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|Posted by mysorefeet on January 31, 2009 at 6:53 PM
After almost two years, I have finally crossed out one more item in my things-I-want-to-do-before-I-die list (or, simply put, my Bucket List). Actually, I really don't have a list-LIST. I just make it up as I go along. Hehehehe.
Hamilton's Balloon being deflated
Anyway, I woke up at the crack of dawn this White Rabbit Day of February (NZ Time, I have yet to figure out how to adjust the time and date settings on webs) because my much anticipated Balloon Ride was finally going to push through. I had to be at the Innes Commons at about 6:00 am because, according to Andrew (who we shall refer to as The Pilot), the best time to fly would be early morning when the breeze is not that strong yet and the wind speed is relatively stable. So, I had to drag my carcass out of the sofa (slept over at mum's because she said she'll take pictures of me going up in the air) at half past 5 and was driving to the Lake with mum at a bit before 6:00.
We got to the lake justa few minutes past 6:00 and they have not yet set the balloon up. I'm not entirely sure what they were waiting for - I hope they weren't waiting for late-comer me. Anyway, when everything was according to The Pilot's standards, they laid the balloon out, brought out an industrial sized fan and started blowing air into the flat balloon. When the balloon had fully inflated, The Pilot then cranked up the furnace and started blowing hot air into the balloon.
Inflating the balloon using regular air
It didn't take long before the big multi-coloured balloon was upright and ready to go. We were all asked to climb in so The Pilot could give us landing instructions and more importantly, so we could finally be on our way. According to The Pilot, the weather (which was obviously not that flash - it was drizzling and a wee bit cloudy) is expected to turn and he wanted to make the most out of that little window of opportunity before things turned for the worst.
Filing the balloon with HOT AIR
Lift off was surprisingly quick. The wind quickly picked up the balloon and before I knew it, we were airborne. The ground was suddenly moving away from us and soon enough, we could see the lovely little city of Hamilton from the sky.
Hamilton City & the Mighty Waikato River
Since the path of the balloon is entirely dependent on the direction of the wind, we flew South. We flew over Hamilton East, the University, Ruakura, and later on, flew over Strawberry farms, paddocks, and lots of cornfields. The Pilot said that our speed was about 23 kph which was good because we covered a lot of ground in a span of 1 hour. He said that the past weeks, they had absolutely no wind whatsoever that some of his flights hardly went out of the city limits. One time, he said they landed at Claudelands and another time, they landed at Innes Commons! Bah! How corny was that?!
After about an hour of flying, The Pilot told us that he would land his 'aircraft' as soon as he finds a good-sized paddock that is free from livestock and free from plantings. When he found a suitable landing field, he told us to go into our landing position (feet together, knees slightly bent, back against the wall of the basket, hands on designated handles - pulling the rope towards us) and prepare for landing.
We landed about 18-20 kms South of Hamilton, in a little town called Tauwhiri (I think, I have to check the map). We covered a sizeable distance considering his past flights barely got out of the city. Landing was not as smooth as take-off, but that's expected. It was a tad bit bumpy - not because our Pilot lacked the skill to maneouver such a big contraption, but primarily because the ground we landed on was uneven, and he had to avoid hitting a tree which stood out like a sore thumb. We were asked not to leave the balloon just yet as the wind might pick it up if there was a change in weight so we stayed there until he gave us permission to disembark.
When we were all settled on the ground, and he had coordinated our location with his ground team, our Pilot, together with some blokes started to pack the balloon up. They deflated the balloon, then rolled it up, then put it in a big bag. The basket was disassembled next and then - when everything was stored safely in the back of his trailer, we went off back to town. We stopped off at Cook's cafe for some drinks and nibbles, and - after exchanging some stories on ballooning, we all parted ways. The whole experience lasted about 4 hours and it was wonderful!
And that's that! I wanted to ride the balloon at Queenstown, but it was so darn expensive! It cost a whole lot more than what I paid for here. It didn't come cheap, but it's worth the experience. I hope to be able to paraglide next time, or maybe skydive. Hah! As if I have the guts to do those. I'm all bark, no bite.
So there, that's the end of my weekend adventure.
Special thanks to Andrew of Kiwiballoon Company for being an excellent Pilot.
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iska says...
Woo hoot! Looks fun but I don't think I can ride one...
You adventurous girl!


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Very cosy stone house, for two persons.
Situated in very nice garden with camellias and azaleas
Romantic and quiet place
VRBO is part of the HomeAway family, the world leader in vacation rentals. We offer the largest selection of properties for any travel occasion and every budget. We're committed to helping families and friends find a perfect vacation rental to create unforgettable travel experiences together.
Very cosy stone house, for two persons.
Situated in very nice garden with camellias and azaleas
Romantic and quiet place
The Casa de Pedra is a cottage, beautifully restored from an old stable or hayloft. which has retained much of its original structure and tha basalt stone with which it was originally constructed.It stands in the grounds of the main house, belonging to a Madeiran family, traditionally doctors, who live there all year round. The cottage, a haven, comprises a double bedroom, bathroom and very welcoming sitting room in wood and stone with a fireplace, multi-channel television, hairdresser, internet,fridge, microwave and electric kettle. Cleaning everyday.
There are so many recreational activities to choose, such us two golf courses, horse riding, walks journey along the Levadas (one of which two minutes from the cottage) or even mountain walks
The rural and romantic Casa de Pedra can be found in Camacha 9 miles from Funchal and 10miles from the airport.
Walks & Levadas: The best way to reach the interior of the island of Madeira and enjoy the splendour of its untamed landscape is to follow the footpaths.
Levadas are water courses running round the mountains and were built by the first settlers to carry water to inaccessible farmland. Today they are one of Madeira's greatest tourist attractions.
Attractions: Madeirahas a number of attractions worth visiting during your holiday. The best-known and most traditional is the descent from Monte to Funchal in a wickerwork sledge. There is a variety of other attractions in other areas of interest that will help you learn more about Madeira while thoroughly enjoying your free time there.
Tours: This is a fascinating landscape, with its high mountains and deep valleys covered by exotic vegetation and colourful flowers. Add to these attractions the charm of the small villages and the cosmopolitan rhythm of the capital, Madeira, and you have plenty of good reasons to set off and explore every corner of the island.The Transport system is top quality and varied. So choosing exactly how you will explore the island is up to you!
familiar house ,living there all over the year a couple of medical doctors / surgeons
Filomena purchased this Cottage in 1920
These buildings are integrated in the same area as the main house, and are owned by traditional Madeira Medical doctors who reside there through the year.
This area is surrounding by a large and beautiful garden with 5000 m2, full of exotic plants from temperate climates. During the winter season and Spring camellias, magnolias and azaleas are blooming. In April/May rhododendrons are at their maximum splendor. Situated in a quiet location, with the surrounding beauty of the trees of the forest, Laurisilva of Madeira an indigenous forest, classified as World Natural Heritage, decreed by UNESCO, is the ideal place to enjoy some hiking on foot along the levadas or simply enjoy the fresh country air.
Check-in: 9:30 PM
Check-out: Flexible
100% refund if canceled at least 14 days before arrival date. 50% refund if canceled at least 7 days before arrival date. You must contact the owner directly to request cancellation.
The hosts were so attentive and treated us with the perfect amount of care! We would highly recommend this place!!
We love staying at Filomena's Stone houses. Filomena is a great host, receive us with great warm and sympathy. The house is beautiful and surroundings amazing. Is perfect for a weekend gateway or if you can stay, enjoy a couple of days emerged in the lovely Madeira Nature. To those who appreciate, the bed is fabulous. Super comfortable. Filomena's Courtesy provide us basic food supplies, which is great if you don't feel to go out to diner. I absolute recommend, Stone Houses and we will try to came back to enjoy a longer stay. Thank you for everything Filomena.
Dear Susan
Tanks so much for your kind words
Is very important for us the feedback from our guets.
We will improve better and better to creative a really paradise!!!
As the name of the Valley....
We hope to have you again with us
Best regards
Filomena and Pedro
We really enjoyed our time here. The cottage is beautiful & immaculately kept. The little touches like flowers and the fresh bread were lovely & really appreciated. Thank you. We will certainly recommend this property.
Thanks a lot for your kind words.
Your comments is very special for us and an impluse to do better and better.
We hope to have you with us next future.
Merry Christmas and happy new year.
Best regards
Pedro and Filomena
It was a cosy cottage in a beautifel garden near Camacha. We couldn't think about something what was wrong! Everything was ok!
You are very Kind
thanks a lot for your words
we Will do our best To to our guests.
….This is part two of our review, as we realized that the original text was far too long…
There are just too many too nice things to say about Filo and Pedro, that we didn't want to cut out the text…
The discussions we had from the first minute were very rich, deep and "profound" about aspects of life on Madeira and life in general. Filomena introduced us to the owner of the most famous madeiran embroideries producer Bordal, and when we arrived there we were immediately welcomed there by Susana herself and treated and advised like old returning customers. Simply amazing. Saying this not as a set phrase, but because we were - amazed - indeed.
Pedro also gave us valuable advise on best places to eat, pointing us exactly into the direction of the kind of restaurants we were looking for. Our last dinner at Abrigo do Pastor, on the heights over Camacho, just hours before our departure plane, remains epic in our minds.
The cottage in itself, as some reviewers mentioned, feels more spacious than the pictures suggest. The interior design is perfectly arranged, hence everything you might need (and wouldn't imagine in such a presumably tiny place) is there without it all getting crowded.
The ground floor boasts the kitchenette, which was well enough equipped for us to cook any dishes we aimed at during our stay. As mentioned, it looked like new every evening after we came home from the day and had left it in a… well… less clean state.. The bathroom is surprisingly spacious for a cottage of this size. The dining and living part of the room is close to the wood oven. Sofas are very comfy and, frankly, the feeling provided by the listening to the fire in the oven is just… Wood and ire starer will be provided daily!...
The top floor, under the roof, is a very spacious sleeping and working room. the bed is very large and of exceptional quality. One of the things I try to find out when reading reviews is about sleep quality.I am the kind of guest needing good hard
From a practical point of view, there is a brand new and pretty large new shopping complex just literally two minutes drive away, allowing rural feeling with all amenities close by. Funchal city centre is just about 20 min away, making a night out very practical. 20 minutes drive to the airport over the rapid carrigeway.
The most used hiking book used on the island is the ROTHER GUIDE. the Walk nr 9 (2012 edition), along the LEVADA DA SERRA literally passes by behind the house.
You are so lovely.
Big kiss to you and Edyta
"The good feeling about the Stone House left by the pictures, descriptions and positive reviews actually really started with the very kind help Filomena provided when we requested information, during the reservation process and the huge amount of practical information before arrival, were an extreme added value to the feeling of well-being. Being picked up in Camacho centre to make sure we would find the property easily, was just the last of these pre-arrival steps. We were, by the way, even offered to be driven to the airport at 4am (!!) in case we'd give back our rental car earlier. The tons of excuses we received when Filomena and Pedro picked us up with 10 minutes delay were just symptomatic of the level of care given to every detail of hospitality.
And hospitality it is indeed, in the most "private" way rather than just "B&B business". It is so relaxing for your mind to be in company of extremely educated, well travelled, open minded persons of a rare elegance in every possible way. The cottage (a former barn itself, if I remember well) is erected on the former farm grounds of one of the ancestors, and overlooks the master house and the family "cottage", and the gardens. To compare the gardens, to a park would be an understatement. While you could expect an almost "aristocratic" behavior of the owners, their attitude towards life actually makes you feel like in a friend's home from almost the very first second. These aspects as well as the cottage in general gave a feel of "luxury" which was in no relation to..the price or other similar rentals you would find on the island or elsewhere.
The service is high about average of similar B&B, at least in the same category. It is not "service staff" which is taking care of the cottage, but the maid of the estate, which obviously takes the very same care of guests than in the main house as well. Our beds were so lovingly made every day, the snacks and coffee pads (so delicious and handy for who doesn't like to take care of piling up such groceries by himself) stocked up with such care (when asking why a third box of cereals had been added, I heard that the maid checked the contents of all boxes and saw that one of the two others was coming close to an end and… was afraid we might soon have only one box for choice and also, she wanted to make sure we always have at least one fresh&crunchy box available…), the bathroom and kitchen rearranged and cleaned with such painstaking care that the level of care gi
Thank you so much for your kindness.!
For us, it was pleasure to met you
Best regards
The stone house is situated in a very beautiful garden with a lot of different Camelias that are superb when blooming specialy in winter.
Guest have their one garden but can also visit the main garden.
Is a very quite place just the sound of the birds one can listen.
How to reach the CASAS DE PEDRA
Leave the airport through the highway to Funchal
Drive about 11.2 km and exit at number15 to go to CANCELA/GARAJAU/CAMACHA.
Drive ahead about 200 meters and take your right to CAMACHA.
Drive about 200 meters until to roundabout and take the second exit to CAMACHA
Drive about 3.9 Km through the tunnels until another roundabout and take the second exit to
Drive 700 meters and take the left to FUNCHAL.
Drive more 700 meters and take the right (by the pink wall)
Now you are in the road, Caminho da Ribeira Grande, drive about 300 meters and on your right is the house!
Other Activities: walking in the levada( 3 mn from the Cottage) play snooker at the main house
Golf: The mild climate on the two islands is ideal for golf all year round. This, together with the exceptionally beautiful scenery, influenced the decision to build two golf courses in Madeira.
The Madeira Open has been held in spring in Santo da Serra since 1993. It is part of the PGA European Tour
There is no taxes or additional charges Payment after check in, cash Is a very safety place Accommodation for two people .
Property # 97468ha Unit # 85496


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The best way to get a feel for what it is like to be at UT and what our university and city have to offer is to come for a tour. If you are traveling from out of state, be sure to take your time and explore not only the campus but downtown Knoxville, located only a few minutes away from UT. If you are planning on spending the night, there are several local hotels nearby, offering you the best possible rates.
We offer individual campus tours, school group tours, and self-guided tours. Tours are typically offered four times per day Monday through Friday and once on select Saturdays.
Weekday tours start at the UT Visitors Center at 2712 Neyland Drive, Knoxville, TN, 37996.
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Continue with a one-and-a-half-hour bus and walking tour (weekdays) or walking tour only (weekends), led by one of our student Ambassadors. You will get a great overview of campus, academic, and student life – all presented to you from a student's perspective. Highlights of the tour will include stops in our student recreation center, our main library, and more.
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Ready to visit? Click on the button below to see a calendar and select a date and join us on Rocky Top for a campus tour or open event. Please don't hesitate to call us at 865-946-8687 or email us at email@example.com if you experience any difficulties or have any questions.Schedule a Campus Visit
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High schools can request a school group tour reservation by submitting a School Group Tour Request Form at least three weeks in advance. School group tours (such as Bearden High, Soddy Daisy High School, Gear UP, AVID, etc.) are available to high school students only and are available Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 9am, 2pm, and 3pm (ET). Please note that during busy times of the year (March, July, and October), we will not be able to accommodate group tour requests.Schedule a Group Tour
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Monday, June 13, 2016
Celebrates Father's with Crafter's Companion
With Father's Day right around the corner this card is sure to inspire you. I've used the Crafter's Companion latest release Sara Davies Signature Collection: Just for Men. This set has about everything you could think of to make that perfect guy card.
Here's all the products I used: Sara Davies Signature Collection: Just for Men : Urban Collection paper pad 6 x 6 , Checkerplater embossing folder, tool sets die, cogs and gears die
Here's a TIP!!! Use silver embossing powder to give a real metal sheen to your tools. You can also use red/rust colored paper and have the paper peaking through to make it look rusty.
Posted by Lori at 7:00 AM
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Taylor Swift lives in constant fear of ruining her glittering career so she makes an extra effort not to "mess up" or become "complacent" and "mouthy".
The country star admits her global success feels like a dream and she worries it won't last.
She tells Vogue magazine, "This is what I've wanted to do my whole life. It never freaks me out. Never. Ever. But you know what does freak me out? When is the other shoe going to drop? I am so happy right now. So I am always living in fear. This can't be real, right? This can't really be my life."
However, the Love Story hitmaker is determined to keep progressing with her career by not letting fame go to her head.
She adds, "The stakes are really high if you mess up, if you slack off and don't make a good record, if you make mistakes based on the idea that you are larger than life and you can just coast. If you start thinking you've got it down, that's when you run into trouble - either by getting complacent or becoming mouthy. And nobody likes that."


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Quick Reference
Francis (1744–89) was an architect and builder based in Warwick who created a number of buildings in the Gothick taste including the fine Church of St Mary, Tetbury, Glos. (1771–81), with its elegant piers of timber containing iron cores. He was the architect of the Classical Church of St Anne, Belfast (1772–6—demolished 1900). His father, William (c. 1712–76), and his uncle, David (1715–58), worked for William Smith whom they succeeded in business, and designed numerous works in the English Midlands. William Hiorne was the executant architect for Sir Roger Newdigate's (1719–1806) Gothick Arbury Hall, Warwicks., from c. 1748, and the brothers designed and built the Church of the Holy Cross, Daventry, Northants. (1752–8), in a Classical style. They also erected several buildings to Sanderson Miller's designs, including Shire Hall, Warwick (1754–8), and the stable-block, Packington Hall, Warwicks. (1756–8).
From A Dictionary of Architecture and Landscape Architecture in Oxford Reference.
Subjects: Architecture.
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Hello welcome to NJN Conservatories Ltd we are company based in Walsall, we have been transforming homes for over 20 years. We supply and install windows, doors, conservatories, orangeries, soffits and fascias and guttering, all installed to the highest standard. Here is some more information.
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Walsall, Willenhall, Cannock, Kingswinford, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands


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It's been almost 4 weeks since Pokemon GO officially launched, and because of its massive success, people can't seem to get enough of it. In America, the numbers have been staggering:
- Within 1 week Pokemon Go daily active user (DAU) count skyrocketed to 11 million
- The latest numbers have shown an average DAU of 13 million with over 150+ million daily sessions
- 7 Days was all it took for Pokemon Go to be the fastest Mobile Game to 10 Million Worldwide downloads
- Average daily time spent on Pokemon Go is at 33 minutes – almost 10 minutes longer than Facebook
What's more impressive is that there are still dozens of countries waiting for the app to launch. In the realm of product adoption, this is a massive success story.
A Success Story? Or Tragic Case Study?
Pokemon Go's developer, NianticLabs, cannot screw up the biggest mobile game in history, right? Not so fast, it looks like they are trying their hardest to make Pokemon Go the biggest "fall from grace" case study in the history of mobile apps.
First off, I want to mention I have been playing Pokemon Go nonstop since it first launched. Seeing Pokemon Go succeed long-term would be amazing and I want to help make this a reality.
Niantic claims players have experienced only 10% of the actual gameplay. Based on the warning signs discussed in this article, only a small fraction of the current players will keep playing until all gameplay is completed.
These warning signs should be the highest priority for Niantic. This article will focus on identifying & resolving Pokemon Go issues. Resolving these problems will lead to increased user retention and higher adoption rates (yes, it is possible).
NOTE: All insights are of my own opinion. This article won't address gameplay ideas or "nice to have" features but instead focuses on the important elements of product retention.
Warning Sign #1: Very Little / Inconsistent Communication
With over 50+ million downloads of the game worldwide, many players in different regions are often left in the dark in regards to news and updates. Let's take a look at their social media.
- From July 13 to July 30
- 9 Posts – Launch Updates
- 1 Post – Gameplay update
- 2 Posts – Server Updates
- Same Time Frame
- Updates look similar but with 1-2 retweets
- Same updates as Facebook
The biggest gripes that many users have complained about are communication-related:
- No information on expected launch dates in other countries that currently do not have Pokemon GO
- Servers often go down at various times of the day in different regions. No communication to users to let them now servers are down. This is especially brutal for players who go to Pokemon Go events
- No updates or ETAs on when servers will go up when they do go down.
- Many players often go to non-social media channels (Pokemon Go website, Niantic Blog) for updates that might be upcoming
- Massive disconnect between players thinking that Nintendo created the game vs the actual developer, Niantic
Any player that wants to see updates or issues finds themselves with no official way of knowing what is going on.
Latest Communication Fiasco – 3 Step Bug
It's not a good sign that the only time Niantic mentioned the current "3 step bug" (a key feature in the game) was at Comic-Con in late July. This should not be the way a user base receives updates.
Gameplay revolves around exploring and finding Pokemon, the 3 step bug is currently a big deal.
On July 30, Niantic came out with a recent update claiming they have made several adjustments and tweaks in gameplay. The solution to the "3 step bug" was to remove the feature with no reasoning to players on why, and they are angry.
It's unknown if this issue will be fixed or if this is just a way for them to buy time to fix this bug. However, the Pokemon Go community is pissed for the nth time with the lack of communication.
How To Fix Communication
From bugs to common playability issues, dedicated players are beyond upset and get the feeling that Niantic doesn't care about their input.
Solving communication issues isn't rocket science. Let's break down ways for Niantic to communicate with players around top issues.
Communication of Servers
First, take a look at another game that does an amazing job with communication and keeping users in the know. Riot Games' "League of Legends" is amazing when it comes to communication with servers.
Each server status is based on geographic region. Statuses are indicated with colored logos with a description.
So, why should Niantic use a status page?
- It can dissolve a hefty amount of frustration players have. It won't dissipate all frustrations, but it will help reinforce players that the game is new and growing.
- Adds legitimacy to their brand and reinforces priorities to your paying customers. This one is huge. Pokemon go is a freemium game that allows players to make microtransactions. For players that haven't put a dime in the game, they can be more lenient towards having downtime. For paying players or potential paying players, this will help resolve the "What am I paying for if the servers are down?" argument. It shows that game experience is a priority.
Being Proactive
If Niantic really wanted to kick it up a notch, they can setup push notifications or send out emails to players in certain regions that they have planned outages.
Communication of Bugs & Gameplay
A great way to let users know they are working on bugs/issues is to create an "Update" blog on the official Pokemon GO site.
- Make sure any/all updates are posted on Social Media Sites for maximum visibility
- Pay special attention to comments in the blog posts as users are likely to comment & update any immediate issues or need
This is great for potentially making tweaks or gameplay adjustments for next patches.
Crowdsource Bug Issues
Taking a proactive approach, there should be an immediate need for Niantic to partner up with the biggest Pokemon Go group on the web. Riot Games does this and creates an immediate: "Patch X.X bugs mega thread" on Reddit. This allows the community to directly communicate with the developers for hotfixes and top-priority issues. Check out the screenshot below:
Pokemon Go has an amazing community that wants to see the game succeed. But without any sort of proactive communication, players will eventually give up hope that the game will improve. The question isn't "if" but rather "when". In the realm of apps, weeks can feel like years and people aren't going to be that patient.
Region Launching Communication
The surprise launch in early July caught everyone by storm. Yet at this point, the "surprise" has lost its luster and anyone currently caught in the waiting list is anxious.
A solution to this doesn't need years of growth hacking or a degree in marketing. Simply create a page on Pokemon Go's site that lets a user search for their country with an estimated launch date.
Doing this will resolve 2 communication issues:
- It will make eager fans much happier with realistic expectations.
- With extra hype building in those regions, more users will immediately download the app once it's launched in their proper region.
These fixes require very little use of development and require a dedicated person that works strictly with communication. In the realm of efficiency, the effort to payoff ratio is quite high.
Improving communication along with more social media interaction will do the following:
- Increase adoption from new countries
- Help retain users that are on the ropes currently and will help increase the amount of paid users
- Improve the brand perception that the focus is having an optimal game experience with room for growth
Warning Sign #2: Broken / Shallow Gameplay
At the time of this article, the biggest bug in the game directly affects the "explore & find" feature (3 step bug). Killing half of the appeal of your game will only hinder the experience. Any other game that would have come out with the same issues would have immediate uninstalls and horrific retention rates.
That said, the "Pokemon" brand has bought Niantic some much needed time in fixing these issues. I don't know how long players will keep playing until they get bored. But with a game that is 10% complete, I'm sure we will find out sooner rather than later.
Pokemon Go won't die anytime soon, but if Niantic doesn't get their crap together, they are going to miss out on lots of revenue.
Deeper Look at Trends
After the first week of launch, we are seeing a downward trend in the average time/user plays. From a peak of 83.9 minutes down to around 40 minutes a day. Even more alarming is average sessions per day is lowering below 15 times a day, nearly a 33% drop off from its peak during launch. [source: Verto Analytics]
These numbers aren't meant to scare anyone. But if I were Niantic and revenue is my goal, making sure proper gameplay functionality and retaining users would be a top priority. Going back to point #1, without proper communication of updates & planned changes will significantly lower a player's enjoyment.
How much revenue could they be missing out at this rate?
I believe less communication & fewer gameplay updates available will lead to an "unexpected" drop in revenue. I'm spitballing, but assume they held strong at $1.6 million/day in revenue. It would not surprise me to see them retain 50% of users of that given its current trajectory in the states.
If there was an opportunity to retain users, now would be it. If changes aren't made that means over $800K/day, or $24M/month in revenue would be missed out. I'm only estimating this based off of trends and interviews with multiple Pokemon Go players.
Previous History of Future Expectations – Not Good
The biggest qualm I have with Niantic is that they have another augmented reality game called 'Ingress'. Ingress users report that Niantic lacks communication and it takes weeks/months for issues to be fixed. This falls in line with them claiming that 10% of the games planned content has been created.
However, if that is the case, it leaves me to believe that Niantic will only be focused on its own agenda and is unwilling to take in user feedback. And as shown previously, their response to the "3-step bug" was to remove the feature. As a player & a digital professional, this is a discouraging sign of things to come.
Summary: Niantic desperately needs to communicate and acknowledge gameplay priorities. Or else it will run the risk of losing reputation, daily active users, and revenue.
Warning Sign #3: Suboptimal User Onboarding
On the surface, the gameplay is straightforward. Create a player – Find a Pokemon – Flick The Ball and catch a Pokemon. Outside of the initial tutorials of finding a shop and picking a gym, many players were left to figuring things out that would make the game more enjoyable such as:
- What do the circles do when you catch a Pokemon?
- What do the steps mean? (before July 30)
- How do I do gym battles?
- What does CP do?
- How do I get Stardust?
- How do Eggs Work?
- Does the app need to be open when I travel?
This isn't even scratching the surface of gameplay questions new players have. The closest thing I found that had a reasonable amount of information was on the support page for Pokemon Go. Users should not have to go to the support section to understand how 90% of the gameplay works.
Going back to point #2, the game itself still feels like a beta stage and I hope that this gets fixed over time.
Warning Sign #4: No In-Game Viral Loop
Right now I'm going to kill any sort of idea that Pokemon Go had worldwide hype prior to launch before I discuss referrals.
Pokemon vs Pokemon Go trends (January to July) – Pokemon Go was not on anyone's radar except for die-hard fans
Pokemon Go (Prior to launch) – In the month of July there was minimal talk of the game up until post-launch.I am not fully sure of the expectation that Niantic had after launch, but I can empathically say worldwide adoption was not anticipated.
That said, you can see that Pokemon Go interest is starting to die down a bit. However, that shouldn't excuse the fact that there isn't any sort of viral loop that would either:
- Have current players refer new players
- Have players increase average session durations with gameplay interactions
Pokemon Go can generate enough revenue for months by launching in other worldwide regions just on hype alone. But that isn't a business model. Referrals are the cornerstone of user acquisition and retention when done right.
Pokemon Go Viral Loop Example
In Pokemon Go, all items such as pokeballs, lucky eggs, lures, and incubators are so valuable. The freemium model allows players to purchase these items as opposed to going to pokeshops or leveling up. A fairly common viral loop that would be applicable here would do the following.
- Allow the ability to connect via social media (Facebook & Google+)
- Provide proper incentives for inviting new users. Such incentives can be:
– Get X pokeballs for every 10 invites sent
– After 100 invites, receive 3 lucky eggs
– Users that get referred automatically get 50 extra pokeballs
Uber & Lift are great examples that work these viral loops that both reward current users and incentivize new users to refer new members.
Regardless of the possible new features and promises of more in-depth gameplay, Niantic will (if not already) begin losing a significant amount of players before these features will ever come to fruition if they don't fix these gaping issues.
Improving communication and spending resources that resolve any major disconnects between the user and developer would come a long way in gaining a positive sentiment for frustrated users and encourage product retention. Players will be more forgiving and more patient. This works with both fixing major bugs and promoting new gameplay features.
If you are a startup, the question to think about isn't "how do I get as big as Pokemon Go". You should be asking, "how can I get valuable insights from my users and make them satisfied with what I offer".


text:
The winner gets...
EDIT: My stupid printer just broke, and I am not sure I'll be able to print anything by the 10th, so,
I am changing the prise to:
A set of Five 8.5 x 11 in. illustrations matted in white 9x12 mats.
(The printed images measure about 5x7in. )
I chose these illustrations in this size because they are already printed, matted and ready to go! Please forgive me for having to change it!
I feel so silly to have to do this in the first place so that is why I am offering 5 matted prints instead of 4.
I thought I would shake things up a bit so Here are some rules!
- If you post a comment on this post, to share a thought or just say hi, you are automatically entered in the drawing! (Be sure I have a means to contact you when you win)
- If you blog about this give-away on your blog, type the url to your blog post in your comment, and I'll put your name in the drawing twice!
- If you've followed a link here through someone else's post about this giveaway, type the url of who's blog you came here through, and your name's in twice!
- If any one enters the contest through your blog post your name's in three times!
I'll draw the names at 1:00 pm Tuesday June 10th and post the winner!
GOOD luck and happy commenting!


text:
April 2005
Disclaimer: I don't own Star Wars, it all belongs to George "I am the man" Lucas. The song belongs to Doug Supernaw and isn't mine either, I'm just borrowing it as it was the inspiration for this fic!
Title: What'll you do about me
By JadeMax
Characters: Jag, Jaina Genre: Romance, Humor Timeframe: A/U NJO. Jag tries to convince Jaina he's the one for her.
Summary: Title says it all.
Author's Notes: Find the song if you can - it's country but it's funny. The lyrics are in bold.
What'll You Do About Me
Chapter 1
Her fingers clicked over the keyboard with sure strokes.
Meet me tonight
The respondant took a minute to reply.
She stared at the screen, chewing on her lower lip, debating her responce. She knew iwhy/i. She knew what she wanted; he was safe. He didn't think of her like the others, and she could trust him to go his own way afterwards. She slowly typed out her responce.
I need you tonight.
She stated at the screen, waiting anxiously for his reply. He took a long, long time before words finally flashed.
She bit her lip.
Your Place. 17:00. I'll bring an overnight bag.
His reply was long in coming, but she smiled upon reading the screen.
I'll be waiting. Don't be late.
All you wanted was a one night stand.
The fire, the wine and the touch of a man
Light filtered through the window on the sleeping occupants as the sun roze over the horizon. The woman stirred, her chocolate colored hair spread out across the pillow and her companion. Her eyes opened slowly, a mix of gold and amber, clearing as she took in her surroundings. She rose, pushing herself up on one elbow and looked at her companion. His jet black hair was messy from the night. His face was familiar, his strong features ones she'd seen at many gatherings, many military functions. She noted his strong arms, toned but not bulky, the arms that had held her so close, so confidently.
She slipped from the covers, reaching for her clothes and quickly slid into them, careful not to wake him. She wouldn't be here when he woke up; there was no need. Their passion had been mutual, but she knew he would never read anything more into it. Regardless of his actions the previous night, he would never feel anything more for her and that was fine; she couldn't handle more.
Carefully, she collected her things and slipped out of the room. She closed the bedroom door behind her and made her way to the apartment's entrance, keying it open silently. And, as quickly as a shadow, she slipped into the dawning day back towards home. The previous night had been good, but it had been just one night and that was all.
Back in the apartment, as the bedroom began to gain a steady light, the man rolled towards the position his companion had left, reaching one arm for her. His fingers hit the slightly warm covers she had recently left and he frowned in his sleep.
Green eyes opened, searching the bed to verify what his touch had already confirmed. He frowned, pushing himself up on one arm. "Jaina?"
Silence greeted him and he turned, searching for her. Her things were gone, her presence was absent. He pulled himself from the bed, pulling on his shorts as he did, before checking the 'fresher. Her brush was gone.
He felt his heart sink as he searched his living room and kitchenette. She was gone. He leaned against the wall leading into the bathroom, looking at the rumpled covers, his mind going back over the previous night.
He'd done as she'd asked because he couldn't tell her no. He'd never been able to deny her anything professionally, but he'd lost control of his feelings in one night.
He'd pulled out all the stops. He'd rented an electric fire place for his bedroom, he'd spent some of his savings on a wampa pelt, so not to damage her fair skin. He'd even got a caterer to drop by a lavish meal with the most expensive wine he could afford.And now she was gone, leaving a hole in his credit account... and his heart.
He closed his eyes, remembering the feel of her skin, her hands on his, and shuddered. She'd done more than take him last night. She'd conquered, taken him and claimed him on the most basic and primal level. He could feel her imprint on him, the mark she'd left on his soul.
His eyes opened slowly. She'd made him fall in love with her last night, given him the last push over the edge and now... now he would have to get her to feel the same way.
His gaze went to the door. She'd come back. There was no way she could have escaped unscathed from their evening. She'd be back.
But I fell in love and ruined all your plans
So what'll you do about me
Jaina was seated at her desk, going through the paper work she'd been neglecting. It had been a month since her one night stand and she'd been on maneuvers for a good portion of it. Jag had made it almost intolerable. He'd hounded her to the point of having to lock her door at night. He'd begged, groveled, asking for more. He'd attempted to dine with her, to convince her that she was the only woman for him, and he the man for her. But she hadn't bought it.
And he'd made her fall behind trying to come up with ways to keep him away.
Her comm beeped. "Yes?"
"Miss Solo, there's a package here for you."
She looked at the comm, frowning. She hadn't ordered anything. "Send it in."
The door opened and the reception droid's R2 unit came trundling in, a package grasped in his pincers. She accepted it, dismissing the droid with a nod, and placed it on her desk. She reached for the card, made of colored, darkened plasfilm, and opened it. She sighed as she read the inscription.
Just wanted to let you know, I'm thinking of you.
Thinking of you? She frowned and placed the card on her desk, ripping the side of the box open. A frame clattered to her desk and she picked it up. She dropped it just as quickly, finding a 2-D image of Jagged Fel smiling back at her.
She pushed the whole mess off her desk and into the trash unit. The last thing she needed was a reminder of him right now. She'd had enough trouble putting their one night out of her mind. As far as she was concerned, if she'd known this was going to happen, it was a mistake. She never should have slept with him. "Kriff, Jag," she muttered, stuffing the packaging on top of the frame. "Stop sending me these stupid things!"
She turned back to her paperwork and checked her calendar. She had a function tonight, hosting at the house the military provided for her, and it included some of the biggest names in the republic fleet. She looked to her trash can. At least he wouldn't be there; she hadn't invited him.
Imagine the faces on your high class friends
When I beat on the door and I beg to come in
Screaming, "Come on, love me again,"
Now what'll you do about me
Jaina moved from one group to another, her dress grays pressed to perfection, her boots holding a perfect shine. She smiled and laughed, meeting the generals and admirals of the fleet who knew that her parties were a place to form alliances and get the best help. They were also a place to meet the political leaders. Her parents were here, along with her uncle and aunt, the leaders of the New Jedi Order.
Several high ranking diplomats were gathered around the punch bowl.
A noise at the front door had her turning her head.
She groaned, feeling the eyes of her guests turn towards her curiously. She smiled faintly, making her way to the door, motioning for them to continue enjoying themselves. She flipped on the music as she passed, headed for the door. She didn't want them to be able to hear anything she might say to the Colonel. Jagged just couldn't take a hint.
She checked the peep hole to be sure, and groaned again. Jag. His hair was plastered to his face, his uniform creased and wet from the pouring rain. He stood under the eaves trough, being soaked in the run-off from the roof. "Go away, Jag," she told him through the door.
"Let me in Jaina, please? I just want to see you."
She pressed her forehead against the door. "No, Jag, I have guests."
"Then let me in and they can see how we feel about each other!"
She winced, hoping that no one else could hear. "Go home, Jag."
"Come on, Jaina, please, love me again! Just once!"
She couldn't believe he was here, banging on her door in the middle of a party, begging. Begging! Jagged Fel, controlled and mild mannered, was banging on her door begging to come in. She turned away from the door, and cranked the music up some. Maybe if she ignored him, he'd go away. She was certain he's take the hint eventually. He wasn't wanted, she didn't want him here, and he'd better just leave her alone.
A noise had her turning back to find Jag, with his face pressed up against the window, staring at her like a lovesick pet. She
pulled the blinds, saw him move around the house, and methodically pulled the blinds on every window, trying to think of an explanation for her friends and co-workers. She wasn't asked or stopped, so she simply continued and offered none. She wasn't going to explain that her love-sick one-night-stand couldn't stay away! It wouldn't have been good for her career among other things.
She shook her head, seeing his shadow through the blinds near the front door, and turned her back on him. She need to figure out what she was going to do about him. Her tactics thus far weren't working.
Pushing him from her mind, she returned to her party to mingle. She'd figure it out later; maybe her mother's party of lawyers could help.
Picture the faces when you try to explain
That good old boy standing out in the rain
With his nose on the window pane.
Now what'll you do about me
Chapter 2
Jaina set the pot for the caf on the warmer, checking the table to ensure the basket of cookies and cakes was in the center. She shifted one of the chairs so it was slightly closer, pushing the footrest so it would be good for her guest's height. She hadn't had him over in ages and was looking forward to his visit, casual as it was.
A thump on her deck alerted her and she moved to her front door, opening the inner door to see what was happening.
In front of her, holding a long board in one hand, a blaster in the other, Jag was standing over her guest. The man she'd invited
for company lay flat out on the ground, groaning, one hand cradling his head.
He turned, hearing her voice. "Jaina my love! I will protect you from the likes of him. He will not have you. Can't you see you're the only one for me and I'm the only man for you?"
She just about screamed. "Get off my porch, you trespasser, or I'll call the police and have you arrested!"
Jag fell to one knee. "But Jaina, I love you! Marry me."
Jaina grabbed him in a Force grip and physically threw him off the porch, sending him sprawling in a mud hole. "I don't love you, Jag, that night was a mistake. If you loved me, you'd leave me alone. I never, ever want to see you again!"
Jag didn't move from the puddle, his uniform muddied and dripping, his face shocked. "You don't mean that."
Jaina moved down her steps and assisted her guest back to his feet. "Sorry Wes, it's a long story."
Wes Janson looked back at the officer sitting in the mud puddle before grinning at Jaina, wincing slightly from the pain in his head. "You owe me one, Jaina, I expect an explanation."
She sighed. "Only fair. Come on, before he decides me touching you is another offence."Jag watched as Jaina assisted Wes into the house and slapped one hand down in the mud. She would see eventually. See that she was meant to be with him and he with her.
He went back to the porch and collected his two by two and blaster, wishing suddenly he'd stunned the other man, instead of ambushing him with the slat. Next time.
And what in the world are you planning to do
When a man comes over just to visit with you?
And I'm on the porch with a two by two
Lady, what'll you do about me
Inside, Jaina settled across from Wes, offering him a cup of cafe. "I really am sorry, Wes, if I'd known he was still out there, I would have warned you."
She grimaced. "He hasn't left since about a week ago. He follows me everywhere and I can't get through to him that I'm not interested in anything with him."
Wes grinned, accepting the ice pack she offered for his head. "So what'd you do to give him the impression then?"
Jaina sighed. "I slept with him."
Wes, taking a sip of his caf, just about spit it out across the table. "You what?"
"I know, I know. But I'd just lost Jacen and..." she shrugged. "I needed someone."
"You should have called me, I wouldn't have been so clingy." He leered at her.
"You're old enough to be my father." she reminded him, grinning. "But you're right, it was a mistake, I shouldn't have done it. But now... now I can't get rid of him!"
"Try having him arrested?"
She nodded. "Twice, but they said I was just being paranoid and they couldn't hold him. I think he's made a bed under my porch."
"So nail him for squatting." Wes' eyes twinkled. "Would serve Wedge right to have his nephew arrested. Wedge needs a good shaking up every now and again."
Jaina groaned. "You're terrible, Wes. Why am I asking advice from you, anyway?"
"Because I'm convenient?"
She stuck her tongue out at him before smiling wryly. "Something like that. I feel owe you one for the bump on the head from the oh-so-mis-guided Jagged Fel."
Wes winked at her. "Owe me one? Dinner, my treat, that'll really put Wedge's nose out of joint."
Jaina grinned. "You're on. No more talk of Jag, let's just enjoy the evening."
Wes wasn't about to argue that.
Chapter 3
Jaina was waiting in the doorway to the front porch when the local law enforcement showed up. She'd called them, a third time, trying to get Jag to clear off her porch.
The officer approached the Colonel, and Jaina could see him informing Jag that he had to move along.
Kyp Durron arrived shortly there after, lightsaber in hand as he leapt out from his speeder, his cape snapping as he landed. His imposing presence, confident and capable was reassuring.
Jaina stepped outside as Jag was arguing with the police officer. "Kyp!"
Kyp nodded to her. "Jaina. Is this the one you said you've been having trouble with?"
Jaina nodded, "That's him; Jagged Fel. You're the Jedi uncle Luke sent over?"
Kyp nodded, carefully sizing up the Colonel's dirty, mud-spattered uniform and frazzled appearance. The man looked as if he hadn't showered, slept or ate in days. "Luke figured I could be more impartial than he could since you're family. What did you have in mind for charges?"
Jaina slanted a look at Fel before meeting Kyp's gaze. "Harassment, stalking, unlawful confinement, assault with a weapon and squatting, to name a few."
"I did it out of love!"
Kyp and Jaina turned as Jag began yelling at the officer. Kyp slanted an amused look at Jaina, and saw her cheeks begin to flush.
Jag flailed as they attempted to put stun cuffs on his wrists, obviously delirious from dehydration and mal-nutrition. "She loves me, she loved me, she only needs to say yes and we'll be so happy. Ask anyone, we're the perfect couple!"
Kyp turned back to Jaina, arching an eyebrow.
Jaina flushed. "I'm a grown woman – I make mistakes."
"Mistakes?" Kyp scoffed, shaking his head, "That's one delusional mistake, Solo. Come on, if you're going to be facing him to put this behind you and set he record straight, I'm going to need to know what happened. Fel's got some relatives in high places."
Jaina arched an eyebrow, feeling her cheeks and neck burning. "And what am I, chopped mynock? Fel needs to get a clue. He's already had me wake my neighbors several times this week with his antics and my, er..." she shrugged.
"My responses?" She shook her head, frustrated. "It's enough to make someone wanna turn darkside just so he'll get a clue!"
Kyp smirked.
"No! No! You can't, I belong here, where no man can come!"
Jaina turned as Jag screamed, trying to break free of the hold, the stun cuffs doing little to quell him.
Kyp stepped into her field of view as Jag was forced into an enclosed hover car, his screams muffled by the thick walls. "Come on, Jaina, let's go talk about Mr. Fel."
Jaina sighed and turned back to her house. She paused on the bottom step, and turned back around. "I've been trapped in there for days, think we could go somewhere else?
Kyp smiled faintly. "Come on, we'll hit that new caf shop – they have privacy booths.
She smiled gratefully and followed him back to his speeder.
You can call your lawyer,
You can call the Feds
You can sound the alarm, wake the neighbors up
"...and that's how this all started." Jaina stared into her caf miserably, stirring it idly. "I've tried everything, but he won't take no for an answer. The Jedi and the law are my last hope."
Kyp simply stared at her silently over the table, his eyes revealing nothing of what he was thinking. His caf cup was grasped in both hands, his elbows on the table, hiding his mouth from view.
She looked up through her lashes, "Sounds crazy, huh?"
"Crazy?" Kyp arched an eyebrow. "I know one smuggler who would probably have your head, grown up or not."Jaina made a face. "I iknow/i, why do you think I haven't tried this before? I can just see the holonews now." Her voice deepened as she mimicked the holocasters. "And our latest story, Jaina Solo, daughter of Leia Organa-Solo and Han Solo, has been having no luck getting rid of one Colonel Jagged Fel, nephew to the infamous Wedge Antillies, after a one night stand that has the critics wondering what she did to deserve his devotion."
Kyp snickered. "Nice impression."
Jaina sat back disgusted, "Impression nothing, the last thing I want is people prying into my private life. I'm up for promotion and this happens?"
"You brought it on yourself you know."
"You're not helping, Durron."
"Sorry," he placed his cup on the table top. "After hearing your story, I can't really help you. The law's hands are tied. There's your word against his and you technically live on base property, so Jag isn't squatting; he has every right to be there. As for the assault, unless Wes is going to come forward on his own, I can't do anything."
Jaina's jaw dropped. "You can't help me at all?"
Kyp shrugged. "You made your bed, Princess, now lie in it."
She watched, speechless, as he dropped some credits on the table and walked away. Tears flooded her eyes and she put her face in her hands, wondering what she could do next.
The sound of someone taking a seat across from her brought her head up and she stared into the face of Jagged Fel.
Jaina groaned as he smiled at her, his hair washed and combed, his appearance much more appealing than it had been. "I forgive you, Jaina, I know you didn't mean to have me arrested. Now, can we set a wedding date?
Jaina dropped her head to the table and closed her eyes, hoping it would make him go away. Yet she knew he'd never stop, never leave her alone. Kyp's words came back to her.
You made your bed, Princess, now lie in it
She began to laugh, unmindful that it was hysterical, and knew Kyp's words were prophetic. He would never stop and she was stuck. Jaina, the last of the Solo line, was stuck with Jagged Fel.
She fell off her chair laughing, unmindful when the men wearing the white coats came and took her away, unmindful of the presence of the man who'd been driving her mad.
There ain't no way to stop a man in love
So what'll you do about me
Author's note: Thanks for reading, though I honestly don't know why I tried humor... I don't normally write it, the plot-bunny just wouldn't leave me alone – one shot, that's all.


text:
26 September 2017
A university should be as generous as it can afford
Tom Hockaday, Technology Transfer Innovation, discusses questions surrounding TTO's and why they should be fully funded as an important central service.
Author: Tom Hockaday, founder of Technology Transfer Innovation
The introduction of impact as a measure of university research excellence in the UK government's 2014 Research Excellence Framework (Ref) has changed the way universities in the UK think and talk about technology transfer. There is now far more emphasis on the impact of university activities on the outside world and less on the potential income to the university and others from these activities.
To many people involved in technology transfer this is not a change. We have known for decades that technology transfer is not the answer to a university's finances. Our priorities for decades have been to transfer technology first and to make money second.
However, this is a change in the thinking of senior university administrators. Ref impact has emboldened them to praise the non-financial aspects of technology transfer and allowed them to ease the pressure placed on technology transfer offices to generate a profit. The change is recent and incomplete. Discussions continue on the consequences, which raise important practical questions for a university.
The next Ref exercise is due in 2021, with plans to increase the impact weighting from 20% to 25% of the total points available, with potentially significant direct financial consequences.
This article discusses a number of questions, and concludes by encouraging a university to be as generous as it can afford to be in matters of technology transfer.
How do you manage spinout equity?
This is a very popular topic for discussion and action.
Imperial College London and its technology transfer affiliate Imperial Innovations, managed by commercialisation firm Touchstone Innovations, have very recently announced the launch of the Founders Choice program, as reported by Global University Venturing last month: "In addition to Imperial Innovations' existing spinout program, which provides roughly equal equity stakes to the TTO and to founders, academics will now also have the opportunity to retain 95% of equity."
The choice for founder academic researchers at Imperial appears to be about 50% and a lot of help or 95% and some help.
This is an example of a university choosing to be more generous, because it believes more good things will happen as a result – more impact, never mind about the money. It is a very good idea and Imperial is to be congratulated.
With Imperial having "only 5%" of founder shares, it moves alongside global superstars Stanford University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, often praised by investors and lobby-prone government for wanting "only 5%" of their startups' equity.
The challenge for Imperial College and the others involved in Founders Choice will be how to resist supporting those who choose not to have the support, but find they need it. There is likely to be a gradual increase in those exercising the Founders Choice to own more shares, without the expected decrease in resources the TTO consumes in helping. The Imperial offer is described as a pilot, for 18 months initially. Assuming the academics rule, as they usually do in top universities, in a couple of years Imperial College will be holding a large number of small shareholdings, and as Imperial is smart, it will have found a way to invest in follow-on rounds in the ones looking good. This may fit nicely with the ending of the Imperial College pipeline deal with Touchstone in 2020.
It is getting complicated, in some ways, but simpler in others – a gradual realisation that founder shares do not make much money in companies backed by multiple investment rounds. So the thing to do is worry less about them and focus more on having an interest in follow-on investments managed by professionals.
Elsewhere an example of this flexibility did not work out particularly well. A spinout founder team of researchers at a different university did not want help, were adamant they did not need it, and all they wanted was for the TTO to grant the intellectual property licence to the startup. The university involved agreed to a lower-than-normal university equity share. It turned out the planned company was not quite as ready as the researchers thought, the researchers were not quite as ready as they thought and the TTO involvement was as time-consuming as usual, if not more so.
Another university suggested a menu approach, where researchers select type a, b, c or d support from a menu of types of help. "We will have the helpful introductions to investors please, but then no need with any help negotiating the terms, and an espresso to finish." – "Very good, that will be 22%, please." This is a complicated idea, may be difficult to explain and is certainly open to gaming by any researchers who may be mistrusting of central support.
How do you pay for the tech transfer program?
Now that senior university administrators can openly admit that their TTO program is unlikely to make money, as this is not its raison d'être, the question of how to pay for it is being revisited.
HEIF (the UK government's Higher Education Innovation Fund) is an important source of funding for knowledge and technology transfer. The large research universities receive close to £3m ($3.9m) a year, enough to fund a decent TTO, depending on patenting budget and TTO financial models. However, universities share out their HEIF award across many different support functions and initiatives.
When HEIF support started in 2000, it was not really on universities' financial radar and the TTOs had access to most or all of it. As HEIF awards grew in size and the global financial crisis of 2007 onwards led to universities hunting down all sources of income, the money has been spread across an increasing range of innovation initiatives.
If tech transfer is seen as an important central service, like the libraries and research administration for example, should it become part of the central charges levied on departments, however the university may manage cost allocation, and all that. The total amount spent – or "invested" – in technology transfer could be set as a sensible proportion of the university's research volume. Should the central charge to departments then be somehow linked to research volume, numbers of active research staff, or indeed at the whim of a current head of department whether the department wants it or not?
TTOs should retain a proportion of the income they generate, but how much? Overexcitement about future possibilities usually leads to discussions concerning at what level of levy and success the TTO will become self-funding. It is pursuit of this goal of self-funding and the inevitable forecast rise of the curve into profitably that has changed. It is almost certainly not going to happen, so let us stop planning on the basis that it will.
It would be far better for the TTO to be fully funded as an important central service, with the university deciding how to distribute the income it generates afterwards.
How do you manage licensing royalties?
There is very little discussion about this.
It seems to be settled that licensing income is shared about equally between three groups – the researchers involved, the departments involved, and the university centrally – after external costs, mainly patenting, have been recovered. Professional association PraxisUnico offers resources and training around this process.
The debates about equity have not spilled over into royalties.
How generous can a university afford to be?
Universities want more money. The Greek department wants more money to do important research and teaching, the epidemiology department wants more money to do important research and teaching, the administration departments want more money to improve practices and provide more support, and so on. Universities see tech transfer, spinouts, licensing and all that as a possible source of money, and they are not willing to let it all go.
The Easy Access IP initiative – formalised by Glasgow University, King's College London and Bristol University to offer research with low technical readiness for commercialisation by third parties – was a bold and revolutionary step along his path, launched back in 2010.
Ref impact has pointed the spotlights at how all the different ways universities engage externally generate benefits for the university, rather than money. Although, of course, impact scores contribute to Ref ratings, which translates directly to government funding, so maybe it is still about the money, just a different model. What is the exchange rate between a department's share of a possible spinout bonanza and the quality-related funding for a higher Ref grade?
There are, of course, issues for the university to consider. Can it afford to be different to its peers, comparators, competitors? Yes, to an extent, if convinced and willing to show leadership. Can it afford to fall foul of charity law, in terms of use of its assets? Of course not, but this is more of a distraction than a policy-defining issue.
Universities are changing their attitudes to the benefits of technology transfer. They will change again. Imagine a UK university so confident in the overall benefits that come from a properly resourced TTO that it was willing to fund it year in, year out, retaining only modest and uncontroversial shares of royalties and spinouts, fearless of accusations of missing out on the big one, reaping the plaudits of academics, business, industry, investors, government, peers around the world. Imagine…
Copyright Mawsonia Limited 2010. Please don´t cut articles from www.globaluniversityventuring.com or the PDF and redistribute by email or post to the web without written permission.


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Get in[edit]
One can reach Rize by taking a bus or dolmuş from Trabzon. Turkish Airlines (THY) offers daily flights into Trabzon Airport (havaalanı). Pegasus offers discounted fares to Trabzon from Istanbul and Ankara.
Get around[edit]
Much of Rize can be accessed on foot or by shuttle bus (Dolmuş).
See[edit][add listing]
Visit the Botanik Çay Bahçesi (Botanical Tea Garden) and drink Rize's famous tea and sample local desserts.
Drink tea and/or eat fish at a number of seaside restaurants along the coast opposıte from the cıty center.
Take a dolmuş to Dağbaşı from the Eski Orta mosque (cami) north of the central square. There are a number of excellent and affordable restaurants in Dağbaşı that offer a full panorama of the city from a hilltop just outside of the city.
Do[edit][add listing]
Buy[edit][add listing]
Buy tea (çay)!
Eat[edit][add listing]
Try local Karadeniz specialties such as Muhlama, Hamsi Boreği, and Alabalik.
Drink[edit][add listing]
Rize is famous as the home of Rize tea. The mild climate, high precipitation and fertile soil create conditions for producing Turkish tea, which is popular in Turkey and around the world.
Sleep[edit][add listing]
Keleş otel is an acceptable (and unremarkable) two-star hotel near the city center. Rates for a two-person room started at 75 TL as of July 2009.
Get out[edit]
Take a dolmuş to Ayder, access-point for the Kaçkar Dağlar (Kaçkar Mountains).


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