Latest news with #DISC
Business Wire
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Assessments 24x7 Adds Flexible DISC Graph Options to Support Varying Methodologies
RENO, Nev.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Assessments 24x7, an SaaS (software-as-a-service) assessment technology leader, affirms its support for multiple DISC methodologies by now offering flexible graph options. This approach sets Assessments 24x7 apart from assessment providers that limit users to a single interpretation model and gives HR leaders, coaches, trainers, and consultants the ability to choose the DISC graph format—one, two, or three graphs—that aligns best with their preferred methodology and intended application. The DISC assessment is widely used to identify and understand behavioral tendencies, supporting personal and professional development across industries. With this update, clients can now customize reports with the approach that provides the most insight for their situation. Whether clients pick the one-graph methodology that provides an algorithmic average of natural style and adapted style, the two-graph interpretation approach that displays both the natural style and adapted style or include all three graphs for a more holistic view, they now have the flexibility to do so. We understand that our clients use DISC in different ways, and we're providing more options so you can create reports that work for your preferences — whether that means focusing on one, two or three graphs. Share 'We understand that our clients use DISC in different ways, and we're providing more options so you can create reports that work for your preferences — whether that means focusing on one, two or three graphs,' said Brandon Parker, CEO of Assessments 24x7. 'Each approach shows behavior in a different way. Now, we offer all three, so you can use the one that fits best.' This framework for DISC interpretation reinforces Assessments 24x7's commitment to providing validated, customizable tools that serve a global community of professionals. The update is now available to all DISC users on the platform at no additional cost. In addition, Assessments 24x7 can connect easily with other systems using API technology, so clients can now add DISC to their other learning, coaching, or HR tools. To learn more about the differences between the one, two, and three-graph methodologies and how they impact DISC interpretation, visit: About Assessments 24x7 Global Assessment Technologies LLC dba Assessments 24x7 is the global leader in SaaS (software-as-a-service) assessment technology, powering millions of behavioral assessments worldwide. As the leading DISC provider specializing in a full range of scientifically validated tools, Assessments 24x7 offers a powerful platform designed for coaches, businesses, HR/training professionals, recruiters, and organizations. With an intuitive dashboard and an array of customization options, their proprietary platform can integrate with any software system to provide a seamless and cohesive user experience. Their core assessments are backed by the Assessment Standards Institute (ASI) with objective testing and reporting that meet standards set by the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). For more information, visit
Otago Daily Times
07-08-2025
- Health
- Otago Daily Times
Needle exchange handover concerns
The departing operators of Dunedin's needle exchange programme fear it could descend into "chaos" due to a lack of communication with the new provider. DISC Trust has lost its contract to administer the programme, which will now be run by Christchurch-based health services provider He Waka Tapu. He Waka Tapu is due to take over the service at the end of next month, but workers from the Dunedin branch of DISC trust said aside from a "heavily mediated meeting" nearly a month ago, there had been no formal contact about the handover of services. Dunedin worker Gilbert May said the whole situation was worrying. "It looks like a disaster is beginning to unfold. There's been radio silence." His concerns were that the model proposed by the new provider did not allow for anonymity or necessarily a peer-support system. It also had no prior experience in needle exchange. "Clients are actively talking about having to run their own illegal distribution." He and other group members want to meet Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey about the matter, not least because they predicted their roles would be terminated and the new programme would not be running on time. "We want to make sure he knows that any deaths and other harms resulting from the poor decision and botched process are on his head." DISC trust harm reduction lead Jason George did not want to comment on the new provider, but said "the main concern is for our clients, who have not had a voice in this matter". University of Otago department of general practice and rural health Dr Geoff Noller said running a needle exchange was complicated. "The provision of needle exchange services is a unique sort of service by definition of what it is. You're either injecting or you're not. This could be an issue if the service moves away from peer support and harm reduction to a focus of a "recovery journey", he said. "Harm reduction is at its core very much about the idea of human rights, and about people being met where they are, and not pressuring them to change, but supporting them to be as safe as they can. "A risk that the new provider is going to have is that, are there staff who are in recovery and how are they going to manage having these conversations with people who basically want some equipment so they can go home and shoot up?" Another major issue was the fact the funding model for the service shifted from needs-based to population-based. "There's a higher prevalence of injecting in the South Island than there is in the North Island, and so you've had this shift in funding and the South Island has lost 30% of its funds. "Somehow a new provider that doesn't have a footprint in needle exchange, and doesn't have a philosophy of harm reduction, is going to provide the service operating on 30% less funds." He Waka Tapu and Mr Doocey diverted questions to Health New Zealand. Health New Zealand starting well director Deborah Woodley said Health NZ was supporting the transition of services to the new provider.
Entrepreneur
29-07-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Your Retention Crisis Won't End Until You Make This Shift
If your company is in a high-turnover industry, it is within your control to be transformational or transactional with your employees. Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. In boardrooms and Zoom calls everywhere, the same excuses are repeated: "Our industry is too competitive. We're fighting for every dollar and every employee." "We have one of the highest turnover rates out there — it's just the nature of the business." "This is just how it is. It won't change." Here's the truth: It's not your industry. It's your company. More specifically, it's your culture. High turnover, low engagement and poor retention aren't industry mandates — they're signals of internal issues that need attention. And if you want to build a resilient business, you need to stop outsourcing the blame. Transactional leadership isn't working Start with the employee experience. If your relationship with your team is purely transactional — do your job, collect a paycheck — then you're not building loyalty. You're building burnout. What do employees say about your culture when leadership isn't around? What do they really think about their opportunities, support or team dynamics? If you haven't asked, you don't know — and you're guessing. Transformation begins when leadership shifts from managing output to investing in people. Every industry with high turnover also has companies that defy the odds. What sets them apart? A culture built on trust, purpose and shared growth. This is available to every business, but only the ones willing to earn it. Related: How Businesses Can Build Resilience, Stay Ahead of the Curve and Seize Opportunities for Long-Term Growth in 2025 Culture isn't cosmetic — it's core Your company may be profitable. You might have strong external branding, marketing or even an award-winning product. But if your internal culture is weak, cracks will appear. Innovation will slow. Employee burnout will rise. Talent will leave — quietly or loudly — and reputation will suffer. Culture isn't a feel-good initiative. It's a core business driver. And if you want to fix it, you need to start from the inside. How to start your transformation If your company culture needs a reset, here's how to begin: Assess the reality Use anonymous surveys, team interviews and 360-degree feedback to understand how people really feel. Consider bringing in a neutral third party to remove bias and uncover blind spots. Align leadership If the executive team isn't fully aligned on values, goals and expectations, culture work will stall. Alignment creates consistency. Inconsistency breeds distrust. Rebuild trust through action Employees don't trust what you say — they trust what you do. Small, visible actions that reflect new priorities will go further than a dozen all-hands meetings. Use the right tools Personality and team dynamics tools like Myers-Briggs, DISC or AEM-Cube can help teams better understand how to collaborate and make decisions. But don't stop at labels. Use these insights to drive real change in how teams operate. Culture change isn't a one-time fix Transformation isn't a workshop. It's a commitment. Culture shifts require consistent reinforcement, not just big kickoff meetings. Just like you track revenue, leads and customer satisfaction, you should also track employee engagement, burnout risk and internal alignment. Culture is a living system. Without regular check-ins and adjustments, it will drift, often in the wrong direction. Your team comes before your customer This may sound counterintuitive, but it's true: Happy, engaged employees build better businesses than stressed, replaceable ones. The companies that outperform in "high-turnover" industries invest in their people like they invest in their customers. They don't accept excuses. They create environments people want to stay in. If your business is struggling with retention, morale or engagement, don't blame the industry. Look inward. Lead forward. And do the hard work of building the culture your team deserves. Ready to break through your revenue ceiling? Join us at Level Up, a conference for ambitious business leaders to unlock new growth opportunities.
Yahoo
07-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Best joint supplements to ease arthritis pain in 2025, according to experts
Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States, causing joint pain, swelling and stiffness that can make everyday tasks feel like major hurdles. While there's no known cure, managing symptoms is often possible through a mix of lifestyle changes, medications and — in some cases — supplements. The best joint supplements can help alleviate inflammation, ease pain and support joint mobility, making them a popular complementary option alongside traditional treatments. However, it's important to stay grounded in the facts: Supplements for arthritis and joint pain aren't magic bullets, and their effectiveness can vary from person to person. "There isn't much evidence-based universal support for any arthritis supplement," says Dr. Leia Rispoli, a double-board-certified interventional pain management specialist and physiatrist at DISC Sports & Spine Center. Still, if you're curious to see whether a supplement could help soothe aches and pains — and your doctor has given you the green light to do so — some supplements may be worth a try. To help you navigate your options, we spoke with five health care professionals, including three dietitians and two doctors, then reviewed top products based on formulation, ingredient quality, cost and tester feedback. Read on to discover the five best joint supplements to discuss with your doctor at your next appointment. Best arthritis and joint pain supplements for 2025 Factors to consider when shopping for joint supplements How we chose FAQs on natural remedies for arthritis and joint pain Meet our experts A note on supplements The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Statements about these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dietary supplements are not appropriate for everyone and may interact with other supplements or medications, so talk to your health care provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine. According to dietitian Jamie Lee McIntyre, omega-3 fatty acid supplements — including fish oil — are among the most researched and effective options for helping ease both rheumatoid- and osteoarthritis-related pain and inflammation. "Omega-3s (especially EPA and DHA) have natural anti-inflammatory properties. They work by decreasing the production of inflammatory chemicals (like prostaglandins and cytokines) that contribute to joint pain and stiffness in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis," she says. A group of studies looked into how omega-3 fatty acid supplements might help people with osteoarthritis, and found that taking omega-3 supplements significantly reduced arthritis pain and improved joint function compared to a placebo. For targeting joint pain and inflammation, McIntyre recommends looking for a fish or algal oil supplement with at least 1,000 mg of combined EPA and DHA omega-3s. To ensure label accuracy, she also says it's best to choose a product that's third-party tested for purity and potency. An easy way to check for this is by looking for an NSF or International Fish Oil Standards (IFOS) certification on the product's packaging. (back to top) Turmeric is a golden-yellow spice often used in cooking and has long been used as a natural remedy to help reduce inflammation and ease aching joints. In particular, its main active component — curcumin — is well known in the wellness sphere for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. "Curcumin reduces inflammation by blocking pro-inflammatory cytokines and scavenging free radicals that damage cells," says Vanessa Imus, a dietitian and owner of Integrated Nutrition for Weight Loss in Bothell, Wash. Like many supplements used for arthritis, more large-scale, high-quality studies are needed to fully confirm turmeric's benefits. That said, the existing research is promising. One review found that turmeric supplements were linked to significant improvements in both pain and physical function among people with knee osteoarthritis. Interestingly, in three studies where turmeric was compared to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), turmeric supplements performed just as well. Another review, which analyzed 29 studies, also found encouraging results, with turmeric supplementation associated with reduced pain severity across five types of arthritis — including ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis and gout. It's worth noting that effective doses ranged from 120 mg to 1500 mg daily, so you'll want to talk with a health care professional about the best starting dose for your needs. Expert tip: As a dietitian myself, I know that turmeric on it's own isn't well-absorbed by the body. Luckily, pairing it with black pepper extract (piperine) or oil — like in a liposomal supplement formulation — can help. (back to top) Glucosamine and chondroitin are naturally occurring compounds in cartilage — the tissue that cushions joints. These supplements have become increasingly popular for people with osteoarthritis, as they may help slow the breakdown of cartilage. But despite their popularity, research supporting their effectiveness is mixed. For instance, one review found that people taking a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin scored better on a key arthritis test compared to those taking placebos. However, for other measures, like pain scores, the results were less clear or not significant. Research currently suggests an effective dose of 1,500 mg of glucosamine and 1,200 mg of chondroitin. However, because studies on the subject are mixed, it's best to talk with a health care professional about if and how much glucosamine and chondroitin to take. It's also important to note that glucosamine and chondroitin aren't safe or appropriate for everyone, including those with shellfish allergies, asthma, diabetes, prostate cancer, glaucoma or those taking anticoagulant medications (like warfarin). (back to top) Collagen plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy joints and may be especially beneficial for those managing arthritis. Found naturally in the body, collagen is a protein that helps build cartilage to support smooth, pain-free movement. With arthritis, cartilage can break down over time, leading to pain, stiffness and inflammation. While more research is needed, taking collagen supplements may help replenish the body's natural supply and support joint health, potentially reducing discomfort and improving mobility. Research suggests that taking hydrolyzed collagen supplements — aka supplements where collagen is broken down into smaller pieces that are more readily digested and absorbed — may stimulate the production of new cartilage and reduce joint pain over time. Plus, collagen is easy to incorporate into your routine, whether through powders, capsules or collagen-rich foods like bone broth. (back to top) Vitamin D plays a vital role in both immune function and bone health, and not getting enough of this sunshine vitamin may be contributing to your aches and pains. While those already meeting their vitamin D needs may not see additional benefits, one review found that adults with arthritis and widespread pain were more likely to have insufficient vitamin D levels. In a smaller study, adults with knee osteoarthritis who hadn't undergone knee surgery experienced modest improvements in knee pain over five years if they took vitamin D regularly and maintained adequate levels for at least two years. Beyond supporting joint and bone health, adequate vitamin D intake has also been linked to other benefits for healthy aging, including a reduced risk of falls and chronic disease. The optimal dose to support arthritis and joint pain ultimately depends on your current vitamin D status, with higher doses often necessary for those with a confirmed deficiency. (back to top) 'Before adding any supplement to your routine, its important to talk with your doctor or a qualified health care provider for personalized guidance. Once you've done that, keep these key factors in mind when choosing the best arthritis supplement: Manufacturer reputation: Choose brands with a strong reputation for quality and transparency. Third-party testing: Look for supplements that are independently tested for purity and potency to ensure you're getting what the label claims. Ingredient transparency: Opt for supplements with clear labeling and minimal fillers or additives. Research-backed ingredients and dosage: While research into supplements for arthritis and joint pain is still evolving, some ingredients are supported by stronger evidence than others. When evaluating a product, in addition to clinically-backed ingredients, check for doses that have been shown to be effective in research. Other active ingredients: It's important to be aware that some supplements touted as being beneficial for arthritis — like red yeast rice, chaparral and cat's claw — aren't well-supported by research and may be dangerous when taken regularly. While some ingredients, like vitamin D, may be safe and even helpful for joint pain, make sure you're not already getting them from another supplement, like your multivitamin or protein powder. Medication interactions: Always check with a health care professional before taking any new supplements to ensure they wont interact with prescription or over-the-counter medications you're currently taking. Dietary restrictions: If you have allergies or other dietary preferences or restrictions, make sure to carefully read the ingredient list to choose a supplement that aligns with your needs. Price: High-quality supplements are available at a variety of price points. While it's important not to sacrifice quality for cost, the most expensive option isn't always the best one either. (back to top) To identify the best supplements for arthritis and joint pain, we conducted an in-depth review of the most up-to-date research and consulted medical professionals and dietitians to understand which ingredients are most effective — and which ones to avoid. For specific product recommendations, we combined these expert insights with hands-on tester feedback, prioritizing formulations backed by scientific evidence and real-world experience. The result: a list of supplements that are both research-supported and user-approved. (back to top) Research on supplements for joint pain is limited, and the best supplement for arthritis depends on your specific symptoms and health needs. Fish oil, turmeric and collagen are among the most well-researched options. It's a good idea to talk with a health care professional to determine which supplement may work best for you. Green tea may be helpful for those managing arthritis thanks to its impressive antioxidant profile — including epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a compound with potent anti-inflammatory effects. Tart cherry juice may also be beneficial, with some studies linking it to improvements in pain and overall quality of life among those with knee osteoarthritis. That said, one of the best ways to support joint health is by staying hydrated. Rispoli says an overall healthy lifestyle is key for managing arthritis pain. She highlights eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress and engaging in non-impact exercise, like yoga or swimming, as being particularly helpful. She also notes the importance of understanding your symptoms, advising to "[Get] educated on what pains might be more severe than normal." Amidor agrees that diet plays a significant role in managing joint pain. She points out that certain foods may be particularly helpful thanks to their anti-inflammatory benefits. These include fatty fish (like salmon and tuna), nut, seeds, olive oil and berries. CBD (cannabidiol) has gained attention for its potential to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. "Some people have reported relief with CBD locally," says Dr. Nora Singer, director of the Division of Rheumatology at MetroHealth. "CBD [may] help arthritis pain because there's usually a natural anti-inflammatory component and maybe a menthol or lidocaine component which distracts some of the nerves from feeling pain," says Rispoli. Still, it's important to note that CBD isn't safe or effective for everyone, and it's crucial to exercise caution by purchasing only from reputable, well-vetted manufacturers. When it comes to arthritis, research on NAD+ is promising, but ultimately scarce. NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a tiny but mighty molecule found in every cell of your body, helping to keep things running smoothly. One of its many roles is helping to repair your DNA and support your body as it fights off damage over time. However, as we age, the levels of NAD+ naturally decrease, which can make us more prone to issues like inflammation and other age-related health problems. While NAD+ may have potential therapeutic benefits for arthritis and joint pain thanks to its role in reducing inflammation and promoting cellular repair, there's currently a lack of human studies to support its effectiveness. "Taking a warm bath or shower to get moving can be helpful and can help lubricate stiff joints," says Singer. She also suggests paraffin wax hand treatments for patients with hand stiffness and avoiding prolonged immobilization. (back to top) Leia Rispoli, double-board-certified interventional pain management specialist and physiatrist at DISC Sports & Spine Center in Southern California Jamie Lee McIntyre, MS, RDN, nutrition consultant Vanessa Imus, MS, RDN, dietitian and owner of Integrated Nutrition for Weight Loss in Bothell, Wash. Toby Amidor, MS, RD, award-winning nutrition expert Nora Singer, director of the division of rheumatology at MetroHealth and professor of medicine and pediatrics at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine (back to top) Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Business Wire
17-06-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Assessments 24x7 Launches AI Coach
RENO, Nev.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Assessments 24x7, a SaaS (software-as-a-service) assessment technology leader, announces the launch of Assessments 24x7 Intelligence, a new AI-driven coach that provides authentic assessment insights with real-time, actionable guidance. Unlike conventional AI that uses generic internet-generated data, Assessments 24x7 Intelligence runs on our proprietary platform and is built on real assessment results and expertly curated insights from real people. Share 'Unlike conventional AI that uses generic internet-generated data, Assessments 24x7 Intelligence runs on our proprietary platform and is built on real assessment results and expertly curated insights from real people,' says Brandon Parker, CEO of Assessments 24x7. Combining 25 years of assessment experience and data collection with the latest open AI technology, Assessments 24x7 Intelligence enables users to look at workplace and interpersonal issues from all directions. Because insights come from real data and real people, AI responses complement and enhance DISC, Motivators, and Emotional Intelligence reports and other Assessments 24x7 tools. 'Assessments 24x7 Intelligence isn't meant to replace the knowledge and expertise of our customers but to enhance their ability to apply and implement results,' Parker says. 'If someone is stuck on a problem or issue, our AI quickly delivers new perspectives, ideas, and approaches to consider.' Designed for human resources and talent leaders, executives and other business professionals, coaches and consultants, and anyone working with behavioral assessments, the AI assistant improves decision-making for hiring, coaching, leadership development, team synergy, conflict resolution, and more. 'Users can ask free-form questions or choose from a library of hundreds of common workplace, family, and relationship questions,' Parker says. 'There are infinite ways to refine queries through AI's dynamic, evolving technology.' Assessments 24x7 Intelligence is free for Assessments 24x7 customers, with no additional fees or monthly limits. Learn more about Assessments 24x7 Intelligence at Global Assessment Technologies LLC dba Assessments 24x7 is the global leader in SaaS (software-as-a-service) assessment technology, powering millions of behavioral assessments worldwide. As the leading DISC provider specializing in a full range of scientifically validated tools, Assessments 24x7 offers a powerful platform designed for coaches, businesses, HR/training professionals, recruiters, and organizations. With an intuitive dashboard and an array of customization options, their proprietary platform can integrate with any software system to provide a seamless and cohesive user experience. Their core assessments are backed by the Assessment Standards Institute (ASI) with objective testing and reporting that meet standards set by the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). For more information, visit
