I'm very excited to depart for Japan on Sunday for the first time in five years! The week of November 11, I'll be part of Katie Anderson‘s Japan Study Trip, this time after five previous trips between 2012 and 2019 with Kaizen Institute and Honsha Consulting. Read my posts about past trips. Each time, I've learned something new, visited new companies, and met new people — and have just enjoyed everything about being in Japan. […]

The post Reflecting on my First Time Meeting Isao Yoshino in Japan — 2012 by Mark Graban appeared first at Lean Blog.

Most companies today have something to say about their company culture and how it makes them unique with regard to what they do and how they treat their employees. And that's a good thing: Today's employees are not motivated solely by money, and behaving as if they are will rarely lead to good long-term recruiting results. When candidates are considering prospective employers, they have a ...

When sales reps are hunting for a new job, they're looking for more than just robust compensation packages and quality products. Of course, these two factors are key attractors for many quality candidates, but the best sales reps want more. To succeed and be satisfied in their roles, they also want to work for great leaders who set an example and support them on their paths. To an extent, your recruiting ...

Within the opening moments of a job interview, your first impression is made. Controlling that impression is often a matter of personal style. Let's talk about that one question we ask ourselves everyday: What am I going to wear? This question is never more important than it is on the day of a job interview. Yes, yes — your personality and skills matter, too. However, if we're talking about ...

Materials testing ensures quality by subjecting materials and products to controlled conditions to evaluate properties and behavior under stress. Learn how mechanical, physical, and chemical properties are evaluated to determine suitability for different applications.

As electric vehicles (EVs) reshape the automotive industry, manufacturers are pressured to enhance processes and achieve first-time quality. The demand for sustainable transportation requires a rethink of production strategies, with a focus on establishing a one-piece flow—ensuring each unit moves through the line without interruptions. This efficiency is vital for meeting consumer expectations and setting industry benchmarks.

With great sadness, The American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) shared the passing of founding member and first president, John William Locke, at the age of 91.

Coats of Many Colors First Issue by Thomas Blackshear II is a(n) Event. The Edition is Limited to Number 530 of 3500 pcs

First Look at Neverland by James Coleman is a(n) Limited Edition. The Edition is Limited to Limited Edition of 395 pcs

Initially, Arizona’s Efficiency Arizona program, in partnership with community action agencies, will focus on providing heat pumps through an a/c replacement program that addresses heat-relief emergencies and/or financial hardships.

With Zonefirst's Internet of Zoning (IoZ) technology, the Bliss system enables homeowners to manage both lighting and temperature settings through an app.

Utilizing the company’s Internet of Zoning (IoZ) technology, the Bliss Zoning System, a new home climate control system, enables homeowners to easily manage both lighting and temperature settings through a single, user-friendly app, allowing for customized comfort in every zone. 

Through the program, Lennox helps families in need by donating a state-of-the-art HVAC system, then having the equipment installed by a local Lennox dealer free of charge.

Wisconsin just became the first state in the nation to launch the Home Efficiency (HOMES) portion of the IRA's rebate program.

Manufacturers are starting to introduce their A2L systems in the U.S., so contractors and technicians must learn how to service and install this new equipment.

With the impending deadline right around the corner, manufacturers have started introducing their A2L systems in the U.S.

The first time a technician has to tackle a ductless mini-split can be nerve-racking, but by following these 10 tips, the job can be done without all the anxiety.

Dick Foster has been preaching the positives of zoning for years. As the owner of ZoneFirst, he has dedicated his life and career to this technology, and it has been a bit of an uphill battle.

Contractors need to equip themselves to be ambassadors when it comes to zoning.

For years, ZoneFirst President Dick Foster has used the light-switches-in-the-home comparison while promoting the benefits of zoning. At their AHR Expo booth, they introduced a product that brought new meaning to that comparison.

“The acquisition of California Economizer and its Zonex Systems brings together the two oldest manufacturers of zoning dampers and zone-control systems,” said Dick Foster, the president of Zonefirst and its parent company, Trolex Corp.

Our new blog has been launched today. Stay focused on it and we will try to keep you informed. You can read new posts on this blog via the RSS feed.

Kent Beck, Chief Scientist at Mechanical Orchard, and inventor of Extreme Programming and Test-Driven Development, joins SE Radio host Giovanni Asproni for a conversation on software design based on his latest book "Tidy First?". The episode starts with exploring the reasons for writing the book, and introducing the concepts of tidying, cohesion, and coupling. It continues with a conversation about software design, and the impact of tidyings. Then Kent and Giovanni discuss how to balance design and code quality decisions with cost, value delivered, and other important aspects. The episode ends with some considerations on the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the software developer's job. Brought to you by IEEE Software and IEEE Computer Society.

The largest and most advanced wave pool is opening in Scotland giving surfers the chance to ride the waves no matter what the weather.

We are updating our site to incorporate the changes that have been made by the updates to the First Certicate in English (FCE) exam from Cambridge English.

January 12
Three Branches, One Government
Review the functions of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the government, as well as how the three branches relate to each other.

January 12
Fourth Grade Community Project: Going to the Museum
Encourage your students to research and visit a museum in your community with these activities.

First Onsite, a leading disaster recovery provider in North America, has expanded its New England presence by recruiting a seasoned team of restoration professionals. Led by industry veterans Gary Grout and Jason Green, the team brings decades of experience in water, fire, and mold mitigation, enhancing First Onsite's ability to serve clients across Massachusetts and beyond.

Students to receive OSHA HAZWOPER and Microbial Warrior Certification in one session. 

First Onsite Property Restoration to co-host a Live Burn and Education Seminar!

ecoCombo™ compliments Rohrer’s ezCombo™ program and offers a new way for retail brands to make sustainable packaging choices in their blister packaging.

The 500 ml D-PAK™ carton is made with paperboard from responsibly managed forests and is fully recyclable, as well as carbon neutral.

ANALYTICA, a behavioral sciences-based company in Edinburgh, as launched the first service that optimizes packaging using consumer psychology and neuroscience-led customer tests.

PMMI has welcomed Delkor Systems’ Patty Andersen as the 2023 chairperson of the Board, marking the first time a woman has held the position in the association’s history. 

The Global Packaging Group is growing in the South and Central Americas Region with a new hub of excellence for pressure sensitive labels, with plans for expansion into digital printing.

Antares Vision Group has implemented a traceability solution for cosmeceutical skin care provider Episciences, Inc., addressing supply chain visibility and gray market diversion challenges. The system was developed by ACSIS, a business unit of Antares Vision Group.

Kraft Mac & Cheese has announced it is developing and testing the brand’s first-ever recyclable fiber-based microwavable cup. Upon testing completion, the brand will launch a new Kraft Mac & Cheese Shapes variety using the new cup and design later in 2021.

Company’s innovative solution simultaneously prints on both sides of a label without using a liner or backing material. 

Company notes that Latin American demand for different printed products, including labels and packaging, especially highly embellished, sophisticated ones, has started to grow significantly.

Wynn Petfood is now packing its entire product portfolio of premium pet food blends (that are mixed with water at home) and practical snacks for dogs 100% in paper.

The new and improved AGELESS provides a timely packaging solution for customers navigating the PFAS regulatory landscape.

Chewy granola bar brand debuts new packaging, launches new flavor and announces new distribution.

Snacking masterminds debut first bagged snack in 15+ years with Pringles Mingles, mingling fan-favorite flavors in a delicious, puffed form.

Midnight Evergreen Technologies, Inc. (Midnight) dares to reimagine the role of an AA game publisher, with a mission to fundamentally reshape how we play together. Midnight is building The Evergreen, the first (of-its-kind) publishing platform designed as a deconstructed, composable MMORPG, delivering immersive, cross-genre experiences that seamlessly span across various platforms, pushing the boundaries of how games are played and enjoyed.

The Evergreen fuses enduring player progression with constantly evolving gameplay, creating an interconnected arcade of games that offer the reach, engagement, and monetization of a traditional MMO—without the risks of a single theme, game narrative, or prolonged production cycles.

Midnight proudly announces the launch of the first of its 26 planned core games in this Deconstructed MMO: The Evergreen: Midnight Market. Set to release on Web, Mobile, and Telegram, and built in partnership with Aptos Foundation, Midnight Market is a daring game of risk and reward where every spin teeters between fortune and mischief. Combining the thrill of crypto gaming with the reliability and scalability of Aptos' Layer 1 blockchain, Midnight Market sets a new standard for decentralized gaming.

Players will find themselves in a high-stakes world of chance, crafting items, earning tokens, and navigating encounters with the elusive Night Pig. How far will you push your luck in pursuit of the ultimate prize?

“Our partnership with Aptos Foundation marks a significant tipping point,” said Steve Wade, Founder & CEO of Midnight. “Aptos’ innovative Web3 infrastructure aligns perfectly with our strategy to focus on player participation in the ecosystems they engage with. Specifically, we’ve solved for interoperability between games, and Aptos makes that solution a reality.” Wade further explained, “We believe in the creator economy and see Web3 as the next logical step—empowering individuals and communities to shape the ecosystems they interact with. With Aptos, we envision a world where players’ stories matter and endure long after the game is over.”

Key Features of The Evergreen: Midnight Market

• Engaging, Unpredictable Gameplay: Players experience unpredictable rewards or unexpected encounters, with every spin holding the potential for either fortune or a surprise interaction with the Night Pig. This element of suspense enhances the gameplay experience with an entertaining, high-stakes twist.
• Decisive Risk-Reward Mechanics: With each turn, players must choose between pushing their luck for higher rewards or banking their earnings. This gameplay design adds strategic depth, enhancing engagement through meaningful player choices.
• Aptos Powered Player Economy: Midnight Market features a blockchain-powered economy, enabling players to craft items known as Keys and earn tickets that can be redeemed for the native ecosystem token or other exclusive merchandise. This player-driven system ensures that every reward has tangible value, heightening the stakes and making the game’s risk-reward mechanics even more impactful.

The game is the first major title to utilize the Aptos high-throughput blockchain, which boasts low latency and high transaction speeds, creating a seamless gaming environment for thousands of players worldwide.

“Powered by the speed and security of the Aptos blockchain, we’re excited to see Midnight’s ambitious vision for The Evergreen brought to life,” said Bashar Lazaar, Head of Grants and Ecosystem at Aptos Foundation. “Players can expect an immersive, genre-spanning experience where every move shapes their unique journey, and the time they spend leaves lasting echoes within the game’s universe and control over the assets they acquire. This isn’t just a step into the future of Web3 gaming—it’s a bold leap forward, placing players at the heart of a dynamic ecosystem, where every moment they choose to spend has a meaningful impact on the worlds they explore".

The Evergreen: Midnight Market is in closed beta now and available to players globally November 13th.

About Aptos Foundation

Aptos Foundation is dedicated to supporting the development of the Aptos protocol, decentralized network and ecosystem and driving engagement with the Aptos ecosystem. By unlocking a blockchain with seamless usability, Aptos Foundation aims to bring the benefits of decentralization to the masses.

About Aptos Network

Aptos is a next-generation Layer 1 blockchain. Aptos’ breakthrough technology and programming language, Move, are designed to evolve, improve performance and strengthen user safeguards.

About Midnight

Midnight (https://www.midnight.io/) is at the forefront of innovation with The Evergreen, the first-ever publishing platform that operates as a deconstructed, composable MMORPG. Players engage with and explore diverse, interconnected game worlds, all linked by The Evergreen, a dynamic nexus that binds these unique experiences together. Each game is its own universe, offering new adventures while feeding into a broader progression system. By combining immersive gameplay with a shared economy and evolving narratives, Midnight is reshaping how players discover and interact with new worlds across genres and platforms.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) today announced the launch of “Voices From the Field,” a new digital campaign highlighting stories of local broadcasters through first-person accounts. The campaign, part of NAB’s “We Are Broadcasters” initiative, will spotlight how broadcasters are using their expertise, experience and dedication to local broadcasting to serve their audiences and uplift their communities.

The 2022 NAB Show New York will showcase hands-on learning and interactive product discovery with more than 230 leading-edge companies, including 32 first-time exhibitors. NAB Show New York takes place October 19-20, 2022, at the Javits Center.