicle Operating Common Carriers (NVOCCs), freight forwarders are often called the travel agents of international trade.

The reason behind this is that they often act as the middlemen between you and the shipping services you will need to have your bulk goods transported safely between significant distances, especially when it comes to shipping across countries.

However, forwarding agencies are much more than middlemen. Not only do they have extensive contacts with many a shipping company and know which ones are immediately available on specific dates, but they also keep in touch with international boundaries, customs, and paperwork.

It could be said that NVOCCs form the backbone of the freight market, and once you know the different freight forwarder agencies well enough, you’ll know how the freight market, more or less, works.

Who are the Freight Forwarders?

To know the freight market, we must first know the people behind the companies, as well as the customers that make up the market: the companies who make the bulk goods, the clients who need the bulk goods, and the shipping agencies and forwarding services that take care of everything else in between.

Freight forwarding agencies go by a lot of names. Some of these are: NVOCC, multimodal transport operator, logistics services company, supply chain manager, and even information broker.

Freight forwarder companies are classified into three groups:

• Local companies – A domestic logistics carrier agent in Singapore caters to local customers and specialize their trade in local logistics services.

• National companies – National freight forwarding services have more than one branch or office in different areas, usually in areas of large cargo transport (i.e. shipyards, docks, and airports). They may or may not be government-owned.

• Multinational company – An international logistics company is the easiest to identify. Because they have overseas branches, they have the widest range of services. They also tend to be quite expensive.

International vs. Local Freight

Local and international logistics company more or less operate within similar boundaries and with similar principles in terms of logistics and policies. But what exactly are the differences between local freight and international freight?

Whether cargo is transported via local freight or international freight, services of forwarding agencies based in Singapore often operate in the following geographical boundaries:

• Within Singapore – Local freight services can operate in bonded warehouses and areas outside the designated free trade zones.

• Free Trade Zones – Designated areas of ports, terminals, and airports designated as “free trade zones” are available areas of operation for freight forwarding companies.

• Outside Singapore – International freight forwarder companies have the capacity (e.g., resources, contacts, transport vessels) to import and export cargo both in and out of Singapore.

There are a few key differences between local and international freight. One of these differences between lies in their coverage area. Local freight may only include sea freight, as transportation is easier, while international freight agencies may have access to companies with air freight services to allow them to cover the distance.

This leads to the second difference between the two types of logistics services, which is the extent of their coordination in terms of the shipping company or companies that they are working with.

The logistics services provided by international freight agencies may also be more varied and complex because of the differences in customs requirements and paperwork among countries. Here are some of the things that the logistics services of freight forwarding are responsible for:

• Mapping the fastest, safest, and cheapest route for any shipment to account for the cargo’s shelf life;

• Negotiating contracts, transportation costs, and obtaining and preparing the proper documentation to meet local and international requirements;

• Utilizing e-commerce and offering specific IT solutions, such as the Internet, GPS, and other types of tracking devices, to track cargo shipping routes in real time; and

• Understanding international trade, geo-political boundaries, and relevant legislations that might affect cargo delivery schedules.

Over the years, freight forwarding companies have become embraced technological advances, such as using the Internet and GPS to track shipments locally, regionally, and internationally in real time. This allows them to become even more efficient in making sure goods are delivered.

Overall, the key difference between local and international freight agencies is their scope – local and national logistics services may simply operate within Singapore and selected areas near Singapore, while international logistics services operate on many different countries.

The Difference between Sea Freight and Air Freight

International freight companies may also avail of air freight as well as sea freight, while local companies may only be limited to the latter. This makes international freight more expensive to hire, especially if you plan to or are currently working with businesses or companies that are across several time zones.

Using ships to move durable goods can be really cheap. This makes sea freight the cheapest option when transporting your goods either around Singapore. However, they can be treated poorly by the handling staff in the shipping company working with the cargo.

The transportation of goods by air is faster and more convenient when shipping goods across countries, but has the drawback of being more expensive. If this cargo is lighter, smaller, and needs to be transported across the country more quickly, air freight is the best way to go.

What is a Creative Agency?

Is a creative agency in Singapore made up artists? What does a creative design agency sell anyway? Why is creative design tied to public relations or PR? Although not exactly a new area of business, explaining what a creative design company does is a bit complicated.

Let’s examine more closely what it means to be part of a creative design agency in Singapore.

Is it About Advertising?
A creative agency, as the name suggests, focuses on creative work for businesses in Singapore. Most of the creative design agencies use both digital and traditional work to create designs for websites, advertising materials, illustrations, covers, artworks, and many more. So, yes, it does fall into the advertising category because the creative design personnel work with other companies and businesses on various projects, but their task is not just limited to advertising different products and/or services. They usually work with the company for a couple of months, depending on the contract, to help make a name or brand that can be recognized by the customers. If a company wants to be recognized, it needs to work with a professional team skilled in advertising and marketing to attract more customers. The strategy might not work right away, but a well-executed advertising campaign can do wonders for a budding company in the long run.

Is it About Branding?
If a creative agency is supposed to help a company advertise its products and/or services, then is it about branding? A creative design agency can help companies come up with brands or logos that will not just be attractive to customers, but will also be representative of the image the company wants to convey. The brand should be recognizable, unique, and easily associated with the goods and/or services of the company. Hiring a Singapore design and creative firm to make a brand that will leave a lasting impression on customers is a good move for businesses that want to compete with existing brands, because it means that you are investing in a unified impression among the consumers. The creative design will help you realize your vision through professional conceptualization, design, strategy, marketing, and the use of technology. Today’s creative agencies in Singapore have access to various tools that must be used effectively to make the brand stand out from the others, because other creative design agencies also have access to the same technology.

Is it About Art?
The word design requires creativity from the members of the creative design agency. In fact, most of them are responsible for designing graphics, covers, logos, and content to promote products and/or services. The creative design team works with companies to produce quality and useful art not just to show off their skills, but to promote a product and/or service that is true to the image and reputation marketed by the client. They make use of various tools available to them such as social media and traditional media for promoting the brand. The personnel are skilled in the use of design and branding, especially the visual content, to promote your business. This means that they can create relevant and engaging content for the existing and prospective customers, make your customers understand what you’re selling or offering much better, find ways to promote or improve the existing visual content, and to optimize the visual content by choosing which strategies are effective or not. It is not simply about creating good, quality art, but art that will sell and will help you achieve your company’s goals.

Is it About Marketing?
Specifically, a creative design agency like http://www.chuntsubaki.com/ in SIngapore helps companies sell their products and/or services by making them more attractive and unique to the customers. Those designs you sometimes see on the packages were designed by a creative agency in Singapore with their client’s image and brand in mind. The designs are not just supposed to attract customers visually, but it is the result of studies that aim to create a unique identity in the market. In a nutshell, the creative design agency in Singapore comes up with strategies to sell products, services, and the image of the client. But if it uses different tools to promote a business, then is it also a digital agency? Nowadays, most businesses also use the power of social media to reach more customers in Singapore. That is why the creative design agency should also be well-versed in the strategic, technical, and creative use of the Internet to market and advertise their clients. However, a digital agency is a more specialized type of creative agency because they focus specifically on online advertising, web design, search engine, and e-commerce.

Is it About Strategy?
To come up with effective marketing and advertising for the client, the creative design agency staff should understand the client’s objectives. It should be combined with the understanding of the market position, target audience, and the existing competition. A thorough study of a client’s profile and the image it wants to convey to the audience is the first step to an effective marketing strategy. Without these, the creative agency will find it difficult to sell a brand that cannot compete with the market because there is no understanding of the core values and goals it wants to sell. It isn’t just about selling a pretty product with a nice artwork and logo, but using the relative information to come up with a creative design that will make a good and lasting impression on the consumers. This is important if the company wants to get its message to its target audience whether the campaign is carried out using traditional advertising, advertising through media, or online advertising.

Disclaimer: This list is compiled in no particular order.

Tips to Keep Your Diamond Ring Safe When Travelling

Diamonds, in general, don’t come cheap and are considered as major investments. As you have probably encountered, shopping for diamonds isn’t an easy task, and it takes effort and dedication to keep them safe and well-maintained.

Ideally, you shouldn’t be travelling long distances with your diamond engagement ring, but we know there are times when you just want to show off to the world how stunning your wedding ring is. So, if your now-fiancé just proposed to you and you intend to wear the ring to your vacation or business trip, here are the things you can do to keep your diamond ring safe.

Things to Do Before the Trip

When planning to travel with your engagement ring—or any valuables—never skimp on purchasing a suitable insurance policy to cover it. This will cover your grounds in any possibilities where you may lose your ring.

First of all, you need to educate yourself of the different policies that cover losses during travel. Know that majority of basic insurance policies don’t cover jewellery claims, and therefore, you may need a separate policy for your custom engagement ring made in Singapore just in case. If you’re unsure what policy to get, spend more time to do some research or call an insurance agent in Singapore to clarify details.

For travels outside Singapore, it’s a good practice to take photos of your ring and prepare the receipt and papers of the ring when it was purchased. These things come in handy in the event you need proof of ownership of the jewellery.

Smart Tips When Carrying Jewellery Around

For your safety, be smart when it comes to deciding whether to wear or not to wear your diamond jewelleries while outdoors.

As much as possible, avoid wearing too much jewellery in public areas during the trip. If your ring is minimalistic in style, you can wear it around but be sure to be cautious. Conversely, if your wedding ring has quite a big rock that seems to attract people’s (including robber’s) attention, you may want to save it for special occasions and events.

Next, never keep your ring and other jewellery in the check-in luggage when travelling by plane. Security guidelines may need your luggage to be opened and this puts your priced possessions at risk of theft. Instead, keep them in your carry-on luggage, which you can bring around wherever you go.

It’s also recommended to store the proposal ring in its original case to prevent it from getting in contact with your stuff and other jewelleries, which can potentially cause dents and scratches.

Beware of Leaving your Jewelleries In Hotels

Having your jewelries from http://www.lingjewellery.com.sg/ in Singapore lying around in your hotel room is like giving them away to robbers. Statistics show that poor storage is the most common reason for belongings to go missing in hotels because of dishonest staff.

When checking-in at a hotel, ask whether they have a safe-storage facility. This could either be in the room or in the reception area. Use these facilities to deposit your jewelleries before leaving your hotel room.

If they can’t provide you with secured storage, you’re better off carrying your wedding ring and other jewelleries with you instead of leaving them in the room. Again, never leave your valuables unattended in your room.

Always remember that hotel housekeeping staff has access to your room when you are not around. Security can also be easily compromised when thieves believe that there precious items inside the room.

Store Securely and Leave Them At Home

Unless there’s a special occasion when you will need to wear your diamond jewelleries, the best thing you can do to ensure your ring’s safety is to just leave it at home when travelling. There is really no need to expose yourself to potential danger in a foreign land.

While you’re a way, here are some tips for storing your jewelleries at home:

• Cover Signs of Absence

If there’s no one left at home, you may want to suspend your newspaper deliveries before going on a long vacation and ask a neighbour to help you clear the mailbox every day. Having newspaper scattered on your doorstep is the same as broadcasting to everyone on one’s home. Also, announcing on Facebook that you are going on a vacation is not a smart move, too. Tech savvy thieves can easily take advantage of this information when choosing targets.

• Keep Your Valuables in Unexpected Places

Choose an inconspicuous place to keep your wedding ring and other valuable belongings. In an event a robber breaks into your house, the first place they will check would be the dresser area, jewellery box, and other expected places where jewelleries are stored inside the bedroom. A fireproof vault that’s installed into a wall is the most secured and makes it really difficult for burglars to get away with your valuables.

• Use your Common Sense

This may sound obvious, but many homeowners admitted that they themselves have made things easy for thieves to intrude their house. Simple things like forgetting to lock the windows or leaving spare keys somewhere in the outer premises of the home were the most common causes of theft.

Your diamond engagement ring is probably one of the most valuable things you own. This ring doesn’t only carry high monetary value, but irreplaceable sentimental value as well. So, make sure you’re protecting your ring—and the rest of your jewelleries—from possible causes of damage and loss by keeping in mind these essential tips.

Common Marriage Issues That May Need Counselling

Relationships—whether with a romantic partner, family or friends—will affect and create an impact in our sense of individuality and how we relate to other people, providing us a blanket of security, excitement, hope and affection. And our closest relationships, particularly romantic relationships, will serve as our playground—or battleground—where our vulnerabilities, negative behaviours and even unresolved issues can be brought up and cause us pain.

While any relationship begins with high levels of passion, commitment and excitement, this what we call ‘the honeymoon phase’ rarely lasts. After this stage, couples go through a less interesting or even boring phase without being aware of it. Although this is normal, many couples find this stage a source of problem that can make or break the relationship.

This is where counselling comes into picture. Many marriages seek professional relationship counselling in Singapore due to these following problems that have grown out of control.

1. Different Opinions

Some of the most common disagreements within relationship regards differing opinions about parenting style, money matters, lifestyle and opinions about the other person’s family.

Sometimes, when in a relationship, it is too easy to be entrenched in your own feelings and perspectives. The more you insist your opinion, the more you repeat the same conflict.

How counselling helps: The psychologist acts as a moderator, helping you and your partner to make it easier for both sides to see the other’s side of the story. You may even seek advices from a child psychologist if it’s about parenting you need advices on. These professionals such as those from center 4 psy from Singapore will not dictate to you what to do. Your relationship counsellor (and child psychologist) will simply guide you to explore the feelings of your spouse in a calm and understanding way, recognizing the issues that lie behind it and really listening to what each other are saying in order to be able to respond more appropriately.

2. Bad Experiences

Common bad experiences that lead couples to marriage counselling are infidelity, bereavement, bankruptcy or serious illness.

When life tests you, it would be ideal if your partner can be there for you 100 percent to serve as your support. However, challenges are some of the things that each one of us responds to differently. You may be an emotional one while your partner is a withdrawer, for instance. These differences in times of distress can cause you to feel distant from the person who you hoped to be the closest to during these times.

How counselling helps: The best psychologist will create a safe environment for the both of you to discuss your issues openly. Your counsellor will help avoid the pitfalls that can shut you down, such as blaming or judging each other, in completely expressing your thoughts.

3. Fear and Anxiety

The feeling of fear and anxiety among couples might be due to the following:

• Fear of becoming parents
• Fear of settling down
• Fear of committing to buying a house
• Fear of death and loss
• Fear of moving in together

Fear and Anxiety can be a setback in any relationship. It can hinder you from fully expressing your feelings, since you want to avoid feeling even more anxious or you are worried that your spouse won’t understand you.

How counselling helps: In the psychology center, you will discuss with your psychologist what really is driving the fear. You might be surprised that it could be totally different from what you though the cause is, such as a childhood trauma or something you are really ashamed of in the past. Your counsellor will make you feel supported and safe in dealing with the root cause of the issue.

4. Big Life Changes

Some of the most common problems relating to life changes are retirement, health matters, midlife crisis and moving to another country for good.

When changes happen to one person and not on the other, it’s inevitable to feel as if the both of you are growing in different ways. Even if the both of you are experiencing change, it can still make you feel differently—as if you are outgrowing each other. Judgments and conflicts come to picture and might slowly drift you apart. It could even be that the other person is blaming the other one for the change that’s happening.

How counselling helps: Your psychologist from where you attend marriage counselling in Singapore will help you voice out your thoughts about the change in a constructive and healthy way. The marriage counselling will serve as your safe space to ask yourselves what really is going on between the two of you. This can open up new perspectives and spark new solutions that you could not see on your own to help the relationship work.

5. Sexual Problems

This one is probably the most common issues in long-term relationships. Working with a recommended psychologist that specializes in psychosexual therapy is greatly helpful in normalizing this marital concern. The relationship counselling will help you to gain better knowledge about sexuality and listening to your partner in an accepting and non-judgmental manner.

How counselling helps: It may sound embarrassing to talk about such personal matters, but try to keep in mind that these professionals talk about sex on a regular basis, and have likely heard the same—or even worse—scenarios and issues. They understand that each person have different intimacy issues. It could be that there’s a history of trauma and abuse that left you terrified with the act or inner struggles with showing intimacy. Regardless of the cause of the problem, you will be supported in exploring your fears and recognizing that you have your own choices.

These are just some of the many issues couples in Singapore experience that have led them to marriage counselling. Does any of these sounds familiar to you? If you think you and your partner are in any of these situations, why not head to a psychology center and try a relationship counselling session? The best psychologist will be able to save your relationship, not just with your spouse but also with yourself, and find ways to live a happier marriage.

The Advantages and Difficulties of a Mobile Coffee Shop Business

Coffee-loving entrepreneurs take note: it seems as if the days for settling with lukewarm, instant coffee are far behind us. With the rapid growth of the coffee business, more and more people are demanding higher quality brews, and more and more enterprises are cropping up to deal with the demand. Because of its accessibility and versatility, a common response to this market growth is the mobile coffee cart. It’s a popular one, seen in parks, concerts, and coffee catering in public and private events. However, just like all other business, the mobile coffee cart business also has a number of advantages and disadvantages that you need to consider before jumping into the business.

Advantages of a Mobile Coffee Shop

1. Affordable

While there are many international chains that continue to dominate the market (such as Starbucks), it may seem daunting to foray into the coffee market. Not all of us could afford the high start-up costs of franchising or start up our own café ourselves. Mobile coffee carts require a fraction of the costs of franchising or start-ups. Many ready-to-go coffee cart packages are for sale in the market, and some even come with the support of a trusted brand.

2. Versatile

Akin to food trucks, mobile coffee carts like butler koffee cart in Singapore are coffee-making stations that you could drive (or push, or bike) around the city. Mobile coffee carts are highly versatile; if it has wheels, you’re good to go. Its versatility means that you could also pick or build a cart that fits your budget.

3. Flexible

A coffee push cart can be operated on a very flexible schedule. Because of its design, you could choose to fit your business around your lifestyle instead of the other way around. You could choose to sell at a few shows or events around your area, do the occasional coffee catering, or create a regular career out of it by sticking to a set schedule and location. Since it just needs one or two people to operate, you don’t have to meet with a large group of people to discuss where and when to go. If you are so inclined, you can even choose to operate your mobile coffee cart as a part-time job, or as a hobby on off-days.

4. Not Seasonal

Coffee isn’t a seasonal product, and people drink coffee year-round. With coffee, the weather doesn’t matter. Even if people tend to drink their coffees hot by default, hot weather could easily mean an iced latte, or a frappuccino.

5. Profitable

Due to the rapidly growing market, many people are expecting their cappuccino to be more artisanal. This growth is attributed to the large profit margins of the business, allowing it to expand at an incredible rate. The coffee business is estimated to have one of the largest gross profit margins. This rapid growth means that it’s the perfect time to hop on board.

Challenges of a Mobile Coffee Shop Business

1. Licensing

In order to operate your mobile cart, you will need to apply for a number of licenses that would require extra time and additional payment. You will also need to check if you are allowed to operate in the locations that you have already chosen. You don’t want to be kicked out and fined simply because you didn’t check your license beforehand.

2. Competition

While the market boom means more profit and more customers, it also means more competition. You will need to figure out how to provide something new and better than your competitors. Of course, you will need to perfect the art of creating coffee like https://www.butlerkoffee.com/ in Singapore has done, so take the time to practice and perfect your skill in coffee making—this doesn’t just mean the fancy pattern on a cup of mocha, but with the very brew of the coffee as well. Attend workshops and seminars to hone your coffee making skills.

You will also need to note of the competition while you are selling, especially at events. There will be a number of carts that will also be selling beverages; carts that are also selling food will have an advantage over you. Customers already lining up for food rarely want to line up again; they would rather pay the same amount (or more) for a product of less quality.

3. Limited Trading Hours

Even though coffee isn’t seasonal, coffee is something that people tend to consume at a set time of the day, namely mornings. People would prefer consuming their coffee before heading to work, or a bit after they have begun their working day. This means that you will have to set up early and choose your locations wisely.

4. Brand loyalty

Brand loyalty is an important facet to note in any business venture, but even more so with a coffee cart business. Global branches like Starbucks already have an advantage of being well-known; more people know of them and would tend to think of them as the default shops to buy coffee from, which means that it’s easier for them to get people to try out their coffee.

It would be hard to find customers if they most are already loyal to a different brand. This means that a bit of creativity is necessary. Think about ways to introduce your coffee to potential customers. One of the ways you could do this is by creating a good website and advertising your business online. You could also hand out flyers. However, the most effective way to gain customers is to hand out free samples. You could hand out free samples during your first few months, or give out introductory discounts and promos.

How to Troubleshoot Electrical Wiring Problems

Being able to know and relay these problems to your electrician will speed up the repairing process, and troubleshooting is the first step to speeding this up.

There are times when troubleshooting your electrical works are really easy and painfully obvious, but there are certainly also times when the source of the problem is less obvious. However, you might be surprised once you get to the source of the problem, such as a tripped circuit breaker or a GFCI behind a cabinet or boxes that you never knew was there in the first place.

Upon getting to the source of the problem and identifying it, it is now up to you to assess whether you should attempt to work on the problem yourself or call an electrician services company in Singapore to do this for you.

Observing Safety Precautions

Handling basic electrical works, while easy enough, can also be dangerous (and sometimes life-threatening) when done carelessly. This makes safety when dealing with all things electrical highly important, and making it all the more important to call a certified electrician from Singapore like power max for professional electrical maintenance and repair.

However, when you do decide to work with electrical problems at home on your own, be sure to switch off the main power when working with exposed wire. Do not handle or touch live wires at all costs.

Identify the problematic circuit before tagging it or shutting it down. Before testing, always cap your wires with a wire cap or insulate them with electrical tape when turning the power back on. Mark the live wire with a different colored electrical tape to distinguish it from the other wires.

If you feel uncomfortable or uncertain with fixing a problematic electrical works issue yourself, always call a licensed electrician or an electrician services company in Singapore.

Troubleshooting Common Electrical Problems

The two most common problems when it comes to electrical works are lighting and electrical discharge (e.g. sparks.)

• Lighting

When it comes to lighting, the first thing you can do is to obviously check if the light bulb still works when inserted into another socket. If not, then it should be replaced. If so, then the problem lies somewhere else with the circuit, either with the socket, the power switch, or the wiring.

Check other items on the same circuit. If there are other electrical devices that are not receiving power in that area, chances are that that particular circuit may have tripped and no power is currently going into that said circuit. If this is the case, look for circuit breakers that are loose or out of place and reset them.

If other items in that same circuit are still receiving power, the problem may be with the wiring itself, in which case you should leave this kind of work to an electrician in order to minimize potential accidents.

The same steps could also be used to determine other electrical issues at home. For instance, loose wiring, short wiring, or wiring that isn’t properly connected is a potential fire hazard that needs to be maintained before they can cause damage.

• Electrical Discharge

Electrical/energy discharge (e.g. sparks or heat) coming from devices or parts of a circuit may be much easier to find, but is in turn much more dangerous and needs to be fixed immediately. For instance, when you unplug an appliance, you may notice that the outlet or the plug is really warm.

This is a sign of energy being discharged outside a circuit, which puts you or anyone nearby at risk for electric shock or even a fire. If this happens, unplug the appliance immediately and look for others that may also be exhibiting energy discharge. You should also look for scorch marks.

If there are multiple areas exhibiting this energy discharge, turn off the power immediately and call an electrician as soon as possible before it gets worse.

Knowing Basic Electrical Terminology

One good thing about troubleshooting is that you don’t need to be a licensed electrician or even a good electrician to know basic terminologies that will help you understand how the electrical structures in your home works. However, we still highly recommend calling http://www.powermax.com.sg/contact-us/ from Singapore to get more complex electrical works done. For the most basic electrical troubleshooting, here are some words you need to be familiar of to get you started:

• AC (Alternating Current) – Type of electric current where the electric charge reverses direction over a certain period. Most household electric wiring typically delivers this type of current.
• DC (Direct Current) – Type of current where the electric charge travels steadily in one direction. Commonly used by most electronic devices and needs to be converted from alternating current.
• Adapter – This is a device (can be either block or cord) with different ends that allows devices with a different plug type to connect to an outlet that may not be compatible in terms of type or current capacity.
• Cable – A set of wires encased in an outer jacket that is part of a permanent installation.
• Conductor – The internal material of a cord/cable that conducts electricity (usually copper, but can also be made of other materials, such as silver, gold, or tungsten).
• Fuse – A safety device made of a strip of wire that melts, “breaking” an electric circuit should the current go over a certain level.
• Ground – The connection between an electrical device and the ground, or where the voltage is defined as zero.
• Jacket – The layer of insulation/outer material of a cord.
The following are measurements often found in the requirements of household electrical devices:
• Voltage – This is the force of electricity going through the wires
• Amperage/Amperes/Amps – The measurement of how much electricity is going through the wires
• Watts/Wattage – The total power an appliance uses
• Hertz – Measurement of frequency

Always prioritize safety when handling electricity. Complicated electrical works should be best left to an electrician who has the necessary training to work with them.

5 Must-Have Features For Your Biometric Lock System

When looking for a biometric lock system, it’s important to get the best one there is. You want something that’s able to serve the purpose and possesses these following features to ensure optimum property security.

Reporting

Scanning, recording, comparison, and matching will all take less than 5 seconds in most types of biometric door access systems, but for these to work effectively, they need to be connected to the network, other hardware or other security systems. For example, biometric door access system from Singapore that utilizes biometric thumbprint or fingerprint will need network access to software, while both facial biometric and voice recognition will not need other hardware and software other than its basic components. When it comes to reporting, you should pick the biometric door access system that will allow your security personnel to have full control of the activity reports.

This will mean that they can monitor employees and will be notified right away of any unauthorized access. When it comes to the speed of reporting, experts agree that facial biometric has an advantage over voice recognition and biometric thumbprint or fingerprint. Facial scanning can be done with less time and less intrusion, and will even let security personnel monitor a large crowd while using the intercom. The crowd won’t even know they are being scanned, however, facial recognition and retinal scanning will need to be proper lighting for them to work.

Safety

Before choosing which biometric door access system is right for your company in Singapore, think about what your business actually needs. Ask yourself if the system is supposed to protect your company from your competitors or intruders. You should also make sure that the biometric door access system can be integrated with other systems in your office, such as the intercom system, payroll, time and attendance and human resource management, without compromising your privacy and security from outsiders. Basic security features should include monitoring, video surveillance, intercom, data management, and others besides the access control system components.

Sensor Device

Also called the scanner or the biometric reader, the type of sensor device used for your biometric door access system should be unique to the type of biometric factor needed. The right sensor device should minimize the time it will take to scan, compare, and match the information. The system database is where all the data, parameters, and control are found.

Biometric Template

The information that is used for the assessment and extraction processes is called the biometric template. Some of the commonly used by security providers from Singapore like http://www.secureoffice.sg/ are the measurements of the ridges in a person’s fingerprint and the distances between the facial features such as the nose, eyes, and jawline. Personnel who wish to enter a restricted area should meet the needed biometric template they will be asked again to re-enter the data into the device to validate the entry.

Matching Feature

Using the biometric template, the database will then try to come up with the matching points based on the identical features of the scanned data and the stored data. Why is this necessary? The software will need to come up with a list of possible matches to the identity of the person trying to enter a restricted area. Depending on the matching points, this will determine if the person is among those allowed entry or not.

Getting a system that offers the right features will ensure that the security of your property is never compromised and that you are always updated of the safety status of your home or building.

What You Need to Know About the Alkaline Water Trend

Alkaline water has taken over the trending pages on the internet lately. What’s more surprising is that even famous celebrities have jumped on the bandwagon as well, influencing more people to consume the drink and even buy their own alkaline water ionizer for home use. It’s no surprise to know the reason behind all that buzz, especially when there’s several benefits of alkaline water that’s circulating around.

In Singapore, health junkies and trendy locals alike also patronize alkaline water. Some even go as far as buying a water filter just to convert regular tap water to alkaline. They believe the water helps the body in metabolizing nutrients better and expelling the toxins more efficiently, which leads to overall better health and well-being.

However, these benefits are only backed by anecdotal evidence and claims. There isn’t a solid scientific data to support the benefits of alkaline water to the body yet, but it’s also worth noting how people are avidly and continuously consuming the drink than sticking with regular or mineralized water.

What is alkaline water?

Simply put, alkaline water is less acidic compared to regular tap water. Alkaline water is abundant in alkalizing compounds such as: silica, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and bicarbonate. This water is notable for neutralizing the body’s acid levels.

It is generally produced through electrolysis. The process involves the help of an alkaline water ioniser machine, for instance, to effectively split the hydrogen molecules and other minerals found in your running water. Only after these two components are being split apart can the alkaline water be safe to consume.

Proponents found in alkaline water from Singapore are believed to efficiently metabolize the nutrients in the body and neutralize the acid found in the bloodstream. In return, this leads to a better overall health and body functioning.

Understanding alkaline

To get a better grasp of alkaline water, it is important to first learn what alkaline is. A compound’s alkalinity and acidity are both measured through the pH scale – a scale ranging from 0 to 14 which measures the hydrogen’s concentration in various mixtures. Neutral stands at 7.0; those which have a below 7.0 ranking are considered Acids while those which are greater than 7.0 are considered as alkaline compounds (or base).

For regular water to be considered alkaline, it must first measure an above 7.0 rating on the pH scale. This standard doesn’t only exist in Singapore but all across the globe.

Natural body systems

Alkaline water can be best understood as regular water which has been altered to increase its inherent pH levels. Many proponents claim that it keeps the body in an alkaline state, but the body has natural systems which keep the pH levels in tight control. This means that whether you own an alkaline water ionizer for personal use or not, you can rely on your body to fulfill its function.

Regardless of the water that you drink – regular tap, mineral, or alkaline, your body is still considerably good at keeping the pH level within normal range. The pH level of your blood is slightly alkaline, ranging somewhere between 7.35 to 7.45, and your body efficiently controls this sustainable pH level through natural mechanisms found in your lungs and the kidneys.

If the blood’s pH is more acidic than what’s normal, the lungs expel increased carbon dioxide (which is the reason why you hyperventilate at times) to bring the blood up back to normal. In short, blood pH is well controlled by the body regardless of the food or water you consume. This may vary if you have existing health issues with your kidneys or lungs.

Is alkaline water good for you?

With all that’s been said, the human body is complex. While other people might need to ‘alkalize’, it doesn’t necessarily imply that everyone needs to do so. Alkaline water may bring good to some, but don’t expect it to always bring good among its drinkers. It is also possible how other people might not benefit from the drink.

Our organ systems in the body possess a specific and unique pH range. While the body has various ways to maintain our pH balance, it’s also important to ensure we don’t consume too much food or drink which can mess up our pH levels. The body will undoubtedly have a hard time constraining our normal pH levels if we keep our pH out of control.

The underlying cause must be fixed beforehand to prevent further, more serious complications to arise. If the cause remains unknown and uncertain, it’s hard to determine whether regular alkaline water consumption is good for you or not.

Where can you get alkaline water?

There is no harm in trying out alkaline water (if you’re curious and willing)! Surely, people patronize the drink for something – a reason strong enough to make them continue buy alkaline water which is pricier than your regular tap or mineralized one. And just because official scientific findings haven’t validated or invalidated these anecdotal claims yet doesn’t mean they’re not legit.

If alkaline water doesn’t come through your faucet, you can have it through bottled water. There are plenty of markets in Singapore which sell bottled alkaline water for your convenience. Whenever or wherever, you can get your alkaline water fix even on-the-go.

Even bottled mineral water can be considered alkaline. Adding mineral powders to your regular, tap water can also turn them into alkaline water.

If you want to cut on costs, you can also opt to have an alkaline-converter machine installed within the comforts of your own home. There are alkaline water ioniser machines and other customized faucets sold in the market to easily cater your alkaline water needs.

How Technological Advancements Changed our Lives for the Better

Thousands of years have passed since we used stone tools, and innovation remains constant for us humans. Today, gadgets and electronic goods are continually being invented and improved. They form the spirit of our times as we live in a technology-rich age. These equipment abound in countries like Japan, Singapore, and China—and distributed to countries all over the globe.

Living alongside the many technological advancement of the period certainly made man’s life easier. The more we invent and discover things, the more they are also upgraded over time. This makes processes in our day to day lives from less hassle to almost hassle-free.

Take for instance the traditional way of having pictures developed. Film cameras in the past require a red room to have the photos processed on paper. The act requires rigorous steps to be followed, such as submerging the photo paper in various solutions and hanging them for a period of time. If you do not have a red room at home, you might as well seek the services of a photo-processing specialist to have your pictures developed.

This type of camera also has limited strips of film, thus you couldn’t afford to make a mistake in taking a snapshot. You also have to only pick the most important occasions when using the equipment given the numbered film strips.

Convenience

Thanks to the great wonders of technology, there are now cameras that develop photos instantly. It enables more people to more easily capture memories and events in life that their pictures are testaments of. Aside from that, maintenance costs of red rooms are cut and one’s time and efforts in photo-processing are saved as well.

There are also gadgets which seem to be ‘necessary’ to have in a fast-paced world we live in today. Owning a smartphone is considerably practical at the present time and almost everyone has one. It allows us to reach whoever we need to contact even if they are in Brazil or Singapore with just a simple text, a phone call, or even a video chat.

A smartphone also has many other convenient uses and features. The act of shopping is now made hassle-free since we can shop online from the comfort of our own homes. We can also have dinner delivered in instances where we cannot make time to cook or go outside.

Change in lifestyle

Our lifestyle has changed so much because of these great innovations like commercial kitchen equipment from Singapore and technological advancements. Whether we’re aware of it or not, the way we live our lives now are affected directly by these devices.

Even in our own homes, we tap the help of various tools in order to get our tasks done. Cleaning the carpet floor is mostly done through the use of vacuum cleaners. This makes the act of cleaning less strenuous. Making breakfast also has never been so easy since modern commercial kitchen equipment were made available.

A lot of people know working in the kitchen can be a struggle. Often, it takes a lot of our time and effort but possessing commercial kitchen equipment like an electric mixer, microwave oven, and a coffee maker makes cooking an act that is a piece of cake.

Practicality

Companies and suppliers know it is important to be practical in the modern age. If possible, there should be no room for any waste. A kitchen equipment supplier knows that when it comes to food, anything that can be saved can be consumed again within an appropriate amount of time.

Household appliances and commercial kitchen equipment such as refrigerators and freezers prolong the freshness of produce and make food last longer. You do not have to spend a few dollars in buying dinner for a guest when you can easily preheat the chicken alfredo pasta your mother left last night in your fridge.

When there are a few more ingredients left after preparing a meal, you can easily store them inside your refrigerator that you bought for future use. You do not have to go back to the grocery store to buy another clove of garlic when one sits perfectly in your fridge. Spreads and other condiments, which can last for days, are also ideal to be stored inside cool temperature.

Economic boost

The tools and devices we own did not magically appear from some enchanted forest or twenty thousand leagues under the ocean. They are made from series and hours of labor. Robots and factory workers helped in order to piece together tiny components that make up our gadgets. The more the demand of the masses increase, the supply rates also go through a surge.

More and more companies are involved in producing these convenient equipment for the consumers. With that, a lot of jobs are also generated in the process. Suppliers, ranging from a big multinational technology company to a kitchen equipment supplier, are constantly in demand. A portion of the company’s revenue also go to the government—which help in mending roads, building better infrastructures, and overall boosting the economy in the greater scheme of things.

Our lives are now made easy thanks to the many technological innovations in our period. These wonder devices save not only our time but as well as a lot of our efforts. We now live in a world where we can now do a lot of these things with one device or even just a simple click, has it ever dawned on you how fortunate that makes us?

Testing and Tamper-Proofing Your Lock

There are many reasons why you would consider breaking into your own home or car (for instance, you forgot your keys or that the lock doesn’t work), as well as different ways to compromise a standard lock.

Changing your locks and going for additional lock installation for your house doors is an effective way of maximizing security at home.

After lock installation, testing the effectiveness of the locks that you have for your home or car, whether you are able to unlock door or not, is something you can do with your trusted locksmith in Singapore using the following methods:

• Picking – This is the traditional way of breaking into a house, and can be done with only two tools: one to push each tumbler inside the locking mechanism, and another to apply enough pressure to turn the cylinder.

• Raking – This is another way to pick your own lock, but instead of going through each individual tumbler, you use a tool that lets you push two or more tumblers at a time. This makes the process both faster and easier.

A locksmith would use a pick gun to pick locks—either to unpick lock or to unlock car door, which looks like a small gun with a long tip. It works by inserting the tip of the gun into the lock and pulling the trigger repeatedly, unlocking the door in seconds.

• Bumping – Bumping your lock is the easiest way to compromise it. This can be done by simply using a special key called a bump key, though they are not easy to obtain and only a locksmith or a first respondent are likely to use them in emergency situations.

• Drilling – Drilling is considered only as a last resort by a locksmith when repair lock is impossible, or when removing and replacing a new lock. This is because drilling is destructive and can even damage the door itself.

Keep in mind that these measures are only done to test your lock and make sure it works properly or that it isn’t prone to being compromised. If the locks are old, starting to rust and are no longer working properly, the best option for you is to replace lock for your home by calling www.lockmaster.sg in Singapore for professional locksmithing solutions.

There are also many reasons why you should change your locks on a regular basis, such as losing your keys, having moved into a new home, or that the locks no longer work properly (e.g., difficulty in having to unlock car door), and need to be replaced. But whatever your reason is for having your locks and keys replaced, make sure to only have it done by a professional 24 hour locksmith in Singapore.

How to Find a Place to Rent in Ho Chi Minh City

Choosing a district to stay in Ho Chi Minh City can be a daunting and confusing task. There are just too many choices to choose from, considering the fact that Ho Chi Minh is the largest city of Vietnam and one of the largest city in Southeast Asia. While people who choose to rent apartment in Saigon choose to pick a condominium rental in District 1, D1, there are many other places that are great for a short vacation. For example, you could rent a place in D3, or stay at D7 in one of the many places that are available for tourists and expatriates.

Many tourists and expatriates tend to choose three districts over all other the other 24 districts in Ho Chi Minh. Lists for apartment rental in Ho Chi Minh City are often listed in Districts 1, 2, 3, and 7. There are many different features in each district, each of them with their own places where you can rent apartment in Saigon. Each district has its own different characteristics which are important to consider if you would want to rent apartment at HCMC and make the most of your stay in Vietnam. Here we list the differences in these four cities to help you make your pick.

District 1
District 1 is considered to be the center of Ho Chi Minh. If you are a property owner, this place is a viable location for a property for rent. If you have an apartment, a condo or a house in this area and thinking of having it for rent, post your property at http://www.bestrent.vn/landlords/ to find quality tenants.

District 1 is also just a walking distance from many cafes and other tourist destinations. Its exuberant nightlife makes sure that you’re never left bored, and in the daytime, its numerous places and events will keep you entertained.

If you’re the type who likes large, busy cities, this is the perfect city for you to rent a house in, or find a villa rental. Everything you will need to be able to live comfortably is within a walking distance. This is a great place for digital nomads, as well as single individuals who want to drink in the lights and energy of Ho Chi Minh.

If you think that District 1 is the district for you, you’ll also need to consider the high cost of rentals. Because of its popularity and vibrancy, it’s not a shock that District 1 has one of the highest rental prices in Vietnam. You may not find a lot of opportunities for a Saigon apartment rental here in D1. However, this district has a huge area; with enough effort, chances are there’s a Saigon apartment rental in D1 that will fit your budget.

District 2
District 2 used to be one of the poorest districts in the city, but due to recent renovations and projects, District 2 seems to be on the rise. Therefore, D2 is a great candidate for people looking for an apartment rental in Ho Chi Minh City. Despite the developments that are happening in District 2, this district is still able to maintain its small suburban feel, perfect for those who want to rent a house or opt for a villa rental in a place that is quieter. In District 2, the streets are less crowded, so you’ll be able to move around the city more freely.

District 2 is a great compromise if you want to take advantage of all the shops and spots in District 1, but don’t want to be constantly barraged by its energy and noise. If you need to go to any of the shops that are located in District 1, you could always take a line to District 1 in just a short amount of time.

District 2 is also the district where most of the expatriates flock to. Thao Dien ward, considered to be the expat enclave of Ho Chi Minh, is home to some of the most prestigious international schools in Vietnam. Aside from schools, there are also many opportunities for apartment rental in D2 should you opt for a villa rental.

District 3
Compared to other districts, District 3 is a quieter area. It is nestled just north-west of district 1 and is close enough to the city center. If you are having a hard time finding a place in the first two districts, district 3 can be the answer to your problems. There are many housing solutions that you could choose from in district 3, as its relative quiet attracts many foreigners and expatriates alike.

It helps to think of District 3 as a quieter version of District 1, with a less chaotic and brash atmosphere. Here you could find a lot of good cafes, with hip and trendy atmosphere that isn’t as boisterous and rowdy as in the first district. For those who are looking for an apartment rental in Ho Chi Minh City, D3 is also a good candidate. Visit BestRent to view available properties for rent in the district.

District 7
Being in District 7 can make you feel like you entered an entirely different universe. Because of zoning and planning, this district is filled with high-rise buildings and wide roads. Compared to other districts, district 7 is free from all the other pitfalls that can come with large cities, such as traffic, pollution, and loud noises.

People who like a quiet atmosphere but hate having to sacrifice the comforts of the city would find D7 the perfect place to rent apartment at HCMC. Here in District 7, you would find good schools and some of Ho Chi Minh’s best shopping malls. There are also a number of parks dotting the districts, which is great for picnics and peaceful walks. D7 is about fifteen minutes away from the city centre without traffic, should you need to go there during your stay.

8 Tips to Ensure Smart Investment on a Trademark

Your brand name is your identification in the world of business. It is what consumers will remember and what they will consider when it comes to deciding whether or not to trust a product or service offered. Maximizing the value that brand names can bring to businesses is important, most especially for start-up companies.

If you are a start-up here in Singapore and choose to register trademark right away, you may be thinking of working on a budget since you generate smaller revenue compared to medium and large companies. In order for you not to waste your time, money and effort on failed trademark registration application, here’s a strategy you would want to develop.

1. Do Your Research

After picking a brand name, do not file your registration just yet, unless you aim for refusal of application for trying to trademark a name that’s too similar to an already registered mark. You need to do major researching on your own and hire a company like brand mark in Singapore who can advise you on trademark laws, state registrations and brand names that your chosen mark may potentially be confused with.

2. Meet the Qualifications

Avoid wasting your resources trying to secure a name that does not qualify for trademark registration. For example, a brand that is named after a functional feature of your product does qualify for registration. Uniqueness is another requirement as well: you simply cannot register a common phrase or word that people need to use on a daily basis.

3. Protect Your Trademark Internationally

If your goal is to expand outside Singapore, you will also need to protect your brand abroad. Otherwise, you could risk infringers and fake local distributors. Overseas protection of intellectual property does not have to be expensive. Consider registering an agreement only between Singapore and your target country to get the most value from register TM. To identify the jurisdiction(s), think about where potential customers, partners, producers, manufacturers and possible infringers are located and the difficulty to enforce trademarks in this place. Then, come up with a strategy on how to protect your brand name accordingly.

4. Choose a Mark Realistically

Avoid investing on a bad mark. When you enter the registration process with http://www.brandmark.sg/ in Singapore think about your hard-earned money, not just what your heart desires. Although it is important to pick a name, logo or mark that you like, you should also try to choose a mark that’s likely to be approved. Similarly, avoid setting your heart onto a logo or brand name that you have not researched on thoroughly.

5. Go for a Trademark That You Can Protect

As mentioned, common words that people need to use every day may not be qualified for registration. The following are the types of marks and the levels of protection they can get:

• Generic terms – not qualified for trademark registration
• Descriptive terms (describes the services/products as opposed to simply stating what they are; e.g. Toys R Us, YouSendIt, Holiday Inn, etc.) – can be protected only after acquiring the ‘second meaning’ recognition in its market
• Suggestive terms (slightly more unique than descriptive terms; e.g. Pinterest, Travelocity, Facebook, etc.) – protectable
• Arbitrary (real words that are irrelevant to the chosen market; e.g. Apple, Blackberry, Shell, etc.) – protectable and subject from wider scope of protection than the previous types
• Fanciful (completely made up words; e.g. Xerox, Verizon, Kodak, etc.) – protectable and has the widest scope of protection.

6. Be Proactive in Protecting Your Rights

Create a basis and a method for the protection of your brand. While it is important to protect your registered mark against infringers, tackling every single threat can be costly and even damaging to your trademark rights. Choose your battle wisely and defend your name practically.

7. Respect Others’ Rights

Just like how you do not want to be infringed, avoid infringing someone else’s rights, too. Infringement occurs when there is a high risk of confusion of brand names. It also happens when using a logo or name in a way that lessens the uniqueness of the ‘famous name.’ Disputes on trademarking are often prolonged and costly, and you probably do not want to get involved in such processes especially if you are just starting up with your business.

8. Consult a Lawyer

Nobody wants to invest time and money on a trademark only to receive a ‘cease and desist’ letter from another company months or years later, or to find out that the logo or name can’t be protected. However, this happens more often than you expected.

Usually, when you have thought of a catchy tagline or a marketable name, you are likely not the first person to think of it. In other cases, the tagline may just be too descriptive to be valued. A consultation with a trademark lawyer at the early stage of registration process can prevent these problems. Assuming that your chosen mark has the potential to be a good trademark, your lawyer will perform a search and analysis to ensure that the brand and/or logo is available and can be registered to all target markets.

Putting an extra effort to register trademark will pay you back much more in the future. A registered trademark is a key asset of your company that needs to be preserved and protected in order to position your business to the path of success. Failure to obtain exclusive rights will greatly reduce the value of your trademark investment. Give your business a competitive edge among your competitors and generate better revenue by establishing a name that consumers can trust and that you can use exclusively for a lifetime.

How to Prepare for Your Next Heart Screening Appointment

It is a common misconception how all you need to do is to avoid salty and greasy food if you want to avoid heart diseases. While it can be one way to lessen your risk of getting diagnosed a cardiovascular disease (CVD), caring for your heart’s condition takes way more than just that. You need to put in both patience and discipline if you want to ensure your cardiovascular system remains in good shape for the many years to come.

Booking a cardiac screening appointment
Regardless of whether you’re under the at-risk bracket of developing a CVD or not, just about anyone can be diagnosed with heart problems. Highly at-risk people are those who have high blood pressure, are obese, or are smokers. There are also other factors which can be taken into consideration: such as diabetes, kidney diseases, and high cholesterol count.

A heart/cardiac screening procedure is non-invasive, so there’s no need for a heart surgeon during your visit. The screening process can reveal any existing risk factors you need to be aware of. It can also help you feel well, which is good for both your general well-being and your career. Getting a regular heart screening, especially from a specializing cardiologist, can help you stay healthy for you to enjoy your career in the long run.

Preparing for your heart screening visit
You will be informed prior to your visit to the heart specialist in Singapore if you need to prepare for the tests you are to undergo during the screening session. In some clinics in Singapore, you will be asked to fast for some time before the blood test and wear gym/comfortable clothing to exercise ECG comfortably.

It is also advised to think about important questions you might want to raise during your appointment. Questions such as “How soon can I expect the results?” or “How much is the heart screening fee?” are some important inquiries you might want to ask your cardiologist. It’s easy to forget what you want to ask once you are in the clinic/hospital, especially if you’re nervous about the whole procedure, but you can opt to write down your questions beforehand just to be sure.

If you are experiencing some existing symptoms, it is also helpful to jot it down along with the list of medications you are currently taking. Your heart doctor would know if alterations to the process is required. It’ll also make the doctor’s task a whole lot easier in figuring out if there’s something wrong with your cardiovascular system.

During your visit
Always prepare yourself before your appointment with the best cardiologist. Arrive on-time so you wouldn’t miss out on any part of your scheduled heart screening procedure. If the heart doctor is around, don’t hesitate to ask questions and ensure that you fully understand the tests and other treatments that will be performed on you.

Inquire about your diagnosis and what you can expect after the appointment. If there’s a part of the procedure which remains unclear to you, ask your doctor for a thorough explanation.

Ways to keep your heart healthy
Keeping your heart in good condition is one fool proof way to get a healthy heart screening result. If you dislike the thought of having the assistance of a heart surgeon, with his/her scalpel infiltrating your organ systems, you might as well begin on working how to keep your heart healthy:

1. Reduce your LDL cholesterol. LDL, or commonly known as the bad cholesterol, plays a big factor in the buildup of plaque which may block your arteries. Having narrowed arteries can be fatal, as it may block blood flow to the heart – causing a stroke or heart attack. This type of cholesterol often comes from food such as red meat, or dairy products like butter, milk, ice cream, and full-fat yogurt.

2. Get plenty of HDL cholesterol. Contrary to LDL, HDL is known as the good cholesterol. Having generous amount of HDL cholesterol is beneficial to the body because it removes LDL from the arteries. Accordingly, people with low levels of good cholesterol are found to be more prone to develop a heart disease. You can get HDL from food sources such as: olive oil, nuts, avocado, apple, and other fiber-rich fruits which are sold in almost all groceries in Singapore.

3. Get your blood pressure checked regularly. Ask any cardiologist and they would definitely tell you having a high blood pressure is one indicator of having a cardiovascular disease. If your blood flow is forced through the arteries at an increased pressure, your heart consequently has to beat faster. Having a prolonged high blood pressure can weaken your heart, which can later cause congestive heart failure, stroke, or a heart attack.

4. Have regular exercise. Regular physical activity enables the body to produce more HDL cholesterol. Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily have to head to the gym just to get fit. The duration of your exercise matters more than the intensity, so you can instead opt for yoga classes, aerobics, or walking. Either of these can already create a difference to your heart’s condition.

5. Get regularly screened. If you have a family history of CVD or is a man above your 40’s, you might be prone to cardiovascular diseases. Men are noted to possess a higher risk of getting heart diseases than women – although just about anyone can still be diagnosed. To have a peace of mind, avail state-of-the-art heart screening and monitor your heart well.

6. Avoid smoking. Smoking is also one of the leading contributory factors to a cardiovascular disease. If you want to take proper care of your heart’s condition, do not even consider smoking or get some help to quit if you are. The risk of having a coronary heart disease rises up to four times higher in smokers (compared to non-smokers).

This list is compiled in no particular order.

Warning Signs that Your Aircon Needs Servicing

A failure in your air conditioning system can be bad for business and can be a hassle at home, especially if it happens more often than not. However, if your unit has a problem, it is not usually hard to determine the signs that will tell you it needs professional help from an aircon servicing company in Singapore.

Remember the following signs below before you call aircon maintenance or aircon repair.

• Moisture or Water Leaks Near the Unit. Any sign of leaks in your air conditioner unit needs the attention of an expert aircon maintenance crew. This problem is usually caused by several factors, such as issues in the drain tube, leaks in the refrigerant, and problems in the condenser. Leaks should not be ignored because the water can potentially damage the structure surrounding the air conditioning unit, especially in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in commercial buildings.

• Blowing Air is Not Cold. If the air coming from the air conditioning unit is not as cold as it used to be when it was installed, it could indicate several possible problems, such as a dirty filter or a leak in the coolant. If adjusting the temperature and cleaning the filters do not solve the problem, it is time to call an aircon repair crew to determine the cause.

• Strange Sounds from the Unit. Most modern air conditioners that use best aircon servicing at Singapore produce less noise than units older than 15 years, that is why strange sounds coming from one should be a cause for alarm. Hire an aircon servicing company to inspect the fan or blower motor, but there could also be some loose or broken parts inside that needs to be replaced. This type of aircon repair can be expensive, however.

• Air Flow is Poor. Sometimes the problem could be solved by cleaning or replacing the air conditioner filter, but this could also indicate problems either in the air conditioner’s compressor or the duct work and results in uneven temperatures in different areas of the room. Do not attempt to fix the problem yourself, and instead, call the nearest aircon servicing company in Singapore to inspect your unit.

• Air from the Air Conditioner Stinks. Strange odors indicate a burnt wire insulation or problems in the ductwork, but it could also mean that there’s mold in your air conditioner that’s causing the stink. Call the nearest aircon servicing crew in Singapore to determine the cause of the problem. This issue can be avoided, however, with regular aircon maintenance.

• Thermostat is Not Working Properly. The thermostat needs to be inspected and calibrated during a regular aircon maintenance, but poorly-maintained units usually end up with several problems because of this oversight. So, how do you know if the thermostat is failing? Check if the temperature in the room is consistent in all areas whenever you adjust the dials, because poor air flow is usually the first sign that it needs aircon repair.

• Changes in the Electric Bills. Spikes in your electric bills could indicate problems in your appliances’ power consumption. You should check for signs of problems in your air conditioner unit if it has been poorly-maintained in the last several months. The aircon technician might also advise you to replace your air conditioner if it is not energy-efficient. Units older than 15 years commonly use more power than modern air conditioners.

• Air Conditioner Turns Off Suddenly. The problem could simply be a dirty fan, condenser or evaporator unit. A simple preventative aircon maintenance should solve this problem, but it could also point to a more serious issue such as purchasing and installing the wrong type and size of air conditioner unit for the space. This is why you need to hire an aircon servicing company to install and inspect your units to prevent these problems.

• Air Conditioner is Old. The aircon technician in Singapore might advise you to replace an old unit (older than 10 years) even if it has never missed a scheduled aircon maintenance. That is because the machine will be prone to breakdowns and will cost you more for replacements and aircon repairs than if you purchase a new unit. They are less energy-efficient, too, and will degrade over time after prolonged exposure to the elements.

• Frequent Breakdowns. An air conditioner unit that is prone to breakdowns might have to be replaced with a new one. Units with expired warranties are also not worth the trouble, especially if there are parts that need to be replaced. Ask the aircon servicing company how much it will cost to replace the parts then compare the prices to new air conditioners. To prevent breakdowns in the future, follow the manufacturer’s instructions on proper aircon maintenance.

You can easily avoid all these problems and save on major aircon repair, however, by observing a scheduled aircon servicing to keep your air conditioner in good condition for years to come. Do not wait for major problems to come before you call an aircon maintenance crew to inspect your air conditioner.

Although do-it-yourself repairs are fine as long as you have had a lot of experience with air conditioners before, the cost of replacements of parts can be more expensive than hiring a professional aircon technician in Singapore. There is also the risk of errors or the failure to pinpoint the cause of the problem, resulting in more problems in the unit. When it comes to comfort, you should not take risks with your air conditioners. Hire a professional aircon technician to solve the problem.

*This list is compiled in no particular order.*

Types of Facial Treatments

Getting a facial regularly helps in making the skin look better. This is the best remedy towards having a healthier skin as this treatment gives the skin a chance to regenerate and be cleansed. However, getting the right kind of facial that targets a specific skin problem will give the skin more glow and youthfulness. So, it’s important to know the different kinds of facials and its purposes for you to easily identify which facial is best for your skin.

Most aesthetic clinic in Singapore can offer different types of facials. Some of them may be named differently from clinic to clinic, but they usually do the same thing. Here’s a breakdown of the most requested ones.

1. Clarifying Enzyme Acne Facial Treatment

This treatment is most suitable for teenagers and adults who have moderate to severe skin problems, such as blemishes, acne, and breakouts. The facial solution used here is made of antioxidants, hydrating agents, fruit enzymes, antioxidants, and antiseptics. These ingredients help to deeply cleanse the pores to improve the quality of the skin and reduce inflammation. The thing about this treatment is that it can be used by people who experience breakouts due to hormonal problems and people with acne prone skin as this facial heals the skin from within. Paired with other cosmetics, such as nose fillers, the results of this treatment can provide dramatic results.

2. Anti-Aging Facial Treatment

Anti-aging facial is good for any skin type as this provides the skin a youthful glow. This treatment uses a facial formula made of concentrated glycolic acid, inflammatory agents, hydrators, and lots of antioxidants. All of these ingredients help reduce hyperpigmentation, improve skin tone, and make the skin’s texture better by providing maximum skin exfoliation.

3. Deep Cleansing Facial Treatment

This skin cleansing treatments is meant to clear the skin of dirt build up that causes breakouts and blackheads. The procedure includes steaming, exfoliations, and facial mask treatment that will help nourish the skin from inside out. Deep cleansing facial is essential to eliminate impurities, nourish dull skin, and restore balance. If you have not had a deep cleansing facial in three months, be sure to schedule an appointment to your aesthetic clinic Singapore soon. People who use nose fillers should make sure to take them out before having this treatment.

4. Oxygen Facial Treatment

Oxygen facial is a powerful anti-aging skin therapy that boosts the absorption and circulation of nutrients in the skin, eliminates toxins, and stimulates reproduction of skin cells through penetrating ultrasound application of organic botanicals and oxygen fortified vitamins. Suitable even for the most sensitive skin, oxygen facial is a beneficial treatment that rejuvenates the glow of your skin.

5. Environmental Shield Vitamin C Facial Treatment

Loaded with Vitamin C, this facial treatment is performed for a number of reasons. It provides the skin with optimum protection against the sun’s harmful rays, pollution, and bacteria, fights early signs of aging such as wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and skin discoloration, and repairs damaged skin. After undergoing this treatment, you’re guaranteed to get fairer, glowing, and flawless skin.

6. Microdermabrasion Facial Treatment

Best for those people who are often exposed to pollution, sun, smoking, and daily stress, microdermabrasion peels off the topmost layer of the skin to promote growth of new skin cells. This intensive skin treatment retextures, exfoliates, and increases cell renewal to boost oxygen supply and blood flow in the skin, while increasing collagen reproduction and restoring the layers of your skin. If you’re planning to use some cosmetic enhancements after taking this procedure, such as using nose fillers Singapore make sure to check with your doctor first as that may cause some irritation.

7. Sensitive Skin Facial Treatment

A lot of people with sensitive skin in Singapore often experience random redness in certain parts of the face and painful bumps or breakouts caused even by the mildest of products. With sensitive skin facial, these problems can be cured. This treatment repairs the skin, calms the redness, and increases the skin’s resistance. The facial solution used for this treatment is very lightweight, which restores the skin of the nutrients it has been deprived of and strengthens its barrier function to prevent skin reactions.

8. Hot Stone Facial Treatment

With the help of cool marbles and heated basalt stones, this treatment softly massages the face to release stress and tension to the facial muscles. After the face is cleansed, toned, and exfoliated, the face is then massaged with alternating cold and hot stones. Hot stones are used to increase blood circulation, repairing damaged cells and improving the skin’s quality; while cold stones tone and relax the muscles and reduce any inflammation and puffiness. Following the facial massage, your aesthetic clinic professional applies an appropriate facial cream and mask to repair, renew, and rehydrate the skin.

Any of these facial treatments is beneficial for your skin. However, if you want to make your skin look a lot better, treat it with the right vitamins and nutrients, and prolong the wonderful effects of your facial, it’s best to determine which one is best for your skin type and condition. If you’re still unsure which facial to have, ask your aesthetic clinic for a well-informed suggestion. By treating your skin well, having facial treatments and using cosmetics like nose fillers, you can achieve the most beautiful version of yourself.

7 Popular Wedding Flowers Across the Globe

Selecting the blooms to be included in your bridal bouquet and other wedding decors isn’t just based on the flower’s appearance nor its aromatic scent. It is ideal to choose flowers which hold a relevant sentiment to you as well. As a bride-to-be, you must also choose flowers that can last even after a few hours of both the wedding ceremony and reception. Practically speaking, these flowers must also be fit within your budget.

If you’re still undecided about the flowers to use for your wedding day, consult a wedding florist and ask if these popular wedding flowers across the globe are available for the big event:

1. Calla lilies

Also known as arum lilies, calla lilies are one of the most popular choices for wedding flowers. These flowers are made available any time of the year – although some seasons experience fluctuations in its price. Regardless, calla lilies are notably pricey compared to other floral options, since they are vulnerable to bruising during bulk shipping in Singapore. Callas are quite sensitive to chilly temperatures and can be prone to frost damage.

However, callas can withstand heat well. They can retain their moisture even with the absence of a water source, which makes them ideal to use in a bridal bouquet arrangement. Miniature callas also make beautiful boutonnieres.

2. Roses

Across the globe, roses are perhaps the most popular choice when it comes to bridal flowers and floral décor. Roses are not only timeless beauties, but they are also versatile, as they are made available all-year round. They are lightly aromatic and comes in thousands of varieties. (White roses for true love, anyone? How about a green rose for eternal love?)

Roses also have a so-so durability. They are neither tough nor too fragile, and so with proper care and handling your roses will be in good condition. These blooms from a wedding florist at Singapore are also prone to open up in warm conditions. Aside from being a part of your bouquet, a wedding florist is also likely to suggest using roses for your table centerpiece and other garden-style arrangements.

You wouldn’t want to buy roses during the Valentines season, though. Roses are among the most sought-after gifts by couples. You might run out of beautiful roses to use for your wedding day.

3. Gerbera Daisies

Daisies are also a popular wedding flower option. They are made available in a variety of colors and are sold any time of the year. It is encouraged, however, to consult your florist in Singapore if you want to order a specific variety of daisies. Gerbera daisies are a crowd-favorite, and you can choose them by color according to your grand wedding motif.

Gerbera daisies need to be arranged in a water source, though. Or at least they must be stored properly in a vase of water before use. Although they are inherently large in size, they also are prone to wilt – so they’re not ideal to be used for corsages and boutonnieres.

4. Tulips

Tulips are among the most economical choices for wedding flowers any time of the year. However, they are at their finest quality (and also price) around the months of February through April. These blooms are vulnerable to extreme heat. Exposure to too much heat can cause tulips to be blown open and can result to lost petals. Although they can hold up well out of water, they also do not make ideal body flowers because of their sensitivity to one’s body heat.

This flower can also grow back after they are cut. Hence, they can easily change the appearance of any floral décor arrangement in a matter of hours.

5. Orchids

Orchids are much sturdier than you would originally suppose, which is why it’s not uncommon to see these blooms as wedding flowers in Singapore weddings. They have a high resistance to dehydration and heat – making them perfect choices for summer weddings. Orchids are sensitive to cold environments, though, and they may drop blooms or get bruised from rough handling during the shipping process. It is then advised to handle these flowers with care.

Any wedding florist would know how tough orchids can be. Compared to other options for your wedding floral décor, orchids can be in good shape for hours long and are notably tough as nails! They also possess great resistance to loss of moisture and heat. With that, they are ideally to be included in a bridal bouquet or other body flowers.

6. Gardenias

Gardenias are known for their richly aromatic blooms. They are usually cut by their grower to trim their lengthy stalks – but your florist can easily work their way with gardenias by using wires and tape. Due to their lengthy stems, they are considerably impractical to incorporate in some floral centerpieces. They do not come cheap though, but their lush scent that can fill the room with aromatic fragrance is worth it.
These flowers are beautiful to be floated in deep, shallow bowls. If you want to use these blooms rather sparsely, they can last a week in quality condition if the water is changed daily. However, gardenias easily brown from sudden contact. It is best to handle them with thorough care.

7. Casablanca Lilies

Casablanca lilies have large, flat blooms which can fill out a bouquet easily as they take up quite a generous amount of surface area. They also make a great décor for wedding ceremonies since they can be seen up from a distance and can hold up enough with a proper water source.

While Casablanca lilies delight people with its innate strong fragrance, it also triggers an allergic reaction to some. Additionally, these flowers are also vulnerable to bruising although not as much as calla lilies.

*This list is compiled in no particular order.*

Why Go for a Barbecue Party in Singapore

Parties are no longer limited to the traditional buffet style, where guests are required to stay in their seats to enjoy their meal. The growing trend of barbecue parties was the one that broke this traditional party style. With this growing trend, also comes the increasing number of bbq catering companies in Singapore. Whether or not you’re hosting birthday parties, anniversaries, wedding reception or a simple get-together with you friends, these companies can offer you a complete bbq party package, including the all-time favourite barbecue items – satay and otah.

A lot of party-goers in Singapore opt to go for such party setting because of the following reasons:

1. There are a lot of perfect outdoor locations to have a barbecue party.

Singapore is just simply blessed with many wonderful outdoor locations that’s perfect for barbecue parties. Who wouldn’t go for such a party especially if it’s hosted in gorgeous beaches, lakefront locations, and breath-taking top building settings, right? If you want to hold an affair in any of these places, then your best choice of party setting is a barbecue party as the bbq catering Singapore caterers for these parties can serve you in a location that you choose.

Also, the majestic outdoor locations of Singapore can serve as a great backdrop for group shots during and after the event.

2. More casual and makes socializing with guests a lot easier.

In a formal sit-down dinner affair, the actions of the guests and star of celebration are more likely to be restricted, making it more difficult for the celebrant or the guests to socialize with their fellow invitees.

So if you’re thinking of having a more casual party wherein everyone can socialize with one another, then your best choice to celebrate would be to have a barbecue party. A bbq catering is the best option if you’re the kind of host who wants to provide a more comfortable, warm and entertaining atmosphere to your guests.

3. No strict guidelines are followed in planning and preparing a barbecue party.

Another reason why bbq catered parties is a hit among Singaporeans is because you can plan it any way you want to. Whether you’re planning a big or a small and simple party, you get to choose and decide as to how your barbecue will go. You get to pick the beverages, food and any additions that will be serves. Also, you can be flexible with your time in planning and preparing for the party. Such freedom will be ideal for you to save you from all the pressure and stress of party planning and hosting.

4. It is just a unique way to add a twist to the conventional catering services.

Today, bbq catering is not just restricted to casual gatherings. Barbecues are now served as a meal for a simply family gathering or even for a classy gourmet grilling. It also became more popular since most bbq catering and wholesale providers have the ability to cater to any form of party and customize it according to the client’s request.

Though it’s quite different from the conventional catering service, it still follows the same catering procedure like coming up with a menu for the event and conducting food tasting sessions. Some of the items included in a barbecue menu are kebabs, roast pig, seafood, ribs, burgers, steaks, sausages, hotdogs, chicken, desserts and beverages.

5. Barbecue is simply a tradition in Singapore.

Perhaps the simplest reason why barbecue parties are much preferred and love by most Singaporeans is because it’s one of their local traditions. Singapore is well-known for their sumptuous authentic satays and Southeast Asian dishes that are even served in various countries around the world.

Common STDs in Men

Men with active sex life should get an STD screening. More specifically, you have to get an STD test at any of the hospitals in Singapore for the following reasons:

1. Unprotected sex. STDs or sexually-transmitted diseases are passed on through vaginal, anal or oral sex. Only a few STDs can be transmitted through direct blood contact such as HIV.

2. Multiple partners. We’re not judging your choices, but if you have had more than one intimate partner, it’s time you get tested.

3. STD history. Even if you have been cleared of STD in the past, that doesn’t mean you’re no longer at risk if you still have intimate encounters. Doctors at Singapore recommend an STD testing 3 months after your last treatment.

4. Planning for a baby. You wouldn’t want your child to get infected, so before having a baby, you and your partner should have an STD screening. STDs can be passed on by the mother to the unborn baby.

5. Obvious symptoms. Talk to your healthcare provider about the options for STD testing if you see symptoms. There is no one STD test for everything, so you will need to discuss your history, lifestyle and symptoms with the doctor so that he/she can recommend the appropriate STD test.

STD Symptoms

Most STDs don’t have symptoms, that is why the only sure way to determine if you are infected is to get an STD screening. In some cases, however, there will be signs. Look out for the following:

1. Unusual discharge that looks milky or yellow
2. Itching and the appearance of rashes on the genitals
3. Painful urination and ejaculation
4. Appearance of blisters and/or ulcers on the genitals
5. Pain in the testicles or penis
6. Inflammation of the joints (knees and elbows)
7. Recurring and persistent sore throat
8. Rectal pain or bleeding
9. Rectal discharge or inflammation

Common STDs in Men

The following are the most common STDs that are discovered from STD Testing in Singapore in men. Keep in mind the symptoms so you and your doctor will know the type of STD screening you will need.

1. Chlamydia

This sexually transmitted disease is often called the “silent infection” because there are no visible symptoms. It is caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. If left untreated, chlamydia can affect male fertility because the infection damages the sperms and creates scars in the reproductive tract. Some men also suffer from conjunctivitis, reactive arthritis and urethritis. For some patients who experience symptoms, you might observe the following: cloudy discharges, painful urination, inflamed testicles, rectal pain or discharge, conjunctivitis and throat infection. The STD test for chlamydia requires a urine sample or a swab from the throat or rectum.

2. Gonorrhea

Like chlamydia, gonorrhea sometimes doesn’t have symptoms, but some early signs in men include painful urination, cloudy discharge, irritation of the genitals and frequent urination. Gonorrhea could also cause joint pains and produce flu-like symptoms. Gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics, so you have to get tested as early as possible if you notice symptoms. An STD testing for gonorrhea involves urine sampling and gonorrhea culture of a fluid sample from an affected area.

3. Genital Herpes

Genital herpes causes sores or blisters and rashes to appear on the genitals, buttocks and thighs. These sores can also appear around the mouth, tongue and other body parts. Sometimes the blisters become scabs. You have to remember the following symptoms during the first attack of the virus: flu-like symptoms, muscle pain, nausea, painful urination, and itching and pain on the blisters. STD screening for genital herpes include cell culture of samples from a sore and a PCR blood test.

4. HIV-AIDS

There are no obvious symptoms when you acquire HIV or human immunodeficiency virus. You will experience flu-like symptoms the first few weeks, but there will be no other signs. AIDS is the final stage of HIV. By then your immune system will be so weak, your body will not be able to fight off infections and diseases. If you suspect that you have been infected, there are 3 types of HIV tests available in Singapore. These are antibody tests, nucleic acid tests or NATs and a combination of antibody and antigen tests. After the initial HIV test, the doctor will schedule another screening to confirm the results. You can also do HIV testing at home using the OraQuick In-Home HIV Test or Home Access HIV-1 Test System. If you tested positive, a follow-up screening is still recommended at hospitals in Singapore.

5. Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease that is divided into 4 stages. Sores will appear on the site of infection during the primary stage. The secondary stage involves the appearance of rashes and swollen lymph nodes. The latent stage doesn’t have any symptoms. Lastly, the tertiary stage affects the other organs in the body. Syphilis can be cured so make sure to get an STD screening through swab tests, treponemal test and non-treponemal test. Your doctor will initially recommend a non-treponemal test to look for syphilis markers.

6. Human Papillomavirus

Human papillomavirus or HPV has more than 30 strains that can lead to penile, anal or throat cancer in men. There are no obvious symptoms besides the appearance of genital warts. These warts are found near the genital area, thighs and around the anus. Currently, there is no standard test for HPV screening in men. HPV testing involves only a physical check-up to look for warts. To test for cancer-causing HPV, the doctor will recommend an anal Pap test.

7. Viral Hepatitis

There are six types of viral hepatitis today which can be diagnosed through blood tests, liver biopsy, and CAT scan or sonogram. Three types of hepatitis can be transmitted through intimate contact with an infected partner. Hepatitis A can be treated if detected early. It affects the liver, but is not as severe as Hepatitis B and C. Hepatitis B also attacks the liver and causes chronic and acute diseases. There is a vaccine for hepatitis B, however. Hepatitis C can cause mild or severe damage to the liver. It could lead to liver cancer.

What is Car Servicing?

Car servicing in Singapore is a set of automobile maintenance procedures that are done after the car has been used or as scheduled by the car manufacturer.

What is the purpose of car servicing?

The purpose of car servicing is for car maintenance, car repair, and to check if the car is in good working condition overall. This is to ensure that the car doesn’t break down after use and to extend its usability.

Can’t I do the car maintenance myself?

Car servicing is a basic step in keeping the car working for as long as possible with a few problems. A lot of people are capable of doing basic maintenance at home, but car servicing is more than just checking parts. Car workshop is better left to experts for example.

Is car servicing expensive?

Car servicing is essential, but for those who are working or are busy with their family, even basic car maintenance takes precious time. Car servicing in Singapore might sound like a hassle and an expensive alternative, but it has been proven that you will be able to save more if you could take care of the car better.

What is scheduled car maintenance?

Scheduling is based on the year the car was made, the model, the driving conditions on the road in Singapore, and the driver’s behavior. A car repair and servicing in Singapore expert will recommend schedule intervals in some cases. Some car manufacturers, however are more specific about the list of factors that need to be examined to determine how often the car should be maintained.

What are these ideal service factors?

Most car makers are specific about what needs to be factored in during car servicing. These are the extreme hot or cold climate conditions (if any) where the car is used and the total distance traveled in each trip per day in Singapore, the frequency of stop and go as opposed to the long-distance driving, the number of mountainous or dusty roads traveled, and the heavy load carried by the motor vehicle.

What are the common maintenance tasks?

When you go to a car workshop in Singapore, you will observe the following procedures during car servicing.

1. Washing the car’s exterior
2. Cleaning the interior of the car
3. Replacement of the oil filter
4. Replacement of the fuel filter
5. Replacement of the air filter
6. Replacement of the spark plugs
7. Replacement of the cabin filter
8. Changing the engine oil
9. Tuning the engine
10. Checking the level of the brake fluid or the clutch fluid
11. Refilling of the brake fluid or clutch fluid
12. Checking the brake pads and liner, brake discs or drums
13. Replacement of worn brake pads and liner and brake discs or drums
14. Checking the level of the automatic or manual transmission fluid
15. Refilling the automatic or manual transmission fluid
16. Checking the level of the power steering fluid
17. Refilling the power steering fluid
18. Greasing and lubrication of the components
19. Inspection of the timing chain or timing belt
20. Replacement of the timing belt or timing chain
21. Checking the tires
22. Replacement of the tires
23. Checking for error codes in the ECU
24. Correcting codes in the ECU
25. Checking the operation of the lights and wipers

Other car servicing shops in Singapore offer a variety of service packages. Check your nearest car servicing shop for more specific descriptions of maintenance tasks.

What are the other services provided?

Car maintenance and car repair are not the only services provided during car servicing in Singapore. Special and specific problems are also addressed such as the interruption in transmission caused by failure in mechanical parts. The car owner will be advised on what to do if the car is not safe for driving.

What is car body repair?

One of the services you might be offered is car repair, more specifically car body repair. These are services that will help enhance or maintain the car’s exterior appearance. The car workshop will do the paintjob to remove the scuffs, scratches and dents. Some car servicing in Singapore also do paintless dent repair.

What are the types of car repair shops?

Car servicing can be divided into four types that specialize in a particular field. You might find some of these in Singapore.

1. The auto parts, also known as motor-factors that primarily sell car parts for repair and replacement. Most of these types of auto shops also have car servicing as well.

2. Car repair workshops can be independently-owned or are part of a franchise. This is ideal for car owners who choose to have their cars looked at and repaired by the same shop, standards and expertise without having to travel to only one location. The items and equipment used will be uniform throughout the different branches, so you’re getting the same quality regardless of which branch you go to.

3. Specialty car servicing shops focus on specific areas in the process such as car body parts, transmissions, automobile certification, car air conditioner repairs, wheel alignment, brakes, exhaust systems, mufflers, repairs or installation of the glasses on the vehicle, and many more. Other specialty car maintenance or car workshop were made to cater to specific car brands or cars made at specific regions in the world. There are also others which focus solely on car customization and modification.

4. Online versions of car servicing shops is an option for those who want to order parts and services online that can be delivered at home. This is common among old car models or classic automobiles which need parts that cannot be found in most car shops.

The Basics of Plumbing Works

Plumbing seems like a mystery to most people. It is easy to ignore what we consider basic necessities, until something awful happens. Knowing how it works, however, can save you time, effort and money. Some problems can be fixed without having to call for professional plumbing services. If you don’t have the skills, however, it is also important to know what to do before you call a reliable plumber. Here are some things that might help you to know about your plumbing system and how it functions.

The Supply System

The plumbing system works two ways: one brings water in, the other brings it out. Let’s take a look at the first, the supply system. Fresh, clean water is brought in pipes. The transportation of water relies on having the correct pressure. The amount of water you use is measured in a meter, usually near the main valve or stop. Water fixtures in your bathroom like the sink or tub usually have individual valves. It is vital that you know where the main valve is for emergencies like leakages or when a pipe bursts. Turn off the main valve if there is an emergency to avoid wasting water, and then call a 24 hours plumber. Consult with the local plumbing contractor if you are moving into a new house or you want to have changes in your plumbing works.

If you have a water heater, there is a separate pipe that leads to it. The heater warms the water to a preset temperature. The water heater has a separate line that transports the hot water to fixtures and appliances that need it, such as showers and the dishwasher. Remember to monitor the thermostat on the heater to make sure its set in the right temperature.

The Drainage System

The second set of the plumbing system inspected by plumbing services in Singapore is the drainage. Your home can have a septic or a sewer system. A septic system makes use of a septic tank. The septic tank is usually a rectangular concrete or metal tank buried in the yard or outside the house. It has two main pipes that take in sewage water from inside the house and another that transports wastewater outside. Unlike the supply system, it does not use pressure. The water simply moves downward through the drainpipes.

A sewer system on the other hand is common in areas where houses and buildings are packed together. Wastewater is collected and then sent to a treatment facility. You can ask your plumbing contractor about the drainage system you’re using.

The drainage relies mainly on gravity that pulls the wastewater along the pipes. The system may also rely on vents that allow air to pass through the drainpipes. That is where most plumbing problems lie – when the water cannot flow and the waste clog the pipes.

Locating the Trap

Knowing where the trap is in your drainage will help you determine the problem. Notice the fancy curved pipe under the sink? That is the trap. Knowing this will make the detection of the problem easier for you, as well as for the plumber. The trap prevents sewer gas from coming back up. Some have a clean-out plug in the trap for easier cleaning. Some kitchen sinks also have grease traps for easier removal and cleaning. One os the causes of pipe blockage is the accumulation of grease and other waste. Ask your local plumbing contractor for options.

Remember that your home’s plumbing works must be two separate systems that do not overlap.

Fixtures in Your Home

We also often hear or read the word fixtures. So what are they? Basically, they’re sinks, toilets and tubs. Anything that draws or discharges water is a fixture. They are like the bus stops of your plumbing works. Sometimes each fixture has its own shutoff valve to make repairs during emergencies easier. Each fixture also has a trap like the sink trap mentioned above. Bathtubs have traps for hair and dirt. Toilets on the other hand usually are self-trapped. Some fixtures have improved over the years with additional features like the toilet auto sensor flush valve. Ask your plumbing contractor about these options.

Other Plumbing Systems

Two additional plumbing systems can also be installed and used at your home such as the fuel gas piping. In Singapore, there is a gas pipe installation or turn on services available. Singapore has a Gas Act that provides guidelines for the gas supply, connection of gas installation and gas fitting, gas appliances, and licensing of gas service workers. Browse through some of the guidelines if you need more information and do not hesitate to ask your local provider for details.

Hydronic systems is also another category of plumbing. This type of system uses water heating and cooling systems to transport thermal energy. It is mostly known in the form of a heating system or a heater. It is much more common in areas where the temperature get very low.

Working with a Plumbing Services Provider

Even if you already know the basics of what your home plumbing is like, it is still important to check with a local plumbing services provider before you make any changes in your pipes or plumbing works in general. Sometimes the owner is allowed to make repairs. Some projects however need permission from the local plumbing officials. Make sure to contact a licensed plumbing services to avoid creating more damages to your property.

Most plumbing services in Singapore do replacement work, water leakage detection and blockage clearing. If plumbing problems happen at night, call your 24 hours plumber. If you need to make sure your reliable plumber is licensed, the Singapore Plumbing Society provides price guidelines for the works and services provided by the plumber. They offer free referrals as well.

Knowing the basics of how your plumbing works will save you a lot of trouble. Not only will you protect your investment, your home, but you will also avoid panic when something unexpected happens.

The 10 Benefits of VoIP for Your Business

The use of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) in offices and businesses in Singapore has opened a lot of opportunities for growth and expansion that were not possible with traditional telephony alone. Not only is VoIP a cheap alternative to making phone calls and video calls, but it also includes various features that have revolutionized the way companies interact with employees, clients, vendors, and customers.

And why not? After all, the goal of using Internet Protocol (IP) telephony is to create a more productive digital phone system that utilizes the accessibility and power of the Internet.

However, if you are hesitant to replace your traditional private branch exchange or PBX phone system with a hosted PBX for a small to medium-scale company or to hire a provider for a cloud VoIP, the following benefits of VoIP in business should change your mind.

1. User Friendly. There is no need to train your office personnel to use VoIP because it is easy to set up, install, and use. If you choose a hosted VoIP system for example, there is no need to buy new equipment to deploy and use the software in your office; instead, a third-party service provider is responsible for setting up, troubleshooting, and upgrading the system. Not only large companies, but even small-scale businesses can benefit from the easy-to-use VoIP features, such as voicemail to email transcription, follow me or find me call routing, efficient bandwidth use, outbound and inbound call reporting, music on hold, call screening, auto attendant, and online conferencing.

2. Easy Scaling. If your business is still expanding, it can be hassle trying to figure out how many phones you will need in the future. With a hosted PBX phone system, however, you can install additional lines or remove and reassign phone lines anytime you want. You can also easily reconfigure the system, especially if you have several employees who need to travel outside the country. This means that there is no need to change numbers even when they’re outside Singapore, because calls can be diverted anywhere as long as the communication device has an Internet connection.

3. Convenient System. With an excellent VoIP phone system from Singapore, there is no need to worry about missing important calls or video calls again, since employees can pick up calls and answer messages on any mobile device connected to the system. The company can also sort through a full voicemail system and pick out important messages that need immediate replies. As long as the device is connected to the Internet, the employee can access all the VoIP features, such as voicemail, email, call features, logs, and others anytime, anywhere.

4. Various Features. VoIP will not only improve communication within and outside the office, but the company will also have access to a rich media service such as instant messages, video calls, video conferencing, file sharing, social networking, web browser, fax, email, and so much more, regardless of the device used. Traditional call features such as call transfer, call hold, call hunt, and others are still used, too, but it can also be easily integrated with other existing applications to make a much more efficient system accessible to clients and customers. Plus, there are bonus features you can add, such as improved security, data backup and storage, personalized ringtones, and many more.

5. Cost-Saving. Even small-scale companies can benefit from VoIP by choosing a hosted PBX system, in which the service is hosted by a third-party provider so that there is no need to upgrade the existing hardware and software. A hosted VoIP system will reduce the overall per-call costs of the company unlike a traditional telephony setup. Cloud VoIP is also a viable option if the company does not wish to spend money on expensive equipment. If repairs are needed, the burden will fall on the service provider and not the company itself.

6. Easy Integration. The primary tool of VoIP is the Internet to make communication easier, that is why it will also be a lot easier for the company to integrate other existing communication tools to make the business more accessible to clients and customers. Customer management within the office will considerably improve with an IP PBX telephone system for example, because the company can easily switch from local lines and external phone lines.

7. Quality Communication. With a VoIP system, the company’s communication lines will greatly improve. Voice calls are clearer, conference calls are easier, sharing and storage of data are more convenient, and multiple tasks are swiftly handled. Not only that, your company will not be paying extra for the various services that come with a hosted VoIP system.

8. Portability. Any device that can connect to the Internet can be used to send and receive messages to and from employees and clients. No matter where the employee goes, he/she can still log in to the system using the same number.

9. Flexibility. For businesses that are hesitant to spend money on new equipment, a VoIP system can still use traditional phones as long as a VoIP adapter is installed. This adapter will convert the analog signals to digital signals that can be used in the VoIP system.

10. No Boundaries. Various businesses in Singapore have employees that need to travel, but with an IP PBX telephone system, communicating is no longer a problem. VoIP will open doors to global business opportunities that used to be limited by fixed phone lines and numbers that some employees find difficult to use when not within the office vicinity.

Steps To Learn Investing In the Real Estate Industry

Some people that are looking to buy an apartment with the help of a managing agent are sometimes charmed by the beauty of a certain apartment, so they would want to buy it in any case. However, several other aspects must be considered before you would buy the propriety, and those aspects can only be clarified by the property management Singapore.

Make sure you have a pre-contract approved with the bank for the condo you are about to buy. The papers and the files of a condo are not secret to the managing agent, but no condo management company would allow you to see them if you are not a future buyer of a mcst propriety.

Calculate the total cost of obtaining the strata title contract, not only the cost of the real estate itself. Some other costs are associated with any transaction, such as the paperwork needed, the authorities involved, the notary and the commissions to the bank and managing agent. The property management Singapore advices you to increase the cost of the condo with 10 % to assess the real price of the propriety. Be careful with this aspect!

The bank will be unmerciful with you if you can’t pay all those taxes, and they are entitled to cancel your contract and to keep the advance money if you are not able to bring all the necessary Singapore property management paperwork to the managing agent within the required time. However, you must not worry. Just ask the condo management property if there are no legal issues over the mcst propriety, and ask them about an estimation of time needed to provide you with all the acts.

Choose the property management Singapore carefully, as the majority of companies with superb managing agent now have a few clients, therefore the time allocated for you will be enough. Think at your condo as a necessity not like an investment. In times like these, it is not good to make plans considering the four children you will have in 10 years. The budget is important for the moment, and the condo management managing agent will be able to find you a place to live for a decent price and with some great living conditions.

While looking for propriety, you must be patient and perseverant. Therefore, find one hour each morning to browse the sites of mcst companies in Singapore to find new real estates that are for sale. Start with the forums of the strata title owners and see if somebody wants to sell and then look for a managing agent. In this case, you might be able to contact the seller or condo management directly, avoiding the costly commissions of the real estate agent.

Some strata title owners place fake announcements just to assess the true value of their real estate. They have a rich imagination, so you might sometimes see a great propriety at a bargain price. This is surely a trap, and the owner or managing agent will never sell for that money.

All the property management Singapore companies pay a subscription to the search engines, so you could subscribe to their newsletter. This way, any new condo appeared on the market will be delivered directly in your inbox.

What to Expect from Vietnam’s Entertainment Capital, Ho Tram

Ho Tram Project Company is and has been the go-to in Vietnam for quite a while when it comes to property investment. This 2017, in partnership with Asian Coast Development, Ltd. to provide you with the best luxurious condotels, Ho Tram is proud to present you with their fifth phase in development and the newest addition to The Ho Tram Strip.

Kahuna Ho Tram, as part of the first integrated beach resort in Vietnam, will give residents a wide range of food and beverage outlets as well as shops and entertainment facilities. Aside from offering various amenities, Kahuna Ho Tram Resort and Kahuna Ho Tram Strip are only two hours away from Ho Chi Minh City.

But what more can you expect from a high-class property to excite you in the prospect of holiday resort investment? Here are more things that you need to know about Kahuna Ho Tram:

• Kahuna Ho Tram is located in Ho Tram beach in Vung Tau province, and yet is named after the legendary waves in Hawaii. The twelve-story condotel presents one hundred and sixty four units, with forty-four single-key and double-key villas that are the jewels in Kahuna Ho Tram’s crowning glory. Visit http://www.kahunahotramresort.com/ for more info about the resort.

• Why not start off your investment right with a prime Vung Tau condo? Kahuna’s condotel building is specially designed by renowned Korn Architects based in Ho Chi Minh City to remind all guests and residents of the feeling of a luxury liner about to embark into the sea for the voyage of a lifetime.

• The condotel is surrounded by water and stunning views of the ocean and the Bluffs, the golf course listed in the world’s top 100 golf courses.

Apart from the 130 standard units, there are also 14 corner units with their very own private Jacuzzis, 2 ground floor units that have their own private pools, and best of all, 8 penthouses with their own private pools.

• If you’re not looking to invest in condo units, why not invest in a beach villa for sale? Kahuna’s thirty-six double-key garden villas are located in the very center of the development, with its own pool, private garden, and are linked together by a gorgeous reflection pond and a waterway down the spine of the property.

• An even better beach villa for sale that you can land a deal on right now is one of the eight stand-alone single-key garden villas. They offer views and direct access to the beaches that are unrivalled anywhere, much like the garden villas, but with larger decks. With private pools, 3 master bedroom suites and a maid’s suite, there are few things that could be much more luxurious to wake up to every morning than a villa beside golf course listed as one of the world’s top 100.

• To invest in condo units and dabble in property investment by the seaside in Vietnam has never been easier or more convenient, with each unit is fully furnished and in good hand-over condition and eight per cent of your returns guaranteed within two years. The tenure is forty years, with a ten-year rental pool contract, and twenty-one days allotted for owner occupancy.

• Ho Tram Project Company Limited recently became the first in the country to apply to host a pilot program for local gaming for Vietnam nationals, and is currently the only one in the country capable of providing a standard gaming environment that matches up to international standards.

The Ho Tram Strip is the largest foreign invested tourism development undertaken in Vietnam and one of the largest investments into the country, with over USD1 billion in capital, and more profits are expected to flow in and out.
What are you waiting for? Invest now!

Things Your Wedding Make-up Artists Wish You Knew Beforehand

There are a number of things your makeup artist in Singapore wish you knew prior to going in for a consultation or in preparation for the actual wedding day. Being a MUA in itself encompasses more than just applying make-up. For instance, they also have to ensure the bristles of each brush they use is clean every session as well as buy cosmetic products of great quality to put to use, among the many.

However, there is only so much they can do with their cosmetic prowess. Behind their amazing skills lies the fact that they could actually use all the cooperation they can get from their clients. Small acts such as cleansing the face prior to the session or allowing the stylist to focus and work in silence could pave way in achieving your desired look.

That being said, there are a few other considerations shared by a number of MUAs that will be presented in this article. Following them can easily make both your experiences run smoothly. Better yet, you can use them as a guide in preparing yourself and your skin’s condition for your next meeting with them.

1. Show up with a clean face

Looking radiant on your big day is not only based off how many cosmetic products you apply on your face. In fact, your skincare routine for the past months greatly contribute to how you look as you walk down the aisle. Many brides-to-be allot time to have facial sessions and moisturize their face and lips. This ensures hassle-free and even makeup application, as well as a polished finish.

Showing up to your session with a clean face is a great option to take. This will enable your MUA to work with a fresh canvas, saving her from putting in unnecessary effort if she has to cleanse your conditioned face herself. In short, no primer, mascara, or even foundation. Leave the responsibility to your stylist, as it is a part of the package you availed and paid for.

2. Allow stylist to focus, work in silence

As the old saying goes, silence is golden. Sure you might engage in small talk and spend a few minutes of initial discussion, but when it comes to the part where the makeup artist has to start applying cosmetic products, it is best to just sit back and relax in total silence. Makeup application can be difficult if your facial muscles keep on moving. The last thing you’d want is to get lipstick smeared over your face or uneven blending of foundation. Allow your stylist to work on delicate details in total concentration.

A number of stylists in Singapore opt to focus more on their work in silence, hence keeping quiet for a while can be productive — save for when it’s totally necessary.

3. Don’t hesitate to speak up if necessary

Your stylist wants nothing but the best for you. It brings immense joy to the hearts of cosmetic artists to make one’s wedding day as memorable and special as it should be. However, if there is any part of the look you’re dissatisfied with in the middle of application, voice out your concern immediately and let your makeup stylist know. Prolonging it any longer won’t do any good if you want it altered and changed entirely in the end. If anything, it will only waste the efforts of your MUA.

Silence is key to allow your stylist to focus, but don’t hesitate to speak up. The last thing you’d want on the day of your wedding is to walk down the aisle with regrets. If things go entirely in an unplanned direction, talk to your MUA about the matter politely.

4. Create a mood board

If you are considering between a number of styles and makeup inspirations, bringing along a look list or a mood board is effective in conveying your expected looks to your MUA. Compiling photos of your desired looks will allow your makeup artist to envision your targeted end result. Of course this doesn’t guarantee an absolute carbon copy, but with experienced stylists you can expect a great resemblance, at the very least.

This will also give your beautician a few more ideas to play around with. Don’t forget that random streaks of inspiration can greatly fuel one’s creativity!

5. Don’t demand the impossible

As was previously mentioned in this article, there is only so much every makeup artist can do with their cosmetic prowess. As much as she will do everything she can to help you achieve the look you’re aiming for, she still cannot change the fact that you will look like you. There should be nothing wrong with this, though. You are already beautiful as you are. The task of the stylist is only to enhance or highlight your features, nothing more nor less.

To avoid any misunderstandings that may arise out of the situation, you must have an open and realistic discussion with your MUA before the session begins. Be accepting of when she tells you where her limits lie. You have to put your trust in her, because after all, she is the one likely to know what’s best.

It is important to foster a great working relationship with your makeup stylist. Sure, there are lots of renowned MUAs all over Singapore you can choose from — but even experts greatly appreciate every bit of cooperation they can get from their clients. This will make the session flow smoothly, leaving little room for any possible error. You are also saving your MUA from wasting their efforts at the same time. With your stylist ecstatic to work with you, chances are you’d end up looking more radiant on the big day.