This new software type can really help you manage.It’s the blazing hot heart of summer and (for many of you) business is pretty durned slow. Want a project to keep you busy and productive (not to mention, comfortably air-conditioned) during the hot season? 
 
Start a wiki. You’ve probably heard of Wikipedia — the collabo-rative online encyclopedia created with the assistance of millions of contributors around the world. But did you know that an increasing number of individual companies have their own private wikis?  
 
A wiki can be the ultimate training manual, a company bulletin board, or a place to list and brainstorm future projects and promotions. The best company wikis are all of the above. 
 
Once you’ve got your wiki software (Google “wiki + software” for options), start by including gemstone tale and lore. Include care techniques for various metals and gemstones. Then add clear descriptions of various manufacturing and repair processes. Favorite sales lines. Bios of your store’s best-selling designers. Best responses to customer objections. Answers to frequently asked questions. And even the best ways to handle difficult ethical situations (start by reading some old “Real Deals,” pick your favorite responses, and add them to your wiki.)  
 
The best thing about a wiki is that it’s a “living document” — constantly under development, never complete. Work on it when you have time, then put it aside. As it develops, your staff will find themselves going to it more and more when they need answers, ideas and inspiration. 
 
Give it a try. We think you’ll thank us. 
 
Wishing you the very best business … 
David Squires 
[email protected]