Dornoff Consulting is designed to help businesses be more competitive in an ever changing marketplace. Dornoff Consulting provides business consulting services along with Community Development, Community Economic Development, Urban Planning, Transportation Planning, and Urban Design.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Office Furniture Sale - Quality at Deep Discounts - NationalBusinessFurniture.com
Toyota dealer resists temptation to join West End dealerships
Storied Indian tea industry ailing
Diner finds home in small Utah town
Ground Beef Recall Expanded Across U.S.
Cell Phones Double As Electronic Wallets
Hello, innovation: Companies are trying to teach old phones some new tricks
Entrepreneurship critical for economy
Collectors driven by passion — and profit
Workplaces recognized for promotion of fitness
Staples to build its first 'green' store in Miami
Macy's to revive coupons
Retail Notebook: Try on a little Glitz on Capitol Hill
Friday, September 28, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Spending, construction both rise
Update Shuts Down Some Hacked iPhones
Wal-Mart Expands $4 Drugs Program
Cell-phone service for children to end
Regional airlines try new routes
SBA rural-loan program being tested in the West
Yahoo will shut down podcast service in effort to lift profit
'Innovation zones' vying for cash
Venture Capital: Widemile will put $4 million to the test
Microsoft extends cutoff date for Windows XP sales
Inside Entrepreneurship: For-profit or not? Pros and cons for startups
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Business Articles of Note
20% Bundled Savings on Day Planner Kits at FranklinCovey.com.
Economic rebound may be short-lived
600,000 toys join recall list
Coffee Creations steams up with variety drinks, quality service
Clash over Internet access tax heats up
Bill could open door for venture capital firms
Choosing client data software
Website for spa deals gets a massage
Headquarters at Home and Proud to Be There
'Halo 3' hits $170 million in U.S. sales
Major toy stores play up products made in U.S.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Helpful Hints: Buying a Computer
There is always some fear of buying something you are not familiar with. For many buying a computer is task that they do not look forward to because they are not familiar with the latest technology and are afraid they are going to buy something that is outdated. Today I am going to offer some helpful hints when looking to purchase a computer. We will look at some of the things you should have on a computer and some things that not be that important to you.
1. Should I buy a name brand or from a local person?
Now here is a question that can open a can of worms. Let me say to start off with that I at one time worked for Gateway but that was many years ago. At that time we had a local computer store in
However, these days you can find many local companies providing a good product. No matter which of the major manufacturers you look at, you will find people that have had problems with them. I have been lucky (knock on wood) that my Gateway and HP/Compaq computers have worked well.
I would recommend checking out Computer Shopper magazine. This magazine has advertisements from many smaller companies and provides good products for the dollar. Before purchasing from any company especially one of the smaller national or local companies, I would check with the Better Business Bureau website. While some of the smaller companies do a great job there is also some out there that will take advantage of their customers.
2. Trends in the computer industry.
One thing to be aware of when looking at computers is that these days the gaming world is driving computer technology not business needs. You do not see the big changes in the computers that you saw just five or more years ago. While a few years ago you needed the latest and greatest to keep up, these days for a good business computer, you do not have to buy all the latest gadgets to get you a good computer.
3. Figure out what your needs are.
Many times people want all the latest and greatest for their computers. This is the equivalent of buying a Ferrari as a commuter car. Figure out what your needs are today and for the next couple of years. Are you going to be playing extreme games? Are you going to be doing extremely high end graphics? The answer to that question is probably no. You are probably going to use your computer to keep customers files, print up invoices, do some word processing, and edit some pictures.
Once you have figured out what you are going to use your computer for, then it’s time to figure out what you want on your computer.
4. The Processor
The Processor is the brain of the computer. Since you will probably doing multi-tasking with your computer (as business owners we are always multi-tasking right?), I would recommend a dual core processor. The two big manufacturers of processors are Intel and AMD. For the last few years AMD had the lead in computer processors but in the last couple, Intel caught up and surpassed AMD.
Quad core processors are starting to come out which will make the Dual Cores less expensive but if the price is right the Quad cores will allow even more multi-tasking, but probably exceed your needs.
The manufacturers have entry level processors, with Intel it’s called Celeron and with AMD it’s the Sempron. I would only recommend these processors if you are doing the very basics. The problem with buying the entry level is that they are not designed to handle the changes your computing may do over the next couple of years.
5. Memory
I consider memory to be even more important than the processor. The memory is what makes a computer slow or fast. Today with the advent of Windows Vista, you need to have a minimum of 1Gig of memory just to make most of
6. Hard Drive
Are you going to be storing lots of pictures, music, or movies on your computer? Then you want to have the largest amount of hard disk space you can buy. However, if you’re mainly going to be doing basic business files and stuff, most of today’s hard drives will do the job just find. A 250 Gig hard drive would be more than adequate for most business needs. If you think you might be storing a ton of pictures in the future then look to move up to a 500 Gig model.
7. Graphics Cards
Once again, what are you going to be using your computer for? For the average business a good 256 to 512K graphics card will be more than adequate for your needs. Many computers will come with graphics integrated into the motherboard and many computer geeks will tell you to get a separate card, but for the average business user, integrated graphics will suite your needs just fine.
8. Optical Drives
Back when I worked at Gateway, we were told that everyone needs a DVD drive because in a year or two all the software would be coming out on DVD. Well here we are some 8 years later and most of your software is still coming out on CD. However with the cost of DVD drives so low and the fact that DVD disks will hold 4 times the amount of information of CD, I do recommend getting a DVD +- Read and Write Drive.
These days you are hearing a lot about Blu-Ray and HD-DVD which hold substantially more than a DVD, however these drives are still expensive and unless you will be watching a ton of movies on your business computer, I recommend sticking with the DVD drive. Make sure the drive is multi-format sine it will play either of the two formats (+-).
9. Monitor
Only a couple of years ago it would cost you almost $500 to buy a good flat panel monitor of 19”. Today even the larger 20 and 22” inch models are starting to get under $300 and the 19” are going for under $200.00. With all the space a flat panel saves I highly recommend these plus they have better quality. One of the things to look for is a response time of under 8ms.
10. Operating System
There is several operating systems available but the most common of course is Windows. You may be able to find computers that come with XP but a majority of today’s models will only have
There are also alternative programs available such as Linux, but for those looking for just a good computer for your business without much difficulty I would stick with Windows since it is the standard bearer and many people know it.
11. Other Software
You will also need a program to do word processing and spreadsheets. The most common program is Microsoft Office but there are also free programs out there such as Open Office that provides most people find do everything they need. If you are not going to be sharing a lot of documents and are just using them yourself I would look into these Office Alternatives.
Well this will give you a start to having a good business computer. I would also check out some of the computer magazines such as PC, PC World, and Computer Shopper. Good luck in buying that computer and remember the old saying Keep It Simple.
Also remember the old saying that if you line up 10 economist you would get 10 different answers, well the same goes for computer geeks. They will all have their opinion on what is best for you but remember, you are not an extreme gamer, you just need a computer to do business and keep that in mind when taking mine or any one else's suggestions.Business Articles of Note
CompUSA Desktop Systems*: Save up to $170
Walkers chefs duel for diners
Durable goods orders plummet
Amazon takes a stab at iTunes market
Hardee's, Carl's Jr. and PETA Reach Deal
United, Delta win China routes
Consumer woes auguring trouble for holiday shopping
Retail growth: STORES Magazine's Hot 100 list shows Beehive State is luring 'status' stores
Will Wi-Fi connect in L.A.?
Vonage loses patent ruling
Movie Gallery to shut 520 stores
To Eat and Drink What No One Has Tried Before
Seeking Ways to Cut Fees on Credit Cards
Selling Slow Boats to a Faster Crowd
To Keep Health Plans, Many Firms Shift Costs
Trademarks Can Protect Your Good Name
Strategies to Succeed Online
Simple Software Solutions From Those Who’ve Been There
Reborn in the U.S.A.
New Web site offers referrals for self-help resources
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Consumer confidence drops in September
Amazon spins up digital music store
Target, Lowe's Temper Sales Outlooks
Office 2008 for Mac Set for Jan. Release
Amazon Spins Up Digital Music Store
Founder of Planters Peanuts honored
Long strike could cost GM billions, stop momentum created by new products, analysts say
Companies offering cash to workers who lose weight
21 new U.S. patents are awarded to Utah inventors
Disk-wiping utility erases hard-drive data
Apple's new software may put kibosh on unlocked iPhones
State to cut ties with firms doing business in Iran
Outsourcing Works, So India Is Exporting Jobs
Monday, September 24, 2007
Business Articles of Note
For Molt pilot, being up and alone is the perfect fit
Father, son join forces in optometry practice
Trust issues can creep up in the workplace
Dell to sell PCs through China retailer
Filling in the gaps
Businesses plan now for holiday season
New Service Eavesdrops on Internet Calls
Landscape-business owner's home presentation starts from grounds up
Chinese step up scrutiny of food
Retailer’s Shortcut From Desktop to Store
Retro Medicine: Doctors Making House Calls (for a Price)
Starbucks giving away free iTunes downloads
The Insider: Author's third 'field guide' boils office down to nuts and bolts
Mobile MySpace hits market today
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Doll lover to open museum on Saturday
McDonald's comeback surprises experts
Social sites go political
Norwegian ethics ruffle financial world
Deaths spur huge crib recall
No cuts, closings at Home Depot-CEO: Investment in customer service
Building world-class consulting firm from scratch
Palm betting Centro will prove to be winning hand
It's legal for employer to amend job posting
Getting rich: More than dumb luck
Farm mechanization is growing
20.4 million in U.S. self-employed
Lead-paint toys aren't the biggest risk
Publix enters organic food business
Small Talk: Plan for holidays now to avoid stress
Survey: Office clothes go casual
Retail Notebook: What he likes is what he sells
Board game gives lessons in finance
Friday, September 21, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Mattel apologizes to China over recalls
Timing helps make couple's business plan worth its salt
Macy's makes play on toys
Trade Group: Holiday Sales to Grow Slow
Upcoming Partners in Business seminars
Firm helps controversial companies build better public images
Disney teaches the ways of customer satisfaction
Entrepreneurs Defend a Tax Benefit Despite a Dubious Congress
Venture Capital: Snapvine turns up the volume a notch
Inside Entrepreneurship: Avoid missteps when you incorporate
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Save 30% - 50% on Select Clearance Items at Office Depot! While Supplies Last!
$30M Zillow infusion may go to home-improvement tab
Starbucks sued for alleged patent infringement
NBC.com plans free downloads of TV shows
Dry cleaner closes after $54M suit
Measure would expand claims of discrimination
Intel to roll out chips for handheld computers
Nurturing female entrepreneurs
UCLA grooms salon owners for success
Beyond Depression, an Explosion of New Ideas
Study Says Delays at S.B.A. Harm Program for Women
Ports and Distribution Industry Surge Together
Washington a winner in Korean trade deal
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Business Articles of Note
A service of the Dornoff Consulting Group
Alaska Airlines will test wireless service
Wal-Mart boosts employee prescription drug benefits
Big drop in energy costs sends consumer prices down for the first time in 10 months
No more fast boarding lanes for small kids on Southwest
Southwest about to alter it's course
Marriott is 8th-biggest Internet sales retail
Salt Lake's Vanguard among top growth companies
El Pollo Loco invades South
Wall Street Journal online may become free
More Retailers Found to Have Lead-Tainted Items
Handing Off the Family Business
S. Jordan company's niche is managing customer feedback
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Whole Prices Plunge in August
Credit crunch squeezes ETrade
Shopping at Costco is a high-contact event
Candy maker Mars bucks industry push to use substitutes in chocolate
TV networks tuning into Web options
Costco to take anchor spot at Lakewood mall
MySpace to Discuss Latest Effort to Customize Ads for Members
AOL swaps 'wall' for BlueString
Monday, September 17, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Rancher develops remote control taillight system
Hugging co-workers on the rise
Kroger expands personal finance business
After shaking off disabled status, she breaks ground
Owners find strings are tightening on credit
Global push for entrepreneurialism
Customer service and the WOW factor
Fuzzmail clarifies state of mind
Business insight: Layoffs are wrong way to solve poor planning
Wine hobby now a business
New sports apparel store opens
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Flagging Shopzilla Boosts Marketing
Gadgets have huge economic impact
What not to do when starting a business venture
Publications on Fitness and Health Head to Web
The Wisdom of Sales Trend Predictions
Out of Adversity, an Opportunity
Rental Building’s Good Karma Nurtures Success
No Letup in Bad News for Queens Businesses
Site attracts venture capital
Thriving Mezza Cafe gives second chance to ex-cons, recovering addicts
The Insider: Starbucks roasted over kiddie drinks
Workplace Coach: Office manager-coaches are made, not born
Startup has plan for a reputation that follows you online
Social networking Web sites grow up
Retail Notebook: You fix it at Wright Bros. Cycle in Fremont
Inside Entrepreneurship: Got a good startup idea -- but lack credit?
Toy prices to rise up to 10 percent
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Special Notice...
Business Articles of Note
Trade deficit declines slightly
Health insurance premiums rise 6.1 pct.
Judge says NYC restaurants don't have to post calories
Mac attack — Among iPod changes, Apple offering new and revamped products
Protect your computers against viruses, spyware
Delta rescinds fare increase on some of its U.S. routes
Strings go zing
Music industry, Web radio operators look close to a deal
Monday, September 10, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Minnesota man finds new life, career in Red Lodge
Couples in business together face marital challenges
AMD to launch new 4-core server chip
Growth outlook worst in 5 years
Swap a Fendi for a Furla
Women carve out place in the video game space
Following Mattel recalls, Disney announces independent tests of toys featuring its characters
Omniture buys Offermatica to add Web selling software
Updating the Lemonade Stand Strategy
In Place of Smokestacks, Makers of Dumplings and Doors
Invest in smart power strips
Workers who aren't parents need flex time, too
Sunday, September 09, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Antiques shop open in Billings
Labels don't tell the whole story of foods' route to dinner table
Ethanol entrepreneurs making their moves
Broadband picture not finished
Fixing Chinese goods will be costly
Vizio's low-cost TVs now top sellers
New farmers enter the field to meet rising demand for locally grown, organic produce
Many small biz owners going back to school
One for the books: King's English has been a thriving community bookstore for 30 years
Outsourcing non-key tasks can be vital for a small business
DayJet to use 'very light jets,' smaller airports
29% of U.S. workers want 'interesting work'
Dade mom recruited to check out McDonald's
Can Michael Dell Refocus His Namesake?
Struggling to Save a Main Street Mainstay
Retail Notebook: Rouge boutique carries on a family tradition
Friday, September 07, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Warning: Worker shortage will grow
More money, less diversification
Apple credits iPhone buyers
Son of Italy dreams up Southern grits in a tube
Sales bounce back
Firms should brush up on foreign law, expert says
Google introduces My Library feature
Coeur d'Alene chamber puts best face forward
Small Businesses Need Recruiters, Too
Venture Capital: VC veteran says fund model 'is broken'
Inside Entrepreneurship: An 'incubator' can be good way to get your startup off the ground
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Back-to-school buying helps retailers
Apple to launch touch-screen iPod, lower price of iPhone
Retailer to settle suit on inflated earnings
MPC buying part of Gateway
What's New: Signs, signs everywhere in Garden City
Entrepreneurs, time to strap on your thinking caps
Half of federal agencies miss contract goals
Clothing maker keeps it all local
Disdaining the Long-Range Plan
The Retailer Next Door
For-Profit Crusade Against Junk Mail
Costco falls victim to retail trend
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Krispy Kreme cools further
Pending home sales fell in July to lowest level since September 2001
Destination shopping: Personal service not novelty at boutiques
Risks of a recession rising
Average U.S. gasoline price rises 4.7 cents per gallon
In 3rd Recall, Mattel Says More Toys Include Lead
NBC in Deal With Amazon to Sell Shows on the Web
Blurring by Choice and Passion
Knowing What You Stand For
Google cell phone? Rumors swirl
CEO taking Eddie Bauer back to its rugged men's store roots
Shopping by cell-phone screen seen as coming attraction
Exports need to cover for housing
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Business Articles of Note
Google begins hosting new content
Verizon to expand high-speed territory
Need a job?
72% of sales workers open to job switch
Lotterman: Toymakers and investment banks made same basic mistake
Business cards alive and well in new age of salesmanship
Small Talk: Time off can help bolster a team
As holidays near, Mattel gets tough on toy safety
Microsoft puts Office Open XML format up for international vote
Retail Notebook: Caldwells' fine curios come from far and wide
Company offers surge protection
Saturday, September 01, 2007
To Do or Not To Do Political Signs...
This comes down to what kind of market you are in and who are your customers. If you live in an area that supports primarily one party and you support that party then you may be OK. However you could also be putting off potential customers by your choices. You need to decide if its worth the risk to alienate a portion of your customer base by supporting certain persons, parties, or positions.
If you do want to be involved there is plenty of ways to get involved without making your business a home to political signs. Look to others way to show support than what might cost you your best customer.