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Why mobile?
Mobile is a transformative technology and making the most of it means more than creating a mobile friendly version of your website.
Pervasive helps companies leverage mobile to extend and transform their businesses and the way they interact. Mobile enables a new way of engaging which combines immediacy and a contextual understanding of the user and their environment.
Customer Engagement
As consumers become more educated about mobile, they have become more willing to engage, and have also come to expect certain features and services. The following are just a few ways that Pervasive has seen utilized to engage customers, in order to increase revenue and improve customer satisfaction:
- Provide access to marketing materials and product information via mobile optimized site(s)
- Engage customers via gamification and/or tie-ins to social networking sites
- Allow customers to purchase products from the mobile channel
- Identify and engage customers when they arrive at your location
- Provide customers with a richer experience based on an understanding of their past behavior and preferences
- Transact with customers via mobile payments and digital loyalty programs
- Allow customers to transact via their channel of choice, with a consistent, seamless experience
- Enable customer access to account information and allow them to transact with systems
- Provide order status and other timely updates
- Provide digital copies of paperwork such as membership cards
- Provide customer self service, moving customer support to the lowest cost channels while increasing customer flexibility
Process Efficiency and Cost Reduction
Mobile provides an opportunity not only to enable access to back office systems, but to enhance those transactions by leveraging the immediacy of mobile and the device's additional capabilities (i.e. GPS, camera, accelerometer, etc). Pervasive has helped our clients save hundreds of millions of dollars by using mobile to drive efficiencies like these:
- Manage workflows, automate data collection and leverage GPS and cameras to improve monitoring/auditing
- Provide real time access to CRM systems, catalogs and pricing information
- Allow sales team to create real time pricing models and other simulations based on information provided during customer meetings
- Provide shop floor access to ERP systems
- Enable supply chain partners with real time inventory levels for both WIP and finished goods
- Engage customers in the data collection process (e.g. Claims submission)
Find out how we can help your organization make the most of mobile.
Pervasive has helped clients envision, plan for, implement and launch mobile solutions for retail and e-commerce, field service and sales team enablement, customer account access and self-service, and supply chain optimization.


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Socially responsible brands are the first choice for many consumers and with good reason. Consumers are passionate about causes and they deeply care about issues like sustainability and the protection of our environment. They care about what goes into making the final product, where the ingredients are sourced from, and the environmental impact of creating it. Consumers also resonate with brands that have a strong, social message such as the 'Like a Girl' campaign that was conducted by Always. Also, if you notice, a lot of start-ups are implementing this learning in their strategies. A classic example of this is Taloma Backpacks. They developed a business model that enables people to make a difference in impoverished regions of Africa, by simply buying a backpack. Start-ups and established brands alike are adopting policies and practices that are socially and environmentally responsible.
Here are 5 crowd favorites:
The famous One for One Campaign by TOMS is the perfect example of a big brand being socially responsible. For every pair of TOMS you purchase, the brand sends out a pair of footwear or eyewear to less fortunate people in impoverished areas of the world. This campaign is more than just a marketing strategy and focuses on not only promoting the sale of their shoes but also on engaging with their customers and spreading awareness about issues that matter. Brownie points for TOMS because their shoes are incredibly comfy as well.
2. LUSH Cosmetics
Lush specializes in fresh, handmade cosmetics with ingredients that smell like they're good enough to eat (they're not food-grade so don't try). But what makes this brand special is the array of causes that they stand for. Lush has a 'Charity Pot', a lotion that is crafted specifically for charity. The proceeds are donated to multiple, worthy causes. Their stance on animal cruelty is commendable, and they host a number of events supporting Animal Rights activists to end animal testing, the fur trade, and cruelty towards animals. Their products are 100% handmade, vegetarian, and crafted with care. What's more, each ingredient is ethically bought from different parts of the world as they are staunch believers in fair trade.
3. The Body Shop
A brand that prides itself on their use of natural, fair trade ingredients, The Body Shop's products are all certified cruelty-free by PETA, although not all of their products are vegan. They have been campaigning to stop animal testing for years, and have actually seen success at the policy level. They also have product lines like their Hemp Collection which raise funds for worthy causes. If you subscribe to their mailers, you will realize just how many of them are mobilizing the community for a greater cause.
4. SolarCity
SolarCity is the largest solar power provider in the US. To begin with, they're already super green because they deal with sustainable energy. This ecologically aware brand also has a foundation which donates solar power systems to schools in South America and Africa. Doing good, while doing good!
5. Levi Strauss
Levi Strauss has been in the clothing industry since 1873. This is one brand that has truly evolved with the times. Since the birth of the Waterless production process back in 2011, the brand has saved over 1 billion liters of water! They've also taken up social causes like removing the stigma related to HIV/AIDS and are doing their part to reduce their carbon footprint. That's truly clothing that you can live in.
These brands go to show that opportunities exist for concerned brands to do good in all areas of their business – manufacturing, product development, and even in the way they use their profits. We believe (wish) that more brands and companies go down this road. After all, nothing feels as good as giving back to society and our planet right?

subset: commoncrawl


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Tony Bennett is an American treasure. He was Frank Sinatra's favorite singer, Lady Gaga has a tattoo honoring him, he has sung for 11 U.S. Presidents, has 20 Grammys including lifetime achievement and is still playing to audiences at age 91!
Mr. Bennett came to Sarasota's Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall on Saturday night to play a makeup show for the cancelled performance last year during Hurricane Irma. The sold-out show had an eclectic crowd, from baby boomers to octogenarians, kids to rockers and everybody else in between.
His daughter, Antonia Bennett opened the show with a short set of standards. Her voice was beautiful, smooth with a bit of an occasional rasp that had a cool vibe. Antonia has attended Berklee School of Music and travels all over the world with her father.
Tony appeared in suit and tie smiling and waving to the first of many standing ovations of the night! He is all business about music and played back to back classics with little chat. From "Fly Me to the Moon", "The Good Life", "The Way You Look Tonight", and of course his signature, "I Left My Heart in San Francisco", he never missed a beat, a line or a note. His strength in holding notes on several songs was absolutely amazing. The audience shouting out between songs, "We love You Tony! A humble Bennett talks about gratitude for his lengthy career.
His four-piece quartet is stellar. He gives each member individual attention as he makes his way around the stage and they take solos. As a unit, they are impeccable and with Tony's voice are one whether playing jazz, classics or pop songs.
Mr. Bennett has had such an interesting life from his upbringing in New York City to his being a renowned artist and painter. The Rat Pack and most of his contemporaries are gone but Tony Bennett keeps their era alive as well as staying contemporary by continuing to record and tour with some of today's biggest music artists. We have been lucky to experience a true artist in Tony Bennett who keeps giving! Be sure and check out his official website for everything Tony! www.tonybennett.com
photos by Vicky Sullivan / Rock the Lens Photography


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Fit - RegularStyle - Crew NeckDetails - Ribbed Neck Line, Cuff and Hem, Embroidered Logo, Finest Italian YarnMaterial - 100% CottonColour - Pastel GreenStyle Code - 50384144
This Pastel Green Pacas_L Jumper from the German brand Hugo Boss, made from the Finest Italian Yarn with a ribbed crew neck, this Pastel Green jumper, is a firm favourite from us here at Pritchards. A tone-in-tone embroidered logo on the chest is the brands subtle but classy branding.
Please contact us for our Delivery & Returns Policy


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Flood pulsing is a natural hydrolic occurrence in ecosystems of rivers, streams, and cypress swamps, and plays an important role in seed dispersal and thus successful long term restoration. This book bridges the information gap between universities and the public and private sectors by presenting timely and useful research in an area of restoration where until recently, there has been very little information.
Contributors. Preface. Chapter 1: The Flood Pulse Concept in Wetland Restoration (Beth A. Middleton). Chapter 2: Flood Pulses and Restoration of Riparian Vegetation in the American Southwest (Julie C. Stromberg and M. K. Chew). Flood Patterns and Riparian Vegetation in the Desert Southwest. Flood Pulses and Riparian Restoration. Conclusion. Chapter 3: The Role of the Flood Pulse in Ecosystem Level Processes in Southwestern Riparian Forests: A Case Study From the Middle Rio Grande (Lisa M. Ellis, Clifford S. Crawford, and Manuel C. Molles Jr.). An Altered River: The Case of the Middle Rio Grande. Consequences of the Altered River: Some Obvious Problems. Research at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge: Floods, Fire, and the Litter Connection. Fire: Its Relationship to Flooding and Litter Buildup. The Future: Restoration of the Flood Pulse. Chapter 4: The Role of the Flood Pulse in Maintaining Boltonia decurrens, a Fugitive Plant Species of the Illinois River Floodplain: A Case History of a Threatened Species (M. Smith and P. Mettler). The Flood Pulse and Boltonia Decurrens. Adaptations to Cyclical Flooding. Alteration of the Flood Pulse. Restoration of the Flood Pulse to the Illinois River Valley. Protection for B. decurrens Under the Endangered Species Act. Policies and Prospects for the Future. Chapter 5: Conservation and Restoration of Semiarid Riparian Forests: A Case Study from the Upper Missouri River, Montana (Michael L. Scott and Gregor T. Auble). Introduction. Riparian Forests in Dry Regions. The Upper Missouri River, Montana: A Case Study. Conclusions. Chapter 6: Implications of Reestablishing Prolonged Flood Pulse Characteristics of the Kissimmee River and Floodplain Ecosystem (Louis A. Toth, Joseph W. Koebel Jr., Andrew G. Warne, and Joanne Chamberlain). Hydrogeomorphology of the Kissimmee River Basin. Flood Pulse Ecology. Restoration of the Flood Pulse. Restoration Expectations. Conclusions. Chapter 7: Flood Pulsing in the Regeneration and Maintenance of Species in Riverine Forested Wetlands of the Southeastern United States (Beth A. Middleton). Hydrologic Reengineering of Forested Wetlands. Regeneration Problems for Plant Species on Floodplains with Altered Hydrology. Restoration Approaches. Index.
Subsequent chapters of individual projects and the effect flood pulsing has had on each project s overall goals. (Hydro Review, January 2003) "This book provides pretty good information on the identification, distribution and environmental significance of more than 100 grasses, native and non native." (Aquaphyte, (Summer 2003)


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Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 09, 2018)
The dollar managed to rebound against most of its peers during the US session after a weak start earlier in the day. The S&P and Nasdaq continued their push for another round of record highs but the Dow closed in the red. FOMC members Bostic and Williams shared their views on the economy and warned of potentially weaker inflation weighing on rate hike prospects. Credit card spending leading up to the Thanksgiving holidays buoyed debt up from $20.5 billion to $28 billion in November while auto and student loans also ticked higher. Only medium-tier reports such as the NFIB Small Business index and JOLTS job openings data are due from the US today.
The euro returned most of its recent gains as traders worried about more words of caution in the ECB minutes due later in the week. Recall that the central bank upgraded their growth forecasts then but the announcement was seen as less hawkish than expected since it didn't contain much rate hike clues. Data from the region was actually stronger than expected, with retail sales up 1.5% versus 1.4% and the Sentix investor confidence up from 31.1 to 32.9 versus the consensus at 31.5.
The pound was able to hold its ground as the UK government started its cabinet reshuffle to strengthen its Brexit position. The Halifax HPI was weaker than expected with a 0.6% drop in prices versus the estimated 0.2% uptick while the BRC retail sales monitor posted another 0.6% gain. There are no other major reports from the UK today.
The franc weakened to most of its peers as risk-taking was in play during the latter trading sessions. Swiss CPI came in flat instead of posting the estimated 0.1% dip. Swiss jobless rate, foreign currency reserves, and retail sales are all due today and strong readings could also spur tightening expectations from the SNB.
The yen was in a weak spot as risk-taking came into play during the latter trading sessions. Japanese average cash earnings turned out stronger than expected with a 0.9% gain versus the projected 0.6% increase but the earlier figure was downgraded. The Japanese consumer confidence index is due next and a rise from 44.9 to 45.1 is eyed.
Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD)
The Loonie was the strongest of the bunch as it enjoyed a strong boost from the BOC Business Outlook Survey. Policymakers projected more sales activity but with some moderation, also highlighting the pickup in hiring and price levels. Australia's building approvals also beat expectations with a 11.7% gain versus the estimated 0.9% drop. Canadian housing starts data is due next.
[I]By Kate Curtis from [URL="https://www.tradersway.com/"]Trader's Way[/URL][/I]
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 10, 2018)
The dollar gave up ground as the yen advanced sharply in the earlier trading sessions, but the US currency was able to rebound as Treasuries hit record highs. Equities also continued their ascent in anticipation of a positive earnings season kicking off on Friday. US JOLTS job openings and NFIB Small Business Index both disappointed while import prices and final wholesale inventories data are due next.
The euro was able to hold its ground thanks to upbeat medium-tier data. German industrial production rose 3.4% versus the estimated 1.9% gain while their trade balance printed a larger surplus of 22.3 billion EUR versus the estimated 20.7 billion EUR and the earlier 19.7 billion EUR. French trade balance came in weaker than expected, though. French industrial production is due next, along with the German 10-year bond auction.
The pound struggled to stay afloat on the lack of major reports from the UK and fading sentiment from the cabinet reshuffle. Today's UK manufacturing production report could change that as analysts predict a stronger 0.3% increase compared to the earlier 0.1% uptick. The goods trade balance is also due and a larger deficit of 10.9 billion GBP from the earlier 10.8 billion GBP is eyed.
The franc continued to slide against most of its peers as data came in mixed. The unemployment rate held steady at 3.0% as expected but the earlier reading was negatively revised. Retail sales posted a better than expected 0.2% dip instead of the estimated 2.5% fall while foreign currency reserves ticked slightly higher from 738B CHF to 744B CHF. There are no other reports due from the Swiss economy today.
The yen was the start of the forex show as it jumped across the board when the BOJ reduced its JGB purchases. This revived taper hopes after officials hinted at exiting their aggressive stimulus program late last year. Data from Japan came in mixed, with average cash earnings up 0.9% versus the estimated 0.6% uptick and the consumer confidence figure slipping from 44.9 to 44.7 instead of improving to 45.1.
The comdolls were able to score some wins against a few of their rivals but the rallies were limited as gold was weighed down by risk-taking and the Loonie didn't join in the crude oil rally. Canadian housing starts turned out weaker than expected while China's CPI fell short of estimates at 1.8% versus 1.9%. PPI was slightly better than expected at 4.9% versus 4.8% but still lower than the earlier 5.8% gain. EIA crude oil inventories are due next.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 11, 2018)
The dollar was in a bit of a weak spot due to reports that China plans on trimming its Treasury holdings. US equities also capped off their positive streak as fresh concerns on NAFTA emerged and medium-tier reports such as import prices and wholesale inventories disappointed. Initial jobless claims and PPI figures are due today, providing clues on how Friday's CPI readings might turn out.
The euro was mostly weaker after France reported a larger 0.5% drop in industrial production versus the estimated 0.4% dip. There were no other reports to support the shared currency then, so it was dragged down by weaker European equities. Italian retail sales and the region's industrial production numbers are lined up today, but the ECB minutes could be a bigger catalyst for euro action.
The pound had a mixed run as it appeared to react to currency-specific factors. UK manufacturing production was slightly better than expected at 0.4% versus 0.3% while industrial production came in line with expectations. The goods trade balance had a wider deficit of 12.2 billion GBP versus the expected 10.9 billion GBP shortfall while the earlier figure was downgraded.
The franc was able to take advantage of the risk-off vibes stemming from reports that China could trim its holdings of US bonds. There were no reports out of Switzerland and none are due today, so market sentiment could keep pushing franc pairs around.
The yen was the main beneficiary of risk-off flows after China hinted that it could reduce its holdings of US Treasuries. This comes after the BOJ's reduction of JGB purchases, which many interpreted as a taper signal. Japanese leading indicators is due next and an improvement is eyed.
The Loonie was the weakest of the bunch as Canadian government officials worried that Trump could pull the US out of NAFTA in the next round of talks. Canadian building permits also disappointed with a 7.7% slide versus the estimated 0.7% drop. Australia reported stronger than expected retail sales growth of 1.2% versus the estimated 0.4% uptick.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 12, 2018)
The US dollar was dragged lower by downbeat PPI data, as both headline and core readings posted 0.1% declines instead of the estimated 0.2% gains. This could mean a weaker CPI for the same month, which would reinforce lower inflation expectations and rate hike odds. Headline CPI could show a 0.1% uptick while the core reading could be up by 0.2%. Retail sales data is also due today and stronger spending figures are eyed.
The euro got a strong boost from the ECB minutes as policymakers dropped more tightening hints. In particular, the minutes suggested a change in forward guidance shared by members of the committee and a shift in their inflation outlook on expectations that price pressures would eventually take hold. Italian retail sales and euro zone industrial production also beat expectations. French final CPI and Italian industrial production numbers are due next.
The pound had a mixed round as it advanced to the dollar but slid to the euro and consolidated against most of its peers. There were no major reports out of the UK economy yesterday while today has none on tap as well.
The franc trailed the euro after the release of the ECB minutes as the odds of tightening in the region meant less need for the SNB to keep the franc weak. Also, a higher EUR/CHF exchange rate would likely be positive for trade and inflation in Switzerland. There were no reports out of the Swiss economy yesterday and none are due today.
The yen gave up ground on risk-taking but managed to outpace the dollar. Japan's leading indicators ticked up from 106.5% to 108.6% but the current account surplus fell short of estimates. The Economy Watchers Sentiment index is due next and an uptick from 55.1 to 55.2 is expected.
The Kiwi was one of the bigger winners of the day as risk-taking kicked in. The Aussie lagged behind as weaker gold prices came into play while the Loonie failed to follow the oil price rallies on NAFTA concerns. China's trade balance turned out stronger than expected, lifting the Aussie and Kiwi on stronger demand expectations.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 16, 2018)
The dollar was down in the dumps as banks were closed on a holiday and the usual stock market rallies weren't there to buoy the currency higher. Only the Empire State manufacturing index is due today and a gain from 18.0 to 18.5 is expected. Stronger than expected results, combined with positive earnings data, could lead to a pickup for the dollar.
The euro was one of the top performers in recent sessions thanks to hawkish commentary from ECB official Hansson. He hinted that the central bank could end bond purchases in September and that currency appreciation won't hurt their inflation outlook. The region's trade balance also came in better than expected while medium-tier reports like German final CPI and Italian trade balance are lined up today.
The pound also scored decent gains and shrugged off dovish remarks from a BOE official, as well as the collapse of Carillion. There were no major reports out of the UK then while today has inflation numbers due. Headline CPI could dip from 3.1% to 3.0% while the core reading could fall from 2.6% to 2.7%, probably weighing on tightening hopes.
The franc was also one of the stronger currencies as it trailed the euro and took advantage of dollar weakness. There were no major reports out of Switzerland then while today has a speech by SNB head Jordan. Any hint of potential intervention could keep a lid on franc gains.
The yen was able to advance against the dollar but gave up ground to most of its peers. BOJ Governor Kuroda reiterated their pledge to conduct easing but bulls seem unconvinced since the central bank reduced its JGB purchases recently. Tertiary industry activity data is due next, then core machinery orders data is due tomorrow.
The Loonie also strengthened against most of its peers as some traders held out hopes for a BOC hike this week. Crude oil also kept advancing despite rising US output expectations. In Australia, new motor vehicle sales picked up by 4.5%. New Zealand has its GDT auction coming up.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 17, 2018)
The US dollar continued to tumble across the board on concerns about a potential government shutdown and weaker performance in energy stocks. The Empire State manufacturing index fell from 18.0 to 17.7 instead of improving to 18.5. Today has the industrial production and capacity utilization rates due. FOMC member Mester also has a speech lined up after the release of the Fed Beige Book.
The euro got hit by reports that German coalition talks once again failed but was able to regain ground when ECB members gave a few more hawkish remarks. The shared currency even shrugged off warnings that currency appreciation could dampen inflation. Final CPI readings are due next.
The pound was dragged slightly lower by downbeat CPI readings as the headline figure slumped from 3.1% to 3.0% as expected while the core CPI fell below expectations to 2.5%. RPI and HPI both beat expectations, though. There are no major reports due from the UK today but MPC member Saunders has a testimony lined up.
The franc was one of the top performers of the day as dollar weakness and a bit of risk-off vibes in the earlier sessions spurred demand. SNB head Jordan refrained from jawboning the currency in his latest speech as well.
The yen also took a lot of risk-off flows form the dollar despite weaker than expected PPI data. Core machinery orders, on the other hand, beat expectations with a 5.7% jump instead of the estimated 1.3% slide. There are no other reports due from Japan so market sentiment could push yen pairs around.
The Loonie was one of the weakest currencies as crude oil slumped from its record highs while traders took some long positions off ahead of the BOC decision. A 0.25% rate hike is eyed but policymakers could stress that they would be cautious about future tightening. In New Zealand, the dairy auction yielded a 4.9% gain in prices while Australia reported a 1.8% gain in its Westpac consumer sentiment index.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 18, 2018)
The US dollar was in a weak spot for the most part of the day but staged a late rally when Fed officials started sounding more upbeat and hawkish. The Fed Beige Book also indicated modest to moderate growth in 11 out of 12 Fed districts, with strong price pressures from most. FOMC member Mester expects more contribution from tax reform to growth while Fed official Evans shifted to a more optimistic tone. Building permits and housing starts are due next, along with the Philly Fed index.
The euro was weighed down by comments on how the currency's appreciation could dampen inflation and tightening odds. Final CPI readings were unchanged at 1.4% for the headline reading and 0.9% for the core figure. There are no major reports due from the euro zone today so ECB commentary could continue to influence the shared currency's direction.
The pound took advantage of euro weakness and was able to recover slightly against the commodity currencies despite the lack of top-tier data from the UK. Today has another empty economic calendar so market sentiment could push pound pairs around.
The franc had a mixed run but was mostly weaker to the higher-yielding currencies as risk-taking came into play. There were no reports out of the Swiss economy then and none are due today, so sentiment and currency-specific action could drive the franc.
The yen took advantage of dollar weakness but gave up some of its gains later on. There were no reports out of Japan then while today has the revised industrial production numbers due, although analysts don't expect a change from the earlier 0.6% estimate. As with the franc, sentiment could be the main driver, along with dollar direction.
The Loonie had a volatile run ahead of the BOC statement but eventually held its ground as Poloz and Wilkins reiterated their optimistic views. The central bank hiked by 0.25% but expressed concerns about NAFTA. Australia's employment change figure printed a 34.7K gain versus the estimated 13.2K increase. The previous reading enjoyed an upgrade from 61.6K to 63.6K. China has a bunch of major reports namely GDP, retail sales, industrial production, and fixed asset investment due.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 19, 2018)
The dollar lost ground to its peers once more as the threat of a government shutdown weighed on investor sentiment. Data also turned out mostly weaker than expected, with housing starts posing a huge drop from 1.30M to 1.19M as the weather-related demand was not sustained. Preliminary UoM consumer sentiment data and inflation expectations are due next, but the focus could be on the funding bill.
The euro gave up ground once more when the likelihood of a German coalition dropped. There were also no major reports out of the region and today only has the current account balance on tap, which suggests that political updates could determine the shared currency's direction. Failure by Merkel to strike a coalition could be bearish for the euro.
The pound held its ground against most of its counterparts despite the lack of top-tier data from the UK. Today has the retail sales report due and a 0.8% decline is eyed, erasing part of the earlier 1.1% increase. Stronger than expected data, however, could prove bullish for the pound.
The franc was the main beneficiary of risk-off action and dollar weakness, as well as the selloff in the euro. There were no major reports out of the Swiss economy then and none are due today, so sentiment could continue to push franc pairs around.
The yen also took advantage of dollar weakness but was slightly weaker to the commodity currencies. Japan's industrial production reading was revised down from 0.6% to 0.5% and there are no reports due today, leaving sentiment and bond yields as potential drivers for yen price action.
The Aussie drew some support from better then expected jobs data but gave up some of its gains when China's data failed to impress. Most of the readings came in line with estimates, as fixed asset investment was unchanged at 7.2% instead of falling to 7.1% while industrial production ticked slightly higher. Canadian manufacturing sales is lined up next.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 22, 2018)
The dollar is on weaker footing owing to the US government shutdown, which threatens to drag equities and bonds while it lasts. There are no major reports lined up for today and futures are pointing to a weak open for US markets as the dollar has also gapped down over the weekend.
The euro had a stronger open as German coalition talks had positive updates over the weekend. As it turned out, SPD is backing talks with Merkel but no agreement has been struck yet. Still, these could push the shared currency around over the next few days before euro zone PMIs and the ECB decision take the spotlight.
The pound held on to most of its gains from the previous week despite the 1.5% slump in retail sales and is eyeing the UK preliminary GDP report this week. Another major report lined up is the claimant count change and average earnings index, which would provide some clues on inflation and consumer spending. There are no major releases from the UK today.
The franc has been able to take advantage of dollar weakness despite the lack of top-tier data from Switzerland. SNB officials have been mum about currency intervention, so traders don't appear too wary of sudden shocks. There are still no reports due today so sentiment could keep pushing franc pairs around.
The yen has been supported thanks to dollar weakness but is behind overall to higher-yielding currencies as risk-taking is present. The BOJ decision is coming up tomorrow and yen traders might be looking to liquidate some of their positions ahead of an event risk.
Comdolls have held their ground and continued to advance to the dollar as China's data still showed promise. Canadian wholesale sales data is due today and a 1.0% gain is eyed. Retail sales and CPI figures are lined up throughout the week and might influence BOC hike expectations as the central bank sounded optimistic in last week's announcement.
By Kate Curtis from Trader's Way
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 23, 2018)
The US dollar caught a bid on reports that Congress passed another temporary funding measure to reopen the government. However, the lower-yielding currency barely held on to its gains as risk appetite took over. Only the Richmond manufacturing index is due today and a dip from 20 to 19 is eyed.
The euro was able to stand its ground as the SPD agreed to start coalition talks with Merkel's party. There were no reports from the euro zone on Monday's London session while today has the ZEW economic sentiment report. Germany could show a gain from 17.4 to 17.8 in its reading while the region could see a rise from 29.0 to 29.7.
The pound also carried on with its climb despite the lack of top-tier data as the government continued to make progress in its Brexit transition plans. UK public sector borrowing data is due next and a fall from 8.1 billion GBP to 4.2 billion GBP is eyed. The CBI industrial order expectations index is also due and a drop from 17 to 13 is expected.
The franc gave up some ground after SNB head Jordan mentioned that the currency is still overvalued despite the recent drop. Another SNB official Weber contended that the currency is highly valued but moving in the right direction. Apart from that, risk-taking has weighed on the Swiss currency as well. There are no reports due from Switzerland today.
The yen is on edge ahead of the BOJ decision as some expect the central bank to take a more upbeat tune after their adjustment on long-term bond purchases earlier this month. However, BOJ head Kuroda has also previously reiterated their commitment to their aggressive easing program. In any case, yen pairs are expecting additional volatility during the announcement and presser.
The comdolls were big winners for the day thanks to risk-taking. The Aussie and Kiwi have already been on a tear for the most part of the day on upgraded growth forecasts by the IMF while the Loonie trailed behind as NAFTA concerns and a fall in crude oil lingered. Canadian wholesale sales also came in weaker than expected with a 0.7% gain versus the projected 1.0% uptick. There are no reports due from the comdoll economies today.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 24, 2018)
The US dollar was the weakest currency for yet another day as risk-taking and weak data dragged it down. Safe-haven flows also moved to the Japanese yen and Swiss franc instead. The Richmond manufacturing index slumped from 20 to 14 versus the consensus at 19. Flash manufacturing and services PMI are due next, along with existing home sales data.
The euro had a mixed run as it advanced to the dollar but weakened to the pound and comdolls. Data turned out stronger than expected as the ZEW readings from both Germany and the entire region beat estimates. Flash manufacturing and services PMIs are due next, and small dips are eyed. Updates on the German coalition talks should continue to influence the shared currency as well.
The pound was able to hold its ground on stronger than expected public sector net borrowing and CBI industrial order expectations data. UK jobs data is due next and a lower claimant count change of 2.3K is eyed compared to the previous month's 5.9K increase in joblessness. The average earnings index could hold steady at 2.5% while the unemployment rate could stay unchanged at 4.3%.
The franc took its share of safe-haven gains despite the lack of top-tier data from Swizterland. There are still major reports due from the Swiss economy today, so market sentiment could push franc pairs around.
The yen gained ground after the BOJ was slightly more hawkish than expected. Still, the central bank decided to keep rates and bond purchases at current levels. Apart from that, the lower-yielding Japanese currency took advantage of dollar weakness. The flash manufacturing PMI is due next.
The higher-yielding comdolls once again gained ground on risk rallies, with the Loonie drawing additional support from NAFTA developments. Key members of the negotiating groups acknowledged that some progress is being made, although Trump still seems prepared to walk away without a deal. EIA crude oil inventories data and New Zealand's quarterly CPI report are lined up next.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 25, 2018)
The dollar suffered yet another selloff after Treasury Secretary Mnuchin remarked in the Davos summit that a weaker dollar is good for trade. US data such as services PMI and existing home sales also turned out mostly weaker than expected, keeping traders doubtful about the Fed's tightening plans this year. New home sales, initial jobless claims, and the goods trade balance are up for release today.
The euro continued to rake in gains despite fears of jawboning from ECB head Draghi during the policy statement later today. A handful of the PMI readings from Germany and France still posted upside surprises, keeping traders positive about the improvements in the region lasting for much longer. No actual rate changes are expected today but strong remarks against currency appreciation could mean losses for the shared currency.
The pound was the strongest currency for the day thanks mostly to Brexit developments and positive jobs figures. The claimant count was weaker than expected at 8.6K versus 2.3K, though, while the previous reading was revised to show a larger increase in joblessness. The average earnings index held steady at 2.5% as expected while the unemployment rate was also unchanged at 4.3%.
The franc also caught a bid in recent sessions as it took over the safe-haven flows from the yen and dollar. There were no major reports out of the Swiss economy yesterday while today has an empty schedule as well, leaving market sentiment to stay in play.
The Japanese yen had a mixed round as it gave up ground to the pound but managed to outpace its other rivals, particularly the dollar. Japan's flash manufacturing PMI improved from 54.0 to 54.4 versus the consensus at 54.3. Japanese CPI readings are up for release in tomorrow's Asian session and this could impact BOJ tapering expectations.
The comdolls took advantage of dollar weakness but were slightly weaker to the yen and especially against the European currencies. New Zealand's quarterly CPI came in weaker than expected with a meager 0.1% uptick versus the estimated 0.4% gain or the earlier 0.5% increase. Canadian retail sales data are lined up next and the headline figure could show a 0.7% gain while the core reading might be up by another 0.8%.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 26, 2018)
The US dollar dollar drew some support in the New York session as US President Trump said that he sees the currency getting stronger and stronger. He also said that Treasury Secretary Mnuchin's remarks on a weaker dollar being good for trade as taken out of context. Data turned out mixed as the initial jobless claims rose from 216K to 233K but was better than the estimated 239K figure. New home sales sank from a downgraded 689K figure to 652K versus the estimated drop to 627K. Advance GDP data is due next and a 3.0% growth figure is eyed.
Volatility picked up for the euro after the ECB statement as the central bank kept policy unchanged as expected but Draghi had a few more insights to share. He cited that risks remain balanced and that uncertainty is stemming from possible changes in US policy. He also explained that the central bank is not targeting exchange rates. There are no major reports due from the euro zone today.
The pound was able to score some gains against its peers despite the lack of top-tier UK data. High Street lending sank from 39K to 36.1K while the CBI realized sales index fell from 20 to 12. The UK preliminary GDP reading is due today and analysts expect to see another 0.4% expansion for Q4 2017.
The franc continued its advance even though SNB head Jordan warned that they could intervene in the forex market to curb currency strength if necessary. So far it looks like the franc is still taking some of the safe-haven flows from the dollar. There were no reports out of the Swiss economy then and none are due today, so market sentiment could push franc pairs around.
The yen regained some ground after the release of the CPI and BOJ minutes. The national CPI held steady at 0.9% as expected but the Tokyo core CPI fell from 0.8% to 0.7%. Meanwhile the BOJ minutes didn't contain any surprises and even had a few upbeat remarks. Dollar demand and sentiment could push yen pairs around.
The comdolls were able to hold their ground as risk-taking was in play but gave up some ground to the dollar when it surged. Canadian retail sales turned out mixed as the headline figure came in at 0.2% while the core figure showed a 1.6% gain versus the 0.8% consensus. Canada's CPI reports are due next.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook ( Jan 29, 2018)
The dollar regained some ground towards the end of the previous week despite weaker than expected GDP. The advance reading for Q4 2017 came in at 2.6% versus the estimated 3.0% expansion. Goods trade balance also disappointed but durable goods orders and preliminary wholesale inventories beat expectations. Today has the core PCE spending and personal spending and income data due.
The euro gave up some more ground towards the end of the previous week as a few more officials remarked on the currency's strength. In particular ECB member Villeroy remarked that currency volatility has been a source of uncertainty. Only the German import prices report is due today while the rest of the week has mostly preliminary CPI and GDP data.
The pound was one of the strongest currencies ending the week as progress on the Brexit transition plans and stronger than expected preliminary GDP of 0.5% lifted the currency. Medium-tier reports such as net lending to individuals, mortgage approvals, and the BRC price shop index are lined up over the next few days before the release of UK manufacturing and construction PMI data later on.
The franc was able to hold on to its wins as the currency shrugged off intervention threats from SNB head Jordan. Dollar weakness also drove the lower-yielding franc higher as a safe-haven alternative. There are no reports due from Switzerland today so sentiment could push franc pairs around.
The yen regained some ground as the dollar resumed its slide towards the end of the week. Japan has its household spending, retail sales, and the unemployment rate due in the next Asian session. Strong data could reinforce calls for BOJ tapering, although market sentiment would likely remain the driver for yen price action.
Canada's CPI reports showed some improvement, keeping Loonie traders hopeful for another BOC hike soon. Baker Hughes reported an increase in oil rig counts, though, and this could mean more output and downside pressure on the commodity. New Zealand has its trade balance due in the next Asian session and a smaller deficit is eyed.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 30, 2018)
The US dollar staged a decent recovery during the New York session on revived expectations of Fed tightening. This was spurred by remarks from several central bank officials highlighting the shift to tightening mode across the globe. Economic data turned out mostly upbeat, with the core PCE price index rising from 0.1% to 0.2% and the personal income figure up by 0.4% versus the 0.3% forecast. Personal spending, however, fell short at 0.4% versus the 0.5% consensus. The CB consumer confidence index is due today.
The euro weakened against most of its counterparts on risk-off vibes for the most part of the European session and on remarks from an ECB official highlighting the shift to global tightening. German import prices came in line with estimates of a 0.3% uptick. German preliminary CPI, French consumer spending, Spanish flash GDP, and the region's flash GDP are all lined up today.
The pound was one of the weaker performers as infighting in PM May's party ahead of the announcement on the EU's negotiating stance in the Brexit transition. There were no reports out of the UK economy then while today has net lending to individuals and mortgage approvals data on tap.
The franc took advantage of risk-off flows during the European session as the euro was also in a weak spot. There were no reports out of the Swiss economy then while today has the trade balance and KOF economic barometer on the docket. A smaller surplus of 2.54 billion CHF is eyed while the KOF reading could dip from 111.3 to 110.9.
The yen struggled to hold on to its recent gains as some of the risk-off flows returned to the dollar. Japanese data also turned out mostly weaker than expected as both household spending and unemployment rate missed forecasts, although the latter was due to higher labor force participation. Retail sales beat expectations with a 3.6% gain versus the estimated 2.1% increase.
The comdolls gave up some ground to the dollar but stayed resilient to the European currencies. In Australia, the NAB business confidence index improved from 7 to 11 while New Zealand's trade balance switched to a surplus of 640 million NZD versus the estimated 125 million NZD shortfall on stronger exports. There are no reports due from the comdoll economies today.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 31, 2018)
The US dollar rallied and reversed on profit-taking towards the end of the month and ahead of the State of the Union address and FOMC statement. No actual policy changes are expected but traders will be keeping their eyes and ears peeled for clues on the pace of tightening this year. The ADP non-farm employment change figure is also due and analysts expect to see a 186K gain in hiring.
The euro had a mixed run as data also came in mixed. French flash GDP up by 0.6% versus the estimated 0.5% expansion. German preliminary CPI turned out below expectations with a 0.7% drop, though, lower than the estimated 0.5% dip. The region's flash GDP came in line with estimates of a 0.6% growth figure. German retail sales and preliminary CPI readings are due today and stronger than expected results could revive ECB hike forecasts.
The pound was able to regain ground on BOE Governor Carney's optimistic remarks. In his speech, he said that inflation could stay above target longer as the pass-through effects of a weaker pound are just being seen. He also cited that wages are up, the labor market is tight, and that productivity and investment could still pick up. There are no major reports from the UK today.
The franc continued to rake in gains against its peers on risk-off flows and hesitation to buy the dollar. The Swiss trade balance came in stronger than expected with a 2.63 billion CHF surplus versus the estimated 2.54 billion CHF figure. However, the KOF economic barometer disappointed with a fall from 111.4 to 106.9. The UBS consumption indicator and Credit Suisse economic expectations index are lined up today.
The yen also managed to chalk up some wins on risk-off flows and dollar weakness. Japan's preliminary industrial production report turned out stronger than expected with a 2.7% gain versus the estimated 1.5% increase and the earlier 0.5% uptick. Japanese consumer confidence index and housing starts are lined up next.
The Loonie managed to stand its ground despite another down day for oil prices due to the API buildup of 3.2 million barrels. In Australia, the headline CPI was slightly weaker than expected at 0.6% versus 0.7% while the trimmed mean CPI came in at 0.4% versus 0.5%. Canadian monthly GDP and underlying inflation data are due today.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Feb 01, 2018)
The FOMC statement led to a bit of a boost for the dollar on stronger inflation expectations and the addition of the word "further" in projecting more tightening moves. Data also turned out mostly upbeat, with the ADP beating expectations for January even as the previous reading was downgraded. ISM manufacturing PMI is due today and a fall from 59.7 to 58.7 is expected.
The euro held its ground against most of its peers as CPI figures came in line with expectations. The headline estimate dipped from 1.4% to 1.3% while the core reading rose to 1.0%. Final manufacturing PMI readings are due from the region's top economies today.
The pound gave up some ground earlier in the day on reports that the EU might reject a trade proposal that would have little barriers for the UK in accessing the shared market. UK manufacturing PMI is due today and an uptick from 56.3 to 56.5 is eyed, with strong data likely boosting sterling once more.
The franc had a mixed run but was mostly in the green as it advanced to the yen, dollar, and commodity currencies. Swiss reports were weak, though, with both the UBS consumption indicator and Credit Suisse economic expectations index sliding lower. Swiss retail sales, manufacturing PMI, and SECO consumer climate figures are due next.
The yen was in a weak spot as risk appetite improved for the most part of the day and the dollar took back its share of safe-haven gains. Japan's final manufacturing PMI enjoyed an upgrade from 54.4 to 54.8 to reflect a stronger pace of expansion than initially reported. The bond auction is due next.
The Aussie and Kiwi were in rally and reverse mode, particularly against the dollar. Data from Australia was mixed, with the CPI figures showing slight dips but business indicators stayed strong. China's manufacturing PMI also dipped slightly based on official data but the Caixin figure was unchanged. Crude oil managed to hold its ground despite the surprise build in EIA stockpiles as the OPEC showed strong compliance to its output deal.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Feb 02, 2018)
The dollar was in a weak spot once more and failed to draw a boost from upbeat economic data. The ISM manufacturing PMI fell from 59.7 to 59.1 to reflect a slower pace of industry growth, but the reading was better than the 58.7 consensus. However, the jobs component posted a sharp decline, leading to downbeat expectations for the NFP. Analysts are expecting to see an increase of 181K in hiring, slightly stronger than the earlier 148K gain.
The euro was one of the top performers of the day even though medium-tier data was mixed. Rising bond yields and a stronger performance among European equities were likely propping the shared currency higher. There were also a few hawkish remarks from ECB officials calling the end of their QE program within the year. Spanish unemployment change, euro zone PPI, and Spanish preliminary CPI are due today.
UK manufacturing PMI came in weaker than expected as it slid from 56.2 to 55.3 versus the 56.5 forecast. Components revealed that the main cause for the drop was weaker output, even as prices and export levels rose. The construction PMI is due today and a dip from 52.2 to 52.0 is eyed, indicating a slower pace of industry expansion as well.
The franc was also one of the strongest gainers for the day as it took advantage of dollar and yen weakness. Apart from that, the Swiss SECO consumer climate improved from -2 to +5, outpacing the consensus at +2. Retail sales, however, came in weaker than expected with a 0.6% gain versus the estimated 1.5% increase.
The yen also weakened to most of its peers despite strong data from Japan. The BOJ didn't make any changes to its latest round of JGB purchases, underscoring their commitment to ultra-easy monetary policy. There are no other reports due from Japan so yen pairs could take their cues from bond price action.
The comdolls took advantage of dollar and yen weakness but were no match to the strength of European currencies. Data from Australia was mixed as building approvals tanked 20% while import prices posted a 2.0% quarterly gain. Earlier today, PPI also beat expectations at 0.6% versus the 0.4% consensus. There are no other reports due from the comdoll economies.
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Feb 5, 2018)
The US dollar staged a strong rally during the NFP release as the results came in better than expected. The economy added 200K jobs in January versus the estimated 181K increase while the December figure was upgraded to 160K. The unemployment rate held steady at 4.1% as expected while the average hourly earnings figure beat expectations with a 0.3% increase versus the estimated 0.2% uptick. The previous reading also enjoyed a positive revision to 0.4%. The UoM index also enjoyed an upgrade. The ISM non-manufacturing PMI is due today but might not have such a huge impact on the dollar since the jobs report was already released.
The euro gave up some ground to the dollar but managed to stay strong against the rest of its counterparts. Data from the region turned out mostly weaker than expected, though, with Spain reporting a larger 63.7K increase in unemployment versus the estimated 50.3K figure. Euro zone PPI also came in at 0.2% versus the estimated 0.3% increase. Euro zone retail sales and final services PMI readings are due today.
The pound struggled to hold on to some of its recent gains when the construction PMI came in weaker than expected. The reading fell from 52.2 to 50.2 to indicate a slower pace of industry growth. The services PMI is due today and a dip from 54.2 to 54.1 is eyed, although another disappointing read could mean more losses for the pound.
The franc was nearly nonstop in its rallies until the end of the week as risk-off vibes remained in the markets. There were no reports out of Switzerland then and none are due today, so market sentiment could remain the driver of franc price action.
The yen was in a weak spot for the most part of the day before recovering on profit-taking. The Japanese currency did gap higher at the start of the week to signal that traders were also cashing in on last week's moves. There are no major reports due from Japan, though, so market sentiment could push yen pairs around.
Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD)
The comdolls gave up ground to the dollar and most of their counterparts mostly on profit-taking and a pullback in risk appetite. Medium-tier data from Australia like the AIG services index and MI inflation expectations figure showed improvements. China's Caixin services PMI is lined up next and a dip from 53.9 to 53.6 is eyed.
[I]By Kate Curtis from [URL="http://www.tradersway.com"]Trader's Way[/URL][/I]
Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Feb 06, 2018)
The dollar was able to draw a bit of support from risk-off flows even as equities plummeted. The VIX posted one of its strongest single-day jumps while indices erased most of their gains for the year in what several analysts called a long-overdue pullback. US data was stronger than expected as the ISM non-manufacturing PMI climbed from 55.9 to 59.9. Only the trade balance and IBD/TIPP economic optimism index are due next.
The euro managed to gain a bit of support from Draghi's optimistic remarks but still caved to the dollar and yen. Draghi acknowledged that economic growth has been broad-based in the region and that they are more confident about inflation. Still, he cautioned that it's too early to call victory just yet. German factory orders and euro zone retail PMI are lined up next.
The pound struggled to stay afloat as it was bogged down by downbeat services PMI. The reading slumped from 54.2 to 53.0 versus the 54.1 consensus to show a weaker pace of industry expansion just like in the manufacturing and construction sectors. There are no major reports from the UK today so traders could react to Brexit-related headlines or price in Super Thursday expectations.
The franc was also among the top contenders as it raked in most of the safe-haven flows. There were no reports out of the Swiss economy then and there are none due today, which means that sentiment could keep pushing franc pairs around.
The yen was the strongest performer thanks to the sharp tumble among higher-yielding assets on a pickup in market fear. There were no reports out of Japan then and none are due today, so sentiment could still be the primary driver of yen pairs.
The comdolls were greatest hit by the slump in risk appetite as traders dumped riskier holdings. Gold managed to chalk up some gains while crude oil slipped. Earlier today, Australia reported weaker retail sales and trade balance data. New Zealand will release its quarterly jobs report next and might print a meager 0.2% uptick in hiring.
The beginner's guide to FX trading


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Seminars at Steamboat returns Thursday with Tamar Jacoby
What: Seminars at Steamboat presents Tamar Jacoby
When: 5 p.m. Thursday
Where: Strings Music Pavilion, Pine Grove and Mount Werner roads
Cost: Free, but tickets are required and can be picked up starting at 4:15 p.m. Thursday at the Strings Music Pavilion.
Steamboat Springs — Tamar Jacoby has spent the better part of her writing career trying to understand immigration-related issues.
She served as the deputy editor for the The New York Times' op-ed page and has written for the Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, the Weekly Standard and Foreign Affairs.
Through it all, Jacoby, who is now president of ImmigrationWorks USA and the third speaker in the 2011 Seminars at Steamboat series, has become one of the foremost experts on immigration and immigration policy.
Jacoby will speak at 5 p.m. Thursday at Strings Music Pavilion. Tickets are free and available for pickup at 4:15 p.m. at the pavilion.
In her current position with ImmigrationWorks USA, she helps small-business owners looking to advance better immigration law.
Her topic, dubbed "Are We Still a Nation of Immigrants?" will examine not necessarily the politics of immigration, but rather the policy behind it.
Immigration is "one of the big public policies that this country faces," Seminars organizer Jane Stein said. "There are politics behind immigration, but she'll be focusing on policy. One of her focuses will be how this is important for small businesses."
Jacoby contends that legalizing unauthorized immigrants would boost the country's economic performance. She says immigrants know market conditions and are quick to move to where jobs are.
In 1998 she authored "Someone Else's House: American's Unfinished Struggle for Integration."
"Immigration was on our list of topics," Stein said. "She's definitely an expert in the area."
Jacoby was in England on Tuesday and could not be reached for comment.
To reach Luke Graham, call 970-871-4229 or email email@example.com
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text: Two very desirable features of detectors are high sensitivity and high selectivity toward a particular class of compounds. Chemiluminescence is defined as the emission of ultraviolet, visible, or near-infrared radiation through the chemical excitation of a reacting species. In most cases of chemiluminescence, a chemical reaction results in an excited product that emits radiation upon relaxation to its ground electronic state.


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Photo blogging appeal
There is a significant number of people on the Web who believe that photo blogging is the most exciting kind of blogging that exists; and while building a photo blog – and maintaining it – is no more difficult than creating and updating a text-based blog, many people feel that the internet's high speed and full-color technology reaches the pinnacle of its appeal with the transmission of images. But what may be the most appealing aspect of this technology is the ease with which bloggers of all skill levels can upload photographs to their blogs on a daily, weekly, monthly or even occasional basis.
For those who like photography, photo blogging is a great way to highlight self expression while reaching viewers in an emotionally charged and aesthetically engaging way; and surfing photo blogs can also be helpful in getting a whole new perspective on this global society in which we live. It is important to keep in mind, however, that the selection of a blogging platform could play as important a role in photo blogging as shopping for the right camera. Choosing a blogging platform, whether it is free or requires payment, can feel overwhelming based solely on the many options to choose from.
There are several large blog-hosting platforms that dominate the blogosphere, but there are also less popular, smaller platforms a photo blogger can take a look at. But whether you decide to join up with an established platform like Blogger, WordPress or Technorati, or you choose to sign on with a smaller,
relatively new venture depends on what your priorities are. It is certaianly reasonable to assume that, for most bloggers – text-based, photo/video-based or otherwise – reliability will be among the most important reasons for choosing, and might therefore be the best reason to opt for a large and well known blogging site.
Thematic content
Of course it should come as no surprise that, many image blog owners are also photographers by trade, although the popularity of photo blogging continues to be very high among amateur shutterbugs, hobbyists and photography enthusiasts; and it seems self-evident that a majority of the most popular photo blogs have gained that popularity because the pictures on them are of the highest artistic caliber. If you guessed that a lot of the people who run these visually striking blogs are graduates of prestigious art schools and possess impressive professional portfolios, you would be right.
However, some of the most well-known and frequently visited photo blogs are as notable for their concepts as they are for the pictures themselves. Some popular photo blogs, like the popular blog, "Cute Overload," (this blog announced on January 18, 2016 that it was closing down) which features picture after picture of adorable animals, are more about the thematic content of the pictures than they are about the style in which the snapshots were and are taken. Keep in mind also that photo blogs, like many other Web-based entities, have established forums to display the work of highly skilled artisans whose work range from playful collections of curiosity to more serious photo-journalistic work.
This shows that photo blogging is a truly diverse form; and the fact that photo blogs are so easy to build as well as to update makes this kind of visual communication very democratic, while enabling people (bloggers) at all skill levels to become a part of the global conversation about the nature and value of photography today. But whether you are an artist or hobbyist who wants to create a photo blog; or you are just somebody who enjoys learning about new places and things, spending some time looking at the most popular photography blogs on the internet can be a very rewarding endeavor.
The world via photo blogs
You can travel to another place or another time by viewing pictures of faraway locations and long-ago eras; and you can see your own neighborhood with fresh eyes by discovering how local artists have photographed (depicted?) the town or city in which you live. Photo blogging enables people to communicate all of these things plus a lot more; and this makes it a very exciting part of the modern blogosphere. If you agree that the best thing about web technology is the capacity to help people reach each other in a very personal way from across great distances, then you may also agree that in many ways, a photo blog is the most successful kind of web site.


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Ask a professional about where you should stay in New Orleans when you visit. You can choose the Sheraton or the Marriott or the Hilton. You can choose an AirBnB. If you want to experience the real New Orleans the way it is lived by the people who live here, if you want to visit New Orleans like a New Orleanian, if you want to get in on more than one New Orleans secret, well, there is only one place to stay in New Orleans that I would recommend. I live in New Orleans and I am a professional. Making New Orleans recommendations is what I do for a living. Ask your doctor about New Orleans. I have the privilege of being able to append the initials 'DH' after my name. I am a Doctor of Hospitality. I will tell you the truth. The best place to stay if you want to get into the New Orleans state of mind is La Belle Esplanade. Good New Orleans memories that will last a lifetime are made on our street every day and in every way.
Here's a video I shot this morning…
New Orleans is magical. As a Doctor of Hospitality, I know more than 7000 things about New Orleans. I think about New Orleans full time, 24 hours a day. I think about New Orleans in my sleep. I live here. New Orleans is woven into every fiber of my being. I wouldn't go so far as to say that I am New Orleans. I will say, however, that New Orleans is me. I love New Orleans.
This doctor is in.
People ask me why I love New Orleans as much as I do. Who asks me this? People who just stepped off their airplane. Spend an hour in New Orleans and the question won't even occur to you any more. It is self-explanatory. The question answers itself. Nobody ever says their visit is too long. When it is time to leave, their visit has always been too short. There are so many things to discover in New Orleans that five nights cannot be enough.
Even the worst day in New Orleans is better than a typical day spent in any other city. New Orleans casts a spell. I have lived in New Orleans for almost eight years. I am not going anywhere else anytime soon. I love New Orleans. You will love New Orleans, too. Good memories, the best kind, are made on Esplanade Avenue in New Orleans. New Orleans is magical, especially in our part of this city. Come discover the better side of New Orleans. The best parts of New Orleans are off the usual tourist radar.
If you find New Orleans confusing, I can't say I blame you. When Frau Schmitt and I first moved here, we were blinkered and bewildered by the many layers upon layers of the city's culture, too. Frau Schmitt is the better half of this operation. Both she and I serve as New Orleans goodwill ambassadors. Our appointed mission is to reveal the New Orleans state of mind to visitors to this fair city we both call home. There is nowhere so good as New Orleans. Ask your doctor.
If you are bored in New Orleans, you have a hole in your imagination. That's my professional diagnosis.
I am a Doctor of Hospitality (DH). That and $10 will get me a half dozen Oysters Rockefeller at Antoine's. My doctorate in hospitality will, however, guarantee that you will get introduced to a side of New Orleans that you don't know anything about. There is an off-the-rack New Orleans experience and then there is a curated, bespoke, boutique experience of New Orleans overstuffed with recommendations tailored to your particular tastes. Ask your doctor about New Orleans. He will give you a prescription of things that will suit you best. Welcome to the better side of New Orleans. Welcome to the New Orleans state of mind.
À votre santé,
La Belle Esplanade
…ranked the #1 inn in New Orleans and in Louisiana, the #3 inn in the U.S., the #17 place to stay in the whole world.
Friday, February 9, 2018: . It is the Friday before Mardi Gras. Aside from the Children's Parade that rolled down our street this morning, there are three big parades on St. Charles Avenue tonight. A lot of other Mardi Gras events transpired and unfolded today, as they will every day until after the big day, itself. Visit New Orleans like a New Orleanian and you'll discover more about what it means to be in love with this magical city Frau Schmitt and your humble narrator call home. New Orleans is magical.


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When a fearmonger speaks, people listen
- Details
- Published: 07 October 2015
- Written by Joseph Allen
- Hits: 6955
"The end of the world is nigh!" For millennia that spiel has attracted people to gloom and doom prophets. After all, what could be more attention-grabbing than a perpetual threat on the horizon? Less ambitious religious leaders limit their dire warnings to witches, curses, and demons, but the multitudes are still gripped by panic, regardless of the presence or absence of actual danger. Could it be that when our amygdalas squirt fear all over the place, we naturally trust the doomsayer? Pascal Boyer and Nora Parren think so. Their recent research suggests that, all things being equal, people are likely to judge someone relaying threat-related information as more competent than the bearer of boring news.
WARNING: The following study may disrupt your sense of well-being. Proceed with caution!
Anthropologist Pascal Boyer is a Guggenheim Fellow best known for his ambitious theories on the naturalistic origins of religion, which draw on neuroscience, information systems, and evolutionary biology. Nora Parren is a research assistant at the Institute of Cognition and Culture whose international work focuses on the psychology of violence and harm. These two researchers jump off from the premise that, as social creatures, humans depend upon each other for critical information about the environment. If two heads are better than one, the eyes of an entire community are better than two – although some people's vision is more trusted than others. The authors cite previous research which shows certain individuals can easily sway the crowd through swaggering authority, dashing good looks, and in-group signaling. However, in addition to these biases, Boyer and Parren hypothesize that humans also tend to judge sources of "threat-related information" to be more credible. If true, this psychological bias may be the mechanism underlying the rapid spread of terrifying rumors and the frequent violence that follows them.
The researchers conducted five web-based experiments utilizing the M-Turk online survey program. The first three studies tested the primary hypothesis, while the next two eliminated confounding variables. Population samples were pulled from the Unites States, and were relatively small (an average of 127 for the first three, and 69 for the two followups). It is worth noting that gender and ethnicity were somewhat skewed toward white males in some instances, women and minorities in others, which may have affected the results.
In the primary studies, participants read explanations about three new products, ostensibly delivered by various company representatives. The first two studies featured a guided trek in the Amazon, a database program, and a recipe for wildebeest stew. In the third study, they presented a seaside vacation, a new line of diapers, and a washing machine.
Each product presentation was given by two different "company reps," for a total of six reps per experiment. Both statements about each product contained identical information with different wording, but with an important variation: one description had a sentence containing "threat-related information," while the other contained either a neutral or nonthreatening negative sentence as the control. Subjects were then asked to rate each representative's competence.
For instance, the participant read descriptions of an Amazonian trek written by "Emilia" and "Maria." Both laid out the details of what the vacationer could expect, but where Emilia vaguely stated that "There are many species of colorful birds and flowers," Maria warned "There are leeches that cling to your feet and can give you very serious deep burns."
Over 70% of respondents rated the rep who included threat-related information as being more competent, with only 25% choosing the neutral delivery, and a fraction choosing "Don't know." Participants showed the same overall preference for the threat-mentioning software rep and the wildebeest gourmet who warned against overcooking, although the latter showed less bias.
The second study basically replicated the first, only instead of a neutral sentence, the control sentence was a nonthreatening negative statement. For the trekking vacation, this read: "The Amazon is the poorest region of Brazil, with fewer schools, cities, and roads..." This control was used to eliminate any possibility that participants were biased merely toward negative information rather than threats specifically. As predicted, the results were nearly identical to the first study: the majority judged the source who conveyed threat-related information to be more competent.
Interestingly, the third study showed mixed results. This could be because of gender differences (the sample had a greater female-to-male ratio), the content difference, or differences in perceived level of threat. Despite this seeming inconsistency, the overall results of the three primary experiments show overwhelming confidence in individuals who warn of potential danger, with two follow up studies controlling for both perceived honesty and pleasantness—neither of which influenced judgments of competence.
The takeaway lesson: scare tactics may or may not be a crowd-pleaser, but at least they give the impression that you know what you're talking about.
Boyer and Parren situate this cognitive tendency in the ecology of human evolution. According to their interpretation, reflexive trust in people who convey information about danger is an artifact of a dangerous and unpredictable ancestral environment. In a world teeming with mastodons and poisonous mushrooms, individuals who freak out every time a boy cries wolf are likely to survive in greater numbers than those who ask what the wolf looks like. False positives are safer bets than false negatives. Repeat that algorithm for a thousand generations and you have a population distribution favoring those who instinctively react to warnings – whether the threat exists or not. This does not explain why the trait isn't universal in the U.S. sample, and Boyer and Parren admit their evolutionary interpretation remains speculative until cross-cultural studies are conducted. Even so, the authors' extrapolations to human nature and wider social phenomena do provide a compelling scenario.
Boyer and Parren's paper will hopefully stimulate cross-cultural research into this topic. Whether the tendency to trust fearmongers is biologically universal or culturally specific, what's most important is that the answer to this question might kill us all. You heard it here first.
For more, read "Threat-Related Information Suggests Competence: A Possible Factor in the Spread of Rumors " in PLOS ONE.


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Metro PD: Close to Youadmin
The description of Metro PD: Close to You
Read the Prologue and Episode 1 for each character for free!
You're a rookie detective, and you've got a new case. You're tracking down dangerous criminals with your experienced partner,but what's waiting for you after the danger's over?Is it just case closed? Or could this be the beginning of life-changing romance?
■Exciting and RomanticLate night stake-outs together, going undercover as boyfriend and girlfriend… You're focused on solving the case, but you can't ignore the distractingly handsome man at your side!
◆Character Profiles◆
The warm-hearted boss – Hiroshi KirisawaThe man at the heart of 2nd Unit, this straight-laced lieutenant is clueless when it comes to love.As you chase after bad guys together, something more than just a professional relationship develops…
The arrogant genius – Kazusa HanaiHe can be kind of full of himself, but this elite detective's leadership skills are top notch. The two of you go undercover as a couple, but in the end there's no acting necessary…
The confident case-closer – Yutaka TennojiA talented detective from Osaka, Tennoji talks tough, but he's got a heart of gold.Right before getting wrapped up in a serial bombing case, he makes you a promise you'll never forget…
Please check the FAQ before contacting us. If you still need help after reading the FAQ, use the Contact Us button from within the App or use the App Support button on this page.Please be aware that we cannot respond to Google Play reviews or Facebook posts.
————————– IMPORTANT INFORMATION ————————– 【Compatible】OS 4.0 and later【Not compatible】OS 3.0 or below——————————- *Please note that Voltage games are not playable on rooted android devices.If your android is rooted, please unroot your android and restart an app to play.
How to play Metro PD: Close to You on PC
Download and Install Nox App Player Android Emulator. Click here to download: Download(FREE)
Run Nox App Player Android Emulator and login Google Play Store
Open Google Play Store and search Metro PD: Close to You Download
Install Metro PD: Close to You and start it
Well done! Now you can play Metro PD: Close to You on PC, just like Metro PD: Close to You for PC version.


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On Thursday, I finished my first knit skirt sufficiently to wear it to dance class. I was surprised how much I liked it, because I picked the pattern mainly to practice working with knits and using my new coverstitch machine, ie I made this skirt to build sewing skills rather than because I wanted to wear a skirt like this:
In the photo above, I paired the skirt with the v-neck top (Kwik Sew 3115) that I made from scrap fabric.
Here is New Look 6470, which is now out of print but was very popular for some time for the crossover and cowl-neck tops. On PatternReview, there are over 70 reviews of this pattern, though few are of the skirt!
Here is my review:
Pattern Description:
Misses tops and skirt.
Pattern Sizing:
A (8-18). I sewed a size 14. I hesitated about what size to make and decided based on the listed finished garment hip size: 40.5″. My hips are 38″, and I decided I wanted some ease since I used a very lightweight knit and wanted to be able to move/dance in it.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes. This is a very simple, four seam skirt. Just two pattern pieces!
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
This skirt is extremely simple: four seams, waist elastic/casing, and a hem. Considering how simple it is, it is fairly flattering. I wore it to dance class, and got complemented on it: "Great dancing skirt!" It is also quite comfortable, moves well, and does not fit too snugly around the legs. The flounce moves very nicely when walking and dancing! Overall, a nicer skirt than I expected.
I don't like running elastic through a casing, so I tried a new method for attaching the waistband, which is described second on this page. In short, I ignored the directions in the instructions, sewed the elastic into a circle, then stitched it to the top of the skirt (1/4″ below the top), stretching the elastic to fit. Then I folded the elastic into the skirt and used my coverstitch machine to stitch the elastic down. It was my first time using this method, and with some trial and error it turned out reasonably well.
I also hemmed using my new coverstitch machine, and followed a tip by happycamper on the Amazon review page for the Brother 2340CV. I did long straight stitch an inch from the bottom of the skirt, then used that basting thread as the "hinge" for pressing the hem up. Then, when stitching the hem with the coverstitch machine, I pulled gently on that basting thread to help the fabric feed evenly. The hem that resulted was just beautiful.
Fabric Used:
A lightweight, denim-look synthetic knit. It looks nice, but I wouldn't buy it again because it develops pulls easily!
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I didn't make any alterations to the pattern. I did make a minor "design change": I serged the flounce to the skirt pieces, but when I wore the skirt the first time, I managed to rip that seam by stepping on the skirt. Ooops. I reserged that seam, then I topstitched the the flounce to the skirt. That should give a little extra strength.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I actually might! I'm not wild about elastic waistbands, but this skirt looks surprisingly nice, goes together easily, and is lovely to dance tango in. I dance a lot of tango, so it might be nice to have a couple simple, pretty long skirts.
Super simple skirt, suitable for a beginner, that helped me learn several new skills. It moves well.


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Standards Details For:
Retrieving matching standards
There are One-Stop Career
Centers throughout the
United States.
And they provide job seekers
with training referrals,
career counseling, different
job postings or openings,
as well as a number of other
employment-related services.
And they provide all of
these services in one place.
One-Stop Career Centers provide
services to all kinds of people
with a wide variety
of employment needs.
One-Stop Career Centers offer
many excellent services.
One of these is an orientation
workshop for new job seekers,
in which they explain all of
the services they provide.
Each One-Stop Career
Center addresses local
employment needs.
They provide assistance
for people
who are first time job seekers,
as well as the unemployed
or those looking to retrain
and start a new career
or even people who are
currently working but may want
to find a different job.
It's not hard to find
the One-Stop Career Center
in your area.
You can go online, or call
a toll-free telephone number
to find your local
One-Stop Career Center.
We also have a Supporting
Documents page on the website
with additional information
about how you can find your
local One-Stop Career Center.
By going to the PEPNet website,
you'll look for the
Getting a Job video series,
which will bring you to a link
entitled Supporting Documents.
And by clicking on that
link you'll see a number
of different documents.
Look for the one called
One-Stop Career Centers.
And once downloaded, this
document will provide you
with additional information.
Not all One-Stop Career
Centers will have accommodations
ready and waiting for you
when you walk in the door,
such as interpreting services or
real-time captioning services.
However, each center is
required to have a plan in place
for providing those
So it is your responsibility
to know what accommodations
you need.
And you also must request those
accommodations explicitly.
It's often a good idea
to get a Case Manager
from the One-Stop Career Center.
Case Managers can be the key
in helping you coordinate
your job search
and can even coordinate and pay
for interpreters
for job interviews.
Requesting accommodations
may be the key
to accessing the
services you need.
You can do this by sending an
email or by going in and asking
for those accommodations
in person.
We do have a document that
explains the services provided
within the One-Stop
Career Center.
If you go online to
the PEPNet website,
look for the Getting a Job
video series,
and from there you
can find a sample
of what an email
message should contain
when you're requesting
a specific accommodation
from the One-Stop Career Center.
Let's look at
some typical services
that most One-Stop
Career Centers provide.
One, job listings.
These are simply job
openings at various companies
that you can access from
the One-Stop Career Center.
Two, assessments.
These can help you identify your
skills and then know what types
of jobs you may be good at.
Three, career counseling
to discuss your future.
Four, referrals
to job openings.
This means that a company
may have an immediate need
to hire individuals, and the
One-Stop Center can refer you
to apply for those
jobs immediately.
Five, onsite interviews.
This means an employer
may accept applications
or host interviews at the
One-Stop Career Center.
Six, workshops.
These are classes where you can
learn more about the job search
and the employment
services available to you.
Seven, help in applying for
financial assistance in order
to pursue additional
training or education.
And this service is
provided at no cost.
To find out what else your
local One-Stop Career Center has
to offer, it's best for you
to contact them directly
and inquire about the
services that they provide.
You may also consider
asking your teacher
or your school guidance
counselor if you
and your classmates can visit
your local One-Stop Career Center,
so you can
familiarize yourselves
with the services offered there,
and you can understand how
to access the center's services.
The goal of the
One-Stop Career Center is
to work collaboratively
with other agencies.
This collaboration ensures
that services are provided
more accessibly, conveniently,
and efficiently for your use.
One example of this type of
partnership is the relationship
between the One-Stop
Career Center
and Vocational Rehabilitation,
or Voc Rehab.
This partnership can greatly
enhance your job search process.
X Showing Result 0 of 0
Transcript Options
Now Playing As: Captioned (English)
American Job Centers (also known as One-Stop Centers) are designed to provide a full range of assistance to job seekers under one roof. Established under the Workforce Investment Act, and reauthorized in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act of 2014, the centers offer training referrals, career counseling, job listings, and similar employment-related services. Part of the "Getting a Job" series.
Runtime: 9 minutes
Getting a Job! (An Introduction)
Your Journey
Your Rights and Responsibilities
Introduction to Vocational Rehabilitation
One-Stop Career Centers
Overview of Social Security Benefits
Supplemental Security Income Program (SSI)
Social Security Disability Insurance Program (SSDI)
Your Ticket to Work
Your Job Search
Funding provided by the Department of Education
Administered by the National Association of the Deaf


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Light and Reflection
Tuesday night is the 8th annual Guerrilla Truck Show…
Tuesday night is the 8th annual Guerrilla Truck Show, Morlen Sinoway's indy furniture fair-cum-full-blown block party on Fulton Market near Aberdeen. While you're in the neighborhood, don't miss "Light and Reflection," a group show featuring new lighting and mirror concepts by six (mostly) local studios including M26 Studio, Ben Salthouse, Bridget Soldan, Strand Design, Studio Murmur, and Weetu. Judging by this piece, the Noma B2 Pendant by Evan Ward of M26, it'll be worth your time. The party runs from 5-10 p.m., 217 N. Carpenter.
How to Scent Your House
2 months ago
How to Turn Your Fish Tank Into a Garden
5 months ago
How a Self-Help Guru Decorates Her West Loop Home
5 months ago
Help! My Partner and I Have Opposite Tastes in Decor
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Thirty phones seized in dawn raid on prison raid on Portlaoise prison
INMATES at the country's maximum security prison have been directing criminal activity from their cells using using mobile phones and modems to access the internet, gardai believe.
Gardai found 30 phones as well as USB sticks and a number of internet modems during a surprise search on E Wing in Portlaoise Prison early yesterday.
Security sources say that the devices were being used by dissident Republicans to direct terrorist and criminal activities from the wing, which houses members of a variety of dissident Republican gangs.
It is understood that the prison authorities, working with the Crime and Security Branch in Garda HQ in the Phoenix Park, had uncovered "strong intelligence" that several well-known dissidents had access to phones.
The search operation had been planned for some time.
The phones and modems were being used by high-ranking members of the criminal terrorist groups to co-ordinate activity on the outside, including a number of protection rackets and the sale of drugs.
A spokesman for the Irish Prison Service confirmed that a substantial amount of contraband was found in the swoops.
The spokesman said: "A major search operation by the Operational Support Group and Portlaoise Prison staff is currently underway in the E Block of Portlaoise Prison which houses subversive prisoners.
"The search commenced at 7am and is a planned intelligence-led search.
"At present, approximately 30 mobile phones and a number of modems and USB keys have been discovered. For operational and security reasons, no further comment will be made at this stage."
Portlaoise Prison is one of the most secure jails in Western Europe and houses terrorists and major gangland figures.
Heavily armed troops patrol the perimeter and staff are also equipped with weapons capable of shooting down unauthorised aircraft in the event of an escape attempt. The Irish Prison Service has been attempting to rid the various jails of mobile phones and installed high-tech equipment to block their use.
However, one source last night told the Irish Independent that the use of mobiles to organise criminal activities and murders on prison landings still continues.
The controversy over the prisoners' access to illegal phones in Portlaoise first blew up in 2007 when notorious armed robber and violent criminal John Daly phoned Joe Duffy's Liveline programme from his prison cell.
The call led to a major clampdown in the prison and the seizure of hundreds of phones as well as a large amount of alcohol and drugs. Warders even seized a number of pet budgies which had been smuggled on to the landings.
Irish Independent


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The Laurel magazine is a FREE magazine!
Below is a list of locations in Rabun, Habersham, Towns, Stephens and White counties in Georgia and the town of Franklin, North Carolina, that have the Georgia Mountain Laurel free for you to enjoy. Be sure to thank them because without their support you would not have the opportunity to enjoy the magazine.
Dillard, GA
Dillard House
Scooter's Restaurant
Valley Cafe
Valley Pharmacy
Holiday Inn
Dillard BP gas station
Dillard Post Office
The Cupboard Cafe
Mtn City, GA
Mtn City Post Office
The Cutting Edge
Clayton, GA
Butler Galleries I
Butler Galleries II
Main Street Gallery
Prater's Bookstore
Mtn Nature & Wild Bird Supply
Cannon's Furniture
Tanner's/ Doncaster Outlet
Reeves Hardware
Old Clayton Inn
Christmas and More
Clayton Pharmacy
Ken and Kerri
Harry Norman Realtors
Clayton Paint and Flooring
Assist at Home Senior Care
Mtn Physical Therapy
Lulu and Tully's
Grapes and Beans
Patterson's Carpet
Rabun County Chamber of Commerce
Huddle House
Ingles Market - Outside
Mishima Express
Blue Ridge Music
Beechwood Inn
WalGreens Pharmacy
CVS Pharmacy
DuVall Ford
First American Bank
Bud's and Blossoms
Remax of Rabun
Mama G's
Quality Inn
Sky 104
Mtn Lakes Medical
Clayton Welding
Black Bear Creek Antiques
Timpson Creek Gallery
Tiger, GA
Rabun County Senior Center
Tiger Food Mart
Tiger Post Office
Wiley, GA
Wiley Post Office
Hillside Orchard Farms
Rabun Metal Products
Medica Rabun
Lakemont, GA
Lakemont Post Office
Lakemont Gallery
Barn Inn
Tallulah Falls, GA
Tallulah Gallery
Hwy 197/ Lake Burton/ Batesville, GA
Mtn Patrol
La Prades Marina
Mark of the Potter
Helen/ Sautee Nacoochee, GA
The Willow's Pottery
Shotgun Annies
Sunburst Stables
Clarkesville, GA
Homestead House
Hawg Wild BBQ
Soque Artworks
Woods Furniture
Mountain Gallery
Sheild Realty
North Georgia Shutters and Blinds
Cornelia, GA
Habersham Chamber of Commerce
Books with Appeal
Jaemor Farms
Toccoa, GA
Dr Joe WIlbanks
Dreamgivers Gallery
WRAF Radio
Hiawassee, GA
Towns County Chamber of Commerce
Anderson's on the Square
Bacchus Wine Shop
Mountain Realty
Inspirations / Hen's Nest
Age Later Spa
Britt & Capri
Brown Haven Builders
Body Sense
Wine Cottage
Young Harris, GA
Brother's Restaurant
Blairsville, GA
North Georgia Stone
Blairsville Chamber of Commerce
Hayesville, GA
Clay Co. Chamber of Commerce
Phillips and Lloyd
Clay Co. Historical Society
Franklin, NC
Fresh Eggs
Creative Framing
Fire & Light Glass Studio
Furniture Barn
My Favorite Things
Stewart's Jewelry
Shuler's Country Store
Silver threads
The Art Room
Franklin Chamber of Commerce
Rosebud Cottage
NC Mountain Made
Moore Refunds
Buck's Furniture
Asheville Eye Care
Fire & Light Glass Studio (Otto, NC)


text:
The practice of crowdsourcing a brand identity. What we learnt from using Crowdspring
One of THE buzzwords of 2009 in the creative industries was 'crowdsourcing'. It divided opinions to say the least.
Some people saw it as a more flexible, more open, more direct (and cheaper) way of getting things done.
Others saw it as a threat, as the death of their industries.
Crowdsourcing is a reality that won't go away just yet and instinctively we've always leant towards to the first group, but divisive issues need to be tried and tested.
We already used crowdsourcing techniques very succesfully in our RAAK logo experiment, but that project was of course of a more personal, a more creative nature.
So when we got the chance to apply the concept on a commercial project, with a real client, we jumped at it.
And this is what we learnt.
The job was to design a website and a brand identity for a start-up consultancy agency called Consultifi. Because of our plug-in model, we don't work with in-house designers and normally we would tap into our network and instruct the most suitable designer for the job. But this time we decided use the Crowdspring service, boasting more than 45,000 designers.
After a good 10 days, we ended up with no less than 218 entries. Some of them were variants on the same theme or re-workings, but we did have about 120 unique designs. Not bad for an unglamorous, serious business consultancy company.
The client was happy and we thought it was quite a success, so below are a few things we learnt from our experience.
* Consider paying more
We analysed the mean and average of the budgets of similar concepts. We decided to stretch our budget a bit. Because by doing so, we would sit in the top 5 of 'logo and stationery' projects and not amongst those other $500 briefs.
Also, we do believe in the motto "you get what you pay for", so by increasing the amount we were hoping to reach out to better designers. Crowdspring says their stats confirm that: the more you pay, the more entries you get.
But of course, more doesn't necessarily mean better.
* Include things you don't want in your brief
Saying that the brief is important is stating the obvious, but I was surprised to find how few people include what they don't want.
Creatives will only send in a design if they think they have a chance of winning. Remember: they see this as a competition. They're up against 45,000 other designers. So the more doubts you can take away from them, the more likely it is they will have a shot at your brief. If you don't want black-and-white, spell it out from the start. If you don't want capital letters, tell them.
The brief for a boring immigration law job did just that and despite the relatively low budget, they got over 200 entries.
But won't that close off certain routes, I hear you think? Nah.
Even though we briefed the creatives to create a logotype and ignore a non-text logo, some of them still sent one in. And even though we asked them to avoid the word 'consultifi' in all lowercase, some still used it.
If creatives feel strong about their idea, they will go off-brief. I've experienced this with music video directors, with graphic designers,…: if they think it works, they will try and convince you.
In this project, one of the designers even wrote a long email about why he thought we were wrong.
You can't always predict what will work and what not, so we did consider some of these entries.
* Set aside enough time for feedback
On that immigration law job I mentioned above, the client also gave lots of feedback on each design. Another a reason of the quality of their entries, I think.
Crowdspring recommends you give ratings. One, because it's only fair to the designers and two, because it will improve the designs. Other designers go and read your feedback on other entries and learn what you want and -again- what you don't want.
As a comparison: a more creative, exciting project (for a media agency) with a similar budget only got 60-odd entries. But they did stop rating and giving feedback after a few days.
I found the rating system quite hard to manage, because a 3-star rating in the beginning might only have been a 2-star later on, once we got better entries.
But the feedback opportunity is very useful. It does give you the chance to finetune designs directly with creatives. And it does make the process more human.
* Don't end your project on a Monday
Simply because there's a chance you will receive a massive amount of entries in the last few days. In our case, a good 40% of the entries only came through in the last day. Not sure if this is because creatives fear being copied or simply because deadlines are there to be pushed.
But it does leave you with little time for feedback. Especially if those last days are a Saturday and Sunday and you don't want to spend that time rating almost 100 designs.
* Be prepared to make quick decisions at the end
Especially if you work for a client. We sort of missed that you're meant to make a decision within 7 days. And we hadn't anticipated our client going on holiday. We were open about it and told the creatives, but then realised Crowdspring's terms state that they have the right to chose a winner on your behalf if you take too long. Admittedly, when we contacted them, they got back to us really quickly, assuring us that we were doing the right things. So I'm not sure if they ever apply that power.
From a functionality point of view, Crowdspring could make the decision-step a little bit easier by adding a shortlist functionality. That way you can compare all your 'shortlisted' designs on one page; and share that page with your client.
* Buy the URL from the company you're working for
A lesson we learnt the hard way. While we were running the project, someone bought the dot-com and dot-net urls for the company and then tried to sell it to us.
Is the Consultifi identity the best logo since the Swoosh? Probably not.
Will we use it again? Probably, yes.
Is it a replacement for design agencies? I doubt it very much. I would think that developing a brand identity that really makes a difference does benefit from a more traditional, in-depth (and thus more expensive) approach.
But it does offer a good opportunity for smaller companies or start-ups, who get the chance of getting a very decent design done for a very decent price.
And for creatives from all over the world (our 'winner' alexe is from Romania) to be exposed to briefs.
So it's definitely a force to be reckoned with.
Posted by Gerrie Smits


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The Universal Water Filter Cartridges pack from Aqua Optima uses a unique 5 step filtration system to reduce impurities from tap water, effectively removing limescale, herbicides, pesticides, lead and other heavy metals. Each filter lasts for up to 150 litres, approximately 4 weeks of average use.
The universal design can be used in the BRITA Maxtra* (not maxtra +)* filter jugs and other leading brands. The bundle contains 12 Aqua Optima Universal water filter cartridges
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