2011年8月30日星期二

What is Welding?

What is Welding?

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Welding is the process of joining metals by melting the parts and then using a filler to form a joint. Welding can be done using different energy sources, from a gas flame or electric arc to a laser or ultrasound. Until the beginnings of the 20th century, welding was done via a process known as forge welding, which consists of heating up the pieces to be fixed together and then hammering them until they amalgamate. With the advent of electricity, welding became easier and faster, and it played an important part of the industry scene during World War I and II. There are different welding processes in use in modern times:Arc welding is done through the use of an electrical current, and can be performed by using inexpensive equipment. Gas Welding is widely used for repair work, especially in anything involving pipes and tubes. Gas welding is common in the jewelry industry, as well as for the welding of plastics and other materials that cannot stand higher temperatures. Resistance welding involves the use of additional sheets of metal to encase the pieces to be welded together. It is the most environmentally-friendly of all methods, but it requires costly equipment that cannot be used in all situations. Energy beam welding, also known as laser beam welding, is one of the most modern techniques used. Laser welding is fast and accurate, but the high equipment cost makes it prohibitive for many industries. Welding cannot be done with all types of metals, as some materials, such as stainless steel, are prone to cracking and distortion when overheated. Alloys are particularly problematic, since it's hard to know the exact chemical composition of the metal. Welding has become highly automatized over the last decade, and the use of welding robots is now commonplace in certain industries, such as the automotive manufacturing plants. Welding has been attempted successfully in unusual conditions, including underwater and in outer space. Underwater welding is widely used in the repair of pipelines and ships, while welding in space is currently under research as a possible way to put together the International Space Station, currently being assembled in outer space.

What is a Weighted Average?

What is a Weighted Average?

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The use of weighted averages is common in many different applications, especially in the fields of accounting and various tasks that involve analysis and mathematical evaluations. Essentially a weighted average involves the assignment of different levels of importance or weights to various components that are used to arrive at a final answer or solution to a question or problem. This is in contrast to the practice of assigning a common mean value to each component that is relevant to the task at hand. One of the easiest ways to understand the concept of a weighted average is to look at a common grading model used in many schools and colleges. At the discretion of the instructor, different types of work performed by the student will be assigned a value that will help determine the final grade earned for the course. Successful completion of homework assignments may account for a smaller percentage of the total grade, while one or two major tests may carry additional weight in the final grade earned. This concept of proportional relevance means that in the greater scheme of things, the tests carry more importance in making a good grade for the course, although the successful completion of both components will ensure earning the highest grade. This same principle of a weighted average can be applied in other venues as well. Marketing strategists may develop a campaign that is aimed at primary and secondary consumer markets. While the main thrust of the campaign is directly relevant to the primary market, the same techniques are anticipated to be relevant to lesser degree to other markets. The result is a projection of revenue earned primarily from one sector of the consumer market, but still accounting for smaller percentages of revenue from one or more smaller sectors. A weighted average is somewhat subjective, in that the individual or entity who sets the values for each component involved in the average usually does so with some preconceived ideas about those values. However, it is possible to adjust the criteria used for calculating a weighted average as more facts emerge that could impact the relative value of each component.

What is Cost Accounting?

What is Cost Accounting?

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Cost accounting is an approach to evaluating the overall costs that are associated with conducting business. Generally based on standard accounting practices, cost accounting is one of the tools that managers utilize to determine what type and how much expenses is involved with maintaining the current business model. At the same time, the principles of cost accounting can also be utilized to project changes to these costs in the event that specific changes are implemented. When it comes to measuring how wisely company resources are being utilized, cost accounting helps to provide the data relevant to the current situation. By identifying production costs and further defining the cost of production by three or more successive business cycles, it is possible to note any trends that indicate a rise in production costs without any appreciable changes or increase in production of goods and services. By using this approach, it is possible to identify the reason for the change, and take steps to contain the situation before bottom line profits are impacted to a greater degree. Product development and marketing strategies are also informed by the utilization of cost accounting. In terms of product development, it is possible to determine if a new product can be produced at a reasonable price, considering the cost of raw materials and the labor and equipment necessary to product a finished product. At the same time, marketing protocols can make use of cost accounting to project if the product will sell enough units to make production a viable option. Cost accounting is helpful in making a number of business decisions. By weighing the actual costs versus the anticipated benefit, cost accounting can help a company to avoid launching a product with no real market, prevent the purchase of unnecessary goods and services, or alter the current operational model in a manner that will decrease efficiency. Whether utilized to evaluate the status of a department within the company or as a tool to project the feasibility of opening new locations or closing older ones, cost accounting can provide important data that may impact the final decision.

What is Hematology?

What is Hematology?

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Hematology is that medical specialty which concerns itself with the blood, and the generation of blood in the bone marrow. Hematology studies the red and white blood cells, their relative proportions and general cell health, and the diseases that are caused by imbalances between them, notably leukemia and anemia. Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to the various parts of the body, and white blood cells fight infections. Both are necessary, but they have to be in the body in the right proportions or systems will break down. Anemia is a shortage of red blood cells, a condition which can be caused by a number of different factors. Women of childbearing age are more likely to be anemic than anyone else because they lose red blood cells monthly through menstruation. Anemia caused by a lack of iron in the diet is easily treated by iron supplements. Other types of anemia with less easily remedied causes can be harder to treat and life-threatening. Hematology diagnoses these conditions and prescribes appropriate treatments for them. Leukemia is a condition in which the bone marrow produces too many white blood cells. These are typically abnormal white cells, and their sheer numbers crowd out the red blood cells, causing anemia and other dangerous symptoms. Hematology recognizes a number of different types of leukemia, with different causes and treatment protocols. Acute leukemia needs immediate treatment, since it is immediately life-threatening, yet some forms of chronic leukemia can be watched without treatment until symptoms emerge. Chemotherapy can do much for leukemia sufferers and is currently one of the main tools in hematology's leukemia toolbox. Bone marrow transplants, considerably more intrusive, are another. Symptoms of diseases that fall under the hematology umbrella are widely varied and easily confused with other diseases. However, a quick blood test for cell counts can quickly tell a hematologist whether or not a patient has a disorder of the blood.

What is a Sound Engineer?

What is a Sound Engineer?

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A sound engineer operates and maintains sound equipment used for television, film, theater and concerts. Sound engineers are hired by a client to make sure audio effects for an event, recording, or performance meet established standards. This is a growing field, with an increase in opportunities for employment projected into 2016 by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.There are several different types of sound engineers who specialize in different aspects of the job. Audio equipment technicians set up and operate speakers, microphones, mixing boards and other recording equipment. Audio equipment technicians work at concerts, news conferences, sporting events and other presentations. Sound engineering technicians are responsible for the machines that record, mix and reproduce music and other audio. A sound engineering technician would work in many of the same venues an audio equipment technician does. A sound engineer works closely with producers, performers and directors to make sure the desired sound effects are achieved. Sound engineers also frequently work in film post-production. Many programs exist for those looking to become a sound engineer. Most sound engineers complete vocational programs or have an associate's degree. On-the-job training helps engineers refine their skills. A sound engineer may also complete an apprenticeship, which enhances skills and aids in job placement. Sometimes a licensing exam is required before a sound engineer is allowed to begin work. Many workers in this occupation work their way up from "gofer" and assistant positions. Being a sound engineer requires knowledge about computers and other technical equipment. A sound engineer must also be able to adapt to new technology, as equipment innovations happen frequently. A fine arts background can aid those working in the theater or with musical artists. As in many professions, customer service and people skills are important, as sound engineers work with a wide variety of clients. Good hearing and the ability to focus on details for a long period of time are also assets, as long hours adjusting equipment or working in a recording studio may be required.

How Do I Become a Technical Illustrator?

How Do I Become a Technical Illustrator?

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Technical illustrators create graphics for documentation in manufacturing, engineering, scientific and other industries. Expertise using computer-aided design (CAD) programs and drawing freehand normally are required to become a technical illustrator. A certificate, associate's degree or bachelor's degree in technical illustration, graphic design or a related field often is required if you want to become a technical illustrator. Some employers prefer that technical illustrators have engineering or scientific degrees to signify that they truly understand the subject matter. Other employers might not require a degree at all if you have on-the-job experience or a very strong portfolio.Degree programs in technical illustration can vary. Some might be targeted to specific disciplines, such as engineering, and might contain courses in engineering design and engineering drawing. Other programs might train students for careers that include technical writing as well as illustrating and might teach the basics of both subjects, because some employers will desire both talents in the same employee. Technical illustration degree programs often require that math courses such as geometry and algebra be completed. Being proficient in math and writing is important if you want to become a technical illustrator. Many employers want very specific skills for technical illustrators. For example, an aeronautics industry job might require experience illustrating aircraft wiring diagrams. If you are interested in working long-term in a specific type of industry, it can be useful to target that industry when starting out and gain any experience you can in the target area. Perhaps your school offers internships and you can try to find one in the industry in which you wish to have a career. Discuss your long-term interests with school counselors when deciding on your specific educational path. To become a technical illustrator, a portfolio normally will be required. Your portfolio should include your best work that demonstrates a variety of skills, such as works showing your use of both CAD tools for three-dimensional designs and simple pencil line drawings. You might be able to target the work in your portfolio to the industry or area in which you wish to work. Many technical illustrators have online portfolios that can be easily accessed by prospective employers. To find work, contact aerospace, automotive, construction and other companies that use technical illustrators. Contact job placement agencies that specialize in placing technical documentation employees. Agencies that place technical illustrators might have both permanent and contract job openings available. Some companies bring in contract technical illustrators to meet rising workflow demands, such as when they are working on a new business proposal or creating documentation to release a new product. Accepting contract positions can be useful because you can learn about different industries and areas without making a more permanent commitment. Also, contract employees who have proven themselves are often the first to be hired when permanent openings arise.

How Do I Become a Talent Scout?

How Do I Become a Talent Scout?

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A talent scout is an entertainment, sports, or even business professional, charged with bringing new talent into a field or organization. In addition to having a clear understanding of what his or her employer is seeking, a person trying to become a talent scout must have a great eye for potential and be able to easily identify valuable recruits. Choosing to become a talent scout allows a person to serve as a mentor to young athletes, performers, and job seekers, and many establish long-standing relationships with those whose careers they have affected. Sports organizations, record labels, casting agencies, and businesses usually need a fresh influx of clients and workers on a regular basis. In sports, college teams and professional organizations must constantly be on the lookout for recruits to his or her school or company, as changes to team rosters occur on a yearly basis. Entertainment companies are constantly on the lookout for emerging talent to sign, in order to expand their client base and improve their reputation. Businesses seeking to expand or improve may also need people in the field to hunt out potential workers with excellent skills and reputations. For all these organizations, a talent scout can serve as the eyes and ears of the recruitment program. One of the facets of choosing to become a talent scout includes a willingness to travel frequently in order to closely examine potential recruits. Depending on the field, this travel may be local, countrywide, or even international. In sports and entertainment, scouts will want to see the potential recruits in action, whether acting in a regional production, performing in a smokey coffee house, or catching touchdowns in the state championships. A scout must be willing and able to travel frequently, so a flexible lifestyle and a love of travel are of great benefit for a person planning to become a talent scout. A talent scout must have a wide set of skills; in addition to having a knack for spotting potential, he or she must also possess considerable sales and negotiating skills. Since there is limited talent and a large number of organizations seeking it, a good candidate to become a talent scout is a person that can persuade bright stars to choose his or her organization over all the others. Scouts must often work closely with both the company and the talent to determine what the recruit is looking for and if a deal can be made that will bring him or her to the scout's company, team, or organization. There is no set path to become a talent scout, but many individuals who work in the scouting field have a deep inside knowledge of the world they are in. Some are former recruits themselves, who had a desire to help foster new talent and serve as mentors. Choosing to become a talent scout can be a rich and rewarding career for those who love to find potential stars and help begin their careers.

How Do I Become a Talent Agent?

How Do I Become a Talent Agent?

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A talent agent serves as a scout for performers and models. By matching up the right client with the right jobs, a talent agent can have a hand in the successful careers of brilliant people. The road that allows a person to become a talent agent, however, often requires a lot of hard work, luck, and ingenuity. For a person who may wish to become a talent agent, taking a close look at the among of work required may help him or her focus their career goals. The traditional “Hollywood” way to become a talent agent, involves climbing the difficult political and social ladders of Tinseltown. Typically, prospective agents start out as interns or entry-level workers at a well-known agency. By attentively soaking up available training and working harder than anyone thought possible, a promotion to assistant is usually the next step. Assisting a qualified talent agent will most likely result in a boatload of insider knowledge, and massive levels of stress. Some assistants work 12-15 hour days at the beck and call of the superior, hoping to catch enough positive attention to be promoted to the position of junior agent. Junior agents may work with entry-level talent, attempt to identify emerging stars and, with luck, recommend a performer or model for representation that becomes a huge hit. With enough dedication and ability, junior agents can finally be promoted out of the apprentice system and become full-fledged talent agents. Although this method will lead to incredible opportunities to gain knowledge and insight into the field, it is far from the only way to become a talent agent. Some agents gain fame by scouting local talent in small towns and cities, exposing them to the big city and finding them their first paying gigs. If a burgeoning unknown is well-treated by their agent, it is possible that he or she will keep them on even after striking it big. Other people incorporate aspects of an agency job into a larger business, such as wedding supply. By offering customers a range of performers, such as DJs, bands, and singers, as well as traditional wedding needs like tents and flowers, a supplier can provide lavish and often lucrative wedding packages from one main source. While this way to become a talent agent lacks some of the glamor of the Hollywood method, it can be a great solution for aspiring agents who have no desire to leave their hometown for a big city, or don't want the stress of the big-agency game. Possibly one of the most important steps needed to become an agent is a college degree. A four-year university degree is often required to even get an interview at a large talent agency. Degrees in business, communications, film, theater, or producing are likely to be the most beneficial in helping a person become an agent. In addition to displaying a person's clear interest in the field, college degrees in these subjects all will provide valuable skills to help in the talent agency world. A detailed understanding in the fields of talent, administration, and the performing and production world cannot be underestimated in a plan to become a talent agent.

How Do I Become a Systems Engineer?

How Do I Become a Systems Engineer?

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To become a systems engineer, you may first need to obtain a degree in engineering from a four-year college or university. Either while in school or shortly thereafter, you may also benefit from participating in an internship program. Depending on the area where you live, obtaining an engineering license might be a requirement to work on certain projects. Membership in local and regional engineering organizations can offer connections for networking with other professionals, possibly exposing you to career advancement opportunities.An engineering degree from a college or university typically provides the educational foundation required to become a systems engineer. With an engineering degree, you are usually prepared for most entry-level positions in the field. Most students major in mechanical, civil, or electrical engineering to prepare for work as systems engineers. Typically, coursework covers a broad range of subjects such as chemistry, business ethics, calculus, and computer science. In addition to an engineering degree, you might want to acquire a license, certification, or a post graduate degree to strengthen your chances of becoming a systems engineer. An engineering license normally determines your competency for working on complex projects, particularly those related to public safety. Certification programs are available if you already have an undergraduate degree and wish to pursue engineering training without investing in another degree program. Post-graduate degrees may provide hands-on experience before you accept a full-time position or increase your chances for managerial positions. With a post-graduate degree, you may also qualify to teach college-level courses to anyone who wishes to become a systems engineer. Establishing the proper licensing credentials might depend on the regulations in your area. You will likely have to pass an examination to receive your license. In some areas, you might need several years of on-the-job experience before being able to obtain an engineering license.Wile academics provides the theoretical foundation for becoming a systems engineer, on-the-job experience places you in direct contact with engineering projects. Working as a systems engineer typically exposes you to multiple aspects of a project. You are usually able to apply the knowledge gained during engineering training to a broad range of industries related to environmental, software, and electrical systems. While not a requirement to become a systems engineer, membership in engineering organizations may offer some advantages. Many benefits of the organizations include access to career advice and job search assistance. Another advantage to joining an engineering organization is the opportunity to take continuing education courses to maintain your license. Often, you can enroll in these courses at reduced rates to stay abreast of the advances in the systems engineering field.

How Do I Become a Surgical Technologist?

How Do I Become a Surgical Technologist?

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The decision to become a surgical technologist, also known as an operating room technologist or a scrub, can be an exciting and rewarding one. A surgical technologist is part of a team that works primarily in an operating room, performing surgeries. The main responsibility of someone who decides to become a surgical technologist is to provide the patient and medical staff a clean, safe operating environment. She can accomplish this goal by supporting the surgical team during any stage of a medical procedure – from pre-operative maintenance and upkeep of supplies to monitoring the surgical electronic equipment to post-operative clean up and reports.There are several paths that someone may take to become a surgical technologist. Many people choose to receive their education from a technical or vocational school or college. In general, the programs that are offered to a person wanting to become a surgical technologist are only about a year long. There are some community colleges that also offer associate’s degree programs in surgical technology. Programs through a community college typically take about two years to complete. No matter which educational route that someone decides to follow to become a surgical technologist, all programs have two segments: instruction inside a classroom and supervised experience in a clinical setting. Inside the classroom, there are a wide range of classes that students can study – anatomy, physiology, pathology, medical terminology, environmental hazards, microbiology, surgical complications, and operating room procedure – to name just a few. Once a student enters the clinical phase of their education, she will learn details about the surgical procedures that are often seen in both general surgery and specialized fields of surgery, such as neurosurgery, obstetrics, gynecology, and urology. In some cases, a person wanting to become a surgical technologist will receive supervised training while on the job. The immersion training programs can last anywhere from six to eight weeks to a full year in duration. Often those students who receive an immersion training have had previous experience, such as a nurse’s aide who has decided to become a surgical technologist. The main difference is that if the student only receives on the job training, she will not be eligible for certification – and some employers prefer certified students. In addition to quality education and training, it is also important that a person who wants to become a surgical technologist possess several key personality traits and skills. For example, she should be honest, have great manual dexterity, and have the ability to withstand long hours in an operating room. She should also be able to work well with others and pay close attention to the most minute details. The ability to respect the privacy of a patient and remain calm during stressful situations are also valuable qualities for those in the profession.

2011年8月26日星期五

What is Phrenology?

What is Phrenology?

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Phrenology is a theory, popularized in the early 19th century, that links the shape and measurement of the skull to personality traits. Phrenology was met with skepticism even in its early days and is now considered a pseudoscience, developed through improper application of the scientific method. However, modern day scientists recognize phrenology as a precursor to more widely accepted theories about the brain.Phrenology was the first major theory to recognize the importance of the brain and to postulate that different areas of the brain regulate different functions. Similar ideas were discussed as early as the classical era, for example in the writings of Aristotle, but Franz Joseph Gall, the founder of phrenology, was the first to use measurements of the head in order to predict personality traits. Gall, who called his theory craniology, divided the brain into 27 different areas, each with a specific function, such as affection, pride, religious feeling, poetical skill, and the tendency to murder. In the first half of the 19th century, phrenology's heyday, the theory was used to predict children's future and to screen job applicants, much as personality tests are sometimes used today. In order to conduct a phrenological analysis, the scientist would measure the patient's head with a caliper, then feel the surface for raised and depressed areas. Raised areas were thought to indicate that the part of the brain located beneath that spot was well developed, while depressed areas indicated the opposite. Unfortunately, phrenology was sometimes used to promote racism, notably by the Nazis. While phrenology has been superseded by neuroscience, psychology, and other modern scientific work on the brain, it is still well known and often referenced in popular culture, usually in a joking context. Many people are familiar with the look of a phrenology chart, which typically shows a head in profile with outlined areas denoting certain aspects of personality. The commonly heard phrase, "You ought to get your head examined," is actually a reference to phrenology, not to psychology, as is often assumed.

What Is Epidemiology?

What Is Epidemiology?

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Epidemiology is the study of human health in populations, rather than in individuals. It studies the causes of illness, how a particular disease is spread, and disease control. Epidemiology is, literally, the study of epidemics. Epidemiology first became an issue when human populations began to gather together in towns and cities. Without some form of rudimentary epidemiology, controlling outbreaks of infectious diseases would have been impossible. Simple quarantining can contain some diseases that are transmitted from person to person, but more sophistication is required to stop the spread of diseases whose cause is not so obvious, such as cholera. Epidemiology employs a wide array of scientific tools, from medicine and statistics to sociology and anthropology. Many diseases follow the flow of population migrations, so an understanding of how a migrant population moves with the seasons is critical to understanding the spread of a particular disease in that population. Epidemiology is concerned not only with the spread of diseases, but also with their cause -- if an outbreak of cholera can be traced back to a particular contaminated water source, for example, the disease can be effectively halted by shutting off access to that water source. Sometimes the cause of a particular health problem can only be shown statistically -- here epidemiology has its hardest case to make. That smoking is a factor in a number of health problems has so far only been shown statistically, in large population studies. An individual case of lung cancer cannot be proved to have been caused by smoking, which unfortunately gives some intellectual wiggle room to those who choose not to believe that smoking is unhealthy. Many health issues caused by environmental factors are only addressable through epidemiology. A spike in the incidence of cancer near a source of pollution, for example, can not be seen when looking at individual cases, but only when looking at the statistics for the entire area. Epidemiology is the main weapon in the field of public health, and epidemiologists are often our first and last defense.

What is a Social Networking Site?

What is a Social Networking Site?

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A social networking site is a website where individuals can set up an online profile, describing his/her interests, and add links to other profiles. Generally, users are able to post personal information, including photographs, videos, and blog entries. One social networking site, MySpace, is extremely popular both with individuals and with music groups, who can post their songs on their profile pages and advertise their tour dates. Many bands will attempt to solicit as many "friends" as possible on social networking sites, so that more people will be aware of their music.Social networking sites are popular with people all over the world, particularly teenagers and people in their twenties. Because social networking is so popular with teenagers, some people are concerned that teenagers and kids who post personal information on MySpace and other social networking sites are at risk of being solicited by pedophiles. As a result, some social networking sites have taken precautions to monitor the information provided by underage patrons; however, there is no way to enforce proof of age or identity, so this issue is currently unresolved. Social networking sites can be a great way to stay in touch with a large group of people. If you have news you'd like to share with everyone you know, you can simply post it on your own personal bulletin board, and it will be distributed to everyone on your friends list. Social networking sites can also be helpful for connecting with new people, whether on a business, friendship, or a romantic level. On some social networking sites, such as Friendster, you can only make a connection with someone who is already linked to people that you have claimed as friends. On others, it is possible to contact anyone you like. However, some people claim to make their profiles on social networking sites private, and available only to people they select as their friends. This can be a wise decision, particularly if you have information available on a social networking site that you would not want the general public, such as a family member or an employer, to see.

What Is a Career Break?

What Is a Career Break?

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A career break is a period of time taken away from being employed. The break is not taken to work at unrelated paid employment; that would be considered a career change. Rather, the planned leave of absence from a job may be for paid work experience in the same or a related field, or it could be taken to pursue a volunteer opportunity. Personal reasons such as raising children or traveling to pursue work-life balance may also initiate a person's wanting to leave employment. There is no set term for a career break, or sabbatical, but typically, it is thought of as being anywhere from a month up to two years in length.Some companies, as well as many churches and educational institutions, offer paid employee sabbaticals, or career breaks. These may only be a few weeks in length though. Most other organizations don't offer any type of paid career break, but they may agree to an unpaid sabbatical in addition to a regular vacation. People who chose to take a career break for personal reasons are typically able to pay their expenses other than by being employed. For example, a parent who chooses to take up to two years to raise his or her children may have a spouse who works to bring home the family's income. This type of family situation may involve cutting expenses in order to allow the break from one parent's career to work out. A financial advantage is that childcare costs can be saved when a parent chooses to take a sabbatical from work to be at home to look after his or her children. Travel is a popular reason for many people who want to take a break from their career. Traveling to destinations where the cost of living is less expensive and where they can learn about different cultures are common goals for people who want a travel type of career break. Rather than waiting until retirement to travel, the goal is to take a "mini retirement" or "gap year" at a younger age. Taking training to learn new workplace skills or participate in a related paid work opportunity may be part of a career break for some people, while others may want to pursue passions such as sports or writing a novel.

What is Credit History?

What is Credit History?

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Credit history is a report which documents anything related to how an individual managed their credit. It includes information on borrowing and repayment of credit cards, bank and car loans, mortgages and any other debt owed to a creditor. An individual's credit history will not only include open accounts, but includes any credit card accounts and loans applied for or closed. A credit history lists late payments, defaults on loans and bankruptcy. A credit history is one factor that determines a person's credit score. Things considered negative on a credit history include, bankruptcy, late payments, high credit card balances and defaulting on a loan or credit card account. These negative marks contribute to a lower credit score. A good credit history is important for a number of reasons. Credit card companies along with banks and mortgage companies want to provide loans and credit to people who are considered a good risk. This means people who will payback the money. If a person has a poor credit history, and likely a low credit score, they may be considered a high risk and have a difficult time obtaining credit, including loans. If credit is obtained, it may be at a higher interest rate than someone with a good credit history. An individual's credit history is recorded on a credit report. There are three major credit reporting companies including Equifax, TransUnion and Experian. Each company obtains their information from the credit card companies and banks. Keep in mind certain things in a credit history, such as a bankruptcy, may not remain on the credit report forever. Consumers should determine the length of time negative marks are allowed to remain on a credit report and contact companies to ensure they were removed. One step an individual can take to improve their credit score is to get a copy of their credit report and review their credit history. Mistakes can be removed from a credit history by writing to the reporting company. Paying bills on time, staying under credit limits and learning from past mistakes are also steps a consumer can take to maintain a good credit history.

How Do I Become a Product Engineering Manager?

How Do I Become a Product Engineering Manager?

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The product engineering manager establishes processes which ensure quality, safety, and reliability in the design of products that a company makes and sells to consumers. This job involves reviewing engineering blueprints, creating the initial prototypes of products, cost analysis, initiating the production of products, training engineers, and working with consumers to make sure products are performing up to consumer's expectations. If you aspire to become a product engineering manager, you will generally need a college degree and a postgraduate degree.Product engineering managers typically earn a bachelor's degree in engineering; however, the degree usually includes elective coursework taken in business management. People who are product engineering managers are both engineers and managers, hence the need for a college education that includes both engineering and management. In addition, doing a college internship in product engineering can be helpful; the internship can supplement your academic coursework but also enable you to gain a sense of the daily problem-solving and technical troubleshooting that goes on within a product engineering context. You will typically apply for a job in product engineering during the final semester of your college degree. The career services office at your school can usually help you find a job. Also, your internship supervisor might be able to help you find a job at the same company where you did your internship. Your first years of work experience will likely involve getting hands-on experience in product engineering, which includes management of technical personnel. You will be immersed in engineering as it pertains to whatever product your company produces. Also, you will learn about technical operations at your company. After two years of work experience, you could apply for graduate school. For example, the Master of Science (MS) degree in engineering product development is typically recommended for anyone who hopes to become a product engineering manager. The MBA for a product engineering manager will include coursework that represents a mix of engineering and business courses. For example, there will likely be courses such as industrial design techniques, new product managing, manufacturing design, teamwork within organizations, and negotiation. Aspiring to become a product engineering manager is the right goal if you have an interest in the technical and the managerial. Granted, it can be helpful to have good communications skills because there will be significant amounts of collaboration in the process of product design and product building. To become a product engineering manager requires that you must develop the skills necessary to align workers, skills, or processes of designing products. Also, it can be useful if you are the type of person who learns quickly and functions well under stress because quite often companies will want to go from product creation to product launch within a relatively short period of time. If you become a product engineering manager, you can work in any type of company that makes products for mass consumption. Computer software companies, automobile companies, or companies specializing in aerospace engineering are just a few examples of the types of work settings which could employ a product engineering manager. Long-term career options are varied. As a product engineering manager, you could be promoted into an executive position. You could also go back to graduate school to pursue the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in engineering, which would enable you to either start your own engineering consulting business or work as a professor teaching engineering courses in a college setting.

How Do I Become a Product Analyst?

How Do I Become a Product Analyst?

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There are four steps required to become a product analyst: post-secondary training, related work experience, software skills, and completing the job interview process. A product analyst spends the majority of his day working with data analysis software. They are responsible for determining the potential sales and profitability of a product, monitoring its performance, defining strategies to improve performance, and creating reports for management. People who have an analytical thought process, enjoy working independently, and are comfortable exploring multiple scenarios find the greatest satisfaction in this type of work. Product analysts are expected to have good presentation and communication skills, as well as the ability to interact with people across a wide range of levels. Attention to detail, discipline, and focus are all essential for anyone who wants to become a product analyst. The first step required to become a product analyst is to complete a post-secondary education program. There is no specific training program to become a product analyst. Instead, candidates often have degrees or diplomas in accounting, business, marketing, or a related field. Additional courses in business communication, computer software and analysis tools may also be helpful. Related work experience includes product manager, marketing, or product development team member. All of these jobs require working with both consumers and product developers. When applying for your first job, look for internship or junior analyst positions. Although the salary may be less, you have a better chance of qualifying for this type of role and can gain valuable experience. Analytical software has improved dramatically in the last ten years. As a result, there are several software products designed specifically to analyze a product through the entire life cycle. This process is quite unique, as the time span for a product is totally dependent upon consumer demand. The software helps the analyst to determine the ideal markets, price points, and inventory levels. In addition, results from consumer focus groups can be incorporated into the data model, calculating the impact of potential changes to the product. Over time, all products are re-branded or changed to keep pace with modern tastes. The product itself may remain static, but the packaging and advertising strategy are changed to keep sales at a premium level. When applying for a job as a product analyst, be sure to proofread your resume and cover letter, double-checking for any grammar or spelling mistakes. During the job interview process, the interviewer usually has a standard list of questions and is looking for complete, concise responses. Keep in mind that everything you say will be written down and reviewed. Think about your answers, stay calm, and focus on the skills you bring and the jobs requirements.