group of people looking at ISO 27001 documents

How to Prepare for a PCI DSS Audit Programme in Scotland

Businesses that accept credit card payments must comply with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. For Level 1 merchants and service providers, this requires annual third-party audits as well as network scans performed by approved scanning vendors. The PCI DSS audit framework contains 281 directives that must be observed, with successful compliance revolving around limiting scope.

man working banner network with cyber security overlay on floor

What is the PCI DSS?

The PCI DSS is a set of cybersecurity regulations designed to keep credit card account data safe. Backed by major credit card brands like Visa, MasterCard, Discover, JCB, and American Express, companies that store, process, and transmit credit card data must abide by its rules or face fines.

Security best practices dictate 12 main requirements with over 300 subrequirements that define PCI validation requirements. One important strategy is granularly segmenting the cardholder data environment (CDE) so only necessary systems undergo PCI validation; this reduces compliance costs, operations expenses, and the risk of fraud.

Merchants and service providers need to demonstrate compliance by either being assessed by a qualified third-party assessor or by submitting an AOC with self-assessment questionnaires similar to what would be seen during an audit; both documents will then be evaluated by external auditors for accuracy and consistency.

Requirements of a PCI DSS Audit

An external qualified security assessor (QSA) must conduct a PCI DSS audit to assess your business processes, systems, network, and controls against PCI DSS requirements. They will write a report detailing their analysis and recommendations for compliance; this document is known as a RoC or Report of Compliance and can then be sent directly to your acquiring bank for validation of compliance.

As part of your PCI DSS audit preparations, it is critical that you first scope your cardholder data environment (CDE). Identify and understand all systems that store, process, or transmit cardholder data—from POS terminals to mobile phones—in your CDE and document how the card data flows within it.

Partnership with a QSA can assist your business to complete all specifications necessary for ROCs and SAQs; keeping up-to-date documentation is also key; businesses evolve as systems change or vulnerabilities emerge; these must all be reflected within their documentation.

How to Prepare for a PCI DSS Audit

Preparing for the PCI DSS assessment should be treated like any major event; planning ahead ensures you won’t run into unexpected issues and ensures all policies, procedures, and systems are ready for inspection by your QSA.

Start by mapping all your systems that store, process, or transmit card data. This exercise will enable you to identify and limit the scope of your evaluation.

Stay in regular communication with your QSA throughout the year and arrange quarterly vulnerability scans; this will keep them apprised of system changes while helping you get ahead of audits. The PCI SSC website contains a directory of qualified security assessors to assist you in finding one who operates in your region.

How to Conduct a PCI DSS Audit

At the heart of each PCI audit is an authorised QSA (Qualified Security Assessor), who will conduct an in-depth examination of your card data environment, including network components, systems, and documents, through personnel interviews and sample tests, in order to ascertain your adherence to each of the framework’s 281 directives.

Your first step towards being PCI DSS audit-ready should be creating a prioritised list. This involves documenting existing vulnerabilities, assessing the risk of each vulnerability, and prioritising key issues.

Maintaining updated business policies and card data environments is also of vital importance, particularly as businesses grow and evolve over time. Your QSA will need access to up-to-date documentation during an onsite audit in order to streamline it efficiently and reduce stress levels during audit procedures.

Nursery kids playing on a carpet

What Are The Prices For a Nursery in Bearsden?

An affordable nursery in Bearsden is essential to your child’s development, yet it can be an expensive expense. To reduce costs, opt for versatile furniture that can grow with your child and shop sales and clearance sections regularly; additionally, look for cribs that transition into toddler beds or twin beds as soon as they’re old enough.

Nursery kids drawing on paper

Nursery in Bearsden Fees Post Pandemic

As the Scottish cost of living crisis affects every aspect of our daily lives, nursery in Bearsden fees have increased locally a long with nursery fees globally for various reasons. For example, staff shortages caused by the pandemic have resulted in pay increases, while inflationary pressures on workers’ incomes push up other expenses such as food and diaper costs.

Working parents of 2-year-olds may qualify for government funding to cover part or all of their childcare. This funding covers an introductory hourly rate but does not include drinks, snacks, formula milk, nappies, or other consumables.

Fees Are Based on Enrollment

The nursery fees are determined based on enrollment (reserving space) rather than attendance; this does not change during the settling-in period, which must occur before your child can start full-time classes and typically lasts two weeks minimum.

Purchase nursery items that can adapt to your child, such as convertible cribs and changing tables. They will still serve them long after your child has outgrown their nursery space; shopping consignment stores, thrift shops, or garage sales for gently used pieces could even save you money!

Winter Park Day Nursery offers scholarships based on household size and income to make preschool education affordable for every family. Parents wishing to apply for funding must submit copies of their child’s birth certificate, proof of income documents, and pay stubs. In addition, they should inform the school if their circumstances change to be considered for funding opportunities.

Fees are Not Based on Attendance.

Nursery costs can be costly for families, significantly if your plans for how long your child will attend vary greatly. Therefore, you must find a nursery that will be flexible with your child as they develop into adulthood, so as not to have to redecorate every few years. Convertible cribs into toddler beds save both money and provide a seamless transition into life’s next phase; plus, salary sacrifice schemes may reduce fees even further!

Fees are subject to change.

Before any price changes are taking effect, a Bearsden or Glasgow nursery will likely inform you and allow you to opt out if they do not match your expectations. In such an instance, no child’s spot would be cancelled.

Fees must be paid when they become due, using your child’s full name as the payment reference. Late fees won’t incur additional penalties; only payment plans will incur these extra costs.

Suppose the attendance of your child at nursery is affected by an extended national or local lockdown (for health and safety purposes or otherwise). In that case, their fees will be adjusted for any time they do not attend and refunded back within 60 days from its commencement.

As part of our legal obligations, we may need to share your personal data with certain third-party service providers (e.g., government funding providers). In doing so, this disclosure serves only one purpose: compliance.

men working on a roof

Things to Consider Before Hiring Roofing Contractors in Glasgow

Looking to make repairs or increase the value of your home? Roofing specialists may be right for you and your property, but there are a couple of factors to consider. Roofing contractors in Glasgow, Scotland, are a great asset to have around when you need to improve the exterior of your home. However, before you make a decision, there are some things to consider.

things to consider before hiring roofing contractors in Glasgow

Experience

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to have your roof repaired or a business owner with a commercial building needing a new roof, you can choose from several roofing contractors in Glasgow. Some offer a full range of services, while others specialise in one area. For example, some will offer solar panel installation services. You’ll need to research to find a company that’s right for you. You can read reviews online, check their prior contracts, or even ask family and friends who recently had work done.

You’ll also want to be sure to ask about the quality of their service. You don’t want to spend your hard-earned money to have poor artistry. Using a roofing company that’s been around for a while will ensure you get high-quality materials and a durable finish.

Liability insurance

Roofing contractors have a variety of insurance needs. A business owner’s policy can help cover all of them. It may include property coverage, general liability, and workers’ compensation. It is often cheaper than buying these types of coverage separately.

If you’re hiring a roofing contractor, ask about their insurance. You may want to look for a bonded contractor. This will give you added peace of mind. Also, a contractor who has insurance can prove that they take their work seriously.

A roofer’s liability insurance is essential because it protects your business from financial loss. It covers damages that occur during construction or after the job is completed. It also covers your legal defence costs.

A roofer’s tools and equipment insurance can help you recoup the costs of lost or damaged devices. It can also apply to the theft of building materials.

Licenses and certifications

Obtaining a license or certificate may not be the first thing on your mind when you need to hire a roofing contractor. But you should be aware of the licensing requirements for your state. Getting a license is not only a good way to protect your home, but it can also give you the confidence you need to trust your roofer.

There are several different types of roofing licenses and certifications in your state. Some states require you to pass a test, while others will let you get by with a certificate. The most important thing is to choose a qualified roofing company. You can use the Internet to check if a company is a National Federation of Roofing Contractors member.

If you’re looking for a certified roofing company in your area, look for the ones that are members of the Roofing Competent Person Scheme. This program is especially useful for homeowners who need a replacement roof of more than 50% of their home’s square footage.

Post construction clean up

Whether you are remodelling your home or repairing a roof, it is essential to clean up the mess you leave behind. Construction work is messy, and it can create a lot of dust and debris. Having a professional post-construction cleaning service is an effective way to remove this mess and make your space ready to use again.

A construction company will use pressure washers and scrubbers to clean the surfaces of your home. They will also use industrial vacuums to get rid of the dust. Leaving the debris behind can cause damage to your property and to the environment. You should properly dispose of the waste to dodge respiratory problems later on.

Having a professional post-construction cleaning service can save you a lot of time and money. The process can be done quickly and efficiently. You can hire a cleaning company for your entire home or hire for just the areas you need to be cleaned up. The cleaners will disinfect the areas they are cleaning and wipe down counters, floors, and windows. They will also clean appliances and light fixtures.

men in a circle clanking glass

Selecting the Best Wedding Whisky

Wedding Whisky

When selecting a Wedding Whisky, it is important to consider the preferences of those who will be attending the wedding. Not everyone is a whisky aficionado, and some people may not even like it neat. That said, weddings are the perfect occasion to indulge one’s personal taste, and the best wedding whisky may just be a custom-mixed whisky cocktail that will be more appealing to those who do not enjoy the spirit neat.

We’ve listed some options of the best whisky for weddings.

Whyte & Mackay 12-year-old Whisky

Whyte & Mackay is a Scottish company that produces alcoholic beverages. This distillery was founded in 1844 and is based in Glasgow. It is currently owned by an Indian conglomerate. Its whisky was famous a few decades ago when it was featured in the classic gangster movie, Public Enemy. The company is easily recognizable by its double lion iconography, which is present on its labels. The company’s self-branded whisky accounts for about 3 percent of the UK’s whisky market.

This blend is 12 years old and comes in a beautiful decanter. The Whyte & Mackay 12-year blend was released in honor of the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer on Wednesday, 29th July 1981. The distillery has made a limited edition of the 750ml bottle to celebrate this momentous occasion. The price is 99 pence starting with no reserve and includes one cask of the blend.

The 12 year old is a classic Highland single malt. It has a fruity, sherried aroma and a smooth, viscous mouthfeel. It was created by Master Distiller Richard Paterson, who has been at the distillery for nearly fifty years.

Glenfiddich 15-year-old Whisky

The Glenfiddich 15-year vintage is a single malt Scotch whiskey that is matured in oak casks. This single malt whisky has a rich and complex taste with flavors of warm spice and dark fruit. It is best served neat, but can also be enjoyed on the rocks. If you are drinking it as a cocktail, add a splash of club soda to enhance the flavor.

The Glenfiddich 15-year wedding whisky is a staple that is available at duty-free prices. Its rich, full-bodied flavor will please any palate. It is a Speyside single malt that has been making whiskey for 130 years. It is bottled in a huge vat that holds 37,000 litres. Since its inception, this vat has never been less than half full.

The most powerful part of this experience is the 95-proof Glenfiddich. It has nutty notes, vanilla, and some mild salt and pepper. The finish is long-lasting and leaves you feeling satisfied. This is an all-around great whisky that should be in every whiskey cabinet. It is not particularly difficult to drink, but it is very satisfying. It is a great choice for a wedding or any special occasion.

The 15-year-old Glenfiddich variant is matured in three different cask types using the Solera system, which is common in sherry maturation. The casks are constantly refreshed to maintain the quality of the whisky. The 15-year-old Glenfiddich variant is a medium-bodied whisky with layers of rich dark fruits, marzipan, cinnamon, and oak.

House of Benjamin Kuentz Whisky

In the spirit of a wedding, there’s no better gift than a bottle of House of Benjamin Kuentz Wedding Whisky. This unique blend of French whisky is a true delight. Its crispness and apricot aromas are a treat for the senses. It is both contemporary and high quality, and is produced by distilleries across France. Benjamin Kuentz collaborates with several producers to develop his own recipes, which reflect his personal taste. Then he has them bottled.

This whisky is perfect for weddings, as it matches the theme and decor of the wedding. It also highlights the beauty of marriage. The FIN DE PARTIE blend is fruity with touches of pastry. This whisky pairs perfectly with dessert. After the ceremony, guests can enjoy the FIN DE PARTIE. It’s a smooth, supple, and complex blend that will complement your special occasion.

van parked in the country side with vehicle signage in Glasgow

Types of Vehicle Signage in Glasgow That Will Grow Your Business

There is a variety of vehicle signage in Glasgow options to promote your business. These include vehicle wraps, magnetic signs, vinyl lettering, and rear window graphics. These options can be used to market your business on the go. In addition, the possibilities for designing your characters are almost unlimited.

Whether you want to create a sign for your company’s trucks, cars, or buses, mobile signage can help you achieve your goals.

vehicle signage in Glasgow van parked near restaurant

Vehicle Signage in Glasgow

The world of vehicle signage in Glasgow is vast, with businesses having an abundance of options when it comes to making their company cars or vans stand out from the crowd. Vehicle signage can be made in all shapes and sizes, and with so many different types available, businesses should take care when choosing which ones best suit their individual needs.

To assist you in decision-making, we have compiled this blog post with all the information you need about vehicle signage in Glasgow or Glasgow advertising for vehicles. From the benefits of using car decals over other signage types to examples of different car sticker designs that are popular amongst local businesses – this blog post has everything you need to get started on making yourself stand out from the traffic.

Rear Window Graphics

If you want to increase your business’s visibility, consider rear window graphics. These graphics can cover your vehicle’s entire rear and side windows. You won’t need a graphic designer to create them, either. Instead, you can simply follow instructions or even watch an installation video. These graphics are made of premium vinyl and are printed using a four-colour process to stay vibrant for several years.

Rear window graphics can be installed quickly and easily. You don’t need to hire a professional to install them, and you won’t have to pay an additional fee to install them on your vehicle. The instructions with your order will show you exactly how to apply the graphics. You can also read them online or download a PDF file to follow along at your convenience. Of course, you should always use a clean, dry surface when applying the decal.

Vehicle Wraps

Vehicle wraps are a great way to generate leads for your business. They allow you to include your contact information and make it easy for people to get in touch with you. Plus, they are non-intrusive and don’t make people feel pressured. This makes them ideal for businesses that want to advertise without being overbearing.

Vehicle wraps can be made with a variety of different colours and graphics. They can also include photographs. In addition, they can be durable, lasting for several years – even up to 10 years!

Magnetic Signs

Magnetic vehicle signs are an excellent way to promote your business. These signs can be placed on your company vehicle and will provide you with repeated exposure. Hundreds can see them of people in a single day, which can significantly increase your brand awareness. In addition, unlike other forms of advertising, magnetic signs do not require any maintenance or repairs.

Magnetic vehicle signs are available in various sizes and shapes, and the price will vary depending on the size you want. Magnetic signs are made by combining vinyl adhesives with magnetic sheeting. The vinyl is printed with your desired design and then applied to the magnetic sheet using a squeegee. The sheeting is then cut into the shape you need.

Vinyl Lettering

Vinyl lettering for vehicle signage in Glasgow is an excellent way to get your brand out in front of potential customers. Not only does it provide essential corporate information, but it also gets you noticed. When customers approach your Manitou Springs business, you want them to know exactly where to find the details they need to make a purchase. This includes the business name, address, phone number, and licensing information. It should also have essential elements such as hours of operation, availability of wifi, and more.

Graphics are also a great way to draw attention to your signage. Adding simple or elaborate graphics to your lettering will increase visibility and improve sales. You can even incorporate seasonal graphics to support your lettering throughout the year.

Thistle in the wild

The Thistle – A Flower of Scotland History

The Thistle is one of the most well-known flowers in Scotland history. Its origins are mysterious, but its significance has never been in doubt. From its history to its connection with Robert Burns and Scotland’s national anthem, the flower has made its mark on Scottish culture. Discover the history of the flower and its connection to Scottish culture in this article. You’ll also discover more about the cories, origins, and Robert Burns.

Thistle

The Scottish thistle is an iconic plant. It is a biennial plant, meaning that its life cycle is divided into two years, a period during which the flowering plant grows and dies. Thistle seeds are viable in the soil for seven to twenty years. Because of this, thistle seeds can be dispersed throughout the year, and the plant can be grown in gardens, parks, or open areas without any other plants.

Robert Burns

The life of Robert Burns is full of surprises and turns of fate. In 1786, the poet was facing financial ruin. He worked on a poor farm with his brother, nearly starving. While he was living in Jamaica, Robert burned out several times. His love affair with Jean, who was pregnant with twins, ended in tragedy. Burns was unable to return home to Scotland. His lover, ‘Highland Mary,’ was murdered while waiting for him to return.

Cories

One of the most famous songs in Scottish history is “Cories are a flower of Scotland”. The song is performed often and is credited to Roy Williamson, a member of the folk group the Corries. Initially heard on a 1967 BBC television program, the song has become Scotland’s unofficial national anthem. The lyrics are based on the victory of the Scots led by Robert the Bruce over Edward II of England at the Battle of Bannockburn.

Origins

The prickly-leaved purple flower, the thistle, is the national emblem of Scotland. As the national emblem of the United Kingdom, it’s not the only flower that reflects the nation’s heritage and national pride. Other UK countries include England, Wales, and Ireland. In fact, each has its own flower as their emblem. Despite this, the thistle is unique to Scotland.

Anti-Scottish verse

Despite the country’s national anthem, Scotland’s antipathy to the English has occasionally found artistic expression. The first anthem was composed around 300 years ago. The phrase “whaur’s yer Wullie Shakespeare noo?” was coined by a punter who wanted to sing the verse at a church service. The phrase was included in the Church of Scotland’s “Church Hymnary,” appended to the back of a King James Bible issued to the Boys’ Brigade.

Problems with anthem

The problems with the Flower of Scotland history anthem stem from its history. It is explicitly anti-English and refers to the victory of the Jacobite army over the English at the Battle of Bannockburn. Considering the Scottish population’s tepid views of nationhood, the anthem will never have much popularity among Scots. Moreover, the anthem’s lyrics are inaccurate and rarely get airplay.

blind companies in glasgow

We Have Redecorated Our Store With Blind Companies Glasgow

We have had our offices now for 25 years and we thought why not celebrate our anniversary than by refurbishing the office space. We worked with Blind Companies Glasgow to achieve a modern and stylish new look. Here is how we redesigned our city-centre office space.

blind companies in glasgow Light Fixtures

We are lucky enough to have large windows in our office which offers us a lot of natural light. However we have added modern chrome desk lamps on the desks and fitted led spotlights around the office rooms for a modern touch.

Plants

We have kept the colours to mainly black and white throughout the office for ease so we have brightened it up by placing lots of green plants in corners, hanging from the ceiling and displayed on some desks.

Blind Companies Glasgow

We worked with blind companies Glasgow as they could custom fit our blinds for our large windows. We bought special sun blocking blinds that would still create light in the office while blinding out sun rays.

blind companies in glasgow Modern Interiors

We worked with a designer who was inspired by  Swedish design – not quite Ikea but close. White and black furniture, modern shapes and clever storage.

Extras

We redesigned our kitchen facilities to allow our employees the chance to cook healthy meals at lunch time as well as make coffee in our coffee machine.

blind companies in glasgow

jewellery

Scotland’s Jewellery History

Celtic Connections

Often taking inspiration from Celtic jewellery designs, Scottish jewellery is jewellery which has either been made in Scotland or has been made with Scotland in mind. Incredibly, the iron age is when Scotland’s jewellery dates back to. Thousands of years of jewellery experience within Scotland has unquestionably provided the nation with an excellent foundation to potentially cement themselves as one of the most luxurious and prestigious jewellery providers in the world. Jewellery buyers place huge importance on exclusivity and uniqueness and Scotland’s very illustrious history in the jewellery market is something which the country doesn’t acknowledge and play up to enough and Scotland is missing out on a huge opportunity as a result.

jewellery

Unique Scottish Jewellery

The most traditional examples of Scottish jewellery are objects which had functional uses at some point in Scotland’s history and over time they have become jewellery pieces. These are a massive factor with regards to the uniqueness of Scottish jewellery which is not yet being taken advantage of by the Scots. Scotland’s great heritage is world renowned and with recent releases of patriotic Scottish films such as Outlaw King which were global sensations on a cinematic level as well as on the Netflix platform. Hundreds of millions of people watched these films, which provides a huge platform for Scottish jewellery to take huge steps towards becoming a mainstay in the jewellery market and potentially take huge steps to greatly improving the Scottish economy which could be a very welcome addition to the independence movement which Scotland is still experiencing.

jewellery

Independence Movement

Droves of people descend on Glasgow and Edinburgh’s streets when the independence marches take place, showing the appetite in the country which still exists for a potential second independence referendum. Unquestionably the support for a second referendum could increase significantly if the jewellery market were to take off in Scotland and the country began to realise it’s potential in the country. A huge reason for the failed independence attempt in 2014 was people’s insecurity about the future revenue sources for the country. Many independence supporters pointed towards the oil revenue which could be achieved in the North Sea. However, many critics and remain supporters cast doubt on these claims. Since the referendum it has been shown that the revenue from the oil was nowhere near as significant as was being argued at the time. If the jewellery market were to begin to make significant sums of money for Scotland’s economy this could be a huge factor in Scottish people being swayed towards voting for independence.

jewellery

Potential

Scotland has so many ancient jewellery items which are incomparable to other countries jewellery offerings. Items such as kilt pins, thistle brooches, luckenbooth brooches and pebble jewellery are easily identifiable as very Scottish items. These would help Scottish jewellery items stand out considerably amongst an extremely crowded and competitive market. Differentiation is a crucial element of jewellery items now in these modern times and not many countries can offer more unique jewellery items than Scotland.

Best Wedding Bands In Scotland

Plan Your Wedding: Wedding Jewellery & The Best Wedding Bands In Scotland

If you are in the process of planning your wedding, there can be a lot to think about. You want to have one of the best weddings bands in Scotland playing at your reception and you want to look a million dollars. We have found some of the most-needed advice for brides-to-be ahead of the big day.

With so much to think about, you better get to it!

Continue reading “Plan Your Wedding: Wedding Jewellery & The Best Wedding Bands In Scotland”