Different Van Insurance Options Available For Van Owners
If you run an enterprise within the UK and it is such that you use a van(s) for the business then it is required of you by law to have some form of van insurance. In the event that these vans are used to transport merchandise, employees, or indeed other people, personal insurance will not suffice; you need to have commercial vehicle insurance as well. In many cases third party insurance tends to be the minimum requirement but it certainly makes sense to have a cover that is more comprehensive. This is especially for businesses where vans are a crucial component of day to day operations. Commercial van insurance cover will be most appropriate to safeguard the business against losses should any unfortunate accidents occur.That some businesses require more van insurance cover than others is not in question – as the business owner you need to sift through the available commercial vehicle insurance types available and find the most befitting one for your situation. What different commercial insurance options are there in the market?Transit van insurance is an appropriate van insurance cover for business owners who use their vans for transit purposes even while not attending to business matters per se. This commercial insurance option is very applicable for businesses that involve the transportation of merchandise from place to place. It is often the case that great discounts on this type of commercial vehicle insurance are available when purchases for the same are made online rather than offline.Short term van insurance is a very good van insurance alternative that can also be acquired at very inviting terms of purchase. This type of commercial insurance is applicable for van owners who do not use their vehicles all the time. It is quite advantageous in that you only get to pay insurance costs for the period under which the vehicle is under cover unlike the case for a regular basis usage. The short term commercial vehicle insurance cover is indeed a very cost effective alternative for the business owner.A courier van insurance package is most applicable for businesses that use vans to deliver merchandise from place to place. Not only does this insurance cover the vehicle but it also covers the goods that are carried therein. Deciding to use this type of commercial insurance is quite a prudent decision as it will cushion the business against total losses, i.e. from damage to the vehicle and the merchandise, in the case of an accident. Suitable terms for this commercial vehicle insurance cover can also be sourced online.Fleet van insurance is a insurance package that is designed to cover businesses that have an entire fleet of vans. With this type of commercial insurance the business owner gets to save costs that would have otherwise been incurred in trying to secure commercial vehicle insurance for individual vans. The market is replete with different insurance firms that will readily offer great commercial insurance deals when several vans are insured with them.Depending on the business description it is indeed possible to find a insurance cover that will help save money. Your quest for a commercial insurance cover should be informed by the manner in which the business van(s) is utilized and the budgetary provisions available. It is prudent to compare and scout around for the commercial vehicle insurance firm that will offer terms that are most friendly to the business.
Automotive Internet Marketing Solutions
OverviewThe internet has created a tremendous marketing tool for local business owners and one industry that is grabbing the internet by the horns is the automotive industry.It is no secret these days that more and more people are starting their search for a new car with the click of a mouse. Automotive internet marketing can reach a far bigger audience than traditional marketing methods while lower marketing costs and providing a much bigger ROI or return on investment.The first step to successfully marketing your automotive business online is to have a website that tell the visitor exactly what and who you are and how to contact you if needed. Then you need to make sure your potential customers can find your website and see what cars you have to offer.Automotive Internet Marketing Solutions – Getting VisitorsNow you have your website up you now need to market your website and position it on the web so your customers can find you. The two main ways we are going to look at in this article is paid advertising and search engine optimization methods.Paid Advertising – Possible the most popular and very effective way to market your automotive business on the internet is thought Pay-Per-Click advertising, Google has a service called AdWords. PPC or Pay-Per-Click is advertising where you only pay when someone clicks on your ad, this is very different from traditional marketing methods as you only pay for your advertising when it works.Search Engine Optimization or SEO – When people want to find information on the internet most people will go to a search engine like Google, Yahoo or Bing. SEO is the art of getting your website to show up in the top search results when someone types in a specific keyword or phrase like – automotive shop in Sydney.Both of these methods work great, PPC can get you results fast, but you have to pay for it and SEO is more or a longer term strategy however it can last a long time giving you free traffic once you are in the top search resultsAutomotive Internet Marketing Solutions – SummaryIf you have not started marketing your automotive business online then now is the time to start. In this article I only spoke about 2 methods for getting traffic to your website however there are many more, extremely effective ways like social media and video marketing. The key however is to start and build as you go.
Augmented Reality – Bridging the Gap Between the Real and Virtual Consumer Experience
What is AR?Simply put, Augmented Reality enables superimposition of computer generated data onto our direct experience of reality. It aims to enhance the user’s current awareness of reality by supplementing the real world with 3D virtual objects.The term – Augmented Reality – was originally coined in 1990 by former Boeing researcher Tom Caudell. The technology gradually spread to other platforms such as mobile applications in 2008. New AR mapping and social tools such as Taggar – launched in 2013 – have made AR sociable by creating the ability to share hidden, “mutually” personal images, objects or locations.How does AR Work?AR can be achieved by applying two simple methods:Marker-based systemsThis method uses the physical world as a reference point to overlay graphics. For instance, placing a 2-dimensional printed marker in front of a web camera. The computer then comprehends this instruction to produce an overlapping illusion on-screen as if it were directly on top of the marker in the real world.Markerless systemsThis method involves using a combination of devices including electronic devices, accelerometer, compass and location data – such as the Global Positioning System (GPS) – to determine the position of objects in the physical world. At the same time, it detects the location of the physical world along with its axis.What are the applications of AR?The AR applications market is expected to register exponential growth – from USD 181.3 million in 2011 to USD 5.2 billion by 2017, at a compounded annual growth rate of over 95 per cent.Many industries are already adopting this technology but the most obvious application of AR lies in mobile communications. The combined revenues from paid downloads, post-download items and advertising is expected to climb. Moreover, users who have used AR applications in their smartphone generally have positive feedback for developers such as Google, Apple and Microsoft, to name a few.According to a wearables technology survey conducted in 2015, 52 per cent of businesses reported that AR technology is crucial in the wearable tech field. And it should be noted that 71 per cent of those aged between 16 and 24 prefer ‘wearable technology’ that allows them to carry out their daily activities with relative ease.Prominent examples of various AR applications include:Google GlassGoogle glass – a type of wearable voice-controlled android device – resembles a pair of ‘glasses’. It was first released in United Kingdom in January 2015. It allows users to take hands free pictures, videos as well as send messages. The user is able to see real world surroundings and use the glasses to perform multiple mundane activities such as driving, walking safely on roads and participating in sports as it provides an enhanced sense of the real world.These glasses have built-in Wi-fi and Bluetooth connectivity to provide location-based inputs to the users. For instance, a user would be automatically facilitated with flight status information on entering an airport. This device can further be controlled by the user using voice commands as well as the touchpad located on its frame.Surgical proceduresVirtual Interactive Presence or VIPAAR uses an AR system set to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of surgical procedures. The surgical team at the University of Alabama successfully performed the first AR surgery using VIPAAR in collaboration with Google Glass in 2013. The surgical team at the University of Alabama successfully performed the first AR surgery using VIPAAR in collaboration with Google Glass in 2013.VIPAAR is set to become an invaluable tool for teaching residents or helping surgeons learn a new medical procedure. This will be executed through virtual guidance as well as demonstration of the correct positioning of instruments. This platform takes surgery to new heights by enabling a surgeon in one location to be experientially involved in a surgery taking place in another.ArchaeologyFinding new ways to lure visitors to the museum with AR technology is fast becoming a reality. For instance, Stockholm’s Medelhavsmuseet (The Museum of Mediterranean and Near Eastern Antiquities) collaborated with the Interactive Institute Swedish ICT in 2013 to show a virtual unwrapping of the mummy of the ancient Egyptian priest Neswaiu. A touchscreen monitor uncovers various layers of the mummy in response to the swipe of a finger. The visitors can explore the mummy by turning and twisting the bones in 3D space.Benefits of ARAlthough the use of AR is still in its infancy, it is now being deployed in various industries to enhance and accelerate product design, manufacturing, maintenance as well as commercialization. The industries set to benefit the most from AR include:MilitaryThe Military has already kick-started research in the field of AR technology to ease processes such as training, maintenance as well as the simulation of actual military operations. AR can also contribute to standardization in manufacturing of artillery, so as to reduce costs. For instance, Osterhout Design Group (ODG) – based in San Francisco – have been working to develop smart glasses for the military. These glasses ease military grade workflow such as displaying high-definition video, recording video and laying visuals over the real world.Education and trainingAR is one of the top ten most significant emerging technologies in education. Merging real and virtual objects triggers interest among students, which in turn increases receptivity. The best application of AR technology in education is to augment the content of the books with multimedia elements such as 3D models, animations, videos and webpages. Virtual characters may also be introduced in the AR realm which include teacher-like avatars, guiding characters or even avatars of real teachers. AR is one of the top ten most significant emerging technologies in education.Many educational institutions have already included this technology in their curriculum. For instance, the City University London combined techniques to develop resources through the Creating Augmented Reality in Education (CARE) project for healthcare students in 2013. This included a series of ‘health walks’ which used GPS functionality in conjunction with AR to create awareness amongst students for health risks near their locality.Travel and tourismThis global travel and tourism industry is on a rapid growth curve. In Europe, the travel and tourism industry makes up 1.8 million enterprises and contributes more than 5 per cent of European Gross Domestic Product (GDP). AR technology can unleash more growth in this industry by engaging visitors through interaction. For instance, Tuscany (launched 2013) and Discover Hong Kong City Walks (launched 2014) applications offer visitors an AR-based guide as well as mobile tourist guides to simulate a real experience of being in their country.Retail and marketingWith e-commerce diffusing into various emerging markets worldwide, interaction with physical products remains the only gap in the online sale of products. This is where AR comes into the picture. AR can significantly enhance the traditional methods of retail and marketing activities online. This is achieved by enabling the e-shopper to interact with virtual objects to simulate a bricks-and-mortar shopping experience.For instance, customers can use AR technology to purchase clothes using virtual fitting rooms. Bloomingdale – a renowned brand in apparel retail – successfully tested virtual dressing rooms during New York’s Fashion Week in 2012. Known as Swivel, these fitting rooms use the principles of natural physics on clothing. The 3D garment moves in accordance with the movement of the person, twisting and turning to provide a clear virtual look. It is the closest option to a real fitting experience.Why AR?AR technology is gradually picking up momentum as the technology matures and the applications proliferate. Even though it is a relatively new technology, there are various factors driving its growth:Cost reductionUsing AR technology helps to minimize costs in several ways. For instance, it helps to channelize the manufacturing process, reduce error margins as well as make procedures safer. The money spent in repeat processes is thus avoided.Experiential qualityAR technology is “fresh”, engaging and user-friendly. Adoption of this technology is easy as it makes the user experience more enjoyable. In training and education applications, it increases engagement in learning processes, thus promoting retention. In entertainment applications, it adds a new layer to the user experience, making it more attractive.Risks inherent in ARIn spite of the huge potential, investing in AR technology can prove to be a costly mistake if marketers are not clear about their goals. A few pointers for investors include:Target audienceMarketers should know their target market segment very well. For instance, AR must be targeted at a tech-savvy demographic segment.AlternativesAt times, customers actually want to experience the real product – for example, when buying a car, customers would still want to do a test-drive. AR only provides a virtual experience which further triggers the desire to feel the real deal. One must, wherever the market demands for this, have the physical samples of products and demonstrations ready at hand. AR can never be a perfect substitute for this.Being mindful of gradual integrationUsing AR in business may not yield the desired results in one go. It might take a while to diffuse well among the customers by first attracting early adopters. AR takes some “getting used to.” Moreover, AR has to be strategically integrated and woven into the marketing strategy in order to optimize results. Like all other emerging technologies, using AR in business calls for both skill and patience.Future outlookAR is well placed for a bright future. Already widely used in cell phones and video game systems, AR has taken the mobile user experience to a whole new level. In the coming years, it is set to change the way we access, experience as well share digital information.Furthermore, advancing technologies, growth of content and proliferation of smartphones will bring AR into the mainstream. Cloud computing is potentially a big driver of AR application development.It is time for all product marketers to think about the future applications of AR to add to their total customer experiences.
Automotive News – All You Need To Know About Cars
Automobile manufacturers all over the world constantly maintain positive sale performances this year regardless of rising oil prices. Not even the horrible earthquake in Japan which happened earlier this year could slow down the pace of the automotive industry. People’s interest on this subject is very high. On the other hand, the industry is ever changing. Many car owners and enthusiasts feel the need to keep up with the latest automotive trends such as new car launches, events, car modification tips, technical guides and race reviews. There is where automotive news comes in.Besides car aficionados, mechanics and workshop owners can also benefit from the latest automotive news. Vehicles and machines are constantly evolving. More recent models may have newer technologies and more sophisticated features or parts. As mechanics always deal with machines, they need to upgrade their knowledge from time to time, to keep up with the changing trends. They can get the latest updates from automotive news or from attending car exhibitions or motor shows.Besides going to exhibitions, people can also get the latest information from automotive magazines. There are still many people today who buy physical copies of magazines to add to their collection. With the advancement of technology, the internet has changed the way we live. The internet gives us unlimited access to any kind of information. Now it is possible to get the latest news about the automotive industry online. People can access them anywhere, anytime, and free of charge.Car reviews and car launch dates are two topics that are often searched by car enthusiasts online. We can also find many online automotive magazines that provide the latest news, trends and tips on the web as well. People can easily access information on new car launches, car modifications, as well as car parts and accessories.There are thousands of weblogs on the internet that also provide free, comprehensive automotive news. Each of them contains different types of information. Well-established blogs usually provides in-depth news and reviews. Today, potential car buyers can check reviews available on these online journals before deciding on a car to buy.Automotive forums have become a communication media between aficionados. There, people can post articles, open discussions and interact with other members. Car mechanics are encouraged to use online forums, so that they can get the latest scoop and share their technical know-how as well as experiences to others.
The Innovative Design of Stainless Steel Kitchen Sinks, Benefits of Having it in Your Family Kitchen
Stainless steel kitchen sinks are a popular choice for those who want to improve the practical design of their family kitchen befitting of a modern home. Here are just some of the benefits you can get from this kitchen fixture that you wouldn’t want to miss out.1. Plenty of Designs to Choose FromManufacturers of stainless steel kitchen sinks made sure to come up with different design to compliment any kitchen theme. There are 3 sinks designs for you to choose from, namely Undermount, Lay-on, and Inset. Each has its own unique attributes to fit with your kitchen improvement plans. For example, an Inset sink has an extended wing that can be used to dry off your kitchen utensils before putting them away. If you’re looking for a minimalistic look then an Undermount sink will make sure you have a clean work area. Aside from these 3 designs, you can also pick a single-sink or a double sink depending on your kitchen duties.2. Keep it Clean Quick and EasyAnother benefit you can get from stainless steel kitchen sinks is the ease in keeping it clean. No need to spend on expensive cleaning agents just to keep it free from germs; the surface is coated so stains can’t cling on its surface and can be easily washed with a solution of soap and water.3. Easy InstallationStainless steel kitchen sinks are lightweight in design. You can easily install it on your own kitchen work space without needing specialized tools. All you need to do is to open up a hole in your work table big enough for you sink to fit into, place it in, hold it firmly in place with adhesive or cement, attach plumbing, and you’re done.4. DurabilityAlso, stainless steel kitchen sinks are made from a material that is immune to rust. It will last for a couple of generations and you wouldn’t see a speck of rust on its surface. It is also sturdy enough to withstand heavy use and can easily hold its form even in extreme temperature — the perfect sink to last you a lifetime.