Mobile Shopping Is The Future Of Retail

Technology is changing the shopping habits of buyers. Compete recently conducted a survey that reported a rapid increase in the number of people using their mobile devices for shopping. In fact, half of the population using smartphones and tablets are being converted into mobile shoppers. And it is just not the convenience of mobility that encourages buyers for mobile shopping as a considerable number of consumers do mobile shopping at home.

Based on the buying trends of the people, it is predicted that mobile market is expected to hit $1.5 trillion in 2013 and the figure is mostly likely to double in 2017, reaching more than $3 trillion. There are various technological developed that contributed to the growing popularity of mobile shopping.

One of such technologies is the image recognition technology that allows buyers to shop for items using their mobile devices by snapping a photo. All you need to do is take a picture of the item you want to buy and the technology will recognize the image and will take you to a website selling the same product. This is one of the main ingredients of any augmented reality retail shopping and is making mobile shopping a popular trend. Image recognition is also using 3D objects these days, though it was initially limited to product catalogues, TV ads and print ads.

The mobile apps, specifically the augmented reality apps for smartphones and tablets, have also proved beneficial for m-commerce. These augmented reality apps put an individual picture on the product, which the buyers need to scan using the app. In return, the augmented reality app will provide information about the product including its ingredients, prices, manufacture and expire date as well as information about its quality, user reviews and other additional data. Brands like Sephora triggered 150% growth in their mobile shopping using such AR technology.

Mobile shopping can also be benefitted by online brand engagement. Many retailers and m-commerce companies are using the mobile version of social media channels like Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter to promote their product offerings to empower brand value. They use tools like opportunity for comments, “Like” buttons and pictures to grow brand awareness.

Thus it is clear that it is worth investing on mobile applications. More than half of the mobile shoppers install at least a shopping application on their tablets and smartphones and many of them using more than one application. And among these shopping apps the most popular are the mobile shopping retailer apps, coupon applications and loyalty card organizers.

Thus, retailers must focus more on creating killer mobile applications for better sales and growth in their m-commerce. And while developing applications to facilitate mobile shopping experience of their consumers, they must make sure that the app is unique. Instead of mirroring your main site, offer some exclusive content through your app to encourage your buyers to download them and use them again and again. Also, the app should be simple and easy to use. Add push notifications to your app and make it social by integrating popular social platforms. Finally, to allow more interaction with your m-commerce site, link the augmented reality app the in-store activities.

Mobile Shopping Is The Future Of Retail

Technology is changing the shopping habits of buyers. Compete recently conducted a survey that reported a rapid increase in the number of people using their mobile devices for shopping. In fact, half of the population using smartphones and tablets are being converted into mobile shoppers. And it is just not the convenience of mobility that encourages buyers for mobile shopping as a considerable number of consumers do mobile shopping at home.

Based on the buying trends of the people, it is predicted that mobile market is expected to hit $1.5 trillion in 2013 and the figure is mostly likely to double in 2017, reaching more than $3 trillion. There are various technological developed that contributed to the growing popularity of mobile shopping.

One of such technologies is the image recognition technology that allows buyers to shop for items using their mobile devices by snapping a photo. All you need to do is take a picture of the item you want to buy and the technology will recognize the image and will take you to a website selling the same product. This is one of the main ingredients of any augmented reality retail shopping and is making mobile shopping a popular trend. Image recognition is also using 3D objects these days, though it was initially limited to product catalogues, TV ads and print ads.

The mobile apps, specifically the augmented reality apps for smartphones and tablets, have also proved beneficial for m-commerce. These augmented reality apps put an individual picture on the product, which the buyers need to scan using the app. In return, the augmented reality app will provide information about the product including its ingredients, prices, manufacture and expire date as well as information about its quality, user reviews and other additional data. Brands like Sephora triggered 150% growth in their mobile shopping using such AR technology.

Mobile shopping can also be benefitted by online brand engagement. Many retailers and m-commerce companies are using the mobile version of social media channels like Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter to promote their product offerings to empower brand value. They use tools like opportunity for comments, “Like” buttons and pictures to grow brand awareness.

Thus it is clear that it is worth investing on mobile applications. More than half of the mobile shoppers install at least a shopping application on their tablets and smartphones and many of them using more than one application. And among these shopping apps the most popular are the mobile shopping retailer apps, coupon applications and loyalty card organizers.

Thus, retailers must focus more on creating killer mobile applications for better sales and growth in their m-commerce. And while developing applications to facilitate mobile shopping experience of their consumers, they must make sure that the app is unique. Instead of mirroring your main site, offer some exclusive content through your app to encourage your buyers to download them and use them again and again. Also, the app should be simple and easy to use. Add push notifications to your app and make it social by integrating popular social platforms. Finally, to allow more interaction with your m-commerce site, link the augmented reality app the in-store activities.

Working In General Retail – Job Description Sales Assistant

Would you like to work in the retail industry? If you possess any of the following skills apply now!

Some of the main duties for a general position in the retail industry in a shop such as a department store or a boutique, working as a sales assistant will require the following skills:-

Ability to interact well with people.
Greet customers and ensure their needs are met.
To offer help and assistance in locating/obtaining a particular product make/size/model.
To make recommendations, such as, to place an order or to call another store regarding the item required if its out of stock and place the order for the customer.
To make recommendations regarding the product/merchandise.
Provide gift-wrapping and packing services.
To be able to use a cash register efficiently and ensure vouchers, coupons and cash are kept in order.
Process cash/credit payments.
Answer questions and queries.
Keep the environment clean/tidy (wipe down counters/shelves).

It is essential to maintain as much knowledge as possible regarding sales and promotions whilst also ensuring that you know what the companys policies and procedures are regarding exchanging/payment of goods.

Always maintain all essential security regulations are met.

Depending on the product sometimes it will be necessary to provide a demonstration of its use or operation and give advice on the maintenance of the item(s).

Other duties may involve:-
Maintaining the stores sales records.
Balancing the cash register and making deposits.
Pricing items correctly and visibly.
Creating attractive displays to promote the companys sales.
Preparing sales slips and contracts.
Making delivery arrangements.
Selling insurance and service policies for goods purchased.
Having the ability to stock take.
Being aware and knowledgeable regarding security threats and keeping an eye out for theft.

Whether you decide to work for a large department store or a corner shop or even a small boutique on the high street, the job role for a retailer is endless and full of career opportunities too. There is always plenty of overtime on offer and flexibility regarding hours of work.

Nokia Phones- Innovation is the strategy mobile phones

Nokia Phones move at great speed towards development. In the year 1992, Nokia diversified themselves in the telecommunication market. This was the high time that took them to think for the step they were taking. The market condition were as usual not positive as its always the same but the company broke all the records and formed strategic decision, entered the telecom industry. In the history of the company this step was proven to super profitable and now they are the world leaders.With the motto of connecting people they have created trust in the heart of the customer, and now they can purchase the handset without any second thought or doubt in their mind. The Nokia aims to serve the masses and have not left the classes too.

The company has designed the handset such that they get the sure value of money. The Quality is the major aspect of the company and finally delivers it to the end user. The Research and development team works really hard on the innovation line which leads the company at a good pace. Cheap Nokia Phones are very much available in the market with the lucrative deals. These deals are comparison of the handset on the basis of the price, the network and calling plan. Now the user can log in through the internet can check the deals online. Just by typing Nokia mobile phone deals in google you can check out the deals portal.

The deals are of three types i.e. contract deals, sim free and pay as you go deals. In the sim free deals the customer is free to choose any of the networks and have to pay in advance to make call or avail any of the service. Just opposite is with case with contract deals where the user sign an agreement with specified network for the duration not less than 12 months and not more than 24 months. The pay as go deals are almost similar to sim free deals. With such deals it becomes very easy for the seller to sell and buyer to buy. So from now buy only Nokia. for more information about Nokia Phones and phones with free gifts visit our mobile shop.

The Pros And Cons Of Rss Feeds

Whats all the buzz about RSS feeds? To some webmasters its their knight in shining armor when it comes to adding relevant content to their web site. If your are considering adding a RSS feed to your site, get some background information first so you will know what to expect.

Lets start off by explaining exactly what a RSS feed is.

If youve been hanging around the internet lately, then youve seen these 3 letters in many of the websites youve visited. It has become all the rave and its popularity is on a steady uphill climb. I predict that the day will come when 95% of all websites will incorporate a RSS feed of some sort into their site.

RSS stands for Really Simple Syndication or Rich Site Summary; syndicating means republishing an article that comes from another source such as a website.

An RSS is a means of publicizing updates about websites. It may or may not include a summary and photos of the latest posting. But those that provide summaries (thus Rich Site Summary) allow users to skim through the article so that they could decide later on if they want to access the website source. The RSS feed usually contains the title of the update originating from the website. It is also usually the link to the website source.

What are the benefits of RSS?

RSS gives benefits to both readers and web publishers alike with its ease and simplicity of use.

1. It gives you the latest updates. Whether its about the weather, music, software upgrades, or local news. You can obtain a feed on an unlimited number of subjects and as its popularity continue to increase, so will the many different subjects you will be able to retrieve from a feed.

2. If youre looking for a quick method of surfing the web, RSS feeds can meet that demand. Because it pulls information from outside sources and compile that data into a single feed, it saves on surfing time. Some feeds provides a summary of related articles, this saves the users time by helping him/her decide on which items to prioritize when reading or browsing the net.

3. It gives freedom of choice to the user. Users are given a free-hand on which websites to include in their RSS aggregators which they have the freedom to change at any time. This puts pressure on the RSS feed provider to maintain an up-to-date data base of current and relevant articles.

4. It lessens the clutter in your inbox. Although your email address will be required to enjoy the services of online RSS feed aggregators, RSS does not use your email address to send the updates. Everything is done from their servers. This makes it virtually hassle free.

5. RSS feeds are completely spam free. Unlike email subscriptions, RSS does not make use of your email address to send updates thus your privacy is kept safe from spam mails.

6. Unsubscribing is also hassle-free. When you no longer want to post an RSS feed from a provider on your website, all you have to do is delete the html code or the RSS feeds URL from your site.

7. It can be used as an advertising or marketing tool. Users who subscribe receive the latest news on products and services from your site without it being viewed as spam mail by the receiver. This is an advantage to both the web user and the website owner since advertising becomes targeted to people who are actually interested in your products. As for the web user, he/she receives current, up-to-date articles about topics that interest them.

What are the drawbacks of RSS Feeds?

The biggest drawback to the use of RSS feeds is the fact that its a relatively new technology and it has been known to have some user-preference concerns such as:

1. Some users prefer receiving email updates over an RSS feed.

2. Graphics and photos do not appear in all RSS feeds.

3. The identity of the source website can be confusing. Since RSS feeds do not display the actual URL or name of the website, it can sometimes get confusing on what feed a user is actually reading.

4. Publishers cannot determine how many users are subscribed to their feed and the frequency of their visits. Moreover, they would not know the reasons why users unsubscribe which could be important in improving their advertising.

5. RSS feeds create higher traffic and demands on the website owners server.

6. Since it is a new technology, many website hosting companies do not currently support RSS feeds.

O.K. Im Interested: How do I start using RSS feeds on my website?

There are two things needed: an RSS feed and an RSS aggregator or reader. The RSS feed comes from an RSS supported website. There are also websites that provide a list of RSS feeds of different websites. An RSS aggregator is used to read the RSS feed from the source website. It scans and collects data on the latest RSS feeds from the worldwide web.

An aggregator comes in two forms: a downloadable program also known as desktop aggregator and an online or web-based aggregator. Downloadable aggregators may require payment before they can be acquired, while internet-based aggregators are usually free of charge. All you need to do is to register an account then you are ready to use their services. Both versions allow you to customize or choose which RSS feeds to enter. Paid aggregators are usually chosen by more experienced users and they usually allow more freedom in customizing feeds.

1. Choose an RSS aggregator to use. For beginners, web-based aggregators are recommended since they are usually user-friendly.

2. Scan the homepage of your target website for the RSS or XML button. It contains the RSS code you need to enter in the aggregator. Copy this code. Syndic8 provides a directory of websites that support RSS.

3. Paste the code (which contains the URL of the website) in your aggregator. There is a space provided for pasting the code.

After you have done these three easy steps, you can start reading the RSS feeds coming from the website. New postings appear as they are published real time at the source website.

As RSS feeds increase in popularity, no doubt the number of websites that employ this method of Internet web site marketing will increase along with it. If you are looking for a quick and efficient way to provide relevant content to your web site, then consider incorporating a RSS feed.

Dont give up! If at first you dont succeed, TRY, TRY, AGAIN! There is a lot to learn when trying to figure out what works best for your online business. Give yourself a break and dont set unrealistic goals. Dont be afraid to learn from others and keep at it until you get it just how you want it.

So, Good Luck, Make Money and Have Fun Doing It – Shirley Kelly

About the Author:

Shirley Kelly is a full time internet marketer who has written over 200 articles in print and 5 published ebooks. Her passion is helping others avoid the mistakes she made when she launched her first website. Her motto is “Knowledge is power and power is having a good understanding about what you’re doing.” To learn more about Internet web site marketing, download this great ebook The Newbies Guide To Internet Marketing at www.websitemarketing2.com

A Simple Time Management Tips For Teens

As teenagers start to have a more active social life and their classes become more complex, not to mention, working part-time jobs and doing house chores, time management for teens becomes a necessary skill.

With a mountain of things to do, time management for teens can be difficult. The best way to start is to set priorities straight. Look at the tasks that needs to be accomplished and identify which has to be done first, perhaps based on which deadline is nearest or which is more urgent. Give more priority to projects or tasks that will take the longest to finish or those that are the most difficult.

Oftentimes, just looking at the activities you have for the day you can easily decide which should be a priority but this would often require maturity and honesty. For example, priority tasks include doing homework but just hanging out a friends house is not although this activity is important to most, if not all, teens so being honest in prioritizing is crucial in time management for teens.

Once the high-priority and low-priority tasks are sorted out, the next step is to create a daily schedule, which is the backbone of any time management plan. In the case of time management for teens, a daily schedule should start with waking time, preparing for school and then leaving for school, followed by a schedule of classes, other extra-curricular activities, and then the time of arrival at home, time for homework, chores and etcetera.

When you have a schedule of things to do, it will be easier to see if there is slack time left for anything else that needs to be done during the day. It will also be helpful to have to-do list aside from a daily schedule. A to-do-list can serve as a reminder when tasks are finished early or just whenever there is free time that can be used productively.

Whether handling a small or large task, it always best to try to do it properly the first time to avoid having to re-do the work. Manage a big project better by not trying to finish everything in a day or two but rather divide the work into smaller sections and spread them out within a week. It is also a good idea to start as early as possible because procrastination would not only ruin your schedule but it almost always result to poor work quality.

Time management for teens is a skill that is not only useful at school but throughout life so the sooner teenagers learn it the better off they would be.

Wishing Well Plans

One of the wishing well plans that need to be put into serious consideration is the wishing well patterns. These are patterns that are to be used to get an idea of what the wishing well will look like when it has been completed. There are several patterns that one can use to design the wishing well. The kind of style that one settles with is determined by the wishing well that one desires as the wishing well plans that may have already been made. However, it is possible to change wishing well plans to suit the particular style that is desired. Just as the wishing well plans can be found online, it is also possible to find more than one pattern from online sources.

It is easy to make use of the patterns that one gets online due to the fact that they are patterns that make use of the standard product produced or found in lumber yards and other various home building centers. These patterns can be obtained from the online sources at a small fee and it is the ideal place to get pattern that are easy to implement as well those that can produce quality wishing well contraction. The reason why it is easy to use the patterns when making well wishing pans is brought about by the fact that most of the patterns will come with pictures of the finished wells. To the person who desires that wishing well constructed it is one way of getting to know the design to use for their own wishing wells.

The kind of patterns to be used in the wishing well plans can be simple designs with basic geometric shapes or it can be a more complex design. With the help of the online sources it will be easy to establish the right kind of design that one may wish to use. Wishing well patterns can make use of any kind of materials for building depending on the complexity of the wishing well plans. Some of the common materials that can work with any patter include plastic, wood, brick and stonework.

It is not a must that the wishing well plans make use of the patterns as they are. One advantage of getting wishing well patterns from online sources is because they are flexible and thus, allow for adjustments to be done. It is possible to adjust the height and base dimensions. This will require a little calculation that will allow an individual either increase the dimensions or reduce them. The flexible feature of these patterns also applies to the kind of materials that can be used in the wishing well plans for construction.

A good wishing well pattern is one that comes with a step by step guide on how to use them, has complete photos of the finished product and are patterns that are full size and traceable. The palms can be used as they are or to be unique the wishing well pans can personalize the patterns to fit the type of landscaping one has or the desired effect that is expected by the wishing well.

Chinese Lingerie And Intimate Wear Industry Market Overview

Lingerie industry is in a state of intense competition. Fashionable and price friendly lingerie’s are sold by the manufacturers while global brands are looking for new markets. International specialty brands are at their wings; seeking entry into emerging markets for future growth. Current global market for lingerie’s rose by 2.6% to $29.92 billion USD from 2004 to 2007, while clothing prices dropped down by 4%. China, as an emerging market has seen a growth rate of 8.1% during the same time. Fast fashion retailers are now offering fashionable intimate apparels at lower prices and are undertaking hardcore marketing efforts to sustain their brand image in China. On the other hand, China itself is a major exporter of apparels to the global market at competitive prices.

Chinese Lingerie Market:

Chinese lingerie market is a dynamic sector. Their market structure is composed of many national and international brands, and intimate apparels are brought in by many countries; names unknown to the consumer.
The country’s lingerie market is a fast moving one, and there is a drastic change during the recent past. The lingerie market is estimated to be of a total value of 2 billion euros, and industry experts predict a further positive increase of 20% every year. The country is the third largest for luxury consumption, and is assumed by the market leaders to catch up with the position of Japan in the next 10 years. China is a key player in fabric industry, having good potential for creation and consumption. Major lingerie players in China have reassessed their market positions, and are now closing the knowledge gap to become ‘low cost’ producers.

Integral Apparel in the Wardrobe of Chinese Women:

As Chinese lingerie manufacturers eye the global market, rest of the world eyes China. Shanghai is in the forefront of the lingerie boom. Lingerie is progressively becoming one desirable item in the wardrobe of Chinese women. A survey states that an average Chinese woman spends 8% of their fashion budget on lingerie annually. Though 8% appears to be meager, China is populated with 503 million women and the huge numbers are promising. From lavishness, luxury lingerie’s have now become a wardrobe necessity. A lingerie industry survey states that Chinese population consists of more than 200 million women in the age limit of using lingerie, the annual consumption would go beyond 600 million pieces, reaching a sales figure of 15 million RMB.

Exports-The Lacy Lingerie Race:

Encompassing promising prospects in the global market, lingerie industries in China are actively seeking opportunities to expand its domestic market overseas. On an average, the country exports around 4 billion pieces of lingerie; annually. They export intimate wears mainly to France, US, Japan, and Europe. Export of Chinese bras rose as high as 10.5 million; i.e., 93% after the EU ended a 40 year quota system. China enjoys a good market in US as a lingerie exporter. Its performance is on a high base capturing 25% of exports to US. Despite the restrictions on US exports to China, the communist giant is expected to become the third largest exporter to US. China, enfolded with continuous enhancement in technology, makes it a cost effective destination for other countries to have their production base offshore. China along with India is projected to increase its global market share by $100 million USD each in the next few years.

Leading Intimate Wear Hubs:

The city of Shenzhen is considered as the ‘fashion capital’ of China. It is a pedestal of domestic and foreign intimate wears, designing, R&D, and manufacturing of lingerie’s. The economic benefits acquired and the market size favor Shenzhen and draws continuous attention of the investors. Many popular brands sold in the global market are being exported from the Pearl River Delta, especially Shenzhen. The ‘Sun Hing Group’ who manufacture 70% of its lingerie accessories in Asia, the ‘YKK’, a fortune 500 company, and ‘Regina Miracle’ all have their manufacturing base in Shenzhen. The city has a perfectly formed industry chain starting from design to production, marketing, and sales both at the domestic and export level. A renowned lingerie brand has launched its outlet in Shenzhen especially because of its cluster effect which will enhance brand promotion and boost sales. Two of the popular Chinese lingerie brands come from Shenzhen, and almost 10 internationally reputed lingerie brands have their production base here. Topform, Calvin Klein, Triumph, Regina Miracle, and Victoria’s Secret are a few to name. Embry Form, Xusany, Venies, Ordifen etc are a few domestic brands, having their manufacturing facilities in Shenzhen and enjoy a nation wide reputation.

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Frozen Yogurt Adds To Franchise Platter

The food and beverage industry is gaining tremendous pace in the last few years. The health food and beverage market is projected to grow at a growth rate of about 35 per cent per annum as per a recent study conducted by the Tata Research Management Group. This growth can be attributed to the new and unique business opportunities coming up in the F&B industry. Frozen yogurt, is one of such international business concept witnessing extensive popularity in India.

Frozen yogurt is available in different flavours and offers rich experience to consumers with its delicious and mouth-watering assortment. In India, people in general consume yogurts for climatic as well as health related benefits but with hectic life style only a few can enjoy its home-made taste. Moreover with Indians getting more brand conscious, people are consuming readymade yogurt from a branded outlet. As informed by G.S. Bhalla, MD Cocoberry, When we started off there was no other yogurt outlet chain in market. The success that we have achieved has happened due to our proud franchisees. Let us have a look at few other factors which have given a boost to this unusual business concept pan India.

Boosting factors for yogurt business

Buying a flavoured yogurt franchise is comparatively a recent development in the Indian markets. However, this unique business opportunity assures success if operated efficiently. Presently, with more and more people becoming health conscious, it is considered the best food item to offer taste as well maintain health. Secondly, increased disposable income and peoples preference of eating out can also guarantee its success. Busy schedules and women working outside, leaves less time to make yogurt at home. On the other hand, with the concept of frozen yogurt pepping up consumers preferences, people are changing to tastier and healthier options of yoghurt. Another factor added to yogurt franchising is the comfort that it offers to women entrepreneurs. Women who are fond of cooking or preparing special food items can take a frozen yogurt franchise and turn their hobby to a successful business.

However, aspirants who are still undecided about taking a franchise or starting their own business of this unique opportunity need to understand first why franchising is always a better option.

Franchising of yogurt business

Though yoghurt franchise business is quite popular internationally, but is in emerging stage in India. At present, there are only two franchise brands in India, but that the concept is catching up fast among other franchise brands.

Niche segment benefits:

Aspiring entrepreneurs can cash-in many benefits of this unique business opportunity. This is due to the few franchise players in the segment who are still in the expansion mode. These players would give individual attention to the debutants as they are keen on expanding their business venture. Therefore, aspirants can get a lot of assistance from the parent company.

Low investment

The second reason for its popularity is its low cost investment as compared to other F&B outlets. As informed by Bhalla, Cocoberry Franchise Partner System starts at a low investment model depending on location and size. Low investment and higher repeat sales ensure a healthy return on investment (ROI) for franchisees.

Increased acceptance

However, brands like Cocoberry has proved its success by opening 16 operational stores, out of which 11 are franchisee owned. Kiwi Kiss, a Canadian frozen yogurt chain, better known for its juice and smoothie brand Jus Booster Juice has plans to bring their yogurt brand in India soon. This development shows the rising popularity of the unique concept in India.

Cautions while running a yogurt franchise

Every business demands lot of care and cautions. Yogurt franchise is no such exception from other successful businesses. A few precautions are given below:

Maintaining health and safety issues:
FMCG food item so it can perish in a short time.
Adhere to franchise rules in maintaining standards

To conclude, it can be said that running a yoghurt franchise is quite easy and simple. Aspiring entrepreneurs are sure to get lucrative benefits by taking its franchise now as this concept is gaining huge acceptance across the nation.

Tips On Tenant Improvement Allowances

Tenant improvement allowances, funds provided by the landlord to improve office space, are becoming increasingly prevalent during landlord-tenant negotiations, and all companies should consider their role in creating an ideal office space. However, companies seeking to lease at least 5,000 square feet of Class A & B office space with a lease term of at least five years can exercise much greater leverage on the landlord and will typically find it easier to achieve many of the suggestions below. If in doubt, you should consult with a real estate broker to determine the feasibility of any specific item.

1. In todays economic environment, many landlords are providing and funding 100 percent of the building standard installations required by tenants.

2. Tenants should try to negotiate above-standard items, such as millwork, extra HVAC, large glass walls, plush carpeting or special lighting, to get them included in the tenant improvement allowance provided by the landlord.

3. When landlords refuse to fund all or a portion of above-standard items, tenants can try to amortize their cost into the rent over the term of the lease instead of paying out of pocket.

4. Funding above-standard work can also be achieved via negotiating tactics, for example, offering to decrease the quantity of free rent and increase the tenant improvement allowance instead.

5. We recommend tenants hire an architect to represent their interests and suggest a layout and design of the space to ensure tenant improvement allowances are put to the best possible use.

6. Tenants can avoid the need for a large tenant improvement allowance by touring many suites and finding one with a suitable existing configuration. However, we advise tenants to avoid compromising the amount of their tenant improvement allowance just to decrease the rental rate.

7. Landlords are providing generous tenant improvement allowances for new tenants, and tenants can use this as leverage even if they are only renewing, especially if they have occupied the space for the past five-to-ten years.

8. If landlords offer a specific dollar amount for a tenant improvement allowance, we advise tenants to negotiate an open-bid format, based on an expert review by their own architect, project manager or construction firm.

9. Many companies are using tenant improvement allowances to create more light in the workplace by adding glass in offices and conference rooms. From narrow, vertical side-windows to full walls of glass, natural light illuminates interior areas and provides sight-lines for workers to improve communications and productivity.

10. We always recommend tenants hire an architect to brainstorm about the best uses for tenant improvement allowances. Many companies are decreasing hard-walled offices in favor of flexible workstations and huddle rooms, small two-to-four person conference areas, to accommodate departments changing needs.