#its such a difficult system that just causes more and more delay to work

[ilikecarsandsupport4artists]

Don't you just love it when you get stuck into an insane loop with technology? I wanted to work on my assignments but I've been locked out of my two-factor-authentication app that I need to log in to my school accounts. Which wouldn't be a problem, because there is an automatic recovery system linked to your school email! .....which is locked behind the same two-factor-authentication app... which means I STILL need to drag myself to campus at 8 in the morning tomorrow to try and get a hold of the IT department when I have all my classes online

[crystalninjaphoenix]

Marvin's Magic!

Shadow City AU - Chapter Six

A JSE Fanfic

Time for another one of these chapters! I had a pretty busy week, but luckily I had this half-done and found the time and energy to completely finish it. It's been a while, so to remind you what happened in the last chapters: Chase got acquainted with Jackie and Schneep, and would have met Marvin if Marvin didn't suddenly decide to help JJ find the city blood bank. But after that delay, Marvin is ready to meet Chase and teach him about witchcraft! Chase also figures out that he can do even more ghostly things, since he's such a strong spirit. Enjoy the chapter! ^-^

Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5

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“Are you serious?” Jack pressed his phone closer to his ear. “I’ve never heard of a vampire binding spell. That’s... very messed up.”

“Extremely,” Marvin said on the other end of the line. “I’m going to do all the research I can on it. I know that if I report this to the Night Council they’ll do all they can to help, too, but... I-I don’t know. JJ’s a nice guy. He doesn’t deserve this. And if I can change that, I want to.”

“Hm.” Jack glanced around. He was at work right now, sitting at his desk. Short walls separated his area from the others around him. A lot of the time when he wasn’t on call for crime scenes, his shifts were taken up by just hanging out here, sometimes doing paperwork on his computer. Nobody around him seemed to be paying attention to his phone call, so he continued on at the same volume. “Are you sure witch magic could undo vampire powers? They don’t overlap well. That’s why witches who get made into vampires lose access to their powers.”

“I know, I know, but there might be a chance, right?” Marvin reasoned. “Magic is strange and vast. And I am quite powerful, you know, heh heh heh.” Jack could practically picture the smug grin on Marvin’s face as he said that.

“You’re not a blood witch, though,” Jack pointed out.

“What does that have to do with anything?”

“Well, vampires are all about blood and stuff, right? If they have some sort of binding spell, I bet blood is involved. So you’d need to have the magic to affect that.”

“Hey, we don’t know how much blood is involved,” Marvin said. “Vampires can have powers that aren’t related to blood. Like shadow travel. Or animal transformation. Or that spider climbing thing that Schneep does that he doesn’t like to talk about.”

Jack laughed. “Yeah, that’s true... still, doesn’t mean that your magic can do anything. What if it turns out that only vampires can do this? Or... that there’s no way to sever the bind at all?”

“There’s a way to undo any magic,” Marvin said firmly. “Or counteract it. This binding ritual is a form of magic, even if it goes by another name. So there must be a way to break it. I bet it won’t be easy to find. If anything, it’ll be fucking difficult, cause I bet the vampires who used it in the past want that to be hidden. But I have a lot of free time on my hands. And if it turns out my magic can’t do anything on its own, I can find some vampire to do it for me, I’m sure. D’you think Schneep could do it?”

“I don’t think so,” Jack said slowly. “He’s not really one of those mystical types.”

“Hm, yeah, true. Oh! Schneep and JJ should meet, actually!” Marvin said cheerfully. “I can introduce them to each other! I bet if JJ knows some of the vamps in the city, he could... I dunno, talk to more people about it. You know?”

“Yeah, it’ll probably be good for him to have a support system,” Jack agreed. “Schneep definitely improved a lot once he met the vampires over here, you know?”

“Exactly!” Marvin said. “I should call Schneep after this, see if he’s willing to meet up with JJ. And the same for JJ, of course. I got his cell phone number after I dropped him off at the hotel, we can text.”

“He has a cell phone?” Jack blinked. “Huh... Actually, yeah, I remember he does now. An old one. I gave him my card. This Anti guy is so controlling, but he lets him have a cell phone? That’s weird.”

“I guess in this day and age, it’s hard to get away with not having one,” Marvin figured. “Or maybe Anti wanted to be able to always contact him. I don’t know, and I don’t really care, as long as JJ has one. As long as he has that, we can reach him. Bring him into the shadow world and shit.”

“Speaking of bringing people into the shadow world,” Jack said. “When would be a good time for you to meet Chase?”

“Ah, right.” Marvin hissed. “Sorry I had to cancel on you for that, by the way. I felt like JJ’s situation was... a bad vibe.”

“No, yeah, that’s perfectly understandable,” Jack agreed. “Don’t worry about it. Just while I got you here, you know?”

“Well, uh, you know my schedule,” Marvin said. “It’s the same all the time. I can close the shop for any day you need me to. Maybe like, a couple days from now?”

“How does Friday sound, then?” Jack asked. “I don’t have a shift that day. Same time as the original plan?”

“Yeah, that works out,” Marvin said. “Fridays are usually a bit busier than other weekdays, but I can lose the hours. Benefits of being the owner.”

“Ha! True.” Jack grinned to himself.

“How is Chase, by the way?” Marvin asked.

“Like, mentally? Emotionally? What?”

“I dunno, all of those?” Marvin said. “And also... is he beginning to fade at all? Or is he staying as strong as he was before?”

“Oh definitely staying strong,” Jack confirmed. “Sometimes, when he’s just standing in the middle of the room talking, I forget that he’s not actually an alive human being. And then I look at the wound or he walks through the sofa or something, and uh... yeah.”

Marvin laughed slightly. “Yeah, I can imagine that’d be freaky. He’s... handling the whole... supernatural creatures thing, well? After Jackie and Schneep talked to him?”

“I think so,” Jack said. “And I think he likes the others, especially Jackie. The two of them really got along during the meeting last night.. Him and Schneep, too, which I’m a bit more surprised about, honestly. Chase and Jackie have similar personalities and stuff, Schneep is a bit different, you know? Very cool, but a bit, uh...” He trailed off.

“Yeah, I get it,” Marvin said. “Not bad. But you’re always surprised when he gets along with someone well. I guess in the case of Chase and Jackie, it’s like... opposites attract, you know?”

“True,” Jack agreed. “Anyway, the point is Chase is doing good. I think he’s processing the whole thing as well as he can. Still has a ton of questions, but I think he’s slowly getting to that point where he just kinda... asks questions when they apply, instead of constantly bombarding people. You know?”

“Mm-hm,” Marvin hummed. “Okay, I gotta open the shop now. I’ll stop by your house on Friday. Tell Chase I’m coming! And tell him I’m a witch so he can prepare.”

“We already told him when the other two visited, but I’ll remind him,” Jack said. “Good luck with the shop today.”

“Thanks! Good luck with your work! Hopefully you have a slow day.”

“Hopefully!” Jack laughed a little. “See you.”

“See you! Bye!” Marvin said that cheerfully, then hung up.

Jack put his phone back in his pocket and then turned back to his desk. Back to paperwork. Sometimes, he wondered what Chase was doing while he was here at work. He hoped everything was going well at home.

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Chase spent a lot of his time alone experimenting with his powers. Slowly, he found he could go further and further from the house. He could walk past his nextdoor neighbors’ gardens and into the yards beyond. He could even go across the street. But eventually, that tether around his chest would keep him from going too far.

He also figured out a new trick altogether. One day, while he was practicing picking up and holding things without them going through his hand, he had the idea to try grabbing something from a shelf and slowly moving it to the shelf beneath. He pulled open the cabinet door for one of the kitchen cupboards and reached up to grab a big plastic jug from the top shelf—which he did easily. But then he realized something was off, and that his view of the kitchen shelves were a bit different from what it usually was. Once he looked down, he realized that his feet were actually a few inches off the ground! He was so surprised that the jug tumbled from his hand immediately.

So he could fly! Or... float, more like it. And it was surprisingly easy to do. He just had to think about it. Honestly, it didn’t even feel like he was floating sometimes. He always imagined that flying would feel sort of like swimming through the air, but floating as a ghost felt... natural. To a point, that is. The higher he tried to get off the ground, the slower he floated, until he eventually stopped when his head was in the ceiling. And he did mean in the ceiling, as he passed through it and looked into the empty space in the roof. There were a lot of spiders up there, which was something he’d rather go his whole afterlife without knowing.

He also spent a lot of time thinking about everything he’d learned from Jack’s friends, Schneep and Jackie. His head was still spinning sometimes, to think that werewolves and vampires and ghosts were all real, and that he’d never seen any his whole life. He knew they had special powers and all that, but you would think that with modern technology, someone would have realized there was more to the world than met the eye.

Maybe there were some people out there who did know. Ordinary people—everydays, as they were apparently called. He wondered how many times someone saw something supernatural, tried to tell people, and were called crazy for it. Jack told him that ghost hunters usually didn’t find anything real, even if their instruments worked, but maybe there were people out there that did. Who knew? Not him, apparently. God. The supernatural was real. It was... easier to accept than he thought. Maybe being a ghost had opened up his mind. If life after death was possible, anything might as well be.

Speaking of anything being possible, Jack told him that his friend Marvin was visiting soon. His friend who was... a witch. Huh. For some reason, Chase was more confused about what to expect there than he was with anything else. All other things he’d heard of had been easy enough to wrap his head around. Werewolves and vampires had distinct traits. It had been strange to see Jackie and Schneep in person, but once he’d been told what they were, he knew the sorts of questions to ask. In the case of Marvin... what was it like as a witch? What could a witch do? Did they fly on broomsticks and make potions in cauldrons? Did they wave wands around, conjuring fireworks? Or was it something more... sinister? Like summoning demons and making sacrifices? He didn’t think that Jack would introduce him to someone dangerous; he seemed too nice for that. But that still left a wide range of possibilities for witchcraft.

But soon, Friday arrived. Chase spent a good chunk of the day using the Mirror of Revealing to practice on being visible. He wasn’t sure how good he was at it, but he was slowly getting used to it, used to thinking about how he appeared all the time. Though it did make him a bit self-conscious. Especially about the fatal wound in his head. It was normal to him now, but anyone else would be really freaked out by that, wouldn’t they? He didn’t want to scare anyone...

Jack was hanging out in the kitchen when the doorbell rang. Chase jumped in surprise and hurried over to the armchair, sitting down. His mind was racing, focusing on being solid enough that he didn’t fall through the cushion. “Coming!” Jack shouted, leaving the kitchen and hurrying to the front door. He opened it up. “Marvin! Come in.”

“Coming in.” A man walked into the room, shoulder-length brown hair half-pulled back, wearing a black shirt underneath an open short-sleeve button-up with a design of lemons and leaves. “Huh. Nice place. Could be better, though.”

“Thanks for your honesty,” Jack laughed, closing the door. “But would you believe it? The rent is cheap. I hear something happened here or something, I dunno.”

Marvin grinned, then looked around the room. “Is Chase here right now?”

“U-um, y-yeah, I’m here.” Chase raised his hand. Deep breaths, Chase, this guy is normal, just like Jackie and Schneep were. Wait... breathing. Uh, well, not literally deep breaths. But the point is, stay calm!

“Oh!” Marvin looked towards his voice, smiling. “Hey, nice to meet you. You’re... invisible?”

“Right, yeah, uh, give me a second.” Chase stood up and concentrated on what he looked like.

“Oh fucking hell!” Marvin jumped slightly, then quickly covered it up. “Sorry about that. I was expecting the wound, but not the... the empty eyes.”

“The—oh, oops.” Chase thought about his eyes. “S-sorry.”

Marvin relaxed slightly. “No, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to upset you. I know it’s difficult for ghosts to be seen. Jack’s introduced me to a few, and he’s told me a lot about them. Uh, you? You. Anyway, nice to meet you, I’m Marvin Fletcher.” He waved.

“Chase Brody.” Chase smiled slightly. “Uh... welcome to my home. Mine and Jack’s. You’re... a witch, right?”

“I don’t really look like one at first glance, do I?” Marvin spread his arms wide and did a small twirl around.

“No, I... I-I’m not exactly sure what I was expecting, so I don’t... know what a first glance would do,” Chase said haltingly, unsure if what he was saying made any sense.

“Well, let’s talk about that first, then.” Marvin walked into the living room. He had a shoulder bag with him, which he took off as he sat down on the sofa, setting it on the cushion next to him. “What do you think of when you think of witches?”

“Uh, I was thinking about this earlier, actually.” Chase sat down on the armchair again. “I think it’s like, Halloween witches, you know? With the pointy hats and black cats and brooms and stuff. And I also think of, like, the Salem Witch Trials, you know? They taught us about that a lot in high school. Wait... were there actually witches in the witch trials?”

“I dunno about Salem, I’m not American,” Marvin dismissed. “But I know that here in Europe, witch trials didn’t always catch actual witches. In fact, they usually didn’t. There are real monster hunters, but they’re different. Also, you’re disappearing, by the way.”

“Shit!” Chase focused on his appearance. And as a result, slowly started sinking into the armchair. He gave up on trying to sit on it and instead sat on the ground, folding his legs. That felt a bit childish, though, so he slowly floated upwards while keeping that same position, until he was eventually at the same height as Marvin (who looked impressed). “Uh, yeah, Jackie and Schneep mentioned that monster hunters were a thing. That... sucks.”

“Well you don’t have to worry about them, cause you’re a ghost.” Marvin grinned. “There’s not much anyone can do to you right now.”

“Yeah, I guess that’s a plus,” Chase said. “Anyway... I think of Halloween. When I, uh, think of witches.”

Marvin nodded. “That’s what most people think of.”

“It’s funny that you brought up cats as a defining trait of witches,” Jack said, grinning. “Because Marvin’s shop is absolutely full of them.”

“You own a shop?” Chase asked.

“Yep,” Marvin said, emphasizing the P. “I sell all sorts of magical supplies. Real magical supplies, made for and sold to people who walk in the shadows. Though I do get a fair amount of ‘tourists’ too. People who stop by to look at stuff and also maybe get their fortune read. Some people try taking the piss out of it. I love using actual magical fortune telling on those guys. The expression on their faces when I start dropping extremely relevant facts is always priceless.”

“That seems dangerous,” Chase said. “If they’re a stubbornly skeptic guy, wouldn’t they think you were stalking them or something?”

“I always know when to pull back,” Marvin said. “Uh... now, at least. I got punched once and learned since then.”

“Jeez. Sorry about that, bro.”

“It’s fine, it was a long time ago.” Marvin shrugged. “I didn’t even have my two best kitties then.” He reached into his pocket and took out his phone. “You wanna see pictures?”

“Wh—” Chase laughed in surprise at the sudden change in subject. “Yeah, sure, dude. You have two cats, then? But—” He looked at Jack. “You said that his shop was ‘full’ of cats, right?”

“Absolutely full of cats,” Jack confirmed.

“I take in strays,” Marvin explained. “Offer them up for adoption. But these are the two I actually own.” He showed the phone screen to Chase. “That black and orange one is Sam, she’s my tortie—a tortoiseshell. And the white and gray one is Higgins. They’re my sweeties.”

Chase leaned closer. “Oh they’re very cute. I’ve always been more of a dog person, but cats are cute too.” He paused. “Are they like... related to your witch magic?”

“Heh. In a sense.” Marvin grinned. “It’s hard to explain, but... I talk to them. They give me advice. And also constantly ask for treats, but any cat would do that if you could talk to them.”

“Interesting...” Chase nodded slowly. “And... that’s... a spell you can cast?”

“No, that’s just something I can do,” Marvin said. “Innately. It has to do with the source of my magic. I mean, you can cast spells to speak with animals, but I can just talk to Sam and Higgins on my own.” He put his phone away. “Anyway, you’re probably wondering what I mean by ‘source’ of magic.”

“Uh, yeah, actually.” Chase blinked in surprise. “How’d you know?”

“Because if your knowledge of witches basically comes from Halloween and stories about witch trials, that word was probably pretty confusing to you.” Marvin grinned. “I bet you have a lot of questions. I did, when I first started learning about magic.”

“Hah. Yeah.” Chase smiled weakly. “So, uh... I guess start by explaining that ‘source’ thing?”

“Hm... okay...” Marvin leaned back against the sofa. Jack sat down next to him. “How to explain that in a way that makes sense...? Hm... Okay... so. A magical source is where you... draw your magic from? It could be anything, really. Some witches draw power from the natural world around them, but some are able to draw power from more... conceptual sources, like love or dreams or chaos. Basically, if you can think of it, there’s a witch that uses magic related to it.”

Chase tilted his head to the side. “So... it’s kind of like a magic source is a battery?”

“I mean, I guess?” Marvin laughed. “Maybe it’d be easier if I said there are different types of witches. Water witches, fire witches. Light witches, darkness witches. Paint witches, photo witches. Death witches, life witches. Happiness witches, anger witches. Truth witches, deception witches. Plant witches—”

“Okay, okay, fuck, I get the point!” Chase was starting to feel a bit dizzy. “So... basically, magic is everywhere?”

“The current theory is that magic starts to appear when you’re really passionate about something,” Marvin said. “Or when you feel deeply about something, you know? The source is the ‘why’ of your magic. But the spells are ‘how’ you wield it.”

“How do spells work?” Chase asked. “Do you need a wand or a staff or something?”

“For some spells,” Marvin said. “The point of a wand or staff is to sort of... direct your power. Cause you can, like, point them. You can also use weapons, tools, and art supplies for that. Or, if you’re experienced enough, you can just use your finger. Some spells, though, need other tools. Others don’t need tools at all. You keeping up with me?”

“I... I guess?” Chase blinked. “I think this is too complicated for me.”

“Maybe you’d learn better by a demonstration,” Marvin said. “I brought supplies.” He patted his bag.

Chase nodded, leaning forward—floating forward, unintentionally. He’d been to magic shows before, but those were tricks. This was going to be real magic. The thought made him dizzy again. Weird that he could get dizzy when he was a ghost. Maybe it was an internal, emotional dizziness, and not the actual physical sensation.

“Alright, here we go.” Marvin took out two things. First, a plastic cup. Second, a mask of some sort. Shaped like a cat face, with some black and green markings on it.

“What sort of spell needs your mask and a cup?” Jack muttered curiously.

“Oh, I only need the cup for the first one, I was just moving this out of the way,” Marvin explained, setting the mask on his lap.

“Nice mask,” Chase said. “You... really like cats, huh?”

Marvin beamed. “Hell yeah I do. They’re little darlings. Except when they’re assholes. And even then, they’re usually cute about it. Anyway, my mask helps me with a lot of spells. It gives me a little boost and helps me channel some magic, especially for spells that need my senses. But we’re not doing one of those spells now. We’re doing a simple one, to introduce you to how they work.”

He picked up the cup and put it on the coffee table, gesturing for Chase to look into the top. Chase did so, partially going through the coffee table to get a good angle. Marvin ran one finger down the side of the cup and muttered something under his breath. Chase couldn’t exactly make it out, but he was pretty sure it wasn’t English or any other language he knew. As he watched, the cup filled up with water! It raised up from the bottom and stopped just a bit under the lip, fizzing slightly for a bit before the fizz quickly faded. “Whoa!” Chase gasped.

“Cool, right?” Marvin grinned. “Very handy. For this spell, there are three components: the cup, the words, and the gesture I just made. Simply say the words while running your finger down the side like that, and it will fill with water.”

“Very cool,” Chase whispered in awe. “What’re the words you said?”

“Lían se le kipa húis,” Marvin recited.

“What language is that?”

Marvin smiled. “It’s technically Irish, but not really. The grammar is off. Spell words can be any language, but the way they’re put together is... weird. Basically, if I cast the same spell in English, it would be something like... ‘water fi-ill this gla-ass fill it.’”

“Huh. Okay, I see what you mean.” Chase nodded. “And... this is a simple spell?”

“Mm-hm.” Marvin nodded back at him. “It doesn’t take that much magic to cast, has minimal components, and has a very simple effect.”

“What’s a more complicated spell?” Chase asked.

Marvin perked up. “I was thinking about this, actually, and I know one that would be very relevant to you.”

Chase tilted his head. What sort of spell would a ghost need? Unless... “Is it... a spell I can do?”

“Oh, uh... no.” Marvin deflated slightly. “Ghosts can’t do magic. Even if they could do magic in life. Sorry.”

“Nah, it’s fine.” Honestly, being a ghost was sometimes confusing enough, he didn’t want to add witch stuff on top of that. “So what is it, then?”

Marvin’s energy returned. “Okay, so, you’ve probably realized by now that you can’t go too far from the spot of your death. That’s true for all ghosts.”

“The range gets bigger with time, right?” Chase asked, and Jack nodded.

“That’s correct, but even so, it’s really inconvenient to travel as a ghost,” Marvin said. “Think about it. You can’t ride buses unless you’re always concentrating on not falling through the floor. If you think of that for even a second, you’ll slip through and the bus will suddenly be miles ahead of you, farther than you can get to ‘cause you can’t really go any faster than a running speed. And don’t even get started on trying to drive. But! Certain types of witches can summon ghosts to any location.”

“...like with a Ouija board or something?” Chase asked.

“I mean... there’s probably a spell that uses one?” Marvin guessed. “But no, the one I know doesn’t use that. For it, I’ll need to draw a ritual circle, put on my mask, say a chant, and do some vague gestures. Once I’m finished, the ghost I summon will appear in the middle of the circle!” He grinned. “So basically, I could take you anywhere around town—though I’m pretty sure you’ll sorta fade back to this location after a little while.”

“...huh.” Chase... wasn’t sure how to feel about that. “And... any witch can just... do that?”

“No, not any witch,” Marvin said. “Just certain types. Like, death witches are probably the most likely to summon ghosts.”

“...is that what you are?” Chase asked.

Jack interrupted. “No, but don’t bother asking what type of witch he is. He’s never told anyone, even his friends.”

“...huh,” Chase said again. “Why?” That last bit was directed at Marvin.

Marvin shrugged. “It’s not a very common source. But other than that, it’s a long story, and I don’t feel like explaining it to everyone I know. Basically. Anyway, yeah! I can summon you! Isn’t that handy?”

“It’s, uh...” Chase paused. “I-I don’t like the idea that... someone can just grab me and take me somewhere without me... wanting to.”

“...oh.” Marvin slumped slightly, excitement draining. “Well, yeah, I can... I can see why you’d feel that way. But... hey, they can’t summon you without knowing your name, at least. So it’s unlikely that you’d be summoned by some stranger, you know?”

“And if it makes you feel better, Chase, you should be able to return here whenever you want,” Jack added. “Ghosts can sort of teleport back to their place of death at will.”

“Really?” Chase blinked.

“Yeah, just think about doing it,” Jack said.

“Huh.” Chase tried not to think too much about his ‘place of death.’ He tried not to look at that spot beneath the window. Maybe that’s why he hadn’t realized this before? But he might as well give it a shot now. He thought about being back in that spot, and for a brief moment his memory of ‘waking up’ as a ghost flashed through his mind—

—And then suddenly, in a snap, his view was different. He was looking over at Marvin and Jack from a completely new angle. Jack twisted around to look at him, gasping in surprise and then grinning. “Yeah! See, I told you!”

“Huh?” Marvin looked in the same direction. “Chase, are you there?”

“Uh, yeah.” Chase nodded, trying to concentrate on his appearance again.

“Oh god!” Marvin jumped. “Chase, the eyes.”

“Sorry!” Chase gave a nervous little laugh. “It’s hard to think about what your eyes look like, I think. Anyway... yeah, knowing that does, uh, reassure me.”

“That’s good!” Marvin smiled. “If you want, I can try summoning you sometime. You gotta be bored here all the time when Jack’s out at work.”

Chase laughed. “A little bit. I usually end up, uh... not sleeping, but I go into this trance thing that’s kind of like sleeping. And that’s how I pass most of the time when I’m not practicing my ‘ghost powers’.” He wiggled his fingers in a spooky manner. “Honestly things would be a lot more exciting if I could just... turn on the TV or something.”

“Have you ever tried?” Marvin asked.

“Uh... no, actually,” Chase admitted.

“You know I could just turn it on for you,” Jack pointed out. “Like, when I leave for work, I could just leave the TV on.”

“No, no.” Chase shook his head. “It’s fine. I’d want to be able to turn it off or change the channel if something I didn’t like came on. I mean, I guess I could just... leave the house. But... I dunno. It’s different, I guess.”

“Hm.” Jack nodded slowly. “Yeah, I can see that.”

“But seriously, if you’ve never tried, you should try now,” Marvin said. “Ghosts can press buttons!”

Chase looked over at the TV. “Alright, might as well. It might take some practice, though. I’m still having trouble even causing coins to move.” He headed on over to the TV, crouching down in front of the power button. Normally he would just lean over to look at it, but he wanted to get a close look at it. Why did pressing a button feel so tense right now? Trying to ignore the nervousness, he reached out and poked at the power button.

And then the TV turned on!

“Aha!” Marvin grinned. “See? That’s awesome!”

“Nice, Chase!” Jack was clearly impressed.

But Chase... was confused. Usually, the power button made a click sound when it was pressed all the way in. Just now, though... Chase leaned even closer, his hat partially passing through the screen as he stared intently at the power button. “Hey, uh... I don’t think I did that?” Chase said slowly. “I didn’t press the button, I-I don’t know why the screen is on now.” He leaned back again, looking at the TV. It was turned to a simple blue screen, tuned to the HDMI. But there were a few bars of static going across it that usually weren’t there.

“Really?” Jack blinked, tilting his head to the side. “Hey, uh... put your hand near the power button and think about turning the TV off.”

Chase almost asked what that was about, but figured Jack knew what he was talking about. He did as he asked, holding his hand close, pretending to push the power button without actually getting close to it. The screen immediately went black.

Jack jumped in surprise. “Chase, I... I think you can mess with electronics.”

“Is that something ghosts can usually do?” Chase asked, looking back at Jack and Marvin. “You told me that ghosts are mostly electricity. Is this... cause I’m a strong spirit?”

“I... yeah, I-I think so.” Jack looked a little stunned. “I’ve heard that some spirits can do that... but it’s normally poltergeists, not a single ghost. Huh. That’s... weird.”

“Maybe it’s cause of the necromancy,” Marvin said idly.

“Huh?!” Chase’s attention snapped towards him.

“The necromancy that... that’s the reason you... Jack, did you not tell him about that?” Marvin glanced at Jack.

“I was planning on doing it after he met you,” Jack admitted. “Once he’s used to magic.”

“What necromancy?” Chase asked, worry creeping into his voice.

Marvin glanced at Jack, who gestured for him to go ahead. He then sighed and crossed his legs, getting comfortable. “Jack’s told me how unusually strong you are, and I think the reason for that is because someone used some necromancy—spells all about conjuring up spirits—to, uh, make sure that your soul stayed here once you died. And that’s why you’re so strong. Because you were basically magically-created.”

Chase blinked. He looked down at his hands. They still looked normal to him... there was no sign of any magic or necromancy or whatever. He reached up to touch the side of his head. “Do you... think that someone did this? And then... did that magic stuff to bring me back as a ghost?”

“That’s one possibility,” Marvin said slowly. “There’s also a chance that someone put the spell on you earlier, which activated when you died.”

“I-I didn’t know about any of this magic before now, though, so... i-if that’s the case... they did it without me knowing,” Chase said quietly. He paused for a moment, then continued. “I... I-I think it’s more likely that this happened the night I died. There has to be a reason I don’t remember any of it. Jack’s told me that ghosts all instinctively know the circumstances of their deaths, but I don’t, so... something has to be messing with that, right? Magic or something. So... maybe someone broke into my house, k-killed me, and then... brought me back? Cause... we know I died in here... so at the very least, someone was in my house. But... why? Who the fuck would want to—to go to all that effort for me?”

Jack shook his head. “I don’t know,” he whispered. “I-I’ve told the Night Council about what happened here, they’re aware of what happened, but there aren’t any clues so far.”

“The Night Council...” Chase repeated absentmindedly. “M-maybe I should... talk to them myself? I-I don’t know... how much help I’ll be, since I don’t remember anything, but...” He trailed off.

“That could be helpful, but I think you should get more used to this stuff first,” Jack said. “The Night Council is pretty deep in the supernatural, it could be a shock.”

“But if you ever want to, it’s easy enough to contact them,” Marvin said. “Schneep—you remember Schneep, right?—he has a friend who’s one of the vampire representatives. Her name is, uhhhh...” He snapped his fingers a couple times. “Clara! Clara something-or-other. She has a really silly-sounding last name. So we have an indirect in, you know.”

“That does make me feel better,” Chase muttered. “I-I guess I... still need to get used to all this stuff, anyway.” He paused. “If... I was magically brought back... was it a witch who did this to me? O-or is there some other, uh... being that could do this?”

“A witch is my first thought,” Marvin said. “We’re the only ones who can do necromancy, usually. But there’s a chance there’s something else that can do that, something I’ve never heard of.” He shrugged. “I don’t know. Occam’s Razor, it’s probably a witch behind this.”

“Hm.” Chase nodded slowly. “And... there are like... secret magic shops and stuff, right? A-are there... places where... people hang out? Supernaturally?”

Jack laughed. “Yeah, there are a ton of secret places where people from the shadow world meet up. Jackie and Schneep have this pub they hang out at a lot, the Harvest Moon. It’s great.”

“We also have the library!” Marvin said cheerfully. “And other shops. We even have secret restaurants, though I don’t know how much help that would be to you. And there are, like, events too. Every October, there’s something called Nevermore, it’s kind of like a carnival. And there are sports, if that’s what you like, but I never really got too into those. Witches’ duels, though? Those are fun.”

Chase smiled slightly. “Maybe... maybe you could... summon me somewhere, sometime? So I can... get to see these places?”

Marvin nodded. “Yeah! We can all go out sometime. I’m sure Jackie would love to introduce you to the rest of his pack.”

“Hah. I’d love to meet them, too.” Chase’s smile widened. “So, uh... do you have any other spells you want to show me?”

Marvin’s expression brightened. “Yeah! I brought my grimoire of useful stuff to show you.” He took out a book, its leather cover emblazoned with a Celtic knot design. “This is where I write down all the spells I want to remember. I think... hm, I could maybe show you guys the cleaning spell I use?”

Jack raised an eyebrow. “I don’t know if I like what you’re implying there.”

Chase burst into laughter.

The next couple hours passed with Marvin showing off some of his spells and magical items. Chase could tell that he really liked doing magic by the way his eyes lit up—literally, sometimes. And Chase could see why! A lot of this was so exciting! Items flew through the air on their own, globes of light appeared in the air, and Marvin changed his outfit into a different one with a poof of smoke. Chase couldn’t believe he never heard of magic while he was alive. But then again, magic was probably good at hiding things. There were invisibility spells and all that.

Marvin left, but promised that he’d figure out a good time to summon Chase later. “We’ll do something fun, I swear,” he said. “It’ll be great.”

“I’m looking forward to it,” Chase said.Once Marvin was gone and the amazement of the magic had worn off, though... Chase’s thoughts returned to what happened to him. Was he the target of some evil witch’s strange plot? Why him? He had nothing to do with this world before he became a ghost. He wasn’t special. Why him? Why? Why?

[cowboyjen68]

hi jen, i just followed you and this is really random but ive seen some of your posts helping younger people and it really struck a cord and i need to just let the words fall out of me.

ive been having issues with my girlfriend she cheated on me but this situation is very complicated and we're both fucked up people but i know she still loves me and i really love her. but my anxiety and our lack of communication is really bad right now and im so worried she might not love me the same anymore

ontop of this im 18 and for the past id say 5ish years my mental health and family life has been getting worse, getting diagnosis is hard especially with mentally ill and just overall bad parents that somehow dont understand or believe. i know im deppresed and have been i have anxiety, sever paranoia maybe bpd and bipolar and autism and everything is just so much. now the one person i had is something thats making everything hurt more and i just don't know where to go, im trying to get help but its so slow in this country and i feel so lost and tired i barely eat now and when i do its ether rare or unhealthy and everything is so much i want to collapse.

i hope this isn't to much to randomly send anonymously but you just seem really kind and helpful. thank u for your reply if you do

HI and please accept my apologies for the delay on answering this. I am sorry you are going through so much. My kids are adopted from foster care and I had many kids in my home for up to 5 years who eventually went back home. That is to say I have a lot of experience with mental illness, the systems that treat them, trauma and kids who came from unstable home lives.

At the ripe old age of 18 you have plenty of time to find love and contentment but right now might not be the time. I understand there might be odd circumstances that caused your girlfriend to cheat on you. If you feel betrayed and lost trust that is a feeling that is next to impossible to overcome for people with no comorbidities let alone a teen trying to figure herself out and deal with navigating the broken mental health/care system.

It is actually quite normal for young love to change and get redefined into friendship even when the circumstance are the best. Her cheating on you might very well be a sign that your relationship is in flux and not what you thought it was. A romance that has run its course is not a failure, relationships do not have to last forever to be important and real and worth having had.

It might be scary to think of not being with her, of not having your "one" person that you can count on but I do believe you can get farther working on yourself if you put time and energy into you and not dividing it up between you and her.

There is a lot of precedent set for women to set aside their romance and intimacy in order to be just friends while one or both does some work on herself. Sometimes it is necessary to stay involved for emotional support or financial support, that is just the reality of our world. Living single can be very difficult.

Please consider letting go of the relationship in its current form and putting your energy of yourself. Letting go of the stress of trying to repair what you had with her will remove so much pressure from you and from her that you will feel much more ready to tackle your mental state.

I promise. You are not a failure, she is not "the bad guy" in this story. Take all the wonderful things you shared with her keep those with you when you want a reminder that it loving her was worth your time even if it didn't end like you planned.

Seek mental health help but starting small. A therapist can help you begin to talk through things and often she can help you find additional resources like a medical Dr, public subsidies for insurance or free clinics to assist you in getting medication and mental health support. Most counties have a social services office and those employees are a wealth of information.

[batgirlzine]

Hello, Batfans!

Mod Kye here.

First and foremost, thank you so much for your patience, and my sincerest apologies for how long this has all taken to wrangle together. I have a handful of long-awaited updates below on previous delays, digital copies today, wrap-up and leftover sales, so please read carefully!

To start, I'd like to issue an apology for the delays this project has suffered over the course of its run and offer a bit of transparency. This year was unexpectedly very hard personally and health-wise, and without going into detail about illness for the sake of sensitivity, took me out of contact on several weeks-long stretches and occasions, leaving my team in the dark without news—and by extension all of you. Such long radio silence and delays are not what you want in a project that deals with people's money, trust and time, and I know it's been frustrating, and for that I'm so sorry. My lack of communication was difficult and monumentally unfair for everyone involved, and I wanted to take a moment to thank Mods Ari and Michi, as well as Kait, for working behind the scenes to keep things running, to update all of you when they could, and for going above and beyond in ways there aren’t words for, when I was unable or unwilling to step up. If any readers are in the zine scene (as regular buyers, or as contributors yourselves) and see them on a project in the future, please check it out, because they’re a force like no other, and will make an amazing experience out of anything they run. They are, quite frankly, the only reason this project was started and finished, and deserve all the support you guys have sent and more for what they went through and accomplished despite the difficulties I caused them, our contributors, and our timeline to you, our customers.

Order Fulfillment

All customer orders were mailed out June 2nd. As I was unable to update BigCartel with tracking at the time, it meant that most of you were not notified. I’m incredibly sorry. I’ve spoken to a handful of folks about their packages this week, but from our internal shipping system, it appears everything was safely delivered. If you have not received your package, or have had any issues with your delivery, please touch base with me at batgirlszine@gmail.com about your order!

Contributor bundles will be going out this weekend, which means it’s time for…

Digital Bundles

An email with a direct link to our wonderful digital bundles will follow this update that just went out in about an hour just to please email spam servers, so please keep your eyes peeled and on your inboxes if you're waiting on that! If you have any issues receiving it, make sure you check spam/junk folders first and then reach out so I can help ensure you receive it!

And Finally, Leftovers!

Last but certainly not least, a final announcement for anyone with a friend or loved one eagerly awaiting getting their hands on the cool book and wicked merch they saw you get recently. Our leftover sales will be opening Wednesday, September 20th! If you know someone who missed out on sales the first time around and would love to support this incredible project, please spread the word—or if you’d like to grab an extra keychain for your collection, we’ll see you then!

A separate post with a full announcement will be made tomorrow to circulate just so it doesn't get lost in the update here.

Thank you so much for reading this far, and for sticking with us and supporting this project.

[jasonhayesaqe]

Enterprise Apps in 2025: 10 Features You Can’t Ignore.

Most companies face the same challenge: managing complex operations using disconnected tools and outdated software. Teams lose time switching between systems, making decisions without real-time data, and struggling with poor communication. This isn't just frustrating—it's expensive.

The solution? Enterprise mobile app development.

Built to streamline processes, enhance productivity, and support remote teams, enterprise apps are changing the way companies operate. But instead of relying on generic tools, smart businesses are now investing in custom mobile app development services—tailored to their specific needs.

Let’s break it down.

What is Enterprise App Development? Why It’s the Future of Business Operations

Enterprise app development is more than just creating an app—it’s a strategy to digitize and centralize your business workflows. These apps are designed to be scalable, secure, and seamlessly integrated with your existing tools like ERP, CRM, HRM, and inventory systems.

Whether you run a manufacturing unit, retail chain, or logistics firm, a custom enterprise app ensures your team has access to the right data, at the right time, from anywhere. It helps automate tasks, reduce manual errors, and drive informed decision-making.

Simply put, enterprise apps are the new foundation of operational efficiency.

Top 10 Must-Have Features in Enterprise Mobile App Development

A successful enterprise app needs more than just clean UI—it needs smart features that support business performance. These are the 10 features you shouldn’t ignore:

🔹 Robust Security & Data Protection 🔹 Intuitive UI/UX Designs 🔹 Seamless Integration with Existing System 🔹 Offline Access & Syncing 🔹 Real-Time Analytics & Reporting 🔹 User Role Management & Access Controls 🔹 Cross-Platform Compatibility 🔹 Custom Notifications & Alerts 🔹 Advanced Search & Filters 🔹 Scalability & Performance

Now, let’s quickly explore four of these in more detail:

1. Robust Security & Data ProtectionEnterprise apps store sensitive data like financials, employee info, and customer records—making them top targets for cyberattacks. Over 50% of mobile apps analyzed by Symantec had security flaws like hardcoded credentials. That’s why enterprise app development must include end-to-end encryption, MFA, role-based access, secure APIs, and compliance with standards like GDPR or HIPAA. Strong security isn’t optional—it’s essential to protect your business and its future.

2. Intuitive UI/UX DesignsAn enterprise app can have all the right features, but if it’s difficult to use, users will avoid it. That’s why user-focused UI/UX design is a smart business move, not just a design choice. Great enterprise app development starts by putting real users at the center, offering intuitive navigation, consistent cross-platform experience, accessible design, and minimal training needs. When UX is done right, it boosts productivity and helps people work smarter.

3. Seamless Integration with Existing SystemModern businesses rely on multiple platforms—CRMs, ERPs, HR tools, finance systems—but without proper integration, these systems work in silos, causing delays, errors, and duplicate tasks. Enterprise mobile app development solves this by creating a centralized hub that connects all tools for real-time, seamless data flow. Unlike off-the-shelf apps, custom enterprise solutions integrate with platforms like Salesforce, Oracle, Workday, QuickBooks, and Slack, ensuring your team works smarter, not harder—without switching between systems or fixing outdated info.

4. Offline Access & SyncingLet’s face it—internet isn’t always available, especially for field teams, delivery staff, or sales reps in remote areas. That’s why offline access is a critical feature in enterprise app development. It allows users to access core features, update data, and capture inputs without a connection, then sync everything automatically once back online. With secure local storage, conflict resolution systems, and uninterrupted functionality, offline support ensures productivity never stops—no matter the location or network.

Want to explore the remaining six must-have features that take enterprise apps to the next level?

Check out the Top 10 Features Every Successful Enterprise Mobile App Must Have in 2025—because the right features mean smarter operations, stronger teams, and faster growth.

[peterrentropmd]

Future-Proofing Your Practice: Embracing the Power of New Medical Technology

In the modern world of healthcare, technology is more than just a convenience—it’s a critical part of delivering high-quality patient care. With advances happening faster than ever, medical professionals are under increasing pressure to stay current. From artificial intelligence and wearable devices to digital recordkeeping and remote consultations, the tools now available can dramatically improve how healthcare providers manage, diagnose, and treat patients. However, for many physicians and healthcare administrators, knowing how to bring these technologies into daily practice can feel overwhelming. Understanding how to incorporate the latest innovations smoothly is essential for future-proofing your practice and ensuring long-term success.

Starting with a Vision, Not Just a Device

The first step in adopting medical technology is thinking beyond the equipment itself. You’re not just buying software or machines—you’re shaping the future direction of your practice. That’s why it’s essential to start with a clear vision of what you want to achieve. Ask yourself how you would like your practice to function a year from now. What problems are you currently facing? What could be improved with better tools? Whether it's reducing patient wait times, improving diagnostic accuracy, or simplifying administrative tasks, your goals should guide every decision you make.

Choosing to invest in technology without an apparent reason often leads to underutilized or misused tools. If you understand the “why” behind your decisions, you’ll be more likely to choose the right technologies and implement them effectively. A strong vision also keeps your staff aligned and motivated, as they’ll understand how each change helps improve the workplace and patient outcomes.

Evaluating Your Current Workflow and Infrastructure

Before making any purchases or changes, it’s essential to take a close look at how your practice currently operates. Consider the systems you already have in place. Are they outdated? Are they working well, or are they causing delays and errors? Sometimes, practices operate for years with inefficient systems simply because change feels too complicated. However, modern medical technology can only reach its full potential if a solid foundation supports it.

This means checking your current hardware, software, internet connection, and even your office layout. If you’re considering telemedicine, for example, do you have the necessary video equipment and privacy space to conduct appointments professionally? If you plan to implement a new electronic health record system, is your staff trained to handle digital records efficiently and effectively? By thoroughly evaluating your current systems, you can identify what needs to be upgraded or replaced before introducing any new additions.

Finding Technology That Matches Your Practice’s Needs

There is no shortage of medical technologies on the market today, but not all of them will be right for your specific setting. It’s easy to get excited by features and flashy presentations, but it’s more important to focus on functionality and compatibility. Start by researching solutions that are tailored to your specialty or patient population. Consider whether the tools can be customized to fit your workflow and whether they integrate with your existing systems.

Another important factor is user experience. The best technology in the world won’t help if your staff finds it confusing or difficult to use. Look for systems with intuitive interfaces and responsive customer support. You may also want to request demos or trials to see how a product performs in real-world conditions. When your team feels confident using new tools, adoption becomes smoother, and results are more immediate.

Involving Your Team in the Transition

Bringing new technology into your practice isn’t just a technical upgrade—it’s a cultural shift. That’s why involving your entire team from the beginning is so important. From physicians to administrative staff, everyone plays a role in ensuring the smooth adoption of new systems. When people feel included in the decision-making process, they are more likely to embrace changes and take ownership of the transition.

Hold regular meetings to discuss upcoming changes and gather feedback on them. Encourage open conversations about concerns and suggestions. The more your staff understands the benefits and impact of the technology, the more motivated they’ll be to learn and adapt. Training should also be prioritized during the transition. Offering hands-on sessions, providing manuals, and having a dedicated team member available for support can all make a massive difference in how quickly your team adjusts.

Focusing on Patient Experience and Engagement

While much of the conversation around technology focuses on internal efficiency, it’s essential not to overlook the patient experience. Today’s patients are increasingly tech-savvy and expect healthcare services to be convenient, accessible, and responsive. Incorporating technology can dramatically improve how patients interact with your practice—from online appointment scheduling and digital intake forms to virtual visits and remote monitoring.

However, technology should never feel like a barrier. It should enhance communication, not complicate it. If patients feel confused or overwhelmed by a system, they may avoid using it altogether. That’s why it’s essential to consider usability and simplicity when choosing patient-facing tools. Offering brief tutorials, answering questions clearly, and being available to assist will help your patients feel more comfortable and supported.

Ensuring Compliance and Ethical Use of Technology

With great power comes great responsibility, especially in the healthcare field. Any technology that involves patient data must meet legal and ethical standards. In the United States, that means strict compliance with HIPAA regulations. Whether you're adopting cloud storage, mobile health apps, or telehealth platforms, data security should always be a top concern.

Make sure you’re working with vendors who understand healthcare compliance and offer secure, encrypted systems. You should also educate your staff regularly about cybersecurity risks and best practices. From password management to phishing awareness, every employee should be equipped to protect patient information. Transparency with patients is also key. Let them know how their data is being used and stored, and always respect their privacy and consent.

Measuring Outcomes and Staying Flexible

After implementing new technology, the work doesn’t stop. Ongoing evaluation is necessary to ensure that your investment is yielding a return. Set benchmarks for success and track your progress over time. Are appointment no-shows decreasing? Are diagnoses becoming more accurate? Are patients reporting higher satisfaction?

It’s also important to stay flexible. Sometimes, a system may need to be adjusted or even replaced if it doesn’t meet your expectations. Technology is constantly evolving, and staying informed about the latest updates and advancements will help you stay ahead. You don’t need to adopt every new trend, but you should remain open to innovation and committed to continuous improvement.

Looking Ahead to a Smarter, More Connected Practice

Incorporating new medical technology into your practice isn’t just about keeping up—it’s about leading the way. With thoughtful planning, active team engagement, and a focus on both security and patient satisfaction, your practice can become more efficient, more accurate, and more responsive to the needs of today’s patients. Change may be challenging at times, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

By embracing the right tools and using them wisely, you can create a practice that is not only ready for the future but also better equipped to serve your community right now. In a world where technology continues to transform the way we live and work, forward-thinking healthcare providers will always have the edge.

[smartcitysystem]

Overcoming Cloud Migration Challenges with Microsoft Azure

In today’s fast-paced digital economy, cloud migration has become a strategic imperative for businesses striving for agility, scalability, and innovation. However, migrating to the cloud is not without its challenges. From technical complexities to organizational resistance, businesses often encounter roadblocks that can delay or derail their migration plans.

That’s where Microsoft Azure comes in—not just as a cloud platform, but as a comprehensive ecosystem designed to simplify and accelerate cloud migration. In this article, we’ll explore common Azure cloud migration challenges and how Azure helps businesses overcome them efficiently and effectively.

The Growing Need for Cloud Migration

As companies adopt hybrid work, AI-powered tools, and data-intensive applications, traditional on-premises infrastructure is proving inadequate. Cloud migration offers:

Scalability to support fluctuating workloads

Cost-efficiency through pay-as-you-go models

Security and compliance with global standards

Faster innovation through automation and integrated services

Despite these benefits, many organizations hesitate due to the perceived risks and challenges involved in the migration journey.

Common Cloud Migration Challenges

Let’s take a closer look at the top hurdles companies face when moving to the cloud:

1. Lack of a Clear Migration Strategy

Many organizations jump into migration without a clear roadmap, resulting in cost overruns, missed deadlines, or application failures.

2. Data Security and Compliance Concerns

When moving sensitive workloads to the cloud, organizations fear data breaches, compliance violations, and loss of control over their data.

3. Downtime and Business Disruption

A poorly planned migration can cause unexpected system outages or performance issues, disrupting business continuity.

4. Legacy System Dependencies

Old applications often have tight integrations or outdated architectures that make cloud transition difficult.

5. Skill Gaps and Resistance to Change

Internal teams may lack the cloud expertise needed to manage the transition effectively. Additionally, organizational resistance to change can slow down adoption.

6. Cost Management

Without proper cost forecasting and governance, businesses may overspend on cloud resources or underutilize their investments.

How Microsoft Azure Helps Overcome These Challenges

Microsoft Azure offers a powerful suite of tools, frameworks, and services that directly address the above obstacles. Here's how:

1. Strategic Planning with Azure Migrate

Azure Migrate is Microsoft’s all-in-one hub to assess, plan, and execute migrations. It provides:

Discovery tools to assess your current environment

Dependency mapping to understand application relationships

Cost estimation calculators to budget effectively

Readiness reports to reduce guesswork

By providing a structured approach, Azure Migrate ensures that you move the right workloads at the right time, with minimal risk.

2. Built-In Security and Compliance Tools

Azure is built with zero-trust architecture and offers more than 100 compliance certifications, including:

ISO/IEC 27001

GDPR

HIPAA

IRAP (for Australian government workloads)

Tools like Microsoft Defender for Cloud and Azure Security Center help monitor workloads, detect threats, and ensure secure configurations across hybrid environments.

3. Minimal Downtime with Azure Site Recovery

Azure Site Recovery enables real-time replication of workloads, allowing you to:

Perform non-disruptive testing

Set up automated failovers

Maintain business continuity during migration

It’s especially useful for migrating critical applications like databases, ERP systems, and financial platforms that require zero or minimal downtime.

4. Modernizing Legacy Systems with Azure App Services and Containers

Azure supports various modernization strategies:

Rehosting legacy apps to Azure VMs

Refactoring with Azure App Services or Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS)

Rearchitecting monolithic applications into microservices

Azure's hybrid support and integration with Visual Studio and GitHub make modernization more accessible—even for outdated tech stacks.

5. Bridging Skill Gaps with Azure Learning and Managed Services

Azure provides extensive training resources, including:

Microsoft Learn and Azure certifications

Partner-led migration services for enterprises lacking in-house expertise

Azure Lighthouse to manage multiple tenants securely through a single portal

Plus, Azure’s native integrations with Microsoft 365 and Dynamics 365 reduce the learning curve for teams already familiar with Microsoft ecosystems.

6. Cost Optimization with Azure Cost Management

Azure includes tools to monitor and optimize cloud spend:

Azure Pricing Calculator to estimate costs before migration

Cost analysis dashboards to track usage and avoid overruns

Budgets and alerts to ensure governance

Additionally, features like Azure Reserved Instances, Spot VMs, and Hybrid Use Benefits can help you save up to 72% on long-term workloads.

Tips for a Smooth Azure Cloud Migration

Whether you're planning a full-scale migration or a phased hybrid approach, keep these tips in mind:

✅ Start Small and Scale

Begin with non-critical workloads to build confidence and learn from experience.

✅ Focus on Business Goals

Align your migration roadmap with business outcomes like performance improvement, cost reduction, or faster go-to-market.

✅ Involve All Stakeholders

IT, security, finance, and business units must collaborate to ensure a successful transition.

✅ Monitor and Optimize Continuously

Post-migration, continue to analyze performance, usage, and costs to maximize ROI.

Final Thoughts

Cloud migration doesn't have to be risky or disruptive. With the right strategy, tools, and partner ecosystem, Microsoft Azure empowers businesses to overcome migration challenges and unlock the full benefits of the cloud.

Whether you're modernizing legacy apps, expanding globally, or preparing for AI-powered transformation, Azure provides the flexibility, security, and scalability your business needs.

[hitechair]

Firing on All Cylinders: Melbourne's Comprehensive Commercial Cooktop Repair for Every Brand

The sizzle of ingredients hitting a hot surface, the controlled roar of gas burners, the consistent heat ensuring perfect results – this is the soundtrack of a thriving Melbourne commercial kitchen. At the heart of this culinary performance lies the commercial cooktop. It's more than just an appliance; it's the engine driving your menu, the workhorse handling intense daily demands. When this critical piece of equipment falters or fails, the entire operation can grind to a halt, leading to lost revenue, frustrated staff, and disappointed customers. That's why having access to prompt, reliable, and expert Commercial Cooktop Repair Melbourne is not just a convenience, it's an operational necessity for any food service establishment in the city.

The demanding environment of a commercial kitchen puts immense strain on equipment. Unlike domestic cooktops, commercial units are built for endurance, facing constant use, high temperatures, inevitable spills, and rigorous cleaning schedules. This intense usage inevitably leads to wear and tear. From faulty ignitors and inconsistent flame patterns to gas leaks or electrical malfunctions, cooktop problems can manifest in various ways, often at the most inconvenient times. Ignoring minor issues or attempting unqualified fixes can escalate problems, compromise kitchen safety, and ultimately result in more costly repairs or premature replacement. Securing professional Commercial Cooktop Repair Melbourne at the first sign of trouble is the smartest move to protect your investment and maintain business continuity.

One of the significant challenges faced by Melbourne restaurant owners, cafe managers, and catering businesses is the sheer diversity of cooktop brands available. Kitchens might be equipped with units from global giants like Waldorf, Garland, or Goldstein, or specialised brands like Cobra, Blue Seal, or Baron, each with its unique design, technology, and specific parts. Finding a repair service proficient across this wide spectrum can be difficult. You need technicians who understand the intricacies of various gas and electric systems, induction technology, and the specific potential failure points of each manufacturer. This is where a truly comprehensive Commercial Cooktop Repair Melbourne service proves its value, offering a single point of contact regardless of the brand stamped on your equipment.

Why Professional Repair Isn't Just an Option – It's Essential

In the high-pressure, fast-paced world of commercial cooking, the temptation to cut corners or attempt a quick DIY fix on a malfunctioning cooktop can be strong. However, the risks associated with unprofessional repairs far outweigh any perceived short-term savings.

Safety First: Commercial cooktops often involve complex gas lines or high-voltage electrical connections. Improper handling can lead to dangerous gas leaks, fire hazards, or electrical shocks, endangering your staff and potentially your entire premises. Licensed technicians are trained to work safely with these systems, adhering to strict safety protocols and Australian standards.

Accurate Diagnosis: What seems like a simple issue might be a symptom of a deeper problem. Professional technicians have the diagnostic tools and experience to pinpoint the root cause accurately. This prevents repeat breakdowns and ensures the repair addresses the actual fault, not just a temporary symptom.

Efficiency and Performance: A correctly repaired cooktop operates at peak efficiency. This means consistent heating, faster cooking times, and optimal energy consumption. A poorly repaired unit might struggle, leading to uneven cooking, longer service times, and higher utility bills.

Equipment Longevity: Commercial cooktops are significant investments. Professional repairs using quality parts extend the lifespan of your equipment, protecting your investment and delaying the need for costly replacement. Patchwork fixes can cause further damage over time.

Compliance and Insurance: Using certified technicians ensures repairs meet regulatory standards. This is often crucial for maintaining business insurance validity and complying with health and safety regulations.

Recognising the Warning Signs: When to Call for Repair

Being proactive can save you significant headaches. Keep an eye (and ear, and nose) out for these common signs that your commercial cooktop needs professional attention:

Pilot Light Issues: Difficulty lighting the pilot, or a pilot light that frequently goes out or has a weak, yellow flame (it should be mostly blue).

Inconsistent Heating: Burners taking too long to heat up, providing uneven heat across the surface, or having flames that are irregular or sputtering.

Gas Smell: Any persistent smell of gas around the cooktop is a serious red flag requiring immediate attention and professional assessment. Turn off the gas supply if possible and ventilate the area.

Strange Noises: Unusual clicking, popping, or humming sounds during operation.

Non-Responsive Controls: Knobs or digital controls that are stuck, loose, or fail to adjust the temperature correctly.

Visible Damage: Cracks in the cooktop surface (especially ceramic or induction), damaged knobs, or corroded burner components.

Tripping Circuits (Electric Cooktops): If the cooktop repeatedly trips your circuit breakers, it indicates an electrical fault.

Poor Induction Performance: Induction zones failing to recognise pans or heating erratically.

Ignoring these signs can lead to complete equipment failure, safety hazards, and more extensive, expensive repairs down the line.

The Unbeatable Advantage: Servicing All Major Brands

Why is the ability to service all major cooktop brands such a critical factor when choosing a repair partner?

One-Stop Solution: No matter if you have a mix of brands in your kitchen (perhaps inherited from previous owners or acquired over time), you only need one number to call. This simplifies maintenance and emergency repairs significantly.

Reduced Downtime: Technicians familiar with a wide range of equipment can often diagnose and repair faster, regardless of the brand. They won't be caught off guard by unfamiliar technology.

Broader Expertise: Technicians skilled across multiple brands develop a deeper understanding of common cooktop technologies and failure points, leading to more robust repair solutions.

Parts Accessibility: An established all-brand service provider often has better access to a wider inventory of spare parts or established relationships with suppliers for various manufacturers, potentially speeding up the repair process.

Consistency and Trust: Working with a single, reliable provider for all your cooktop needs builds a relationship based on trust and understanding of your kitchen's specific requirements.

Choosing Your Melbourne Commercial Cooktop Repair Partner

When your primary cooking equipment is on the line, you need assurance you're calling the right team. Look for a service provider that demonstrates:

Proven Experience: Years of specific experience working with commercial kitchen equipment in Melbourne.

Multi-Brand Proficiency: Explicitly states they service all or most major commercial cooktop brands.

Licensed & Insured Technicians: Guarantees qualified and safe workmanship.

Prompt Response Times: Understands the urgency of commercial kitchen breakdowns.

Transparency: Provides clear quotes and explains the necessary repairs.

Warranty on Work: Stands behind their repairs with a guarantee.

Positive Reputation: Check reviews and testimonials from other Melbourne businesses.

Conclusion: Keep Your Melbourne Kitchen Firing

Your commercial cooktop is indispensable. Its reliable operation is fundamental to your kitchen's success. Don't let unexpected breakdowns derail your service or compromise safety. Partnering with a repair service that understands the pressures of a commercial environment and possesses the expertise to handle any brand of cooktop is crucial. Proactive maintenance and swift, professional repairs are key to longevity and performance.

For comprehensive, expert Commercial Cooktop Repair Melbourne across all major brands, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum peace of mind, look no further. Trust the experienced and qualified technicians at Hitech Air Solution to keep your kitchen firing on all cylinders. Contact us today to discuss your repair needs or schedule preventative maintenance.

[vivekverma12]

Do’s and Don’ts While Hiring a Freelance Mobile App Developer

so it’s important to take your time and make an informed decision. Rushing the process increases the risk of hiring someone who isn’t a good fit for your project, which can lead to missed deadlines, subpar work, and increased costs.

2. Don’t Base Your Decision Solely on Price

While budget considerations are important, choosing a developer solely based on the lowest bid can be a costly mistake. In many cases, you get what you pay for, and opting for the cheapest option may result in poor quality work, missed deadlines, and additional expenses down the line. Focus on finding a developer who offers the best value for your money rather than the lowest price.

3. Don’t Ignore Communication Skills

Technical skills are crucial, but communication is equally important. A developer who is difficult to communicate with can cause delays, misunderstandings, and frustration. Ensure that the developer you hire is responsive, clear in their communication, and proactive in providing updates.

4. Don’t Overlook Legal and Contractual Details

Always have a written contract in place before starting work with a freelancer. This should cover all aspects of the project, including scope, payment terms, deadlines, intellectual property rights, and confidentiality agreements. Failing to address these details can lead to legal issues and disputes later on.

5. Don’t Skip the Testing Phase

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is launching an app without thorough testing. Ensure that your developer includes comprehensive testing as part of the development process. This should cover functionality, performance, security, and compatibility across different devices and operating systems. Skipping or rushing the testing phase can lead to a poor user experience and damage your brand’s reputation.

6. Don’t Rely on Verbal Agreements

Verbal agreements can easily be misunderstood or forgotten. Always document any changes, agreements, or updates in writing. This ensures that both parties have a clear understanding of what has been agreed upon and can help prevent disputes.

7. Don’t Forget to Check Compatibility with Your Existing Systems

If your app needs to integrate with existing systems, such as a website, CRM, or payment gateway, ensure that the developer understands these requirements and has experience with similar integrations. Overlooking this can lead to compatibility issues that may be costly and time-consuming to fix.

8. Don’t Micromanage

While it’s important to stay involved in the project, micromanaging your developer can be counterproductive. Trust the developer’s expertise and give them the space to work. Instead of micromanaging, focus on regular check-ins to ensure the project is on track and provide feedback as needed.

9. Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Design

An app’s design is just as important as its functionality. Don’t overlook the importance of hiring a developer who has a strong understanding of user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design. A well-designed app is more likely to engage users and achieve your business goals.

10. Don’t Assume All Freelancers Are the Same

Not all freelance developers are created equal. Each developer has their own set of skills, experience, and areas of expertise. Take the time to find a developer whose strengths align with your project’s needs, rather than assuming any developer can handle any type of project.

Conclusion

Hiring a freelance mobile app developer can be a rewarding experience if done correctly. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can minimize risks and ensure that your project is completed on time, within budget, and to your satisfaction. Remember, the key to a successful collaboration is clear communication, thorough planning, and mutual respect. Take the time to choose the right developer, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a mobile app that meets your business goals and delights your users.

This content is originally posted on: https://www.vivekverma.com/ Source URL: https://www.vivekverma.com/blog/dos-and-donts-while-hiring-a-freelance-mobile-app-developer/

[techpsa]

Ditch Excel: 8 Reasons It Doesn’t Work for Resource Management

For years, Excel has been the default tool for resource tracking across many organisations. Its accessibility, familiarity, and low cost made it a logical choice—especially when teams were smaller and processes were less complex. But as businesses scale and project demands grow, Excel starts to crack under pressure. When it comes to modern resource management, relying on spreadsheets can cause more harm than good.

Here are eight reasons why it’s time to ditch Excel for resource management and embrace more robust, purpose-built solutions.

1. No Real-Time Updates

Resource allocation is a fast-moving process. Unfortunately, Excel doesn’t offer real-time updates. Any change in availability, assignments, or workloads requires manual input and distribution. This leads to version mismatches, delays in updates, and outdated information being used for key decisions.

2. Version Chaos

How many “final_resource_plan_v7(1)_updated” files have you seen? Excel doesn’t support a centralised system, which results in multiple versions floating around in emails, drives, and desktops. Without a single source of truth, teams work with inconsistent data—and that’s a recipe for conflict and confusion.

3. Limited Collaboration

Resource management is not a one-person job. Project managers, department leads, and HR teams all need to collaborate. Excel makes this difficult. Even with cloud versions like Google Sheets, simultaneous edits can create conflicts or overwrite data, especially with complex formulas and formatting.

4. Human Error is Inevitable

Typos, deleted rows, broken formulas—Excel is prone to manual errors that can have serious consequences. One small mistake in resource capacity or availability can derail timelines or overload key personnel. The more complex the spreadsheet, the higher the risk.

5. No Resource Forecasting

Good resource management isn’t just about today—it’s about planning for tomorrow. Excel lacks forecasting capabilities that help you plan for upcoming demand, future hiring needs, or capacity gaps. Without predictive insights, you’re always reacting instead of proactively managing resources.

6. Difficult to Scale

A growing business comes with growing complexity. Managing hundreds of resources across multiple projects and teams becomes a nightmare in Excel. Files become too large, slow to load, and difficult to interpret. What starts as a simple tool quickly becomes unmanageable.

7. No Workflow Integration

Excel doesn’t integrate with your core project, HR, or financial systems. This means duplication of data entry across platforms, which increases admin overhead and the risk of inconsistencies. Seamless workflows are essential for effective resource management—something Excel just doesn’t offer.

8. Poor Reporting & Analytics

While Excel provides basic graphs and pivot tables, it lacks the interactive dashboards and insights needed to make fast, data-driven decisions. Real-time utilisation metrics, heatmaps, and project-level visibility are critical—but not achievable in spreadsheets.

The Smarter Way Forward

Modern resource management demands real-time visibility, intelligent automation, and seamless collaboration. Excel simply isn’t built for that.

At Kytes, we help organisations replace spreadsheets with an AI-powered PSA + PPM platform that delivers intelligent resource planning, dynamic forecasting, and automated conflict resolution. With Kytes, businesses get a scalable, integrated solution that turns resource chaos into clarity.

[moldremovalinlansing]

The Complete Guide to Mold Removal Services: Why It Matters and What to Expect

Mold is one of the most persistent and damaging issues homeowners and business owners face. Whether it starts from a hidden leak, high humidity, or recent flooding, mold can grow rapidly and cause serious health concerns, structural damage, and aesthetic problems. Mold removal services are essential for tackling the issue effectively and ensuring your indoor environment remains safe, clean, and livable.

In this blog, we’ll explore why mold removal is important, the health risks involved, signs you might need professional help, how the mold remediation process works, and tips for prevention. Whether you're dealing with an active mold problem or just want to stay informed, this guide will help you make smart, proactive decisions.

Why Mold Removal Matters

At first glance, mold might seem like a minor nuisance—a few dark spots on the wall or ceiling. However, mold is far more than a cosmetic issue. It reproduces quickly through airborne spores, which can easily spread throughout your home or office, often landing in damp, poorly ventilated areas. Once mold takes hold, it’s notoriously difficult to eliminate without professional intervention.

The Consequences of Ignoring Mold:

Health Risks: Mold spores can trigger allergies, asthma attacks, and respiratory infections. Some strains, like Stachybotrys chartarum (commonly known as black mold), produce mycotoxins that can be particularly harmful.

Structural Damage: Mold feeds on organic materials like wood, drywall, and insulation, gradually weakening the integrity of walls, ceilings, and floors.

Odors and Air Quality: Mold contributes to a musty, unpleasant odor and diminishes overall indoor air quality.

Property Value: A mold-infested property can lose value, fail inspections, or delay real estate transactions.

Common Causes of Mold Growth

Mold grows where moisture and organic material are present. Common sources include:

Leaky roofs, pipes, or appliances

Flooding or water damage

Poor ventilation (especially in bathrooms and basements)

High indoor humidity

Condensation around windows or HVAC systems

If these issues aren't addressed quickly, they create the perfect breeding ground for mold to thrive.

Signs You May Need Mold Removal Services

Some mold problems are obvious—visible black or green patches on walls, ceilings, or tile. But mold can also grow in hidden places, making it difficult to detect without professional tools. Here are signs that may indicate a mold problem:

A persistent musty odor, especially in damp areas

Recent water damage or flooding

Peeling paint or wallpaper

Warped walls or discolored patches

Allergic reactions (sneezing, itchy eyes, coughing) when indoors

Visible mold growth in corners, behind appliances, or under carpets

If any of these signs are present, it’s time to consider a professional mold inspection and remediation.

What Happens During Mold Removal?

1. Inspection and Assessment

The first step in any mold removal service is a thorough inspection. Professionals use moisture meters, infrared cameras, and air quality tests to locate mold and determine its source. They assess the extent of the damage and create a tailored remediation plan.

2. Containment

To prevent spores from spreading, the affected area is sealed off using physical barriers and negative air pressure machines. This ensures mold doesn't travel to other parts of the property during removal.

3. Air Filtration

HEPA filters are used to capture mold spores from the air. This step significantly improves air quality and reduces airborne contamination.

4. Mold Removal

Depending on the severity, mold may be removed from surfaces using antimicrobial treatments, wire brushing, or sanding. In some cases, contaminated materials like drywall, carpet, or insulation must be removed and disposed of safely.

5. Cleaning and Sanitization

All items and surfaces in the affected area are cleaned and sanitized. Non-porous materials are usually salvageable, while porous materials may need replacement.

6. Restoration and Prevention

After mold is removed, the final step involves restoring any damaged areas. This might include replacing drywall, repainting, or resealing pipes or roofs. Preventative measures such as installing dehumidifiers, improving ventilation, and fixing leaks are also recommended.

DIY vs. Professional Mold Removal: Which is Better?

While small patches of surface mold can be handled with household cleaning products, serious or recurring mold issues should always be handled by certified professionals. DIY efforts often fail to address hidden mold or moisture sources, allowing the problem to return—and possibly worsen.

Advantages of Hiring a Professional:

Accurate detection using specialized equipment

Safe removal of toxic or widespread mold

Containment to prevent spreading spores

Long-term solutions to prevent recurrence

Restoration services to return your property to normal

Health Risks of Mold Exposure

Exposure to mold can have a wide range of health effects, particularly for those with respiratory issues, allergies, or compromised immune systems. Even healthy individuals may experience symptoms with prolonged exposure.

Common Health Effects:

Sneezing, coughing, and nasal congestion

Itchy or watery eyes

Skin irritation or rashes

Asthma attacks or difficulty breathing

Chronic fatigue or headaches

Sinus infections

For infants, elderly individuals, and those with chronic lung conditions, mold exposure can be especially dangerous and should be addressed immediately.

Tips for Preventing Mold Growth

Prevention is always better than remediation. Here are practical tips to keep mold from taking hold in your home or office:

Fix leaks immediately (roofs, pipes, appliances)

Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms

Install a dehumidifier in damp areas

Ensure proper drainage around the foundation

Clean and maintain gutters regularly

Store items in dry, well-ventilated areas

Keep indoor humidity below 60%, ideally between 30–50%

Inspect crawl spaces, basements, and attics routinely

Final Thoughts

Mold is more than an unsightly nuisance—it’s a potential health hazard and structural threat that shouldn’t be ignored. Professional mold removal services offer comprehensive solutions that go beyond surface cleaning. From identifying hidden colonies to removing contaminated materials and restoring affected spaces, trained specialists ensure your home or business is safe, clean, and mold-free.

If you suspect mold is growing in your property or have recently experienced water damage, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Taking swift action now can save you money, protect your health, and preserve your property’s value in the long run.

[immersivetech21w]

Discover the Best Audio Visual Company in Gurgaon for Stunning Events

In today's fast-paced world, events are more than just meetings; they are memorable experiences. Whether it's a corporate conference, a large wedding, a product launch, or an award ceremony, the correct best audio visual company in Gurgaon can create or break the ambiance.

However, finding a reliable partner who fully understands your event's requirements is often difficult. This is where Immersive Technologies, Gurgaon's leading audio visual firm, comes in—bringing your ideas to life with flawless precision.

The Common Challenges in Audio Visual Management

Many event organizers and companies often face frustrating hurdles when it comes to Best Audio Visual Company in Gurgaon setups:

Technical Glitches: We've all witnessed poor sound quality, microphone malfunctions, and projectors that do not sync properly.

Outdated Equipment: Using outdated or faulty technology can ruin even the best-planned event.

Inexperienced Staff: Lack of skilled specialists frequently causes last-minute mayhem.

Poor Coordination: When multiple providers manage sound, lighting, and images individually, it leads to confusion and delays.

Lack of Customization: Each event is unique. A one-size-fits-all audiovisual solution can appear bland and uninteresting.

In short, without the right support, the dream of a spectacular event can quickly turn into a logistical nightmare.

Immersive Technologies: Your Trusted Partner for Flawless Events

Immersive Technologies has a thorough understanding of these difficulties. As a top Audio Visual Company in Gurgaon, they don't only sell equipment; they also provide entire end-to-end solutions to ensure your event goes smoothly, looks great, and sounds great.

Here's how Immersive Technologies transform events: 

1. Cutting-Edge Technology

Immersive Technologies makes significant investments in cutting-edge audiovisual equipment, including 4K projectors, LED walls, crystal-clear sound systems, and smart lighting solutions. They stay ahead of the curve, ensuring that your event is equipped with the most cutting-edge technology. 

2. Expert Team of Professionals

Immersive Technologies is powered by a team of highly skilled engineers, technicians, and event planners who work together from start to finish. They understand the peculiarities of every event type and offer years of experience to each project. 

3. Personalized Solutions for Every Event

Immersive Technologies, unlike cookie-cutter firms, provides custom solutions. Whether you're having a 500-person conference or a 50-person private party, they tailor their services to your event's size, theme, and technological requirements.

4. Seamless Coordination and Support

One of the most significant benefits of working with Immersive Technologies is their end-to-end assistance. From the initial consultation to the final execution, their staff is by your side, handling setup, operation, troubleshooting, and pack-up, allowing you to focus on your guests and enjoy the moment.

5. Emergency Readiness

Technology can be unpredictable. Immersive Technologies prepares for the unexpected by keeping backup equipment and troubleshooting specialists on hand throughout events. This proactive strategy ensures that your event is free from disturbances.

Why Clients Love Working with Immersive Technologies

Here’s what sets them apart from other Best Audio Visual Company in Gurgaon:

Reliability: Clients know that Immersive Technologies will always deliver on its promises.

Innovation: Always open to new audiovisual trends such as virtual reality, 3D mapping, and interactive displays.

Affordability: High-end services at reasonable prices, with adjustable packages to meet a variety of budgets.

Attention to Detail: Whether it's timing the lighting for a keynote speaker's entrance or polishing the acoustics for a musical performance, no detail is too tiny.

Eco-Friendly Options: Immersive Technologies contributes to green projects by providing energy-efficient AV solutions.

Conclusion: Make Your Event Unforgettable

In the world of events, audiovisual quality is not a luxury—it is required. A great audiovisual setup defines your event's ambiance, message, and memory.

When you choose Immersive Technologies, you are choosing more than simply the best audio visual company in Gurgaon; you are choosing a partner who is dedicated to excellence, creativity, and perfection.

Whether you're planning a corporate event, a social gathering, or a private celebration, Immersive Technologies will bring your vision to life with breathtaking images, crystal-clear sound, and seamless execution.

Let's make something unforgettable together. Contact Immersive Technologies now!

[pranaair21]

Industrial Air Quality Monitor: The Key to a Safer, Healthier Workplace – Powered by PRANA AIR

As industries grow and urbanization continues at a rapid pace, one issue that is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore is the quality of the air we breathe in industrial spaces. While industries are essential for economic development, they are also major contributors to air pollution, often exposing workers and the surrounding communities to harmful gases and particulate matter. In this context, the industrial air quality monitor is not just a regulatory requirement but a necessity for occupational health and environmental responsibility.

PRANA AIR, a trusted name in smart and affordable air monitoring solutions in India, offers state-of-the-art monitoring systems that help industries take control of their emissions, ensure employee safety, and meet compliance standards. If you're looking for reliable, intelligent, and cost-effective air quality monitoring solutions, PRANA AIR is the brand you can count on.

Understanding the Importance of Industrial Air Quality Monitoring

The air within industrial premises can contain a mix of pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), ozone (O₃), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other hazardous gases. Exposure to these pollutants can cause short- and long-term health problems such as respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, eye irritation, and even chronic illnesses in severe cases. Moreover, these pollutants can corrode machinery, damage electronic equipment, and negatively affect product quality.

This is where an industrial air quality monitor plays a crucial role. It helps industries identify pollution sources, measure pollutant levels in real time, and take corrective action immediately. Monitoring air quality is not just about compliance anymore—it’s about creating a safer and more productive working environment, reducing liability risks, and improving overall operational efficiency.

PRANA AIR’s Advanced Industrial Air Quality Monitoring Systems

PRANA AIR, under the vision of Purelogic Labs India, has taken the lead in offering cutting-edge air monitoring devices specially designed for both indoor and outdoor industrial applications. These devices come equipped with high-precision sensors and smart connectivity features that provide real-time, accurate data on a wide range of air pollutants.

What makes PRANA AIR’s industrial air quality monitor truly exceptional is its ability to detect and analyze multiple pollutants simultaneously, while integrating seamlessly with your existing infrastructure. These devices are ideal for factories, manufacturing plants, warehouses, laboratories, chemical units, and even large office buildings that want to monitor and maintain clean air standards.

Whether you want to track fine dust particles or monitor harmful gas emissions, PRANA AIR offers solutions that cater to all industrial needs. Their monitors can even be customized based on specific pollutants relevant to your facility, ensuring you're always in control of your air quality data.

Real-Time Monitoring with Smart Data Access

The ability to monitor air pollution in real time can make a significant difference in how industries respond to environmental hazards. PRANA AIR’s devices not only measure air quality but also store historical data, generate detailed reports, and send alerts when pollution levels cross safety thresholds.

All the data collected by PRANA AIR’s industrial air quality monitor can be accessed remotely through mobile apps and web dashboards. This means plant managers, safety officers, and environmental teams can analyze trends, make data-driven decisions, and implement preventive measures without any delay. This kind of smart connectivity is particularly important in large industrial setups where manual tracking is neither feasible nor efficient.

Moreover, PRANA AIR’s monitoring systems can be integrated with third-party platforms, government portals, or building management systems (BMS) for broader compliance and transparency.

Compliance with Pollution Control Norms

With increasing pressure from environmental regulatory bodies like the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs), it is now mandatory for many industries to install continuous air quality monitoring systems. Failing to comply can result in hefty fines, operational disruptions, or even legal action.

A high-quality industrial air quality monitor from PRANA AIR helps industries stay ahead of regulations by providing reliable data that is compliant with national and international standards. The brand’s dedication to quality and precision ensures that your air quality data is trustworthy and audit-ready at all times.

By choosing PRANA AIR, you’re not just ticking a compliance checkbox — you’re building a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable industrial operation.

Cost-Effective Yet Technologically Superior

When industries think of deploying air monitoring systems, cost often becomes a concern, especially for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). PRANA AIR breaks that barrier by offering high-quality, feature-rich air monitors at an affordable price point. Their goal has always been to democratize access to clean air solutions without compromising on technology or performance.

The long-term benefits of investing in a PRANA AIR industrial air quality monitor far outweigh the initial costs. From reducing worker absenteeism and minimizing health risks to preventing equipment failure and meeting green certification standards — the returns are both tangible and impactful.

Designed and Manufactured in India

Proudly made in India, PRANA AIR’s devices reflect the brand’s commitment to local innovation and global standards. Designed by a passionate team of experts based in New Delhi, the products undergo stringent testing and quality checks before they reach the end-user.

The brand’s multicultural team and international collaborations enable PRANA AIR to stay at the forefront of environmental technology. Their understanding of Indian industrial challenges, combined with global expertise, makes their monitoring systems highly effective across diverse industrial setups.

Final Thoughts

Air pollution is one of the most critical environmental challenges of our time, and industrial zones contribute a large share of it. Monitoring the quality of air within and around industrial facilities is no longer optional — it’s essential for legal, ethical, and operational reasons. A reliable industrial air quality monitor ensures that you're not just reacting to pollution, but proactively preventing it.

With PRANA AIR by your side, you get access to best-in-class monitoring technology, accurate results, user-friendly dashboards, and ongoing support — all at a price that makes sense. As a brand born out of the genuine need for cleaner air and backed by the vision of Purelogic Labs India, PRANA AIR is your trusted partner in building a safer and more sustainable industrial environment.

Don’t wait for pollution to become a crisis — take charge with PRANA AIR’s advanced monitoring systems and lead the change toward cleaner industry standards.

[aiwealthhub]

Overwhelm and burnout often go hand in hand, as the constant feeling of being overwhelmed can lead directly to burnout over time. When you’re overwhelmed, you feel as though the demands placed on you exceed your capacity to manage them. This might be due to excessive workload, personal responsibilities, emotional stress, or a combination of factors. Over time, if these feelings of overwhelm are not addressed, they build up, leading to burnout—a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that leaves you feeling depleted and disconnected from both your work and yourself. Understanding how overwhelm contributes to burnout is essential to preventing or recovering from it.

At its core, overwhelm is the sensation that there’s too much to handle. This can happen when you’re juggling too many tasks or when the tasks themselves feel too large or complex to manage. The pressure to perform or meet expectations, whether in work, personal life, or both, can create a persistent sense of anxiety and stress. When you feel like you’re always behind, always racing against the clock, it can lead to a heightened state of stress. This constant pressure causes your brain and body to operate in a state of fight-or-flight, which, while useful in short bursts, becomes unsustainable over time. Chronic stress eventually wears you down, both physically and mentally.

When overwhelm persists without relief, it becomes harder to think clearly or make effective decisions. You may find yourself struggling to prioritize tasks, feeling paralyzed by the sheer volume of what needs to be done. This sense of paralysis can cause you to procrastinate, even when you know that delaying tasks will only make things worse. The inability to take action in the face of overwhelm contributes to a growing sense of helplessness, where you feel as though no matter what you do, you’ll never catch up or regain control. Over time, this helplessness turns into burnout, as the mental and emotional strain depletes your ability to function effectively.

Burnout is the point at which the overwhelm becomes all-consuming. You’re no longer just feeling stressed or anxious about specific tasks or responsibilities; instead, you experience a complete sense of exhaustion that affects your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. The overwhelming workload, once something you felt you might be able to manage, now feels impossible to face. Even small tasks become monumental in the face of burnout, as you struggle to summon the energy or motivation to deal with them. This exhaustion is not just about being tired; it’s a deep sense of depletion that rest alone cannot fix.

Emotionally, burnout manifests as a sense of detachment or numbness. The tasks and responsibilities that once felt urgent or important now feel distant, as if they no longer matter. You may find yourself going through the motions, completing tasks out of obligation rather than engagement or passion. This emotional detachment is a defense mechanism—your mind’s way of coping with the overwhelm by shutting down emotionally. But over time, this numbness can lead to a deeper sense of dissatisfaction or depression, as the joy, purpose, or fulfillment you once derived from your work or life begins to fade.

Burnout also impacts your physical health. The chronic stress that accompanies overwhelm can lead to a host of physical symptoms, including headaches, muscle tension, digestive issues, and sleep disturbances. You may find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep, as your mind continues to race with thoughts about everything you need to do. This lack of sleep only worsens the sense of exhaustion, creating a cycle where you become more tired and less able to handle the demands placed on you. Additionally, burnout weakens your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. Your body is essentially telling you that it can no longer sustain the level of stress and overwhelm you’ve been carrying.

Another key aspect of burnout is the decline in cognitive function. When you’re overwhelmed, it becomes harder to focus, concentrate, or retain information. You may find yourself forgetting important details, missing deadlines, or making mistakes that you wouldn’t normally make. This decline in mental clarity can be incredibly frustrating, especially if you’re used to being productive or sharp in your work. The more overwhelmed and burnt out you become, the more these cognitive issues compound, further eroding your confidence in your abilities. This can create a cycle where you doubt yourself, leading to even more stress and feelings of inadequacy.

In addition to the personal toll, overwhelm and burnout can affect your relationships. When you’re constantly stressed and exhausted, it’s difficult to be present for the people in your life. You may find yourself withdrawing from social interactions or becoming irritable and impatient with loved ones. The emotional and mental strain of burnout leaves little room for nurturing relationships, which can lead to feelings of isolation. Over time, this isolation can exacerbate burnout, as you lose the support and connection that might help you cope with the overwhelming demands you’re facing. Relationships can become strained, and the disconnect from others can deepen your sense of exhaustion and frustration.

One of the most challenging aspects of burnout is the way it erodes your sense of accomplishment. Even when you complete tasks or meet goals, the satisfaction or pride you might typically feel is diminished or absent. The emotional and mental toll of burnout makes it hard to recognize your achievements or to feel a sense of progress. Instead, you may feel like you’re constantly behind, always struggling to catch up, even when you’re technically meeting expectations. This sense of never being good enough or never doing enough can lead to a downward spiral of self-doubt and despair, further perpetuating the burnout cycle.

Overwhelm and burnout are deeply interconnected, with one feeding into the other. The more overwhelmed you feel, the closer you move toward burnout, and once burnout sets in, it becomes even harder to manage the overwhelming demands in your life. Recognizing the signs of overwhelm before it leads to full-blown burnout is crucial to breaking the cycle. Without intervention, the consequences of burnout can affect every aspect of your life, from your health to your relationships to your overall sense of well-being.

[swatik1991]

How ERP Helps Small Manufacturers Scale Operations Without Increasing Costs

Scaling a small manufacturing business comes with challenges. As demand grows, so do production complexities, supply chain inefficiencies, and overhead costs. Without the right systems in place, manufacturers often struggle with bottlenecks, cash flow issues, and resource mismanagement — hindering their ability to expand profitably.

An Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system enables small manufacturers to scale efficiently without dramatically increasing costs. By automating workflows, optimizing resource utilization, and improving real-time decision-making, an ERP provides the foundation for sustainable growth.

1. Automating Workflows to Reduce Labor Costs

📌 The Challenge:

Manual processes increase labor dependency and errors.

Scaling requires hiring more staff, which raises costs.

Data silos lead to poor coordination between departments.

✅ How ERP Solves It:

Automates repetitive tasks like order processing, inventory updates, and production scheduling.

Eliminates manual data entry errors, reducing rework costs.

Enhances inter-department collaboration, reducing communication delays.

🔹 Example: A small auto-components manufacturer using ERP reduced administrative costs by 30% by automating order management.

2. Optimizing Inventory & Material Procurement

📌 The Challenge:

Overstocking ties up capital, while shortages cause production delays.

Poor material planning leads to emergency purchases at higher costs.

Storage inefficiencies increase warehouse expenses.

✅ How ERP Solves It:

Real-time inventory tracking prevents overstocking & stockouts.

Automated MRP (Material Requirement Planning) ensures materials arrive just in time.

Warehouse optimization tools improve space utilization, reducing rental costs.

🔹 Example: A sheet metal manufacturer reduced inventory holding costs by 40% using ERP-driven MRP.

3. Improving Production Efficiency Without Expanding Infrastructure

📌 The Challenge:

Inefficient production workflows lead to delays and wastage.

Scaling usually requires additional equipment and space.

Unplanned downtime increases maintenance costs.

✅ How ERP Solves It:

AI-powered production scheduling optimizes machine utilization.

Predictive maintenance features prevent unexpected breakdowns.

Lean manufacturing tools reduce waste and improve efficiency.

🔹 Example: A small furniture manufacturer increased production output by 25% using ERP without adding new machinery.

4. Enhancing Vendor & Job-Work Management

📌 The Challenge:

Poor vendor coordination leads to delays and cost overruns.

Outsourced job-work is difficult to track without real-time visibility.

Lack of supplier performance metrics results in poor procurement decisions.

✅ How ERP Solves It:

Vendor portal for real-time collaboration ensures timely deliveries.

Job-work tracking module monitors subcontracted processes.

Supplier rating system helps negotiate better pricing and terms.

🔹 Example: A processing industry reduced procurement costs by 20% after ERP-enabled vendor performance tracking.

5. Scaling Sales & Order Management Without Hiring More Staff

📌 The Challenge:

Manual order processing slows down fulfillment times.

Errors in invoices, shipments, and pricing lead to customer complaints.

More orders typically require more customer service personnel.

✅ How ERP Solves It:

Automates order processing & invoicing, reducing manual work.

Centralized order tracking system improves accuracy.

CRM integration enhances customer service without additional hiring.

🔹 Example: A consumer goods manufacturer handled 50% more orders without increasing its sales team by using ERP automation.

Final Thoughts: Scaling Smart with ERP

🔹 Challenges Without ERP ❌  🚫 Increased labor costs due to manual processes.  🚫 Cash flow issues from poor inventory management.  🚫 Expensive infrastructure expansion for higher production.  🚫 Supply chain inefficiencies causing cost overruns.  🚫 Slower order fulfillment leading to lost customers.

✅ How ERP Helps Small Manufacturers Scale Without Higher Costs  ✔ Automates workflows to reduce labor dependency.  ✔ Optimizes inventory & procurement for cost savings.  ✔ Improves production efficiency without expanding infrastructure.  ✔ Enhances vendor management for better cost control.  ✔ Scales sales & order processing without adding overhead.

🚀 Upgrade to PrismERP & Scale Your Manufacturing Business Profitably!

📢 Book a Free Demo & See ERP in Action!

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Know When to Do Repair of Your Water Purifier

Who does not love to a sip of crystal clear water? Actually, clean and safe drinking water is one of the basic requirements in every household. A water purifier is just like a superhero in your kitchen who fights against impurities in water tirelessly to give you clean water. However, it may sometimes need some maintenance just like any other superheroes. Knowing when your purifier is asking for help can prevent bigger issues. Let us discuss insights on water purifier repair to ensure that your family remains healthy and secure in their hydration needs.

1. When Your Purifier Decides to Be a Diva

Water purifiers are like gadgets; they show specific signs if things are not right. Being aware of these signs your water purifier needs repair is very important to take action before it’s too late.

Strange noises: If your purifier sounds like it wants to audition for some horror movie, you should have it checked.

Unpleasant taste or odour: Your purifier must not make the taste of water go bad.

Less water flowing: If you observe a sudden reduction in the flow of water, it may be an indication that the filters are blocked or there is an issue with the pump.

Leaking: Nobody wants to see pools of water around their purifier. Leaks of water actually make a sign of internal damage.

Sometimes, ignoring these signs can lead to situations that are hard to manage. Ignoring these signs sometimes leads to situations which are difficult to handle. It would be a good idea to call an emergency electrician and also call a water purifier expert.

2. Know the Common Problems with Water Purifiers (And How to Fix Them)

Water purifiers always deal with hard water, sediment and other things. So first of all, let’s consider some of the problems faced by water filters and the possibility of finding solutions to them.

Blocked filters: Go with filter replacement as soon as you can, typically every 6-12 months depending on the amount of water used.

Faulty RO membrane: Routine maintenance may save you from this key element failure.

Water leakage: This has probably been caused by either wrong installation or damaged piping.

No power supply: Check electrical connections or get in touch with RightCliq for repairs.

Fixing these issues means that your filter will last longer and work better.

3. Top Three Water Purifier Repair Tips for Every Home

Would you like to have a new water purifier every time? Follow these water purifiers repair tips:

Clean the filters: Regularly cleaning or replacing( if required) the filters is the service to keep your water purifier working correctly.

Check for loose fittings: Tighten screws, pipes, and connections to stop leaks.

Inspect the tank: Clean the storage tank regularly so that there are no algae or bacteria to start with.

Avoid DIY fixes: Water purifiers are complex systems. Rely on professionals like RightCliq for quality repairs.

This small but powerful step can make a huge difference in how long your filter lasts.

4. Maintenance of Water Purifiers: Prevention is better Than Cure

As you might have seen that each superhero requires a partner. In this scenario, it is the maintenance of water purifier filters. A good condition of the filter ensures that your family has clean water all the time which is essential for their health.

Annual servicing: Checking the system each year guarantees its proper functioning.

Filter replacements delay: There are times when you may not change filters on time, but if you stick to a specific replacement schedule, your water purifier will operate more effectively.

Check the TDS levels: Low TDS is one of the most common reasons why water is not filtered properly. This informs you when to replace the RO membrane. High TDS makes water hard while low TDS makes it soft.

Ensure that regular maintenance not only saves money but also keeps your water purifier working like new.

5. Water Filter Repair Guide: DIY or Call RightCliq?

This water filter repair guide can make the process easier whether it’s a decision to fix it yourself or call for help:

DIY Repairs: The homeowner can easily clean filters and check outside pipes. It’s safe.

Professional Repairs: Because they have expertise, professionals should be preferred for lighting and related issues, RO membrane replacement or pump problems.

RightCliq is a professional in repairing water purifiers; that is to say, maintaining your water purifier without any guesswork.

6. Why RightCliq Should Be Your First Choice for Water Purifier Repair Services

In every happy home, there is a trusted water purifier and when everything goes wrong, RightCliq comes to the rescue. This is because:

Skilled and technical experts: Our water purifier repair technicians know every part of the water purifier.

Fast turnaround: We understand the urgency and you want your water purifier restored immediately.

Value for money: Reasonable charges for quality repairs.

For all your water purifier repair requirements, RightCliq should always be your first option even while you’re in doubt.

Last Ties: Don’t Wait for a Problem to Arise

Instead of dealing with expensive replacements and complicated health problems, it is more cost-effective to get Rightcliq  water purifier repair services on your water purifier. Know the signs that your water purifier needs repair and basic water purifier repair tips provided in this article. With RightCliq, you can be confident that clean and safe water is always available to you.

Ensure your family’s health by servicing the water purifiers regularly and calling water purifier repair experts whenever required. A good water purifier means a good home

Resource: https://homeaplliancesrepairservice.blogspot.com/2025/01/know-when-to-do-repair-of-your-water.html