http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for workspace Copyright 2008 Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:07:29 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/workspace http://www.artwoo.com/article/your-craft-table-workspace-can-make-or-break-a-project http://www.artwoo.com/article/your-craft-table-workspace-can-make-or-break-a-project#comments Sat, 09 Jun 2007 07:14:54 +0000 storage containersworkspaceoffice furnitureergonomic chaircraft tablecrafting suppliescrafts http://www.artwoo.com/article/your-craft-table-workspace-can-make-or-break-a-project crafts have started taking over the entire room. You need to begin to think about how you want to organize your space and materials into a workspace where you can keep your materials and create your masterpiece.



The goal you have is to create a craft table workspace where the only thing there will be your storage and supplies-you do not want to have to pack and unpack all of the supplies every time you want to work.

Generally, you have three options for creating a special crafting space to work and to store materials. There is now furniture and storage containers especially designed for crafters, regular office furniture and storage units, or you can adapt existing furniture and storage containers in your home to fit your needs. You can spend a lot of money on furniture and storage containers or you can be frugal-whatever works for you should be your primary goal.



You can start by creating a small corner in your home that you will dedicate to your craft table. There are several items you will need in order to enhance your workspace into an area that meets all of your needs.



You should begin with the essentials=97purchase a flat, easy-to-clean work surface. This can be a small desk or even an old folding card table. Any surface that gives you a large surface to spread out your supplies will work.



The craft table should be accompanied by a very comfortable ergonomic chair that is adjustable to fit the contours of your body and to provide back support. If you will be spending a lot of time making crafts, support is very important for your back.



When you decide to purchase a new ergonomic chair, go out and sit on them. Do not just look at the chair and think that it will work-sit in it, spin around, make it go up and down, and adjust the back and arms. Make sure that it will work for you and be very comfortable.

The craft table workspace has been created and is ready for you. Now, what to do with all of the crafting supplies you have. The top of your workspace is limited in size, so you definitely need to have a way to store your supplies. There are many different options on the types of storage containers you can use. Some people purchase a file cabinet that will be large enough to hand 12x12 inches hanging folders.



These hanging folders will hold the many different supplies in a handy each to reach place next to your craft table. You may want to consider purchasing a special organizer. These come in a variety of sizes and have many different sized drawers to hold the largest to the tiniest of items in an easy to open cabinet.

You can spend a lot of money purchasing all of the special furniture and storage containers that are now available for people who enjoy crafting. If you just do crafts for the pleasure it provides, you may not want to invest a lot of money into buy expensive furniture. Whatever your final decision when it comes to choosing a craft table, just make sure that it works for you. For more information on crafts, try visiting http://www.craftguidance.com - a website that specializes in providing craft related tips, advice and resources to include information on craft table. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/10-tips-to-cut-the-clutter-from-your-workspace http://www.artwoo.com/article/10-tips-to-cut-the-clutter-from-your-workspace#comments Mon, 04 Aug 2008 08:57:43 +0000 scotch tapefood wrappersuseless itemsscrap paperwastebasketfiling systemfile folder http://www.artwoo.com/article/10-tips-to-cut-the-clutter-from-your-workspace food wrappers and a dead plant all in one place? If you answered "my desk," then you may be in need of a workspace makeover.

Whether found at home or in the office, the clutter on your desk is no help to your productivity, and it can be an eyesore for all those around you. Plus, with all those papers on your desk, how do you expect to quickly find the information you need? A cluttered work area can slow you down and dampen your spirits by making you feel claustrophobic. Try these organizational tips to clip away the clutter found where you work.

1. Put time aside to take care of the clutter. This could be a day, a week or an hour depending on the size of your pile. The key here is to commit to cleaning rather than putting it off till another day.

2. Keep a wastebasket near or under your desk. Use this to your advantage by doing daily tiding of your workspace. Throw away or recycle all scrap paper, dead pens, or other useless items left on your desk the day before. You can make this process easier for yourself by constantly separating papers into ones to keep and ones to trash.

3. Use bins and folders to keep documents and office supplies in one area. Be careful when filing papers. Don't give in to the temptation to make a miscellaneous folder! If you create one of these, all your papers will end up there and your filing system will be rendered useless.

4. Keep all your frequently accessed documents within reach. Having these handy not only will make you more efficient, but it will help you figure out which papers do NOT need to be on your desk.

5. Another something to keep handy is active projects. Put these in the front of your file folder or in a bin on your desk. Also, file away finished projects to create more space.

6. Always use labels for your folders and bins. Make each go farther by putting down scotch tape before placing a label on something. This will make it easier to remove the label in the future so you can reuse the item without tearing apart the label area.

7. Look for office wall units that allow you to hang folders, bins and shelves on your wall. This will give you more storage area without taking up space on your desk.

8. Bind the cords under your desk with plastic tubing or ties. This will make it less likely for you to catch your feet on them throughout the day.

9. Keep your computer organized as well by putting old files on external drives, thus cleaning up your desktop and documents.

10. Don't store extra supplies such as printer paper, extra pens, and paper clips on your desk. Store these away in a file cabinet or bin underneath your desk.

By implementing these clutter control tips in your workspace, you can begin to tackle your mess. Having your workspace clean will show others your commitment to your job as well as look pleasant to passersbys. With a clean work area you will feel like you have more room to move, thus opening your mind and allowing you to get more work done and put you in higher spirits. Finally, you'll be able to find the things you need quickly, which also will improve your work performance. Just remember to stay committed to your clutter-free lifestyle or you will find yourself back where you started in a mess of workspace clutter. Keep with these tips and you will find yourself in a clutter free workspace with a happier you!Melissa Mashtonio writes for Manta.com, the go-to site for researching company profiles. The site (http://www.manta.com) offers free research on more than 45 million companies in the United States, Canada, Australia and the U.K.]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/cabinets-kitchen-island-types-and-options http://www.artwoo.com/article/cabinets-kitchen-island-types-and-options#comments Thu, 01 Mar 2007 08:27:05 +0000 storage spacecountertopkitchen islandsfood preparation areaworkspacecustom builtflexibility http://www.artwoo.com/article/cabinets-kitchen-island-types-and-options Kitchen islands are attractive home repair additions to add to your kitchen. They can give you needed storage for your things, more preparation and extra workspace. Some even give you more sink and cooking space. In fact, there are many choices of features and designs to suit everyone.

The basic island looks like a table with legs and flat countertops for cooking. They are practical for both buffet style serving of meals and the preparation of food. Also, they add a decorative addition to your kitchen. However, this type of island does not supply extra storage space.

Another basic island offers a flat countertop with added storage space beneath it, including cabinets and drawers. This will give you extra storage space beneath it, versus the space wasting of a countertop design.

Custom-built style islands are much more extensive, including dishwasher, refrigerator, warming oven, cook top and sink space. Granite topped ones or other hard surfaces let you prepare food and dough on the countertop, instead of using a cutting board. A butcher block can be added to avoid countertop cutting. In fact, you can choose one or all of the options because custom built ones allow flexibility and are made to suit your requirements.

Islands with multiple levels are the most flexible and offer far more choices. Their workspace is smaller, but you have more flexibility with the options available. These islands are bigger, have an eating place, and also a food preparation area. You will be able to install a cook top or sink on a different level, in one part of the countertop.

Kitchen islands sizes vary a lot. You will need to measure your current space to find the one that fits your kitchen. It can be stressful to comprehend with only two measurement dimensions. The best option is to use boxes or furniture, shaped into an island in your kitchen. After a few days, you will get a sense of how it will feel.

You will need to allow a minimum space of three feet around your island when measuring. You have to have space to get to your appliances and move around. You must be able to safely open appliance doors and have enough work room around your island. If your dishwasher door opens onto the island or you cannot move around if you are cooking, the island size will be too big.

Portable islands are another alternative in limited space, and have wheels so they can be relocated when you are not using them. They offer portable and extra workspace when you need it, and they do not get under foot when you are not using them.

Unfortunately you will have extra workspace, but limit yourself to just that. You cannot install a sink or cook top. Peter Wilson published mainly for http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com , an online publication with topics around cabinets and home repair. His work on kitchen islands are published on http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com/islands.html in addition to other online publications. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/cabinets-kitchen-island-types-and-options http://www.artwoo.com/article/cabinets-kitchen-island-types-and-options#comments Thu, 01 Mar 2007 08:27:06 +0000 storage spacecountertopkitchen islandsfood preparation areaworkspacecustom builtflexibility http://www.artwoo.com/article/cabinets-kitchen-island-types-and-options Kitchen islands are attractive home repair additions to add to your kitchen. They can give you needed storage for your things, more preparation and extra workspace. Some even give you more sink and cooking space. In fact, there are many choices of features and designs to suit everyone.

The basic island looks like a table with legs and flat countertops for cooking. They are practical for both buffet style serving of meals and the preparation of food. Also, they add a decorative addition to your kitchen. However, this type of island does not supply extra storage space.

Another basic island offers a flat countertop with added storage space beneath it, including cabinets and drawers. This will give you extra storage space beneath it, versus the space wasting of a countertop design.

Custom-built style islands are much more extensive, including dishwasher, refrigerator, warming oven, cook top and sink space. Granite topped ones or other hard surfaces let you prepare food and dough on the countertop, instead of using a cutting board. A butcher block can be added to avoid countertop cutting. In fact, you can choose one or all of the options because custom built ones allow flexibility and are made to suit your requirements.

Islands with multiple levels are the most flexible and offer far more choices. Their workspace is smaller, but you have more flexibility with the options available. These islands are bigger, have an eating place, and also a food preparation area. You will be able to install a cook top or sink on a different level, in one part of the countertop.

Kitchen islands sizes vary a lot. You will need to measure your current space to find the one that fits your kitchen. It can be stressful to comprehend with only two measurement dimensions. The best option is to use boxes or furniture, shaped into an island in your kitchen. After a few days, you will get a sense of how it will feel.

You will need to allow a minimum space of three feet around your island when measuring. You have to have space to get to your appliances and move around. You must be able to safely open appliance doors and have enough work room around your island. If your dishwasher door opens onto the island or you cannot move around if you are cooking, the island size will be too big.

Portable islands are another alternative in limited space, and have wheels so they can be relocated when you are not using them. They offer portable and extra workspace when you need it, and they do not get under foot when you are not using them.

Unfortunately you will have extra workspace, but limit yourself to just that. You cannot install a sink or cook top. Peter Wilson published mainly for http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com , an online publication with topics around cabinets and home repair. His work on kitchen islands are published on http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com/islands.html in addition to other online publications. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/control-your-workspace-to-improve-profits http://www.artwoo.com/article/control-your-workspace-to-improve-profits#comments Mon, 21 Jan 2008 12:25:00 +0000 home business entrepreneurcramped cubiclefamily room couchself disciplinelaser focushome lifestyletime is money http://www.artwoo.com/article/control-your-workspace-to-improve-profits home business entrepreneur is great for a lot or reasons, and one of the biggest blessings is having complete control over my workspace. Instead of a cramped cubicle or assigned "position" we can work from the kitchen table, the patio, even the couch if we like. But just because we can work anywhere we like doesn't mean we should.

You're the boss. You can work form your laptop on the family room couch with the TV on if you want. But is this atmosphere the most conducive for staying focused and making progress?

I love the work from home lifestyle and I don't mind taking full advantage of the freedom and flexibility that comes with it. But I do so in moderation because I know self-discipline and structure are needed to remain productive and profitable.

Controlling our workspace is the key challenge for any home business professional. It's so easy to be distracted by the television, by family members who want to hang out and talk while you are working, and by friends who drop by often because they know you're home.

But I urge you to stay focused on the ultimate goal of building big profits. And this means you need to exercise full control over the environment in which you work.

Time is money, even if your income is the result of passive sales made from your network of Websites. An eight-hour day full of interruptions and socializing is not as profitable as a four-hour block of laser focus and diligent task management.

Here are a few simple but crucial things you can do to keep your workspace highly productive.

Dedicated Office Space - You should devote an entire room to your business if possible. A place you can go and close the door during work hours will really raise the bar in terms of productivity. If space just doesn't exist for a separate room at least claim a specific workstation that you use every day and establish an understanding with any other residents that when you are at this station you are working and not available for casual chatter.

Regular Work Hours - It's ideal to be in your office or at your station at around the same time each day. This consistency will help you get a powerful rhythm going, and once you have a rhythm you'll be surprised by how much you can do in the space of one work day.

Do Not Disturb - Make it clear to friends and family that you are working and need not be disturbed unless the matter is urgent. Not everyone will take you seriously right away but do what you need to do to drive the point home, to the point of being firm. We're talking about your livelihood here, your path to prosperity; don't hesitate to "lay down the law" if you need to.

A Conducive Atmosphere - Your workspace needs to be neatly organized, and equipped with the proper tools. In addition to the obvious (computer equipment, office supplies, phone, etc.) your work area needs a clock, a calendar, a bulletin board, and a dry erase board. I also encourage you to run appropriate audio in the background; examples are meditation music, motivational speakers, and marketing tutorials.

Create The Vibration - I encourage you to take time at the beginning of each workday to sit in your chair, close your eyes, and clear your mind. Sit quietly for a few seconds to a few minutes, breathing in slowly and deeply, allowing your breath to rest, and then exhaling slowly and fully. During this period of breathing focus your thoughts only on the air coming into your lungs, resting, and then going out of your body. Once you are finished with your breathing exercises (find a rhythm and length that feel right and go with it) open your eyes and know that you will be extremely effective at your work today.

As you can see from my suggestions, I believe our workspace is both physical and mental. And having an organized, comfortable place that is free from distractions and conducive to focus and forward momentum can make a notable difference in your monthly numbers. Tim Whiston is an entrepreneur who loves working from home and helping other businesses succeed on the Web. Be sure to check out his free information marketing course for more great content: http://info-marketing.timwhiston.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/plans-for-a-home-business-should-be-kept-simple http://www.artwoo.com/article/plans-for-a-home-business-should-be-kept-simple#comments Mon, 07 Jan 2008 10:20:03 +0000 hand computerssewing roomaccounting servicesbusiness areapersonal knowledgepreparation timesewing machines http://www.artwoo.com/article/plans-for-a-home-business-should-be-kept-simple business area that you already have knowledge or skills in. Taking a hobby or past time and creating a home business from that is one easy way to begin on the path to a simple home business. An example of this is a person who knits, can knit hats, gloves, scarves and so on and sell those items for a profit. Likely this person already has materials, tools and other business needs on hand. This is keeping your home business simple and easy.

On Hand Equipment

As in the example above you should try to use tools and other items that you already have on hand. Computers, phone lines, copiers, fax machines, sewing machines, childcare equipment and so on. Take a look around your home for inspiration. In the time that it takes for you to do a walk through of your home you may find this is all of the time it will take to know which direction you will go to pursue your home business. By doing so you are already calculating what items you need to buy and how much funding it may require to do so. Completing two tasks at one time is keeping business simple.

Prepared Workspace

Using a workspace that is readily available for you to begin working in is another way to keep your home business easy. A home office can be used for data entry positions or accounting services. A basement or garage can be used to perform woodworking or pottery sculpting. Your living room can be used to relaxingly knit clothing or your sewing room for quilting sellable items. Using a space that is already prepared for your business can shave off preparation time and save money as well.

Recap On Guides To Keeping Home Business Simple

* Use skills, hobbies and personal knowledge to begin your business planning around. * Use tool, resources and equipment that are already in your possession to apply towards your business. * Use a workspace that is already suited to your business needs, such as a home office, garage or basement.

Overall Reasoning Behind Simple Planning

Using any and everything that you already have is the best way to keep a home business simple. There are already areas of concern such as finances, marketing and advertising that you will be spending time and effort to correct. This allows you to focus on the areas that truly need it instead of focusing on every little area of concern that pops up. This also allows you to keep time open for personal time. In order to allow you the best possible chance for success while you tend to be busy with business issues than you do not get to enjoy the work at home experience. You can even keep in mind an acronym of the word easy.

E-every, A-available, s-resource, Y-you have. Thomas Fairholm, your Income For Life guy, can show you how to launch your very own money making website today that's 100% ready to take orders and pull in massive profits for you right now ... guaranteed! http://www.IncomeForLifeSite.com/pip.html ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/cnc-router-buying-guide http://www.artwoo.com/article/cnc-router-buying-guide#comments Fri, 01 Sep 2006 12:27:16 +0000 cnc routerscnc routercnc machinesgo betweensqualityconsumerslot http://www.artwoo.com/article/cnc-router-buying-guide
CNC routers have been of great help in many fields (signage- making, 3D moldings and furniture, just to name a few). In that regard, it would be very helpful for its users to know how to get the best deal and quality on their next purchase of CNC routers.

Here are some tips on how you can get the best CNC routers.

1. Buying CNC routers from a manufacturer would be more advisable than buying from distributors.

Buying from a manufacturer will give consumers the following advantages -

- The guarantee that the sales representative knows a lot about the product. Who would know the product better than the manufacturers themselves?

- Consumers can buy the items at a cheaper price too, since there are no third parties or go- betweens involved in the transaction.

Just make sure that you know the nearest service center of the company so that you know where to go to in case you need follow- up services from them.

2. Visit multiple stores to try the different CNC machines.

- It would be advisable that you have materials that you can work on when you try the machines. Bring these materials home to see that of the products can give the quality of workmanship that you are looking for.

- Also, it would be advantageous if you can also check the machines ease of usage and your comfort while you are using the product. These things will help a lot in deciding that router you will use.

3. It is advisable to buy a new CNC router.

New CNC routers are more efficient, and the quality of work can be assured. Of course, not all circumstances would allow businesses the endeavors of having a new CNC router.

In case you would buy used CNC routers, here are the things that you need to look for -

- At least one year warranty from the seller just as an assurance that you would not have to shoulder repair expenses within that period.

- Make sure that all of the upgrades necessary for the machine have been done.

- Ask if it would be possible for repairs to be done after a year and ask how much it would cost.

4. Consult your vendor regarding your CNC router needs so that you will not buy something less than what you are expecting or something more that can add up to your expenses.

5. Test the durability and the reliability of the CNC routers.

These are the two qualities that a CNC router must be able to meet. All the parts of the router should be sturdy enough to carry on the heavy work. Minimal vibrations must be felt during operations, and the cuts must be precise, accurate and smooth. You must know these things before buying the product, and not after you purchase it.

6. Get the software that is easy to learn, manipulate, program and fix during errors.

When using CNC routers, operators will be dealing with programs and codes that tell the machine what to do. That is why it is a basic requirement for the operators to be accustomed to the software that he is using. Most of these things he will learn during trainings and product testing.

7. Consider workspace and the jobs to be done in buying CNC routers.

Materials that CNC routers are working on vary in characteristics such as hardness. Your CNC routers may do the job easily on this product, will have a hard time working on another. These things must be taken into consideration when buying CNC routers.

Also, workspace is another issue. Make sure that your workspace can accommodate the machine that you will be buying.

8. Price is relevant to the CNC router and the future profit that it can bring you.

Do not get a CNC router just because it is cheap. Think long term.

Your CNC router is the key in making the most out of your business. So give it your best shot to follow these tips to get the best CNC router to cater to your needs! For more great cnc router related articles and resources check out http://cncportal.info ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/productivity-linked-to-clean-desks http://www.artwoo.com/article/productivity-linked-to-clean-desks#comments Sun, 21 Oct 2007 12:30:00 +0000 carpal tunnel syndromekeyboard traysdeskworkspacemonitor armcomputer monitortake a good look http://www.artwoo.com/article/productivity-linked-to-clean-desks desks tend to be, well, more productive. Thirty-three percent more productive to be exact. Is it because they have less work to clutter up their desktops? Hardly. The study also measured productivity in relation to organization skills and those who stay better organized, not only have tidier offices, but they also waste less time looking for things through piles of disorganized paperwork and more time getting their work done.

Whether you're naturally neat and clean or messy may have a lot to do with how you were raised and whether you are a right- or left-brained thinker. But that doesn't mean that your genes need to dictate how productive you can be. There are several ways to tidy up that workspace and here are some tips to help you get started even if you're a complete pack rat.

First, focus on keeping your desk clean. Lots of workspace will help you spread out your paper work when you need to, without losing papers, misplacing things, forgetting documents or misfiling the wrong items together. Start by freeing up some desktop space by getting that bulky computer monitor off the desk. A monitor arm, mounted to the side or back of your desk, will not only give you about twenty-five percent more room to work, it'll also allow you to tilt your monitor to control glare.

Second, never, ever keep your keyboard on your desktop. If you're still reaching up to your desktop to type on your keyboard, it's time to move into the new millennium. Articulating keyboard trays and drawers not only give you added space, but they provide the ergonomics your body needs to prevent fatigue and other more serious conditions like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Third, keep only the items you use often on your desk. Take a good look at some of the things you may keep within reach daily, but only use a few times a week: staplers, three-hole punches, reference books, calculators, etc. If you don't use them every single day, put them away and take them out only when you're working on a project that requires them.

Fourth, create files and use them. As soon as a project begins, create a file for it=97even if it's only temporary=97and keep the files for your active projects close to your desk. Move all other files to a filing cabinet.

Fifth, stop using sticky notes. Nothing clutters up a workspace faster than sticky notes that tend to fall off the thing they're supposed to be stuck to anyway. Keep a single notebook on your desk and write all pertinent information in your notebook throughout the day. If you need something, you'll know exactly where to find it and when it's no longer important, rip out the page and file it in the appropriate file.

With a little overhaul of your behavior and your desk, you can become much more productive and that may mean the difference between a promotion or not. Need great computer tables http://www.versatables.com without going broke? At VersaTables you can get desks, http://www.versatables.com/pages/lanmain.php computer racks, and much more online 365 day of the year! ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/is-a-home-business-right-for-you http://www.artwoo.com/article/is-a-home-business-right-for-you#comments Sun, 20 Jan 2008 03:25:02 +0000 starting a home businessstartup fundsstartup moneyfund sourcesattractive optionschoosing an occupationswitch careers http://www.artwoo.com/article/is-a-home-business-right-for-you Choosing an occupation is a difficult decision for many. Quite a few individuals switch careers midway through life as they find something which interests them more so or find a better-suited opportunity. Home businesses have become quite attractive options for many these days as there are so many job choices to select the best-suited one, such as online ventures where online money possibilities are almost endless. If you are thinking about starting a home business, there are a few questions to ask yourself to determine if this is the right career choice for you.

Work Performance Suitability

The one problem which individuals see from time to time when working from home is the occasional episode of procrastination. Some individuals need a 9 to 5 atmosphere in order to get their work done and done in a timely manner. If you are one of these individuals, then perhaps working from home may not be the best idea. However, if procrastination is not an issue and you are able to exhibit great work performance on your own fruition, then having a home business might be the perfect job opportunity.

Startup Funds

Many home businesses require startup funds to get their business off the floor and running. Therefore, you should consider the type of home business you want to pursue and determine how much money you will need in the beginning to get it started and make it successful. Startup funds can come from savings, investors or loans. If you have access to any of these types of fund sources and need the startup money, then this issue can be checked off of your list of necessary items.

Generous Work Space

Some home businesses will also require a good amount of workspace in order to complete duties on a daily basis. If you have a generous work area in your home, then pursuing a home business should be snap when it comes to having a place to set up shop. The workspace must be big enough to accommodate all workers, if more than yourself, and enable them to get the work done in a timely and efficient manner. If your home business involves making online money through Internet-related businesses, then the workspace needed might not have to be so large.



Ability to Perform the Job

Those with home businesses must also ensure that they are familiar with their business concept and know exactly how to get the job done. The ability to perform the job is perhaps the most important factor to consider when trying to figure out if a home business is right for you. Individuals who have a vast amount of experience with their line of business will often have the perfect ability to get the job done and get it done right. The more years of experience which one has in a particular business area, the more likely it will be that the home business is successful as this individual will know exactly what to do.

The Learning Curve

With any thing in life there will be some type of learning curve, even if you want to start a new home business you might have to ask someone for help, or look for it in a books or magazines. The one reason that most people fail is because they just don't know and many are scared to ask. You will be surprised at how many people out there in the world will help you as long as you ask for it. Yes there are a few smart people out there that can just learn something new on there own but it takes a very long time. Don't be scared or ashamed to ask the "dumb question" just do it and you will be ahead of the game in no time. David Earls is owner of http://www.DEMoneyonline.com and writes on a variety of subjects. To learn more about how to have your home business setup David recommends you visit: http://www.DEMoneyonline.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/adding-fish-to-your-office-in-style http://www.artwoo.com/article/adding-fish-to-your-office-in-style#comments Wed, 29 Nov 2006 06:27:20 +0000 fish tanksfish tankfirst fishnecessarilyoffice petsoffice workspacefrown http://www.artwoo.com/article/adding-fish-to-your-office-in-style office workspace? If so, have you come up with any ideas yet? If you have yet to start planning your next office redecorating project, you may want to think about adding fish into the mix; yes, fish. Although most businesses frown upon office pets, you will find that fish are often a different story. If properly taken care of, fish make for great office pets. They are quite, clean, and beautiful. That is why if you are looking to give your office a new feel, you may want to think about purchasing a few fish to display.

Of course, as you likely already know, you can't have fish without a fish tank. When it comes to purchasing a fish tank, you have a number of different options. In fact, you may have more options than you know. How much knowledge of fish tanks do you have? If you have a small amount or none at all, you are advised against going right out and purchasing the first fish tank that you come across. Not only may you end up paying too much money, but you may end up not getting a good value for your money. That is why it is wise that you consider all of your options before making a purchase.

When it comes to purchasing a fish tank for your office, you need to keep one thing in mind; your office. Although fish are fish, where you are keeping them is different. A fish tank that is suitable for the home may not necessarily be suitable for your office. That is why you may want to think about researching high-end or modernized fish tanks. After a close examination, you will likely see that they are more suitable for the office than most standard fish tanks. To get started, you may want to think about browsing through the selection of fish tanks at an online fish tank store, such as FishTanksDirect.com. When shopping for a modernized, but sophisticated fish tank, you will likely find a larger selection when shopping online, when compared to your local pet supply store.

As previously mentioned, you will likely find a large selection of fish tanks online, namely when shopping with FishTanksDirect.com. If you are looking for a modernized, sleek, but sophisticated place to store your office fish, you may want to examine a BiOrb. BiOrbs have a globe-like design. That design resembles simple, traditional fish tanks. While the resemblance is there, that is about the only thing that is present. This is due to the technology that a BiOrb encompasses. With an advanced filtration system, often a five stage filtration system, you will find that maintence seems as if it is a thing of the past. Many times, an occasional cleaning or filter change is all that you need; which is perfect for office fish.

In addition to the sophisticated design and advanced filtration system, a BiOrb may be the perfect fit for your office workspace due to its beautiful lighting. Almost all BiOrbs come equipped with high-tech lighting. This high-tech lighting only adds to the beauty of a BiOrb. As with most other fish tasks, you will find that BiOrbs come in a number of different sizes. These sizes tend to include four gallon, eight gallon, nine gallon, and sixteen gallon tanks. The cost of a BiOrb will all depend on its size, but the prices typically range from around sixty dollars to one hundred and eighty dollars.

In addition to a BiOrb, you may also want to examine a Nano Cube. Nano Cubes are also sleek, modern, and sophisticated fish tanks. Nano cubes are in a traditional cube shape, but you will notice that they are missing the black sealing that is found on many traditional tanks. The lack of sealing is one of the ways that a Nano Cube can help to create a sophisticated environment in your office workspace. As with the BiOrb, Nano Cubes come in a number of different sizes, which tend to include five gallon, nine gallon, and twenty two gallon tanks. The cost of a Nano Cube will also depend on its size, but Nano Cubes typically begin selling at around one hundred and fifty dollars.

As previously mentioned, you are advised to checkout FishTanksDirect.com for a large selection of fish tanks, many of which may be perfect for your office workspace. No matter which fish tank you choose to purchase, you will likely be pleased with your decision to do business with FishTanksDirect.com. If you are interested in a http://www.fishtanksdirect.com/browseproducts/Biorb-8-Gallon-Acrylic-Fish-Tank-Freshwater-Aquarium.html aquarium or one of our http://www.fishtanksdirect.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATSandCategory=145 please visit us today! ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/8-tips-to-grow-your-business http://www.artwoo.com/article/8-tips-to-grow-your-business#comments Thu, 17 Jan 2008 15:20:00 +0000 business feng shuiseeds of changeplanting seedsspring energyfailure is not an optionstarting a new businessnatural energies http://www.artwoo.com/article/8-tips-to-grow-your-business starting a new business or you're looking to grow an established business, Feng Shui can help you. By working with the natural energies of the world, you can help draw opportunity and possibility to you just by changing your environment. Here are several tips you can use to grow your business =96 no matter where you're starting out from.

1. Look for dead things =96 Whether it's plants or items that simply don't work, if you want to grow a business, you need to toss these items, fix them, or nurse them back to health. Anything that symbolizes death or stunted growth is going to attract that negative energy into your business.

2. Seeds of change =96 If you like the idea of symbols to represent your growth, try planting seeds and then nursing them to full growth. This will allow you to encourage the energy of upward movement and seeds blossoming into a fully mature plant =96 much like your business. Taking the time to water these seeds and provide for their needs will help you bring that Spring energy into your business tasks.

3. Failure is not an option =96 Though most of us would say that we learn from our mistakes, you do not want to surround yourself with reminders of your failures. Remove any traces of negative job performances or other things that went badly in the course of your business practice. This way, you will be surrounding yourself with positive reminders of what you have done well, spurning you on to do more positive things.

4. Read success stories =96 Focusing on what can happen for your business will encourage positive energy in your day to day business life. Read success stories and post them around your workspace to remind yourself that things are possible and that you might be the next success story. Or you could write your own success story, even if it hasn't happened yet.

5. Check your fears at the door =96 You might also want to try your doorknob to make sure it's not sticking. When you can not open your door easily, the energy coming in and going out is stifled. You need to make sure that your door is always working well and that you can move easily from one part of your work area to the next.

6. Look to the left =96 When you walk into your workspace, look to the left back area of the room. Is this area cluttered and messy or is it professional and productive? This area is where energy related to wealth and success is focused, so this area should be as clean as possible. If there are any negative items in this section, you should remove them immediately.

7. Center your success =96 Though the middle of a room is associated with health in Feng Shui practices, you might want to realize that the health of your business can also apply here. By taking care to clear this space and keep it free of clutter, you can encourage financial and business health. You might also want to hang a crystal in the middle of the room to radiate energy to all corners of the room, protecting your space from being stuffy and potentially negative to your business goals.

8. Leave some empty room =96 So often, we try to fill every corner of our homes and offices with stuff. But when we do so, we aren't leaving room for anything new to enter. Try to leave some empty space in your office or work area to help you encourage the energy of attraction and of possibility. Since there is always room for more in your workspace, you will be able to have more successful ventures. Candace Czarny, ASID,CFM, LEED AP, "Award Winning" Interior Designer Feng Shui Expert http://www.ArtOfPlacement.com/fengshui-wealth.html is continually ranked "Top 10" in Google and Yahoo. Clients testify of dramatic results! ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/10-tips-to-catapult-your-career http://www.artwoo.com/article/10-tips-to-catapult-your-career#comments Mon, 14 Jan 2008 13:20:00 +0000 work endeavorsfeng shui tipsupward movementpositive energycareer advancemententrywaybrighter future http://www.artwoo.com/article/10-tips-to-catapult-your-career positive energy, here are some Feng Shui tips you can use.

1. Walk into a brighter future =96 As you enter your office or your workplace, notice the doorway and the entryway. Are these areas cluttered or difficult to walk through? If so, you may be blocking positive career energy in your life. Make sure the door opens easily and that no items are blocking you as you enter and exit.

2. Try a darker approach =96 While many other Feng Shui tips will tell you to focus on brighter colors to help increase your energy in a specific part of your life, black is the color that's associated with career advancement. Even a smaller item that's colored black will work well in your office space or home work area.

3. Growing a future =96 Symbols of growth and vitality will help to increase the positive chi in your work endeavors as well. Be sure to include healthy plants in your workspace, taking care to water them and to provide them with all the things they need to grow strong and healthy =96 like your career.

4. Get rid of the old =96 While you might have learned a lot about your current position from previous lower positions in your life, you will want to remove any indicators of lower positions or responsibilities from your workspace. This will help to encourage upward movement in your career path, rather than stagnation or falling into a lower position again.

5. Surround yourself with higher 'ranks' =96 If you want to advance in your company, try to surround yourself with other workers who are in the jobs that you desire. This will encourage this energy to be attracted to you, which will then begin to open up possibilities in terms of job changes and opportunities.

6. Water the seeds of success =96 Water is a Feng Shui element that's associated with success, so make sure to include some sort of water symbol in your workspace. This might be a fountain or a picture of waves that you can look over on a regular basis.

7. Update your resume =96 Though you might not be looking for a new job, you will want to always make sure your resume is current with the skills and experience that you have. Each time you gain something new in your career repertoire, you should include it in your resume. This encourages you to look at your career as something that is always growing and advancing.

8. Dress as though =96 When you want to hold a certain position in your company or in a new job, make sure to dress as though you already have the job. This will help to increase the energy of the job in your life as well as help to show others that you are interested in more than what you are doing now.

9. Always toss the old =96 When you want to move forward, you can not hold onto the past. Make sure to get rid of any old supplies or items that have been associated with past jobs or lower position jobs. This will help you focus on bringing in new career tools rather than relying on the old or settling on your past ways.

10. Face the future =96 If you have the opportunity to move your desk, make sure it is facing the doorway. This will allow you the chance to see new opportunities and energy as it moves into your life. Candace Czarny, ASID,CFM, LEED AP, "Award Winning" Interior Designer Feng Shui Expert http://www.ArtOfPlacement.com/fengshui-wealth.html is continually ranked "Top 10" in Google and Yahoo. Clients testify of dramatic results! ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/windows-macro-create-macros-to-automate-common-tasks http://www.artwoo.com/article/windows-macro-create-macros-to-automate-common-tasks#comments Mon, 30 Apr 2007 11:15:03 +0000 automating business processesmacro recordersmacro recorderweb data extractionrepetitive tasksindependent software developersmouse clicks http://www.artwoo.com/article/windows-macro-create-macros-to-automate-common-tasks mouse clicks and keystrokes? Want a program that records macros on Windows OS?

There are many simple tools for recording macros for Windows platform available in the market, on the lines of the excel macro recorder.

Back in the days of Windows 3.1, the OS had a utility called the Recorder that recorded mouse clicks and keystrokes for repetitive tasks that made life a lot easier. But in the era of Windows 95 and above, this handy and simple tool was done away with; now the only place you find a macro recorder is in Microsoftand#8217;s Excel spreadsheet and Word. The drawback, it only records repetitive tasks in excel and word independently and has limited scope and no scalability.

The handiness and usefulness of this tool was sorely missed and has made way for many independent software developers to create a Windows macro recorder.

One can do many things with a simple windows macro tool like change the screen resolution, change the themes on the desktop and switching between different folder options while viewing Windows Explorer to name a few.

The next generation of Windows Macro recorders is not only a tool to automate simple and routine tasks, but also complex tasks. The Windows macro recorders can automate anything that generally requires multiple steps and cannot be done by a simple one line command.

These programs can automate IT tasks such as copying data into a database, importing and exporting data from a spreadsheet, automating report generation to testing applications and automating business processes. Some recorders even have advanced web recorders to automate web-based tasks such as web data extraction and screen scrapping.

The user-friendliness and ease of use of all the macro recorders available in the market differs and so do the features. Some windows macro recorders available in the market can do many complex tasks while others just do the routine system administrative tasks. Which macro recorder you purchase depends on the use and requirements. Tethys Solutions is a leader in Macro and Automation Software. Our award-winning macro recorder (Workspace Macro and Workspace Macro Pro) is known for its powerful features, smart and accurate technology. Website: http://www.tethyssolutions.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/promotional-desk-accessories-are-a-must-for-any-business http://www.artwoo.com/article/promotional-desk-accessories-are-a-must-for-any-business#comments Wed, 29 Oct 2008 02:57:22 +0000 mail stationsdesk organizersdesk calendarsdesk padsdesk accessoriesbusiness card holderssolitary confinement http://www.artwoo.com/article/promotional-desk-accessories-are-a-must-for-any-business desk accessories sitting on your desk. Promotional desk accessories really make your workspace yours, which is something that every individual craves for in their place of employment. Without that personalization, a person can feel like an alien in the place that they spend most of their time in. That can sometimes make for an uncomfortable work environment.

By personalising your space with promotional desk accessories, you are able to claim the space as yours. No one else will ever think of taking your space. Second, the accessories will look very complementary to other items you may have around. The sophistication contained within desk accessories is something that cannot be challenged. When you're sporting promotional desk accessories, your space looks very professional indeed. That relays the message that you really know how to do your job.

Types of promotional desk accessories

There are many types of promotional desk accessories that you can use to vamp up your space. Those accessories include:

• Pen stands and memo holders.
• Desk organizers and mail stations
• Photo frames and clocks
• Paperweights and nameplates
• Business card holders and calculators
• Tape dispensers and staplers

These items are just a few of many promotional desk accessories that you can use to promotional your space. You can also look into getting desk pads and desk calendars that are promotional. There is no better way that to say, "This is my space."

For the work-at-home professional

You don't even have to work in a corporate environment to have promotional desk accessories. Even if you work at home, having promotional desk accessories give you that feel that you mean business. The work-at-home professional can become a bit disgruntled at times because their space is just too cluttered and they sometimes feel alienated because of the solitary confinement the job entails sometimes.

With promotional desk accessories, that solitary confinement can be turned into a respect for the workspace. A person eats, lives, breathes, and works in their home when they do not work outside of the home, so it is important to make that space everything that it can be through promotional desk accessories. That's also a great way to tell the rest of the family, "This is my space, please do not encroach upon it." That way, everyone can leave what you're doing alone and let your space be. There's just something about promotional desk accessories that says, "Don't even think about sitting here."

A feel good solution

So if you need a solution that makes you feel good, promotional desk accessories are the perfect way to do that. It cannot be stressed enough how well these items make you feel like you belong in your work place. That means you need to get promotional desk accessories if you feel like your space is not your own. They also make great gifts for that special business person in your family, making gift giving much easier than it ever was before.Miles Lovegrove is director of Fluid Branding, the UK's largest supplier of promotional desk accessories and other Promotional Products at www.fluidbranding.com. For Eco Friendly promotional products, including Recycled, Organic and Sustainable items visit www.ecoincentives.com]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/five-tips-to-avoid-eye-strain-caused-by-computers http://www.artwoo.com/article/five-tips-to-avoid-eye-strain-caused-by-computers#comments Fri, 27 Jul 2007 20:29:59 +0000 computer eyestraincomputer screeneye musclesmaking sure thatworkdayworkspaceheadaches http://www.artwoo.com/article/five-tips-to-avoid-eye-strain-caused-by-computers headaches, blurred vision, and dry, burning eyes at the end of the day? If so, you are probably suffering from eyestrain. Spending the workday looking at a video terminal or laptop computer has turned eyestrain into a national epidemic.

Eye muscles, like any other muscle, needs to be used on a regular basis to perform at optimum levels. When you only focus on close objects, like a computer screen, the muscles that are used to focus on medium and far objects tend to get lazy. Once the workday is over, and we want to see what is happening beyond the computer screen, these muscles are slow to respond. This results in blurry vision, headaches, and a variety of other vision problems.

Here are five tips you can start using right now to prevent eyestrain caused by your computer screen.

1. Make sure your workspace is well lit. Don't have bright lights glaring from surfaces in your office, and be sure you have enough light to let you see clearly.

2. Try to arrange your workspace so that you can periodically look beyond the computer screen to the opposite side of the room.

3. Make sure that your office lights don't glare directly onto the computer screen. You shouldn't have to wear sunglasses to see the screen.

4. Studies have shown that when people are working on the computer, they blink less often, and tend to keep their eyes open a bit wider that usual. This promotes dry eyes, and results in gritty sensations in the eye. Try to remember to blink often to keep your eyes well hydrated.

5. Every half an hour, give your eyes a break, and exercise them. There are many great eye exercises available to help you avoid computer eyestrain, and protect and strengthen your vision. Here is one you can try, although maybe not at the office. Get a softball or soccer ball, and write letters and numbers of various sizes on it. Hang it from the ceiling on a string, making sure that the surrounding area is clear. Give the ball a push in any direction. As it swings, call out the letters and numbers that you see. This exercise lets you use all of your eye muscles, and helps them to work together in a coordinated way.

Try these simple tips for a week, and you will find relief from the eyestrain you have been suffering from. Get your free exclusive report "7 Common Things That Rapidly Deteriorate Your Vision" at http://www.naturalvisionsolution.com You'll discover the daily dangers that most people aren't aware of that are proven to blur your eyesight and cause loss of vision. This report could save your eyesight. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-kitchen-islands-can-improve-your-kitchen http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-kitchen-islands-can-improve-your-kitchen#comments Sat, 18 Nov 2006 02:27:06 +0000 kitchen cabinetsinvaluable additionbeneficialstorage spacekitchen islandsgranite islandscountertop space http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-kitchen-islands-can-improve-your-kitchen Kitchen islands are becoming increasingly popular amongst those with available space in the kitchen, and this is because these islands offer a wide range of benefits, all of which help to improve one of the most important rooms in the home. The kitchen is one room in the house that should be both practical and appealing, and this is because it is a room in which many people not only have to work and cook but also relax and entertain. Having one of these islands installed in your kitchen will really add to the look of the room, giving it a sleek, modern look and adding to the practical features of the room. You will find your island is an invaluable addition to your kitchen, and will make life far easier when working in this room as well as adding to the look of the kitchen.

Enjoy the many benefits of kitchen islands

When you have one of these islands installed you will enjoy a range of benefits. You can get islands that boast extra drawers which means that you will be able to enjoy additional storage space. The extra countertop space will provide you with additional space to work, and can also double up as table top space when you are not working in the kitchen. You can enjoy a great choice of islands, such as butcher block style islands and granite islands -- in fact, you will find something to suit practically every kitchen with styles and designs to fit in with your kitchen cabinets, décor, theme, and personal taste. Having a separate place to prepare food away from the sink and other work surfaces can be a real blessing, particularly if you have a lot of food to prepare, so those with big families will really appreciate the extra workspace that these islands provide.

These islands will help you to make the most of your kitchen space

Having a larger kitchen is great, but for most people having a lot of empty space in the middle of the room is simply a waste. More often than not extra workspace and storage is far more beneficial, and by having a stylish and modern island fitted in the kitchen you will be able to enjoy these benefits without compromising on the comfort and great look of your kitchen. You can look into buying some stools that match your island, enabling you to use it as a breakfast bar or table as and when required, and you will find it a pleasure to work in an area where you have the freedom to move around away from the other equipment and appliances in your kitchen. These islands can be very cost effective, and are a great way to enjoy kitchen and home improvements without breaking the bank. And with the excellent choice of islands available you can find something that suits your kitchen, your pocket, and your tastes perfectly. Concentrating on news and information about kitchen cabinets, Jerry Blackburn publishes normally for http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com . You might see his articles over at http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com/kitchen-islands.html and various other sources for kitchen islands knowledge. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/5-quick-steps-to-start-a-call-center-at-home http://www.artwoo.com/article/5-quick-steps-to-start-a-call-center-at-home#comments Mon, 10 Dec 2007 15:25:00 +0000 doorbell ringfastest cpudecent computerskypeinolder computercenter spacebaby cry http://www.artwoo.com/article/5-quick-steps-to-start-a-call-center-at-home
While the possibilities for making money at home are endless, any option you choose will take work. If you're willing to put in some work, you can make money working from home!

So here we go, 5 quick tips to get you started with you're own at home call center.

1. Find your workspace.

You'll want to find an area that you can dedicate to your new call center business in your home. Without a special call center space, your callers will hear your baby cry, the doorbell ring and your dog barking. All those those things tend to turn potential buyers away.

For most people this workspace can be a bedroom, converted garage, or even an office at home if you're fortunate enough to already have an office.

2. Get a decent computer.

This computer doesn't have to be the latest model with the fastest CPU, but it does have to be reliable. A good option is to have an older computer as a backup in case something happens to your main computer. The main thing this computer needs to do is get on the internet.

3. Download Skype and get familiar.

Skype is free to download and you can make and receive calls. Skype offers a few paid plans, but most are still less expensive than a regular land line.

You should use Skype with a headset and try to make and receive calls so you'll know what to expect. During this test you should listen to the call quality and how quickly and efficiently everything works.

4. Use SkypeIn for each client.

Since you'll most likely start your at home call center by having a few different clients and receiving calls from each client on a daily basis, you'll need to know how to answer the phone. SkypeIn allows you to have a phone number for each client. This way you will know which client you're answering for before you pick up the phone.

5. Find your clients.

This part of the process is the most difficult. You'll need to contact people directly and check out freelance websites on a daily basis. These clients can be tough to find, but once you find one, you'll know how to find more for your at home call center.

My favorite places to look at call center blogs and job sites. Many times you can find companies looking to hire call center consultants that are willing to work from home. That saves them money and you get the freedom to work from home. http://CallCenterConsultants.net can show you everything you need to start a call center at home. Need clients? Check us out at http://www.CallCenterConsultant.net today! ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/garage-workbenches-an-overview-before-you-buy-or-build http://www.artwoo.com/article/garage-workbenches-an-overview-before-you-buy-or-build#comments Wed, 10 Jan 2007 18:27:06 +0000 garage workbenchesworkbench designsportable workbenchlumber materialsbuilding a garagestore boughtelectrical tools http://www.artwoo.com/article/garage-workbenches-an-overview-before-you-buy-or-build portable workbench for small projects, all the way to building one as an integral part of the garage.

The different kinds of garage workbenches

Workbenches can be purchased in many different sizes and designs, and can be found in most home improvement stores. Below we present a brief review of different workbench designs for the garage that you might find available at your local retailer.

1. The Table Workbench is a very common type, and for the most part looks like an every day table. The materials used in a table workbench are what differentiate it from a normal table. Tough durable materials like steel or hardwood are used to withstand the punishment.

2. Cabinet workbench - as the name implies, combines the utility of a workbench with the convenience of cabinets for storage and organization. These types of workbenches will cost a little more, but the extra cost is perfectly offset by the added value. Cabinet type workbenches provide a compact workspace where tools and chemicals can be safely stored.

3. More of a feature than a workbench type - the power strip workbench provides plenty of outlets for electrical tools needed for most any hobby. Often combined with utility drawers, these can be very compact, handy workbenches for light duty hobbies.

Building a garage workbench yourself.

When store bought solutions don't fit the need, there's always the option of building your own workbench. Garage workbench kits can be purchased at most any hardware store. These kits contain everything needed to build a great light duty workbench for the garage or lab.

Then there's the hardcore method - building your own garage workbench from scratch. You purchase, cut, and shape the lumber materials into the workbench that fits your exact needs. Plans and blueprints are readily available for free download off the internet, or they can be purchased at any good hardware store.

If you go with the hard core workbench method, be sure to purchase the best quality materials you can afford. The workbench top should be at least 3/8 of an inch thick plywood, preferably 1/2 inch. Polyurethane is a good coating to protect the workspace from moisture. Always use screws, not nails, never compromise on quality, and always take pride in your work.

Buy or build, a workbench is an indispensable part of any garage. So clear out the paint cans, the boxes and bags to make some room. Happy cobbling. Dave Marx writes for http://steel-garage-door.com A free informational resource for anyone considering a new roll up overhead garage door. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/kitchen-cabinets-best-use-of-space http://www.artwoo.com/article/kitchen-cabinets-best-use-of-space#comments Sat, 03 Mar 2007 16:27:02 +0000 kitchen cabinetskitchen islandbeneficialkitchen islandsbarstoolshome repair projectsworkspace http://www.artwoo.com/article/kitchen-cabinets-best-use-of-space Kitchen islands and kitchen cabinets are great home repair projects that make the best use of space. The range of varied benefits helps improve one of the most critical rooms in any home. As the kitchen is an area where so many people have to congregate to cook, work, entertain and relax, it is essential that this very special room is both appealing and practical. Installing a kitchen island and matching cabinets is the perfect way to enhance your room's appearance, making it modern and sleek, but best of all it incorporates a new practicality, both with extra space and added features. You will immediately discover how valuable your kitchen addition is, and enjoy the ease that develops in working in a pleasant and more workable environment.

The range of varied benefits that you will experience when you install a kitchen island is pleasurable. Imagine the added bonus of extra drawers that give you needed storage. An additional countertop is probably one of the best features because it is a multipurpose domain whereby you can work, cook and even eat from it. The choice of styles is almost as endless as your imagination -- what about granite or butcher-block type islands? In fact, there is something out there to suit almost all kitchen designs and styles that are carefully designed to match your cabinets, theme, décor, and of course, your tastes. Many larger families also appreciate the added workspace that kitchen islands give them, not to mention a separate food preparation area that is removed from the sink and other surface areas.

It is safe to say that wasted space in the middle of any room is just impractical, especially for kitchens. In most cases, having the added storage and workspace proves to be far more beneficial over time as the stylish addition of a modern kitchen island allows everyone to enjoy its benefits without sacrificing your kitchen's over all appearance and comfort. Little things like purchasing kitchen barstools to match your new island can allow you to turn it into a breakfast table or bar when you need it. You will quickly discover the pleasure of having an area where you can distant yourself from other kitchen appliances and equipment, moving around freely. Then there is the added benefit that your new home renovation was also financially beneficial, adding value to your home without the crippling costs of normal home improvements. So, there is no doubt that you can design your new kitchen island and kitchen cabinets to match your current kitchen, your budget and most importantly your personal taste. Jerry Blackburn very often produces detailed reports on stories about kitchen cabinets and home repair. You might see his writings over at http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com/islands.html and other sources for kitchen islands knowledge. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/osha-standards-and-your-office-computer-monitor http://www.artwoo.com/article/osha-standards-and-your-office-computer-monitor#comments Thu, 22 Jun 2006 15:32:10 +0000 computer monitorsosha guidelinesoffice ergonomicsoccupational safety and health administrationbusiness ownersworkstationsworkstation http://www.artwoo.com/article/osha-standards-and-your-office-computer-monitor workstations" rel="tag">workstations that follow ergonomic design concepts. Business owners, operators and managers have made employee safety and ergonomically designed workspaces a top priority in this day and age. To that end, the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA, has set forth guidelines and standards to be utilized by business owners, operators and managers in the creation of employee workspaces. In this regard, OSHA has set forth a useful checklist to be utilized by a person responsible for creating employee workplaces and workstations..

In this regard, OSHA has set forth specific guidelines to be utilized when it comes to computer monitors that are being utilized in the workplace. By following these guidelines relating to computer monitors, a business owner, operator or manager can be more comfortable in believing the workplace will be a safe environment for his or her employee team.

First of all, when it comes to computer monitors, OSHA guidelines maintain that a computer monitor screen should be large enough for adequate visibility. In this regard, a fifteen to twenty inch monitor generally is of sufficient size. The fact is that smaller monitor units make it very difficult to read characters on the screen -- which causes eye strain and may result in long term damage. On the other hand, units that are larger than twenty inches require too much space in a workstation and are not practical. And, again, in order to be ergonomically adequate under OSHA guidelines, a screen or monitor in the fifteen to twenty inch range is ideal.

Second, the angle and tilt of the monitor should be easily adjustable. Different people are different sizes and need to have a monitor that can be adjusted to fit their own body size and frames. Additionally, even if a workstation is used by only one person, there may be different work assignments that will be best undertaken with the monitor at alternate angles.

Finally, in order to keep a workspace clear and uncluttered -- and thereby safer and easier to work within -- a business owner, operator or manager should consider buying a flat screen monitor. Flat screens require a significantly reduced amount of space within a workstation or workspace.

More information on the OSHA guidelines pertaining to computer monitors for safe workstations can be found at the OHSA website. OSHA can be reached online at http://www.osha.gov.. Cathy Peterson writes about Ergonomic Computer Products and Ergonomic Armrests. http://www.ergoarm.com ]]>