Do you own a private school in Freeland, PA? Or a culinary school in Hazleton, PA?

Educational institutions are a niche industry that face exposures specific to only them. Although they do need similar insurance policies as a typical business, a standard business policy won’t be able to properly fill in the gaps.

Proper comprehensive educational institution insurance protects you, your students, your employees and your reputation. It’s essential to identify your insurance needs and potential risks of a claim of loss, damage or injury you may face.

Types of Pennsylvania educational institution insurance:

1. General Liability
2. Education E&O
3. Property Insurance
4. Employee Benefits

General Liability provides coverage in the event that someone (student, staff, or third party) gets injured on school property.
Examples:

• Student is injured in physical education class
• Student slips and falls on a damp cafeteria floor
• Personal Property is destroyed or damaged

Education Errors and Omissions Insurance protect you and your employee in the event that a third party holds the school responsible for a mistake.
Examples:

• The school or employee allegedly practices discrimination, abuse, sexual harassment or sexual molestation

Property Insurance protects you against perils and theft.
Perils:

• Fire
• Lightning
• Windstorm
• And more

Theft:

• Signs of forced entry (broken window, broken locker, etc)

Employee Benefits may be required in certain school districts.
Coverages Include:

• Health care
• Workers’ Compensation
• Medical Liability

Another coverage you may need is auto liability. In fact, approximately 1,450 people have been killed in school transportation-related accidents since 1990.

Pennsylvania Educational Institution Insurance: Brief Q&A

Pennsylvania’s educational industry is often volatile; operational cost and funding are continually rising and safety and security is often compromised. So, how can educational institutions meet these unpredictable demands?

Dryfoos’s Pennsylvania educational insurance and risk management tools enable educational institutions to uphold their moral obligation of protecting their staff and students. These solutions safeguard their overall purpose of teaching without compromising their reputation or finances.

We live in a litigious society and educational institutions often fall victim to costly claims.  Our brief Q&A will help you understand and more importantly, avert these risks.

Who is eligible for Dryfoos’s Pennsylvania educational insurance?

• Primary and secondary schools
• Higher education institutions
• Performing arts schools
• Trade schools

What does Pennsylvania educational institution insurance cover?

• Public liability covers claims made against its staff and governors
• Indemnity for teachers for education trips
• Teacher coverage following suspensions due to abuse allegations
• Personal possessions coverage
• Property damage
• Legal expenses
• Theft

What are the common risks  Pennsylvania’s educational institutions face?

• Serious injury
• Sexual harassment
• Bullying
• Fraud

How can we mitigate these risks?

• Client Portal
  • A resource available through The Dryfoos Group of Insurance Agencies.
  • Provides loss control and risk management information.
  • Access to an online community where you can connect and share information with peers in the educational institution industry
• Along with your staff, identify common risks and its sources
• Frequently monitor your school’s programs and operations
• Practice risk avoidance by choosing alternative school activities that involv less risks
• Prior to hiring outside vendors, carefully review contracts
• Work with  IT administrators to identify and avert fraud

Your protection is important to us here at Dryfoos. Our specialists can give you expert advice on a plan that is right for you, including a risk management assessment to ensure that you, your staff, students, property and assets are properly protected. It’s more important now than ever before to protect your establishment, staff and students from extraneous risk. Call, email or fill out our form and get on the path to education-based risk solutions with Dryfoos.

Call Us Today! 1-800-253-6728

Sources:

http://www.education.vic.gov.au/school/principals/spag/finance/pages/publicliability.aspx

http://edmgt.com/pdfs/publications/0067.pdf

Has your business integrated social media in its marketing plan? If so, you know how important and advantageous it is for businesses of all sizes to shift from paper to web.

There are a number of social media networking sites developed every year; some cater to the general public, some to the youth and some to businessmen.  But as a small business, it’s important to utilize more prevalent platforms such as, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and Google Plus.

However, as it applies to all aspects of business, your audience can’t grow overnight. Unless you have a designated social media marketing team, it is difficult to manage all social media accounts. The key to success in social media marketing is nurturing these accounts and engaging with followers. Arbitrarily typing a status or tweet is not efficient.

Implementing a successful social media strategy is more than creating profiles and tweeting twice each month; it’s a constant upkeep. The number of inactive accounts is growing because businesses don’t allocate sufficient time to create content and engage with followers.

Fortunately, there are a number of useful desktop applications and mobile apps capable of preparing a week’s worth of posts on all social media platforms. But remember, these apps don’t function as efficiently as a human touch. There are few drawbacks, but if you don’t have the time and budget to hire a team of social media enthusiasts, these apps may be the right fit for you and your business.

Here are our top two social media management apps!

HootSuite- Arguably the best app, HootSuite is composed of several features and serves many functions. At $9.99 per month, HootSuite’s Pro Plan schedules postings for an unlimited number of personal and business accounts. Other features include a built-in analytics system that helps you track your campaigns. They also offer a Free Plan with features such as, scheduled postings on 5 social media accounts and two RSS/Atom feeds.

SocialOomph- This app offers a free and professional plan.  The Free Plan offers features such as scheduled tweets and keyword tracking. In addition to its basic features, the Professional Plan also includes auto follow and management of all social media accounts.

When you partner with the Dryfoos Group of Insurance of Agents to insure your Bethlehem business, you will have someone working to help mitigate your risks and minimize exposures. We provide a full portfolio of business and commercial insurance coverages to protect you, your property, assets, and employees. We also provide risk management services to help you stem losses and gain control over cost drivers that can affect your insurance premiums.

At Dryfoos, we don’t offer cookie-cutter insurance solutions. We’ll evaluate your specific operations, exposures, and tailor the coverages to fit your exact needs. We’ll listen to your concerns and develop a plan that is right for you and your business. Contact us today at one of our local business insurance offices for the Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Hazleton, Pennsylvania, Milton, Pennsylvania area.

Source: http://webtrends.about.com/od/pr6/tp/The-Top-10-Social-Media-Management-Applications.htm

You may be an excellent driver with a driving history free of traffic tickets and car collisions, but there are some things you can’t control when on the road.  Each year fatal car accidents take away the lives of over 35,000 Americans.  With such a high number, car safety simply can’t be overlooked.

There are many drivers on the road who are distracted by a less than important text and some drivers who genuinely believe their fully able to simultaneously drive, eat and rummage through their belongings. There are even drivers who simply never use their warning signal and some that are fueled by rage.  We can’t deter these individuals from driving, but we can practice defensive driving to decrease the possibility of these bad behaviors turning into a car accident.

Being educated in defensive driving is an important tool to acquire.

Defensive driving requires a driver to always be cautious and alert.  It’s about always being aware of your surroundings. You need to be able to spot any potential collisions and correctly react to them.

Don’t be distracted. Although this may seem obvious, many drivers are guilty of this. Distracted driving is not limited to answering a phone call or text.  Distracted driving also includes eating, interacting with passengers, applying makeup and rummaging through your belongings. Distraction driving enables a driver from focusing on the road.

Be cautious of the drivers who are practicing poor driving behaviors such as speeding and driving drowsy.  Make it a habit to constantly check your mirrors.

Keep a safe distance from the car ahead of you.  This will give you extra space to move forward if the driver behind you isn’t able to break in time.

Always yield regardless if you have the right of away. Not every driver on the road abides by traffic laws. Many are eager to get past a stop sign or a stop light.

Source:  http://autos.aol.com/article/defensive-driving-101/

Nobody covers Pennsylvania drivers like we do at Dryfoos. We specialize in helping our clients cover their personal automobiles against unforeseen damages and injuries. As independent insurance agents, we have access to many top-rated, financially sound insurers that operate here in PA, and can set you up with the most affordable rates and most appropriate coverage.

When reviewing your Personal Auto insurance needs, we’ll carefully create a comprehensive program that may include the following features:

• Collision Coverage—protects you from loss should another vehicle collide with yours.
• Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability Coverage—protects you from loss for injuries and property damage you may cause to others while operating your auto.
• Medical Coverage—covers the medical expenses of the driver and occupants of the insured vehicle.
• Comprehensive Coverage—protection from damage caused by things other than a vehicle collision.

We can also supply you with coverage for special types of vehicles such as antique automobiles, classic cars, high performance cars and more.

What’s more, our staff is always here when you need us, especially in the event of an accident. You can rely on us to help you achieve a responsive resolution so you can get back behind the wheel.

Just fill out our quick and easy form (or call 1-800-253-6728), and we’ll get your quote back to you as soon as possible.

Purchasing a car is an expensive investment. Many automobile owners save portions of their salary for several years in order to afford a car and some even take out bank loans. The last think you want is a thirty year old Honda, broken in the driveway.

Typically, a common car such as a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla can be driven up to anywhere between 100,000 to 200,000 miles before it’s maintenance costs more than purchasing an entirely new car. However, these numbers don’t have to dictate how long your car will last. Those who properly take care of their cars reap all the benefits of your investment. But those who fail to have their car routinely inspected risk the longevity of the car. The way you drive your car and how you choose to maintain its parts often foreshadows the lifespan of your car and the value of your investment.

Here are a few tips on extending your car’s life.

The Tires:

• Under inflated tires create heat and stress on the tires, so ensure that you keep your tires inflated to the recommend pressure written in the owner’s manual or on the sidewall of your tires.
• Rotate your tires every 6,000 to 7,500 miles.
• Inspect the thread depth for safety.

Fluids and Filters:

• Regularly have your oil changed. The oil filter should also be changed every other oil change.
• Check the air filter every two months and change if it’s clogged.
• Change your transmission fluid every 2,500 miles.
• Check your brake fluids on a monthly basis.

Maintenance Checkups:

• Find a trustworthy mechanic.
• Do not disregard the maintenance light. Have a mechanic inspect the cause.
• Ensure that you have your car routinely inspected.

How you drive:

• Accelerate slowly and brake cautiously.
• Avoid fast and abrupt turns, starts, and stops.
• During cold conditions, start up your car and let idle until normal operating temperature.

Nobody covers Pennsylvania drivers like we do at Dryfoos. We specialize in helping our clients cover their personal automobiles against unforeseen damages and injuries. As independent insurance agents, we have access to many top-rated, financially sound insurers that operate here in Pennsylvania, and can set you up with the most affordable rates and most appropriate coverage.

Just fill out our quick and easy form (or call our toll-free number), and we’ll get your quote back to you as soon as possible. Our local Bethlehem, Hazelton, Milton Pennsylvania insurance professionals are standing by, so contact us now!

Call 1-800-253-6728 For Your Fast, Free Quote Today.

As a result of the growing economy, the hospitality industry is beginning to recover. During this time, hotel owners are shifting perspectives and implementing changes. While many hotels have been demolished or gone unchanged, as much as 2,500 hotels were reflagged in 2011. According to Smith Travel Research, that is a staggering 39% increase from 2010.

Times have changed and new needs need to be met. Some hotel owners have noticed a change in customers and some have noticed a new design trend. Many hotels are taking these new changes as an opportunity to reflag and rebrand.

Initially, reflagging can be very costly, but it does pay off in the long run. Reflagging often raises revenue, increases guest count, introduces new marketing strategies, and creates new business relationships.

Sought as a promising opportunity to expand profitability, Stephen M. O’Loughlin converted a Marriott to the DoubleTree. O’Loughlin, president of Lodging Hospitality Management had previously worked with Hilton Worldwide on a different project. Although keeping the brand was taken into consideration, reflagging to Hilton was more beneficial. Reflagging allowed O’Laughlin to convert the Marriott into mid-scale hotel brand, DoubleTree.

Reflagging and rebranding is more than changing a hotel name.  Many executives who reflagged have made improvements by addressing  customer complaints and preferences. Some hotels have replaced existing furniture with contemporary furniture and some have hired new employees.

The hospitality industry is competitive and hotels are forced to make changes.

At Dryfoos, one of our long-time specialties has been providing Pennsylvania Hospitality Insurance to the hospitality industry. If your business is a restaurant, bar, hotel or similar type of organization, you may well have heard of us. We understand your industry. We talk your talk. And we have the insurance products that will fit your unique needs. You may not need it all, but if you’re in the hospitality industry, you need many of them to cover your investments and assets. We’ll show you how to bundle them for maximum coverage and minimal cost. Call us today. 1-800-253-6728

Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/25/business/to-lure-travelers-hotels-preen-and-change-brands.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&ref=commercial

Cyber Monday and the first weekend of December illustrated the drastic rise in e-commerce sales. According to SiteProNews, Cyber Monday made 1.5 billion dollars in e-commerce sales. There is no doubt that e-commerce driven sales will only increase throughout the upcoming years. Regardless of the size or age of your business, it is worthwhile to invest your time, resources, and money into a functional and appealing website that can be accessed from multiple devices.

1) Optimize your mobile site

• The number of dollars incurred via mobile purchases is constantly increasing.
• Potential spenders are looking for a fast and simple online experience.
• Compress image size in order for the site to load faster
• Change text alignments so all content fits onto the screen without having to scroll left and right
• Keep it minimal, but attractive

2) Website Design and Content

• It should be easy to navigate through the site; each category and sub category is clear and distinct.
• Only include necessary buttons and text.
• Ensure the website loads fast and that there aren’t any broken links and images.
• Aside from the basic info (size, color, availability) include other information such as, the material of a product and length from the shoulder to the hem of a product.
• Always post high quality photos with a view from numerous angles.
• Keep the checkout process short and to the point. You can lessen the steps to 2 pages (address, contact info and payment information).

3) Virtual Community and Personalized Experienced

• E-commerce websites, ModCloth and ShopRouche created a section where its consumers can vote for future products.
• Take advantage of social media—Arcadia Group LTD brand, Topshop has over 3 million Facebook Fans. They believe that most of their growth is due to their social media profiles.
• Don’t forget customer service! Although this is a virtual site, the quality of customer service should not be comprised. Try adding a “live help” specialist and a FAQ section.

At Dryfoos, we can cover your Pennsylvania business insurance against the unexpected. Call (1-800-253-6728) or email us today, or fill out the rate quote request form on this page. We can help you put together a comprehensive yet affordable plan to give you all the coverage you need, from one of the nation’s most respected insurance carriers. We look forward to hearing from you.

During the holidays, individuals and families often travel out of state to spend the celebrations with their extended family or out of country to escape the country’s frigid winters. While priorities are fixed on booking flights and hotels prior to their vacation, individuals also need to prepare properly storing their vehicle(s). When a car is stagnant for a long period of time it is susceptible to corrosion. This is where proper storing is very imperative. The effects of inadequate storage include fading exterior paint, rusting on its mechanical components, and the engine, tire, and brake pads may also suffer. In Pennsylvania, winter weather condition can often be severe; so here are a few tips on how to properly store your car.

How to Properly Store Your Car

How to Properly Store Your Car Tip #1 - Coverage: While storing your car inside a garage is most ideal, not every individual has that luxury. If you are unable to store your car inside, protect it with a weatherproof car cover. Ensuring that your car is covered by nature lowers the exposure to radical temperatures and natural elements. Roll up the windows and put the top up on convertibles in order to avoid critters from inhabiting your vehicle.

How to Properly Store Your Car Tip #2 -Cleanliness: Prior to leaving for vacation, clean and apply a coat of wax onto your car. Make sure to clean your vehicle well and pay attention to details such as, wheels and fenders.

How to Properly Store Your Car Tip #3 -Fluids: In order to prevent engine damage, ensure that all fluids are full. Buy a fuel stabilizer to avoid damaging the fuel line and keeping out extra airspace (exposes engine to moisture and rust). Ensure that the car’s brake and clutch master cylinders are filled in order to prevent any exposure to water. It is also recommended that prior to storing your vehicle, have a professional change its oil to avoid any future engine failure.

How to Properly Store Your Car Tip #4 -Filling up: In order to prevent the accumulation of moisture inside the tank, fill up your gas tank.

How to Properly Store Your Car Tip #5 -Lubricant: Apply WD40 to all metal surfaces to avert engine rust.

Nobody covers Pennsylvania drivers like we do at Dryfoos. We specialize in helping our clients cover their personal automobiles against unforeseen damages and injuries. Just fill out our quick and easy form (or call 1-800-253-6728), and we’ll get your quote back to you as soon as possible. Our local Pennsylvania auto insurance professionals are standing by, so contact us now!

There are a large number of ways you can cut costs for your business. Whether you hire a contract position or outsource your talent. This post is brought to you by Dryfoos Pennsylvania business insurance programs. Call us today for a free quote. 1-800-253-6728

1)      Call Center Representative: When it comes to cold calling and canvasing it’s never an easy task. This is where you outsource. Most companies pay telemarketers an hourly wage of anywhere from 9 dollars to 15 dollar plus commission. By outsourcing this position you deal with less capital and handling employee turnover.

2)      Information Technology/Website Development: Outsource what you don’t know. Developers, Graphic Designers and IT Support are most likely the most technical part of your business. These programmers and engineers are paid well at an average of $80,000 and require a bachelor’s degree, but would be cheaper than bringing one on your team.

3)      Writers/Editors/Bloggers: There are many freelance writers and bloggers who get paid for article or blog post written. In fact, many for magazines, trade publications, newsletters or local newspapers primarily hire freelance writers who are passionate about that specific niche. Normally to become a virtual writer, editor, or blogger you will need a bachelor’s degree. Cost depends on the company, as some cost a flat rate and some cost anywhere from 50 cents to 2 dollars per word.

Running any business involves risk. That’s why so many Pennsylvania business owners come to The Dryfoos Group. They know our reputation for choosing the right coverage from the right insurer to meet their most challenging Pennsylvania business insurance needs. We’ve been doing it for more than 100 years.

If trust and partnership are what you value in your Pennsylvania insurance agent, allow Dryfoos to help you with your plan, so bumps in the road of your business’ life don’t become business destroyers. Call us at 1-800-253-6728 for a free quote.

The latest shopping trends are not looking good for retailers counting on back-to-school campaigns. Many children, teens and parents are delaying the traditional back to school purchases. This post is brought to you by Pennsylvania retail insurance programs.

According to the National Retail Foundation, Back-to-school spending was expected to grow in the largest boost since the recession. But many are delaying it, for several reasons. Some want to wait and see what their classmates are wearing before they make their purchase decisions. Older students especially seem to be waiting until at least after Labor Day, cautious lest they make any fashion error. The difficulty of economic times is always a factor, and some analysts have even attributed it to the unusually hot weather.

According to the New York Times, the consequences could be serious if sales don’t rebound. The back-to-school shopping spree is the busiest time of the year other than the winter holidays. Beyond the extensive profits, back-to-school provides a barometer of what is popular to help retailers prepare for the holidays.

The postponed sales frenzy is also complicating how stores function. Some have had to alter how they stock, promote, and sell their back-to-school items, some of which have been on the shelves for almost two months. As of August, a survey by the National Retail Federation found less than 8% had completed their back-to-school shopping, the lowest figure in four years.

Retailers are responding to the lag in multiple ways. Some are extending sales longer to attract the late season customers. Others are rethinking their back-to-school time, and others are introducing new styles later, in early September.

At Dryfoos, we can cover your retail business against the unexpected. Our Pennsylvania retail insurance services include the forward-looking plans your business needs. Contact us today for more information about our Pennsylvania Retail Insurance programs.

With temperatures soaring this summer, the natural instinct is to turn on the air conditioner. Immediately. But the nation’s utilities companies are taking to Facebook and Twitter, urging customer to conserve energy instead. Another way to save is and save on your Pennsylvania Home Insurance.

According to the New York Times, Duke Energy is promoting a series of web videos featuring a girl with her family to dispense energy-saving advice. Tips include everything from using a clothesline instead of the dryer to turning down the air conditioning.

A household that uses a lot of electricity might receive a mailing showing that more energy-efficient neighbors wash their clothes in cold water and a coupon for Tide detergent. Others can compete to win new appliances, or points for saving energy they can redeem for discounts at local restaurants and grocery stores. One loyalty program awards participants points for every kilowatt-hour less in electricity they used each month. The points can be redeemed for discounts or gift cards at Amazon and Staples.

New York Times describes it as a combination of “social media, competitive games and Big Brotherish data analysis” to encourage customers to buy less electricity. Demographic and behavioral information was used to present specific, targeted discounts to customers- for examples offering school supplies discounts to households with children.

Pennsylvania has several energy efficiency programs. A more comprehensive list is available at the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and & Efficiency. Numerous Pennsylvania utility companies have rebate programs, including Duquesne Light Company, FirstEnergy, PECO Energy, Philadelphia Gas Works and PPL Electric Utilities.

While it seems counterintuitive to encourage people to buy less of their products, many utilities are facing government mandates to encourage more energy conservation, giving the difficulty and expense of building power plants and distribution systems. At least 25 states have set specific goals for reductions in energy use.

At Dryfoos, we can make sure you have a comprehensive Pennsylvania home insurance plan. We’ll consider many factors in our recommendation, including the replacement value of your home, amount of personal property coverage, personal liability, and special coverages. Contact us today for more information about out Pennsylvania home insurance programs.

As a hotel guest, in the future you can expect a few changes; free Wi-Fi, increasingly green buildings, and more communal atmospheres where guests can interact.

These predictions were made by three leading hotel owners at a panel discussion held in late June at the National Association of Real Estate Editors annual conference in Denver. Moderated by the Wall Street Journal, the panelists included Marty Collins, chief executive of Dallas-based hotel owner and developer Gatehouse Capital Corp., Walter Isenberg, president and CEO of Denver-based hotel owner and operator Sage Hospitality, and Bernie Siegel, a principal at KSL Capital Partners LLC.

Technology dominated the discussion on future trends in the hospitality industry. One of them was the availability of free, reliable Wi-Fi at hotels. Currently, many hotels offer it at a fee to their guests- the panel predicted soon hotels would offer free Wi-Fi for their guests.

Even the décor and makeup of the rooms is shifting from more traditional design to more modern and communal feels (think atmosphere at Starbucks). Video and entertainment systems are continuing to evolve and more applications from in-room checkout (now a staple) to booking excursions is all available from the comfort of your hotel room.

The final trend all three executives agree upon was the increasingly green movement to make hotels more environmentally friendly. LEED standards would become requirements, rather than options. Mr. Collins expressed his predictions.

“I don’t think consumers will pay you one dime more for a LEED building. But you’re not going to get a non-LEED building built in Southern California” or in many other U.S. areas. “I think people who buy hotels five or 10 years from now are going to seriously ding non-energy-efficient buildings.”

The hospitality industry represents a unique niche in the real estate industry. They must respond quicker than malls or offices to economic shifts since they can empty or fill up overnight. As a result, hotels have become a marker these days for how the struggling economy is affecting the real estate industry.

What is your opinion on emerging trends in the hotel industry? Do you agree with the panelists? We’d love to hear from you.

At Dryfoos, one of our long-time specialties has been providing insurance to the hospitality industry. If your business is a restaurant, bar, hotel or similar type of organization, you may well have heard of us and our Pennsylvania Hospitality Insurance programs. We understand the hospitality industry. We talk your talk. And we have the insurance products that will fit your unique needs. Contact us today for more information about our Pennsylvania Hospitality Insurance programs. 

With e-commerce and online United States retail sales projected to reach $226 billion this year, online retailers threaten small local businesses. Because online retail saw a 12 percent increase over 2011, competitive retailers selling within the conventional “brick and mortar” models have to change their business strategy.

Caruso is a Los Angeles based developer that has built competitive retail strengths on a signature brand of innovation and design for retailers. Caruso has created a unique mix of culture and community designed to draw in visitors.

Today’s savvy consumers value community and attractions based in shopping areas. From the open-air, experiential shopping center concept, retail location has never been so important. Caruso developed this shopping experience that not only combines convenience, broad tenant assortment, but dining and entertainment as well. All dominating social attractions creates a draw for local retail centers while providing an attractive alternative to the typical enclosed indoor mall.

These lifestyle centers developed by Caruso have evolved into centers of community. By improving retail brick & mortar shops by creating an experience, customers will come from far and wide; far removed from the e-commerce.

Running any business involves risk. That’s why so many Pennsylvania business owners come to The Dryfoos Group. They know our reputation for choosing the right coverage from the right insurer to meet their most challenging commercial and personal insurance needs. We’ve been doing it for more than 100 years.

If trust and partnership are what you value in your Pennsylvania insurance agent, we invite you to spend a few minutes considering our solutions for your business insurance or employee benefit plans. Give us a call today for more information 1-888-548-4953

Our goal is to be the last insurance company you ever need.

http://www.forbes.com/sites/investor/2012/06/01/improve-retail-brick-and-mortar-and-they-will-come/2/

When it comes to maximizing productivity, the research is endless. From open floor plans and coffee breaks to work-life balance and corporate wellness programs; companies all over are searching for the best office management tactics.

Facebook eschewed the traditional coffee break and instead has a sprawling campus abounding with rec centers stocked with Guitar Hero and a basketball court for employee breaks. Google has an 80/20 system where employees are encouraged to work on their own projects for 20% of their workday.

The latest trend? Diner style booths. According to the New York Times, walls have been tumbling down as many companies opt for open floor plans to facilitate communication among employees (Facebook and Apple being two of them). However, many employees are lodging complaints about noise volume disrupting their work. Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, reported that more than half of office workers were dissatisfied with the level of “speech privacy.”

The theory behind open work spaces it to promote communication among workers, and create an air of openness and transparency throughout the company. It is also significantly cheaper and saves space for the company. The downside? Distracted workers and a sense of privacy loss can also inhibit productivity.

Some companies have responded with technology. Autodesk, a software company installed a pink-noise system, where soft air whooshing is emitted over loudspeakers. Then noise sounds like a ventilation system but is actually formulated to match the frequencies of human voices. This pink-noise system was developed by Cambridge Sound Management.

Other companies provide escapes from the open-floor plan. Office designers have begun to use diner-style booths in the office to provide employees with a more private area to chat. Barrie Berg, chief executive of consulting firm What If American operations, discusses the benefits;

“You can see what’s going around you, and people can see you, but you can still have a private conversation without disturbing anyone around you. We’re a culture of people who work better with a buzz around us, but that buzz needs to be manageable.”

What are your thoughts on the latest trend in the workplace? Do open-floor plans work better, or is the loss of privacy too much? We’d love to hear from you!

At Dryfoos we dedicate ourselves to providing the most comprehensive and affordable risk management and insurance solutions to business owners across the state. For more than  110 years, we have specialized in commercial property and casualty insurance solutions for Pennsylvania business. Contact us today for more information.

The digitalization of our world (and consequently education) is undeniable. 92% of young adults ages 18-24 year olds go online regularly, according to Pew Research. One in four college graduates reported that they have taken a test online; this number has doubled to 46% for students who have taken a course in the past 10 years. And more than 75% of colleges offer online courses.

Online courses have been integrated into almost every college campus. They are a sign of changing times, easily accessible technology, and attempts to ease the treacherous budget costs that have saddled college graduates with thousands of dollars in loans. But what are the tradeoffs?

There is immediately the problem of limited instructor interaction. Some online programs allow you to Skype with professors or use instant messenger. However, those conversations have to be scheduled and of course are subject to technological malfunctions. How are grad school hopefuls supposed to get recommendation letters if their academic relationships are with virtual teachers? Or with their fellow students for that matter?

Of course, there are huge pluses as well. Scheduling classes is infinitely easier. Many online courses allow students to complete coursework on their own schedules, making it easier to juggle jobs and work simultaneously. Tuition for online courses is lower because the overhead costs are lower for that teaching institution; and don’t forget the hidden costs you save on gas money, time, bus passes, food, etc. that come with not having to commute daily to class.

What is your opinion on the digitalization of education? Is it possible to save costs and still maintain the same quality of the in-classroom experience? We’d love to hear from you.

The Dryfoos Group can provide coverage for many types of educational facilities including primary and secondary schools, as well as colleges, universities, performing arts and trade schools. With a vast array of coverage at all levels of education, we can tailor an Educational Institutions Insurance Policy to fit your needs. Contact us today for more information. 

More and more companies are applying less traditional techniques to foster productivity in the workplace. Employees are encouraged to take part in all types of unusual practices, from sketching and doodling ideas in meetings to drawing ideas on the walls.

Doodling has been integrated in multiple ways. They are used as an alternative note taking system at meetings to explain complicated concepts to colleagues. Other companies are incorporating white boards, chalkboards and writable glass on surfaces throughout the office to spark creativity. Some are even holding training sessions or hiring graphic recorders to visually record meetings.

There are several arguments behind these new practices. This “visual note-taking” can help generate ideas, improve communication and encourage collaboration among colleagues. According to the Wall Street Journal, a 2009 study published in the Journal of Applied Cognitive Psychology found that doodlers retained more that non-doodlers when remembering information that had been presented in a boring context, such as a meeting or conference call.

Software maker Citrix Systems even opened a “design collaboration” workspace in its Santa Clara, Calif., headquarters, stocked with everything from sticky notes and construction paper to pipe cleaners and foam balls for 3-D models.

Protect your business with the best coverage plan you deserve. The Dryfoos Group offers a wide range of Pennsylvania business insurance. Contact us today for more information. 

The Senate passed a bill in March that will require “mandatory event data recorders” or black boxes to be installed in all motor vehicles, beginning with 2015 models, according to the Wall Street Journal. The black boxes, similar to the ones used in airplanes, would record data before, during or after a crash.

The boxes will record data such as speed, brake force and electrical systems monitoring. They would help automakers to pinpoint defects to better understand a system’s performance in the event of a collision, according to the Huffington Post. The boxes are currently be in used in some models, such in GM’s OnStar system to alert emergency response services in the event of a crash.

The bill has a privacy provision that only allows data to be retrieved by the owner, with some exceptions. Medical workers would be allowed to access it in an emergency. The data may also be retrieved if it is ordered by the court or if it’s relevant in an investigation or inspection.

The black box would always be on and wouldn’t let drivers control the data being collected. The issue has raised serious privacy concerns from its opponents, who see it as a “Big Brother” influence that allows the government to access your location. Supporters argue that privacy concerns are irrelevant, as at least 64% of cars had a black box installed- this number included 100% of cars made by General Motors, Ford, Isuzu, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Subaru, and Suzuki, according to PCWorld.

What is your opinion on the new requirement? Is it a great new safety feature or a violation of privacy? We’d love to hear from you.

Nobody covers Pennsylvania drivers like we do at Dryfoos. We specialize in helping our clients cover their Pennsylvania auto insurance against unforeseen damages and injuries. As independent agents, we can shop dozens of insurers licensed to operate here in PA, and set you up with the most affordable rates and most appropriate coverage. Contact us today for more information.

Jon Cohen, a vascular surgeon and chief medical officer at Quest Diagnostics said the average American spends twice as much time before buying a TV as they do looking for a doctor, speaking at the TEDMED conference in early April. Patients don’t invest the time into their own health.

Price, quality, and desire are the three main components that comprise consumer decisions. However the traditional consumerist approach to appraising products doesn’t apply in healthcare. For example, price doesn’t necessarily mean better care. Patients are generally not good healthcare consumers in that they don’t tend to proactively manage and maintain their health.

Furthermore, Cohen said, people use the wrong parameters to judge the quality of their healthcare. For example the service at a practice, such as wait time in a doctor’s office, extended hours or availability tend to influence patients more than factors such as experience and judgment.

A two-part approach is needed. Patients need to be voracious in managing their own healthcare. If people are motivated for their own health, Cohen argues, then they will be better motivated to be informed about their own health.  And in return, the medical profession must continually strive to meet them halfway to help translate extensive and often complex medical problems.

Take the first step to help your employees get the best healthcare possible. At the Dryfoos Group, we offer a variety of comprehensive Pennsylvania Group Benefits programs that can be custom tailored to fit your specific employee benefits needs. Contact us today for more information.

This merger created a huge pharmacy-benefit manager that will have significant industry impacts. Pharmacy benefit managers (or P.B.M.’s) manage prescription drug plans for employers and insurers. P.B.M.’s are the middlemen between drug companies and the payers.

The new combined company is predicted to save as much as 1 billion; they will handle one of every three prescriptions written in the U.S. The merger allows Express Scripts and Medco to combine forces and squeeze out a lot of costs, which they then say will be passed on to the consumer.

The decision was not unanimous. Pharmacy and consumer advocacy groups comprise the main opponents of the deal. They argue that the merger will shrink competition, potentially raise prices and limit where patients can get their prescriptions filled. Opponents such as the National Association of Chain Drug Stores and the National Community Pharmacists Association sued to block the deal in federal court. They claim the merger violates anti-trust laws and isn’t in the best interests of patients or consumers.

The merger has raised antitrust issues; many are worried about the effect of such a huge merger on the pharmaceutical industry and the potential of driving other companies out of business. What are your thoughts on the Express Scripts-Medco merger? Is it a step in the right direction in lowering health care costs or a potentially harmful consolidation of assets that could change the industry? Let us know your thoughts.

Our healthcare system is in the middle of a substantial overhaul. From the Express Scripts-Medco merger to the healthcare case being debated in the Supreme Court, our healthcare will see significant changes in the next few years. However none of those changes alter the importance of protecting your employees. At the Dryfoos Group, we understand the importance of providing comprehensive group benefits plan to your employees. We offer a variety of plans that can be custom tailored to fit your specific employee benefits needs. Contact us today for more information.

The facts in this article were provided by the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and Bloomberg Business Week.

According to Forbes, a new survey of over 1,000 workers by staffing firm Adecco, a majority of Americans admit they judge coworkers by how clean or dirty they keep their workspaces, and often attribute messiness to laziness. An Office Max study found that office clutter can undermine productivity and motivation. In the spirit of spring cleaning, here are a few tips to project forth your best image at your workplace and make your life easier.

Organization. Set a weekly appointment to clean your desk. Don’t just create piles, but make specific places for the various tasks in your office. Clear your desk of stacks of paper and unnecessary items that just hog space. Designate a drawer or shelf to keep your gym bag off the floor. The result will be a space that is not only more aesthetically more appealing, it will help you to better organize your work.

Cleanliness. The results are highly unappealing, and well, gross. According to some reports, the average keyboard harbors 5 times the amount of germs found in a public bathroom. Disinfect your office regularly, wiping down everything from your phone to your mouse and coffee mugs to ensure you have a healthy, clean workspace.

Sedentary Dangers. You want to ensure maximum productivity at your desk? Step away from it. Being chained to your desk can be exhausting and draining. Take 5 minutes to walk outside and drink your cup of coffee. Leave your desk for lunch. You’ll come back to work feeling refreshed and ready to go.

From a teacher with a mountain of assignments to grade, to a retail manager analyzing sales reports, or a contractor managing multiple bids and projects, keeping a clean desk can help out professionals in all types of industries. Our Business Insurance Plans are no different. At Dryfoos Group we proudly provide a variety of industries with comprehensive insurance solutions from non-profits to hospitality and construction. We’ve dedicated ourselves to providing the most comprehensive and affordable risk management and insurance solutions to business owners across the state. Contact us today for more information.

Ceglia contracted Zuckerberg for website work when the CEO was a student at Harvard. Ceglia claims in his suit that he had a contract with Zuckerberg that entitles him to 50% of what was Zuckerberg’s fledgling side project at the time, known as “The Face Book.” As for the rest of the story, well that is social media lore; “The Face Book” is now a multi-billion dollar company, with Zuckerberg’s stake estimated at 28 billion.

Facebook has responded vehemently to Ceglia’s claims, calling them “a fraud and a lie.” They have launched their own investigation into the case, and claim the documents Ceglia produced were fraudulent, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Media hype aside, from a business standpoint the case highlights the urgent need for businesses to have general liability protection. The Facebook case is playing out on a national, multi-billion dollar scale. Most business will never experience that kind of exposure or risk; however the basic principals remain the same. Businesses need protection against unforeseen claims and lawsuits. And if Facebook is any indicator, the more successful you are, the more expensive the claims become.

We live in a lawsuit minded society. The sheer numbers of lawsuit prone individuals is so vast it has turned into a joke; just Google “most ridiculous lawsuits” to find a litany of ludicrous claims that have come before courts and won. You’ll laugh and shudder simultaneously.

As a business owner or manager, you already know that many business owner policies don’t carry enough liability coverage to completely protect you against unforeseen claims and lawsuits. That’s where a general liability policy can save the day and your wallet.

At the Dryfoos Group, our liability specialists can show you how to set up a relatively inexpensive, full coverage policy that can protect you and your company. Contact us today for more information.

Sources for the facts in this article can be found at The Wall Street Journal & CNN Money.

The ACA is a 900 plus page bill with hundreds of amendments and components. Most visibly, the overhaul requires all individuals to have healthcare- failure to comply incurs fines and possible imprisonment. This mandate is a huge reason for the ACA’s appearance before the Supreme Court next week.

The issue hotly debated is the constitutionality of the ACA, specifically the federal government’s right to require all individuals to purchase healthcare. The main points of each side were summarized in a video between Neal Katyal, Former Acting Solicitor General who defended the ACA in three appeals courts and Randy Barnett, a Libertarian legal scholar and anti-ACA intellectual architect behind the challenges to the individual mandate. Below are the key issues they argue.

Interstate commerce:  Katyal and proponents of the bill argue that the individual healthcare mandate is included in the umbrella of interstate commerce, and thus Congress has the right to regulate it. Barnett argues that the institution of fines and potential imprisonment for those who don’t comply with the requirement is an aggregation of federal power.

Congress is requiring individuals to “buy” a product: Opponents argue it is unconstitutional and beyond Congress’ taxing power to fine individuals for not purchasing a product (i.e. healthcare). Proponents argue that Congress is not asking individuals to buy a product they wouldn’t usually consume.

A national problem calls for national solution: Katyal views the issue as a national problem that the states can’t fix; Barnett argues it is a violation of state sovereignty and a dangerous concession of power to the federal government to allow them to regulate the healthcare system.

The Supreme Court’s decision could transform the state governments’ role in the provision of healthcare. The case is so significant it has been allotted six hours, featuring multiple lawyers, to be argued over three days, the longest oral argument heard in the Supreme Court in almost half a century.

Show your employees you care about their well-being with Group Insurance/Benefits from Dryfoos.  We offer a variety of comprehensive policies that can be custom tailored to fit your specific employee benefits needs. Contact us today.

1. A pleasant work environment. Employees spend the majority of their lives in their workplace.  Yelling at employees for example, especially in front of others, destroys confidence and leads to unmotivated and unhappy employees.
2. Recognition. Institute Employee of the Month.  Compliment your employees on a great completed project.  Send an appreciative email. Positive reinforcement of a job well done goes a long way to boosting employees’ satisfaction.
3. Perks. They don’t need to be lavish or expensive.  If it’s a particular product you sell give employee discounts.  Providing group benefits including comprehensive health insurance and dental could be the difference between an employee staying with your organization or finding employment elsewhere.  
4. Mentoring. Take the time with employees. Advise and guide them through a difficult job.  Provide constructive feedback. 
5.  Help when they need it. Sometimes life intervenes with the continuity of the workplace.  Include family coverage in employee benefits.  Be understanding if a reliable employee is late one morning because of a flat tire.  Allow that extra day off for a family emergency.  The employee will appreciate the compassion and the help.

Employee satisfaction builds company loyalty. Your business faces many risks.  But when those risks include legal claims and litigation, it’s your directors and officers who often have the greatest exposure.

That’s why our agency offers PA directors and officers insurance.  It provides much needed protection against the costs of legal defense and indemnity coverage for the business, directors and officer, and employees in suites alleging internal management.

Let our experienced D&O specialists at the Dryfoos Group protect your assets and those of your directors and officers long before threats occur.  Call us for more information. 1-800-253-6728

It must be provided to employees of any company with five or more workers, as it’s the sole remedy for injured employees.

Although the incidence rate of workplace injuries and illnesses were down for 2010 as compared to 2009, according to stats released in the Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (Annual) Report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number is still quite significant: 3.1 million non-fatal on-the-job injuries and illnesses were reported by the private sector.

What can you do as a business to stem Workers Compensation claims in your operation? First be sure your safety program is updated and that all employees are vigilant about following it. Second, work with your insurance agency and company to implement an effective Return-to-Work (RTW) program so that if an employee is injured while on the job, there is a concerted effort to get him or her back to work as soon as possible, even in a part-time position. The key to a successful RTW program is early intervention.

Return to Work Programs can reduce business costs by eliminating the need for overtime by other employees or in having to hire temporary workers. They can also help reduce Workers Compensation costs in terms of increased premiums. What’s more, RTW programs can help reduce employee turnover as you mitigate the need to replace the employee. The cost to replace an employee can be up to 1.5 times his or her annual salary. What’s more, it takes a new employee more than 13 months to become efficient at his or her job. And, RTW programs can serve to boost morale. You get the injured worker back on the job and he or she in addition to your other employees will know that you see them as a valuable resource.

Workers Compensation can save you from costly lawsuits in case of on-the-job accidents and injuries. Equally important, it helps keep your employees healthy and, if injured, helps ensure that they get the medical treatment they require.

At Dryfoos, we can help you set up a Workers Compensation plan that meets your needs in Pennsylvania, in addition to discussing your safety plan and a Return to Work program. Please contact us today at 1-800-253-6728. Dryfoos serves throughout PA.