Livingston Reporting - page 219

Important Aspects When Designing Custom Labels

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

No matter what product you are custom designing labels for it’s important to start out on the right track to avoid expensive revisions and reprints.  In this installment on custom label design we will discuss steps you can take to get on the right track for your next project.

In terms of color the standard rule of thumb is that web design should be done in RGB where as printed materials should be in CMYK.  Consider how colors work together and the messages that they deliver when standing alone or being used together.

Typeface is another issue that needs to be given attention to when designing a custom product label.  It is important that the typeface on your label can be easily read near and far.  The color of the typeface should also be easily red.  Metallic colors are often attractive and appealing to the eye but more difficult to read especially when paired with certain colors and textures.

Texturing on labels is another element that shouldn’t be overlooked.  A rustic, earthy style texturing may appeal to consumers when buying eco-friendly, organic products but not so much to high-tech gadget seekers.  The texturing elements should match the overall impression the product needs to give.

The type of container being used will also play a role in dictating the type of label that is designed.  The label needs to fit the container and compliment its shape.  Don’t jump into the design phase of label creation without giving serious consideration to the actual size and shape of the package of your product.  The label must sit on the container properly to appropriately represent the product.

It is also important to determine how much of the products packaging that you want to be visible.  If the product itself is not visually appealing the designer may wish to design a label that is able to cover up more of the product.  However the opposite may be true for a product that is appealing to the eye.

Your label design should allow your product to stand out when placed on a shelf with its direct competition.  It is imperative that the product grabs the customer’s attention.  To help make sure the design of you label is clear, appealing to the eye and unique ask yourself the following questions:

  • Does the label separate your product from its competitors?
  • Is there a clear and accurate representation of both your brand and product?
  • Will the label compel the target market into making a purchase?

Before you hit the presses with any label design take time to survey your market.  Ask the following questions:

  • Does this design idea feel linked to the product? Why or why not?
  • Does the label convey the product? Why or Why not?
  • Does the product package and labeling design appeal to you? Why or why not?

On top of all of these considerations it is also important to account for durability of the label.  Will the label withstanding the process of being packaged and shipped?  Will the label last for the lifetime of the product?

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Anchor Printing

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Improve The Exterior Of Your Home With A Driveway Gate

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

There are many home improvements that can be done to increase the value and aesthetics of your home but how many can improve your peace of minded with additional security?  Driveway entry gates not only improve the exterior landscape of homes they offer a degree of privacy and safety that other exterior renovations can’t compete with.   A gate keeps outsiders from having access to your home environment without your knowledge.  There are a number of things that affect the overall cost of a project of this magnitude.  Consider the following when putting together a budget to install a driveway entry gate:

Manual Entry Driveway Gates

If you aren’t concerned with convenience then you may want to look into installing a manual gate.  This style of gate is one that will require someone to manually open and close the gate upon entry and exit.  This style of gate is a great addition for homeowners that are mainly concerned with privacy and will only be using the gate when they enter and exit.

Automatic Entry Driveway Gates

A more costly option but far more convenient is the installation of an automatic entry gate access.  This style of gate usually is operated via remote control, key pad, or voice sensor entry.  This allows the homeowner to have total control over who is allowed to enter the property.  It is an ultimate option in securing your family.

Construction and Gate Materials

The cost of the fence will vary depending on the gate materials that you choose.  The most common materials used for residential entry gates are aluminum, iron, steel, wood and vinyl.  Gates are styles in both single and dual panel styles.  Dual panel gates are more expensive then single and of course iron is more expensive then aluminum, steel, wood or vinyl.    Depending on your entry gate budge, security requirements and exterior look you desire will allow you to more thoroughly narrow down the gate material you will want to use.

Enhanced Home Equity

The installation of a driveway gate adds to both the safety and beauty of your home.  Both aspects appeal to consumer emotion and therefore help to increase the value of your home.  When you go to sell your home, an entry gate will increase the overall value of your property.  The cost of the fence may seem a bit overwhelming but this is one home improvement project that has a profitable return on investment.

Decreased Insurance Expenses

A lot of insurance companies will offer homeowners a discount on their home insurance policies when they install a driveway entry gate.  It is proven that the addition of gate decreases the likelihood that your home will be targeted by thieves and vandals.  Consider the discount in insurance when looking at the overall cost of the gate.  You may be pleasantly surprised at the yearly savings that comes from investing in a driveway gate.

 

SAC Fence

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Home Improvement Trends For 2017

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Are you thinking about putting your house up for sale during the next peak selling season?  If you are considering this it is time to think about inexpensive trends to incorporate into home improvements that you are contemplating right now.  When you put your house on the market the goal is to make the home appeal to the most buyers possible.  This can be done by creating a more general environment that offers less personalization and more generalization to the space.

Homeowners considering new appliances will want to consider some of the newer finishes available.  Even if you prefer white or black it is imperative that if your plan is to leave the appliances with the home that you consider upgrading to matte or stainless steel finishes.  Matte appliances are quickly outweighing the popularity of stainless steel but both are still preferred over colored appliances.  Matte finishes on appliances are great for families as they hide fingerprints, dirt and smudges that other finishes don’t.

Another popular home improvement project that is in style is cork flooring.  Cement flooring has had its day in the sun but quickly is being replaced with cushioned flooring options.  Cork is popular because it is compliments a variety of home environments.  It is offered in a variety of styles and color options.

As flooring trends go, in 2017 shag and pile carpeting will be viewed as outdated with a more popular option being cut and loop carpet.  Textures and patterns in carpet will be popular as well.  If you decide on using texture and pattern in flooring remember to remain neutral and complimentary on the walls, counter and furniture.  This will keep the home from becoming too personalized and keep it neutral for buyers to be able to visualize themselves in the space.

Technology is another popular trend that people are looking to incorporate into home improvement, especially in lighting.  Circadian lighting is a popular upgrade that is helping to sell homes to modern day buyers.  This type of lighting is in sync with the rhythm of our bodies.  The technology communicated with a phone to allow the homeowner to control the temperature settings throughout the day.  Homeowners can set the day lighting to be warmer and whiter while fading to an orange glow in the evening for a calmer more relaxed lighting option.

Water quality is another trend that has become more important to new buyers as well.  If you are looking to increase the attractiveness of your home a great way to do this is with an improved whole-home water filtration system.  This is a trend that goes right along with the popularity we have seen in previous years for home to be more eco-friendly.

The Home Doctor, based in Livingston County including Brighton and Howell Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from bathroom remodeling to age in place home modifications.  Contact http://glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/ today all of your home renovating needs.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

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Winter Care To Protect Your Pools Plaster

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Winter pool care doesn’t end by just putting the cover on it.  Care must continue throughout the off-season to assure that when the pool is open in the late spring that everything comes together as it should.  In this installment on in-ground gunite pool care we will share the top tips in off-season pool care.

  • Add an algae preventative to the pool water that will function throughout the winter. It is best to add the algaecide to the pool on the last day that the pool is being used for the season.  After the preventative is added to the water you should run the pools pump and filter for twenty four hours to allow for the chemical to fully circulate.  The goal in the end is to keep algae at bay during the off season.
  • As pool owners close their pools it is crucial to drain all of the water from the pump, heater and filter. The pipes and motorized mechanical systems of the gunite swimming pool are crucial to the operation of the pool.  If water freezes within the pipes they are apt to break.  This can be super costly and time consuming for the pool owner.
  • In order to keep your pool clean during the off season it is best that homeowners keep their pools covered. Not only will a pool cover keep out the dirt and debris that comes from leaves, snow and other off-season debris; it will also keep children and toddlers from entering the pool.
  • To make sure that your pool is ready for opening day in the spring it is important to add chlorine to the pools water. Chlorine should be added in the fall and when the water thaws in the spring.  Don’t add to much chlorine though as it can and will eat at the pools plaster if not kept balanced.
  • The responsibility of owning a pool doesn’t end when you stop swimming in it for the season. Life will be easier for you when you re-open the pool in late spring if when the pool is closed that you keep the cover protecting the pool clean.  Sticks, leaves, stones and such can easily accumulate on the pool cover if allowed.  It is important that pool owners take some time throughout the off season to remove the accumulated build up of debris in order to protect the pool surface.

It is important to keep up on preventative maintenance, as a pool owner, even when the pool is shut down for the season.  Keeping the pool in top shape is a lot less time consuming and costly if preventative maintenance is kept up on year round.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

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Choosing a Company To Service Your Facilities Medical Equipment

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There will come a time and day when all medical equipment within your facility will need to be maintained or repaired.  Do you know who you will call?  There are a wide range of companies available to service medical equipment.  It is important to find a reputable company to work with that offers a wide range of service needs on medical equipment of all kinds including linear accelerators, ct scanners and other life saving pieces of equipment.

Look for a company that doesn’t just repair equipment; look to work with a medical equipment repair company that offers a wide range of services.  Look for a company that offers the following services:  installation, set-up, repairs, preventative maintenance, testing, replacement parts and new & refurbished equipment sales.  Below is a detailed description of what each services entails.

Preventative Maintenance

If there is one thing that all medical facilities should do is set up regular maintenance to be performed on medical equipment.  It is imperative that you follow the manufacturer’s requirements for maintaining your medical equipment to increase the longevity of each piece.  It will also help save your facility money with less equipment downtime, downtime that is scheduled without interrupting scheduled patients and decreases liability issues.

Medical Equipment Installation & Set-Up

It is important to work with a company that also specializes in the set-up and installation of medical equipment.  There is a specific way that medical equipment needs to be handled and set up in a medical setting that needs to be done by specialists trained in operating setup.

On Site and Off Site Repair

The company that you choose to work with should provide both on site and off site repair and maintenance services.  The company should be willing to travel to your medical facility to make assessments, test and repair both operating & surgical equipment and tools on demand.  There should also be a facility in which complicated repairs can be sent that offers the same quality repairs with a quick turnaround response.

Supply and Installation of Replacement Parts, Supplies & Accessories

Working with a company that maintains a large inventory of new and refurbished medical parts for replacement is the best option.  You will want to make sure that they also have their own connections to receive parts and supplies that are not in stock on a moment’s notice to avoid downtime.

A company that works to combine all of the functions one may need to retain their medical equipment is preferred over hiring several individual companies to complete the tasks separately.  One company providing refurbished and new equipment, maintenance, installation, set-up, repair and parts is a solid choice as it allows them to also track, analyze and make recommendations.

RadParts

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Preserving Critical Medical Equipment With Regular Maintenance

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are many critical tools that are needed for doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals in order to make proper diagnosis.  Healthcare professionals are better prepared for medical emergencies when supported by medical devices that are functioning as they should be.  From performing in the operating room to executing properly in the emergency room if medical devices fail patient lives are put at risk.

If medical equipment fails to work correctly the patients quality of care decreases and it affects their safety.  In order for medical equipment to continue to function properly it is crucial that it is accurately maintained.   This is one reason that medical facilities are known to outsource preventative maintenance services for medical equipment.  Below you will find concrete evidence on why regular maintenance and medical equipment repair are imperative to the health of your patients and medical practice.

Accurately Preserved Medical Equipment is Reliable

Truth be told medical equipment that is regularly maintained following manufacturer guidelines is safer and more reliable for patient care. Regular maintenance on medical equipment also helps to ensure machine operators are protected from machine failure.  Potential issues can be acknowledged and resolved before causing malfunction to the equipment and personnel downtime. It is important to remember that depending on the size of your facility maintenance can be performed in house or out sourced.

Work Smarter Not Harder

All businesses are looking to work more efficiently.  Providing regularly scheduled routine maintenance on medical equipment helps to allow your medical facility, no matter how big or small, to run more effectively.  Being proactive in equipment repair and maintenance allows facilities to plan accordingly for equipment to be down.  Unexpected downtime leads to a decrease in patient care, an increase in scheduling in interruptions and loss of productivity. Scheduling time in advance allows patient care to go uninterrupted.

Save Money and Time with Preventative Maintenance

Preventative maintenance saves facilities a lot of money.  Routine maintenance on medical equipment is significantly less than regularly replacing expensive medical equipment and supplies or paying for emergency repair services.  Instead your equipment is kept operating at the top of its game leading to increased longevity and a higher return on your investment.  In the long run by performing regular preventative maintenance and repairs you are helping to decrease the operating costs associated with running your medical facility.

In order to preserve the reliability of your medical equipment, work more efficiently and decrease equipment expenses it is important to perform regular maintenance.  A schedule can be created online to better help your medical facility track, record and analyze data.   This will help your facility increase the reliability of the medical equipment used within your facility.

Radparts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts for Linear Accelerators and Radiation Oncology equipment.  We provide high quality, user friendly, low cost parts support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment.  For more information on low cost parts for repairing Linac equipment find us at http://www.radparts.com.

RadParts

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Refurbished Doesn’t Mean Used

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are certain terms that no matter what context they are used in that have a negative connotation to them.  Words like refurbished and reconditioned conjure up feelings of negative thoughts and opinions just as much as the term used.  Many companies don’t understand why they would be spending money on something if it isn’t brand new or if it is even safe.  Can refurbished electrical components, appliances and electronics be as capable as buying brand new?

Consumers looking to make purchases within a budget may choose refurbished products because they can make their purchases at a substantial discount.   Refurbished electrical components, appliances and electronics are all carefully inspected and reconditioned to standards that are often higher than buying new.  Consumers save money and are guaranteed that the products are thoroughly examined, analyzed and picture perfect.

When purchasing products that are refurbished it is important to work with a company that offers consumers a return policy.  When a purchase is made consumers must have the liberty to use the product and test it out.  A minimum of thirty days for returns to be made should be standard to ensure that the refurbished components are working as desired.

Finding a company to purchase from is the hardest part of purchasing quality refurbished products. Companies that receive components or appliance straight from the manufacturer are preferable to work with however that doesn’t mean that companies that specialize in asset management should be counted out.  Companies, especially those specializing in electrical components offer a service referred to as asset management.

The asset management division in companies concentrates on performing complete electrical clean outs and plant tear downs.  These divisions are made up of experts that are well trained in recovering components to be refurbished.  Thus insuring they are in the best possible shape to be brought back to the facility and reconditioned to the high standards of the company.

A product that is refurbished or reconditioned is labeled as such because it could not otherwise be sold.  The product is not new and can’t be sold as such due to the restraints that are put on selling products as new.  Buying a product that is reconditioned can have a variety of different meanings from being a product that has been returned, has cosmetic damages, reworked or fixed entirely.  Units that are used as displays cannot be turned around and sold as new.  The fact that products can come from a number of different sources is often what worries consumers that are considering buying refurbished.

A good rule of thumb is to look into the company you are purchasing from and the companies return policy.  As long as you are making a purchase from a reputable company that is able to stand behind their products with a fair return process then by all means buy refurbished over new and save money in your budget to spend elsewhere.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

J & P Electrical Company

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Helpful Tips For Buying Your First Home

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Purchasing your first home comes with many trials and tribulations.  In the first year after closing there are many valuable lessons to be learned.  Here are some things to think about as you begin the process of going from renting to buying.

Think About The Future:  When buying your first home it is easy to get caught up.  At the time you can’t imagine that you will ever need to sell this home you are about to start building your future in.  This however can’t be further than the truth.  The truth is the first home you purchase will most likely not be the last one you purchase.  No matter where you are at or what stage you are at it is important that you take into consideration how difficult it will be to eventually sell when you are ready for the next step.

Checklist:  When you are purchasing your first home, second or third, you will find it is quiet an emotional process.  It is quite possible to overlook things when your emotions start to take over.  Before starting your adventure into buying your first home create a checklist of must-haves, nice-to-haves and other essentials.  Print the list and take a copy with you to each and every house you visit.    Also bring with you a camera.  If you fall in love with a home but with your checklist and photos show that the house doesn’t have any of the must-haves then at least it will make you rethink the purchase?

Budget For Housing Expenses:  When considering what you can don’t just consider the principal, interest, taxes and insurance.  You must take into account the amount you will spend on utilities, home improvement upgrades and costs to commute.  Can you afford the house, the extra expenses while living the life style you have become accustomed to?

Look Into The Neighborhood:  Check out the neighborhood.  Is it a neighborhood that is full of children and growing families?  Do you enjoy the chitter-chatter of kids or will it drive you crazy?  Is the neighborhood full of older adults whose families have grown?  Did you plan on having kids?  Will the lifestyle you are considering for your future fit within the existing neighborhood?

Look Beyond The Staging: We all think we are smart enough that we will not fall for the tricks that are used in staging however the psychology of staging works.  Homes look better when they are occupied.  When you are truly looking to say yes to a home it is important to remove the staging setup from your mind and consider your belongings in the layout of the home. Just because lights are sitting on the nightstands doesn’t mean that there are plugs there to go with it.  Staging can play games with your emotions.

Lady of the Lakes Real Estate is Livingston County’s premiere realtor; out of Pinckney, Michigan helping buyers buy and sellers sell homes that provide a recreational lifestyle including golf courses, lakes and the Huron river chain of lakes, throughout Brighton, Howell, Pinckney and the surrounding area. Find out more at http://www.ladyofthelakes.com.

C21 Lady of the Lakes

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Benefits of Buying Verse Renting

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There comes a time when buying a home becomes more practical then continuing to rent.  Right now the market is at a point where renting is actually more expensive monthly than buying.  Renting has a few benefits that buying doesn’t but instead that if you are interested in buying a home now is a great time to enter the market.  Here are five questions to ask yourself when narrowing down your homeownership goals:

  • What type of home situation best meets your needs?

There are a variety of residential home styles to choose from when you are looking to purchase. Consider all of your options including: traditional style single family homes, duplexes, townhouses, condominiums, co-op’s and multi-family buildings.  There are pros and cons of each and depending on your homeownership goals at the moment will help establish the style of home you should focus on finding.

  • What are must have features you are looking to have in a home?

When buying a home there are certain features that are must-haves, some that would be nice and some that are downright unnecessary but would be a dream.  Create your own list and make sure that it offers a bit of flexibility.  You deserve a home that offers you exactly what you want!

  • What type of mortgages do you qualify for?

Before you hire a realtor meet with a mortgage broker to determine how much you can pre-qualify for and what types of mortgage options are available for your current situation.  Knowing how much a lender will lend will give you a starting point on the price range of homes you should be focusing in on.  Before you begin searching for a mortgage or home get your personal finances in order.  Make sure your credit is in order, you have a solid history of paying your bills on time, substantial savings and a maximum debt to income ratio of no more than thirty six to forty three percent.

  • What amount can you afford to take on monthly?

Another thing to consider after finding out how much a lender will lend is how much you actually feel comfortable paying each month.  Consider the amount of the mortgage, interest, insurance along with utilities and other monthly bills you have.  You will want to be comfortable with the amount that you will be spending each month.  The last thing you want is to be house poor without any money to spare each month.

  • What does your savings account look like?

In order to purchase a home it is important to have a down payment, closing costs and money for the incidentals that will arise after you move in.  Take time to build up a substantial savings before you get serious about looking to find a home of your dreams.

Lady of the Lakes Real Estate is Livingston County’s premiere realtor; out of Pinckney, Michigan helping buyers buy and sellers sell homes that provide a recreational lifestyle including golf courses, lakes and the Huron river chain of lakes, throughout Brighton, Howell, Pinckney and the surrounding area. Find out more at http://www.ladyofthelakes.com.

C21 Lady of the Lakes

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Tips For Buying A New Construction Home

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Buying a new construction home is a once in a lifetime opportunity for most of us.  All of the decisions are up to you, the buyer!  You will be the first person to sit in the tub, the person to choose the paint, the tile; each and every choice will be up to you.  It will be hard not to get caught up in the excitement but avoid that at all costs and remember to focus on what’s important.  The most crucial aspect of buying a new construction home is to have the home inspected thoroughly to allow the builder to remedy problems that exist before closing.  Below are a few important aspects to consider when buying a new construction home:

  • Seek out and hire a professional real estate agent: Many times buyers don’t think about the importance of having their own representation when buying new construction.  When building a new home you are often working directly with an on-site sales agent. It is important to have your own personal agent working with you and the on-site agent.  Don’t feel you need to handle this huge challenge on your won.  The on-site sales agent is in essence representing the builder so it is important that you have a realtor looking out for your interests.
  • Research, Research, Research: When you are making any substantial purchase it is essential to do your research. Look very closely into builders, their work and their references before signing any contracts to further work with any builder.  You will want to be sure that all of their licenses and insurance policies are up to date.  Ask questions about the sub-contractors that they hire and talk with homeowners who have recently had their homes built using the contractors you are considering.
  • Check out the fine print: A contract supplied by the builder which clearly work to only protect the builder and building company not the buyer. This is why it is crucial that you hire a real estate agent and lawyer to review the fine print of any and all contracts with the builder before signing on the dotted line. During each phase it is important to continue being represented.  Review all warranties offered so that you understand what they cover and what is not.
  • Hire a home inspector and proceed with a final walk through: Have the home inspected independently throughout the building process.  The pace builders are putting new construction homes together is gathering speed as the market increases.  Builders are human too and therefore subject to human error so to ensure that nothing is missed an independent set of eyes is helpful for you and the builder.  After the final inspection is done do an official walk through with the builder.  This is a great opportunity to point out both major and minor issues that need to be addressed before closing.  It is easier to address concerns before you are all moved in and settled.

Aspen Construction is an innovative building leader specializing in home additions, new construction, bathroom and kitchen remodeling.  For all of your home improvement needs including electrical services contact us today at http://www.aspencoinc.com/.

Aspen Construction

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