#Medium sized-enterprises

[murderousink23]

06/27/2024 is National Bingo Day 🌎, International Pineapple Day 🍍🌎, Day of Culture and Artists 🇹🇲, National Orange Blossom Day 🇺🇸, National Sunglasses Day 🇺🇸, National PTSD Awareness Day 🇺🇸, National Handshake Day 🤝 🇺🇸, Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day 🇺🇳

[sfdcfanboy]

Salesforce Marketing Cloud Solutions for Any Size Business

Whether running a small business or managing a larger enterprise, the Salesforce Marketing Cloud has something in store for you. The powerful platform was designed to help businesses of all sizes easily connect with their customers through personalized marketing interactions at scale. Offering tools for social media, email, advertising, and customer engagement, the Marketing Cloud allows you to…

[lexlawuk]

Guide to Unlocking HMRC's R&D Tax Relief

Many UK companies that have submitted claims for Research and Development (R&D) tax relief have expressed frustration with HMRC’s stringent approach. HMRC often rejects claims, stating it has consulted “internal specialists,” such as IT experts, and is not convinced that the company’s activities qualify as R&D. This stance persists even when companies provide additional evidence or offer to meet…

[tudip123]

SMEs Dependency on Advanced Solutions: A Pathway to Sustainable Growth

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of economies worldwide, contributing significantly to employment, innovation, and GDP. However, in today's rapidly evolving business landscape, SMEs face numerous challenges, including stiff competition, limited resources, and technological advancements. To remain competitive and sustainable, SMEs are increasingly dependent on advanced solutions that offer efficiency, scalability, and innovation. This article explores the critical role of advanced solutions in the growth and sustainability of SMEs.

1. Digital Transformation:

Digital transformation is no longer a luxury but a necessity for SMEs. Leveraging advanced digital solutions, such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT), enables SMEs to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and improve customer experiences.

Cloud Computing: Cloud solutions offer SMEs the flexibility to scale their operations without significant upfront investments in infrastructure. By moving to the cloud, SMEs can access advanced software, storage, and computing power on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI-driven tools can automate repetitive tasks, provide insights through data analytics, and enhance decision-making processes. For example, AI-powered chatbots improve customer service by providing instant responses to queries, while predictive analytics help businesses forecast demand and manage inventory more effectively.

Internet of Things (IoT): IoT devices can optimize various business processes, from supply chain management to asset tracking. For instance, IoT sensors in manufacturing can monitor equipment performance in real-time, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

2. E-commerce and Online Presence:

The shift towards e-commerce has been accelerated by the global pandemic, making an online presence essential for SMEs. Advanced e-commerce platforms and digital marketing solutions allow SMEs to reach a broader audience, increase sales, and compete with larger enterprises.

E-commerce Platforms: Solutions like Shopify, WooCommerce, and BigCommerce provide SMEs with user-friendly tools to set up and manage online stores. These platforms offer integrated payment gateways, inventory management, and marketing tools.

Digital Marketing: Advanced digital marketing strategies, including search engine optimization (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, and social media marketing, help SMEs attract and engage customers. Analytics tools enable businesses to track the effectiveness of their campaigns and optimize them for better results.

3. Customer Relationship Management (CRM):

Maintaining strong customer relationships is vital for SMEs. Advanced CRM solutions help businesses manage customer interactions, track sales, and analyze customer data to improve service and retention.

CRM Software: Platforms like Salesforce, HubSpot, and Zoho CRM provide comprehensive tools for managing customer relationships. These solutions offer features such as contact management, sales automation, and customer service support.

Personalization: CRM systems enable SMEs to personalize their marketing efforts, ensuring that customers receive relevant offers and communications based on their preferences and behavior.

4. Cybersecurity:

As SMEs adopt more advanced solutions, cybersecurity becomes a critical concern. Protecting sensitive data and ensuring business continuity in the face of cyber threats is paramount.

Advanced Security Solutions: SMEs can leverage advanced cybersecurity solutions, such as firewalls, encryption, and intrusion detection systems, to safeguard their data and systems. Regular security audits and employee training are also essential to mitigate risks.

Compliance: Adhering to data protection regulations, such as GDPR and CCPA, is crucial for maintaining customer trust and avoiding legal penalties. Advanced compliance tools help SMEs manage and document their compliance efforts.

5. Financial Management:

Efficient financial management is crucial for the sustainability of SMEs. Advanced financial solutions provide tools for accounting, budgeting, and financial planning, helping businesses maintain financial health.

Accounting Software: Solutions like QuickBooks, Xero, and FreshBooks automate accounting tasks, manage invoicing, and track expenses. These tools offer real-time financial insights, enabling better decision-making.

Financial Analytics: Advanced financial analytics tools help SMEs forecast cash flow, analyze profitability, and plan for future growth. By leveraging these insights, businesses can make informed financial decisions and ensure long-term stability.

Conclusion

The dependency of SMEs on advanced solutions is a trend that will continue to grow as technology evolves. Embracing digital transformation, e-commerce, CRM, cybersecurity, and financial management solutions can significantly enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of SMEs. By leveraging these advanced tools, SMEs can overcome challenges, seize new opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth in an increasingly digital world.

[valgroarvind]

Multiple components solution | SLR 24 | deburring |finishing | polishing

[sovrennknowledge]

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME): Definition and Examples explained! Dive into the world of SMEs and their impact on business and innovation.

[sistertotheknowitall]

Some guy gets arrested

Inspired by @medium-sized-ghost addition to the Original Post.

Masterpost

“So sorry about this, Mr. Wayne.”

“No, I understand. I’m just glad to see the law doing their job so well.” Bruce continues pleasantly through the police station with Commissioner Gordon leading the way.

“We’ll get this sorted out as soon as possible, but in the meantime you will need to unfortunately be placed in holding.”

“Of course. It’s really no problem, it was my mistake missing my court date like that. Time just gets away from me sometimes, you know?” Nevermind the fact that Bruce hadn’t even known about said court date or the speeding ticket it was for. He couldn’t prove which child had taken his car for a joy ride, but his prime suspects were Jason or Dick. (He would later find out that it was Stephanie upon a dare from Duke. He already attempted to banned them from playing Truth or Dare after Tim convinced Dick to do a handstand on Jason’s bike going 95 down the freeway. Not that Dick really needed any convincing.)

“Well you’re in luck, one cell is mostly empty.” It was a small cell closer to the front. Bruce could see a teenager laying on the bench to the right. Gordon opened the door and stood to the side so Bruce could enter and locked the door behind him. “Would you like anything to drink? Water? Coffee?”

Bruce smiled, “No, thank you.” Gordon nodded and looked past Bruce at the only other occupant in the cell, “What about you kid? Anything?”

Bruce watched as the kid, one he unfortunately recognized, lifted his arm from where it was thrown over his eyes and waved it in the air at the commissioner, “I’m good.” The arm went back down. Gordon grunted, “alright Officer Mitchell is keeping watch, call out if either of you need anything.”

With that Bruce was left alone with the boy who had befuddled and befriended his many children. He sat on the opposite bench and thought about how best to approach the young man. Danny had never responded well to Batman and there was no telling how he would respond to Bruce. According to Tim, Danny actually had some respect for Bruce and the money he dumped into bettering Gotham. (When it was announced that the public library was being renovated Danny had interrogated Tim about it and then offered his own opinions on how to involve more of the general population.)

Bruce didn’t think the time called for his “Brucie” persona and he couldn’t be Batman at the moment. He could approach the boy in a “fatherly” manner but that approach rarely worked on his own kids, he didn’t think it would work on this one.

“Have you called anyone?”

Danny looked out from under his arm and stared at Bruce suspiciously. In hindsight it was a creepy question.

Bruce brought his hands up and breathed a laugh, “I’m sorry, I meant have you been given your one phone call?” Danny didn’t move. “Why? You a lawyer?” He eyed Bruce in his nice suit and watch.

Bruce smiled at the boy, “goodness no, I don’t have the attention span for law school. I actually did pre-med before dropping out.”

Danny seemed too curl a little more into himself. It was the most cautious Bruce had ever seen him. He was locked in a Gotham police cell with a man in an expensive suit who seemed completely unconcerned about being arrested, it was wise on Danny’s part to be wary.

Bruce stuck out his hand, “Bruce Wayne.” Slowly, Danny sat up and crossed his arm scoffing, “why would Bruce Wayne be in a holding cell?” Bruce continued to smile at the kid and shrugged, his hand still in the air, “speeding ticket I’m afraid, missed my court date. I do have to say, though, the updated traffic cameras are a good investment by the police department.” “Wayne Enterprises payed for them.” “We did?” Bruce asked, knowing full well it was to give Oracle better camera footage. “You were at the press release.” “Huh.” Bruce looked thoughtful for a minute, “mm no, not ringing any bells. I go to so many of those press conferences, they just bleed together after a while.” “Mhm.” Danny still didn’t take the offered hand. Bruce sighed and let it drop back to his lap, “I’d offer to show you my ID but I don’t exactly have it on me.”

They sat and watched each other for a minute. Danny shifted and seemed to make a decision, “I work at a coffee shop and one of your sons is a regular.” Bruce slapped his thigh as if a light bulb suddenly went off, “You’re Danny! Tim’s mentioned you! You know he’s the only one with a weakness for caffeine, the others like to tease him but I don’t think he has an addiction. However, he does seem to spend a lot of time at that shop.” Bruce leaned forward as if confiding a secret, “to be honest, I think he has a bit of a crush on you.”

Dropping his own arms, Danny sighed. “Yeah, he’s not really that subtle.”

“No, I’m afraid he’s never been good at that. At least not when he’s interested in someone.” Tim was great at subtlety when it came to the mission but never in his personal life. The funny part was he didn’t even draw that distinction on purpose.

“I called a family friend. To answer your question. He should be here soon.” Bruce nodded, “so you do have people you can rely on in town?” “I could have a whole family I can rely on in this city.” Danny said, catching the older man's slip. He shifts further in his seat and stared hard at Bruce.

Bruce knew Danny had no one in town. He did the background check, Danny's whole family lived in Ohio with the exception of his older sister who was in one of the top psychology programs in the country. They seemed to visit each other often but rarely their parents.

The older man dawned an apologetic expression. “I’m sorry, I assumed when you said ‘a family friend’.” Bruce leaned back against the wall behind him, “are you from Gotham?”

“No,” Danny shifted further back in his seat and didn’t take his eyes off Bruce.

It was different from how the boy interacted with Batman. To the billionaires alter ego Danny was defiant and outspoken. He always seemed to say what was on his mind, completely uncaring of the audience he had.

——-

“Mr. Fenton, your god-father is here for you.”

Danny never thought he’d feel this relieved to know Vlad was picking him up. While Mr. Wayne had been nothing but polite, something about the man felt off. Danny also didn’t appreciate the questions. What was it to this man if Danny had family near by or not?

One of the cops opens the door with Vlad in his nice suit and overly polished shoes right behind him.

“Daniel, let’s not make this a habit.”

“I was just feeding the homeless dogs!”

“Strays.” Vlad corrected, “while trespassing?”

Danny rolled his eyes and continued pass his “uncle”.

“How am I supposed to know an abandoned building is considered ‘private property’?”

Vlad just sighed.

——

Bonus:

Stephanie would continue to stick to her story, thank you very much. She had every right to punch the creep and she wasn’t backing down. Not even if “the creep” was apparently the son of a very influential prosecutor. A corrupt one, but he was influential nonetheless. Such is the justice system in Gotham.

Even if it landed her in a police station, handcuffed to a desk while said creep cried about the bloody nose she gave him.

Letting out a frustrated sigh, she crossed her legs and continued to glare at the door way that led to the holding cells. It was her night off and she still had to deal with this godforsaken city’s degenerate citizens. God forbid she have a day off.

It was while glaring at said door that Steph noticed a familiar boy walking out with a gentleman she wasn’t familiar with. He was a little behind Danny but reached out and grabbed his shoulder, stopping him just before leaving the hallway. Steph slid her gaze away but kept her ears open, grateful she was close enough to hear.

“You need to be more careful, Daniel.”

Danny didn’t respond and Steph looked over to see him pull his shoulder away and start walking again.

“You didn’t have to come all this way to bail me out. I could have called Jazz or Sam.”

“Nonsense, it’s good to get out of Wisconsin.”

Steph wrinkled her nose, Wisconsin? The pair continued out of ear shot and shortly out of the station.

When Bruce was released a few minutes later, Stephanie smiled and took great joy in his obvious (to any member of his family) despair and exasperation at seeing her.

Part 8

[eeitonline]

Unlocking Capital: Overcoming the Challenge of Limited Access in the Black Sea Region by Eastern European Institute for Trade

by Eastern European Institute for Trade

Limited access to capital is a significant impediment to the growth of businesses and economies in the Black Sea region. The availability of financial resources is crucial for the establishment, expansion, and modernization of enterprises, as well as for the development of new industries and the fostering of innovation (Havrylchyk, 2018). This article examines the factors contributing to the challenge of limited access to capital in the Black Sea region, and explores potential strategies for overcoming this obstacle, drawing on lessons from regional and international experiences (Beck et al., 2014; Kutan & Vukšić, 2017).

The banking sector is the primary source of financing for businesses in the Black Sea region, but it often falls short in meeting their capital needs. High levels of non-performing loans, underdeveloped capital markets, and inadequate financial infrastructure are among the factors constraining the capacity of banks to extend credit to the private sector (Havrylchyk, 2018). Additionally, risk aversion and conservative lending practices, partly driven by the legacy of past financial crises, further limit the availability of bank financing for businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) (Beck et al., 2014).

Limited access to capital in the Black Sea region can also be attributed to the underdeveloped nature of alternative financing channels. Venture capital and private equity markets, which play a critical role in financing innovative and high-growth enterprises, are relatively nascent in the region (Kutan & Vukšić, 2017). Similarly, the region’s capital markets, including stock and bond markets, are often characterized by low levels of liquidity, limited investor base, and a lack of sophisticated financial instruments, which hampers their ability to channel resources to the private sector (Havrylchyk, 2018).

To address the challenge of limited access to capital in the Black Sea region, a multipronged approach is required. First, the banking sector needs to be strengthened through reforms aimed at improving its financial health, risk management practices, and regulatory environment (Beck et al., 2014). These reforms should include measures to reduce non-performing loans, enhance supervisory frameworks, and promote competition and innovation within the sector (Havrylchyk, 2018).

Second, alternative financing channels should be developed and diversified to provide businesses with a wider range of funding options. This includes fostering the growth of venture capital and private equity markets, as well as encouraging the development of innovative financing instruments, such as crowdfunding and peer-to-peer lending platforms (Kutan & Vukšić, 2017). Additionally, efforts should be made to deepen and integrate the region’s capital markets, with a view to enhancing their efficiency and attractiveness to both domestic and foreign investors (Havrylchyk, 2018).

Finally, regional cooperation and integration can play a pivotal role in unlocking capital for businesses in the Black Sea region. Initiatives such as the European Union’s (EU) investment programs, and the involvement of international financial institutions, such as the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), can facilitate access to capital by providing financing, technical assistance, and capacity building support (Beck et al., 2014).

In conclusion, overcoming the challenge of limited access to capital is crucial for the growth and competitiveness of businesses in the Black Sea region. By implementing targeted reforms, diversifying financing channels, and promoting regional cooperation, the region can unlock capital and unleash its full economic potential.

References:

Beck, T., Demirgüç-Kunt, A., & Singer, D. (2014). Is Small Beautiful? Financial Structure, Size and Access to Finance. World Development, 52, 19–33.

Havrylchyk, O. (2018). Foreign Banks, Financial Crises, and Macroeconomic Fluctuations in the Black Sea Region. Comparative Economic Studies, 60(3), 386–410.

Kutan, A. M., & Vukšić, G. (2017). Financial Integration, Housing Markets, and Economic Policy Uncertainty in the Black Sea Region. Comparative Economic Studies, 59(4), 491–517.

European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). (2021). EBRD in the Black Sea Region. Sourced from https://www.ebrd.com/where-we-are/black-sea.html

International Finance Corporation (IFC). (2021). IFC in Europe and Central Asia. Sourced from https://www.ifc.org/wps/wcm/connect/region__ext_content/ifc_external_corporate_site/europe+and+central+asia

Read more at European Institute for Trade.

[murderousink23]

06/27/2023 is Day of Culture and Artists 🇹🇲, National Orange Blossom Day 🇺🇲, National Sunglasses Day 😎🇺🇲, National PTSD Awareness Day 🇺🇲, Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day

[collapsedsquid]

I doubt it was predicted or designed, but when the practice emerged of delegating industrial policy to local governments, China invented a structural form of antitrust. The central state declares what industries are to be favored, and then many localities toss contenders into the ring. The unsurprising result is competition. At the national level, with astonishing speed, industries with world-class competences emerge, even when — especially when — no "national champion" comes to dominate. Great industries are what a nation wants, not great firms. Firms are just the players. They perform extraordinary feats, and we cheer them, but they come and go. The industry is the league. It is what endures and delivers decade after decade. A decade ago China did not produce electric vehicles. Now it is the world leader. It is the same story with batteries, solar panels, steel. In the US, we tend to provide government support to established national champions, Boeing perhaps, or Intel. How is that working for us? Large consolidated firms become specialists in exploiting market power and political influence rather than any technical facet of production. What if we financed state governments to field local heroes and compete in the big leagues? It boggles the American imagination to think that medium-sized, US-state-level enterprises could compete in high-tech, capital-intensive industries. But isn't China's experience an existence proof? Shouldn't the share-buyback-heavy, technical-achievement-light experience of firms like Boeing and Intel chasten our conventional wisdom?

Must do socialism so we have intense competition between the Colorado smartphone and the Massachusetts smartphone

[nicks-den]

My subs for episode 9 of Hidamari ga Kikoeru are now up! You can find both the hardsubs and softsubs on my site! Only 3 episodes to go :(

Some translation notes are below the cut as usual.

Kohei mentioned getting a qualification for sharoushi (In Japanese: 社労士, abbreviated from 社会保険労務士 - shakaihokenroumushi) - officially translated as labor and social security attorneys. Sharoushi are unique experts on social insurance and labor who mostly support smaller and medium-sized enterprises and serve many roles in Japanese society. The examination to become one is conducted by the government and it's one of the most difficult certification examinations in Japan, so Kohei's definitely aiming high with that one. If you want to learn more about them, feel free to visit the site of the official site of the association or this one.

Braille blocks (or tenji blocks, in Japanese: 点字ブロック) are mentioned in this episode for which Japan is famous for. They're usually yellow in color, so they really stand out. They were first developed in Japan in 1965 and then later implemented in 1967. These structures allow easier navigation for visually impaired as a form of tactile paving. There are two types - guidance blocks and warning blocks. Guidance are the blocks with 4 parallel lines that provide information about the direction you should be moving. The warning blocks are grids of dots and indicate certain danger.

Throughout the episode you can see Taichi being confused by all those difficult words. I wasn't sure how to do sub some sections because of it since the translation isn't really particularly difficult, but the words can be unusual for Taichi. I'll have to revisit it when I prepare the final version after the drama ends.

[mariacallous]

Even amid the full-scale Russian invasion, Ukrainian entrepreneurs remain resilient. October set a new record for the number of new small and medium-sized businesses being registered, while hundreds of enterprises have relocated away from front-line regions so that they can continue their operations.

Buying a gift this Christmas from a Ukrainian company can help both these businesses and Ukraine’s economy. It also provides an opportunity to get to know Ukraine better through its artisans and creative brands.

While Ukrainians are also focusing on helping their own economy by buying locally, Ukrainian companies can benefit from all the support they can get from abroad.

The Kyiv Independent has picked out platforms and websites that can help you choose a gift that is not only unique, but also supports Ukraine.

[boinkingbattlemechs]

Trebuchet

The Trebuchet (also jovially referred to as the Trenchbucket) is a mainline medium weight BattleMech considered to be a fine blend of long- and short-range fire support for a unit of its size. Unlike many other pre-Clan 'Mechs, the Trebuchet was designed from the beginning to work as part of a lance instead of functioning as a stand-alone model. The TBT-5N features respectable firepower, ten heat sinks, seven and a half tons of armor and a top speed of 86.4 km/h for good mobility. The main drawback of the design is its endurance: since it was never meant to operate far from supply lines the Trebuchet has a limited amount of munitions for its missile launchers and once these ammunition bins have run dry the 'Mech must defend itself with only its laser weapons, where it is often outgunned compared to other 'Mechs when fighting independently at close range.

The Trebuchet first walked off assembly lines in 2780 for the SLDF in the final years of the Star League, between the liberation of Terra from Stefan Amaris and Aleksandr Kerensky's departure. With the onset of the Succession Wars the Trebuchet would become an almost exclusive staple of the Free Worlds League since its manufacturing site on Stewart fell within their territory. However the original TBT-3C models proved to be too difficult to repair and produce with the disappearance of advanced technology, and in 2799 Corean Enterprises went back to the drawing board to create the TBT-5N using less advanced technology.

The Free Worlds League Military often partnered the Trebuchet with the Archer, while lances consisting of an Archer, two Trebuchet's and a Centurion became a common configuration used for siege operations by the Regulan Hussars. However the design also found its way into the hands of the other Great Houses and served with distinction during the Succession Wars in nearly every major operation, with a number of variants created to fulfill various needs. The technological renaissance which swept through the Inner Sphere during the 3030s allowed first Kali Yama and then the Irian corporations to begin producing the Trebuchet as well, culminating in upgraded designs debuting several years prior to the Clan Invasion. As late as 3071 advanced Trebuchet variants would continue to be produced and found themselves used by new actors on the galactic stage, most notoriously the Word of Blake.

[world-of-wales]

THE PRINCE DIARIES ♚

7 NOVEMBER 2023 || SINGAPORE VISIT : DAY III (2/3) - ECOLABS CENTRE OF INNOVATION FOR ENERGY, NANYANG TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY

For his second engagement of the day, the Prince of Wales visited the EcoLabs Centre of Innovation for Energy at the Nanyang Technological University. The visit was aimed at highlighting the importance of incubators to environmental innovators.

EcoLabs serves as a one-stop hub to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups innovate, grow and thrive in the competitive energy sector.

During his visit, William toured the hub for innovation supporting energy sector start-ups. He saw the various Hi-tech schemes for green energy included Autsren (ERI@N) which develops autonomous vehicles and long-lasting electric car batteries anomg others.