#business database accurate

[anshelsgendercrisis]

I appreciate learning from your blogs (both transmasc stuff and Jewish stuff), so if it's not overstepping, I am interested in your thoughts on something. Knowing that the terms Zionism and Zionist are being misused so frequently, I did some introductory reading from a few sources, one of which was the ADL. I've found their Hate Symbols Database helpful in the past, and I was looking into their anti-bias training resources since the school I work for has been failing (spectacularly) at such training. Reading their page on Zionism answered some basic questions, and their Myths and Facts about the ADL page also mentioned that "anti-Zionism equates to antisemitism".

Knowing that you (if I am remembering the specifics correctly, sorry if I'm misremembering) are an anarchist and against the existence of all states (including a Jewish one, thus you have explained you are neither Zionist nor anti-Zionist), I was wondering what your general thoughts are of the ADL's perspective on Zionism, and on the ADL as an organization. I hope this question doesn't come off negatively; I know I'm lacking a lot of knowledge, so I'm very grateful to be corrected on anything I said that's wrong/hurtful/ignorant/naive.

Once I get my recent medical stuff figured out, I look forward to signing up to your Patreon and giving more consistently than here-and-there Kofi donations :)

a little background on the adl: it was founded after the conviction and lynching of leo frank. its original purpose was to pressure media and businesses who engaged in antisemitic discrimination or defamation (hence the name). some of the things they engaged in early on were boycotts, demanding prior review of theater productions to screen for antisemitic content, and pressuring advertisers who relied on antisemitic stereotypes. this was in the time leading up to the holocaust, when violence and discrimination against jews was surging all over the world, so it makes a lot of sense why an organization like this was founded.

in terms of the modern organization, i have mixed feelings. i think their hate symbols database can be helpful, and i think some of the data collection is good as well, but there are a lot of stances they have and statements they've made that i really do not agree with, and some of which i think are harmful. that, for me, is why i don't generally use the adl as a primary or sole source for any news or info. i always double check multiple sources and try to use pages like myjewishlearning for educational things.

the adl is also very explicitly pro israel, as in supportive of the current state and government of israel, which is something i'm very much not. as you mentioned, i am an anarchist so i oppose the concept of states in general, including israel, and i'm also highly critical of the current israeli government.

their page on zionism is...accurate from their point of view, and from a lot of progressive zionists' points of view. but i think it paints a rosy picture of zionism that avoids any of the problematics or history of political zionism, which is just not helpful at this point. they're correct that for most people, zionism means advocating for jewish statehood in eretz yisrael, and that there has absolutely been a sort of "yearning for zion" in the diaspora for hundreds of years. and they are correct that there are many zionists who do not support the current israeli government or who advocate for a two state solution.

i also staunchly disagree that antizionism is in and of itself antisemitism. i think it is an ideology and movement that does very easily and too often fall into antisemitism, just because of the nature of how intertwined the conversation is with jewish identity and the jewish people, and we have seen many examples of this over the past month. however, because of the nebulous nature of the definition of zionism, the definition of antizionism is also going to be nebulous. if someone says "i'm a zionist", unless they elaborate i'm not going to know if i'm talking to someone who thinks that jewish people should be able to live peacefully in eretz yisrael alongside other indigenous people or to someone who wants a sovereign jewish state where jews are the ones in power. if someone says "i'm an antizionist", unless they elaborate i'm not going to know if i'm talking to someone who opposes the current state and government of israel and the occupation or someone who thinks (((zionists))) control the media and the banks and that jewish people as a collective are killing palestinian babies for fun. so for me, the terms "zionism" and "antizionism" are kind of useless unless the person i'm talking to further explains their stance, which means trying to label either zionism or antizionism as entirely inherently Bad is counterintuitive to any goal.

so to wrap this up, for me, an unwillingness to tackle the problematics is why i tend to clash with a lot of zionists and zionist institutions and organizations, and it's why i don't generally trust the adl on anything related to israel without other sources to verify.

[arvandus]

Hello hello, I know you're not really talking about him recently but truthfully i feel like you understand Dabi's personality the most. So i wanted to ask what MBTI you think he relates to the most?

So, as per usual, the weekend was a bit busy with IRL stuff. But now I'm finally able to answer this!

First off, thank you SO MUCH, it really means a lot to me that you feel I understand him the most. That's very high praise because there are some truly amazing writers and meta-analyzers on here that also have amazing takes on Dabi and his personality.

Also, PLEASE talk to me about Dabi! I still love him so so much, I'll never get tired of answering asks about him, truly. I know I haven't written for him recently, but I don't love him any less.

Okay, back to your question...

So I've looked at this a few different ways... First, I went through and took the personality test as "Dabi"; i.e., I answered the questions the way that I think HE would answer them (this is different from how others may perceive him, btw). I used the test on www.16personalities.com, and the result that I ("Dabi") got was INTP, i.e., the Logician. I also looked at what was listed for him under the personality database website, which was ISFP, the Adventurer. Finally, I simply read up on what each of the categories were on Wikipedia, and thought about it. From what I understand and through my observations of him, I would label him as INFP, the Mediator.

Below the cut I'll show the personality test results, and discuss them by comparing them to the other results. Beware though, both anime and manga spoilers will be present because I use some specific examples to explain the results.

So, from the 16personalities test, here is what Dabi got:

Here's the rest of the descriptors for INTP-T:

I think for the most part this is accurate for him, at least for how he perceives himself. But I think there are going to be some key differences between how he sees himself and how we, as observers, see him.

Let's start...

Introversion:

We definitely can't deny that he's introverted, and that's clear across all three personality types that were assigned to him. He's never meshed well with others, especially on first meetings, thanks to his abrasive personality and very thick walls. This introvertedness may not seem as obvious when one thinks about how badly he wants the attention of his family, and his willingness to go public with his past, etc. But think of those moments... of him recording himself, of him dancing in front of Enji as he revealed himself... think of those things as a performance. Think introverted theater kid. And even then, it wasn't exactly for the purpose of the public's attention, but for his father's attention. His broadcast? Pre-recorded, not live. His face-off with his dad? He didn't give a shit that others were there and watching; his focus narrowed like a singularity; it was only him and his father in that moment.

Another helpful thing to keep in mind is that Introversion doesn't mean you don't want to be around others; it just means that you recharge best when you are by yourself. Dabi still definitely wants to be seen by his loved ones, but I think he is naturally an introverted person in that isolation is something he enjoys as a way to rest and rejuvenate himself. I see him finding most people exhausting to be around.

Intuitive:

This was the one of the portions that differed from his MBTI on the personality database, and I actually agree with the test result more. I see Sensing/Observation as "the scientist" and Intuition as "the philosopher," and I definitely feel that Dabi is more Philosopher than Scientist. Whereas Sensing/Observation is more literal, in the now, and taking things at face value, Intuition is not. That's not to say that Dabi doesn't observe; he absolutely does. But he does so through the lens of his ideals and how all of these individual pieces fit together into his belief system.

Wikipedia describes Intuitive as "imagining the possibilities of how things could be; notice the big picture, see how everything connects; enjoy ideas and concepts for their own sake, and likes to describe things in a figurative, poetic way." While I don't necessarily see him as figurative or poetic, I do think he's a bit of an idealist. He's someone who looks at the bigger picture, who's able to extrapolate a lot of information through observation, more so than what's immediately in front of him. He's a bit of a creative genius in that way, and it's shown by how quickly he was able to develop his quirk through watching his father's battles, and later with his brother, with practically zero practice. Additionally, he's a dreamer, always wanting more for himself, even when he was young, which was why his inability to meet his father's standards was such a huge blow to him. He could see the big picture of heroism and what it meant to society, his family, and to his father (and by proxy to himself) and to not be able to see himself as a part of that picture was incredibly damaging for him. Now, this intuition isn't necessarily something he's utilized for positive gains, at least not positive for others; his focus is very selfish/self-centered in this regard. But he's still able to idealize, imagine, and extrapolate. I also think he'd enjoy deep conversations about morals and hypotheticals, and enjoy playing devil's advocate quite often. He never takes things at face-value, always looking at what's underneath.

Thinking:

This was an interesting one, and the one that I think I wouldn't exactly agree with as an observer of his character. BUT, I think Dabi would believe that he's more thinking than feeling. We know that he's incredibly ruled by his emotions in his decision-making; and I think he embraces those emotions a bit more openly once his big reveal finally happens and he's able to fully pursue his conflict with his father (and by proxy his brother). But, I think Dabi fancies himself as someone who thinks 'logically,' who is smart and isn't swayed by the hearts of others. We see this in how he keeps others at arm's length; at how he keeps a level head during the summer training camp arc, etc. But, at the same time, later on, we see more of his vulnerable side. His strangely kind gesture and words towards Toga was spurred by his care for her. His reaction to Twice's death heavily impacted how he battled Hawks. And of course, we see how emotional he really is with regards to his family.

Now granted, he would most definitely put a 'logical' decision that will get him the result he wants over someone else's feelings, in most cases. When it gets down to it, his feelings will take priority over others' feelings, 9 times out of 10. But that doesn't mean he's a Thinking type; that just means he's selfish, and that if anyone's feelings are going to be listened to, it'll be his own. This doesn't surprise me considering his history of being emotionally neglected, let alone all of the other things that happened to him. Typically, a Feeling type would have a strong sense of altruism for others because they can easier empathize with them... and I think a part of him does empathize with his league comrades, which was why he behaved the way he did with Twice and Toga. But I think overall for Dabi, his Feeling is turned more inward, as he's empathizing with himself. It's a form of self-preservation, a way for him to protect his damaged ego. It clouds his judgment in the sense that he thinks he's not emotional because he's not easily moved by others; and yet, he's very emotionally moved by himself and his own pain.

Perceiving/Prospecting:

This, along with introversion, was consistent across the board of all three methods I used to analyze Dabi. The definition alone from the test describes Dabi to a T; good at improvising and adapting; flexible noncomformist, valuing novelty over stability. Need I say more? Also, Wikipedia describes it as: prefer to leave your options open; see rules and deadlines as flexible; like to improvise; spontaneous...

By contrast, Judging is much more rigid/structured, which doesn't really fit Dabi at all. Judging is all about planning, organizing, staying on task and meeting deadlines... I think Dabi is far too ADHD for that (Shh, I'm not projecting, I swear!).

Just think of it this way: if Dabi had the perfect upbringing and never became a villain, what kind of job would you picture him having? Would he have a desk job, pushing papers and sitting through meetings, doing the 8-5 grind? Or would he have something a little more spontaneous, more flexible, something that would mentally (and likely physically) engage him?

I rest my case.

So, I'd say that there are two answers to your question. If you're really looking at what would Dabi identify himself as, I would say the test would be the most accurate: INTP. (he'd also really like the title of the Logician; it would totally stroke his ego!).

BUT, if you're looking for more what his "true" personality would be, I would say INFP.

Now, the irony of this is that I'm an INFP. Actually, I used to be an INFJ, and that's what I thought I was while writing most of this up. I retook the test earlier today because I was curious if my results had changed at all over the past few years, and apparently they did, and it just so happens to align with what I was assigning Dabi. This could either mean that me assigning INFP to Dabi is due to implicit bias, as I see a lot of myself in him and vice versa, and it's possible that the two have gotten muddled a bit. Alternatively, it could also mean that I'm able to write him so clearly because I understand his character and his personality in a very, well... personal way.

Anyway, I hope that helps! Let me know what you think and which MBTI type you think fits him best! 💕

[ragsy]

ACTUALLY, i got to thinking about how i forget that a LOT of people have a ton of anxiety over talking on the phone. maybe i can give a few pointers as someone who has been answering phones for their entire professional life.

(these are general rules-- different businesses have different phone answering policies, but these should all apply to places like doctor's offices, libraries, office buildings, small- to medium-sized customer service lines, etc.)

(people who are used to talking on the phone, this post is not for you. this is for people with phone anxiety.)

receptionists exist to connect you with who you need to talk to. if you don't know who that is, say "hi, my name is [x], my problem is [y]. can you help me?" or "hello, how do i [x]?" if the receptionist isn't trained in solving your exact problem, they should connect you with someone who can.

don't get upset about being placed on hold. sometimes they just need to physically walk across the room to grab a file, and the phone cord is not long enough.

don't start rattling off account numbers and detailed information until the person on the other end asks for them. they're more than likely working with some sort of extremely clunky database, and it can be several clicks just to get to the field they need to fill in with that information.

don't get upset about being asked to repeat yourself. that just means they're making sure they heard you correctly so the information they have is accurate.

sometimes the person on the other end of the line is just as terrified as you are. every business i've worked at trained employees on how to use the phones by saying "okay, answer that for me please" and giving no further explanation. it happens.

most customer service people are running on autopilot and if you say anything you think is awkward or embarrassing they'll most likely forget about it as soon as the call ends.

[mariacallous]

Whether you're a student, a journalist, or a business professional, knowing how to do high-quality research and writing using trustworthy data and sources, without giving in to the temptation of AI or ChatGPT, is a skill worth developing.

As I detail in my book Writing That Gets Noticed, locating credible databases and sources and accurately vetting information can be the difference between turning a story around quickly or getting stuck with outdated information.

For example, several years ago the editor of Parents.com asked for a hot-take reaction to country singer Carrie Underwood saying that, because she was 35, she had missed her chance at having another baby. Since I had written about getting pregnant in my forties, I knew that as long as I updated my facts and figures, and included supportive and relevant peer-reviewed research, I could pull off this story. And I did.

The story ran later that day, and it led to other assignments. Here are some tips I’ve learned that you should consider mastering before you turn to automated tools like generative AI to handle your writing work for you.

Find Statistics From Primary Sources

Identify experts, peer-reviewed research study authors, and sources who can speak with authority—and ideally, offer easily understood sound bites or statistics on the topic of your work. Great sources include professors at major universities and media spokespeople at associations and organizations.

For example, writer and author William Dameron pinned his recent essay in HuffPost Personal around a statistic from the American Heart Association on how LGBTQ people experience higher rates of heart disease based on discrimination. Although he first found the link in a secondary source (an article in The New York Times), he made sure that he checked the primary source: the original study that the American Heart Association gleaned the statistic from. He verified the information, as should any writer, because anytime a statistic is cited in a secondary source, errors can be introduced.

Dive Into Databases

Jen Malia, author of The Infinity Rainbow Club series of children’s books (whom I recently interviewed on my podcast), recently wrote a piece about dinosaur-bone hunting for Business Insider, which she covers in her book Violet and the Jurassic Land Exhibit.

After a visit to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Malia, whose books are set in Philadelphia, found multiple resources online and on the museum site that gave her the history of the Bone Wars, information on the exhibits she saw, and the scientific names of the dinosaurs she was inspired by. She also used the Library of Congress’ website, which offers digital collections and links to the Library of Congress Newspaper Collection.

Malia is a fan of searching for additional resources and citable documents with Google Scholar. “If I find that a secondary source mentions a newspaper article, I’m going to go to the original newspaper article, instead of just stopping there and quoting,” she says.

Your local public library is a great source of free information, journals, and databases (even ones that generally require a subscription and include embargoed research). For example, your search should include everything from health databases (Sage Journals, Scopus, PubMed) to databases for academic sources and journalism (American Periodical Series Online, Statista, Academic Search Premier) and databases for news, trends, market research, and polls (the Harris Poll, Pew Research Center, Newsbank, ProPublica).

Even if you find a study or paper that you can’t access in one of those databases, consider reaching out to the study’s lead author or researcher. In many cases, they’re happy to discuss their work and may even share the study with you directly and offer to talk about their research.

Get a Good Filtering System

For journalist Paulette Perhach’s article on ADHD in The New York Times, she used Epic Research to see “dual team studies.” That's when two independent teams address the same topic or question, and ideally come to the same conclusions. She recommends locating research and experts via key associations for your topic. She also likes searching via Google Scholar but advises filtering it for studies and research in recent years to avoid using old data. She suggests keeping your links and research organized. “Always be ready to be peer-reviewed yourself,” Perhach says.

When you are looking for information for a story or project, you might be inclined to start with a regular Google search. But keep in mind that the internet is full of false information, and websites that look trustworthy can sometimes turn out to be businesses or companies with a vested interest in you taking their word as objective fact without additional scrutiny. Regardless of your writing project, unreliable or biased sources are a great way to torpedo your work—and any hope of future work.

For Accuracy, Go to the Government

Author Bobbi Rebell researched her book Launching Financial Grownups using the IRS’ website. “I might say that you can contribute a certain amount to a 401K, but it might be outdated because those numbers are always changing, and it’s important to be accurate,” she says. “AI and ChatGPT can be great for idea generation,” says Rebell, “but you have to be careful. If you are using an article someone was quoted in, you don’t know if they were misquoted or quoted out of context.”

If you use AI and ChatGPT for sourcing, you not only risk introducing errors, you risk introducing plagiarism—there is a reason OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, is being sued for downloading information from all those books.

Historically, the Loudest Isn’t the Best

Audrey Clare Farley, who writes historical nonfiction, has used a plethora of sites for historical research, including Women Also Know History, which allows searches by expertise or area of study, and JSTOR, a digital library database that offers a number of free downloads a month. She also uses Chronicling America, a project from the Library of Congress which gathers old newspapers to show how a historical event was reported, and Newspapers.com (which you can access via free trial but requires a subscription after seven days).

When it comes to finding experts, Farley cautions against choosing the loudest voices on social media platforms. “They might not necessarily be the most authoritative. I vet them by checking if they have a history of publication on the topic, and/or educational credentials.”

When vetting an expert, look for these red flags:

You can’t find their work published or cited anywhere.

They were published in an obscure journal.

Their research is funded by a company, not a university, or they are the spokesperson for the company they are doing research for. (This makes them a public relations vehicle and not an appropriate source for journalism.)

And finally, the best endings for virtually any writing, whether it’s an essay, a research paper, an academic report, or a piece of investigative journalism, circle back to the beginning of the piece, and show your reader the transformation or the journey the piece has presented in perspective.

As always, your goal should be strong writing supported by research that makes an impact without cutting corners. Only then can you explore tools that might make the job a little easier, for instance by generating subheads or discovering a concept you might be missing—because then you'll have the experience and skills to see whether it's harming or helping your work.

[quandaryqueen]

i am once again asking for more pre-riddler gotham edward shbdkadjbyw

mayhaps (pre-riddler) gotham edward with a future s/o who's an excellent sketch artist for the gcpd? like even with the vaguest of details they can get, they can draw an accurate likeness of a suspect most of the time? they would totally have a bunch of sketches of other people, of officers and ed too-

Pencil work

Gotham Edward Nygma X Reader

Pre-Riddler Edward is always a treat uwu I actually prefer him than the Riddler!

"This is Y/N L/N, they're gonna need some details about the man who assaulted you."

Edward watches as Detective Gordon gestures at you by his side in front of a poor woman— who had been minding her business in a typical day walking on her way to work, when she was pushed by a passerby at the side of the road, almost getting herself ran over. Just an average day in Gotham, something someone should shrug off after spewing a few profanities before resuming, but James Gordon happened to stumble upon the scene and brought the woman back to the precinct.

You stood ready with a sketch pad and pencil in your hands, nodding attentively as the woman began to detail the appearance of her assailant. The way your face tense from the concentration, softening when you turn back to ask for clarifications, before returning to a concentrated gaze. Edward wasn't aware he was blocking the path as he stood at awe at the sight of you at work.

You weren't called in all that much, at least, not at the rate he was also called in but it was always a sight to behold. That, or he is kept occupied with forensics. Mostly cooped up in your little space, sketching away. He only knew that because he always had the excuse to walk behind you, look over your shoulder, before pretending he wanted to tell a riddle to the nearest officer who happen to be beside you.

"Is this your man?" Detective Gordon shows the woman your sketchbook. It wasn't as detailed as your typical works, but it is just a quick sketch.

The woman nodded and was excused, leaving Gordon to work with the analysis to run the assailant's face through police database. And just like that, you were retreating back to your desk.

"A-ah, Mx. L/N!" Edward did not have the train of thought which consists of him going back and fourth between approaching you or not, as your name rolls from his tongue without much of a thought process.

He didn't expect you to glance back. Shit. You have never talked before and this is the first time you're interacting. He doesn't even know why he called you... Now what?

"G-great work! By the way! Hah... Um..." He scratches the back of his neck.

"Thank you! I try my best!" You smiled.

He returns your smile with his signature Muppet smile, before he retreats to his usual stomping grounds in a hurry, his face set ablaze... Somehow, he has the feeling of wanting to do that again.

~•~

Nothing could go wrong with an idle sketch while you wait for someone to call you on the scene for your expertise and it was the perfect way to pass time, other than being trapped in an endless scroll. The carbon tip hovering atop the paper, you lazily scan your surroundings for an inspiration. There was the beloved coffee machine, next to an office plant, near the forensics lab, where Edward Nygma exitted—

Edward Nygma... The funny fella from yesterday, ye? Definitely a cute guy... Black hair, always neatly combed to the sides, not a strand sticking out, brown eyes behind black framed square glasses, lips always stretched to a Muppet smile. You regret letting him go yesterday, internally punching yourself for not being that much of a conversationalist.

You never really talked to the guy all that much, only exchanging small talk, greeting when you bumped to each other before resuming to your day. When you do get to work with him, it would be brief that you don't really get to interact with him at all. There was a time Detective Bullock was bad mouthing Edward when you were on the scene, turning to you to nonchalantly express his annoyance for the bespectacled man when he made his way to the scene. You kept quiet, not wanting to cause a rift with your co-workers, but you had a way of letting the detective know you don't like the way he talks about Edward... So much for not wanting to cause a rift...

He looked particularly eager making his way forward, his eyes lit up and pace quickening. You watch him pass by your table and pretended as though you weren't just staring at him. By doing this, your eyes landed at the end of your pencil, the carbon tip filling out spaces to Edward's coat and—

How the fuck—

You were shocked at yourself as well, eyes wide at the sight of the absentminded sketch before you— a figure of Edward Nygma, though rough in terms of shape, you were a little concerns about how mu h details you were able to jot down from such a distance. Closing your sketchbook, you take your palms and press it against your heated face, fingers pulling down your cheeks before you slammed your head against your table. Stupid brain chemicals.

You just hoped Edward didn't see it... But on the contrary—

Edward was shocked when he spotted an unmistakable figure of himself on your paper, getting a good sight of it all when you closed your sketchbook and slam your head against your desk, all the while, repeatedly banging your head on the surface lightly. Well, that couldn't be good for the noggin and before you can cause great damage on your cortex, he taps your shoulder.

"That was a marvelous drawing!"

Your stomach dropped and eyes widened, a reaction Edward caused with his thoughtless statement that he had yet again, had zero thought process behind it. Oh no, you don't think of him as a creep now do you? Justified and understandable...

"I'm so sorry." You blurted out in the midst of the mess in your mind. Oh my fucking god this is so embarrassing, I wish I can crawl under a rock and die.

Edward blinks owlishly. "Uh... Why?"

"Um... For sketching you?" For being an absolute leering creep???

"Nonsense! I'm quite flattered!" And besides if anyone should be sorry, it's him, he's the leering creep. "All those details in such a short time! I don't know about you, but most of the time, you're the one who makes the process of capturing the baddies faster. Putting a face to the assailant! Then it would be more easier to get more information like the name, age, where, when, why, how— how long have you been sketching?"

Be still my beating heart... You held a hand to your chest, maintaining a tense smile as the feeling of wanting to be swallowed by the ground subsides as it was beginning to be replaced by flattery.

"Um... Thank you... I mean... Since I was young? It was a hobby at first, then I got into this... Um... Job and I guess I'm a professional now."

"May I see?" Edward could barely contain his excitement as he gestured at the sketch book on your desk.

For a moment, hesitance took over, but you eventually got over it and flipped through the pages, landing on the recent page, before handing it to Edward. His eyes were wide with wonder as he admired the pencil work, his eyes softening at how much details you incorporated in your drawing, a smile gracing his features.

"Wonderful..." It slips pass his lips, his finger softly stroking the material of the pad.

"You can look over the previous pages if you want."

"Really?" He glanced at you, eyes glimmering with excitement.

"Go ahead." Although you were a little shy, you allowed him to close your sketchbook and go to the very first page.

You saw the advantage of prolonging the conversation further and took the chance. For so long you've wanted to approach him, as he seemed fun, but you never really had the courage to speak with him in a casual manner. Who knows? Maybe a foundation of a bond can be forged through this.

[stargazer-dreamer]

Erratum Discussions

character: spike spiegel

reader: gender neutral

content warnings: implied/referenced self-harm. intrusive thoughts. inability to move on (from past relationships)

notes: also on ao3. 1k+ word count. “spike centric” in a way that’s more about spike and less about the reader

Page after page, it’s hard to move on. It’s hard to find out who you are, and what you are, and why you are, and where you are, and—

Spike tries. He tries so hard. Page after page.

---

He likes to read, occasionally. It’s no good to train only the body, after all.

Not every bookstore was the same—big or small, cluttered or pristine—but there was something about that particular one, the one that sold them used, located down in the asteroid belt, that he found himself traveling to more often than not, when he found the need for something new.

If he were an honest man, he would wager that it would be more accurate to say that his visitations were for a particular person and not the selection in which they sold. Paperbacks, worn and pre-thumbed, with the corners bent, and notes scribbled in the margins—he had no part in any of that. No; while it was true that Spike enjoyed a good book here and there, he could not possibly work through the text at the rate he was buying them.

He is not an honest man. He would walk in, nonchalant, and browse the selection. After a while, scanning the shelves, he would end up near you; he’d strike up a harmless conversation—“Have you read this one?” “Does this sound interesting to you?” And, well, he couldn’t just leave empty-handed, right? His nightstand became cluttered, and the coffee table grew unusable. The bridge, the workshop, the glove compartment in Swordfish. He bought a bookshelf.

“I get good recommendations when I go there,” he argued, trying to be nonchalant about it when Jet had figured it out.

They were a poor choice of words, Spike realized, when his partner said: “Sure,” with an amused smile playing along his lips; humor and warmth dripping thick in his voice. “Book recommendations. I understand, Spike—that’s your business.”

“No, really,” he suddenly felt like a school-child; the overwhelming urge to defend himself, violently. And it would be a while longer yet for him to fully understand exactly why he was feeling this way, but—“Books. I go there for books, Jet. Books. Why else would I go to a bookstore?”

“Yes, I get it,” Jet still looked at him in a way that pissed him off. “Books.”

Despite the teasing remarks, Spike held firm in his stance. He even believed it himself, for a time. There could not possibly be any other feasible explanation as to why he kept coming back to this specific location, on this small of a settlement, so far out and away from their usual haunts, than the particular selection they held.

Not so soon after his previous relationship. Not when his heart still beated for her. Not when she still appeared in his sweetest dreams. No, this could not be that, especially when he did not know you and you did not know him. Strangers—less than so. You only spoke to him pleasantly because it was your job, and it was his own disillusioned mind that saw it as anything more.

So, he stopped going. He worked through a stack or two of paperbacks, crumpled and tattered. Life resumed as usual.

But he missed chatting with you. After your attention was on him, he would ease the conversation out of the confines of the small store—“Life treating you well?” “You ever worked out your situation?” And the two of you would talk; minutes, sometimes up to an hour, the clock ticking away until the old manager would come out from the backroom and tell you to get back to work. 

There wasn’t much work to do, you had told him, after the manager would hobble back out—probably off to go play solitaire on his outdated computer—and it would be just the two of you, once more. Update the database, tidy up the shop. Foot traffic was slow, most days. You would rather be talking to him, you had said, once, offhand.

Perhaps you were simply indulging him. Maybe he was too friendly. All the more reason to stay away. He didn’t want to appear as a creep. He didn’t want to appear desperate.

Not after her. Not after he couldn’t stay away.

Jet seemed to pick up on the lack of asteroid belt-related trips. Before, Spike would find a multitude of excuses to go. Now, he came up with reasons to avoid it entirely.

“There’s nothing there,” he would say, deliberately avoiding his partner’s eyes. “Not even any good bars—hey, why don’t we hit some bounties? We could use the extra money.”

But that pocket change used to go towards his collection of books. After amenities and necessities, he would spare some for the trip he would inevitably take; paperbacks in the back of his mind and you at the forefront. Always.

It slowly dawned on him that he didn’t have many hobbies, outside of that. He would drink, he would smoke, go out and play pool. He didn’t know if he even liked reading, if he were being completely honest. It was just something that he’d always done, after they taught him how. Something that they said he was good at. A good hobby. Enriching. Enlightening.

She had even appraised his collection, that first night she came over. Spike wondered—if he went back, would that apartment be empty? Those shelves he had spent years filling; text after text, ripped to shreds, left to cover a landfill—or did they preserve it? Collecting dust and bad memories, waiting, and waiting, and waiting.

Waiting for what?

He looked at his room aboard Bebop and found it mostly empty; his closet, his bed. Not much had changed, except the fact that everything had changed. He looked at his bookcase. He wondered if you would praise it, just like she did. Or would you look at it with disgust? Would you scan the titles and recognize every letter—every stain and scuff—and tell him he was a freak? To stay away from you. To never speak to you again.

Spike closed his eyes and stared into the abyss. He came out on the other side and saw only himself. Like looking at a mirror. He wanted to shatter it; to throw it against the wall and watch the splinters crack his reflection—he wanted to grab the shards and watch him tear himself to shreds. Hundreds, thousands of pieces, so broken and battered that no one could ever dream of repairing it ever again. To see his hands wet with it, to hold it tighter, to stop waiting around and finally finish the job himself.

Kicking, and screaming, and dry-heaving, Spike wanted. He wanted—

He didn’t know what he wanted. Perhaps he never did, at all. A man, with his two own eyes, sitting there on the piano bench; sitting, and reading, and waiting, and wanting, and singing—grab a glass because there’s going to be a flood!

Spike knew one thing for sure: he was always good at reading. So, he read. He worked through a stack. Then another. Life resumed like normal. Bullets, and blood, and books, and blue.

He thought of her. He thought of taking her home, to his apartment too big for him, and her looking at his shelves, all in a neat little line, backs against the walls, in every room. With bated breath, he would watch her. He imagined her eyes, wide with disgust and blue, and she’d turn to him and say, “Freak. You’re such a freak.” And that would be that. Finally.

He thought of you. He thought of you and he thought of you and he thought of you and he thought of you and he thought of you and he thought of you and he thought of you and he—

And he wanted.

No, Spike is not an honest man. He never has been. But he likes to read, occasionally. It’s no good to train only the body, after all.

[anishmary]

In the subject of data analytics, this is the most important concept that everyone needs to understand. The capacity to draw insightful conclusions from data is a highly sought-after talent in today's data-driven environment. In this process, data analytics is essential because it gives businesses the competitive edge by enabling them to find hidden patterns, make informed decisions, and acquire insight. This thorough guide will take you step-by-step through the fundamentals of data analytics, whether you're a business professional trying to improve your decision-making or a data enthusiast eager to explore the world of analytics.

Step 1: Data Collection - Building the Foundation

Identify Data Sources: Begin by pinpointing the relevant sources of data, which could include databases, surveys, web scraping, or IoT devices, aligning them with your analysis objectives. Define Clear Objectives: Clearly articulate the goals and objectives of your analysis to ensure that the collected data serves a specific purpose. Include Structured and Unstructured Data: Collect both structured data, such as databases and spreadsheets, and unstructured data like text documents or images to gain a comprehensive view. Establish Data Collection Protocols: Develop protocols and procedures for data collection to maintain consistency and reliability. Ensure Data Quality and Integrity: Implement measures to ensure the quality and integrity of your data throughout the collection process.

Step 2: Data Cleaning and Preprocessing - Purifying the Raw Material

Handle Missing Values: Address missing data through techniques like imputation to ensure your dataset is complete. Remove Duplicates: Identify and eliminate duplicate entries to maintain data accuracy. Address Outliers: Detect and manage outliers using statistical methods to prevent them from skewing your analysis. Standardize and Normalize Data: Bring data to a common scale, making it easier to compare and analyze. Ensure Data Integrity: Ensure that data remains accurate and consistent during the cleaning and preprocessing phase.

Step 3: Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA) - Understanding the Data

Visualize Data with Histograms, Scatter Plots, etc.: Use visualization tools like histograms, scatter plots, and box plots to gain insights into data distributions and patterns. Calculate Summary Statistics: Compute summary statistics such as means, medians, and standard deviations to understand central tendencies. Identify Patterns and Trends: Uncover underlying patterns, trends, or anomalies that can inform subsequent analysis. Explore Relationships Between Variables: Investigate correlations and dependencies between variables to inform hypothesis testing. Guide Subsequent Analysis Steps: The insights gained from EDA serve as a foundation for guiding the remainder of your analytical journey.

Step 4: Data Transformation - Shaping the Data for Analysis

Aggregate Data (e.g., Averages, Sums): Aggregate data points to create higher-level summaries, such as calculating averages or sums. Create New Features: Generate new features or variables that provide additional context or insights. Encode Categorical Variables: Convert categorical variables into numerical representations to make them compatible with analytical techniques. Maintain Data Relevance: Ensure that data transformations align with your analysis objectives and domain knowledge.

Step 5: Statistical Analysis - Quantifying Relationships

Hypothesis Testing: Conduct hypothesis tests to determine the significance of relationships or differences within the data. Correlation Analysis: Measure correlations between variables to identify how they are related. Regression Analysis: Apply regression techniques to model and predict relationships between variables. Descriptive Statistics: Employ descriptive statistics to summarize data and provide context for your analysis. Inferential Statistics: Make inferences about populations based on sample data to draw meaningful conclusions.

Step 6: Machine Learning - Predictive Analytics

Algorithm Selection: Choose suitable machine learning algorithms based on your analysis goals and data characteristics. Model Training: Train machine learning models using historical data to learn patterns. Validation and Testing: Evaluate model performance using validation and testing datasets to ensure reliability. Prediction and Classification: Apply trained models to make predictions or classify new data. Model Interpretation: Understand and interpret machine learning model outputs to extract insights.

Step 7: Data Visualization - Communicating Insights

Chart and Graph Creation: Create various types of charts, graphs, and visualizations to represent data effectively. Dashboard Development: Build interactive dashboards to provide stakeholders with dynamic views of insights. Visual Storytelling: Use data visualization to tell a compelling and coherent story that communicates findings clearly. Audience Consideration: Tailor visualizations to suit the needs of both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Enhance Decision-Making: Visualization aids decision-makers in understanding complex data and making informed choices.

Step 8: Data Interpretation - Drawing Conclusions and Recommendations

Recommendations: Provide actionable recommendations based on your conclusions and their implications. Stakeholder Communication: Communicate analysis results effectively to decision-makers and stakeholders. Domain Expertise: Apply domain knowledge to ensure that conclusions align with the context of the problem.

Step 9: Continuous Improvement - The Iterative Process

Monitoring Outcomes: Continuously monitor the real-world outcomes of your decisions and predictions. Model Refinement: Adapt and refine models based on new data and changing circumstances. Iterative Analysis: Embrace an iterative approach to data analysis to maintain relevance and effectiveness. Feedback Loop: Incorporate feedback from stakeholders and users to improve analytical processes and models.

Step 10: Ethical Considerations - Data Integrity and Responsibility

Data Privacy: Ensure that data handling respects individuals' privacy rights and complies with data protection regulations. Bias Detection and Mitigation: Identify and mitigate bias in data and algorithms to ensure fairness. Fairness: Strive for fairness and equitable outcomes in decision-making processes influenced by data. Ethical Guidelines: Adhere to ethical and legal guidelines in all aspects of data analytics to maintain trust and credibility.

Data analytics is an exciting and profitable field that enables people and companies to use data to make wise decisions. You'll be prepared to start your data analytics journey by understanding the fundamentals described in this guide. To become a skilled data analyst, keep in mind that practice and ongoing learning are essential. If you need help implementing data analytics in your organization or if you want to learn more, you should consult professionals or sign up for specialized courses. The ACTE Institute offers comprehensive data analytics training courses that can provide you the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this field, along with job placement and certification. So put on your work boots, investigate the resources, and begin transforming.

[accountsend]

Optimizing B2B Contact Databases: Strategies for Better Targeting

Article by Jonathan Bomser | CEO | AccountSend.com

As a B2B business, your contact database is one of the most valuable assets you have. It enables targeted sales outreach, precision marketing, and effective lead generation, thus driving sales and growth. In this article, we will explore seven key strategies for enhancing your B2B contact database for superior targeting. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly enhance your targeting, boost conversions, and drive business growth.

DOWNLOAD THE B2B CONTACT DATABASES INFOGRAPHIC HERE

Regularly Cleanse and Update Your Database

A clean and updated B2B contact database is essential for effective sales prospecting and business development. Regularly purge outdated information, remove duplicates, and update existing contact data to maintain accuracy. CRM integration can automate this process, ensuring your database remains current and reliable. By keeping your database clean and up-to-date, you can ensure that your sales and marketing efforts are based on accurate and relevant information.

Segment Your Contact Database

Segmentation is a powerful tool for B2B lead generation and sales prospecting. It involves categorizing your database into distinct groups based on shared characteristics, such as industry type, company size, or role. This facilitates personalized communication, enhancing engagement and conversion rates. By segmenting your contact database, you can tailor your messaging and content to specific audience segments, increasing the relevance and effectiveness of your communication.

Implement a Lead Scoring System

Lead scoring is a crucial aspect of B2B lead generation and sales funnel optimization. It assigns value to each contact based on their potential to convert into a customer. It helps prioritize your outreach, ensuring you focus on high-value leads, which can lead to improved sales opportunities. By implementing a lead scoring system, you can allocate your resources effectively and focus on the leads that are most likely to result in conversions.

Embrace Account-Based Marketing (ABM)

Account-Based Marketing (ABM) is a highly effective B2B marketing strategy that targets specific high-value accounts with customized campaigns. Integrating ABM with your B2B contact database ensures a highly tailored approach, enhancing your chances of winning over key accounts. By aligning your marketing and sales efforts with the specific needs and preferences of target accounts, you can increase engagement and drive business growth.

Leverage Data Analysis

Data analysis is a powerful tool for B2B lead generation and sales prospecting. It helps you uncover invaluable insights into your contacts' behavior and preferences, guiding your marketing and sales strategy. By analyzing data from your B2B contact database, you can make data-driven decisions and optimize your targeting efforts. You can also use data analysis to identify emerging markets and stay ahead of the competition.

Utilize AI for Enhanced Database Management

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the way B2B businesses manage their contact databases. AI-powered systems can automate tasks like data cleansing, lead scoring, and market segmentation, leaving your team free to focus on creating effective sales and marketing strategies. By leveraging AI technology, you can improve the efficiency and accuracy of your database management processes, saving time and resources.

Adopt a Continuous Improvement Approach

Data management is not a one-time activity. Consistently review your strategies and update them based on performance data and evolving market trends. This will keep your database agile and ensure your targeting remains effective. By continuously improving your B2B contact database and refining your targeting strategies, you can stay ahead of the competition and drive ongoing business growth.

In summary, optimizing your B2B contact database involves regular updates, effective segmentation, lead scoring, ABM, data analysis, AI integration, and a continuous improvement mindset. These strategies, when implemented correctly, can significantly enhance your targeting, boost conversions, and drive business growth. By leveraging the power of a well-optimized B2B contact database, you can unlock the full potential of your sales and marketing efforts.

[tobiasdrake]

We have taken control of the Sky Base. Now. Uh. Now what do we do with it?

I promised I'd let you guys try and figure out a way to turn the climate regulators back on but I gotta be honest, I am itching to start breaking things.

I will try to be patient but I don't know how much time I can promise.

Would it help if I rammed my staff through the console? I've been told that sometimes that turns machines off for some reason.

It looks like there's a slidey lever on the side here. Maybe it's, like, the Cloud Cover Lever and all we need to do is slide it do--

Serai: *swats hand*

But how are we supposed to know what it does if we don't pull it?

It's sounding more and more like wanton vandalism is going to be our best option.

We could, and I'm just spitballing here, but we could take the speedball back to the ship and grab Yolande. She's an endless barrel of explosives. I'm sure she can make enough bombs to turn this entire facility into the brightest fireworks display your world has ever seen.

Okay, but you came out of the Catalyst so if I don't like what I hear, Zale and I are taking you out into the hall to play kickball. It will buy the smart people more time to figure out a way to crack security.

It was mentioned that the Catalyst overtook the existing AI that was controlling the climate regulator. I guess this is them.

...

Well, you blew it. Come with me, Kickball.

Yeah. We know. We just found that out the hard way. Are you actually useful for anything? Because my patience is running thin.

TEAKS DID YOU JUST MAGIC BOOK THEIR ENTIRE DATABASE I WILL KISS YOU ON THE MOUTH HAHAHAHAHAHA

Okay, I guess Kickball was useful for something! What have we got? Anything we can use to disable and/or explode the station? Gimme gimme gimme.

That's hurtful, Cedric. Accurate, but hurtful.

Setting my own ego aside for a moment, there are exactly three people I consider to be super mega ultra smart and they're all in this room right now. Where are we supposed to find--

Those are children, Zale. Don't be stupid.

Centuries-old immortal children.

Centuries-old immortal child engineers.

...

...

...

Oh, shit. GUYS. I JUST THOUGHT OF SOMETHING. What about Cael at the Clockwork Castle!? He and his team are brilliant. You remember that shit they made for the Eclipse!? They could crack this in no time!

They can't leave the castle without instantly decaying into vapor, so I guess Kickball's coming with us. But don't. Do. Things. Your one and only remaining function is terrible and you're not allowed to ever use it, under penalty of finding out how fragile that orange glass bit truly is. That's the rule.

I suppose it's time to return to our own world. To the Clockwork Castle, to take care of some very important business.

YES, now Repine can discover the joys of intense gambling addiction. My hobby is spreading like a virus.

...oh, I guess we should also go chat up the kids while we're here, huh?

He'd understand. Thank you.

Listen, we have something very important to talk to you about so please try to focus and don't get distracted by the impossibly cool cyborg.

...or the soul-infused golem made from the mythical Living Glass.

...or the animate puppet infused with godly magic....

...

You know what? Zale and I will find something to busy ourselves with for about a day while y'all nerd out and then we can come back to this.

O.O TEAKS WHAT

...

OKAY. I. Thought. You'd be more protective of your magic journal than that.

...

Good on you for pragmatism!

I mean, most of the people I would consider "friends" are either part of our crew or part of the Vespertine crew. But I would like to take some time to recap what's happened for Garl.

And maybe spend some time pounding on TIA's door. Fucker thinks he can just portal away from me? I know where you live, asshole, and I can crank the obnoxiousness up to 11 on a dime. He is going to share his feelings and talk things through or so help me.

I foresee great things happening with those secrets in these hands. I eagerly anticipate what they'll create.

[hadone]

COMEMİXGO - MEGA+

In today's fast-paced business environment, connecting with the right partners or clients can be a game-changer. Introducing ComeMixGo, an innovative online company directory designed to streamline your search for businesses across the UK and USA. Whether you're looking for industry leaders or niche startups, ComeMixGo’s comprehensive database offers intuitive navigation and robust filtering options to meet your specific needs. With our user-friendly platform, you can easily explore a multitude of companies, access vital information, and forge valuable connections. 

UK Company Directory

The UK company directory is an essential tool for businesses and consumers alike, providing a comprehensive database of registered companies across the United Kingdom. This directory helps individuals and organizations easily find information about various companies, including their contact details, services, and operational statuses.

Key features of the UK company directory include:

Search Functionality: Users can easily search for companies by name, industry, or location, making it convenient to find specific businesses.

Company Information: Detailed profiles typically include company registration numbers, addresses, key personnel, and financial summaries.

Industry Classification: Companies are often categorized by industry, providing users with insights into market trends and competitive landscapes.

Verification Services: It ensures that the information listed is accurate and up-to-date, helping to build trust among users.

In addition to individual searches, the UK company directory supports larger-scale inquiries for market analysis, competitor research, and potential partnership exploration. Such resources are invaluable for both new startups and established firms looking to expand their networks.

Utilizing the UK company directory can streamline business operations, enhance marketing strategies, and drive informed decision-making across various sectors.

USA Company Directory

The USA company directory serves as a comprehensive resource for businesses looking to connect with various sectors across the United States. This directory is essential for anyone seeking to enhance their networking opportunities, find potential clients, or research competitors in the American market.

Many online company directories offer various features that make it easy for users to browse, search, and filter companies based on specific criteria. Some of these criteria include industry type, location, company size, and revenue, making it easier for businesses to find the exact contacts or services they need.

When utilizing a USA company directory, users can benefit from the following:

Accessibility: Most directories are available online, allowing users to access information from anywhere at any time.

Detailed Listings: Company profiles typically include essential information such as contact details, website links, and descriptions of services or products offered.

Search Functions: Advanced search capabilities enable users to narrow down results to find the most relevant companies quickly.

User Reviews: Many directories include reviews and ratings, giving insights into the company’s reputation and customer service.

In today’s digital age, leveraging the USA company directory can give businesses a competitive edge by facilitating better connections and enabling comprehensive market research. This is particularly important for those looking to expand their reach or establish partnerships across different states and industries.

As part of a larger global business strategy, combining resources from both the USA company directory and the UK company directory can provide robust opportunities for international collaboration and growth.

Company Directory

A company directory is an essential tool for businesses and consumers alike. It serves as a comprehensive list that allows individuals to easily find and connect with various enterprises across different regions, including the UK and USA. Utilizing a well-organized company directory can enhance networking opportunities, making it simpler for businesses to thrive in competitive markets.

One of the primary benefits of a company directory is the accessibility it provides to contact information, services offered, and company backgrounds. This information is invaluable for potential clients and partners looking to establish professional relationships. Additionally, the directory can promote businesses to a wider audience, increasing visibility and fostering growth.

In the context of both the UK company directory and the USA company directory, these platforms often include filters that allow users to search based on specific criteria, such as location or industry. This tailored approach enhances the user experience, ensuring that individuals can quickly find the relevant companies to meet their needs.

Moreover, an online company directory allows for real-time updates, ensuring that information remains accurate and current. This is crucial for maintaining professional relationships and ensuring smooth communication. Businesses listed in an online directory can also benefit from SEO advantages, as their websites are often linked directly from the directory pages, improving their search engine rankings.

Overall, a well-maintained company directory not only aids in quick information retrieval but also acts as a catalyst for economic interactions, benefiting both consumers and businesses in various sectors.

Online Company Directory

An online company directory serves as a comprehensive platform that enables users to easily search for and access information about businesses across various sectors. With the increasing need for digital resources, online directories have become essential for both consumers and businesses alike.

One of the key advantages of utilizing an online company directory is its ability to provide extensive details about companies, including their contact information, location, services offered, and even customer reviews. This readily available data assists users in making informed choices, whether they are seeking to partner with a firm or find a reliable supplier.

Furthermore, an online company directory typically categorizes businesses by industry, making it simpler for users to find a specific company, such as those listed in a UK company directory or a USA company directory. This not only enhances user experience but also boosts the visibility of businesses during online searches.

For businesses, being featured in an online directory can significantly increase their reach and visibility. It provides an opportunity to connect with potential customers who are actively searching for specific products or services online. In this digital age, maintaining a presence in an online company directory is crucial for growth and customer acquisition.

In summary, an online company directory is a vital resource that bridges the gap between businesses and consumers. Whether you're exploring a company directory for products or services in the UK or the USA, such platforms are invaluable for efficient and effective business interactions.

[avaalin]

Transportation Management System 

Navigating Efficiency: The Benefits of a Transport Management System (TMS)

In an increasingly globalized and fast-paced world, effective transportation is key to business success. Companies are constantly seeking ways to streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve service quality. Enter the Transport Management System (TMS)—a software solution designed to optimize transportation logistics. We’ll explore what a TMS is, how it benefits businesses, and why investing in a TMS might be one of the smartest moves you make for your supply chain.

What is a Transport Management System?

A Transport Management System (TMS) is a specialized software solution used to plan, execute, and optimize the movement of goods. It provides a comprehensive platform to manage transportation processes, including route planning, carrier management, shipment tracking, and freight payment. By integrating with other supply chain systems, a TMS offers a centralized hub for managing logistics operations and improving overall efficiency.

Key Features of a TMS

 Route Optimization:

The features of a TMS are its ability to optimize routes. By analyzing factors such as traffic conditions, weather, and delivery windows, a TMS helps businesses select the most efficient routes, reducing transportation costs and delivery times.

Carrier Management:

A TMS simplifies the process of selecting and managing carriers. It provides access to a database of carriers, allows for rate comparisons, and facilitates carrier negotiations. This feature ensures that businesses can choose the best carriers based on cost, service quality, and performance metrics.

 Real-Time Tracking:

With real-time tracking capabilities, a TMS allows businesses to monitor shipments as they move through the supply chain. This visibility helps in proactively addressing any issues that arise, such as delays or disruptions, and provides customers with accurate delivery estimates.

Freight Audit and Payment:

A TMS automates the freight audit and payment process, ensuring that invoices are accurate, and payments are processed efficiently. This helps in identifying discrepancies, reducing billing errors, and managing transportation costs effectively.

Reporting and Analytics:

Advanced reporting and analytics tools within a TMS provide valuable insights into transportation performance. Businesses can analyze key metrics such as delivery times, costs, and carrier performance to make data-driven decisions and improve operational efficiency.

 Benefits of Implementing a TMS

Cost Reduction:

A TMS helps businesses reduce transportation costs through route optimization, carrier management, and efficient freight auditing. By streamlining these processes, companies can achieve significant savings on fuel, labor, and other transportation-related expenses.

Improved Efficiency:

By automating routine tasks and providing real-time visibility, a TMS enhances operational efficiency. Businesses can reduce manual paperwork, minimize errors, and speed up the decision-making process, leading to smoother and more efficient logistics operations.

Enhanced Customer Service:

With real-time tracking and accurate delivery estimates, a TMS improves customer satisfaction. Customers can receive timely updates on their shipments, leading to greater transparency and trust in the delivery process.

Better Decision-Making:

The data and insights provided by a TMS enable businesses to make informed decisions. Analyzing transportation performance and cost data helps in identifying areas for improvement, optimizing supply chain strategies, and enhancing overall operational performance.

Scalability and Flexibility:

A TMS is designed to scale with your business. Whether you’re expanding operations, adding new transportation modes, or entering new markets, a TMS can adapt to changing needs and support growth.

 Choose Right TMS of Your Business

When selecting a TMS, it’s important to consider your specific needs and objectives. Look for a system that aligns with your business size, industry requirements, and budget. Key factors to evaluate include ease of integration with existing systems, user-friendliness, customer support, and the scalability of the solution.

The Future of TMS

As technology continues to evolve, the future of TMS is bright. Innovations such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain are set to further enhance the capabilities of TMS. These advancements promise to offer even greater efficiency, accuracy, and security in transportation management.

Conclusion

A Transport Management System (TMS) is a powerful tool that can transform transportation logistics, delivering substantial benefits in terms of cost savings, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. By leveraging the advanced features and capabilities of a TMS, businesses can navigate the complexities of modern supply chains with greater ease and confidence. Investing in a TMS is not just about keeping up with industry trends it's about staying ahead and achieving operational excellence in a competitive market.

[racefortheironthrone]

Are you familiar with Peter Turchin’s work and if so, what are your thoughts? Is he considered a serious historian?

After researching this guy’s bio for a bit, I can say that he’s not a historian - his PhD seems to be in Zoology - and this whole cliodynamics business seems to be a discipline that he invented in a brazen act of academic columbusing/academic imperialism. Historians do not consider him a serious historian, and nor do I.

The problem with Turchin’s entire academic project is twofold: first, there is not enough data to do the kind of precision mathematical modeling that he purports to do. When it comes to pre-modern history, there are huge swathes of time and space and human experience for which we do not have records, either because the records didn’t survive to the present, literacy rates weren’t high enough to produce the desired types and levels of records, or the literate classes simply didn’t consider worthy of being written down. When it comes to modern history, things are a bit better because modern societies tend to produce written records at an incomprehensible volume, but here the problem is that the sheer mass of records plus certain specialized problems in library sciences that are too complicated to go into in this post (but I’ll explain if someone asks me) means that only a tiny fraction of these records are digitized, let alone digitized in a way that they can then be put into a database and modeled upon. As my old professor Eric Foner put it during new major orientation: “the difference between ancient history and modern history is that in ancient history you know all your sources but there aren’t any, and in modern history there are tons of sources but you don’t know them.”

Second, even if there was enough data, trying to accurately and meaningfully model all of human history is a futile endeavor. This is something that we discuss in introductory theory courses - the complex interplay of historical forces and individual agency/contingency, the literally infinite number of factors that influence human society and behavior, and so on. The historiography of ideas is littered with failed attempts to construct total theories of history - the Hegelians, the Marxists, the objectivists (which isn’t the same thing as Randian Objectivism, it’s complicated and I’ll explain in another post if anyone really wants to know), huge swathes of sociology but especially the structuralists, significant swathes of political science and psychology, and oh my god so many economists. It’s pretty much a cliche at this point for social scientists to say they were inspired to become social scientists by childhood dreams of becoming a psychohistorian like Hari Seldon. The problem is that psychohistory is science fiction, it’s not real, and it can’t be real because humans are too damn complex and contradictory. It is a massive red flag that Turchin has explicitly compared cliodynamics to psychohistory; it’s like when some Silicon Valley disruptor starts talking about how their latest project was inspired by their favorite sci-fi series.

So yeah, this guy seems like a total quack.

[elsa16744]

Harnessing the Power of Data Engineering for Modern Enterprises

In the contemporary business landscape, data has emerged as the lifeblood of organizations, fueling innovation, strategic decision-making, and operational efficiency. As businesses generate and collect vast amounts of data, the need for robust data engineering services has become more critical than ever. SG Analytics offers comprehensive data engineering solutions designed to transform raw data into actionable insights, driving business growth and success.

The Importance of Data Engineering

Data engineering is the foundational process that involves designing, building, and managing the infrastructure required to collect, store, and analyze data. It is the backbone of any data-driven enterprise, ensuring that data is clean, accurate, and accessible for analysis. In a world where businesses are inundated with data from various sources, data engineering plays a pivotal role in creating a streamlined and efficient data pipeline.

SG Analytics’ data engineering services are tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses across industries. By leveraging advanced technologies and methodologies, SG Analytics helps organizations build scalable data architectures that support real-time analytics and decision-making. Whether it’s cloud-based data warehouses, data lakes, or data integration platforms, SG Analytics provides end-to-end solutions that enable businesses to harness the full potential of their data.

Building a Robust Data Infrastructure

At the core of SG Analytics’ data engineering services is the ability to build robust data infrastructure that can handle the complexities of modern data environments. This includes the design and implementation of data pipelines that facilitate the smooth flow of data from source to destination. By automating data ingestion, transformation, and loading processes, SG Analytics ensures that data is readily available for analysis, reducing the time to insight.

One of the key challenges businesses face is dealing with the diverse formats and structures of data. SG Analytics excels in data integration, bringing together data from various sources such as databases, APIs, and third-party platforms. This unified approach to data management ensures that businesses have a single source of truth, enabling them to make informed decisions based on accurate and consistent data.

Leveraging Cloud Technologies for Scalability

As businesses grow, so does the volume of data they generate. Traditional on-premise data storage solutions often struggle to keep up with this exponential growth, leading to performance bottlenecks and increased costs. SG Analytics addresses this challenge by leveraging cloud technologies to build scalable data architectures.

Cloud-based data engineering solutions offer several advantages, including scalability, flexibility, and cost-efficiency. SG Analytics helps businesses migrate their data to the cloud, enabling them to scale their data infrastructure in line with their needs. Whether it’s setting up cloud data warehouses or implementing data lakes, SG Analytics ensures that businesses can store and process large volumes of data without compromising on performance.

Ensuring Data Quality and Governance

Inaccurate or incomplete data can lead to poor decision-making and costly mistakes. That’s why data quality and governance are critical components of SG Analytics’ data engineering services. By implementing data validation, cleansing, and enrichment processes, SG Analytics ensures that businesses have access to high-quality data that drives reliable insights.

Data governance is equally important, as it defines the policies and procedures for managing data throughout its lifecycle. SG Analytics helps businesses establish robust data governance frameworks that ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards. This includes data lineage tracking, access controls, and audit trails, all of which contribute to the security and integrity of data.

Enhancing Data Analytics with Natural Language Processing Services

In today’s data-driven world, businesses are increasingly turning to advanced analytics techniques to extract deeper insights from their data. One such technique is natural language processing (NLP), a branch of artificial intelligence that enables computers to understand, interpret, and generate human language.

SG Analytics offers cutting-edge natural language processing services as part of its data engineering portfolio. By integrating NLP into data pipelines, SG Analytics helps businesses analyze unstructured data, such as text, social media posts, and customer reviews, to uncover hidden patterns and trends. This capability is particularly valuable in industries like healthcare, finance, and retail, where understanding customer sentiment and behavior is crucial for success.

NLP services can be used to automate various tasks, such as sentiment analysis, topic modeling, and entity recognition. For example, a retail business can use NLP to analyze customer feedback and identify common complaints, allowing them to address issues proactively. Similarly, a financial institution can use NLP to analyze market trends and predict future movements, enabling them to make informed investment decisions.

By incorporating NLP into their data engineering services, SG Analytics empowers businesses to go beyond traditional data analysis and unlock the full potential of their data. Whether it’s extracting insights from vast amounts of text data or automating complex tasks, NLP services provide businesses with a competitive edge in the market.

Driving Business Success with Data Engineering

The ultimate goal of data engineering is to drive business success by enabling organizations to make data-driven decisions. SG Analytics’ data engineering services provide businesses with the tools and capabilities they need to achieve this goal. By building robust data infrastructure, ensuring data quality and governance, and leveraging advanced analytics techniques like NLP, SG Analytics helps businesses stay ahead of the competition.

In a rapidly evolving business landscape, the ability to harness the power of data is a key differentiator. With SG Analytics’ data engineering services, businesses can unlock new opportunities, optimize their operations, and achieve sustainable growth. Whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise, SG Analytics has the expertise and experience to help you navigate the complexities of data engineering and achieve your business objectives.

[bulkdatabaseindia]

Chennai Mobile Numbers Database

Learn about Chennai Mobile Numbers Database. Describe the key features of a Chennai Mobile Numbers database and application.

In the digital era we live in today, corporations and NGOs alike would greatly benefit from having a database of mobile phone numbers. This collection of contact information would also be crucial for marketers targeting specific customer segments so that they could enhance their marketing drive through personal information.

An organized mobile number database makes operations easier and enables growth in SMS campaigns, customer outreach, or data analysis. Competitive considerations necessitate being able to stay in touch with clients and customers competently throughout a fast, technology-dependent world through consistent supplies of accurate and updated contact information because people are increasingly using their phones.”

Chennai Mobile Numbers Database

The specific Android area phone data set is a directory of phone numbers belonging to Chennai city, and it frequently features additional data within its portals, including names, addresses, and e-mail addresses.

Employ founders unstructured for business organizations and companies that would like access to new clients inside Chennai, for instance, sales news or so on, and support services besides event advertising.

Key Features of a Chennai Mobile Numbers Database

Geographical Targeting: Address the Chennai region and, hence, local markets so that businesses can successfully target their customers.

Demographic Segmentation: Creating marketing campaigns that are personalized can be challenging if you don’t have detailed information about age, gender, income level, and occupation.

Updated Information: Make sure that the database remains true and keeps abreast of doing so regularly rather than allowing for any misinformation or out-of-date files that would lead to it being unreliable

Compliance with Regulations: By obeying set regulations and laws for data protection, ethical standards in database use are ensured, and this also shields firms as well as individuals.

How to Obtain a Chennai Mobile Number Database?

1. Purchase from Data Provider

Several of firms deal in mobile number databases that are confirmed for accuracy and updated for sales. They guarantee comprehensive details by observing prescribed laws.

2. Build Your Database

Gather phone numbers from client interactions, registration forms, loyalty schemes, competitions, and promotions. Using this method guarantees that the information collected is exactly what your business requires.

3. Collaborate with Local Businesses

Share resources and data by partnering with other businesses in the locality. This collaboration will lead to an increased reach for your business and enhancements to its database.

4. Utilize Online Directories

It is important to note that public records and online directories are essential access points for contact details. However, caution should be taken in the way collected information is used by ensuring it adheres to moral conduct as stipulated in regional laws.

Applications of a Chennai Mobile Numbers Database

SMS Marketing: In the domain of enterprise marketing, contextual marketing is a dedicated module that involves sending marketing messages, offers, and updates tailored to the mobile phones of potential clients directly.

Telemarketing: Contacting possible customers and presenting products or services.

Customer Support: “Delivering swift help and backing to clients through immediate interaction.”

Event Promotion: Let residents find out about local events, sales, launching new products, and other important messages.

Surveys and Feedback: Gathering consumer feedback and product or service observations related to developments involved in surveying.

Conclusion

The Chennai Mobile Numbers Database business opportunities are increased, and customers are reached in one of the most productive economies in India. This resource gives you new contact details, thus helping you to improve your marketing plans as well as enhance client ties, leading to extensive customer base penetration.

Using custom messages in Chennai’s lively setting can help one advance positively and achieve long-term objectives while building a real connection with the audience.

More Information About Plan and price Visit our website :- https://bulkdatabase.info/

[prolificsinsights]

Harnessing the Power of Data and AI for Digital Transformation

In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, the synergy of data and artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing businesses across various industries. Digital transformation with Data AI is not just a buzzword; it's a strategic imperative for organizations aiming to stay competitive and innovative. 

The Journey of Digital Transformation 

Digital transformation begins with a robust data strategy. Companies like Prolifics emphasize the importance of managing, analyzing, and uncovering value from enterprise data. A well-defined data strategy ensures that data is not just collected but also effectively utilized to drive business outcomes. For instance, a banking client of Prolifics realized continuous value by leveraging advanced analytics to enhance their decision-making processes. 

Unleashing the Potential of Data Analytics and AI 

Data analytics and AI play a pivotal role in transforming raw data into actionable insights. Prolifics' expertise in data validation, modeling, and visualization enables businesses to predict future trends, optimize operations, and uncover transformative patterns. Consider the case of an insurance provider that strengthened its data analytics capabilities, leading to improved claims processing and customer satisfaction. 

AI for Data Analytics 

Artificial intelligence for business is a game-changer, especially when integrated with data analytics. AI algorithms can process vast amounts of data at unprecedented speeds, providing deeper insights and more accurate predictions. This capability is crucial for businesses looking to innovate and stay ahead of the curve. For example, a gaming company reduced its reporting time from days to minutes by adopting AI-driven data analytics solutions. 

Ensuring Seamless Database Migration 

Database migration is a critical component of digital transformation. Migrating to modern data platforms allows businesses to take advantage of advanced analytics and AI capabilities. Prolifics offers comprehensive data and AI services that ensure smooth transitions, minimizing disruptions and maximizing data integrity. This process involves meticulous planning and execution, ensuring that the migrated data is secure, consistent, and readily accessible. 

The Comprehensive Approach: Data and AI Services 

Prolifics' data and AI services encompass a wide range of solutions, including data governance, data privacy, master data management (MDM), and data hubs. These services are designed to ensure that data is accurate, secure, and readily available to drive business insights and innovation. Effective data governance, for instance, not only improves data quality but also enhances decision-making and operational efficiency. 

Stories of Success 

The true impact of data and AI is best illustrated through success stories. A notable example is a gaming company that leveraged Prolifics' data and AI services to drastically reduce its reporting time. By implementing advanced analytics and AI solutions, the company was able to streamline its operations and make faster, data-driven decisions. 

In conclusion, digital transformation with Data AI is a powerful enabler for businesses seeking to thrive in the digital age. By harnessing the potential of data analytics and AI, organizations can unlock new opportunities, enhance their operations, and stay ahead of the competition. Prolifics' expertise in data and AI services offers a roadmap for businesses to navigate this transformative journey successfully. 

For more information on how data and AI can transform your business, visit Prolifics.

[hostpyters]

Jungle Scout is a powerful tool designed for Amazon sellers to help them research products, optimize listings, track sales, and manage their Amazon business efficiently. Here is a detailed review of its features and functionalities:

Key Features

Product Research:

Product Database: Jungle Scout offers a comprehensive database of Amazon products, allowing users to filter and search for profitable products based on criteria like category, price, sales, and competition.

Product Tracker: This feature lets users track the performance of specific products over time, providing insights into sales trends, inventory levels, and pricing changes.

Opportunity Finder: Identifies high-demand, low-competition niches and products, helping sellers find lucrative opportunities in the marketplace.

Keyword Research:

Keyword Scout: Jungle Scout’s keyword research tool helps users find relevant keywords with high search volume and low competition. This is crucial for optimizing product listings and improving visibility on Amazon.

Keyword Rank Tracking: Monitors the ranking of keywords over time, enabling sellers to adjust their strategies based on performance.

Sales Analytics:

Sales Estimates: Provides estimated sales data for products, helping sellers gauge market demand and make informed decisions.

Historical Data: Offers access to historical sales data and trends, aiding in long-term planning and forecasting. Listing Optimization:

Listing Builder: Assists in creating optimized product listings with relevant keywords, high-quality images, and compelling descriptions.

A/B Testing: Allows sellers to test different versions of their product listings to determine which one performs better in terms of conversion rates and sales.

Supplier Database:

Supplier Search: Connects users with verified suppliers worldwide, helping them find reliable sources for their products. Supplier Tracker: Allows users to track and manage communication with suppliers, making the sourcing process more efficient.

Inventory Management:

Inventory Alerts: Sends notifications when stock levels are low, helping sellers avoid stockouts and maintain optimal inventory levels.

Demand Forecasting: Uses sales data to predict future demand, aiding in inventory planning and management.

Sales and Revenue Tracking:

Profit Tracker: Monitors sales, expenses, and profit margins in real-time, providing a clear picture of the business’s financial health.

ROI Analysis: Helps sellers analyze the return on investment for their products and campaigns, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently.

Browser Extension:

Quick Insights: The Jungle Scout Chrome extension provides on-the-spot insights while browsing Amazon, including sales estimates, revenue data, and competition analysis.

Pros Comprehensive Toolset: Jungle Scout offers a wide range of tools that cover every aspect of selling on Amazon, from product research to sales tracking. Data Accuracy: Known for its reliable data and accurate sales estimates, which are crucial for making informed business decisions. User-Friendly Interface: The platform is designed to be intuitive and easy to navigate, making it accessible for both new and experienced Amazon sellers. Educational Resources: Provides extensive resources, including tutorials, webinars, and guides, to help users make the most of the platform. Integration Capabilities: Integrates with various tools and platforms, enhancing its functionality and ease of use.

Cons Cost: Jungle Scout can be relatively expensive, especially for small sellers or those just starting. The subscription fees might be a barrier for some users. Learning Curve: While the interface is user-friendly, the extensive features and data can be overwhelming for new users, requiring some time to fully understand and utilize. Focus on Amazon: The tools are specifically designed for Amazon sellers, which means they may not be as useful for those selling on other platforms.

Jungle Scout is a robust and comprehensive tool for Amazon sellers, offering a wide array of features designed to optimize every aspect of selling on the platform. Its accurate data, user-friendly interface, and extensive resources make it an invaluable asset for both new and experienced sellers. While the cost and learning curve are considerations, the benefits provided by the tool’s detailed insights and efficiency improvements often outweigh these drawbacks. Jungle Scout is a highly recommended solution for anyone serious about growing their Amazon business and staying competitive in the marketplace.