Business Idea?

Collecting and distributing books to disadvantaged areas of society can present logistical problems, but theInstitute of Green Mobility in Brazil have found a simple solution with Bicicloteca, a tricycle adapted to function as a mobile library.

The tricycle was created to bring books to homeless people, those living in areas with no access to a library or education, or those who cannot afford books. It serves as a lightweight mode of transport, able to navigate squares and hard to reach places without the need for a driving license or generating fuel costs. It has the capacity to carry 150kg of books, which are received by donation and stamped to remind the reader to pass them on, creating a continuous cycle of reading and presenting a less “bureaucratic” method of lending books. The Institute of Green Mobility will loan the Bicicloteca to NGOs working with communities without access to libraries, who must send in a formal request and are prioritised by those working with groups most “at risk”. Training is given on how best to approach people with the library and how to perform monthly maintenance.

Bicicloteca is an example of how the goals of one organization (promoting green transport) can successfully collaborate with the needs of another (encouraging social inclusion). The scheme exists in communities around Brazil and has inspired similar programs in other countries. Could this model work in a community near you?

Website: www.bicicloteca.com.br
Contact: contato@bicicloteca.com.br

Why Now It's A Right Time To Start Your Business

Why Now It's A Right Time To Start Your Business

Surely, you think to yourself, now is not the best time to start your own business?  After widespread economic growth in the first decade of the new century, talk now is of austerity and downsizing.  Will people really buy your products and services?  Perhaps you are worried about leaving a regular job for the uncertainty of working for yourself?

The truth is simple.  People will continue to buy what they need or desire, provided it is presented to them in an easy, affordable and attractive way.  And working for yourself can give you more control over your own career. 

Of course running your own business will be hard work.  But it will all be worth it after your first, second, third and every next contract or new order.

How to Start Your Business: Tips

Here are some tips on getting started. 

Write a business plan.  In the first instance, write it for yourself.  Even if you think about your business idea constantly, the simple act of writing it down will help you spot potential errors.  The key components should be the business’ objectives, strategy, the market context and financial forecasts.

Once finished, ask for some feedback from experienced business people, friends or family.  All feedback, even if critical, should be taken seriously.  After all, others are your potential customers.  Try to see things from their perspective.

Focus on what you know how to do.  If you have always loved toy airplanes and have extensive knowledge about this, it may be best to start selling these rather than products you never buy yourself.

There is no greater way to learn about running your own business than by getting started.  But you can still learn skills and techniques by attending courses, seminars or other learning sessions.  A good tip is not to prioritise learning over practical experience: do not put off starting your business until you feel you know everything you should.

Check you abide by the necessary rules and regulations.  Internet businesses can sell all over the world: do you need a licence to sell in particular countries?  What are the rules on keeping products stored in your property?  It is best to know before you are informed of fines or illegality.

Managing Your Business

Managing your business can be time intensive.  If you expand, you will likely need to recruit, develop and retain staff.  You will also need to have a good administration system in place, not least in terms of financial management.

You may find it useful to consider a contractor payroll solution. An Umbrella Company is a company that can take on your financial paperwork, leaving you free to focus on growing the business.  A contractor payroll solution means you can rely on a professional approach that means your staff are paid correctly and on time.

Marketing Your Business

Marketing your business can be satisfying and highly creative.  The more people know about you, the more are likely to buy your products.  Internet marketing especially search engine optimisation (SEO), is one of the best ways of getting your brand in front of people.  Think of key phrases people are likely to use in searching for a company like yours.  Structure your website accordingly, constantly driving your key messages.

Stroke 5

It is sometime since I have written and I have been busy with milestones!

They can help with a speedy recovery and make a difference to vitality and motivation ............... I had a clot and a haemorrhage (given up trying to spell it!) so it appears I am slightly different .......... it affected my celebarum so it can take a while to write these things!

 Next time I plan to list the milestones!!

Stroke 4

Stroke 4. I have discovered the advantage to a stroke (there is one honest) her indoors cuts the grass!!  You just supervise and shout rdersa or even orders! I will keep on making out I am ill so she (Cathy - and I am sure I wouldn't make for her) will cut the grass.

You have no idea how long that takes - the right hand keeps doing it's own thing. Still, at least I am not as the Aldwych crew - 7/7 - that is without limbs ect, my heart goes out to them.

How did I find the site? Well, I am still down loading and reading.

Stroke 3

According to BUPA (which I am not in) 150.000 people get a stroke a year. Most are over 65 (I am 59) and about 10.000 are under 55.

So, I am going to study www.differentstrokes.co.uk as it is aimed at the younger person - which is strictly me but I will suffice.

Report back when I have.

Stroke 2

Before I write too much can I say that Cathy has been essential to this journey of recovery! She is my wife and without her I couldn't have made it - she has been wonderful - I even spelt it right!!

So, where to begin?

It took ages too write that. Anyway the nurses have been great but they must speak to the patient as an adult - going into child mode is no good, speak as to an adult. They may not be able to speak to you but they can 'grunt' as a adult!

And so to rest - must use the right hand more.

The Stroke

It has taken a lot to write this .... and I apologise for spelling mistakes and to those that have had a serious stroke! By the time the spell check gets to work I can't be bothered. I reckon the thing is to write and it has taken a month to write this - I reckon some never write because they take ages or don't want to share, and I may take this down.

My stroke is 4 weeks old. And I remember every minute of it - so that doesn't make me the worst - but it does make me the clearest! I can't yet use my right side - but I will!! More soon ...........