#Allocation and Collation

[static-blue050]

An optiratch snippet of the first chapter of Allocation and Collation that's coming out pretty soon 🙏

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If the Decepticons truly got a hold of ground bridge technology he could seize it and form it into a space bridge. The Maximals could help in constructing it, Wheeljack could input exact coordinates. They'd go back to Cybertron, back to their commarads they've left in the ruins of their dead planet.

A soft flash of a lime green frame passed through his processor.

Ratchet.

How he worried for the mech. His spark ached when he decided to stay to aid the remaining Autobots on the battlefield.

“I'll find you. Don't worry.”

Ratchet had told, no- promised him before the battle when the meeting was finished and they were left in silence. Optimus had told him to get on a pod as quickly as he could if things went south. Much to his disagreement and fear Ratchet had softly declined. Offering the pod to another of their brave warriors.

Bee ended up using that pod in the nick of time.

It was selfish of him to grab the medic and take him into the ship with him.

But what if he had let that selfishness take over?

Ratchet would have been beside him. And perhaps he wouldn't feel so homesick for Cybertron.

In reality, he didn't let his personal connection with the medic keep him from staying and doing the right thing in their dangerous situation. The mech was more than capable of defending himself. So he'd have to trust Ratchet’s promise of finding him while he led the Autobots on earth.

Until then, he'd have to wait patiently.

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The work isn't out yet but soon, trust!

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Revision Notes

The lead-up to exam season can be a stressful time for many students. Figuring out when, where & how to revise all the information you've covered throughout the year can feel overwhelming, especially if you haven't started any initial plans for revision.

Make a Revision Plan

To ensure your revision notes are as effective as possible, start with a plan.

Create a study schedule that outlines when you need to start making your notes so that they become a valuable revision tool leading up to your exams.

Begin by filling in your timetable with exam dates, allowing you to work backwards from the definitive end date.

Break down each week into study days for each subject you need to revise and make notes for.

Outside of school, experts recommend dedicating an hour per subject per week, gradually increasing as exams draw nearer.

Chunk your exams into subjects and topics for a specific, workable timetable.

Remember to allocate time for social activities, hobbies, and other commitments to maintain focus, stay committed to your revision plan, and achieve your goals.

Collate Your Notes

Once your revision plan is in place, gather all your notes for each subject into one central location.

Avoid the hassle of sifting through old notebooks by decluttering and consolidating notes from various sources like school textbooks, homework, personal reading, and tutoring.

Remove duplicate content and have everything in one accessible place. Whether you prefer handwriting or typing, maintain a consistent format for each topic.

This stage may be time-consuming, but having all your information in one place sets the foundation for effective memorisation.

Add Detail from Textbooks and Guides

Refer to reliable revision guides and textbooks to ensure comprehensive coverage and fill any knowledge gaps. These recommended resources should align with your syllabus, providing clear explanations at your learning level.

Delve deeper into less familiar topics for better understanding.

Add any crucial details to your existing revision notes, ensuring clarity and coherence. Avoid mere copying; instead, focus on key statistics, dates, phrases, or explanations.

Leverage end-of-topic quizzes in revision books to test your grasp of the material.

Establish a Uniform Style

Maintain uniform formatting across different topics and subjects to enhance focus and aid memory recall.

Consistent use of colours, fonts, and styles fosters a conducive learning environment. This creative aspect of formatting can provide a welcome break from the monotony.

Summarise Everything

Once you've settled on a format, begin summarising your notes for easier reference. This process requires significant time allocation, especially for subjects like GCSEs where you may have numerous topics.

Transition from verbatim copying to concise summaries by eliminating non-essential words and using symbols.

Opt for topic keywords followed by brief explanations.

Reflect on the content's clarity and refine further if needed.

This step, while time-intensive, yields a refined set of revision notes for each subject and topic, preparing you for the revision process.

Keep Condensing

Maintain active engagement with your notes by continually refining them.

Aim to distill long-form notes into shorter, memory-triggering documents containing essential keywords, numbers, equations, and phrases.

This process prompts your brain to focus on crucial information.

While the ultimate goal is to memorise without reliance on notes, having condensed versions as a reference can serve as a helpful memory aid.

By following these steps, you'll have a well-organised set of revision notes ready for your exams. Remember, the key is to make the material your own through active engagement and condensation.

Source ⚜ More: Writing Notes & References ⚜ Tips & Advice

[asher-writes]

welcome to arcadia; installment five; (neuro, physical) diversity and disability.

Prev instalments: | Government | Blue Oak Forest | The Landscape of Sight | Education in Arcadia

Overview, Accessibility and Barriers

Medically, Arcadia is not set-up for an accessible environment in many ways. Healthcare is not accessible, and many day to day illnesses are self treated, or medicated through street drug dealers. As with previous instalments, this obviously has some variety depending on the area, but overall the average Arcadian will not have access to healthcare.

This creates not just people who rarely have access to professional help for disabilities, but will often go their entire lives disabled and no language to explain it.

However, in another view, the average Arcadian would have accessibility measures as they work in small communities. The poorer areas see a lot of community-style healthcare measures, and familial support. Which is a positive in the dim light of poverty.

Treatment and Support

Hospital Treatment - there are two hospitals in Arcadia, one extremely difficult to access, the other over-subscribed.

Doctor - There are very few university-trained medical doctors, and most are situated in the hospitals.

Community Healer - these are people who use knowledge passed down through the community, collating information and applying it, even expanding on it in the course of their time as a healer.

Community Support - This is in place usually for people with physical disabilities. Many communes will adapt work and jobs so that the person can still work and interact with their society as fairly as possible for their disability. In the case that they cannot work, the community will allocate resources for their survival, and where required, independance.

April, ADHD, Dyspraxia and Dyslexia

It first became apparent to me that April had ADHD due to his behaviours, more than the very classical 'this boy does not pay attention.' Which is true, he is both hyperactive and inattentive, and tends to have very dramatic crashes of emotions after burning himself into the ground. He is naturally not very aware of his surroundings - not people, not things, he spends a lot of time in his own head. Unlike Ari, he externalises his thoughts and feelings (quite dramatically), but often times the other half of the conversation is the human version of a pinboard rather than an actual conversationalist. April is not aware that he has ADHD. He understands that he struggles to pay attention, that he doesn't have a good depth of field (dyspraxia), and that he can't read the way that others can (dyslexia). He doesn't know why he is sometimes enraged at certain sounds or pitches, or why his emotions swing so dramatically. He also doesn't understand why stimulants calm him down, why pulling at his hair and scratching his skin soothes him, or why he's so predisposed to addictions. This is just who he is. He will, at some point, have had people try to teach him how to read. They will not understand why he would become irritated and upset, as he couldn't pick it up the way other children could. His parents will have chastised him for his clumsiness, not understanding that it wasn't carelessness that ended up with broken bottles and items knocked-off shelves. His entire life, people will have assumed that April was simply careless. And it is a very big contributor to why he acts the way he does. His character comes across as charming, sometimes manipulative, but overall he is cheerful and charismatic. He avoids talking about his feelings and sticks to conversations that relaxes other people. April does his best to appear like he hasn't a care in the world. He also does not quite realise how brilliant he is, because deep down he believes he is just a careless idiot. His hyperfixation on plants has been this way since he was a child. His brief and uncoordinated schooling was short-lived as he couldn't read or write well, and so he often snuck away into the forest as a child. The community healer here saw April's interest in the plants and began to teach him about medicines - and poisons - and how different chemicals in plants had different reactions. He learned to recognise particular shapes, and words, this way. His fascination fuelling him. At 20 years old, April is the largest and most informed database Arcadia has when it comes to botany, phytochemicals, and phytotoxicology. He still can't read. Not literally, he could put together some sentences, and identify words, but he couldn't write you a book. With no arbitrary rules in place to stop him, April found his own path in the world.

Ari and Autism.

I didn't mean to make Ari autistic. I realised that maybe the hyper-specific nature of these characters interest sort of naturally led them to being neurodivergent. But personally, I've never understood my autism as a developmental disorder - it feels more natural, to me, for it to be a social disorder. And that's how I figured out Ari had autism. Ari has never been social, and we learn from Eli that he didn't have friends as a child, spent much of his time alone, and often actively refused to interact with other people. The only friend he made in his entire childhood to teenage lifespan, was Neptune. He didn't like noise. He doesn't like conversation. He doesn't understand small talk, or indeed, most communication. He speaks in a hyper-polite way because it's what he was taught was proper, and gets confused by dialectical differences. Things have to be done a Certain Way. He's clever enough to be an engineer, but genuinely has a grand total of zero common sense. He's also so, very blunt. What we see of Ari is a man who is presented as stand-offish, rude, and often being actively berated by those around him for being an asshole. What we understand of his thoughts, feelings and actions, is a man who is desperately trying to understand the world around him, despite having little to no investment in it at all. Ari is very clear on the fact he doesn't think there will ever be any real change, any real justice, or a fair society, but he's still risking his life trying to make that happen. And though it's very clear empathy doesn't come easy to him at all, he tries his best to look after people that he sees are hurt. It's also not easy for him to be kind due to his traumas in childhood, but he chooses to be anyway.

Eli and Arthiritis, Hypermobility, and POTS

In Out of Sight and Mind, Eli is Ari's younger brother, who uses a cane to walk and - due to his constant fatigue and pain - enlists his brother's help to plan the funeral, although this is largely a guise for the fact that Eli feels there was something suspicious about his parents' death. Eli has a diagnosis of hypermobility, but his flaring joint pain is aggravated by arthritis, as his father had. A diagnosis of POTS in this setting would not exist as is, neither would arthritis or hypermobility. Instead, diagnosis exists via treatment. He is given pain killers, which he often will not take, due to bad associations with drug addiction relating to Ari. Previously, Eli's heart stopped - although doctors aren't sure what caused this, he had a pump fitted to help mediate his heartrate. However, this did not seem to effect his increased heart rate when moving. Eli was always intended to be disabled, though it wasn't until finding out I was hypermobile that I really knew where I was going with his disability. His descriptions of pain and accommodations are influenced by family members with arthritis. The POTS addition came naturally as an addition to his character, as I found myself with a lot of the symptoms, which were increasing a sense of disconnect and feeling of left-behindness that caused a great deal of struggle. I still don't know if I have POTS, but writing Eli's character has helped me navigate a lot of my feelings around becoming disabled. His severe enforcement of his boundaries have been borderline inspiring for me.

Bonus: Additional Notes

April experiences a milder form of psychosis usually relating to smell and peripheral sight, which can accumulate into increased paranoia.

Ari complains of pain in his legs and hips in the second book. In the third book this exasperates to the point where he has to consider staying behind whilst Edward goes into dangerous territory.

There are so many addicts in this book. It's mostly because I didn't know how to write a non-smoker to save my life. There are many drugs available in Arcadia, and not a lot of treatment.

The link between class and healthcare is very prevalent throughout the entire series.

Ari, Ember, Edward, Neptune and Alicia, are all transgender, although their transitions are not discussed in great detail, it's assumed that there is at least one surgeon for gender affirming healthcare, in some capacity, however, it's not cheap.

[techpsa]

From Brain Drain to Brain Gain: A CIO’s Blueprint for Smarter Retention with Professional Service Automation Software

Tech talent isn’t merely scarce—it’s mobile. Skilled developers, analysts, and project managers can secure a new role in days, taking critical knowledge and project momentum with them. When departures rise, delivery schedules slip, utilisation drops, and recruitment bills soar. Yet churn is neither inevitable nor solely an HR headache. Forward-thinking CIOs are turning to professional service automation software (PSA) to convert today’s “brain drain” into tomorrow’s “brain gain”. Here’s the playbook.

1 Expose hidden disengagement

Exit interviews arrive too late. Instead, harness PSA dashboards that blend live timesheet data, utilisation trends, and skills-match scores. Machine-learning alerts highlight sudden productivity dips or prolonged bench time—early signals that an engineer or project lead is slipping away. Timely interventions—coaching, re-scoping, even a quick thank-you—are far cheaper than back-filling a role.

2 Balance workloads with precision

Over-allocation breeds burnout; under-allocation fuels boredom. Professional service automation software offers a single, real-time view of capacity, demand, and individual preferences. Scenario modelling tests “what-if” shifts—extending a sprint, swapping skill sets—without exhausting real people. Teams who go home on time and work on projects that suit their strengths are far likelier to stay.

3 Map crystal-clear growth paths

Ambition without structure is frustration in disguise. Replace static competency matrices with a dynamic skills cloud that updates whenever someone ships code, earns a certification, or mentors a colleague. Link that cloud to an internal gig board so stretch assignments surface automatically. When staff see a visible ladder—and the next rung—they invest their future in your organisation.

4 Strip out soul-crushing admin

Nothing pushes seasoned specialists toward recruiters faster than manual status emails and spreadsheet gymnastics. PSA platforms automate budget roll-ups, sprint burndowns, and stakeholder reporting, freeing experts to solve problems, not collate data. Less admin equals higher engagement, which directly lowers attrition.

5 Prove the business case

Finance leaders respond to numbers. Use the same PSA analytics to expose both sides of the ledger: recruitment fees, onboarding lag, and lost billable hours on one side; reduced bench time, improved utilisation, and faster project close-out on the other. Demonstrate that investment in professional service automation software delivers payback within months—turning people-centric initiatives from “soft spend” into hard-headed savings.

6 Close the feedback loop

Treat each delivery as an experiment. Feed utilisation stats, risk logs, and skills data from every sprint back into the PSA engine. The system recalibrates resource forecasts and risk scores, making each planning cycle smarter than the last. Over time, the organisation becomes self-correcting: workloads stay balanced, skills align with demand, and early warnings surface long before resignations land.

The takeaway

Retention is no longer a recruitment side-issue; it is a core operational mandate. By pairing granular insight with professional service automation software, CIOs can create an environment where employees feel challenged, protected from overload, and confident about their career trajectory. The result isn’t merely lower turnover—it’s a compounding advantage in expertise, productivity, and market credibility. In short: swap brain drain for brain gain, and watch both projects and people thrive.

[tonymattny]

Unlocking the Future of No Code Testing with ideyaLabs

No code testing stands at the forefront of innovation in software development. Businesses everywhere search for faster, smarter, and more efficient solutions. ideyaLabs delivers these solutions by prioritizing automation without complex coding. This blog post explores how no code testing transforms software testing, improves efficiency, and empowers teams to produce high-quality products.

No Code Testing: The Catalyst for Change

No code testing revolutionizes traditional software testing practices. Through visual interfaces, users design, test, and deploy automation without writing a single line of code. ideyaLabs showcases that anyone, regardless of technical background, can contribute to robust testing processes. Teams reduce their dependence on specialized testers or developers. Productivity increases as workflows accelerate.

Accelerating Software Delivery with No Code Automation

Speed plays a critical role in software development. ideyaLabs’ no code testing tools enable rapid automation of repetitive tasks. Software teams deliver releases faster by automating regression and integration tests. The elimination of manual scripting reduces errors and increases test accuracy. Projects reach completion on schedule, fulfilling business objectives efficiently.

Empowering Collaboration for Quality Assurance

No code testing platforms democratize the testing process. ideyaLabs encourages collaboration between testers, business analysts, and stakeholders using intuitive drag-and-drop interfaces. Team members refine test cases together, share insights, and ensure greater test coverage. Communication improves, resulting in fewer misunderstandings and higher product quality.

Simplifying Test Maintenance and Updates

Software applications evolve with each deployment. Traditional testing tools often involve time-consuming updates for test scripts. No code testing solutions from ideyaLabs streamline this process. Testers adapt or modify automated workflows in real-time. This flexibility fosters continuous improvement and ensures long-term test reliability.

Reducing Costs with Zero-Code Solutions

Business leaders seek to lower operational costs in software delivery. ideyaLabs eliminates the need for expensive coding expertise within testing teams. Organizations invest less in training and specialized hires. Software quality remains high while reducing testing expenditures. Start-ups and enterprises alike benefit from improved resource allocation.

Boosting Productivity through Reusable Components

ideyaLabs designs no code testing modules for reusability. Testers build libraries of reusable test blocks. Teams assemble complex test scenarios effortlessly by combining these modules. The process promotes faster test creation and ensures consistency across projects. Development cycles shorten and productivity increases exponentially.

Enhancing Test Accuracy and Reliability

Errors in manual testing often result in costly defects and project delays. No code testing at ideyaLabs standardizes test execution. Automated scripts follow pre-defined logic each time. Consistency eradicates human errors, guaranteeing accurate results. Reliability in testing assures clients of robust, high-performance software.

Scalability for Modern Enterprises

As organizations grow, software testing demands expand as well. ideyaLabs scales effortlessly with no code testing. Teams deploy automation across diverse technologies, platforms, and environments. Whether handling a single application or an enterprise ecosystem, the tools support unlimited growth. Companies pivot quickly to meet market demands.

Integration Capabilities for Seamless Workflows

No code testing thrives on integration with existing workflows. ideyaLabs ensures compatibility with major CI/CD pipelines and project management tools. Testers trigger automation on each deployment, monitor results, and collate feedback. This tight integration solidifies testing as a core aspect of agile development.

Future-Ready Security and Compliance Testing

Security and compliance remain top priorities for every software product. ideyaLabs leverages no code testing to automate critical compliance checks. Teams incorporate regulatory tests without additional scripting. Secure software launches quickly without compromising legal requirements or end-user data.

Continuous Learning with AI-Driven Insights

ideyaLabs equips its no code testing platform with built-in analytics. Teams receive actionable feedback on test coverage, failure rates, and performance issues. These insights drive informed decision-making and foster continuous improvement. The result is a mature, adaptive, and proactive testing environment.

Training and Onboarding Simplified

Traditional coding-heavy testing demands significant onboarding time. ideyaLabs speeds up learning curves with visual workflows and intuitive dashboards. New team members participate immediately, regardless of technical expertise. Organizations reduce ramp-up periods and build high-performing teams from day one.

Unmatched User Experience for Every Stakeholder

No code testing places user experience at the core. ideyaLabs builds interfaces that minimize complexity and maximize usability. Stakeholders track testing progress, review results, and suggest changes through simple dashboards. Transparency ensures everyone remains aligned on project goals.

From Prototype to Production Without Barriers

Software moves from conceptualization to launch with efficiency at ideyaLabs. No code testing accelerates the transition from idea to deployment. Teams uncover bugs faster, validate features, and iterate quickly. Products launch with confidence, reaching users ahead of competitors.

Innovation Driven by Community and Feedback

ideyaLabs cultivates a vibrant user community. Customers contribute feedback, share success stories, and exchange best practices. The no code testing platform evolves continually through community-driven enhancements. The partnership between ideyaLabs and its users drives industry-leading innovation.

Conclusion: No Code Testing Defines Tomorrow’s Standard

No code testing reshapes the landscape of software quality assurance. ideyaLabs champions this transformation by delivering tools that foster speed, collaboration, and reliability. Businesses climb higher by eliminating technical barriers and boosting test efficiency. No code testing marks the beginning of a new era in software delivery, with ideyaLabs leading the charge. Embrace the future of testing and unleash your team’s potential with ideyaLabs.

[samsondun]

How Rovo Transforms DevOps with AI-Driven Project Management

Project management and its complexities are gaining traction with distributed teams working on hybrid models and a surge in workload. With Artificial Intelligence paving its way in the tech world lately, project management can be made seamless by employing AI-driven techniques. This will not only help in enhancing organizational efficiency but will also keep project deliverables on track. Teams can then work remotely or in concurrence with one another on multiple projects at the same time. Precisely where Atlassian Rovo, the AI-powered work assistant, comes into play. With reduced manual effort for improved collaboration, Atlassian Rovo optimizes your project management with the help of automations and integrations, boosting overall team productivity.

What is Rovo?

Atlassian Rovo is an AI-powered project management workhorse, concocted by experts to improve collaboration, comprehend the organizational knowledge grid better and optimize the overall IT and DevOps workflows. This AI-powered DevOps tool is a wonderful knowledge management platform that integrates with other Atlassian tools and SaaS applications for tasks automation and enhanced productivity.

Let’s explore in detail how Rovo transforms your existing DevOps ecosystem!

1. Automation of repetitive tasks

Project management entails massive repetitive backend work that can consume a lot of time and resources. Rovo streamlines this project management hurdle by automating and administering repetitive tasks. Let’s see how!

Rovo helps automate task assignments depending on requirement, workload and workflow and the fit of the tasks

automates status updates and notifications

automates status updates and notifications

This leaves your team members with a lot of time to focus on critical tasks and drastically reduces manual work!

2. Enhanced collaboration and inter-team communication

The foundation of any teamwork lies in clear and well-managed communication. Lack of the same can be disastrous for any project. Rovo’s impeccable collaboration with Trello, Confluence and Jira steps in here to align all team members in a way that communication becomes flawless. Some prominent features include

This AI-driven project management tool issues meeting and update synopsis

Collaboration tools come in handy quick and accurate communication

AI ensures that team members are reminded of incomplete tasks

These features leave no scope for any miscommunication or gaps in communication making project progress smooth and seamless.

3. Accurate data procurement

Accumulation and analysis of any and all of the historical data is crucial to understand the functionalities of any project. Rovo AI assists in this functionality of project management by collating data and helping team members to effectively arrive at prompt decisions. Helpful insights turn into action when Rovo takes charge. Explore how!

Rovo helps in pinpointing probable loopholes even before the occurrences helping team members to prevent disasters or at least be prepared to handle the consequences and subsequent grievance redressal

Rovo prevents overloading of work for team members by bringing in the know the resources that are getting burdened

On the basis of historical data, Rovo can allocate the right resource for the right task leading in task optimization

Not only are potential project hazards tackled this way but Rovo also helps in making proactive project adjustments with these functionalities.

4. AI-assisted prioritization

As and when a project progresses, several tasks come along for completion at the same time, some demanding instant attention and competing for priority. This can be one of the most difficult aspects of project management. Read how Rovo assists here!

Rovo prioritizes tasks depending on urgency and dependencies and keeping in mind the timelines

Rovo identifies potential roadblocks that may need immediate attention to prevent unnecessary disruptions as the project tasks advance

Rovo proposes necessary adjustments that are critical in order to ensure a seamless workflow

Rovo thus ensures that tasks on priority get the right attention and action!

Conclusion

Do you want to explore how your brand can benefit from Rovo?

At Amrut Software, we assist organizations in seamlessly integrating Rovo in their already functional DevOps ecosystems. Our experts will train your team members into how to optimize this wonder tool and will help streamline your workflows. Connect with us to know more!

[van-hipp]

The State of Open-Source Intelligence in the US

Open-source intelligence (OSINT) uses public data such as news, social media, and records to create actionable insights. Raw data becomes intelligence through analysis and answering specific questions. Journalists, social engineers, human rights groups, the military, and governments use OSINT.

The intelligence cycle has five steps. First, the intelligence community assesses a request to determine the required information and the best sources. Then, the team gathers data passively (using publicly available data without direct engagement) or actively via direct interaction. Direct engagement tactics include adding the target on social media, messaging, or commenting on their post. The team then collates and sorts the collected data for easier analysis. Analysts identify patterns, interpret findings, and generate actionable insights. A complete report answers the intelligence question and recommends the next action step.

OSINT is a critical asset for government leaders and military personnel, providing real-time intelligence for strategic and operational decision-making. The intelligence community (IC) uses OSINT to ensure national security and defend national interests. The IC's strategic objectives include supplying relevant data to improve government leaders' and military personnel's situational awareness, optimizing the insights from publicly accessible information, and broadening the reach of open-source data gathering. The IC also aims to make OSINT the foundation of other specialties and integrate it with other intelligence work.

The intelligence community can effectively protect citizens only through interagency collaboration and access to the most accurate, timely intelligence. The President's Intelligence Advisory Board (PIAB) emerged to address the disconnect in the IC and give presidents independent counsel. In 1956, friction between the Central Intelligence Agency and the National Security Agency caused intelligence failures regarding the USSR, including the IC misjudging Soviet military capabilities and intentions. More recently, President Obama underused PIAB and President Biden was slow to reactivate it after taking office.

President Trump, concerned about OSINT and IC functions, pledged reforms for better oversight. He had previously accused intelligence agencies of leaking a report alleging Russian compromising information on him, damaging his relations with IC. To rebuild IC trust, President Trump appointed Devin Nunes as PIAB chairman before his second term began. Mirroring President Eisenhower, Trump prioritizes independent, non-partisan assessments and ensuring effective intelligence capabilities. Nunes' appointment aims to bring fresh perspectives and signals Trump's dedication to IC enhancement.

Beyond leadership, the IC's success depends on strategic OSINT initiatives. According to the 2024-2026 strategy, а key focus area is streamlining the intelligence community's open-source data collection to cut redundancy and promote broader data dissemination. This approach aims to maximize the value of publicly and commercially available intelligence while guiding investments to improve OSINT operations. Additionally, the strategy emphasizes monitoring data usage and mission impact for efficient resource allocation.

The second strategic objective is to unify and manage open-source collection efforts across the IC. This approach aims to optimize intelligence gathering to address evolving national security threats while ensuring privacy and civil liberties compliance. Establishing а common framework for OSINT collection will help identify intelligence gaps and assign clear responsibilities.

The third goal is advancing technological capabilities to enhance OSINT analysis. Continuous adaptation is essential for delivering credible, real-time intelligence to policymakers. Current tools include human language technologies, machine learning, and AI, which streamline data processing and improve intelligence accuracy.

The final strategic focus is developing future OSINT experts through training. Clear personnel operations and training standards are crucial for safeguarding sensitive data and privacy. These standards need to be adaptable and regularly updated to stay current. A dynamic training model, emphasizing technical proficiency, language skills, and analytical expertise, enables intelligence professionals to gather and interpret high-value information.

[elitedisability]

The Different Categories of NDIS Daily Activities

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is known for its flexibility and personalization, ensuring that support services align with participants’ specific goals, needs, and desired outcomes. This is especially evident in the area of NDIS daily tasks assistance.

Often referred to as ‘Daily Activities’ or ‘Assistance with Daily Living’ in your NDIS plan and myplace portal, this is one of the Core Support categories available.

Core Supports

As the name suggests, core supports are a key component to ensuring you or your loved one receives the support they need. Core Supports are a significant portion of every NDIS daily activities plan, but they are also the most flexible of all the support categories. This flexibility allows participants to re-allocate their funding between core supports and other support categories as needed.

Core Supports can be used for everything from household chores to transport assistance. They can also cover the cost of consumables like continence aids or nutritional supplements.

To make the most of your core support budget, consider what you need on a daily basis and speak to your NDIS planner. If they can’t find the right help for you, ask them to adjust your core support budget and try again. They may suggest moving some of your core supports funding into one of the Capacity Building or Assistance with Daily Life budgets. This can be a more productive use of your money and can help you achieve your goals.

Capacity Building (CB) Daily Activities

NDIS Capacity Building daily activities provide participants with the skills and abilities to manage everyday tasks independently. These supports differ from core support in that they don’t focus on immediate action assistance but rather focuses on equipping people with disabilities to navigate their life autonomously.

The goal of NDIS Capacity Building daily activities is to assist people with disabilities to pursue their own personal goals, including social engagement and community participation. This is achieved through specialised therapies and services like occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and life skills training.

NDIS Capacity Building daily activities also provides access to a variety of other support options, such as housing and support to find a place to live. However, unlike the Core and Improved Daily Living budgets, funding from a NDIS Capacity Building daily activities budget cannot be moved to another category like Improved Choice and Control or Employment Support.

Support with Daily Personal Activities

Unlike other support categories, daily personal activities are designed to empower participants by fostering independence. Whether it’s helping them to get dressed in the morning or encouraging them to engage with their community, these supports are vital for reducing dependency and promoting self-determination.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme has a wide range of options when it comes to daily personal activities. The best way to determine which support is right for you is to talk to your NDIS planner and discuss your needs, goals, and desired outcomes. They can help you collate supporting evidence such as reports from your GP or other healthcare professionals to support your request for support.

Once you’ve identified the best support option, you can start searching for providers who offer this type of service. Make sure to choose a registered provider with a track record of providing high-quality care. You should also ensure that they’re able to meet the specific requirements of your plan, including any modifications and adaptations.

Support with Shared Living

Also known as Improved Daily Living, this funding subcategory is part of your Capacity Building support budget and covers therapies that contribute to your goals to increase daily independence. It could include things like physiotherapy, cooking lessons so you can prepare your own meals or travel training to get around.

These supports are tailored to your unique needs and can help you live more self-sufficiently at home or in the community. They may include things like help with showering and dressing, preparing or eating meals, gardening, and attending social and community activities.

As with all NDIS supports, these are determined on a case-by-case basis. You need to have a good reason for why you want the assistance and have evidence like disability reports or recommendations from your doctor explaining how it will benefit you. This way, your LAC or NDIS Planner will be more likely to approve it in your new plan.

[businesssoftwaredescription]

What is Resource Capacity Planning? An Ultimate Guide for Every Project Manager

Resource capacity planning predicts the gap between future project demand and workforce capacity to identify the shortfall or excesses of resources. Based on the analysis, one can develop a resource capacity plan to bridge the gap proactively for successful project delivery while ensuring every resource is utilized optimally.

Therefore, it is an essential step before allocation/scheduling that ensures all necessary resources are available before the project’s onset. At the same time, it helps organizations minimize capacity wastage and, in turn, billable losses.

A comprehensive resource capacity planning process requires firms to centralize critical information from various systems and establish a single source of truth. It includes collating real-time data on key metrics such as skill sets, current and pipeline project schedules, workforce capacity, vacations, and non-project activities. This data helps them assess whether they can meet all their immediate and future project requirements.

[proexcellencybanglore]

What topics are included in SAP IS Oil & Gas Online Training at ProExcellency?

Topics Included in SAP IS Oil & Gas Online Training at ProExcellencySAP IS (Industry Solution) Oil & Gas is the industry-specific module designed to meet the specific needs and challenges of the oil and gas industry. ProExcellency's SAP IS Oil & Gas Online Training provides a comprehensive curriculum to equip professionals with optimizing operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving business success in this dynamic sector. The following are in-depth explorations of the topics covered in the training program.

1. SAP IS Oil & Gas Overview

Opening the course is an introductory SAP IS Oil & Gas overview, which explains importance and relevance in the energy sector. It refers to the module architecture and integration with other SAP systems, which include SAP ERP, SAP S/4HANA, and SAP Supply Chain Management. This is a prelude to further exploration into advanced functionalities.

In general, it would talk about how the solution would cover such industry-specific issues as highly unstable markets and strict regulatory adherence, intricate supply chains in the operation of oil and gas processes.

2. Hydrocarbon Product Management

Product management hydrocarbon forms the core of SAP IS Oil & Gas. With the module, learners get education on how to manage a product from its exploration right down to final distribution. Key among the features include;

Inventory management of hydrocarbons: Calculating hydrocarbon quantities.

Volume Corrections: How to handle temperature and pressure corrections for accurate measurement.

Production Reporting: Ensuring real time availability of production data.

Hydrocarbon product management will allow participants to make better use of resources and to optimize operations.

3. Joint Venture Accounting (JVA)

Joint ventures are very prevalent in the oil and gas sector, and the financial management required is unique. Training covers SAP's JVA functionalities, which enable an organization to manage shared assets, profits, and costs. These include:

Equity and Profit Sharing: Partner share configuration and management

Cost Allocation: Accurate cost sharing with partners

Financial Reporting: Accurate and reliable financial statements produced in accordance

Users have knowledge of SAP to facilitate coordination and openness between the partners in joint venture systems.

4. Secondary Distribution and Retailing

Oil and Gas downstream operations are characterized as the distribution and retailing of oil products. This sub-system deals with the effective handling of the concerned activities such as;

Logistics Planning: Synchronizing transportation and delivery routes

Inventory Replenishment: Available quantity at depots.

Customer Management: Collation of sales and invoice procedures.

SAP IS Oil & Gas is also used to explore how it integrates with CRM systems for improved customer satisfaction.

5. Terminal Automation Systems(TAS)

Terminal operations ensure the loading, unloading, and stocking of petroleum products. Under this course, SAP is covered, TAS, wherein all these activities are automated minimizing errors and maximizing productivity. Key considerations include:

Automation Configuration. This involves setting up configurations for automated terminal operations.

Interoperability with Logistics. This involves terminals coordinating with transport.

Real Time Monitoring. Real time tracking of terminals in order to make better decisions.

Thus, the participants will be able to enhance throughput and accuracy through automation of terminal operations.

6. Pipeline and Transportation Management

Transportation of hydrocarbons by pipeline and other means is complex. This topic provides participants with knowledge on how to manage this process using SAP IS Oil & Gas. Topics under study include:

Pipeline Scheduling: Planning and optimization of flow schedules.

Transportation Management: Integration with SAP TM for logistics.

Tracking and Reporting: Real-time monitoring of hydrocarbon movement.

These skills ensure that transportation operations are safe, efficient, and cost-effective.

7. Trading and Risk Management

Trading and risk management is an important aspect in oil and gas markets because they are very volatile. Trading and risk management are included in the SAP IS Oil & Gas module. The section covered in this training includes the following:

Contract Management: Create and manage purchase and sales contracts.

Hedging Strategies: Mitigating price volatility risks using SAP tools.

Market Analytics: Applying analytics insights to better trading decisions.

Participants learn how to reduce financial risks and enhance profitability through informed decision-making.

8. Refinery Operations Management

Refinery operations form the core of downstream activities. This topic deals with SAP capabilities which optimize refining activities, including the following:

Scheduling and Planning: Optimizing refinery production scheduling

Resource Allocation: Allocation of raw materials and utilities

Yield Optimization: Maximizing output from the refining process.

By mastering refinery operations management, participants can contribute to cost reduction and operational efficiency.

9. Compliance and Reporting

The biggest challenge facing an oil and gas company is adherence to regional and international regulatory compliances. In this subject, attention is drawn towards how SAP IS Oil & Gas brings in compliance by making the whole reporting and data handling automated. Participants learn as follows:

Environmental Regulations: Emissions tracking and waste handling.

Financial Compliance: Taxation and auditing

Report customization: Compliances for specific industry sectors.

It allows professionals to tackle this web of regulations and laws confidently.

10. SAP S/4HANA Integration

As more organizations are now moving to SAP S/4HANA, understanding the integration of SAP IS Oil & Gas with it is essential. The subject matter includes:

Migration Strategies: Best practices for migrating to S/4HANA.

Real-Time Analytics: Harnessing the S/4HANA power for better decision-making.

Enhanced User Experience: Discovering the intuitive Fiori interface for SAP IS Oil & Gas.

Attendees will discover how to harness the power of S/4HANA to drive digital transformation in the energy sector.

11. Project Management and Implementation

SAP IS Oil & Gas implementation requires effective project management. This would include:

Blueprinting: Blueprinting a roadmap for implementation

Customization: Adapting SAP functionalities to fit individual organizational requirements

Post Implementation Support: Easy-running, after implementation

Trainees become familiar with the entire end-to-end implementation process so are qualified for consulting or leadership in a firm.

12. Performance Analytics and Optimization

This topic discusses application of SAP IS Oil & Gas in performance measurement and enhancement. Trainees will find out how to:

Set KPI: Monitor the efficiency of the operation.

Data Trend Analysis: Determines where to improve.

Implement optimization methods: Productivity gains; costs saved.

SAP analytics allows professionals to ensure organizational excellence through constant improvement.

Conclusion

ProExcellency covers everything related to the SAP IS Oil & Gas Module- from hydrocarbon management to performance analytics in its online training. Thus, it prepares participants with necessary technical knowledge and practical experience required to face the complexities in the oil and gas sector. This type of training would make someone better equipped to be successful in this industry, competitive as it may be, whether as a starter or as a professional. The ProExcellency training focuses on real-life implementation and expert advice, ensuring that all participants are ready to contribute to their organizations right away.

[hiringteam]

Company Name: BKT Tires

Website: https://www.bkt-tires.com/in/en/

Required Skills: Excellent Communication,Understanding of statutory compliance, ESI, PF, PT, Gratuity and other critical payroll laws,SAP & Excel Expertise,Must have handled Payroll processing of 500+ employees,Should Adhere to Deadlines

Proposed Duties & Responsibilities:

Responsible for Running and collating Payroll processing (Inputs) in SAP

Timely and error free processing of payroll.

Process new hires and leavers payroll accurately in accordance with state rules and laws.

Maintaining and updating employee's database, salary structure & attendance in payroll software (SAP).

Taking care of payroll-related statutory like PF, ESIC, PT, LWF, bonus & Gratuity.

Publish MIS reports monthly, quarterly, and annually for managers giving insights salary benchmarks and budget allocation.

Managing salary account opening formalities.

Handling grievances of employees related to Salary, increment & PF.

Handle full and final settlements timely and accurately.

Manage people’s life cycle management activities and maintain Master (database) and personal records.

Review and improve payroll policies and procedures.

Preparing & Maintaining accuracy in HRIS data (Darwinbox).

 

Key Attribute:

In – depth understanding of statutory compliance, ESI, PF, PT, Gratuity and other critical payroll laws.

SAP & Excel Expertise.

Must have handled payroll processing of 500+ employees.

Should be hardworking and dedicated.

Should adhere to deadlines.

Good written and verbal communication skills.

 

NOTE :-  3 - 6 years of relevant experience in end-to-end payroll processing is a must.

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*tiredly breaks out of coffin*

Finally, first chapter of Allocation and Collation is out on AO3. Yay!

Did it take some time? yes... And sorry bout that.

First chapter has Miroah tho so that was fun.

Anyways gn!

If the link don't work tell me how dumb I am ...

[convertml]

Enhancing Customer Delight: 7 Ways Predictive Analytics Improves CX

70% of consumers consider personalization a basic expectation and marketers often miss the mark.

That’s where predictive analytics can be a winning move to improve personalization. Read on to find out how you can leverage your business with it.

Why should you care about predictive analytics?

Today, it’s essential to back up the business value of CX through the power of technology. According to Statista, the global revenue of CX personalization and optimization software is expected to cross 9 billion U.S. dollars by the end of 2023.

Predictive analytics is one of the methods that helps create highly personalized marketing campaigns tailored to individual customers by interpreting data in real time and identifying CX issues in customer journeys. Here are some ways your business can benefit from predictive analytics:

1. Analyze customer interactions & understand risks

Customer preferences change quicker than the British weather! Predictive analytics analyzes data (say, contextual data) for data collation to spot such changing priorities. Think of a health e-commerce company that wants to improve its marketing efforts and reduce customer churn.

By using predictive analytics to analyze search query data, it can identify customer intent. For instance, customers searching for “protein powder reviews” are likely to go ahead with a purchase, while customers searching for “What is the difference between whey protein and casein protein?” are still weighing their options. Similarly, it can also identify customers who have searched for keywords like “protein powder refund” in the past 30 days to measure customer churn. Using predictive analytics, the company can segment its customers (such as a high-risk churn group) which can include customers with a maximum number of refunds. It can then redirect its marketing efforts by sending free samples or offering a personalized consultation with a nutritionist to improve their experience.

Predictive analytics also helps companies determine the reasons for customer churn. Based on the reviews or customer feedback (such as pricing, taste of the protein powder, or shipping delays) aka zero-party data, it can develop targeted interventions to address them.

2. Help them with the optimization of marketing campaigns

Using the previous instance, the company can identify the keywords using predictive analytics, such as “best protein powder for muscle gain” that are most likely to lead to conversions and use them to create targeted marketing campaigns. It can also track the number of users who clicked on its emails, visited the landing page, or made a purchase. This information can then be used as part of its hyper-personalized marketing campaigns.

Not only that, the company can use predictive models, such as collaborative filtering, to segment customers and recommend products based on past customer behavior, such as sending targeted emails to each segment.

3. Identify high-value leads and allocate market resources

Using the above instance, the e-commerce company can collect relevant data, such as

Demographics: Age, geographical location, gender, etc.

Website behavior: Time spent on the website, products viewed, etc.

Purchase history: Amount spent, products purchased, frequency of purchase, etc.

With the help of predictive analytics, the company can find trends and patterns using the above data and establish a scoring system that prioritizes leads with the highest potential, such as hot leads. Using segmentation, the marketing team can allocate resources to the leads who are more likely to convert to paying customers in the next 30 days. It can send early access to new products, personalized emails, and retarget its ads to hot leads.

How can predictive analytics improve customer experience?

Here are 7 ways predictive analytics can improve customer experience:

Based on the analysis, it can segment the customers based on their behavior and tailor its marketing messages and product recommendations more precisely. Weather-targeted advertising is a great example of how companies can use weather data to predict the impact of seasonality on customer behavior.

For instance, many people prefer outdoor activities like hiking during summer and would look for hiking gear, which coincides with the emerging trend of “summer recreational activities”. Focusing on unique customer needs that a retail business specializing in outdoor recreational gear can find may include segments such as “adventure travel enthusiasts” and “seasonal shoppers”. It can create an exclusive promotion code for the first segment to encourage upgrades to their existing gear and send personalized emails to the second segment about the upcoming camping season and relevant gear.

2. Optimizing marketing strategies

Companies require tools that can make their efforts more targeted and create more successful campaigns by merging all data and providing insights through predictive modeling capabilities. Using the previous instance, the retail business can create a marketing campaign to increase the sales of camping tents. This is possible through the use of predictive analytics to identify customers who are likely to be interested in buying a camping tent by using data like past purchase history, social media engagement, and search engine queries.

By creating a targeted email campaign, it can offer attractive discounts on camping tents for summer, highlighting the needs of individual customers, such as insulated tents, cabin tents, etc.

3. Getting the message right

By understanding customer behavior, a company can predict what products will be in demand in the future ahead of its competitors. This helps in serving the right message to the right audience, say, by combining dynamic creative optimization (DCO) with predictive analytics to create personalized and relevant ads based on real-time data. A company can start by creating buyer personas using predictive analytics to segment buyers more granularly and determine characteristics of those personas to include in the segment filters. This helps create messaging that aligns with each segment at each stage in the buyer’s journey and reflects its brand’s values, style, and voice.

For instance, a healthcare startup wanting to cater to expectant parents can create user personas like “working parents”, “single parents”, “first-time parents”, etc. It can then work on creating personalized content and messaging for each user persona. First-time parents may receive messages related to compassion, family-centered care, expert guidance, and safety.

4. Finding new customers

One of the key challenges for most companies is customer acquisition. Predictive analytics can help brands identify valuable prospects along with the potential value of each customer by analyzing their behavior, past purchase data, and average order value.

During the customer acquisition stage, brands can identify trends and patterns of behavior to find responsiveness to focus on customer segmentation and campaign performance measurement. Not only that, they can identify hidden trends and patterns in a customer’s actions to find out customer attrition before it even happens!

5. Replenish, replenish, replenish

Building an optimal inventory management strategy to avoid over-stocks and out-of-stocks can be tricky. Predictive analytics helps in analyzing past sales and anticipating future demand for better demand forecast accuracy, allowing for better replenishment of inventory. Based on customer behavior and inventory management history, it can anticipate trends to reduce the risk of stockouts. Businesses can easily identify customer segments and demographic data to update existing pricing strategies and create new product lines to meet market demands.

6. Improved customer support

By analyzing various data sources (such as interactions through surveys, forums, subscription lists, CRM data, etc.), predictive analytics can help identify potential issues in customer support, such as service disruptions, product defects, or shipping delays. This information can help route customers to the appropriate support channel. Predictive analytics also identifies at-risk customers by analyzing data, such as their purchase history, support tickets, and survey feedback.

For instance, an electronics retailer can use predictive analytics to analyze negative reviews and complaints about a specific product line to identify at-risk customers and route them to support channels through personalized solutions, such as product warranty extensions or express shipping upgrades on their next orders.

7. Better content distribution

Marketing teams can use predictive analytics for personalized content creation and distribution by finding relevant types of content and channels for various leads, while also predicting the likelihood of engagement with specific content. They can also optimize content distribution channels by identifying the right channels for reaching the target audience to redirect content distribution efforts on those channels.

For instance, a film production company can use predictive analytics to find that horror film trailers work well with late-night viewers. They can schedule their trailers after midnight for better anticipation of their horror films.

Conclusion

To summarize, predictive analytics helps forecast probable outcomes with high precision using data modeling where the data is gathered from various data sources and analyzed to reveal outliers, key indicators, and patterns. It integrates metrics, marketing efforts, and business results with advanced strategies for better CX across the customer life cycle.

ConvertML is a one-stop-solution for all your marketing and data woes. With ConvertML, you can integrate survey data along with hundreds of other sources into datasets seamlessly to understand customer behavior, preferences, and needs. What’s more, you can also prevent customer churn with winning customer retention strategies for at-risk customers. Reach out to us to know more.

[pgcestuff]

17 Oct 2024: Stuff to do...

EW Admin note: Andrew Pankhurst (Check my reg)...

Sam + Hayley - Ob 5 on 18 Oct 2025 (EW to double-check agreed actions with both trainees to ensure Ob 5 lesson plan matches report!!)

Digital Skills test/ quiz (link on tumblr) put into Section 04 of PoPA on completion.

Maths & English (clearly labelled..? Then put into Section 04 of PoPA).

Safeguarding (put into Section 02 of PoPA) - evidence clearly labelled as Year 2?

Initial skills - access via 'Initial Skills' blue folder in Teams (complete and upload onto Section 3 Progression Records). EXCEPT HAYLEY!!!

------------------------------------------------

Mentor Agreement and Trainee Conduct Agreement (Stages 1 and 2) should be dated and signed by now.

Teaching log/ Non teaching log and breadth of subject knowledge should be up to date.

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In pairs, consolidate knowledge from last week (see below). Any aspects that can be shared, any emerging concerns, blocks...

Collate key learning models/ theories - align to your idea.

Begin drafting your proposal/ ethics documentation.

Progress so far (feedback loop/ feed forwards...):

Sam = Focussing on developing critical and analytical skills in the Level 2 Art Room; to support more meaningful engagement by embedding English further and expanding on research competencies.

Activities to be fleshed out. Title?

Working Title: Developing Skills in Critique and Analysis on Level 2 Art (To Support more Meaningful Engagement by Expanding on Research & English Competencies).

What do you know? activity based on subject-specific terminology to establish prior knowledge. Research activity where students will analyse art work (without guidance).

Research activity where in pairs (managed by researcher) students will analyse art work (with guidance - worksheets which break research steps down) participant will extract relevant information using own language. Participants will then create their own (paired) word bank based a on guidance worksheet provided. THINK , PAIR, SHARE.

Repeat Week 2 actions but participants to carry out task independently.

All participants to autonomously chose an artist, critique the work selected and present (articulate) final analysis independently.

Q1: In what ways did pairing students scaffold their ability to perform critique independently?

Q2: How might engagement in the AR project enable participants to be able to articulate their grasp of English more effectively?

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Hayley = Experimenting through 'Play.' Bridging the Gap between theory and practice by introducing play-based learning prior to placement allocation. Focus on the importance of play in childhood development. Impact on Early Year competencies and confidence as well as impact on child experiences of the nursery environment.

6-week structured activities in place with external placement positioned before final student evaluations (where participants can actively reflect on application of knowledge accrued).

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Martin = Doing Notes (Not Taking Notes): Experimenting with discussion and sequencing cards as strategies to (enhance retention & recall) steer motivation and enhance understanding in Motor Vehicle.

Methods - Notes before and after intervention, photos of created sequences, Journal/ Ob notes, discussion evidence and questionnaires after each session...

Job cards, jumble up (correct sequence?) plus random options (to consolidate).

Focus: Retention and recall...

One might do breaks, one suspension, exhaust, tires...

Week 1: Notes in isolation.

Week 2: Sequencing cards.

Week 3: Discussion.

Week 4: Sequence + discussion.

'All activities/ actions here are qualitative, although I will compare first time pass rates from a previous end point assessment to see to what extent improvements have been made.'

Methods:

Research Journal (to triangulate behaviours).

Students notes from Week 1.

Photographic evidence of completed sequencing cards from Week 2.

Discussion log evidence for Week 3.

Week 4 evidence will be a combination of discussion log and further sequencing photographs.

Qualitative questions posed at 3 definitive stages (start, middle and end of AR cycle cycle/ process).

Feed forwards: More flesh on the bone needed on activities - more detail on exactly what the participants will be expected to do.

RQ1: To what extent, has taking part in this research project impacted on participant retention of information?

R2Q: How 'doing notes' has changed participant thinking on recall?

Student Questions to ask at start, middle and end of the process!

Day 1: (before the research starts): Explain how useful note taking is, in terms of helping you to remember content?

After week 2: What did you feel about using sequencing cards to support reflection?

End of research Question: What did you learn from taking part in this research project? Explain your answer in as much detail as possible.

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Lisa = Incorporating 'Dollheads' to consciously create a more inclusive Salon experience that better represents client diversity needs in the Northwest.

In addition the AR project intends to explore strategies to build confidence in hair care, whilst expand technical skillsets to meet local needs more effectively. And in doing so, enhance ethical considerations in terms of equality and diversity; furthering trainee employability potential.

4 activities (to be trailed by Lisa beforehand) of classic/ basic salon expectations (e.g. condition, blow dry, style, hair care week) to be fleshed out over 4 weeks...

Q1: In what ways does working with curly-haired doll heads impact on student confidence in the Level 2 Salon at St Helen's College?

Q2: How might working with curly-haired doll-heads enhance participant employability potential?

Putting the record straight: experimenting with curly hair to develop more inclusive salon practices at St Helens College.

Qualitative questionnaire before and after the week period.

Need to break down what exactly the participants will do each week.

Yo.

Emma

[mynewshq]

Edo poll: PDP alleges rigging as APC Okpebholo wins

The Peoples Democratic Party kicked against the result of Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State, which ushered in the All Progressives Congress candidate Senator Monday Okpebholo as the new governor of the state. Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, who is the Chairman, Edo State Governorship Election National Campaign Council, on Sunday, stated that the Independent National Electoral Commission should be held accountable for violating the Electoral Act. Okpebholo polled 291,667 votes to defeat PDP’s Asue Ighodalo, who came second with 247,274 votes, and Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata, who emerged third with 22, 763 votes. Of the 18 Local Government Areas in the state, the APC won 10 while the PDP settled for eight, but the PDP, in solidarity with its Governors Forum, insisted Ighodalo “clearly won the election.” In a statement on Sunday, PDP’s National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba responded by explaining that Fintiri presented results from the polling units showing Ighodalo in a clear lead. The PDP stated, “The Peoples Democratic Party stands by the results of the Edo State Governorship election as garnered by its polling agents across the state and echoed by the Chairman of the Edo PDP National Campaign Council, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State, which indicate that the PDP candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, clearly won the election. “The PDP asserts that the rush, venom, and hauling of insults with which the All Progressives Congress attacked Governor Fintiri only confirms APC’s violent desperation to cover its manipulations and steal the mandate freely given to Dr. Asue Ighodalo by the people of Edo State as reflected in the genuine votes cast at the Polling Units. “As Governor Fintiri presented, the results collated from the Polling Units have Asue Ighodalo in a clear lead before the state collation exercise was hijacked by the APC, which, in connivance of some unscrupulous INEC and security officials, engaged in blatant alteration and substitution of the genuine results with fabricated figures in favour of the defeated APC candidate.” The PDP Governors Forum, led by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, said the Independent National Electoral Commission must live up to the expectations of the people as an “impartial umpire.” The PDP governors urged INEC to announce results that accurately reflected the wishes of the Edo people as expressed through their votes on Saturday. “This becomes more imperative, especially in the face of the threat to democracy by the total state capture inclination of the Tinubu-led All Progressives Congress government,” the forum stated. “As the country perches on the horns of grave economic and security challenges, it is our expectation that INEC and everyone involved in the Edo Governorship Elections will respect the sovereign wishes of the people of Edo State and spare the nation the unpredictable consequences of a disputed result at this time.  “The PDPGF unequivocally reiterates its commitment to democratic best practices, and the peace and stability of a united Nigeria in which the citizens are not only spared the contrived ordeal of the moment but, more importantly, provided alternative opportunities to realise their legitimate dreams. “Finally, we stand with our Governors, H/E Fintiri, H/E Diri, H/E Agbu Kefas, and H/E Oborevwori of Adamawa, Bayelsa, Taraba, and Delta States respectively, on all the actions and positions that they have taken on our behalf, with respect to maintaining the sanctity of the elections.” At the collation centre on Sunday, the state agent of the PDP, Iyoha Osaigbovo, stated that the figures credited to APC were not a true reflection of the wish of the electorate. Osaigbovo said, “We do not accept this result as it’s clear that the figures were allocated to the APC by INEC to aid their victory. The result, which is not a reflection of the people’s wish, may come to hunt you the people presiding over the announcement.” However, Jarrett Tenebe, the acting APC chairman in the state, who took exception to Osaigbovo’s reference to his party in almost all his observations, said he was okay with the outcome of the election. He stated that Edo North, which his party won, had been a stronghold of the APC and became stronger after the state’s reinstated Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, rejoined the party. Reacting to the claim by Osaigbovo that the BVAS did not function or was tampered with, Tenebe said, “I would like to urge the CoS to leave the APC out of his observations and complaints. He should direct his complaints to the collation and announcement of results.” However, the state chairman of the PDP, Tony Aziegbemi, alleged alteration of results, demanding re-collation and re-computation in a letter titled, ‘Re: Protest against manufactured vote entries and unjust inflation of APC votes and deduction of PDP votes in the collation of results of Edo State Governorship Election held on 21 September 2024.’ In the letter addressed to the office of the INEC chairman in Abuja and made available to journalists in Benin City on Sunday, the ruling party alleged that the INEC Result Viewing had inflated the votes to favour the APC. The chairman alleged that results from some units in three Local Government Areas – Akoko Edo, Egor, and Etsako West were manipulated. The letter read, “It has come to our attention that the Electoral Officers appointed by the INEC for the conduct of the Edo State Governorship election, made entries that are different from the actual results as uploaded on the INEC IREV, thereby unjustly inflating votes in favour of the APC and deducting the votes of the PDP. “In Akoko Edo Local Government Area, a simple collation of all the votes recorded in the polling units results uploaded on the IREV shows that the APC obtained 25,010 votes while 34,847 votes was recorded in the EC8C declared by the LGA Returning Officer. For the PDP, a collation of the votes from the results uploaded on the IREV is 18,620 but 15,865 was returned on the EC8C declared by the LGA Returning Officer. “It would interest you that in Ward 9 of Akoko Edo LGA, from the 36 Polling Unit results uploaded on the IREV, the total votes obtained by APC is 2,350 while 9104 was entered into the EC8B result for APC. However, the total votes for PDP is 1,359 while 633 were entered in the EC8B. Also, in Ward 6 Akoko Edo LGA, where elections were not held in Ward 6 Units 12, 17, 15, 18, 14, and 16, results were returned for the said polling units in the ward result sheet (EC8B).” It added, “In Egor LGA,  a simple collation of all the votes recorded in the polling unit results uploaded on the IREV shows that the APC obtained 10,972 votes while 16,760 votes were recorded in the ECBC declared by the LGA Returning Officer. For the PDP, a collation of the votes from the results uploaded on the IREV is 14,485 but 14,658 were returned on the EC8C declared by the LGA Returning Officer. It would interest you to note that the collation of the Egor Local Government Area was not done at the designated LGA centre but was moved to the INEC state headquarters and the PDP agent was not allowed access to be part of the exercise. “In Etsako West, a simple collation of all the votes recorded in the polling unit results uploaded on the IREV shows that the APC obtained 29,858 votes while 32,107 votes were recorded in the EC8C declared by the LGA Returning Officer. For the PDP, a collation of the votes from the results uploaded on the IREV is 16,712 but 17,483 was returned on the EC8C declared by the LGA Returning Officer. “The above highlighted irregularities which are very apparent are extremely scandalous and a brazen attempt to steal the mandate of the PDP and also a terrible embarrassment to the commission.” The state’s Labour Party PRO, Sam Uruopa, told The PUNCH that his party was still reviewing the results and would come up with a position after that. When asked if he thought that INEC skewed the result in favour of the APC, he replied, “After we review the result we will come up with a position. It is, however, disheartening that the electorate was induced with money on Election Day, which puts a dent on the credibility of the process.” Youths protest Some youths, who are members of the PDP, staged a protest at the office of INEC against the results. They alleged that the results had been tampered with, adding that the results announced were different from what transpired at the polling units. Though they were restricted to Ramat Park in Ikpoba Hill area of the city by security operatives, the youths sang solidarity songs while some waved leaves to show their displeasure. Meanwhile, a top official of the PDP told News HQ that the party would consider options it has, including using legal means to reverse the decision. He noted that the party chairman had already written to the INEC chairman in Abuja, calling for a re-count and re-computing of the results. He said, “The idea of reclaiming our mandate in the court is not a bad one but the state chairman of the party has already written a letter to the INEC Chairman’s office in Abuja and we are hoping for a favourable reply. “However, if nothing changes, we will have to consider other options, which may also include going to court.” The Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, urged the citizens to maintain calm and not resort to violence and destruction of property following the announcement of Okpebholo as winner of the poll. He said, “In the last few months, the various political parties have embarked on very rigorous campaigns to sell their respective candidates for the office of governor to the people of Edo State in an exercise which came to a climax yesterday with the gubernatorial election. “The attractive thing about democracy is the power it bestows on the people to choose who governs them. Therefore, when this power is blatantly seized from the people, it is not just a tragedy, but a travesty of democracy. “Regrettably, the outcome of the September 21st governorship election appears to have daunted the spirit of many Edo people who feel powerless in the face of the brute force of the institutions that are supposed to protect them. It is therefore understandable that many people feel sad and aggrieved. “But in the midst of this despair, I am urging all my fellow Edo citizens to maintain calm and not resort to violence and destruction of property in spite of this provocation. “Peace and justice will always win at the end and this is my prescription to all the good people of Edo State who feel vexed and violated at this time.” He added, “Clearly, it is obvious to the least discerning, the amount of impunity and reckless disregard for processes and law that was displayed in this gubernatorial election. “In a democracy, there are safeguards for addressing grievances, and we hope that those affected will seek resolution for this blatant disregard of law and process.  “With this in mind, I implore all Edo people to go about their lawful businesses and rest assured of the commitment of our government to your wellbeing and security.” ‘God decreed Okpebholo’ Edo State Governor-elect, Senator Okpebholo, promised to replicate in the state the achievements of Senator Godswill Akpabio during his time as Governor of Akwa Ibom State. Okpebholo spoke shortly after INEC declared him winner of last Saturday’s governorship election on Sunday. He was at the Benin City residence of former Governor Adams Oshiomhole alongside other chieftains of the party, including Philip Shaibu, the state’s Deputy Governor. Okpebholo thanked Edo people for standing behind him and promised not to fail them. Oshiomhole, on his part, said, “When some people say election is about do-or-die, we say no it is about choice and power, the people having the power to hire and fire even those that have the power to sign the death warrant. Power resides only with God. “God has decreed Senator Okpebholo to make up for the eight years disaster of Obaseki and Asue together. We did all those campaign without violence. “Edo will now be governed by a man enriched with native wisdom, a man familiar with the custom and tradition of Edo State, a man who has used his resources to show love to the community. He has crude credentials in terms of community service. God has put those who said there will be a bloodbath in shame.” On his part, Senator Akpabio said the victory was a turning point in the politics of Edo State. “The will of God for the people is nothing but happiness, joy, and prosperity. The outcome of the election is a reflection of the confidence Nigerians have continued to express in President Bola Tinubu that his administration is doing its best to turn around the fortunes of Nigeria. “What has happened in Edo is a clear reflection of what will happen in Ondo in November.” Tinubu, Buhari speak President Bola Tinubu on Sunday congratulated Okpebholo on his victory at the election. The President’s congratulatory message was contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, and made available on Sunday evening. Tinubu commended the party’s national leaders, Edo State leaders, and governors for working hard to achieve victory. “The victory testified to the people’s support for the ruling party, its progressive ideals, its economic reengineering programme and its commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians,” the statement read. He urged Okpebholo not to gloat over his victory but to see it as a challenging call to service. He further encouraged him to demonstrate magnanimity by reaching out to his political rivals and uniting the people of Edo State to ensure its development. The President urged all those aggrieved by the election outcome to seek redress through the legal channels. “I commend the INEC and our security agencies for working round the clock to conduct a successful, peaceful, and largely hitch-free exercise. “INEC has once again demonstrated that it is committed to organising a free and fair election in our country,” the President said. The immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari also congratulated Okpebholo on his “prized, historic electoral victory.” Buhari, in a statement by Garba Shehu, said he was very hopeful that both leaders of the incoming administration and the party that lost would work together to strengthen democracy and maintain the trajectory of the state’s development. “Congratulations to the APC and the election winner, Senator Monday Okpebholo on the historic electoral victory and my warmest wishes for a new lease of life for Edo State and its people. “I very much hope the winners and the losers would work together to strengthen democracy and maintain the trajectory of development in the state. “I commend law enforcement agencies for the efforts that they put in ensuring a peaceful election and the multitude of election officials who strive to improve their act with each election. “I pray that Nigeria, the continent’s most populous country, will continue to achieve remarkable progress under democracy,” he said. Speaking after the declaration of Okpebholo as winner of the election, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, who was in Benin for the election, said “I strongly believe that the election in Edo, though tense at the beginning, is a reflection of the confidence that Nigerians continue to express in President Tinubu.” Read the full article

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Effective Construction Management: Strategies for Success!

Are you thinking of a career in the ever-changing field of construction? Then, enrolling in a Construction Management Course would be the most strategic step. According to the Construction Global Market Report 2024, the construction market has grown significantly during the past few years. It is expected to reach $15971.45 billion in 2024 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1%.

With these figures, the demand for skilled professionals in this field is skyrocketing. This blog will explore what Construction Management is, the key roles and responsibilities associated with this sector, and the significant skills required to excel.

Understanding Construction Management

Construction management entails the process of planning, designing, budgeting, coordinating, and supervising a construction project from its initiation to its finalization. The practice ensures that the finished product meets all quality criteria.

Roles and Responsibilities

Construction Management includes key roles, each of them having properly defined responsibilities.

Project Manager: The individual who looks over the entire project, manages various stakeholders, and ensures that the project is running smoothly.

Site supervisor: An individual responsible for day-to-day construction management on-site, ensuring that work is executed in full accordance with the plans and programs.

Estimator: Someone who collates data, appraises it, and then gives cost estimates right at the very beginning of a project.

Safety Officer: The person who oversees compliance with safety measures to minimize risks at work and to protect the workers.

Quality Control Manager: The job of the Quality control manager is to ensure that work is done according to the specified standards and parameters of quality.

Key Stages of Construction Management

Anyone who participates in the building industry needs to understand Construction Management’s major stages. These can be divided into three main categories: Pre-Construction, Construction, and Post-Construction.

Pre-construction Phase

Project Initiation and Feasibility Studies: This includes establishing the feasibility of the project based on initial screenings and market analysis. This study aims to locate potential problems or opportunities in the future.

Planning and Scheduling: Successful projects begin with proper planning and scheduling. Construction Managers create timelines, allocate resources, and set milestones among others as a way of ensuring that all aspects of the project are organized.

Budgeting and Resource Allocation: Proper budgeting is important for the success of any project. Therefore, Construction Managers have to estimate costs for materials like labor and other expenses, thus making a budget consistent with its objectives.

Construction Phase

Site Management and Supervision: Site supervisors make sure that team members understand their roles as well as monitor progress compared to the planned timetable.

Quality Control Measures: In Construction Management quality comes first. Routine inspections are carried out according to guidelines to make sure that these standards are met throughout the development process.

Safety Protocols: Implementing safety protocols including training employees is critical to prevent accidents and ensure a secure work environment.

Post-construction Phase

Final Inspections and Handover Process: After completion, final checks are conducted to confirm everything meets the required standards before it is made available for client use.

Maintenance and Warranties: At this stage, the client should be given the necessary documentation for future maintenance together with warranties on completed works.

Project Closure and Evaluation: At last, projects undergo an evaluation to capture lessons learned and also determine performance against objectives thus leading to improved future projects.

UniAthena’s Diploma In Construction Management

This Online Construction Management Course will equip you with the changing and complex nature characteristics of Construction Management. It will equip you with the knowledge of four key core functions, including Project Management, EHS Management, Building Services Engineering Management, and Energy-Efficient Buildings. By offering a comprehensive blend of these critical areas, the course equips you with conceptual frameworks, tools, and practical insights to help you confidently navigate modern construction challenges.

Whether you are a beginner or a professional looking to upskill, this free online course is an ideal starting point. The best part? You can complete this flexible, self-paced course in just 1–2 weeks of learning. Plus, get a chance to boost your credentials with a paid Blockchain-verified certification upon completion. Enroll now and begin working toward a more rewarding professional future!