People & Lifestyle

The Seven ITIL Guiding Principles

Published

2 years ago

July 31, 2022

It’s time to level up your skills and gain high-paid jobs in top companies! Yes, we are talking about the ITIL® certification!

ITIL Certification Training provides individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge that help them acquire the certification with ease. Moreover, they get to learn how to efficiently resolve the real-time roadblocks in the IT section of the business.

Today, almost every business requires the ITIL® framework and this is the reason why ITIL professionals are valued everywhere. But do you know that the ITIL® framework is based on seven principles? We bet you didn’t!

These principles define the working of the ITIL® framework in the company. An ITIL professional is required to have complete knowledge of these principles so that he/ she can work efficiently in the organization.

So, without further ado, let us begin by knowing a bit about the ITIL® framework.

What is ITIL® Framework?

ITIL® framework is primarily designed to standardize the selection, planning, delivery, maintenance, and life cycle of the IT services within the business. The main aim of employing the ITIL framework in a company is to improve efficiency and achieve predictable service delivery.

An individual having an ITIL® certification is considered to have expertise in utilizing the process, terminologies, and methods of ITIL in a company. ITIL professionals are very high in demand, i.e., they possess the skills to grow and transform the business.

Coming back to the ITIL® framework, it is essential to note that it provides guidance to manage the five stages of the IT service lifecycle, i.e.,

Service Strategy
Service Transition
Service Design
Service Operation
Continual Service Improvement

The five stages of the IT life cycle help in the seamless running of business operations.

Let us now discuss the abiding principles on which the ITIL framework stands!

Principles of ITIL® Framework

The seven principles which we will be discussing now are considered to be the key messages of ITIL. They are specifically designed to guide the actions and decisions of professionals who are responsible for managing and operating the organization’s service portfolio. Here are the seven principles. Have a look!

Focus on Value

The ITIL® framework’s first principle is to Focus on value. It means that everything that a company does must be linked back to its stakeholders as well as consumers. While paying attention to the value, the primary thing to know about thestakeholders and customers being served by the company. In order to make this principle come to being in the company, one must:

know how the consumers use the services
pay attention to the value of all staff members
focus on value during improvement initiatives
pay attention to value in every step of the improvement initiative

Start From Where You Are!

While undertaking some corrective measures for improvement, it is not advised to change what has already been done!Building something new altogether can turn out to be a waste in terms of losing the opportunity to leverage what already exists. It is not advised to start all over again without considering what is available at present.

Various methods and services that are previously in place must be measured and observed directly in order to understand their present state. The decisions taken by the professionals must be based on the information available regarding products and services. To make use of this principle successfully, here’s what should be done.

Look at what pre-exists in the company
It is advised to use your risk management skills
Recognize the fact that sometimes the pre-existing services are products that cannot be used again.

Progress Iteratively with Feedback

Do not intend on doing everything at once! By organizing and doing work into smaller sections, you can work efficiently in the company. However, re-evaluation must take place for initiatives and component iterations, thereby revising the changes that need to be made in products and services. Seeking and using the feedback ensures that the actions are primarily focused even in changing situations. Once received, the feedback can be used to analyze and identify the risks, issues, and improvement opportunities.

Here’s what one can do in order to employ this principle in the company.

The ecosystem of the company is ever-changing. Thus, feedback is important.
Work at a rapid pace but do not leave anything incomplete.

Collaborate & Promote Visibility

The key to every successful initiative is collaboration and trust. Organizations must be transparent and share as much as possible regarding the work that they are doing.

In order to create the best output, organizations must make sure that the employees have the correct roles and responsibilities.

Another thing to note here is that when the stakeholders of the company have poor or minimal visibility, they create an impression that work isn’t important for them. Insufficient visibility leads to poor decision-making which impacts the ability of the company to improve the capabilities of internal systems. To avoid such situations, candidates need to perform some analysis activities to keep a track of work in progress, identify bottlenecks, and uncover waste. In order to collaborate effectively, here’s what you can do.

Communicate efficiently so that the audience can hear and understand.
Decisions must be made on data that is present visibly.

Think & Work Holistically

There is no service or practice in the company that stands alone! It is important to take a holistic approach so that the company works together in a combined and integrated way. The holistic approach provides proper visibility of how demand is captured and translated into positive outcomes.

In complex systems, any changes in the element can affect others. These effects need to be analyzed and planned for. Here’s how you can apply this principle successfully.

Acknowledge the complexity of the system
Collaboration is the key to thinking and working holistically
Automation can help the candidates in working with the holistic approach

Keep it Simple & Practical

It is advised to use fewer steps to fulfill the long-term and short-term objectives of the company. The main aim of guiding principles is to ensure that things are not over-complicated. To do this, certain exceptions need to be defined and rules need to be put in place.

By establishing a holistic view of the organization, the teams and groups will easily understand how the work is being influenced! To apply this principle, here’s what one can do.

Value assurance
Simplicity is the best way to have efficiency in the company.
Do fewer things, but do them better
Respect the investment of time of people involved
Simplicity is the best route to achieving quick wins.

Optimize & Automate

This principle is important to make sure that there is a focus to amplify the value of work done by technical and human resources. Automation can help work on frequent tasks, thereby freeing human resources. These human resources can further be utilized for complex tasks. Here’s how you can apply this principle.

Simplify and optimize before automation
Define the metrics
Use the other guiding principles when you are applying this principle
Use automation to simplify complex tasks

So, these are the seven guiding principles that can help the company in working efficiently. These principles are not just connected to ITIL but are reflected in other frameworks, methods, standards, etc.

Conclusion

A candidate taking up the ITIL® certification course is expected to have a good knowledge of these principles. They should know the ways to apply these principles in the organization. The course will help you in acquiring the necessary skills that will help the candidates in the long run. So, don’t think much and apply for the ITIL course today!

People & Lifestyle

Eye Care Tips for Different Age Groups

Published

25 mins ago

June 21, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

Maintaining good eye health is essential at every stage of life. From childhood to old age, our eyes require different types of care to ensure they function properly and stay healthy. Here are some essential eye care tips tailored to different age groups:

Infants and Toddlers (0-3 Years)

Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular eye exams to detect any early signs of vision problems. The first comprehensive eye exam should be done at 6 months of age.
Monitor Development: Keep an eye on developmental milestones related to vision, such as tracking moving objects and recognizing familiar faces.
Protect from UV Rays: Use hats and shades for babies to protect their sensitive eyes from harmful UV rays when outdoors.

Children (4-12 Years)

Annual Eye Exams: Ensure children have annual eye exams to monitor their vision as they grow. Early detection of issues like myopia (nearsightedness) is crucial.
Screen Time Management: Limit screen time and encourage regular breaks to reduce eye strain. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.
Protective Eyewear: Encourage the use of protective eyewear during sports and recreational activities to prevent eye injuries.

Teenagers (13-19 Years)

Balanced Diet: Promote a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids to support overall eye health.
Avoid Smoking: Educate teenagers about the risks of smoking, which can lead to serious eye conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts.
Contact Lens Hygiene: Teach proper contact lens care to prevent infections. Ensure they follow the prescribed wearing and cleaning schedule.

Contact Lens Hygiene

Adults (20-39 Years)

Routine Eye Exams: Schedule comprehensive eye exams every two years to check for vision changes and early signs of eye diseases.
Computer Vision Syndrome: For those who spend long hours on computers, use ergonomic setups, take regular breaks, and consider blue light filtering glasses.
Sunglasses: Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays to protect eyes from sun damage, which can contribute to cataracts and other eye conditions.

Middle Age (40-59 Years)

Presbyopia Awareness: Be aware of presbyopia, a natural age-related condition that affects near vision. Consider reading glasses or multifocal lenses if needed.
Monitor Health Conditions: Manage chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, which can affect eye health. Regular eye exams can help detect related complications early.
Protect from Blue Light: Use blue light filtering glasses and reduce screen time to minimize the risk of digital eye strain and potential retinal damage.

Seniors (60+ Years)

Frequent Eye Exams: Increase the frequency of eye exams to at least once a year to monitor for age-related eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Continue to eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support eye health.
Fall Prevention: Ensure living spaces are well-lit and free of hazards to prevent falls that could lead to eye injuries.

General Eye Care Tips for All Ages

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to maintain good eye moisture and overall health.
Avoid Rubbing Eyes: Rubbing can introduce germs and cause irritation or infection.
Practice Good Hygiene: Always wash hands before touching your eyes, especially when inserting or removing contact lenses.
Regular Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule to prevent eye strain from prolonged screen use.

Conclusion

Eye care is a lifelong commitment that changes with each stage of life. By following age-appropriate eye care tips and scheduling regular eye exams, you can help ensure that your eyes stay healthy and your vision remains clear. Prioritizing eye health is essential for maintaining overall well-being and enjoying a high quality of life.

People & Lifestyle

Ada Senior High Tech Students Receive 600 Math Sets from UK-Based Philanthropist Stacey Rosa

Published

2 hours ago

June 21, 2024

VJ Scaro

In a commendable act of generosity and commitment to education, Stacey Rosa, a renowned Ghanaian philanthropist based in the UK, has donated over 600 math sets to the students of Ada Senior High Technical School. This significant contribution is aimed at enhancing the learning experience and academic performance of the students, particularly in mathematics. (more…)

People & Lifestyle

Comprehensive Guide to Weed Delivery and Dispensaries in Stamford, Connecticut

Published

6 hours ago

June 21, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

Cannabis enthusiasts in Stamford, Connecticut, have a variety of options when it comes to purchasing their favorite products. With the rise of dispensaries and weed delivery services, obtaining recreational cannabis has never been easier. This guide will cover everything you need to know about Stamford dispensaries and weed delivery in CT, including the best options, delivery services, and tips for a seamless experience.

Stamford Dispensaries: Where to Buy Recreational Cannabis

Stamford dispensaries offer a range of high-quality cannabis products for recreational use. Here are some of the top dispensaries in the area:

1. Compassionate Care Center of Connecticut

Located in nearby Bethel, this dispensary offers a wide range of cannabis products, including flowers, edibles, tinctures, and topicals. Known for their knowledgeable staff and welcoming environment, Compassionate Care Center is a top choice for many Stamford residents seeking recreational cannabis.

2. Fine Fettle Dispensary

Fine Fettle has locations throughout Connecticut, including one in Stamford. They offer an extensive selection of high-quality cannabis products and emphasize customer education, ensuring that both new and experienced users find the right products for their needs.

3. Curaleaf

Curaleaf, a well-known name in the cannabis industry, has a Stamford dispensary recreational customers love. They provide a wide variety of products, from premium flower strains to edibles and concentrates. Curaleaf is praised for its exceptional customer service and product knowledge.

Weed Delivery in Connecticut: Convenient and Discreet

For those who prefer the convenience of having cannabis delivered to their door, several weed delivery services in CT operate in Stamford and the broader Connecticut area. Here’s how to make the most of cannabis delivery in CT:

1. Pelicandelivers

Pelicandelivers is a popular choice for weed delivery in CT. They offer a user-friendly online platform where customers can browse a wide range of products, place orders, and schedule deliveries. With a focus on timely and discreet service, Pelicandelivers is a trusted name in the industry.

2. Weedmaps

Weedmaps not only helps users locate nearby dispensaries but also offers delivery services in many areas, including Stamford. By using the Weedmaps app or website, customers can easily find available products, read reviews, and arrange for delivery.

3. Eaze

Eaze is another reliable delivery service that caters to the Stamford area. Known for their fast and efficient delivery times, Eaze ensures that customers receive their orders promptly and discreetly.

Tips for a Smooth Cannabis Delivery Experience

To ensure a positive experience when using weed delivery services in CT, follow these tips:

1. Check Delivery Zones

Before placing an order, verify that the delivery service operates in your area. Some services may have specific delivery zones or minimum order requirements.

2. Browse and Compare

Take the time to browse different delivery platforms and compare product selections, prices, and delivery fees. This can help you find the best deals and ensure you get the products you want.

3. Read Reviews

Customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of products and the reliability of the delivery service. Look for reviews on the delivery platform or third-party sites to make an informed decision.

4. Prepare for Delivery

Ensure that you are available to receive your delivery at the scheduled time. Some services may require ID verification to confirm age and identity, so have your ID ready.

5. Tipping

As mentioned earlier, tipping your delivery driver is a great way to show appreciation for their service. Consider tipping 10-20% of your order total, or a minimum of $3-5 for smaller orders.

Legal Considerations for Cannabis in Connecticut

Before purchasing or ordering cannabis in Stamford, it’s important to understand the legal landscape:

Age Restrictions: You must be 21 years or older to purchase recreational cannabis in Connecticut.
Purchase Limits: Adults can purchase up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower or equivalent products.
Consumption: Cannabis consumption is allowed in private residences but is prohibited in public places.

By staying informed about local laws and regulations, you can enjoy cannabis responsibly and legally.

Conclusion

Stamford, Connecticut, offers a variety of options for recreational cannabis enthusiasts, from well-regarded Stamford dispensaries to convenient weed delivery services in CT. Whether you prefer to visit a local dispensary or have your products delivered, understanding your options and following best practices can enhance your cannabis experience. Happy shopping and enjoy responsibly!

People & Lifestyle

Tim Swain Launches Black Star 400: A Visionary Initiative To Transform Ghana

Published

6 hours ago

June 21, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

Activist, educator, and content creator Tim Swain proudly announces the launch of Black Star 400, a four hundred kilometre run from Salaga Market to Cape Coast set to take place December 16, 2024. The run aims to provide resources that will support the transformation of Ghanaian and Diasporan youth.

Backed by Anidaso 360, a non-profit organisation that offers cultural immersion programs to empower marginalised communities to make a meaningful impact as global citizens, Swain’s Black Star 400 Run will raise awareness and funding to bring solutions to key goals.

At the heart of Black Star 400 is a journey that transcends geographical boundaries, uniting people from diverse backgrounds under a common cause. The lead up to the run in December.

This visionary initiative combines advocacy, fundraising, and community engagement to tackle critical issues facing Ghana, focusing primarily on infrastructure development and youth leadership empowerment.

Project Goals:

1. Fundraising for Boreholes: Drill 20 boreholes across Ghana by December 2025 to provide essential access to clean water.

2. Youth Empowerment Program: Bring 10 young Black men aged 18-23 to Ghana by July 2025 for an immersive business and cultural empowerment program, designed to develop future global leaders.

3. Leadership Academy: Establish an Academy for Leadership for Ghanaian youth in (North of Ghana)

Leading this initiative, Tim Swain brings his vast experience as a theologian and marathon runner, having completed numerous high-profile marathons such as the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon in Indianapolis and the Rock ‘n’ Roll series.

His commitment to social impact and his ability to mobilise communities will be pivotal in driving the success of Black Star 400.

“Black Star 400 is more than a run; it is a movement fueled by hope, determination, and a shared commitment to transformation,” said Tim Swain. “By rallying support and resources from both local communities and the Global African Diaspora, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of Ghanaians and the future leaders from the Black Diaspora.”

Black Star 400 invites individuals, organisations, and stakeholders worldwide to join in on the journey. The Black Star 400 project aims to fundraise for the next 8 months and will work to implement and achieve their projected goals by the end of 2025.

Leading up to the run in December 2024, Tim Swain will do a monthly run to prepare and will invite communities from all around the Diaspora to run with him to raise awareness and support for the Black Star 400 goals.

People & Lifestyle

Hugely popular JAMBO WWE celebrates 100th Episode!

Published

15 hours ago

June 21, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

SuperSport’s ground-breaking magazine show JAMBO WWE celebrates its 100th episode on Thursday, 20 June 2024.

Launched on 28 July 2022, JAMBO WWE is an innovative weekly programme tailored to cater to the rapidly growing WWE fanbase in Africa. The 30-minute show airs every Thursday at 4pm and offers a unique, localized, and culturally relevant WWE experience.

Since its launch, JAMBO WWE has seen a substantial increase in viewers. Its average linear viewership has increased by 40% compared to last year, according to internal analysis tools, making it a staple for WWE fans across Africa. The show is also one of the top-watched sports magazine programmes generating above-average viewership numbers. It’s not only in Africa that the show is making a stir – it’s also setting a new standard for WWE programming globally.

As the exclusive broadcast rights holder for WWE in Sub-Saharan Africa since 2017, through a direct partnership with WWE, SuperSport has established itself as the go-to platform for WWE RAW, WWE SmackDown, NXT, WWE WrestleMania, and all WWE Premium Live Events.

SuperSport CEO Rendani Ramovha added: “We’re extremely proud to see JAMBO WWE reach the 100th episode milestone. WWE has allowed us to entertain many different audiences and to reach a younger audience, while crossing boarders well into the rest of Africa, where WWE has proven extremely popular. The show has deeply resonated with fans and fostered a vibrant WWE community across the continent.

SuperSport’s 24-hour WWE channel on DStv 128/GOtv 168 is where viewers will find JAMBO WWE, as well as archive content, documentaries and bespoke WWE content.

“We’ve seen viewership continue to rise on our entire WWE offering, especially during this year’s WWE WrestleMania 40, which performed exceptionally well this year compared to 2022 and 2023. The comeback of old stars and firm favourites such as The Rock, Cody Rhodes, and Roman Reigns, also contributed to the increased interest.”

JAMBO WWE’s diverse offering

JAMBO WWE distinguishes itself through its diverse and vibrant format.

African perspective: Hosts Lwazi Volsak, Rosa-Lena Mabunda Mondlane, Emelio Michaels, and Vasilis Argyrides offer insightful analysis and discussions from an African viewpoint.

Latest news and updates: In-depth coverage of RAW, SmackDown, NXT, and Premium Live Events, including exclusive interviews.

Cultural celebration: The show incorporates bold, African-inspired graphics, vibrant music, and segments highlighting the intersection of WWE and African culture.

Community and SuperSport initiatives: The show featured a women-only produced episode, in alignment and support of SuperSport’s Here For Her campaign showcasing our people-driven efforts.

Fan interaction: A big feature of the show is its ability to actively engage with fans through social media and on-air segments, fostering a sense of community among the African WWE Universe.

Celebrity guests: People love special guests. Quite often, the show has managed to display an array of stars from different sports, showing its crossover appeal. This includes WWE Superstars Bianca Belair, The Miz, Bobby Lashley and Charlotte Flair, as well as South African sports icons like Lucas Radebe and Bryan Habana. The crossover appeal of JAMBO WWE is immense, as seen with appearances by Ringo Madlingozi and Grammy Award Winner, Zakes Bantwini.

Widespread recognition

JAMBO WWE has received positive coverage from various media outlets, including Fightful, which covered the launch of JAMBO WWE, highlighting its unique approach to WWE coverage in Africa and Wrestlinginc, another leading wrestling news source, amplifying its reach and impact. There’s also been considerable excitement and engagement across a variety of social media platforms, with the hashtag #SSWWE.

Catch JAMBO WWE and all the WWE action on DStv, GOtv.

People & Lifestyle

The Power Of Creative Collisions. Why You Need More Chaos In Your Life

Published

1 day ago

June 20, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

We’re drowning in information, yet starved for real connection. We attend the same conferences, scroll through the same feeds, and mostly find ourselves trapped in echo chambers of our own design. But what if there was a space where those walls crumbled, disciplines collided, and the only expectation was a shared hunger for something more?

What if the real breakthroughs, the ones that matter, only emerge from the beautiful chaos of colliding perspectives, disciplines, and ideas?

That’s the bet Crowdpen is making with “Creative Chaos.” This isn’t your typical networking event. It’s a bi-monthly collision of entrepreneurs, artists, techies, and changemakers—all hungry to build a better future, together.

Here, entrepreneurs, artists, techies, and changemakers converge, not to pitch or impress, but to tap into the power of unlikely collaborations. Because the challenges we face today – from climate change to social inequality to the future of work – demand fresh perspectives and radical collaboration.

There’s no set agenda, no pre-determined program, no designated speakers. Here, everyone is a speaker, everyone is a panelist, and every voice contributes to the collective brilliance.

No single industry, discipline, or individual holds all the answers. “Creative Chaos” recognizes this, providing a fertile ground for:

Spontaneous Brainstorming: Rapid-fire idea exchanges, interactive challenges, and playful exercises unlock new ways of thinking, pushing you beyond your usual creative limits.
Unlikely Collaborations: Forget networking within your bubble. Here, you’ll connect with people outside your usual circles, sparking unexpected partnerships and discovering that a tech founder, a filmmaker, and a social entrepreneur might just hold the key to your next breakthrough.
Actionable Inspiration: “Creative Chaos” is not about passive listening or predictable presentations. It’s about leaving with tangible takeaways, fresh perspectives, and the motivation to turn ideas into reality.

This is a call to action for anyone who feels stifled by the status quo, for those who crave a space where diverse minds come together to dream, to do, and to disrupt.

The most groundbreaking innovations often emerge not from solitary genius, but from the beautiful chaos of creative collisions.

Convinced to join us?

Learn more and register here https://crowdpen.co/chaos or call 0546880898/ 0277667561 for more information

Date: Saturday 29^th June, 2024

Time: 11am – 3pm

Venue: Jambo Spaces, Tse Addo