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As the 2027 deadline for SAP ECC (ERP Central Component) support draws closer, businesses around the globe are facing a critical decision: upgrade to SAP S/4HANA or risk being left behind. SAP's announcement to end mainstream maintenance for ECC has put organizations in a race against time to transition to the next generation of enterprise resource planning (ERP). But why is this upgrade so essential, and what risks do companies face if they delay? Understanding the Urgency SAP ECC has been the backbone of many organizations' operations for decades, providing robust and reliable solutions for managing finance, supply chain, and human resources. However, as technology evolves, so must the tools businesses use to stay competitive. SAP S/4HANA, introduced in 2015, represents a significant leap forward, offering enhanced performance, real-time analytics, and improved user experiences through its in-memory database and modern architecture. The 2027 deadline is a firm date when SAP will cease providing standard ECC support. After this, businesses still using ECC will face substantial challenges, including: Increased Costs:  Without SAP's standard support, companies will need to purchase expensive extended maintenance or seek third-party support, both of which can strain budgets. Security Risks:  Unsupported systems are vulnerable to security breaches, as they will no longer receive critical updates and patches from SAP. Compliance Issues:  Staying compliant with industry regulations and standards can become a daunting task without the necessary support and updates, potentially leading to legal and financial repercussions. Missed Innovation:  S/4HANA offers advanced capabilities that ECC cannot match. Sticking with an outdated system means missing out on innovations that could drive growth and efficiency. Benefits of Upgrading to SAP S/4HANA While the risks of staying on ECC are clear, the benefits of upgrading to S/4HANA are equally compelling. By making the transition, businesses can expect: Real-Time Data Processing:  S/4HANA’s in-memory database allows for instant processing and analysis of large volumes of data, enabling quicker decision-making and more agile business operations. Improved User Experience:  The SAP Fiori user interface, integrated with S/4HANA, offers a simplified, intuitive experience, making it easier for employees to navigate and use the system effectively. Scalability and Flexibility:   S/4HANA is designed to grow with your business , supporting cloud, on-premises, or hybrid deployment models that adapt to your specific needs. Future-Proofing Your Business:  Upgrading to S/4HANA ensures that your business stays at the forefront of technology, with access to continuous innovations and improvements from SAP. The Path Forward: Planning Your Upgrade Transitioning from SAP ECC to S/4HANA is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution. Here are some steps to ensure a smooth upgrade: Assessment and Strategy:  Evaluate your current ECC system and identify the areas where S/4HANA can bring the most value. Develop a clear upgrade strategy that aligns with your business goals. Data Migration:  One of the most critical aspects of the upgrade is migrating your data to the new system. SAP provides tools and resources to help streamline this process, but it’s essential to approach it with precision to avoid data loss or corruption. Training and Change Management:  Ensure that your team is prepared for the new system by providing adequate training and support. Change management is crucial to help employees adapt to the new processes and technologies. Testing and Validation:  Before going live, thoroughly test the new system to identify and resolve any issues. This step is vital to ensuring a successful transition. External Support:  Consider leveraging external support to augment your internal team during the upgrade. This can help manage the workload and bring in expertise that may not be available in-house. The Time to Act is Now The 2027 deadline is approaching quickly. By upgrading to SAP S/4HANA, businesses can avoid the risks of staying on an unsupported system and unlock the full potential of a modern, powerful ERP solution. The countdown has begun—don’t wait until it’s too late to make the move! BGSF understands the complexities and challenges that come with SAP implementations, upgrades, and ongoing maintenance. Our experienced consultants are equipped to guide your organization through every step of the process, from initial assessment and strategy development to data migration, training, and post-implementation support. Whether you're transitioning from SAP ECC to S/4HANA or maintaining your existing systems, BGSF offers the expertise and resources needed to ensure a seamless, successful upgrade. Our team can help you fully leverage SAP S/4HANA’s capabilities, enabling your business to stay competitive and ready for the future. Let us partner with you to navigate this critical transition with confidence and ease. Contact us today!

Managing mixed-use spaces presents unique challenges and opportunities in the real estate industry. These dynamic environments, which combine residential, commercial, and sometimes industrial uses, require a nuanced approach to property management. Let's explore some strategies and best practices for effective management of mixed-use properties. Property Management for Mixed-Use Spaces Mixed-use developments blend different types of properties into a cohesive community. This integration can drive vibrant urban spaces, create convenient lifestyles, and offer diverse revenue streams. However, the varied needs of residential tenants, commercial businesses, and possibly even industrial operations necessitate a flexible and informed management strategy. Comprehensive Planning Effective property management starts with comprehensive planning. This includes understanding the zoning laws and regulations that govern mixed-use spaces, as well as anticipating the needs of various tenant types. Creating a detailed management plan that outlines maintenance schedules, security protocols, and communication strategies is crucial. Efficient Communication Clear and consistent communication is key to managing mixed-use properties. Property Managers must facilitate open lines of communication between residents and commercial businesses to address concerns promptly. Regular meetings, newsletters, and a dedicated communication platform can help keep all parties informed and engaged. Integrated Technology Solutions Leveraging technology can streamline property management tasks and enhance tenant and resident satisfaction. Implementing property management software that integrates functions such as rent collection, maintenance requests, and tenant communication can save time and reduce errors. Additionally, adopting AI solutions like those developed by BGSF and Arroyo Consulting can provide personalized customer service and improve operational efficiency. Maintenance and Safety Mixed-use properties often have more complex maintenance needs due to the variety of spaces involved. Regular inspections and proactive maintenance schedules are essential to ensure all areas are safe and well-maintained. Safety protocols should be tailored to address the specific needs of both residential and commercial spaces, including fire safety, security measures, and health regulations. Need extra maintenance support for your multifamily and commercial spaces? BGSF can help you in staffing both! Learn more here. Community Building Fostering a sense of community within mixed-use developments can enhance resident and tenant satisfaction and retention. Organizing events, creating shared spaces, and encouraging interaction between residential and commercial tenants can build a strong community atmosphere. This not only improves the living and working experience but can also attract new tenants. Financial Management Mixed-use property management requires careful financial planning and management. Property Managers must balance multiple revenue streams and expenses, ensuring profitability while maintaining high standards of service. This includes setting competitive rental rates, managing operating costs, and planning for long-term capital improvements. Adapting to Change The landscape of mixed-use properties is constantly evolving, driven by changes in market demands, technological advancements, and regulatory shifts. Property Managers must stay informed about industry trends and be ready to adapt their strategies accordingly. Continuous learning and professional development are vital to staying ahead in this dynamic field. Addressing Unique Challenges in Mixed-Use Property Management Managing mixed-use spaces requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the unique challenges and leverages the opportunities these properties present. By prioritizing comprehensive planning, efficient communication, integrated technology, and community building, Property Managers can create thriving, sustainable environments that benefit both residents and tenants, as well as property owners. For those looking to optimize their property management strategies further, external staffing support through BGSF can provide additional expertise and resources to navigate the complexities of mixed-use developments. Contact us to request talent today!

In recent years, the establishment of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals in the rental housing sector has revolutionized the industry. These goals have not only fostered sustainable and ethical practices but have also significantly improved the resident experience and overall quality of life. ESG initiatives have paved the way for a plethora of social initiatives that enhance resident connections, experiences, and even their financial well-being. ESG Goals in Multifamily Environmental Initiatives: A Greener, Healthier Living Environment One of the core components of ESG goals is environmental sustainability. Property management companies are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient buildings , waste reduction programs, and the use of renewable energy sources. These initiatives lead to lower utility costs for residents, creating a win-win situation where both the environment and the residents benefit. For instance, the implementation of green building standards not only reduces the carbon footprint but also ensures healthier living conditions by improving indoor air quality and reducing exposure to harmful chemicals. Moreover, community gardens and green spaces encourage residents to engage in outdoor activities, fostering a sense of community and promoting a healthier lifestyle. Social Initiatives: Building Stronger Communities Social initiatives under the ESG framework focus on creating inclusive, supportive, and vibrant communities. These initiatives aim to enhance resident connections, promote social well-being, and ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging. Community-building activities , such as social events, workshops, and recreational programs, play a crucial role in bringing residents together. These events provide opportunities for residents to interact, form meaningful relationships, and create a strong sense of community. Resident support programs, such as mental health services, educational workshops, and career development resources, also contribute to the overall well-being of residents. In addition, property management companies are increasingly recognizing the importance of diversity and inclusion. By promoting inclusive policies and practices, they ensure that residents from all backgrounds feel respected and valued, fostering a harmonious living environment. Governance: Ensuring Ethical and Transparent Practices Good governance is the backbone of any successful ESG initiative. The rental housing sector involves transparent and ethical management practices, fair treatment of residents, and adherence to legal and regulatory standards. Property management companies that prioritize good governance are committed to maintaining open lines of communication with residents. This transparency builds trust and ensures that residents' concerns are heard and addressed promptly. Furthermore, ethical practices, such as fair lease agreements and transparent fee structures, ensure that residents are treated with respect and fairness. Financial Well-Being: A Key Component of Resident Satisfaction ESG goals also encompass initiatives aimed at enhancing the financial well-being of residents. Affordable housing programs, financial literacy workshops, and assistance with budgeting and financial planning are some of the ways property management companies support residents' financial health. The National Apartment Association reports that the industry is also evolving to offer more comprehensive credit reporting solutions, including programs that allow on-time rent payments to be reported to major credit bureaus, thus improving residents' credit scores. Innovations such as lease insurance, which replaces large upfront deposits, also enhance housing accessibility and security for both renters and property owners. Additionally, the advent of digital payment systems is streamlining financial transactions and accommodating diverse payment preferences, despite some renters' ongoing reliance on checks or money orders. The Future of ESG Goals in Multifamily The integration of ESG goals in the rental housing sector has undoubtedly transformed the industry, bringing about a host of benefits for residents. By prioritizing environmental sustainability, social well-being, and good governance, property management companies are creating thriving communities where residents enjoy a high quality of life. Moreover, the focus on financial well-being ensures that residents are not only living in a supportive and sustainable environment but are also empowered to achieve financial stability. Partnering with BGSF is not just about filling positions on your staff; it's about finding the right talent for your organization, building communities, and ensuring the satisfaction of every resident. Contact us  to learn how we can support your property’s success today.

Case Study: Navigating Compliance - How BGSF Resolved Sales Tax Issues for a Nationwide Retailer PROBLEM: Our client, a prominent provider of comprehensive pet wellness solutions aimed at enhancing the health and well-being of pets, acquired 150 new retail sites nationwide, providing both healthcare and retail services. Due to a coding oversight in sales and use tax for these sites, the company faces monthly penalties of approximately $250,000+. SOLUTION: BGSF was selected to audit all the client's services, identify which required sales and use tax, and correctly code the services. RESULTS: Download the full case study  below to learn how BGSF saved the client a total of $750,000 in penalties!

Companies are increasingly turning to cloud solutions to gain flexibility, scalability, and cost savings in an increasingly complex digital environment. Oracle, with its robust cloud infrastructure and comprehensive suite of tools, provides a seamless pathway for businesses to migrate their applications. In this blog, we'll explore the steps and best practices for migrating on-premises applications to Oracle Cloud.   Migrating On-Premises Applications to Oracle Cloud.   Assess Your Current Environment Before embarking on your migration journey, it's essential to have a clear understanding of your existing infrastructure. This involves:  Inventory Management:  Catalog all applications, databases, and workloads currently running on-premises.  Dependency Mapping:  Identify interdependencies between applications and services.  Performance Metrics:  Gather performance data to establish a baseline and set performance expectations for the cloud environment.  Cost Analysis:  Evaluate the current costs and forecast the potential savings and expenses in the cloud.  Define Your Cloud Strategy A well-defined cloud strategy aligns with your business objectives and provides a roadmap for migration. Key considerations include:  Cloud Model Selection:  Decide between public, private, or hybrid cloud models based on your security, compliance, and performance needs.  Service Model Selection:  Choose the appropriate service model—Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), or Software as a Service (SaaS).  Migration Approach:  Determine whether a lift-and-shift (rehosting), refactoring, or re-architecting approach best suits your applications.  Plan and Design Your Migration With a strategy in place, the next step is to create a detailed migration plan. This includes:  Project Timeline:  Establish a realistic timeline with milestones and deadlines.  Resource Allocation:  Assign roles and responsibilities to your migration team.  Risk Management:  Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies.  Data Governance:  Ensure compliance with data governance policies and regulatory requirements.  Prepare Your Applications  Preparing your applications for migration involves several critical tasks:  Code Review:  Analyze your application's codebase for any dependencies or compatibility issues.  Optimization:  Optimize applications for performance and scalability in the cloud.  Testing:  Conduct thorough testing, including unit tests, integration tests, and performance tests, to ensure applications function correctly in the cloud environment.  Execute the Migration  The actual migration process can be complex and requires careful execution:  Data Migration:  Use Oracle’s migration tools, such as Oracle Data Pump or Oracle GoldenGate, to transfer data from on-premises databases to Oracle Cloud.  Application Deployment:  Deploy applications using Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) services, such as Oracle Compute and Oracle Container Engine for Kubernetes.  Validation:  Validate the migrated applications and data to ensure everything functions as expected.  Optimize and Monitor  Post-migration, continuous optimization, and monitoring are crucial to maintaining performance and cost efficiency:  Performance Tuning:  Use Oracle’s performance tuning tools to optimize applications.  Cost Management:  Monitor usage and costs with Oracle Cloud Cost Management and set up alerts for budget thresholds.  Security:  Implement and regularly update security measures to protect your cloud environment.    Start Transforming Your Business Migrating on-premises applications to Oracle Cloud can transform your business operations, offering enhanced scalability, flexibility, and cost savings. By following these steps and leveraging Oracle's comprehensive suite of tools and services, you can ensure a smooth and successful migration. Whether you're lifting and shifting or re-architecting your applications, a strategic approach will help you unlock the full potential of the cloud.  For more detailed guidance or assistance with your migration journey, consider leveraging BGSF for external support! Ensure your team has the expertise needed for a seamless transition. Contact us today!

As summer draws to a close and back-to-school season approaches, commercial real estate Property Managers have a unique opportunity to enhance their properties' appeal and functionality. This period brings a surge in foot traffic, increased demand for retail spaces, and heightened expectations from tenants and visitors. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for the back-to-school season effectively. Back-to-School Season Guide for Commercial Real Estate Property Managers Optimize Property Maintenance and Safety Regular Inspections:  Conduct thorough inspections of your property to identify and address any maintenance issues. Pay particular attention to common areas, parking lots, and walkways to ensure they are clean, safe, and well-lit. Safety Measures:  With increased foot traffic, it's crucial to review and enhance safety protocols. Ensure that all safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and emergency exits, are accessible and in good working order. Implement additional signage and barriers where necessary to guide foot traffic and prevent accidents. Enhance Curb Appeal Groundskeeping:  Freshen up your property to create an inviting atmosphere. Trim hedges, mow lawns, and rake leaves to make the property look well-maintained and attractive. Exterior Cleanliness:  Power wash building exteriors, clean windows, and remove any graffiti or debris. A clean and appealing exterior can make a significant difference in attracting visitors and potential tenants. Support Retail Tenants Promotional Events:  Collaborate with your retail tenants to organize back-to-school sales and promotional events. Offer shared marketing support, such as social media promotions and email campaigns, to drive traffic to your property. Pop-Up Shops and Kiosks:  Consider allowing pop-up shops or kiosks for seasonal vendors. This can add variety to your retail mix and attract more shoppers looking for back-to-school deals. Improve Property Amenities Wi-Fi and Charging Stations:  Ensure that your property offers reliable Wi-Fi access and charging stations. Parents and students often rely on their devices for school-related activities, and providing these amenities can enhance their experience. Comfortable Seating Areas:  Create comfortable seating areas for parents and students who may need a break from shopping or studying. Consider adding benches, lounge chairs, and shaded areas to make your property more welcoming. Plan for Increased Traffic Parking Management:  Anticipate an increase in vehicle traffic during the back-to-school season and plan accordingly. Ensure that parking lots are well-maintained, clearly marked, and adequately staffed to handle the influx of visitors. Traffic Flow:  Review and adjust traffic flow patterns within the property to accommodate the expected increase in visitors. Consider implementing temporary measures, such as additional signage or barriers, to manage congestion effectively. Effectively Prepare for Back-to-School Season By following these steps, commercial real estate Property Managers can effectively prepare for the back-to-school season, creating a safe, welcoming, and attractive environment for tenants and visitors alike. Embrace the opportunity to enhance your property and capitalize on the increased activity during this time of year. Need external staffing support to help manage your property during the back-to-school rush? Explore our range of services to find the perfect solution for your needs. Contact us today to learn more!

The July 2024 Jobs Report reveals a nuanced picture of the U.S. labor market. While some metrics indicate a slowdown, positive trends and sectors still show resilience. Employers and job seekers can find opportunities by understanding and adapting to these changes. Key Highlights of the July Jobs Report Unemployment Rate : Increased to 4.3% Nonfarm Payroll Employment : Rose by 114,000 Sector Growth : Health care (+55,000), construction (+25,000), transportation and warehousing (+14,000) Sector Decline : Information sector (-20,000) Wage Growth : Slowed to 3.6% year-over-year Labor Force Participation Rate : Remained steady at 62.7% Job Openings : 8.184 million in June What Employers Need to Know Construction Sector Growth as a Positive Indicator  The construction sector added 25,000 jobs in July, consistent with its average monthly gain over the past year. This growth signals robust activity, particularly in specialty trade contractors, which saw an increase of 19,000 jobs. For employers in property management and related fields, this is a promising trend, suggesting ongoing demand for construction and maintenance services. Kelly Brown , Property Management Division President at BGSF, provides an optimistic perspective on the current job market, "Despite the rise in the unemployment rate and some sectors facing challenges, the growth in construction jobs is a very positive sign. It not only reflects a growing economy but also bodes well for our property management division, which often benefits from increased construction activity. Additionally, we are seeing significant growth in Q3 due to student turns, which is further driving demand in the property management sector." Steady Job Openings  Despite the overall hiring slowdown, job openings remained relatively stable at 8.184 million in June. This stability provides a buffer for employers, indicating that there are still plenty of opportunities to find qualified candidates. Employers should focus on attracting and retaining talent by offering competitive wages and benefits, especially in high-demand sectors like healthcare and construction. Navigating Wage Growth and Labor Costs  Wage growth has slowed to 3.6% year-over-year, down from 3.9% in June. While this might ease some pressure on labor costs, employers should remain mindful of the ongoing need to offer attractive compensation packages to retain top talent, particularly as competition in certain sectors remains high. What Job Seekers Need to Know Opportunities in Health Care and Construction Health care added 55,000 jobs in July, making it a prime sector for job seekers. Those with skills in healthcare services should explore these openings as the demand remains high. Similarly, the construction sector's growth of 25,000 jobs presents opportunities for those skilled in construction trades and specialties. Additionally, individuals interested in maintenance roles can benefit from specialized training programs. For example, the BGSF Maintenance Training Program offers comprehensive training to prepare candidates for various maintenance positions, enhancing their employability in the multifamily and commercial property management sectors. For more information, visit BGSF Maintenance Training Program . Resilience in Transportation and Warehousing  The transportation and warehousing sector saw an increase of 14,000 jobs, indicating steady demand for logistics and supply chain professionals. Job seekers with experience in these areas should consider pursuing opportunities in this resilient sector. Adapting to a Shifting Market While the information sector experienced a decline of 20,000 jobs, job seekers should remain adaptable and consider expanding their skill sets. Continuous learning can provide a competitive edge in a dynamic job market. Eric Peters , President of BGSF's Professional Division, emphasizes this point: "In today's rapidly evolving tech landscape, ongoing education and certifications are crucial for IT professionals. They not only enhance your skills but also demonstrate your commitment to staying current in a field that's constantly changing. This adaptability is what employers are looking for, especially during market fluctuations." One effective option for upskilling is the Workday Certification Program , which offers training in enterprise resource planning and human capital management. Earning such certifications can open doors to new opportunities in organizations that use advanced software systems. In summary, the July 2024 Jobs Report indicates a mixed but manageable landscape. Employers and job seekers alike can find opportunities by focusing on sectors showing growth and leveraging stable job openings. Adaptability and strategic planning will be key to navigating the current market conditions effectively. Contact BGSF BGSF is a top provider of staffing and workforce solutions for professional and property management, dedicated to delivering quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Our services cater to a variety of client needs, supported by a team of skilled and committed professionals who are enthusiastic about assisting clients in achieving success. If you are seeking a partner for professional or managed services to help you reach your business objectives, please reach out to BGSF today .

Budgeting in property management can often feel like walking a tightrope. Property Managers are tasked with balancing numerous financial demands—from maintenance costs and security expenses to unforeseen repairs and staffing needs. The challenge lies in maintaining a budget that accommodates all these factors without sacrificing the quality of service or operational efficiency. Fortunately, BGSF’s SmartHire Payrolling is here to revolutionize how Property Managers handle staffing and budgeting, offering a strategic advantage that helps streamline financial management and operational effectiveness. The Budgeting Challenges in Property Management Effective budgeting is crucial in property management but comes with its fair share of hurdles. Property Managers must address: Staffing Costs : Hiring and maintaining a full staff can significantly impact a budget, especially when factoring in salaries, benefits, and insurance. Unpredictable Expenses : Maintenance and repair costs can be unpredictable, adding a layer of complexity to financial planning. Administrative Burdens : Managing payroll, benefits, and compliance issues consumes valuable time and resources. Flexibility Needs : Adapting to changing staffing needs or seasonal demands can be difficult when locked into long-term contracts or fixed staffing levels. Introducing SmartHire Payrolling BGSF’s SmartHire Payrolling is designed to address these challenges by providing a flexible, cost-effective solution for managing your workforce. Here’s a breakdown of how it works: You Provide the Employee : Choose the employee you feel is the best match for your team. We Handle the Rest : The chosen employee is placed on BGSF’s payroll. We assume all responsibilities associated with employment, including Workman’s Compensation and unemployment taxes. Why Opt for SmartHire Payrolling? Zero Headcount Impact : With SmartHire Payrolling, you can access the talent you need without affecting your official headcount. This allows for a leaner budget and a more flexible staffing model. Cost Savings : Avoid the overhead costs associated with employee benefits, taxes, and insurance, significantly reducing your financial burden. Flexibility : There are no minimum hour requirements, and you have the freedom to test out employees before committing to a long-term arrangement. This flexibility is invaluable for adapting to fluctuating needs or evaluating potential hires. Peace of Mind : By outsourcing the employment responsibilities to BGSF, you eliminate the risks and administrative workload associated with direct employment. This allows you to focus on managing your properties more effectively. Get Started with SmartHire Payrolling Today! Are you ready to transform your staffing approach to better support your budget? Our team is here to provide tailored solutions that enhance your workforce and help you manage your budget more effectively. Embrace the flexibility and efficiency of SmartHire Payrolling and focus on what you do best—running a successful property. Contact us today!

Case Study: Facilitating Efficient Access to Financial Documents Through AI PROBLEM: The client, a Fortune 500 company for audit, consulting, advisory, and tax services, faced the challenge of efficiently managing and accessing thousands of reports, financial records, and legal documents generated and stored daily. Employees often struggled to find relevant information quickly and accurately, which resulted in a search for a solution to increase efficiency, productivity, and client response time across the firm. SOLUTION: BGSF was selected to implement a comprehensive solution to increase productivity and reduce client response time by utilizing advanced Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), Large Language Models (LLM), and Generative Pretrained Transformers (GPT) technologies. RESULTS: Download the full case study  below to learn how integrating Microsoft Azure AI Services dramatically increased the firm's productivity, reduced search times from minutes to seconds, and improved operational efficiency for quicker response times!

Self-Care Month began on the 24th of June and ended on July 24th. This timeframe symbolizes the message that self-care is something we should practice 24/7, according to the   World Health Organization . Prioritizing self-care, as highlighted by EverymindAU , not only brings joy, but also helps in building resilience, overcoming challenges, boosting energy, and positively contributing to mental health . To create awareness and celebrate self-care, we asked our followers to choose the single most important factor in enhancing self-care in the workplace. The Poll Question We asked our 251K+ followers, " What is the most important factor in enhancing self-care in the workplace? " The response options included the following: Purposeful Work Professional Development Establishing Boundaries Supports for Mental Health Poll Results With a total of 277 votes, the results are as follows: Establishing Boundaries came in with the majority of votes at 36% . Purposeful Work was second with 26% of the votes. Professional Development was third with 19% of the votes. Supports for Mental Health was fourth with 18% of the votes. *Totals do not equal 100% due to rounding. Analyzing the Results The poll results revealed that establishing boundaries was the clear winner in enhancing self-care at work. This is not surprising, as 42% of respondents across the globe reported burnout, according to the latest Future Forum Pulse report . Now that many companies allow more flexibility, boundaries have become necessary. According to Forbes , boundaries create safety, protect our well-being, promote healthy relationships, and enhance our self-esteem . Purposeful work is also an important form of self-care. According to research from McKinsey & Company in 2022, 70% of employees say their personal sense of purpose is defined by their work . Bain & Company states that (3) actions for creating purposeful work include connecting jobs to the organization's mission, making work interesting, and building learning into work. LinkedIn's Global Talent Trends 2022 survey stated that 59% of employees selected professional development opportunities and 42% mental health and wellness as the top areas for companies to invest in to improve company culture . Allowing employees opportunities to learn and grow in their careers contributes to their professional development , sense of purpose, overall well-being, and a company culture that embraces lifelong learning. At BGSF, we encourage our team members to be bold in prioritizing their self-care! Learn more about what we value and search our jobs here!

Disability Pride Month is celebrated annually in July, commemorating the anniversary of the signing of the  Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)  in 1990. At BGSF, we recognize the contributions and rights of individuals with disabilities and strive to provide inclusive and accessible hiring practices that benefit everyone. According to the  Centers for Disease Control , one in four U.S. adults – 61 million Americans – have a disability that impacts major life activities. Globally, an estimated 1.3 billion people have a significant disability which is 16% of the global population, or one in six people according to the World Health Organization . It is our responsibility to continually educate ourselves on disability rights and inclusive practices for all. This will foster empathy and understanding while bringing awareness about people’s lives, ambitions, biases, fears, motivations, and challenges. Ways to Honor Disability Pride Month Establish Employee Resource Groups (ERGs):  Create or support ERGs to provide a supportive network, share experiences, and offer insights on improving the workplace for those with disabilities. Our DE&I Council,  VIIBE  ( Voices Inspiring Inclusion, Belonging, & Equity ), established in 2020, continuously shares resources internally to bring awareness and education to our team members. Inclusive Recruiting and Hiring Practices:  Review and update hiring practices to promote inclusivity. Focus on attracting and recruiting candidates with disabilities and ensure the hiring process is accessible to everyone. We invite our employees and candidates to show up as their authentic selves each day, ensuring that BGSF is cultivating both equality and equity, while recognizing and celebrating our differences at work, in our homes, and in our communities. Celebrate Employee Contributions:  As a leader, it is important to recognize and celebrate the achievements and contributions of employees with disabilities ( with permission ). You inspire others and foster a more inclusive workplace by highlighting their successes and achievements, including ways they have overcome challenges. Provide Flexible Work Policies:  Flexible work arrangements are often essential to accommodating the unique needs of employees with disabilities. This may include flexible hours, remote work options, specific equipment, or other adaptations to create a more equitable work environment. Accessibility in Marketing:  Marketing materials should be inclusive and considerate of individuals with disabilities. At BGSF, we strive to ensure that our materials reflect our vision of connecting people with opportunities that help fulfill their life’s mission and transform lives, using diverse individuals and inclusive language that aligns with our values. Raise Awareness:  Use your network to raise awareness about disability rights and the importance of an inclusive workplace by sharing educational content from the ADA. Disability inclusion is an ongoing effort that should be a focus year round. We invite you to join our efforts by taking proactive steps that foster an inclusive workplace to create a more diverse, equitable, and supportive environment for everyone. Be intentional and remember that every action can have a huge and positive impact on our work culture and the quality of life of our teammates. Connect with us at  BGSF.com  and learn more about what we  value .

The field of property management has experienced a notable evolution, particularly due to the rising integration of technology and centralized management platforms. Centralizing property management services offers numerous benefits, including streamlined operations, enhanced resident satisfaction, and improved financial performance. However, the path to centralization is not without its challenges. Let's explore the key challenges Property Managers face when centralizing their services as well as some practical solutions to overcome them. Challenges in Centralizing Property Management Services Resistance to Change:  Transitioning from decentralized to centralized management can meet resistance from staff accustomed to existing processes. Employees might fear job redundancy and layoffs or feel overwhelmed by new technologies and workflows. Integration of Systems:  Property management often relies on various software systems for leasing, maintenance, accounting, and communication. Integrating these disparate systems into a cohesive, centralized platform can be complex and costly. Data Management and Security:  Centralizing services involves consolidating vast amounts of data from multiple properties. Ensuring the security and privacy of this data while maintaining accurate and up-to-date records is a significant challenge. Training and Adaptation:  Staff must be trained to use new centralized systems effectively. This requires time, resources, and a comprehensive training program to ensure all team members are proficient. Scalability:  As property portfolios grow, the centralized system must scale accordingly. Ensuring the system can handle increased volume without compromising performance is crucial. Maintaining Local Expertise:  Centralized management can sometimes lead to a disconnect between the central office and local property nuances. Maintaining local expertise and understanding unique property characteristics is essential for effective management. Solutions for Overcoming Centralization Challenges Change Management Strategies:  Implement a structured change management plan that includes clear communication about the benefits of centralization, regular updates, and support systems. Involve employees in the process to reduce resistance and build a sense of ownership. Robust Integration Framework:  Invest in a robust integration framework that allows different systems to communicate seamlessly. Consider using middleware solutions that facilitate data exchange and ensure compatibility between existing and new systems. Advanced Data Security Measures:   Implement advanced data security measures such as encryption, access controls, and regular security audits. Use centralized data management platforms that offer real-time updates and automatic backups to maintain data integrity. Comprehensive Training Programs:  Develop or utilize existing comprehensive training programs tailored to different roles within the organization. Provide continuous learning opportunities and create a support network where employees can seek help and share best practices. Scalable Infrastructure:  Choose a centralized management system that is scalable and can accommodate growth. Cloud-based solutions often offer the flexibility and scalability needed to handle expanding property portfolios. Hybrid Management Approach:  Adopt a hybrid approach that combines centralized management with local expertise. Maintain local Property Managers or liaisons who can provide on-the-ground insights and ensure that local nuances are considered in decision-making. The Future of Centralization Centralizing property management services presents a pathway to increased efficiency, enhanced resident satisfaction, and better financial outcomes. While the challenges are significant, they are not insurmountable. By implementing thoughtful strategies and leveraging technology, Property Managers can successfully transition to a centralized model, reaping the benefits while mitigating potential drawbacks. For Property Managers looking to navigate this complex process, external staffing support can provide the necessary expertise and resources to ensure a smooth transition. Contact BGSF to request talent today!