John Allen: Technology is streamlining HR functions for large and small companies alike
“HR bytes” refers to human resources technologies being developed, deployed and adopted at a breakneck pace. New and innovative software applications are making the delivery of HR services better, faster and simpler. For years now, large Fortune 500 companies have invested in HR technology that streamlines back office processes, enhances learning opportunities and simplifies employee […]
Bringing hope — Beech Brook helps change young lives, transforming the community
If longevity is a sign of success, Beech Brook stands alone in Greater Cleveland. The Beech Ball, Beech Brook’s annual fundraiser to benefit its program, will be from 6 to 11 p.m. April 11 at the InterContinental Cleveland. For more information, call (216) 831-2255. Founded in 1852 as the Cleveland Orphan Asylum, its mission is […]
How to weigh your options when switching to a high-deductible plan
Companies that have health insurance plans with low deductibles can save money by increasing the deductible, and then use some of the savings to ensure employees aren’t harmed by the change. “If you go from a fairly rich deductible of $250 to $2,500, the insurance carrier will provide you discounts of 25 to 35 percent in premium reductions,” says Dan Wilke, Vice President […]
How enterprise risk management can impact a company's value
Business operations are subject to a number of internal and external risks, as are ownership interests in businesses. How organizations and their owners address these risks can have a significant impact on the value of businesses and interests therein. An enterprise risk management (ERM) process involves identifying risks relative to an organization’s objectives, assessing them for likelihood and impact, developing a response strategy and monitoring progress. […]
Making a difference: How Boris Weinstein turned picking up litter into a citywide movement
Boris Weinstein, 82, is passionate about litter prevention. It’s been like a second career for him since his retirement, and he easily spends 2,000 hours a year on his anti-litter work. And like many leaders, business or otherwise, he’s been able to use his passion to inspire and motivate others. Weinstein first dabbled in litter […]
Stephan Liozu: Getting things done — Five tips to fostering urgency and discipline in your company’s execution
The difference between good companies and great companies is an ability to get things done and to execute religiously on promises. Having outstanding business models, being innovative and selling the best technologies isn’t enough. I see this time and time again when buying from businesses or consulting for them. Being creative and getting things done […]
Joe Takash: Why you need to seek common ground with bossy individuals
Most people spend their working lives following orders, whether they’re from a boss or a customer. They may not be military commands — your customer may ask you in the nicest way possible to reduce delivery time — but they still must be obeyed. This is just the way things are, whether you’re a junior […]
Playing on Columbus’ strengths: A focus on workforce is paying off in logistics, but more remains to be done
We ♥ (heart) logistics. The award-winning UPS ad campaign certainly strikes home for Columbus. The city is naturally attractive as a distribution and logistics hub for its geographic access to 46 percent of the U.S. population within a 10-hour drive, as well as strong supply chain talent and value. In fact, the logistics industry employs […]
How the Wage Payment Act can hold employers liable for executive pay
Businesses are familiar with the notion that written employment contracts can be a source of rights and liabilities in the event of a split with an executive employee. However, businesses are often not as familiar with other potential sources of employment liability in those situations, including the Wage Payment and Collections Act, sometimes called the Wage Payment Act. Smart Business spoke with John Haarlow Jr., […]
Edmunds.com gives unlimited vacation, but employees treat it with discipline and get their work done
If you work for Avi Steinlauf at Edmunds.com, you can take as much vacation as you want. It may seem like a slacker’s dream come true, but Steinlauf says employees have embraced the move with just the right mix of appreciation and discipline. “It’s something we piloted in 2011 with a few work teams and […]