Tag: Business

New UCC Sustainable Futures report, commissioned by Microsoft, reveals Irish businesses are largely underprepared for a net zero transition

A new sustainability report launched today at Microsoft Envision has revealed that Irish businesses are significantly underprepared when it comes to making the transformative changes required to transition to a net zero future.

The new UCC Sustainable Futures report entitled “The Sustainability Transformation: Assessing the Readiness of Irish Businesses” was commissioned by Microsoft Ireland to understand the level of business preparedness for a sustainable, net zero future and includes a national survey of 380 SMEs and larger enterprises across a range of sectors.

The report found that one in five (19%) businesses are yet to start their sustainability journey, while less than one in ten (9%) consider themselves to be well-advanced or truly sustainable. Concerningly, even for those who are in the early stages of their sustainability journey, three in five businesses are yet to formulate a dedicated sustainability strategy or policy. 20% of businesses surveyed said they had no set commitments or targets relating to any critical sustainability issues.

The research also points to a concerning lack of sustainability leadership and suitable skills among Irish businesses when it comes to driving sustainable transformation. Approximately seven in ten (69%) do not have someone tasked with developing and implementing a sustainability strategy. A similar proportion (69%) do not have someone tasked with identifying environmental sustainability priorities. When it comes to sustainability skills, approximately two-thirds of Irish businesses said they were either yet to develop the required skills or had basic competencies in this area.

There is strong evidence to suggest that Irish businesses underestimate the scale of ambition and action that are required to build a path to net zero emissions by 2050 with just 22% of Irish businesses having committed to a net zero target.

This is despite Government setting out to reduce emissions nationally by 51% by 2030 and to become carbon neutral by 2050. Moreover, larger Irish businesses will be required to publicly disclose information on how they engage with environmental, social, and governance issues as part of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive from 1st January 2024.

Whilst many businesses are yet to start addressing the sustainability crisis, it’s clear that Irish businesses see digital technologies as an enabler of their journey to a net zero future. Four in five (81%) businesses stated that digital technology was “important”, “fairly important” or “very important” to their organisation’s sustainability transition. However, almost two thirds (64%) of Irish businesses said they had not adopted digital technologies to support their sustainability efforts or were in the early stages of adopting technology for this purpose. Only a very small proportion (6%) of businesses are either “well advanced and ahead of most others” or “an exemplar of best practice” in this area.

Commenting on the research results, Anne Sheehan, General Manager, Microsoft Ireland, said: “The ever-growing need to protect the planet is forcing companies of all sizes to transform how they operate, with “business as usual” no longer a sustainable way forward. Whilst organisations globally are putting sustainability at the heart of their business, Microsoft included, many are yet to commence their sustainability journeys and that’s why we commissioned UCC Sustainable Futures to assess the readiness of Irish businesses for this transformation.

“It’s clear from UCC’s report that Irish businesses underestimate the scale of ambition and action that is required to transition to a net zero future. The lack of progress is concerning given Government’s overarching climate action commitments for 2030 and beyond. In order for national targets to be met, every organisation must play its part and take action by making sustainability a business imperative and a leadership priority.

“Simplifying sustainability measurement and reporting is one area that will help SMEs who may not have the in-house expertise or skills. Developing a workforce with the sustainability skills Ireland needs will also require a concerted and coordinated effort from businesses, industry organisations, the education sector and Government. At Microsoft, we are committed to playing our part in this regard.

“Irish businesses of all sizes see digital technology as a critical enabler of their sustainable transitions, however, most are yet to leverage it for this purpose. From using data intelligence to monitor carbon emissions to harnessing AI to reduce energy consumption, technology can empower businesses on their journey whilst also opening up new business opportunities.

“It’s clear that now really is the time for Irish businesses to move faster and go further in order to achieve a net zero future for all.”

Dr. Marguerite Nyhan, Associate Professor in Future Sustainability & Environmental Engineering, University College Cork said: “Climate change is one of our world’s most pressing challenges, and this decade will be extremely important in terms of setting us on a path to a sustainable and net zero future. This week at COP27, global leaders are gathering to build significant momentum for climate action. It is absolutely certain that businesses will play an extremely important role in the sustainability transformation and their actions will be vitally important in our global and national efforts to rapidly reduce emissions and mitigate climate change.

“Our research shows that although some businesses are embracing the sustainability transition, the majority are not and need to step up their sustainability and decarbonisation efforts immediately.

“That begins by defining a sustainability strategy with firm net zero commitments and targets that are measured and monitored. Organisations urgently need to be aware of the new sustainability reporting obligations and address the challenges associated with sustainability reporting. That will require enhanced sustainability expertise and skills at every level within business including at leadership level.

“To drive meaningful change, leaders must look to understand the economic case for sustainability within their organisations and the competitive advantages it can gain in the years ahead. As digital technologies offer potential to drive systems change and manage, monitor and track progress, businesses should maximise the opportunities of the digital revolution to achieve their sustainability and net zero ambitions. By taking the lead and harnessing the opportunities of the sustainability transition which is underway, Irish businesses can play a positive role in addressing this pressing challenge of our time.”

The results of the report were unveiled to business and IT leaders at Microsoft Envision today. The event, which took place in Dublin’s Convention Centre, showcased how businesses can harness the power of technology to achieve more with less and incorporate sustainability into every business process and function, igniting infinite possibilities for the future.

To support Irish businesses to start their sustainability journey, Microsoft has made a number of resources available on the Microsoft Sustainability Learning Center. There are also a number of tools that are available to help organisations to accelerate their sustainability journey wherever they are on their path to net zero, enabling them to amplify progress and transform their business through environmental, social, and governance (ESG) capabilities, available on the Microsoft Cloud for Sustainability. 

How can you improve the cyber security of your business?

In the digital age we live in, most of the work produced by businesses is online which leaves them susceptible to cyber-attacks. In September 2022, there were more than 35 million compromised records as a result of cyber-attacks and data breaches which puts people’s personal information at risk of falling into the wrong hands. 

To combat this, businesses will need to improve their cyber security to keep their information, their employee’s information and their customer’s data safe. Failure to do this may lead to a lack of trust in the company.

What is cyber security?

Cyber security is the level of protection your online systems have. If this is weak then you could be compromised and lose valuable and sensitive data to cyber criminals. This is why it’s important to take every step against this. This starts with looking over your entire system to find potential weak points that attackers could exploit. Once a team of experts finishes an IT security audit and identifies these risks, you can take steps to improve your cyber security and protect your business. Taking the right measures greatly reduces the risk of being attacked and is a vital part of running a business in today’s digital world.

How can companies bolster their cyber security?

There are numerous ways for business owners to increase their security depending on their budget. This includes:

Antivirus software

Your first line of defence is good antivirus software to protect your devices from malware attacks. It will detect potential attacks and remove any threats to your computer or laptop. There are many types of malware that can affect your laptop and antivirus software can often protect you from them all.

Training staff

The main weakness of your cyber security as a business is the people within the business. They may be the ones to allow malware to get into your business because they don’t know how to spot it. That’s why you should make sure to train all staff on how to spot phishing attempts and cyber-criminal activity. Consider partnering with experts like SupercityOS out of Dartmouth, NS, an IT company specializing in cyber security training, to provide comprehensive training programs for your staff. This proactive approach ensures that your team is well-equipped to identify and mitigate potential cyber threats, enhancing the overall security posture of your business in today’s digital world.

Using password software

Using a password generator and storage software will help you and your employees to generate high-strength passwords that are very difficult to guess. This is much better than allowing employees to create their own passwords which may be easier to guess and breach. Most people reuse passwords, so if your employee’s personal devices are hacked then the cyber criminal may then target their work devices.

Don’t forget about physical security

Similarly, your business’ data can’t just be compromised online through hacking but it can also be obtained physically through a breach of property. You can protect your office using a drill to secure locks to doors so they cannot be opened whilst the office is not in use. It is also recommended for employees to have lanyards to pass through security gates so that only employees can enter the office.

Don’t leave your company’s data to chance and allow hackers to steal it all. Implement the strategies above so you don’t have a cyber-attack down the line.

 

4 Steps Small Enterprise Owners Should Take If Their Business Data Were Breached

No matter how good your security measures are, you are always at risk of having your business data breached. Whether it is your work, documents or data about your clients or employees, all this valuable information can become someone’s target. And even though you are trying your best to prevent such incidents, sometimes, it is not possible. Therefore, knowing what you should do in such a situation is highly important. It will protect your business, employees and customers at the same time. Here are steps small enterprise owners should take if their business data were breached.

Invest In Tools That Will Reduce The Risk In The Future

Every business should have tools that will minimise the risk of data breaches. You should have software that will protect the computers of your employees, and you need to do your best to protect any data you have on your business, employees and clients. Companies such as SaaS Protection offer cloud storage that will reduce the risk of losing your data from Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace. The data will be protected from malicious activity and other harmful elements in three backup points. And if by any chance you lose any data, there will be a higher possibility of their recovery.

Find The Cause And Extent Of The Breach

When your business data gets breached, you need to find the source and determine the extent of the malicious attack. The experts working for https://www.velocityit.net can explain how this step helps identify how the breach happened, what data was compromised, and whether it is still at risk.

Ideally, you should have in place tools and software that will notify you of any unauthorised log-ins and intrusions. With the information available, you will be able to address the problem as soon as possible and take other steps to prevent a similar incident in the future. You will be able to find out where the attack came from and which files were compromised. Based on the data you find, it will become easier to decide what you need to do next to resolve the issue.

Address The Problem As Soon As You Can

A solution to the problem will heavily depend on which files were attacked and how. However, no matter what you find out, you should immediately notify your IT experts, who know how to deal with data breaches. They will be able to act fast and control any damage. You might also have intrusion prevention systems that might be able to resolve the issue automatically. Nevertheless, you should still have your team involved. You also must remember that you should keep any evidence of the malicious attack that you can for your record and any legalities you might need to deal with.

Inform The Authorities And Anyone Affected By The Breach

In the event of a data breach, it is necessary for you to notify the authorities and anyone who might be affected. If your customers were affected by the malicious attack, you must ensure that they are aware of what happened and what was the extent of the breach. Telling them soon after the attack will give them enough time to protect their identities and take any measures they need. You should also tell the authorities who might be able to give you advice on any regulations you need to comply with.

 

How Tech Can Streamline Hotel Operations

Are you looking for ways to streamline your hotel’s operations and make your guests’ stays more enjoyable? The hotel industry is always looking for new ways to improve its guests’ experience. To keep up with the competition, hotels are turning to technology to help them streamline their operations. From check-in and checkout to room service and housekeeping, there are several ways that technology can help your hotel run more smoothly. This article will discuss ways that tech can help you improve your hotel operations. Let’s get to the list.

Manage the Front Desk

Technology can help you manage the front desk more efficiently. You can use it to track guest information, manage reservations, and process payments. You can also use it to create a digital concierge that can help your guests with their needs. However, you need reliable front desk software for hotels that can handle all these tasks without problems. You can get such a system from reputable companies with experience in providing software to the hospitality industry.

When choosing technology to manage your front desk, it is important to consider its features, ease of use, and price. You also must ensure that it is compatible with your hotel’s existing systems. Besides this, ensure that it’s cost-effective to use in the long run and will not require much maintenance.

Improves Housekeeping Operations

Another way that technology can help you streamline your hotel’s operations is by improving your business operations. You can use it to track room status, manage guest requests, and communicate with Housekeeping staff. You can also use tech to create an automated housekeeping system that can help you save time and money.

Ensure that the technology you choose is user-friendly and can be integrated into your existing systems. For instance, if you are running a huge hotel, you will need a system that can handle a lot of data. You can choose a simpler system if you are running a smaller hotel. You can also use tech to create an automated housekeeping system that can help you save time and money.

Smart Energy Management

Technology can also help you save money on energy costs. You can use smart energy management systems to monitor and control your energy usage. These systems can help you adjust your settings based on occupancy levels and weather conditions. They can also help you track your energy usage over time so that you can make changes to reduce your costs.

To get the most out of these systems, it is important to choose ones that are user-friendly and can be easily integrated into your existing systems. You should also look for systems that offer data analysis to make informed decisions about your energy usage. For instance, if your energy usage increases during the summer, you might want to change your cooling system.

Better Communication with Guests

Technology can also help you improve communication with guests. You can use it to send automated messages, manage reservations, and keep track of guest preferences. You can also use tech to create a mobile app for your hotel that guests can use to book rooms, check in, and request services.

When choosing technology for communication, it is important to choose systems that are easy to use and offer various features. For instance, you might want a system that allows you to send automatic messages to guests when their room is ready or when special amenities are available. You might also want a mobile app system so guests can easily access your hotel’s services from their smartphones.

Smart guest experience

Technology can also help you create a more seamless and personalized guest experience. You can use it to track guest preferences, send automated messages, and manage reservations. You can also use tech to create a mobile app for your hotel that guests can use to book rooms, check in, and request services. In addition, hotel distribution software plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall guest experience. This software allows you to manage room availability and rates across various online distribution channels efficiently.

When choosing such technology for your guests, focusing on those that will truly improve their experience is important. For instance, you can consider installing digital check-in kiosks to make the process more efficient. If you want to focus on creating a more personalized experience, you can integrate guest data from various channels into one CRM system, and this integrated approach offers a comprehensive understanding of guests, allowing you to provide them with highly tailored services.

Predictive Maintenance

Hotels have a lot of machinery, and keeping them running smoothly is essential to streamlining your operations. Technology can help you do just that. This technology uses data to predict when equipment will need maintenance or repairs. This can help you avoid costly downtime and keep your hotel running smoothly.

When choosing predictive maintenance technology, it is important to look for systems that offer data analysis, and that can be easily integrated into your existing systems. You should also look for user-friendly systems so you can easily manage your maintenance schedule.

Big Data and Big Data Protection

As a hotelier, you are probably aware of the importance of data. You use data to track guest preferences, manage reservations, and keep track of your energy usage. You can also use data to create a more personalized guest experience.

Nowadays, so much data is available that it can be difficult to know what to do with it all. That’s where big data comes in. Big data is a term used to describe businesses’ large volume of data. This data can be used to improve your hotel operations in several ways.

When it comes to big data, one of the most important things to consider is data protection. With all of this data comes the risk of data breaches. That’s why it’s important to choose technology that offers data protection. When looking for such technology, you should look for systems that offer encryption and secure storage.

Remote Check-In/Check-Out

Another way to streamline your hotel operations is to offer remote check-in/check-out. This service allows guests to check in and out of your hotel without coming to the front desk. Guests can use their smartphones or other devices to do this. For instance, they can book a hotel while at home or in their car.

When offering remote check-in/check-out, it is important to choose secure and user-friendly technology. You should also consider how this service will fit into your overall operations. For instance, you will need to have a way to manage keys and keep track of guest preferences. Besides this, be mindful of security features and those that will improve the guest experience.

Overall, technology can help streamline hotel operations in several ways. It can create a more efficient check-in process, track guest preferences, and even predict when equipment will need maintenance. When choosing technology for your hotel, it is important to focus on systems that will benefit your guests and staff the most.

Building A Trending Video Streaming App: Things To Consider

Businesses develop their applications to be closer to consumers. They arrange different marketing campaigns with the help of them. They inform people about new products and updates. Or use this application for another purpose. 

Still, the OTT application doesn’t guarantee that people will use it. They may find that your competitor’s app is more convenient and easy to use. That is the reason it is better to pay attention to some things when developing the application.

What are the things that can make your application successful? 

#1 Understand your target audience

OTT application development is nothing without understanding your target audience, as the style and content of this application will be target user-oriented. You should know their interests and preferences, the tone of voice they prefer, their life values, when they like watching videos, and how they view content. 

It is essential to understand the necessities of your customers and what needs your product can meet. Understanding all these can help you create an average customer image and create an approach they can appreciate.

#2 UI/UX

Customers prefer using attractively designed and easy-to-navigate applications. Make sure that everything is simply written and easy to find. Also, it is paramount that everything is designed to meet your audience’s interests and needs. After that, you will be able to attract people for whom the application is built. 

If people find an application difficult to understand, they will likely stop using it. They will find another similar application and use it instead of yours. 

Clear UI/UX can influence your customer satisfaction and therefore improve ROI.    

You can obtain a white-label OTT solution where developers have already taken care of most things. You only need to customize it using your colors, fonts, and logo. 

#3 Devices

Will you offer only an application for smartphones? Or will you offer applications for different devices and platforms? Answers to these simple questions will define from what device or devices people will be able to access your videos. 

Maybe, you want to cover only smartphone users. Maybe, you want to sell only to Smart TV viewers. Or maybe, you want to cover as many devices as possible and offer multi-platform capabilities. 

When deciding, keep in mind that many people don’t use smartphones or Smart TVs. Many people would love to access your service from any device they have. But it is up to you to decide. 

#4 Content

Content is what users will chase first. Content is king. That’s why you should care for its creation, too. You should think about the quality of information you give and the quality of the image so that users are satisfied with the picture. Take care of a quality sound.

Also, make sure that you offer valuable information that your target audience is ready to pay for. 

Final Thoughts

When launching an application, many things depend not only on UX/UI, content, and features you offer your audience. A lot depends on the way you communicate with your viewers, how you treat them and how you respond to negative feedback. After watching a video or communicating with your customer service, people like feeling that they are ok and their problems can be solved. So, we recommend chasing quality in everything you do.

 

5 Ways Technology Can Improve Business Operations

Humans have engaged in commercial activities since the dawn of time. This concept of exchanging goods or services developed into modern businesses. The business model has evolved and taken different shapes. As the world progresses, businesses improve their operations to become more efficient and appealing to customers. 

These days, businesses are heavily reliant on modern technology, especially the internet. By understanding how technology influences commerce, you can formulate efficient business strategies. An efficient company completes its goals in the least possible time and resources. Here are a few ways technology can make a business more efficient. 

1. Improved Communication

Effective communication is essential for every business. It allows multiple company branches to work together effectively by minimising delays. Efficient communication ensures no communication gap occurs between employees and managers. It also considers consumer opinion and integrates it into the producer’s production process. 

Emails make business inbound communication efficient. Emails are quick and relay important information. You can connect a company’s email addresses and prioritise inbound ones through email analytics software. This program allows company problems to be quickly detected and fixed through effective communication. The software also provides a report on the communication process that the business can utilise to improve communication further. 

Establish a good customer service system to reduce the communication gap with customers. Customer service software can help you prioritise customer queries, so none remain unanswered. You can also use the program to send customised automatic messages. Instant replies increase customer satisfaction and raise brand loyalty. 

2. Reduced Operating Costs

Technology simplifies the job for many workers in businesses. For example, accounting software can scan entire budgets and compile them in one place. They no longer require bookkeeping. The software reports are always accurate, so accountants do not have to spend hours ensuring there is no mistake.

Businesses frequently take advantage of accounting and payroll software for accountants to reduce the likelihood of errors and streamline their financial operations. These tools also provide valuable insights into the company’s financial health, making it easier to track expenses, income, and forecast future budgets.

Instead, accountants can use that time to analyse the budget reports and make crucial decisions about where to make budget cuts and provide more funding. The software reduces operating costs by automating some jobs. Accounting software directs finance employees to work efficiently. It also ensures that other company departments have the correct funding to work optimally and reduce company resources. Another way to reduce operating costs is to upgrade to a leave request software to eliminate the need for any printed paperwork for your team’s time off management. 

3. Enabling Remote Working

Technology has opened businesses to remote work possibilities, which the companies heavily practiced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Remote working is also used to connect employees from around the world. The technology ensures that remote work is efficient and effective. 

Team managers could communicate with employees through video conferencing platforms and set expectations. The latest 5G mobile network ensures robust communication, reducing the chances of a poor internet connection. Cloud storage not only stores a vast amount of data but also makes sharing work quick and reliable. Team managers can assess employee work and make changes directly. Similarly, scheduling software can keep workers on top of their work. Remote working also ensures a better work-life balance – says Slava Vaniukov, expert and CEO of Softermii.

4. Digital Advertising

As technology evolves, our reliance on it grows. Because of its addictive algorithm, many are beginning to use social media as their primary form of entertainment: 81% of American adults have social media accounts. Businesses can also create appealing social media accounts to increase their reach. A specific theme can help your product stand out. Social media also lets consumers post paid advertising campaigns that utilize their algorithm. The algorithm has user preference information and matches advertisements to users according to their internet history. This ensures that marketing resources are not wasted on uninterested people. 

Similarly, users look toward an online digital magazine for information. These magazines have easy-to-understand information on a wide variety of topics. Due to advertisements, they are free to read and only take up space inside your phone’s memory. These digital magazines are SEO optimised, so by placing an advertisement in a related digital magazine article, you enable genuinely interested customers to view your product. These advertisements are also cost-effective as there are no physical copies to print.

5. Improved Security

Heavy reliance on technology for functioning also puts the business at risk. Malware and viruses can corrupt the entire system, causing vital information to be deleted. Thankfully, technology also provides us with a solution. A converged security and information management (CSIM) platform serves as a defence against unauthorised access.

A security system sets up a firewall on the company’s software so no external source can access it. It also has spyware detection and anti-virus features that ensure no software programs installed on the system contain viruses and malware that can corrupt files. They also have a password protection application against internal threats. If the system cannot operate against an intrusion, it will immediately inform the business manager so that they can take the proper steps. A security system is becoming necessary to protect vital research and development data as security breaches become more prevalent.

Endnote

Technology has changed the way businesses operate. It is present in every sector of industry. A company that does not integrate a technological mechanism into its work can not hope to compete in saturated markets. Researching new ways to integrate technology into your business can give you an upper hand against your competitors. The strategies will be more efficient, and you will be able to attract new customers. 

The Complete Guide to Microsoft Azure Services and How They Can Benefit Your Business

In this guide, we will look at the many Azure services that are available to help you optimize your business and take it to the next level. We will start with an overview of what Azure is and how it can benefit your business. We will then go into detail about what each service does, how much it costs, and who would need to use it. Lastly, we’ll explore some of the more popular services in more detail with a brief explanation of how they can benefit your business.

Microsoft’s Unique Role in the Cloud Computing Market

Microsoft is one of the most well-known companies in the world. As of 2017, it is the third largest company in terms of market capitalisation and the largest public company. Microsoft’s success can be attributed to its focus on developing software and hardware products. Azure is Microsoft’s cloud computing platform and a suite of related products and services that together provide a comprehensive cloud platform for businesses, developers, governments, schools, nonprofits and others to build modern applications.

Microsoft has been a leader in the cloud computing market for many years. Its Azure services are used by enterprises and startups all over the world. Microsoft with Azure is a service that lets you use the same applications and data on-premise or in the cloud, giving you more flexibility to choose where your data lives.

How to Choose Microsoft Azure Consulting Services Provider

Microsoft Azure is a cloud computing platform that offers a suite of services to help businesses and organisations build, deploy, and manage applications and data. The first step in choosing the right Azure Consulting Services Provider is to identify the needs of your organisation. This will help you find an Azure Consulting Services Provider that can offer solutions that are tailored to your company’s specific requirements.

The next step is to evaluate their experience with Microsoft Azure, as this will ensure that they are knowledgeable about all the features, benefits, and limitations of Microsoft’s cloud computing platform.

Best Microsoft Azure Consulting Services Providers

Microsoft Azure consulting by DataArt can help you in many ways, from analysing your business needs to developing an enterprise-grade application.

Azure offers a variety of services for building and deploying applications. These services include compute, storage, networking, database and analytics. With all these services available in one place, the Azure Consulting Services Provider can help you leverage the power of the cloud to meet your business goals.

What are the Advantages of Using Microsoft Azure Services?

Microsoft Azure is a cloud computing platform that offers a suite of products, including analytics, storage, and networking.

Azure is the world’s second-largest cloud provider. It has over 140 data centers in 24 countries around the world. Microsoft Azure services are reliable and scalable and offer a wide range of pricing options for businesses of all sizes. Businesses can also use Azure to augment their on-premises IT environment with online services to reduce costs, increase agility, improve security, and gain insights into their business. Microsoft Azure provides business benefits with its wide range of products that are scalable and reliable.

Microsoft Azure Platform is an Enterprise-Ready Cloud Computing Platform

Microsoft Azure is an enterprise-ready cloud computing platform that provides a scalable and reliable infrastructure for the most demanding applications. Azure has been used by companies like Netflix, Airbnb, SAP, GE, and many others to power their mission-critical workloads. It is also used by the US Department of Defense to process classified data.

It offers different deployment models such as IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service), PaaS (Platform as a Service) and SaaS (Software as a Service). It also offers different pricing models such as pay per use or monthly subscription based on the needs of the customer.

How to Register a Dormant Company?

The benefits of establishing a dormant company are numerous. However, many entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to set up dormant companies in the UK are unsure how to get started. Assume you know how to set up a limited liability company in the UK. In that case, you might be interested to know that, with a few exceptions, the process for establishing a
dormant company is the same.

Though dormant accounts advisers are available in the UK, it is also beneficial to understand minor details such as what causes a dormant company in the UK, the information required, and why you might want to register a dormant company. So keep reading to find out more about registering a dormant company in the UK.

What is a Dormant Company?

Companies House may have marked some companies as dormant, which you may have heard about or seen. Dormant companies are those that have been registered but have not been used. Even if the company is dormant and has no current business activities, it is still required to file certain documents.

A dormant company is simply a standard limited company that does not conduct business and has no accounting transactions. Dormant corporations can also be used to hold assets such as freehold real estate. This purpose, however, is of limited interest to small business owners.

How to File for a Dormant Company?

Do you want to know how to form a dormant company in the UK? If your company is no longer trading for whatever reason, but you do not want to close it permanently, you have this option. Those interested in how to register a dormant company, on the other hand, should familiarise themselves with the country’s legislation. Every year, a dormant company must file annual
accounts and a confirmation statement.

After a period of inactivity, a dormant limited company can be registered. You also have the option of establishing a dormant company from the start. You can change its status whenever you want to resume trading. Similarly, you must notify Companies House and HMRC of this change.

If you decide to stop trading, you must notify HMRC immediately and register your company as dormant. If your company has previously been active and traded, they will notify you and notify you that you must file a Corporation Tax Return for that period. If your company is VAT registered, you must cancel this registration as well as any payroll operations and settle any
outstanding debts. If you have already registered your company as dormant and begin trading, it will automatically
lose its dormancy status.

Looking to Relax a Bit?

There are many reasons why you might want to leave their company for a while: perhaps you are taking a break from your duties as a director, or perhaps you’re returning to permanent employment. Whatever your reason, making your company dormant is a quick and easy way to put a halt to your operations for a while. Icon Offices can assist you if you are considering dormancy in the UK. We can assist in keeping your dormant company’s filing requirements current while you arent using it, allowing you to focus on your business. Get in touch with us today to learn more!

5 tips to help a freelancer avoid burnout

There is a perception that a freelancer’s life is peaceful and successful since he is doing what he loves. You still need to pay your bills even if you work for yourself. If the projects are not paid enough, there is a risk of overworking, which is already fraught with depression and anxiety. Here are five tips for freelancers that will help you avoid getting into such a situation.

For those who work from 9 to 18, freelancing may seem very comfortable and exciting, but in fact this mode can be very difficult. Regardless of the form of freelancing — permanent work or part—time work – burnout is real at any level and with any experience. 

It can overtake for various reasons: too many projects at the same time, low-cost offers and even work for free.

  1. Don’t judge yourself by someone else’s achievements

If you follow other creative people in your field on social networks, sometimes it may seem that everyone is handing over successful projects and bragging about achievements — but not you.

It is important to keep in mind that perception is not reality in such circumstances. Another freelancer, for instance, might spend months working on pieces before posting them all at once.

To approach a job, there is no right or wrong way. By comparing ourselves to others, we simply serve to divert attention from our own problems. The freelancer marketplaces are already competitive, so the more you focus on your own path and financial goals, the better. Also, remember that there is no such thing as a linear career path.

  1. Don’t overload yourself

It is difficult to set a limit on the amount of work when freelance work is the only source of income. But overloading yourself with tasks can lead to broken deadlines, poor-quality results and loss of money.

Try setting a limit on the number of projects you undertake each week or month.

Also be careful when taking multiple projects from multiple clients at a time. For example, if you are engaged in copywriting, it is much more convenient to direct all efforts to one client, since this will allow you to focus on the style of publication.

It is better not to work on a retail marketing campaign at the same time and try to write an art review on the same day.

  1. Put your email in order and don’t check it too often

Checking your email at any time can take up your personal time outside of work. It is better not to check e-mail at all for work issues on weekends and, for example, before 8 am and after 7 pm on weekdays. This helps to disconnect and avoid the feeling of constant “inclusion”.

Sometimes the easiest solution is to have two mailboxes. One will be useful for work, the other for personal affairs.

  1. Do not expect to receive payment immediately

Almost every freelancer or contractor has at least once encountered difficulties related to late payment from a client. The situation is awkward and uncomfortable.

A good rule of thumb is to work two months ahead. That is, do not try to pay today’s bills with today’s projects.

Instead, build your workflow in such a way that payments from the projects you are working on now will cover the bills in two months.

This will enable you to move freely in the event of payment delays and prevent work gaps..

  1. Know your worth

This comes with experience, but it is vital for a freelancer to understand the level of minimum payment for a project that he can agree to. Otherwise, customers will take advantage of his kindness.

To compare rates, study freelance exchanges to find out how much others charge for similar services.

Once you determine how much your work costs, it will be easier for you to give up freelance projects and clients who pay less.

As a freelancer, you have to organize your workload and daily routine yourself to avoid burnout. Your time is your money, so use it wisely and take only what you can handle. Healthy borders are the key to successful freelancing.