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If you’re confused about how to use the CSS gradient element, you’re in the right place. You can implement this element on your website in many ways to create a more engaging and visually appealing user experience. That’s why learning how to make a gradient in CSS is worthwhile. I’m a big fan of the CSS gradient element to add depth and a pop of color to a website.
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Mind mapping has become one of the most popular techniques for organizing and developing new ideas. They make explaining the relationships between ideas and concepts easy with graphics, charts and diagrams. Mind mapping tools let you and your team visualize your thoughts with real-time collaboration.
Many businesses around the world already use mind mapping techniques for brainstorming, planning projects and making decisions. The technique actually existed long before technology enabled the creation of mind-mapping software. Now developers have designed all sorts of mind mapping tools with a variety of functions and applications.
Exactly which mind mapper suits your needs will depend on exactly what kind of functions each tool prioritizes. Have a browse through these highlights of each set of features and check their prices and device compatibility.
Selecting the right Mind Map Tool is a crucial decision for small business owners and entrepreneurs seeking to harness their creativity and streamline ideas. With a plethora of options available, it’s essential to prioritize ease of use, cross-platform compatibility, collaboration features, and security measures. Here are the key factors to consider, along with their respective importance ratings on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest priority:
Here are the top mind-mapping software options for your small business:
The collaborative MindMeister mind mapping tool visualizes and shares your thoughts and ideas with others. Attractive graphics present multiple tools for taking notes and brainstorming, as well as time-lining projects and other online tasks. MindMeister’s real-time collaboration lets you share your ideas with a group to work together in real-time. You can also create impressive slideshows in the presentation mode and map out group projects with the project management function.
It is available for Windows, Mac OS or Linux, plus iOS and Android. The Business package costs under $15 a month, plus there are cheaper packages and a basic one for free.
Mindly is one of the best mind map examples. It is a unique mind mapping software for organizing your ideas into a hierarchical structure which is then easy to navigate through. Capture your thoughts and create quick summaries, plan your projects and use associations to keep your mapping mind organized. The designers of the Mindly app intentionally created a tool that does not require lots of typing, formatting or adjusting details. Just drag and drop your creations.
This mind mapping software is available on iOS, Android and Mac and has a free plan that has plenty of the basic features. The paid plan for iOS and Android costs $6.99, with the paid plan for Mac costing $29.99.
Ayoa is one of the best mind mapping apps for generating ideas and sharing a mind map with others. As well as the classic mind mapping tools, Ayoa includes a task management tool and chat application. The collaborative elements help make teams get started and quickly create a mind map together. You can customize the look of the branches and connectors and add files and images directly onto them. Also add emojis to branches and organize maps with branch categories.
Use with Windows, Mac, iOS or Android with the free package or paid tiers of between $10 and $15 monthly. A premium Enterprise package is also available that offers a professional, tailored on-premise work management solution for your business.
The online collaborative software Mindomo lets you map concepts and share ideas with its mind mapping and project outlining tools. Use the app to plan your journey towards your goals with impressive visual maps. Connect dots to map concepts and make a blueprint of your ideas and plans. Unregistered users are also able to view the created maps shared by the registered users. Mindomo also provides collaborative online Gantt charts for scheduling project timelines.
Collaborate with and create a mind map with Mindomo via Windows, Mac or Linux, as well as iOS and Android. There is a free basic plan, with access for a single user plus guests is around $15 per month. The team plan provides full access for five people and costs around $26 per month. More expensive plans are available for larger teams.
Organize your day, run your project and manage your team with Mindjet MindManager software. This mind mapping software features a unified dashboard, big data analytics and game mechanics. This combination helps you come up with the best ideas and apply them to your business. The mapping software allows you to quickly drag and drop information and expand ideas. The mind mapping abilities let you manage everything from brainstorming to project planning. You can also use Mindjet MindManager to track multiple items such as resources and due dates.
It is compatible with Mac and WIndows. For less than $500 you can buy a perpetual license, with upgrades available for under half that. While that may sound expensive, you can trial the full version of the software for 30 days free of charge.
The Xmind mind mapping software has multiple integrated tools to help you brainstorm, be more creative and map your mind. The Xmind software supports tree and fishbone diagrams, Logic and Org charts, as well as Matrix and Timeline. You can create any kind of graphic you like to present your mind and project maps. Another useful feature is the ability to export your creations to Word, PDF, Excel, PPT and more.
It is available for Mac, Linux and Windows as well as iOS and Android. It is free to download, but the plan costs either $39.99 for six months or $59.99 for a year. Each of these prices lets you use the plan on five desktops and five mobile devices.
Mindmup is a web-based mind mapping tool that lets you create concepts and argument maps. You can make unlimited amounts of mind maps and store them on the Mindmup Cloud or Google Drive. An interesting feature is Mindmup’s ability to automatically add contextual information and images to your creations. You can add whatever icons or images you want to the mindmap. The interface is easy to navigate with a simple drag and drop action.
The Mindmup software is written in JavaScript and can run in HTML5 browsers. There are two pay tiers for this mind mapping software, one for personal and one for business. The former costs $2.99 per month, with the latter costing $100 a year. There is also a free version that lets you make unlimited amounts of maps and store them for six months.
Creately is another browser-based online mind mapping software. It has one of the most extensive mind mapping design libraries with thousands of templates. Users of diagrams will be pleased to note there are over 50 examples to choose from. Creately has been designed to help teams collaborate not only on capturing and organizing ideas, but to develop them too. It is especially useful in meetings, with a built-in video conferencing tool. It also features real-time mouse tracking and diagram export options such as PNG, JPEG, PDF and SVG. This mindmap maker can be integrated with Slack and Confluence.
There is a basic plan for free which allows you to create five mind mapping documents. The personal plan costs $4.95 per month and the business plan $18 per month. There are also custom enterprise plans with custom pricing and premium account support.
TheBrain features a superb graphical interface that lets you instantly share images, documents and web pages. You can not only map the progression of ideas but also map your network relationships. The intelligent note-taking and non-linear file management help you fully realize concepts. TheBrain mind map promises to help you come up with better ideas and make better decisions. The map developers recently added a built-in video and audio player and native PDF rendering as well.
It is available for iOS and Android and can sync with your desktop and web browser. Payment options include a $15 per month subscription or a $219 one-off fee with no recurring payments. There is also a Combo plan with exclusive features for $299 for the first year, and $159 per year thereafter.
The browser-based Coggle is a mind mapping software for creating documents with a difference. With the Coggle mind map you can create hierarchical structures instead of the usual spreadsheets or standard text documents. It has a quick note-taking function for brainstorming sessions and you can add images, text and annotate to your creations. The real-time collaboration feature lets the group share the software for creative meetings. Another bonus is that group members don’t need to be registered to make drag and drop edits to the diagrams.
There is a free version that you can use to try this mind mapping software. The two paid tiers cost $5 and $8 per month, with the latter recommended for teams working together.
Create impressive and clear mind maps as well as flowcharts and checklists with the online diagram software DrakonHub. This software has been specifically designed for businesses and is useful for managers and project leaders. It lets you design a clear plan of action with real-time editing. The visual clarity of this software is a big advantage it has over other similar diagramming tools. The visual structure will help the viewer see how each item relates to its parent, siblings, and children.
It runs in your browser so there is no need to download any apps. It is compatible with iOS and Windows. Costs start at $6 per month, though there is a free trial you can test the waters with.
Venngage features color-coded mind mapping for a clear visual infographic designing experience. This browser-based mind map software makes even complex concepts and processes seem simple and easy to understand. There is a good variety of fonts to get started and you can add unlimited amounts of ideas and points. You can also download all the mind maps and infographics you create as PNG or PDF files. Alternatively, you can share them directly to your social media platforms.
There is a free version available for students to share their mind maps with each other. The premium personal plan costs $19 per month. The business plan costs $49 per month and includes many additional features as well as support.
Padlet is a familiar and fun productivity software that lets you create mind maps and graphics. Invited users can collaborate in brainstorming sessions, share information and develop ideas. Create impressive easy-to-read mind mapping boards and documents, with users able to add content and comments in real-time. Content that can be added includes photos, documents, video and audio. You can start from scratch or take one of the mapping templates provided.
Your own Padlet mind map will exist on its own domain and accessed only by your organization. The business plan starts at $12 per month and there is a free 30-day trial.
Create and organize mind maps, diagrams and charts useful for business purposes with SmartDraw. It can document and describe business processes as well as plan out and manage projects. With four thousand templates and icons to design your maps and charts with, you can create 70 different types of mind mapping diagrams and charts.
You can log into the online mind mapping version on any computer or tablet. You can also download a desktop mind map version for Mac or Windows. The price for a single user is $297 for a one-time purchase. For five or more users it costs $595 per year.
The web-based Bubbl.us software is a brainstorming tool that is great for planning projects and collaboration between multiple users. Its Macromedia Flash is accessed online so you don’t need to download any software. You create mind maps and then save them as an image file, with plenty of engaging and colorful design options. Take notes, develop new concepts, collaborate and present your ideas effectively.
The free version lets you create three mind maps, with the premium version costing $4.91 per month. There is also the team version for up to three users which costs $59 per year and per user.
The collaborative and browser-based Miro allows multi-functional groups to centralize their individual contributions to the team effort. It is very easy to operate and lets teams capture ideas and manage projects in real-time together. Miro includes an infinite virtual whiteboard for visual tasks and to design a mind map on. It is good for processes like agile planning and design iteration. Video and chat are also included, with the addition of @ mentions for faster communication. Integrated tools include InVision, Slack Confluence and Jira.
The free version gives you three editable whiteboards that can be used as a mind map, with paid tiers costing $8 and $16 per month. There is also a custom-priced enterprise version with extra features and support.
Visio by Microsoft is powerful diagramming tool for creating simple or complex diagrams, mind maps and charts. You can easily and intuitively design flowcharts, org charts, floor plans and even engineering designs. The tool includes many modern shapes and templates familiar to Office users. You can also work on these different mind map diagrams and charts at the same time.
It is available for Windows and web browsers and the simple plan costs under $5 per month. For more professional purposes, an advanced version is available for around $15 per month.
The Cacoo online mind mapping functions create dynamic mind maps and diagrams. Collaborate with your team and make and share flowcharts, wireframes and sitemaps. Team members can add their thoughts and ideas and upload images, notes and other relevant data. There is a blank canvas for creating new diagrams, or plenty of templates to take for inspiration. Cacoo integrates with Google Docs, Google Drive and Visio, as well as with Slack, Dropbox and Typetalk.
There is a free trial and a choice of payment options for this mind map. It costs $6 to pay monthly, or $5 if you pay annually. The annual payment option amounts to two months free per year.
Stormboard differs from other mind mapping tools in that it uses sticky notes instead of branches. It lets you record your thoughts and ideas by grouping the sticky notes together and connecting them. As you start generating more and more ideas, you can prioritize, organize and refine them. This process helps make your meetings and brainstorming sessions much more productive. It is available for iOS and Android, as well as for Windows and on the web.
Individuals have a limited free plan for this unique mind map, with a more advanced version costing $10 per month. An even more advanced edition costs $16.67 per month. Both paid plans come with free trials.
The superb mind mapping software iMindQ incorporates multiple mind map styles for business, educational and personal reasons. Create and share WBS charts, flowcharts, Gantt charts and many others with over 50 free mind mapping templates. Uniquely, iMindQ can open and read many of the mind maps created in different mind mapping tools. Creations made in the iMindQ software can be shared, plus it is integrated with MS Office.
This mind map is available for Windows, Mac, Android and iOS, and there is a mind mapping online version too. Pricing for the Windows version is $49 per year or $119 for a lifetime subscription. Prices for the Mac are $39 per year or $79 for the lifetime subscription. There are free 15-day trials for both.
A mind map is basically a diagram which you use to organize ideas and visualize the relationship between various concepts. Information in the mind map is displayed in a branching structure with the main idea or theme in the center. This central idea branches out into associated ideas which can then branch out themselves to keep related concepts neatly organized.
The term ‘mind map’ was originally popularized by English author and educational consultant, Tony Buzan, in the 1970s. The idea of mind mapping was inspired by visualization methods used by the likes of Leonardo da Vinci and Albert Einstein. Buzan wrote several books about mind mapping with the aim of improving people’s memory, creativity and productivity.
According to psychological research, a mind map boosts creativity by helping the brain consider ideas from a variety of viewpoints. This is why mind maps are also an effective technique for brainstorming and decision making, as well as for understanding complex concepts and processes.
You can use mind maps for a wide variety of business and personal purposes. Below are some obvious business-related applications, though you can use mind mapping for pretty much any creative or organizational purpose.
Here are some tips on how to use mind maps:
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Brainstorming | Use mind maps to capture and organize new ideas as they flow, fostering creativity and providing a visual brainstorming space. |
| Task Management | Centralize tasks, break them down into steps, and assign responsibilities, ensuring clear communication within your team. |
| Note Taking | Create structured and easily accessible notes, making it simple to revisit and locate specific pieces of information. |
| Event Planning | Evaluate event-related options, compare them, and keep track of tasks and responsibilities for seamless event execution. |
| Business Strategizing | Develop, visualize, and refine business strategies, using mind maps to outline plans and serve as strategic reminders. |
Some of the mind mapping apps above have versions that don’t cost anything. Other mind mapping software have trials that you can try before you buy. Here’s a quick list of each free mind map tool:
With so many mind mapping options to choose from, it is worth trying a few of the free mind mapping tool trials. Clearly, it is no wonder that mind mapping software has grown so popular among businesses as well as individuals. They provide clarity of thought and help turn small ideas into complex concepts that are easy to understand. They make organizing teams and projects simple and effective. With so many benefits, mind maps really have become crucial to the success of business professionals all over the world.
Image: mindmeister
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You won’t get very far in PHP without learning how to use functions.
Functions are the building blocks of most coding languages and they enable you to execute a range of tasks from math calculations to string manipulation. (more…)
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Barbershops have been staples in communities across America for generations. Haircuts and styling services for men and boys are always in demand. So even if this profession seems old fashioned, it’s likely to continue thriving in the future.
Today, there are tons of different niches and types of barbershops available. The industry includes everything from classic, one-chair shops to trendy businesses that churn out popular beard and undercut hairstyles. So there are tons of exciting opportunities in the industry for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Since there’s so much variety in the industry, the costs and process to get started can vary dramatically. But generally, you need a license, location, and tools. Depending on where you’re setting up shop, you can expect to pay about $150,000 to $200,000 to get up and running.
Barbers who want to open their own business can either start from scratch or open a franchise barbershop that provides a solid baseline. For those interested in the latter, here are 10 franchise barbershop opportunities to consider.
When it comes to choosing the ideal franchise barbershop, a careful evaluation of these criteria can be the difference between a thriving business and a missed opportunity. Prioritizing factors such as brand reputation, location, and training can set the foundation for a successful venture while considering costs, marketing support, and exclusive territories ensures a balanced investment. We’ve ranked these criteria on a scale of importance, using a 1-10 rating scale, with 10 being the highest importance and 1 being the lowest:
Here are 10 men’s grooming and barbershop franchise opportunities:
Sport Clips is one of the most recognizable names in the men’s haircut industry, and name recognition is always a plus for franchises. They’re known for their “MVP Experience.” And the barbershops feature sports-themed decor and programming on TVs. Franchisees are required to purchase at least three licenses. So the fee for the franchises starts at $59,500 for three stores. And every unit past that costs an additional $12,500. The company also estimates buildout costs to range from $233,800 to $388,300.
V’s Barbershop is a boutique barber shop franchise that has been in business since 1999. This barbershop boasts an upscale design and professional training for the services it provides. The fee for the franchises is $30,000 for new franchisees who want to open just one unit. There are incentives that can bring that fee down to $22,500. The company estimates the total startup costs between $196,700 to $371,000.
Roosters specializes in providing personalized haircutting services to each client. The barbershop has been operating since 1999 and has locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. The fee for the franchises is $39,500. And the company requires at least $150,000 in liquid assets to get started. They also have both single and multi-unit barbershop franchise opportunities available.
MUG offers a business opportunity that is meant to appeal to a wide array of customers. This franchise focuses on quality rather than themes or gimmicks. The company’s Barbetology method is a specialized training program for all barber shop franchisees and employees. The fee for the franchises is $25,000, with discounts for multi-unit operators. And the initial cost is estimated between $98,728 and $157,546.
ManCave offers more than just haircuts. The men’s hair salon also provides skin, nails, and massage services. Shops are also outfitted with comfortable chairs, flat screen TVs, and complimentary drinks for guests. The barber shop franchise fee is $40,000. And the total initial investment ranges from $139,500 to 190,500.
RazzleDazzle Barbershop beauty franchises include a unique style and decor. In addition to basic hair cuts, franchises also offer hair care products and even special events like wedding parties. The company walks franchisees through every step of the process and provides thorough training. The fees for the franchises is $30,000. And initial costs range from $216,400 to $435,000.
Floyd’s 99 provides stylish haircuts for both men and women in shops with an old school feel. The company provides ongoing training, marketing support, and recruiting tools for franchisees. The barber shop also has a focus on giving back through a partnership with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. They’re currently only looking for franchisees who are willing to commit to at least four stores. The fees for the franchises is $35,000. And franchisees must have at least $500,000 in liquid assets and a $1.5 net worth.
For those who are looking for beauty franchises that also allow them to work with kids, there is Cookie Cutters. The barber shop has more than 20 years in the industry and a unique franchise model that helps it stand out. In addition to providing simple haircuts, stores include TVs at each station and a playground. Though not a traditional barber shop that provides men’s haircuts, this hair salon franchise opportunity requires many of the same skills. And it targets a unique market where there’s always a need. The fee for the franchises is $40,000 and $20,000 for every additional location. The total investment for one franchise store ranges from $90,500 to $261,000.
Scissors & Scotch is a barber shop for sophisticated gents. Customers get a cocktail, coffee, or a cold one with every haircut. And there’s even a full-service bar for men who want to stick around afterward. When you sign up for this barbershop franchise, you get access to a team of business experts to help with everything from location development to marketing. And several top markets throughout the U.S. are currently available, with a special emphasis on those interested in multiple units. The fee for the franchises is $45,000 for one location or $40,000 each for those developing multiple barbershop franchises. The total investment for Scissors & Scotch franchises range from $433,050 to $628,500.
Tune Up brands itself as “the manly salon.” Men get a free beer or cocktail with each cut. And stylists provide a pampering experience. The barber shop currently has franchise opportunities available nationally. The company’s franchise concierge program walks new franchisees through every step of the process, from recruiting to marketing. The initial fee for the franchises is $40,000 for one location. And the full initial investment ranges from $198,500 to $355,000 to get your franchise up and running.
In a rapidly evolving world, barbershops have stood the test of time. Yet, to thrive in today’s diverse landscape, embracing innovation is crucial. Here’s a fresh perspective on how technology and creativity can elevate your barbershop business:
| Innovative Strategy | Description |
|---|---|
| Digital Booking Platforms | Implement user-friendly online booking systems to enhance customer convenience. |
| Virtual Styling Consultations | Offer virtual consultations for clients to discuss styles and preferences before their appointments. |
| Mobile Barber Services | Consider mobile barbershops that bring the grooming experience to clients’ doorsteps. |
| AI-Powered Styling Advice | Explore AI-driven tools that recommend hairstyles based on facial features and trends. |
| Loyalty Apps | Create loyalty programs through mobile apps, rewarding repeat customers with discounts and exclusive services. |
| Sustainable Practices | Embrace eco-friendly initiatives by using sustainable grooming products and reducing water waste. |
| Social Media Engagement | Leverage social platforms to showcase your barbershop’s work and connect with a broader audience. |
| Barbering Workshops | Offer training workshops for aspiring barbers, fostering skill development and community engagement. |
| Personalized Grooming Subscriptions | Launch subscription services that deliver grooming products tailored to individual preferences. |
| Barbershop Events | Organize themed events or collaborations with local businesses to create memorable experiences for your clients. |
In conclusion, the world of barbershops is far from outdated; it’s a thriving industry with a rich history and a promising future. As we’ve explored the diverse opportunities within this profession, it’s clear that barbershops remain a vital part of communities across America, providing essential grooming services and fostering connections with clients that span generations. From classic neighborhood shops to innovative franchise opportunities, there’s a place for entrepreneurs to make their mark in this resilient field.
Moreover, as we stand at the intersection of tradition and innovation, it’s crucial for barbershops to adapt and embrace the technological and creative advancements of the modern age. From digital booking platforms to sustainable practices and personalized grooming subscriptions, these innovations not only cater to the evolving preferences of clients but also solidify the position of barbershops as pillars of excellence and community engagement. As barbers continue to wield their scissors and clippers, they do so with a nod to tradition and an eye on the future, ensuring that the legacy of barbershops in America continues to grow and thrive.
Image: Depositphotos.com
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PHP, or “Hypertext Preprocessor,” is the backbone of countless dynamic web applications and websites. And, at its core, PHP relies on a set of fundamental building blocks called keywords which wield immense power in shaping the behavior of your code. (more…)
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Choosing the right font is more important than ever, especially for small businesses with an online presence. A recent study by DigitalSilk.com has shed light on the most used free fonts on the internet, with Bebas Neue topping the list, a valuable insight for small business owners and designers.
Key Findings
1. Bebas Neue: The Champion of Free Fonts Bebas Neue emerged as the most popular free font with over 23 million downloads. This font’s widespread use on more than 210,000 websites is a testament to its versatility and appeal. For small businesses looking for a robust and appealing font without the cost, Bebas Neue is an excellent choice.
2. Lemon Milk and Waltograph: Strong Contenders Lemon Milk, with over 20 million downloads, and Waltograph, with over 12 million, are the second and third most downloaded fonts, respectively. Lemon Milk’s modern geometric appeal and Waltograph’s Disney-inspired design offer unique branding opportunities for businesses.
3. Diverse Styles in the Top Five: Chopin Script and Coolvetica round out the top five, each with close to 12 million downloads. Chopin Script’s elegant design and Coolvetica’s 1970s logo inspiration cater to a range of design aesthetics, offering flexibility for businesses in different industries.
4. Variety in the Top Ten: The list also includes Shorelines Script, Birds of Paradise, Caviar Dreams, Bebas, and Cheri. These fonts offer a range of styles, from the casual elegance of Shorelines Script to the playful charm of Cheri, providing ample options for small businesses to find their unique voice.
5. The Cost-Saving and Branding Benefits of Free Fonts: Gabriel Shaoolian, CEO and founder of DigitalSilk.com, highlights the advantages of using free fonts. They are not only cost-effective but also play a significant role in online branding and print advertising. The right font can enhance a website’s design and help a business stand out.
For small businesses, the importance of a well-chosen font cannot be overstated. This study by DigitalSilk.com offers valuable insights into popular free fonts like Bebas Neue, which can help businesses make informed decisions about their digital and print branding strategies. In an era where visual appeal is paramount, selecting the right font is a crucial step in crafting a unique and memorable brand identity.
Image: Fonts.google
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