Author: Creative Programs and Systems - page 247

Being Safe When Working With Electrical Transformers

In accordance to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all electrical wiring and equipment must be in accordance with NFPA 70.  Electricity is hazardous and all employees working with transformers are subject to protection.  This is unless it is an existing installation which can be allowed to continue in service based on authorization of the jurisdiction in power over it.

In this article we will review basic information within NFPA 70 regarding transformers.

Transformer rooms that are made from fire-resistant construction with a minimum fire rating of an hour needs to be used with any individual, dry-type transformers of more than 112 ½ kVA rating.  Below this there isn’t specific installation requirements for the room in which the transformer is located.   Ones rated over thirty five hundred volts need to be installed within a vault with three hours fire-resistance.

Doorways leading into a vault from the interior of the building must have doors that are not only tight fitting but also have a minimum fire rating of three hours.  One exception is when the transformers are protected by automatic sprinklers, water sprayers or carbon dioxide in which a one hour rating is sufficient.

The NFPA 70E addresses safety standards in electrical safety.  These requirements are in place to protect all employees who install, maintain, and repair electrical systems and their components.  It recognizes the dangers associated with electrical energy.  These guidelines are in place to prevent against injury or death.

In order to comply with the NFPA 70E all employees working and operating electrical equipment above 50V must wear arc-flash protective gear.  Arc-flash is an electrical current passes through the air when the insulation between electrified conductors can no longer withstand the voltage being applied. Even a flash that lasts under a second can be severe, leading to a fatality.

In order to establish compliance with the NFPA 70E there is a checklist that lays out both short-term and long-term actions to take.  Some of them are listed below:

  • Maintenance mechanics, facility repair workers and electricians are not allowed to work on hot or live equipment while wearing all cotton apparel.
  • Equipment should be de-energized as much as possible before work is performed.
  • Hazard warning labels should be placed on all electrical equipment.
  • Workers should be trained in arc-flash hazards.
  • Logout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures need to be updated and reviewed often to be sure all control panels are included.
  • LOTO training needs to be constantly assessed to ensure employees are trained properly. If there is an issue they should be retrained.

There are so many conditions in place to ensure the NFPA 70E requirements are met within your company by all employees working with electrical equipment and components.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Packaging and Labeling Design Tips That Help Market Your Product Continued

In our last installment we talked about how there are six common rules of package and label design that will help ensure your product stands out over the competition.  We discussed how a clear and simple, honest and authentic label design works to draw consumers in.  Below we will discuss the last three common rules in package and label design that work together to create the masterpiece which will represent your brand and product.  A strong package and label design helps to ensure your product is chosen before one of the forty thousand competitors.

Shelf Impact

When creating a new package or label design a common problem exists in how the product will look on the shelf next to its competition.  In order to create something that has any shelf impact value you need to evaluate the packages and labels of the products next to yours on the shelf.  One thing that we need to be reminded of when designing a label is that never will your product be viewed alone or in great deal when seen by shoppers.

Your products label is arranged on a shelf in rows and columns along side of your competitors.  Until your products label design catches a consumer’s attention they are unlikely to take a closer look.

Go to the market today and stand in front of any shelf.  What do you see?  Which labels catch your attention?  What qualities do they possess that gives them the shelf impact you are looking for?  Is it a certain color, a special pattern or an image that catches your attention?  How can you emulate that within your own package and label design?

Extendibility

Consider the future of your brand; will the product package and label design that is created allow for an easy introduction of a new line extension?  Designs should always be created with your company’s future in mind.  Create something that offers a visually systematic design that allows for easy changes to both the visual and contextual content within your label.  This will allow for an easy transition as your brand and product lines expand.

Practicality

Practicality in product packaging and label design deals with the actual shape, size and function of the container.  A perfect example of this is with ketchup.  Certain brands of ketchup were sold in glass bottles.  It would take forever for the ketchup to come out.  Once this was realized the company’s redesigned the package into a squeeze bottle.  This in turn increased the products usability.  Consider this when designing a container for your food product.

Using the six rules outlined in our recent articles you can create a product package and label design that maximizes results.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Buying A Fixer Upper Allows Homeowners To Get A Deal On Homeownership

Are you looking for a new home in the market today?  There are an abundance of homes for sale that are known as handyman specials.  Fixer uppers are homes that are for sale that are in need of repair.  These homes generally cost less compared to other homes in the area.  Many times these homes are quickly purchased by real estate investors.  After purchasing these locations they fix them up and sell the property at a premium.

These handyman specials are a top target for real estate investors because they are cheap.  With the properties needing a variety of repairs they are sole far below the market value.  While many fixer uppers continue to be purchased by investors there are still plenty of them to be snapped up by residential buyers.  This is a great option for buyers looking for an affordable option in homeownership that aren’t afraid to put in the time, money and sweat equity to fix the home up to meet their needs.

The one thing that homeowners looking at fixer uppers must consider is the cost of repairs.  Most handyman specials are sold “as is”.  You must have a fairly accurate estimate of the repairs the home needs before purchasing a fixer upper.  Don’t underestimate the cost of repairs needed.  This is how many buyers get in trouble when purchasing a fixer upper.

If you are seriously considering a fixer upper it is pertinent that you get a proper inspection.  You will want to make sure you hire an inspector that is reputable in handyman specials.  The structure, roof, heating, plumbing and electrical systems are of the utmost importance.  These five areas are the most expensive repair areas in home renovations.  Substantial expense lies within these repairs.  Only take on a home with these issues if the selling price is well below the market value and can be recouped in the long run.  Look into toxicity issues, mold and the sewer system as well.  A licensed inspector that specializes in this type of home is required when seriously looking into a handyman special.

A home that is worthy of being fixed up can end up being a terrific investment.  As the buyer it is important to understand what needs to be repaired and the costs involved.  Figure out what repairs you can handle on your own and those that you will need to hire out.  For a complete list of local homes that are in need of some tender loving care find a realtor in your area.  A reputable real estate agent can even find a diamond in the rough in even the most amazing areas.  Golf courses, recreational properties, lakefronts and more can all be found below market value.  They may just need a little attention to make them the eye catching beauties they once were.

Lady of the Lakes Real Estate is Livingston County’s premiere realtor; out of Pinckney, Michigan helping buyers buy and sellers sell homes that provide a recreational lifestyle including golf courses, lakes and the Huron river chain of lakes, throughout Brighton, Howell, Pinckney and the surrounding area. Find out more at http://www.ladyofthelakes.com.

Tips To Follow Before You Start Shopping For A Home

Set a Budget: Setting a budget and following it is a key concept when buying a home.  No matter what you are qualified for if you don’t feel comfortable with that monthly payment it will cause you undue stress.  Calculate how much you believe you can reasonably afford to spend each month on housing.  This is the most important aspect in buying a home to be successful.  If you are stretched with a payment that is out of your comfort zone homeownership will become a burden rather than an accomplishment.

Include Principal, Interest, Taxes and Insurance In the Budget: If you have been renting you may not be familiar with the fact that your mortgage payment is not alone when it comes to expenses related to your mortgage.  Many lenders will roll the principal, interest, taxes and insurance into your monthly payment.  If you have less than twenty percent down, a PMI expense will be added as well.  Make sure you talk to your lender about these extras as they can almost double your monthly payment.

Determine How Much Cash Is Needed At Closing: Typically your down payment should be between five and twenty percent of the cost of the home.  A down payment of less than twenty percent requires primary mortgage insurance, otherwise known as PMI.  The amount you will need in cash at closing includes your down payment, loan origination fees, title insurance as well as other miscellaneous fees.  Be prepared to have a substantial amount of reserve in your savings as expenses tend to creep up throughout the home buying process.

Research Yearly Utility Rates: Moving to a different climate or larger home can significantly change the monthly payment on your utilities.  The last thing that you want is to get into a home that you can comfortably afford and then learn the heating and cooling expenses knock your budget into chaos. 

Eliminate Debt Prior To Purchase: Try to eliminate as much debt as possible before you start the home buying process.  This will lower your debt to income ratio and give you a better chance at a lower interest rate on your mortgage.  It will also free up cash that is being used on old debt to apply towards your home.

Find Out What Your Credit Score Is: You should know your credit score before beginning to look for a home as well.  There needs to be time to repair any discrepancies as well time to increase your score.  The higher your credit scores the better financial risk you appear to be and thus lenders will be more apt to offer you a lower interest rate within the terms of your mortgage.

Get Prequalified:  A prequalification is something most real estate agents require before they begin showing you homes.  A prequalification is the amount that lenders feel comfortable loaning you.  This will give you a base to begin your search.  The amount you have towards a down payment also factors into the overall amount that you have to spend on a home.

Find A RealtorAfter you have taken all of the above steps you are ready to start looking at homes to purchase.  There are many real estate agents available to show you homes but few are qualified to help you through the entire process.   Work with an agent that understands what your needs are.  They should be familiar with the area you would like to live and be able to offer you stats on the neighborhoods, the schools, crime, recreational options and more.  Don’t just work with anyone.  Find a realtor that is willing to go the extra mile in finding you exactly what you want at the price you can afford.

Lady of the Lakes Real Estate is Livingston County’s premiere realtor; out of Pinckney, Michigan helping buyers buy and sellers sell homes that provide a recreational lifestyle including golf courses, lakes and the Huron river chain of lakes, throughout Brighton, Howell, Pinckney and the surrounding area. Find out more at http://www.ladyofthelakes.com.

Choosing A Mortgage Broker To Help You Through The Mortgage Process

An age old question that comes with buying a new home or refinancing comes with finding a mortgage broker that will find you the best rate possible.  What do you need to look for in a mortgage broker?  Is it possible to find a better rate on your own working with a credit union or bank?  In many situations a credit union or bank is perfect however getting your mortgage refinanced or a new mortgage for a new home a mortgage broker is more prepared to find a rate offer and lender that match your need.

One of the best things about using a mortgage broker is that they aren’t only in it to help you find a mortgage but also to provide you with support in your overall financial standings.   In order to do this your broker must make sure that they understand your needs, your situation and your future goals.

The first step to accomplish this is to speak with you at length.  They will ask you about your needs and will inquire about your living arrangements currently.  If you are also selling a home they will want to take that into consideration as you will have additional funds that can be used.  If the broker sees an issue with what you want or thinks that it may land you in trouble financially they will guide you in a direction that is more fitting.  They will not allow you to get in over your head with your purchase.

When meeting with a mortgage broker make sure that they are truly in it for you.  Are they speaking your language?  The conversation should only revolve around how they can help you.  While listening to you they should be engaging and asking relevant questions.  This is the sign of a broker who is looking out for you and your interests.  When working with a bank or other financial situation you may be pushed between several different employees.  Where in reality some of them may know nothing about your situation and not understanding what your needs are.  You should be working with one person who is knowledgeable about your condition and working to find you the best rate with your situation in mind.  Using a mortgage broker you have one individual who knows you and all about mortgages to guide you throughout the process.

After taking in your financial status, your earnings, investments, expenses and other things the broker will get you an optimized mortgage.  Brokers work with a variety of lenders to find you the best rate and mortgage available based upon your situation.  They will then make recommendations to help guide you throughout the process until you are the proud owners of a new mortgage.  Throughout each and every stage they will be able to answer your questions and clear your mind; this alone simplifies the process.

Cross Country Mortgage in Brighton, Michigan provide mortgage services for clients including new home loans, refinancing, reversed mortgages, new purchase home mortgages and home equity loans to the entire Livingston County area including Brighton, Howell and Livingston County. Cross Country Mortgage Brighton, MI at http://brightoncrosscountry.com/.

Packaging and Labeling Design Tips That Help Market Your Product

There are six common rules of package and label design that will help ensure your product stands out over the competition.  The products package and label design needs to market the product on its own as you will not be sitting on the shelf selling it directly.  In this article we will discuss common rules in package and label design that work together to create the masterpiece which will represent your brand and product.  A strong package and label design will help to ensure that your product is chosen before one of the forty thousand competitors.

Clarity and Simplicity

The label on your product should clearly and simply state the answer to these two questions: what is this product used for and what is the brand behind it?  If your product label does not clearly present the answer to these two questions you have a problem.  In less than four seconds the average consumer has decided to purchase or pass on your product.  Your package design should be appropriate for the product category and your label should be clear, simple and stand out.

Honesty

Your label needs to be an honest representation of your product.  Strive to depict your product in a way that is believable and allows the customers to visualize what they are purchasing.  Don’t mislead consumers by depicting your product in a light that is ten times better than it actually is.  Ultimately this will lead to consumer disappointment, which in turn leads to poor sales and a negative brand image.

Authenticity

Great brands all have three things on common: they are original, have their own character and are memorable.  With hundreds of competing products the only way to set your product apart is to be authentic.  Creating authenticity using a product label is not something that advice can really be given on.  It comes from creating something that is visually strong and unique to your product and brand. If for instance, most competitors are using a vertical label with cartoon characters go for a horizontal label using photos or illustrations.  Be unique and different while staying true to your brand image.

In the next installment on the six most common rules of package and label design we will look more in depth into labeling elements that your products shelf impact, extensibility and practicality.  Creating a label that makes the most out of each of these six rules will help to ensure its success.

Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Backyard Safety With Aluminum Fencing

The goal for homeowners is to create a backyard environment that is safe, fun and easy to maintain; a space where the entire family can enjoy.  Designing a space that is kid friendly, pet safe and relaxing for adults is not as complicated as it may sound.   Your backyard landscape design can include a patio, swimming pool and special landscape features that are both family and pet friendly.  With a bit of planning any backyard can be a safe, enjoyable, low-maintenance outdoor oasis for your entire family to enjoy.

Safety is a big concern with all homeowners.  In this article we will focus on the safety aspect of your backyard.  The fun and maintenance aspect are important but only after safety has been considered.

It is important that your home feels safe and that precautions are taken to ensure your family, friends and pets are safeguarded against any eminent dangers.  For instance, if your backyard landscape includes an in-ground pool it is plausible that without proper safety measures in place an accident is more likely to occur.

To limit access to the pool area while children and pets are in the yard alone it is important to install an aluminum fence with self latching gate around the perimeter of the pool and sitting area.  Be sure to only purchase aluminum fence panels that meet the guidelines set forth by the B.O.C.A. as well as any local government or HOA regulations.  A self latching gate is pertinent as it ensures the fence shuts tight and is not left open for children or pets to access the area without adult supervision.

Another safety measure to include in your landscape design is perimeter fencing.  In order to keep the backyard aesthetically pleasing it is important to choose an aluminum fence design that coordinates and compliments your home and landscape.   Aluminum fencing not only keeps unwanted visitors out of your space it also keeps the wanted ones in and safe from elements outside of your backyard environment.  It is not possible to keep track of children and pets each and every second of the day.  A perimeter fence keeps them safe if they should happen to wander out into the backyard without you.

Accidents occur from slipping, tripping and falling as much outdoors as they do indoors.  To prevent such mishaps from happening install non-skid, non-slip surfaces on patio areas, walkways and pool decks that are likely to get wet and where children are likely to play.  You won’t be able to eliminate all slip and fall accidents but non-skid, non-slip materials such as pavers will lessen occurrences.

Avoid all toxic and harmful plants when choosing the vegetation for your landscape.  Azaleas are beautiful but deadly to cats and dogs.  Other plants that cause issues with your pet’s liver and or heart include beauties such as lily of the valley, rhododendron, foxglove and more.  It is crucial in keeping your pets safe that you research the vegetation before it is installed within your landscape design.

Grass is a traditional material to use in landscaping.  However it requires a great deal of maintenance and is not the safest choice in ground cover.  A safer option then natural grass is artificial turf.  A synthetic lawn is even with uniform surfaces helping to prevent accidents that occur in uneven natural grass lawns.  It is less likely to trip, fall or twist and ankle when running and playing on a flat surface.  Artificial turf does not require harmful fertilizers or pesticides either making it a terrific alternative to natural grass.

As a homeowner it is your responsibility to keep your home free of hazards and safety concerns both inside and out.  Follow the tips above to help keep your family, friends and pets safe while exploring the great outdoors.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

Food Product Label Design Tips

Designing a new food product label is both an exciting and tricky endeavor.  The thrill with designing a great label comes from capturing the unique aspects your product offers over the competition.  The difficult part is constructing a design that is marketable, targets the consumer and prevails over the competition.

Define your target audience: It is crucial to define whose attention you are looking to catch with your products label design. In order to design an effective label you must know what your customers are looking for, what problems they have and how your food product solves it for them.

A food label has to do everything an ordinary product label does and more.  It must support a message of freshness, promote quality ingredients and express just how delicious it is.  Understanding exactly what your customer wants allows you to design a label that represents this using images, text and color.

A perfect example of this is how images of fluffy white clouds don’t speak to consumers looking for sandpaper.  Just like certain colors when used together create certain emotions in us, green and red make people think of Christmas time while pastels make people think of Easter.  If you used green and red on a package of egg shaped Easter candy it wouldn’t entice people as much as colors that are representative of Easter would.

Research your competition:  For your food product label to stand out from the competition it is important to have knowledge of their label designs.  If you are advertising toilet paper think outside the box.  Instead of using images of cotton and clouds like your competitors consider a completely different angle all together.  Look at the other qualities your product offers.  Maybe it is easier for your septic tank to break down or perhaps it is comes in sheets that are perforated more often so you can choose how much toilet paper to use.  Whatever angle makes your product stand out over the competition is what should be represented on your products label.

Take into consideration the products packaging: Shoppers want to see what they are getting for their money.  This is especially true in food products.  Many food products on the market today are packaged in clear see-through containers.  If this is the case, you will want to design a label that does not cover or take anything away from seeing the actual product.  Seeing the tasty treat inside offers more than any picture on a label can.

Emphasize key ingredients and features:  When you are looking at designing food labels it is important to highlight the fresh, quality ingredients as well as essential product features and awards it has received.  What sets your food product apart from the competition?  This needs to be an element focused on when designing food product labels.

Plan for post-sale marketing:  Look at your product label as prime real estate.  Take advantage not only of the space on the front of the label but also the back.  Use a label that offers a peel back function and then list product recipes on the back.  This allows you to show case the product you are selling as well as other company products that are used to create the recipes you feature.  Using all the space available on your food product label is smart marketing.

Marketing food products is fun but not easy.  Follow the tips above to get your products off the shelf and into the customer’s tummies.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Four Tips To Consider When Choosing A Fence For Your Home

  • Define the purpose for the fence: Why are you looking into fencing in the first place?  Are you looking to add privacy, visual appeal, perimeter fencing to keep young children and pets in or to provide a barrier from your pool.

Fencing comes in a variety of materials: wood, aluminum, wrought iron, chain link, vinyl and many more.  Given the right material and correct installation a fence can be a key piece of landscaping that increases your homes property value.  Let the answer to the question above be the guide to the material you choose.  Prioritize your needs for a fence over your wants.

Aluminum fencing tends to work well for a variety of situations and is incredibly pleasing to the eye.  The decorative touches, such as finials and butterfly scrolls, in aluminum fence offer an elegance not found in other types of fencing.  It is often the required choice by homeowners associations.

  • Consider the maintenance required to maintain the fence: Ask yourself how much time and money you are willing to spend to maintain your fence.

Wooden fences require regular maintenance.  Fencing needs to be power washed every couple of years and either painted or stained.  Aluminum and vinyl require very little maintenance which tends to be an appealing option to many homeowners.  To clean vinyl or aluminum fencing all that is required is a gentle water rinse, wiping down any areas that are stained or covered in algae.  

  • Research local city and neighborhood fencing regulations: What rules are in place?  Does your homeowners association require a certain height or type of material with the installation of a fence?  What are the local city ordinances; this is especially important when it comes to fencing around your swimming pool.

If there are rules in place that specify the use of a certain material in your fencing you don’t have much choice.  Many HOA’s require aluminum fencing as it is elegant and withstands a variety of severe weather conditions.  HOA’s stipulate specific rules for homeowners in certain neighborhoods to maintain the subdivisions visual appeal.

  • Hire a professional fence contractor to install your fence: Research professional fencing contractors that install fences in your area.

Many fences can be installed by do it yourself homeowners however if often shows in the end product.  A contractor that specializes in the installation of fencing is your best bet for a quality end result.  It is too expensive to buy materials for your new fence only to ruin the aesthetics of it with poor installation.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

Creating New Product Labels

As a new product is launched it is crucial that it has an attention grabbing label.  A label that is appealing to consumers is one that will sell products.  With new products entering the market place the buyer’s first impressions are what help move the product and hopefully create a lasting impression for repeat purchasing.  The label needs to be extraordinary to entice buyers into picking the item up and contain all the pertinent information needed to make a purchase.

There is no clear cut formula in label design when it comes to creating a label that will sell your products.  There are however certain criterion that should be considered when laying out the design for your new product’s label.

Colors: The colors used when designing custom labels influence the buying decision of consumers.  Each color and combination of colors works to entice customers to feel certain emotions.  Certain colors such as yellow and red encourage purchasing however these colors aren’t always the best choice.  If you are selling a certain feeling along with your product consider what colors work to create that same feeling and use them in developing your label.

Fonts:  Avoid fonts that are overused.  The goal is to create something unique.  The font that is chosen should also be easy to read and capture the personality of your brand and product.  For instance, if you are creating a label for potato chips look for a font that perfectly describes the crispy texture.  If the chip is bbq flavored consider adding additional font that represents the spicy tang of the flavor.  If the chip is pickle flavored consider using a font that exemplifies the sour, salty nature of pickles.

Company/Product Name: In order to be easily identifiable the label must always contain the company and or product name.  This is a no brainer in marketing.  This should be consistent amongst your company’s product to create a brand that is easy to identify quickly.

Ingredients: If it is a food or drug being marketed the label should contain the ingredients that make up the product.  This will allow consumers to easily identify allergens.  It is also a requirement set forth by the FDA to ensure that products accurately account for all substances used in creating the product.

Label Size/Type:  The type of label used as well as the size will be dependent on the packaging or container of the product.  Will the item require two labels, one front and one back? Should the label cover the entire container of leave some of the container to be seen?  There are many types of label options to choose from such as:  shrink sleeves, cut and stack, pressure sensitive, roll fed and flexible packaging.

Bar Code: A universal code placed on the product label helps to convey valuable information to electronic scanners.  It includes recognizable information to the scanner such as the product name, weight, price and such.

Contact Information: It is essential that your company’s contact information is clearly represented on the label.  This should include the company name, product manufacturer, company address, phone number and email address.  If your social presence is important to the company’s image add that information as well.  The contact information, stated visibly on the label, helps to encourage communication between you and your target market.

The factors above form a foundation that custom label and graphic designers should use to create and manufacture a label that encourages sales.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.