Is Bitcoin’s Resistance to Upgrade a Positive?

Bitcoin refuses to upgrade. It’s not its fault, it has a network of thousands of people that must approve an upgrade. But that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t upgrade. It probably should have by now. And the funny thing about it is reports state Bitcoin upgraded because it’s scared of altcoins taking over. That’s surely like a pitbull being scared of a Chihuahua. Well, they’re pretty scary.

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unsplash.com/photos

Can you imagine an XRP buy being more expensive than a BTC buy? Below, we’ll explore whether Bitcoin’s resistance to upgrade is a positive.

What Does Upgrading Do?

Upgrading makes everything better. And you can’t ignore digital upgrades. Anything outdated is weak and vulnerable.

Cryptocurrency upgrades enhance a network’s capabilities and vulnerabilities. They can be anything from minor tweaks to significant overhauls.

In essence, upgrades are crucial for maintaining a cryptocurrency’s relevance and competitiveness. For Bitcoin, upgrades are meticulously planned, rejected by the network, planned again, and so on. It’s sensible – there’s no rushing, but at what cost? How vulnerable is the Bitcoin network? Attacks aren’t frequent, but upgrades should be.

The Bitcoin Taproot Upgrade

Bitcoin is upgrading. The Taproot upgrade represented a milestone in Bitcoin’s history, it was one of the most significant updates since it started.

This upgrade was not just a technical enhancement. It was a strategic move to make Bitcoin more competitive against rapidly evolving altcoins. Altcoins are threatening Bitcoin.

The upgrade improved transaction privacy and efficiency and made Bitcoin more appealing for broader use cases. Those include smart contracts. However, the careful and slow approach to this upgrade is typical of Bitcoin.

Such significant upgrades, though infrequent, are vital for Bitcoin to remain relevant as newer and more agile cryptocurrencies emerge.

Why Hasn’t It Upgraded Since?

Bitcoin’s cautious approach to upgrades is its community-driven nature. Major changes require a consensus. Consensus amongst that many people isn’t easy to achieve. There’s no government-style left-wing and right-wing.

This slow pace is a supposed protective measure against hasty decisions. However, this also means that Bitcoin might lag in implementing technological advancements quickly.

This conservative approach to development is its strength. It ensures unmatched security and reliability. Its weakness is it may struggle to adapt to new demands and innovations.

Does Bitcoin Have Scaling Problems?

Bitcoin’s scalability issues are a significant concern. The blockchain’s inherent limitations impact its ability to handle large volumes of transactions efficiently. Have you ever been on the Bitcoin network during a slow period? It’s a nightmare.

The network design has a block size limit and a 10-minute block time, restricting speeds. It needs to change.

Although the Lightning Network and SegWit have provided partial solutions by enabling off-chain transactions and increasing block capacity, they are more like temporary fixes.

The Bitcoin community wants long-term solutions, but reaching a consensus for fundamental changes remains a challenge. They’ll probably never reach an agreement. Think of it like crypto political warfare.

What Other Coins Upgrade and Perform Well?

Many altcoins exhibit agility in upgrading and evolving. They outpace Bitcoin in implementing new features and enhancements. Ethereum is a prime example, and Ethereum 2.0 addressed scalability and energy efficiency through a shift from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake.

Other cryptocurrencies like Cardano and Polkadot also frequently upgrade their protocols. They’re doing well. You’ll always see them on top coins to invest in reviews. These continuous upgrades enable these networks to adapt quickly to changing market conditions and technological advancements – and they’re frequently patched. They’re just safer.

This adaptability contrasts with Bitcoin’s more conservative approach. It highlights how diverse cryptocurrencies are.

What Coins Are Performing Well in 2024

  1. Bitcoin (BTC): As the original cryptocurrency, Bitcoin continues to lead the market with a capitalization of around $656 billion. Despite its price fluctuations – soaring to $48,005 in November 2021 and adjusting to around $38,481.
  2. Ethereum (ETH): Ethereum’s market cap is $239 billion. It’s massive. Its price journey, mirroring the volatility pattern, moved from about $8 in April 2016 to approximately $2300 by January 2024. The peaks and troughs of Ethereum’s price underscore the fluctuating nature of the crypto market.
  3. Tether (USDT): With a market cap of $74 billion, Tether is an excellent stablecoin. Its value is more consistent compared to other cryptocurrencies, thanks to the US dollar. Still, despite its intended stability, Tether has seen fluctuations.
  4. Binance Coin (BNB): Starting under $0.10 at its launch in 2017, Binance Coin has shown significant growth. In July 2017, it reached a peak of around $484. Its value stands at $240 with a market cap of $37 billion, showcasing its potential as a formidable cryptocurrency.
  5. Solana (SOL): Valued at around $75 by January 2024, Solana has come a long way. SOL has a market cap of $32 billion, and the coin is rapidly growing. It supports decentralized applications and smart contracts and is powered by a unique hybrid proof-of-stake and proof-of-history mechanism.
  6. Ripple (XRP): XRP has a market cap of $24 billion. The Ripple network for facilitating different currency exchanges is excellent. Its price journey from $0.004 in early 2017 to $0.45 by January 2024 has put it on the map.
  7. US Dollar Coin (USDC): USDC is a great stablecoin. It has a market cap of $20 billion. Pegged to the US dollar, it aims for a 1:1 ratio and is powered by Ethereum.
  8. Cardano (ADA): Cardano has a market cap of $14 billion. It stands out for its early adoption of proof-of-stake validation. ADA powers its platform for smart contracts and decentralized applications.

Bitcoin’s resistance to frequent upgrades is good and bad – you can’t argue that it’s done fine without it. It’s top of the charts and always will be. But the issue is scalability and security, not how many people are buying it. Do you think Bitcoin should start upgrading?

Choosing the Right Piston Actuator: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide

Piston actuators are fundamental components in various industries, playing a crucial role in controlling valves, dampers, and other mechanical systems. Selecting the right one is essential to ensure optimal application performance and efficiency. If you’re looking for high-quality piston actuators for sale, this comprehensive buyer’s guide will explore key factors to consider when selecting one that best suits your needs.

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Understanding the Basics

Before exploring the selection process, it’s essential to understand what piston actuators are and how they work. Piston actuators are mechanical devices that use the linear motion of a piston to produce force, which can be used to control the position or movement of a load. These actuators are available in various types, including hydraulic, pneumatic, and electromechanical, each with unique advantages and applications.

 

Types of Piston Actuators

Now that you have a clear understanding of your application requirements let’s explore the various types of piston actuators:

Hydraulic Piston Actuators: These actuators use pressurized hydraulic fluid to move the piston. They are known for their high-force capabilities and precise control. Hydraulic actuators are commonly used in heavy-duty industrial applications, such as construction equipment and manufacturing.

Pneumatic Piston Actuators: Pneumatic actuators use compressed air to generate linear motion. They are often chosen for their simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Pneumatic actuators are ideal for applications where precise positioning and high force are not critical.

Electromechanical Piston Actuators: These actuators convert electrical energy into mechanical motion using a motor-driven screw or belt mechanism. They offer precise control and are commonly used in applications where accuracy and repeatability are crucial, such as robotics and automation.

Key Selection Criteria

Now, let’s delve into the key criteria to consider when choosing a piston actuator:

Force and Speed: Match the actuator’s force and speed capabilities with your application’s requirements. Ensure the actuator can provide the necessary force while meeting the desired speed.

Environmental Conditions: Consider the operating environment, including temperature, humidity, and exposure to corrosive substances. Choose an actuator that can withstand these conditions to ensure longevity.

Power Source Compatibility: Ensure that the actuator is compatible with your facility’s power source, whether it’s hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric.

Size and Mounting: Evaluate the available space for the actuator and the mounting options. Ensure the actuator can fit within the allocated space and be securely mounted.

Control and Feedback: Determine the level of control and feedback required for your application. Some actuators have built-in control systems and sensors for precise positioning and monitoring.

Maintenance and Reliability: Consider the ease of maintenance and the reliability of the actuator. Look for models that are known for their durability and have a track record of minimal maintenance requirements.

Research and Comparison

With your application requirements and key criteria in mind, it’s time to research and compare different piston actuator models. Here are some steps to follow:

Manufacturer Research: Identify reputable manufacturers and suppliers known for their quality piston actuators. Look for customer reviews and testimonials to determine their reputation.

Product Catalogs: Explore manufacturers’ catalogs to find actuators that meet your specifications. Pay attention to technical specifications and features. Many online marketplace offers a wide selection of high-quality piston actuators for sale, making it easy to find the perfect component for your industrial application.

Request Quotes: Contact multiple suppliers to request quotes for the actuators you are interested in. Compare pricing, lead times, and warranty information.

Consult with Experts: If you’re unsure about your selection, consider consulting with experts or engineers specializing in piston actuators. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on your specific needs.

Maintaining and Servicing Your Piston Actuator

Once you have selected the appropriate piston actuator for your application, focusing on its long-term performance and reliability is essential. Proper maintenance and servicing are key to ensuring that your actuator continues to operate efficiently. Here are some crucial considerations:

Regular Inspection and Lubrication: Implement a routine inspection schedule to check for any signs of wear and tear, leakage, or damage. Lubrication is often necessary to keep the actuator’s components moving smoothly. Be sure to use the recommended lubricants specified by the manufacturer.

Preventive Maintenance: Consider implementing a preventive maintenance plan to prevent unexpected breakdowns. This may include replacing seals, gaskets, or other worn parts regularly, even if they appear to be functioning properly. It’s often more cost-effective to replace these components proactively than to deal with downtime caused by a failure.

Troubleshooting and Repairs: In the event of a malfunction or decreased performance, it’s essential to have a troubleshooting process in place. Identify common issues and their potential causes. If necessary, seek the assistance of qualified technicians or engineers to diagnose and repair the actuator.

Conclusion

Selecting the appropriate piston actuator is a vital decision that can greatly influence the effectiveness and efficiency of your industrial applications. By thoroughly understanding your application requirements, exploring the different types of actuators, and considering key selection criteria, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your goals. Remember that selecting the right one is an investment in the long-term success of your operations. Take the time to research, compare, and consult with experts to ensure you find the perfect match for your needs.

Technology Can Save Your Logistics Business Money

Ever since the first caveman made an honest buck by selling animal skins as loincloths, businesspeople have been addressing the twin goals of making more money and spending less. For businesses where getting the goods out to the customer is a significant part of the process, the challenge comes down to the economics of transportation, and the recent development that can really help here is fleet management software.

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Technology’s Power of Analysis

Having an analytical mind is a great attribute in business, but everything you look to is going to take time, so why not get a system installed that does it for you? Then you can use data science to make informed decisions and get stats in depth and detail most of us would find both tedious and difficult? Let’s say you have a fleet of trucks. That means a roster of drivers, and an ever-lengthening list of destinations and constant monitoring to ensure you’re doing it efficiently. The software doesn’t get bored, it doesn’t have to use the bathroom or pick the kids up from school; it does the job, probably in real time, and at any time.

Fleet management software can keep track of where your vehicles are and what route they took to get there. If you know the optimum route and the driver has gone a different way, a discussion may be in order, and you can address the problem directly. The software will also say how fast the truck was going, where it stopped and for how long. There is no way you could know this kind of information without using specialized software.

Fuel Cards for Truckers

In addition to the technology that lurks in your IT system, where there is transportation there is fuel, and if your fleet must rely on gasoline, fuel cards for truckers are a great way for companies to track fuel purchases, set spending controls, and get significant discounts. There are plenty on the market, each with its advantages and its downside, so really, it’s a just a question of studying the different options and making comparisons. There are, of course, websites that will do this for you, but whether you use one or opt to do it yourself, some facts and figures are called for here. Your business isn’t like everyone else’s; you have different requirements, different priorities, different preferences, and it is important to find the card that suits your circumstances and needs best.

What About Going Electric?

Electronic vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly common, and they are particularly appropriate if your fleet is comprised of cars and pickups. The bigger beasts may be a while reaching the same levels, but if small is beautiful in your case, you can be a pioneer in your area, the far-sighted company that cares about the environment. In that case, you need to learn what you can about these silent angels of the road.

Where can you charge the cars when out and about? Can you get the hardware installed in your premises and how much will that add to the cost of the vehicles? How far will they go on one full charge? What level of maintenance is required?  It is also worth finding out what is on the horizon: what innovation may land soon that changes the game for the better? Self-recharging batteries? Why not? Somebody must be working on ideas like that. They’ve already come up with driverless vehicles, and even if it is still being tested and refined, the experts are on the case.

Drone Deliveries

Another option that is proving to be a game-changer when it comes to money saving technology is drones. These unmanned aerial vehicles have numerous applications in logistics operations, from inventory management and tracking, to making deliveries. Drones can be used to conduct regular aerial surveys of warehouses or distribution centers, providing real-time data on inventory levels, and identifying any discrepancies or inefficiencies in the supply chain.

This information can then be analyzed to optimize warehouse layouts, reduce waste, and improve order fulfillment rates. Additionally, drones can also assist with delivery operations by autonomously transporting small packages directly to customers’ doorsteps. With their ability to bypass congested roads and navigate through difficult terrain quickly, they provide an ideal solution for last-mile delivery challenges faced by many logistics businesses.

5 FinTech Trends Worth Investing In This 2023

In the last two years, the financial services industry and its ecosystem have grown, changed, and become more competitive thanks to digital technologies. This push for digital adoption is mainly caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, governments’ efforts to have a digital economy, faster and widespread internet access, and smarter electronic gadgets. 

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The best part is that digital banking and Financial Technology (FinTech) platforms will constantly evolve and improve, and 2023 is no exception. According to Forbes, the FinTech industry is expected to grow and reach $174 billion in 2023. Additionally, these advancements are foreseen to be more accessible, data-driven, transparent, cross-border, frictionless, and cost-effective. 

Here are the top trends that’ll define FinTech and the financial ecosystem this 2023.

Embedded Financing 

Embedded finance is becoming more popular in FinTech and will likely be the main trend this year. The term “embedded finance” is the seamless integration of a wide range of financial services and products that can be used within certain non-financial apps and websites. 

Take Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) as an example. With this service, a customer can buy something first and then pay for it over time. The best part is that it usually doesn’t charge interest, making it a good choice for many buyers.

There are so many fast-growing embedded finance models. Experts think that they’ll lead the next payments revolution. The market for embedded financial services is seen to grow by 40.4% annually for the next few years.

Digital Lending 

The digital lending ecosystem has continued to help low-income groups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) get credit. The only difference is that many digital lenders, like CreditNinja, are now upgrading their technology to fine-tune their products. They use robotics, machine learning (ML), and automated data analysis tools to make better credit decisions. 

For example, many lenders are adopting unified dashboards, analytics, and ML-based models. These will make customer acquisition and onboarding processes automated from start to finish. It includes application processing, applicant assessment, screening, service, collection, and analysis. As a result, the loan application process will be even faster, immediately helping borrowers with immediate needs. 

More importantly, digital lending won’t only pave the way for financial inclusion of the underserved population. It’ll also encourage financial literacy in this group. They’ll eventually learn how to choose the right financial services, which will help them improve their overall financial health. 

SaaS

Software as a service (Saas) is one of the hot FinTech trends to look out for in 2023. This sector is moving in the right direction and will reach $623 billion in 2023, based on an 18% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). 

With SaaS services, companies can access and pay for software applications hosted in the cloud without installing them on their servers or computers. It eliminates a lot of extra costs that come with it, so companies can put their money and time into improving the customer experience. 

Additionally, using SaaS gives companies access to powerful tools with better security protocols for storing and managing data. These processes are typically complicated or expensive for a single company to set up on its own. 

Neo-Banks

The neo-banking industry became among the safest and most convenient banking options during COVID-19 and is still tremendously expanding these days. Its global market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of 54.8% between 2023 to 2030.

Neo-banks are new-age banks that are entirely online and on the cloud. They offer digital, tech-first financial solutions for making payments, sending money, getting loans, and more. Unlike traditional banks, neo-banks have a smoother user interface (UI), automation, faster response times, and lower costs. However, many neo-banks aren’t regulated, so their services may be limited. 

Another perk of neo-banks is that they can make customized offers based on data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI). For example, using big data and analytics in assessing current credit histories and other factors, a student-focused neo-bank may offer credit cards to students who want to study abroad. Plus, as stated, all processes are conveniently done online. 

IoT

The Internet of Things (IoT) makes it possible for devices connected to the internet to collect data, analyze it, and then act on it without help from a person. IoT has made FinTech products and services safer, more efficient, and easier to use. 

For example, with IoT devices, financial institutions can embed sensors into their financial products to monitor customer activities. They can also automate responses based on preset customers’ preferences or behaviors, including automatic payments prompted by changes in customer spending patterns. 

IoT devices also feature voice recognition technology for authentication. It makes logging in easier and makes accounts more secure by making them harder to hack. 

Moreover, voice recognition can make technology more inclusive and accessible for people with disabilities. For example, since it only requires voice, it’s an ideal option for users’ speech difficulties, visual impairments, and other conditions like arthritis and hand tremors that can be worsened when typing continuously.

Final Thoughts

These 2023 FinTech trends generally focus on financial inclusion and customer retention. With more sophisticated automation and integration, it’s safe to expect that services tailored to suit every individual’s unique financial needs and capabilities will be more accessible. 

Waste paper recycling – a positive impact on the environment

The electronic revolution continues in the world. But despite the use of various digital media, as well as the use of virtual communication tools, the demand for paper products has not decreased, but, on the contrary, has increased. As waste paper suppliers say, more and more paper waste is generated with each subsequent year of the life of modern mankind. Of course, in some areas, paper began to be used in smaller quantities, for example, for document management purposes. But as the volume of consumption of goods is growing, paper products continue to be in great demand.

waste paper recycling
Paper waste in its ratio to other types of waste is approximately 40 percent. An ordinary modern person annually accounts for approximately 200-250 kg of paper waste. But as reality shows, most of the garbage ends up in a landfill. In developed countries, they try to solve this problem in various ways. Because waste paper can be used as a secondary raw material. That is, it is suitable for processing purposes, after which the materials obtained from it can again be sent to the stages of production of various goods. But there are also landfills where paper rots and pollutes the environment. Despite its “naturalness” in terms of origin, it still releases harmful substances when it rots. In particular, it emits harmful methane gas, which pollutes the surrounding air.

Recycling as a way to cleanse the planet

The recycling industry, with proper development, is able to cope with a large amount of garbage on the planet. After all, then the waste will not end up in landfills. They will participate in a closed cycle “production-processing-production”. In many countries, the development of this area is slow. And in order to accelerate the pace of development, it is necessary that the state take control of everything that happens in this area. Recycling should clearly become a priority in public policy in any country in the world.

Recycling allows solving global environmental problems. Since paper is made from cellulose, and cellulose is made from wood, it will be possible to save the trees that grow on the planet through recycling. It is clear that the timber processing industry will continue to function, because wood is used not only in the production of paper. But with the help of processing, it will still be possible to reduce the volume of deforestation.

In addition, recycling saves energy. It is no secret to anyone that electricity in the modern world is quite expensive. Accordingly, it will turn out to reduce the cost of such a valuable product. The same can be said about water. In the production of material from primary raw materials, a huge amount of water is used. Recall that in some countries today there is a catastrophic shortage of fresh water, its price is comparable almost to the price of gold. So why waste valuable water? Recycling saves money.

In order for recycling to develop, it is necessary to support processors. Everything possible should be done so that they can easily buy old books in bulk and other types of waste paper. Their development, success in their field of activity will positively affect the environment.

How to Choose Hosted Dialer Software for your Debt Collection Agency

Debt collection is a challenging task as it requires reaching and communicating with people who are not always going to perform the assumed duties. Though you need something to help you save your time, and energy, and make the work more effective and productive. What is this?

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What do you need to know before choosing a hosted auto dialer software for you debt collection agency? How can the auto dialer solution for debt collection improve your performance and productivity? Check it out.

As debt collection is all about cold calling, the best solution is to purchase a hosted auto dialer software. A dialer for collection agencies is an all-in-one software that can cover all your needs and offer a wide range of features for workforce management, call monitoring, call recording, several modes for auto-calling, and much more.

So what is the debt collection dialer and how does it work? What benefits does it offer?

Let’s find it out.

What is automated debt collection calls software?

A dialer for collection agencies is a cloud-based software that includes three distinct algorithms for automated calling, call reporting and monitoring features, and intelligent redialing capabilities. It is called a hosted auto dialer software because it is cloud-based and all infrastructure that makes hosted dialer solutions work properly is located on the service provider’s servers or third-party servers that are paid for by your vendor. Thus, you don’t need to pay for any hardware, maintenance, or setups.

How do the debt recovery tools work?

As we have already discussed, hosted dialer solutions are cloud-based and it is the most cost-effective solution on the market – especially if we take into consideration that all benefits are on your side as you save money on infrastructure, not the vendor. Moreover, the debt collection dialer works via VoIP technology. Therefore, it needs nothing more than an Internet connection and headphones to perform calls. No landlines or desk phones, just pure efficiency.

What features of a hosted dialer solutions can boost the debt collection agency?

We have already stated that hosted auto dialer software is multifunctional and universal. Despite the fact that the debt collection dialer has its main purpose to perform cold calls, you still can enjoy numerous options for controlling your agents, overall campaign performance, call recording features, and other pleasant features that can improve your operational effectiveness and productivity.

Three dialing modes

Hosted auto dialer software has three diverse dialing modes – Predictive dialer, Power dialer, and Preview dialer. There can be nothing better for debt collectors than a Predictive dialer – over 100 dials per hour, 75% of response rate – 4 times faster than manual dialing! Moreover, the Predictive dialer can ignore unsuccessful calls and move further, but it offers flexible redialing rules for all unsuccessful calls.

Anyhow, the Predictive dialer needs at least five agents to work appropriately. But there’s a way out – a Power dialer with around 75 dials per hour, but with the ability to work with one agent only and leave voicemails – a feature that isn’t offered by the Predictive dialer.

Preview dialer can show the debtor’s data from your CRM to communicate with him more thoroughly. All types of hosted dialer solutions also provide you with deep insight into each campaign’s results.

CRM integration

You can’t collect debts without working with a CRM, and a hosted auto dialer software offers this feature to you without a need to switch between different apps and spend time gathering and processing data from different sources. Integrate a CRM system with a debt collection dialer to make agents more prepared before each call and reach each debtor with a personalized approach to boost the chance of success.

Call recording and monitoring

Need to get some additional control over agents’ work? Use call recording feature – an option to record calls to analyze them and point to agents’ mistakes or wrong approaches to debtors. Call monitoring allows you to take part in live calls – in hidden mode, in whispering mode(only the agent will hear you), or in barge-in mode(both parties hear you).

Local Caller ID

It is not a secret that most people just don’t answer calls that are marked as non-local – they consider them scam likely and avoid spending time on them. With the help of a dialer for collection agencies, mark all your calls with Local IDs of call receivers(in accordance with your CRM), or in other ways – an absolute flexibility for your decisions.

Cold voicemails

It is needed to make at least eight tries to reach a call receiver in a cold calling campaign, and when it comes to debt collection, a situation can become even more challenging. Nonetheless, with the assistance of hosted auto dialer software, you can easily leave cold voicemails – their callback rate can be over 20%, and that’s a great deal. And don’t worry about unsuccessful calls – customizable redialing rules will deal with any number of needed redials.

Call scripting

Debt collection needs agents to keep their focus on the purpose of the conversation and leave no chance for any conflicts or non-constructive communication. Call scripts can greatly help them to perform call flow management and keep each conversation in the right direction to make sure that the result will be satisfactory for you and your business. Use the internal script editor and constructor in the interface of automated debt collection calls software to construct, edit, or use ready scripts for each campaign and make vital notes exactly during the call.

Live reporting and dashboards

How do we detect if our cold calling campaign goes on in either right or wrong direction? We use stats and reports to take a closer look at what are the call volumes, average call duration, agent occupancy, response rate, and other metrics which point us to problems and mistakes performed by agents. Hosted auto dialer software is a tool with strong reporting features, such as live dashboards with all needed information about the campaign – see all agents’ performance and their personal stats to see who woks as a pro, an who fails the competition. Use data for further analysis and make wise and effective decisions to increase the performance of your agency.

Online searches for ‘work from home jobs near me’ have grown by 300% since March 2020

“Quit rates have been steadily increasing over the past 10 years,” US-based professor of management Kristie McAlpine recently told the BBC, underlining why the much-publicised ‘Great Resignation’ evidently did not start with the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Indeed, resignation letters have continued piling up in historically high numbers even as the pandemic threat has receded. Overall, since March 2020, online searches for ‘work from home jobs near me’ have grown by 300%, as London Loves Business reports.

The pandemic’s role in the Great Resignation  

There are suggestions that the trauma of the COVID crisis led many people to look again at what they wanted to get from their work.

“We were going through a time where we lost millions of people,” McAlpine, of Rutgers University School of Business — Camden, recalled to the BBC. “It’s hard to imagine how that can all occur and not kind of force us to think about what’s important to us.”

In this light, the 300% figure — as revealed in research by the HR firm Cydney’s Creative Solutions — should not overly surprise.

However, many people have remained active in hunting for jobs, with the Cydney’s findings also including a particularly recent 40% increase in online searches for ‘jobs’ over just a six-month period.

Why have resignations continued at a staggering rate in 2022?

In January 2022, 29% of UK workers reported that a job change was something they were considering for that year. For many US workers, however, this prospect became more than just a consideration — as, in March 2022, 4.5 million of them actually did quit.

One big reason why could have been a widespread yearning for more flexibility in working practices. Cydney’s has found many of its clients claiming that hybrid work models have brought them numerous benefits — including reduced commuting time and higher productivity.

However, another factor could be an emerging focus on wellness — for both employers and employees. Many Cydney’s clients have started offering their staff heightened support packages ranging from team wellness activities to counselling sessions.

What could employers do to combat the Great Resignation?

Cydney’s Creative Solutions founder and CEO Camile Duria has urged business leaders to “reassess their existing HR resources and set out to bring them in line with the new expectations from workers.”

If you run a business, its office might not be particularly suited to workers’ post-pandemic priorities — especially if your company originally moved into this office before the pandemic.

So, you might want to consider booking a new flexible workspace ideal for hybrid working. Workspaces like this are available to rent in various major UK locations — including London, Birmingham, Bristol and Milton Keynes.

Finding a cost-effective workplace like this could also free up money for your business to potentially spend on supporting its employees through the current economic turmoil.

New figures indicate that, worldwide, the increased cost of living is now a major concern for 29% of Generation Z workers as well as 36% of millennial workers. Therefore, the financial perks you offer to employees could hugely assist you in keeping them.

5 ways you can save money with unified communications

Unified communications is the new ‘big thing’ in business and IT, and for good reason. Moving all communications to the cloud is a brilliant way for companies to reduce costs and increase productivity within the workplace. If you want to know exactly how unified communications could help you to save money, keep reading.

Unified Communications

  1. No hardware is required

On-premises systems generally require a range of hardware like clunky phones on each desk to operate effectively, not to mention the storage space. As well as this, trained IT staff need to be hired which is very costly, and that’s without even going into the costs of maintenance and repairs. Unified communications eliminate all of these costs.

  1. Increased productivity

When there are sufficient or adequate communication tools for employees to use, productivity wanes. Employee productivity is one of the most expensive resources and not one that companies can afford to waste.

With unified communication tools like Voice, Data and Mobile Services by Gamma, employees are able to work in a range of different locations. This will increase productivity because employees aren’t limited in their movements and can get more done outside of the office.

  1. A reduction in downtime

One of the major benefits of cloud based unified communication systems is that it eliminates employees relying on their hardware as much. Instead of having to work at the mercy of your communication systems, the cloud provides a higher level of reliability and effectively fool proofs your systems.

There will be no more wasted time when disaster strikes, and hardware issues take you offline.

  1. Increased employee retention

With the increase of remote and hybrid workers after the coronavirus pandemic, the satisfaction of employees has never been so significant. Companies now have more choice in who they hire, and remote employees have more freedom. Employees need the right tools to be able to do their work and unified communications delivers exactly what out of office employees need most – effective communication and mobility.

This all amounts to cost savings because the happier the employees are, the more likely they are to stay, resulting in less turnover and lowered costs associated with replacing and retraining employees.

  1. Unified communications is a lot more scalable

With on premises hardware, companies don’t have the flexibility they have with unified communications. The capacity is fixed so they will have to pay for the full use of systems, even when a lot of users aren’t actively using the system. In contrast, unified communications isn’t fixed so companies only have to pay for what they need at a given time.

Instead of paying for 100 possible seasonal workers, unified communications allows companies to scale up or down as needed so they don’t need to stick with anything that’s too expensive or struggle with not having enough capacity.

Final thoughts

As you can see, there are numerous ways that unified communication systems can save you and your company money. After all, more time working and less time messing with technology is the key to happier, healthier workforces. All that is left to do is try out, and see whether it works well for you.

What You Need to Know to Pass the CCIE Service Provider Written Exam

If you’re looking to pass the CCIE Service Provider Written Exam, then you’ll want to read on. In this post, we’ll discuss what you need to know to achieve success. First, we’ll discuss the exam format and topics that are covered. Then, we’ll provide some tips on how to prepare for the exam. Let’s get started!

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Exam format and topics covered in CCIE Service Provider Written Exam 

Exam Format: The CCIE Service Provider Written Exam is an 8-hour, closed-book exam with 100 multiple-choice questions. To know more about the exam format and if you would like to read more about CCIE SP, just click here. The exam is designed to test your ability to configure and troubleshoot service provider networks.

Topics Covered: The topics covered in the exam include IP addressing, routing protocols, QoS, security, and network management. In order to pass the exam, you must understand how to configure and troubleshoot these technologies in a service provider environment.

Tips on how to prepare for the CCIE Service Provider Written Exam

First and foremost, it is important to have a strong understanding of networking concepts. You should be comfortable working with Cisco routers and switches and IPv4 and IPv6 addressing schemes. Additionally, it is beneficial to have hands-on experience configuring service provider networks.

If you don’t have a strong understanding of networking concepts, we recommend taking a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) course. This will give you the foundation you need to succeed on the CCIE Service Provider Written Exam.

Once you have a strong understanding of networking fundamentals, it’s time to start studying for the exam. We recommend using Cisco’s official study guide, which covers all of the topics tested on the exam. Additionally, many other great study resources are available online, such as practice exams and video tutorials.

When studying for the exam, it’s important to focus on the topics covered in depth. These include IP multicast, MPLS, VPNs, and quality of service (QoS). By focusing your studies on these topics, you will be better prepared to answer the questions on the exam.

In addition to studying, it’s also important to get some hands-on experience with Cisco routers and switches. This will help you better understand the concepts you’re learning and give you a chance to practice your skills. There are many ways to get hands-on experience, such as taking a Cisco course or working in a lab environment.

Once you’ve studied for the exam and gotten some hands-on experience, it’s time to take the test! We recommend scheduling your exam at least two weeks in advance, and this will give you plenty of time to prepare and make sure you’re ready to take the test.

When taking the exam, be sure to read the questions carefully and answer them to the best of your ability. If you don’t know the answer to a question, don’t worry! Just skip it and move on to the next one.

After you’ve taken the exam, it’s important to debrief with your instructors or mentors. They can help you understand the concepts you missed and give you guidance on how to improve for future exams.

Conclusion

Now that you know what it takes to pass the CCIE Service Provider Written Exam, it’s time to put in the work and make it happen. Remember, anything worth doing is worth doing right. So study hard, practice often, and don’t give up until you’ve reached your goal.

How To Buy, Sell, And Manage Bitcoin

You don’t have to have millions to start your cryptocurrency investment, but you must be realistic and cautious about what you expect to get in return and all the risks involved.

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Cryptocurrency investment can be challenging, but with research and advice from the right people, you can get the hang of it within no time and start seeing your gains. While Bitcoin is the most popular cryptocurrency, you need to know that there are many other cryptocurrencies to invest in.

Before investing in cryptocurrency, ensure that you have a fast and robust internet connection and have all the necessary documents to verify your identity. The other steps you need to follow to buy, sell and manage cryptocurrency are:

Choose a cryptocurrency wallet

Digital wallets are where you store cryptocurrency, and you need to have one before you start buying any crypto. You can choose between a cold and hot wallet. Cold wallets are physical hardware-based digital wallets to store cryptocurrency that you have not connected to the internet. They have multiple security layers, making them hard to hack.

On the other hand, hot wallets are software-based connected to the internet that comes mainly in the form of apps.

Some of the most popular wallet companies are Trezor and Ledger. You can also get a digital wallet on a crypto exchange package, for example, the one that comes with a Coinbase account.

Set up the crypto wallet

If you have a software wallet, all you need to do is create an account using a username and password, then enable two-factor authentication. If your wallet comes as part of your crypto exchange account package and the exchange operates KYC, you must provide certain documents for identity verification.

Unlike standard hot wallets, non-custodial wallets are not third-party hosted. They provide you with a randomly generated seed phrase or private key around 12 words long, which you have to store offline.

Cold wallets also give you a randomly generated key, 24 words long. However, you still have to create a PIN to access your wallet. You can also choose a paper cold wallet, which gives you a public and private key printed on paper for added security.

Choose an exchange

After setting up your crypto wallet, it’s time to pick an exchange and make your first transaction. Ensure the exchange you choose is regulated by the US Securities and Exchange Community like Coinbase, Gemini, Kraken, Crypto.com, and eToro.

Research the exchanges to see what other cryptocurrencies they offer and their security measures. You can also research other exchanges on the internet like https://www.okex.com/buy-crypto, which is suitable for beginners and experts.

Buy and sell crypto

Some exchanges have buy and sell buttons, where you need to enter how much you want to buy or sell. You have to submit an order like in a conventional stock exchange on others. The standard orders are market order, stop order, and limit order.

Market order lets you buy a certain amount of Bitcoin at the market price, stop order sets a price for you to sell or buy Bitcoin, and the limit order instructs the exchange to sell or buy Bitcoin at a specific price or better. If you are looking for a trusted and secure cryptocurrency exchange, visit https://www.okx.com/markets/prices to access a large marketplace.

Managing your assets

One of the most common and successful strategies to manage Bitcoin investment is to buy and hold them, holding them for a long term hoping for a high average return.

You can also use the dollar-cost-average approach, where you buy Bitcoin after a certain period without looking at the price changes. Sometimes you will buy when the prices are low and other times when the prices are high, but in the long run, the prices will cancel out and give you an average high return.