tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29236753750702066722024-03-15T18:09:39.557-07:00Centurion SystemsWelcome to your one-stop resource for all things CENTURION. As leaders in gate automation and access control, we'll be using this blog as a platform to engage with you and keep you up to date with our latest products, industry-related news and company developments.Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.comBlogger107125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-55834868876334831492017-07-02T22:27:00.001-07:002017-07-03T02:26:53.077-07:00Lean and mean - Bulletproof Strategies to Become a Preferred Security Supplier<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>by Richard J. Rohman, Centurion Systems Marketing and Sales Director</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>This article has been adapted from a talk given at Securex 2017, and edited for length</i></div>
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In tackling this assignment I
have drawn upon our own experiences at Centurion Systems, asking for input from
key members of our team. In addition I have referred to a number of business
books which I have read over the years and whose lessons about business
resonated with me.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So let me start with an absolute
fundamental in business if you want to become and remain a preferred security
supplier.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Honest and ethical<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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More than ever today, customers want to deal with suppliers that are
honest and ethical. That means that if you have a problem with a product, admit
to the problem. Don’t pretend you’ve
never heard about it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We find that our customers are far more understanding if one is transparent about a problem than if you try to
hide it. When you do get caught out, you lose a lot of credibility with your
customer.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdpQt_nnWfIWevV2gWK8gfqLTWESPi1gXFnMNDiuhB4w25yxDMpVso8mtxFE0cExJI50kfQ9rxOR318PfWnimPsQqNnrItXyzmINwuuKNWhNDxf-zImE7JmvBC5BFIBt7nrV4GnbjrAGRT/s1600/3+Richard+Rohman.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="798" data-original-width="800" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdpQt_nnWfIWevV2gWK8gfqLTWESPi1gXFnMNDiuhB4w25yxDMpVso8mtxFE0cExJI50kfQ9rxOR318PfWnimPsQqNnrItXyzmINwuuKNWhNDxf-zImE7JmvBC5BFIBt7nrV4GnbjrAGRT/s320/3+Richard+Rohman.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Centurion Systems Marketing and Sales Director, Richard J. Rohman</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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There have been occasions where
you might feel that you are within your rights to challenge a customer over a warrantee
dispute. From our experience, it is better to back off and give the customer
the benefit of the doubt. <o:p></o:p></div>
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At the time one needs to ask the
question “Mr Customer, what would make you happy?” and try and meet, if not
exceed the customer’s expectations. You gain substantially more advantage than
trying to challenge it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Don’t overcharge a customer just
because you can. There are so many
Social media platforms e.g. Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, etc., that provide customers
with a ready means to air their
grievances. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In the same breath, be cautious
about charging too little for your services; you must watch your operating
margin, but more about this later<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Under promise and over deliver</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Don’t be tempted to take on too
much and then fail to deliver. This is a death knell for a business. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In the early stages of building a
business, one takes on everything just
to keep going. As the business grows one has to become more focussed. One can’t be all things to all people. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Bottom-line, when you take on
something make sure you deliver on it to the best of your ability and you don’t
fail. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Be ready to go that extra mile<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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This term has already become a
cliché, meaning that in many instances going the extra mile won’t even cut it,
it must become standard practice. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Service, service –service that delights!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The world of consumers is becoming
more and more fussy, more critical and certainly more demanding. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So where, in the past, the
supplier / service provider would pitch their offering at the price that they
wanted and when it was convenient for them to deliver, today the consumer has
all the power and is demanding from the supplier the product that they really
want, at the price that they want to pay, and when they need it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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For many businesses to keep the
products alive as they progress through their product life cycles and head
towards the inevitable period of waning in growth of sales, they have to be supported
with better service. This provides time to come out with the next compelling
product.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In other words, the culture of
giving service that truly delights has to be ingrained within your
organisation. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Where, the operative word is delight,
being that feeling you get, if you have a sweet tooth, of biting into your
favourite pudding.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Listen to the needs of your customers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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When pitching to a prospective customer,
it is critical that you clearly understand what they are looking for. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Too often we provide our customers with what we ‘believe’ they require,
or what we are able to <o:p></o:p><br />
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provide them with as a result of the limitations imposed
on us by cost, technology, financial, production or other similar
constraints. The problem is that our
product is often not what the customer is truly looking for. So, instead of focusing on providing the
customer with what he needs, we spend inordinate time and money marketing and
selling our product in a vain effort to “convince” the customer that our
product actually is what they require. </div>
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Lack of marketing success and loss of market-share tend to make one think
that price is the “real” problem, and the slow spiral towards reduced
profitability kicks in.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We have to keep asking ourselves the
'relevance question': Is what we are making or selling still relevant, and will
it be five or ten years from now?" <o:p></o:p></div>
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We need to ask it every year,
because if a company loses relevance we no longer add value to customers. We
are vulnerable if we rest on our laurels.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Always maintain excellent communication with your customer<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The easiest way to listen to your
customer is to be in constant communication. <o:p></o:p></div>
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A business is built on
interpersonal relationships, by keeping close to your customers, keeping them
informed of what you are doing which is relevant to their business and
understanding the path they are taking – it helps to ensure a solid business
relationship going forward<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Be flexible and adaptable<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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A company that is flexible and
can execute decisions quickly and effectively will experience success. The
sales environment in any industry is volatile and uncertain. With the constant
threat of new entrants to the market and new products pushing the limits of
technology we need to act quickly and be flexible to change.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">There is no substitution for hard work<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-uUx1VcyUO50_lBhplhVkntYyc5GVOD60v5Y6KoO6Myq3sWXgE9sLNhLIq56BvpW-SCMd9NY539z0nmu7ZSwXgx58ikkltJpzntjNDWUq5IQPP4dGUgIRJYcrVT8hyh__rdASCuRTDkp/s1600/23152997_xxl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-uUx1VcyUO50_lBhplhVkntYyc5GVOD60v5Y6KoO6Myq3sWXgE9sLNhLIq56BvpW-SCMd9NY539z0nmu7ZSwXgx58ikkltJpzntjNDWUq5IQPP4dGUgIRJYcrVT8hyh__rdASCuRTDkp/s320/23152997_xxl.jpg" width="320" /></a>When trying to make a success of
your business, there is no substitute for hard work. If it was easy and
required little effort more and more people would be running their own
businesses out there, but they aren’t. <o:p></o:p></div>
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As your customers become more and
more demanding and the landscape that we operate in forever changing, it takes
hard work to stay in play. <o:p></o:p></div>
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But working SMART is also key to
success as there are only so many hours in the day and only so many people that
we can afford in our businesses, so we have to make sure we optimise our use of
time and our resources. I am a great believer that as one grows one has to have
the right processes in place so that one only adds heads when it is absolutely
necessary<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Strive to deliver world class products and service<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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What is world class?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Well, products and services that
are ranked by customers and industry experts to be amongst the best of the
best. But you have to make it relevant
for your market. So don’t just copy what a company working in the US would do,
make sure the products and service you deliver are relevant to the market you
are serving. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This doesn’t mean that products
and services mustn’t be excellent, they must be excellent but to the extent
that it suits your market.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13pt;">Compelling products</span></div>
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You can take an average product
and sell it hard to get it into the market and make it work. Or, you take a
compelling product and the market will come to you. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It is not always that easy to
find or develop a compelling product or service, which doesn’t mean that you
mustn’t start in the first place. But as you grow your business and take on
more products or add more services, strive to make them compelling. Your marketing
and selling of the product will be that much easier.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Differentiate yourself from your competition<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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I can never forget the time I was
shopping for food in a Malawi food-market, walking along the endless lines of
tomato stalls – each offering a similar pile of bright red tomatoes. One asks oneself,
why choose one stall in preference to another?<o:p></o:p></div>
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To the stall owner, it is no
longer the tomatoes that are going to attract their customer, it has to be
other vegetables they have to offer, a more inviting smile to beckon you or a
tidier, cleaner looking stall. <o:p></o:p></div>
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That is a very simplistic view of
differentiation. In the business world if one can’t clearly communicate one’s
differentiators to a prospective customer, how can one expect them to take
their business from their current service provider and give it to you?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Now you can’t be different for the
sake of being different, you have to think in terms of the value you add to
your prospective customer. Do this right, maximise this for your customer and
you will better guarantee that you will get their business.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Innovation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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A rather overused term these days, but nevertheless critical in our VUCA
world.<br />
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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The winds of change are blowing and change happens faster and
faster. If businesses don’t adapt they
will be left behind.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Innovation has to be encouraged.
It doesn’t have to be radical and totally disruptive (like Uber;
although if that occurs, so much the better), but continuous improvement in
products, service, business processes, techniques, etc., all ensure that the
company is able to weather the storm. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Keep up to date with the latest technologies<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The security industry we work in
is probably second to the telecommunications and computer industry in terms of
the pace at which it is changing. As a
service provider you have to ensure that your business and its offering are
keeping up with the new developments, the new technologies so that you keep
relevant in the market and don’t get left behind. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Not only are the products and
services you offer changing rapidly, so too, the way in which you communicate
with the market when making use of the ever growing and ever changing landscape
of digital marketing. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">You have to run a sustainable business<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Fundamental to being a successful
service provider in this industry is to make sure you run a sustainable
business. It doesn’t matter how wonderful and relevant you might be to your customers
today – it doesn’t help that you are not around for them tomorrow.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Using the term sustainable means
that your business rides through both good and bad times, for some there might
be growth, for others they remain fairly constant but maintain themselves as a
business in a healthy state all the time<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
How do we do this?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Focus on where you want the business to be<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-align: justify;">
Have a clear picture of where you want to go. Steve Jobs always had a crystal clear vision
of where he wanted to go.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-align: justify;">
Look beyond just short-term profits.
To be sustainable it is critical to forego short-terms gains,
re-investing continually to ensure that the company has reserves to fall back
on when an idea doesn’t turn out quite as well as was planned.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
In setting the right strategy for
your business think about whether what you are planning really matters to your
customer and secondly, as I have mentioned before, does it differentiate you
from your competition.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Get the right people<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
It is rare to see any business
stay with the original proprietor alone – it will grow and require people to
come on-board. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Don’t ever be too quick to bring
on new people unless they are the right people. To steal from the renowned
business author Jim Collins – you have to get the right people on the bus, the
wrong people off.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
In many instances don’t look for
a person with the commensurate skills or knowledge to take on a particular
post, get the person that has the right fundamentals, energy, attitude and
temperament, aligned with the culture of your business. Then you train them to
do the job.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Think about it - it is a whole
lot easier to train somebody to develop a skill than it is to change the attitude
or behaviour of somebody who already has the skill, but is negative, lazy, etc.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Engender the right business culture and values
within the team<o:p></o:p></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
You have to start by making sure
you have in place the right vision, mission and values. These become the
bedrock of the company’s culture and the guidebook for how things are done, how
people behave without you having to constantly monitor this. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Every entrepreneur will have a
vision for their business. But it pays to get this written down for everyone in
the team to see and understand. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The next stage will be to put
down your mission statements. Some business gurus prefer to use the word
“purpose” and when appealing to the new millennials that are filtering into
every organisation, they want to understand the purpose of the business they
are joining, how it is going to be relevant to them and their environment.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Finally you have to bed down the
company’s values, the guiding principles that link to almost everything that
gets done in the business. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Get your values right and get
them ingrained within the organisation. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Your people are an extension of
you – empower them to act on their own but with knowledge and values that
mirror your business.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
If you as an individual can run a
successful single man show – treating you customers with respect, going that
extra mile etc, then as you grow and bring more people into the fold, they have
to mirror your behaviour. You can’t be looking over their shoulder all the time
to check up on how things are being done. Train your staff properly and
communicate clearly what is expected of them. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
So keep pushing the values of the
business. If done effectively these values guide all the relationship decisions
and systems in the company without the need for rules.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Staff, the greatest asset<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Put your staff first, then they
will look after your customers as kings<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-align: justify;">
The adage that employees are a company’s greatest asset remains relevant
today. Without good staff a business
will never thrive and become truly successful.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-align: justify;">
However, business is a two-way street and therefore good staff don’t
exist in a vacuum. Employees of choice
tend to exist when there is an Employer of choice. Being an employer of choice means that the
top management of an organisation has to:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; margin-left: 72.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "courier new"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Set the example.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; margin-left: 72.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "courier new"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Constantly discuss the vision, mission and
values of the company.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; margin-left: 72.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "courier new"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Remunerate people fairly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; margin-left: 72.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "courier new"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Train, develop and mentor people.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; margin-left: 72.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "courier new"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Show staff that they care for their overall
well-being.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; margin-left: 72.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "courier new"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Make their staff realise that they ‘belong’ to
an extended family and that their input matters.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Performance Management</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Measure the performance of your
team and keep giving them feed-back<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
While you are small, managing
performance is really managing yourself and if you are self-starter then this
is no problem. Your first team members will hopefully also be swept up by your
energy whirlwind and the things like performance management will happen on its
own. Understandably you are in constant communication with this first group of
staff members.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
But things change as the
organisation grows and you move further and further away from the coal-face.
You have to make sure that people know what is expected of them, whether they
are meeting these expectations and be given guidance on how to improve and move
to the next level. In a nutshell performance management. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Don’t try and develop the perfect
system from the outset – it’s all down to rhythm, those regular informal and
formal communiques between you and your managers and they, in turn with their subordinates.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Bottom-line, the majority of us
like strokes or recognition and to grow and move on in life. We are not on this
planet to remain stagnant. So the business environment has to support this and
the better it is at it, the greater the chance that key-people will stay and
help the business grow. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Leadership<o:p></o:p></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Fundamental to running a
successful business and keeping relevant in the market is to have great
leadership. I would like to share some insights provided by a business author
called Bob Rosen in his book Grounded. He is a stern advocate that healthy
leadership stems not from <u>what one does</u>, but <u>who one is as a human
being.</u><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Leaders who are truly healthy in
all senses of the word are evolved human beings and extremely effective
leaders”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
He has established three factors
/ truths<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
- Who you are drives what you do<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
- Who you are is grounded in your
healthy roots</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
- Healthy Leaders build teams and
organisations that outperform<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<i>Richard Rohman is CENTURION's marketing and sales director. An engineer by trade, Richard is known for his incredible work ethic and keen business acumen, honed over 30 years of playing an integral role in CENTURION's development as a world-class brand. </i></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-9995106729150734122017-06-27T02:12:00.000-07:002017-06-27T02:12:04.437-07:00CENTURION's World-class Training Department<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
The act of learning is arguably the <strong>most valuable undertaking </strong>that one can embark on in life. I recall a university lecturer once saying to the class that learning only truly stops when one dies, and the famous American industrialist Henry Ford himself stated that “anyone who keeps learning stays young”.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
In fact, there is no shortage of quotes when it comes to the virtues and value of learning, whether at the hands of some university professor or as an eternal student of life. Learning is something we take very seriously here at <strong>CENTURION</strong>, and that is why we have put a great deal of effort into ensuring that our <strong>Training Department </strong>is very well-equipped to make you an <strong>access automation master</strong>.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
Through a meticulously designed programme of courses spanning the entirety of our access automation range, the CENTURION Training Department - under the very capable leadership of <strong>Chris Grobler </strong>– exposes our clients to both the theoretical and the practical aspects of our products.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
<a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/upload/Training_Pietersburg.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://www.centsys.co.za/upload/Training_Pietersburg.JPG" alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://www.centsys.co.za/upload/Training_Pietersburg.JPG" style="border-style: none; border-width: medium;" width="400" /></a>To date, CENTURION has provided product training on four continents and in numerous countries including New Zealand, Australia, Thailand, India, Egypt, Mauritius and throughout Africa – and the response has always been overwhelming. We can say with confidence that not only is our Training Department world-class, but is has become world-famous. To ensure high standards of training, CENTURION has invested in <strong>two highly qualified and experienced educators</strong>, both holding Bachelor’s degrees in Technology Education, among other qualifications.</div>
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<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
How can you benefit from attending our product training courses? Well, we caught up with the man himself, our training manager Chris, to chat about what sets us apart in terms of client training and, more importantly, what you stand to gain from attending.</div>
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</div>
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<strong><br /></strong></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
<strong>Charl: Chris, what is the benefit of coming for training at CENTURION?</strong></div>
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<strong><br /></strong></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
<strong>Chris</strong>:<em> Every person has their own unique style of learning. Some enjoy reading a manual while others like to watch a DVD or video clip, but a large number of installers prefer the classroom situation, with hands-on experience and face-to-face communication. At Centurion Systems we aim to satisfy every learning style and need. For this reason we do offer online documentation and video clips, but we also go to great lengths to visit clients and present onsite training. Our classroom training sessions are of a professional standard – so much so that even qualified teachers comment on the professional approach!</em></div>
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<strong><br /></strong></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
<strong>What sort of insights and skills does CENTURION equip learners with?</strong></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
<em><br /></em></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
<em>We aim to develop the following skills during our training sessions:</em></div>
<ul style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px; list-style-image: url("/upload/setup_files/Arrow.gif");">
<li><em>Observational skills (installation process and product knowledge)</em></li>
<li><em>Lateral and critical thinking skills (specifying different products according to clients’ needs)</em></li>
<li><em>Analysis skills (troubleshooting and problem solving skills)</em></li>
<li><em>Communication skills (client handover and feedback)</em></li>
</ul>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
<strong><br /></strong></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
<strong>Who should come for training?</strong></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
<em><br /></em></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
<em>Any person who learns better in a classroom environment, or finds it difficult to understand installation manuals, is welcome. We have trained a number of ladies (40 to date), so there is no limitation to who can be trained.</em></div>
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<strong><br /></strong></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
<strong>Do you have any final words for installers and users out there who might be considering coming for training at CENTURION?</strong></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
<em><br /></em></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
<em>The more our clients know about our products, the more confident they are in installing and selling them. One added advantage of attending our training is the personal attention, and on-demand answers to questions.</em></div>
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<em><br /></em></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
<em>The more we learn the more we realise how little we know. Our passion is to see people learn to their full potential. We are the best and give the best.</em></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12px;">
Thanks, Chris! I couldn’t have said it better myself. For more information on our ongoing product training, please click <a _fcksavedurl="http://www.centsys.co.za/about-us/training/schedule-and-contents" href="http://www.centsys.co.za/about-us/training/schedule-and-contents" style="border-style: none; border-width: thin; color: #217500;">here</a>.</div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-36736577815796447082017-06-15T05:20:00.000-07:002017-06-15T05:40:50.840-07:00Why Buy and Specify CENTURION?<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We have a beautiful little saying in Afrikaans that goes ‘<em>goedkoop is duur koop</em>’. It’s one of those delightful adages that’s endured through the ages and contains the sort of homonymic wisdom that is a trademark of all good sayings. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Translated directly, it means ‘pay cheap prices and you’ll pay more in the long run’, and can also be understood to mean ‘the wise choice is to pay the higher price’ – which is really the same as the first denotation, but that’s where the homonym is effective.<br /><br />Linguistics aside, it’s always important to know exactly what you’re paying for when it comes to access automation. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAzblhrsZuj7xUDgon-KEQAvLfnHpQ7RCQFRIy0t0hSxNpbLaAYiGj8nhaxXHT1Lkl4zLEaqODUJGn2_U-Hk7B-mQy7joKKWNamP0SXUrOmuNNXtqL_UfkJMcbi6RTjgFE_BsxZQBC6JP1/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="899" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAzblhrsZuj7xUDgon-KEQAvLfnHpQ7RCQFRIy0t0hSxNpbLaAYiGj8nhaxXHT1Lkl4zLEaqODUJGn2_U-Hk7B-mQy7joKKWNamP0SXUrOmuNNXtqL_UfkJMcbi6RTjgFE_BsxZQBC6JP1/s400/001.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Why should you go with <strong>CENTURION </strong>versus one of the many competitor manufacturers in the marketplace today? Well, we could take the easy way out and say ‘because we’re better’ (which is true, but still), but we elect to do the right thing and provide you with four very compelling reasons to buy and specify<strong> CENTURION</strong>.<br /><br /><u><strong>The Support is World-Class</strong></u><br /><br />Purchasing any technical product can be a nerve-shattering experience if you’re unsure of the kind of after-sales support you’ll receive. What if something goes wrong? Who’ll be there to hold your hand and guide you towards resolution?<br /><br /><strong>We will.</strong><br /><br /><strong>Our technical support call centre operates from 7am until 6pm, Monday to Friday</strong>, and from <b>8am until 4:30pm on Saturdays</b> and is able to provide you with support of the highest calibre in <strong>all eleven official languages</strong>, as well as <strong>French</strong>, <strong>Portuguese</strong> and <strong>Spanish</strong>. We also offer support through our social media channels, Facebook and Twitter.</span><br />
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<br /><u><strong>Proven Reliability</strong></u><br /><br />With a track record traced through<strong> three decades</strong>, <strong>Centurion Systems</strong> is a South African <strong>gate automation</strong> pioneer. In addition, our gate motors and traffic barriers are designed and manufactured in South Africa for the harsh African conditions (and, let’s face it, this place isn’t for sissies. The sun in South Africa alone is enough to give an alligator a permanent tan) and some of our operators have been working in the field for close on 20 years without a hitch. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><u><strong>We’re at the Cutting Edge of Technology</strong></u><br /><br />Innovative, high-security features such as <strong>Intruder-detection Alarm functionality</strong>, <strong>ChronoGuard timer technology</strong> and <strong>PIRAC Mode</strong> have gone a long way towards positioning <strong>Centurion Systems</strong> as the undisputed <strong>leaders in gate automation and access control</strong>.<br /><br />These and other features have not only enabled users to get the most out of their access automation systems from a convenience point of view, but also allow home- and business owners to enjoy absolutely ironclad security and peace of mind.<br /><br />Here is a slightly more detailed breakdown of the main technologies offered by our operators:<br /> </span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>ChronoGuard</strong> – a world-first timer technology that allows the user to set a myriad <strong>Auto-activation and Time-barring functions </strong>using the onboard Real Time Clock and Calendar, which tracks the date up to the year 2099</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>Intruder-detection Alarms </strong>– The novel feature-set – consisting of the<strong> Beam Alarm and Ambush Alarm</strong> - ups the security ante even further by providing an audible output when the <strong>infrared gate safety beams</strong> are obstructed, or remain interrupted for a pre-defined period of time</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>Code-hopping technology</strong> – <strong>CENTURION remote controls</strong> are equipped with code-hopping encoders which process the outgoing transmission through a sophisticated encryption engine, making copying and cloning impossible. No two transmitted codes will ever be alike</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>Onboard diagnostics</strong> – Our <strong>D-Series</strong> range provides both audible and visual feedback of the gate status at any given time. In addition, a designated diagnostic screen makes fault-finding a breeze</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>High-volume capability</strong> –<strong> CENTURION operators</strong> are designed to work hard, and work hard they do – with some operators such as the <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/traffic-barriers/sector-ii" target="_blank">SECTOR II</a> <strong>traffic barrier</strong> being capable of performing <strong>in excess of 3000 operations every single day</strong></span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPLtF5KaGJ4WASDJSj_EOlYq-e0fGfu6Asnkm8fkA7XAHChlk5UmClL9K9qAB9Zw_3DvfEMDdloG6dmenSwN0zZ9d5s4lK2Cu92V-sT-fDvH5zMln82-aOYrsSD6tXtvc_NFXD9FInd5Ie/s1600/004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="899" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPLtF5KaGJ4WASDJSj_EOlYq-e0fGfu6Asnkm8fkA7XAHChlk5UmClL9K9qAB9Zw_3DvfEMDdloG6dmenSwN0zZ9d5s4lK2Cu92V-sT-fDvH5zMln82-aOYrsSD6tXtvc_NFXD9FInd5Ie/s400/004.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><u><strong>We Try Our Best to Make Your Life Easier</strong></u><br /><br />Whether it’s through wireless products like the <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/keypad-access-control/smartguardair" style="border-style: none; border-width: thin;" target="_blank">SMARTGUARDair</a> <strong>access control keypad </strong>and <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/infrared-gate-safety-beams/photon" style="border-style: none; border-width: thin;" target="_blank">Photon</a> <strong>infrared gate safety beams</strong>, intuitive, LCD-based setup procedures, removable terminal strips or advanced diagnostics, our talented engineers have developed a sort of intuition when it comes to the requirements of <strong>CENTURION</strong> clients. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To throw another tried and true saying into the mix, time is money, and no one who respects the sanctity of time wants to sit on site for hours routing cable and receiving a merciless beating from the sun. For exactly this reason, we make sure that our products are quick and painless to install and maintain. </span></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-40442256931764898272017-06-14T05:47:00.001-07:002017-06-14T05:47:18.202-07:00Why Automate? The Benefits of Gate AutomationAs members of the human race, the desire – or, to be more accurate, the need – to protect what is ours, is inborn. Thousands of years of evolution have ensured that we will fight tooth and nail so that no harm will to come to us, our loved ones, or our possessions. Whenever we are in danger, those little evolutionary alarms go off and our bodies offer us two choices: either run away or stand and fight. This is what psychologists call the <i>fight</i> <i>or flight</i> response.<br />
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But modern technology provides us with a third alternative: <i> prevent</i>. What if we didn’t have to stand and fight but didn’t exactly have to turn tail and run, either? We can efficiently protect what is ours by simply making good use of the tools that the Cyber Age has given to us.<br />
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<b>Gate motors</b> have been around for the last two decades or so and, much like us, they have also evolved to be <b>quick-thinking, robust machines</b> that are able to relentlessly guard our homes and offices like unflinching sentinels. They also serve as faithful servants, opening and closing our entrance gates without so much as a word of objection – it’s what they were built to do.<br />
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The benefits offered by gate motors are manifold, and we will now look at some of them. We’ll also discuss a very close relative of <b>gate automation</b>, namely <b>access control</b>.<br />
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<b>1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Safer</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRrPbXZ_A2AOX8-LxsUXEucqc-499qLo1UIGahrjHtuZoCoQWuY3qkPePUmrMOzigfzlo1lQZdJdYQnJL4BRTL20yP7cb3x-B3qrx1opMSDJsqQPcCgb1EU3UnE_tKwzzyoVdYOOHr1hsp/s1600/10115593_xxl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRrPbXZ_A2AOX8-LxsUXEucqc-499qLo1UIGahrjHtuZoCoQWuY3qkPePUmrMOzigfzlo1lQZdJdYQnJL4BRTL20yP7cb3x-B3qrx1opMSDJsqQPcCgb1EU3UnE_tKwzzyoVdYOOHr1hsp/s320/10115593_xxl.jpg" width="320" /></a>The obvious detriment to one’s lumbar region aside, getting out of your vehicle to open a gate can be extremely<b> hazardous from a personal safety perspective</b>. We’ve all heard of people getting hijacked or attacked while opening their gates. Having a<b> gate motor</b> installed may not eliminate this possibility entirely, but it will certainly<b> reduce the likelihood</b>. Some modern <b>gate motors</b> have <b>adjustable speed settings</b>, meaning that you can have your gate open and close rapidly and thus reduce the time that the gate is open and also the time that you are stationary in your vehicle. There are also some particularly advanced operators with innovative features such as <b>beam automatic closing</b>, whereby the gate closes the moment that the safety beams have been cleared.<br />
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<b>2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Convenient</b><br />
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Why go through all the effort of stopping your car, getting out, and then straining your poor, long-suffering back just so that you can get into your own property? It is certainly much more convenient to simply press a button and let your <b>gate motor </b>do the rest. <b>Gate motors</b> also offer you considerable freedom when it comes to the manner in which you will activate it, since you can connect anything from a remote receiver to an<a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/intercom-systems" target="_blank"> intercom</a> and use that as a triggering device. There are even<a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/gsm-devices" target="_blank"> GSM-modules</a> that allow you to <b>trigger your gate using your mobile phone</b>. It doesn’t get more convenient than that, especially in an age where our phones have become extensions of our arms.<br />
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<b>3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Versatile</b><br />
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Yes, <b>gate motors </b>do open and close gates, but there are several models on the market that do so much more than that. Some models provide <b>onboard timers</b>, allowing you to set automatic activations or to bar certain inputs from working at set times, while others can be interfaced with third party alarm systems and infrared beams so that you’re notified when would-be criminals are loitering in front of your gate. It’s easy to see how a device that once had a singular purpose has now become a compact electronic defence force.<br />
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<b>4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Total control</b><br />
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As I mentioned in the introduction to this article, we’ll also take a brief look at <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/proximity-access-control" target="_blank">access control</a>. Now, <b>access control</b> is rather a broad term and can refer to any number of devices including <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/keypad-access-control" target="_blank">keypads</a>, proximity card readers, GSM-modules, <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/traffic-barriers-and-accessories" target="_blank">traffic barriers</a> and of course gate motors. The wonderful thing about access control is that it affords you <b>total control over who enters (or leaves) a property</b>.<br />
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Some variants, particularly proximity tag readers, can be interfaced with computers and allow the user to upload transaction logs, edit functionality remotely, selectively add and delete users, etc. This does its bit for <b>convenience</b> as well as <b>security</b>.<br />
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Innovation in the field has also ensured that no matter what your automation requirement – whether you have a <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/swing-gate-motors" target="_blank">swing</a> or <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/sliding-gate-motors" target="_blank">sliding</a> gate, light or extremely heavy, whether you require automation for your home or business – there is bound to be a gate motor and/or access control system out there for you.<br />
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So don’t wait: <b>Automate!</b><br />
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-36184000259501013902017-06-13T02:52:00.000-07:002017-07-07T03:02:26.548-07:00Pat Dickens: A Partner of Possibility<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<a href="http://www.centsys.com/" target="_blank">Centurion Systems</a>’ sprawling,
labyrinthine manufacturing facility in North Riding, Johannesburg, is a shrine
in honour of human ingenuity, a vast
monument of the marvels that humankind can accomplish if given the correct
tools. For within the <b>15,000m² premises</b>, a veritable agora of great minds
interface with some of the most <b>advanced</b> and <b>sophisticated</b> equipment that the
world of engineering has to offer to design and produce our winning <b>access
automation</b> solutions. </div>
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From the R & D wing where engineers go about their
important work in scholarly silence to
the hive of activity that is the factory floor, every square inch of the
building speaks of a truly <b>world-class facility</b>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The company’s manufacturing base
recently hosted pupils and teachers from the <b>Ferndale High School</b> who were split into four groups and led
on an extensive tour of the facility conducted by none other than MD <b>Pat
Dickens</b> himself as well as business development department head <b>Ant Williams</b>, network engineer <b>Tim Dickens</b> and trainee project manager <b>Corne Janse van Rensburg</b>.</div>
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The pupils, who are all interested in
pursuing a career in engineering or related fields, were introduced to some of
the advanced software and equipment – which includes <b>robotics</b> and
<b>state-of-the-art SMT machines</b> - used in the design and manufacture of our
products.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Asked how the factory tour came
about, Pat explains that it formed part of a youth development initiative of
which he is an active member.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“I am part of an organisation called <a href="http://www.pfp4sa.org/" target="_blank">Partners for Possibility</a>
(PfP) which was started in Cape Town by a lady called<b> Louise van Rhyn</b>. The idea
is to get business leaders in the industry
to partner with school principals to help them run their schools more
professionally. At the end of last year, I
therefore partnered with Ferndale High School which serves the Randburg,
Ferndale, Bryanston and surrounding areas”.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3F5ZupTTepyh4pqULzj51BkICVW5ue96eiYX9G3hy_fuZXbcbUvuYfVIQuFxg3iYRBGpbrqYkdkaw8EGf4DfWkmeWk00dyzsucifCBJTMuH5lwcDnndu-GM045bCe1h2rqdFRhaSIwc8C/s1600/18882241_1342135179157536_1202600704607698453_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3F5ZupTTepyh4pqULzj51BkICVW5ue96eiYX9G3hy_fuZXbcbUvuYfVIQuFxg3iYRBGpbrqYkdkaw8EGf4DfWkmeWk00dyzsucifCBJTMuH5lwcDnndu-GM045bCe1h2rqdFRhaSIwc8C/s320/18882241_1342135179157536_1202600704607698453_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>He went on to say that one of the organisation’s goals is to <b>improve the pass
rate of the learners</b>, where learners become <b>fully engaged in a learning
experience</b> that will transform them into well-balanced citizens having a strong
set of <b>ethics</b> and <b>values</b> that will be cherished by future employers. <o:p></o:p></div>
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“In that vein, I asked the grade
10, 11 and 12 learners who are particularly interested in pursuing an
electrical or electronic career to visit CENTURION in order to see a typical
company involved in things electrical”.<br />
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In total, around 60 learners
attended the factory tour.<o:p></o:p></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-50152217576267689602017-05-30T00:01:00.002-07:002017-05-30T00:02:26.063-07:00The Great Cyber Caper of 2017<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
On the 12<sup>th</sup>
of May, an unknown party, or parties, launched a <b>cyberattack</b> on an
unprecedented scale the aftermath of which is still being felt despite many
businesses and private computer users stepping up their cyber security
policies. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjvickMaEUMUW2sD7oPpxHKoJIwx8N5oqoAjNqq6ayM5bdQ91lESzHSRuxm3Fi-U5YU0asAaxrH4QJnOjh88niqBYl1erhPB_CHieaX04S1HgaxsonJ1kk23hlw2sxTpdJsVs9OPHGMalx/s1600/19192923_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjvickMaEUMUW2sD7oPpxHKoJIwx8N5oqoAjNqq6ayM5bdQ91lESzHSRuxm3Fi-U5YU0asAaxrH4QJnOjh88niqBYl1erhPB_CHieaX04S1HgaxsonJ1kk23hlw2sxTpdJsVs9OPHGMalx/s320/19192923_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="https://www.123rf.com/profile_aetb">aetb / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Dubbed the
<b>WannaCry</b> <a href="https://threatpost.com/meet-the-cryptoworm-the-future-of-ransomware/117330/" target="_blank">cryptoworm</a>, the malicious software is said to have infected some
<b>230,000 computers</b> in <b>150 countries</b> worldwide, spreading through networks and
bringing affected businesses to a grinding halt by encrypting data and
demanding a “ransom” of around $300 in return for releasing it. Desperate to
have access to their data, many opted to pay the ransom but were never issued
with instructions for decryption, and it has been theorised that the attackers themselves
are not entirely clear on how to undo the damage done by the appropriately-named
ransomware.</div>
<br />
<o:p></o:p>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Since the
attackers demanded that the ransom amount be paid in <b>Bitcoin</b>, a ubiquitous
cyber-currency which is largely untraceable, no suspects have been identified
at the time of writing and data recovery specialists are still scrambling to
salvage what they can while cyber security firms are rushing to the aid of the
organisations that have been targeted.<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
The attack has
raised important questions regarding the efficacy of <b>firewalls</b> and <b>antiviruses</b>.<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b>What exactly is ransomware?</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Ransomware is a
type of malware (malicious software) that encrypts data on infected machines,
making it inaccessible to the user. The attacker then demands a sum of money,
or ransom, in return for releasing the data. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b>Who is at risk?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Theoretically,
anyone with access to a personal computer or laptop is at risk of falling
victim to a ransomware attack, although businesses are at greater risk since
malware is often promulgated through company networks.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b>How is the ransomware activated?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
The ransomware
is activated in a number of different ways, but generally results from opening
an email attachment that contains the malicious software. Clicking on
suspicious links can also lead to a ransomware attack.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b>What can I do?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
According to
CENTURION IT manager and network security specialist <b>Paul Mearns</b>, the majority
of the WannaCry attacks occurred due to attachments from dubious emails being
opened. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
He stresses the
importance of not opening emails if one is unfamiliar or uncertain regarding
the source.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
“<b>Don’t open any
attachments unless you are 100% sure that the email is safe and that you are
familiar with the sender</b>,” says Mearns, although he warns that even this is no
guarantee of the mail’s integrity. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
“If you are unsure of something, contact
your company’s IT department. We are here to help”.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
For a full list
of ransomware countermeasures, visit Microsoft’s website or click <a href="https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/4013550/windows-protect-your-pc-from-ransomware" target="_blank">here</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-35295566378282233582017-05-23T23:53:00.002-07:002017-06-06T02:05:25.265-07:00Check the Motor!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8aq73-etuKNxWGa3tOk3Nw_iYFvR-Vj16rNqz-w_cbxiCnobXPGSCP92Dx1k09_HDUBCo04U6s8LQAeFe0L40A9PSh7tW3VgIsiVvBsW5k1b17AGZ8e0xAR0e38yMJEm81Zu0uy9FHA7v/s1600/201703031327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1052" data-original-width="1536" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8aq73-etuKNxWGa3tOk3Nw_iYFvR-Vj16rNqz-w_cbxiCnobXPGSCP92Dx1k09_HDUBCo04U6s8LQAeFe0L40A9PSh7tW3VgIsiVvBsW5k1b17AGZ8e0xAR0e38yMJEm81Zu0uy9FHA7v/s320/201703031327.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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His hair may
have been a little darker and fuller, the smile lines at the corners of his
mouth – like tattoos of happy memories – a little fainter, but there can be no
doubt that the man in the photograph wearing the smart navy-blue shirt and
piebald tie is CENTURION MD and founder <b>Pat Dickens</b>, a man who, as a
fresh-faced young engineer from Kimberly, dared to dream at a time when
dreaming was all but outlawed. </div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
Could the man in
the photo, taken from a sizeable stack that marketing director and Pat’s brother-in-law
<b>Richard Rohman</b> lovingly keeps in his desk drawer, have known that, some day, his <b>gate motors</b> would be
used on virtually every electric gate in South Africa? And would he have
believed it if someone had told him that, in the near future, his solutions
would automate the entrances to <b>apartment complexes</b>, <b>office parks</b>, <b>airports </b>and<b>
palaces</b>? There’s no way of knowing for certain, but the man in the picture has
a fire in his belly, a fire that he would not allow financial hardships,
economic recessions or the hordes of naysayers that told him it couldn’t be
done, to extinguish.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnZNillR12_Vkgo2O9S2CY7_dpkrQNG7n4U-ggZ7j2Gm-0zQgNrfESjv5eGw86_4HZezU7sMmheAqTJF7xX2n34PazEU7ZUWxgD_xk2GSV2gGR3odd5-sQfucsESuZ8iDiDtFMVFZ7NQcl/s1600/201703031322.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="972" data-original-width="1472" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnZNillR12_Vkgo2O9S2CY7_dpkrQNG7n4U-ggZ7j2Gm-0zQgNrfESjv5eGw86_4HZezU7sMmheAqTJF7xX2n34PazEU7ZUWxgD_xk2GSV2gGR3odd5-sQfucsESuZ8iDiDtFMVFZ7NQcl/s320/201703031322.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
As CENTURION’s
co-founder and someone who has been with the company virtually from the very
beginning, Richard Rohman appears in many of the grainy old photographs,
sometimes mustachioed and sometimes <i>sans </i>facial
hair. Now in his fifties, Richard is as much an energetic firebrand as he was in
those early days. He has since traded in his box-shaped Volkswagen Jetta for a
vehicle that epitomises Richard's love for adventure and the outdoors, and nowadays one is more likely to find him poring over an Excel
spreadsheet than fiddling with a multi-meter, but Richard was absolutely
indispensable in securing CENTURION’s legacy as the <b>undisputed leaders in gate
automation and access control</b>. </div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha_9nBQ87nUFfDtP5tipDtMkueSMim2UXix58_LzAMf5nmd6LgWl0Trio451wFYRPPD1gKryQ0uKBOOOCFHtzokc2sAwh0HFuRLggElp0rutp58s0mSWKe5XYNa3wKxhYBIz9SK5-wmenY/s1600/2017030313201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1062" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha_9nBQ87nUFfDtP5tipDtMkueSMim2UXix58_LzAMf5nmd6LgWl0Trio451wFYRPPD1gKryQ0uKBOOOCFHtzokc2sAwh0HFuRLggElp0rutp58s0mSWKe5XYNa3wKxhYBIz9SK5-wmenY/s320/2017030313201.jpg" width="212" /></a><br />
Another picture
shows the <b>SupaSlida</b>, the seminal <b>sliding gate motor</b> that laid the foundation
for future successes such as the <b>D5</b>, of which there has been some <b>700, 000 sold
to date</b>. With the release of the <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/sliding-gate-motors/d5-evo" target="_blank">D5-Evo</a> – the evolution of the D5 footprint
which added an <b>intelligent LCD interface</b> and <b>sophisticated motor control</b>, among
other features – CENTURION achieved superstar status within the world of <b>access
automation</b>. The original D5 slider built upon a <b>bedrock of reliabilit</b>y, and the
Evo’s addition of <b>futuristic technology</b> launched the brand into the
stratosphere. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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<br />
From the lush
mountains and valleys of the Mpumalanga province to the vast open planes of the
Free State, from Tswhane to Table Mountain, South Africans – and people the
world over – simply love the green CENTURION motors. So the next time you’re
out and about, be sure to<b> #CheckTheMotor</b>!<o:p></o:p></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-69357317198691438772017-05-16T00:59:00.001-07:002017-05-16T01:00:53.540-07:00What to do with All Your Free Time (Now That You’re Using the Service Exchange Programme)<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
Now that you’re getting so much
more done thanks to our innovative <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/sliding-gate-motors/d5-evo" target="_blank">D5-Evo</a> <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/service-exchange-programme-landing-page" target="_blank">Service Exchange Programme</a>, you may
be finding yourself at a bit of a loss with regards to what to do with <b>all that
extra time</b>. Don’t worry, your friends here at Centurion Systems have done the
requisite research and come up with a list of five things that you can do to
pass those idle hours.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br />Binge-watch all seven seasons of <i>Game
of Thrones<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
With season 8 of the acclaimed
fantasy series slated for an August release, there’s never been a better time
to catch up on the lives of the people of Westeros. Who’s still alive? Who’s
dead? Who’s been disloyal to whom? Will the remaining Starks avenge the deaths
of their family members? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: there
will be blood, and plenty of it!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br />Learn a language<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5fV8QsToR5mCC8Um_1doGiZgGx4w4VwpWzad1Me-aE7u0SWuaJz8BmnjsXFJ7eGlNJ1CFX1WgqRWoU_XhKo3jIKPg9B3xf84sYa9P_1o9SVRBCgNVMmNDhoiFl-CU2m-Zt2YRPKwPPgn1/s1600/48592459_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5fV8QsToR5mCC8Um_1doGiZgGx4w4VwpWzad1Me-aE7u0SWuaJz8BmnjsXFJ7eGlNJ1CFX1WgqRWoU_XhKo3jIKPg9B3xf84sYa9P_1o9SVRBCgNVMmNDhoiFl-CU2m-Zt2YRPKwPPgn1/s320/48592459_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="https://www.123rf.com/profile_maxxyustas">maxxyustas / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
South Africa is a flavoursome
smorgasbord (itself a Swedish word meaning “plate of sandwiches”) of diverse
cultures and languages. In addition to the country’s eleven official languages,
South Africa is home to speakers of Greek, Portuguese, Lebanese, Chinese, Urdu,
Hindi and Tamil to name but a few. Learning a new language is not only a great
way to pass the time, but it will also expose you to new and interesting cultures
and ways of life and you’re guaranteed to find it an immensely enriching
experience. Check out <a href="http://www.duolingo.com/">this</a> fantastic app
that makes learning a new language easy and fun.</div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br />Take up a hobby<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGVm1WDv2yJ2R8mk1w5EblDQj5fWssoN1SEv8yelW65hLXpCnKnpUiwYDdKs3j2zxkCtYoCOZt8i1QQVIi300bg8duImlebLexsi3Ld5YMLBtq6Il5mzbRtj6zfDJZmyzPykkgoPeKtg7/s1600/26609819_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGVm1WDv2yJ2R8mk1w5EblDQj5fWssoN1SEv8yelW65hLXpCnKnpUiwYDdKs3j2zxkCtYoCOZt8i1QQVIi300bg8duImlebLexsi3Ld5YMLBtq6Il5mzbRtj6zfDJZmyzPykkgoPeKtg7/s320/26609819_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="https://www.123rf.com/profile_bialasiewicz">bialasiewicz / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
All work and no play makes Jack a
dull boy, goes the popular saying (which was made decidedly creepy by Jack
Nicholson in <i>The Shining</i>). A good
work-life balance is important. Whether you’ve always had aspirations of
picking up the guitar or the siren song of nature has you reaching for the
fly-fishing rod, taking up a hobby can be tremendously satisfying and will also
help you unwind.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br />Hit the gym<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuNesvFKJJyJCZNUx-XFpDD9DNjXmvtaU4M2RscxZWPhjwkfyh_Ck7Egf4RBzxayd3JGXmqIlBpZfk0wYsNZafXHOBdPDnkK13XcEIZU0ZxRUuKpsIHS6_-NS5BJcoc1thgnxf19XHLW_o/s1600/37260253_xxl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuNesvFKJJyJCZNUx-XFpDD9DNjXmvtaU4M2RscxZWPhjwkfyh_Ck7Egf4RBzxayd3JGXmqIlBpZfk0wYsNZafXHOBdPDnkK13XcEIZU0ZxRUuKpsIHS6_-NS5BJcoc1thgnxf19XHLW_o/s320/37260253_xxl.jpg" width="320" /></a>The human brain is an incredible
thing. Not only is it a super-computer that coordinates every little thing we
do, it is also home to a reserve of “feel-good chemicals” known as endorphins.
These endorphins are released under very specific conditions, and tend to make
a person experience feelings of euphoria and wellbeing. One way to get the
endorphins pumping is by doing cardiovascular exercise such as running on a
treadmill or cycling – and there’s the added benefit that exercise is great for
one’s overall health and also aids in weight-loss. There aren’t too many good
reasons <i>not </i>to exercise.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br />Attend one of our famous training courses<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFQFgM4z_jdQ3Q8L5o0BH8VR99Uh6SWrLwNPb9N3f4gOAFwcYHA8jI6kjigsadX39TNNfqrDM55gZtbO1r9RPN6VOXLJYSFSd4TQdcGe-ejw3qN7jujGjoauwBAAvq1sPLAQzIu7bqyivR/s1600/38068714_xxl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFQFgM4z_jdQ3Q8L5o0BH8VR99Uh6SWrLwNPb9N3f4gOAFwcYHA8jI6kjigsadX39TNNfqrDM55gZtbO1r9RPN6VOXLJYSFSd4TQdcGe-ejw3qN7jujGjoauwBAAvq1sPLAQzIu7bqyivR/s320/38068714_xxl.jpg" width="320" /></a>Acquiring a new skill – or
perfecting an existing one – is arguably one of the most gratifying experiences
one can have in life. There is an incredible sense of accomplishment that comes
with being able to do something that you weren’t able to do before, and this
experience of self-actualisation can become quite addictive!<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
Our extensive range of <b>product
training courses</b> have been developed by professional educators with many years’
experience to equip you with the necessary skills to <b>install, sell and support</b>
CENTURION’s access automation solutions. Book your spot <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/about-us/training/overview-and-enrolment" target="_blank">now</a>!<o:p></o:p></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-81117434728873944662017-05-09T00:13:00.001-07:002017-05-09T00:14:19.524-07:00Centurion Systems’ Groundbreaking New Service Model<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE_CwuB15EF-vB3hcoxgTOhtVXmcIyYdklOVTE0LDejRw8IWgGqh1iNOP284MKU2XEN4vuCFf72Pvyf71pZOUKd7FzVV4W7FwFoRvxAlv42k86jYs9L_RjJbSJq7c5L2lWAKtSVUFfKxPt/s1600/LinkedIn+article+promo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE_CwuB15EF-vB3hcoxgTOhtVXmcIyYdklOVTE0LDejRw8IWgGqh1iNOP284MKU2XEN4vuCFf72Pvyf71pZOUKd7FzVV4W7FwFoRvxAlv42k86jYs9L_RjJbSJq7c5L2lWAKtSVUFfKxPt/s400/LinkedIn+article+promo.jpg" width="400" /></a>Ever since its
launch in 2009, CENTURION’s <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/sliding-gate-motors/d5-evo" target="_blank">D5-Evo</a><b> sliding gate motor</b> has become a ubiquity in
the <b>access automation</b> market. Championed by installers and integrators who
appreciate the operator’s <b>user-friendly LCD interface</b> and <b>smart diagnostics</b>,
and lauded by end-users who benefit from the D5-Evo’s <b>semi-legendary
reliability</b>, this product has certainly earned its title as <b>South Africa’s
favourite gate motor</b>. </div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
But the
overwhelming prevalence of the D5-Evo in the marketplace presented CENTURION
with a unique challenge: keeping sites running while operators are booked in
for service or repairs. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
“The average
turnaround time for a service is around three to five working days” explains
CENTURION national technical manager, <b>Bernard Boonzaaier</b>. This doesn’t seem like
a very long time, but <b>gate automation is a critical part of the home security
mix</b>, and removing it potentially leaves the client’s entrance gate vulnerable
from a security perspective. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
Enter the
<b>Service Exchange Programme</b>, CENTURION’s recently-launched initiative aimed at <b>drastically
reducing client downtime</b> and <b>expediting repair turnaround</b>. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b><br />A pragmatic solution<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
The Service
Exchange Programme, which saw the light of day in March of this year, is
pragmatic in that it all but completely eliminates the problem of downtime by
enabling the attendant installer to exchange a D5-Evo operator in need of
repair or maintenance with a service exchange unit, which he can take back and
install onsite.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
Boonzaaier
compares it to the courtesy car system offered by many insurance firms and
panelbeaters.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
“Think about it.
If you are involved in an accident, and your car needs to go to the
panelbeaters even for a short period of time, you’re left completely stranded
if you aren’t able to take advantage of a courtesy car. [This is why] so many
insurance companies offer this service. When your gate motor goes down, or it’s
due for a service, why should you have to push your gate open for a week? It
didn’t make sense to us and an exchange programme seemed like the pragmatic way
of going about it”.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
And CENTURION’s
installers seem to share this sentiment, as evidenced by the fact that <b>more
than 200 service exchange units</b> have already been sold since the programme’s
launch earlier this year.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b><br />Installers (and their clients) will benefit<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
CENTURION’s
<b>passion for service excellence</b> is embedded in the Service Exchange Programme,
and the initiative is informed by the company’s appreciation for the installers
who collectively form an integral part of CENTURION’s route to market.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
Boonzaaier says
that while end-users will definitely benefit from the programme, it is arguably
the installers who have the most to gain from an efficiency perspective. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
“In the end,
rapid turnaround means that installers can get more jobs done which, in turn,
translates into a greater profit [for the installer]. We realised that outmoded
service models were frustrating [the installers], and we wanted to introduce
something that would really change the way that they do business” says
Boonzaaier.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
Read all about
Centurion Systems’ Service Exchange Programme on the company’s website: <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/service-exchange-programme-landing-page">http://www.centsys.co.za/service-exchange-programme-landing-page</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-11586528089402615272017-05-05T04:57:00.001-07:002017-05-05T04:57:21.272-07:0018 Hidden Gem Features of the D5-Evo!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUDvVVFoqhKOBFjH1tnZeNMHwMS8XL7rVs88xSUiqtk9Ul94VWO-mQHzKAsW95V_rPF5rn1cd7MeKxyC8zcDJGRY-zq5Lf1XYe-Fp_Iw08XaL2TzIuiFTA0Ssx5cvL1NZve7zleA98IA87/s1600/40617725_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUDvVVFoqhKOBFjH1tnZeNMHwMS8XL7rVs88xSUiqtk9Ul94VWO-mQHzKAsW95V_rPF5rn1cd7MeKxyC8zcDJGRY-zq5Lf1XYe-Fp_Iw08XaL2TzIuiFTA0Ssx5cvL1NZve7zleA98IA87/s320/40617725_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="https://www.123rf.com/profile_toa55">toa55 / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Did you know that basketball superstar Kobe Bryant is completely fluent in Italian? Or that actor Steve Buscemi, famous for playing odd-ball characters in <i>neo noir</i> films such as <i>Fargo</i> and <i>Reservoir Dogs</i>, used to be a New York City firefighter? We bet you also didn’t know that controversial talk-show host Jerry Springer was, once upon a time, the mayor of Cincinnati, or that actress Natalie Portman has been published in not one but two scientific journals – and is a Harvard alumnus!<br />
<br />
The point we’re trying to make is that it’s easy to get caught up in someone’s – or something’s – more obvious attributes even though <b>there might be some truly amazing things that you might not even be aware of</b>.<br />
<br />
Similarly, our superstar <b>sliding gate motor</b>, the <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/sliding-gate-motors/d5-evo" target="_blank">D5-Evo</a>, has some much-touted features such as its <b>intelligent LCD interface</b> and <b>sophisticated motor control circuitry</b>. But instead of going down that well-trodden path, this article will focus on some of the lesser-known (but no less impressive) features of CENTURION’s flagship operator. It will explore those <b>hidden gems</b> that you might not necessarily be aware of, but that have positioned the <b>D5-Evo</b> in a league of its own and, eight years since its official release, <b>still reigning at the apex of sliding gate automation</b>.<br />
<br />
<b>Gearbox features</b><br />
<br />
• Doped with a fire-retardant chemical agent ensuring that, in the unlikely event that a fire breaks out, it will be contained<br />
• A solid metal gear provides superior anti-break-in strength<br />
• The gears have been submerged in an oil bath for long-term reliability<br />
• The worm-shaft is thread-rolled ensuring a smoother running surface<br />
• The worm is supported by bearing at the top and bottom for added strength<br />
• There is a coupling between the motor drive and the worm-shaft to rule out any chance of misalignment<br />
• Six mounting screws secure the locating flange for the worm, providing strength against the gate being forced<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDgGfBOzqZvZTkz54x9L5TZACiWBDnyOVsY4LYFV17MXWtXfXsJ0apb0MdChdS67zsf3vpm-Jwip1vwN2lEg6qhAD38e3nE6lz8C0-HGgsz2rMZ2FOtabp-7EBZzpibBbRu5uY3Q5VBc5/s1600/D5EVO_MARKUP_POSTER_web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDgGfBOzqZvZTkz54x9L5TZACiWBDnyOVsY4LYFV17MXWtXfXsJ0apb0MdChdS67zsf3vpm-Jwip1vwN2lEg6qhAD38e3nE6lz8C0-HGgsz2rMZ2FOtabp-7EBZzpibBbRu5uY3Q5VBc5/s400/D5EVO_MARKUP_POSTER_web.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Electronics</b><br />
<br />
• The switch-mode charger runs “cool” and ensures continued operation during brown-out conditions as low as 90V<br />
<br />
<b>Cover</b><br />
<br />
• Only requires a single action to secure – saves time<br />
<br />
<b>Adjustment</b><br />
<br />
• Convenient jacking bolts for easy adjustment<br />
<br />
<b>Intelligent LCD interface</b><br />
<br />
• Easy setup via the wizard and visual feedback and information<br />
• Sealed housing to prevent ingress of dirt, moisture and vermin<br />
• Removable connectors for easy maintenance<br />
• Audible feedback via onboard buzzer<br />
• LEDs for easy fault-finding<br />
• Adjustable speed<br />
• Standard safety and sensitivity settings<br />
• 80+ features onboard<br />
<br />Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-91955005223465507142017-05-03T02:46:00.001-07:002017-05-03T02:46:06.236-07:00Accessorise Your D5-Evo with these 4 Ancillary Products<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt8_T41cOcaGksiPdggSzdJg-n5C3uHL78Rmou6dk3FsZUnEjnhr3G0V6tcwIvXXS7MrRDbvb0xhl48saGKjmkfWy_qQbi19v1-LDOyCATQQj-xHC7WxByeo-gPU24EuqEfIy0EajZ380U/s1600/13417195_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt8_T41cOcaGksiPdggSzdJg-n5C3uHL78Rmou6dk3FsZUnEjnhr3G0V6tcwIvXXS7MrRDbvb0xhl48saGKjmkfWy_qQbi19v1-LDOyCATQQj-xHC7WxByeo-gPU24EuqEfIy0EajZ380U/s200/13417195_l.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="https://www.123rf.com/profile_stillfx">stillfx / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Who doesn’t like a bit of bling? Whether you prefer a simple, tasteful set of cufflinks, an understated wrist watch or you have a penchant for Lil Jon levels of ostentatiousness, there’s just something about accessorising that makes an outfit feel complete. Accessories can tie a suit together, accentuate that little black dress or even draw attention away from a poorly-chosen item of clothing. It can emphasise certain attributes while diminishing the harshness of others.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_bt51xIPjs0dTotqM-1CSuN5l3n02FDw7xnutA_WrZ4jB5AHUASSrZDH2crIoSU4GDSdEe1YG9GQUaL2xXMrfknjfC68DbFdq3lLQZiZwsty4oGBg150lUEBxbmVZeVdLVqsKcj_bfUFW/s1600/D5-Evo%252Bcontroller.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_bt51xIPjs0dTotqM-1CSuN5l3n02FDw7xnutA_WrZ4jB5AHUASSrZDH2crIoSU4GDSdEe1YG9GQUaL2xXMrfknjfC68DbFdq3lLQZiZwsty4oGBg150lUEBxbmVZeVdLVqsKcj_bfUFW/s320/D5-Evo%252Bcontroller.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
While we won’t be stocking decorative, sequin-covered sleeves or gold baseplates for the <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/sliding-gate-motors/d5-evo" target="_blank">D5-Evo </a>any time in the near future, you can accessorise your gate motor with all the latest access control solutions. <b>The D5-Evo integrates seamlessly with a number of ancilliary security products</b>, including…<br />
<b><br />The SMARTGUARDair keypad</b><br />
<br />
Let’s get straight into the good stuff: the <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/keypad-access-control/smartguardair" target="_blank">SMARTGUARDair</a> is <b>completely wireless</b> and can communicate with <b>up to 15 NOVA code-hopping receivers</b>…like the one built into the <b>D5-Evo </b>controller. Security, meet convenience!<br />
<br />
<i>Most compelling features:</i><br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>No messy and unsightly cables<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Easy installation<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Activate up to 15 compatible devices<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Stores up to 1000 unique codes comprising one to ten digits<br />
<br />
<b>The G-SPEAK Classic+ intercom system</b><br />
<br />
Ever wish that you could be two places at once? Now you can! With the <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/intercom-systems/g-speak-classic-advanced-gsm-based-intercom" target="_blank">G-SPEAK Classic+</a> <b>GSM-based intercom system</b>, your mobile phone becomes the intercom handset, so <b>you can answer your intercom from virtually anywhere</b>.<br />
<br />
<i>Most compelling features:</i><br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Answer your intercom – and open your gate – from anywhere with a 2G network<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Minimal cabling required<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Crystal-clear speech quality<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Monitor by receiving SMS alerts<br />
<br />
<b>Photon infrared safety beams</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnqiZ68D1GSx899Ij8dJErBI0n9rwPcZVpXdgpzYbbkg0uaq2rMd43YP1mDufLnM4eN9bm-x1cRga1AdmdRpUBg-Zs4W6b7zP849f6BOyTxlAlAw3I9ykW5iKjRWWkk3KUCPVByatp0YP8/s1600/Photon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnqiZ68D1GSx899Ij8dJErBI0n9rwPcZVpXdgpzYbbkg0uaq2rMd43YP1mDufLnM4eN9bm-x1cRga1AdmdRpUBg-Zs4W6b7zP849f6BOyTxlAlAw3I9ykW5iKjRWWkk3KUCPVByatp0YP8/s320/Photon.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Okay, the presence of the word “<b>safety</b>” in this product’s name probably tipped you off to the fact it isn’t so much an optional extra as<b> it is a must-have</b>. If you have an <b>automatic gate</b>, or you’re planning to automate, then you definitely need some sort of detection device in place to ensure that your installation is <b>as safe as possible </b>and the gate won’t close on kids, pets or vehicles. <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/infrared-gate-safety-beams/photon" target="_blank">Photon </a>infrared beams represent the easiest way to achieve a <b>safe automatic gate installation. </b><br />
<br />
<i>Most compelling features:</i><br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Transmitter is wireless – no digging or tunneling under the driveway<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>30m range<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Supremely easy to align thanks to audible feedback<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Effortless mounting<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8YfD-Q5ggf2MmIWt-hV1H_PFoq2o8X_wWcjx1Rlel59Jq8Xx5ukf5XkfFenvCuhJNJjXgcYrIqiWxZCBpLcf5-CbffO4J1RxL9OA_Fd_pltiNDUUlIgzA6iOsvukomB7St08ny4vlw68G/s1600/Nova-Remote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8YfD-Q5ggf2MmIWt-hV1H_PFoq2o8X_wWcjx1Rlel59Jq8Xx5ukf5XkfFenvCuhJNJjXgcYrIqiWxZCBpLcf5-CbffO4J1RxL9OA_Fd_pltiNDUUlIgzA6iOsvukomB7St08ny4vlw68G/s1600/Nova-Remote.jpg" /></a><b><br />New-look NOVA remote controls</b><br />
<br />
If the overall objective of accessorising is to look good, then the new-look <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/remote-controls-and-receivers/nova" target="_blank">NOVA</a> range of <b>remotes </b>with its<b> stylish carbon face</b> and <b>durable, multi-coloured silicone buttons</b> is exactly what the bling doctor ordered.<br />
<br />
<i>Most compelling features:</i><br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>It looks so good!<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Silicone buttons designed to last and last<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Secure code-hopping technology makes it very difficult to copy or clone<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Easy battery replacement and visible battery-low indication<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-92045629521668359202017-05-02T00:46:00.000-07:002017-05-02T00:46:50.564-07:005 Reasons Why the D5-Evo is South Africa’s Favourite Gate Motor<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
In these turbulent, uncertain
political and economic times – with countrywide protests calling for the
resignation of the sitting president, a controversial cabinet reshuffle and a
downgrade to junk status – it’s become more necessary than ever before to reflect
on <b>what it means to be South African</b>. <br />
<br />
Certainly, these recent events have
shaken our faith in many of the foundational truths that we have always taken
for granted, and have challenged our resolve to keep pushing for the
deliverance of the country of our birth.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
<b>So, what does it mean to be South
African?</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMwCdEOKw7zCjDYv_Ug-tB_-hk85VpsbiSmPrfElFAsKjL7bhu7XQ-ALIVXw5oqhrGjMroIKrsE9x9QtO93CndaQgDaZm6t3mRmfwz9rwXc6elvTjUNCa952WlcFZmhIeUGacBOyC7a6Fl/s1600/29903071_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMwCdEOKw7zCjDYv_Ug-tB_-hk85VpsbiSmPrfElFAsKjL7bhu7XQ-ALIVXw5oqhrGjMroIKrsE9x9QtO93CndaQgDaZm6t3mRmfwz9rwXc6elvTjUNCa952WlcFZmhIeUGacBOyC7a6Fl/s320/29903071_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="https://www.123rf.com/profile_bondsza">bondsza / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
Ask any recent émigré what it is
that they miss most about South Africa, and they’re likely to wax lyrical about
the warmth of the people and a certain sense of <i>connectedness </i>that they haven’t been able to find anywhere else.
Indeed, the uniquely South African concept of <i>Ubuntu </i>speaks volumes about the emphasis most South Africans place
on <b>community</b>. </div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
We also know a good thing when we
see it. We value robustness, fortitude and dependability. Case in point, South
Africans simply <i>love </i>our <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/sliding-gate-motors/d5-evo" target="_blank">D5-Evo</a>
<b>sliding gate motor </b>for domestic and light-industrial applications. Here are
five reasons why:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br />Supremely easy setup<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3kLfBrXyKKaN06RQbxGEkCNvNh6ygnuv6MVHJw9yTMmTn4YnagWnMlfr7FMd_DdbbUPRSGpnXDV7AGFg9kegtz-t6D90pqPzf8YTbqS6Q3QHJv0Y6MThFr8HWGTc9d8505gpbhkPeSGk/s1600/53858273_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3kLfBrXyKKaN06RQbxGEkCNvNh6ygnuv6MVHJw9yTMmTn4YnagWnMlfr7FMd_DdbbUPRSGpnXDV7AGFg9kegtz-t6D90pqPzf8YTbqS6Q3QHJv0Y6MThFr8HWGTc9d8505gpbhkPeSGk/s320/53858273_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="https://www.123rf.com/profile_jirsak">jirsak / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The <b>D5-Evo</b> represents a unique
dichotomy, namely our love affair with all things <b>high-tech </b>combined with a
penchant for<b> simplicity</b>; it’s the <b>futuristic sensibilities</b> that have always
been so at home in the CENTURION stable processed through the engine of
<b>compelling innovation</b> to deliver the ultimate in intuitiveness. Boasting an
intelligent LCD plug-and-play interface, the controller utilises an
appropriately-named <b>Setup Wizard</b> – with graphics - to guide you through the
limit setup procedure.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br />Even if the lights go off, you can still get in<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
While load-shedding seems to be
under control for the time being, it’s still nice to know that one isn’t
completely at the mercy of a power grid that’s unstable at the best of times,
especially when it comes to your home’s security. We pioneered power failure
protection in <b>gate motors</b>, so in line with all our other operators, the <b>D5-Evo
sliding gate motor </b>carries on guarding your entrance even when the
lights go out, and you won’t be left out in the cold impotently shaking your
fist at a recalcitrant gate, either.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><br />Safe anti-crushing protection<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
The<b> D5-Evo</b>’s controller remains,
without a doubt, one of this <b>gate motor</b>’s most compelling trump cards, thanks
in no small part to the inclusion of <b>sophisticated motor control circuitry</b>,
ensuring <b>smooth acceleration and deceleration</b> a far cry from the frantic, jerky
and frankly unsettling movements of older products. Besides the obvious
aesthetic benefits, the complete control exerted over the motor enables us to
make the collision detection system <b>even more sensitive</b> to obstructions. This
translates into greater end-user peace of mind.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br />Packed with features to keep you and your loved ones secure<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
From the novel<b> Intruder-detection
Alarm</b> feature-set to <b>time-barring of inputs</b> and <b>beam Autoclose</b>, the <b>D5-Evo</b>
controller runs the gamut of high-security features. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br />Seamless integration<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
While the <b>D5-Evo</b> works perfectly
well as a <b>standalone access automation solution</b>, it’s remarkably easy to
accessorise your <b>gate motor</b> for a well-rounded blend of <b>security and
convenience</b> through integration with, among other accessories, <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/intercom-systems" target="_blank">intercom systems</a>, <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/keypad-access-control" target="_blank">keypads</a>, <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/infrared-gate-safety-beams" target="_blank">infrared gate safety beams</a>, pedestrian key-switches and
external <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/remote-controls-and-receivers" target="_blank">receivers</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-12428575697226864922017-04-10T01:32:00.003-07:002017-04-10T01:32:22.347-07:005 Tips for a Worry-free Long Weekend AwayCome Friday, the country’s national highways will once again be packed as scores of South Africans make their way to various destinations in an attempt to squeeze the last few drops of sweet summer from the rapidly-fading season. A mass exodus from all the major cities on Thursday afternoon will mark the start of the <b>four-day weekend</b>, the sun glinting off the roofs of cars, caravans and Venter trailers like the scales of some gigantic metallic snake coiled along the length of the N3.<br />
<br />
Make sure that you get the most out of your long weekend away with these <b>five tips promoting maximum peace of mind</b>.<br />
<br />
<b>Inspect your mode of transport</b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinADJiEwPQE5UmHUH7hR9KBqD4vTGwmMNPr2VV2wCh-ahIxc61TcbA7Us9ak236C5lODpHmZEK61F1uUxgQZzeaWIteIqOthSQsxbgKPjABO8MaVNIm4G8FACyfNoVaRe5LAGFgsLracd0/s1600/18693217_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinADJiEwPQE5UmHUH7hR9KBqD4vTGwmMNPr2VV2wCh-ahIxc61TcbA7Us9ak236C5lODpHmZEK61F1uUxgQZzeaWIteIqOthSQsxbgKPjABO8MaVNIm4G8FACyfNoVaRe5LAGFgsLracd0/s320/18693217_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="https://www.123rf.com/profile_ikonoklast">ikonoklast / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Nothing puts a damper on holiday festivities faster than car trouble. Not only can it be extremely <b>dangerous</b> getting stranded out in the middle of nowhere (we’ve all seen <i>The Hills Have Eyes</i> and <i>Wrong Turn</i>, haven’t we?), but a breakdown is likely to end up costing you precious time and money that could have been better spent on typical holiday revelry.<br />
<br />
Be sure to check the following aspects of your vehicle:<br />
<ul>
<li>That your tyres (including the spare) are all in a good condition</li>
<li>Fluid levels (water, oil, brake fluid)</li>
<li>That you have enough fuel</li>
<li>Lights and indicators (including those of your trailer if you are taking one along)</li>
</ul>
Finally, if your insurance company offers roadside assistance, save the number on speed dial.<br />
<br />
<b>Confirm your reservation beforehand</b><br />
<br />
Again, if countless horror movie tropes about cannibalistic families preying on desperate shelter-seekers are anything to go by, the last thing you want is to have to look for last-minute accommodation because your original booking didn’t pan out. Always <b>confirm check-in times and</b> <b>dates</b> a good couple of days before your trip, and be sure to take <b>proof of payment</b> and <b>reservation </b>with you.<br />
<br />
<b>Read some online reviews</b><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBYFlPLC0Wi_KptKUJO2aCyFgucGmREPuKLDqsVammcTzuzerV3hGG2Kvwf4ocjtIRH07HUy2z_rhwA-6jEyWdqir70XIDQCXsmTTO-1f_EoMQDWMaDm91pDeMqq8OUK0HSxVTZsXl5qy/s1600/50233247_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBYFlPLC0Wi_KptKUJO2aCyFgucGmREPuKLDqsVammcTzuzerV3hGG2Kvwf4ocjtIRH07HUy2z_rhwA-6jEyWdqir70XIDQCXsmTTO-1f_EoMQDWMaDm91pDeMqq8OUK0HSxVTZsXl5qy/s320/50233247_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="https://www.123rf.com/profile_jirsak">jirsak / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In the <b>Information Age</b>, there’s precious little information that can’t be found online, including accounts of previous visitors’ experiences at guesthouses, B & Bs, hotels and resorts. Do yourself a favour and search for <b>ratings and reviews</b> about your intended accommodation. Websites such as Booking.com, Tripadvisor and <i>Lekker Slaap</i> enable you to book directly via the website as well as read <b>reviews</b>. You can really save yourself a world of discomfort and disappointment by doing some online research first. Tried and true!<br />
<br />
<b>Check news sites for information about strikes that could affect you</b><br />
<br />
There are a number of ways that your trip could be adversely affected by <b>industrial action</b>. Firstly, if there’s a fuel strike planned, it’s important that you stock up on enough of the stuff to get you to your destination and back. <b>Fill up your tank, fill a couple of cans and keep them in a cool, safe place away from heat and open flames</b>. Secondly, strikes often turn violent, so if you’re travelling through affected areas, you might want to consider a <b>route change</b>.<br />
<b><br />All-important security</b><br />
<br />
We all knew we were building up to this point, didn’t we? But <b>concerns about security </b>amount to one of the leading causes of worry during vacations, probably because we are not comfortable with relinquishing control and leaving our homes and possessions unattended for extended periods of time.<br />
<br />
But fear not, you don’t have to give up control completely. For example, you can install a <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/gsm-devices/g-switch-22" target="_blank">GSM device</a> and receive SMS notifications when someone opens your gate, or there’s a power outage back <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/intercom-systems/g-speak-classic-advanced-gsm-based-intercom" target="_blank">GSM intercom</a> fitted and answer your intercom from anywhere, giving the impression that you’re home. Below we’ve provided some additional security tips:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/upload/product_gallery/20101209045549_large_GSwitch_22_with_logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.centsys.co.za/upload/product_gallery/20101209045549_large_GSwitch_22_with_logo.jpg" height="256" width="320" /></a></div>
home. Or have a <br />
<ul>
<li>Have a friend or neighbour collect your mail</li>
<li>Check your alarm system before embarking on your trip (a <b>GSM device</b> can also be configured to notify you of alarm events, and it enables you to switch your alarm on and off via SMS text messages from your phone)</li>
<li>Put outside lights on a day-night switch and set it up so that the lights come on at night (or – you guessed it – just invest in a <b>GSM device</b>! You can also connect lights to your <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/sliding-gate-motors/d5-evo" target="_blank">D5-Evo</a>’s light relay and use the <b>gate motor</b>’s onboard timer to automatically switch them on and off. <b>#IntelligenceInMotion</b>)</li>
<li>Inform your armed reaction company that you’ll be away from home for a while</li>
<li>Ask someone to maintain your swimming pool while you’re away</li>
<li>Lock valuables in a safe</li>
<li>Check that doors, locks and windows are secure</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-28675968957133392572017-04-03T12:20:00.001-07:002017-04-03T12:20:50.789-07:00Psychology in Business Added to Training Roster“What helps people, helps business”, quoth the influential advertising executive <b>Leo Burnett</b>, a man who was responsible for some of the best-known and most enduring characters in advertising and understood that to know business, is to know people. Burnett was the creative mastermind behind such immortal icons as <b>Tony the Tiger</b> and the <b>Pillsbury Doughboy</b>, and attributed the staggering success of his characters and campaigns to drawing upon <b>shared emotions and experiences</b>. Burnett knew how to connect with people on a very real and emotional level, and established rapport with his audience through what has been called <b>heartland-rooted values</b>.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrIsemTtQojB-4nUDjfDjFXtMhUG7WKstovGGyUplLbJ80QFN8W6Y8DUjggyt3pWqbDiS9ax3z7V6KebmvOqedz8RNzDnlLZ3unzW_nLxVs-ylG7dGZrXwpvUVTPbjZRwVnYtGLb2H2Vwt/s1600/237+Chris+Grobler-3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrIsemTtQojB-4nUDjfDjFXtMhUG7WKstovGGyUplLbJ80QFN8W6Y8DUjggyt3pWqbDiS9ax3z7V6KebmvOqedz8RNzDnlLZ3unzW_nLxVs-ylG7dGZrXwpvUVTPbjZRwVnYtGLb2H2Vwt/s320/237+Chris+Grobler-3.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Centurion Systems' trainer-in-chief, Chris Grobler</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
CENTURION training manager<b> Chris Grobler</b> is a man who has devoted a significant portion of his career to understanding people - and more specifically, what <i>drives </i>them - first as an educator, and later as a psychology scholar. He possesses a sort of calm, introspective wisdom and warmth that immediately inspires trust and makes one want to take him into one’s confidence. Behind the shy half-smile and kind eyes is a real passion for empowering and uplifting people, for taking them on a journey that will inevitably result in revelations of <b>great personal potential</b>.<br />
<br />
It is this passion for <b>unlocking greatness</b> that inspired Chris to design a training course aimed at <b>developing an understanding of psychology in business</b>. While the vast majority of Chris’ courses have focused on developing <b>technical skills</b>, the <i>Psychology in Business</i> course has been designed to teach a better understanding of <b>why people make certain decisions</b> in the context of business. <br />
<br />
According to Chris, this is a tragically overlooked but <b>critical component</b> of sales training, with the result that many salespeople lack conviction when selling their wares.<br />
<br />
The course will cover the following material:<br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Why do humans do the things they do?<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The working of the human brain<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Basic psychology<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Individual purpose<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Vision<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Mental toughness<br />
<br />
<i>Psychology for Business</i> will be presented as a <b>free course</b>.<br />
<br />
“Our aim is to assist our clients with some business psychology that will enable them to grow in person and leadership” says Chris of the decision not to attach a fee to the course.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-59775357612330936462017-03-27T22:05:00.001-07:002017-03-28T03:09:28.356-07:006 of the Best Italian Inventions<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMMIHpkccuyfqeHjqJjHA5nNUG_UMsH21pWy_BIOUCIbsaTQNNLTrcDg50maMFYIipnMDsVPL4rV7ViXq_raDYSEn8sUMTNhNaW2Wf8vBZMI9iafiOm8d0QPP-Ty7-keX0SzEw1NfkVnKl/s1600/41693634_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMMIHpkccuyfqeHjqJjHA5nNUG_UMsH21pWy_BIOUCIbsaTQNNLTrcDg50maMFYIipnMDsVPL4rV7ViXq_raDYSEn8sUMTNhNaW2Wf8vBZMI9iafiOm8d0QPP-Ty7-keX0SzEw1NfkVnKl/s320/41693634_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="https://www.123rf.com/profile_ekaterinabelova">ekaterinabelova / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The mere mention of <b>Italy</b> conjures
up images of quaint, cobblestoned streets, gorgeous villas and breathtaking
architecture steeped in history from the Age of Enlightenment. This tiny
Mediterranean country has given us Giorgio Armani suits and some of the finest
luxury sports cars that the automotive world has to offer. </div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
This week, we have the privilege of
hosting five directors from our parent company, <a href="http://www.faacgroup.com/" target="_blank">FAAC</a>, headquartered in <b>Bologna</b>.
In honour of their visit, here are six of the best Italian inventions:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br />Ballet<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
One of many expressive art forms to
be born from the <b>Renaissance</b> – a period of <b>artistic, spiritual and scientific
awakening</b> in Europe between the 14<sup>th</sup> and 17<sup>th</sup> centuries –
ballet was invented and performed for the first time in Florence. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br />The espresso machine<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
Enjoying that cup of Joe this
morning? Turns out we have the Italians to thank for that, too! The espresso
machine was invented in 1903 by a man called <b>Luigi Bezzera</b> in an effort to
speed up the coffee-making process. Luigi, thank you for making mornings
bearable! We owe you an eternal debt of gratitude.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br />The induction motor<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
The Italians have given us some
truly great inventions in the fields of <b>science and technology</b>, and few have
been more influential than the induction motor. Invented by <b>Galileo Ferraris</b> in
1885, the induction motor is an <b>AC electric motor</b> that uses electromagnetic
induction to generate current which in turn produces torque. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br />Jeans<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizchz1Lbqmv_TdVAjOaaGvgEikOpashCA4f_ILaL-DaUgVzl-35k01MfXbiBlvIJQVM3I8kOhUBs785Uv1u9UGSF5sO1dwdzcwl4AgMwhrmEG2KcQqE4YaYk8wX8nSQ3QQUJNbUGqvDUV3/s1600/42807532_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizchz1Lbqmv_TdVAjOaaGvgEikOpashCA4f_ILaL-DaUgVzl-35k01MfXbiBlvIJQVM3I8kOhUBs785Uv1u9UGSF5sO1dwdzcwl4AgMwhrmEG2KcQqE4YaYk8wX8nSQ3QQUJNbUGqvDUV3/s320/42807532_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="https://www.123rf.com/profile_kiuikson">kiuikson / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
That’s right, arguably the most
popular item of clothing is, in fact, another Italian invention. The very first
pair of jeans originated from the City of Genoa. Can you imagine countless
cowboys and rockers strutting their stuff in corduroys? We didn’t think so. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br />Batteries<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
It is nearly impossible to imagine
a life without batteries. We use them in our mobile phones, laptop computers
and various other everyday appliances (including our <a href="http://www.centsys.com/" target="_blank">gate motors</a>!) and enjoy
the autonomy provided by history’s most robust and enduring power storage
device. The very first <b>electromechanical battery</b>, the voltaic pile, was built
by <b>Alessandro Volta</b> (who else?) in 1800.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82f0sofqeXWUlP_fr7m-iu-cjBiDfxovsR5N1WB5WhuRNEJpIOkUacI5mo9KQlRUNDT9x3XC4AWU9Efotw7l3XcYuG4YVSLxRNhjRbyLhKIhwCasodC6fmGPUAW0YE-wcz0qqvlXPBWAK/s1600/11145045_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82f0sofqeXWUlP_fr7m-iu-cjBiDfxovsR5N1WB5WhuRNEJpIOkUacI5mo9KQlRUNDT9x3XC4AWU9Efotw7l3XcYuG4YVSLxRNhjRbyLhKIhwCasodC6fmGPUAW0YE-wcz0qqvlXPBWAK/s320/11145045_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="https://www.123rf.com/profile_vladru">vladru / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEvVIyWjHJxeorRyh1Mys-wma74DA8-IP08Jxg23J2nszRX-G3rtmEXZlOUG_5_lE5vWvjCUH0p2ojUiCCMSyPG_UeMQ1sjO00Jp0hpJ1-SSXrWzf46-IA4T7L3379N2bvBiLEIACuGWZS/s1600/116000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEvVIyWjHJxeorRyh1Mys-wma74DA8-IP08Jxg23J2nszRX-G3rtmEXZlOUG_5_lE5vWvjCUH0p2ojUiCCMSyPG_UeMQ1sjO00Jp0hpJ1-SSXrWzf46-IA4T7L3379N2bvBiLEIACuGWZS/s320/116000.jpg" width="270" /></a><b>The FAAC bollard</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
While the bollard itself might not be an Italian invention (the origins of this traffic control device are somewhat obscure, but it seems to have its roots in maritime equipment), <a href="http://www.faac.co.za/bollards.html" target="_blank">FAAC's contribution</a> is a homage to <b>good old-fashioned engineering excellence</b> and <b>emphasises robustness and durability</b>. The design of FAAC's bollards bespeaks <b>Italian flair</b> combined with an all-round beefiness that makes them suitable for virtually any <b>traffic control </b>application. </div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-33246756874510880062017-03-20T02:20:00.003-07:002017-03-21T02:43:15.168-07:00Keep Important Settings Safe and Secure with CENTURION's Memory Module<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
No fewer than <b>80 programmable
features</b> can be found on a <b>D-Series controller</b>, ranging from <b>high-security
features</b> such as the beam alarms, to <b>intelligent timer functionality</b> and <b>safety
enhancements</b>. <o:p></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0lMz-t_UowJ1ka6l9FSvKeJWZHdPBapc3lkU_HIgnlfbgWBG8ma6rM2aXsHqDzMMU02OQ7sKqOBf90CViJQBV_x40YEMGwJSo2no089YPq4J-rHc9p9SOVQH9kaCcGtPRPK7MPhUYj3oO/s1600/43139478_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0lMz-t_UowJ1ka6l9FSvKeJWZHdPBapc3lkU_HIgnlfbgWBG8ma6rM2aXsHqDzMMU02OQ7sKqOBf90CViJQBV_x40YEMGwJSo2no089YPq4J-rHc9p9SOVQH9kaCcGtPRPK7MPhUYj3oO/s320/43139478_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="https://www.123rf.com/profile_profotokris">profotokris / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
As someone with an obvious
proclivity for fragrant cooking once said, <b>variety is the spice of life</b>. If
that is indeed the case, then the D-Series range of gate operators offers a
flavoursome spread that is guaranteed to entice even the most refined of
palates; a delicate pairing of <b>futuristic technology</b> and <b>user-centric
intuitiveness</b> with a <i>soupcon</i> of <b>old-school
durability</b>. </div>
<br />
<o:p></o:p>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
This vast array of settings can be
problematic, however, should the day ever come that one has to replace an existing
controller and transfer all of its settings to a new unit. Was Autoclose
enabled? What was the operating speed set at? Was there a pre-delay
configured? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
As a special tie-in with our
Service Exchange Programme, we’re relaunching our must-have <b>Backup Memory
Module</b> with a <b>stylish new look</b> and <b>durable enclosure</b>. If you regularly install
and service CENTURION<b> D-Series gate motors</b>, this is one accessory you simply
can’t afford to be without.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRJWHG6g4A28UdoGMcUGSChexhbHAutO0WK6YibjehU-JJfLKGtaRfaJZ_ufxEF1XNX-g0le746P2ksObEkPL-ff2HPHDf5X_Z__W4WEBFF1IVw6hJVqEAuAzBi8HrFR_HZ6yWM8gEGFG7/s1600/20170215111630_large_CENTURION-Memory_Module-a2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRJWHG6g4A28UdoGMcUGSChexhbHAutO0WK6YibjehU-JJfLKGtaRfaJZ_ufxEF1XNX-g0le746P2ksObEkPL-ff2HPHDf5X_Z__W4WEBFF1IVw6hJVqEAuAzBi8HrFR_HZ6yWM8gEGFG7/s320/20170215111630_large_CENTURION-Memory_Module-a2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Above: the CENTURION Backup Memory Module</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Use the <b>Backup Memory Module</b> to effortlessly back up
<b>important settings</b>, <b>ChronoGuard time-periods</b> and even <b>remote buttons</b> and<b>
restore</b> them on a new or existing controller just as easily. The module simply
plugs into the controller’s BID port (where the DOSS harness is usually
connected) and works in much the same fashion as a memory stick, but has been
specially designed to keep settings configured on your <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/sliding-gate-motors/d5-evo" target="_blank">D5-Evo</a>, <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/sliding-gate-motors/d10" target="_blank">D10</a>, <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/sliding-gate-motors/d10-turbo" target="_blank">D10 Turbo</a>
or SECTOR/<a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/traffic-barriers/sector-ii" target="_blank">SECTOR II</a> safe and secure.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
And it’s supremely <b>easy to use</b>! For
more information, please visit our <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/service-exchange-programme-landing-page" target="_blank">website</a> or order your CENTURION Backup
Memory Module today by giving us a call on +27 11 699 2510.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-90432211538981729932017-03-17T02:35:00.000-07:002017-03-17T03:24:23.314-07:005 Tips to Help You Sleep Better Tonight<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgozfPx9sNKASwKK2yxW6YGxjfE-ZXXnG6a75AD79JXg4w-zPpvG1fmKLE-Zw8zqDeF9nYA5AXifLULkkAT4NDTt_iJsWsljrwx1imrx6E7zIMCjLYqjbbhhxOCOA_dACWx_l8GTHpO_LJd/s1600/53057562_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgozfPx9sNKASwKK2yxW6YGxjfE-ZXXnG6a75AD79JXg4w-zPpvG1fmKLE-Zw8zqDeF9nYA5AXifLULkkAT4NDTt_iJsWsljrwx1imrx6E7zIMCjLYqjbbhhxOCOA_dACWx_l8GTHpO_LJd/s320/53057562_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="https://www.123rf.com/profile_yuriisokolov">yuriisokolov / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Fact: <b>sleep is
good for you</b>. It ranks right up there alongside drinking plenty of water and
not forgetting your wife’s birthday under the category “things that will make
you live longer”. Getting enough sleep improves focus, helps with stress and
yes, it can even <b>increase longevity</b> according to <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/news/2010/05May/Pages/lifespan-link-to-sleeping-habits.aspx" target="_blank">some studies</a>. The optimal
number of hours of quality sleep required depends largely on one’s age and
unique genetic composition, but most experts place the figure at between 7 and
9 hours for a healthy adult. </div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
It is also
important that the sleep you do get is sufficiently <b>deep and restful</b> in order
for it to be considered beneficial. So-called “light” (or non-REM, stage 1 and
stage 2) sleeping, tossing and turning and frequent waking does not constitute
quality sleep, and is likely to leave you feeling tired and agitated the next
day.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
But, with the
mounting pressures and worries of everyday life – work, money, relationships –
many of us may find quality sleep eluding us and consequently our health and
overall performance of daily tasks are affected in a negative way.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
Here are some
tried and tested tips for getting a good night’s rest.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b><br />Take it easy on the caffeine<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJhdzRolgngUGj8ni_EvE308VFbDMMLeQV9roBoAZ-yZ0qmfKMzSzlj7oIMmKWOnUSY5dm22cHea_QaqYp6ZxROmgJujgcdpoIxMsnP_A5oaeETz0z6HpmW2t7jzwPwi7w30kVfCvGcax/s1600/44614156_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJhdzRolgngUGj8ni_EvE308VFbDMMLeQV9roBoAZ-yZ0qmfKMzSzlj7oIMmKWOnUSY5dm22cHea_QaqYp6ZxROmgJujgcdpoIxMsnP_A5oaeETz0z6HpmW2t7jzwPwi7w30kVfCvGcax/s320/44614156_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="https://www.123rf.com/profile_capacitorphoto">capacitorphoto / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Caffeine (the
active ingredient in coffee) is a powerful central nervous system stimulant,
which means that it has a “perking up” effect, making a person feel more awake
and alert. The problem is that, if you overdo it or enjoy coffee too close to
bedtime, your CNS will become overstimulated, you’ll become “wired” and find it
difficult to “switch off” and fall asleep. Also, don’t be fooled into thinking
that caffeine is only found in coffee. Some tea varietals and even chocolate contain
<b>considerable amounts</b> of the substance!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b><br />Do some light exercise <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
The health
benefits of exercising have been <a href="https://draxe.com/benefits-of-exercise/" target="_blank">well-documented</a>. From <b>improving
cardio-vascular performance</b> to <b>burning fat</b>, there aren’t too many cases to be
made against hitting the gym! But did you know that getting the blood pumping
an hour or two before bedtime can actually help you sleep better? Experts
caution against exercising <b>too close to bedtime</b>, however, as your breathing and
heartrate may require some time to return to normal levels.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b><br />Stick to a sleep schedule<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
<b>Our bodies love
routine</b>, and severe deviations from our daily schedules have the tendency to
jolt the system and disturb our bodies’ equilibrium. Try to go to bed and wake
up at <b>more or less the same time</b> every day to keep your body – and mind -
happy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b><br />When you switch off, <i>really </i>switch off<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
This is becoming
increasingly difficult to do in a technology-driven and obsessed society. Even
when the lights are off, cellphones, tablets and television sets cast their
spectral glow and remind us that we’re never truly disconnected from the world.
This, as it turns out, is not a good thing. How many of us can truthfully say
that we don’t use our mobile devices in bed, checking emails, chatting, playing
games, etc.? As difficult as it may be, we need to condition ourselves to
<b>completely switch off</b> the moment that we get into bed. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b><br />Stop worrying<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />
Because it’s
that easy, right? Not quite. Worry is one of the leading causes of not getting
proper sleep, and contributes to a plethora of other health issues including
strokes and heart attacks, stomach ulcers and, according to some studies, even
cancer. Excessive worrying also leads to a compromised immune system, which
essentially means that your body lets down its guard. There are plenty of ways
to tackle excessive stress such as <b>meditation, exercise and, in extreme cases,
seeking professional help</b>.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
We care about
your peace of mind! Don’t lose sleep worrying whether your <b>gate motor</b> will be
there in the morning. Fit a<b> theft-resistant cage</b> from the leaders in access
automation.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHDFUgIkIOzRDtoJJVJFh11uFapi3c7dKWI3QArT344VaFkd_Z8Hhq__GdbUnodLFM17poPcgJNi6itmYvvlTvOz4mRnBbme2HjpkGlYVG8z374ieQFNjSCJWR0EpJuvu6-clmA3cXpFo/s1600/CENTURION-ANTI-THEFT-CAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHDFUgIkIOzRDtoJJVJFh11uFapi3c7dKWI3QArT344VaFkd_Z8Hhq__GdbUnodLFM17poPcgJNi6itmYvvlTvOz4mRnBbme2HjpkGlYVG8z374ieQFNjSCJWR0EpJuvu6-clmA3cXpFo/s400/CENTURION-ANTI-THEFT-CAGE.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-91895008774082115162017-03-14T00:58:00.004-07:002017-03-20T00:44:26.275-07:00Press Release: CENTURION Launches Service Exchange ProgrammeCenturion Systems has launched an exciting and innovative initiative geared towards drastically <b>reducing client downtime</b> as well as <b>expediting repair turnaround</b>.<br />
<br />
Dubbed the CENTURION <b><a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/service-exchange-programme-landing-page" target="_blank">Service Exchange Programme</a></b>, the initiative is set to take the industry by storm, and is based on the following basic model:<br />
<br />
1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The installer is called to site by the client, and assesses the nature and category of the repair job by referring to the criteria as set out by <a href="http://www.centsys.com/" target="_blank">Centurion Systems</a>.<br />
<br />
2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The installer then quotes the client based on the category into which the job is likely to fall.<br />
<br />
3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>If the client accepts, the installer takes the part, or parts, in need of repair to his nearest CENTURION distributor or branch where a supplementary assessment is performed by a service technician to ensure that the installer quoted his client correctly.<br />
<br />
4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Finally, the technician issues the installer or distributor with a service exchange unit and the installer is sent on his way to install the service exchange unit at the client’s place of residence or business, as the case may be.<br />
<br />
Whereas in the past clients would have had to wait up to a week for their gate system to be returned to service, the entire process – from the initial call-out to having the gate up and running – can now take <b>as little as an hour or two</b>. CENTURION has identified an area in the repair process in which there is considerable room for improvement, and the <b>Service Exchange Programme</b> is the company’s reply to the market’s pronounced requirement for expeditious turnaround times.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRILGBrTyH2yzPjVjMd6voe5lb9FgxNZbTL5zizHGJOIHGY2S5j2mG2qNTPHW55AuHAXaiJnLrBJj0Zzxc76aRH_h7uD7uWvtDtleDO_Ze_l3yerECuytAVM-XuXzRcLcsx_Uvtfx80mz/s1600/151+Johan+Lessing.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRILGBrTyH2yzPjVjMd6voe5lb9FgxNZbTL5zizHGJOIHGY2S5j2mG2qNTPHW55AuHAXaiJnLrBJj0Zzxc76aRH_h7uD7uWvtDtleDO_Ze_l3yerECuytAVM-XuXzRcLcsx_Uvtfx80mz/s320/151+Johan+Lessing.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Centurion Systems national branch manager, Johan Lessing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
“We are very excited about this initiative,” says CENTURION national branch manager <b>Johan Lessing</b>, who played a key role in developing the programme. “When a client has to wait several days for a repair quote, and then wait several more days for the job to be completed, it is not only inconvenient, but leaves the gate vulnerable and the site’s security compromised. With the <b>Service Exchange Programme</b>, we are able to offer lightning-fast turnaround, leading to increased customer satisfaction which will hopefully have the knock-on effect of generating more business for our installer-base”.<br />
<br />
Lessing added that, while only the <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/sliding-gate-motors/d5-evo" target="_blank">D5-Evo</a> <b>sliding gate motor</b> will form part of the pilot programme, the company has every intention of extending the initiative to other products once it has properly taken off.<br />
<br />
“The [D5-] Evo being South Africa's favourite gate motor, it just made sense to trial [the programme] with this motor”.<br />
<br />
CENTURION has also released a series of instructional <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y91XVtaSSmY&list=PLCWUAxA3F-UhLzAB_RL97Rbf0wuzghbN7" target="_blank">YouTube videos</a> explaining the programme as well as how to accurately quote clients when making use of the <b>Service Exchange Programme</b>.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-53974455069974166002017-03-06T04:51:00.004-08:002017-03-06T23:30:00.208-08:00Fantastic Installations and Where to Find Them<span style="font-family: inherit;">Back in 2001, all of fandom rejoiced as bestselling fantasy novelist <b>J.K. Rowling</b> announced that she was penning a new novel in the Harry Potter canon – a prequel of sorts this time – called <i>Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them</i>, and last year the book was adapted for the big screen and joined the pantheon of films that are the reason that Miss Rowling lives in a castle. But I digress. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />The story follows the fantastically-named Newt Scamander (which also happens to be the<i> nom de plume</i> that Rowling used when she wrote the novel), a writer and renowned purveyor of all things mythical, as he travels to 1920s New York in search of more fantastic beasts to document in his authoritative work. However, chaos ensues when several creatures escape from Newt’s magically-expanding suitcase and the protagonist must do everything in his power to stop the two worlds that exist side-by-side from colliding.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />While we certainly don’t claim to be experts on finding fantastic beasts (the Kruger National Park is probably a good place to begin one’s search), we do know where to find a<b> fantastic access automation installation</b>, or three, as evidenced by these winning sites from around South Africa. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><u>Automated pool deck</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span>
<iframe allowfullscreen="true" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fjohann.dreyer.52%2Fvideos%2F1809091569364532%2F&show_text=0&width=560" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="560"></iframe><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b>What:</b> A 5300mm x 3400mm wooden pool deck fully automated using a <b>sliding gate motor</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b>Where:</b> Lichtenburg, Northwest Province, South Africa</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b>The hardware:</b> 1 x CENTURION <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/sliding-gate-motors/d5-evo" target="_blank">D5-Evo</a> 500kg <b>sliding gate motor</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b>Installer:</b> JD Elektries, Lichtenburg <a href="mailto:jd@jdelektries.co.za" target="_blank">jd@jdelektries.co.za </a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u><br />Stargazing bed on rails</u></b></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0smvjg0vwH3IqqE5R_cdqyfC3GHD8Vc4QPMoUdQklSd36UCZM5p4XfXNQTv6ZObb2vHy4yDza1pqNJYygwdS_ecNbnyA14TQgTqgznu7iaMD2qouyLeIXFle3NnG1Hn8IxofTtJ93EzmY/s1600/815831c4-2b84-472d-9718-508c41843ec3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0smvjg0vwH3IqqE5R_cdqyfC3GHD8Vc4QPMoUdQklSd36UCZM5p4XfXNQTv6ZObb2vHy4yDza1pqNJYygwdS_ecNbnyA14TQgTqgznu7iaMD2qouyLeIXFle3NnG1Hn8IxofTtJ93EzmY/s320/815831c4-2b84-472d-9718-508c41843ec3.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b>What:</b> A fully-automated, retractable stargazing bed on which to whisper sweet nothings into your beloved’s ear under a bejeweled night sky with the gentle murmur of the Vaal as background music</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b>Where:</b> On the Vaal river near Parys, Free State, South Africa</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br />The hardware:</b> 1 x CENTURION <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/sliding-gate-motors/d5-evo" target="_blank">D5-Evo</a> 500kg <b>sliding gate motor</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw3b9YM4in-sHrq9spPY22bA0hS0Cz5yGWjVSbJtCCpKH1L3eErHzBlY0peKhL6-JZ0jwa937PQm6UaKhHptQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b>Installer:</b> Derk van den Brink <a href="mailto:dmvandenbrink@gmail.com">dmvandenbrink@gmail.com</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><u><b>Moving targets</b></u></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_PRebO9uW6gGQHSBvc3fV8JW87ZbbY9ffXKx4i5_r84xJqQADTqMSK800l7wgOSqzdOOoVXXxy86lLf327_MpfXt7MXEXpiv17jGIn6qkW_2ylxrl0MzoByBzPjGugKg6L9mwrYj0z7vo/s1600/ea217313-2ef0-4ebd-bfff-2a5c8bcfd677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_PRebO9uW6gGQHSBvc3fV8JW87ZbbY9ffXKx4i5_r84xJqQADTqMSK800l7wgOSqzdOOoVXXxy86lLf327_MpfXt7MXEXpiv17jGIn6qkW_2ylxrl0MzoByBzPjGugKg6L9mwrYj0z7vo/s200/ea217313-2ef0-4ebd-bfff-2a5c8bcfd677.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b>What: </b>Exactly what the name says</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br />Where: </b>The Mpumalanga traffic department training college, Mpumalanga, South Africa</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br />The hardware:</b> 8 x <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/sliding-gate-motors/d2-turbo" target="_blank">D2 Turbo</a> 250kg <b>sliding gate motors</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b>Installer:</b> Pulse Electronics, Nelspruit <a href="mailto:pulse.electronics@vodamail.co.za">pulse.electronics@vodamail.co.za</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
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Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-42243717534048277532017-02-27T03:52:00.000-08:002017-02-27T03:52:06.380-08:00Growing Up Dickens: Tim Dickens Profiled<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
As the youngest of the three
Dickens boys, young <b>Timothy</b> (“Dog” to his family, although no-one is certain of
the exact origins of this nickname; its genesis seems to be lost in complex
Dickens family lore) offers a unique perspective on what it was like growing up
in a house headed by two dynamic captains of industry as they grew their
fledgling business from humble grassroots beginnings into a <b>global access
automation empire</b>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />Born in the same year that CENTURION
was founded, Tim had a twin far more demanding and mercurial than most who have
shared womb and zygote and, while not necessarily having had to compete with
the business – for nothing is ever that clear cut – Tim must have felt the
company’s every success and stumbling block quite keenly. I teamed up once more
with CENTURION market researcher <b>Ruane Bester</b>, with whom I penned a lengthy
piece of editorial for the company’s 30<sup>th</sup> anniversary newsletter
last year, to talk to Tim about the highs and the lows, the apex and the nadir,
of growing up Dickens and what that celebrated name so steeped in literary
history means to him. <o:p></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJJjKzG4kxMKkjdvxcjaXUoxwQy59bEq8ze_T1u5N8jSym0J2hGYjiR1xGERtBTA8C1IqkgB8Ch1JLkzOiCCuAI3E2qlXInPipUuIm23nmlrhSn5bN3t62L-WuQphGRt-Eid0IbvHVymM3/s1600/484+Tim+Dickens.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJJjKzG4kxMKkjdvxcjaXUoxwQy59bEq8ze_T1u5N8jSym0J2hGYjiR1xGERtBTA8C1IqkgB8Ch1JLkzOiCCuAI3E2qlXInPipUuIm23nmlrhSn5bN3t62L-WuQphGRt-Eid0IbvHVymM3/s320/484+Tim+Dickens.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Above: </b>Tim is the youngest of the three Dickens boys</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />While his features are undeniably
Dickensian – from the playful, pale blue eyes that belie a Nordic ancestry to
the intense, artistic lips – when Tim speaks, it’s with a voice all his own. </div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />Following in the footsteps of
father <b>Pat </b>and brother <b>Rob</b>, Tim holds degrees in electrical engineering as well
as information technology, both of which he obtained from the University of
Johannesburg. <br /><br />While he professes a lifelong love for tinkering with electronics
and, as he put it, “taking things apart”, it was the dynamic and fast-paced
world of IT that ultimately stole his heart.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />“I always wanted to be an
engineer,” says Tim of his choice in tertiary education, citing his dad – an
electrical engineer by trade - as a major influence. “I grew up with tools
around me [this statement harks back to Dickens matriarch Anne’s declaration
that Tim didn’t have many conventional toys growing up] and, you know, pulling
things apart, and it just felt like it opened up a lot of doors”. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />While Tim only joined <a href="http://www.centsys.com/" target="_blank">CENTURION</a> as
a full time employee in 2011, the fact that he was born into an expanding
family business, and given his considerable technical abilities, means that
there wasn’t ever really a “time before CENTURION”. He had always been involved
in one way or another and, by the time that he officially joined the ranks of
<b>South Africa’s foremost access automation manufacturer</b>, young Master Dickens
was intimately acquainted with the company’s network infrastructure. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />“I’ve always worked at Centurion
Systems [laughs]. So, when I was probably, like, seven or eight, I would be
there doing stocktaking. Being, I guess, a family business I was always
involved. It’s where Mom and Dad worked and, if you wanted to see Mom and Dad,
you know, you’d go to work with them and if you went to work [with them], you’d
have to make yourself useful”.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />Tim recalls his introduction to the
world of work being rather labour-intensive and, by certain standards, less
than glamorous but nevertheless instilled in him the incredible work ethic that
has, along with his characteristic razor sharp wit and often seemingly
extemporaneous quips, become Tim Dickens trademarks. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />“I can remember packing screws. We
[CENTURION] used to, you know, send it [the gate motors] out with a mounting
plate and you’d have, like, five bolts, three washers, two lock washers…and I
was one of the guys who got to pack some of those”. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />With a foundation laid by a childhood
spent in the midst of industry and infused with the entrepreneurial spirit of
his parents, Tim entered the labour force and spent a number of years working
part-time for a well-known manufacturer of consumer electronics. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />Of course, the same entrepreneurial
spirit that had compelled the elder Dickens to start his own business was also
present in young Tim and, while still attending high school, he added “DJ for
hire” to his résumé.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />“I started my own DJ-ing business
with a friend whose dad used to be a musician, so we were able to use [my
friend’s dad’s] equipment – you know, speakers and stuff - when we just started
out. We eventually made enough to buy our own stuff”.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />Tim has long since hung up his
headphones, however, and nowadays he turns to music purely for recreational purposes
and no longer to lure limber bodies onto the dancefloor. These days, the only
decks he comes into contact with are the ones aboard yachts when he goes
sailing with his uncle Richard. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />“It’s a lot of work,” says Tim of
the fine art of bringing beats to the masses. “It takes up a lot of time, a lot
of practice…you always have to be up to date with the latest music”.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />During the famous techno-boom of
the 1980s – a subject about which much has already been written – many a
start-up failed due to lack of funding or simply because mounting internecine
pressures led the founders to abandon their ventures in favour of job security
and a more stable income. We wanted to know from Tim whether CENTURION ever
faced any of these struggles during those early days, and how the demands of a
business still in its infancy affected him and his family.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />“Mom and Dad were always very
careful and I always remember, you know, there wasn’t like, excessive money. I
used to run around in these raggy [sic] old clothes most of the time at home,
so it wasn’t like fancy clothes or anything like that. We didn’t go out often.
But there was always food on the table and we went to private schools and when
there was, you know, a school camp, Mom and Dad were able to say: ‘you’ll go on
this school camp’. We only really went out on special occasions, and then it
was one drink. It became sort of a running joke. All the excess money Mom and Dad
used to just sort of push back into the company. We didn’t have M-Net, we
didn’t have DSTV or any of these fancy things”.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />Like his parents and brothers Rob
and<b> Nick</b> (and not forgetting the always-entertaining and erudite Uncle <b>Richard
Rohman</b>), Tim Dickens is witty, well-spoken and always willing to lend a helping
hand. He has carved an impressive path for himself through both his academic
and professional accomplishments, and we expect great things from the young man
known as Dog in the future. Watch this space.<o:p></o:p></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-80147748477773416702017-02-23T05:20:00.000-08:002017-02-23T05:20:52.923-08:00Will 2017 be the Year of the Hacker?Today’s criminal is a completely different breed.<br />
<br />
Tech-savvy, sly, and immeasurably<b> resourceful</b>. He is able to adapt with ease to the <b>forever-changing technological landscape</b>, and use even the slightest weakness to his advantage. His tools are not crowbars and screwdrivers, but a<b> mouse</b>, <b>keyboard</b> and <b>Internet connection</b>. This newly-constructed reality has the distinct flavour of <b>technological determinism</b>: the branch of social science that has as its main tenet the belief that <b>all human behavior and culture are influenced by innovations and developments in technology</b>.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUEwR1DPEWnPel4q3zrePkJ5fxXXuzcmNHleQXlKw_sMtfOjRe8DNljo_DsSSpWDyszYdTA6Vt_wgR0fUCmPhJS5DRChG4R1WacPnUA-1IGXSErhce4Zs35eE2r9zx-pFKrGZpo4FWrGIV/s1600/CENTURION-TIPS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUEwR1DPEWnPel4q3zrePkJ5fxXXuzcmNHleQXlKw_sMtfOjRe8DNljo_DsSSpWDyszYdTA6Vt_wgR0fUCmPhJS5DRChG4R1WacPnUA-1IGXSErhce4Zs35eE2r9zx-pFKrGZpo4FWrGIV/s400/CENTURION-TIPS.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
The impact that so-called <b>ICTs</b> (information and communications technologies) has made on our lives cannot be overstated, and developments such as Internet banking and apps have made long queues and frustrating face-to-face interactions things of the past. Brick and mortar are being replaced by ones and zeros, and no one is complaining. The Dutch media and communications academic <b>Van Poecke</b> draws a clear distinction between modern and postmodern society, positing that in the former technology was in service of man, while in the latter <b>man is subordinate to technology</b>. He underlines this position by stating that, while in modern society there was a clear dividing line between technology and culture, in a postmodern society such as ours <b>technology <i>is</i> the culture</b>.<br />
<br />
But, with this dramatic shift in the overall consumer experience, come <b>myriad new threats to security</b>, <b>privacy</b> and the<b> integrity of information</b>. Not even the biggest, most powerful financial institutions are immune, as evidenced by a recent <a href="http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/P/phishing.html" target="_blank">phishing</a> scam that saw customers of a major South African bank losing hundreds of thousands of rands. The scam, which was perpetrated around March of last year, saw huge sums of money (up to R200 000, in one case) being transferred out of clients’ bank accounts and has led to significant backlash from those who feel that the bank acted negligently.<br />
<br />
It’s become an all too familiar narrative. This year alone, the accounts of two of my colleagues (that I know of) have been pilfered by online attackers, leaving them with the unenviable task of trying to recover their money from their respective banks. In both instances, the victims had done absolutely nothing to compromise the security of their online banking profiles; the hackers were simply able to circumvent all the security measures that the financial institutions had in place. <br />
<br />
Hackers and other online criminals have also become<b> more creative with regard to their methods</b>, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish genuine communications sent from real banks from fraudulent emails, SMSs and even phone calls aimed at stealing one’s personal information. These cyber-crooks and social engineers are continuously changing and innovating their <i>modus operandi</i> to be virtually undetectable.<br />
<br />
Here are some tips for protecting your assets and personal details against cyber-attacks:<br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Never, ever give your <b>ATM PIN</b> to anyone, even if they do claim to be from a (your) bank<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Never click on any <b>links</b> in emails from banks if you are not 100% certain that the communication is authentic. Rather <b>phone your bank</b> and request confirmation regarding the authenticity of the email<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Don’t give your <b>Internet and cellphone banking passwords</b> to anyone<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Regularly run <b>anti-virus software</b> to check for malicious software such as spyware on your computer<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>If you suspect that your online security has been compromised, notify the bank and, if necessary, the police immediately<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>If you regularly do online shopping, ensure that you only use <b>reputable vendors</b> that make use of <b>secure payment gateways</b> for monetary transactions<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Don’t respond to emails and/or SMSs claiming that you have won a prize unless you are certain that you have entered such a contest<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b>IMPORTANT:</b> take time to read<b> notices</b> on your bank’s home page regarding the latest phishing scams. Don’t just click the x to close the dialogue and get on with your banking. Taking 5 minutes to read the warning could save you a lot of heartache and trouble<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-83184191435321550972017-01-31T22:11:00.001-08:002017-01-31T22:11:40.853-08:00Get Security Fit for 2017By this time, New Year’s resolutions have been made and broken, and that gym membership card has been banished to that murky corner of one’s wallet where good intentions go to die. You know the spot, right between your video rental loyalty card and that lotto scratch card you were so sure was going to let you quit your day job and sail around the world on your yacht, the<i> Nauti Buoy</i>. <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzdZj25tI2DK2bhGEm1pH9oFZ05ah301GTVZIUqVhMmWFDex1k41p9e1-B2NhSc8llsH1Zc6zodd4jTN7VimOpj94sij27RDvhKAEtIuZRQApi0EQ8ugyASgZ31FuPLfrUxYL5WlInlIki/s1600/45059561_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzdZj25tI2DK2bhGEm1pH9oFZ05ah301GTVZIUqVhMmWFDex1k41p9e1-B2NhSc8llsH1Zc6zodd4jTN7VimOpj94sij27RDvhKAEtIuZRQApi0EQ8ugyASgZ31FuPLfrUxYL5WlInlIki/s320/45059561_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="http://www.123rf.com/profile_katalinks">katalinks / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
While a healthier body and mind should be a priority on everyone’s self-improvement agenda, we often neglect to direct our efforts outward and ameliorate the environments in which we exist, and we do so at our own peril. What we’re saying is, hit that treadmill, kick that bad habit, and let’s<b> bulk up that home security system</b>.<br />
<br />
In order to accomplish this, we asked three seasoned <b>security and reaction professionals</b> to give us their pro-tips on how to accomplish the security equivalent of the ultimate beach bod.<br />
<br />
<b>EPR Security</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.eprsecurity.com/" target="_blank">EPR Security</a> is a firm specialising in <b>electronic security</b> and <b>surveillance</b> with its head office in Randfontein, west of Johannesburg. With over 20 years’ experience providing <b>security and reaction solutions</b> to the West Rand, the company has developed a keen sense with regard to identifying possible security vulnerabilities in residential premises, and implementing countermeasures.<br />
<br />
EPR’s managing director, <b>Johan Booysen</b>, provides the following tips for fortifying your home against criminal intrusion:<br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Only make use of a security provider which is a registered member of the South African Intruder Detection Service Association (SAIDSA) as this is a guarantee that any work carried out by them and equipment installed meet the required standards<br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Obtain qualified advice from a security consultant who will carry out a risk assessment and recommend physical barriers and an alarm system specifically suited to your property<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmx5Ll6_u1JTGsD9i_pinLqt5n9a4aZRtfKSfzcyvj4_HxxaWdbgnnLW8OeZtEFS9OAN-nNA6xp6Nr5p2LyucVniHZclp7XN0W9-dcbp9_8aH5QHYwN-PWl2NuDck_OPGoanemzm38wzS/s1600/17945359_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmx5Ll6_u1JTGsD9i_pinLqt5n9a4aZRtfKSfzcyvj4_HxxaWdbgnnLW8OeZtEFS9OAN-nNA6xp6Nr5p2LyucVniHZclp7XN0W9-dcbp9_8aH5QHYwN-PWl2NuDck_OPGoanemzm38wzS/s320/17945359_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="http://www.123rf.com/profile_fotosenmeer">fotosenmeer / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><a href="http://www.centsys.com/" target="_blank">Gate automation</a> will reduce the risk of an attack in your driveway when opening or closing a gate manually <br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Test your alarm system at least once a month after informing your security service provider of your intent to do so<br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Install exterior lighting; consider lighting which is activated by a motion sensor<br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Reduce or eliminate foliage and bushes in the vicinity of your driveway as these act as good hiding places for criminals<br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Increase visibility from your home to your points of entry if possible. Consider installing an intercom, video intercom or CCTV system to increase visibility<br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/intercom-systems/g-speak-classic-advanced-gsm-based-intercom" target="_blank">GSM-based intercom</a> systems will create the impression that you are home even if you are not, as they will communicate directly with your cellphone<br />
<br />
<b>APCAN</b><br />
<br />
The <a href="http://apcan.co.za/clientzone/" target="_blank">APCAN</a> Security Group is a privately-owned security firm whose rapidly-growing footprint covers Gauteng, Polokwane and Cape Town. Founded in 2004, the company is a significant player in the security arena, and its services run the full gamut of security solutions, from guarding to armed reaction.<br />
<br />
APCAN’s <b>Gerhard Oberholzer</b> agrees with Booysen regarding the importance of keeping one’s driveway clear of shrubbery and vegetation that can be used as hiding places for criminals, and adds the following points:<br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b>Streetlights</b> – dark streets attract criminals. Ensure that your house is illuminated from the outside and entrances and exits are clear and visible<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGnQkJvHoBUPe0rqqmzRojWg5902J7DVG22xuGLH1dBc-vYTo00RGSTSsf7N7G15KJfpn5-DFLenuEfeGo1RE1OrwaatWGZKyysxiMNFJCy5fRwkZyaRkENkfAfvFuIsYTNQLqleBTd9fY/s1600/47334603_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGnQkJvHoBUPe0rqqmzRojWg5902J7DVG22xuGLH1dBc-vYTo00RGSTSsf7N7G15KJfpn5-DFLenuEfeGo1RE1OrwaatWGZKyysxiMNFJCy5fRwkZyaRkENkfAfvFuIsYTNQLqleBTd9fY/s320/47334603_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright: <a href="http://www.123rf.com/profile_gumpapa">gumpapa / 123RF Stock Photo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b>Vagrants</b> – vagrants and suspicious people in your neighbourhood need to be dealt with. These people monitor your movement and have time to plot criminal activity<br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b>Dumping</b> – a messy neighbourhood attracts criminals and creates the impression that the community is also not concerned about what happens in the area. For example, if you’ve recently bought expensive electronics, be sure to dispose of the boxes properly and do not leave the packaging in the “normal” rubbish as this attracts thieves<br />
<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b>Power</b> – frequent power outages deplete your alarm system’s battery, so test and, if necessary, replace batteries at regular intervals. It is also a good idea to invest in a UPS or generator or an additional battery pack for your alarm system<br />
<br />
<b>Paul’s Gates</b><br />
<br />
Long-time CENTURION partner <a href="http://www.paulsgates.co.za/" target="_blank">Paul’s Gates</a> has been around since the late 70s, and is a turnkey provider of <b>security and access control solutions</b>, with a diverse portfolio including <b>access automation</b>, <b>electric fencing</b>, <b>CCTV</b> and even <b>turnstiles and booms</b>.<br />
<br />
According to the company’s <b>Graham Salvado</b>, 70% of burglaries occur during the <b>daytime</b>, and he recommends using <b>all available lines of defence</b> such as electric fences, gates, CCTV and alarm systems. He also stresses the importance of not letting one’s guard down and staying vigilant.<br />
<br />
“All crime occurs when one is caught off-guard!” he says.<br />
<br />
Centurion Systems would like to thank Johan from EPR, Gerhard from APCAN and Graham from Paul’s Gates for their invaluable and selfless contributions to the maintenance of community safety and security. We owe you a debt of gratitiude.Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-3926988780142810212017-01-27T00:00:00.000-08:002017-01-27T00:00:09.702-08:00New G-WEB PLUS Innovation Introduces the Contact List<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Users of
CENTURION’s<a href="https://www.gweb.co.za/" target="_blank"> G-WEB PLUS</a> online interface will now be able to populate a <b>useful
central contact list</b> from which they can conveniently import contacts to their
devices. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />The web portal,
which was launched as a companion product to the <a href="http://www.centsys.co.za/gsm-devices/g-switch-22" target="_blank">G-SWITCH-22</a> <b>GSM module</b> in
2011, has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent months with both
<b>cosmetic and functional changes</b> at the order of the day. Since its genesis,
<b>G-WEB</b> has evolved to meet client <b>usability</b> and <b>security</b> needs, but the true
epoch of its ongoing metamorphosis was when “<b>PLUS</b>” was affixed to the product’s
name, for it signaled a new era marked by the addition of a plethora of new
features. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />While <b>G-WEB </b>was
originally launched as a <b>management and administration portal</b> for what was at
the time CENTURION’s sole <b>GSM product</b>, the aforementioned <b>G-SWITCH-22</b>, it has since
become a <b>turnkey solution</b> complete with a <b>device health monitor</b> and the ability
to download <b>transaction logs</b> indicating not only device interactions, but also
changes made to the system settings. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />With the
improvements to <b>G-WEB</b>, CENTURION is another step closer to embracing media
mogul and communications pioneer <b>Marshall McLuhan</b>’s concept of the global
village, and creating an environment in which the digital and the corporeal
worlds converge.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />In conclusion,
<b>G-WEB PLUS</b> is an altogether more mature and well-rounded offering than its
predecessor and, judging by the paeans of praise pouring in from the public,
one that is a hit with its users. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />To set up a
contact list, <a href="https://www.gweb.co.za/" target="_blank">log into</a> <b>G-WEB PLUS</b> and, on the home screen, click on the <i>My
Contacts</i> menu item:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMgkrqgDTI4pKfzzBdCCSb_EeSNLLx2_E-9nMOrixmfkQ48Md-JQQFlQ_58tcQlz5Fl9Mx8Q_TTWzjQaiSkH6oVj8yNmZ4bGNXC6tcmJ1SYUnw5EXGmJW7LXVyxqZPJ-e67w7obVjc_6lS/s1600/GWEB+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="16" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMgkrqgDTI4pKfzzBdCCSb_EeSNLLx2_E-9nMOrixmfkQ48Md-JQQFlQ_58tcQlz5Fl9Mx8Q_TTWzjQaiSkH6oVj8yNmZ4bGNXC6tcmJ1SYUnw5EXGmJW7LXVyxqZPJ-e67w7obVjc_6lS/s640/GWEB+1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />To add a
contact, simply click on <i>Add Contact</i> to the bottom left of the screen:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRvILwEqffLkIx3OhDSnznVeyMdc0JHvptnmm15STbgK1_IA4dgQ1AFxFVxHWhL-PRc4mHIvPOFMNYCC5aCVLfeXmSmqFWyr0hJwY3BVxTd0vg5SgApAmyrGFQvKCqBOXQbtjYHS1_UIWi/s1600/GWEB+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRvILwEqffLkIx3OhDSnznVeyMdc0JHvptnmm15STbgK1_IA4dgQ1AFxFVxHWhL-PRc4mHIvPOFMNYCC5aCVLfeXmSmqFWyr0hJwY3BVxTd0vg5SgApAmyrGFQvKCqBOXQbtjYHS1_UIWi/s640/GWEB+2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />You’ll now be
presented with a pop-op screen. Once you’ve completed the requisite fields,
simply click on <i>Add </i>to complete the addition, or click on <i>Done Next</i> to add more
numbers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiCOXpQIR3GAtmUkpFm9M5lh0XMYcOZM40x5ZC7UPZ20yA42En3xNis1BDOs8RWlZBy0XBSC2LpZNSZR4RYKej1mhGI5Jh3XO7JwvEYV-5M4ciKy2ILQh4qlSV3n-7gIEqzRghq_GKiYa0/s1600/GWEB+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiCOXpQIR3GAtmUkpFm9M5lh0XMYcOZM40x5ZC7UPZ20yA42En3xNis1BDOs8RWlZBy0XBSC2LpZNSZR4RYKej1mhGI5Jh3XO7JwvEYV-5M4ciKy2ILQh4qlSV3n-7gIEqzRghq_GKiYa0/s400/GWEB+3.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />Should you wish
to add a number to a device using your contact list, navigate to that device’s
access numbers, and click on <i>Add Number from Contact List</i>:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqxKrN8uEkEXy6BTTj2Et18ivaWb18uz7i6P0yNzZA20kOOfAxMdM_DjG_dVcbWNEuJllnIbNzmMZNdX2vyIa7GSZtiv8ZegcySek9Bi22Hcz3KD7-491T_1CtI2QEfKuDAXJs3igTota4/s1600/GWEB+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="54" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqxKrN8uEkEXy6BTTj2Et18ivaWb18uz7i6P0yNzZA20kOOfAxMdM_DjG_dVcbWNEuJllnIbNzmMZNdX2vyIa7GSZtiv8ZegcySek9Bi22Hcz3KD7-491T_1CtI2QEfKuDAXJs3igTota4/s640/GWEB+4.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br />Have you checked
out our series of <b>G-WEB PLUS</b> video tutorials on YouTube? Watch them <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAYr6zusiS6dohEPClFTAJw">here</a>.<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-74561863985058550292017-01-18T00:51:00.000-08:002017-01-19T23:24:50.789-08:00Social Media and Security: What are the Risks?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqe4k8f_XpmT3m41nub68-XLzX5uZn84sG1qUmUlXW1brjo7njc8Xk_G_KEXToNWD9PEc7m8KSki1EJVnffb5TrbC3S128cxK0o-az_Nb0-7PFYIeIVLib9g1-__cUOY6IYwyT1EVpwzf_/s1600/Social+media+security.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqe4k8f_XpmT3m41nub68-XLzX5uZn84sG1qUmUlXW1brjo7njc8Xk_G_KEXToNWD9PEc7m8KSki1EJVnffb5TrbC3S128cxK0o-az_Nb0-7PFYIeIVLib9g1-__cUOY6IYwyT1EVpwzf_/s400/Social+media+security.jpg" width="400" /></a>Social networking sites such as <b>Facebook</b> and its great granddaddy<b> MySpace </b>have created a veritable microcosm of peer-to-peer interactions, marketing and entertainment. What started out as a simple means for people to reconnect with school friends and faraway family members has to some extent spawned an entirely new reality that is, in many respects, a far cry from the pre-social media days. <br />
<br />
This dramatic shift in our experience of social reality can be seen as an important part of the ongoing process of <b>globalisation,</b> the wave of digital “oneness” sweeping the globe and leaving blurred – or even completely erased – cultural, socio-political and geographical lines in its wake.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>But where has this Brave New World left us from a personal security perspective?</b> What new challenges has the <b>Information Age</b> wrought, and what can we do to better safeguard ourselves and our loved ones against this new generation of tech-savvy criminals?<br />
<br />
Let’s find out.<br />
<br />
<b>Don’t share your password</b><br />
<br />
As we mentioned earlier, social media has created a completely new world and, to all intents and purposes, your password is your key into that world. You wouldn’t go around lending out the key to your home all willy-nilly, and your social media accounts’ passwords should be treated with equal care and respect.<br />
<br />
Letting your password land up in the wrong hands can be absolutely ruinous; from having your <b>online reputation</b> tarnished to falling victim to fraud, ensure that the fidelity of your social media passwords remains intact. Cyber-security experts also recommend using a<b> phrase</b> rather than a single word or thought as your social media password.<br />
<br />
<b>Understand Facebook’s security settings</b><br />
<br />
Those settings exist for a reason, and it’s important that you and your family members are completely <i>au fait </i>with them.<br />
<br />
To access and configure Facebook’s security settings, click on the little down arrow next to the lock icon, which can be found in the top right-hand corner of your screen:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLjHdAB_CIeWHwxGv0Vrb2zamMHdYVS3twWmVAYET_syoiBvcNVMa0FC3v8G5Sa6mYNCBul8cCsdWOjpORIVASLwuDWGDpNHEs7znC7mAlJPYXoeGJsE5aC8Vk4G9lKT4X1IuKRFrKbk5B/s1600/Capture+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLjHdAB_CIeWHwxGv0Vrb2zamMHdYVS3twWmVAYET_syoiBvcNVMa0FC3v8G5Sa6mYNCBul8cCsdWOjpORIVASLwuDWGDpNHEs7znC7mAlJPYXoeGJsE5aC8Vk4G9lKT4X1IuKRFrKbk5B/s1600/Capture+3.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This will produce a drop-down menu. Click on <i>Settings</i>:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMP89a0wX3iydhyphenhyphenyBm_WEKjd6Y3uUkAsvX9xcZ1ynetDaozdBS27ANgEf7P-ldTg6JkJxgYAhe6oiIjKRK-FO0ANuAu4GFOYM2ENBnMc6hQ-w-WnWCWphEHBTt3N4Rvv-oHmbOpU5ESnQI/s1600/Capture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMP89a0wX3iydhyphenhyphenyBm_WEKjd6Y3uUkAsvX9xcZ1ynetDaozdBS27ANgEf7P-ldTg6JkJxgYAhe6oiIjKRK-FO0ANuAu4GFOYM2ENBnMc6hQ-w-WnWCWphEHBTt3N4Rvv-oHmbOpU5ESnQI/s320/Capture+1.png" width="204" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
You’ll now be taken to Facebook’s <i>General Settings</i> menu, with more options on the right-hand side. Click on <i>Security</i>:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFeSMCoo7r02Nlrt9dfe6_iuHLmzMA1jpRdWbLizjFK-A8ZxQJiCiRqwQ0xKtlQC8T93wTbJLG3-eyVZICHAs1mOE8aox_YobdUed8yi3KCGeyYtnzseJ3yJVBemBIDt6jFpc1zbIls-6W/s1600/Capture+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFeSMCoo7r02Nlrt9dfe6_iuHLmzMA1jpRdWbLizjFK-A8ZxQJiCiRqwQ0xKtlQC8T93wTbJLG3-eyVZICHAs1mOE8aox_YobdUed8yi3KCGeyYtnzseJ3yJVBemBIDt6jFpc1zbIls-6W/s640/Capture+2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
From this screen, you’ll be able to edit your security preferences and create a more secure social media environment.<br />
<br />
<b>If you have kids, know what they’re getting up to online</b><br />
<br />
For all its benefits, social media has sadly also become a rich hunting ground for predators who exploit the relative anonymity of cyberspace for their own nefarious purposes. We are not advocating spying on your kids, but we certainly encourage sitting down with them and having an open discussion about the dangers of social media. The more you educate them, the more you’ll be able to allay your own feelings regarding these platforms. Empower your children to be better, more security-conscious social media users.<br />
<br />
<b>Be wary of advertising your absence from home</b><br />
<br />
Though I have not yet been able to establish the validity of this report, there have been rumours doing the rounds regarding insurance firms overseas not paying out claims when it was discovered that the claimant had posted about his or her holiday on social media. While these claims have, in all likelihood, been greatly exaggerated, it is certainly wise not to be too specific about the dates during which one intends to be out of town. Social media wouldn’t be social media without holidaymakers showing off their idyllic lifestyles, but we recommend that users <b>avoid posting specifics</b> that could leave things back home vulnerable.<br />
<br />
<b>Don’t publish your home address</b><br />
<br />
This one may seem patently obvious, but you don’t want strangers knowing where you live.<br />
<br />
<b>Use a secure protocol when accessing social media sites</b><br />
<br />
You may know the “<b>https</b>” prefix from accessing your online banking profile, but chances are you haven’t given much thought to what it means. The “s”, as you’ve probably guessed by now, stands for “<b>secure</b>” and the presence of this protocol essentially means that the website you are visiting has been given an extra security layer to help safeguard against malicious online behaviour such as phishing. <br />
<br />
The security protocol ensures that communication over the website is encrypted and that private information is kept, well, private. The majority of social media sites natively encrypt communication but, if you don’t see “https” in front of the URL, you can (and should) manually enter it.<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
<b>Not all “friends” are friendly</b><br />
<br />
We all receive friend requests every now and again from people we don’t know and, in the majority of cases, it’s a completely harmless gesture. Someone spots your profile under “People you may know” and decides to add you. No harm, no foul.<br />
<br />
But, just like in the corporeal world, there are those individuals who have intentions far more diabolic than merely “liking” pictures of your cat.<br />
<br />
According to the <b>National Cyber Security Alliance</b>’s <a href="https://staysafeonline.org/" target="_blank">Stay Safe Online</a> website, just because it’s fun to create a large pool of friends “doesn’t mean that all friends are created equal”.<br />
<br />
The website recommends “[using] tools to manage the information you share with friends in different groups or even [having] multiple page. If you’re trying to create a public persona as a blogger or expert, create an open profile or ‘fan’ page that encourages broad participation and limits personal information”.<br />
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Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2923675375070206672.post-82147663288822004482017-01-06T00:26:00.000-08:002017-01-06T00:26:34.442-08:002017 Welcome Letter<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
At the denouement of a particularly
taxing year, it often proves difficult for us as human beings to let the scars
it has induced scab over and heal. No, we tend to pick and scratch at them,
analyse and dissect until we are able to figure out what exactly went wrong.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />2016 was not an easy year by any
definition of that word. It had to prove that it still wasn’t quite done with
us by robbing the world of another two greats, beloved <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Star Wars </i>actress and mental health activist Carrie Fisher (whose
famous mom, Debbie Reynolds, died a mere two days later) and pop icon and “Last
Christmas” singer George Michael who, in what can only be described as
tragically poetic, passed away on Christmas day from suspected heart failure.
One satirical image doing the rounds on social media showed <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Time </i>magazine naming the Grim Reaper as
its person of the year, having swung his dreaded scythe a little too
enthusiastically in 2016. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />But, in the words of the infinitely
quotable playwright George Bernard Shaw: “we are made wise not by the
recollection of our past, but by the responsibility of our future”. And indeed,
each and every one of us has a responsibility to create a brighter, hope-filled
future. We are the authors of our own destinies.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />The year ahead promises to hold
plenty of excitement for <a href="http://www.centsys.com/" target="_blank">CENTURION</a> customers as the <a href="http://www.faacgroup.com/" target="_blank">FAAC </a>acquisition continues
to drive growth and the expansion of our product range with a view to
penetrating new markets. Already, FAAC’s robust <b>bollard </b>range has seen massive
uptake on the African continent. There have also been some rather exciting
rumours regarding the launch of a <b>brand new automation product</b> (or two) for the
domestic market later this year, but for now the details are being kept under wraps
until we are able to give you official release dates. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />Our clients will also be able to
enjoy an enhanced user experience when connecting with us in cyberspace thanks
to a <b>completely revamped website</b> boasting a much<b> crisper design</b> as well as
<b>optimised navigation</b> with a decidedly user-centric interface. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />With a <b>fully responsive design</b> that
automatically adapts to the user’s screen size, <b>beautiful graphics </b>and <b>easy
access to a wealth of information and features</b> – including product
documentation, a supplier locator and our world-renowned blog – the new
Centurion Systems website will be a fitting digital storefront for the leaders
in gate automation and access control. As with our access automation products,
we believe that this touchpoint should not merely be functional, but should
engage the senses and offer a thoroughly immersive and pleasurable experience,
and in this regard we believe we have succeeded.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />The new website has been
tentatively slated for a <b>February 2017</b> launch. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />We’re looking forward to another
great year of sharing our passion – creating <b>industry-leading access automation
solutions</b> – with you, our valued clients. <b>#Automate2017</b></div>
Centurion Systemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11394301079349203739noreply@blogger.com0