Humans have been building pipes since 4,000 BCE. What started as clay and wood pipes has evolved over time into the more modern steel, concrete, iron, and fiberglass pipes that we see today. Although these models are a sure improvement from the original design, there is still a water main break every two minutes in the United States. It is for this reason that U.S. communities are pledging to invest nearly $8.5 billion into replacing and rehabilitating drinking water pipe networks in 2024.

The Federal Government has also since announced that they will be dedicating nearly $6 billion to funding the update of municipal water infrastructure. This urgency is due to how costly the shortcomings of the current infrastructure are. Aside from how outdated and expired the current piping is, the U.S. loses 6 billion gallons of treated water per day. This is enough to fill over 9,000 swimming pools and clearly demonstrates a need for change.

With sustainability at the forefront of innovation, the future is bright for United States infrastructure. New, safe, and reliable piping will pave the way for the water infrastructure of the future.

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Many small business owners fail to recognize the cybersecurity threats their businesses may face. They might think that cybercriminals only target large corporations or just be unaware of some of the risks present in the current landscape. It is only after an incident that they realize they should have done more towards improving cybersecurity and protect their data and online systems. By then, the attack may have already caused financial, operational, or reputational damage.

Fortunately, there is a lot small businesses can do to protect against online threats. However, you won’t find one single measure that protects your business from everything. Instead, cybersecurity requires a range of tools and practices. This post will explore some critical steps small businesses can take to protect against cybersecurity threats.

Assess Your Risks

Performing a cybersecurity risk assessment is a good place to start. It is a way to identify the risks to which your organization is exposed. Begin by mapping out all your digital assets, including hardware, software, and data. Evaluate the impact and likelihood of various risks, such as data breaches, malware attacks, and insider threats. Prioritize these risks based on their severity and potential impact on your organization.

You’ll also want to assess your current behaviors and practices that may impact cybersecurity. Consider factors like how employees access online systems and how you interact with customers or clients online. In many cases, human error or oversight are the points of failure as it concerns cybersecurity incidents.

Review All Software

The many software tools you use can create risk for your business. Conduct an inventory of all software applications and systems used at your company. Ensure that each piece of software is up to date with the latest security patches and updates. Set up automated updates where possible to streamline this process.

Some businesses may want to consider software consulting services when implementing new systems. These professionals can help your organization review different software programs and their security. This will ensure that any new software not only serves its purpose within the organization but that it is also secure. They can also provide advice for maintaining security with various software tools.

Use Antivirus Protection

It might seem basic, but antivirus protection can be one of the smartest steps to improving cybersecurity and protect against many of the most common threats. Choose a reputable antivirus solution that offers comprehensive protection, including real-time scanning and threat detection. Install the antivirus on all devices and regularly updated to recognize the latest threats. Many of the popular antivirus providers offer plans and tools designed for businesses.

Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

An unsecured local network can be one of the biggest threats to a small business. It leaves the potential for a criminal to infiltrate the Wi-Fi network. From there, they could access your systems in several ways. Start by changing the default router login credentials to strong, unique passwords. You might also want to hide your SSID to make the network less visible to intruders. Businesses should also change the administrator login credentials on the router and regularly check for firmware updates.

Implement Ransomware Protection

Small businesses should consider ransomware protection for sensitive or critical data and systems. Ransomware attacks involve blocking access to data or computer systems. For example, a virus might encrypt all the data in your computer system. The criminals then demand payment in order to restore access to the data.

Many antivirus programs now come with ransomware protection, so you’ll want to ensure yours has it. However, even the best protection could get beat by a new or novel attack. The best way to protect against that is to have all your data and systems backed up. That way you can restore everything from the backups in the event of a ransomware attack.

Employee Account and Password Policies

You should also consider how you handle accounts for various systems and software services at your business. To start, every employee should have their own account for each software tool or system they use. Account sharing can increase the risk of a system being compromised. Implement access management protocols to ensure each employee only has access to the data or systems they need.

Along with that, you should develop a password policy for accounts. Require strong passwords for each account. Prohibit the reuse of passwords for multiple accounts as well. Small businesses should also consider the use of multi-factor authentication and password managers. The policy should also include regularly changing passwords for accounts.

Cybersecurity Training

As was mentioned before, the human element can often be the biggest vulnerability. That means you should develop cybersecurity training for your employees. Teach them about the password policy and how to create strong passwords. Create security protocols for using various systems and train employees on the security tools you use. You should also teach them about common cyber threats, such as phishing and imposter scams. Teach them how to identify suspicious emails and websites, and emphasize the importance of never sharing sensitive information unless verified.

As a final tip, it is important to remember that improving cybersecurity is an ongoing practice. Regularly review your cybersecurity and stay aware of the latest threats. Update your systems, training, and practices as needed.

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Businesses worldwide are adopting AI for various functions to streamline operations and reduce human error. Some of the AI trends being adopted include generative AI, NLP tools, and automation. While some worry that AI will replace employees, most businesses utilize it to reduce repetitive tasks, drive efficiency, and maximize employee productivity. Below are some key ways you can use AI in your business.

1. Automation

Every job role has at least a couple of repetitive manual tasks that take time away from crucial tasks. This can include checking email, inputting data, or generating reports. These tasks can often take 4-6 hours per week. By introducing AI, employees can save time by automating reports and scheduling data transfers to keep information up to date. Automation can also help with customer service queries through a chatbot and for payroll services.

2. Improving Data Analytics

AI tools can process and analyze large amounts of data faster than humans, and on a much larger scale. This results in the AI tools identifying behaviors, habits, and trends that the human eye and brain can miss. In turn, this results in more accurate and detailed data analysis. Businesses can utilize this improved data analysis to predict customer behavior, research worker trends, project revenue, and identify fraudulent patterns.

3. Decision-making

Using insights from data analysis, AI tools can also aid in decision-making. This is often referred to as predictive analytics. It can help businesses find new opportunities, personalize offerings, and prepare for potential challenges.

4. Content Creation

Businesses are turning to AI to save time and inspire creative content creation. AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Jasper let users enter a text prompt to get ideas, or even written content like blogs, tweets, and captions. DALL-E, MidJourney, and Stable Diffusion on the other hand let users enter a prompt to get an image created by AI. All of these tools help increase productivity as creating content is less taxing, and AI can help to brainstorm new ideas. Just be aware that using content directly from AI tools is not recommended. Make sure to review the content and change it to make it authentic to your brand.

5. Marketing

Marketing teams can utilize AI to analyze data, find customer trends, and optimize marketing campaigns. These details can help enhance the customer experience and improve your marketing efforts. Utilize AI tools to enhance your market research and to complete competitor analysis to see where your business falls short. Then, improve your marketing efforts by using AI to segment your audience and personalize campaigns per segment.

6. Customer Service

AI can engage with customers 24/7 improving your customer service and meeting the demands of modern consumers. Take the time to set up an AI chatbot to interact with customers for simple queries. This can include order status updates, opening hours, product stock levels, processing times, and more. Research the most common questions you receive from customers and use these to build your chatbot.

7. Cybersecurity

Utilize AI tools to stay ahead of cybercriminals while automating threat detection so you can respond quickly to any issues. As AI can analyze large amounts of data, it can identify patterns in user behavior and flag any abnormalities. This helps cybersecurity teams to detect threats in real time. Furthermore, AI tools can help minimize bot activity by scanning email addresses for fake accounts and messages for suspicious keywords. They can also be utilized to differentiate between authentic web traffic and good bots like search engine crawlers and bad bots looking to infiltrate your website.

Integrating AI tools in your business can offer a range of benefits, helping you to save time and reduce costs while improving productivity. How you use AI in your business is up to you, but we recommend starting with the capabilities above.

The post Can I Use AI in my Business? 7 Ways appeared first on Add Value Business Blog.

In recent years, the automotive industry has been steering towards an electric future. Electric vehicles (EVs) have been hailed as a cornerstone for tackling environmental concerns and reducing global dependence on fossil fuels. Yet, as with any significant transition, this shift brings with it a host of questions and challenges. Are EV cars still the future of the automotive industry, or are they a passing trend?

The Rise of Electric Vehicles

The evolution of EVs from niche to mainstream is a testament to technological advancements and shifting consumer attitudes. The early models of EVs, often criticized for their limited range and high costs, have given way to a new generation of electric cars that boast longer ranges, faster charging times, and more affordable prices. This progression has been underpinned by significant improvements in battery technology and the growing network of charging infrastructure.

Environmental Impact and Policy Support

One of the strongest arguments in favor of EVs is their potential to reduce carbon emissions. With transportation being a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, electric vehicles offer a cleaner alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars. Governments around the world have recognized this potential, leading to policies that support the adoption of EVs. These policies range from tax incentives to commitments to phase out the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles.

The Role of Technology and Industry

The automotive industry’s pivot towards EVs is not just about the vehicles themselves but also encompasses a broader ecosystem. This includes advancements in battery technology, the expansion of charging networks, and the integration of smart technology in vehicles. Companies are also exploring the use of innovative materials and components, such as location pins, which are essential in precision manufacturing and contribute to the overall efficiency and reliability of electric vehicles.

Market Trends and Consumer Preferences

Market trends indicate a growing acceptance of EV cars among consumers. This shift is driven by a combination of factors, including environmental awareness, the appeal of new technology, and the total cost of ownership. As battery costs continue to fall and the performance of electric vehicles improves, they are becoming an increasingly attractive option for a wider range of consumers.

Challenges and Limitations

Despite the positive trajectory, the transition to electric vehicles is not without its challenges. One of the key issues is the need for a robust charging infrastructure to support the growing number of EVs on the road. Additionally, concerns about battery life, recycling, and the environmental impact of battery production remain significant topics that need addressing.

The Future Landscape

Looking ahead, the future of the automotive industry seems to be electric. However, it will likely be a gradual transition rather than an overnight transformation. Hybrid vehicles and other alternative fuel options will continue to play a role in the transition period. Furthermore, the push towards autonomous vehicles and connected mobility solutions will complement the growth of EVs. Thereby, creating a more integrated and sustainable transportation ecosystem.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there are challenges to overcome, the momentum behind EV cars suggests that they are indeed the future of the automotive industry. The ongoing advancements in technology, combined with supportive policies and shifting consumer preferences, are paving the way for a more sustainable and innovative automotive landscape. EVs continue to evolve and become more integrated with other technological trends. Thus, they are not just a passing fad but a key component of the future of transportation. The industry's commitment to addressing the current limitations of EVs and expanding their capabilities further solidifies its position at the forefront of automotive evolution.

The journey towards an electric future is an exciting and necessary step in the evolution of the automotive industry. From the use of precision components like location pins in manufacturing to the development of advanced battery technologies, each innovation brings us closer to realizing the full potential of electric vehicles. As we look to the future, it's clear that EVs will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the way we move, driving us toward a cleaner, more efficient, and more sustainable world on wheels.

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As small companies look for ways to streamline their operations, they are considering warehouse automation. Owners of small businesses are searching for solutions to optimize resources and improve productivity. Fortunately, they can make warehouses more productive by incorporating technological advancements. We will discuss five types of warehouse automation that can help you save time, enhance warehouse productivity, and reduce labor costs.

Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems

Using automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRSs) is one of the most effective means of warehouse automation. A series of automated machines store and retrieve items in a warehouse, reducing the amount of human intervention. ASRSs allow for more efficient storage utilization, minimize the risk of accidents, and create smoother workflows. The use of this technology can speed up the inventory management process.

Robotics and Automated Guided Vehicles

Another key aspect of warehouse automation lies in implementing robotics and automated guided vehicles (AGVs). They allow you to automate the transporting, picking, and packing of various items. Using robots and AGVs can reduce manual labor and labor costs in your warehouse. AGVs provide flexibility in warehouse operations, and you can reprogram them according to your business’s needs.

Programmable Logic Controllers

Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) play a vital role in warehouse automation by controlling and monitoring various equipment and processes. If you select the right PLC for your applications, you can supervise and optimize warehouse workflows in real time. These controllers provide centralized management of all automation activities, which reduces the potential for errors, troubleshooting time, and disruptions to your operations.

Conveyor Systems

A conveyor system is another type of warehouse automation that helps you save time. Conveyors offer an efficient way to move products throughout your warehouse, from receiving and sorting areas to packing and shipping zones. By installing a conveyor system, you can streamline material handling processes and reduce the amount of time your workers spend handling products and packages.

You can customize your conveyor system to fit your warehouse’s layout and products, making them versatile solutions for your business.

Warehouse Management Systems

Warehouse management systems (WMSs) optimize the planning, organizing, and execution of activities in your facility. They enable warehouse operators to track inventory in real time and streamline order fulfillment. Integrating a WMS with other warehouse automation solutions allows businesses to manage resources effectively and control costs.

Implementing these solutions can significantly benefit your small business. In fact, investing in warehouse automation will not only optimize your operations but also provide you with a competitive advantage in your respective industry. Explore these technologies, and transform your warehouse into a powerhouse!

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Many businesses see cash as the ultimate convenience. However, customers don’t always view it that way. In fact, many wish that all brands just accepted tap and pay, and similar solutions. 

However, there are numerous other reasons why you should stop using cash at your business. These range from security concerns to the exclusion of certain customers. 

Here are some of the reasons why you should seriously consider no longer using cash.

It Takes Time To Count

Counting the cash in your register at the end of the day or week isn’t cheap. It can take a lot of time, decreasing business efficiency and increasing your labor costs substantially. 

If you have more than one cash register or need to total physical invoices, the process can take even longer. Many companies spend Friday nights just counting their coins (and often feeling disappointed in the process). 

It Comes With Handling Fees

When you take cash, you also need to work with banks and other organizations that can supply you with the change you need to serve customers. These services increase your cash handling fees, making it more expensive to do business. 

Again, getting a point of sale reader and abandoning cash (or using it less) can reduce these costs. You no longer need to pay for cash counting services or change. 

It Reduces Embezzlement Risk

Getting rid of cash could also reduce the risk of embezzlement at your business. When you use card payments, it becomes virtually impossible for anyone to steal from the company. That contrasts with keeping a till stocked with notes and coins. Colleagues can easily slip money into their pockets and carry it off-site with them. 

It Reduces The Risk Of Counterfeit

Stopping using cash could also reduce the risk of accidentally accepting counterfeit bills, notes, and coins. When you take card payments, it is hard for customers to pretend they have money in their accounts when they don’t. 

With that said, there are still risks. For example, you might take payments from a stolen credit card. However, the cost of these errors rarely falls on you, the merchant. Instead, other parties cover it with their insurance, and you often get to keep the income. 

It Improves Your Audit Trail

Stopping cash at your business also improves your audit trail. It makes it considerably more straightforward to see how much money you’re receiving every month, without having to deal with cash-counting and theft issues. Everything goes digitally into your business account, revealing your performance more clearly. 

It Improves Payment Options

In addition, many companies that move beyond cash improve payment options for customers, adding convenience. Most people who go to your business won’t want to use cash. Instead, they will rely on other payment methods, including cards, that are more convenient. 

It Hastens Checkout Times

Finally, letting customers pay for things with cards hastens checkout times. Paying with plastic just requires a tap while cash needs a clerk, cash register, and time spent actually counting the money. 

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Is your business ready to get serious about marketing and sales using technology and AI? If so, it is time to consider the various Freshworks CRM software product options available to you. Freshworks offers three powerful CRM software solutions targeting different business needs. These software solutions are Freshsales, Freshsales Suite, and Freshmarketer. Below are more details about each tool.

Freshsales

The Freshsales software solution is a powerful sales CRM to help sales teams close more deals, by selling smarter. The robust pipeline of management tools is supported by advanced AI technology to follow leads from first contact to sale. The pipeline management tool also allows the sales team to customize and visualize the entire sales process. Furthermore, users can set up and automate tasks and notifications to maximize efficiency. All deal data is enriched through AI technology, helping to predict outcomes and offer actions to consider. These smart features enable efficient sales management on desktop and mobile devices.

The powerful pipeline management tools are powered by deal enrichment and forecasts from AI assistant Freddy. Additionally, adding products, moving leads between stages and easy collaboration makes sales simpler and faster. AI-powered alerts help the sales team to prioritize deals and act quickly to prevent losses. Embrace the new world of AI technology to improve the sales cycle and boost your business.

Freshsales Suite

The Freshsales Suite is an all-in-one sales and marketing CRM software solution. This tool empowers businesses to attract visitors, convert them into leads, and run marketing campaigns. These features help to turn your website into a lead-generation machine. Features of Freshsales Suite include landing page creation, visitor activity monitoring, AI chatbots, and email campaign tailoring. This software helps your business go beyond for your customers by offering a full-circle CRM solution. Now you can have the power of Freshsales and combine it with easy marketing campaigns for optimum efficiency and service.

Freshmarketer

Freshmarketer is a fully-fledged marketing automation software solution for eCommerce. The software solution has various features that target to customer lifecycle. Now, businesses can centralize contact data from various sources, design email campaigns, and set automation to nurture leads. Additional features include landing page creation, form creation, and customer journey building. These are all crucial marketing details for an eCommerce store. However, to truly make the most of Freshmarketer, businesses should consider utilizing it in conjunction with other Freshworks products.

About Freshworks Products

The Freshworks CRM software product options offer robust reporting, automation, and omnichannel communication integrations. Pricing for the Freshworks products starts at just $15 USD per user, per month and includes 24/5 customer service and onboarding support. Alternatively, try a free 14-day trial to test how the above software solutions meet your needs.

The portfolio of Freshworks CRM software equips businesses with tailored solutions to suit the needs of their business and customers. Now your business can the most of your selling processes and customer relationships. Streamline your workflows for sales, marketing, and eCommerce while improving results using strategic insights using the Freshworks CRM products.

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The manufacturing industry undergoes change constantly. From adhering to updated safety regulations to implementing the latest technology, countless modifications are being made across the world. However, there’s one concern that cannot seem to change soon enough, and that’s the overreliance on plastic packaging.

Plastic Revolution

Plastic packaging has revolutionized so many aspects of manufacturing. Just in food safety alone, the material’s durability and decay resistance, combined with its cost-effectiveness, has affected human life invariably several times over. That being said, this significant product of human innovation is having an enormously negative impact on the environment. Now, we are all faced with the challenge of solving the problem of plastic packaging.

Often, it’s most constructive to address a problem at its root. For plastic packaging, that would be the manufacturers who utilize it to produce, pack, and sell their wares. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce plastic use in manufacturing. One promising approach is to change the machinery employed within the various production processes.

For instance, when working with packaging that needs to be sealed, companies could consider alternating to an ultrasonic sealing or welding process. Many different industries are able to benefit from this advanced technology since it provides permanent bonding for numerous materials, such as paper, plastic, and nonferrous metals.

Changing Materials

Another route is changing the materials themselves. Switching to materials or product pieces that are reusable can go a long way in cutting waste. Thus, reduce the strain on our already overflowing landfills. So too could a change to recyclable or more sustainably sourced materials. This could relate to replacing plastic tertiary packaging with 100% recycled cardboard or substituting a product’s main packaging for glass.

Even opting for less harmful plastics could reduce an organization’s carbon footprint. In turn, this can improve appeal with an environmentally conscious target audience. Many manufacturers are making the switch to hard plastics, such as PET, which can be recycled, rather than using soft plastics, which are practically impossible to dispose of in a manner that doesn’t harm the environment.

Every positive adjustment is vital since the way we currently produce plastic is simply not sustainable for the Earth. After all, microplastics are already present in the air we breathe and the food we eat. If considerable change is not made soon, consumers may turn their backs on the companies that refuse to address the problem with plastic.

For further information on reducing plastic use in manufacturing, please see the accompanying resource from Herrmann Ultrasonics.

Infographic created by Herrmann Ultrasonics, an industrial plastic welding company.

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