#vendor selection

[intelisync]

The Future of Business Growth: AI-Powered Development Strat

AI-powered development is revolutionizing business growth, efficiency, and innovation. By 2024, businesses that harness AI's potential will achieve unprecedented growth, outpacing their competitors. AI's incorporation into business operations enhances productivity, accuracy, and customer experience, driving revenue growth. McKinsey's report indicates that AI could deliver an additional $13 trillion to the global economy by 2030. With the global AI market expected to grow at a CAGR of 37.3% from 2023 to 2030, AI's role in business is becoming increasingly crucial.

AI-powered development uses advanced technologies like machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. AI is transforming industries from finance to healthcare, providing solutions like automated trading systems and predictive diagnostics. AI enhances efficiency by automating repetitive tasks, optimizing operations, and enabling employees to focus on strategic activities. AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants offer real-time support and personalized interactions, improving customer experience. AI's predictive analytics capabilities provide data-driven insights, helping businesses make informed decisions and stay ahead of market trends.

For businesses to fully leverage AI's benefits, a strategic approach to AI implementation is essential. This includes evaluating goals, identifying data sources, selecting appropriate AI tools, and investing in training and education. Addressing challenges like data privacy, system integration, and ethical considerations is critical for successful AI adoption. Partnering with Intelisync can facilitate this process, providing comprehensive AI services that ensure successful AI integration and maximize business impact. Intelisync's expertise in machine learning, data analytics, and AI-driven automation helps businesses unlock their full potential. Contact Intelisync today to start your AI journey and transform your Learn more....

[partnerportalai]

What is a Vendor? Overview, types, and Examples

“Teamwork makes the dream work, but the vision becomes a nightmare when the leader has a big dream and a bad team” - John C. Maxwell 

This holds true for every industry, including the supply chain industry. A Vendor contributes significantly for supply chain to work well together and facilitate the flow and transfer of goods and services, from raw material extraction to the use by the final consumer.  The process of supply chain includes assurance, marketing, procurement, and sourcing and at each of these stages the importance of good vendors cannot be overstated.  

Who is a Vendor? 

A vendor can be an individual or a company that provides products or services to businesses or customers. 

They are essential contributors to supply chain management, assisting the flow of raw materials to manufacturers and delivering finished goods to customers.   

 A vendor may also be a supplier or seller of goods or a manufacturer. Businesses, regardless of their size, typically maintain a roster of vendors from whom they procure goods. These businesses retail the goods to customers with a margin.    Vendors come in various forms and sizes.  Each, facilitating a specific function: 

What are the types of Vendors?  

Here are few common forms of vendors: 

Raw Material Vendor: These vendors essentially provide supply raw material for businesses to convert them into finished goods. For e.g. raw cotton for a textile manufacturing industry 

Component Vendor: Such vendor provides critical components or parts that are integrated into the final product.  For e.g. Vendors who provide dyes, pigments and chemical for textile industry 

Finished goods supplier: These suppliers provide finished goods which are ready for sale.  E.g. A weaver who provides a product to be sold directly to the customer. 

Service provider: These vendors provide various services like transportation, logistics, IT, Marketing etc. for businesses. Vendor services vary based on the company and its business nature, encompassing a spectrum of sizes from individual traders to large corporations.  

Suppliers of raw materials can serve as vendors to manufacturers, who, in turn, become sellers to wholesalers and retailers by delivering finished products. These retailers then act as vendors to customers when selling products directly to them.  

Role of a Vendor  

A vendor plays a very important role in today's business world. Some of the key roles which a vendor plays are: 

Availabilify of Resources: A vendor ensures that all required resources, which may include raw material, components etc, are made available for the business. Ensuring business focus on delivering the right finished goods 

Quality: This is one of the biggest contributions of a vendor.  The quality of the product is so dependent on the way a vendor performs his duties.  For e.g. if the raw material is not good enough or the transporter does not deliver material in time, all of these show up on the quality of product 

Cost Management: Vendor providing a competitive pricing is crucial for the financial health of the business.  

Risk Management: Working with multiple vendors spreads the risk.  This manages the impact of supply chain disruption ensuring continuity.  

How does the Partner Portal support vendors in their workflow? 

Partner Portal, a cloud-based vendor management system, provides a dynamic dashboard from where vendors can get clear visibility. The platform helps vendors and organizations in the decision-making process with real-time data.  The software empowers the users with many more features such as vendors can easily register and set up an organized framework for their staff by handling roles and permissions.  

The platform enables efficient communication between vendors and the company, allowing the exchange of important information and it also automatically generates invoices. 

In addition, the system lets the vendors upload and manage product details without any hindrances. Partner Portal further provides support in handling Return Material Authorization (RMA) processes and operating inventory, enabling a centralized platform for vendors to enhance their operational tasks. 

FAQs: 

What is the role of a vendor in business operations?  

Vendors provide goods and services in the form of raw materials to the manufacturing industry and ready-to-use products to customers.   

How to find a suitable vendor for any particular business needs?  

A suitable vendor can be evaluated on product availability, quality, pricing, vendor performance report, and compatibility with the business requirements.  

What are the stages of vendor selection?  

The stages of vendor selection consider identifying business needs, vendor performance reports, evaluation of the proposal, contract negotiation, and then the cost of the products.   

What is vendor analysis?  

Vendor analysis is a detailed report about vendors to understand their potential to meet business requirements. 

[its-captain-sir]

BOOOOOO another craft show rejected me 💔💔

[permanentlylatetotheparty]

Evelyn could never see what was under people's skin... If she could've gotten to know you a bit better, then...who knows, things might've turned out differently.

[suros-official]

With the Traveler in orbit and the more than concerning Pyramid presence SUROS would like to remind denizens of the Last City that SUROS is a hallmark of home defense!

Discounts available if you can show proof of maiming or death caused by the Pyramid incursion

[welcometoqueer]

I haven’t really seen any of the more recent U.S. election news hitting tumblr yet so here’s some updates (now edited with sources added):

There’s evidence of Trump cheating and interfering with the election.

Possible Russian interference.

Mail-in ballots are not being counted or “recognized” in multiple (notably swing) states.

30+ bomb threats were called in and shut down polling stations on Election Day.

20+ million votes are still unaccounted for, and that’s just to have the same voter turnout as 2020.

There was record voter turnout and new/first-time voter registration this year. We definitely should be well over the turnout in 2020.

U.S. citizens are using this site to demand, not only a recount, but a complete investigation into election fraud and interference for the reasons stated above:

Here is what I submitted as an example:

An investigation for election interference and fraud is required. We desperately need a recount or even a revote. The American people deserve the right to a free and fair election. There has been evidence unveiled of Trump cheating and committing election fraud which is illegal. There is some evidence of possible Russian interference. At least 30+ bomb threats were called in to polling places. Multiple, notably swing states, have ballots unaccounted for and voting machines not registering votes. Ballots and ballot boxes were tampered with and burned. Over 20 million votes that we know of are unaccounted for. With record turnout and new voter registration this year, there should be no possibility that there are less votes than even in the 2020 election.

Sources (working on finding more links but if anyone wants to add info, it’s appreciated):

FBI addressing Russian interference and bomb threats:

Emails released by Rachael Bellis (private account, can’t share original tweet) confirming Trump committing election fraud:

Pennsylvania's Centre County officials say they are working with their ballot scanner vendor to figure out why the county's mail-in ballot data is "not being recognized when uploaded to the elections software:”

Wisconsin recount:

[ID:

Multiple screenshots and images.

The first is a screenshot with a link and information for contacting the White House directly regarding election fraud. The instructions include choosing to leave a comment to President Joe Biden directly and to select election security as the reason.

The screenshot then instructs people to include any or all of the following information in a paragraph as a comment to the president:

32 fake bomb threats were called into Democratic leaning poll places, rendering polling places closed for at least an hour.

A lot of people reporting their ballots were not counted for various reasons.

This all occurred in swing states.

This is too coincidental that these things happen and swing in his favor after months of hinting at foul play.

Directly state that an investigation for tampering, interference, fraud is required, not just a recount.

The second image is from the FBI Twitter account that reads:

The FBI is aware of bomb threats to polling locations in several states, many of which appear to originate from Russian email domains. None of the threats have been determined to be credible thus far. https://t.co/j3YfajVK1m — FBI (@FBI) November 5, 2024

The next four Gmail screenshots of an email sent to Rachael Bellis from Chris T. Spackman that read together as follows:

Dear BELLIS, RACHAEL E., The Dauphin County Board of Elections received a challenge to your absentee ballot you applied for in the November 5, 2024 General Election. The challenge argues that a provision of the Pennsylvania Election Code takes precedence over the federal Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA), which requires states and counties to permit U.S. citizens who move overseas to vote by absentee ballot for federal offices based on their last U.S. residential address.

The full text of the challenge that was filed appears below this email.

You may respond to the challenge in any of the following ways:

1. Call the Bureau of Registration and Election at (717) 780-6360;

2. Email a statement to the Bureau at Election election@dauphincounty.gov. Any statement you submit regarding the period during which you lived in Dauphin County, any family or connections that you still have here, and why you are now residing abroad would be read into the record.

3. Appear in person at a Board of Elections hearing scheduled for Friday, November 8 at a time to be determined in the Commissioners Public Hearing Room, 4th floor of Dauphin County Administration Building, 2 S 20d St, Harrisburg, PA 17111. The meeting is also likely to be livestreamed on Facebook on the Dauphin County channel.

Sincerely,

Christopher T Spackman

TEXT OF CHALLENGE BEGINS

Dear Dauphin County Board of Elections,

I am submitting this challenge to an absentee ballot application pursuant to 25 Pa. Stat.

3146.8(f).

25 Pa. Stat. 3146.8(f) Any person challenging an application for an absentee ballot, an absentee ballot, an application for a mail-in ballot or a mail-in ballot for any of the reasons provided in this act shall deposit the sum of ten dollars ($10.00) in cash with the county board, which sum shall only be refunded if the challenge is sustained or if the challenge is withdrawn within five (5) days after the primary or election. If the challenge is dismissed by any lawful order then the deposit shall be forfeited. The county board shall deposit all deposit money in the general fund of the…

The rest of the forwarded email is cut off.

The last image is a screenshot of the official statement from the Centre County, Pennsylvania Board of Commissioners released on November 6, 2024 that states:

Centre County Working with Ballot Scanner Vendor to Export Election Results.

(Bellefonte, PA) -Centre County Elections Office is working continuously to provide mail-in ballot data in order to post unofficial results.

To this point, all ballots have been scanned, including all mail-in ballots.

Centre County's Election team and IT team have identified that the data are successfully being exported from the mail-in ballot scanners, but that the data is not being recognized when uploaded to the elections software.

Centre County's Administrator, John Franek, Jr. stated, "We have not stopped working, and we will continue to work until unofficial results are posted and reported to the Pennsylvania Department of State."

As a next step, Centre County has begun working with the equipment vendor to adjust configurations to make the two systems-the mail-in ballot scanner and the elections software where data are uploaded -compatible with one another.

We will provide updates as we make progress.

/end ID]

[rajeshwaria]

The Key Steps in Vendor Selection: How to Pick the Perfect Partner for Success

Choosing the right vendor can have a significant impact on your business’s success. With an abundance of vendors providing similar services, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming. However, with a solid market intelligence strategy in place, you can streamline the process and make informed decisions that drive your business forward. This blog provides a comprehensive guide to the vendor selection process, helping you assess the key factors to consider when choosing a partner for your business.

Step 1: Understand the Vendor Selection Process

The first step in the vendor selection process is to understand the project’s requirements and define the selection criteria. These criteria should be based on your business’s needs and goals. Whether you're looking for an IT service provider, a procurement partner, or a software vendor, understanding what you need is essential for making an informed decision. A market intelligence strategy can help you gather data on potential vendors’ strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to select the best match for your business.

Step 2: Define Clear Requirements

Before you start searching for potential vendors, it’s crucial to define your project’s scope, budget, and timeline. This involves evaluating the project’s goals, understanding the resources needed, and considering any regulatory or compliance requirements. Once you have a clear grasp of what you need, you can move forward with the selection process.

For example, if you need a technology partner, you might need to define whether you require cloud-based solutions, cybersecurity services, or software development. The more specific you are about the project’s requirements, the better you will be able to evaluate vendors based on how well they align with your objectives.

Step 3: Research Potential Vendors

Once you have a clear understanding of your business’s needs, it's time to identify potential vendors. Use various sources, such as industry reports, online research, and recommendations from trusted colleagues, to build a list of suitable candidates. Leverage market intelligence tools to gather insights into vendors' market reputation, experience, and past performance.

Key factors to consider when researching vendors include:

Industry experience: Vendors who have experience in your specific industry are more likely to understand your needs and challenges.

Customer service standards: A reliable vendor should have excellent customer service to address any issues or concerns that may arise during the project.

Financial stability: Evaluate the vendor’s financial health to ensure they can meet your requirements without the risk of instability.

Reputation and track record: Look for vendors with a proven history of delivering quality services on time.

Step 4: Create Vendor Selection Criteria

After identifying potential vendors, it’s time to create a set of criteria that will guide your decision-making. These criteria should cover various aspects such as:

Experience and expertise: Does the vendor have a proven track record in delivering similar projects?

Quality of service: Is the vendor known for providing high-quality services consistently?

Pricing structure: Is the vendor’s pricing competitive, and does it offer value for money?

Delivery timelines: Does the vendor meet deadlines, or do they have a history of delays?

Developing clear and specific criteria will help you compare vendors more objectively. Additionally, creating a Request for Proposal (RFP) that outlines these criteria will allow vendors to submit detailed responses that align with your expectations.

Step 5: Evaluate Vendor Proposals

Once you have received vendor proposals, the next step is to evaluate them based on your selection criteria. This evaluation process should include:

Proposal analysis: Compare the proposals to determine which vendors meet the most criteria and offer the best value for money.

Interviews and meetings: Conduct interviews or meetings with potential vendors to gain further insights into their capabilities and approach.

Reference checks: Contact past clients to verify the vendor's performance, reliability, and ability to meet deadlines.

Use your market intelligence strategy to benchmark proposals against industry standards, which will help you assess whether the vendor is competitive and capable of meeting your needs.

Step 6: Negotiate Terms and Finalize the Deal

Once you've identified the best vendor for your project, the next step is to negotiate the terms of the contract. This is where careful planning is crucial. The contract should clearly outline:

Scope of services: Define the exact services the vendor will provide.

Pricing: Ensure that pricing is transparent and competitive.

Delivery timelines: Set clear deadlines for project milestones.

Payment terms: Agree on how and when payments will be made.

Service level agreements (SLAs): Define performance standards and penalties for non-compliance.

A strong negotiation process, backed by insights from your market intelligence strategy, will help ensure that you secure favorable terms and establish a mutually beneficial partnership.

Step 7: Monitor Vendor Performance

Once the vendor is selected and the contract is signed, it’s essential to monitor their performance throughout the project. Establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) will allow you to track progress and ensure that the vendor is meeting the agreed-upon objectives. Regular check-ins, performance reviews, and feedback sessions will help address any issues that arise and keep the project on track.

Key aspects to monitor include:

Timely delivery: Ensure that the vendor is meeting deadlines and providing deliverables as agreed.

Quality of work: Regularly assess the quality of services or products being delivered.

Customer satisfaction: Monitor how well the vendor addresses any issues or concerns raised by your team.

Step 8: Evaluate and Review Vendor Relationships

After the project is completed, it’s important to evaluate the overall relationship with the vendor. This assessment should cover factors such as:

Vendor performance: Did the vendor meet your expectations in terms of quality, delivery, and service?

Communication and collaboration: How effective was the communication between your team and the vendor throughout the project?

Long-term partnership potential: Is the vendor a good fit for future projects, or would you consider working with them again?

By reviewing the vendor relationship, you can gain insights into what worked well and identify areas for improvement, helping you optimize future vendor selection processes.

Strategic Advantages of a Thorough Vendor Selection Process

By following a comprehensive vendor selection process, businesses can achieve several strategic advantages, including:

Cost Efficiency: A thorough selection process helps businesses avoid hidden costs and ensure that they are getting the best value for money.

Quality Assurance: A robust evaluation ensures that vendors meet the required standards, improving the reliability of goods and services.

Risk Mitigation: By thoroughly vetting vendors, businesses can minimize the risk of delays, quality issues, and potential business disruptions.

Time Optimization: A streamlined vendor selection process reduces the time spent on finding and evaluating vendors, allowing businesses to focus on other priorities.

Regulatory Compliance: A structured approach ensures that vendors adhere to necessary legal and regulatory requirements, minimizing the risk of non-compliance.

By utilizing a market intelligence strategy, businesses can ensure that they are making the right vendor selection, setting the stage for long-term success.

Conclusion

In, the vendor selection process plays a crucial role in driving business growth and ensuring successful project execution. By following a systematic approach—one that incorporates market intelligence strategy—you can make well-informed decisions that benefit your organization in the long run. Whether you're selecting a technology partner or a service provider, a thoughtful, data-driven process will ensure that you choose the right vendor to help you achieve your goals.

For more information please contact

[techtoio]

Integrating New Software: Tips for a Smooth Transition

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced technological landscape, businesses often find themselves integrating new software to stay competitive and efficient. However, the process can be daunting, fraught with potential disruptions and challenges. At TechtoIO, we understand the importance of a smooth transition when implementing new software. This guide provides essential tips to help you integrate new software seamlessly, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity. Read to Continue

[stelotechnology]

🕵️‍♂️ Diving deep into the testing trenches! 🚀 Unmasking the Bug Brigade's Top 4 Most Common Intruders:

1️⃣ UI Issues – Where pixels tell tales of visual challenges. 2️⃣ Functionality Issues – Unraveling the labyrinth of feature hiccups. 3️⃣ Security Issues – Guarding the digital fortress against potential breaches. 4️⃣ Performance Issues – Navigating the speed bumps in the quest for seamless operation.

Join us on this bug-busting adventure as we shine a spotlight on the quirks and quarks of software testing! 🐛🔍

[erpadvisorsgroup]

Vetting Software Solutions in an ERP Selection

In honor of ERP Selection September, EAG will be offering a full library of ERP selection resources available across our website and social media channels. To kick off the week, you can download your copy of "Vetting Software Solutions in an ERP Selection" below and take advantage of exclusive content all month long!

[suyashkaushik]

Selecting the Right CMMS Vendor: Key Considerations

“The following considerations should be taken into account while choosing the best CMMS vendor: "How long has the vendor been in business? How many workers does the vendor now have? Does the vendor have any prior experience working with your sector? Can the seller give you a list of clients in your sector? What is the client retention rate of the vendor?”

 

Effective facility management is a top priority for companies looking to boost production and cut expenses in today's fast-paced industrial environment. 

For simplifying maintenance procedures and improving asset management, using the computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) has become essential. 

However, choosing the appropriate provider is a vital choice that will determine whether or not a CMMS is successfully implemented.

The selection of a CMMS provider goes beyond the simple purchase of software; it establishes the foundation upon which the whole maintenance strategy will be built. 

A suitable vendor delivers a system with plenty of features as well as thorough support and a good working relationship. A mismatched vendor, on the other hand, might result in system chaos, underutilization, and even project failure.

The article explores the complex world of choosing a CMMS vendor, illuminating the crucial factors that ought to direct this choice-making procedure. 

Each aspect is crucial in establishing the effectiveness of a CMMS system after adoption, from examining unique organizational demands to assessing a vendor's background and customer support.

Learn how choosing the appropriate vendor may lead to sustainable operational excellence in addition to successful system deployment in this article.

Defining Organizational Needs

The detailed characterization of an organization's maintenance requirements is a crucial first step in the process of choosing a suitable Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) vendor. 

This entails a thorough analysis of the various maintenance needs and overarching objectives. A clear roadmap is created by exploring the nuances of everyday operations, pinpointing pain spots, and identifying areas that need development.

Furthermore, the formulation of clearly stated objectives serves as the selection process' compass. A CMMS solution should solve both present and future difficulties and not just be another tool in an organization's toolkit. 

It should function smoothly with current procedures. A vendor whose service perfectly complements an organization's goals for improving preventative maintenance, streamlining work order administration, or optimizing asset use should be sought out. 

Functional Fit and Customization

It's critical to assess the system's functional fit for your particular sector and demands when choosing a CMMS vendor. Not all CMMS systems are the same, and some could be more appropriate for a particular industry than others. 

A CMMS system for a manufacturing facility, for instance, will require different functionalities than a CMMS system for a healthcare facility.

The following considerations should be taken into account when assessing a CMMS system's functional fit:

Features unique to the industry

Integration of workflow

Report-generating abilities

It's critical to take customization options into account in addition to a CMMS system's functional fit. 

Some CMMS systems provide a great deal of customization, which might be useful if you have particular needs or procedures. Other CMMS systems, however, have fewer customization options, which might not be sufficient for your requirements.

Additionally, customization is revealed to be a crucial distinction. Organizations seldom follow strict, pre-established routines. 

A CMMS that is actually useful allows users to adapt its functionality to suit certain business processes.

If you are still asking, Is CMMS worth investing in? The response to this question is based on your individual demands and specifications. However, generally speaking, CMMS systems can offer a variety of advantages, such as:

Improved effectiveness

More effective asset management

Lower expenses

Improved judgment

So, yes, investing in CMMS is worth it. 

User Experience and Training

User experience (UX) and training are key determinants when selecting the best Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) vendor. How simple and easy-to-use the CMMS interface is is a significant issue to address during this procedure.

User experience goes beyond aesthetics; it's about making difficult maintenance jobs simple. 

The learning curve is reduced with a well-designed interface, allowing technicians to concentrate on their primary duties rather than struggling with complicated software. This increases efficiency and promotes system-wide adoption.

The importance of vendor-provided training is comparable. Even the most user-friendly CMMS needs the right instructions for best use. 

A provider that provides thorough training gives the workforce the knowledge and abilities necessary to fully utilize the CMMS, reducing mistakes and increasing productivity right away.

Scalability and Support

Scalability and support appear as crucial factors in the full world of your CMMS buying guide. The chosen Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) must be flexible enough to grow with businesses as they develop and grow.

Scalability involves more than simply being able to handle growing data volumes; it also involves effortlessly adjusting to new operational aspects. A CMMS that is scalable may add more users, locations, and assets without affecting operations. 

As a result, the investment is future-proofed and won't require a big upgrade as the company grows.

The vendor also provides continuing technical support and upgrades to maintain the CMMS's efficacy. As technology develops, so do operating requirements. 

A trustworthy vendor gives regular upgrades to maintain the system current, safe, and in line with market trends, in addition to rapid support when problems emerge.

A strong and long-lasting alliance can be built with a CMMS vendor that can easily scale up in line with an organization's growth trajectory and ongoing vendor support.

[ourjobagency]

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, the cloud has emerged as a transformative technology that empowers businesses with flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Migrating to the cloud is no longer an option but a necessity to stay competitive. 

[dead-end-draws]

WOF tribe Merchant/Trading booth concepts:

Hey folks! This one was the recent winner of this WOF poll, so here’s my concept art that headcannons trading in Pyrrhia.

Read below cut for close-ups of the individual booths + the thought process / headcannons behind the design choices: 👇

Skywings: The Sky Kingdom’s mountain ranges provide plenty of pasture for raising sheep. As such, Skywing shepherds benefit from traveling to sell their wool, dyes, fabric, and woven tapestries. Many of these merchant tables also include herbs grown exclusively in the mountains, or ibex drinking horns that can be strapped on a dragon’s shoulder & carried in flight.

Along with goods, Skywing merchants may offer sewing services to fix tears, burn marks, or other fabric damage. They are sought out for their quality clothing, and most fabric across Pyrria originated from a Skywing’s talons.

Mudwings: Mudwings’ abundant food & cooking skills are envied almost anywhere in Pyrrhia. Their swamps have fertile soil, responsible for hosting diverse crops which can be purchased as produce at merchant stalls. For those lucky enough to find a traveling Mudwing merchant, the promise of a delicious dish can be whipped up and served at the stall in no time. Along with produce goods, Mudwings sell weaved baskets, spices, and cooking ware.

Sandwings: Sandwing booths offer luxuries of the desert: It’s most common to find accessories such as gold carved jewelry or musical instruments such as drums, lyres, & mandolins for sale. Though, even more sought out across Pyrrhia is Sandwing tattoos/piercings, which are done within the merchant areas. Ink etchings on papyrus paper are stationed outside their tents to showcase designs. All which can be selected, and poked into the skin with a tapping stick and plant dye ink by a trained talon.

Seawings: SeaWings sell a variety of ocean related goods; taking a share in the fish market with Icewings. Outside of food, there are den decorations like driftwood carvings, accessories such as seashell & pearl jewelry, and rope nets weaved by expert Seawing sailors. Some Seawings even sell fishing equipment, canoes, or offer sailor knot tying instructions to curious dragon buyers.

Nightwings: During the war, it was near impossible to find a Nightwing merchant. Most refused to participate in merchant territory, mostly as a way to keep up with their tribe’s mysterious nature.

Though in the more shady, unground parts of the market you can buy from a huge selection of obsidian weaponry, the sharpest in Pyrrhia. No one knew initially how Nightwings smithed so many weapons, or why, until their secret volcano kingdom and the intention to invade the rainforest was discovered. Then forging armor & weapons became clear. Along with a vast armory, for the right price, some Nightwing merchants offer Prophecies & Nightwing Literature (not always guaranteed to always be reliable) and assassin services as well (very reliable).

Rainwings: Though Rainwings haven’t been part of Pyrrhia trading for years, they have a vast hold on dragon medicine. An apothecary of herbs, salves, and remedies are all offered for various ailments due to the rainforest’s abundant resources. Along with medicinal goods, many Rainwings are fruit vendors, promising to any hesitant meat-eating dragons that such an array of flavors isn’t to be missed. Though, their fruit selling pitches often fall flat to most other predominantly meat-eating tribes.

Icewings: Icewings have everything a dragon could need to brace the cold, with a selection of goods only found in the most frigid regions of Pyrrhia. Furs, bone jewelry, and fresh fish (thanks to frost breath) are served on ice. Though Icewings themselves don’t require fur to withstand the cold, it’s considered fashionable and common in upper ranks to wear fur as a status symbol. Since metal is hard to smith without fire & in cold temperatures, fur and bone are more accessible to Icewings for clothing statements.

[thewriteadviceforwriters]

25 Prose Tips For Writers 🖋️✨ Part 1

Hey there!📚✨

As writers, we all know that feeling when we read a sentence so beautifully crafted that it takes our breath away. We pause, reread it, and marvel at how the author managed to string those words together in such a captivating way. Well, today I'm going to unpack a few secrets to creating that same magic in your own writing. These same tips I use in my writing.

But before I begin, please remember that writing is an art form, and like any art, it's subjective. What sounds beautiful to one person might not resonate with another. The tips I'm about to share are meant to be tools in your writer's toolkit, not rigid rules. Feel free to experiment, play around, and find what works best for your unique voice and style.

Power of Rhythm 🎵

One of the most overlooked aspects of beautiful prose is rhythm. Just like music, writing has a flow and cadence that can make it pleasing to the ear (or mind's ear, in this case). Here are some ways to incorporate rhythm into your writing:

a) Vary your sentence length: Mix short, punchy sentences with longer, flowing ones. This creates a natural ebb and flow that keeps your reader engaged.

Example: "The sun set. Darkness crept in, wrapping the world in its velvet embrace. Stars winked to life, one by one, until the sky was a glittering tapestry of light."

b) Use repetition strategically: Repeating words or phrases can create a hypnotic effect and emphasize important points.

Example: "She walked through the forest, through the shadows, through the whispers of ancient trees. Through it all, she walked with purpose."

c) Pay attention to the stressed syllables: In English, we naturally stress certain syllables in words. Try to end important sentences with stressed syllables for a stronger impact.

Example: "Her heart raced as she approached the door." (Stronger ending) vs. "She approached the door as her heart raced." (Weaker ending)

Paint with Words 🎨

Beautiful prose often creates vivid imagery in the reader's mind. Here are some techniques to help you paint with words:

a) Use specific, concrete details: Instead of general descriptions, zoom in on particular details that bring a scene to life.

Example: Instead of: "The room was messy." Try: "Crumpled papers overflowed from the waste bin, books lay spine-up on every surface, and a half-eaten sandwich peeked out from under a stack of wrinkled clothes."

b) Appeal to all five senses: Don't just describe what things look like. Include smells, sounds, textures, and tastes to create a fully immersive experience.

Example: "The market bustled with life. Colorful fruits glistened in the morning sun, their sweet aroma mingling with the earthy scent of fresh herbs. Vendors called out their wares in sing-song voices, while customers haggled in animated tones. Sarah's fingers brushed against the rough burlap sacks of grain as she passed, and she could almost taste the tang of ripe oranges on her tongue."

c) Use unexpected comparisons: Fresh similes and metaphors can breathe new life into descriptions.

Example: Instead of: "The old man was very thin." Try: "The old man was a whisper of his former self, as if life had slowly erased him, leaving behind only the faintest outline."

Choose Your Words Wisely 📚

Every word in your prose should earn its place. Here are some tips for selecting the right words:

a) Embrace strong verbs: Replace weak verb + adverb combinations with single, powerful verbs.

Example: Instead of: "She walked quickly to the store." Try: "She hurried to the store." or "She dashed to the store."

b) Be specific: Use precise nouns instead of general ones.

Example: Instead of: "She picked up the flower." Try: "She plucked the daisy."

c) Avoid clichés: Clichés can make your writing feel stale. Try to find fresh ways to express common ideas.

Example: Instead of: "It was raining cats and dogs." Try: "The rain fell in sheets, transforming the streets into rushing rivers."

Play with Sound 🎶

The sound of words can contribute greatly to the beauty of your prose. Here are some techniques to make your writing more musical:

a) Alliteration: Repeating initial consonant sounds can create a pleasing effect.

Example: "She sells seashells by the seashore."

b) Assonance: Repeating vowel sounds can add a subtle musicality to your prose.

Example: "The light of the bright sky might ignite a fight."

c) Onomatopoeia: Using words that sound like what they describe can make your writing more immersive.

Example: "The bees buzzed and hummed as they flitted from flower to flower."

Art of Sentence Structure 🏗️

How you structure your sentences can greatly affect the flow and impact of your prose. Here are some tips:

a) Use parallel structure: When listing items or actions, keep the grammatical structure consistent.

Example: "She came, she saw, she conquered."

b) Try periodic sentences: Build suspense by putting the main clause at the end of the sentence.

Example: "Through storm and strife, across oceans and continents, despite all odds and obstacles, they persevered."

c) Experiment with sentence fragments: While not grammatically correct, sentence fragments can be powerful when used intentionally for emphasis or style.

Example: "She stood at the edge of the cliff. Heart racing. Palms sweating. Ready to jump."

Power of White Space ⬜

Sometimes, what you don't say is just as important as what you do. Use paragraph breaks and short sentences to create pauses and emphasize important moments.

Example: "He opened the letter with trembling hands.

Inside, a single word.

'Yes.'"

Read Your Work Aloud 🗣️

One of the best ways to polish your prose is to read it aloud. This helps you catch awkward phrasing, repetitive words, and rhythm issues that you might miss when reading silently.

Edit Ruthlessly ✂️

Beautiful prose often comes from rigorous editing. Don't be afraid to cut words, sentences, or even entire paragraphs if they don't serve the overall beauty and effectiveness of your writing.

Study the Masters 📖

Please! Read widely and pay attention to how your favorite authors craft their prose. Analyze sentences you find particularly beautiful and try to understand what makes them work.

Practice, Practice, Practice 💪

Like any skill, writing beautiful prose takes practice. Set aside time to experiment with different techniques and styles. Try writing exercises focused on specific aspects of prose, like describing a scene using only sound words, or rewriting a simple sentence in ten different ways.

Remember, that developing your prose style is a journey, not a destination. It's okay if your first draft isn't perfect – that's what editing is for! The most important thing is to keep writing, keep experimenting, and keep finding joy in the process.

Here are a few more unique tips to help you on your prose-perfecting journey:

Create a Word Bank 🏦

Keep a notebook or digital file where you collect beautiful words, phrases, or sentences you come across in your reading. This can be a great resource when you're looking for inspiration or the perfect word to complete a sentence.

Use the "Rule of Three" 3️⃣

There's something inherently satisfying about groups of three. Use this to your advantage in your writing, whether it's in listing items, repeating phrases, or structuring your paragraphs.

Example: "The old house groaned, creaked, and whispered its secrets to the night."

Power of Silence 🤫

Sometimes, the most powerful prose comes from what's left unsaid. Use implication and subtext to add depth to your writing.

Example: Instead of: "She was heartbroken when he left." Try: "She stared at his empty chair across the breakfast table, the untouched coffee growing cold."

Play with Perspective 👁️

Experiment with different points of view to find the most impactful way to tell your story. Sometimes, an unexpected perspective can make your prose truly memorable.

Example: Instead of describing a bustling city from a human perspective, try describing it from the point of view of a bird soaring overhead, or a coin passed from hand to hand.

Use Punctuation Creatively 🖋️

While it's important to use punctuation correctly, don't be afraid to bend the rules a little for stylistic effect. Em dashes, ellipses, and even unconventional use of periods can add rhythm and emphasis to your prose.

Example: "She hesitated—heart pounding, palms sweating—then knocked on the door."

Create Contrast 🌓

Juxtapose different elements in your writing to create interest and emphasis. This can be in terms of tone, pacing, or even the literal elements you're describing.

Example: "The delicate butterfly alighted on the rusted barrel of the abandoned tank."

Use Synesthesia 🌈

Synesthesia is a condition where one sensory experience triggers another. While not everyone experiences this, using synesthetic descriptions in your writing can create vivid and unique imagery.

Example: "The violin's melody tasted like honey on her tongue."

Experiment with Sentence Diagrams 📊

Remember those sentence diagrams from school? Try diagramming some of your favorite sentences from literature. This can give you insight into how complex sentences are structured and help you craft your own.

Create a Sensory Tour 🚶‍♀️

When describing a setting, try taking your reader on a sensory tour. Move from one sense to another, creating a full, immersive experience.

Example: "The old bookstore welcomed her with the musty scent of aging paper. Dust motes danced in the shafts of sunlight piercing the high windows. Her fingers trailed over the cracked leather spines as she moved deeper into the stacks, the floorboards creaking a greeting beneath her feet. In the distance, she could hear the soft ticking of an ancient clock and taste the faint bitterness of old coffee in the air."

Use Active Voice (Most of the Time) 🏃‍♂️

While passive voice has its place, active voice generally creates more dynamic and engaging prose. Compare these two sentences:

Passive: "The ball was thrown by the boy." Active: "The boy threw the ball."

Magic of Ordinary Moments ✨

Sometimes, the most beautiful prose comes from describing everyday occurrences in a new light. Challenge yourself to find beauty and meaning in the mundane.

Example: "The kettle's whistle pierced the quiet morning, a clarion call heralding the day's first cup of possibility."

Play with Time ⏳

Experiment with how you present the passage of time in your prose. You can stretch a moment out over several paragraphs or compress years into a single sentence.

Example: "In that heartbeat between his question and her answer, universes were born and died, civilizations rose and fell, and their entire future hung in the balance."

Use Anaphora for Emphasis 🔁

Anaphora is the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences. It can create a powerful rhythm and emphasize key points.

Example: "She was the sunrise after the longest night. She was the first bloom of spring after a harsh winter. She was the cool breeze on a sweltering summer day. She was hope personified, walking among us."

Create Word Pictures 🖼️

Try to create images that linger in the reader's mind long after they've finished reading. These don't have to be elaborate – sometimes a simple, unexpected combination of words can be incredibly powerful.

Example: "Her laughter was a flock of birds taking flight."

Use Rhetorical Devices 🎭

Familiarize yourself with rhetorical devices like chiasmus, antithesis, and oxymoron. These can add depth and interest to your prose.

Example of chiasmus: "Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country." - John F. Kennedy

Even the most accomplished authors continue to hone their craft with each new piece they write. Don't be discouraged if your first attempts don't sound exactly like you imagined – keep practicing, keep experimenting, and most importantly, keep writing.

Your unique voice and perspective are what will ultimately make your prose beautiful. These techniques are simply tools to help you express that voice more effectively. Use them, adapt them, or discard them as you see fit. The most important thing is to write in a way that feels authentic to you and brings you joy.

Happy writing, everyone! 🖋️💖📚 - Rin T

Hey fellow writers! I'm super excited to share that I've just launched a Tumblr community. I'm inviting all of you to join my community. All you have to do is fill out this Google form, and I'll personally send you an invitation to join the Write Right Society on Tumblr! Can't wait to see your posts!

[unkstaarwysbr]

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