There are several things that have changed in our current economic climate, one of these being the behavior of consumers. Online shopping habits have greatly increased, as we all seek to have whatever we need delivered to our new home. E-commerce has taken a sharp turn, but it’s far from disappeared, and businesses are working to determine ways to navigate the situation. Today we explore how you can adjust your marketing strategy during COVID-19.
What to Do When Your Internet Is Slow
Slowed Internet speeds can pop up at the most inconvenient of times. Maybe you’ve just settled into the couch with a bowl of popcorn, only to find the movie you were planning to watch is stuck on a seemingly eternal loading circle. Perhaps you need to complete some tasks as you work from home, but you’re unable to get to the next webpage. If you’re having these kinds of experiences more and more frequently, you may be at a loss for what to do when your Internet is slow. You may be able to identify and resolve the problem with the following responses.
Innovations in the Electric Car Industry
You can’t deny that technology permeates your everyday life—so much so that technology has seeped into how you travel. For example, some trains and electric cars run off solar power. Companies such as Tesla, Toyota, BMW, Ford, and Chevrolet are feeding off of one another’s innovations to produce the best electric car model. Continue reading to learn some of the innovations in the electric car industry.
Even with all these innovations in the electric car industry, you can’t neglect some basic maintenance. You won’t have any oil to change, but you’ll still need to top off fluids and maintain your brakes and tires. Luckily, you can find affordable, high-quality tires for your electric vehicle across the country.
Battery improvements
Since the first electric vehicle, electric batteries have seen steady improvement—both in the mile-range and startup time. For instance, many of the original electric vehicle batteries were lucky to last 150 to 200 miles on a full charge. Nowadays, consumers expect at least 200 miles on a full charge; luckily, most modern electric vehicles get well above 200 miles. For instance, the Tesla Model S boasts a range of 391 miles on a full charge.Better charging solutions
The lack of charging stations was one of the main reasons people were skeptical about purchasing electric vehicles when they first launched. Luckily, car companies as well as the government have recognized the tremendous value of electric vehicles and are adding thousands of charging stations throughout the country. Additionally, some companies are working on including solar panels on their vehicles—that way, you’ll never have to stop to charge up.Electric vehicles are getting bigger––much bigger
When you think of an electric vehicle, you probably think of a Toyota Prius, a BMW i3, or one of the Tesla models. These are all smaller sedans, maybe with the exception of the Tesla Model X or Y. However, in 2017, Tesla announced that they were working on an electric-powered semitruck. Of course, you can’t forget about the Cybertruck announced in 2019. In other words, electric vehicles are getting larger and larger.Even with all these innovations in the electric car industry, you can’t neglect some basic maintenance. You won’t have any oil to change, but you’ll still need to top off fluids and maintain your brakes and tires. Luckily, you can find affordable, high-quality tires for your electric vehicle across the country.
Negative Impacts of Network Outages
Network outages can result from several circumstances, including hardware failure, device configuration changes, or operational human error, among numerous other possibilities. Because a network involves so many vital interconnected elements, a single fault or mishap can cause the whole system to go down. When such outages occur, their effects can have disastrous repercussions on a company. As such, implementing resiliency and enhancing security throughout a network is essential. To further understand the importance of such preventative measures, read about some of the negative impacts of network outages.
There’s no limit to the financial implications of network outages. As such, it’s imperative to take measures to effectively prevent an outage.
Hurt productivity
High productivity is at the core of any successful company. When network outages occur, such productivity becomes nearly impossible. Employees often require certain network services to carry out their work, so outages may completely halt their workflow. If the responsibilities of employees are interlinked with those of others in your company, a harmful domino effect of lost productivity could occur in various sectors. The effects of lost productivity are especially detrimental in competitive industries in which time to market is central to the success of their products or services.Financial loss
One of the most significant negative impacts of network outages is the financial loss they often incur. When your network goes down, a series of ripple effects often occur, each of which takes a toll on the bottom line of your company. For example, network outages can lead to lost productivity, which prevents employees from creating product—which in turn can lead to lost sales revenue. To make up for the loss of productivity, you may need to pay employees overtime to meet deadlines. In addition, you’ll likely have to pay hefty IT costs to get your system back up and running and to recover any lost data.There’s no limit to the financial implications of network outages. As such, it’s imperative to take measures to effectively prevent an outage.
Hurt reputation
When network outages occur, your production will likely halt until the network gets back up and running. Depending on how long the outage lasts, you may not be able to provide products or services to customers as promised. By inconveniencing customers or business partners, your reputation could take a hit—especially if the people you upset voice their unhappiness on online review sites or social media. As a result of your damaged reputation, customers may flock to your competition instead, which could significantly hurt your business.Best Ways to Be More Productive While Working from Home
Due to current events, you might be working from home right now. Thanks to technology, it’s great that we have this option, but adjusting to working at home can still be tough. Here are some ways to be more productive while working from home.
Designate a Working Area
One of the hardest challenges when working from home is finding a place to stay on task. Most people like to separate their work life from their home life, but the two can start to merge when you are required to work remotely. One of the best ways to be more productive while working from home is to find a designated work area. This can be anywhere from your basement to your garage, but not only will this space help you stay focused, but you can also avoid any distractions if your family is home.Add More Monitors
Working from home also gives you an opportunity to improve your workspace. Adding more computer monitors to your work setup is an excellent way to take your multitasking skills to the next level. Adding more doesn't have to be too expensive. Once you have your monitors in place, there are plenty of ways to get the most out of them and optimize your setup.Move Around
When you work a sedentary job, it can create a lot of health complications. To avoid any fatigue that might prevent you from getting the job done, make sure you move around. Think about doing some chores around the house or taking out the trash to get your legs going. Also, consider getting a standing or even a treadmill desk. Don’t forget to give yourself breaks and go for a walk outside to get some fresh air.Listen to Music
Some workplaces might not allow you to listen to your own music or play any at all. However, when you are at home, you can listen to anything you want, and it can actually make you more productive throughout the day. Experiment with different music genres or even listen to podcasts to see what works best for you.Rely on Natural Lighting
Another way you can optimize your home office is by taking advantage of natural light. You might not have many windows in your traditional workplace, but at home, you can truly soak up the sun. Try to work in an area of your home where you don’t have to rely on artificial lighting. Letting in natural light won’t only brighten your mood; it may also make you more productive.Be Comfortable
Make yourself comfortable to really stay as productive as possible. This doesn’t mean you should work in your bed; however, do consider wearing comfortable clothing when working from home. The right clothes can improve your productivity.Technologies That Are Transforming Retail
Like any industry today, retailers are starting to use many new ways to increase sales and raise their profitability. While this can be through new marketing techniques, customer relations, or even new products, many people don’t realize that technologies are changing retail too. The top technologies that are transforming retail are tech-driven applications to enhance customers satisfaction and ensure fast, efficient transactions for a smooth shopping experience.
Augmented and Virtual Reality
Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are changing the retail industry with their improvements to customer satisfaction and sales. AR uses an interactive experience where real-world objects use computer-generated information to depict a certain image. In retail, customers can use it to see how certain pieces of clothing or items would fit in their homes. This way, these customers feel more confident in their choices and are more likely to make the purchase. Additionally, retailers use VR to redesign stores or compare different products before any actual development takes place.Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence is making a big impact on retail today. One of the main duties of AI in retail is processing customer data. AI records buying patterns to use for merchandising to create a more personal shopping experience. Likewise, many retailers implement facial recognition software to remember customers facial data. This way, when repeated customers return, their facial scans show their shopping patterns. This allows the retailer to retrieve the right products or services beforehand. Not to mention, using facial recognition technology can deter theft because it would improve store security.POS Software
Lastly, one final piece of technology to change retail is a point-of-sale system. Modern POS systems provide full functionality to process credit card payments, handle gift card balances, and manage employee and customer information in addition to payment processes. Many of these systems are EMV and PCI compliant to protect against credit card theft. Also, each transaction is smooth and efficient. Rather than use an older POS system or even a cash drawer, new POS systems can use cloud-based technology for each payment.What to Know About Smart Factories
Like any industry today, manufacturing has changed to become more techno-savvy. The purpose of this is to improve production rates and quality assurance. This new type of manufacturing, often called smart manufacturing, utilizes internet-based systems to manage large data processes and quick changes. For more information, read below on what to know about smart factories and how they’re changing the manufacturing industry today.
More so, industrial robots ensure a safer work environment. This is because less error on the manufacturing floor mean less accidents. Also, robots can handle different high-risk applications that too dangerous for humans, such as high temperatures, exposure to certain materials, or other occupational hazards that humans cannot handle.
What Is a Smart Factory?
A smart factory refers to the utilization of modern technologies and innovations in the realm of smart manufacturing. It employs computer-based systems to adapt and change designs rapidly, process digital information, and optimize the supply chain. This leads to more efficient production and a flexible workforce. Unlike previous automated techniques, smart manufacturing uses intelligent automation and interoperable network systems to increase data storage and manage supply chains. This can handle large data sets easier and react to orders or changes faster.The Current Impact on Manufacturing
Given its reliance on new technologies, smart factories have changed manufacturing significantly. Smart manufacturing relies on what’s called the industrial internet of things (IIoT). This refers to the interconnected sensors, instruments, and machines networked via a computer’s industrial applications. This is to increase integration and data storage through cloud software and computational metrics to track workflow. The interconnectivity allows for more efficient data processing to enhance the flow of production. Additionally, the various benefits of industrial robots has tremendously improved production rates and speeds. Many robots work with humans to evaluate sensory input and solve problems. They are flexible and can reconfigure to handle different problems when needed.More so, industrial robots ensure a safer work environment. This is because less error on the manufacturing floor mean less accidents. Also, robots can handle different high-risk applications that too dangerous for humans, such as high temperatures, exposure to certain materials, or other occupational hazards that humans cannot handle.
Industries That Use Smart Factories
With this, it’s interesting to see which industries use smart manufacturing in their daily operations. Two main industries that do this are the automotive industry and the energy industry. The use of robots in these factories mean 24-hour production times, more accurate inspection findings, and more detailed assessments. These devices also help these industries take a greener approach in their daily operations. Specifically, IIoT devices integrated with sensing systems can optimize energy consumption while balancing power generation and usage. Robots are especially useful in the automotive industry where IIoT devices process data to effectively manage and customize vehicles, as the robots conduct the heavy repetitive tasks.5 Creative Ways to Use Digital Signage in your Store
If foot traffic and sales in your brick-and-mortar retail outlet are lagging, it might be time to shake things up. Devise a new marketing strategy for in-store promotions and re-engage your customers. The human eye is drawn to a screen—marketing professionals and ad execs have known this for decades. As we go through our daily lives surrounded by screens, we can’t help but try to look at all of them. Use screens to your advantage by placing them in your store. Smart business owners use visuals to engage their customers and boost sales inside their stores. Here are some ways to use digital signage to improve your business.
Promote Your Other Platforms
People are in your store because they like your products and services. They’ve already decided that they like you and your shop, so give them more. Use digital signage to promote your other platforms and services. Show customers what else you have going on, such as your social media, YouTube channel, or an upcoming tradeshow you will be attending. If your store has another location, promote that as well and get more traffic in there, too.Create a Window Display
It’s not enough to hope that people see your store from the street as they walk or drive by. You have to grab their attention and pique their curiosity. Set up a window display that dazzles the eye and brings people in. Run promotions, product demos, or clips of whatever—just use that screen as a big hook to bring people in.Run Product Demos
Use the screen to demonstrate your products. Set up a simple demonstration, infomercial style. There is a reason those still run on TV—they are effective. Show customers how great your products are and how to use them in different and creative ways.Tell Your Story
Consumers want to connect with a brand now, not just buy products. They want to feel that the brand speaks to them and has similar values. Use the digital space to tell customers about your business and how it came to be. Tell them what your business is doing to help the community at large. It’s your story, so craft it however you like but be genuine in the approach. Everyone loves a great story about overcoming odds, not a fantastic story full of embellishments.Inform About Coming Promotions
Make the display a bulletin board for your customers. Provide information about upcoming promotions and sales, shows you will be at, and whatever else you think they need to know. Be a resource for your customers and tell them what new products are coming in and when they’ll be available for purchase. If you don’t tell your customers about your services, no one else will.Ways to Improve the Audio Quality in Your Car
We tend to spend a lot of time in our cars, in large part due to work commutes. One way to instantly improve your work commute is to listen to music, but you might be dealing with audio issues that prevent you from jamming out. Here are some ways to improve the audio in your car and enjoy your favorite songs on the way home.
Replace Factory Speakers
The first order of business you should do is replace the factory speakers that you are given with your car. Factory parts in general are known for being lower quality, but the good news is you can easily replace them. When you get new car speakers, consider adding a subwoofer; it will enhance the sound even more.Get a New Head Unit
If you are someone who owns an older car, then your head unit is likely outdated with a CD and cassette player. The good news is you can easily replace the unit and get a brand new one with satellite radio, USB outlets, and Bluetooth capabilities.Download High-Quality Music Files
While many people tend to stream music off apps today, but this could be a reason why your audio quality is low. To avoid this, download your music at a higher quality because you will get a more consistent sound because it’s already stored on your device.Consider Sound Deadening
Another way to improve the audio quality in your car is to consider sound deadening. Sound deadening will essentially soundproof your car. You might be driving a truck or a Jeep, which are known for making a lot of noise. To soundproof your car, install sound deadening foam on your vehicle’s floor, insulate the doors, get new tires, and get a new muffler if you need one. These changes will greatly improve how you listen to music in your car.Free Up Storage on Your Mac with iCloud; Why Doesn't Additional Free Space Become Available After Transfer from Mac to iCloud
According to Apple, optimized Storage in macOS Sierra and later can save space by storing your content in iCloud and making it available on demand. When storage space is needed, files, photos, movies, email attachments, and other files that you seldom use are stored in iCloud automatically. Each file stays right where you last saved it, and downloads when you open it. Files that you’ve used recently remain on your Mac, along with optimized versions of your photos.
You can transfer older files to iCloud by manually dragging files from your local Documents folder to a folder you name ArchiveDocuments if you wish. For example, you can free up local space by dragging all of your file from 2016 to folder you could name "Documents2016."
Lets say you move 3 GB worth of files from your local Mac to iCloud. You might not see the 3 GB extra space immediately. It will likely show up after a restart, but you can also prompt the extra space to display by opening the Storage Management window:
Access the the Storage Management menu from Apple Menu: About This Mac: Storage Tab (in the Storage Management). On slower Macs it may take awhile for space capacity, partitions and availability to display. You will see "calculating" perhaps for a few minutes before the information properly displays. When it displays, you will see the latest space available with the extra 3 GB available.
Store in iCloud
Click the Store in iCloud button, then choose from these options:
Desktop and Documents. Store all files from these two locations in iCloud Drive. When storage space is needed, only the files you recently opened are kept on your Mac, so that you can easily work offline. Files stored only in iCloud show a download icon , which you can double-click to download the original file. Learn more about this feature.
Photos. Store all original, full-resolution photos and videos in iCloud Photos. When storage space is needed, only space-saving (optimized) versions of photos are kept on your Mac. To download the original photo or video, just open it.
Messages. Store all messages and attachments in iCloud. When storage space is needed, only the messages and attachments you recently opened are kept on your Mac. Learn more about Messages in iCloud.
Storing files in iCloud uses the storage space in your iCloud storage plan. If you reach or exceed your iCloud storage limit, you can either buy more iCloud storage or make more iCloud storage available. iCloud storage starts at 50GB for $0.99 (USD) a month, and you can purchase additional storage directly from your Apple device. Learn more about prices in your region. In March 2020 2 TB of storage costs $9.99 per month (50GB: $0.99 and 200GB: $2.99).
Optimize Storage
Click the Optimize button, then choose from these options.
Automatically remove watched movies and TV shows. When storage space is needed, movies or TV shows that you purchased from the iTunes Store and already watched are removed from your Mac. Click the download icon next to a movie or TV show to download it again.
Download only recent attachments. Mail automatically downloads only the attachments that you recently received. You can manually download any attachments at any time by opening the email or attachment, or saving the attachment to your Mac.
Don't automatically download attachments. Mail downloads an attachment only when you open the email or attachment, or save the attachment to your Mac.
Optimizing storage for movies, TV shows, and email attachments doesn't require iCloud storage space.
See more at support.apple ...
How to free up storage space on your Mac ...
You can transfer older files to iCloud by manually dragging files from your local Documents folder to a folder you name ArchiveDocuments if you wish. For example, you can free up local space by dragging all of your file from 2016 to folder you could name "Documents2016."
Lets say you move 3 GB worth of files from your local Mac to iCloud. You might not see the 3 GB extra space immediately. It will likely show up after a restart, but you can also prompt the extra space to display by opening the Storage Management window:
Access the the Storage Management menu from Apple Menu: About This Mac: Storage Tab (in the Storage Management). On slower Macs it may take awhile for space capacity, partitions and availability to display. You will see "calculating" perhaps for a few minutes before the information properly displays. When it displays, you will see the latest space available with the extra 3 GB available.
Store in iCloud
Click the Store in iCloud button, then choose from these options:
Desktop and Documents. Store all files from these two locations in iCloud Drive. When storage space is needed, only the files you recently opened are kept on your Mac, so that you can easily work offline. Files stored only in iCloud show a download icon , which you can double-click to download the original file. Learn more about this feature.
Photos. Store all original, full-resolution photos and videos in iCloud Photos. When storage space is needed, only space-saving (optimized) versions of photos are kept on your Mac. To download the original photo or video, just open it.
Messages. Store all messages and attachments in iCloud. When storage space is needed, only the messages and attachments you recently opened are kept on your Mac. Learn more about Messages in iCloud.
Storing files in iCloud uses the storage space in your iCloud storage plan. If you reach or exceed your iCloud storage limit, you can either buy more iCloud storage or make more iCloud storage available. iCloud storage starts at 50GB for $0.99 (USD) a month, and you can purchase additional storage directly from your Apple device. Learn more about prices in your region. In March 2020 2 TB of storage costs $9.99 per month (50GB: $0.99 and 200GB: $2.99).
Optimize Storage
Click the Optimize button, then choose from these options.
Automatically remove watched movies and TV shows. When storage space is needed, movies or TV shows that you purchased from the iTunes Store and already watched are removed from your Mac. Click the download icon next to a movie or TV show to download it again.
Download only recent attachments. Mail automatically downloads only the attachments that you recently received. You can manually download any attachments at any time by opening the email or attachment, or saving the attachment to your Mac.
Don't automatically download attachments. Mail downloads an attachment only when you open the email or attachment, or save the attachment to your Mac.
Optimizing storage for movies, TV shows, and email attachments doesn't require iCloud storage space.
See more at support.apple ...
How to free up storage space on your Mac ...
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