SMB Marketing Feed

How to Determine if Small Business Software Implementation Was Successful

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 23:15:38 +0200

In my last article, I focused on the sorts of questions small businesses need to be asking of themselves before making a software purchase to ensure they’re getting their money’s worth. These questions were:

What problems are we trying to solve with software?
How will we get people to use it?
How will we know the software is working?

However, the work isn’t complete once the software is implemented. It’s important to reflect on what you have done and whether or not the implementation has been successful. This practice will help decision-makers highlight which pain points and problems are being addressed, which results are measurable, and what unexpected benefits have arisen from changing how a company works. This process helps teams celebrate wins, build confidence with the team, and plan for future projects and implementation.

Here are appropriate follow-up questions for small businesses to ask themselves once they’ve tried their new software to determine if the implementation was a success:

Did the software help us take tangible steps towards solving our problems?

Before embarking on a software-purchasing journey, it’s imperative that small businesses take the time to understand which processes they need to focus on improving so they can work more efficiently and enjoyably. The more accurate an assessment they make, the better suited their eventual software will be because they will have understood their requirements better and found a solution that checks the most boxes.

Once the software is in place, companies that have put in this earlier work will have something to revisit and to use as a comparison point. These small businesses can start by taking stock in what the software has enabled them to do well. Which processes seem to be the most effective? Are there any that could be further streamlined? Where in the company’s workflow are communications flowing smoothly? The answers to these questions, when approached honestly, will yield guidance on how software can continue growing the business organically while offering opportunities for improvement.

To determine whether a piece of software was a successful addition, small businesses need to home in on the key performance indicators (KPIs) they will track. The more granular and specific to a facet of the business, the better, as these will be the ones that are easiest to act upon, especially once they’ve driven alignment within our organization.

Of course, no piece of software is perfect and no implementation occurs without a single speed bump. Once small businesses analyze these KPIs, it’s also important to note where there are still difficulties. Taking stock is a great opportunity to see where things have fallen short and what mistakes have been made. A clear idea of what went wrong and why is the way you learn from experience so you can do better next time.

Have we set up our team with the change and support they need?

Metrics themselves can tell a story about a software’s effectiveness, but the most important factor in determining software success is to ask the users directly. If a small business’s team doesn’t enjoy working with the software, then it’s likely any results from implementation will be temporary.

If small business owners haven’t established a means for employees to provide feedback directly to the rest of the organization, then understanding the effects of a new implementation is the time to do it. And this needs to apply to more than a select handful of employees. Often, the importance of taking a company-wide temperature gets overlooked and it becomes far too easy to assume a few employees are speaking for the whole of an organization. Perhaps we could send out anonymous surveys once a quarter, or ask managers to discuss the new software during scheduled 1:1 meetings with their direct reports. Even if a particular employee doesn’t have much experience with the new software, it is important to learn why that may be to illuminate if any software adjustments need to be made to improve adoption.

The best aspect of these feedback discussions is that we may learn about how the software has surprised users by addressing problems they didn’t even know they had. Perhaps one department didn’t realize just how much they needed new software until they were using it. Or a company’s software enables faster turnaround times that can be better handled by other aspects of the technology. These are all positive outcomes and should be noted for when decisions have to be made about further refining the tools being used or adding more to your deployment.

Treating software as a people issue is the key to long-term success, and this practice goes a long way when introducing new technology that people may be uncertain about, like AI. Checking in with staff after implementation to understand their concerns, then addressing them, is the best way to increase adoption because it allows staff to feel like part of the process. Better yet, this practice can lead to staff members becoming advocates for the technology to any holdouts that may exist.

Are we celebrating wins and building confidence and know-how in the organization?

If small businesses are working with their teams, identifying pain points in the organization’s and people’s days, creating priorities, setting realistic and achievable goals, and measuring success in concrete ways, they are operating from a position of strength. They have demonstrated that they understand the most essential point: Small changes and modest improvements over time yield pronounced, measurable, and lasting results.

And when you are doing something right in the organization, particularly when it impacts so many people, it’s important to point that out to folks and celebrate it. It’s far too easy for small businesses to remain risk-averse when they’re operating in feast-or-famine mode and the larger economic forecast is looking pretty dim. Putting any piece of software in place is a victory unto itself. It’s far easier to adjust something that already exists versus pull the trigger on a software purchase far too long in the works.

It’s worth reflecting and celebrating your successes for what they were: successes. This fosters a belief within the team that they can do more, take on bigger projects, continue growing, and make a lasting and measurable impact on the industry. Software can help, but the real victory is demonstrating to employees that there is much more success on the horizon.

This article, "How to Determine if Small Business Software Implementation Was Successful" was first published on Small Business Trends

Top 7 Programs for Efficient Payroll Systems

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 21:31:00 +0200

When managing payroll, choosing the right software can greatly impact your efficiency and compliance. The top seven programs for efficient payroll systems offer a range of features customized to various business needs. From Gusto’s user-friendly interface to Rippling‘s global capabilities, each option serves different organizational sizes and requirements. Comprehending the strengths of each program can help you streamline your payroll process effectively. Let’s explore these solutions and see which one might fit your business best.

Key Takeaways

Gusto offers user-friendly payroll setup in under 30 minutes, automating payroll runs and tax filings for all 50 states.
Rippling supports payroll in over 160 countries, integrating HR, finance, and IT into one platform with extensive automation options.
QuickBooks Payroll provides seamless integration with QuickBooks Online, featuring same-day direct deposit and automated tax filing for quick operational readiness.
Paychex Flex is designed for mid-sized firms, offering 24/7 access to HR professionals and a mobile app for easy payroll management.
OnPay specializes in industry-specific compliance, offering flat-rate pricing and features like PTO management, ideal for nonprofits and agriculture sectors.

Gusto – Best Overall Ease of Use

Gusto stands out as the best overall payroll system owing to its exceptional ease of use, receiving a remarkable 4.7 out of 5 satisfaction rating across major review platforms.

This payroll app for small business simplifies the onboarding process, allowing you to set up payroll in under 30 minutes, even though you’re a first-time user.

With Gusto, payroll runs and tax filings are automated across all 50 states, ensuring compliance while reducing your administrative burdens.

The platform offers a payroll software download that integrates benefits administration, time tracking, and compliance alerts, providing a holistic program for payroll system management.

Pricing starts at $49 per month for the Simple plan, with an additional $6 per person monthly, making it a scalable solution as your business grows.

Rippling – Best for Global Teams

If you’re managing a global team, Rippling stands out as a robust solution for payroll support in over 160 countries.

It streamlines various functions like HR, payroll, and compliance, as it automates workflows and onboarding processes to save you time.

With its extensive integrations and competitive pricing, Rippling adapts to your unique business needs, making international payroll management more efficient.

Global Payroll Support

When managing a global workforce, having a reliable payroll system is crucial, and Rippling stands out as a top choice for businesses with international teams. Here’s why:

Global Reach: Supports payroll in over 160 countries, allowing you to manage payments seamlessly worldwide.
Integrated System: Combines HR, payroll, IT, and finance into one platform, simplifying operations across various functions.
Personalization: Offers over 500 integrations, enabling customized automation to suit diverse business needs.

With pricing starting at a base rate of $35 per month plus $8 per employee, Rippling additionally provides optional add-ons for global payroll management.

This makes it a cost-effective solution for businesses aiming to streamline their payroll processes and ensuring compliance and efficiency.

Workflow Automation Features

As businesses expand globally, leveraging workflow automation features within Rippling becomes essential for managing a distributed team effectively.

Rippling supports payroll in over 160 countries and acts as an Employer of Record, making it an ideal choice for international operations. The platform consolidates HR, payroll, IT, and finance into one dashboard, streamlining workflow management and considerably reducing administrative burdens.

With over 500 integrations, it allows for customizable automations that improve operational efficiency across various business functions. Moreover, Rippling automates onboarding processes, enabling new employees to set up their accounts and benefits with minimal manual input from HR teams.

Although these features boost compliance and reduce onboarding time, be aware that users may experience a longer initial onboarding process.

Onboarding Process Efficiency

Rippling’s onboarding process is created to improve efficiency for global teams by seamlessly integrating various functions like HR, payroll, IT, and finance into a single platform. This automation simplifies employee setup across 160+ countries.

Here are key features that elevate your onboarding experience:

Customizable Workflows: Tailor onboarding tasks to fit your company’s needs, automating compliance and documentation processes.
Extensive Integrations: With over 500 integrations, you can reduce manual input and errors during employee setup, streamlining the entire workflow.
Compliance Assurance: Rippling keeps you aligned with local labor laws and tax regulations, making it easier to manage a diverse workforce.

While the initial onboarding may take longer, these automation features greatly boost the efficiency of future employee integrations.

QuickBooks Payroll – Best for QuickBooks Users

If you’re already using QuickBooks for your accounting needs, QuickBooks Payroll is an ideal choice for streamlining your payroll processes. This service offers seamless integration with QuickBooks Online, allowing you to synchronize your accounting and payroll management effortlessly.

With features like same-day direct deposit and automated tax filing, you can process payroll quickly and efficiently, reducing the risk of errors. The guided setup means most businesses can become operational within a single day, making it accessible even for first-time users.

Plus, pricing starts at just $45 per month, plus $6 per employee, which is affordable for small businesses. Mobile access allows you to approve and execute payroll on the go, boosting flexibility for busy business owners and managers.

Paychex Flex – Best for Mid-Size Firms

For mid-sized firms seeking a thorough payroll solution, Paychex Flex stands out as an excellent choice due to its scalability and strong features. With a starting price of $39 per month plus $5 per employee, it’s designed to grow with your business.

Here are three key benefits:

24/7 Access to HR Professionals: You’ll have certified HR experts available around the clock for compliance advice, ensuring you stay on track with regulations.
Automated Tax Filing: The platform streamlines payroll processes with automated tax filing and compliance tracking, reducing the risk of costly errors.
Mobile Payroll App: Manage your payroll from anywhere with the user-friendly mobile app, enhancing flexibility and convenience.

While some users find the interface a bit outdated compared to newer offerings, Paychex Flex remains a robust option for mid-sized firms looking to optimize their payroll systems.

OnPay – Best for Industry-Specific Compliance

OnPay is an ideal payroll solution for businesses that require industry-specific compliance, particularly in niche sectors like agriculture, nonprofits, and religious organizations.

With flat-rate pricing starting at $40 per month plus $6 per employee, it’s a budget-friendly option for those focused on compliance. The platform excels in payroll processing customized to the unique needs of these industries, ensuring you meet complex regulatory requirements seamlessly.

OnPay provides 50-state filing for federal, state, and local compliance, simplifying the navigation of various laws.

Furthermore, the software includes features like PTO management and contractor payment support, enhancing its compliance capabilities for diverse workforce needs.

For nonprofits, OnPay offers a generous 50% discount on pricing, providing further financial incentives for organizations in this sector.

Square Payroll – Best for Micro-Businesses

Square Payroll is an excellent choice for micro-businesses looking for a straightforward and affordable payroll solution. Designed particularly for smaller operations, it offers a contractor-only plan with no base fee—just $6 per contractor per month. The setup process is quick, taking less than 30 minutes, which is perfect for busy shops and cafes.

Here are three key features that make Square Payroll stand out:

Seamless Integration: It works smoothly with Square‘s POS system, allowing easy tip importing and payroll management.
Employee Self-Service: Workers can access their pay stubs and tax forms directly, enhancing convenience and transparency.
Cost-Effective: The pricing structure is straightforward, making it easy to predict costs without hidden fees.

However, keep in mind that Square Payroll lacks advanced HR features, which may limit its appeal for businesses needing extensive human resources solutions.

ADP RUN – Best for Compliance Depth

ADP RUN stands out as a premier payroll solution for small to midsize businesses that prioritize compliance and regulatory accuracy. This platform is renowned for its deep compliance resources, ensuring you stay on top of stringent regulations.

With automated payroll forms and tax entries, ADP RUN simplifies payroll entry, improving accuracy and minimizing manual errors.

You’ll appreciate the user-friendly payroll dashboard, which offers a variety of HR form templates to streamline employee account management.

As a cloud-based Human Capital Management (HCM) system, it provides efficient tools for managing workers’ compensation and tax policies.

Furthermore, employees can easily access important documents, such as payslips and tax forms, through a dedicated employee portal. This feature not merely improves transparency but likewise elevates the overall user experience, making ADP RUN an excellent choice for businesses focused on compliance depth and operational efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Payroll Program?

Choosing the best payroll program depends on your specific needs.

If you’re a small business, Gusto’s user-friendly interface might be ideal, as it simplifies setup and automates tasks.

For global teams, Rippling supports payroll in over 160 countries.

If you’re already using QuickBooks, their payroll service integrates seamlessly.

For mid-sized firms, Paychex Flex offers HR support, whereas Square Payroll is perfect for micro-businesses needing a cost-effective solution for contractors.

Evaluate each based on your requirements.

Who Is Adp’s Biggest Competitor?

ADP‘s biggest competitor is Gusto, especially popular among small businesses because of its user-friendly design and integrated HR solutions.

Paychex Flex also competes effectively, targeting mid-sized firms with customized services.

QuickBooks Payroll is a strong option for those already using QuickBooks, whereas Rippling offers global payroll support and combines payroll, HR, and IT functions.

Paycor presents customizable plans and mobile access, creating further competition in the payroll services market.

Which Software Is Used for Payroll Management?

For payroll management, you can choose from various software options like Gusto, which automates payroll and tax filings for small businesses.

Rippling supports global teams, integrating HR and finance.

QuickBooks Payroll offers seamless integration with QuickBooks Online for easy accounting.

Paychex Flex caters to mid-sized firms with 24/7 HR access, whereas Square Payroll is ideal for micro-businesses with a contractor-only plan.

Each has unique features customized to different business needs.

Lyft Unveils AI-Driven Customer Support Revolution for Riders and Drivers

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 21:11:00 +0200

As small business owners increasingly seek innovative tools to enhance customer service and streamline operations, Lyft’s latest initiative may provide valuable insights. The rideshare company recently announced a groundbreaking advancement in their customer support system, driven by a partnership with Anthropic and AWS, which aims to redefine the experience for both riders and drivers.

Lyft’s new artificial intelligence (AI) system is designed to shift from traditional customer support methods to a more intuitive and conversational approach. Historically, navigating customer service menus could be a time-consuming challenge, especially for Lyft’s vast user base of over 40 million riders and 1 million drivers. “Previously, getting help meant navigating endless menu options,” Lyft stated. This tedious process often led to considerable frustration, particularly during peak times when swift resolutions were critical.

The newly developed “intent agent” promises to transform this experience. By understanding context and utilizing data-driven insights, the AI can engage in real conversations. For example, if a driver messages saying, “My earnings aren’t showing up,” the AI comprehends their recent ride history and responds with relevant solutions. This approach leads to quicker resolutions and a more personalized experience.

Key benefits emerge from this AI-driven model. Lyft reports an astounding 87% reduction in average resolution time, with thousands of support requests resolved daily—more than half within three minutes. “The future of customer service has fundamentally shifted through AI,” remarked Ameena Gill, Vice President of Safety and Customer Care at Lyft. This suggests that small businesses could similarly enhance their customer interactions through integrated AI systems, freeing up time for staff to focus on more complex tasks.

Moreover, the AI system is available 24/7 in English and Spanish, addressing a critical need for immediate support. “Lyft is embracing agentic AI to advance its commitment to delivering great rider and driver experiences,” stated Sri Elaprolu from AWS. Consistent support is vital for small businesses looking to maintain high customer satisfaction, especially as consumer demand for rapid responses continues to grow.

Small business owners can also take note of the anticipated growth potential. Lyft is projecting a 70% increase in driver usage by 2025, which could serve as a valuable indicator for those looking to implement similar technologies. By leveraging AI, companies may find that their customer base expands, driven by improved efficiency and customer experience.

However, adopting such technology isn’t without challenges. Small business owners should consider the costs associated with implementing advanced AI systems, including the need for ongoing maintenance and updates. Additionally, integrating AI requires a cultural shift within the organization, ensuring that staff are prepared and supported during the transition.

Another potential concern is the reliance on technology for functions that traditionally require human interaction. While AI can enhance customer service, it may not replace the personal touch that some clients prefer. Small business owners should weigh these factors against the benefits of faster response times and increased availability.

Lyft’s partnership with Anthropic and AWS is a compelling case study for small business owners contemplating a similar leap in customer service enhancement. Their commitment to leveraging AI reflects a broader shift towards innovative solutions that prioritize user experience.

Lyft plans to share further insights at the upcoming AWS re:Invent 2025 event, focusing on the ongoing collaboration aimed at enhancing human connection through technology. As the digital landscape evolves, small business owners may find it beneficial to explore how AI can not only improve operations but also foster stronger relationships with their customers.

For further details on Lyft’s groundbreaking AI initiatives, you can read the full announcement here.

Image via Google Gemini

This article, "Lyft Unveils AI-Driven Customer Support Revolution for Riders and Drivers" was first published on Small Business Trends

7 Best Free Online MP4 Video Editors for Quick Edits

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 20:31:00 +0200

If you’re looking for efficient ways to edit MP4 videos online, you’ve got several excellent options at your disposal. Free video editors like Adobe Express and Clipchamp provide straightforward interfaces with drag-and-drop features, making editing accessible. For those who want more advanced tools, Shotcut and Lightworks offer professional-grade capabilities. As you explore these choices, consider what each editor brings to the table, ensuring you find the right fit for your editing needs.

Key Takeaways

Clipchamp offers unlimited watermark-free exports up to 1080p, making it ideal for social media quick edits.
Shotcut is a free, open-source editor with customizable features that support various video formats, including MP4.
Lightworks provides a free version with basic editing tools, though exports are limited to 720p and MP4 format.
Adobe Express features a user-friendly interface with customizable templates and easy resizing for various platforms.
ACDSee Luxea includes screen recording and keyframing, providing robust options for quick video edits in its free version.

Adobe Express Video Editor

If you’re looking for an intuitive way to edit videos without any prior experience, Adobe Express Video Editor could be the perfect tool for you.

This free online MP4 video editor features a user-friendly interface with drag-and-drop tools, making video editing accessible for everyone. You can choose from thousands of customizable templates designed for various social media formats, allowing for quick and engaging content creation.

Effortlessly crop, trim, and split videos, and improve your storytelling by adding free Adobe Stock soundtracks or your own audio. With just one click, you can resize videos for different platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

Plus, its animation tools let you animate icons and text with a single tap, ensuring dynamic visual effects.

Clipchamp

Clipchamp stands out as a versatile web-based MP4 video editor that simplifies the editing process by allowing you to work directly in your browser without the hassle of software installation or high-end hardware requirements.

The platform offers unlimited, watermark-free exports up to 1080p in its free version, making it especially suitable for social media content creation. With a user-friendly, template-based interface, you’ll find tools like speech-to-text and auto-compose, which improve the editing experience with AI-powered features.

Furthermore, Clipchamp provides access to a library of free stock images, audio, and video resources, enabling you to make quick and professional edits without extra costs.

Nevertheless, be aware that it may experience slow rendering times for longer video projects.

ACDSee Luxea Video Editor

For those looking for a robust video editing solution, ACDSee Luxea Video Editor offers an intuitive interface designed to cater to serious beginners and intermediates alike.

It supports keyframing and 4K video editing, making it perfect for both quick edits and more advanced projects. The software includes screen and webcam recording capabilities, improving its versatility for content creators.

As the free version is user-friendly, it does add an intro and outro to videos and isn’t suitable for commercial use. ACDSee Luxea is frequently updated to incorporate new features and improvements, ensuring you have access to the latest editing tools.

User-friendly design
Supports 4K editing
Keyframing functionality
Screen and webcam recording
Regular updates and upgrades

Shotcut

Shotcut stands out as a strong free, open-source video editing software that supports a broad array of video formats, including MP4.

Its customizable interface allows you to arrange tools and panels according to your editing preferences, making it user-friendly for both beginners and advanced editors.

You’ll find advanced editing capabilities like 360-degree video filters, pitch compensation, and a variety of audio and video effects, which can enhance your projects beyond basic editing.

Regular updates guarantee that Shotcut continues to improve, incorporating new features and bug fixes to support the latest technology.

Although the unique interface may present a learning curve for new users, its robust capabilities make it a popular choice among editing enthusiasts.

Lightworks

Lightworks provides a robust free version that includes professional-grade editing tools, making it a solid choice for both beginners and experienced users.

Its layer-based timeline interface simplifies the editing process, although still allowing for intricate project management.

Nevertheless, keep in mind that the free version limits your export options to 720p, which may not meet the needs of everyone looking for higher-resolution outputs.

Professional-grade Editing Tools

In relation to professional-grade editing tools, Lightworks stands out as a robust option for both novice and experienced video editors. Its free version provides crucial features that enable you to create high-quality videos without breaking the bank.

With support for multi-cam editing and real-time effects, you can improve your projects considerably.

Here are some key benefits of using Lightworks:

Intuitive interface that simplifies complex editing tasks
Customizable layouts to fit your workflow
Regular updates ensuring access to the latest features
Supportive community for troubleshooting and advice
Ability to export videos at 720p resolution in the free version

Lightworks truly offers an all-encompassing suite for anyone looking to boost their video editing skills.

Layer-Based Timeline Interface

When tackling video editing, having a layer-based timeline interface can greatly improve your workflow and creativity. Lightworks provides this feature, enabling you to manage multiple video and audio tracks at once. Its intuitive drag-and-drop functionality allows for quick clip arrangement, making it easier to experiment with sequences. You can likewise add effects and transitions directly onto the timeline, which lets you see real-time adjustments as you work. The timeline supports multi-cam editing, helping you sync and edit footage from various angles seamlessly. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can adjust the workspace to fit your editing style.

Feature	Description
Multi-Track Editing	Organize multiple video and audio tracks simultaneously
Drag-and-Drop Functionality	Quickly arrange clips and experiment with sequences
Real-Time Adjustments	Apply effects and transitions directly onto the timeline
Customizable Workspace	Adjust the layout to suit your editing preferences

Export Limitations Explained

Though the layer-based timeline interface in Lightworks improves your editing experience, it’s important to contemplate the export limitations that come with the free version. The free version restricts video exports to a maximum resolution of 720p, which mightn’t suit your needs for high-quality outputs.

Furthermore, you can only export in MP4 format, limiting compatibility with several platforms. You also miss out on advanced export options available in the Pro version, like multi-cam editing and real-time effects.

Moreover, you’ll need to create an account to access the free version, which could hinder quick edits. Nevertheless, Lightworks still provides a solid set of tools for beginners.

Limited export resolution
Restricted to MP4 format
Missing advanced features
Account creation required
Great for casual editing

DaVinci Resolve

DaVinci Resolve stands out as one of the best free online MP4 video editors available today, catering to both beginners and seasoned professionals. This professional-grade software offers advanced editing tools without the cost, making it accessible for everyone.

It supports various formats, including MP4, and thrives in color correction and audio post-production, features typically reserved for premium software. Although its interface might present a steeper learning curve, the robust capabilities make it ideal for serious video editing tasks.

Moreover, DaVinci Resolve includes a multi-user collaboration feature, allowing teams to work on projects simultaneously, which is especially beneficial for larger productions. Regular updates keep the software current, ensuring you have access to the latest features and improvements.

Canva Video Editor

Canva Video Editor stands out as a free, user-friendly tool that simplifies the video editing process with its intuitive drag-and-drop interface.

You’ll find an extensive library of customizable templates and stock assets, which can enhance your projects without extra costs.

Furthermore, its AI editing features help streamline your workflow, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned editors alike.

User-Friendly Interface

When you’re looking for a video editing tool that won’t overwhelm you, the user-friendly interface of Canva Video Editor stands out as an excellent choice. Its simple drag-and-drop design allows you to create and edit videos quickly, regardless of your experience level.

You can effortlessly resize videos for different platforms with just one click, streamlining your workflow. Plus, the collaborative features enable multiple users to work together in real-time, making it ideal for team projects.

Intuitive navigation for easy use
Quick access to over a million stock assets
Customizable templates for brand consistency
One-click resizing for various social media formats
Real-time collaboration for seamless teamwork

Extensive Template Library

With over 27,000 customizable templates at your fingertips, the extensive template library in Canva Video Editor makes video creation straightforward and efficient.

You can easily find templates optimized for various platforms, including social media ads, promotional content, and video stories, ensuring a professional look with minimal effort.

The user-friendly interface allows you to utilize drag-and-drop functionality, making it simple to personalize templates with your own media and branding elements.

Canva frequently updates its templates to reflect current design trends, providing you with fresh options for every project.

Moreover, the ability to batch process multiple video edits means you can create consistent content across different formats quickly and efficiently, maximizing your productivity.

AI Editing Features

AI editing features in Canva Video Editor transform the video creation process by streamlining tasks that traditionally require extensive manual effort.

With tools like Magic Design, you can automatically edit footage and receive music suggestions, making your project come together effortlessly.

The Highlights function helps you save time by identifying the best moments in your videos, whereas Magic Media allows you to generate videos from simple text prompts.

Create polished videos without extensive editing skills.
Enjoy automated text, overlays, and shifts for a professional touch.
Save time and effort with intelligent editing features.
Experience a user-friendly interface suitable for all skill levels.
Improve your creative projects quickly and efficiently with AI assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Edit an MP4 Video Online for Free?

To edit an MP4 video online for free, start by uploading your video to a web-based editor like Clipchamp or Adobe Express.

Utilize tools for trimming, cropping, and splitting to improve your footage. You can additionally add royalty-free music or upload your own audio tracks for better sound quality.

Many platforms offer templates for easy editing. Once you’re satisfied with your video, download it as an MP4 file to share on social media.

What Is the Best Free MP4 Editor?

The best free MP4 editor depends on your needs. PowerDirector offers a user-friendly interface and advanced features, making it versatile.

If you’re into social media, Promeo’s templates streamline ad creation efficiently. For beginners, VideoPad provides a straightforward editing experience.

OpenShot boasts a wide array of changes, whereas Clipchamp specializes in social media content.

If you’re seeking professional capabilities, DaVinci Resolve’s robust free version is a top choice for advanced editing and color correction.

What Is the Best and Easiest Free Video Editing Software?

The best and easiest free video editing software includes options like OpenShot, known for its beginner-friendly drag-and-drop interface, and PowerDirector, which offers AI-driven tools for improved creativity.

VideoPad is great for home users, providing clean templates and multiple export options. If you’re looking for social media ads, Promeo’s extensive template library is ideal.

For advanced features, DaVinci Resolve stands out, offering professional-grade editing with a steep learning curve for those interested.

What Is the Fastest Video Editing Software?

When you’re looking for the fastest video editing software, consider options like DaVinci Resolve for its optimized performance and collaborative features.

Cloud-based tools, such as Clipchamp, enable quick editing without heavy installations.

EnergyDirector utilizes AI to streamline processes, as user-friendly interfaces in programs like Promeo help you create videos efficiently.

These tools emphasize real-time editing and quick rendering, allowing you to make and export changes swiftly without significant delays.

Conclusion

To conclude, the seven best free online MP4 video editors offer a range of features suitable for various skill levels. Whether you need a straightforward tool like Adobe Express and Clipchamp for quick edits or more advanced options like Shotcut and DaVinci Resolve, you have choices that cater to your needs. Each editor provides unique functionalities, ensuring you can find the right fit for your video projects, enhancing your editing experience without any cost.

Image via Google Gemini

This article, "7 Best Free Online MP4 Video Editors for Quick Edits" was first published on Small Business Trends

Common Conflict Situations and How to Resolve Them

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 19:26:18 +0200

In the workplace, conflict often emerges from differing work styles, misconceptions, or authority struggles. For example, a diligent employee may clash with a more relaxed colleague over project timelines, leading to frustration on both sides. To address these conflicts, it’s essential to implement clear communication practices and define roles. Comprehending these common situations can help you navigate them effectively, but knowing how to cultivate a collaborative environment is just as important.

Key Takeaways

Address work style conflicts by promoting structured meetings and regular check-ins to align team expectations and approaches.
Improve communication by establishing clear channels and encouraging open dialogue to minimize misunderstandings and duplicated efforts.
Implement anti-bullying policies and ongoing training to prevent harassment and discrimination, fostering a healthier work environment.
Clarify roles and responsibilities to mitigate power struggles and encourage collaboration among team members.
Facilitate open discussions about change to address resistance, providing support and training to help employees adapt effectively.

Work Style Conflicts

Work style conflicts can greatly affect team dynamics and overall productivity, especially in diverse work environments. These conflict situations often arise when team members have differing approaches to task completion.

For instance, a go-getter may prioritize efficiency, whereas a laid-back individual might struggle with deadlines. Organized team members may clash with impulsive coworkers, leading to tension that impacts morale.

Furthermore, a preference for solo work can create friction in collaborative teams, leaving some feeling undervalued.

Resolving conflict in the workplace examples include structured meetings to address these differences and regular check-ins to guarantee everyone’s preferences are understood.

Misunderstanding or Poor Communication Issues

Misunderstandings can considerably disrupt workplace harmony, particularly when team members communicate in differing styles shaped by their unique backgrounds and experiences.

These conflict situations often arise from generational differences and life experiences, leading to misinterpretations. Poor communication can result in duplicated efforts or missed deadlines, highlighting the significance of clear instructions and regular updates.

To mitigate these issues, establish clear communication channels, ensuring everyone is aligned on objectives and expectations. Open dialogue is crucial, as it allows you and your colleagues to clarify intentions and resolve misconceptions.

Regular check-ins not just improve communication flow but additionally promote a collaborative environment, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings escalating into conflict situations.

Prioritizing effective communication is key to maintaining workplace harmony.

Bullying, Discrimination, or Harassment

Bullying, discrimination, and harassment in the workplace can create a toxic environment that undermines employee morale and productivity. These conflicts often stem from issues related to gender, age, or religion. When you voice your concerns, it’s essential to approach the situation with empathy and respect. Effective resolution requires thorough investigations, including reviewing communication and discussing matters with all parties involved to guarantee fairness. Ongoing training and clear anti-bullying policies are fundamental for prevention, nurturing a safer workplace. Organizations that ignore these issues risk legal repercussions and reputational damage.

Action Steps	Description
Report the Incident	Document and communicate your experience.
Investigate	Conduct a thorough review of the situation.
Provide Training	Educate employees on bullying and discrimination.
Establish Policies	Implement clear anti-discrimination policies.
Monitor Environment	Regularly assess workplace culture.

Power Struggles

In many organizations, conflicts can emerge not merely from bullying or harassment but also from influence struggles, which often stem from unclear roles and responsibilities within teams.

Control struggles can escalate quickly, leading to significant issues within the group dynamic. To navigate these situations effectively, consider the following strategies:

Clarify roles and responsibilities to eliminate ambiguity.
Recognize and address any existing tensions, especially during promotions or recognition events.
Hold individual meetings to understand different perspectives and redefine roles.
Promote open communication to encourage collaboration and reduce competition.

Change Resistance

Change resistance can greatly hinder organizational progress, especially when employees face new policies or structural adjustments. This resistance often stems from a fear of the unknown, leading to conflicts and lowered morale.

To combat this, initiate open discussions about upcoming changes, allowing team members to voice their concerns and feel included in the decision-making process. Long-term employees may resist changes that disrupt their work-life balance, so it’s essential to approach these changes sensitively.

Offering training and support can help employees adapt more comfortably, reducing conflict. Furthermore, regular check-ins and feedback sessions enable management to gauge employee sentiments and proactively address any resistance.

Personality Clashes

When team members have differing values, beliefs, and communication styles, personality clashes can arise, leading to misunderstandings and friction in the workplace.

These conflicts often occur when introverts feel overshadowed by extroverts, resulting in frustration and undervalued contributions. Misunderstandings can cultivate resentment, negatively impacting overall team morale and productivity.

To address these clashes, consider the following strategies:

Implement mediation sessions for structured communication.
Encourage open discussions to express feelings and perspectives.
Organize team-building activities to strengthen relationships.
Nurture an environment that values diverse personality types.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Most Common Conflict Situation?

The most common conflict situation in the workplace often stems from personality clashes. When you and a colleague have differing temperaments or work styles, misunderstandings can easily arise.

These clashes may lead to disputes that affect productivity and team dynamics. Furthermore, poor communication frequently compounds these issues, as unclear instructions can result in frustration and duplicated efforts.

Consequently, recognizing and addressing these conflicts early is vital for maintaining a harmonious work environment.

What Is an Example of a Conflict You Had to Resolve?

You might encounter a conflict when team members clash because of differing work styles. For instance, one person may prefer a structured approach, whereas another thrives on flexibility.

To resolve this, you can facilitate a mediation session where both express their concerns and share goals. Establishing a clear communication plan with regular check-ins can improve collaboration.

Implementing team-building activities promotes comprehension, which in the end boosts productivity and minimizes future misunderstandings.

What Are the Five Examples of Conflict in Everyday Life?

You’ll encounter various conflicts in everyday life. For instance, you might face disagreements with friends over plans, differing opinions with family members on important issues, or misconceptions with coworkers regarding tasks.

Conflicts can likewise arise when your personal values clash with societal expectations, or when you experience stress owing to financial pressures.

Each situation highlights the importance of effective communication and comprehension to navigate these challenges smoothly.

What Are the 5 Ways Conflict Can Be Resolved?

You can resolve conflict using five main strategies.

First, Avoiding is useful for low-stakes issues where confrontation isn’t necessary.

Second, Competing works for urgent situations requiring quick decisions.

Third, Accommodating allows you to prioritize others’ needs, but use it sparingly.

Fourth, Compromising involves both parties giving up something to reach an agreement.

Finally, Collaborating seeks a win-win solution, making it ideal for complex issues that need input from multiple stakeholders.

Conclusion

In conclusion, workplace conflicts can stem from various sources, including differing work styles and communication issues. To resolve these challenges effectively, focus on establishing clear communication channels, defining roles, and encouraging regular check-ins. Addressing bullying, influence struggles, and change resistance requires nurturing an open environment for dialogue. By taking proactive steps, you can create a more collaborative atmosphere, reduce misunderstandings, and promote a harmonious workplace, in the end enhancing productivity and employee satisfaction.

Image via Google Gemini

This article, "Common Conflict Situations and How to Resolve Them" was first published on Small Business Trends

Android Enhances YouTube with AI-Powered Expressive Captions and New Mouse Features

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 19:11:00 +0200

Small business owners are constantly seeking tools and technologies that enhance productivity and accessibility, and recent updates from Android may provide just that. With advancements in accessibility features, Android aims to empower users—particularly those with disabilities—by introducing innovative solutions that streamline interactions with devices.

One of the standout updates is the expansion of Expressive Captions for YouTube. Beginning with videos uploaded this October, English content creators can now utilize AI-driven features for captions that enhance viewer engagement. These captions will not only indicate speech intensity—highlighting moments of excitement or tension—but will also capture subtle sounds such as sighs or gasps, as well as background noises. For small business owners utilizing video content for marketing or communication, the ability to create immersive video experiences could significantly improve audience retention and comprehension.

“Expressive Captions will use AI to automatically display the intensity of speech,” Android representatives stated. This innovation can be particularly beneficial for businesses that rely on video content to convey their brand message or demonstrate products. Enhanced captions may increase accessibility and engagement for customers who are hard of hearing or non-native speakers.

Another notable feature is the introduction of AutoClick for users who rely on external mice. This improvement addresses a critical pain point—physical discomfort associated with traditional clicking methods. Users can now customize the dwell time for the cursor, allowing it to automatically click after hovering over an item for a specified period. This reduces the need for repetitive physical actions, which can be a significant concern for small business owners who frequently perform tasks that demand extended use of pointing devices.

“AutoClick now offers an improved dwell cursor experience,” Android emphasized, noting that users can choose from various click types, including left-click, right-click, double-click, and more. This level of customization can make a notable difference in efficiency for those who experience physical strain, ultimately allowing small business owners to focus on productivity rather than discomfort.

While these updates present compelling benefits, small business owners should also consider potential challenges. Implementing new technologies often requires adjustments and learning curves—something to keep in mind when integrating these features into daily operations. Training employees to effectively utilize these updates can be essential to maximizing their value.

Additionally, businesses relying heavily on video marketing must assess their content strategies. While enhanced captions improve accessibility, they may also shift viewer expectations. Companies may need to invest time into ensuring that their videos are not only engaging but also optimized for these new captioning standards.

As small business owners further embrace digital platforms, the emphasis on accessibility will likely grow. Ensuring that content is inclusive can also open up new customer bases and foster loyalty among clients who appreciate efforts to improve access. By leveraging features like Expressive Captions and AutoClick, businesses can create a more user-friendly experience across their digital offerings.

It’s worth exploring these recent Android enhancements in alignment with your business objectives. As you adapt to these innovations, consider not only the immediate impact on your operations but also the potential for broader market appeal as accessibility becomes a priority in customer engagement.

For further details about these updates, you can visit the original press release here. By staying informed and proactive about these changes, small business owners can better position themselves to thrive in an increasingly digital landscape.

Image via Google Gemini

This article, "Android Enhances YouTube with AI-Powered Expressive Captions and New Mouse Features" was first published on Small Business Trends

10 Essential Tools for Product Design and Prototyping Success

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 18:31:00 +0200

In product design and prototyping, using the right tools can greatly improve your workflow and outcomes. Tools like Sketch allow for detailed vector-based designs, whereas Adobe XD facilitates the creation of high-fidelity prototypes. Figma stands out for its real-time collaboration features, enabling teams to work seamlessly together. Each tool serves a specific purpose, from wireframing to handoff, ensuring a thorough design process. Grasping these tools will help you streamline your projects and improve overall efficiency.

Key Takeaways

Utilize Sketch for vector-based design and reusable elements to enhance consistency and efficiency in product design.
Leverage Adobe XD for advanced prototyping and seamless integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud tools.
Explore Figma’s real-time collaboration features to streamline design workflows and improve team communication.
Implement InVision for interactive prototypes and user testing to gather feedback and refine designs effectively.
Consider using Zeplin to facilitate smooth handoff between designers and developers with organized documentation and accurate specifications.

Sketch

Sketch stands out as a crucial tool for product designers, thanks to its vector-based design capabilities and user-friendly interface.

You’ll find that Sketch simplifies industrial design prototyping through its reusable design elements, which improve consistency across various projects. This feature greatly boosts efficiency, allowing you to focus on creating high-quality user interfaces.

Collaboration is seamless, too, as Sketch supports numerous plugins and integrations that facilitate teamwork. Moreover, its version control features enable you to track changes and revert to previous iterations when needed, ensuring you maintain the integrity of your designs.

With a pricing model starting at $10 per month, Sketch is accessible for both individual designers and larger teams, making it a valuable asset for product design and prototyping.

Adobe XD

Adobe XD stands out as a robust UI/UX design tool, particularly as a result of its seamless integration with the Adobe Creative Cloud, which allows you to improve your workflow using familiar software.

With advanced prototyping features, you can create high-fidelity prototypes that truly reflect your design vision, making it easier to present ideas to clients or stakeholders.

This combination of integration and capabilities not just streamlines your design process but additionally encourages collaboration within your team.

Seamless Creative Cloud Integration

When you’re looking to improve your design workflow, integrating seamlessly with Creative Cloud can make all the difference.

Adobe XD allows you to easily pull in assets from Photoshop and Illustrator, ensuring you have high-quality graphics at your fingertips. With access to your Creative Cloud libraries, you can quickly incorporate images and design elements into your projects.

You can likewise export elements from Adobe XD to other Adobe tools for additional editing, promoting efficiency. Real-time collaboration features enable your team to share and review designs instantly, speeding up feedback and iteration processes.

Plus, Adobe XD supports integration with third-party applications like Slack and Jira, enhancing communication and project management within the Creative Cloud environment.

Advanced Prototyping Features

As design projects evolve, the ability to create advanced prototypes becomes crucial for effective user experience testing. Adobe XD offers features like responsive resizing, which helps you adapt designs for different screen sizes effortlessly. The auto-animate function allows you to create interactive prototypes by smoothly shifting between artboards, enhancing user engagement. Moreover, integrated voice prototyping lets you include voice commands for more natural interactions. Collaboration tools enable real-time feedback from team members, allowing simultaneous comments and edits on prototypes. These features streamline your workflow and improve design outcomes.

Feature	Description
Responsive Resizing	Adapts designs to various screen sizes easily
Auto-Animate	Animates shifts between artboards seamlessly
Voice Prototyping	Incorporates voice commands for natural interactions
Real-Time Collaboration	Enables simultaneous feedback from team members

Figma

Figma is a strong cloud-based design tool that transforms the way teams collaborate on product design. With real-time collaboration, you and your teammates can work on the same design file simultaneously, regardless of your locations.

Figma offers a free plan, making it accessible for teams of various sizes, whereas paid plans start at $12 per editor per month when billed annually. Its features, like whiteboarding, note-taking, and user flow creation, improve your planning process and streamline workflows.

The auto-layout feature automatically adjusts design elements as changes are made, saving you time during iterations. Furthermore, Figma integrates seamlessly with various third-party tools, allowing you to connect your work with project management, prototyping, and analytics platforms for enhanced efficiency.

InVision

InVision stands out as a thorough digital product design platform that enhances the design process from ideation to realization. With its interactive prototyping capabilities, you can create engaging designs that resonate with users. The platform’s real-time collaboration features allow team members to comment and provide feedback directly on designs, streamlining communication effectively. You can additionally conduct user testing, gathering valuable feedback to refine your prototypes based on actual interactions. InVision integrates seamlessly with tools like Sketch and Photoshop, enhancing your workflow. Its mighty version control system guarantees everyone works on the latest design iterations, minimizing confusion.

Feature	Benefit	Tool Integration
Interactive Prototyping	Engaging user experience	Sketch, Photoshop
Real-time Collaboration	Streamlined feedback	Slack, Jira
User Testing	Informed adjustments	UserTesting.com
Version Control	Improved project management	N/A

Proto.io

Proto.io is a versatile web-based prototyping tool that empowers designers to create high-fidelity prototypes without any coding knowledge, making it an ideal choice for users of all skill levels.

With a 15-day free trial and paid plans starting at $24 per month, you gain access to a vast library of templates, digital assets, and UI components, allowing for rapid design.

Here are three key features that improve your prototyping experience:

Micro Animations: Create interactive prototypes that simulate real app usage, enhancing user engagement.
User Testing: Collect feedback directly within the prototype, facilitating an iterative design process.
Collaboration Tools: Seamlessly integrate with various design tools, streamlining teamwork and design workflows.

Axure RP

When you need a potent tool for creating interactive prototypes, Axure RP stands out with its advanced features that cater to designers seeking to build dynamic content and incorporate conditional logic.

This tool allows you to create detailed wireframes, user flows, and thorough specifications, making it ideal for teams that value meticulous documentation.

Collaboration becomes seamless as team members can comment on prototypes in real-time, enhancing feedback and iteration processes.

Furthermore, Axure RP integrates well with popular project management and design tools, streamlining workflows and ensuring effective communication between design and development teams.

With pricing starting at $29 per user per month and a 30-day free trial available, you can easily explore its extensive functionalities before committing.

Marvel

Marvel serves as a strong cloud-based prototyping tool that simplifies the shift from design to interactive prototype without requiring any coding skills.

It’s particularly beneficial for both beginners and experienced designers, offering a user-friendly interface and powerful features.

Here are three key benefits of using Marvel:

User Testing: You can gather feedback directly within the prototype, making it easier to iterate based on user insights.
Marvel: Marvel provides an extensive library of templates and digital assets, which speeds up the design process and improves creativity.
Collaboration: Multiple team members can work simultaneously, facilitating real-time feedback and revisions, ensuring everyone stays aligned.

With these features, Marvel streamlines your prototyping efforts effectively.

Balsamiq

Shifting from interactive prototypes to wireframing, Balsamiq stands out as a potent tool designed for creating low-fidelity mockups that prioritize usability. Its drag-and-drop interface simplifies the design process, making it accessible for beginners. You can quickly iterate on designs, thanks to a library of pre-built UI components that streamline assembly. Collaborating with teams becomes seamless as Balsamiq allows for easy sharing of wireframes, enhancing communication and feedback.

Feature	Description
Low-Fidelity Mockups	Focus on usability over aesthetics
Drag-and-Drop	Simple interface for rapid design iterations
Collaboration	Share wireframes for team feedback

With a free trial and plans starting at just $9/month, Balsamiq is an affordable option for individuals and teams.

Zeplin

Zeplin simplifies the handoff process between designers and developers, making it easier for your team to work together effectively.

By integrating with tools like Sketch and Figma, it provides organized documentation and automatically generates style guides that guarantee consistency in your projects.

This improved collaboration reduces misunderstandings and keeps your development process on track.

Streamlined Handoff Process

When teams collaborate on product design, a streamlined handoff process is vital for ensuring that both designers and developers are on the same page.

Zeplin simplifies this process by providing accurate specifications and style guides, making implementation straightforward.

Here are three key benefits of using Zeplin:

Seamless Integration: It works well with popular design tools like Sketch, Adobe XD, and Figma, ensuring smooth shifts.
Version Control: You can manage changes effectively, which helps maintain project consistency throughout its lifecycle.
Automatic Asset Generation: Zeplin reduces time spent on manual exports, improving overall workflow efficiency.

Enhanced Team Collaboration

How can teams improve collaboration throughout the product design process? Zeplin offers a solution by streamlining the handoff between designers and developers. It generates detailed specs, style guides, and assets, ensuring accurate implementation of design elements.

By integrating seamlessly with tools like Sketch, Adobe XD, and Figma, Zeplin boosts collaboration across various teams. Its version control feature allows you to manage changes efficiently, maintaining alignment throughout the design and development lifecycle.

Moreover, the real-time collaboration tools reduce misunderstandings, promoting better communication between designers and developers. By simplifying the sharing of design specifications, Zeplin saves time on handoffs and improves overall workflow efficiency, in the end improving project outcomes and team productivity.

Framer

Framer is an essential no-code design tool that empowers you to create interactive prototypes quickly and efficiently.

With its intuitive drag-and-drop interface, you can manipulate elements and design complex layouts without needing extensive coding knowledge.

Here are three key features of Framer:

Real-Time Collaboration: Work alongside your team members in real-time, enhancing teamwork and speeding up design iterations.
Responsive Design: Guarantee your prototypes seamlessly adapt to various devices and screen sizes, making them accessible to all users.
Pre-Built Components: Access a library of templates and components to streamline your design process, guaranteeing visual consistency across projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Tool Is Best for Prototyping?

When choosing the best tool for prototyping, consider your specific needs.

Figma thrives in real-time collaboration, making it perfect for remote teams.

Adobe XD offers responsive resizing for various screen sizes, whereas Proto.io provides a rich asset library for high-fidelity prototypes without coding.

For complex projects, Axure RP’s dynamic content features are beneficial.

If you need quick feedback, Marvel simplifies the process through integrated user testing, allowing for faster design validation.

What Tool Is Used for Product Design?

For product design, you’ll often turn to tools like Figma, Adobe XD, and Sketch.

Figma’s cloud-based features allow real-time collaboration, whereas Adobe XD stands out in creating high-fidelity prototypes with interactive elements.

If you’re a Mac user, Sketch offers a user-friendly interface with extensive plugin support.

Each tool has unique strengths, so consider your specific needs and team dynamics when choosing the right one for your product design process.

What Are Two Key Elements of Successful Prototyping?

Two key elements of successful prototyping are swift iteration and user testing.

Swift iteration allows you to refine designs quickly, minimizing costly changes later. User testing provides valuable feedback, helping you validate assumptions about functionality and user experience.

What Is the Best Tool for Both UI and UX?

The best tool for both UI and UX design is Figma. Its cloud-based platform supports real-time collaboration, allowing your team to work on design files simultaneously.

Figma’s features include auto-layout for responsive designs and easy-to-share prototypes for stakeholder feedback. With a free plan and affordable paid options, it suits teams of all sizes.

Its extensive plugin library and integration with popular applications improve your workflow, making it a versatile choice for design projects.

Conclusion

In summary, leveraging the right tools can markedly improve y

Adobe Brings Photoshop, Express and Acrobat Tools Directly Into ChatGPT

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 17:46:15 +0200

Adobe’s latest move brings some of its most recognizable creative and document-editing tools directly into ChatGPT — a shift that could reshape how small businesses handle marketing, content creation, and everyday productivity tasks. With Photoshop, Adobe Express, and Acrobat now built into ChatGPT’s interface, business owners gain access to advanced creative capabilities simply by describing what they want to do. For entrepreneurs who often juggle design work without dedicated staff, this integration offers a more streamlined, lower-friction path to producing professional-quality visuals and documents.

Adobe says its goal is to “make creativity accessible for everyone,” a message that resonates with small businesses increasingly relying on digital content to compete. “We’re thrilled to bring Photoshop, Adobe Express and Acrobat directly into ChatGPT, combining our creative innovations with the ease of ChatGPT to make creativity accessible for everyone,” said David Wadhwani, president of digital media at Adobe. “Now hundreds of millions of people can edit with Photoshop simply by using their own words, right inside a platform that’s already part of their day-to-day.”

For small business owners accustomed to navigating multiple apps to complete simple tasks, these integrations could offer meaningful time savings. Instead of opening Photoshop, hunting down the right tool, or figuring out layers, users can type instructions like “Adobe Photoshop, help me blur the background of this image,” and ChatGPT will guide the action. The process works similarly for tasks in Adobe Express and Acrobat, allowing business owners to stay within a single workspace and move faster from idea to execution.

Key benefits surfaced immediately. Photoshop’s conversational controls allow users to fine-tune specific elements of an image — adjusting brightness, exposure, or contrast — or apply effects without understanding advanced editing workflows. This lowers the barrier for small teams that need frequent social graphics or product photos but don’t have formal design experience. Adobe Express adds access to a large library of templates for events, promotions, and marketing campaigns, making it easier to customize designs without switching apps. Acrobat’s capabilities may be especially relevant for businesses managing contracts, invoices, or compliance documents. Owners can edit PDFs, extract tables, merge files, or redact sensitive information directly in chat, which could reduce reliance on separate editing tools.

While the new integrations expand access, they also introduce considerations for small businesses. Relying heavily on AI-driven creative tools may shorten production cycles, but users still need to maintain brand consistency and review outputs carefully. Templates and automated designs help speed up work but do not replace the need for oversight, especially when producing client-facing or regulated documents. Additionally, businesses handling sensitive data should pay attention to how content flows through ChatGPT and Adobe’s systems, ensuring internal policies align with platform capabilities. Adobe notes that users can seamlessly transition into full desktop apps when projects require more precision, suggesting the ChatGPT integrations serve best as fast-action tools rather than full replacements for advanced workflows.

The rollout also highlights Adobe’s broader investment in agentic AI and conversational interfaces. The company points to earlier launches like Acrobat Studio and AI Assistants for Photoshop and Express as part of an ongoing effort to simplify creative tasks through natural language. An upcoming AI Assistant for Adobe Firefly, designed to help users move ideas across multiple Adobe applications, suggests deeper integrations are on the horizon.

For small businesses increasingly operating across mobile and web platforms, availability matters. Photoshop, Adobe Express, and Acrobat for ChatGPT are free and live today on desktop, web, and iOS. Adobe Express is already available on Android, with Photoshop and Acrobat support coming soon. Cost-conscious business owners may find value in testing these tools without committing to paid plans, especially if they frequently need quick edits or design iterations.

This expansion positions ChatGPT as a more comprehensive workspace for content-driven businesses. By pulling Adobe’s high-end capabilities into a conversational interface, the partnership could help smaller companies move faster, present more polished materials, and operate with fewer technical hurdles — as long as they remain attentive to quality control and data-handling practices.

This article, "Adobe Brings Photoshop, Express and Acrobat Tools Directly Into ChatGPT" was first published on Small Business Trends

Top 7 Franchise Opportunities in the USA

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 17:31:00 +0200

If you’re considering a franchise opportunity in the USA, it’s crucial to know the top contenders that could lead to success. The Melting Pot offers a unique dining experience with fondue, whereas Marco’s Pizza stands strong in the competitive pizza market. Big Chicken, backed by Shaquille O’Neal, and Cinnabon with its iconic cinnamon rolls are notable as well. Other options like PJ’s Coffee, Arby’s, and Great Clips® present diverse choices. Each brand boasts solid support for franchisees, ensuring a profitable venture.

Key Takeaways

The Melting Pot offers a unique fondue dining experience with strong franchise support, appealing to investors without prior restaurant experience.
Marco’s Pizza is a well-established brand with a low initial fee and a focus on quality ingredients, making it a robust growth option.
Big Chicken, backed by Shaquille O’Neal, provides a trendy menu with strong growth potential and a compelling celebrity endorsement.
Cinnabon boasts high foot traffic with its iconic cinnamon rolls, supported by extensive marketing and brand recognition.
PJ’s Coffee emphasizes quality beverages and breakfast items, backed by strong franchisee support and Direct Trade coffee sourcing.

The Melting Pot

The Melting Pot® stands out in the casual dining sector by offering a unique interactive dining experience centered around fondue. This concept positions it well among franchise opportunities in the USA, attracting a diverse range of investors.

You don’t need prior restaurant experience to become a franchisee, making it accessible to many looking for food industry franchise opportunities. With an initial franchise fee of $45,000, total investments range from $1,364,514 to $2,069,764, reflecting its commitment to quality food and service.

The Melting Pot® has earned numerous franchise awards, highlighting its strong performance and customer satisfaction. This franchise’s engaging dining concept continues to thrive in a competitive restaurant environment, ensuring both profitability and lasting popularity.

Marco’s Pizza

With over 1,150 locations across the United States, Marco’s Pizza has established itself as a key player in the competitive pizza delivery market.

Founded in 1978, the franchise offers a unique opportunity for aspiring business owners. Key features include:

A $25,000 initial franchise fee, making entry feasible for many.
A total investment ranging from $242,142 to $633,109, appealing to a diverse range of investors.
Recognition as the first national pizza delivery brand to offer crustless pizza, showcasing innovation.

Marco’s Pizza consistently ranks well in industry news for its growth and commitment to quality ingredients, enhancing customer satisfaction.

If you’re considering international franchise opportunities, Marco’s Pizza presents a robust option with a proven track record in the fast-food sector.

Big Chicken

Big Chicken, founded by Shaquille O’Neal, stands out in the fast-casual dining scene with its unique menu of crispy chicken sandwiches and tenders.

With over 22 locations already open and more on the way, the franchise showcases strong growth potential, bolstered by O’Neal‘s celebrity endorsement.

If you’re considering a franchise opportunity, Big Chicken‘s innovative offerings and brand recognition could be a significant draw in today’s competitive market.

Celebrity Endorsement Impact

Celebrity endorsements greatly influence consumer behavior, especially in the competitive world of franchising. Big Chicken, founded by NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, effectively leverages his star influence to improve brand visibility and attract customers.

This strategy not only boosts trust and loyalty among consumers but also positions the franchise favorably for potential franchisees.

Shaquille O’Neal’s image directly contributes to increased customer engagement.
The franchise’s focus on celebrity appeal improves its marketing efforts.
Big Chicken’s growth potential is considerably tied to its strong celebrity endorsement.

With over 22 locations and more in development, Big Chicken showcases the effectiveness of celebrity endorsements in driving brand success and solidifying its place in the market.

How does menu variety contribute to a franchise’s success? At Big Chicken, the diverse menu, featuring crispy chicken sandwiches, tenders, and unique sides, appeals to a broad range of customer preferences.

This variety not only attracts different demographics but also encourages repeat visits. The franchise emphasizes innovation by regularly introducing new items, which keeps the dining experience fresh and engaging.

With over 22 restaurants currently operational and more in development, Big Chicken showcases its commitment to broadening menu offerings to draw in new customers.

Franchise Growth Potential

With a strong foundation built on menu variety and innovation, Big Chicken is well-positioned for significant growth in the fast-casual dining sector.

Currently operating over 22 restaurants, this franchise, endorsed by Shaquille O’Neal, is broadening swiftly. The initial franchise fee is $40,000, with total investments ranging from $673,000 to $1,642,000, making it attractive for potential franchisees.

Key aspects of Big Chicken’s growth potential include:

A menu focused on crispy chicken sandwiches and unique sides, meeting consumer demand for quality fast food.
Celebrity association that improves brand recognition and attracts diverse customers.
An emphasis on innovative dining experiences, aligning with current trends in the franchise environment.

Cinnabon

Cinnabon offers a unique product that stands out in the food service industry, primarily because of its famous cinnamon rolls.

With over 1,500 locations globally and strong brand recognition, investing in a Cinnabon franchise can lead to significant customer loyalty and foot traffic.

As the initial franchise fee ranges from $5,500 to $30,500, the total investment can vary between $112,000 and $546,800, providing extensive support to franchisees for operational success.

Unique Product Offering

With regard to unique product offerings in the dessert franchise market, few compare to the appeal of Cinnabon’s signature cinnamon rolls. These warm, gooey treats are a staple, driving significant foot traffic to over 1,500 locations worldwide. Their distinct flavor profile and generous frosting make them irresistible, especially in high-traffic areas like malls.

Key features of Cinnabon’s product offerings include:

Diverse Menu Options: Beyond cinnamon rolls, Cinnabon offers various pastries and drinks, catering to different tastes.
Consistent Quality: Each roll is crafted with the same high standards, ensuring a reliable customer experience.
Customizable Treats: Customers can personalize their orders, enhancing satisfaction and encouraging repeat visits.

This unique product strategy positions Cinnabon as a strong contender in the dessert franchise sector.

Established Brand Recognition

Established in 1985, Cinnabon has cultivated a strong brand recognition that greatly benefits its franchisees. With approximately 1,500 locations worldwide, Cinnabon stands as a leader in the bakery franchise sector.

The brand’s signature cinnamon rolls attract significant customer traffic, particularly in mall settings, ensuring a steady flow of business. Franchisees enjoy the advantages of this established presence, which improves customer loyalty and drives sales.

Cinnabon furthermore provides marketing support, further contributing to the profitability and operational success of its franchises. By leveraging the brand’s recognition, you can tap into a loyal customer base, making it easier to establish your location in the competitive food service market.

This strong brand foundation makes Cinnabon an appealing franchise opportunity.

Investment and Fees

When considering a franchise opportunity like Cinnabon, grasping the investment and fees involved is crucial. The initial franchise fee ranges from $5,500 to $30,500, making it accessible for many potential franchisees.

The total initial investment varies between $112,000 and $546,800, largely depending on your location and setup costs. Furthermore, you’ll need to account for ongoing royalty fees, typically between 4% and 8% of your gross sales.

Cinnabon franchises benefit from high customer traffic, especially in mall locations.
The franchise model includes extensive support for marketing, operations, and training.
A well-established brand improves your revenue potential, making the investment worthwhile.

Understanding these financial aspects can help you make an informed decision.

PJ’s Coffee

As you explore franchise opportunities, PJ’s Coffee stands out due to its rich history and commitment to quality. Established in 1978 and now part of Ballard Brands, this franchise offers a diverse menu of coffee beverages and breakfast items.

PJ’s sources its coffee through Direct Trade partnerships, ensuring high-quality products. The initial franchise fee is $35,000, with total investments ranging from $406,000 to $1,024,000.

Franchisees enjoy a robust support system, including training programs, marketing assistance, and operational guidance. With a loyal customer base and an increasing demand for quality coffee, PJ’s Coffee is well-positioned in the market.

The brand’s focus on creating a unique coffee shop experience appeals to consumers seeking quality and convenience.

Arby’s

Arby’s offers a compelling franchise opportunity for those interested in the fast-food sector, particularly in the sandwich market. Founded in 1964, it has grown to be the second-largest sandwich chain globally, with over 3,500 locations across nine countries.

The initial franchise fee ranges from $6,250 to $50,000, and total investments can vary from $628,950 to $2,000,000. Arby’s focus on high-quality meats, especially its signature roast beef sandwiches, sets it apart in the industry.

Drive-thru business growth caters to consumer preferences for convenience.
Franchisees receive robust training and operational support.
Innovative menu items attract a diverse customer base.

This combination of factors makes Arby’s a remarkable franchise option.

Great Clips®

Great Clips® stands out as a leading hair salon franchise in the United States, offering a unique opportunity for those interested in the service industry.

With over 4,400 locations nationwide, it’s known for affordable, no-appointment hair care services that attract a steady stream of customers. This no-appointment model allows for quick and efficient haircuts, contributing to high satisfaction rates.

As a franchisee, you’ll benefit from a well-established brand, thorough training, and ongoing corporate support, ensuring smooth operations.

The initial investment is relatively low, with franchise fees between $20,000 and $25,000, and total costs ranging from $150,000 to $300,000.

Great Clips®’ strong marketing and community involvement further improve customer loyalty, making it a reliable opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Franchise Is Most Profitable in the USA?

Determining the most profitable franchise in the USA depends on various factors, including industry performance and location.

Fast food franchises like McDonald’s and Chick-fil-A consistently show high sales figures. In home services, Mr. Rooter thrives because of ongoing demand.

Furthermore, Marco’s Pizza and Cinnabon likewise report strong financial returns.

Typically, successful franchises can offer a return on investment ranging from 15% to 25%, emphasizing the importance of support and strategic placement.

What Is the Number One Franchise in the US?

The number one franchise in the U.S. is McDonald’s, known for its strong brand and global presence.

Its franchisees benefit from extensive support systems, including training and marketing. With an initial franchise fee of around $45,000 and total investments between $1 million and $2.2 million, it remains accessible to many.

McDonald’s adaptability to trends, like digital ordering, and its vast network of over 38,000 locations contribute to its leading position in the fast-food industry.

What Are the Most Profitable Franchises in 2025?

In 2025, you’ll find home service franchises, like plumbing and cleaning services, maintaining profitability because of ongoing consumer demand.

Food service franchises, especially those with unique menus or celebrity partners, are expected to thrive as convenience becomes crucial.

Weight loss franchises are likewise poised for growth, reflecting society’s focus on health.

Furthermore, well-established brands with strong marketing support, like Arby’s, will likely continue to attract loyal customers and guarantee profitability.

Which Franchise Is Best for Beginners?

If you’re a beginner looking into franchising, consider options like Cinnabon, which has lower initial costs and accessible franchise fees.

Marco’s Pizza offers strong support with a reasonable franchise fee.

The Melting Pot provides a unique dining experience, though it requires a higher investment.

On the other hand, Big Chicken, backed by Shaquille O’Neal, presents a recognizable brand.

Finally, Mr. Rooter is ideal for those interested in service-based businesses, featuring strong growth potential and support.

Conclusion

To summarize, exploring the top seven franchise opportunities in the USA can help you make an informed decision about your future business venture. Each brand, from The Melting Pot to Great Clips, offers unique services and strong support systems, which are critical for success. By comprehending the strengths of each franchise, you can align your interests with the right opportunity, potentially leading to a profitable and fulfilling career in the franchise industry.

Image via Google Gemini

This article, "Top 7 Franchise Opportunities in the USA" was first published on Small Business Trends

Amazon Launches Enhancements to Bedrock AgentCore for Smarter AI Agents

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 17:11:00 +0200

At the recent AWS re:Invent conference, Amazon Web Services (AWS) unveiled significant enhancements to its Amazon Bedrock AgentCore, designed to empower businesses in developing, deploying, and scaling AI agents effectively. These innovations can reshape how small businesses integrate artificial intelligence into their operations, providing tools that not only streamline tasks but also enhance decision-making processes.

The new features of the Amazon Bedrock AgentCore include real-time policy enforcement, continuous evaluations, and advanced memory mechanisms. These developments address several challenges that businesses face when adopting AI technologies.

One of the most critical capabilities introduced is policy enforcement that actively blocks unauthorized actions by AI agents. This function operates outside the core agent code, offering small business owners a robust layer of security against unintended or harmful decisions made by AI systems. As Paul Kinney, Vice President of Product Development at Amazon Device Operations, noted, “Trust is crucial in AI adoption, and our new policy controls ensure that human oversight is maintained even as businesses scale their operations.”

Additionally, AgentCore Evaluations enable developers to continuously assess their AI agents’ performance. This real-time feedback can be particularly beneficial for small businesses that may lack the extensive resources to monitor AI developments rigorously. By leveraging these evaluation tools, small business owners can ensure that their agents are operating efficiently and making effective decisions based on current data.

The newly introduced AgentCore Memory feature further enhances AI functionality by allowing agents to learn from past interactions and decisions, improving their decision-making capabilities over time. This episodic learning can significantly boost operational efficiency, particularly for businesses in customer service, marketing, and supply chain management. For instance, a small e-commerce shop could employ an AI agent that remembers customer preferences, delivering personalized experiences that drive sales and increase customer satisfaction.

Real-world applications of these innovations span a wide array of industries. From healthcare organizations like Cohere Health, which could leverage AI for patient management, to logistics firms enhancing supply chain decisions with better data analysis, the potential is vast. This adaptability underscores the utility of AgentsCore across sectors, making it an attractive option for small businesses aiming to gain a competitive edge.

However, it’s essential for small business owners to consider the potential challenges these technologies may bring. The complexity of implementing AI can overwhelm smaller teams lacking in-depth technical expertise. As noted by tech consultant Lisa Jacobs, “While these advancements are promising, it’s vital for small businesses to invest in training and support to maximize their benefits. Without a proper understanding, the risk of underutilization increases.”

Moreover, the rapid pace of AI development means small businesses need to stay abreast of continuous updates and changes. Keeping up with technology is not just about acquisition but also involves ongoing education and adaptation. For some smaller firms, especially those operating under tight budgets, investing in such technology can feel daunting. However, taking advantage of AWS’s extensive resources and tutorials could ease this transition.

Nevertheless, the potential benefits often outweigh the challenges. The enhancements to Amazon Bedrock AgentCore could catalyze significant transformation for smaller enterprises. By leveraging these advanced AI capabilities effectively, businesses can streamline operations, enhance customer interactions, and ultimately drive growth.

The bottom line is that these innovations provide a unique opportunity for small businesses to harness the power of AI. The tools and mechanisms offered in the Amazon Bedrock AgentCore can help them navigate the complexities of AI integration while benefiting from increased productivity and improved decision-making processes.

For more details on the newly introduced capabilities of Amazon Bedrock AgentCore, visit the original press release at Amazon News.

Image via Google Gemini

This article, "Amazon Launches Enhancements to Bedrock AgentCore for Smarter AI Agents" was first published on Small Business Trends

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My 6-Step Content Marketing Formula That Drives 3,549 Visitors

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 15:53:57 +0200

Writing a blog post is easy.

If you don’t write often, you may feel otherwise, but just follow this and you’ll be good to go when it comes to writing. Or, you can just watch the video below.

But still, you write a blog post and then what do you do?

Well, I’ll tell you this… most people forget the “marketing” in content marketing. Most people write content but don’t do a great job of promoting it.

Here’s the thing: I figured out the perfect formula to promoting content.

Best of all, it’s not complex. Heck, it doesn’t even take 30 minutes. It’s so easy that I broke it down into 6 steps.

And just to give you an idea before we dive into the formula, it’s so effective here is the traffic to my latest blog post.

35,492 visits in a week isn’t too shabby. The post didn’t do exceptionally well and it didn’t tank. It was just an average post.

Now you probably won’t see the same results as me as I’ve been doing this for a long time, but your results will be much better than what you are currently getting. Hence, I used the number of 3,549 in the title as you should be able to drive 1/10th of what I am generating.

So, let’s dive right into the formula.

Step #1: Optimize your headline

8 out of 10 people will read your headline, but only 2 out of 10 people will click through on your headline to read the rest of your article.

No matter how well written your content is, promoting it won’t be effective if no one likes your headline.

Now I know what you are thinking… I’ve already published my article, is it too late to change my headline?

Nope, you can always change your headline, just try not to change the URL of the article once it is already published. And if you decide to change the URL, use a 301 redirect.

There’s a really simple way to come up with headlines that work. Heck, it doesn’t even take more than a minute or two.

Just head over to Ubersuggest and type in the main keyword or phrase your article is about.

You’ll see a report that looks something like this:

Now I want you to click on “Content Ideas” in the left-hand navigation.

You should now see a report that looks like this:

This report shows you all of the blog posts around the web that contain your keyword or phrase within their title. And it breaks it down by social shares, backlinks, and search traffic.

You can use this to see what is working in your space.

Ideally, you want to look for headlines that have thousands of social shares (or hundreds if you aren’t in a popular industry), at least 10 backlinks, and more than 100 estimated visits. Just like the example below.

Making your headlines similar to ones that meet those 3 criteria will increase your odds of getting more traffic.

Step #2: Add 3 internal links

The easiest way to get your new content more love is to build links.

Yes, links are hard to build, but internal links are not… plus they are still effective.

I rank for competitive terms like “digital marketing”…

A lot of it has to do with internal links. I link to my main digital marketing page within my sidebar and within my content.

Every time you publish a new blog post, I want you to go into your older content that is relevant to your newly published blog post and add a link to it. Do this to 3 of your older blog posts.

This helps with indexing and it also helps your new content rank higher on Google.

Step 3: Share your content on the social web carefully

The problem with social media marketing is that people think they can just share their content on sites like Facebook or LinkedIn and it will automatically do well.

Sadly, it won’t because billions of URLs have been shared already.

In other words, we just tend to ignore most of the links people share.

But there is a simple way to stand out and get thousands of visitors from the social web, just like I get.

So, what’s my secret?

Well, I will give you a hint. Just look at one of my most recent posts on LinkedIn:

And here is one from Facebook:

Do you notice a pattern?

I’m evoking curiosity. In other words, I am piquing your interest and if you want to know the “solution” you have to click through to my site.

With the LinkedIn post, I tell you that marketing is going to change next year. I also make a point to say how it is going to change in a way that nobody is talking about.

I do this because we all can assume marketing will change. But by saying it is in a way nobody is talking about, it evokes curiosity. And if you want to know how it will change you have no choice but to click through over to my site to read the rest.

With my Facebook post, I also evoke curiosity. I talk about a Google algorithm update, but I hint that I have an answer to leveraging Google’s latest algorithm update. And if you want to know what it is, you have to click through over to my site.

Whenever you post on the social web, evoke curiosity if you want people to head over to your site.

The easiest way to do this is that every time you share one of your articles on the social web, add a few sentences above the link that helps pique peoples’ interest.

Step #4: Message everyone you link out to

It’s common to link out to other sites within your blog posts.

Heck, sometimes I even link out to my competition.

If you don’t ever link out to other sites, you are making a big mistake. It helps with authority and trust.

If you are using stats and data within your article, you want to cite your sources. This brings credibility to you and it helps brand yourself as an expert which can help with Google’s medic update.

Now, when you link out to a site, go and search their email address. You can typically find their email address on their website.

Or if you can’t find their email address, look for a contact page on their site, you’ll typically see a form that you can fill out.

Whether you find an email address or contact form, I want you to message each and every single site you link out to with a message that goes like this:

Hi [insert their first name],
I just wanted to say, I love your content. Especially your article on [insert the name of the article you linked out to].
I linked to it from my latest blog post [insert URL of your blog post]. It would make my day if you checked it out and even shared it on your favorite social network if you enjoyed it.
Cheers,
[insert your name]

When I send out these emails, I am getting 50 to 60% of the people to respond and share my content. But of course, my blog is popular, so for me, it isn’t too hard. But it hasn’t always been that way, and I’ve been leveraging this tactic for ages.

On the flip side, I also use this tactic on a few of my blogs that are in other niches and don’t use my name (no one knows I own them) and I am seeing success rates around 20%.

Just make sure you don’t use this tactic to ask for a link back. Your success rate will be slim.

Step #5: Send an email blast

These last two tactics produce a large portion of my results, and you shouldn’t take them for granted, no matter how basic they may seem.

If you already haven’t, start collecting emails from your site. You can use free tools like Hello Bar to create popups or sliders.

Hello Bar will plug into whatever email provider you are currently using.

Once you are up and running, every time you release a new blog post, send out an email blast.

Here’s an example of one of my email blasts.

It’s so effective it generated 13,544 clicks.

I’ve found that you can drive good traffic from emails as long as you do the following:

Scrub your list – if someone doesn’t open your emails over the last 30 or 60 days, remove them from your list. It helps keep your emails in people’s inboxes.
Send text-based emails – if you look at the email I sent, I keep it simple. No images, nothing fancy, just text and a link back to my site. It’s that simple.
Evoke curiosity – just like how I explained with the social media posts, your emails won’t do well unless you evoke curiosity.

As you write more content you will get more traffic, which will cause your email list to grow. That will also cause you to get more traffic.

Marketing Trends for 2020: Here’s What Will Happen That Nobody is Talking About

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 15:42:54 +0200

The new year is right around the corner. And I know you are already prepared because you read this blog and tons of other marketing blogs, right?

But here is the thing: I also read most of the popular marketing blogs, follow all of the marketing YouTube channels, and listen to the same podcasts you do.

And I’ve noticed that very few people are talking about what’s really going to happen in 2020.

Sure, they will tell you things like voice search is going to account for over 50% of the search queries next year but all of that stuff has already been talked about.

And there are actually more interesting trends that will affect your marketing that no one is really talking about.

So, what are these trends? What’s going to happen in 2020?

Alright, here goes…

Trend #1: Companies who rely on Google Analytics will get beat by their competition

We all love Google Analytics.

Heck, I love it so much I log in at least 3 or 4 times a day. And here is the kicker: I get so much traffic that my Google Analytics only updates once a day.

I really need to break that habit but that’s for another day.

You are probably wondering, what’s wrong with Google Analytics?

There actually isn’t much wrong with it. It’s a great tool, especially considering that it’s free.

But here is the thing… marketing has been changing. New channels are being constantly introduced, such as voice search.

And transactions no longer are as simple as someone coming and buying from you and that’s it.

These days there are things like upsells, down sells, repeat purchases, and even checkout bumps. On top of that, there are so many different ways you can generate revenue for your online business, such as partnerships, affiliate marketing, and even webinars.

This has caused companies to start using analytics solutions that tie into their database better, such as Amplitude. Or better yet, you are seeing a big push into business intelligence.

A central place where you can tie in all of your data and make better-informed decisions so you can optimize for your lifetime value instead of your short-term income.

In 2020, you will see more companies adopting business intelligence solutions… from paid ones to free ones like Google Data Studio.

If you haven’t checked out Data Studio, you’ll want to start now because it is easy to pass in all of your business and marketing data into one place. For example, you can pass in more granular data from your Facebook ad campaigns into Data Studio while that would be a bit difficult to do with Google Analytics.

Trend #2: Companies will optimize for voice search, but not for revenue

According to ComScore, over 50% of the searches in 2020 will be from voice search. But that’s not really a new trend… everyone has been talking about that for years.

So, what’s the big deal?

Optimizing for voice search is a great way to get your brand out more, but how is that going to convert into sales?

I haven’t seen too many solutions so far when it comes to capitalizing on your voice search traffic, but so far there is Jetson.ai.

If you aren’t familiar with Jetson.ai, it makes it so people can buy from your site using voice search. It doesn’t matter if it is Alexa or Google Home, they work with most of the popular devices.

What’s cool about Jetson.ai is that it can learn from each customer and customize the interactions.

For example, if I keep ordering the same toothpaste from a specific store using voice search, Jetson.ai keeps track of that so you can easily keep ordering the same product over and over again with little to no friction.

Heck, it’s easier than logging into your computer or pulling out your phone to make a purchase.

Trend #3: Your lists won’t convert as well, so you’ll have to look for alternative communication channels

Email, it’s something we all use in the corporate world.

But here is something interesting when it comes to marketing emails… I’m in a group with a bit over 109 email marketers across different industries in different parts of the world.

And can you guess what we are all noticing?

Our open rates are staying roughly the same and that’s largely because we all know how to clean and optimizing for deliverability.

But our click rates are going down.

So far as a group we have seen our click rates drop by 9.4% in 2019.

That’s crazy considering as a group we have over 146 million email addresses.

Now does this mean email is dead?

Of course not!!!

Email is here to stay and will be here for a very long time.

But what companies will have to do in 2020 is to leverage more communication channels.

Chatbots will take off drastically. Not necessarily the Intercom’s or Drift’s of the world but more so the solutions like ManyChat and MobileMonkey.

ManyChat and MobileMonkey leverage Facebook Messenger and as they connect it with Instagram and WhatsApp it will get even more popular.

In addition to chatbots, you’ll see more people leveraging tools that allow push notifications like Subscribers.

It’s so powerful, here is the impact I’ve been able to generate from push notifications so far using Subscribers.

You can wait till next year to lever chatbots and push notifications, but I’d recommend you start sooner than later.

How Google’s Bert Update Will Affect Content Marketing

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 14:25:03 +0200

Google announced that it has been rolling out a new update call Bert.

I know what you are thinking… does this update really matter? Should I even spend time learning about it?

Well, Bert will affect 1 in 10 search queries.

To give you an idea of how big of an update this is, it’s the biggest update since Google released RankBrain.

In other words, there is a really good chance that this impacts your site. And if it doesn’t, as your traffic grows, it will eventually affect your site.

But before we go into how this update affects SEOs and what you need to adjust (I will go into that later in this post), let’s first get into what this update is all about.

So, what is Bert?

Bert stands for Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers.

You are probably wondering, what the heck does that mean, right?

Google, in essence, has adjusted its algorithm to better understand natural language processing.

Just think of it this way: you could put a flight number into Google and they typically show you the flight status. Or a calculator may come up when you type in a math equation. Or if you put a stock symbol in, you’ll get a stock chart.

Or even a simpler example is: you can start typing into Google and its autocomplete feature can figure out what you are searching for before you even finishing typing it in.

But Google has already had all of that figured out before Bert. So let’s look at some examples of Bert in action.

Is Bert even useful?

Here are 4 examples of Bert.

Let’s say you search for “2019 brazil traveler to usa need visa”.

Before Bert, the top result would be how US citizens can travel to Brazil without a visa. But look at the search query carefully… it’s slight, but it is a big difference.

The search wasn’t about US people going to Brazil, it was about people from Brazil traveling to the US.

The result after the Bert update is much more relevant.

Google is now taking into account prepositions like “for” or “to” that can have a lot of meanings to the search query.

Here’s another example… “do estheticians stand a lot at work”…

Google used to previously match terms. For example, their system used to think “stand” is the same as “stand-alone”.

Now they understand that the word “stand” has the context of physical demand. In other words, is the job exhausting… do you have to be on your feet a lot?

And one more, “can you get medicine for someone pharmacy” …

As you can see from the before and after picture, it’s clear that the new result is more relevant.

Same with this one on “math practice books for adults” …

Is that the only change?

It isn’t. Google also made changes to featured snippets.

For example, if you searched for “parking on a hill with no curb”, Google used to place too much emphasis on the word “curb” and not enough emphasis on the word “no”.

That’s a big difference… and you can see that in the results.

The new changes this algorithm update brings makes it much more relevant for searchers and it creates a better experience for you and me and everyone else who uses Google.

But how does it affect SEOs?

You need to change your SEO strategy

There are three types of queries people usually make when performing a search:

Informational
Navigational
Transactional

An informational query is like someone looking to lose weight. They aren’t sure how so they may search for “how to lose weight”.

And once they perform the search, they may find a solution such as different diets. From there they may search for a solution, using a navigational query such as “Atkins diet”.

Once someone figures out the exact solution, they then may perform a transactional search query, such as “the Atkins diet cookbook”.

From what we are seeing on our end is that Bert is mainly impacting top-of-the-funnel keywords, which are informational related keywords.

Now if you want to not only maintain your rankings but gobble up some of the rankings of your competition, a simple solution is to get very specific with your content.

Typically, when you create content, which is the easiest way to rank for informational related keywords, SEOs tell you to create super long content.

Yes, you may see that a lot of longer-form content ranks well on Google, but their algorithm doesn’t focus on word count, it focuses on quality.

The context of the tweet from Danny Sullivan, who is Google’s search liaison, is that he wants SEOs to focus on creating content that is fundamentally great, unique, useful, and compelling.

So when you use tools like Ubersuggest to find new topics to go after, you need to make sure your content is super-specific.

For example, if you have a business about fitness and you blog about “how to lose weight without taking pills”, your content shouldn’t focus on diet shakes or supplements or anything too similar to diet pills. Instead, it should discuss all of the alternative methods.

I know what you are thinking, shakes and supplements may not be diet pills and they aren’t the same keyword but expect Bert to get more sophisticated in the next year in which it will better understand what people are really looking for.

Additionally, you should stop focusing on keyword density.

Yes, a lot of SEOs have moved away from this, but I still get a handful of emails each day asking me about keyword density.

Keyword density will even be less important in the future as Google better understands the context of the content you are writing.

So, where’s the opportunity?

As I mentioned, it’s related to creating highly specific content around a topic.

It’s not necessarily about creating a really long page that talks about 50 different things that’s 10,000 words long. It’s more about answering a searcher’s question as quick as possible and providing as much value compared to the competition.

Just like when you search for “what is it like to be in the Olympics”, you’ll see a list of results that look something like this:

Although the first result has the title of “What it’s like to go to the Olympics”, the article doesn’t break down what it is like to go as an attendee, it breaks down what it is like to go as an athlete. Just like a searcher would expect based on the query.

Bert was clearly able to figure this out even though the title could have gone either way. And the article itself isn’t that long. The article itself only has 311 words.

If you want to do well when it comes to ranking for informational keywords, go very specific and answer the question better than your competitors. From videos and images to audio, do whatever needs to be done to create a better experience.

Now to be clear, this doesn’t mean that long-form content doesn’t work. It’s just that every SEO already focuses on long-form content. They are going after generic head terms that can be interpreted in 100 different ways and that’s why the content may be long and thorough.

In other words, focus more on long-tail terms.

You may think that is obvious but let’s look at the data.

It all starts with Ubersuggest. If you haven’t used it yet, you can type in a keyword like “marketing” and it will show you the search volume as well as give you thousands (if not millions) of keyword variations.

In the last 30 days, 4,721,534 keyword queries were performed on Ubersuggest by 694,284 marketers. Those 4,721,534 searches returned 1,674,841,398 keyword recommendations.

And sure, SEOs could be typing in head terms to find more long-tail phrases, but when we look at what keywords people are selecting within Ubersuggest and exporting, 84% of marketers are focusing on 1 or 2-word search terms.

Only 1.7% of marketers are focusing on search terms that are 5 or words longer.

Following the strategy of creating content around very specific long-tail phrases is so effective that sites like Quora are generating 60,428,999 visitors a month just from Google alone in the United States.

And a lot of their content isn’t super detailed with 10,000-word responses. They just focus on answering very specific questions that people have.

Conclusion

Even if your search traffic drops a bit from the latest update, it’s a good thing.

I know that sounds crazy, but think of it this way… if someone searched for “how to lose weight without diet pills” and they landed on your article about how diet pills are amazing, they are just going to hit the back button and go back to Google.

In other words, it is unlikely that the traffic converted into a conversion.

Sure, you may lose some traffic from this update, but the traffic was ruining your user metrics and increasing your bounce rate.

Plus, this is your opportunity to create content that is super-specific. If you lose traffic, look at the pages that dropped, the search queries that you aren’t ranking for anymore, and go and adjust your content or create new content that answers the questions people are looking for.

If you don’t know how to do this, just log into Search Console, click on “search results”, and click on the date button.

Then click on compare and select the dates where your traffic dropped and compare it to the previous periods. Then select “Queries” and sort by the biggest difference.

You’ll have to dig for the longer-term search queries as those are the easiest to fix. And if you are unsure about what to fix, just search for the terms on Google that dropped and look at the top-ranking competitors. Compare their page with yours as it will provide some insights.

So, what do you think about the latest update?

The post How Google’s Bert Update Will Affect Content Marketing appeared first on Neil Patel.

Hi, I’m Neil Patel, Co-founder of NPDigital. Ask Me Anything!

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 16:00:28 +0300

Today, I thought I would do something a bit different, as 66.9% of my website traffic is brand new.

For those of you who don’t know, my name is Neil Patel and I’m the co-founder of a digital marketing agency called, NPDigital, where we help companies of all sizes get more traffic and sales.

I’ve been an entrepreneur for roughly 18 years now and most of the companies I co-founded have been in the software arena, specifically the web analytics sector.

And now, I’m back at it with Ubersuggest, my latest software company.

In addition to that, I’ve angel invested in dozens of companies. Some have done well, and others haven’t.

Overall, I’ve been blessed with a few successes that have made up for my failures plus more.

So today is your day to ask me any questions you have, and I will do my best to answer it. You can ask me about entrepreneurship, marketing, or anything else. I’ve dealt with class-action lawsuits, an FTC investigation (which I passed), and I’ve lost out on acquisitions from Fortune 1000 companies because of stupidity on my part.

All I ask of you is. Please keep your question as short as possible. One to two sentences max as I will get hundreds of comments (potentially even 1,000 or more).

So, what can I answer for you?

*** You may have to scroll a bit down to see the comment section***

The post Hi, I’m Neil Patel, Co-founder of NPDigital. Ask Me Anything! appeared first on Neil Patel.

The Real Secret to My Social Media Success

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 16:09:37 +0300

The other day I was recording a podcast episode with my co-host Eric Siu and he wanted to discuss something in particular.

He wanted to talk about how I got to 62,000 Instagram followers in a very short period of time and without spending any money on ads or marketing.

Eric is a great marketer as well, and when it comes to social media, he spends much more time than me on it and he even has people at his ad agency dedicated to helping him grow his personal brand online.

And of writing this post, he has 4,056 followers.

It’s not just with Instagram either, I beat him on all platforms.

Heck, he even does something that I don’t do, which is smart… he continually pays for advice. For example, he had his team jump on an hour call with Gary Vaynerchuk’s social media team so they could learn from them and grow his brand faster.

So, what’s the secret to my success?

Well, before I get into it, let me first start off by saying I love Eric to death and the point of this post isn’t to pick on him or talk crap… more so, I have a point to make and you’ll see it in a bit below.

Is it the fundamentals?

Everyone talks about strategies to grow your social following… from going live and posting frequently or talking about the type of content you should post and what you shouldn’t do.

I could even tell you that you need to respond to every comment and build up a relationship with your followers, which will help you grow your following and brand.

And although all of this is true, I dare you to try the fundamentals or the strategies that every marketing guru talks about doing. If you do, I bet this will happen…

It will be a lot of work and, if you are lucky, in the next 30 days you may get 10% more followers.

Sure, some of you will get much more growth, but you’ll find that you can’t always replicate it and it won’t be consistent.

So, what is it then?

Is it luck?

Luck is part of some people’s success, but not most. The problem with luck is it doesn’t teach you much and it isn’t easy to replicate.

The reality is, some people will just get lucky and have tons of traction.

In other words, luck isn’t the secret. But if you do want to get “luckier”, then you can always become an early adopter which helps a bit.

How early is early?

When you jump onto a social network when it’s new, it’s easier to grow and become popular.

For example, I got to over 30,000 Twitter followers extremely fast when Twitter first came out.

At that time, I wasn’t as well known… it happened because of a few reasons:

Social algorithms are favorable early on – algorithms are typically favorable and most people will see your content. There aren’t many restrictions, hence it’s easier to grow. After a social network becomes popular, algorithms tighten up.
Algorithms are easier to game early on – when you are early, you can use a lot of hacks to grow faster. For example, on Twitter, I would just follow tons of people a day and unfollow anyone who didn’t follow me back.
First movers’ advantage – social networks want more users, that’s what they need to succeed. In the early stages of any platform, they want to help you gain more of a following so you will keep using their platform.

But here is the thing: even though being an early adopter helps, it’s not the secret to my success.

Just look at Instagram, I am really late to the game. But I started growing fast just this year as that is when we really started.

If you can get in early, you should do so, assuming you have the time to invest. For example, this is the time to get in on Tiktok.

When you get in early, there is always the chance that the social network may end up flopping. But if it does take off, you’ll be ahead of your competition.

So what did I do?

Here was the secret to my growth… and it still works today. Eric Siu is even doing it with me right now.

It’s piggybacking on brands that are already popular.

When I first started, no one knew who I was. And I’m not saying everyone knows who I am today… by no means do I have a large brand like Tony Robbins.

What I did early on in my career was piggyback off of other popular brands.

For example, I hit up Pete Cashmore from Mashable, Michael Arrington from TechCrunch, Adrianna Huffington from Huffington Post, and so many other popular sites like ReadWriteWeb, Business Insider, Gawker Media, and GigaOm to name just a few.

I know some of them don’t exist anymore, but back then they were extremely popular. Anyone who was in tech, and even some who weren’t, knew about each of those sites.

So, when I got started as a marketer, I hit up all of those sites and offered all of them free marketing in exchange for promoting my brand and adding “Marketing done by Neil Patel” or “Marketing done by Pronet”, which was my ad agency back then.

Just look at the image above. TechCrunch used to link to my site on every page of their site… forget rich anchor text, it really is all about branding.

The hardest part is, I had to email and message these influencers dozens of times just to convince them to let me help them for free. And a lot of them ignored me or didn’t accept my offer.

But of a few said yes.

Pete from Mashable was one of the first to say yes. Once his traffic and rankings skyrocketed, his competition hit me up. Especially TechCrunch.

What was funny, though, is that I was constantly emailing TechCrunch and didn’t hear back. 6 months from my first email, they eventually accepted my offer.

I made a deal with Michael Arrington at the time in which once I boosted his traffic, he would add a logo that I did marketing for him, which you saw above.

In addition to that, he would tell all of his venture capital friends what I did for him and share the results (so hopefully they would share it with their portfolio companies, which would help me make money) and write a blog post about me.

He didn’t end up writing the blog post, which is fine, but he did the other two.

When he sent out emails to VCs showing a Google Analytics graph of his traffic growing at a rapid pace, I quickly got inundated with inquiries about my marketing services.

In addition to that, I was building up my brand… and my social media following. I was gaining “social clout” because I was doing good work for influencers.

One could argue that boosting traffic for someone like TechCrunch by 30% is worth millions and I should have charged for my services. Although I spent countless time doing free work, I wouldn’t trade it for any single dollar as it is what made me and helped build up my reputation.

And I didn’t stop there. Even today, I try to associate myself with other popular brands. Just like how I was lucky enough to work with Robert Herjavec, who has a popular TV show in the US along with Mark Cuban…

Here’s how many visitors I was getting for my name “Neil Patel” on a monthly basis before I started working with Robert.

And this is how many visitors I get for my name on a monthly basis a few months after I worked with Robert.

That’s a 37.84% increase in a matter of months!

By piggybacking off of popular brands, it doesn’t just help my website traffic but also helps to grow my social media following as well.

Just like as you can see below with my Instagram growth…

Now it isn’t just me who can do this, anyone can.

How can you piggyback off of other brands?

Just like how I piggybacked off of brands like TechCrunch, Eric is doing something similar to me at the moment.

We have a podcast that generates over 1 million downloads a month.

Eric’s had a podcast for years, but the one he has with me has more than 10x the listeners. This has helped him grow his brand a lot over the last year.

Let’s just look at the data. According to Eric, due to the podcast, he has signed up 6 clients, which has generated 540,000 dollars in annual revenue.

Now when he goes to tech conferences, 3 to 4 people tend to come up to him and mention how they love Marketing School and his work. In addition to that, it has been easier for Eric to set up meetings (people respond back to him more now), and he is also getting advisory shares in companies due to his growing brand. And the best part is, he is getting more paid speaking gigs for up to $10,000 a pop because of the podcast.

The data shows it was a good move by Eric for partnering up with me. He pushed me to do a podcast years ago and I told him no because I was too lazy. He didn’t give up though. Eventually, he got me to say yes and flew to my house in Las Vegas to record our first episode.

He did all of the work and it has been a great mutual relationship as doing this podcast has also helped grow my brand at the same time.

Now you are probably thinking, why isn’t his follower count growing fast enough?

Well, he needs to do what he is doing with me with a few more influencers to really put fuel to the fire. Just like how I didn’t only piggyback off of TechCrunch… at one point the Gawker Media network was linking to me on every page of their sites, which was seen by over 100 million unique people per month.

That really gets your brand out there!

Another example is Brian Dean from Backlinko as he did something similar with me back in the day. Years ago I approached him to write a detailed guide on link building with him and he also created videos that were on my old marketing blog Quick Sprout, which helped him grow his brand.

I can’t take credit for “making” Eric or Brian successful. They would have done well without me… and in the grand scheme of things, I really didn’t do much for either of them.

It’s like saying TechCrunch made the Neil Patel brand. Of course, it helped, and helped a lot… but one partnership won’t make or break you.

And if I didn’t continually blog, create videos, speak at events, or do any of the other stuff that I did, the TechCrunch partnership wouldn’t have been as effective.

Eric and Brian would have grown their brand in other ways because their work stands for itself, hence they would have been successful on their own. I just helped provide a little boost, just like how TechCrunch provided me with a boost.

And once more people get to know you, you’ll naturally do better on the social web.

For example, when Will Smith created his Instagram account, he didn’t have to buy ads or anything. Everyone just knows him already and that’s why his Instagram account blew up really quickly.

And you can do what Will Smith did on a smaller scale. Similar to what I did.

But don’t expect it overnight. Will Smith has been on television for over 20 years. It’s multiple shows, movies, and connections with other famous people that have really helped grow Will’s brand.

Of course, we won’t get on TV as Will has, but you can piggyback on other popular brands multiple times to create a similar (smaller) effect.

All you have to do is help these influencers out for free.

If you are a web designer, offer design services. If you are a marketer, offer marketing services. If you are selling a product or service, keep giving it away for free and maybe someone will talk about your company.

If you don’t have anything you can offer that has value, just look at whatever influencer you want to associate with, see where they may need help, learn that skill, and offer it for free.

It’s the easiest way to become popular on the social web.

Conclusion

That’s my secret to being popular on the social web.

It’s also how I built a decent size company… purely by leveraging other popular brands in the early days.

You can do the same, but you have to be patient. Don’t expect it to happen overnight.

For example, Eric’s brand has been growing but we have been doing a podcast together for over 2 years now.

Plus, he continually pushes on his own and doesn’t just rely on leveraging other influencers.

Remember, nothing worthwhile happens overnight.

You have to be persistent with your emails, your direct messages, your text messages, and whatever else you can do to get a hold of these influencers. Most will ignore you but it is a numbers game and, eventually, you’ll be able to associate your brand with someone popular, which will grow your brand.

And last but not least: Don’t expect an influencer to make you successful. Sure, multiple influencers are better than one, but that’s not what I meant.

If Brian Dean from Backlinko wasn’t good at link building, creating content, SEO, and educating, he wouldn’t do well… no matter who he associated himself with. The same goes for Eric.

Your skills, your abilities, your product… whatever you are trying to brand needs to stand on its own.

So, what do you think about my secret? Are you going to copy it?

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