The way we do business changes rapidly. With these ever changing needs, employee training is imperative. KnowledgeCity has recognized the need for businesses to train their employees in a manner that does not interfere with, but rather enhances productivity.

As companies rely more and more on their team’s knowledge, skills and abilities; we have to ask: How well is your training transferring to the workplace?

What does a brand do? According to Functional Marketing, “Branding is defining what you want people to think, feel, experience and believe about your company.”

Team building takes some human relation skills such as: Motivation, Leadership, and Communications; all of which boost Morale. In addition to an astute understanding of people and your team in particular; here are five tools that you can use to inspire and build your team

To have a measureable effect on productivity moving to a Business Centric model is a must.

Friday, March 25, 2011

Sustainable Business: Why Being Green Matters!

By 3:54 PMNo comments
We have all been subject to the rise in “green” propaganda.  While this increase in environmental awareness has lead to positive changes in business and commercial practice, it is often depicted as a sort of overly-obsessive fanaticism.  What practices should businesses really be responsible for, and why should we care?

Instructor Lisa Shapiro addresses these concerns in her course Sustainable Business.  One of the biggest obstacles facing businesses today is the threat of limited resources, so it is essential for businesses to be aware of their impact on the environment.  This course challenges businesses that produce a product to evaluate their answers to questions such as:
  • Where do the raw materials come from?
  • What kinds of working conditions go into production? 
  • How much waste takes place during production?

Another way businesses can promote sustainability is by operating in “green” buildings.  No, not like that color (though that would be kind of cool).  Green buildings not only minimize their impact on the environment, they also save money by incorporating energy-saving lighting, heating, and cooling.  Some green buildings consume up to 50% less energy than traditional buildings!

Businesses should not just adopt a sustainable stance for their ethos, or because it would save or make them money.  They should do so because it is their responsibility—just as it is our responsibility to be aware of current practices threatening the environment, such as deforestation.   

To learn more about current environmental issues, business practice, and what you can do to help, go to KnowledgeCity.com and preview Sustainable Business.
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Friday, March 18, 2011

The Language of Computers

By 4:32 PMNo comments

If you’ve ever atempted to learn a new language with little or no success, there's hope for you yet! Forget the flash cards, audio CDs, and concerns over your pronunciation, and step into the dynamic world of computer code. Whether we’re aware of it or not, there are hidden languages at work in the computer programs we use on a daily basis. When we input certain commands (as in, typing a certain word or clicking certain keys), that action is translated into the computer’s language, activating a series of on/off switches that produce the effect we see on screen. Each instruction is specific to each action, which the computer can run at a rate of millions of instructions every second!


Computer programmers are people who “write” the software, breaking down the actions into their individual parts. Jobs for computer programmers include things like: coding, debugging, maintenance, software testing, compilation, etc. Programmers not only think about how they want the end product to look, but also how all of the components fit together. By knowing certain computer languages, they are able to create complex and creative software.

Two of the most popular computer languages used today are C++ and Java (http://www.langpop.com/). C++ is used largely in systems software, application software and entertainment software, such as computer or video games. Java is more general-purpose and is able to be run almost anywhere.

So if you’ve ever wanted to branch out into the software industry, make yourself more marketable to employers, or even to just find a new hobby, check out KnowledgeCity’s free preview of its exclusive courses in C++ and Java Programming.
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Friday, March 11, 2011

Succeeding in the Business World

By 3:30 PM, , , , , , No comments
Have you ever considered starting your own business? Or thought about going back to school for your MBA? Or perhaps you are already employed, but want to better understand the principles that drive the economy and how to navigate changing market trends.

Regardless of your industry, job title or the state of the economy, there are certain principles that remain true for businesses of all kinds. KnowledgeCity’s Introduction to Business illustrates the fundamentals of any thriving business. This dynamic course gives you a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look at the various types of businesses, what drives economies and global markets, how to analyze the competition, marketing strategies, business ethics, and more. Instructor Lisa Sharpiro explains key terms and concepts, teaching you essential strategies for avoiding common pitfalls.

For example, one of the tools covered in the course is something called a SWOT analysis.

A what?

A SWOT analysis is way to evaluate the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats facing your business. Here is a small sampling of the types of questions that can help you reflect on how you can improve your business: 
  • Strengths
    • What does your business do well?
    • What resources are available?
  • Weaknesses
    • What can you improve?
    • What should you avoid?
    • Strategize to overcome weaknesses
      • Hire talent
      • Get training
      • Outsource
  • Opportunities
    • Be aware of:
      • Positive trends
      • Favorable technology
      • Changes in regulations
  • Threats
    • What is the competition doing?
    • Does the business have cash flow problems?
    • Are regulations becoming stricter?
    • What dangers can threaten the business?
      • Environmental
      • Social/Political
      • Economic
      • Consumer behavior

By better understanding these principles, you can enter the business world with more confidence and a firm foundation.  Check it out at KnowledgeCity.com.
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