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Firms Demand Accountability from Underperforming SEO Providers

Claire James
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Firms Demand Accountability from Underperforming SEO Providers

When you search for an SEO agency, you’re probably hoping for expert help that boosts your website rankings, drives traffic, and brings in leads. But not all SEO providers are as good as they claim.

Some overpromise and underdeliver. Others use shady tactics that leave your site worse off than before. So how do you spot the difference between a skilled SEO professional and one that’s not?

If It Sounds Too Good to Be True…

SEO isn’t instant. It takes time to build authority, fix site issues, and create content that ranks. So, when someone claims they can get you to #1 on Google in a week, it’s a red flag.

Search engines work on trust and relevance, not shortcuts. And real SEO takes research, testing, and patience. Anyone who guarantees quick rankings is either bluffing or using tactics that violate Google’s rules, which could damage your business in the long run.

But below are the kinds of things you should expect from a good SEO agency:

  • Realistic goals, not fake guarantees
  • Transparent reporting and open communication
  • A focus on your business goals, not just rankings
  • White hat, Google-approved methods
  • Local insight and tailored strategies

Do They Understand the Basics?

An expert should be able to answer ‘what is SEO?’ in plain English. If they hide behind jargon, or seem annoyed when you ask questions, that’s a red flag.

SEO stands for Search Engine Optimisation. At its core, it’s about making your site more visible to people searching for your products or services. That includes:

  • On-page content optimisation
  • Technical improvements
  • Link-building from trustworthy sites
  • Improving site speed and user experience
  • Targeting the right keywords, especially locally

If the agency can’t explain these basics clearly, they might not know what they’re doing.

Local Results

When you’re looking for an SEO agency, you need someone who understands your audience. A one-size-fits-all package probably won’t consider your region, your competition, or your customers.

A local SEO specialist should know how to:

  • Optimise for Google Business Profile
  • Target geo-specific keywords (e.g. “plumber in Leicester”)
  • Use location landing pages strategically
  • Understand regional search trends

You Get Zero Transparency

Real SEO agencies will report progress—monthly, clearly, and in a way that makes sense. That includes:

  • Keyword rankings
  • Organic traffic changes
  • Conversions and form submissions
  • Technical issues fixed
  • New backlinks earned

Lesser agencies often keep you in the dark or will speak in generic terms, without going into detail. Either they don’t know what to report, or they’re hiding that not a lot is happening behind the scenes.

Black Hat Tactics

Some so-called “experts” rely on shortcuts that can actually harm your site. These include:

  • Spammy link-building
  • Hidden text or links
  • Duplicate content
  • Keyword stuffing
  • Fake reviews or citations

If an agency won’t tell you how they build links or won’t show examples of their work, it’s another red flag.

It’s All About Rankings—Nothing Else

Sure, ranking high is great. But SEO is also about conversions, user experience, and long-term performance. Keyword positions aren’t everything.

When discussing SEO tactics with an agency, be sure to question:

  • Are users staying on your site?
  • Are they converting into leads or customers?
  • Is the content helpful and engaging?
  • Are you building long-term visibility or just chasing vanity metrics?
  • If rankings are their only selling point, that’s a shallow approach.

They Don’t Rank Themselves

Here’s a good test: Google “SEO agency near me” and see if they show up.

A genuine SEO expert should at least rank well in their own area—or have a site that looks professional, fast, and user-friendly. If their own SEO is terrible, that’s not a good sign.

Also, check their blog. Are they publishing helpful content? Do they appear knowledgeable about trends and updates? If not, you have to wonder—how will they help your business grow?

Long Contracts

Be cautious with long-term contracts—especially if the agency wants six or twelve months upfront with no clear KPIs.

While SEO is a long game, good agencies still give you monthly results, clear timelines, and the freedom to pause or switch if things don’t work out.

Lesser agencies often rely on binding contracts to hold clients hostage, rather than proving their worth through results.

Final Thoughts

Bad SEO doesn’t just waste your budget. It can damage your online reputation, your search rankings, and your customer trust.

Ask questions. Check reviews. And only choose an SEO agency that proves they understand what SEO is, how it works, and how to help your business grow.

Irial O’Farrell’s RODi HR Is Changing How Companies Think About Performance Management

Claire James
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Irial O’Farrell’s RODi HR Is Changing How Companies Think About Performance Management

Most managers dread performance conversations. Employees avoid them. Performance reviews have long been a dreaded ritual in the corporate world. They’re time-consuming, confusing, and often feel unfair. Managers are unsure how to explain what’s going wrong. Employees are left unsure of what’s expected. And everyone walks away frustrated.

This is where Irial O’Farrell comes in.

Founder of Evolution Consulting, Irial O’Farrell has over 25 years of experience developing managers and leading teams. She saw the cracks in traditional performance systems long before others did. She has trained more than 1,000 people and written three books on leadership and management, with a fourth on the way. Her work has always focused on helping people understand how they show up at work, and how that affects the bigger picture.

Her expertise in better performance design led to the creation of RODi HR, a platform that’s fixing performance management from the ground up.

What Makes RODi HR Different?

RODi HR is a rethink, not just another tool. 

The platform takes a different approach to performance and development. It starts with onboarding. Irial and her team work with clients to build a company-specific framework, called Role Dimensions, that defines performance for every role across departments. It’s not one-size-fits-all. It’s custom-made.

Each employee is evaluated based on:

  • The performance of their role.
  • 4 to 5 agreed-upon objectives set at the start of the year.

Then, each month, the system sends out performance updates. Employees know what they should have completed and what’s next. Managers get a full view of how their direct reports are tracking.

This monthly rhythm keeps performance top of mind without overwhelming anyone.

Breaking Free from the 5-Point Rating System

RODi HR doesn’t use the tired 5-point scale that most companies rely on. Instead, the platform offers a more meaningful system that helps managers distinguish between:

  • High performers and high potentials.
  • Good performers and good performers with blind spots.
  • Employees still learning, and those underperforming.

This level of clarity is a game-changer. It removes the guesswork and helps teams grow instead of just ticking boxes.

Why Managers Struggle, and How RODi HR Helps

Modern roles are more complex than ever. Employees are expected to learn fast, know more, and perform better. But development hasn’t caught up.

  • 75% of employees are unsure how they’re doing.
  • 50% of managers don’t believe in their performance systems.
  • 95% of HR managers are dissatisfied with the process.

RODi HR addresses this issue. Role Dimensions outlines what success looks like in each role and what it takes to move up. It helps with:

  • Aligning expectations within and across departments.
  • Giving clear feedback.
  • Identifying strengths and gaps.
  • Setting real development paths.
  • Improving team conversations.

Managers often feel stuck between a rock and a hard place. RODi HR helps break that cycle.

Real Impact, Real Businesses

Companies using RODi HR are already seeing results. People tend to rise to the occasion when they understand what’s expected. Clarity drives confidence.

At P3 Hotels, the team was transitioning to remote work and needed structure. According to MD Phelim Pekaar, Role Dimensions “helps take the mystery away from managing people” and gives managers the tools to guide their teams effectively.

At Pebble Business Transformation, clear role definitions helped them grow from a startup into a strong consulting firm. Managing Partner Joe Hughes says the Role Dimensions framework “stood the test of time” and is still core to their operations today.

Why Clarity Matters

RODi HR does more than see through performance reviews. It:

  • Boosts employee satisfaction and retention.
  • Helps managers have better conversations.
  • Supports learning and development planning.
  • Identifies performance risks early.
  • Builds strong career development paths.
  • Helps teams work better together.
  • Feeds succession pipelines. 

It’s not just about fixing what’s broken. It’s about making performance management a tool for success.

Conclusion

RODi HR changes the outcome. Because when people understand their role, they perform better, and so does the business. You don’t need to overhaul your whole system. RODi HR adapts to where you are. 

If you’re tired of performance reviews that don’t deliver, now’s the time to act. Reach out to Irial (irial.ofarrell@evolutionconsulting.ie) and the team at RODi HR to learn how a custom-built Role Dimensions framework can reshape your company’s approach.

“I Doubled Down”: Gurhan Kiziloz on Fueling Nexus International’s $1.45B Growth Without Outside Capital

Josh Haines
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“I Doubled Down”: Gurhan Kiziloz on Fueling Nexus International’s $1.45B Growth Without Outside Capital

Nexus International, the holding company behind digital entertainment platform Megaposta, reported $400 million in revenue in 2024. With a revenue goal of $1.45 billion by the end of 2025, the company’s scaling strategy has attracted attention largely due to its self-financed model. Kiziloz has publicly confirmed that Nexus International operates without venture capital or institutional funding, maintaining full internal ownership of its growth strategy.

In a recent interview, Gurhan Kiziloz reflected on a defining personal experience that has shaped the structure and pace of his business operations. “My father passed away. I just became heavily motivated to succeed,” he said, describing the event as a key turning point in both his work ethic and leadership style. The founder and CEO of Nexus International identified this moment as the catalyst for the company’s sustained focus on internal growth without relying on outside investment.

The company’s flagship platform, Megaposta, has expanded primarily in Brazil, where it saw early market traction through offline marketing and media exposure. While user metrics have not been made public, reported revenue figures indicate a sizable presence in the region’s gaming and entertainment space. “We did the marketing, and the user base responded,” Kiziloz said in the same interview. “It wasn’t something we had mapped out in detail.”

That theme, movement over premeditated planning, recurs throughout Kiziloz’s commentary on the company’s development. He has characterized his leadership rhythm as fast, instinct-driven, and frequently revised in real-time. “I don’t reflect; I just keep moving,” he said. When asked what he might have done differently earlier in his career, he offered a direct answer: “I would’ve gone into online gambling at 18.”

Kiziloz attributes much of the company’s pace to a decision-making model that avoids lengthy forecasting cycles in favor of adaptability. The absence of outside capital, he explained, has allowed Nexus International to make faster decisions and operate with greater internal control. “I would bet everything on a decision if I believed in it. That’s what every week is,” he said, referring to his own tolerance for risk.

Nexus International’s growth remains closely tied to Kiziloz’s personal valuation. His net worth was estimated at $700 million by the end of 2024, although no public statements have confirmed whether that figure has since increased. While external recognition, such as billionaire lists or media rankings, is not something Kiziloz has publicly pursued, he has expressed long-term goals that remain financially ambitious. “Top ten billionaires on earth,” he said, when asked about his definition of success.

The company’s operational strategy also reflects Kiziloz’s preference for centralized execution. He described his leadership style as “military with flexibility,” noting that while he delegates operational detail to his team, overall strategy remains founder-led. “The skill I still underestimate is looking at the details. But my team does this for me,” he acknowledged.

Personal discipline plays a notable role in his work routine. According to Kiziloz, his days start with motivational videos, primarily on YouTube, which he credits as having a formative impact on his mindset. “That platform taught me more than school did,” he said.

Despite the aggressive growth targets and unconventional operating structure, Kiziloz has not indicated any plans to seek external funding in the near future. When asked if he ever feels pressure to validate his approach through outside perspectives, he replied, “I want to prove myself wrong. The people are all irrelevant to me.”

Whether Nexus International meets its 2025 revenue projection remains to be seen. But its current trajectory, based on disclosed revenue and continued internal financing, reflects a model that has, so far, favored internal control over external endorsement. For now, the company’s structure, growth, and direction remain firmly in-house, driven by a founder who views momentum as the central metric for progress.

 

Remote Work Trends Reshape Homebuyer Priorities in the UK

Claire James
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Remote Work Trends Reshape Homebuyer Priorities in the UK

If you work from home, your living space needs to support both comfort and productivity. This article will explore the key features to look for when searching for your next home, making it easier to find a place that allows you to work from home comfortably. Whether you are freelance, work a hybrid model, or are fully remote, choosing the right property can significantly affect your work-life balance and efficiency. Read on to find out more.

Dedicated Office or Flexible Workspace

First, you want to make sure that the property has space for a dedicated office or a flexible workspace. Consider if one of the rooms could be used as a dedicated home office, which will give you somewhere you can work free from distractions – this is also helpful for separating work and home (something many remote workers struggle with). If there is no room that can be used as an office, there should at least be an area where you can work comfortably and be productive each day.

Natural Light & Ventilation

It is hugely important that the space gets plenty of natural light, especially if you work remotely full-time. Natural light is important for our physical and mental well-being, plus you should find that it helps you feel more energised each day. Good ventilation is also key, so make sure that there are windows you can open up to let fresh air in.

Internet Speed & Connectivity

Internet speed is an essential consideration, especially if you have regular video calls and/or have a household with others who will be online at the same time. Therefore, always check broadband speeds for the area before making a decision, particularly if you are in a rural area.

Noise Levels & Soundproofing

You do not want to move into a new home, set up your home office, and find that there is a huge amount of noise from outside. Things like proximity to busy roads, train lines, construction sites, and schools can create noise that can be distracting. Even noise within the house can be an issue, so look for a property with thick walls and solid doors to create a quiet, peaceful work environment – new build homes are often designed to be soundproof.

Ergonomics & Tech Setup Compatibility

You also want to make sure that you can set up a comfortable office with all the tech needed to do your job. This means space for ergonomic furniture and comfortable working conditions, plenty of plug sockets, and a strong Wi-Fi signal throughout. This is a space you will be spending many hours each week, so it needs to be practical, comfortable, and healthy.

When looking for a new home as a remote worker, these are a few of the main areas to focus on. It is vital that you find somewhere that will allow you to be productive each day while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Crypto and Traditional Finance: Are We Entering a New Era of Integration

Claire James
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Crypto and Traditional Finance: Are We Entering a New Era of Integration

As 2025 moves along, the dynamic between crypto and traditional finance seems to be shifting in a way no one would have imagined a few years back. What was once a head-to-head rivalry now looks more like a partnership in progress. The early battles have softened, and what started as conflict is slowly turning into cooperation. 

This change is not just a philosophical one either. It is being driven by demand, tech breakthroughs, and a changing approach from big institutions. We are seeing more than just signs. Real actions are happening. From central bank digital currency testing to banks pushing out blockchain-based bonds, there is movement everywhere. The lines are blurring, and these two sides are no longer staying in their own lanes.

Journey from Opposition to Collaboration

When Bitcoin first made an entrance in 2009, it came with an attitude. A bold challenge to the old school financial system. For a long time, Wall Street brushed it off. Regulators were skeptical or outright dismissive. Crypto was risky, strange, and too wild to take seriously. But now, fast forward to today, and the story has flipped on its head.

Major financial powerhouses like Fidelity, Goldman Sachs, and BlackRock are not just dipping their toes in the crypto space. They are putting serious resources behind it. JPMorgan, for example, developed its own blockchain system called Onyx. It is now handling billions of dollars daily and growing beyond internal use. The focus is now on token-based settlements between big banks.

A survey by Elliptic this year found that about 77 percent of financial firms across the globe are either using or planning digital asset solutions. That is a huge jump from 45 percent in 2022. It is no longer just a theory. This is real-world momentum.

How Integration Is Happening Today

All over the world, we can see this blend of crypto and legacy finance taking shape in real time. The focus has shifted from “should we” to “how do we make this work.” Whether it is tokenising assets, experimenting with new banking systems, or working under updated regulations, the wall between these systems is coming down.

  1. Turning Real Assets into Tokens

Tokenisation is a big part of this shift. Take HSBC. The bank has made solid progress through a digital platform called HSBC Orion. This system was built to issue and manage digital securities. Earlier this year, the bank worked with the Inter-American Development Bank and NatWest to push out a five-million-pound bond. All of it was built on a blockchain system and issued under Luxembourg law. This means better speed, security, and control across the entire lifecycle of the asset.

  1. More Interest from Big Players

The start of this year saw a serious jump in trading volumes across platforms that handle digital assets within regulatory limits. Goldman Sachs has widened its crypto trading desk and added ETH staking and derivatives to the menu. BNY Mellon, on the other hand, has added support for newer tokens like Solana and those based on Layer 2 networks. This allows them to serve larger and more complex clients, including hedge funds and government-linked funds.

  1. When Central Banks Get Involved

Maybe the clearest sign of change is the central bank activity. One of the biggest efforts right now is Project Agora. This is led by the Bank for International Settlements, which has teamed up with seven top central banks and a number of commercial ones, including Citi, HSBC, and Deutsche Bank. They are testing international payments using both CBDCs and token versions of bank deposits. This is not just an experiment anymore. This is groundwork being laid.

  1. Rulebooks Are Being Updated

Regulators are starting to catch up with the space. Early this year, the SEC gave the green light for ETFs based on Ethereum and Solana. This came right after the success of the Bitcoin ETFs that launched last year. Meanwhile, in the UK, the Financial Conduct Authority has published clear rules for companies managing digital assets. And the European Union now has MiCA fully in effect, setting the standard across all member countries.

What’s Driving This Shift?

So what is pushing this blend of systems forward at such a fast pace? A few big reasons stand out.

  • A More Grown-Up Industry

Crypto is not just a loose network of projects anymore. It is turning into a properly managed asset class. In 2025, many top financial firms offer digital funds under normal asset management terms. These are no longer fringe investments. They are measured, tracked, and judged on risk and return just like anything else. You can check here for top financial brokerage firms supporting these assets. 

  • People Want It

Clients do not want to open ten apps to manage their wealth. They want stocks, bonds, and digital assets in the same place. In the UK, several major brokers saw crypto allocations go up in early 2025, especially in younger portfolios. Companies are reacting by offering direct wallet access, staking inside the platform, and tools for managing digital identity.

  • Faster and Cheaper Systems

Blockchain is not just about coins anymore. It helps solve practical problems for banks. Clearing transactions takes less time. Verifying identities gets faster. Reducing third-party risks becomes easier. One report from McKinsey estimated that distributed ledgers could help save around twelve billion dollars a year in global post-trade costs.

  • The Cost of Ignoring It

Some older institutions tried to stay out of crypto. That is no longer possible. Decentralised finance networks now manage tens of billions. This is why banks are building what they call hybrid finance models. These mix smart contracts with compliance oversight. You get the speed and openness of crypto with the control of traditional systems.

What It Means for the Everyday Investor

You do not need to be a tech genius to take part anymore. Thanks to platforms that follow financial rules, average users can now buy parts of government bonds, explore DeFi yields, or invest in property all through token systems. These tools are made to be more user-friendly, and they now come with safety features.

Some coins even include insurance backing and public audits of reserves. In places like Singapore and the UAE, digital platforms have started offering protections similar to what banks offer under deposit schemes. This makes crypto feel less like a wild bet and more like a serious asset class.

That said, these new products can get confusing fast. Some coins earn yield, others track indexes, and some are designed to act like entire portfolios. If you are not sure how they work, you could be taking more risk than you realize. Companies are offering education tools, but in the end, it is still up to you to understand what you are doing.

Also, let’s not pretend the risk is gone. Crypto is still sensitive to world events. In early 2025, Bitcoin dropped sharply after the US hinted at tighter money policies and China cracked down again on offshore trading platforms. The difference is that more of this risk is now visible, and there are better ways to manage it.

Conclusion

If there is one thing 2025 has made clear, it is that crypto is no longer living on the edges of finance. It is being welcomed inside. The biggest names in finance are not just testing it anymore. They are building with it. Clearer rules, more investor interest, and stronger tech have turned what was once a niche into a core part of global finance.

For everyday investors, this means more access but also more responsibility. The game is changing, and if you want to play, you have to learn the new rules. This is not just another cycle. It is a bigger shift that could shape how the financial world works for decades. The question now is not if crypto and traditional finance will join forces, but how fast it will happen and who will be ready to take the lead in this new chapter.

IT Consultancies Transform Digital Strategy in Financial Services

Claire James
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IT Consultancies Transform Digital Strategy in Financial Services

The financial industry has some of the strictest information technology (IT) and security requirements. You likely already know you need a consultant you can trust to mitigate risk and maximize value, but how do you know where to find IT consulting for financial services companies? The process isn’t as cut-and-dry as it may appear.

When you think of the “best” consulting companies, your mind may jump to Deloitte, BCG or McKinsey. In reality, multinational corporations often charge exorbitant service fees or lack a customer-centric approach. The best can balance speed, experience, and value while having comprehensive service offerings and a high customer satisfaction rating.

1. iuvo

Boston-based iuvo is the leading IT consulting and solutions provider because it offers tailored white-glove services that get results. Since 2007, it has completed 62,000 cases. Its clients aren’t the only ones who recognize its value — its innovative solutions and exceptional customer service have helped it win 35 awards and counting.

It handpicked its 23 consultants for their niche skills and experience, each with over two decades in the IT field on average. Outsourcing to them can help you improve scalability, increase operational efficiency, maximize uptime and enhance compliance while eliminating unnecessary expenses.

This team is well-versed in the financial sector’s technologies, standards and regulations. It has extensive experience working with banks, credit unions, venture capital entities, investment companies, brokerage firms and loan associations.

It covers cloud systems, business continuity, cybersecurity, DevOps, vendor management and communications, with services ranging from remote monitoring to ongoing training. Whether you need to identify redundancies, implement solutions, migrate systems or prevent disruptions, it can help.

iuvo mainly serves the Greater Boston area, but it has nationwide reach. Whether you are stationed in Massachusetts or not, you know where to find IT consulting for financial services companies.

2. Cognizant

Cognizant is a billion-dollar brand with over 336,000 employees worldwide. While its services may be out of reach for small and medium-sized businesses, its size and resources are

an excellent fit for large enterprises. In its 30-year history, it has built strong relationships with many leading companies in the financial sector, including 90% of top European banks.

In addition to retail and commercial banks, Cognizant serves lenders and payment companies. It leverages its industry, technology and enterprise expertise to guide human-centered digital transformations.

The entity specializes in technology modernization to identify and address business-critical challenges, upskilling clients when necessary to ensure optimal usage after the consultancy ends. It also manages digital transformations, working closely with stakeholders to design an end-to-end solution. Its enterprise-focused approach increases speed-to-market and drives growth.29

This IT consultant’s solutions are tailored to large companies undergoing digital transformation, so its deliverables tend to include task automation, payment system modernization and multibanking cash management. It aims to simplify data aggregation, reduce processing times and streamline inefficient processes.

3. S-Pro

What started as a small technology startup team of five developers has blossomed into an international organization with hundreds of staff members. S-Pro has a 78% annual growth rate, demonstrating its commitment to improvement. To date, it has completed over 300 projects.

Although it is headquartered in Switzerland, it has offices in Poland, the Netherlands, Ukraine and the United States. Its global presence enables it to minimize schedule conflicts and project delays by bridging time zones. Also, clients have around-the-clock access to its services via its task and project management tools.

It has over 250 engineers, so it can seamlessly distribute various countries’ workloads. This customer-focused attitude has helped it form numerous long-lasting relationships, with customer engagements lasting an average of 4.2 years.

This consultant has a deep understanding of the financial sector, with over 65% of its revenue coming from fintech businesses. Its services cover wealth management, cryptocurrency, Web3, banking, investment and payment processing.

It can develop an IT roadmap, a data analytics system or a cybersecurity strategy, prioritizing high-return investments from planning through deployment. Given that the industry experienced 3,348 cyber incidents in 2023, these services are vital for preventing breaches.

Its business process optimization and cloud migration processes eliminate bottlenecks to streamline workflows. Unlike many competitors, it specializes in artificial intelligence and machine learning consulting.

4. Kellton

The global IT services and consulting company Kellton is a full-service solutions provider for various industries. It primarily serves large organizations — including some Fortune 500 companies — but it also assists startups and small businesses. Since its founding 15 years ago, it has helped 200 clients across 1,000 projects in Europe, the U.S. and Asia.

Its handpicked team of 1,800 professionals has cross-domain experience, helping them provide world-class service regardless of industry. Since its partner ecosystem comprises vendors like AWS, Salesforce, Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure and Databricks, compatibility with your existing tech stack won’t be an issue.

It doesn’t offer comprehensive IT advice, but as its partnerships suggest, it specializes in cloud management and deployment. Services include architecture review and migration strategy development.

Also, it offers data consulting, which covers architecture review, system management, technology optimization and hardware modernization. It aims to streamline your IT ecosystem by simplifying your infrastructure for efficiency, cost-effectiveness and agility.

This firm takes a methodology-driven approach, leveraging domain-specific data models and an expansive toolset to develop cutting-edge solutions for modern tech stacks. Its AI, blockchain and cloud computing expertise can help you complete a next-generation digital transformation.

5. Intellectsoft

Intellectsoft’s IT consulting services cover engineering and digital transformation. It serves startups, multinational corporations and everyone in between, and has helped clients like Mitsubishi Power, Harkins and Skroote. Even though it is a boutique consultancy agency, several Fortune 500 brands trust its advice.

While it is based in the U.S., it has branches in Colombia, Azerbaijan, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, Norway and Poland. Since it has a global presence, you don’t have to worry about waiting when you need important questions answered.

You receive end-to-end support if you partner with this team. It handles everything from ideation to post-integration support. Since it doesn’t take on every project, it can guarantee personalized solutions.

Custom fintech solutions include payment software, data hub platforms, enterprise data visualisation and lending tools. Experts predict the global fintech market’s revenue will reach $1.5 trillion by 2030, so it’s unsurprising that consultants are offering personalized solutions.

Intellectsoft’s services only cover software architecture, development and DevOps. It can create and launch websites, mobile apps, and enterprise software, covering everything from user interface design to quality assurance testing.

Choosing Between the Best IT Consulting Providers

Now that you know where to find IT consulting for financial services companies, you must choose between them. While each has a proven track record and comprehensive service offerings, only one fits you best. Don’t take this decision lightly — consider factors like budget, IT needs and availability.

Strategic Freight Partnerships Drive Down Logistics Costs for UK Businesses

Claire James
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Strategic Freight Partnerships Drive Down Logistics Costs for UK Businesses

Running a successful business means making smart logistics choices. Choosing the right freight company can greatly change your shipping costs and how well your business runs. Smart business owners know that teaming up with the right transport partner can save a lot of money.

Today’s businesses face tough shipping problems that need creative fixes. A top Freight Company does more than just move goods. They offer smart shipping plans that make your supply chain work better.

Shipping costs can eat up a big part of your budget. By picking the right freight partner, you can save a lot of money. The aim is to find a logistics company that gets what you need and adds value beyond just moving goods.

Working with a freight company is more than just cutting costs. It’s about making your whole logistics system run smoother. With the right partner, shipping can become a key advantage for your business.

This guide will show you how to find, check, and team up with a freight company that fits your business goals. We’ll look at ways to make shipping more efficient and cut down on costs.

Understanding the Impact of Freight Costs on Your Business

Freight costs can greatly affect a business’s finances. Small and medium-sized businesses often don’t realize how much shipping costs them. Knowing these costs is key to keeping prices competitive and profits high.

Managing supply chain costs is a big challenge for businesses. The cost of transportation is a big part of these costs. To manage well, businesses need to plan and watch their shipping costs closely.

  • Freight costs directly impact product pricing strategies
  • Shipping overhead can consume up to 10% of total revenue
  • Inefficient transportation management reduces competitive advantage

Transportation costs touch many areas of a business. Companies that manage their freight costs well can save a lot of money. Using smart logistics can cut shipping costs without hurting service quality or customer happiness.

Studies show that businesses that spend less on transportation can use that money for other important things. By carefully looking at and managing freight costs, businesses can do better financially.

  • Analyze current shipping expenditures
  • Identify potential cost-reduction strategies
  • Explore alternative transportation methods
  • Negotiate better rates with carriers

It’s important to understand how freight costs affect a business’s health. This knowledge is crucial for growth and making a profit.

Key Factors in Choosing a Freight Company

Choosing the right freight company is key for businesses to improve their shipping. The selection process involves many factors that affect your logistics and profits.

When evaluating logistics providers, focus on several important criteria:

  • Geographic Coverage: Make sure the shipping partner can reach all your destinations.
  • Service Flexibility: Look for companies that offer tailored shipping solutions.
  • Technology Capabilities: Choose providers with advanced tracking and communication systems.
  • Cost Structure: Analyze pricing models beyond just rates.

Choosing a shipping partner is more than just transportation. Industry expertise is vital. A provider with sector-specific knowledge can improve your supply chain and reduce issues.

Financial stability is also crucial. A good freight company should show:

  1. Consistent financial performance
  2. Investment in modern infrastructure
  3. Strong safety and compliance records
  4. Proven customer satisfaction

It’s smart to choose a freight company based on value, not just cost. The best company offers reliability, innovative solutions, and meets your shipping needs.

Evaluating Service Quality and Reliability Metrics

Choosing the right freight company is more than just looking at prices. The quality of freight service is key to your business’s success. It’s important to know the right logistics performance metrics to make smart shipping choices.

When checking shipping reliability, look at these important signs:

  • On-time delivery rates
  • Cargo damage percentages
  • Customer service response times
  • Shipment tracking accuracy
  • Claims resolution efficiency

Tracking these metrics helps spot risks and find a freight partner that fits your needs. The best freight companies offer clear reports and reliable delivery.

Smart businesses use digital tools to compare shipping reliability. Ask for detailed reports from potential freight partners. Look for companies with:

  1. Consistent delivery performance above 95%
  2. Low cargo damage rates
  3. Rapid customer support
  4. Advanced tracking technologies

By carefully looking at these metrics, you can reduce disruptions and improve your supply chain. The right freight partner will show their commitment to quality through clear, data-based reports.

Negotiating Better Rates and Terms

Learning how to negotiate freight rates can greatly improve your logistics costs. To succeed, you need to be well-prepared, know the market, and think strategically. Companies that understand their shipping needs well can save a lot of money.

Effective freight rate negotiation strategies include:

  • Analyze your shipping volume and frequency
  • Research current market rates
  • Understand your leverage points
  • Develop a comprehensive negotiation plan

When talking about shipping contract terms, aim for a win-win situation. Freight companies value clients who are committed and professional. Be ready to share detailed shipping data, show your consistent business volume, and talk about long-term partnerships.

Here are some tactics for reducing logistics costs:

  1. Request volume-based discounts
  2. Explore multi-year contract options
  3. Negotiate flexible shipping windows
  4. Discuss performance-based pricing incentives

Good negotiations need clear data, research, and teamwork. By showing your value as a long-term partner, you can get better freight rates and terms.

Technology Integration and Cost Tracking Solutions

Modern businesses are changing how they handle logistics with advanced software. This technology gives them key insights into shipping costs. It also makes complex transportation workflows easier to manage.

Advanced logistics technology brings many benefits to companies looking to improve their freight operations:

  • Real-time shipment tracking and visibility
  • Automated cost analysis and reporting
  • Predictive route optimization
  • Comprehensive performance metrics

Choosing the right freight management software can cut down on costs. Companies get tools to track shipping costs, find areas for improvement, and make smart decisions. Cloud-based platforms help everyone involved in shipping stay connected.

When looking at logistics technology, consider these important features:

  1. User-friendly interface
  2. Scalable infrastructure
  3. Robust data security
  4. Integration capabilities with existing systems

Investing in advanced shipping cost tracking technology helps companies stay ahead. With top-notch software, they can lower transportation costs and boost efficiency.

Building Long-term Partnerships with Your Freight Company

Creating a strong freight company relationship is more than just doing business. It’s about turning shipping into a strategic advantage. Successful businesses see it as a way to grow and save costs.

To build a lasting partnership, both sides need to put in effort and commitment. Businesses should focus on several key strategies:

  • Communicate openly about goals and challenges
  • Have regular meetings to review performance
  • Share detailed insights and forecasts
  • Invest in technology that works for both
  • Show reliability and consistency

The best partnerships are built on trust and shared goals. By seeing your logistics partner as part of your team, you open doors to tailored solutions and savings.

Good communication is key to a strong partnership. Regular talks, honest feedback, and solving problems together help both sides adapt to changes.

Looking ahead is important in a logistics partnership. It’s about understanding each other’s long-term plans, challenges, and growth goals.

  • Negotiate flexible contract terms
  • Explore new shipping ideas
  • Plan for unexpected situations together
  • Thank and reward good performance

Putting time and effort into a freight company relationship can give you a big edge in today’s global market.

Conclusion

Choosing the right freight company is key for businesses looking to improve shipping efficiency. To manage logistics costs well, you need to carefully evaluate, form strategic partnerships, and keep up with industry changes.

Using the strategies from this article can change your freight operations for the better. Focus on service quality, using technology, and building strong relationships. This way, you can cut down on transportation costs and still meet high standards.

The freight industry is always changing, with new tech and solutions coming up. Companies that focus on reducing freight costs will get ahead. They’ll make their supply chains better and their operations more stable.

Smart choices in freight partnerships are about more than saving money. It’s about making a plan that fits your business goals. Use data, talk openly, and stay flexible in your logistics plans for lasting success.

Bali-Based Startup Redefines Travel Tech with Empathy Driven Innovation

Claire James
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0
Bali-Based Startup Redefines Travel Tech with Empathy Driven Innovation

KUTA, Bali — In a travel industry increasingly obsessed with algorithmic efficiency and scalable self-service, a quietly disruptive force is emerging from the heart of Bali. Giostanovlatto, known universally as “Latto,” the founder of Hey Bali, isn’t just building a unique hospitality service; he’s crafting a compelling new business model. His secret? What he terms “calculated compassion,” transforming moments of traveler distress into a surprisingly profitable competitive advantage.

The Unconventional Playbook: Turning Pain Points into Profit Centers

Hey Bali’s journey began in 2024, not with a venture capital pitch, but with Latto retrieving two forgotten iPads for a frantic Australian tourist. This seemingly simple act illuminated a glaring blind spot in the multi-trillion-dollar travel sector: the inability of mass tourism to effectively address individual human crises.

Unlike Silicon Valley startups that chase hyper-growth through automation, Hey Bali thrives on principles that initially appear counterintuitive for a profit-driven enterprise:

  • Zero Monetization of Distress: Clients pay only actual transport or shipping costs for lost-and-found services. This builds profound trust and goodwill, fostering long-term customer loyalty rather than short-term transactional gains.
  • Anti-Efficiency Protocols (Human-Centric Design): Each case receives a dedicated human handler. This seemingly “inefficient” approach ensures personalized care, leading to higher resolution rates and an unparalleled customer experience that traditional apps cannot replicate.
  • Emotional ROI Measurement: Success is tracked via heartfelt handwritten thank-you notes, not just NPS scores. This focus on deep emotional connection directly translates into powerful word-of-mouth marketing and repeat business—a far more sustainable acquisition strategy than costly digital campaigns.

“Travel tech talks about ‘pain points,'” Latto observes, reviewing a case file for a misplaced wedding album.
“We focus on healing points—those moments when a stranger’s intervention changes everything. And those moments, surprisingly, build a more resilient and profitable business.”

The Infrastructure of Care: A Blueprint for Sustainable Growth

Bali may be synonymous with paradise, but Latto saw an opportunity in what most travel apps ignore—chaotic in-between moments.

Hey Bali’s operational design anticipates those moments, and turns them into trust-building touchpoints:

  1. Airport-Adjacent Luggage Solutions:
    Their Bali store luggage hub near Ngurah Rai International Airport isn’t just a place for bags; it’s a strategic answer to awkward time gaps. For just $1.5/day, digital nomads can optimize their final day in Bali, or families can relax after check-out without dragging suitcases around. This reliable, physical touchpoint creates a lasting impression—and repeat usage.
  2. Connectivity Without Complexity:
    The team’s Bali eSIM and SIM card support service demystifies Indonesia’s telco maze. Devices arrive pre-configured, sparing users from confusion at airport SIM kiosks. Immediate connectivity enables seamless access to ride-hailing apps, WhatsApp, and hotel confirmations—small interventions that radically improve traveler experience.
  3. The 24-Hour Crisis Rule:
    Each lost item report receives a personalized video update within four hours, three proactive follow-ups, and cultural mediation with local authorities if needed. The rapid, human-led response dramatically reduces traveler anxiety and builds Hey Bali’s reputation as a crisis-management lifeline.

“I lost my passport and wedding ring on the same day,” recalls Hanna M., a traveler from Germany.
“Within hours, I got a calm video from their team. Within 48 hours, I had both back. They saved my honeymoon.”

The Trust Algorithm: Metrics That Defy Convention

In an era of relentless growth hacking, Hey Bali’s unconventional metrics reveal a deeper form of value creation:

  • 92% of clients return for additional services.
  • An average 1:14 referral ratio — each user brings in 14 others.
  • 10-minute average response time for urgent cases, outperforming most concierge apps.

“We don’t have chatbots,” says Latto.
“Because travel emergencies don’t come in dropdown menus.”

Cultural Code-Switching: Where Local Wisdom Meets Global Expectation

What truly differentiates Hey Bali is its integration of Balinese philosophy with global traveler psychology. The foundation is Tri Hita Karana—harmony with God, people, and nature:

  • Divine Connection: Each recovered item receives a canang sari offering—a culturally resonant gesture that instills a sense of reverence and closure.
  • Human Connection: The multilingual staff—many of whom are former tour guides and medical workers—bring not just skill, but emotional intelligence to every case.
  • Environmental Connection: Electric trikes used for urban pickups cut emissions by 70%, aligning the service with growing eco-conscious tourism trends.

The Empathy Economy: A Trillion-Dollar Blind Spot Uncovered

According to the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), over 1.4 billion international travelers hit the road annually. Yet the industry spends billions on personalization while overlooking its most fragile moments.

“The sector obsesses over tech-led personalization,” says Dr. Miriam Heng of the London School of Economics’ Tourism Futures Program.
“But it consistently fails at deeply human interventions. Hey Bali exposes an enormous opportunity hiding in plain sight.”

This has major implications for global hospitality and travel tech:

  • Crisis-as-a-Service as Differentiator:
    By solving acute emotional problems, Hey Bali reframes what’s often seen as a liability into a brand-defining value proposition.
  • The Rise of Slow Tech:
    The success of Hey Bali suggests that deliberate, human-centric operations can outperform even the most efficient automation in building brand loyalty.
  • Emotional Infrastructure as an Asset Class:
    For investors, this model is a wake-up call. In an increasingly dehumanized tech landscape, empathy scales—just not in the way spreadsheets predict.

Final Thought: When Paradise Falters, Compassion Steps In

As Latto oversees the return of a cancer patient’s forgotten medication to a Swiss clinic—through a special airport handoff—the point is clear:

In the empathy economy, the most advanced and arguably most profitable technology…
is a human being who cares enough to intervene.

“Bali sells paradise,” Giostanovlatto reflects, watching another sunset from their Kuta workspace.
“But real hospitality isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. And that, it turns out, is a scalable business after all.”

Pepe, Sui, and Neo Pepe Protocol Gain Momentum Ahead of Q3 2025

Claire James
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0
Pepe, Sui, and Neo Pepe Protocol Gain Momentum Ahead of Q3 2025

Why Investors Are Excited About Pepe, Sui, and Neo Pepe Protocol

As Q3 rapidly approaches, crypto investors are scouting for the next big opportunities with massive growth potential. Pepe, Sui, and Neo Pepe Protocol are currently at the forefront, each driven by distinct catalysts that could triple portfolios

Pepe continues its momentum primarily due to its viral meme status, engaging a vast community that actively fuels its price movements. Sui garners attention with its advanced layer-1 blockchain infrastructure, attracting investors interested in fundamentally strong crypto assets. Neo Pepe Protocol, however, is sparking considerable excitement for uniquely combining meme appeal with robust community-driven governance and practical DeFi utilities.

The Neo Pepe Protocol has notably raised over $102,536 during its ongoing presale at a price of $0.05423, demonstrating significant early investor enthusiasm. But what truly sets Neo Pepe apart is its sophisticated tokenomics, DAO-controlled treasury, auto-liquidity mechanisms, and strategic token burns, turning it into a crypto movement rather than just another meme.

Q3 Crypto Spotlight: Quest for High-Growth Opportunities

Market sentiment remains bullish as we enter Q3 2025, despite occasional volatility. Investors, hungry for exponential gains, are focusing on assets blending strong narratives, utility, and community strength. Meme-inspired DeFi projects have surged notably due to their potent mix of viral energy and tangible functionalities.

Neo Pepe Protocol is capturing attention precisely due to these reasons. Its DAO-controlled treasury ensures transparency, while auto-liquidity and token burns create sustainable incentives for holders. The playful branding, symbolized by its frog-inspired mascot, further enhances its community allure, cementing its growing popularity among meme enthusiasts.

Pepe and Sui: Demonstrating Strength Amid Market Optimism

Pepe is seeing renewed enthusiasm, recently reclaiming critical price levels around $0.0000125, supported by technical indicators signaling potential breakouts. Analysts forecast a surge toward $0.0000238 upon breaking resistance at $0.0000148, potentially delivering gains exceeding 60%. Pepe’s soaring daily trading volume of over $2 billion underscores growing investor interest.

Sui, meanwhile, anchors its optimistic outlook on impressive fundamentals—over $2 billion total value locked (TVL) and daily decentralized exchange (DEX) volumes reaching $304 million in early 2025. Technical resistance sits near $4.12, with a successful breakout likely propelling it towards the $5 mark.

The diversity of opportunities, from meme-driven Pepe to infrastructure-centric Sui, illustrates the dynamic crypto landscape investors are navigating in Q3.

Neo Pepe Protocol: A Movement Gaining Serious Traction

Investor attention is particularly converging around Neo Pepe Protocol. Beyond meme appeal, it symbolizes a meaningful challenge to centralized finance, championing true decentralization through DAO-driven governance.

Its presale strategy is strategically structured with incrementally rising token values at each stage, incentivizing early adoption and sustained engagement. The protocol empowers its community through governance rights, directly influencing key decisions like token burns and exchange listings.

With a fixed supply of 1 billion tokens, immutable smart contracts, and no centralized wallet control, Neo Pepe Protocol embodies trust, transparency, and genuine community power.

3 Key Reasons Neo Pepe Protocol Could Dominate in Q3

  1. Robust Tokenomics and Transparency
    • DAO governance with community-driven decisions.
    • Controlled token burns capped at 5% of total supply to ensure scarcity.
  2. Advanced Liquidity Mechanics
    • Auto-liquidity mechanisms injecting stability.
    • Immutable smart contracts guaranteeing long-term transparency.
  3. Community-Driven Narrative and Adoption
    • Strong meme-driven branding attracting widespread engagement.
    • Active community participation through proposal submissions and votes.

How to Participate in the Neo Pepe Presale

As we advance into Q3 2025, Pepe, Sui, and particularly Neo Pepe Protocol, stand out as powerful opportunities poised to potentially triple investor portfolios. Engaging early, especially in community-focused projects like Neo Pepe Protocol, might prove instrumental in capturing this anticipated growth wave.

UK Businesses Shift Toward Bespoke Web Design for Stronger Online Impact

Claire James
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0
UK Businesses Shift Toward Bespoke Web Design for Stronger Online Impact

A business website is the first form of engagement with its users for any business. Focusing on creating an appealing website with a human touch and being user-friendly is not easy. For this, a crucial decision to make is finding the right website design company. To choose the right website design company, knowing what to look for is important. The following blog talks about the skills, pricing structure, and other factors to consider before hiring a website design company in the UK for your business.

Factors to Consider When Hiring a Website Design Company

Make a List

There are many companies offering website design UK; do not just sign a deal with the first one you see at the top of the SERPs. Instead, make a list of all the design companies you find, and talk to them to determine which company offers what and their price structure. For instance, a designer may offer website design and coding but not SEO, and if that is your need, that might not be the right company for you. Also, talking on the phone and emails is great, but if you can meet them in person, it is better to understand how they work, approach your project, and see if it is a success or not. So, make a list of the pros and cons of each company before you sign the contract.

Understand Their Business Model

Every business has different models; see if they are outsourcing the web design work or doing it in-house. Both are positive, as the designers are experienced, and you will see their work before saying yes. However, outsourcing can cause friction if the expert finds a better or permanent position. Usually, this does not happen, but asking about the business model and understanding whether it works for your business needs or not is important.

Check Their Work

It is essential that you review their work. If they say they can do something, such as see samples. Also, check how their website performs on different devices. Does it pixelate? Is it scalable as per the device? Moreover, check what innovations they have performed on different websites to understand how they work and what their creativity level is.

Create a document with your specific needs & target audience.

A website design company can help you create the perfect website only when they have the full details. When you tell them your needs and target audience, they will come up with pitches, enabling you to choose the best one.

Identify your goals—moving to a new platform, starting a new business, the old website is not good, and more. Knowing all this will help you pitch your idea to the design company, along with knowing who your Target audience is and what they are looking for in a site. The best pitch takes you a step closer to the right website design company for your business.

Work With a Company Working With Multiple Industries

It may seem like a good idea to work with a company that works just for your niche or industry. But it is not! Well, they have experience, which is good, but they might also have a basic model that they use for every company in your niche. That is why you should look for companies with experience in many industries, including yours. This will allow you to work with a creative bunch of people.

Know Their Pricing Structure

The pricing structure varies with the platform you want the website on. If you choose the WooCommerce platform, the price will differ from that of using full coding or WordPress. Also, every company has its pricing fair enough to compensate designers. Knowing your budget will help you decide which is better suited for your needs. But remember, sometimes paying less means low quality of work, so go for quality of work.

Communicate Effectively

It is important that you communicate your goals and desires on the website. But be realistic because a business’s success depends on more than just your website, so be communicative but realistic. Foster a real connection to work together smoothly.

Conclusion

Unless you want to end up with a website that looks childish or is challenging to navigate, be cautious about picking the right agency. The digital agency will ensure your site looks good, works perfectly, and performs well in search engines. So, consider the above factor, ensuring you make the right decision regarding your website, something that will impact the entire business operations.

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