All posts by Full Editorial

The Role of a Business Analyst in Agile and Scrum Methodologies

The Role of a Business Analyst in Agile and Scrum Methodologies

By Full Editorial on

A Business Analyst (BA) is necessary in maintaining the agility and flexibility of the operations of modern-day organisations. The business analyst is vital in Agile and Scrum methodologies whilst connecting enterprise goals to technical implementation. Scrum and Agile-specific Business Analyst Courses are available for professionals interested in learning more about the methodology.

This blog will examine the Business Analyst‘s role in Scrum and Agile and how it affects the frameworks.

Table of Contents

  • The Evolution of the Business Analyst Role
  • What are Agile and Scrum Methodologies?
  • Key Responsibilities of a Business Analyst in Agile and Scrum
  • Required Competencies and Skills
  • Conclusion

The Evolution of the Business Analyst Role

Gathering requirements, analysing workflows, and documenting specifications are the conventional duties of a business analyst. However, this role’s obligations vary relying on whether the project is based on Scrum or Agile. By working closely with stakeholders, product owners, and developers, the business analyst will become an integral part of the Agile team as the project advances.

What are Agile and Scrum Methodologies?

A firm knowledge of Agile and Scrum principles is necessary for an aspiring business analyst. Software developed using Agile emphasises iterative development, customer satisfaction, and flexibility. Scrum is an Agile method that makes use of two- to four-week-long sprints to break down massive projects into doable, time-bound chunks.

Key Responsibilities of a Business Analyst in Agile and Scrum

Requirements Identification and Setting of Priorities

A key responsibility of an Agile business analyst is to work with stakeholders to become aware of requirements and rank them according to precedence. The business analyst makes use of user stories, personas, and workshops to make certain that the client’s demands and the organisation’s goals are understood.

Encouraging Communication

Communication among various parties involved is important to Agile initiatives. The business analyst performs an essential role in helping numerous stakeholders interact with one another. The business analyst guarantees that goals are aligned during the project lifecycle by serving as a middleman between technical teams and business users.

User Story Refinement

User stories are the basic units of functionality in both Agile and Scrum techniques. Business analysts collaborate closely with product owners and development teams to ensure user stories are precise, actionable, and aligned with commercial enterprise goals.

Sprint Planning and Review

During sprint planning meetings, the Business Analyst works with the Agile team to determine which user stories will be implemented in the forthcoming sprint. They also participate in sprint reviews to get input, examine the progress, and pinpoint regions needing improvement.

Continuous Development

The business analyst holds a vital role in the continuous development approach emphasised in the Agile methodology. The business analyst guarantees that the team improves its procedures and practices via feedback collecting, retrospectives, and identifying optimisation possibilities.

Risk Management

Risk mitigation is vital to ensuring clean progress in Agile and Scrum projects. Business analysts spot feasible risks early in a project’s lifecycle, compare their potential consequences, and work with the team to create mitigation plans. By proactively addressing risks, business analysts help projects be triumphant and resilient.

Assurance of Quality

Ensuring the output quality is crucial for projects that employ Agile and Scrum approaches. Business analysts work with the development team to create acceptance criteria, conduct thorough testing, and verify that deliverables meet all the requirements. Business analysts help provide stakeholders with dependable and valuable solutions through a quality-focused approach to development.

Product Ownership Support

The business analyst offers invaluable assistance in establishing and prioritising the product backlog, even if the product owner bears final responsibility for this task. They help the product owner with requirements clarification, backlog grooming, and making sure user stories are well-defined and prepared for deployment. Business analysts work closely with the product owner to promote customer happiness and product success.

Required Competencies and Skills

In Agile and Scrum contexts, the following abilities and capabilities are necessary for a business analyst to succeed:

  1. Analytical Thinking: Success depends on your capacity to analyse complex situations, pinpoint underlying causes, and suggest creative solutions.
  2. Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication makes precise requirements and collaboration possible.
  3. Flexibility: Agile initiatives must be able to adjust to shifting priorities and altering conditions because they are dynamic by nature.
  4. Stakeholder Management: Stakeholders must be positively cultivated to elicit requirements and guarantee project success.
  5. Technical Proficiency: Business analysts should have a firm grasp of technical principles and software development processes, even if they are not required to be developers.

Conclusion

A business analyst’s function is complex and changing in Agile and Scrum techniques. A Business Analyst ensures that technical implementation and enterprise goals are aligned. This consists of gathering requirements, encouraging communication, and promoting continual development. Through skill development, industry knowledge, and adoption of Agile concepts, Business Analysts may significantly contribute to the success of projects.

Thus, remember the important part that business analysts play in fostering creativity, teamwork, and company value, regardless of whether you’re considering pursuing a career in business analysis or want to improve your abilities in Agile settings. For more information visit: The Knowledge Academy.

New Requirements Introduced in ISO 14001:2015

New Requirements Introduced in ISO 14001:2015

By Full Editorial on

International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) standards for environmental control structures (EMS) have continuously advanced in response to the growing significance of sustainable practices within business. Environmental standards gradually grew with the transition from the ISO 14001 model in 2004 to 2015. ISO 14001 Courses help professionals to work efficiently in organisations and align with environmental management rules and regulations. 

This blog will compare ISO 14001 Version 2004 vs 2015 by introducing the importance of the upgrades made to ISO 14001:2015 and how these modifications help companies drive environmental excellence.

Table Of Contents

  • New Requirements in ISO 14001:2015 
  • Benefits of Adapting to ISO 14001:2015
  • Conclusion

New Requirements in ISO 14001:2015

Context of the Organisation (Clause 4)

ISO 14001:2015 highlights the importance of understanding the company’s overall context. The initial step is to select elements that may affect the organisation’s capability to fulfil its environmental objectives. This requirement promotes a strategic method of environmental management based on the business operating environment.  

Leadership and Commitment (Clause 5)  

The 2015 version emphasises that senior management should spearhead the enterprise’s green efforts. It demands that top control take a more excellent palms-on technique to foster an eco-friendly organisational way of life, coordinating environmental projects with different operational approaches and pledging constantly to do higher. 

Risk-Based Thinking (Clause 6)   

The creation of risk-based wondering is a significant exchange in ISO 14001:2015. Now, more than ever, corporations must take stock of the opportunities and threats their environmental elements pose. This proactive method pushes establishments to address capacity issues before they emerge as foremost in creating an environmental control tool that is both resilient and adaptable. 

Life Cycle Perspective (Clause 8) 

ISO 14001:2015 (Clause 8) gives an overall life cycle perspective for environmental management. Companies must consider the complete product life cycle, from extracting raw materials to disposing of used parts. This perspective promotes sustainable practices through the value chain by encouraging a thorough evaluation of environmental implications.  

Communication and Documentation (Clause 7) 

The 2015 edition focuses more on communication, while documentation is still essential (Clause 7). The organisation is responsible for identifying the internal and external communications pertinent to the EMS and documenting, controlling, and transmitting this information efficiently to the appropriate parties.  

Performance Evaluation (Clause 9) 

ISO 14001:2015 offers a new and Improved Method for Evaluating Performance where businesses should set desires, track their development, and check how well their EMS works. This requirement emphasises a technique for environmental control, enabling informed choice-making. 

Continual Improvement (Clause 10) 

While continuous improvement is still crucial, the 2015 version requires companies to improve more systematically. Organisations can improve their environmental performance, set new goals, and identify approaches to enhance their performance via joint evaluations. 

Benefits of Adapting to ISO 14001:2015 

Enhanced Integration 

Thanks to the alignment with Annex SL, other management structures, such as ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety), may be included without difficulty. This integration improves the organisation’s standard efficiency by streamlining operations and decreasing duplication.

Strategic Environmental Management 

Organisations are encouraged to view environmental management strategically according to ISO 14001:2015. Business ecological strategies can be more holistic and future-proof if they consider the organisation’s context, hazards, and life cycle viewpoint.  

Greater Leadership Involvement 

The elevated focus on leadership and dedication guarantees senior management fervently supports environmental programmes, leading to greater leadership involvement. As a result of everyone’s efforts, the company has become more environmentally conscious.  

Proactive Risk Management 

By incorporating risk-based thinking, organisations can proactively identify and handle potential environmental issues, leading to proactive risk management. This approach reduces environmental incidents and increases overall resilience.  

Improved Communication and Transparency  

The emphasis on documentation and communication guarantees that crucial records are conveyed internally and externally, enhancing transparency and conversation. The enterprise shows that it cares about its surroundings and builds agreement with its stakeholders by being open and honest.

Compliance and Legal Alignment 

Businesses should comply with ISO 14001:2015 to ensure compliance with all environmental control-related legal guidelines. This will ensure that the organisation uses all environmental legal guidelines, regardless of how they are exchanged. 

Conclusion 

There has been a considerable change in the environmental control standards between ISO 14001:2004 and ISO 14001:2015. Through its focus on strategy alignment, risk management, and a detailed approach to sustainability, ISO 14001:2015 simplifies complex environmental landscapes. For more information visit: The Knowledge Academy.

4 Tips for Deciding Between a Tile Roof and Shingle Roof

4 Tips for Deciding Between a Tile Roof and Shingle Roof

By Full Editorial on

When the time comes to replace your roof, you may initially be inclined to choose the roofing material that has been on your home for years. While this will ensure the same aesthetic, the existing material may not be best for you. Shingles and roof tiles are among the most popular options available today. Shingles are available in three-tab, composite, and architectural styles. There are also different types of tiles, such as ceramic, slate, and others. What should you consider so that you can make your roofing material selection with full confidence?

1- Focus on Your Budget

Most homeowners must stick to a budget when replacing their roofs, so consider getting quotes for the options that interest you upfront. The specific cost will depend on the size of your home as well as labor and materials expenses. With different types of shingles and tiles available, the cost varies considerably. Generally, however, a shingle roof is the more affordable of these two options. One of the reasons why shingles are less expensive is because they are faster and easier to install. This directly reduces labor costs.

2- Consider Maintenance Needs

Both tile roofs and shingle roofs require periodic maintenance, but the maintenance chores are more expensive and costly for a shingle roof. This relates to the durability of the materials. You may need to replace and repair the shingle roofing materials more frequently than you need to replace the tiles. For both types of roofs, an annual inspection from a certified roofing company is recommended. During this inspection, small areas of damage can be identified and repaired before they turn into more significant problems. This will help you optimize the life of your new roof.

3- Pay Attention to Durability and Longevity

There are three types of shingles to consider. Asphalt shingles are the most affordable option, and they need to be replaced every 15 to 25 years. The composite and architectural shingles are more expensive as well as more durable, and they may serve your needs for up to 30 years. A tile roof, on the other hand, may last as long as 100 years. Of the different types of tiles, meta, and slate have the longest lifespan.

4- Consider the Climate

In cooler climates, shingles and some types of tile roofs are both suitable. However, clay tiles should be avoided because they can crack when they freeze. Asphalt shingles are often preferred in areas with all four seasons because they can handle different weather conditions well. In hot and dry climates, the weather conditions are detrimental to the longevity of both shingles and tile roofs. Concrete and ceramic tiles are superior in dry, hot climates.

While it is wonderful to have multiple options available when doing something as important as replacing your home’s roof, you need to make a wise decision. These are among the most essential factors to consider when deciding between asphalt shingles and a tile roof. However, if you have additional questions about your options, you should consult with your roofing company. Their expertise can help you navigate the decision-making process and ensure you choose the right roofing material for your home.

3 Effective Tips for Finding a Local Bail Bonds Service to Use

3 Effective Tips for Finding a Local Bail Bonds Service to Use

By Full Editorial on

If you or a loved one gets arrested, getting out of jail quickly is likely the priority. No one wants to sit inside a jail cell until the completion of their trial. Unfortunately, bail amounts can rise into the thousands and may be unaffordable for some. Seeking help from a bail bonds service can help you get out of jail quickly and with less money.

Finding a bail bonds service allows you to get out of jail within a few hours. You pay the bail bonds service a percentage of your bail amount. The state governs this amount, and it is usually 10% to 15%. This fee is non-refundable.

Although time is of the essence, it is unwise to rush the process of finding a bail bond service. Consider the following effective tips for finding a bail bond service that meets your needs.

1- Get a Referral From Your Legal Counsel

Whether court-appointed or privately hired, your defense lawyer works with many professionals in the industry, including bail bond services. They can help guide you by offering names of trustworthy services in your local area. Your lawyer may even have a professional relationship with a bail bond agent and can help you secure your bond.

2- Check the License

Many states require a license for bail bond agencies to undergo specific educational training. You can look up a bail bond agent on your state’s licensing database, and it’s also smart to check reviews to see what other customers thought of the service. Checking the license status is critical before hiring a bail bond agent to post your bail. Many prefer working with an agency rather than hiring a private bond agent.

3- Understand the Bail Bond Agent’s Terms and Fees

Once you have decided on a couple of bond agents, understand the terms and fees before hiring anyone. It would be best to choose a transparent agent regarding their costs. The contract should outline your responsibilities, including the fees you will pay. Do not sign any bail bond contract until you have read it in its entirety, including the fine print. Know the agreement you are entering before signing so there are no surprises.

Seek Help From a Professional Bail Bond Service

Going through an arrest, whether expected or unexpected, can be highly stressful. If you put up cash, you could pay thousands of dollars, depending on your bail amount.

Getting help from a local bail bond agency is critical for your peace of mind. The bail bond agent secures your release by signing a bond for the total amount of your bond in exchange for promising to oversee your return to all court dates.

By taking the above steps, you can rest assured you will hire the right bail bond agent for your needs. These professionals will ensure you show up for court because if you do not, the agency is responsible for paying the total amount of the bond. Ensure you adhere to all terms and conditions in the contract and show up for all court dates to avoid problems with your bail bond agent.

3 Benefits of Using Load Boards to Find Qualified Truckers

3 Benefits of Using Load Boards to Find Qualified Truckers

By Full Editorial on

Finding truckers to haul your loads may be a regular part of your work schedule, but you may be spending more time than necessary on it. While there are many ways to get your openings in front of drivers who are ready to work, one of the fastest and easiest options available is to use load boards. Load boards specifically feature listings that today’s drivers are searching for. What are the benefits of using load boards?

1- A Prime Job Search Site for the Industry

An essential aspect of keeping your company’s loads moving with qualified drivers at the wheel is staying in front of job seekers. Load boards are a popular way for drivers to find their next gigs, so you can expect many eyes looking at your listings when you post openings to these boards. Keep in mind that drivers who do not actively apply for a specific opening may tell other drivers about it. Because of this, a load board may have more extensive reach than direct views. It is essential to keep your listings in front of the right people, and load boards do that for you.

2- Experienced Drivers

While load boards are well-known sources of job openings within the trucking industry, they are not widely known among outsiders. If your company is searching for experienced drivers with solid qualifications and references, you can quickly find the qualified talent you need on load boards. This is compared to general job boards with thousands of openings for all industries, which may attract talent from people who want to be drivers but have no prior experience. Because these applicants may not meet your requirements for experience behind the wheel, you could waste time weeding through applications of unqualified applicants if you use general job boards for your listings.

3- Job Opening Notifications

Some load boards do more than put job openings in front of experienced, qualified drivers who are actively searching for jobs. They send notifications to qualified drivers when new openings are listed. If you have an urgent hiring need, these notifications play a crucial role in spreading the word very quickly and getting many immediate responses from interested drivers. In addition, the notifications sent by job load boards ensure that more eyes see the openings. This is because the notifications are seen by all drivers who have signed up for the notifications regardless of whether or not they are actively looking at the load board at the time.

It can be frustrating and tedious to keep your loads moving with qualified drivers at the wheel, but this is an essential aspect of your job. The process may be easier when you use the best methods available for finding talented truckers. Using load boards comes with essential benefits not offered by other methods, so they should be used as your first method in searching for drivers. If you are not actively taking advantage of load boards, take a closer look at how they can help you fill your company’s open positions.

7 Effective Ways to Reduce Employee Turnover at a Business

7 Effective Ways to Reduce Employee Turnover at a Business

By Full Editorial on

Anyone owning or managing a business understands that people are a valuable resource. Vital employees play a role in keeping a business running effectively, so good managers often prioritize retaining employees. Persons new to entrepreneurship may discover that employee turnover is hurting their ventures. Taking certain steps may help reverse the situation. Here are seven things to consider when hoping to reduce employee turnover.

1. Improve Salaries and Perks

Employees who do not make a fair wage might leave their current employer when they receive a better offer from a competitor. Reviewing the going rate for a particular job and paying the appropriate amount to someone based on their experience and education could keep the individual in the fold. Businesses that face cash flow issues could Institute perks that may mitigate concerns about salary, such as flex time or other benefits.

2. Treat Employees Well

No one wishes to work under a toxic boss in an equally toxic work environment. If subordinates are being treated poorly by middle managers or others, they will likely leave. Maintaining a professional and safe work environment may help managers and workers alike.

3. Establish Fair Room for Advancement

Employees who see their future with a company as one filled with growth potential might be willing to stick with it. They may consider their early initial days or months as investments in their future. When nepotism or other elements of unfairness undermine their belief in growth potential, employees could jump to a competitor who offers a fairer playing field.

4. Develop Solid Training Programs

Effective training helps employees stay current with job duties and requirements. Learning programs could also relieve burdens by instructing employees in areas in which they may need updated knowledge and skills.

5. Improve Hiring and Onboarding Steps

Choosing the best person suited for the job could result in hiring a long-term employee. Choosing someone who doesn’t fit the company or possesses the necessary skills might result in a frustrated worker who quits. Onboarding new hires properly may help them move into the job more productively.

6. Keep the Office Clean and Organized

A messy and disorganized work environment may undermine someone’s ability to perform their work. Few workers want to remain in an untidy office setting to the point that it becomes distracting. Safety issues, such as slip and fall hazards, might arise when no one takes care of the work area. Sloppy-looking desks also create a negative impression about a business, which could rub off on employees. Hiring a professional cleaning team to keep an office in order seems wise.

7. Craft an Effective Internal Communications System

Knowing employees’ feelings about their jobs could give managers insights into what requires improvement. Something as simple as a dedicated email account to review employee feedback may work. Don’t overlook the value of exit interviews to understand why employees leave.

Basic steps for helping reduce employee turnover can be simple to implement. Putting a little effort into instituting such steps might help a business keep employees who have much to offer.

6 Ideas for Elevating a Company’s Social Media Content

6 Ideas for Elevating a Company’s Social Media Content

By Full Editorial on

The number of media platform users may increase as more homes get connected to the internet. Successful marketing through these tools requires the marketer to create captivating content. Here are six practical tips to elevate your company’s posts so you can turn more audience into customers.

1. Develop a Written Tone

Words are an easy way to pass a message and demonstrate your professionalism and expertise. Most social media users have a short attention lifespan, so it’s better to post short articles about 250 characters on Facebook and Linkedln. Before writing any social media posts, it’s important to think about what you want the written tone to be. Do you want the posts to have a formal, professional tone? Do you want the posts to have a conversational tone? Do you want the posts to have a salesperson tone? Once you figure out what you want your tone to be, it’ll be easier to write the posts.

2. Add Images

Getting attention on crowded sites can be challenging, but you can use attention-grabbing images to stand out. They are more digestible than words and adding them between long articles can prevent potential customers from quickly passing and missing your message. There may be a lot of competition, especially on Instagram, and you may need to invest in a high-quality camera and editing software. Also, encourage your followers to share images of themselves using the product as replies.

3. Use High-Quality Videos

Videos are powerful marketing tools as more people are attracted to visuals. While DIY production can be cost-saving, hiring an expert has benefits that far outweigh the initial cost. A professional producer has the right equipment, expertise, and skills in video production. They will capture high-quality clips,and edit and add features to improve it. This is because they have years of experience working on different projects.

4. Link to External Resources

You can guide your audience from one post to other resources, articles, or websites you previously published using links. This increases the chance of the customers viewing more of your services and products. To increase online visibility, share your account’s information with prospects and customers. This makes it easier for them to follow and like your profile.

5. Do Live Presentations

You can host virtual events and reach more people who otherwise cannot attend physical meetings on sites like Facebook. You can create a better connection with them as there is a better chance of answering their specific questions. There are options to preview the quality so you can keep it in perfect condition before going online. Live videos remain available on the site for long periods and can be effective marketing content in the future.

6. Customer Service

Most online users research other clients’ comments about the services and products that a company sells. When they experience issues, most turn to social sites for help instead of waiting long before a company responds. Offering customer support services through these networks can thus be an effective way to direct more people to your profile and business.

To make competitive posts, make sure the content is engaging and make plans for the posts so that you can remain consistent. Decide on the right time to provide the content and the topics to cover.

8 Tips for Finding Picture-Worthy Easter Outfits for Your Family

8 Tips for Finding Picture-Worthy Easter Outfits for Your Family

By Full Editorial on

Easter is a time-honored holiday, filled with family reunions, yummy dishes, and last but not least, multiple photo sessions. This is the best time to have some precious moments picture captured together with loved ones and the right outfit will make a difference in the pictures created. If you want to get the ideal Easter attire for your family, these are eight tips you can rely upon.

1. Start Early

Do not leave it until the eleventh hour to search for Easter clothing. Start looking at least one month before to have enough time for all the trying out and searching. This will also permit you to make any changes or adjustments if required.

2. Consider the Weather

Consider the weather in choosing your family’s Easter outfits. In case it is a bit cold, go for warmer clothing, for example, long-sleeved dresses or dress pants. In case of the heat, take into account the lightweight materials such as cotton or linen.

3. Coordinate Colors

Unify the colors of family members to produce a harmonious and attractive appearance. Matching exactly is not necessary but using complementary colors can make a family photo look beautiful. Do match outfits so much to avoid it being so shouting.

4. Play with the Accessories

Accessories give extra personality to the family’s attires. You might want to add some Easter-themed accessories like hats, headbands, or bow ties for a fun and playful look. Adding accessories to your Easter outfits will make your outfit more appealing.

5. Embrace Pastels

Easter is usually linked with soft pastel colors so do not hesitate to include these in your family’s outfits. Think pastel pinks, blues, and yellows for a traditional Easter appearance.

6. Consider Embroidery

To add a bit more human touch, you may opt to have your family outfits embroidered. This might be your second name, the initial letter of your name, or even some nice Easter picture. Having embroidered clothing for Easter will help elevate your family’s outfits and provide an extra festive flair to your style.

7. Dress for Comfort

Good looks are important but more importantly, you and your family should feel comfortable in your Easter wears. Do not wear outfits that are too tight as this will render the photos uncomfortable and poor.

8. Don’t Forget About the Footwear

Even though shoes are left out in planning Easter clothing, they can bring the overall look together. Choose shoes that are both comfortable and stylish and that will correspond with the general style of your family’s attire. Consider also wearing shoes that match the weather.

Looking for photo-worthy Easter clothes for your family should not be a scary job. Begin early, color coordinate, add whimsical accessories, and think about embroidering and you will have a family look that everyone will remember and look great in an Instagram photo. Do not forget to focus on comfort and footwear as well; so that everybody will look as well as be the best. Enjoy Easter with your family in picture-worthy outfits!

5 Reasons to Speak to a Lawyer If You are Considering a Divorce

5 Reasons to Speak to a Lawyer If You are Considering a Divorce

By Full Editorial on

Divorce proceedings are often highly contentious, and they are so costly because they can take such a long time to complete. If both parties hire an attorney, they reduce the likelihood that they will be in a situation where the divorce never ends. You may even have circumstances where you need to hire an attorney even more than other people, and these situations include the following:

1. Your Spouse Is Not Telling the Truth

When you are in a court of law, you must swear to tell the truth. After doing so, the judge declares that you are “under oath.” If your spouse lied in court documents or under oath, you must provide evidence of this, and your attorney can help you present this proof to the judge. Once you prove that your spouse lied, the judge may turn the matter over to law enforcement authorities. The crime would be “perjury,” and it could lead to a contempt of court charge and a fine or a jail sentence.

2. Your Spouse Hired His or Her Own Attorney

Sometimes, one spouse will state that they only need to hire one attorney. In this case, it would be your spouse’s attorney and not necessarily your attorney. You must hire your own attorney because your attorney will only work in your best interests. It may not be possible to share an attorney because many states have laws against attorneys representing people with conflicting interests. So, plan to hire your own attorney even though you and your spouse are in an amicable divorce.

3. The Two of You Share Children

It is important to hire an attorney if you and your spouse are in disagreement about custody, child support, or anything having to do with the children. If you disagree in court, the judge may make the decisions for you, but it would benefit you to have your attorney who will represent your interests. An attorney is necessary if you are fighting for custody, you are asking for child support, your child’s other parent has a lawyer, or the case is especially complicated.

4. The Financial Issues Are Complicated

If you and your spouse have considerable assets to divide, you must make sure that you have your own divorce attorney. The main reason this is true is that spouses can go to great lengths to hide assets, but if you have an experienced attorney on your side, you will have someone who knows how to find these assets.

Sometimes, one spouse offers gifts to friends or family members, but they have an agreement that states that the recipient will return these gifts after the divorce is over. An experienced attorney knows how to uncover this type of sneaky tactic, so hiring your own attorney can only benefit you in these situations.

5. Your Attorney Makes Sure That You Have the Appropriate Documentation

After one spouse files for divorce, the other spouse must file a response. Then, your attorneys must exchange documents. In the legal world, this process is known as “discovery.”

You may be required to offer bank statements, tax returns or life insurance policies among many other things. An attorney helps you put these documents together and ensures that you are not leaving anything out. If you were to do that, your spouse may accuse you of hiding assets.

8 Tips for Choosing a New Mattress Based on Your Sleep Position

8 Tips for Choosing a New Mattress Based on Your Sleep Position

By Full Editorial on

Your body will usually tell you when it’s time to start picking a new mattress. It might feel lumpy and weak and can be too hard or soft. You’ll also likely wake up sore and groggy due to inferior sleep. Before you go out and buy a new one, you should consider which one is best based on your sleep position. Keep reading for eight tips you should know on how to choose a new mattress based on your sleep position.

1. Determine Your Sleeping Position

Even though you’re not conscious throughout the night, you likely have a preferred sleeping position. Hopefully, you already know what it is, but you might have to ask a partner who shares a bed with you, film yourself sleeping, or note your position when you wake up. The most common positions are the back, side, and stomach.

2. Stomach Sleepers Might Need a Change

Healthcare practitioners often advise stomach sleepers to use a different position that doesn’t put stress on their spinal columns, which can result in neck and back pain. If you do stomach sleep, you need something with firm support for your vertebrae. Foam and hybrid mattresses are good options.

3. Side Sleepers Impact Their Hips and Shoulders

People who sleep on their sides affect different joints, so they need softer mattresses to relieve these pressure points. Pillow-top and memory foam mattresses are a good crossroads of support and comfort.

4. Back Sleepers Need Support

Do you sleep primarily on your back? A soft mattress might not be your friend. Firm foam or a hybrid mattress that has foam and coils might help you keep your spine aligned.

5. Combination Sleepers Change Positions

If you turn yourself over frequently during the night, then you need a new mattress that can support you in different positions. Avoid memory foam that contours to you and prevents changes in position. Instead, consider hybrids or something that’s medium-firm.

6. Big and Tall People Might Need More Length

You should upgrade your bed size and mattress if you have a large frame. Individuals 6 feet and taller might have their feet hanging off the bed and need a queen size or bigger.

7. High Body Weights Need Firm Support

Hybrid mattresses with foam for comfort and innerspring coil support can provide durable value to people who weigh more. Aim for a mattress at least 12 inches tall for enough support. Anything less might not give your body the help it needs all night.

8. Consider All Sleepers

If you’re the only person sleeping on a mattress, make sure it works for you perfectly. However, if you might share that bed with another person, then be sure you find common ground so it works for both of you.

Getting a great night’s rest is crucial to having the energy to have equally awesome days. Having a mattress and pillows might be the bare minimum, but you should aim for total comfort solutions that cater to your unique physiology and sleep situation.