NEW BUSINESS
MATTERS Your local business to business journal
Points of Interest in this Issue: • P11D deadline is fast approaching (p4) • Domestic Security on increase with installation of CCTV (p6) • Does your business take electrical safety seriously (p9) • Help in presenting your case to the banks (p11) • Mobile trends that cannot be ignored (p14) • What about digital colour print? Is it any good? (p18) • Coaching you towards driving a great bargain (p20)
BUSINESS TIPS & ADVICE! Issue 27/2013
June/July
AWARDS 2011 WINNERS
NEW BUSINESS MATTERS
Editor’s Note Take one step at a time! I had a number of ideas related to this month's cover picture. When I thought about how do we achieve those targets I talked about in the last edition, having a strategy came to mind, but also breaking those potentially larger problems into smaller pieces. Both of these are very applicable in a game of chess! In trying to achieve anything a planned strategy will provide vital support and this is true for your business or your personal life. I am sure that we are all familiar with the fact that proper planning precedes professional performance (or perhaps more familiar with the reverse!), but there are many aspects to this in reality. Those larger issues that we sometimes face can be a little daunting, but armed with the knowledge that they can be broken down into smaller pieces much can be done to overcome them. In fact, much like in chess, the smallest pieces can sometimes play the most important parts in the overall strategy or solution to a given problem. Some say that knowledge is not necessarily about knowing the facts themselves, but knowing where to find them. We believe that the business tips and advice found within the pages of our bi-monthly journal, will play a part in building that knowledge around a host of different business situations and help in forming that strategy. Best wishes,
June/July
CONTENTS 02 PROPERTY TAXATION 03 CONTENTS & EDITORS NOTES 04 P11D DEADLINES APPROACHING 05 QUALITY CONTROL IN CLEANING 06 DOMESTIC SECURITY WITH CCTV 07 CORPORATE BOXES AT AIRSHOW 08 VIEWING OBJECTIONS POSITIVELY 09 ELECTRICAL SAFETY SERIOUS 10 EMPLOYMENT LAW A CHALLENGE 11 PRESENTING TO BANKS 12 PROTECTING PEDESTRIANS 13 KEEPING COSTS LOW 14 DON'T IGNORE MOBILE TRENDS 15 HOW SECURE IS YOUR DATA? 16 HOW MUCH NOTICE? 17 BENEFITS OF RENTING A MAILBOX 18 DIGITAL COLOUR PRINTING 19 THERE'S A HOLE IN THE ACCOUNTS 20 CAN'T SLEEP? LEARN A NEW WAY 21 THREE-FACED BOOK 22 COACHING TO DRIVE A BARGAIN 23 DESIGN & PRINT SERVICES
Stephen Corney
You can be the only company of your trade or profession represented in this local business to business journal. For details on the ‘marketing packages’ available, please contact: Debbie Corney on 01202 233580 or email sales@newbusinessmatters.com New Business Matters UK Ltd 1 Moorlands Rise, West Moors, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 0JR Tel: 01202 233580
24 DATA SECURITY The information contained within this publication is not intended to be complete. Whilst the publisher endeavours to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this publication, its accuracy cannot be guaranteed and the publisher accepts no liability for the use of, reliance on or the accuracy of such information. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher and therefore the publisher accepts no responsibility for them. All artwork and editorial is copywrite and may not be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher. © New Business Matters UK Limited January 2009 Designed by: Stephen Corney Printed by: Remous Limited, Sherborne Published by: New Business Matters UK Limited
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 3
ACCOUNTANCY MATTERS
June/July
P11D deadline is fast approaching!
By Richard Osborne, Director at Hill Osborne The deadline for submission of forms P11D for the
The submission of late or incorrect forms will
year ended 5 April 2013 is the 6th July 2013. An
result in automatic penalties being charged by HM
employer is required to prepare and submit forms
Revenue & Customs.
for each Director, and for all employees earning over ÂŁ8,500 per annum, to whom benefits and expenses have been provided. Examples of such benefits are company cars, private fuel, beneficial loans, private medical insurance to name but a few. In addition the employer has to pay Class 1A National Insurance contributions at 13.8% on the provision of most benefits. The completion of forms P11D can be complex +LOO 2VERUQH
and it is important that employers not only file the /RJR 9DULDQW
My advice is for employers to ensure that they fulfil their obligations in respect of the filing of forms P11D and to seek professional help where necessary. Also consideration should be given to submitting dispensation claims to HM Revenue & Customs which can remove the necessity of making a return of certain expense payments. If you would any further advice or help on P11D submissions for your company please contact Richard on 01202 678555 or send an email to:
forms on time but also ensure that they are correct.
richard@hill-osborne.co.uk
C H A R T E R E D A C C O U N TA N T S & B U S I N E S S A D V I S E R S
Our aim is to provide you with the best possible service and we do this by giving you a direct access to the Director who is responsible for your affairs. This ensures that they will be able to develop a close relationship with you and establish a thorough understanding of your business. Clients can take advantage of a wide range of services as listed below. ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹
(\KP[PUN (JJV\U[Z WYLWHYH[PVU ;H_H[PVU JVTWSPHUJL PUJS\KPUN :LSM (ZZLZZTLU[ 7LYZVUHS HUK *VYWVYH[L ;H_ 7SHUUPUN 0UOLYP[HUJL ;H_ 7SHUUPUN '60 ² 'HVLJQ 6ROXWLRQV LQ 0HGLD
' $UHQD %XVLQHVV &HQWUHV +RO\URRG &ORVH 3RROH 'RUVHW %+ )3 8.
>7@ >(@ LQIR#GVP GHVLJQ FR XN
‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹
7H`YVSS )\YLH\ )\ZPULZZ :[HY[ \WZ HUK HK]PJL VU HJX\PZP[PVUZ HUK KPZWVZHSZ 9HPZPUN VM I\ZPULZZ Ă„UHUJL 4HUHNLTLU[ JVUZ\S[HUJ` *VTWHU` ZLJYL[HYPHS ZLY]PJLZ
Hill Osborne, Tower House, Parkstone Road, Poole, Dorset BH15 2JH Tel: 01202 678555 Fax: 01202 666071 Email: enquiries@hill-osborne.co.uk www.hill-osborne.co.uk
Page 4
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
CLEANING MATTERS
June/July
Tips to help simplify your Cleaning Services
By Sebastian Popa, MD of TotalClean Solutions Regardless of the size of your facility or office you work in, there are numerous ways your current cleaning service could be simplified. First, you should ask yourself these questions: 1) If you had to score your cleaning services, how would you go about doing so? Would you be able to accurately look at your service over the entire year to discover what problems you encountered, and how quickly they were resolved? 2) Are infrequent services like carpet cleaning, floor scrubbing or waxing pre-scheduled and budgeted out for at least 1 year? 3) How does your current cleaning service supervise the quality of work? Does the supervisor communicate the results and bring up issues to you? If not, you are not getting a proactive cleaning service that works to fix issues before they become noticeable problems.
4) How do you communicate with your cleaning service? Do you communicate with the management, on-site employees or both? What happens when you relay a cleaning issue with one but not the other? 5) Does your cleaning services provider have a digital quality control program that takes a PROACTIVE approach to analysing cleaning results over time, scheduling extra work, track issues as they arise and record date and method of correction and create open lines of communication for continual improvement of cleaning processes? Most cleaning companies talk about quality control, but few actually have a quality control program that brings the customer into the loop for a better end-result. Call 01202 50 90 91 today and find out how you can simplify your cleaning services with TotalClean.
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 5
CONSTRUCTION MATTERS
June/July
Domestic Security on the increase with installation of CCTV By Mark Clements - Services Director of EWL Building Services
It has become the latest craze to fortify your property by installing CCTV cameras on every corner of your house. We are now promoting intruder alarm systems, which are wireless, the main features of these systems no unsightly cables, will not affect the decoration to the home, ease of use. Also as an added highlight these systems have various bolt on modules, not only will it protect your home or premises but will also incorporate a GSM module to call you should the system be triggered. Smoke detectors, panic button, gas detector, C02 detectors and even flood early warning devices can be added to the system. These can be installed in any modular home, flat, business unit, just about anywhere. LED Lighting to the Home
LED a more decorative and efficient highlight at home. Attractive design coupled with the low power consumption is exactly what is important for the user. As a result of the variety of design, and the LED's dynamic adaptation of the light, the importance of good light planning at home also increases. LED lamps come in various shapes and fits almost any of the domestic light fittings we have in our homes.
LED lighting will be the norm for all house EWL Building Services are specialist in Electrical holders huge benefits will be the very long life ,>3 PZ [OL <2 KLZPNU JVUZ[Y\J[PVU HUK M\UKPUN WHY[ULY MVY [OPZ L_JP[PUN and Mechanical design and installations and will cycle, easy lighting control UL^ HKKP[PVU [V [OLPY YHUNL VM JVTWHU` KP]PZPVUZ opportunities and be able to give you professional advice and help. new-VY M\Y[OLY PUMVYTH[PVU JSPJR VU ^^^ YV[HKVJR JVT [V KV^USVHK H JVW` VM V\Y UL^ IYVJO\YL designs with coloured or white light makes
EWL International Ltd has created a number of divisions so clients can choose either one discipline or a full turnkey solution. EWL International Ltd Discovery Court Business Centre, 551-553 Wallisdown Road, Poole, BH12 5AG Email: info@ewlinternational.com Website: www.ewlinternational.com Tel: 01202 853300
Page 6
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
CORPORATE MATTERS
June/July
Private Corporate Box Hire: Bournemouth Airshow 2013
By Ali Burridge, Business Development Co-ordinator At Oceana hotels we pride ourselves on offering a superb experience for any occasion across all three of our Bournemouth based Hotels. One of our biggest events is the Bournemouth Air Festival. A huge event that brings locals and tourists flocking to the fantastic sandy beaches.
We offer the Ocean Suite, which is the room that plays host to this year’s New Business Matters networking events. It’s a delightful room with seaview and private balcony to use as your viewing platform throughout the day.
As a prime location Oceana Hotels are all perfectly placed on the central flight path giving panoramic seaviews from Bournemouth pier to Boscombe pier. Our Hotels are THE place to be for an unrivalled observation of the airshow.
The Corporate boxes available are either on the 1st or the 4th floor in the respective Hotels and have the most amazing view. The food is sensational, the atmosphere second to none and service impeccable. Corporate box hire charges apply alongside lunch costs per person.
Offering a range of Menus, seating options and above all Corporate boxes. Corporate boxes are the ideal way to bring your VIP clients together as a “thank you for your Business” gesture. We offer a different selection of rooms at the Suncliff, Cliffeside and Cumberland, catering for 4 – 60 people at the Suncliff or Cumberland. At the Cliffeside we cater for larger events (50-100).
As readers of New Business Matters I would like to offer a 10% discount on all Corporate box room hire across the whole weekend, (discount not applicable to food or drink). A handful of boxes are available and with the date fast approaching just call me direct to book your box! Contact Ali Burridge on 01202 208623 or email sales@oceanahotels.co.uk.
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 7
CUSTOMER MATTERS
June/July
Viewing Objections Positively! By Tony Rodgers, Director at Hambeldon Interims The theme of these short articles over the last 12 months have been looking at how to engage with customers at an emotional level so that they can go on a successful journey with you, whether that is providing exceptional customer service or increased sales. However even the best of us will at some time have a customer object to our recommendations. Why should objections be viewed as positive? • They open up the flow of information • Generate involvement • Show that the customer is listening • Give an opportunity to earn respect and build trust Resolving objections by taking a customer focused approach will raise receptivity; unresolved objections will often lower receptivity. It is very import that stock phrases, such as;
“I understand what you mean, many of my customers say this” or “I understand where you are coming from” are not used as they will lower the customer’s receptivity. The 4 step strategy is a highly successful way in ensuring customer receptivity remains high. • Always Recognise the customer has raised an objection or concern • Understand why they have raised the objection by asking questions • Once the objection is fully understood Resolve by providing the appropriate information and use benefit statements linked to their personal needs • Finally Verify that the objection has been resolved before moving on To discuss this and any other customer engagement strategy addressed in these articles over the last 12 months you can call Tony direct on 07976 965250.
PROVIDING REAL PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE THAT DELIVERS MEASURABLE AND PROFITABLE CHANGE
Hambledon Interims is a Dorset based consultancy that’s been helping companies, large and small, to successfully improve their customer’s experience and business profits by delivering change - to their processes and their people – through the implementation of various development and training solutions. Hambledon Interims can provide: • Interim Managers and Project Managers • Training and Development Design and Delivery Solutions • Customer Experience Development programmes • Sales and Customer Service Assessors Experience the benefit of ‘profitable sales’ by improving customer satisfaction! T: 01258 860249 E: tony@hambledoninterims.com W: www.hambledoninterims.com
Page 8
Nestledown Duck Street Child Okeford Dorset DT11 8ET
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
ELECTRICAL MATTERS
June/July
Does your business take electrical safety seriously?
By Kelvyn Green of Green Light Electrical Installations Under UK law, such as The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers are responsible for ensuring the safety of their employees and the public, this includes electrical safety. Electrical safety covers a wide range of items that doesn’t just include the equipment in use. For example, are trailing leads crossing walkways creating trip hazards? The simple job of installing a couple of extra sockets, strategically placed, could remove this potentially dangerous situation. Regular testing and inspections are a key part to ensuring that all installations are kept up to date. Did you know, that in the event of an incident, insurance assessors are likely to ask for evidence that certain inspections have taken place, in line with current recommendations? Many companies are now looking to be sure that due diligence has taken place, can you demonstrate this in your business? Can you be sure that the engineers you use
have the correct and current qualifications for the aspect of the work that they carry out for you? In certain areas there are specialist training courses with qualifications, these must have been undertaken in order to carry out these specific tasks in line with regulations. Is the company you use keeping up to date with the ever changing regulations? In the news recently a company was fined £24,000 by the Health and Safety Executive for not properly maintaining their electrical equipment. The hazards highlighted presented immediate and potentially fatal risks to their employees. Could your business afford NOT to ensure that the electrics at your workplace meet the current regulations? For more help and advice on all electrical matters in your business contact Kelvyn at Green Light Electrical Installations on 01425 477943 or email him at kelvyn.green@gle-uk.co.uk.
Green Light Electrical Installations Limited have 25 years of experience in the Electrical Industry. We offer a full range of commercial and industrial electrical services and are dedicated to providing a first class electrical service to all our customers.
• Inspection and Testing Services • Planned Maintenance • Office and car park lighting • Security and Emergency lighting • 400 volt / 3-phase supplies • Skirting and dado trunking
• Data and Voice Cabling • Distribution boards • CCTV Systems
e!
now 1 Stag Business Park, Christchurch Road k u yo Ringwood, Hampshire se, u f BH24 3AS wa
Tel: 01425 477943
ou If y
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
us o to
wh
blo
Page 9
EMPLOYMENT LAW MATTERS
June/July
Employment Law continues to pose challenges! By Verne Lake, Dickinson Manser LLP Solicitors
Employment law continues to pose challenges for businesses despite government promises regarding deregulation. Unfortunately the difficulties of interpreting and applying employment law are often demonstrated in the cases which reach the Employment Tribunal and higher appeal courts. Some recent Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) cases have highlighted this in the context of dismissals. One of these recent examples dealt with the question of how rigidly employers have to follow the ACAS Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures. This code has been around since 2009 but there is still uncertainty about it. The EAT’s ruling however, should be good news for employers as it showed that even if an employer fails to comply with some aspects of the Code, it is still possible for them to be judged compliant overall. Another interesting example involved the dismissal Probate, Wills & Powers of Attorney|Divorce/Family Law| Commercial Matters|Employment Advice| Court Representation|Accident Claims|Moving Home| Parking Available
of a senior employee following a failure to agree employment terms and a disagreement over a profit share. Here the employer argued that the dismissal was fair on the basis that trust and confidence had been lost, but unfortunately for the employer, the EAT disagreed. This highlights the difficulties of assessing whether the a tribunal will find that trust and confidence has been lost. It also shows the importance of agreeing formal terms of employment before an employee starts. Litigating employment cases can be costly and stressful. Obtaining early legal advice when handling employment related matters such as dismissals can help avoid litigation and so save money and stress in the long term. If you would like further information or clear, practical advice on employment related matters please contact Verne Lake at Dickinson Manser LLP using vxl@dmsolicitors.co.uk or 01202 673071.
8 ËW? Ëß ÖËÍÖÁ ËË Í ËÝ j Ëß ÖË ?ÜjËË ?Ëa ĬÖÍj· VË ¬ ß j ÍË ?ÝË VË ÍÁ?WÍËÊË jÁW ? Ë VË ? a ÁaËFË0j ? ÍË VË jÁ Í? WjËÊË0ÁÖÄÍË ? ÄË VË+Á ¬jÁÍßËÊË Ö a ~Ë Ä¬ÖÍjÄË VË+jÁÄ ? Ë ÖÁß ÁËjÞ¬jÁÍˬÁ?WÍ W? Ë?aÜ WjË? aË?ÄÄ ÄÍ? WjË Ë? Ë?ĬjWÍÄË wËa ĬÖÍjËÁjÄ ÖÍ ^Ë W Öa ~Ë
ÖÁÍˬÁ Wjja ~ÄË? aË ja ?Í ^ËÍÁÖÄÍË
W Ä Ë ? ÄjÁ± Contact Andrew Carswell or Verne Lake at our Poole office on
01202 673071Ë POOLE – 5 Parkstone Road – 01202 673071 BROADSTONE – 221 The Broadway – 01202 692308
www.dickinsonmanser.co.uk Page 10
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
FINANCE MATTERS
June/July
Help in presenting your case to the banks By James Erwin from Access Commercial
Banks are getting a lot of stick at the moment, much of it deserved given the nation’s financial situation but, as always, the activity of 5 years ago seems to tarnish any activity that takes place now. The most popular criticism that I hear at the moment is that banks don’t want to lend to small businesses. This simply isn’t true; banks are under incredible pressure to lend not just from their customers but from government as well. So how do we as business people present our case to a banker who needs a reason to lend to us? Profit is a Bank’s single objective when lending money and, to achieve that, they apply two main drivers in assessing your value as a loan customer; 1. Is our money secure? And 2. Can the customer afford to service the loan? It is fair to say that since the credit crunch, the balance between 1 and 2 has firmly shifted to 2. So how does a bank understand our business? The truth is, they don’t. It is unrealistic to walk into your local branch, drop your latest accounts on the
business manager’s desk and ask for a mortgage. Different business sectors generally operate to their own trading framework, it would be fair to say that a Bournemouth based business manager would probably have a strong understanding of the hospitality sector but how would he cope with a sheep farm? This is where the intermediary comes in; an intermediary will take the time to understand your business, consider the “big picture” in terms of finance affordability, establish what is relevant in terms of business information and present your case to a lender in a language and format that they will understand. In addition, they will have already established relationships with lenders, enjoying a level of trust that can sometimes be the difference between the success or failure of a proposition. Access Commercial can assist with your finance presentation and provide advice on your mortgage or finance needs. Call us on 01202 375545 to discuss your requirements.
Experienced Commercial Mortgage and Business Finance Brokers We supply solutions for all types of commercial lending and due to our close working relationship with all major and specialist lenders, including our partnership with brokers UK wide, we are able to provide the best deal for all types of commercial finance. • Commercial Mortgages
• All forms of Factoring
• Asset Finance
• Short term Finance
• Invoice Discounting – available on a confidential basis
• Development Finance
For advice on all areas of Commercial Credit and Finance Tel: 01202 375545 Fax: 01202 465297 jamese@accesscommercialmortgages.com www.accesscommercialmortgages.com Members of the National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 11
IDENTIFICATION MATTERS
June/July
How to protect pedestrians from industrial vehicle collisions! By Tony Hart from Avonwood Developments
Recent statistic show there are about 8000 reportable accidents involving fork lift trucks every year in the UK. This equates to 22 every day of the year, about 12 of these are fatal. When employees are seriously injured after being hit or struck by vehicles the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) can impose fines starting from ÂŁ15,000 for minor injuries rising into the hundreds and thousands for more serious injuries. Adding complimentary systems for keeping employees in the workplace safe from collisions with industrial vehicles such as forklift trucks, often includes multiple solutions to achieve better Health and Safety practice. Typical solutions include proximity warning systems, better organisational training and separating vehicle and pedestrians. Identifying and detecting a pedestrian who is in close proximity to an industrial vehicle operating in a warehouse or construction site is one of
Page 12
the applications where RFID systems are being utilised. These systems differ from other safety aids in that they will immediately warn the driver when a person breaches an invisible safety zone around the vehicle. An RFID proximity warning or detection system uses personal safety transponders. The employee wearing a transponder is then detected, identified and the on board system logs the data which can be analysed to enhance the safety regime. Employees are a companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most valuable asset, therefore it is important that any safety aid is considered to improve safety and reduce accidents and fatalities at work, ensuring that workers reach home safely from work, everyday. For further information on how to keep employees safe in the workplace please call Tony on 01202 868000 or send an email to sales@avonwood.co.uk.
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
INDUSTRIAL MATTERS
June/July
Keeping costs low with regular maintenance and servicing
By Grégory Martin, Champion Materials Handling Ltd Recently I wrote about the importance of Thorough Examination Inspections, but regular servicing and maintenance are just as crucial. A lack of maintenance can end with a large bill, but more so, it can end in an accident. Regulation 5 of PUWER 98 states “Every employer shall ensure that work equipment is maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair.” Avoiding regular servicing and maintenance is a danger for the following reasons: • Any early signs of serious faults can be diagnosed when the forklift is serviced, therefore avoiding breakdowns and unscheduled stoppages to the work process. • Changing of filters and regular checks ensure that the forklift is running at optimal efficiency and performance.
• Like any vehicle, constant checks and maintenance allow the vehicle to hold a better value. • A system of daily or pre shift checks is the cornerstone of good maintenance. This ensures that essential fluids are topped up and potential defects are noted prior to become a problem. • Regular, preventive maintenance should be scheduled in accordance with the recommendations of your forklift supplier. The time interval between the various services and inspections will vary according to the intensity of use and the working environment. Champion can supply daily check books, preventive maintenance contracts and service contracts on all forklift trucks. Please contact us on 012020 430 323 or visit us on www.champion-forklifts.co.uk.
Service is what life’s all about! At Champion Forklifts we offer a full range of new and used equipment to suit ALL budgets New fork lift trucks:
Warehouse equipment ranging from:
From 1 ton to 16 tons capacity Electric LP Gas Diesel
RENTAL & LEASING AVAILABLE
Hand pallet trucks Powered pallet trucks Stackers Electric Reach Trucks Order pickers Very narrow aisle trucks Access Platforms & Cherry Pickers Racking and Mezzanine Floors
ails Call for det
Hand Pallet Trucks delivered from
Our preferred makes are Baoli, Toyota, Doosan, Mitsubishi, Linde, Combilift, Bendi and Jungheinrich but we can offer full support service that is second to none on any make of truck, picker or stacker.
£199
Freephone: 0800 021 4516 Telephone: 01202 430323 Email: sales@champion-forklifts.co.uk
www.champion-forklifts.co.uk
<RXU ORFDO )RUN /L 7UXFN FRPSDQ\
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 13
INTERNET MATTERS
June/July
Mobile trends that cannot be ignored!
By Samuel Adams from Direct2Digital Mobile browsing accounts for 31% of all UK internet traffic. In addition, mobile commerce has grown by a massive 554% between 2010 and 2012 and nearly 70% of tablet owners making a purchase on their device every month. When assessing your mobile web requirements, there are three options to choose from:
Option 2: Creating a specific mobile website If your website requires a level of interaction that is comfortably achieved when undertaken on a tablet, but that the content/actions deserve a mobile specific version in order to function as required, then this could be the option for you. Option 3: Responsive web design
Option 1: Do nothing All modern smartphones will render your website pretty well as it is. If you understand that your users have no requirement for a mobile or tablet version of your website, and the actions that you ask your visitors to take can be achieved comfortably and without confusion on the mobile/tablet rendered version of the desktop site, then this approach may suit you.
Responsive web design allows a website to intelligently re-size and re-purpose itself depending on the size of the device on which it is being viewed. Heralded as the 'future of websites', it is a big consideration for all new websites, although 'retrofitting' this option to a current website may be more difficult and expensive. Take a pragmatic approach; with a measured and careful look at each solution, you can provide your users and just as importantly, your business with the perfect fit.
We Think We Plan We Deliver Websites Design & Development
Mobile App Development & Strategy
Social Strategy, Creation & Management PR SEO and PPC
01202 372037
direct2digital.co.uk
@direct2digital
We are trusted marketing experts We work with our clients to deliver measurable results Page 14
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
IT MATTERS
June/July
How secure is your data? By Phil Ford, Copyrite Business Solutions It is common knowledge that computers store information on hard disk drives. What we must also be aware of is that many of our printers, multifunctional printers, and copiers may also use hard disks that record and store data. It is the data that remains on these hard disks once you have disposed of the equipment that could pose a security risk. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HARD DISK SECURITY ON PRINTERS, MFPs and COPIERS. Security of data is a legal requirement under the UK’s 1998 Data Protection Act. This requires us to ensure the complete removal of all data from redundant equipment which is essential if we are to maintain the security and integrity of data. Failure to comply could result in a £500,000 fine or even a prison sentence. So what security options are available for these hard drives? Below is an overview of options available to those of us who identify concerns relating to hard disk security on MFP’s and printers. These options address security issues during the equipment’s service life and at the time of return. Data Overwrite Security System (DOSS) DOSS overwrites the sector of the hard drive used for data processing after the completion of each job. During the overwrite process, all data is destroyed to prevent recovery. Additionally, DOSS also offers the option of overwriting the entire hard drive up to eight times. This feature may be used at the end of a lease or if the device is moved to another department.
Overwriting the entire hard drive takes a few hours and can be added before or after the initial sale. Hard Drive Encryption Option This option provides security for information that needs to be stored for re-use include administrator and user passwords and address books. The Hard Drive Encryption Option differs from DOSS in that the information encrypted is not destroyed, but locked up so that only authorised users may access the information. DOSS destroys data so it cannot be re-used. The Hard Drive Encryption Option and DOSS may be used in conjunction and will not interfere with MFP or printer operation. Hard Drive Surrender at Lease-End/Trade-in Copyrite is able to offer customers a hard drive surrender option with which customers may elect to have our technicians remove the hard drive from the device and leave it in the custody of the customer before the equipment is removed from the site. Customers then have the discretion to maintain or destroy the hard drive. If any of the above has made you question your own data security and you would like to discuss any of the above issues then please feel free to call us. Philip J Ford – 01202 848866 phil@copyrite.co.uk – www.copyrite.co.uk If you want to rate this article and/or place your vote for the next topic to be covered, then please go to www.copyrite.co.uk/itmatters
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 15
LETTINGS MATTERS
June/July
How much notice should I give to leave? By Sharon Canning from Move on Rentals
Q: I have been renting a property for the last two years and I am presently in a rollover tenancy, my initial tenancy was for six months. I pay my rent on the 15th of each month. I recently gave my landlord a month’s notice on the 25th April to move out on the 25th May, however, I have been told that it should be given on my rent due date of the 15th and I must also give two months’ notice. I really need to move out, is this correct? A: Once a fixed period Assured Shorthold Tenancy rolls over, past it's fixed term period, then the tenancy becomes a periodic tenancy, and if the rent is paid monthly, then EACH month becomes a statutory periodic tenancy, the same legislated for under the Housing Act 1988. The Housing Act clearly states the landlord must give the tenant two months written notice (normally by Section 21, this is different to the
Section 21 Notice during a fixed term), however, a tenant can give notice by way of the same way they pay rent. Therefore, as you pay monthly, you only need to give a month’s notice, in writing. The dates are important and this is where your landlord is correct, you must give notice on your rent due date. Your rent due date (assuming the day you pay rent is the same as your rent due date on your tenancy agreement) is the 15th, so notice will start from the next 15th to expire on the 14th. In your case you gave notice on the 25th April, the next rent due date would be the 15th May and this would be when your months’ notice would commence for you to vacate on the 14th June. Understanding and keeping up to date with all the legislation is becoming more vital for both landlords and tenants, which is why both should use a good reputable Letting Agent.
420 Poole Road, Branksome, Poole BH12 1DF
Page 16
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
MAIL BOXES MATTERS
June/July
The benefits of renting a mailbox!
By Howard Woodward, Mail Boxes Etc. Here are a few suggestions as to why a mailbox could be the answer to your requirements.
5. If you are in a temporary office you can use a mailbox as your short term postal address.
1. You’re running a small business from home and you don’t want to use your home address on your business stationery or in your marketing. A mailbox address that looks like a street address in central Bournemouth is the answer.
6. You are moving abroad, but you still need a UK address for bank correspondence and other official papers.
2. You’re a director of a limited company. You don’t want your home address on the public record, so you use a mailbox address instead. 3. You’re a plumber, electrician, service engineer or similar and you are fed up with having to wait in all day for parts deliveries. Have them sent to a mailbox instead and collect them at your convenience. 4. If you are in property management you could benefit from a mailbox as a central drop-off point for keys, etc.
7. You live in shared accommodation. The mail for the whole building goes into a big pile and important post goes missing. 8. You are living on a boat or in a mobile home, but you need a fixed a fixed address, For further information about a Mailbox to fit your needs and your budget please do give Howard a call on 01202 299151 or send an email to: info@mbebh1.co.uk or visit: www.mbebh1.co.uk
A Central Bournemouth Street Address for your Business - without the Overheads
To rent a secure mailbox with 24 hr access contact us now
Bournemouth Triangle t: 01202 292831 Bournemouth Lansdowne t: 01202 299151 To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 17
PRINTING MATTERS
June/July
What about digital colour print? Is it any good? By Alan Bunter, MD of Remous Limited
Until recently most people would have positioned digital colour print as a cheap alternative to lithographic printing, but over the last 18 months there has been a lot of development in the digital technology world and you can now enjoy faster turn around times, near litho quality and lower pricing. Having said that you need to be careful of some similar statements by digital printers who do not have the right equipment to back up their claims, therefore, my aim here is to point you in the right direction to ensure you receive the best option for your short run digital print requirements. The Ricoh 901 digital press is the Rolls Royce of digital printing and it has been recommended by Heidelberg, who is the manufacturing giant of lithographic printing presses, so you know straight away that the quality of reproduction, which simulates litho quality, will meet your discerning needs. The main reason for this is that this machine uses a special type of toner that can run at lower temperature; this means you don’t get the rippled pages and poor alignment through paper stretch! Another benefit of this toner is the satin finish, which is almost indistinguishable from litho ink, as it doesn’t have the old fashioned glossy finish on
everything. If its on silk paper it looks silky, if its on gloss paper it looks glossy, if it’s on uncoated it looks…. well you get the idea! In addition, the Ricoh 901 has the most reliable registration of any press in the digital print market! Each sheet is printed in exactly the same position through a unique system of head and side lay’s, which basically means when you print on the reverse of the sheet it will be in a register to within 1mm, which is something that cannot be matched by nearly every other type of digital press. Finally, you can have the brightest colours available - thanks to the clever colour management software installed within the press. This marriage of software and technology will give VIVID colour that can be profiled to match litho print. If you would like to experience the best digital printing available then come to Remous Design and Print. We can bring you a complete digital printing service with our Ricoh 901, along with all the specialist finishing requirements you will need, including folding, die cutting, stitched booklets and paperback books. Our digital process has been tailored to suit our customers for quick turnaround and premium quality all at a competitive price, so please give Peter, our local Sales Manager, a call on 01202 233582 or send an email to: peter@remous.com
Page 18
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
RECOVERY MATTERS
June/July
BY GRAHAM DOWN | www.bscorprecovery.com
There’s a hole in the accounts!
Just occasionally, we come across people who, for some reason, believe that if there are no accounting records then they can’t be brought to book for any wrongdoing. After all, without a paper trail, nothing can be proved, can it? Mr Lloyd, Mr Bowers and Mr Vinnis all found out the hard way recently that it doesn’t quite work like that. Mr Lloyd ran a electrical and heating installation company that went into liquidation owing £269,612 – so not the biggest company failure that there ever was. He handed over to the liquidator some five boxes of records, but those records did not include any records of wages paid to, or tax deducted from, sub-contractors, and he wasn’t able to explain a large number of cheques cashed. Mr Bowers and Mr Vinnis operated a recycling and scrap company. That company also went into liquidation, this time owing £139,561. Their records were hopelessly inadequate,
although some bank statements were tracked down, which showed some transactions which were unhelpful for Mr Bowers. The Companies Act requires company directors to ensure that their companies maintain accounting records which explain each transaction and disclose reasonably accurately the company’s financial position at any given time. They also have to preserve the records for a period of time. Failure to keep and preserve the records as required is a criminal offence. If a company goes into liquidation, then the directors have to hand over the records to the liquidator. Again, failure to do so is a criminal offence.
Which is what these directors discovered. Even though he pleaded guilty to the charges against him, Mr Lloyd was still sentenced to a period of relaxation at Her Majesty’s pleasure. Messrs Bowers and Vinnis had to do some unpaid work and Bowers was given a suspended prison sentence. Do your business records comply with the stringent requirements of the Companies Act. Record keeping can be a chore, but it’s a necessary one. It’s worth speaking to your accountant to make sure that they’re accurate, up to date and are as complete as necessary. And speak to us if you’re company’s struggling – before the liquidator comes knocking.
Cash flow problems …or worse? Clear, professional advice for you and your business when you need it most. CONTACT US FOR A FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION CALL: 01202 313624 | www.bscorprecovery.com 2nd Floor, Bristol & West House, Post Office Road, Bournemouth, BH1 1BL
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 19
SLEEP MATTERS
June/July
Can't sleep? Learn a new way to put your brain to rest! By Gary Hales from Optimal Brain Technologies
Do you have young children of your own, grandchildren, or friends with youngsters? If so you are no doubt familiar with how a frazzled parent breathes a sigh of relief when they at last get that child off to sleep. No matter whether it’s for an afternoon nap or for the night, the parent’s sense of relief comes from knowing there’s a pretty good chance they can get on with their own agenda without being disturbed. That’s because children tend to sleep deeply, soundly, and long. Conventional wisdom has it that as we age, we can expect to experience disturbed sleep that’s shorter, leaving us feeling tired when the alarm finally goes off - and, by afternoon, longing for a nap!
to researchers, because it shows that poor sleep isn’t simply to be expected with age. Quite the opposite, its people in their peak years - especially the 40s - who are having the most struggle with sleeping, while those in their 70s and 80s are in many cases snoozing away quite contentedly. At Optimal Brain Technologies we’ve got the explanation for this, and we know how to correct it. The brain is responsible for disrupted sleep patterns - and chemicals such as sedatives can’t really fix the problem, whereas Brainwave Optimization™ can. For more information please call us on 01425 471947 or send an email to Gary at info@optimalbraintech.com.
There’s a new study out that has come as a shock
Page 20
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
SOCIAL MEDIA MATTERS
June/July
Three-Faced Book: key changes in nation’s Social Media Sweetheart By Katherine Hanson – Soci@lite
So what is behind Facebook’s decision to give the newsfeed its first facelift since 2009? The answer: to make the website more like its Android and iOS mobile apps: Tabloid Newspaper style: the website will change from three columns to two so that the main newsfeed is bigger; providing all posts regardless of whether they are updates your friends have posted or adverts with more space on the page. Images and videos will be afforded greater prominence than posts containing only text. This makes a lot better sense when you consider that we are visual creatures and it has been demonstrated time and again that images resonate far better with people than words. Pop-out Bar: to be added to the left-hand side of the page and contain the live updates ticker, links to specific friends, the chat and calendar tools and app bookmarks.
Feed Octet: there will be seven available feeds in addition to the main newsfeed such as a musicthemed feed with updates from artists you have liked, gig announcements, songs your friends are listening to, etc. There is also a feed displaying all your friends’ updates not just those selected by Facebook’s algorithms. Whilst adverts will take up more screen space and be harder to ignore so that people ultimately spend more time on the social networking site, the focus of Facebook’s PR machine has been to ensure that we appreciate the scaled back newsfeed content and more engaging posts, which is ultimately the purpose of Social Media, right? Contact Soci@lite today (01202 798270 or 07771 303932) to discuss how I can assist with your Facebook or other Social Media profiles and help increase your online presence.
Soci@lite The Only Thing Worse Than Being Talked About Is Not Being Talked About (Oscar Wilde) Social Media Training & Consultancy, Content Writing, Website Design
Social Media Training Roll up, Roll up! Join me at my next training session 121 Training at your premises or Remote Training using software which enables me to dial-in and see what you see
katherine@social-ite.info | www.social-ite.info | 01202 798270
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 21
TRAINING MATTERS
June/July
Coaching you towards driving a great bargain! By Audrey Davies from The Way Ahead
Do others see you as demanding and strongwilled, or more sociable and persuasive? Do you see yourself as caring and patient, or more cautious and analytical? Perceptions go a long way towards how people approach each other, when they’re about to negotiate. So, you might need to establish whether you want to be the Customer’s Friend, or the Double-glazing Salesman, to better close that deal “It’s necessary to be liked by my opponent to get the best deal” Being liked is useful, and it can be more pleasant than being disliked, but many negotiations are between parties who are extremely formal and reserved because their organisations work that way. You can still arrive at a win-win deal without having personalised this relationship beforehand. The outcome might produce
friendship, but don’t rely on friendship to produce the outcome. “I shouldn’t make an offer which I know the other side is certain to reject” If you only make offers which they were certain to accept, you’re not really negotiating and you may be weakening your position. You don’t know for sure what they’ll accept – that’s why you are negotiating - to find out. However, unrealistic proposals can harm a negotiation because they antagonise the other side, but unacceptable ones are your `opening’ offers, not your final one! If you would like some 1-2-1 coaching on how to hone up your softer skills and find the real YOU, please call Audrey at The Way Ahead, Tel: 01202 788277. We would love to be of help to you!
Training today’s people for tomorrow’s world Does your business have the resources and skills needed to capitalise on any economic upturn? Have you reviewed your workforce and feel you need to inject new ideas, enthusiasm and energy? Maybe you do have the skills - lurking, or hidden somewhere…?
WE can help! • 1-2-1 coaching & mentoring • 1-day group-led workshops • Tailored programmes for your own specific business needs • Leadership & management qualifications
Call us to talk about how we can help you develop your people – whatever their age and need.
We’ll guide your business to The Way Ahead and success! Tel: 0845 803 7768 www.thewayahead.org.uk Page 22
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
Remous Limited, Wyvern Buildings, North Street, Milborne Port, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 5EP
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 23