Livingston Reporting - page 294

Residential Gate Operators and Control Systems

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

In the last decade electronic gates and gate operators have become more common place in residential homes because of lower costs as well as ease of availability. Most homeowners can now afford the benefits of increased safety and privacy that comes along with the installation of aluminum privacy fencing and aluminum entrance gates.

When it some to choosing a gate operator for your new aluminum gate and fence there are two choices: swing and slide gate operators.  Both systems offer the same benefits with the only difference being the style in which the gate opens.  As the names would apply a sliding gate slides open as a swing gate opens swings open.  Both offer the benefit of preventing access to people or vehicles without the proper entry system such as a keyless remote, a keypad or other options in entry control.

Electronic entrance gates are designed for a variety of applications including industrial and residential use.  Residential entrance gates are designed to be used for single family use with normal traffic.  If installing an electronic gate for a community or commercial purpose you will find the need to purchase a different grade gate operator, a gate operator made specifically for more traffic.  Both swing and slide gate operators can be enabled using DC and AC models with battery and/or solar panel options.

When choosing between a swing and slide gate you will want to consider your driveway space and what method of opening is going to allow the gate to function properly.  You will need to consider the space when a vehicle is pulled into the drive as well as parked with in the drive.  If your driveway offers minimal space to open and close it is best to go with a slide gate that is compact and easily fits within itself.  Other considerations you will want to think about when choosing a gate and fence system is reliability, safety and security.

The three major benefits and rewards associated with electronic gates are privacy, convenience and security.  Privacy comes with the control the homeowners now posse in access into their driveway.  With the use of a gate homeowners need to make visual or audio communication to identify visitors before allowing them in.  This will detour thieves and salesman.

With the installation of a security perimeter fence and an aluminum entry gate you can for sure deter burglars.  Although if you leave the fence open you are losing the security benefits it gives you.  To keep your family and pets secure make sure to leave the gate closed at all times when you are home or away.  Surveillance cameras can also be used to enhance protection.  Cameras, aluminum privacy fencing and gates deter burglars by making your home as inaccessible as humanly possible.

An electronic entry gate offers comfort and ease of use as well.  Many homeowners with a fence in place refuse to get out of their car to open and close it, this is why having a gate operator eases the use of a fence.  A gate operator makes an electronic gate as convenient as a garage door opener and offers a great deal more security as well.

SAC Fence

The Importance Of Quality Computer Repair

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There is no question that computers have become an important part of our everyday lives in business and on a personal level.  When the network is down within a professional business environment work completely stops which means money is not being made.  This can be a huge problem.  From the router malfunctioning to the server failing all computer problems need to be addressed promptly by experienced IT professionals.  When it comes to your home computer or business network it is vital that computer help is only a phone call away.

 

Finding and retaining computer help has never been easier than it is now days.  Professional PC support is around every corner.  The problem exists in that not all computer help is created equally. There are a variety of options to choose from when it comes to computer services.  Do you prefer working with a large company that employs hundreds of technicians or a small company that has available two or three computer technicians?

 

There are benefits and drawbacks to both options.  A large big name computer repair service will most likely always have a technician available to help your with your computer issue no matter what time of day or what issue has arose.  The problem is that with hundreds of technicians available there is no guarantee on the level of service that you will receive being a dime a dozen client.  The other issue is that there is no way to guarantee that the technician that has previously worked on your network will be the one addressing the issue you are currently having.

 

With a smaller IT company you can almost always guarantee that the two or three technicians that work with your company are all familiar with your computers and the issues you are having.  With only a few people to communicate between you can rest assured that your company is a priority and making sure you are up and running a top speed is their most important priority.  The one drawback is that with only a few professionals available that you could call and all three could be tied up elsewhere, leaving you waiting on one of them to have a moment to open up to address your issue.  The great thing that happens when working with a small company is that when they do show up on sight they already know your system and history and can get it on the issue right away.  A larger company with lots of technicians will always need the history of the problem and what has already been done to try and correct the problem.

 

With any decision there will always be pros and cons.  When choosing between a large IT company or a smaller IT company to provide care for your business computers and networking needs here are some other things to consider: ease of access, accessibility, expertise, experience, credentials and your budget.  Check with several companies and check to see how they figure out their charges.  Check to see if there is an initial service fee, if drive time is charged and how they charge.  If you are working within a budget try to maximize your money by finding a company that doesn’t charge service call fees or drive time.  This way you will only be paying for the time that they are onsite actually working on repairing your computers, servers and networks.

 

Creative Programs and Systems

Improving Your Supply Chains Effectiveness With The Correct Logistics Plan

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

All companies hoping to be successful and competitive in providing products and services to consumers need to have implemented a strong, reliable logistics strategy.  Having this in place will allow your service levels to be high and unaffected during times of change throughout the rest of the business structure.  This is true of companies no matter how large or small. How though does a company pursue this dream?  Here are some tips to guide your company in the right logistics direction.

The first piece of advice is to reduce logistic prices, FTL, LTL and courier by leveraging your predicted volumes.  You must find a logistics provider that will offer your business competitive pricing upon start up using your predicted volume when you have no historic information to pull from.  This can save you a significant amount of money in discounts offered in freight costs.  This in turn improves your competitive edge and increases your cash flow.

Another tip that is effective in strategies employed for effective logistics is to practice a demand driven logistics method.  Match the demand for your products with your supply and this will decrease the amount of money spent on transport.  It also offers savings in replacing inventory and offering a high level of customer service which is the most important need of your business for growth.

Companies should initiate communication between sales and operations planning.  All of the business’s primary functions should come together and work as one.  Reviewing, discussing and planning future business activities with all partied who impact or are impacted in regular operations of the business.  A team approach will allow common goals and methods to achieve them to be understood throughout the company.

In larger companies it may be imperative for a logistician to be employed that can connect to the logistics world and lead with great interpersonal skills.  This person would be responsible for creating, implementing and creating a logistics plan that would be constantly changing to meet the demands of the business.  This person should bridge the gap between shipping and receiving allowing a flawless logistics flow.  They would work with all different freight carriers to not only find discounted shipping rates but unsurpassed service.

Creating a successful strategy for the logistics of your company could be something as simple as defining exactly what it is you wish to accomplish and what goals are to be achieved.  The supply chain strategy that is employees must bring into line the goals of the company, supporting them and helping them to be achieved.  Consider the goal and work your supply chain strategy around it.  If you have a goal of faster shipment speeds this logistics plan will look a great deal different from a company that is focused on low cost shipping.

Not all companies’ logistic goals are the same.  What is right for your company may not be considered a viable option to another.  Logistics is all about finding out what works well in line with your companies goals and future and creating a supply chain that fits into that plan.

 

 

Detroit LTL

Integrated Pest Management Techniques In Extermination Explained

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

We have created an environment that makes homeowners feel that the only way to truly feel accomplished is to attempt all projects on your own first.  The only problem with this is that we end up paying twice as much as we would have when we end up having to hire the professional to come in a clean up the messes we have made trying to fix our issues in the first place.  One arena this could not be truer for is in the area of pest removal.

There are several reasons that pest removal and bug control should not be done by homeowners but instead left to the professionals.  The most important reason is the fact that quality best control professionals use a system in removing, eliminating and preventing pest that allow pest removal to be done in an environmentally, pet friendly way called Integrated Pest Management or IPM for short.

Control tactics is the last step in IPM and the most important.  It states that there are three methods available to use in controlling, eliminating and preventing pests.  They should be applied to any situation in the following manner: cultural, biological and lastly chemically.  Without professional experience in IPM techniques and terminology it is easy to get lost.

Cultural control can be explained as steps taken to control pests not using chemical or biological methods.  In cultural control an eco-friendly method is applied to begin with.  For outdoor pests this may be something as simple as planting peppermint plants to help reduce and eliminate an overwhelming mosquito population in your yard.  If you have a flea infestation in your home the cultural control technique would be sanitation.  If would mean consistent cleaning and vacuuming of carpets, drapes and such as well as washing bedding and the flea breading grounds within your home.  It would also consist of regular checks and baths for pets.

Next we will take into consideration the biological control methods.  These are ways to control pest that use things in nature that do not have toxicity to humans, the environment or domesticated animals.  The biological method for flea control is using a flea predator such as a nematode to come in and eat the fleas and their larvae.  Another biological method would be with the use of a flea spray.  The spray acts as a predator and detours the fleas from getting comfy.  With IPM, a combination of methods can be used to combat an infestation.  You may use both cultural and biological to remove the fleas from your home.  You can sanitize while also using a flea spray to deter the bugs from making your home theirs as well. When you use a combination of methods you are decreasing the chance of needing chemical control in excess while decreasing the pest population.

Chemical controls in IPM consist of using the most environmentally friendly methods first to control, eliminate and prevent pests.  Many chemical products are now environmentally friendly and pet safe to use.  Options using citrus and lavender and other plant based products in a chemical combination are used over harsh chemicals that leave an imprint on our environment.

When hiring a pest control provider look for a local exterminator that employs IPM techniques over one that does not.  The last thing you, your family or pets need is to be subject to the intense effects of harsh pesticides and chemicals in your home.

Best Pest Removal LLC

Preparing For Fun In The Sun In Your Own Backyard

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Here in the North we make still have a foot of snow on the ground but I guarantee you spring is right around the corner.  It is the time to start thinking about summer fun especially if you are considering the addition of an in-ground gunite swimming pool.  A swimming pool is a terrific investment to consider.  Not only will it bring you hours of at home entertainment and exercise but it also increases the value of your home and property. A swimming pool built into your homes landscape comes with many decisions to be made.   Below are some tips to help ease you through the process of planning and installing a concrete swimming pool to enjoy this summer.

With the installation of a pool your home value instantly increases.  Construction of an in-ground, concrete swimming pool is an investment that not only adds value to your homes equity but also to the beautification of your landscape.  A gunite swimming pool is a permanent addition to your home thus giving added value to your home.  Added value in equity and the enjoyment you will experience at your own home.

When adding a pool to your backyard landscape you are altering the overall feel of your home.  You turn an ordinary home into a lavish retreat.  Breathtaking views are had when you add in landscaping, decking and a grilling station for all the outdoor enjoyment you can fathom.  Your home will quickly become a gathering point for friends and family.

When it comes to the installation of the new in-ground gunite swimming pool you have a ton of choices to make.  The pools plaster finish can be done in a variety of colors and designs as well as plaster finishes that will make your pool stand out.  Certain finishes can increase the longevity of the pools plaster allowing the pool finish to be practically maintenance free for years to come.

Concrete is the most resilient material a swimming pool can be made from.  Having a gunite swimming pool installed over vinyl or fiberglass, will leave you free of worry over cracks and tears for decades.  Although the expense of installing a concrete swimming pool is larger than vinyl upfront it will pay off in the end with the being free of maintenance for years to come.  The pools plaster will need to be reapplied every few decades, but this is a small price to pay for the years of maintenance free swimming a gunite pool will provide for your family.

A concrete pool can be poured in any shape or design imaginable.  When you are deciding upon a shape for your new pool it is best to meet with a pool designer and in-ground pool digger.  They will be able to advise you on what will look best in your space as well as giving you the most room possible for swimming enjoyment.  It takes about thirty to ninety days to get your new pool constructed and ready for fun.  Now is the time to start the process if you want to be enjoying fun in the sun in your own backyard this summer!

 

Pound Pool Plastering

Embracing The Small Details Of Your Home

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

It is amazing how the little things affect how you feel about your home whether you are just buying it or have lived there a life time.  Small flaws or perfect details, it all adds up and affects the overall feeling you have about your home.  For me I can go interior to exterior, room by room and point out all that is right and all that needs improvement; how those details reflect my overall feelings when I am at my home.

 

Let’s begin where every first impression begins, the exterior of the home, the curb appeal and landscaping.  With my home I knew from the moment we pulled up that I was in love.  We would be purchasing this home.  The large, welcoming French doors and the full landscape were all pieces that made this home our home.  There were however a few exterior landscape changes that didn’t tickle my fancy straight away.  For instance, we live on a river and with any river landscape there needs to be a feeling of true nature and outdoors.  This was missing.

 

The family before us loved a clean kept riverfront.  To me this just wasn’t what living on the water was about.  So we began to change up the riverfront landscape with assistance from a landscape designer that specialized in waterfront property.  It was wonderful to work with someone who could look at the lawn from a landscape and maintenance perspective and bring together exactly what we were looking for.  It did take about two years to full cultivate the native plants with the new rocky-river border but the end product, docks and all is the perfect landscape for our home.  Every time I come home and see the landscape I instantly feel relaxed and at peace.  It makes me feel at one with nature.

 

The interior still to this day has many imperfections.  They truly make the space feel like home.  Imperfections in the tiles grout makes me feel like the space is loved and lived in to its fullest.  The perfection is in the tiles.  They are the perfect combination of rust red, brown, blues and yellows that create flooring that allows you to feel that every detail has been thought of.

 

One of the homes major imperfections is found in the ceiling.  This is the one imperfection, yet to be fixed that makes me feel uneasy.  The tape around our ceiling has started to peel.  The home is older and we have been told that unless we are willing to peel up the old tape and add new as well as plaster the space again the ceiling will stay this way.  This is not happening.  The work that would need to be done is not work that can be done in a home that is being lived in.

 

Knowing that this one imperfection leaves me uneasy I have been diligent in researching easy fixes.  One I have recently come up with that I do believe is the perfect fix for the ceiling is to add crown molding.  It will cover up the separating tape and it is my hope that it will leave me feeling the same way I do about the tile and landscape; completely at peace.

 

It is amazing how the little imperfections and tiny pleasures within our home can create such rich feelings that can leave us so complete or incomplete.

 

CBA Outdoor Services

Removing Pool Plaster Stains

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

When it comes to inground backyard pools no one wants to swim in a pool where the plaster is littered with stains and discoloration.  Even when the pool water is clean the pool will look dirty with abundant stains on the plaster. There are several different methods to clean off the stains that are hindering your pools appearance.  From scrubbing to the use of chemicals one of them is sure to help you clean your pool and leave is sparkling for your summer swimmers.

If you find that your pools plaster is severally stained throughout the pool this is most commonly from a chemical reaction.  The advice in this article is for smaller stains, concentrated to smaller areas of plaster. Large plaster stains may require a professional pool plastering company to evaluate the proper technique to use on the plaster to regain its original finish.

For small, concentrated stains the methods below will help to remove and eliminate the stain on the plaster.

For a common stain that occurs often on the plaster of a pool such as metal the following cleaning methods can help.  A metal stain can come from a ponytail holder, a pop top, soda can or coin that falls into the pool.  When left without being noticed for a period of time a metal stain will occur.  A rust stain occurs when the metal comes into contact with the pool plaster.  The chemical reaction can cause a stain as quickly as overnight.  It is super important to remove any metal from the pool before it has time to create a reaction stain.

To remove a metal stain you can use one of the following three methods.  One of them should work for you.  The first method is using an emery stone to gently rubbing the stain.  Attaching the emery stone to a large pole will allow you to reach spots on the bottom of the pool. The disadvantage is that you need to be gentle as too much force will cause a visible mark where the stain was which defeats the purpose.

The second method involves using a concentrated amount of granular chlorine on the affected spot.  To effectively do this you must turn off the pools filter and pump.  The water should be still.  Place the granular chlorine in nylon or some material that will allow it to flow through and dissolve on the stain.  It should work as a bleaching agent and within a few hours of the pack sitting on the stain the chlorine will be gone and the stain should be removed.

Another method to removing stains that are on your pools plaster involves getting into the pool and using a wet/dry sand paper or sponge such as Scotch Brite.   With this method you sand the pools plaster surface slowly and gently removing the buildup causing the stain.  This method leaves a smooth surface without a visible difference to your pool’s plaster surface.  This method, if done correctly will leave the plaster smooth and stain free.

Pound Pool Plastering

Purchasing Insurance For Your Business

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

As a business owner it is your responsibility so make sure that you have business insurance to protect you, your business and your employees.  Insurance for your business exists to protect the time, money and effort that you have invested in creating a successful company.  General liability insurance exists to protect your venture.  As a business owner it is up to you to ask the right questions come time to find an insurance provider and insurance policy.

It is important to first know about the product you are purchasing to protect your business.  A general business liability insurance plan is in place to cover business owners from any the risk of loss due to unforeseen events such as weather, theft or lawsuits.  When you open a business you put yourself at risk therefore purchasing the correct business insurance is a necessity.  There are a few basics that you will want to cover with the insurance agents you interview when addressing your needs for business insurance.

First things first you will want to find out about the companies experience in selling liability insurance to companies with similar products or services to what you will be offering. Your personal insurance agent is not necessarily the best option when seeking out insurance for your business.  You will want an experienced agent in commercial insurance. Personal insurance agents often don’t have the knowledge or background to successfully navigate your business insurance needs.  The last thing you want after purchasing business insurance is to still be exposed to risk. Find a company that offers a background and experience with a variety of insurance liability needs for business owners.

You will want to look into a comprehensive insurance package that fits your wants and needs when it comes to insurance coverage.  There is not a one size fits all policy when it comes to covering your business.  When searching for insurance you will need to find a company that is willing to focus on insurance specifically for the products and services you offer.  They should also be familiar with the community in which your business will be open as well as the ability to point out risks that are unforeseen to you.  A qualified insurance agent will guide you in a direction that encompasses all areas of your business including those you have not previously considered.

Another thing to consider is an agent that is in this relationship with you for the long haul.  It is important to work with someone that knows as your business expands your needs will change as well.  Find a company that is reputable and known for their longevity, providing coverage for businesses that have seen progress and growth and have ensured their policies have grown with them.  Referrals and references are something that should never be taken lightly when looking into companies offering business insurance.  One place to start may be finding other locally owned businesses, similar in nature to yours and asking to talk to them about their insurance provider.  This could lead you into a direction you may have not thought about when it comes to providers of insurance for your business.

There are many providers that will provide your business insurance.  The key element you are looking for is a provider that is providing the correct coverage to fir your needs today and tomorrow.  A trust worthy efficient, knowledgeable agent is necessary in providing you coverage to effectively cover all of your business needs, seen and unforeseen.

 

Cobb Hall

Understanding Differences In Business Insurance Coverage

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Deciding to start a business is the easiest step in being an entrepreneur.  The rest however is an upward battle.  Making a business successful and protecting it against any and all unforeseen possibilities is the real challenges in owning your own business.  With everything in business that could go right there is something equal that could go wrong.  Sort of like Newton’s third law for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.  The goal is to prevent and protect yourself and your budding business from an array of unknown, unforeseen disasters.  You can do this with by purchasing adequate business insurance.

With so many different insurance agents offering such a wide variety of business insurance plans how is any one supposed to know what to purchase.  It can be an overwhelming process but one that is indeed important to the success of your business.  The first step is to locate a local insurance agent specializing in business insurance.  You should also have a clear understanding of the different types of business insurance you will be shopping for.

One type of insurance is property insurance.  This is a policy that is purchased to cover a business similar to the way homeowners insurance covers your homes interest.  Property insurance will cover any loss or damage to the business property or lost assets.  This is a must have for all business owners even if the dwelling that your business is located is being rented.  This type of insurance covers the machines and tools necessary to run your business.

Casualty insurance provides coverage for the company against lawsuits and legal liability should injury be sustained on your companies property.  This also includes coverage to property not owned by the business.

When you purchase general liability insurance for your company provides coverage for any damage your business is responsible for in regards to health, property and reputation.  This insurance is a policy intended to cover everything from legal issues to accidents from negligence.  This is the most important coverage you can purchase for your business and for yourself to protect business assets as well as personal assets in some cases.

Business interruption coverage is used to cover and make up for deficits in unforeseen situations such as natural disasters and catastrophic events. Business interruption coverage is there to bridge the gap in lost sales, rent, payroll and more until the business is back up and running following a major disaster.

Umbrella insurance for businesses is necessary coverage to have in case you have reached the limit of what other insurance policies will cover.  This insurance covers and costs above and beyond the original insurance policy coverage.  Basically you can consider umbrella insurance coverage for your business insurance policies.

When it comes to choosing the right coverage for your business it is important to start with an agent that is familiar with businesses similar to yours and their coverage needs.  The agent should be able to help find pitfalls in your business and offer coverage to protect you from them.  Local insurance companies are often the best as they are familiar with the community and location in which you will be doing business and can provide coverage specific to your needs.

 

Cobb Hall

When You Need Computer Repair Services Turn To The Experts

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

When it comes to choosing a computer repair company there are a ton of choices to choose form starting with big box chain computer stores to local computer repair shops.  How does a computer novice know where to turn when they have an issue and need computer help? To find the best help for your computer repairs we have established a few important tips to consider before dropping your computer off to be fixed.

It is important to note that where ever you take your computer to be fixed it must go through a diagnostic process to determine exactly what is going on inside the computer.  A sure sign that you are at the wrong computer repair shop is upon entering if the technician claims to know exactly what is wrong with your computer.  Lots of times symptoms all sound the same but lead to different computer repairs; it is your computers best interest to have a complete diagnostic ran before any diagnosis is even considered.  The first tip is to find a computer service store that starts with diagnostics.  Most repair shops will charge a half hour labor for this service that will be applied towards repairs if you decide to fix your computer.

When looking into local computer service stores check to find out what type of computers they have experience in and services they offer.  They should offer a wide variety of services such as virus removal, memory upgrades, blue screen repairs, hard drive failures, motherboard replacement and more.  You don’t know what could be wrong with your computer but you want to make sure whatever it is they will be able to fix it.

It is also significant to see what type of certifications the technicians have.  Computer repair techs should be qualified all aspects of computer services and should be certified in various operating systems.  Most technicians have at least a Microsoft certification.

It is also important to find a computer repair shop that offers repair methods other than those done in house.  In some cases you may need the technician to visit your place of business, home or even via remote control.  The shop that you want to build a relationship with is one that offers all of these services.  There may be a time where you just can’t get the machine into the office and need to make sure the technician can still help alleviate your computers problem.

Word of mouth is always the best way to find a place to do business.  If your friends and family like the service they received well enough to tell you all about it then you know that the place is reputable.  This is what you are looking for in the way of a referral to a local computer store that will help fix the issues you are having with your personal computer.  It may be hard at first and large box chains seem tempting as they have built a reputation on their name however note that their product reputation is far different from the reputation their services provide.

Creative Programs and Systems