Britain’s small business leaders are embracing a new ethos of marginal gains, with fresh research revealing how the so-called “1% mindset” is quietly shaping a new wave of SME growth.

According to Adobe, which has launched its Adobe Express ‘One Better’ movement alongside entrepreneur Steven Bartlett, more than 90 per cent of SME owners familiar with the term believe that making small, continuous improvements delivers measurable benefits to productivity and profits.

Often associated with elite sport and high-performance teams, the 1% mindset is gaining traction in the day-to-day realities of UK business. Adobe’s findings show that nearly a quarter of SME owners now “always” use the approach, while a further third apply it regularly. Younger leaders are particularly enthusiastic: 29 per cent of Gen Z owners say they rely on the incremental method as part of their management style.

Confidence is high, too. Some 92 per cent of respondents feel optimistic about their prospects for the year ahead, with four in five classing the last 12 months as successful, a sentiment many attribute to consistent, micro-level improvements rather than sweeping reinvention.

Technology and AI driving marginal gains

Small steps may be at the heart of the mindset, but technology is proving to be the accelerator. Adobe’s survey found that 61 per cent of SME leaders who practise the method believe tech plays a “big role” in enabling continuous progress. Nearly half already use AI assistants, a trend that aligns closely with the most valued features reported by respondents: AI-powered design suggestions and templates (49 per cent), enhanced customer engagement tools (49 per cent) and content-writing support (43 per cent).

These capabilities sit at the core of Adobe Express, which is positioning itself as the entry point for SMEs wanting to embed the 1% mindset into everyday operations. The platform offers quick, intuitive design tools for social posts, flyers and short-form content, thousands of customisable templates, and AI-enabled suggestions that help non-designers create polished materials in minutes. Crucially, it works seamlessly across web and mobile – an important factor for time-pressed entrepreneurs.

Marketing and customer service were identified as the two business areas where marginal gains deliver the greatest impact, cited by 31 per cent and 27 per cent of respondents respectively. Adobe Express, with its fast content-creation features and on-the-go usability, is pitched squarely at improving these customer-facing touchpoints.

Creators champion the ‘One Better’ movement

Adobe’s campaign is backed by leading creatives including Jessica Walsh, Ollie Olanipekun and Jonathan Mildenhall, each offering simple, practical prompts designed to embody the spirit of small daily improvements.

Walsh encourages founders to “find the moment of humour in your creative work”, while Olanipekun advises leaders to “take your brain for a walk”. Mildenhall advocates resisting the temptation to settle for the first idea, suggesting that slowing down, even momentarily, can lead to better outcomes.

Bartlett, an advocate of the movement, said: “The 1% mindset is about celebrating small, everyday improvements that, over time, unlock extraordinary results. It’s inspiring to see so many UK businesses adopting this approach and using tools like Adobe Express to make those incremental gains easier and more impactful.”

A universal approach for the next growth chapter

Adobe’s research suggests the movement cuts across age groups, regions and sectors. More than 96 per cent of SME leaders aware of the concept believe it can positively influence business goals; 86 per cent say it can even boost staff morale.

Challenges remain. Financial pressures persist for many small firms, and around a third of respondents admit they do not always know where best to focus their improvements. Time constraints are another barrier. But the combination of rising optimism, accessible digital tools and a culture of marginal gains is helping business owners make progress in practical, manageable steps.

Simon Morris, Adobe’s Vice President of International Marketing, said: “Small, incremental improvements are reshaping how businesses grow, adapt and thrive. Technology is the enabler, providing the tools and data businesses need to unlock new efficiencies.”

For SMEs ready to incorporate the 1% mindset into their growth strategy, Adobe Express has created a suite of free templates, resources and tutorials supporting the ‘One Better’ movement. Business owners can explore them here: https://adobesparkpost.app.link/Z7Tcd9oZcYb

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Adobe backs ‘1% mindset’ as SMEs turn to marginal gains for growth

Business today moves fast. Entrepreneurs are expected to manage teams, meet clients, and grow their companies, all while staying connected on the move. To keep up, they need more than just a phone. They need a tool that works as hard as they do.

The Google Pixel 10 is built for a new way of working. It blends productivity, security, and style into one device. For business owners and professionals on the go, it could be the most valuable tool to carry.

Power That Keeps Up with You

Running a business doesn’t stop when the working day ends. Entrepreneurs often move from meetings to flights to late-night emails. A phone that runs out of battery halfway through the day simply won’t do.

The Pixel 10 is designed to last. Its adaptive battery learns your habits and saves power where it’s not needed. That means it can last well into the evening on a single charge. When you do need a power boost, fast charging gets you back to work in minutes.

No more hunting for plug sockets at the airport or carrying bulky power banks. With the Pixel 10, power worries are taken off the list.

AI That Works Like an Assistant

Time is the most valuable resource for any business owner. The Pixel 10 uses advanced AI to help save it.

• Smart replies let you respond to messages instantly without typing long responses.
• Call screening helps filter out time-wasting spam or unknown calls.
• Real-time translation breaks language barriers during international trips.
• Voice dictation makes writing emails or notes fast and accurate.

These features combine to remove distractions and free up focus for what matters most. Running the business.

Seamless Integration with Business Tools

Entrepreneurs rely on a wide range of apps. From calendars and video calls to project management and expenses, everything must work smoothly.

In fact, many experts argue you can run a business entirely from a smartphone. An article highlights how entrepreneurs are using mobile devices to handle everything from payments and contracts to team communication.

The Pixel 10 is designed to integrate seamlessly with Google Workspace, Slack, Zoom, and countless other business tools. It helps entrepreneurs keep track of meetings, manage documents, and organise projects without hassle.

Always Connected, Wherever You Go

Whether it’s a video call with a client or checking in with a remote team, reliable connectivity is non-negotiable. The Pixel 10 is built with 5G to ensure fast speeds and stable performance.

You can download files, join video conferences, and collaborate with ease, even when travelling abroad. Combined with O2’s reliable network and roaming, the Pixel 10 keeps your business running no matter where you travel.

Security That Protects What Matters

The Pixel 10 comes with multiple layers of protection. It has face and fingerprint unlock for secure and quick access. Its Titan M2 security chip helps defend against digital threats, and with automatic security updates, your phone is always prepared for the latest risks.

Business leaders carry sensitive data on their phones every day, and cyber attacks are a real and measurable risk. The UK Government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025 found that over 43% of UK businesses and 30% of charities experienced a cyber security breach or attack in the last 12 months. This highlights why built-in protections like the Titan M2 chip and automatic updates are essential.

This level of protection gives entrepreneurs peace of mind. Even if the phone is lost or stolen, the data remains safe

A Camera Built for Work and Beyond

The Pixel 10’s AI-powered camera makes it easy to capture sharp images of whiteboards, documents, or events. Features like Photo Unblur and Magic Eraser make sure every image looks professional.

It’s not just about work either. For entrepreneurs who spend much of their time travelling, the Pixel 10 doubles as a top-tier camera for capturing those rare moments of downtime.

Seamless Integration with Business Tools

Entrepreneurs rely on a wide range of apps. From calendars and video calls to project management and expenses, everything must work smoothly.

The Pixel 10 is designed to integrate seamlessly with Google Workspace, Slack, Zoom, and countless other business tools. It helps entrepreneurs keep track of meetings, manage documents, and organise projects without hassle.

No switching devices, no lagging performance. Just simple, efficient workflows from one pocket-sized hub.

Style That Matches Your Ambition

First impressions matter in business. The Pixel 10 doesn’t just perform well, it looks the part too.

Its sleek and professional design makes it a natural fit in the boardroom, a client dinner, or an international conference. Lightweight and slim, it slips easily into a bag or pocket. The Pixel 10 balances style with function, reflecting the professional standards of those who carry it.

Why the Pixel 10 Is the Right Choice for Entrepreneurs

Running a business is never simple. But the right tools can make the journey smoother. The Google Pixel 10 offers everything an entrepreneur needs:

• Long-lasting power.
• AI that saves time.
• Strong security.
• Seamless connectivity.
• Professional design.
• It’s more than just a smartphone. It’s a partner in productivity, travel, and growth. For business owners who want a phone that supports their ambitions, the Pixel 10 delivers on every level.

Read more:
The Smartest Business Tool in Your Pocket: Why the Pixel 10 Is Built for Entrepreneurs

A gentle sigh, a cup of tea cooling beside the keyboard, and one big question: could an online space still feel warm after all these years?

That moment of hesitation is familiar to anyone returning to, or entering, digital dating. SameAgeDates positions itself as a calm alternative, framing every exchange as a chance to feel noticed rather than hurried along a carousel of profiles. Below you will find a detailed SameAgeDates review, its strengths, and the areas that may still need attention.

Halfway through these opening thoughts, it’s worth noting that exploring the platform is simple. The sign‑up page for SameAgeDates loads quickly, and no intrusive pop‑ups interrupt your focus. The first three minutes feel intentionally unrushed, a tone that carries through the rest of your journey.

What Is SameAgeDates – Core Philosophy and Culture

The question “What is SameAgeDates?” might be answered in one sentence: a presence‑first environment where thoughtful messaging matters. Yet the background deserves a closer look:

• Purpose‑led design: The interface avoids timer‑based mechanics, encouraging you to reply when inspiration strikes.
• Emotional renewal: Profile prompts invite reflections such as “What personal discovery makes you smile lately?” These cues build a climate where deeper conversation may flourish.
• Respect by default: Each account undergoes email confirmation before gaining full functionality—an unobtrusive measure that filters most automated sign‑ups.

By weaving these principles into its layout and policies, SameAgeDates sketches a clear vision: slower pace, richer words, fewer distractions.

Onboarding Journey and Interface

Most newcomers move through these steps in under ten minutes, although personal pacing varies. By favoring clarity over clutter, SameAgeDates gives fresh members room to breathe before they reach out.

Key SameAgeDates Features —Expanded Walk‑Through

Below is a text‑based tour of the most influential elements, each accompanied by practical notes.

Newsfeed Posting and Browsing

The newsfeed behaves much like a minimalist social wall. Upload one image, write a caption, and decide whether comments are open. Posts stay visible indefinitely, encouraging longer reflections rather than fleeting stories. Observers can mark posts with Likes or gentle Winks—both actions free of charge—while private responses slip naturally into the message inbox.

People Carousel

Where many services present endless swipes, SameAgeDates offers a paced carousel with three precise gestures: Like, Wink, and Save. A Like signals interest, a Wink sends a playful nudge (limited to one per recipient to avoid overuse), and Save adds the profile to a personal shortlist. Premium subscribers may review an extended history of who Saved them, giving extra insight before initiating dialogue.

Privacy Controls

Privacy sits near the top of the settings panel. A permanent delete option triggers an automated 48‑hour purge of personal data. Because search engines do not index profile pages, embarrassing surprises in public search results remain unlikely.

Messaging Limits and Premium Upgrades

Members who upgrade unlock unlimited initiations and animated sticker packs. Transactions require payment confirmation.

Advanced Search Filters

A compact menu lets members refine explorations by age range, location, and online status. Saving a favorite filter group is as easy as tapping a heart icon.

Round‑the‑Clock Support

A floating help widget opens to a searchable knowledge base and, during peak hours, a live conversation window. After‑hours inquiries convert to email tickets. Median reply time hovers around six hours on weekdays. This cadence, together with an informative support blog, provides reassurance for those wondering, “is SameAgeDates legit.”

Safety, Privacy, and Support: Is SameAgeDates Legit?

Users often ask, is SameAgeDates legit? Technical safeguards provide grounded reassurance. All data travels through encryption and is stored with secure standards. Public search engines cannot index profile information, so private moments remain out of casual reach. The content policy bars spam and explicit imagery and relies on both automated scanning and human review to enforce guidelines.

Finally, the SameAgeDates help desk operates around the clock via live widgets during peak periods and a monitored email queue after hours, with median response times hovering under half a day.

A Typical First Week on SameAgeDates

Day 1 often finishes with a polished profile and two thoughtful messages. By Day 2, a scenic photo in the newsfeed can seed multiple comment threads. Mid‑week, users experiment with Winks. On the weekend, many evaluate whether premium messaging aligns with personal engagement levels. This gradual rhythm exemplifies the platform’s presence‑driven DNA.

Expert Tips for Maximizing Usage of  SameAgeDates

1. Complete the “About” field early: Fully completed SameAgeDates profiles receive more first messages.
2. Use Save list: Build a queue before starting conversations; avoids impulse messaging.
3. Revisit Newsfeed weekly: Fresh posts gain algorithmic prominence, potentially boosting reach.

Final Thoughts

In a world of fast swipes and quick replies, SameAgeDates offers something slower and more thoughtful. It doesn’t promise instant sparks, but it might give you the space to feel seen and heard in a way that matters. If you’re looking for conversations that unfold at a natural pace and don’t mind using a mobile browser, this platform could be a quiet place to start something meaningful, one message at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SameAgeDates in one sentence?

SameAgeDates is an online dating platform created for those who want to explore connections with presence, warmth, and a sense of emotional renewal.

How does SameAgeDates deal with unwanted content?

Human intervention in content moderation to remove inappropriate content.

Is SameAgeDates safe to use?

Encryption standards, non‑indexed profiles, strict content policies, and round‑the‑clock support collectively create a security posture that may feel reassuring to many users.

This article has been sponsored by SameAgeDates. This article does not provide professional advice and should not be used to diagnose any conditions.

Read more:
What Is SameAgeDates? A Closer Look at Presence‑Driven Dating

A stylish, well-organised workspace does more than look good — it helps you focus, stay productive, and feel more in control of your day. Whether you work from home full-time or simply need a designated space for admin, having the right setup can make all the difference.

In this article, we here at vidaXL, will share practical and inspiring ideas to help you elevate your workspace. From choosing the right office furniture to incorporating calming colours and clever storage, every detail can contribute to a more enjoyable and effective work environment. Whether you’re revamping a spare room or transforming a kitchen corner, there are stylish, smart, and accessible ways to make it work for you.

Invest in functional and stylish office furniture

When it comes to creating a productive work environment, the furniture you choose matters. Not only should your desk and chair be comfortable and ergonomic; they should also complement your personal style and the overall vibe of your home. Start with the essentials:

• A height-appropriate desk with enough surface area for your tasks
• An ergonomic office chair that supports your posture throughout the day
• Storage solutions like a filing cabinet or shelving unit to reduce clutter

Good office furniture doesn’t have to mean boring or bulky. At vidaXL, you’ll find a range of designs — from minimalist and modern to classic and cosy — all crafted with both function and design in mind. And don’t forget those smaller but important pieces. A mobile drawer unit, a compact bookcase, or even a stylish side table can do wonders for keeping things tidy and within reach.

The best part? The right furniture helps define your workspace — especially useful if you’re working in a shared area like a living room or guest room. With the right setup, you’re not just creating a place to work — you’re creating a place you want to be.

Choose the right lighting for productivity and comfort

Proper Lighting is one of the most overlooked aspects of a home office — but it can make or break your focus, mood, and even posture. A well-lit workspace reduces eye strain, helps you stay alert, and makes the space more inviting to spend time in.

Start by maximising natural light. Position your desk near a window if possible, but avoid direct glare on your screen. Sheer curtains or blinds can help diffuse bright sunlight and create a softer, more comfortable glow. For artificial lighting, consider layering different sources:

• Task lighting: A desk lamp with an adjustable arm or directional shade is ideal for focused work
• Ambient lighting: Use a floor lamp or ceiling light to provide general illumination across the room
• Accent lighting: Add warmth and style with a decorative table lamp or wall-mounted fixture

The key is balance — combining functionality with a calming atmosphere that doesn’t feel harsh or clinical. At vidaXL, you’ll find a selection of office-friendly lighting that ranges from sleek and modern to warm and decorative, helping you create a space that’s as productive as it is pleasant.

Lighting isn’t just about seeing clearly — it’s about feeling good in your space. The right setup can energise your mornings, ease your eyes during long afternoons, and bring a sense of calm when your to-do list is done.

Keep your space organised with smart storage

A tidy workspace is a productive workspace. Clutter not only distracts the eye but also slows you down when you’re hunting for documents, tools, or supplies. That’s why smart storage solutions are essential for any home office setup — whether you’ve got an entire room or just a corner.

Start with closed storage for the things you don’t use daily. Filing cabinets, drawer units, or sideboards are ideal for keeping paperwork, cables, and equipment neatly tucked away. Open shelving, on the other hand, is great for frequently used items and a chance to display books, décor, or plants that make your space feel lived-in and inspiring.

Here are a few smart storage tips:

• Use stackable boxes or baskets for smaller items like stationery or tech accessories
• Opt for a desk with built-in drawers to maximise space
• Label your storage so you always know where things go
• Consider a mobile storage unit that you can tuck under your desk or roll to another room

At vidaXL, you’ll find a wide range of office storage options that are both functional and stylish. From sleek shelving units to compact drawer systems, each piece is designed to help you make the most of your space without sacrificing your aesthetic.

The goal isn’t just to hide things away — it’s to create a system that supports your daily workflow. A well-organised space allows you to think clearly, work efficiently, and spend more time focusing on what really matters.

Create a workspace that reflects you

Just because it’s a workspace doesn’t mean it has to be sterile or dull. Your home office should feel like a natural extension of your personality and style. After all, you’re more likely to enjoy spending time in a space that feels personal, welcoming, and uniquely yours.

Start by choosing a colour palette that you love — whether that’s warm and earthy, soft and calming, or bold and energetic. Add texture with soft furnishings like a rug or throw, and include artwork, photos, or prints that inspire you. A corkboard or pinboard is also a practical way to keep ideas, deadlines, and notes in view while adding visual interest.

Here are a few easy ways to personalise your space:

• Hang up framed prints or your favourite motivational quotes
• Use unique desk accessories — think ceramic pen holders or a vintage lamp
• Display personal items like travel souvenirs or small sculptures
• Add a comfy chair or pouffe for when you need a break away from your desk

With office furniture and accessories from vidaXL, it’s easy to bring style and function together. Their range includes everything from bold statement desks to minimalist chairs and decorative storage, giving you the freedom to express yourself while staying organised.

Your workspace should energise you. It should feel like a space that supports your goals, sparks creativity, and helps you show up as your best self each day — whether you’re working on spreadsheets, building a business, or writing articles.

Keep it organised and clutter-free

A tidy space really does equal a tidy mind — especially when it comes to your home office. Clutter can quickly sap your energy and focus, so building good storage habits into your workspace is key.

Start by giving everything a home. Whether it’s paperwork, tech accessories, or your favourite notebooks, having a system in place makes it easier to stay on top of things. Open shelving is ideal for items you want within easy reach, while drawers and cabinets are perfect for stashing away the rest.

Consider these simple yet effective ideas:

• Use vertical space: Add wall-mounted shelves or tall bookcases to free up floor space
• Label boxes and folders: So you can find what you need fast
• Store by frequency: Keep everyday items nearby, and store less-used gear higher or further away
• Hide cables: Use cable organisers or desk grommets to reduce visual mess

At vidaXL, you’ll find storage that’s both practical and stylish — from mobile drawer units to sleek cabinets and modular shelving systems. Their designs are ideal for anyone who wants their workspace to be functional without compromising on design.

An organised office helps you feel more in control and focused — and it saves you time searching for lost pens or tangled chargers. Plus, a clear workspace makes it easier to switch off at the end of the day and reclaim your home for relaxation and downtime.

Bring in personality with thoughtful finishing touches

Even the most efficient office setup can feel uninspired without a touch of personality. Finishing touches are what turn a practical workspace into a place you enjoy spending time in — and they often have a surprising impact on your mood and motivation.

Start by choosing décor that reflects your style. This could be anything from framed art or motivational prints to decorative bookends, a sculptural vase, or a soft throw draped over your chair. Don’t underestimate the power of colour either — a vibrant lampshade, patterned rug, or colourful stationery can lift the space instantly.

Here are a few finishing ideas to try:

• Plants: Fresh greenery improves air quality and adds calm
• Personal mementos: A photo, a travel keepsake, or an item with sentimental value
• Good lighting: A warm desk lamp or ambient floor light to soften the room
• Textures: Add softness with a fabric pinboard, a wool rug, or linen curtains

If you’re looking for stylish and affordable options, vidaXL has plenty of pieces to help you personalise your setup — from statement chairs to shelving and subtle décor.

Ultimately, it’s about creating a space that feels like you — a workspace where you can focus, think, and feel comfortable all at once. When function and personality come together, your home office becomes not just a place to work, but a place to thrive.

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How to create an inspiring workspace

Are you tired of online communication platforms that use bulky sites? New platforms like Philitalks focus on convenience and ease of use.

This platform in particular has a handy interface and a wide range of features that help it stand out from the rest.

Another thing that helps the website provide a smooth chatting experience is a wide pool of users willing to talk online. This way, starting a conversation becomes much easier and you can try chatting with multiple people. So, is Philitalks good? In this article, we’re going to talk about what makes this platform worth your while and how to start using it.

What Is Philitalks?

The communication platform Philitalks gathers people from all corners of the world who are interested in talking online. Here you can find like-minded people and diversify your social life by making new friends. Use a search option and look for chatting partners that match your criteria. After that, you can start talking to them anytime!

Let’s look at some of the features this platform offers all its users:

• Detailed profiles. Want to make sure you will have something to talk about with another person? Check out their profile to learn more details.
• Free sign-up. You can register under 5 minutes.
• Personal Stories. Talking is all about sharing information about yourself and your worldview. The website allows you to chat with people from different backgrounds and countries.
• Virtual gifts. Show other people that you care using special features.
• 24/7 support. It’s important to have all the support you need whenever an issue arises. A team of customer support is always there to help you out.

Philitalks Login Process

Signing up for Philitalks doesn’t take long. As a rule, you can do it in just a few minutes. The platform will require you to fill out a form with different details. Specify your birthdate, gender preferences, and password to create a new profile. Wait for a confirmation email, and after that – you’re good to go! You can add a photo and more details to your profile to make it easier for other people to talk to you.

What Is Philitalks Used For?

It turns out, billions of people use social media platforms to look for chatting partners. According to statistics, 5.22 billion online users like to talk to other people over social media sites. This means that 63.8% of the world’s population is communicating online and likes to find new friends over the Internet. This is what Philitalks offers all its users – a fast and easy way to chat online on the topic of your choice.

You can also show your interest via different features like ‘wink’ and ‘follow’. Ultimately, what you get is the ability to talk to people that would have been unavailable to you otherwise. It can greatly broaden your horizons and help you learn about other cultures and countries.

Philitalks Reviews: Are the Customers Happy?

Philitalks has a 3.9 rating on Trustpilot with a lot of people sharing their various experiences about using the platform. In general, they were happy with an easy registration process and a hassle-free way to use all of the platform’s features. Users noted that they had meaningful interactions using the site and experienced human connection in various ways.

Some of the Philitalks reviews also mentioned that they liked the convenience of the website. They had fun chats on different topics that helped them break free from the routine of their daily lives. So, is Philitalks real or not? It’s definitely a real platform that can help people find chatting partners and boost their social lives to a new level.

Philitalks Features to Boost Your Chatting Experience

Once you’ve finished the registration process, you can explore various features offered by Philitalks. Let’s review some of them.

• Send Media. While chatting, it’s important to exchange information about yourself with another person. This feature allows you to send photos and videos to enrich your experience.
• Search page. The website has lots of profiles and you can use the search feature to find the people that speak to you on a deeper level.
• Chat + Let’s Talk. When you find the people you like, you can start talking to them right away. Need an ice-breaker? The platform can help you start a conversation with an opening line.
• Mails. If you prefer writing longer letters, then this email feature is right up your alley. This way you can tell more about yourself and the country you live in to make your conversation even more interesting.
• Like, Wink, and Follow. Before you start chatting with someone, you can ‘like’ or ‘wink’ at them to show that you’re interested. If you like scrolling through social media feeds, then follow the profiles of your friends and stay up to date with what those people are doing in their daily lives.

Conclusion

If you’re still asking yourself ‘Is Philitalks legitimate?’ a short answer will be yes, it’s a real site with genuine profiles of people from different corners of the world. It’s a safe place where you can express yourself in various ways with users who want to make new friends. In this Philitalks review, we have looked at the website’s main features that can help you start chatting in a matter of minutes. Philitalks registration process is fast and simple and you can do it anytime for free.

FAQ

Is Philitalks legit?

Yes, Philitalks is a legit communication website that helps people find like-minded chatting partners. You get a chance to talk to citizens of different countries and tell them about yourself. Here you can begin your chatting journey even if you have limited experience of talking to people online.

Is Philitalks safe?

Yes, Philitalks is a safe website that puts the safety of its users first. You can rest assured that all the information you share on the website is protected by its AI algorithms and the team of moderators that checks all the interactions. They also make sure there’s no harmful content on the website so you can have a smooth chatting experience.

Is Philitalks fake?

No, Philitalks is not a fake website. The team of moderators checks the site’s profiles for authenticity so you don’t get to experience unwanted interactions. We all strive to build genuine connections with others, that’s why Philitalks is a good place to start. It provides a safe and positive environment to talk to people and learn more about them.

This content is sponsored by Philitalks. Please mind that this is not professional advice and should be treated as such. If you need help with health issues, it’s best to contact a medical practitioner.

Read more:
Philitalks Review: A Deep Dive Into Its Success Rate

Today, around 99% of all businesses in the UK are classed as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), employing around 61% of the private sector workforce.Yet, despite their critical role in the UK economy, many SMEs are struggling.

A recent study found the number of small businesses in the UK has dropped from 5.9 million in 2020 to 5.5 million today. Many businesses are feeling the squeeze from increased operating costs, slow revenue recovery and, crucially, the ongoing struggle to secure funding.

Addressing these funding challenges is essential to help SMEs to survive and grow, and fintech solutions are making a real impact in this space. As PayPal Working Capital internal data showed, PayPal has stepped in to address a £2.5 billion funding gap facing UK small businesses in the last 10 years through its PayPal Working Capital solution.

With its agile approach, PayPal Working Capital offers SMEs a fast and flexible way to access the capital they need, based on their sales history.

Traditional funding avenues can present roadblocks for small businesses

The UK’s traditional lending system can present challenges to smaller and newer businesses, with extensive documentation, lengthy approval times, and strict lending criteria creating barriers for SMEs. In April 2024, for example, the Treasury Committee reported that small businesses face ‘needlessly tougher’ conditions due to restrictive measures from banks and regulators, which can hold them back from securing essential funds.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has also voiced concerns over declining funding success rates. Prior to the pandemic, 65% of SMEs were able to secure funding, a figure that fell to 61% in 2023. As a result, businesses seeking reliable financing are increasingly turning to fintech options as a more accessible and adaptable alternative. In fact, according to research done by Sonovate in 2023, four in ten SMEs prefer fintech lenders over mainstream banks when seeking business finance.

Fintech solutions provide SMEs with alternative funding options

From managing cash flow to purchasing inventory, investing in technology or upskilling staff, SMEs depend on financing to support their growth. Fortunately, fintech solutions, like PayPal Working Capital, present SMEs with alternative financing options that are easy to apply and manage.

SMEs need modern funding solutions suited to the realities of running a small business, and options such as PayPal Working Capital present an appealing alternative. Unlike traditional business loans from banks, PayPal Working Capital provides funding based on an SME’s PayPal sales history. This helps to enable businesses to borrow up to 35% of their annual PayPal sales without the need to demonstrate extensive financial forecasts. The application process is quick and straightforward, with funds available fast.

Moreover, with PayPal Working Capital small businesses choose the percentage of their PayPal sales that will go toward repaying the cash advance so it can be tailored to suit the business’ cash flow needs. Repayments are tied to daily sales, which means businesses pay more when they have high sales and less during slower periods. With a single fixed fee, business owners are freed from ongoing interest charges and have a clear view of total repayment costs, meaning no unwelcome surprises.

How can fintech solutions help your business to grow?

Since its inception in 2014, PayPal Working Capital has distributed £2.5 billion to 58,000 UK businesses across a variety of sectors. From fashion to auto-parts, these cash advances have allowed small businesses to flourish in today’s challenging economic landscape. According to PayPal’s Working Capital SMB Survey from July 2024, nine out of 10 (91%) of these businesses have said their revenue either increased or remained steady thanks to the funding they received.

The London Candle Company is one of the businesses that has benefitted from PayPal Working Capital. A small business focused on selling high-quality, competitively priced candles in bulk to businesses in the catering and hospitality industry, The London Candle Company took advantage of PayPal Working Capital’s innovative approach to repayments.

“PayPal Working Capital has been so helpful when I’ve needed to stock up on bulk candles ahead of the busy winter months, especially because I need to pay my suppliers right away,” Founder and Managing Director, Jonathan Welland explains, “I’ve found it simple and easy to use too, as you choose the percentage of your sales that you pay towards the advance – you’ve still got cash flow coming in but you’re only losing a portion of it. And before I know it, it’s been paid.”

Small business owners across the UK, like Jonathan, are already making the most of fintech models, which are rapidly transforming the traditional lending industry. Could your business be next? Discover more information about PayPal Working Capital and empower the expansion of your business.

Any information provided is general only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs.

Read more:
How fintech financing is plugging the £2.5 billion funding gap for small businesses in the UK

Aspiring solopreneurs and small business owners are being offered a life-changing opportunity to accelerate their entrepreneurial dreams, thanks to Adobe’s new Manifest-o Method.

This framework, designed by experienced business professionals and powered by Adobe Express, helps transform ideas into actionable business plans.

Available now on the Adobe website, the Manifest-o Method is launching with an exciting opportunity to accelerate one inspiring business idea into reality. The prize? £10,000, access to a network of like-minded individuals, and personal counsel from Steven Bartlett himself.

Until October 13th, aspiring entrepreneurs can enter a first-of-its-kind competition by submitting their own manifesto. Powered by Adobe Express, the Manifest-o Method comes in six templates for inspiration and gives you the option to create your own from scratch.

With Adobe Express, anyone can create professional assets for their small business – whether it’s social posts, videos, food menus, labels or presentation slides – without any prior design experience, and at no cost. This makes it the perfect tool for crafting your own manifesto.

In addition to the cash prize, the winner will also score an invitation to an exclusive event with entrepreneur and best-selling author Steven Bartlett.

The winner will also have a chance to join The Express Collective — an exclusive group of like-minded individuals who already use Adobe Express for their businesses, from food trucks to unique drinks, custom stationery and clothing.

Joining The Express Collective will provide the winner with access to community events, technical workshops, and mentors that will create opportunities for advancing any business idea through practical advice, free tools and networking.

According to research commissioned by Adobe, over half of Brits (52%) believe in the power of manifestation to achieve their dreams, with younger generations leading this trend.

While some may manifest love, travel or a shiny new car – 60% of those surveyed revealed that they manifested becoming business owners, demonstrating the growing importance of confidence and visualisation to turn dreams into reality. And it’s clear manifestation is far from just wishful thinking.

Truly, if you can believe it, you can achieve it, right?

What is manifestation?

To ‘manifest’ is to bring something into reality using your thoughts and actions to create the life you’ve always dreamed of. While the concept isn’t new, recent research highlights how today’s business owners are harnessing this power to stay focused on their goals.

Successful entrepreneurs understand the value of creating a manifesto – according to the research, 61% of solopreneurs believe their business would benefit from a clear manifesto outlining their intentions and goals.

Furthermore, 53% of investors now look for a clear manifesto in business proposals, while 73% believe a manifesto has a greater impact on long-term success than a traditional business plan.

Ready to enter this life-changing competition?

Existing and aspiring solopreneurs and small business owners are called upon to create their own manifestos using Adobe Express, the quick and easy create-anything app, and submit them via a dedicated website at submityourmanifesto.co.uk.

The grand prize winner will get the £10,000, with runner-up prizes including Adobe Express Premium subscriptions. These subscriptions offer an even wider range of templates for inspiration, customisation options, collaboration features, access to a library of high-quality stock photos, and much more.

Want to learn more? Visit the Adobe Express Manifest-o Method web page here to discover the best way to create your own manifesto to help you achieve business greatness and details on how to enter.

Terms and conditions apply – find those here. Competition runs from 17 September to 13 October, 2024.

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Calling all solopreneurs: Create your business manifesto and win £10,000 with Adobe

Wine coolers are specialised appliances for storing wine at the optimal temperature and humidity levels. Whether you are a casual wine drinker or a serious collector, having the right storage conditions can significantly enhance the taste and longevity of your wine.

Unlike conventional refrigerators, wine coolers maintain a consistent environment, ensuring that your wine remains in excellent condition over time. In this article from Wineandbarrels, we will help you find the best wine cooler for your needs.

Why should you buy a wine cooler?

One of the primary benefits of a wine cooler is the ability to store different types of wine at their ideal temperatures. White wines and sparkling varieties typically need cooler storage temperatures, around 7-8°C, while red wines are better stored at 15-18°C. This is where dual-zone wine coolers come into play, offering separate compartments for storing different wines at their respective temperatures.

If you’re a collector or planning to age your wine, the long-term stability provided by wine coolers is invaluable. The controlled environment inside the cooler helps to protect the wine from temperature fluctuations, humidity changes, and exposure to light, all of which can negatively affect the wine’s quality. Wine coolers are thus a modern, space-efficient alternative to traditional wine cellars.

Types of wine coolers

There are various types of wine coolers available, catering to different needs and preferences:

• Freestanding wine coolers: These are versatile and can be placed anywhere in your home. They are ideal for those who do not want to make permanent changes to their kitchen or living space.
• Built-in or integrated wine coolers: These models can be installed within your kitchen cabinetry or bar area, offering a sleek, seamless appearance. Built-in models save space and can enhance the aesthetic of your home.
• Dual-zone wine coolers: These are perfect for those who enjoy both red and white wines, these coolers feature two compartments, each with its own temperature setting.

Key considerations when buying a wine cooler

Before purchasing a wine cooler, consider the following factors to ensure you make the right choice:

• Capacity: Consider the size of your wine collection. If you’re a casual drinker with a small collection, a smaller unit that holds up to 20 bottles may suffice. However, if you plan on expanding your collection, investing in a larger unit with space for over 100 bottles may be more appropriate.
• Noise level: Some wine coolers are designed to operate more quietly than others, which may be an important consideration if you plan to place the unit in a living room or other quiet areas.
• Energy efficiency: Modern wine coolers often come with energy-saving features. This is crucial if you’re conscious of environmental impact or want to reduce electricity costs.
• Aesthetic design: Wine coolers come in various designs, from stainless steel models to wooden finishes. Depending on your home décor, you can choose a model that enhances your interior while providing functional wine storage. Some models even feature UV-protected glass doors to prevent light exposure, which is important for preserving the wine’s integrity.

Here’s why wine coolers are important for wine collectors

A wine cooler is a great tool if you’re serious about wine, whether for investment purposes or personal enjoyment. Wines that are not stored properly can deteriorate quickly, losing their flavour and aroma. By maintaining an ideal environment for wine storage, coolers help ensure that your collection remains in pristine condition.

Temperature stability is crucial, as fluctuating conditions can cause the wine to age prematurely or even spoil. Humidity control is equally important, particularly for bottles sealed with corks, as too little moisture can cause the cork to dry out, allowing air to seep in and spoil the wine. Get your new wine cooler from Wineandbarrels here.

This article is sponsored by wineandbarrels.co.uk.

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Enhance your wine experience with the right wine cooler

There are so many great reasons to start a business – research from American Express reveals that many entrepreneurs start their own businesses to have the freedom to manage their own work (51%), enjoy a better work-life balance (42%) and feel happier and more fulfilled (38%).

To ensure that the business is sustainable in the long-term, there are several ways small businesses can set themselves up for success.

Business owners recognise the need for help

Even though half (50%) of the entrepreneurs surveyed think it’s ‘easy’ to start your own business in the UK, business owners recognise that entrepreneurship can be challenging.

When asked what, if anything, they would have done differently when starting their business, 37% said they would have developed a clearer business plan, 30% said they would have built a stronger financial base, and 30% said they would have sought more advice or expertise.

It is clear entrepreneurs need ongoing support to help navigate some of the challenges they face on their business journey.

Networks are an integral part of success

The strong support networks that can be found among business communities are key to driving long-lasting, sustainable success for small businesses.

Business owners themselves recognise how integral support networks are – our research found that over two-thirds (67%) of business owners understand the challenges entrepreneurs face and are keen to help each other wherever possible. As part of this effort, we found that almost a quarter (24%) of business owners are joining small business networks to help support other entrepreneurs in their community.

By building a network of trusted contacts, business leaders can share their experiences and solutions, gain fresh perspectives from each other, and bounce their ideas off other small business owners who may raise factors that they might not have otherwise considered.

This is especially important for small business owners who might not yet have the experience to tackle issues on their own. Research conducted by productivity champions Be the Business found that a third (33%) of those businesses who received advice reported increasing revenues, compared with about a quarter (26%) who didn’t – having trusted peers who can provide their advice has a real impact on business performance.

As part of those advice-led conversations, small business owners can provide recommendations and referrals which can help others to make informed decisions about their business and take advantage of offers that can help them make the most of their spending.

Refer a small business owner and earn additional rewards with American Express

American Express is running its best ever refer a business offer on its American Express® Business Platinum and Business Gold Cards. Until 2 July 2024, Cardmembers who refer other small businesses owners for a Business Gold or Platinum Card will earn additional benefits.

Referrers who successfully refer a small business owner for a Business Gold Card will earn 20,000 Membership Rewards® points and an additional 2 points per pound spent for £10,000 of spend up to 20,000 points for 1 month of successful referral. Referees will earn 35,000 points if they spend a minimum of £6,000 within the first 3 months.

On the Business Platinum Card, referrers will earn 30,000 Membership Rewards® points and an additional 2 points per pound spent for £20,000 of spend up to 40,000 points for 1 month of successful referral. Referees will earn 70,000 points if they spend a minimum of £12,000 within the first 3 months.

Click for more information on the offer. Terms and conditions apply. 18+ subject to status. American Express Business Gold Card Annual Fee: £195 (£0 in the first year). American Express Business Platinum Card Annual Fee: £650.

American Express Services Europe Limited has its registered office at Belgrave House, 76 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 9AX, United Kingdom. It is registered in England and Wales with Company Number 1833139 and authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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Strong networks are key to success for business owners

Enhancing internal communication is a critical component of successful corporate governance. Effective interaction between team members can promote synergy and collective effort, boost employee morale, and improve overall efficiency.

To achieve this, effective communication is paramount. It aligns everyone with the organisation’s objectives and fosters a sense of trust. Moreover, it enhances overall enjoyment and satisfaction within the work environment.

What is an effective communication solution?

The term ‘employee communication solution’ refers to a wide range of apps and software that help companies keep in touch with their staff. These platforms mainly support communication through instant messages, text messages, or phone calls. They often include options for document sharing and collaborative tools such as video meetings.

By using a single platform for all your internal communications, you can make sure everyone on your team is on the same page. This applies to all kinds of work situations, whether it’s a classic office setting, a mix of in-person and remote work, fully remote teams, field workers, or any other work setup.

Why is a dedicated communication solution essential for frontline employees?

Frontline workers in retail, manufacturing, or service industries often feel disconnected and isolated from the larger organisation. Their work environment, marked by long hours and a fast pace, provides few chances for interaction with colleagues from different departments. This limited interaction restricts their access to company updates and news, making it hard for them to feel part of the organisation.

An employee communication app designed for these situations can bridge these gaps and boost their engagement by offering a unified platform for communication and collaboration across teams, departments, and locations.

By giving field employees, who usually don’t have a dedicated workstation or professional email, a reliable and easy-to-use communication method, an employee communication app can increase engagement among this vital group of employees and create a more unified and collaborative workplace for the entire company.

The main point is that the internal communication app is easily accessible on the employees’ personal mobile devices in a secure and compliant way that is fully controlled by the business.

Introducing Axonify

Easily share quick, consistent information with your team when it matters, no matter where they are, plus receive back critical insights from your employees on the ground. Whether for marketing efforts, promoting new products and services, or more, you have a constant two-way communication channel with your on-site staff through an employee communication solution from Axonify built to meet your business needs.

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Revolutionise your workplace with an efficient solution for employee communication

We’re in the middle of the busiest shopping period of the year and, with a billion active monthly users globally, TikTok offers many opportunities for SMEs to get on someone’s wish list this Christmas.

Indeed, 47% of people on TikTok have already purchased something they like on the platform, with the hashtag #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt getting more than 29bn views.

But how can a small business make the most of TikTok to increase sales and grow their business with holiday shopping well underway? Try TikTok for Business.

What is TikTok for Business?

TikTok for Business offers a suite of products that help small businesses grow, target more customers, and drive results. Even though it seems late in the season, it’s never too late to begin a campaign with TikTok For Business.

Take thortful, for example – the UK’s first greeting card marketplace. Earlier this year thortful needed to attract new customers and build awareness of its wide array of cards and gifts. The brand tapped into TikTok’s popular trends and used humour to showcase their products. They reached over 1.7m users, with their videos receiving over 4.4m views.

What are the benefits of TikTok for your SME this Christmas?

People all over the UK turn to TikTok to discover trends, recommendations, and their next purchase throughout the year. It’s no surprise that Christmas shoppers go to TikTok for gift inspiration. 82% of users say they have discovered an SMB on TikTok before seeing them elsewhere. 

TikTok for Business is offering SMEs access to the Holiday Resource Hub, a one-stop shop filled with useful information to help SMEs win the holiday season, including a free playbook with a step-by-step guide to the season including their Christmas checklist.

5-step Christmas checklist:

Before the big day, here are some tips to get your marketing plan in order.

1) Refine creative strategy

Develop a voice on TikTok and determine what you want to show your audience.

It’s a light-hearted platform so it’s ideal for showing off the fun side of your business. Think tips, tricks and comedy shorts – TikTok stats show that three out of five users go to the platform for entertainment so keep that in mind when you’re doing your planning. If you want to keep it more informative, include short information in text overlays around the theme of your video. For example, how a particular child’s toy might be beneficial to their learning with five text overlays explaining why.

Remember, ads that look like native videos do well. Have a play with holiday trends – nothing too polished, though. Users like a casual, authentic image. You could offer fun giveaways or get in on Christmas trends such as decorating the Christmas tree, Christmas wish lists and easy holiday meals.

Turn the sound on too, so that users will feel more engaged!

2) Find and define your audience

TikTok lets you set your parameters to target new users using Ads Manager. Ads Manager can guide the ad formats you use and target your audience based on age, location, gender, interests and other unique variables.

What’s more, you can create custom and lookalike audiences (that share commonalities with your current audience) to expand your range.

3) Set your budget and bidding strategies

Minimum ad spends apply but be clear from the start on how much you want to spend for your ads. If you’re satisfied with your performance, it’s recommended you increase your budget by 20-30 per cent every day.

You set your bidding strategy when you set up your ad group. Find out more about bidding strategies here.

4) Build your ad format strategy

52% of TikTok users that have come across SMB content on TikTok have gone on to make a purchase.

Ads can take many forms on TikTok:

In-Feed Ads:  The standard ad format, embeds a video that plays automatically in the For You feed. This format runs up to a max of 60 seconds.

Spark Ads: A native ad format that allows businesses to boost posts from their own Business Accounts or Creator profiles as In-Feed Ads. Unlike other ad formats, users can interact with Spark Ads, just like organic videos. Users can comment, like and share but also visit the brand’s or the creator’s profile associated with the video.

Collection Ads: Enable people to seamlessly discover and browse products in a full-screen mobile experience. Collection Ads lead to an Instant Gallery Page where people can explore a curated collection of your products.

Lead Generation: Allows you to create interest in your business and collect information to convert prospects into customers. Lead Generation Ads deliver qualified leads directly to you, saving your business time and money.

E-Commerce Integrations: TikTok integrates with e-commerce merchants allowing you to add TikTok as a sales and advertising channel to your website. The Integrations streamlines the process of creating or linking your TikTok Ads Manager account, syncing your product catalogue, and installing the TikTok pixel to enable paid and organic visibility features.

5) Optimise

Allow your campaign time to adjust before rushing into optimisations. Refreshing your creative can help, every 7 days ideally.

Make incremental changes to your bid and budget when you make adjustments. Don’t change your budget more than 30% from the previous budget setting and don’t change your bid more than 20% from the original setting.

Try and optimise before your Christmas ad campaign begins. Check you’re targeting the right audience, re-jigging your ads based on how users interact with them and test constantly to see what does and what doesn’t work.

Read more:
This Christmas, TikTok can help you reach even more customers

The rapid growth and convenience of buying online is one pandemic habit that looks set to stay for the long term.

While the shift to e-commerce has been gradually building over the past decade, it grew exponentially over the past couple of years, with online sales representing an increasingly large part of many businesses’ operations.

According to the ONS, internet sales as a percentage of total retail sales was the highest it’s ever been: at 37.7% early last year.

Dan Edelman, General Manager, UK Merchant Services, American Express explains that as a result, ensuring your e-commerce operation is running seamlessly is more important than ever before. This is particularly the case for smaller and independent retailers, which often don’t have the resource to open multiple stores but can reach new customers and grow their business by selling online. In fact, the American Express Global Business Spend Indicator revealed that for Q3 2021, some 44% of UK businesses planned to increase investment in e-commerce technologies.

Against this backdrop, it’s vital that all businesses selling online are aware of the new industry-wide requirements coming into force very soon. Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) is being introduced to help increase the security of online payments. With a technical name and imminent enforcement deadline for e-commerce of 14 March, it may feel an intimidating prospect. But solutions such as SafeKey, American Express’ checkout security technology, protects customers against fraud when they pay online.

There’s no time for delay, so read on for what you need to know about on SCA:

What is Strong Customer Authentication?

SCA features a two-factor authentication process designed to add an extra layer of security when anyone makes a payment online. Its implementation requires merchants and Payment Service Providers (PSPs) to work together with technology suppliers, Card issuers and many others to deliver SCA in a way which works well for customers.

When do I need to implement it?

The enforcement deadline for e-commerce is 14 March – but the rollout has already begun and is rapidly ramping up. This means that more and more of your transactions risk being declined in the coming weeks if you don’t have an SCA-compliant checkout – which could result in valuable lost sales.

Why is it being introduced?

SCA is part of the Payment Services Directive 2 impacting all merchants European-wide that accept card payments. The latest figures from UK Finance reveal that the level of fraud and economic crime is on the increase – so SCA will play a crucial role in not only protecting your customers from fraud, but your business, too. Implementing SCA protection, such as SafeKey, transfers liability for fraud chargebacks on SCA-authenticated and attempted transactions to the Card issuer (us at American Express).

What can I do to be SCA-ready?

The time to act is now, with the first step to talk to your Payment Services Provider or Payment Gateway to ensure that you are using American Express’ SafeKey, which leverages the global industry standard, EMV® 3-D Secure, to detect and reduce online fraud. This enhanced protection may give customers more confidence with their online spending. It will also save you time and resources – which we know are crucial for many small businesses.

I’m concerned about making the checkout process too complex

The checkout process is kept simple as American Express’ smart anti-fraud technology works in the background and checks each online transaction against hundreds of data points. This means that the levels of challenge rates can be minimised whenever possible – ensuring a friction-free purchasing journey and, in turn, reducing basket abandonment.

How will this affect my regular customers?

We know the importance of maintaining and preserving good relationships with your most loyal customers. SafeKey allows customers to add their favourite merchants to their ‘Express List’ via the Amex app – meaning they don’t have to spend time verifying their purchase, allowing them check out faster without compromising security.

To find out more about how American Express can help your business get SCA-ready, visit: https://www.americanexpress.com/uk/merchant/safekey.html

Read more:
Get ready for Strong Customer Authentication: What you need to know about the new online payment rules

Behind today’s digital network infrastructure, whether that’s cloud services, Big Data, edge computing, internet of things or traditional databases, is a growing need for servers to store, process and send enormous volumes of data.

And during the last 12 months, a period that has seen an unprecedented global shift towards consumption of online content through working, learning and entertainment at home, that demand for data has spiked beyond anything that was ever possible to forecast.

While it may not be apparent to the user when they click the button to stream video on YouTube or Netflix, listen to music on Spotify or send a message on Facebook, a server within a data center somewhere has to host and send that content to them. With exponential growth in the use of all digital services, that means more servers and data centers are needed than ever.

Perhaps remarkably, most people use and enjoy online content without ever needing to understand the complexity of the backbone that allows it to arrive on their screen or are even aware it exists. To them, the movie simply starts playing when they click the button.

At Kingston Technology, we’re extremely proud to play a major role in providing the digital backbone that makes this possible. Our enterprise storage and memory products are used around the world in servers and data centers, enabling the digital services that are now part of daily life for all of us.

Datacenter Storage

In particular, our solid-state drives (SSD) are deployed in millions of client computers such as desktop and laptop PCs, as well as enterprise computing. In both situations reliability, security, high performance and low latency are critical for any application to perform well.

The steady migration away from the hard disk technology that has been the basis of computer storage for decades, towards solid state drives, enables systems to boot faster, load applications quicker and improve the entire computer’s responsiveness.

In data centers, where vast arrays of storage drives are needed to store and process large volumes of data, the improved performance and reduced power consumption of SSDs over traditional hard disks enables new applications that depend on ultra-fast performance.

It also means providers can greatly expand hosting capacity within their existing infrastructure, without necessarily needing to increase the physical footprint of the datacenter, its power, thermal or maintenance requirements.

However, while all SSDs are based on similar principles, different digital services and applications have a variety of requirements, and this affects the type of SSD that is selected for that role.

For example, in a data center it’s crucial to be able to predict performance when under load, where 24/7 uptime and reliability is expected.

Going further, some digital services such as movie and music streaming services focus almost entirely on making content available to the users. At their basic level, content sits on SSDs in a data center, the user chooses a content on a streaming service, which sends the request to the server to load the chosen content and start streaming for the user. The ideal SSD for this type of usage would be one that has been optimised for read-centric workload as a large data set – multiple contents (music, video, etc..) which is loaded once and accessed by multiple users at the same time.

But that is not true for other services, particularly those that are dependent on user-generated content like Facebook, Flickr and Pinterest, where users post their own content besides viewing content shared by other users, so there are not only reads but also writes. For data centers that are used for similar kind of applications a mixed workload SSD is a better choice.

Our product lineup reflects these diverse requirements. Our DC500 Enterprise SSD comes in DC500R and DC500M versions, with specific configurations designed for different applications based on read-centric or mixed workloads. And in a datacenter where reliability is crucial, in the wake of power loss, our enterprise SSDs use protection circuits to prevent data loss in the event of server downtime.

Independent opinion and support

Additionally, Kingston Technology is a leading supplier of memory, another crucial aspect of data center configuration that is a key driver of system reliability. With the option of both ECC and non-ECC DRAM memory modules, again, we value performance and data reliability.

However, it is easy to purchase inadequate DRAM memory modules, which could lead to the server not starting or to configure the DRAM the wrong way, which would impact on performance, power consumption and scalability. On the other hand, it may be easy as well to purchase the wrong type of SSD for a specific application.

That’s why we offer both pre- and post-sales advice to existing and potential customers, along with industry-leading warranty on all our products. Through Ask An Expert, we identify customers’ needs and work with them to choose the right kind of storage or memory for their application requirements and offer advice to ensure full compatibility with other components in their system.

Tomorrow’s datacenter performance

Even with the improved performance and power efficiency of SSDs over hard disks in the data center, the growing global demand for digital services has put extreme pressure on data centers.

A new SSD technology that takes advantage of the computer’s fast PCI-Express bus and use the new NVMe protocol are set to improve performance further by up to 10x in order to meet that demand without necessarily requiring large expansion to existing data center physical architectures.

In fact, if you’ve bought a laptop in the last few years, you probably already have this technology in your computer.

With such a huge performance gain to be expected in data center storage, we will be able to meet the exponential increase in demand for digital services for the foreseeable future by just replacing with newer technology.

Adoption in servers moves at a slower pace to the desktop though, where different requirements mean it’s not as simple as removing one drive and replacing with another for an instant performance gain. All systems are different and only certain servers can be used with NVMe drives.

Kingston Is With You

To many people, the world of data storage that’s at the heart of digital business may sound like a minefield of acronyms, jargon, and fast-moving technology, where a lack of knowledge could lead to a purchasing or configuration error.

This is an area where we think it’s important to help both our existing and potential customers. We offer strong pre-sales and post-sales advice, identifying customers’ requirements, checking compatibility with their existing infrastructure and making a recommendation based on application needs.

For example, a business may not need to expand its storage bandwidth now, but future growth may see existing storage systems becoming a bottleneck further down the line.

In some cases the course of action we would advise may be to wait before switching to NVMe, to ensure total compatibility and get the best value for money at the right time.

Our Kingston Is With You business philosophy is intended to let our customers know that their purchase is backed up with high quality support. It applies to the company’s full portfolio to communicate the advice, support and high quality our products offer, highlighting the pre-sales advice service and the after-sales support customers can expect and which stands up for over 30 years, helping corporate and end users in many aspects of business and life, wherever they are.

Read more:
How the world can meet growing data demand

Innovation comes in all sizes and the resealable packing bags are the best example of this statement. However, resealable packaging is an innovation which is void of the popularity it deserves.

For more than a century now, resealable packaging has been favoured by people for daily household activities. This form of packaging allows people to not only store their goods safely but also carry them, and consume them with a possibility of storing new goods again in perfect condition.

While we talk about almost everything in our routine conversations, packaging is one aspect that we hardly talk about but experience everyday. Therefore, flexible packaging has a huge role to play in our lives which has resulted in an unbelievable revolution in this area.

Even the people who are skeptical about investing in resealable packaging favour it due to numerous reasons such as longer shelf life, waste reduction, and ease of use.

The role of resealable packing in our daily lives

Resealable bag packaging comes in different shapes and forms and serves different purposes. For instance, a resealable packaging that provides an airtight container with different barrier and seal features allows the consumer to preserve food for a long period of time. With this type of packaging, harmful elements such as moisture or insects are unable to reach the product.

What we fail to recognize is that resealable packaging plays a much bigger role in our lives that exists outside the kitchen. Activities such as travelling, medical needs, or sanitation also require our utmost attention.

In this aspect, innovative products such as the resealable Schur®Star Label Bag are setting new bars of usefulness in our lives. The Star Label Bag is prominently used as a wet wipe for reasons such as refreshment wipes, medical wipes, toilet tissues, and traveling use. Moreover, the resealability of such bags is quite convenient. All the customer has to do is break the seal, take out the wipes for their respective use, and close the bag.

Conclusion

With a simplified yet effective way of resealing the bags, Schur Star Label Bag has become an integral part of the lives of people who use them. What sets them apart from other resealable packaging is the availability of security labels. Essentially, these labels allow the customers to enjoy a tamper evidence feature or use it for child-safe solutions.

Read more:
Resealable packaging innovation

In order to keep your restaurant relevant, it’s important to be on the constant lookout for possible improvements and oncoming trends.

With many new establishments being opened on a regular basis, you’ll have to try your best to keep the existing customers satisfied.

By following the next six tips/secrets, you’ll be on a good path to achieve just that.

Inform Yourself

Trends are prone to constant change, and seemingly new themes can quickly become obsolete. Take note of what’s popular among the general public. For example, this can be an open restaurant kitchen where the food is prepared in plain sight right beside the guests. These larger concepts can be somewhat harder to implement and they highly depend on the type of food you’re selling, but you’re not only limited to them.

Diet/vegan portions are highly popular nowadays, and they can be added to the restaurant’s menu in just a couple of hours. You can always find something useful to introduce, no matter small it is.

Organize Different Events

The exact same atmosphere each day can quickly get boring and deter potential guests. To break the monotony, you should frequently organize different events – this can be anything from a charity fundraiser and live music to even a birthday or a holiday party.

By doing this, you give people a reason to come back in order to experience different ambiances. Also, it’s one of the most efficient methods for generating larger revenue, especially once you start getting regular visitors.

The opportunities are endless, just try to make the events different enough each time in order to spark your guest’s curiosity.

Build Relationships With Your Team

Experienced and satisfied employees are the key to success. The better they perform, the more people you’ll attract. Work with each team member individually and show them that you care about their well-being through common interests. One way to discover those is through their social media accounts.

Spokeo, a reverse phone lookup tool can help you track down their online profiles by simply entering one piece of information. It will return all corresponding matches. After that, it’s just a matter of finding some common ground. You can also gain an insight into how they’re feeling through their social media posts. Show them that you’re not only their boss but also a friend.

Get a Solid Website

If someone needs a certain piece of information, the first place they’ll look at is your restaurant’s website. Leaving a good first impression here is going to show them that you’re serious about what you’re doing and that their satisfaction is your top priority.

They should be able to find everything here, from the menu and the individual prices to the themes and dates of the different events. Good SEO can also help it rank high in Google’s search results so that your restaurant’s website is the first thing that pops up.

Finally, focus on making it both aesthetically pleasing and functional – don’t settle only for one element.

Register Your Restaurant on EatApp

The days of tedious bookings via phone calls are gone. With EatApp, a restaurant reservation software, your guests can book a table with just a few taps on their smartphone.

Available for both Android and iOS, this convenient app will help you get exposure while making your customer’s lives far easier. The software updates constantly in real-time, reducing the amount of work that you have to do while also ensuring that your customers never get left hanging.

It tailors to the guest’s preferences and gives them an option to choose the exact date and time when they want to have a table available. Since you’re required to input both the menu and the prices, your guests will know in advance what to expect. The sheer popularity of the app will make your restaurant well-known.

Use Social Media For Marketing

A picture is worth a thousand words, and you should take advantage of that. Using a platform such as Instagram can give potential visitors an idea of how your interior looks, as well as provide an insight into what you have to offer. The images you post should look as professional as possible while also being true-to-life.

Also, the amount of registered users on different social media platforms is unparalleled by any other advertising method and it’s completely free. If you’re having trouble getting noticed, you can try using Instagram ads or even suggest partnerships to other more popular establishments. Once you get the hang of it, the only sky is the limit.

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Get your restaurant noticed with these six secrets