How to select the best picture for your website

We’ve spoken about most aspects of web design visuals such as how to choose a colour palette. But what about one of the most important types of visuals? Photos and images are crucial to accompany and strengthen your website and your business. There are many different avenues you can take when it comes to including images that’s why we have compiled this article to show you the best ways to tackle image sourcing and how to decide on the best images.

1. Using stock images.

There are a few issues that can occur when using stock images. The most important thing to remember is whether or not you have the right to use that image on your website. There are many stock image websites out there that claim to offer “free” stock images. However, this is not always the case and you could actually be using an image that is subject to copy write. Always research stock image websites carefully so that you don’t run into any legal trouble down the line. Or better yet use a paid-for subscription based service like Shutterstock. Any point to take into consideration when picking stock images is that some of them are completely unoriginal and very posed. We’ve spoken about how images like this can negatively impact your website before. If you want less cheesy images think about exploring some of our other alternative options below.


2. Using your own.

Of course, if you don’t want to use stock images there is always the option to create your own. Just remember when taking your own photographs to use a professional equipment that is capable of delivering high-quality images worthy of putting on your website. Additionally, if any editing needs to be done use a professional grade photo editor like PhotoShop or any of these other sweet alternatives. However, if you prefer to use graphics or illustrations for your website you can create these yourself too. Just make sure you have the right equipment, a few things you may need are a graphics tablet, scanner and a graphics creation software like Illustrator.


3. Hire a professional.

If you have some money to spare you could always hire a professional. Hiring a professional can take the stress out of sourcing or creating your own images yourself. However, this can amount to quite a high cost. Steer clear of “cheap” or “discounted” suppliers. Majority of the time you get what you pay for, so always do your research and be mindful of companies offering too good to be true deals. Unfortunately, they probably are too good to be true and will only leave you with a half decent result that you cannot even use on your website. If you want a high-quality product you have to use high-quality suppliers.


4. Know your specs.

Visuals can come in many different forms so it is important to know which ones are the best to use on the web. If you’re making your own or hiring a professional you can always dictate what file type you want your image to be. The most common image file types for using on the web are JPEG, PNG and GIF. JPEGs are good to use for compressed digital photography. PNGs are good when working with vectors, graphics and illustrations. Finally, GIFs are better for low-resolution film clips, animated imagery and logos with a limited colour palette. As well as format remember to keep file size in mind. File storage size can directly impact your website- extremely large file sizes can result in slower page speeds whilst a smaller file size will be almost unnoticeable.


5. Relevance and meaning.

Despite all of the given points above one of the most important things to remember when  choosing imagery for your website is that they must be relevant to your business. It must contribute something to your website whether is provides product imagery, reinforces your ethos or shows your users your unique selling point. This makes sure that users are engaged in your website and your services or products

Picking the right color for your website is very important

There is no doubt that your business needs a website that reflects its branding and identity (if it already has one!) and generates more business leads for you. But there can be doubt when it comes to the design process. What colour should the logo be?
What graphics do you need? What colour combinations should you use? If you have no design experience putting together an colour palette for a website can prove pretty difficult. I’ve already spoken about how colours affect your web design but how do you pick complimentary colours that are going to look good on your website?

1. Stick to your brand.

So you already have some brand colours. Do they correlate well together? Do they represent the very essence of your brand? And more importantly, are they cemented so far into your audiences’ subconscious that there is no way they can think of them without thinking of your brand? If this is the case, use your brand colours. However, always make sure that they are consistent across all of your marketing channels be it print, social media, emails and your website. Being consistent reassures your customers that they are in the right place when they click through your channels. It also gives your business a more professional impression.


2. Consider your audience.

As cliche as it sounds always research your target audience to find out what colours will appeal to them. This is one of the best starting points for developing a colour palette for your website. Who are your audience? What do they like? How old are they? These are all vital questions that need to be answered to ensure the success of your business. There are many well-researched studies that go as far to state that different genders, age groups and even professions have preferred colours. So choosing the right colours to suit your audience is imperative to a successful website.


3. Consider your product.

Similar to the previous point you have to do some research. Look up the psychology of colours and think about which ones would best reflect your product or service. Think about what your company symbolises and embodies? What is your ethos? Never use a colour just because you like the look of it, always think of ways to link it to your business. For instance, you wouldn’t use a colour like fuschia if you have your own paintballing business you would probably opt for something more like green. In short, think about what colours represent your business’ personality best.

4. Be legible.

Having colours of a similar tone or shade may look nice as blocks next to one another but translating them into a website colour scheme is going to prove tricky. Always make sure that within your colour palette you have at least one pair of contrasting colours. For example black and white. This way you can use one colour for your background and one colour for your text without running into any issues regarding readability. Nobody wants to strain their eyes reading orange text on a yellow background. It’s just not good web design etiquette.

Web design trends in 2016/2017

Well, it is actually more of a round-up of what trends I believe will continue to evolve in 2016 and beyond, minus the crystal ball prediction. Trends tend to run over from year to year. Many of them start their evolution years before they even become mainstream.

However, I will give you a few cautionary words before I go any further. I believe, wholehearted, that you should never follow a trend just because it is in vogue. Always make sure it is in the interest of the website visitor. Whatever the trend, the key to a website’s success is the UX (user experience). The aesthetics, design and technology should always complement and enhance the user experience. In short the visuals should support the functionality of whatever the user wants to do. Nonetheless, let’s get on with the web design trends that I believe are going to be sticking around for 2016!

    Card layouts

Pinterest pioneered the start of the card layout way back in 2009. So, thanks to them cards are now common sights throughout the web. They act as primary content containers and provide a cleaner and more consistent interface. They also aid in breaking the content up into digestible bite-sized chunks. Due to their grid nature, they are a natural fit with responsive framework. The rectangular configuration can reshape and fit into endless screen sizes.

We will see the card layout continuing well into 2017. It will no doubt be applied to a variety of websites from magazines through to corporate sites. Who, in turn, will all use cards to showcase their wealth of white papers, case studies and articles.


    Micro-interactions

It’s the small things in life that make our day and it’s the same with our online experiences. Micro-interactions are all about designing with the smallest details in mind. These little features aid, engage and enhance our user journeys.

Micro-interactions work well in many situations. Such as loading animations and call to actions which all encourage users to interact. Companies that focus on this user-centric approach will definitely reap the business benefits in 2016.



    Navigation burger menu

Some of us love it, some of us hate it, and some of us don’t even know what it is. The little three-bar icons you see in the corner of websites and mobile devices are here to stay. It started off as a product of the mobile and app interface. But now this menu system has crept into desktop websites throughout 2015.



As with all web design trends, there are for and against camps. However, there is growing evidence that this trend won’t be too hot, but it will carry on popping up all over the web. According to studies users just don’t interact or look at the burger menu button when viewing on a desktop.



    Scrolling will continue…

For some years, the debate of above the fold or below the fold on website design has continued to rage. With the introduction of smartphones, there was a need to deliver content to a smaller screen. This meant that scrolling was eventually going to become inevitable.


Like any web design trend, scrolling has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, endless scrolling with no clarity or hierarchy makes for a poor user experience. But, scrolling where a story is told through a journey of content, imagery and animation makes for a more interesting and engaging experience. It depends on how you use it.











    Material Design

You may not have heard of Material Design, but you will have heard of Google. Developed by the online powerhouse Material Design is a set of style guides that help provide a modern clean approach to web design with UX being at the forefront.


Material Design follows three core principles; realistic visual cues, design theory and movement that represents a meaning. With Google behind this new venture, we are sure to see its influences start to spread across web design in 2016 and beyond.


    Responsive

Last but not least, responsive web design (RWD). Google now actively recommend responsive web design and will penalise those in their page rankings who don’t use it. So, having a responsive website will still be a biggy in 2016. However, it is estimated that 89.2% of websites out there  are still not responsive! Learn more about why you should have a responsive web design here.






Sitecore Exterion Media

So there we have it, my round up of what’s in store for web design in 2016. On the off chance anyone has any questions or would like to know more on web design as a whole please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on our contact page

Nigerian NEPA is recruiting registeration ends today 31st August 2016

Register Now. 

Send your cover letter and Cv to recruitment@abujaelectricity.com

The different between Mobile and Responsive web site

If you have been reading our blog for a while then you will know that we love a good responsive design. A responsive design is what can raise your web design into a whole new realm of accessibility, functionality and overall performance. We are sure you know why you need a responsive design. However, too often, people can become confused between a responsive website and a mobile website or as it’s also known the mobile-friendly website. If this is you, don’t worry, it is a very common mistake. That’s why we have put together this article to explain to the average Joe that having a mobile-friendly website is nowhere near the same or as beneficial as having a responsive website.

   One website or two websites.

Normally two heads or two websites, in this case, are better than one but this is certainly not the case as having two websites can prove to be less accessible to your users. Mobile sites theoretically create two websites; one for desktops and one for mobiles. This can (but not always) create two URLs which can confuse many users trying to navigate to your site. Additionally mobile users will be automatically forwarded to your mobile site which can make load times slower. Whereas a responsive website is just one website, with one URL and one loading time with no forwarding. This results in a much more efficient experience for the user.

    Google’s favourite or disappearing SEO.

In case you haven’t heard responsive design is Google’s new favourite for SEO whereas mobile designs are neither here nor there. This means that if you want to climb the ranks of Google you better have a responsive website at the ready. The search engine algorithm for Google will always give responsive websites priority over mobile sites when ranking them. This is because responsive web designs tend to be more user-friendly with better accessibility, functionality and performance. At the moment, Google is all about giving the users what they want and at the moment that is responsive designs.


    All the content or little content.

You cannot showcase all of your content from your desktop site on your mobile friendly site- fact. With a mobile friendly web design, you have to pick and choose which pieces of content you are going to show. This limits your content massively and can prevent users from really seeing the true essence of your brand not to mention it can have a dampening effect on your SEO. However with a responsive design, you can keep all of your content. Remember content is king when trying to generate frequent traffic and a loyal user base which equates to a successful website. Thus, a successful website needs a responsive design.


    Adaptive or non-adaptive.

Mobile friendly web designs do not adapt to all screens. They are called “mobile-friendly” sites for a reason. They are used to shaping to mobiles. However as time has passed we have been introduced to a larger variety of mobile devices with varying screen sizes. This can be a problem for mobile friendly web designs as they have only been designed for mobiles and may have trouble fitting on screens such as iPads and tablets. Luckily, with a responsive design, it can adapt its shape and size automatically to fit users’ screens. So there are no more worries about fitting or filling up multiple screen sizes.






    Future proof or constant updates.

Responsive design is pointing in the direction of progression and development in the web industry. Many experts predict that it will lead us into the future of web design. On the other hand, mobile-friendly sites are barely holding on. They need constant updates to keep up with the latest technology such as varying screen sizes, as stated above. Responsive designs are future-proofed and are guaranteed to stay ahead of the web game, unlike their unreliable counterpart.

NIGERIAN RAILWAY CORPORATION JOB VACANCY OPPORTUNITIES

NIGERIAN RAILWAY CORPORATION

JOB VACANCY OPPORTUNITIES

http://nrc.gov.ng/2016/08/26/job-vacancy/

1)        Due to recent expansion and introduction of new routes, Nigerian Railway Corporation is hereby recruiting into the underlisted post.

A.     MECHANICAL/ELECTRICAL/S&T DEPARTMENT

I.          PUPIL ENGINEER (GL 08)

II.         HIGHER TECHNICAL OFFICER (GL.08)

III.        TECHNICAL OFFICER (GL 07)

IV.         ASSISTANT TECHNICAL OFFICER (GL 06)

B.         CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

I.          PUPIL ENGINEER (GL 08)

II.         HIGHER TECHNICAL OFFICER (GL. 08)

III.        TECHNICAL OFFICER (GL. 07)

IV.          ASSISTANT TECHNICAL OFFICER (GL. 06)

C.          CORPORATE PLANNING DEPARTMENT

I.           PUPIL HEALTH, SAFETY & ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER (GL. 08)

II.          PUPIL RESEARCH OFFICER (GL. 08)

III.        PUPIL SENIOR STORE OFFICER (GL.08)

IV.        EXECUTIVE STORE OFFICER (GL. 07)

V.         HEALTH, SAFETY & ENVIRONMENT ASSISTANT (GL. 06)

VI.        RESEARCH LABORATORY TECHNICIAN (GL. 06)

D.         ADMINISTRATION/HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT

I.         PUPIL HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER (GL. 08)

II.        CONFIDENTIAL SECRETARY (GL. 07)

III.        EXECUTIVE OFFICER (GL. 07)

IV.       SENIOR NURSING SUPERINTENDENT (CONHESS 8)

V.        PUPIL PUBLIC RELATION OFFICER (GL.08)

VI.       PUBLIC RELATION ASSISTANT (GL.07)

VII.      ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE OFFICER   (GL06)

VIII.     CONFIDENTIAL SECRETARY (GL.06)

E.        ACCOUNTS DEPARTMENT

I.         PUPIL ACCOUNTANT (GL08)

II.         EXECUTIVE OFFICER (GL.07)

III.        ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE OFFICER   (GL.06)

F         AUDIT DEPARTMENT

I.         PUPIL INTERNAL AUDITOR (GL.08)

II.        EXECUTIVE OFFICER (GL.07)

III.        ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE OFFICER   (GL.06)

G.       OPERATIONS & COMMERCIAL DEPARTMENT

I.         PUPIL TRAFFIC OFFICER (GL.08)

II.         PRINCIPAL STATION MASTER (GL.07)

III.        SENIOR STATION MASTER (GL.06)

2)        METHOD OF APPLICATION

Interested candidates should send detailed curriculum vitae with a covering letter by e-mail to             nrc.recruit@nrc.gov.ng

3)         Deadline for application is 18th September, 2016.

4)        ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED.

5)        GRADE LEVEL 06

            QUALIFICATION:

OND IN RELEVANT FIELDS

GRADE LEVEL 07

QUALIFICATION:

OND WITH MINIMUM OF THREE(3) RELEVANT EXPERIENCE

             GRADE LEVEL 08

QUALIFICATION:

HND OR UNIVERSITY DEGREE IN RELEVANT FIELDS.



SIGNED

MANAGEMENT

Why the field of statistics is very important

The Field of Statistics


The field of statistics is the science of learning from data. Statisticians offer essential insight in determining which data and conclusions are trustworthy. When statistical principles are correctly applied, statistical analyses tend to produce accurate results.

To produce conclusions that you can trust, statisticians must ensure that all stages are correct.

Statisticians know how to:

    Design studies that answers the question at hand
    Collect trustworthy data
    Analyze data appropriately
    Draw reliable conclusions

The Many Ways to Produce Misleading Conclusions



Statisticians should be a study’s guide through a minefield of potential pitfalls, any of which could produce misleading conclusions. The list below is but a small sample of these pitfalls.



Biased samples: A non-random sample can bias the results from the beginning.

Overgeneralization: The results from one population may not apply to another population. Statistical inferences are always limited and you need to understand the limitations.

Causality: How do you know when X causes a change in Y? Statisticians require tight criteria in order to assume causality.

Incorrect analysis choices: Is the model too simple or too complex? Does it adequately capture any curvature that is present? There are many ways you can perform analyses, but not all of them are correct.

Violation of the assumptions for an analysis: If you perform an analysis without checking the assumptions, you cannot trust the results.

Data mining: Even if everything passes muster, an analyst can find significant results simply by performing many tests. Statisticians keep track of all the tests in order to put the results in the proper context.


Statistics to the Rescue

In short, there are many ways to produce misleading conclusions.

If you want to use data to learn how the world works, you must have statistical knowledge to trust your data and your results. There’s just no way around it. Even if you are not performing the study, understanding statistics can help you assess the quality of other studies and the validity of their


conclusions.

The world today produces more data than ever before, and this is why we are celebrating statistics. It’s important to show others the impact statistics is having on society, including all branches of science, industry, public health, and public policy.



Some analyses are straight up for science and others are more partisan in nature. Are you ready? Will you know which conclusions to trust and which studies to doubt?

FEDERAL INLAND REVENUE SERVICE INTERNAL & EXTERNAL ADVERTISEMENT FOR CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

FEDERAL INLAND REVENUE SERVICE INTERNAL & EXTERNAL ADVERTISEMENT FOR CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

The Federal Inland Revenue Service as part of its consolidation strategies, wish to engage the services of early starters with integrity, drive and desire to win professionally, to strengthen its workforce. Applicants are to note that regardless of the position advertised, the following are minimum general requirements for all applicants:


 Minimum Qualifications/Skills Base

•   A Bachelor or Master’s Degree in Accounting, Law, Economics, Banking & Finance, Engineering, Geology, Statistics, Computer Science or other relevant discipline in the quantitative field OR
•  A Higher National Diploma in Accounting, Economics, Banking & Finance, Engineering, Geology, Statistics, Computer Science or other relevant discipline in the quantitative field
• Computer literacy and conversancy with Microsoft office, Web Applications and the use of relevant applications for efficient delivery of service
• Strong leadership and management skills
• Strong team spirit and ability to effectively delegate
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong Analytical skills
• Knowledge of the Nigerian Tax Laws and appreciation of their application and understanding of the regulatory framework within which the FIRS operates;
• Knowledge of business/industry environment within which taxpayers operate
• Ability to work as a regulator with the courage to ensure full compliance with laws

Minimum Character Attributes

• Be of good character and must not have been found guilty of any criminal offence or should not have been indicted at or dismissed from their places of work or other environment
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment

Minimum Past Performance Level

• Demonstrated ability to determine conformity and non- conformity to set standards in processes and procedures AND demonstrated courage and ability to eliminate, rectify or close determined non-conformity to standard character attributes
• Demonstrated courage in ensuring change within the organization he or she has worked through the effective discharge of his or her responsibility in spite of resistance to change efforts
• Demonstrable impactful presence in the work place as a direct result of the individual’s ability to effect positive and sustainable change in his/her environment

Application Requirement(s):

Applicants are also to note that regardless of the position advertised, any of the following will be an added advantage:-

• Master’s degree in related discipline
• Relevant and recognized professional certification and qualification

Other General Requirement(s):

In addition all Applicants must:-

• Have an NYSC Discharge or exemption certificate
• Be certified as mentally fit for appointment into the Service by a recognized Medical Doctor in any of these class of Government Hospitals:
1. National Hospital
2. Government Teaching Hospitals
3. Federal Medical Centers
• Provide contact details for three references (from last employer, a close family relation and tertiary institution) from whom confidential reports on character and demonstrated abilities can be obtained
• Present a certificate of State of Origin and Local Government signed by the Chairman/Secretary of their Local Government. Certificates endorsed by Liaison offices will not be accepted.

METHOD OF APPLICATION

FIRS considers computer proficiency a key requirement for anyone who aspires for a job in the Service. This FIRS application portal will be available with effect from Monday, 29th August, 2016. Please follow the instructions to fill in your application.

Only applications in respect of the advertised positions would be considered. All individuals are expected to apply for only ONE position. Multiple applications by one Candidate for more than one job will be disqualified. Upon submission, applicants will receive an acknowledgement containing a reference number which must be quoted in all future correspondences.

Deadline for submission of application is six (6) weeks from the date the web portal is available (Monday, 10th October, 2016) Only shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview

5 Reason why you need a responsive web design

1. Enhanced user experience

Your desktop site no doubt causes problems with your mobile consumers. A mobile compatible site will be easier to navigate and decrease drop-offs on your landing pages. It will avoid the confusion and frustration of scrolling for miles on a desktop site too. User ability research shows that users are more satisfied with a responsive site that adapts to their device. They also receive a better impression of your site and brand when it is mobile-friendly.
Strategy and Planning

2. Increased engagement

A responsive website offers users with more instant action options. They can immediately contact your business via mobile-specific functionalities. For instance, mobile users can use click-to-call commands and mapping functions. Users may also find it easier to subscribe to your website or mailing list too.
Give us a call 08030831139

3. More advantages for SEO

Google prefers responsive sites. They rank higher on the pages of Google so you will gain a lot more online exposure as opposed to just a desktop site. Additionally your site could appear in mobile directories to make it more searchable.

Web Design

4. Faster download speeds

All pages will load faster. Who doesn’t want a quicker site? It stops impatient users from dropping off your page and enhances the user experience. Also, if you have downloadable content on your website it makes the wait time for them to download a lot shorter.
Launch and Evaluation

5. Offers flexibility and convenience

Mobile users love convenience and flexibility. It is all about the easiest way for them to view your content. They have all the information they want at their fingertips. They receive the information on a device of their choice when and where they want. What’s more flexible and convenient than that?

5 steps in building a web project

  Planning.
The devil is in the detail.  If you don’t know what you need to build, how will it be built on time or to budget?  This might sound obvious, but I have seen so many web projects fail because either the client hasn’t thought the process through or the agency has made assumptions about what is required. To avoid this, explore every aspect of the brief as much as possible. What fields are required? What validation needs to be in place? Don’t overlook anything.

Remember, even the simplest things can have a huge impact on a business.  For instance, I was once asked to put a call-to-action into the header of a website. The client was very insistent it must be a telephone number, but through some discussions it emerged that they actually had no one to answer the phone! The lesson? Make sure you have a clear, detailed brief. This not only provides a strong foundation to build your project on but it also helps you define a clear scheduled checklist for future reference.


 Build the right team.

A team is a vital part to any project no matter what. These are the people that you are going to be reaching your goals and targets with. It is imperative that you have a highly motivated team, particularly if it is a large web project which may last serval months. Ensure everyone is knowledgeable about the brief at the very start of the project and that they are okay to carry out the discussed tasks. If you have any doubts, face them straight away. Talk to people, both clients and colleagues, about their concerns and most importantly listen. Ironing out any issues at the start and getting everyone on board is vital to any happy and successful web project

Communication

Communication can really make or break a project’s success rate. It is something that we all underestimate when it comes to completing tasks. Something as simple as picking up the phone can save you hours of work time.  Weekly catch-up meetings are good basic practice too. This can be where everyone can review what work has been completed, what is under way and go through any difficulties that may have arisen.  Be honest.  There is no point hiding your head in the sand if things aren’t going to plan for whatever reason. After any meeting, skype catch-up, or call make sure you write up a contact report and circulate it to the whole team. This will help avoid any doubts and ensure that clients and colleagues are up to date with the project

Time management

The hot topic for any project. If you know you can’t build what your client wants within the time don’t blindly agree to do it.  You may look good in the first week of the project, but you are the one who is going to have to face the flack later down the line. Never be afraid to ask for more time up front if you have any logical concerns, most clients will listen and take your advice onboard. Walk away from those that don’t and who continue to insist on a ridiculous deadline, because the situation will only compound and put a strain on you and your team which leads to another failed web project.  To keep track of time scales set up a rolling schedule at the beginning of the project, review and update it weekly. Remember it’s a ‘rolling’ schedule so any delay, no matter how small, needs to be highlighted and the impact made clear, even if you can make up the time elsewhere. This will help later on if you need extra time or extra budget as you will have a clear trail to the events which have caused this

   Review

Once a project is complete review it. This should never be a witch hunt or blame-storming session, but an honest appraisal of how things went both good and bad. This enables everyone who was part of the project to understand where they could improve next time and learn from it. After all, we should never stop learning and developing. In the words of Benjamin Franklin himself; “tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn”.

Review a step in web development project

Once a project is complete review it. This should never be a witch hunt or blame-storming session, but an honest appraisal of how things went both good and bad. This enables everyone who was part of the project to understand where they could improve next time and learn from it. After all, we should never stop learning and developing. In the words of Benjamin Franklin himself; “tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn”.

Time management while building a web project

The hot topic for any project. If you know you can’t build what your client wants within the time don’t blindly agree to do it.  You may look good in the first week of the project, but you are the one who is going to have to face the flack later down the line. Never be afraid to ask for more time up front if you have any logical concerns, most clients will listen and take your advice onboard. Walk away from those that don’t and who continue to insist on a ridiculous deadline, because the situation will only compound and put a strain on you and your team which leads to another failed web project.  To keep track of time scales set up a rolling schedule at the beginning of the project, review and update it weekly. Remember it’s a ‘rolling’ schedule so any delay, no matter how small, needs to be highlighted and the impact made clear, even if you can make up the time elsewhere. This will help later on if you need extra time or extra budget as you will have a clear trail to the events which have caused this

Communication

Communication can really make or break a project’s success rate. It is something that we all underestimate when it comes to completing tasks. Something as simple as picking up the phone can save you hours of work time.  Weekly catch-up meetings are good basic practice too. This can be where everyone can review what work has been completed, what is under way and go through any difficulties that may have arisen.  Be honest.  There is no point hiding your head in the sand if things aren’t going to plan for whatever reason. After any meeting, skype catch-up, or call make sure you write up a contact report and circulate it to the whole team. This will help avoid any doubts and ensure that clients and colleagues are up to date with the project

Build the right team

A team is a vital part to any project no matter what. These are the people that you are going to be reaching your goals and targets with. It is imperative that you have a highly motivated team, particularly if it is a large web project which may last serval months. Ensure everyone is knowledgeable about the brief at the very start of the project and that they are okay to carry out the discussed tasks. If you have any doubts, face them straight away. Talk to people, both clients and colleagues, about their concerns and most importantly listen. Ironing out any issues at the start and getting everyone on board is vital to any happy and successful web project

Planning as the first step to building a web project

The devil is in the detail.  If you don’t know what you need to build, how will it be built on time or to budget?  This might sound obvious, but I have seen so many web projects fail because either the client hasn’t thought the process through or the agency has made assumptions about what is required. To avoid this, explore every aspect of the brief as much as possible. What fields are required? What validation needs to be in place? Don’t overlook anything. Remember, even the simplest things can have a huge impact on a business.  For instance, I was once asked to put a call-to-action into the header of a website. The client was very insistent it must be a telephone number, but through some discussions it emerged that they actually had no one to answer the phone! The lesson? Make sure you have a clear, detailed brief. This not only provides a strong foundation to build your project on but it also helps you define a clear scheduled checklist for future reference.

Why Web Development is Just as Important as Web Design

Why is web development just as important as design? This is one of those questions that has made its way around most digital agencies in some shape or form. Quite often this debate has resulted in a bit of animosity between development and design teams. This is especially true when it comes to looming deadlines and fast vanishing budgets. But what’s the answer?


Well, the answer isn’t simple, not from a developer’s point of view at least. Any one of us developers will always tell you that development isn’t as important as design. Yet, our role is more important. After all, all designers do is draw pictures and we do all the hard work. But, lest I have a 3mil designer attack me with a vicious caricature; I should probably take an objective look at this question….

Agencies usually focus on the client’s identity thus the development is often an afterthought. This is understandable. When was the last time you heard a client comment: “I love how you’ve used JavaScript to shave off a fraction of load time”? Or “your use of the Bootstrap framework produces such clean HTML – it gives me goose bumps”? Never. Most clients want to see the visuals and in some cases a prototype that has the “wow” factor, not sheets of code. However, the code is what makes it work together.

What seems trivial from a visual perspective, may take a developer longer to code to get the desired finish. This problem can result in one of two outcomes. One: the design department or account manager has to backtrack and tell a client the design won’t work. Or two: the agency sucks up the cost of the added hours for a developer to put the code in place.

Too often I’ve seen digital projects that are quoted as “a straightforward design”. Yet they turn into these huge over budget failures. This is all because development time and cost wasn’t taken into consideration earlier on in the process. Likewise, I’ve seen scenarios where developers have suppressed design creativity. Again, all because they feel something is impossible to achieve within the constraints of the brief. This is frustrating for the designer and client who have already imagined the end result.
This is a quintessential chicken-or-the-egg paradox. In a digital agency, design cannot exist without development and vice versa. Nobody wants a beautiful site with no functionality- a digital flyer with no interaction. Likewise, nobody wants a site that could drop the kids off at school, walk the dog and do the dishes at a click of a button (my wife reckons this is a bad example because she wouldn’t care what this site looked like if it could do all that…)

Anyway back to the question; development is just as important as design. I will tell you how I know this; through experience. The most successful projects I have worked on have been when there was less distinction between the teams. Yes, there was a development team and there was a design team but the two worked together in harmony. Three things happened often in these projects. One: at least one member of each team was present during client talks. Two: ideas from both sides were discussed in a way that wouldn’t curb creativity. Three: creative ideas wouldn’t force developers into trying to achieve the impossible. This three rule combination made projects hugely successful for both the agencies and the clients.

These projects also developed people’s skills. The developers gained respect for the design processes. They also obtained a slight understanding of what a Photoshop layer is. The designers… Well, they walked away feeling good because their design was implemented. Also, they still had time to go to the pub for a few celebration drinks afterwards; which they Instagrammed back to the developers who were quite immersed, in the office on a network role playing game

How To Connect Your Blog To Auto Post To Facebook Groups

Lately, a lot of bloggers in Nigeria are using Facebook groups to drive massive traffic to their blogs. They create Facebook groups, add thousands of members, then auto post to the Facebook groups from their blogs.

Auto Posting to Facebook group will save your valuable time so you can concentrate on other things after publishing new posts on your blog. Besides this, it keeps your Facebook group up to date with updates from your blogs and in return, you get traffic to the blogs.

If you're an admin to a Facebook group, you can connect your blog and start posting to it automatically by making use of dlvr.it.

How To Get Started

>> Sign up and Sign in to www.dlvr.it
>> On the "Automate" tab, click on "Add Route"

>> Enter your blog URL or Feed URL in the box and click "Find Feeds" button.
>> Once a feed is detected, click on the "+" icon, then click "Continue"
>> Next is to add the Social network you want to be posting to. Click "Add", select "Facebook"
>> Follow the steps till you connect to your Facebook group. Configure other settings as desired.

That's all.

When next you publish a new post on your blog, it will be automatically posted to your Facebook Group.

I hope this helps.

Queen Elizabeth II is dead

Reports reaching us have confirmed that
Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of the United
Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New
Zealand, and Head of the Commonwealth
has passed away at the Royal Lodge, her
Windsor residence, Buckingham Palace
announced.
The release from Buckingham Palace said
“with the greatest sadness, at about
3.15pm, our beloved monarch Queen
Elizabeth II passed away. Queen Elizabeth II
was born on April 21, 1926 in London. She
will be missed but not forgotten” it said. The palace spokesman continued: “Queen
Elizabeth had become increasingly frail in
recent weeks following her bad cough and
chest infection.
“Her condition deteriorated this morning
and her doctors were called. Queen
Elizabeth died peacefully in her sleep this
afternoon at Royal Lodge”.

Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is recruiting Now!

FIRS Vacancy/employment adverts will come out today Monday 22-08-2016. Please inform others who might need the information. Application portal will open on Monday 29th August 2016. Applicants are  to apply online.

Papers:
1. Punch
2. Guardian
3.Leadership
4. Daily Trust
5. Businessday
6. Vanguard
7. The Nation
8. Sun
9. Tribune
10 Thisday

FIRS Job advert opens on 29th August, 2016.

 Pls follow the link below: http://www.firs.gov.ng/FIRS-Careers/Pages/Vacancies.aspx

Effeect of Branding on patronage of consumer Goods

Business do operate in an environment that is highly competitive, to meet up with or overcome this competition; the business owners always devise tools they could use to sell their products.
Branding is one of the tools used in persuading consumers to buy products or services. It is aimed at providing information on the availability of products, modified version as well as existing brand of products that would change consumers’ mental and behavioural responses in a manner favoured by the producers.



In this regard, good branding attracts attention, interest, stimulates and evokes positive reaction among potential consumers thereby forming the most suitable background for making sales.
The purpose of branding is to achieve the patronizing of consumer goods, make consumers derive benefits and satisfactions from a particular product. It facilitates people’s belief and purchasing decision on a product. This could be by encouraging new consumers to try the product or existing ones to use it again.

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF HUMAN CAPITAL MANAGEMENT ON PERFORMANCE IN THE BANKING SECTOR

This research work titled “human capital development and its effectiveness on workers performance in Guaranty Trust Bank, Mubi Branch aimed at determining the causes of inadequate human capital development, the level of satisfaction of workers about their jobs and to find out the problems behind rudeness and incivility among workers in the bank. Primary and secondary data were used by the researcher to gather the information and the case study method for research design.

The population of the study comprises the entire 35 staff of the bank out of which 25 staff were selected randomly. In theanalysis of the data collected, the research used simple percentage. The study revealed that there is inadequate human capital development in the Bank, lack of job placement and proper selection, prevalence of rudeness and incivility among workers. In view of these shortcomings, the researcher recommended that the management of the bank should integrate the selection process, motivate their workers, shun rudeness and incivility to ensure conducive working environment and bank and induce better productivity.

More from us at www.tci.com.ng

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF HUMAN CAPITAL MANAGEMENT ON PERFORMANCE IN THE BANKING SECTOR

This research work titled “human capital development and its effectiveness on workers performance in Guaranty Trust Bank, Mubi Branch aimed at determining the causes of inadequate human capital development, the level of satisfaction of workers about their jobs and to find out the problems behind rudeness and incivility among workers in the bank. Primary and secondary data were used by the researcher to gather the information and the case study method for research design.

The population of the study comprises the entire 35 staff of the bank out of which 25 staff were selected randomly. In theanalysis of the data collected, the research used simple percentage. The study revealed that there is inadequate human capital development in the Bank, lack of job placement and proper selection, prevalence of rudeness and incivility among workers. In view of these shortcomings, the researcher recommended that the management of the bank should integrate the selection process, motivate their workers, shun rudeness and incivility to ensure conducive working environment and bank and induce better productivity.

A REVIEW OF MOTIVATION AS A MANAGEMENT TOOL FOR INCREASING THE PRODUCTIVITY OF EMPLOYEES

This  research  examines  “the  review  of motivation  as a  management tool  for increasing the productivity of employees, a case study of Emenite Limited, Emene, Enugu State. The researcher adopted descriptive survey design. The population of the study is 224 while the sample size is 144. The researcher used both primary and secondary sources of data.

 In view of this, four research questions were formulated to generate expected answers. Literal works were reviewed for proper understanding and guidance. Questionnaires, personal interview and observation  were used for collection of primary data. Secondary sources of data were collected from textbooks, periodicals, articles and journals. Tables and simple percentage were  used  for  data  presentation  and  analysis. 

Based  on  the  findings,  the researcher  found  out  that  salary  increase,  fringe  benefit,  regular  training, promotion and favourable working conditions are good motivational technique. The  management  of  Emenite  Limited  adopts  various  motivational  techniques including roofing and ceiling their staff houses at a cheaper rate. Finally the researcher proffered among others prompt payment of salary to their employee
that will improve motivation in the company.

Effective Maintenance and Management of Building Technology work shop tools and equipment

Generally, it is believed that any nation, community or society that has no adequate means for occupational training of its citizens in modern technology cannot develop comparatively with other nations that have occupational training in modern technology, For a nation to develop economically there must be  a sound technological knowledge (Federal Republic of Nigeria. FRN, 2004).

Technical education is a planned program of courses and learning experience that begins with exploration of career options support basic academic and life skills, and enables achievement of high academic standards, leadership, preparation for industry defined work, and advanced and continuing education. This of course can be achieved if the learners are trained in a well equipped workshop to work and practice (Mahmood 2009).

(FRN 2004) states that technical and vocational education is the educational process which involves an addition to general education, the study of technologies and related sciences and acquisition of practical skills and knowledge relating to occupations in various sectors of economic and social life. Technical and vocational education serve as a means and is a pre-requisite for technological development and self-reliant, (Oranu, 2000). Technical and vocational education prepares the learner to develop profitably, social habit required  by the society. Olaitan (2006) define vocational and technical education as that aspect of education which is an acquisition- oriented form of training, base on application of mathematic and scientific knowledge in specific field or self actualization and development.

The Effect of Branding on the patronage of consumer goods in Nigeria

Business do operate in an environment that is highly competitive, to meet up with or overcome this competition; the business owners always devise tools they could use to sell their products.

Branding is one of the tools used in persuading consumers to buy products or services. It is aimed at providing information on the availability of products, modified version as well as existing brand of products that would change consumers’ mental and behavioural responses in a manner favoured by the producers.

In this regard, good branding attracts attention, interest, stimulates and evokes positive reaction among potential consumers thereby forming the most suitable background for making sales.
The purpose of branding is to achieve the patronizing of consumer goods, make consumers derive benefits and satisfactions from a particular product. It facilitates people’s belief and purchasing decision on a product. This could be by encouraging new consumers to try the product or existing ones to use it again.



The benefit of branding is to signal to the consumers the source of the product and protect the consumers from competitors who would attempt to provide products that appear to be identical. These are based on product attributes that provides functional or rational utilities to the consumers such benefit relate directly to the functions performed by the products and services to the consumer. Branding gives the consumers a positive feeling about the product.

DETERMINANTS OF BANKS' LENDING BEHAVIOUR

This study investigated the determinant of commercial banks’ lending behaviour in the Nigerian context. The study aimed to test and confirm the effectiveness of the determinants of commercial banks lending behaviour and how it affects the lending behaviour of commercial banks. The model used is estimated using Nigerian commercial banks loan advance (LOA) and other determinants or variables such as their volume of deposits (Vd), their investment portfolio (Ip), interest (lending) rate (Ir), stipulated cash reserve requirements ratio (Rr) and their liquidity ratio (Lr) for the period; 1980 – 2004.

The model hypothesizes that loans and advances of commercial banks respond positively to changes in their volume of deposits and negatively to changes in their investments, interest rates, cash reserve ratio and their liquidity ratio. From the regression analysis of the ordinary least square (OLS) and other analysis techniques such as the coefficient of determination, coefficient of multiple regressions, the T-test statistics, the F-test statistics and the Durbin-Watson (DW) test, the model was found to be significant and its estimators turned out as expected and it was discovered that commercial banks deposits have the greatest impacts on their lending behaviour.

The study then suggests that commercial bank should focus on mobilizing more deposits as this will enhance their lending services and should develop credit procedures, policies and analytical capabilities and these efforts need to be expanded into full credit management including origination, approval, monitoring and problem management tailored to the needs of each bank.   

Marketing of Bank Services in Nigeria

The financial sector, especially the banking system, plays a very important role in the development of any economy. This is because banks are the most important and vital intermediaries in any economy, given the fact that they mobilize savings and idle funds from the surplus sector and transfer them to the deficit sector, where they are needed.

 Banks may be referred to as the heart of the economy in regard to the role money plays in the economy. Commercial banks create and facilitate payments for goods and services.
Banks are economic decision units established for the purpose of providing financial services and products to the target market with a primary objective of making adequate returns or profits on the funds invested, without neglecting the other secondary of social objective of prosperity, growth and continual life of the business.

Effect of Branding on Consumer Product

Business do operate in an environment that is highly competitive, to meet up with or overcome this competition; the business owners always devise tools they could use to sell their products.
Branding is one of the tools used in persuading consumers to buy products or services. It is aimed at providing information on the availability of products, modified version as well as existing brand of products that would change consumers’ mental and behavioural responses in a manner favoured by the producers.

In this regard, good branding attracts attention, interest, stimulates and evokes positive reaction among potential consumers thereby forming the most suitable background for making sales.
The purpose of branding is to achieve the patronizing of consumer goods, make consumers derive benefits and satisfactions from a particular product. It facilitates people’s belief and purchasing decision on a product. This could be by encouraging new consumers to try the product or existing ones to use it again.

The benefit of branding is to signal to the consumers the source of the product and protect the consumers from competitors who would attempt to provide products that appear to be identical. These are based on product attributes that provides functional or rational utilities to the consumers such benefit relate directly to the functions performed by the products and services to the consumer. Branding gives the consumers a positive feeling about the product.

There are a lot of problems encountered in branding. These include cost of branding a product, budgeting for branding, action of competitors, etc. The essence of branding makes consumer aware of the different brands available for choice making.

This research work examines the effect of branding on the patronage of consumer goods. The Nigeria Bottling Company (NBC) is used since their products are generally for consumers.

An Evaluation of Bank's Capital Structure Determinant in a Depressed Economy

There is no doubt that the banking sector. Plays a significant role in the economy of Nigeria. Banks should choose and adjust their strategic mix of securities  in order to maximize the value of the firm and ensure that their operations are not either highly geared or too lowly geared in order to achieve optimum capital structure.

Thus, the determination of appropriate capital requirement and sources of raising funds are highly important.
This is because, finance represent all heart of all businesses. Lack of adequate capital has always been identified as the major causes of business Failure .In Nigeria, banking industry is regulated By central bank of Nigeria. At present, minimum capital requirement for commercial bank that intends to be in operation is N25 Billion. In order to raise capital backs need to mix both debt and equity strategically for the purpose of achieving an optimum capital structure.

In Nigeria, banks have not lived up to expectation of achieving optimum structure. If this is not achieved, it is at the peril of both the providers of capital and the firm itself.
This study therefore focuses on how Nigeria banks can choose appropriable mix of debt and equity capital in order to achieve optimum on capital structure. This is achieved by looking at the factors that determine capital structure in order to protect interest of providers of capital ensure payment of dividend, enable bank to use gearing benefit in optimizing return of investment and to enhance the firms ability to raise new fund.

The Effect of Automated Trading System on the operation of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE)

The capital market is divided into primary and secondary market. The primary market provides the vehicle for government and corporate entities to raise fresh capital through the issuance of securities while the secondary market enables investors to trade in securities which had been earlier issued in the primary market. Thus, the market provides a mechanism which enables investors to buy or sell existing securities.

The Nigerian Capital Market was established in 1961 to provide and sustain the capital requirements of the Nigerian economy. The mechanism for mobilizing long term funds for investment purposes is the Nigerian Stock Exchange. Between 1961 and 1997, the stock exchange  operated a manual call over system with its inherent problems, which could be summarized as undue delays, high risks and manipulations due to long transaction cycles, minimal transparency and therefore a general lack of confidence in the system (NSE,  2008).

Information and communication technology (ICT) transformation in the Nigerian Capital Market Began in 1997 with the establishment of the Automated trading System (ATS). 

The Determinant of Bank Lending behabiour in Nigeria

This study  investigated the  determinant of commercial banks’ lending behaviour in the Nigerian context. The study aimed to test and confirm the effectiveness of the determinants of commercial banks lending behaviour and how it affects the lending behaviour of commercial banks. The model used is estimated using Nigerian commercial banks loan advance (LOA) and other determinants or variables such as their volume of deposits (Vd), their investment portfolio (Ip), interest (lending) rate (Ir), stipulated cash reserve requirements ratio (Rr) and their liquidity ratio (Lr) for the period; 1980 – 2004.   

The model hypothesizes that loans and advances of commercial banks respond positively to changes in their volume of deposits and negatively to changes in their investments, interest rates, cash reserve ratio and their liquidity ratio. From the regression analysis of the ordinary least square (OLS) and other analysis techniques such as the coefficient of determination, coefficient of multiple regressions, the T-test statistics, the F-test statistics and the Durbin-Watson (DW) test, the model was found to be significant and its estimators turned out as expected and it was discovered that commercial banks deposits have the greatest impacts on their lending behaviour. The study then suggests that commercial bank should focus on mobilizing more deposits as this will enhance their lending services and should develop credit procedures, policies and analytical capabilities and these efforts need to be expanded into full credit  management  including origination, approval, monitoring and problem management tailored to the needs of each bank