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26th March 2008

How to Create Ideas of Products and Business Opportunities

A lot of big inventions were discovered ” by chance “. Let’s
take the case of the penicillin. In 1928 the scholar
Alexander Fleming discovers it after to have forgotten a
culture of mushrooms in his laboratory. He notices that a
mildew that had developed (Penicillium notatum) killed all
the bacteria around the mushrooms. 17 years later he shared
the Nobel price of medicine.

Another example, the discovery of Velcro. While taking a
walk in the mountains, Georges De Mestrallet, engineer, is
irritated by the small balls of a plant that hang themselves
to its clothing and to the hairs of his dog. The tiny hooks
of the seeds of bardane that it observes to the microscope
give him the idea of the closing Velcro.

Velcro has become a multinational corporation.

There are hundreds of examples of this type as the history
of the Archimedes principle discovered in his bath, the
apple of Newton (universal gravitation) or the post-it and
its adhesive that sticks and puts back itself, etc.

These examples show that persons in contact with a
circumstance, capitalize on that by making their creativity
work.

This astonishing faculty carries a name:

The serendipity, or the creative exploitation of the
unforeseen.

1) The serendipity is the art to do a happy encounter and to
exploit this position to your advantage. As the history of
the Mc Donald’s hamburger restaurants. Ray kroc, salesman of
milk-shake machines, fascinated by the concept, encounter
the Mc Donald’s brothers, convince them to let him take care
of the franchising and some years later repurchases the
rights of their corporation for 2.7 million us dollars. You
know the continuation

2) This is the faculty to find by chance something else that
what is looked for. As these researchers working on a
medicine destined to heal chest throat infection. They
discover a secondary one very special effect: the priapism.
You know the name of the product: the Viagra.

3) This is also the capacity to discover or invent by the
recuperation and the creative exploitation of the
consequences of an accident a priori unfortunate. As the
history of a researcher of 3-M that discovers which will
become ” scotchgard ” - the anti-smirch product for fabrics
of 3-M - while dropping a fluoride solution on one of her
tennis shoes. It was impossible to withdraw the spot
whatever the solvent. Phenomenal success.

Without the knowledge, I have applied myself the principle
of serendipity. That happened during the heat wave of 2003
in Europe.

You know, I’m teacher in a driving school. We don’t have
air conditioning in the car. The boss finds it too
expensive…

During 8 long hours I had to sit in an overheated car! From
12 AM to 8 PM: the hottest hours. Terrible!

Here you can see the third example of serendipity. A crisis
situation force your creativity If you want. But you have
to be aware of its course. Otherwise you pass by this
business opportunity.

In order to find a solution to refresh myself, I forced my
imagination. Because I suffered terribly. Gas atomizers
are really good and refreshing but Too expensive and not
reusable. I could empty a whole gas bottle a day…

A trigger sprayer is not easy to use, particularly when
spraying your face. Moreover too bulky to carry or to place
in a reachable spot, as the door of the car.

I didn’t find a little spray you can unscrew with a Jet
strong enough to spray as easy as gas atomizer. And perfume
sprays are no strong enough and too little.

I wanted a water spray supple and resistant, large enough to
use without being afraid to miss water when you need it the
most. A water spray you can choose to fill with mineral or
running water, easy to carry and so as not to feel against
your body when worn. And last but not least, a water spray
cheap and reusable.

While looking for a packing corporation, - again a ” chance
” - I fell on a manufacturer of plastic pouches that
corresponded exactly to the qualities that I looked for, for
my spray idea.

Some months later, the spray Pssshiiit was born.

How to develop your serendipity?

We are surrounded by consumer goods. Take advantage of this
abundance of products around you. Become a difficult
consumer. Criticize the products that you employ, find their
defects, and then make your creativity work so as to find a
solution.

Once the solution found, there is two exploitation
possibilities:

1) You exploit yourself the new idea, as I did it myself.

2) You sell the idea. If the idea is patentable, make patent
request in your country. If you do it yourself the gaits of
a patent deposit, the price is very reasonable and it’s not
so complicated as you think. You have a year to find a
contractor interested by the purchase of your patent.

Some thousands of dollars are always good to take. You don’t
risk a great deal. To the worse one, you wasted your time.

You also can force the principle of the serendipity while
trying to find another application for a product. The
improvement of a product can be applied to other domains.
For example while looking at a biro on which was set up a
movable clip to set it up to a pocket, I thought that it
would be interesting for a manufacturer of pencils to place
one of these movable clips in the can of pencils so as to
take on yourself. In fact, a pencil never can be taken in a
pocket under penalty of to perforate it.

I think actually that while being opened to the serendipity,
while being conscious of his existence, you can provoke it.
Remain opened and attentive to its exterior demonstrations.
See how you can take advantage directly of an experience
that can appear unpleasant previously.

I am of those that do not believe in hazard. All what
surrounds us is energy. Our thoughts also are energy. You
provoke the exterior experiences that you are more useful,
good or bad. Free to you to take advantage of the experience
given to you or to let the occasion go hang

About the Author:

Aurian D’oultremont is the manager of Pssshiiit, an original
mineral water spray freshener for sunny holidays. It
combines all the advantages ( reusable, flat, cheap ) of gas
atomizers without its inconvenience ( expensive, bulky).

http://business-opportunity.pssshiiit.com?art1

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26th March 2008

How to Makeover a Drab Concrete Patio

Without a doubt, patios have now become more of an integral part of the home rather than just a concrete pad sitting forlornly in the back yard. But as patios are increasingly used for outdoor dining, BBQ’s or just a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, that old, drab and maybe cracked concrete pad is most likely in desperate need of a bold makeover to meet the changing requirements. And a makeover of your outside entertaining area can be one of the most cost effective home improvement tasks you can undertake to lift the value of your home.

A number of options are possible for remodeling or transforming existing concrete pads, depending on the condition of the concrete, your budget, the amount of disruption you can tolerate and material preference. For example, if the concrete is in excellent condition, then the concrete surface can simply be stained, given a textured coating or a stenciled tile pattern applied. These options involve only minimal disruption and are applied by specialized contractors.

If the concrete surface is basically sound, perhaps with only hairline cracks, then resurfacing with porcelain or stone tiles is an option that could be considered. Porcelain tiles are available in a multitude of colours, styles and sizes. Textured finishes are generally applied to exterior tiles to reduce the danger of slipping under wet conditions. Check to ensue the tiles are suitable for your local conditions as tiles with high water absorption characteristics may crack in freezing conditions. Be aware that any existing cracks in the concrete which extend through the entire pad are likely to open further and eventually can lead to cracking in any tiles laid above.

Natural stone products such as sandstone, limestone, slate or granite may also be considered but may need to be sealed against moisture or to prevent staining. Another option where additional height is not a problem is to use new or reclaimed bricks or clay pavers.

Perhaps one of the simplest, most cost effective and attractive options however, is to install modular wood deck tiles. Such tiles can tolerate a certain degree of cracking of the concrete and will not cause problems if cracks in the concrete pad are likely to expand. These DIY decking tiles are typically available as 12′ x 12” squares and are easily installed by just clicking the modules into place (see for example http://www.swiftdeck.com). The tiles have special tabs built onto the sides of the plastic base which keeps them firmly in place and avoids the need for any particular surface preparation, adhesives or other fixings. The plastic base is designed to allow water to pass freely under the tiles and keep the wood clear of the sub-surface. A typical patio area can be fully laid in just an hour or so and is ready to use immediately.

Most manufacturers produce wood deck tiles in several different designs, so it is possible to create borders, centerpieces, feature areas etc. to suit your individual preference. Check to ensure the wood species used is a high natural durability species such as Jarrah, Ipe, Bangkirai etc. Most tiles are pre-oiled with a penetrating deck oil but regular re-oiling every 12 month or so is recommended if it is desired to retail the original wood colour as long as possible.

In addition to interlocking wood deck tiles, a range of ceramic interlocking tiles is now available which gives further opportunities to individualize your patio. These tiles are designed to interlock with the wood tiles, so for example you could have a central patio area paved in ceramic tiles where tables and chairs are situated, surrounded by wood tiles. With the addition of some large pots, attractive plants and maybe a favorite piece of sculpture, that dull patio can soon become a place you can be truly proud of again.

Malcolm Kay is the CEO of Intex Pacific Pty. Ltd. an international supplier of landscape materials including patio deck tiles. For more information see http://www.swiftdeck.com

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25th March 2008

The Baker’s Dozen Items You Should Carry in Your Basic Survival Kit!

Everyone, and we do mean everyone needs to have their own personal survival kit. Your kit needs to be economical, so don’t waste your money, but get what you can use and what you like. Whatever you carry be sure that your kit carries only the necessities. You know how things just seem to happen at the most inconvenient time? For average persons’ purposes, a personal back pack should be created for every person in your family or business.

Sounds extravagant? Not when you need it!

Remember you might not be home when something happens or you as a key member of your family might not be able to get to your other family members to help them. Never-the-less, your personal pre-stocked survival kit should be quickly accessible to you at all times. If you drive to work, have it available to you stowed in your vehicle at all times. If you are at home, have it located near your most likely exit from your home. This is so that if you must leave your home it is immediately available although your vehicle might not be. Once you stock the most important necessities in your personal survival kit, you can expand into other less important items and place them in your home or vehicle, items more bulky and heavy. This concept is called layering your survival kits, keeping the most important items on your body.

Okey the basics you need are very straight forward. Lets put together a no-nonsense list:

1. You need a container to carry the items of your personal kit. We recommend a medium size sturdy back pack, two 5 gallon and two 1 gallon plastic pails and a large metal pot. These can be stacked inside of one another with the garbage bags and hand carried while the rest is on your back. The back pack case should be; Water repellent or waterproof, easy to carry or attach to your body, suitable to accept varisized components, and durable.

2. A basic survival manual. We recommend the US Army Survival Manual FM21-76 and a First Aid Kit Booklet or Manual

3. A basic First Aid kit. We recommend You can get a good head start by purchasing a preassembled first aid kit. You will find that most preassembled kits have been put together through much feedback given by those who have experienced injury during a crisis. Some basic first aid essentials include gauze, tape, adhesive strips, scissors, antibiotic ointment, bandages, burn treatment bandages or lotions, rash or itching creams, thermometer, arm splint, tweezers, safety pins, pain reliever, prescription medications, antiseptic towelettes, ammonia inhalant, instant ice packs, sponges, eye washes, rubbing alcohol, etc.

Although pre-assembled kits contain the most common items needed during emergencies, it is important to gather items that fit your particular needs. Prescriptions such as medications for asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, depression etc. are crucial for first aid kits. Also be sure to include special items needed by small children or the elderly. It is useless to have a professional kit that contains items you do not know how to use, or to have a kit that is to basic to treat emergency needs. Basically, remember that first aid items can help save lives during a crisis. It is easier to invest the time and money in first aid supplies once you understand what a difference this kind of preparation can make during an emergency. Once you have purchased supplies, begin learning more about first aid relief and learn how to properly use your supplies.

Include
* Oxytetracycline tablets (for diarrhea or infection).

* Surgical blades.
* Butterfly sutures.
Burn gel and dressing
Snake bite kit
Insect repellent
Sun block
Special medications

4. Compact lightweight food for at least 72 hours. We recommend you use food you are familiar and like stored in your kit, you will be better prepared to use it during times of emergency. So when it comes to economical acquisition of Food: Get two manual can openers. Then buy plenty of oatmeal, and canned food that’s ready to eat from the can with heating. You can get Dinty Moore products and others. Soups, Chili, Chicken and Dumplings, Stews, etc., are all in cans. Cookies and saltine crackers are also great only if you can store them in cans, jars or plastic containers with airtight lids. Perhaps if you can afford and have tried for taste, acquire MRE’s (ready to eat meals) these generally are less bulky and can be carried in a kit easier.

* Minimum amount of food - ie emergency MREs or energy bars

* A small metal container to cook in.

5. Water and some water purification means. We recommend that you get water purification tablets and that you learn to treat water, first filtering it through material like a sheet, then with bleach before you prepare to drink any source of water you are unsure of during an emergency. The amount of regular unscented bleach that is recommended to use, is 4 drops of bleach per quart of water. Then it also is recommended that you boil the water, and then let it cool prior to drinking it. You’ll need at least two gallons per person, per-day at a minimum for drinking, cooking and sanitation. Using one of your 5 gallon pails for treatment and storage. Remember to boil your water in the metal pot and then transfer it to the covered plastic pail or a Collapsible Container for water storage.

6. Matches or some means of starting a fire. We recommend a standard lighter with a small can of lighter fluid, a metal match, or waterproof matches and for Cooking: A single burner Coleman propane camp stove is the best with a couple propane cylinders. This can also be stowed in one of the plastic containers.

7. Some compact versatile tools.

We recommend
* Snare wire.
* Signaling mirror.
* Wrist compass.
* Fish and snare line.

* Fishhooks.
* Candles.
* Small hand lens (magnifying glass)
* Solar blankets.
* Chap Stick.
* Knife.
50 Feet of Nylon Rope
Rolls of Duct Tape
Foldable Shovel
Hatchet or axe
Sewing Kit
an all purpose combination utility tool, as well as a Candle with windproof/waterproof matches (remember, in some cases it is not wise to light a match in case of a gas leak)

8. A flashlight, preferably one that doesn’t need batteries.

You can also use alternate light sources
Candles
Lightsticks
Lantern and fuel
Road Flare(s)

9. Extra incliment weather headgear, shoes & clothing. We recommend EXTRA CLOTHING

A complete outfit of appropriate durable clothing; including extra socks, underwear, hat, sturdy shoes, and gloves.

10. Personal hygiene items, soap for washing, toilet supplies. We recommend using the sturdy 5 gallon plastic pail for a toilet, portable outhouse. Use your heavy trash bags that will fit down inside the bucket and the top will fold over the outside of the bowl toward the floor. Have a supply of bleach water in the bathroom made from one part laundry bleach to five parts water. This can be kept in a plastic 1 gallon pail. Add some of this when needed to handle scent as the bag fills up. Some folks double-bag to be sure for easy removal. When the bags are 1/2 full you can tie them off and put them in the back yard where you can dig holes to dispose of them. A bathing solution can be made of one part rubbing alcohol to ten parts of water and sloshed on the body with washcloths and rinse with clean water. Here’s where another 1 gallon pail comes in handy. Have plenty of generic mouth wash and also body rinse like “Sea Breeze”, Witch Hazel or a generic brand in your cabinet. Plan on one bottle per week per person of each.

11. Don’t forget your medications.

Ask you doctor for an extra prescription for emergencies. He or she will gladly do it and they understand and may hand you some free samples. Also don’t be afraid to ask for freebies including some antibiotics or other stuff they might hand out to you.

12. Your Personal identification, credit cards, financial papers, titles, etc.

MONEY

At least $20 in your kit — be sure to include quarters for phone calls IMPORTANT PAPERS

Emergency Instructions

Copies of documents such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, wills, insurance forms, phone numbers, credit card info, etc., Copies of the following: Marriage certificate Social Security cards Wills Inventory of household goods Immunization records Stocks and bonds Map of the area and phone numbers of places you could go

13. Maps, compass and AM/FM radio. We recommend having a radio with more than one source of power. Chemical lightsticks are recommended because of their safety, Road flares can be used but are not as safe as the lightsticks. Jumper cables. Car repair kit, Flat Tire Fixer Try to always maintain at least one-half tank of gas Cell phone to report any emergencies (many disconnected cell phones may still be able to call “911″ when charged) Emergency Cell phone charger, Fire extinguisher, Paper and pencil for leaving notes or recording any thoughts, Toys and other special consideration items for children, Books and games for entertainment, Short rubber hose for siphoning.

In preparing your survival kit, select items you can use for more than one purpose. If you have two items that will serve the same function, pick the one you can use for another function. Do not duplicate items, as this increases your kit’s size and weight. Your survival kit need not be elaborate. You need only functional items that will meet your needs and a case to hold the items. Now that you thought about it, what do you think you should carry in your kit? Now that you have the idea, it’s up to you to follow through. The better prepared you are, the better your chances you will survive.

Thank you for your attention. We hope it helps.

Author is the Founder of the Hedtke Institute, sole proprietor of Stormynites, has a B.S. in Computer Science from Southwestern University, and a A.S. in Business Computing from Devery Institute of Technology. He has extensive experience in Emergency, Survival and Personal Security with a background in Law Enforcement and eco-Treking. Additionally, his technological exposure encompasses computer and business analysis, programming and networking. His interests also are in robotics and nano-technology.

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