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Grasping the franchise and franchisee relationship is vital for success in this business model. This relationship is guided by a franchise agreement, which details the rights and responsibilities of both parties. Although franchisees have the independence to operate their businesses, they must likewise adhere to the standards set by the franchisor. Effective communication and support play significant roles in this partnership, but challenges can arise. Exploring these dynamics can reveal effective strategies for maneuvering the intricacies of franchising. Key Takeaways Franchising involves a franchisee operating under a franchisor’s established brand, following a defined franchise agreement outlining mutual rights and responsibilities. Franchisees maintain operational independence while adhering to franchisor guidelines, balancing autonomy with brand consistency and compliance. Effective communication between franchisors and franchisees fosters trust, minimizes misunderstandings, and enhances collaboration for business success. The franchise growth and maturity phases require ongoing support from franchisors, with accountability measures ensuring performance alignment between both parties. Common challenges include communication gaps and misaligned expectations, necessitating regular reviews and clear objectives to maintain a healthy franchise relationship. The Definition of Franchising Franchising serves as a strong business model that allows you to operate under an established brand as well as leveraging the systems and support provided by the franchisor. In this legal agreement, the franchisee gains the right to run a business using the franchisor’s trademark, operating systems, and overall business format. The franchise agreement clearly outlines the rights and obligations of both the franchisor and franchisee, establishing the foundation of their relationship. A key difference between franchisor and franchisee is that the franchisor owns the brand and provides training, marketing, and ongoing support, whereas the franchisee independently operates the unit. This structure not only benefits franchisees seeking business opportunities but additionally helps franchisors expand their brand presence effectively. The Importance of Clear Communication Effective communication is fundamental for the success of any franchise relationship, as it helps build trust and minimizes misconceptions between franchisors and franchisees. The franchisee vs franchisor dynamic thrives on clear communication, which reduces confusion and nurtures a strong partnership. Establishing regular communication channels, like meetings and newsletters, guarantees both parties receive consistent updates and feedback. Maintaining a reliable flow of information is important for addressing challenges swiftly. Providing contact information for key personnel and a dedicated hotline improves accessibility in the franchisor-franchisee relationship. Encouraging transparency in sharing information keeps franchisees informed, promoting collaboration and innovation. Comprehending the franchisee and franchisor difference is critical, as it emphasizes the importance of open dialogue for mutual success. The Role of the Franchisor In the franchise model, the franchisor plays a vital role by providing the brand and business model that you, as a franchisee, rely on for your operations. They also offer fundamental training and ongoing support to guarantee you understand the operational guidelines and can effectively run your business. Furthermore, franchisors manage marketing efforts and enforce compliance standards, making certain that all franchise locations maintain the same quality and brand integrity. Brand and Business Model Although many entrepreneurs seek independence in business ownership, partnering with a franchisor can provide a structured pathway to success through a well-established brand and a proven business model. The franchisor offers franchisees the right to use their trademarks, enhancing brand recognition and building customer trust. Comprehending the difference between franchisee and franchisor is essential, as the latter sets operational guidelines and standards, ensuring consistency across locations. This franchise and franchisee relationship is formalized through a franchise agreement, which outlines roles and responsibilities. In addition, effective marketing efforts led by the franchisor help drive customer traffic to franchisee locations. Training and Support Provided When you become a franchisee, the training and support provided by the franchisor play a vital role in your business’s success. Franchisors typically offer thorough training programs that cover operational procedures, customer service standards, and marketing strategies, ensuring consistency across the brand. Ongoing support includes regular updates on best practices, new products, and technology improvements, helping you stay competitive. Moreover, franchisors often create advisory councils with franchisees to facilitate communication and gather feedback, making your input valuable in decision-making. They may assist with site selection, lease negotiations, and local marketing initiatives to help you launch and grow your business. Comprehending the difference between franchise and franchisee is important, as it defines your role and the support you receive. Marketing and Compliance Standards Marketing and compliance standards, established by the franchisor, play an important role in maintaining a consistent brand identity across all franchise locations. These standards guarantee that every franchisee presents the brand uniformly, which is vital for customer recognition and loyalty. The franchisor manages overall marketing and advertising efforts, providing franchisees with promotional materials and strategies designed to boost customer engagement and sales. Adhering to these marketing standards is mandatory; failure to comply could lead to penalties or jeopardize your franchise agreement. Regular updates and support from the franchisor help you stay aligned with compliance expectations. Moreover, you can collaborate with the franchisor to customize local marketing initiatives as you adhere to the established framework, balancing local outreach with brand consistency. The Role of the Franchisee Franchisees play a crucial role in the success of a franchise operation by managing their units in alignment with the franchisor’s established guidelines. As a franchisee, you’re not just an operator; you’re a key player in maintaining brand integrity. Here are some of your core responsibilities: Adhere to Standards: You follow the franchisor’s operational guidelines to guarantee consistency and quality. Financial Investment: You invest your capital, taking on the financial risk associated with your franchise’s success or failure. Training Participation: You engage in training programs to acquire necessary skills for effective management. Day-to-Day Control: You make daily decisions, like hiring staff and setting prices, during still aligning with the franchisor’s strategies. Your role is crucial for the franchise’s overall performance and reputation. Understanding Franchise Agreements Grasping the intricacies of a franchise agreement is fundamental for anyone entering the franchise business, as this legal document defines the relationship between you and the franchisor. It outlines your rights and obligations, ensuring clarity. Key components often include the franchise duration, fees, territorial rights, and operational guidelines. You’ll need to adhere to specific standards set by the franchisor to maintain brand consistency. Before signing, the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) must be provided, detailing critical information about the opportunity. Furthermore, the agreement may include renewal options, termination clauses, and conditions for transferring ownership. Comprehending these elements is crucial, as they can greatly impact your investment and future success as a franchisee. Phases of the Franchise Relationship In the franchise relationship, you’ll encounter four key phases: Recruitment, Growth, Maturity, and The End or a New Beginning. Each phase presents unique dynamics and expectations, starting with trust-building during Recruitment and moving through the extensive support needed in Growth. As you progress to Maturity, both parties aim for stability and mutual comprehension, setting the stage for potential reassessment in the final phase. Recruitment Phase Overview The recruitment phase is crucial in establishing a successful franchise relationship, as it sets the groundwork for future collaboration between franchisors and prospective franchisees. This phase begins with identifying suitable franchisees and establishing clear expectations. To guarantee a strong foundation, consider these key elements: Mutual Interest: Build trust through ongoing communication and shared goals. Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD): Provide prospective franchisees with important details about the opportunity. Effective Communication: Keep lines open to nurture a positive relationship and shared vision. Alignment with Brand Values: Confirm that franchisees resonate with the franchise’s mission and culture. A successful recruitment phase greatly impacts the franchise system’s overall performance and future success. Growth and Maturity Stages As franchisees shift from the recruitment phase into the Growth stage, they encounter a significant period that shapes the trajectory of their business. This phase kicks off after signing the franchise agreement and typically lasts three years. During this time, you’ll need substantial support and training from your franchisor. Regular communication and thorough training programs are crucial for nurturing a strong relationship and ensuring your satisfaction. As you move into the Maturity phase, expect a more predictable relationship where ongoing training and marketing support become indispensable. Nevertheless, be cautious; disenchantment may arise if you feel the support diminishes, potentially affecting your decision to renew contracts. Effective communication and mutual comprehension are key to maintaining trust and collaboration throughout both phases. Mutual Goals and Objectives Mutual goals and objectives form the backbone of a successful franchise relationship, driving both franchisors and franchisees toward shared outcomes. By aligning interests, both parties can improve overall success. Here are some key mutual goals: Brand Growth: Both franchisors and franchisees aim to expand brand visibility and market share. Increased Profitability: Focusing on strategies that boost profits benefits everyone involved. Customer Satisfaction: Happy customers lead to repeat business and positive brand reputation. Operational Efficiency: Regular communication and adherence to performance metrics streamline operations. Franchise agreements typically outline expectations and objectives, promoting accountability. When both parties actively pursue common objectives, they often see improved performance metrics, including higher sales and customer retention rates, boosting the franchise system’s success. Independence vs. Support As franchisees operate as independent business owners, they must navigate the delicate balance between exercising their autonomy and adhering to the support provided by franchisors. You make key decisions on hiring, employee scheduling, and pricing during the process of following the operational guidelines set by your franchisor. The franchise agreement specifies the level of independence you have alongside the support offered, which typically includes training, marketing assistance, and operational standards. Although franchisors provide valuable resources to improve your performance, they don’t manage your day-to-day operations, allowing you to maintain control. Striking the right balance between independence and support is essential, as effective franchisor guidance can greatly impact your satisfaction and overall success in running your franchise. Common Challenges in Franchise Relationships In franchise relationships, communication gaps often lead to misunderstandings, which can greatly impact franchisee satisfaction. When support from franchisors falls short of expectations, franchisees may feel isolated and discontented. Furthermore, misaligned expectations regarding operational autonomy can create tension, making it essential for both parties to establish clear communication and support systems. Communication Gaps in Franchising How can communication gaps impact the franchisor-franchisee relationship? These gaps often arise from a lack of regular updates and inconsistent messaging, leading to misconceptions. When franchisees feel isolated because of insufficient feedback channels, their satisfaction and performance can suffer. To mitigate these issues, consider the following strategies: Establish regular check-ins to discuss concerns and updates. Share information transparently to build trust and rapport. Foster a collaborative environment by reviewing communication methods regularly. Practice empathy and mutual comprehension during negotiations to bridge gaps. Support Limitations From Franchisors Whereas franchisees often expect robust support from their franchisors, the reality is that this support can be limited by the terms of the franchise agreement. Franchisors typically provide advisory support rather than direct managerial oversight, leaving you responsible for your business outcomes. The franchise agreement clearly outlines the limits of support, as franchisors can’t risk their assets on franchisee failures. During critical growth phases, you might feel isolated and dissatisfied if you perceive a decline in support. Although training and resources are expected, their effectiveness can vary considerably among franchise systems. Misaligned Expectations Between Parties Misaligned expectations between franchisees and franchisors can create significant challenges that undermine the success of the franchise relationship. To navigate these intricacies, it’s crucial to recognize common pitfalls: Underestimating Support Needs: Franchisees often expect more hands-on help during the initial growth phase than franchisors typically provide. Role Confusion: Franchisees may assume franchisors will manage operations thoroughly, whereas franchisors usually offer only advisory support. Ambiguities in Agreements: A lack of clarity in franchise agreements can lead to misunderstandings about responsibilities and performance metrics. Communication Gaps: Breakdown in communication can prevent franchisees from grasping the franchisor’s vision and strategic goals. Regularly reviewing and adjusting mutual goals can help mitigate these challenges and encourage a healthier franchise relationship. Building Trust and Collaboration Building trust and collaboration between franchisors and franchisees is crucial for a successful franchise relationship, as these elements create a foundation for achieving shared goals. Trust develops through consistent communication and regular check-ins, allowing both parties to work together effectively. By cultivating a collaborative environment, franchisors and franchisees can improve performance during addressing challenges that arise. Transparency in operations and decision-making processes further strengthens this trust, making franchisees feel valued and involved in the brand’s direction. Mutual comprehension is fundamental, as recognizing each other’s perspectives helps resolve conflicts and build stronger connections. Moreover, effective training and support from franchisors equip franchisees with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed, promoting a more collaborative partnership overall. Strategies for Success in Franchising Successful franchising relies on effective strategies that improve the relationship between franchisors and franchisees. Here are some key approaches to guarantee success: Establish Clear Communication: Maintain open channels for updates and feedback to build trust and collaboration. Implement Extensive Training: Provide thorough training programs during the initial growth phase to help franchisees understand operational guidelines. Utilize Digital Signage: Boost brand visibility and engagement with digital signage for real-time updates and promotions, aiding franchisees in consistency. Set SMART Goals: Create specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals for both parties to guarantee alignment and accountability. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Relationship Between a Franchiser and a Franchisee? The relationship between a franchisor and a franchisee is defined by a contractual agreement. You, as a franchisee, gain the right to operate a business using the franchisor’s trademarks and business model. As you manage daily operations independently, you must adhere to the franchisor’s established guidelines for quality and service. The franchisor provides training and support, but your success largely relies on your management skills and decision-making abilities. What Are the 4 P’s of Franchising? The 4 P’s of franchising are Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. You must guarantee that your product aligns with brand standards and appeals to your target market. Set competitive pricing that reflects your offerings’ value. Choose locations strategically to maximize customer access and improve business performance. Finally, utilize effective promotion strategies, leveraging marketing resources from the franchisor to communicate your franchise’s value proposition and attract customers effectively. What Are the Key Aspects of the Franchisor Franchisee Relationship? The key aspects of the franchisor-franchisee relationship include mutual support, adherence to established standards, and effective communication. Franchisors provide vital resources like training and operational guidelines, whereas franchisees manage daily operations independently. Both parties should align on goals to improve growth and profitability. Regular communication promotes trust and collaboration, ensuring that feedback is exchanged effectively. Maintaining this balance is fundamental for a successful partnership in the franchise business model. What Is the Franchise Relationship Model? The franchise relationship model is a structured partnership where the franchisor grants the franchisee the right to operate a business using its brand and systems. You’ll invest capital and follow guidelines to maintain brand consistency. This model emphasizes mutual dependence, as both parties aim for shared success. Effective communication and support from the franchisor are crucial, whereas you retain some operational independence, allowing you to make decisions critical to your business’s performance. Conclusion In summary, comprehending the franchise and franchisee relationship is essential for success. Clear communication, adherence to franchise agreements, and mutual support nurture a collaborative environment. Both franchisors and franchisees must recognize their roles and navigate common challenges to build trust. By focusing on these aspects, you can improve your partnership and drive growth. In the end, a strong relationship between franchisor and franchisee leads to operational consistency and a thriving business model for both parties involved. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Understanding the Franchise and Franchisee Relationship" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Grasping the franchise and franchisee relationship is vital for success in this business model. This relationship is guided by a franchise agreement, which details the rights and responsibilities of both parties. Although franchisees have the independence to operate their businesses, they must likewise adhere to the standards set by the franchisor. Effective communication and support play significant roles in this partnership, but challenges can arise. Exploring these dynamics can reveal effective strategies for maneuvering the intricacies of franchising. Key Takeaways Franchising involves a franchisee operating under a franchisor’s established brand, following a defined franchise agreement outlining mutual rights and responsibilities. Franchisees maintain operational independence while adhering to franchisor guidelines, balancing autonomy with brand consistency and compliance. Effective communication between franchisors and franchisees fosters trust, minimizes misunderstandings, and enhances collaboration for business success. The franchise growth and maturity phases require ongoing support from franchisors, with accountability measures ensuring performance alignment between both parties. Common challenges include communication gaps and misaligned expectations, necessitating regular reviews and clear objectives to maintain a healthy franchise relationship. The Definition of Franchising Franchising serves as a strong business model that allows you to operate under an established brand as well as leveraging the systems and support provided by the franchisor. In this legal agreement, the franchisee gains the right to run a business using the franchisor’s trademark, operating systems, and overall business format. The franchise agreement clearly outlines the rights and obligations of both the franchisor and franchisee, establishing the foundation of their relationship. A key difference between franchisor and franchisee is that the franchisor owns the brand and provides training, marketing, and ongoing support, whereas the franchisee independently operates the unit. This structure not only benefits franchisees seeking business opportunities but additionally helps franchisors expand their brand presence effectively. The Importance of Clear Communication Effective communication is fundamental for the success of any franchise relationship, as it helps build trust and minimizes misconceptions between franchisors and franchisees. The franchisee vs franchisor dynamic thrives on clear communication, which reduces confusion and nurtures a strong partnership. Establishing regular communication channels, like meetings and newsletters, guarantees both parties receive consistent updates and feedback. Maintaining a reliable flow of information is important for addressing challenges swiftly. Providing contact information for key personnel and a dedicated hotline improves accessibility in the franchisor-franchisee relationship. Encouraging transparency in sharing information keeps franchisees informed, promoting collaboration and innovation. Comprehending the franchisee and franchisor difference is critical, as it emphasizes the importance of open dialogue for mutual success. The Role of the Franchisor In the franchise model, the franchisor plays a vital role by providing the brand and business model that you, as a franchisee, rely on for your operations. They also offer fundamental training and ongoing support to guarantee you understand the operational guidelines and can effectively run your business. Furthermore, franchisors manage marketing efforts and enforce compliance standards, making certain that all franchise locations maintain the same quality and brand integrity. Brand and Business Model Although many entrepreneurs seek independence in business ownership, partnering with a franchisor can provide a structured pathway to success through a well-established brand and a proven business model. The franchisor offers franchisees the right to use their trademarks, enhancing brand recognition and building customer trust. Comprehending the difference between franchisee and franchisor is essential, as the latter sets operational guidelines and standards, ensuring consistency across locations. This franchise and franchisee relationship is formalized through a franchise agreement, which outlines roles and responsibilities. In addition, effective marketing efforts led by the franchisor help drive customer traffic to franchisee locations. Training and Support Provided When you become a franchisee, the training and support provided by the franchisor play a vital role in your business’s success. Franchisors typically offer thorough training programs that cover operational procedures, customer service standards, and marketing strategies, ensuring consistency across the brand. Ongoing support includes regular updates on best practices, new products, and technology improvements, helping you stay competitive. Moreover, franchisors often create advisory councils with franchisees to facilitate communication and gather feedback, making your input valuable in decision-making. They may assist with site selection, lease negotiations, and local marketing initiatives to help you launch and grow your business. Comprehending the difference between franchise and franchisee is important, as it defines your role and the support you receive. Marketing and Compliance Standards Marketing and compliance standards, established by the franchisor, play an important role in maintaining a consistent brand identity across all franchise locations. These standards guarantee that every franchisee presents the brand uniformly, which is vital for customer recognition and loyalty. The franchisor manages overall marketing and advertising efforts, providing franchisees with promotional materials and strategies designed to boost customer engagement and sales. Adhering to these marketing standards is mandatory; failure to comply could lead to penalties or jeopardize your franchise agreement. Regular updates and support from the franchisor help you stay aligned with compliance expectations. Moreover, you can collaborate with the franchisor to customize local marketing initiatives as you adhere to the established framework, balancing local outreach with brand consistency. The Role of the Franchisee Franchisees play a crucial role in the success of a franchise operation by managing their units in alignment with the franchisor’s established guidelines. As a franchisee, you’re not just an operator; you’re a key player in maintaining brand integrity. Here are some of your core responsibilities: Adhere to Standards: You follow the franchisor’s operational guidelines to guarantee consistency and quality. Financial Investment: You invest your capital, taking on the financial risk associated with your franchise’s success or failure. Training Participation: You engage in training programs to acquire necessary skills for effective management. Day-to-Day Control: You make daily decisions, like hiring staff and setting prices, during still aligning with the franchisor’s strategies. Your role is crucial for the franchise’s overall performance and reputation. Understanding Franchise Agreements Grasping the intricacies of a franchise agreement is fundamental for anyone entering the franchise business, as this legal document defines the relationship between you and the franchisor. It outlines your rights and obligations, ensuring clarity. Key components often include the franchise duration, fees, territorial rights, and operational guidelines. You’ll need to adhere to specific standards set by the franchisor to maintain brand consistency. Before signing, the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) must be provided, detailing critical information about the opportunity. Furthermore, the agreement may include renewal options, termination clauses, and conditions for transferring ownership. Comprehending these elements is crucial, as they can greatly impact your investment and future success as a franchisee. Phases of the Franchise Relationship In the franchise relationship, you’ll encounter four key phases: Recruitment, Growth, Maturity, and The End or a New Beginning. Each phase presents unique dynamics and expectations, starting with trust-building during Recruitment and moving through the extensive support needed in Growth. As you progress to Maturity, both parties aim for stability and mutual comprehension, setting the stage for potential reassessment in the final phase. Recruitment Phase Overview The recruitment phase is crucial in establishing a successful franchise relationship, as it sets the groundwork for future collaboration between franchisors and prospective franchisees. This phase begins with identifying suitable franchisees and establishing clear expectations. To guarantee a strong foundation, consider these key elements: Mutual Interest: Build trust through ongoing communication and shared goals. Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD): Provide prospective franchisees with important details about the opportunity. Effective Communication: Keep lines open to nurture a positive relationship and shared vision. Alignment with Brand Values: Confirm that franchisees resonate with the franchise’s mission and culture. A successful recruitment phase greatly impacts the franchise system’s overall performance and future success. Growth and Maturity Stages As franchisees shift from the recruitment phase into the Growth stage, they encounter a significant period that shapes the trajectory of their business. This phase kicks off after signing the franchise agreement and typically lasts three years. During this time, you’ll need substantial support and training from your franchisor. Regular communication and thorough training programs are crucial for nurturing a strong relationship and ensuring your satisfaction. As you move into the Maturity phase, expect a more predictable relationship where ongoing training and marketing support become indispensable. Nevertheless, be cautious; disenchantment may arise if you feel the support diminishes, potentially affecting your decision to renew contracts. Effective communication and mutual comprehension are key to maintaining trust and collaboration throughout both phases. Mutual Goals and Objectives Mutual goals and objectives form the backbone of a successful franchise relationship, driving both franchisors and franchisees toward shared outcomes. By aligning interests, both parties can improve overall success. Here are some key mutual goals: Brand Growth: Both franchisors and franchisees aim to expand brand visibility and market share. Increased Profitability: Focusing on strategies that boost profits benefits everyone involved. Customer Satisfaction: Happy customers lead to repeat business and positive brand reputation. Operational Efficiency: Regular communication and adherence to performance metrics streamline operations. Franchise agreements typically outline expectations and objectives, promoting accountability. When both parties actively pursue common objectives, they often see improved performance metrics, including higher sales and customer retention rates, boosting the franchise system’s success. Independence vs. Support As franchisees operate as independent business owners, they must navigate the delicate balance between exercising their autonomy and adhering to the support provided by franchisors. You make key decisions on hiring, employee scheduling, and pricing during the process of following the operational guidelines set by your franchisor. The franchise agreement specifies the level of independence you have alongside the support offered, which typically includes training, marketing assistance, and operational standards. Although franchisors provide valuable resources to improve your performance, they don’t manage your day-to-day operations, allowing you to maintain control. Striking the right balance between independence and support is essential, as effective franchisor guidance can greatly impact your satisfaction and overall success in running your franchise. Common Challenges in Franchise Relationships In franchise relationships, communication gaps often lead to misunderstandings, which can greatly impact franchisee satisfaction. When support from franchisors falls short of expectations, franchisees may feel isolated and discontented. Furthermore, misaligned expectations regarding operational autonomy can create tension, making it essential for both parties to establish clear communication and support systems. Communication Gaps in Franchising How can communication gaps impact the franchisor-franchisee relationship? These gaps often arise from a lack of regular updates and inconsistent messaging, leading to misconceptions. When franchisees feel isolated because of insufficient feedback channels, their satisfaction and performance can suffer. To mitigate these issues, consider the following strategies: Establish regular check-ins to discuss concerns and updates. Share information transparently to build trust and rapport. Foster a collaborative environment by reviewing communication methods regularly. Practice empathy and mutual comprehension during negotiations to bridge gaps. Support Limitations From Franchisors Whereas franchisees often expect robust support from their franchisors, the reality is that this support can be limited by the terms of the franchise agreement. Franchisors typically provide advisory support rather than direct managerial oversight, leaving you responsible for your business outcomes. The franchise agreement clearly outlines the limits of support, as franchisors can’t risk their assets on franchisee failures. During critical growth phases, you might feel isolated and dissatisfied if you perceive a decline in support. Although training and resources are expected, their effectiveness can vary considerably among franchise systems. Misaligned Expectations Between Parties Misaligned expectations between franchisees and franchisors can create significant challenges that undermine the success of the franchise relationship. To navigate these intricacies, it’s crucial to recognize common pitfalls: Underestimating Support Needs: Franchisees often expect more hands-on help during the initial growth phase than franchisors typically provide. Role Confusion: Franchisees may assume franchisors will manage operations thoroughly, whereas franchisors usually offer only advisory support. Ambiguities in Agreements: A lack of clarity in franchise agreements can lead to misunderstandings about responsibilities and performance metrics. Communication Gaps: Breakdown in communication can prevent franchisees from grasping the franchisor’s vision and strategic goals. Regularly reviewing and adjusting mutual goals can help mitigate these challenges and encourage a healthier franchise relationship. Building Trust and Collaboration Building trust and collaboration between franchisors and franchisees is crucial for a successful franchise relationship, as these elements create a foundation for achieving shared goals. Trust develops through consistent communication and regular check-ins, allowing both parties to work together effectively. By cultivating a collaborative environment, franchisors and franchisees can improve performance during addressing challenges that arise. Transparency in operations and decision-making processes further strengthens this trust, making franchisees feel valued and involved in the brand’s direction. Mutual comprehension is fundamental, as recognizing each other’s perspectives helps resolve conflicts and build stronger connections. Moreover, effective training and support from franchisors equip franchisees with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed, promoting a more collaborative partnership overall. Strategies for Success in Franchising Successful franchising relies on effective strategies that improve the relationship between franchisors and franchisees. Here are some key approaches to guarantee success: Establish Clear Communication: Maintain open channels for updates and feedback to build trust and collaboration. Implement Extensive Training: Provide thorough training programs during the initial growth phase to help franchisees understand operational guidelines. Utilize Digital Signage: Boost brand visibility and engagement with digital signage for real-time updates and promotions, aiding franchisees in consistency. Set SMART Goals: Create specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals for both parties to guarantee alignment and accountability. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Relationship Between a Franchiser and a Franchisee? The relationship between a franchisor and a franchisee is defined by a contractual agreement. You, as a franchisee, gain the right to operate a business using the franchisor’s trademarks and business model. As you manage daily operations independently, you must adhere to the franchisor’s established guidelines for quality and service. The franchisor provides training and support, but your success largely relies on your management skills and decision-making abilities. What Are the 4 P’s of Franchising? The 4 P’s of franchising are Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. You must guarantee that your product aligns with brand standards and appeals to your target market. Set competitive pricing that reflects your offerings’ value. Choose locations strategically to maximize customer access and improve business performance. Finally, utilize effective promotion strategies, leveraging marketing resources from the franchisor to communicate your franchise’s value proposition and attract customers effectively. What Are the Key Aspects of the Franchisor Franchisee Relationship? The key aspects of the franchisor-franchisee relationship include mutual support, adherence to established standards, and effective communication. Franchisors provide vital resources like training and operational guidelines, whereas franchisees manage daily operations independently. Both parties should align on goals to improve growth and profitability. Regular communication promotes trust and collaboration, ensuring that feedback is exchanged effectively. Maintaining this balance is fundamental for a successful partnership in the franchise business model. What Is the Franchise Relationship Model? The franchise relationship model is a structured partnership where the franchisor grants the franchisee the right to operate a business using its brand and systems. You’ll invest capital and follow guidelines to maintain brand consistency. This model emphasizes mutual dependence, as both parties aim for shared success. Effective communication and support from the franchisor are crucial, whereas you retain some operational independence, allowing you to make decisions critical to your business’s performance. Conclusion In summary, comprehending the franchise and franchisee relationship is essential for success. Clear communication, adherence to franchise agreements, and mutual support nurture a collaborative environment. Both franchisors and franchisees must recognize their roles and navigate common challenges to build trust. By focusing on these aspects, you can improve your partnership and drive growth. In the end, a strong relationship between franchisor and franchisee leads to operational consistency and a thriving business model for both parties involved. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Understanding the Franchise and Franchisee Relationship" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Every day more than $4 billion worth of goods cross the United States’ borders with Canada and Mexico—U.S. auto parts headed for car factories in northern Mexico, cartons of Mexican avocados bound for California supermarkets, Canadian aluminum destined to become cans of Campbell Soup. Much of this bustling cross-border commerce is duty-free, thanks to the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA, that President Donald The President negotiated with America’s northern and southern neighbors during his first term. But the future of the USMCA , which took effect July 1, 2020, is cloudy as the three countries begin what could be a tempestuous attempt to renew the pact this year. The United States is demanding changes to the treaty, and the top U.S. trade negotiator told Politico in December that The President would be willing to pull the United States out of the pact if he can’t get the deal he wants. The President also suggested last fall that the United States could negotiate separate deals with Canada and Mexico, ending the three-country North American bloc that previous administrations saw as crucial to competing economically with China and the European Union. The talks kick off Monday between U.S. and Mexican trade officials. The North American economies could agree to renew USMCA as it is for another 16 years— a prospect that appears unlikely. Or they could keep working on ways to improve it; under a convoluted renewal process, they have until 2036 to reach an agreement — or the pact expires. Meantime, any USMCA country can pull out of the pact provided it gives its two partners six months’ notice – an option that Canada and Mexico, heavily dependent on trade with the United States, fear the impulsive The President might end up choosing. At stake is $1.6 trillion worth of annual trade in goods between the United States and its two USMCA partners. Mexico and Canada are far ahead of China in both exports to and imports from the United States. American farmers are especially keen to see the deal renewed: Last year, they shipped nearly $31 billion in agricultural products to Mexico and $28 billion to Canada. U.S. imports from Canada and Mexico were spared the worst of The President’s 2025 tariffs; many goods compliant with USMCA rules continued to enter the United States duty free. Still, a number of products did not get protection from the U.S. levies, including medium- and heavy-duty trucks, which face a 25% tariff. A 50% tariff on steel, aluminum and copper remains in effect, as does a 17% tariff on Mexican tomatoes. The USMCA replaced the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement negotiated by President George H.W. Bush and signed into law by President Bill Clinton. The President and other critics had criticized NAFTA as a killer of U.S. jobs because it encouraged U.S. companies to relocate factories south of the border to take advantage of low-wage Mexican labor and then send goods back to the United States duty free. The USMCA, ratified by Congress with rare support from Republicans and Democrats alike, ended up being very similar to NAFTA. But it did contain provisions designed to encourage factories in the region to pay higher wages and make sure that more of what they made originated in North America. The new pact updated North American trade rules for the digital age. The USMCA, for instance, bars the United States, Mexico and Canada from slamming each other with import taxes on music, software, games and other products sold electronically. A proud The President declared the USMCA “the fairest, most balanced and beneficial trade agreement we have ever signed.” But the president’s enthusiasm seems to have waned. In January, he expressed little interest in the upcoming talks to renew the agreement. The effort, he said, offered “no real advantage to us. It’s irrelevant to me.” The USMCA did little to ease one of The President’s biggest complaints: The U.S. deficit in the trade of goods with Mexico, which rose last year to a record $197 billion as the United States reduced its reliance on Chinese imports. The U.S. also ran a merchandise trade deficit with Canada of $46.4 billion last year, a decrease from 2024. “Improvements are required for it to deliver the high-wage U.S. manufacturing powerhouse and balanced trade (The President) promised and we need,” said Lori Wallach, director of the Rethink Trade program at the American Economic Liberties Project. The United States plans to push for a series of changes, including stronger rules to ensure that goods from China won’t slip into the United States under USMCA; to encourage more production in the United States; and to ensure more access to Canada’s protected dairy market for U.S. farmers. Mexico’s core priorities are to avoid a major rewrite of the agreement and to make rules of origin more flexible —allowing imports of parts from outside North America when they are not available in the region. Mexican negotiators also want assurances that anything agreed to will stick, providing insurance against The President’s unpredictability and his enthusiasm for tariffs. Mexico wants to minimize tariffs as much as possible. Mexican Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard said Mexico wants to strengthen the dispute resolution system already in place under the treaty. That would not eliminate the possibility of tariffs, but it would provide clear, swift channels for seeking solutions when problems arise, he said. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration will have to simultaneously manage existing security issues, which are ongoing after the killing of Jalisco New Generation Cartel’s leader in late February, and which could influence economic matters. Mexico anticipates that Canada will join the talks later, but its top priority in the coming months is to reach agreements and maintain the free trade with the United States, its main commercial partner. Mexico is pushing the idea that the treaty is also good for the US. “The integration of our countries is an absolute prerequisite for the United States to remain competitive,” Ebrard said recently. “We must move forward together; otherwise, we will not succeed.” —Paul Wiseman and María Verza, Associated Press View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. On Monday, Apple officially announced the AirPods Max 2. As the name implies, this is the first major update to the AirPods Max since Apple introduced the over-the-ear headphones in 2020. The company previously rolled out a minor refresh for the AirPods Max, but this only replaced the original pair's Lightning port with USB-C, and enabled Apple to add a couple neat perks via software update. AirPods Max 2, however, come with new features out of the gate—features that Apple's earbuds have actually had for years. First, an answer to the question most likely on your mind: No, Apple did not change the price. These headphones are still $549, which is expensive, even for high-end over the ear headphones. Take a look at PCMag's list of the best headphones for 2026, and you'll see similar options from competitors like Sony and Bose reach up to $450 or $460, but none break $500—and you'll often find huge discounts on these headphones to boot. The AirPods Max's price tag has always made these headphones hard to recommend, even though I personally love them. That's still the case with the AirPods Max 2. Still, Apple is offering a lot more functionality for the same price, and seeing as $549 in 2020 is worth nearly $700 in 2025, you are getting quite a bit more for your money with the AirPods Max 2. The new headphones get Apple's H2 chip, which Apple says improves noise cancellation by up to 1.5 times, and enables "even more natural" Transparency mode. The company says the new headphones have a new high dynamic range amplifier "for even cleaner audio," while maintaining the sound signature from the previous generation AirPods Max. Meanwhile, Spatial Audio sounds "better than ever" with "more accurate and consistent bass response, and more natural-sounding mids and highs." Like the USB-C AirPods Max, these headphones support 24-bit 48 kHz lossless audio when connected via a wired USB-C cable. AirPods Max 2's "new" featuresSo, according to Apple, AirPods Max 2 sound better than AirPods Max. That's to be expected from a new generation of headphones. In my view, however, the real upgrade here are all the "intelligent" features that AirPods Max 2 now support. For the first time, AirPods Max supports Adaptive Audio, which automatically adjusts noise cancellation and Transparency levels to match your environment. That also includes Conversation Awareness, which automatically lowers the volume and reduces background sounds when you start speaking. That way, you can hear someone clearly while having a conversation with your AirPods Max on, and when you're done talking, your audio comes back at its previous volume. The new AirPods also support Voice Isolation, which blocks out background noise and emphasizes your voice during calls, as well as Personalized volume, which adjusts the volume based on your past preferences. There's "Loud Sound Reduction," which caps the loudness of externals sounds while preserving the sounds themselves. (You could wear these to a concert and still hear everything, but protect yourself from sounds that are too loud.) You can also nod or shake your head to interact with Siri, rather than speak your commands. (If Siri asks you whether you'd like to respond to a message, you can nod to accept, or shake your head to dismiss.) You can also take advantage of Live Translation, Apple's feature that translates conversations on the fly. The thing is, none of these features are actually new, and with exception to some (namely Live Translation), have been available on some AirPods models for years. It's great that Apple finally added them to the AirPods Max, but it is frustrating that the USB-C model didn't include them for that $549 price point. Apple says that you can pre-order AirPods Max 2 starting March 25, in midnight, starlight, orange, purple, and blue, and that the headphones will be available starting early next month. Now that these headphones are official, however, keep an eye out for discounts on the previous generation AirPods Max. Amazon tends to have good deals on AirPods Max from time to time, and now that there's a new model, the previous ones should go down in price even more—as long as there's availability. As of this piece, the best deals appear to be on renewed models. AirPods Max (Renewed) $399.00 at Amazon Get Deal Get Deal $399.00 at Amazon View the full article

Perfecting sales involves a structured process that can greatly improve your effectiveness. It starts with prospecting potential customers, then moves to comprehending their needs through assessments. Engaging with clients through customized solutions is essential, as is establishing follow-up procedures for long-term relationships. Yet, many face challenges along the way. To navigate this, it’s important to adapt your approach to your specific industry as you utilize technology for ongoing advancement. What strategies will you implement to refine your sales process? Key Takeaways Establish a structured sales process to ensure consistency and boost team confidence throughout each stage of sales. Begin with effective prospecting to identify and qualify leads, ensuring a strong pipeline for potential sales. Conduct thorough needs assessments to understand customer requirements and tailor solutions accordingly. Utilize CRM and automation tools to streamline workflows and enhance productivity within the sales process. Regularly review performance data to identify bottlenecks and adapt strategies for continuous improvement. Understanding the Sales Process and Its Importance The sales process is a crucial framework that guides sales professionals through their interactions with potential customers. Comprehending how to succeed in sales starts with adopting a structured sales process. This approach improves consistency among sales personnel, boosts their confidence, and enhances overall performance by creating predictable revenue outcomes. Breaking the sales expedition into defined stages increases efficiency, allowing you to focus on specific tasks and track your progress. Additionally, data-driven insights from this structured process enable continuous strategy refinement, leading to a more agile sales approach. Key Components and Stages of a Successful Sales Process A successful sales process hinges on several key components and stages that streamline the progression from initial contact to closing a deal. To start a career in sales, you need to understand these defined steps, which include prospecting, qualifying leads, and conducting needs assessments. Knowing how to make a sales call is crucial, as this is where sales call meaning becomes clear—engaging potential customers effectively. What makes a good salesman is the ability to present customized solutions and handle objections. Following up to build relationships is important for long-term success. If you want to know how to be a good sales associate, focus on perfecting these stages, enabling you to get started in sales with confidence and competence. Challenges in Sales Processes and How to Overcome Them Steering through the sales process can present various challenges that may hinder your team’s success, especially when shifting from informal methods to a more structured approach. Resistance to change among team members can create obstacles, so providing ongoing training is vital. Consistency is key, as different practices can lead to confusion; implementing standardized processes helps everyone stay aligned. Furthermore, bottlenecks can occur at various stages, necessitating regular data reviews. Balancing structure with flexibility is critical, as rigid processes may stifle creativity. Here are some tips to help you navigate these challenges: Challenge Solution Tips Resistance to change Ongoing training Emphasize benefits Inconsistency Standardized processes Share best practices Bottlenecks Regular data reviews Analyze and adapt frequently Tailoring Your Sales Process to Fit Your Industry Grasping the unique characteristics of your industry is fundamental for tailoring your sales process effectively. To begin, identify how customer behaviors differ in B2C versus B2B contexts, as these distinctions greatly influence sales effectiveness. Each industry may require specific stages or activities that align with customer expectations, so it’s vital to adapt your strategies accordingly. Furthermore, comprehending lead sourcing methods can help you attract and convert leads more efficiently, ensuring your approach resonates with market practices. In regulated industries, compliance stages must be integrated, incorporating necessary checks to meet legal standards. By thoroughly analyzing these factors, you’ll improve your sales process and boost your chances of success as you learn how to begin a career in sales or become a sales rep. Leveraging Technology for Continuous Improvement in Sales As you look to refine your sales strategy, leveraging technology can play a crucial role in driving continuous improvement. By utilizing Salesforce software, you can manage your sales process more effectively, guaranteeing real-time tracking and collaboration. Automation tools streamline workflows, allowing your team to focus on high-value tasks. Implementing analytics tools helps you interpret performance metrics, as continuous feedback loops facilitate quick adaptation based on customer insights. Technology Benefit CRM Software Real-time tracking & collaboration Automation Tools Increased productivity Analytics Tools Informed decision-making Continuous Feedback Ongoing improvement culture Training & Development Latest techniques & strategies Leveraging technology for training and development guarantees your team stays ahead. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 7 Steps in the Sales Process? The seven steps in the sales process include Lead Generation, Prospecting, Lead Qualification, Initial Contact, Proposal Delivery, Negotiation and Closing, and Post-Sale Follow-up. You start by generating leads to attract potential customers. Then research these leads in the prospecting phase. After qualifying leads based on their interest and capability, you make initial contact, deliver proposals, negotiate terms, and finally follow up to guarantee satisfaction and promote ongoing relationships. What Is the 3-3-3 Rule in Sales? The 3-3-3 Rule in sales helps you structure interactions effectively. You spend three minutes on each of three phases: introduction, fact-finding, and presentation. During the introduction, build trust and set the conversation’s tone. In the fact-finding phase, dedicate 70% of your time to uncovering customer needs through active listening. Finally, present customized solutions that address those needs clearly, ensuring your proposal aligns with the customer’s budget and requirements for a smooth closing. What Is the 10 3 1 Rule in Sales? The 10-3-1 rule in sales suggests that for every ten prospects you reach out to, you should aim to have three meaningful conversations, eventually leading to one closed sale. This approach emphasizes the importance of quality interactions over sheer numbers, recognizing that not every prospect will convert. What Are the 12 Steps to the Sale? The 12 steps to the sale include prospecting, qualifying, needs assessment, presenting solutions, handling objections, closing the sale, and follow-up. Each step builds on the previous one, ensuring you understand customer needs and tailor your approach. By actively listening and asking probing questions during the fact-finding stage, you gather crucial information. A well-structured presentation highlights relevant benefits, whereas effective follow-up nurtures long-term relationships, finally leading to repeat business and referrals. Conclusion Achieving proficiency in sales involves a structured approach that improves your team’s effectiveness. By prospecting, qualifying leads, and conducting thorough needs assessments, you can engage clients more meaningfully. Presenting customized solutions and establishing solid follow-up procedures nurtures long-term relationships that lead to increased revenue. Furthermore, leveraging technology and data-driven insights can refine your sales process. By implementing these steps, you’ll create a consistent and successful sales strategy that adapts to your industry and drives growth. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Mastering How to Do Sales: A Step-by-Step Guide" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Perfecting sales involves a structured process that can greatly improve your effectiveness. It starts with prospecting potential customers, then moves to comprehending their needs through assessments. Engaging with clients through customized solutions is essential, as is establishing follow-up procedures for long-term relationships. Yet, many face challenges along the way. To navigate this, it’s important to adapt your approach to your specific industry as you utilize technology for ongoing advancement. What strategies will you implement to refine your sales process? Key Takeaways Establish a structured sales process to ensure consistency and boost team confidence throughout each stage of sales. Begin with effective prospecting to identify and qualify leads, ensuring a strong pipeline for potential sales. Conduct thorough needs assessments to understand customer requirements and tailor solutions accordingly. Utilize CRM and automation tools to streamline workflows and enhance productivity within the sales process. Regularly review performance data to identify bottlenecks and adapt strategies for continuous improvement. Understanding the Sales Process and Its Importance The sales process is a crucial framework that guides sales professionals through their interactions with potential customers. Comprehending how to succeed in sales starts with adopting a structured sales process. This approach improves consistency among sales personnel, boosts their confidence, and enhances overall performance by creating predictable revenue outcomes. Breaking the sales expedition into defined stages increases efficiency, allowing you to focus on specific tasks and track your progress. Additionally, data-driven insights from this structured process enable continuous strategy refinement, leading to a more agile sales approach. Key Components and Stages of a Successful Sales Process A successful sales process hinges on several key components and stages that streamline the progression from initial contact to closing a deal. To start a career in sales, you need to understand these defined steps, which include prospecting, qualifying leads, and conducting needs assessments. Knowing how to make a sales call is crucial, as this is where sales call meaning becomes clear—engaging potential customers effectively. What makes a good salesman is the ability to present customized solutions and handle objections. Following up to build relationships is important for long-term success. If you want to know how to be a good sales associate, focus on perfecting these stages, enabling you to get started in sales with confidence and competence. Challenges in Sales Processes and How to Overcome Them Steering through the sales process can present various challenges that may hinder your team’s success, especially when shifting from informal methods to a more structured approach. Resistance to change among team members can create obstacles, so providing ongoing training is vital. Consistency is key, as different practices can lead to confusion; implementing standardized processes helps everyone stay aligned. Furthermore, bottlenecks can occur at various stages, necessitating regular data reviews. Balancing structure with flexibility is critical, as rigid processes may stifle creativity. Here are some tips to help you navigate these challenges: Challenge Solution Tips Resistance to change Ongoing training Emphasize benefits Inconsistency Standardized processes Share best practices Bottlenecks Regular data reviews Analyze and adapt frequently Tailoring Your Sales Process to Fit Your Industry Grasping the unique characteristics of your industry is fundamental for tailoring your sales process effectively. To begin, identify how customer behaviors differ in B2C versus B2B contexts, as these distinctions greatly influence sales effectiveness. Each industry may require specific stages or activities that align with customer expectations, so it’s vital to adapt your strategies accordingly. Furthermore, comprehending lead sourcing methods can help you attract and convert leads more efficiently, ensuring your approach resonates with market practices. In regulated industries, compliance stages must be integrated, incorporating necessary checks to meet legal standards. By thoroughly analyzing these factors, you’ll improve your sales process and boost your chances of success as you learn how to begin a career in sales or become a sales rep. Leveraging Technology for Continuous Improvement in Sales As you look to refine your sales strategy, leveraging technology can play a crucial role in driving continuous improvement. By utilizing Salesforce software, you can manage your sales process more effectively, guaranteeing real-time tracking and collaboration. Automation tools streamline workflows, allowing your team to focus on high-value tasks. Implementing analytics tools helps you interpret performance metrics, as continuous feedback loops facilitate quick adaptation based on customer insights. Technology Benefit CRM Software Real-time tracking & collaboration Automation Tools Increased productivity Analytics Tools Informed decision-making Continuous Feedback Ongoing improvement culture Training & Development Latest techniques & strategies Leveraging technology for training and development guarantees your team stays ahead. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 7 Steps in the Sales Process? The seven steps in the sales process include Lead Generation, Prospecting, Lead Qualification, Initial Contact, Proposal Delivery, Negotiation and Closing, and Post-Sale Follow-up. You start by generating leads to attract potential customers. Then research these leads in the prospecting phase. After qualifying leads based on their interest and capability, you make initial contact, deliver proposals, negotiate terms, and finally follow up to guarantee satisfaction and promote ongoing relationships. What Is the 3-3-3 Rule in Sales? The 3-3-3 Rule in sales helps you structure interactions effectively. You spend three minutes on each of three phases: introduction, fact-finding, and presentation. During the introduction, build trust and set the conversation’s tone. In the fact-finding phase, dedicate 70% of your time to uncovering customer needs through active listening. Finally, present customized solutions that address those needs clearly, ensuring your proposal aligns with the customer’s budget and requirements for a smooth closing. What Is the 10 3 1 Rule in Sales? The 10-3-1 rule in sales suggests that for every ten prospects you reach out to, you should aim to have three meaningful conversations, eventually leading to one closed sale. This approach emphasizes the importance of quality interactions over sheer numbers, recognizing that not every prospect will convert. What Are the 12 Steps to the Sale? The 12 steps to the sale include prospecting, qualifying, needs assessment, presenting solutions, handling objections, closing the sale, and follow-up. Each step builds on the previous one, ensuring you understand customer needs and tailor your approach. By actively listening and asking probing questions during the fact-finding stage, you gather crucial information. A well-structured presentation highlights relevant benefits, whereas effective follow-up nurtures long-term relationships, finally leading to repeat business and referrals. Conclusion Achieving proficiency in sales involves a structured approach that improves your team’s effectiveness. By prospecting, qualifying leads, and conducting thorough needs assessments, you can engage clients more meaningfully. Presenting customized solutions and establishing solid follow-up procedures nurtures long-term relationships that lead to increased revenue. Furthermore, leveraging technology and data-driven insights can refine your sales process. By implementing these steps, you’ll create a consistent and successful sales strategy that adapts to your industry and drives growth. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Mastering How to Do Sales: A Step-by-Step Guide" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Galaxy phone owners have been able to use Samsung DeX to access a desktop mode for years at this point, and now Google Pixel users have a similar feature to call their own. The latest Android 16 QPR3 release, pushed out at the start of March 2026, lets you plug a Pixel phone into a monitor and access a desktop-like interface. If you're completely new to these desktop modes, they let you operate your phone as if it's a Windows or macOS computer (sort of). The Android software and the apps don't change, but you get a taskbar at the bottom of the display, the ability to run apps in windows alongside each other, and a few other helpful tweaks. In theory, this can be a real boon to productivity. Sit down at your desk, and you can carry on using all the apps you're familiar with on your phone, only with the added convenience of a larger display, as well as a mouse and keyboard. Mobile apps like Slack and Google Docs are now capable enough that most features available on the desktop can be used on mobile. A simple launcher lets you access your apps. Credit: Lifehacker There are quite a few caveats, however. You need a Pixel 8 or newer for this to work, as well as a USB-C DisplayPort connection. You're also going to need a Bluetooth mouse and keyboard connected to your phone to make the most of this: Pixels don't yet have the use-your-phone-as-a-trackpad functionality of Samsung DeX. If you do have the necessary hardware in place for this to work, it's worth giving it a try, even at this early stage. You might find it's helpful for working on the go and hot desking, or for finding a quiet place to work somewhere at home. Using the desktop mode on a PixelWhile the desktop mode is now officially part of Android proper, don't expect a flawless experience just yet. I managed to get my Pixel 9 hooked up to a monitor via a USB-C-to-DisplayPort connection, but this only worked directly—not through a hub. The display resolution maxes out at 1080p. When you connect a compatible monitor to your Pixel's USB-C port, you'll see the choice to Mirror the phone display to the big screen or to open the new Desktop mode; it's the latter one you want. With that done, you should see the desktop interface, and you can start clicking around with your connected mouse. You can pin apps side by side. Credit: Lifehacker Everything is pretty easy to understand: You've got a taskbar at the bottom where your apps live, navigation buttons in the lower right corner, and a launcher button for opening more apps. Each app launches in a window that can be moved or resized as needed. If you hover over the resize button, you'll find you can snap two apps side by side, if you want to. One key benefit is that Chrome runs in desktop mode, so you get the full web experience—it's great to be able to browse websites properly, rather than having to navigate through mobile versions. That said, when you try to log into sites such as Google Docs or Slack, you'll get kicked out into the equivalent Android app, so it's not quite the same as using an actual desktop computer. It is possible to get stuff done, for sure—I typed out half of this article through Google Docs for Android on an external monitor—and for something in its early stages, it's definitely usable. I appreciated being able to launch podcast and chat apps on a larger display and not have to worry about whether they were syncing back to my phone properly. Many apps—including Netflix—don't take full advantage of the extra space. Credit: Lifehacker App developers clearly haven't caught up to this desktop mode yet. Apps like WhatsApp had misaligned buttons and oversized text in places, while most apps reverted to a standard tablet interface rather than a desktop one. With Netflix, for example, browsing the available titles felt like using a phone but just on a much bigger scale. These problems will most likely get sorted over time, and it would be nice to see Google continuing to add features as well—such as the ability to use your phone as a trackpad for the desktop interface, once it's connected, and better native monitor resolution support. With a bit more polish, this could be a seriously useful Android upgrade, and hopefully we'll hear more about it at Google I/O in May. View the full article

After-hours meetings have gone from rare to regular occurrences, and while some are hoping AI can help reverse the trend, experts warn breaking the habit will take more than tech. In a recent survey conducted by AI-powered workspace provider Miro, 33% of US-based knowledge workers said they frequently attended after-hours meetings in 2025, up from 23% in 2024. “Six in 10 people attend meetings after hours at least once a month, and that has all kinds of negative downstream effects,” says Dom Katz, Miro’s ways of working lead. “The data suggests more and more people consistently have meetings after their usual workday ends, and it’s getting worse; not just in the U.S. or Europe, but across the board.” Katz explains that the explosion in after-hours meetings is likely an extension of the rise in meetings more broadly. According to a 2025 study by Miro, for each hour a worker spends on “momentum work”—like brainstorming, collaborative workshops and interactive cross functional projects—they spend three more on maintenance tasks, like emails, paperwork and meetings. “It creates stress, it’s a productivity drain, and saps them off their creativity,” Katz says. Katz explains that scheduling and video conferencing technology has made it easier than ever to call a meeting. But he also warns that without proper guidelines, workers are likely to get stuck in a lot of unnecessary meetings, during and beyond standard operating hours. “Bad meeting hygiene is definitely a contributor,” he says. “You get into the meeting, there’s no agenda, they run over constantly, there’s no decisions made, so you get another meeting around it; it’s incredibly ineffective.” Why We’re Meeting More at Night The Miro data is consistent with Microsoft’s 2025 Work Trend Index, which found that meetings after 8 p.m. increased 16% from the previous year. According to that study, which was based on anonymized Microsoft Teams user data, the bulk of the increase was attributed to global and flexible teams. “In our sentiment data, which goes out to 31,000 people, 80% of employees said they didn’t feel like they had enough time and energy to do their job, so we know people are feeling burnt out,” says Alexia Cambon, director, office of applied research at Microsoft. “The lack of firm boundaries between personal life and professional life is probably a contributor.” Cambon hypothesizes that meetings began creeping into non-working hours during the pandemic and the transition to remote work. That period, she explains, introduced many to digital meetings tools—which made it possible to call a meeting with a few clicks—while making it harder to switch off at the end of the day. The added flexibility may have also allowed some to shift their work schedules in ways that better suited their personal needs, like putting off meetings until after their kids were in bed. Another potential factor, suggests Cambon, is the increasingly global nature of work. According to the Microsoft study, nearly a third of meetings span multiple time zones, a 35% increase from 2021, increasing the likelihood that some participants are joining after-hours in their time zone. “And then I think just the business pressures are higher, and we saw that in the survey data,” she says. “In particular, over half of business leaders told us they need more productivity from their employees, so we are seeing this very rapid pace.” Why AI Can’t Fix a Broken Meeting Culture New AI tools could reduce late-night gatherings by allowing workers to send AI note takers in their place, or enable more asynchronous alternatives to real-time events. At the same time, Cambon warns that the technology alone won’t produce better meeting hygiene. “Your meeting culture is your meeting culture, and unless you use AI very intentionally, nothing is really going to change,” she warns. “You have to figure out how to make your meeting culture better.” At the same time, the technology is also putting more pressure on businesses to adapt, which often results in more meetings, not less. “We’re seeing work shift in new ways, driven by AI, and from my perspective this has been an incredibly intensive time for workers and in particular workers in AI-native organizations,” says Dr. Rebecca Hinds, the head of the AI Work Institute for enterprise AI platform Glean and author of Your Best Meeting Ever. “There’s a pressure that I’ve never seen before, and we’re seeing more and more evidence that that is contributing to after-hours work.” In the wake of the pandemic, some organizations used new remote collaboration tools to enable greater flexibility, while others used them to encroach on work-life boundaries, and Dr. Hinds warns that AI is no different. “The more we have access to technology, the easier it is to schedule and attend a meeting, the more we’re going to do that in an environment where we don’t have a healthy, intentional meeting culture,” she says. “All of this is lowering the bar in terms of what it takes to schedule a meeting.” Using technology to free your evenings At the same time, Dr. Hinds says there are ways to use technology to promote work-life boundaries and free our evenings from work responsibilities. For example, some tools allow workers to limit their meeting availability to working hours. Others automatically warn organizers when they’re scheduling a meeting after-hours for participants in other time-zones. Some will even flag when a meeting is likely to be ineffective, such as when there are too many participants, or a majority of invitations haven’t received a response. Other tools, like AI note-takers, video messaging apps and digital collaboration tools are making it easier for workers to collaborate asynchronously, reducing their reliance on real-time conversations. “Asynchronous is the name of the game in terms of decreasing our time spent in dysfunctional meetings,” Dr. Hinds says. “[As is] having clear norms around what is the purpose of each tool, what is the purpose of a meeting, and how should we be using meetings? That holds true for any time of day.” View the full article

As a tech journalist who uses Google Docs a lot, I'm used to clicking past various AI prompts and offers of assistance whenever I want to write something with my own human brain. Now, I'm going to have to use up even more clicks to hide the AI integrations on a blank page—though, this time, some of them actually seem genuinely useful. Google is further upgrading Gemini's capabilities in Google Drive and its online office apps: Docs, Slides, and Sheets. You can now produce entire documents and spreadsheets with a prompt, create text that matches a particular style, and pull in relevant information from your Google Drive files, Gmail, Google Chat, and the web. These changes make Gemini inside Google Workspace "more personal, capable and collaborative" Google says, and they're rolling out now to Google AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers with English set as their default language. The old (top) and new (bottom) Gemini interfaces in Google Docs. Credit: Lifehacker Google Docs gets new Gemini featuresThe new changes are most evident when you open up a new document: You'll see a new Gemini bar down at the bottom of the screen, together with various options for matching the style of another document with AI-generated text, and dropping in elements like an email draft or notes from a meeting. You can bring up this bar at any time by clicking the Gemini star icon at the bottom of your document. You can type any prompt you like into the Gemini bar. Want a short story about fish? Need to send a stern email about on-street parking to the neighbors? Gemini can help. I actually tried the fish story one, and it wasn't too bad, in a generic sort of way. If you click the + (plus) button down in the lower left corner, meanwhile, you can choose to import data from Google Drive, Google Chat, Gmail, and the web. Gemini wrote me a short story about fish. Credit: Lifehacker This gives you a host of options. You can draft an email to your boss, and pull from your previous correspondence with them, for example, or plan a travel itinerary based on the recommendations someone has given you in Google Chat. I got Gemini to produce a table listing all the Oscar 2026 winners and it worked flawlessly. (Thank you to the human writers who published this information online.) There are more ways to refine existing text, as well as generate new text. Just highlight a part of a document, then use a prompt to describe the changes you'd like. I asked Gemini to make the introduction to this article "more upbeat and jokey" and it suggested dropping in phrases like "hold on to your hats" and "AI bestie." (I declined to add them.) I also gave the new style matching feature a go. In a blank document, if you click the sliders icon on the Gemini bar, you can choose Match writing style to pick out an existing Google Doc. Your subsequent prompts for text generation will then match the style of the selected documents. You can choose where Gemini looks for importing data. Credit: Lifehacker When I pulled from my own work, Gemini was able to produce text that did read vaguely like I'd written it, but it was still rather stilted and, well, artificial. (That said, I could tell the difference from standard AI text.) For me, it's the ability to pull in information from elsewhere that makes this most useful, rather than the text generation capabilities. I told Gemini to connect to Google Drive and summarize everything I'd written for Lifehacker this year, and it did a respectable job: The doc was neatly formatted, informative, and (as far as I could tell) accurate. Gemini also has new features in Sheets, Slides, and DriveThe updates in Sheets and Slides are similar to Docs: You get a much more prominent Gemini prompt box, and the ability to import data from your other files, chats, and emails. I keep a text document of teams for our local five-a-side soccer matches, and tried to get Gemini to create a spreadsheet showing how often each player had shown up. It worked perfectly. Impressive stuff. I also tried to get Gemini to produce an entire spreadsheet around a fictional school sports day, and again it came up with results that I couldn't really fault. I could then apply edits to the demo spreadsheet with further prompts, and didn't have to bother with editing cells at all. The AI will sometimes ask you to approve a particular action, but it's mostly a smooth and straightforward process. Google suggests you could build a spreadsheet organizing a house move, for example, pulling in relevant emails and documents as needed. You can also use web or Google Drive searches to fill in data alongside relevant row and column headings—like the Oscar example mentioned earlier. You can plot the years across the top with an 'Oscar Best Picture Winner' heading, and Gemini does the rest. The Gemini integration inside Slides isn't quite as advanced yet, however. The ability to generate entire decks is still "coming soon" Google says. However, you can already pull in data from other sources and the web, match slideshow styles to an existing deck, and use prompts to tweak all aspects of your presentation. For me, this was still a bit hit or miss, with some odd formatting and text choices. As a Brit, the only upgrades I haven't been able to try out myself are the Gemini upgrades for Google Drive interface. Unlike the other updates, these are only available in the U.S. for the time being. Based on Google's information and the demos I've seen, you can think of these upgrades as AI Overviews for your cloud storage rather than the web as a whole. This school sports day never happened: Gemini made it up. Credit: Lifehacker That means you can ask natural language questions about whatever's in your Google Drive, questions like "how many times have I written about Gemini in 2026?" for example. Google's own example is selecting a bunch of tax documents and asking Gemini for questions you should give your tax advisor about them. My gripes about AI-generated text and the erosion of our abilities to write aside, these upgrades do seem genuinely useful. They promise to reduce the time you spend on simple and repetitive tasks, and make creating files with information from your other Google apps (or the web at large) much more straightforward. View the full article

At the turn of the 20th century, the steel magnate and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie donated $5.2 million to New York to build libraries across the city. Leading architects of the time designed the branches, 67 in all, to look and function like civic temples with elaborate Beaux-Arts detailing, welcoming entrances, dignified reading rooms, and open stacks where patrons could freely browse. They quickly became important, and beloved, neighborhood establishments and remain so today. After more than a century of use, and ad hoc upgrades and adaptations that are also dated, the buildings are due for upgrades. Last year, the New York Public Library (NYPL) completed a $176 million renovation of five Carnegie Libraries in The Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island. They’re pilots of Carnegie renovations to come. Spearheaded by the architecture firms Mitchell Giurgola, which also developed design standards for the renovations, and CannonDesign, the climate-sensitive and community-informed transformations are models for balancing historic architecture and contemporary use. “The buildings are such a part of the fabric of the community and we wanted to double down on that,” says Kerry Gould, director of capital planning at NYPL. “They needed love, and they got it.” A new approach for old libraries Public libraries are the rare institutions with near-universal approval. According to a Pew study, 94% of Americans age 16 or older believe libraries improve quality of life. Perhaps because of this, the city has entered another golden age of architectural invention around them. Affordable housing crowns branches in Sunset Park, Inwood, and Grand Concourse; a recently completed branch in Greenpoint, which replaced a too-small library dating from the 1970s, doubles as an environmental education center; and a glimmering composition by the local artist José Parlá envelops the new Far Rockaway branch. But ground-up contemporary buildings are only part of the story. The Carnegie renovations underscore how a preservation-focused approach can modernize the system while protecting important neighborhood landmarks and community anchors. As aging Carnegie Libraries become Apple stores, comedy clubs, and boutique hotels, or simply deteriorate until demolition is a foregone conclusion, New York is figuring out how to keep them—and keep them relevant. “In architecture, ‘historic character’ used to be just about culture and preservation, and I think that’s really important,” says Carol Loewenson, an architect and partner at Mitchell Giurgola. “But saving what you have is also the most sustainable thing you can do. The continuity of old, new, and future is really what makes New York, and any place, thrilling.” Carnegie libraries then and now New York City has 216 library branches, which are managed by three systems: NYPL is responsible for 88 locations in Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island. (The Brooklyn Public Library oversees the borough’s 62 locations and the Queens Public Library has 66 outposts within its jurisdiction.) Of the 39 Carnegie Libraries originally within NYPL’s remit, 30 are still in operation. They face similar issues related to operations and relevance. To wit: They were constructed before the Americans with Disabilities Act; before teens, who are avid patrons, were considered a distinct age and cultural group (until the 1940s, you were either a child or an adult); and before climate change became an urgent issue. And while libraries maintain a mission to advance knowledge and strengthen communities, these institutions today do a lot more than circulate books; they serve as emergency cooling and warming centers, technology hubs where patrons can access computers and 3D printers, and more. Because there are so many Carnegie Libraries in the city, the NYPL decided to approach their renovations systematically. Design standards could ensure stylistic consistency across the upgrades. It’s also practical: the more uniform the building management systems are, the easier repairs and maintenance are since crews have familiarity with the equipment. The standards include specifications for lighting, bookcases and millwork, circulation desks, how to integrate modern heating and cooling infrastructure, and methods for creating flexible-use space. Before implementing these design standards, the NYPL handled Carnegie renovations differently. While the exteriors remained the same, interior overhauls looked like they belonged to different buildings. Renovations and repairs happened piecemeal as equipment reached the end of their useful life, and modifications accumulated to the point where changes obscured the buildings’ spirit. “Very often we are doing necessity repairs and you’re sort of cobbling things together,” Gould says. Despite needing upgrades, the original Carnegie buildings were innovative a century ago and remain hallmarks of good library design today thanks to their large windows that bathed interiors in daylight, spacious reading rooms with high ceilings, a central circulation desk, natural materials, and movable furniture. “It seems so obvious, but people don’t always get it right with libraries,” Loewenson says. “And those fundamentals really do work. We’re doing an academic library right now and I just intuitively use the Carnegie standards and principles, and it just nails it. It’s kind of amazing.” The architects emphasized those details while introducing energy efficient building systems (like triple-pane windows and sensor-operated environmental controls), amenities to better serve library patrons (like teen rooms), and improved accessibility (like adding elevators and ramps). Additionally, the library commissioned artwork that connects to each branch’s respective community, based on intel from engagement sessions. Site-specific solutions Each Carnegie library is different—some are freestanding structures, some are mid-block, and their sizes vary. While design standards informed the top-level approach for the renovations, “it’s not a one-size-fits-all kind of thing,” Loewenstein says. “You first figure out what you’ve got and then what the needs are and then you start adjusting.” Historic preservation rules often informed how the architects approached the renovations. At 125th Street, a McKim, Mead & White branch dating to 1904, no additions could be visible from the street, which nixed moving all the mechanical systems to the roof. So instead, the team at CannonDesign, who oversaw this branch’s renovation, hunted for opportunities to make space inside. Caretaker apartments originally occupied the top floor of Carnegie Libraries (someone needed to feed the coal furnaces 24/7) and over time, these rooms became convenient locations for HVAC equipment. Meanwhile, air handlers and ductwork have become smaller and more efficient since they first went into the libraries. Because of this, the architects could condense the systems into a compact footprint and turn some of the back-of-house areas into public space. At 125th, they were able to squeeze a teen area as well as staff offices into the top floor. Now people, not just machinery, get to enjoy the dramatic double-height level illuminated by clerestory windows. “When we went into the design phase of these libraries, the amount of potential on the top floor, it was just incredible to see,” says Dan Sheen, an architect at CannonDesign. “It was about taking advantage of what was given to us and running iterations until we finally got to a point where it’s like, okay, this represents a modern space, but also pays homage to the original design when it was in its prime, too.” Indeed, the renovated Carnegie Libraries look more like themselves, just better. They also perform at a higher level than before. The Port Richmond branch, designed in 1905 by Carrere & Hastings, architects of the NYPL’s famed Fifth Avenue flagship, is now LEED Silver certified. Sheen and his team looked to Passive House design strategies to retrofit the building, including modifying the masonry walls (they installed mineral wool insulation and a smart vapor barrier on the inside face) and triple-pane wood windows for a tight thermal seal. The Port Richmond reading room featured a slightly arched ceiling with ornamental crown moldings, which Sheen wanted to highlight. Instead of suspending a tangle of sprinkler systems, ductwork, and other life safety systems from the ceiling, he decided to drop the ceiling 12 inches and hide the infrastructure above it. The team consulted original drawings and also 3D scanned the detailing in order to faithfully recreate it. Similarly, they also hid infrastructure behind walls, effectively shrinking the space by six to eight inches on each side. Loewenstein and her team used similar techniques at the Hunts Point location, a Carrere & Hastings building from 1929. “There was more time in the design phase spent on what you don’t see, what’s hidden behind these walls than what the actual visitor experience is,” Sheen says. And instead of visually hefty rows of fluorescent lighting illuminating the reading rooms, there are now halo-like LED pendants throughout. Because the Carnegie Libraries are on the smaller side, figuring out how to accommodate new uses was a challenge. At the Hunts Point library, Mitchell Giurgola integrated folding glass walls and doors into the reading rooms to define space while maintaining visual cohesion and daylight. At the Melrose branch—which suffered a fire in the 1940s that reduced the four-story building to two—Mitchell Giurgola was able to construct a new level that’s dedicated to children. Since few original architectural details remained here, the design team integrated more contemporary elements, like floor-to-ceiling glass walls. Artwork was another important site-specific element for the renovations. NYPL hosted community engagement sessions with patrons to learn about what was most important to them and through this, they learned that the community around the Port Richmond branch, which is predominantly Hispanic, felt an affinity to butterflies and so a newly commissioned mural features the motif. “It really brings that sense of identity to the branch,” Gould says. The future of NYC library renovations The standards Mitchell Giurgola developed aren’t limited to the Carnegie Libraries. The design principles are relevant across the system, and so NYPL is using them to guide renovations across structures with different pedigrees. Gould is currently working on an overhaul of the Edenwald library, a 1970s structure in the Bronx. It’s a squat “Lindsay Box,” the nickname for the inexpensive modular libraries constructed during the John V. Lindsay administration, with tiny windows. Gould plans to open the facade and better connect the interior to the neighborhood. “We’re using a lot of the same themes, like access to natural light,” she says. With the five renovations now complete, NYPL hopes to receive additional capital funding from the city in order to modernize more Carnegie branches. “We want them to last for another hundred years,” Gould says. “As part of the fabric of New York, we think it’s just important to be stewards of these buildings and elevate them to what we think the public deserves. View the full article

Treasury yields look oversold after a rough week, but technical patterns still point to a broader uptrend that could push the 5- and 10-year closer to 5%, according to the head of correspondent business development at AD Mortgage. View the full article

President Donald The President said Sunday that he has demanded about seven countries send warships to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, but his appeals have brought no commitments as oil prices soar during the Iran war. The president declined to name the countries heavily reliant on Middle East crude that the administration is negotiating with to join a coalition to police the waterway where about one-fifth the world’s traded oil normally flows. “I’m demanding that these countries come in and protect their own territory, because it is their own territory,” The President said about the strait, claiming the shipping channel is not something the United States needs because of its own access to oil. The President spoke while answering reporters’ questions as he flew back to Washington from Florida aboard Air Force One. The President said China gets about 90% of its oil from the strait, while the U.S. gets a minimal amount. He declined to discuss whether China will join the coalition. “It would be nice to have other countries police that with us, and we’ll help. We’ll work with them,” The President said. Previously, he has appealed to China, France, Japan, South Korea and Britain. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi earlier told CBS that Tehran has been “approached by a number of countries” seeking safe passage for their vessels, “and this is up to our military to decide.” He said a group of vessels from “different countries” had been allowed to pass, without providing details. Iran has said the strait is open to all except the United States and its allies. Araghchi added that “we don’t see any reason why we should talk with Americans” about finding a way to end the war, noting that Israel and the U.S. started the fighting with coordinated attacks on Feb. 28 during indirect U.S.-Iran talks on Iran’s nuclear program. He also said Tehran had “no plan to recover” the enriched uranium that is under rubble following U.S. and Israeli attacks last year. Countries are cautious after The President’s call U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright told NBC earlier Sunday that he has been “in dialogue” with some of the countries The President had mentioned previously, and said he expected China “will be a constructive partner” in reopening the strait. But countries made no promises. Britain said Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Sunday discussed with The President the importance of reopening the strait “to end the disruption to global shipping,” and spoke with Canada’s prime minister about it separately. Aboard Air Force One, The President specifically named Starmer, who he said initially declined to put British aircraft carriers “into harm’s way.” “Whether we get support or not, but I can say this, and I said to them: We will remember,” The President said. A spokesperson for China’s embassy to the U.S., Liu Pengyu, said previously that “all parties have the responsibility to ensure stable and unimpeded energy supply” and that China would “strengthen communication with relevant parties” for de-escalation. South Korea’s Foreign Ministry said it “takes note” of The President’s call and that it “will closely coordinate and carefully review” the situation with the U.S. Expectations are high that The President will ask Japan directly when Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi meets him on Thursday at the White House. France previously said it is working with countries — President Emmanuel Macron mentioned partners in Europe, India and Asia — on a possible international mission to escort ships through the strait but has stressed it must be when “the circumstances permit,” when fighting has subsided. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul of Germany, which was not mentioned in The President’s call, told ARD television: “Will we soon be an active part of this conflict? No.” Meanwhile, emergency oil stocks “will soon start flowing to global markets,” the International Energy Agency said Sunday, describing the collective action to lower prices “by far the largest ever.” It updated last week’s announcement of 400 million barrels to nearly 412 million. Asian member countries plan to release stocks “immediately,” and reserves from Europe and the Americas will be released “from the end of March.” The President didn’t directly answer whether his administration is talking about selling oil futures as a way to cap surging oil prices. “The prices are going to come tumbling down as soon as it’s over. And it’s going to be over pretty quickly,” he told reporters. More missile and drone attacks are reported Gulf Arab states including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Bahrain reported new missile or drone attacks a day after Iran called for the evacuation of three major ports in the United Arab Emirates — the first time it has threatened a neighboring country’s non-U.S. assets. Dubai temporarily suspended flights at its international airport — the world’s busiest — after a drone hit a fuel tank and caused a fire. Civil defense crews contained the blaze and no injuries were reported, authorities said. Tehran has claimed that Friday’s U.S. strikes on Kharg Island, home to Iran’s primary oil terminal, were launched from the UAE, without providing evidence. It has threatened to attack U.S.-linked “oil, economic and energy infrastructures” if its oil infrastructure is hit. U.S. Central Command said it had no response to Iran’s claim, and Anwar Gargash, a diplomatic adviser to the UAE president, rejected it. Gulf countries that host U.S. bases have denied allowing their land or airspace to be used for military operations against Iran. Iran has fired hundreds of missiles and drones at Arab Gulf neighbors during the war, causing significant damage and rattling economies even as most are intercepted. Tehran says it targets U.S. assets, even as Iranian strikes are reported at civilian sites such as airports and oil fields. War’s toll mounts across the region Iranian strikes have killed at least a dozen civilians in Gulf countries, most of them migrant workers. In Iran, the International Committee for the Red Cross said more than 1,300 people have been killed. Iran’s Health Ministry said 223 women and 202 children are among the dead, according to Mizan, the judiciary’s official news agency. Iran’s government on Sunday showed journalists buildings damaged by strikes in Tehran on Friday. A police station was hit and surrounding buildings were damaged. Some apartments’ outer walls had been stripped away. “God had mercy on all of us,” said Elham Movagghari, a resident. Other Iranians are leaving the country. In Israel, 12 people have been killed by Iranian missile fire and more have been injured, including three on Sunday. At least 13 U.S. military members have been killed, six in a plane crash in Iraq last week. At least 820 people have been killed in Lebanon, according to its Health Ministry, since Iran-backed Hezbollah hit Israel and Israel responded with strikes and sent additional troops into southern Lebanon. In just 10 days, more than 800,000 people — nearly one out of every seven residents of Lebanon — have been displaced. More Iranian missile strikes hit Israel Israel’s military said early Monday that Iran launched missiles toward Israel. Earlier, several strikes hit central Israel and the Tel Aviv area, where they caused damage at 23 sites and sparked a small fire. Magen David Adom, Israel’s rescue service, released video showing a large crater in a street and shrapnel damage to an apartment building. Israel’s military says Iran is firing cluster bombs that can evade some air defenses and scatter submunitions across multiple locations. This version corrects to say Araghchi was speaking to CBS, not NBC as previously reported. Contributing were Associated Press journalists Darlene Superville, Fatima Hussein, Tia Goldenberg, Sally Abou AlJoud, Fadi Tawil, John Leicester and Christopher Weber. —Sam Metz, Will Weissert, Julia Frankel and Cara Anna, Associated Press View the full article

UK prime minister says Britain will not be drawn into ‘wider war’View the full article

Loyalty cards provide several key benefits that can improve your shopping experience. They offer rewards that can lead to increased savings, exclusive discounts, and personalized offers based on your preferences. These programs not just cultivate a stronger connection between you and the brand but also create opportunities for community engagement. Comprehending these advantages can help you make informed choices about which loyalty programs to join and how to maximize their value. What other benefits might you discover? Key Takeaways Loyalty cards enhance the shopping experience by providing tangible rewards, such as discounts and redeemable points, encouraging customer engagement. Members gain access to exclusive offers and discounts, leading to potential savings of up to 25% annually during redemption periods. Personalized benefits, tailored to individual shopping habits, increase customer satisfaction and brand loyalty through relevant promotions and discounts. Emotional connections fostered by loyalty programs encourage repeat purchases and positive word-of-mouth, strengthening brand loyalty. Data-driven insights from loyalty programs improve business strategies, enhancing customer experiences and mutually benefiting both customers and businesses. Enhanced Shopping Experience Through Rewards Loyalty cards improve your shopping experience by providing tangible rewards that can make each visit more valuable. One of the main loyalty card benefits is the ability to earn discounts, exclusive deals, and points redeemable for future purchases, which can incentivize you to return more frequently. You may find that customers participating in loyalty programs increase their spending by an average of 67%, driven by the rewards they can accumulate. Programs like Starbucks Rewards exemplify this, allowing you to collect points with every transaction, leading to free items and a sense of satisfaction. Additionally, many loyalty programs personalize rewards based on your shopping habits, ensuring you receive benefits that align with your interests. Overall, the advantages of loyalty cards for customers extend beyond mere savings; they encourage greater engagement, making your shopping experience more rewarding and enjoyable. Access to Exclusive Offers and Discounts With a loyalty card, you gain access to exclusive offers and discounts that can greatly reduce your shopping costs. Many programs reward you with early access to sales, allowing you to snag deals before they’re available to everyone else. Furthermore, you can benefit from customized promotions based on your shopping habits, making your loyalty card experience even more valuable. Special Promotions and Deals Accessing special promotions and deals can greatly improve your shopping experience, especially when you’re a part of a loyalty program. Many retailers tailor discounts based on your individual purchasing behavior, making these promotions more relevant and appealing. In fact, 66% of shoppers say that earning and using rewards greatly influences their buying decisions. During redemption periods, loyalty cardholders often experience an average increase of 25% in annual spending, as they’re incentivized to take advantage of exclusive offers. These special promotions not just enhance your shopping experience but additionally contribute to a brand’s revenue growth, with companies seeing up to 2.5 times faster growth when they implement effective loyalty programs. Enjoying these benefits can lead to smarter shopping choices. Early Access Opportunities When you join a loyalty program, you often gain early access to exclusive offers and discounts that can improve your shopping experience. This privilege allows you to shop sales before the general public, securing limited-time deals that others miss. Here are some key benefits of early access: Shop limited-time deals before anyone else. Receive special promotions customized to your spending level. Enjoy tiered rewards that increase with higher purchases. Take advantage of exclusive events just for loyalty members. Experience a sense of urgency that boosts your shopping satisfaction. These early access opportunities not just make your shopping more rewarding but also encourage repeat visits, eventually increasing your lifetime value as a customer. Personalized Benefits Tailored to Customer Preferences Loyalty programs are increasingly designed to offer personalized benefits that align with your shopping habits and preferences, enhancing your overall experience. These programs often provide customized rewards, such as discounts on items you buy frequently. Studies show that consumers prefer personalized experiences, and individualized rewards can greatly boost your engagement and satisfaction. For example, wineries that offer discounts on specific products, like wineries giving deals on your favorite wine types, see higher repeat purchase rates. The data collected through these loyalty programs helps businesses understand customer behavior better, enabling them to create targeted offers that resonate with different segments. This strategy not only improves marketing effectiveness but also guarantees that you receive relevant benefits. In the end, personalized rewards make you feel valued, as they reflect your unique preferences and shopping patterns, enhancing your overall loyalty to the brand and encouraging you to return for future purchases. Strengthened Brand Loyalty and Emotional Connection Building a strong emotional connection with a brand can greatly improve customer loyalty, as studies indicate that 75% of consumers are willing to switch brands for better loyalty programs. When loyalty programs reward you for your commitment, you’re likely to feel a deeper connection, which enriches your overall shopping experience. This emotional bond can lead to repeat purchases and even make you a brand advocate. Here are some key benefits of strengthened brand loyalty through loyalty cards: Increased likelihood of repeat purchases A 67% increase in spending compared to new buyers Positive word-of-mouth marketing from satisfied loyalty members Reduced chances of exploring alternative brands Elevated engagement with the brand’s offerings Opportunities for Social Engagement and Community Building As customers engage with brands through loyalty programs, they often discover unique opportunities for social interaction and community building. Many loyalty programs host exclusive events or create forums for members, allowing you to connect with others who share your interests in the brand. This sense of belonging can improve your overall experience. Moreover, members tend to interact more with brands on social media, leading to meaningful conversations and connections. Loyalty programs also frequently offer referral bonuses, encouraging you to share your positive experiences with friends and family, which helps expand the brand’s community through word-of-mouth. Active participation in these loyalty communities can increase your satisfaction as you receive personalized communication and recognition. In addition, brands that effectively leverage these programs often see a rise in customer advocacy, with loyal members more likely to promote the brand and engage in community-driven initiatives. Increased Savings and Financial Incentives Engaging with loyalty programs not just encourages community interaction but furthermore opens the door to increased savings and financial incentives. By participating, you can reveal a range of benefits that improve your shopping experience and budget. Here are some key advantages: Exclusive discounts and promotions that lead to significant savings on future purchases. Potential savings of up to 25% annually through reward redemption compared to non-members. Personalized discounts based on your purchasing history, aligning savings with your preferences. Access to special sales events and flash deals unavailable to the general public. Increased purchasing capability, as loyalty members tend to spend 67% more than new customers. These features not only make shopping more rewarding but likewise provide you with valuable financial incentives to maximize your spending wisely. Valuable Insights and Data Utilization for Better Services Loyalty programs play a crucial role in helping businesses collect valuable insights about their customers, enabling them to customize services and offerings more effectively. By analyzing data from loyalty card usage, companies can understand shopping frequency, spending habits, and product preferences, allowing for targeted promotions that meet individual needs. Here’s a quick overview of how these insights can be utilized: Insight Type Customer Benefit Business Benefit Shopping Frequency Personalized rewards Improved inventory management Spending Habits Relevant promotions Improved marketing strategies Product Preferences Customized services Informed product development Utilizing these insights leads to improved customer experiences and increased engagement. Feedback from loyalty programs likewise guides service improvements, ensuring that offerings align with customer expectations and desires, ultimately benefiting both you and the business. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Benefits of a Loyalty Card? A loyalty card offers several benefits that improve your shopping experience. You earn points on every purchase, which can lead to discounts or rewards, encouraging you to shop more frequently. Many programs provide exclusive offers, ensuring you save money compared to non-members. Furthermore, tiered rewards allow you to access better benefits as you spend more, creating a sense of achievement and boosting your overall satisfaction with the brand you choose. What Is an Advantage of Customer Loyalty? An advantage of customer loyalty lies in the increased spending that loyal customers typically exhibit. When you consistently shop at the same store, you often develop preferences and trust, which can lead you to spend more than occasional shoppers. This loyalty not merely benefits you through better deals and rewards but additionally provides businesses with a stable revenue base. As a result, both you and the business can thrive through this mutual relationship. What Are the 4 C’s of Customer Loyalty? The 4 C’s of customer loyalty are Customer Value, Customer Engagement, Customer Experience, and Customer Advocacy. Customer Value focuses on providing rewards that meet your needs, enhancing your spending. Customer Engagement involves creating meaningful interactions through personalized offers, encouraging repeat purchases. Customer Experience guarantees your shopping path is seamless and enjoyable, boosting satisfaction. Finally, Customer Advocacy motivates you to share positive experiences, influencing others and contributing to the brand’s growth through word-of-mouth. What Are the 3 R’s of Customer Loyalty? The three R’s of customer loyalty are Retention, Referral, and Revenue. Retention focuses on keeping existing customers engaged and satisfied, which is essential for business stability. Referral encourages satisfied customers to recommend your brand to others, broadening your customer base. Revenue emphasizes maximizing the financial contributions from loyal customers, who typically spend considerably more over time. Conclusion To conclude, loyalty cards offer significant advantages that improve your shopping experience. By providing rewards, exclusive discounts, and personalized benefits, these programs can influence your purchasing decisions and increase your savings. They likewise help build a stronger connection with brands, nurturing loyalty and advocacy. Furthermore, the data gathered from your preferences allows businesses to refine their services, ensuring that their offerings align with your expectations. Overall, loyalty cards can lead to a more satisfying and rewarding shopping experience. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "7 Key Advantages of Loyalty Cards for Customers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Loyalty cards provide several key benefits that can improve your shopping experience. They offer rewards that can lead to increased savings, exclusive discounts, and personalized offers based on your preferences. These programs not just cultivate a stronger connection between you and the brand but also create opportunities for community engagement. Comprehending these advantages can help you make informed choices about which loyalty programs to join and how to maximize their value. What other benefits might you discover? Key Takeaways Loyalty cards enhance the shopping experience by providing tangible rewards, such as discounts and redeemable points, encouraging customer engagement. Members gain access to exclusive offers and discounts, leading to potential savings of up to 25% annually during redemption periods. Personalized benefits, tailored to individual shopping habits, increase customer satisfaction and brand loyalty through relevant promotions and discounts. Emotional connections fostered by loyalty programs encourage repeat purchases and positive word-of-mouth, strengthening brand loyalty. Data-driven insights from loyalty programs improve business strategies, enhancing customer experiences and mutually benefiting both customers and businesses. Enhanced Shopping Experience Through Rewards Loyalty cards improve your shopping experience by providing tangible rewards that can make each visit more valuable. One of the main loyalty card benefits is the ability to earn discounts, exclusive deals, and points redeemable for future purchases, which can incentivize you to return more frequently. You may find that customers participating in loyalty programs increase their spending by an average of 67%, driven by the rewards they can accumulate. Programs like Starbucks Rewards exemplify this, allowing you to collect points with every transaction, leading to free items and a sense of satisfaction. Additionally, many loyalty programs personalize rewards based on your shopping habits, ensuring you receive benefits that align with your interests. Overall, the advantages of loyalty cards for customers extend beyond mere savings; they encourage greater engagement, making your shopping experience more rewarding and enjoyable. Access to Exclusive Offers and Discounts With a loyalty card, you gain access to exclusive offers and discounts that can greatly reduce your shopping costs. Many programs reward you with early access to sales, allowing you to snag deals before they’re available to everyone else. Furthermore, you can benefit from customized promotions based on your shopping habits, making your loyalty card experience even more valuable. Special Promotions and Deals Accessing special promotions and deals can greatly improve your shopping experience, especially when you’re a part of a loyalty program. Many retailers tailor discounts based on your individual purchasing behavior, making these promotions more relevant and appealing. In fact, 66% of shoppers say that earning and using rewards greatly influences their buying decisions. During redemption periods, loyalty cardholders often experience an average increase of 25% in annual spending, as they’re incentivized to take advantage of exclusive offers. These special promotions not just enhance your shopping experience but additionally contribute to a brand’s revenue growth, with companies seeing up to 2.5 times faster growth when they implement effective loyalty programs. Enjoying these benefits can lead to smarter shopping choices. Early Access Opportunities When you join a loyalty program, you often gain early access to exclusive offers and discounts that can improve your shopping experience. This privilege allows you to shop sales before the general public, securing limited-time deals that others miss. Here are some key benefits of early access: Shop limited-time deals before anyone else. Receive special promotions customized to your spending level. Enjoy tiered rewards that increase with higher purchases. Take advantage of exclusive events just for loyalty members. Experience a sense of urgency that boosts your shopping satisfaction. These early access opportunities not just make your shopping more rewarding but also encourage repeat visits, eventually increasing your lifetime value as a customer. Personalized Benefits Tailored to Customer Preferences Loyalty programs are increasingly designed to offer personalized benefits that align with your shopping habits and preferences, enhancing your overall experience. These programs often provide customized rewards, such as discounts on items you buy frequently. Studies show that consumers prefer personalized experiences, and individualized rewards can greatly boost your engagement and satisfaction. For example, wineries that offer discounts on specific products, like wineries giving deals on your favorite wine types, see higher repeat purchase rates. The data collected through these loyalty programs helps businesses understand customer behavior better, enabling them to create targeted offers that resonate with different segments. This strategy not only improves marketing effectiveness but also guarantees that you receive relevant benefits. In the end, personalized rewards make you feel valued, as they reflect your unique preferences and shopping patterns, enhancing your overall loyalty to the brand and encouraging you to return for future purchases. Strengthened Brand Loyalty and Emotional Connection Building a strong emotional connection with a brand can greatly improve customer loyalty, as studies indicate that 75% of consumers are willing to switch brands for better loyalty programs. When loyalty programs reward you for your commitment, you’re likely to feel a deeper connection, which enriches your overall shopping experience. This emotional bond can lead to repeat purchases and even make you a brand advocate. Here are some key benefits of strengthened brand loyalty through loyalty cards: Increased likelihood of repeat purchases A 67% increase in spending compared to new buyers Positive word-of-mouth marketing from satisfied loyalty members Reduced chances of exploring alternative brands Elevated engagement with the brand’s offerings Opportunities for Social Engagement and Community Building As customers engage with brands through loyalty programs, they often discover unique opportunities for social interaction and community building. Many loyalty programs host exclusive events or create forums for members, allowing you to connect with others who share your interests in the brand. This sense of belonging can improve your overall experience. Moreover, members tend to interact more with brands on social media, leading to meaningful conversations and connections. Loyalty programs also frequently offer referral bonuses, encouraging you to share your positive experiences with friends and family, which helps expand the brand’s community through word-of-mouth. Active participation in these loyalty communities can increase your satisfaction as you receive personalized communication and recognition. In addition, brands that effectively leverage these programs often see a rise in customer advocacy, with loyal members more likely to promote the brand and engage in community-driven initiatives. Increased Savings and Financial Incentives Engaging with loyalty programs not just encourages community interaction but furthermore opens the door to increased savings and financial incentives. By participating, you can reveal a range of benefits that improve your shopping experience and budget. Here are some key advantages: Exclusive discounts and promotions that lead to significant savings on future purchases. Potential savings of up to 25% annually through reward redemption compared to non-members. Personalized discounts based on your purchasing history, aligning savings with your preferences. Access to special sales events and flash deals unavailable to the general public. Increased purchasing capability, as loyalty members tend to spend 67% more than new customers. These features not only make shopping more rewarding but likewise provide you with valuable financial incentives to maximize your spending wisely. Valuable Insights and Data Utilization for Better Services Loyalty programs play a crucial role in helping businesses collect valuable insights about their customers, enabling them to customize services and offerings more effectively. By analyzing data from loyalty card usage, companies can understand shopping frequency, spending habits, and product preferences, allowing for targeted promotions that meet individual needs. Here’s a quick overview of how these insights can be utilized: Insight Type Customer Benefit Business Benefit Shopping Frequency Personalized rewards Improved inventory management Spending Habits Relevant promotions Improved marketing strategies Product Preferences Customized services Informed product development Utilizing these insights leads to improved customer experiences and increased engagement. Feedback from loyalty programs likewise guides service improvements, ensuring that offerings align with customer expectations and desires, ultimately benefiting both you and the business. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Benefits of a Loyalty Card? A loyalty card offers several benefits that improve your shopping experience. You earn points on every purchase, which can lead to discounts or rewards, encouraging you to shop more frequently. Many programs provide exclusive offers, ensuring you save money compared to non-members. Furthermore, tiered rewards allow you to access better benefits as you spend more, creating a sense of achievement and boosting your overall satisfaction with the brand you choose. What Is an Advantage of Customer Loyalty? An advantage of customer loyalty lies in the increased spending that loyal customers typically exhibit. When you consistently shop at the same store, you often develop preferences and trust, which can lead you to spend more than occasional shoppers. This loyalty not merely benefits you through better deals and rewards but additionally provides businesses with a stable revenue base. As a result, both you and the business can thrive through this mutual relationship. What Are the 4 C’s of Customer Loyalty? The 4 C’s of customer loyalty are Customer Value, Customer Engagement, Customer Experience, and Customer Advocacy. Customer Value focuses on providing rewards that meet your needs, enhancing your spending. Customer Engagement involves creating meaningful interactions through personalized offers, encouraging repeat purchases. Customer Experience guarantees your shopping path is seamless and enjoyable, boosting satisfaction. Finally, Customer Advocacy motivates you to share positive experiences, influencing others and contributing to the brand’s growth through word-of-mouth. What Are the 3 R’s of Customer Loyalty? The three R’s of customer loyalty are Retention, Referral, and Revenue. Retention focuses on keeping existing customers engaged and satisfied, which is essential for business stability. Referral encourages satisfied customers to recommend your brand to others, broadening your customer base. Revenue emphasizes maximizing the financial contributions from loyal customers, who typically spend considerably more over time. Conclusion To conclude, loyalty cards offer significant advantages that improve your shopping experience. By providing rewards, exclusive discounts, and personalized benefits, these programs can influence your purchasing decisions and increase your savings. They likewise help build a stronger connection with brands, nurturing loyalty and advocacy. Furthermore, the data gathered from your preferences allows businesses to refine their services, ensuring that their offerings align with your expectations. Overall, loyalty cards can lead to a more satisfying and rewarding shopping experience. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "7 Key Advantages of Loyalty Cards for Customers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

This week, the young people on TikTok have uncovered a new way to prepare breakfast and an evocative way to describe the feeling that something bad is coming. That's a pretty good week, but they've also taken to LARPing as artificial intelligence, and finding something interesting about Staples stores. Here's what all of that means. What are "frambled eggs"?I can't believe I never thought of this. "Frambled" is a portmanteau of "fried" and "scrambled." It's eggs prepared partly scrambled, but with the yolk intact. The culinary breakthrough seems to have been invented by TikToker @bussyrelate in this video: Although their commenters are calling it a "sunny scramble," as if it's an known egg preparation style. New or not, everyone else on TikTok is giving it a shot. Judging from the videos I've been watching, there are two schools of frambled eggs. One is scrambled egg whites with intact yolk. The other is one egg fully scrambled mixed carefully in the pan with an egg where the yolk isn't touched. The preferred method seems to be to scramble 'em right in the pan, but you could separate the whites and yolks, scrambled the whites, and then put them in the frying pan. If you want to be fancy. What does "The saxophones are getting louder" mean?This meme-speak phrase isn't used that widely among young people, but it's such an evocative piece of slang, you should know it anyway. "The saxophones are getting louder" describes a feeling of impending disaster. It's a reference to the scene in 1991's Boyz n the Hood where the sound of a screeching saxophones precedes the death of Ricky. The meme seems to have started with this video: but has since expanded to include any situation in which doom is imminent. The saxophones start getting louder when you remember there's pistachios in the dessert right after your allergic brother gives it a taste: when the nurses at the hospital start moving quickly: when there are gunshots at the pool party: and maybe whenever you start really thinking about what's happening: If you like ominous videos as much as I do, check out the collection connected to the sound clip. "Your AI Slop Bores Me" lets people replace AII love a free web game, especially one that comments on AI. Your AI Slop Bores Me cuts the artificial out of artificial intelligence and lets you ask questions or request drawings from an anonymous human instead. Or you can become the AI and answer queries. The answers highlight the difference between fake intelligence and people. You don't get responses like this from ChatGPT: Credit: Stephen Johnson or like this: Credit: Stephen Johnson Viral video of the week: Staples BaddieIf you're like me, you think ubiquitous office supply store Staples is boring, if you think of Staples at all. But we are so wrong. To a growing number of young people, Staples is more than a place to get printer paper when you forget to order it from Amazon. Staples is cool, and it's thanks to one person: TikTok user and Staples employee Kaeden Rowland. Dubbed "Staples Baddie," Rowland's TikTok channel is blowing up, with millions of views on videos describing the things you can do at your local Staples. Like make a custom mug: Or a personalized signature stamp: You can make stickers, too. Or have a mailing sent out to masses of people. There's a lot. While Staples Baddie's popularity is no doubt making Staples Corporate happy, another supposed Staples wage slave is not happy at all. "I'm a Staples worker and Staples Baddie is ruining my life," says Aran in a TikTok response video. "Staples was not a busy store. We would maybe have three people in the store at any given time. Now that the Staples Baddie has gone viral, we get hundreds of people every day." "I was really loving how my job was just kind of sitting around," Aran concludes. On a deeper level, this could all be a corporate advertising. According to CNN's reporting, Staples Baddie is legitimately a Staples employee, but I saw the story of Aran on People.com, and that publication seemed unaware that Aran doesn't actually work at Staples: In other videos they've posted, Aran has claimed to work at Spirit Halloween, AMC, and has said they are a med student. Even if he doesn't work there, according to many Staples employees online, Aran's point is legit, and Staples Baddie is making things harder for everyone else at the chain store. "If they're just a regular person and not a marketing ploy, higher up employee or being paid extra, it makes me mad that customers see a fun glimpse instead of what we deal with, how we're treated and how little we get paid," posts Reddit's u/Dear_Ad63. View the full article

When crafting customer satisfaction surveys, it’s vital to include specific questions that yield actionable feedback. Start by gauging overall satisfaction, then assess customer support effectiveness, product quality, pricing perceptions, and finally, encourage open-ended responses for deeper insights. Each of these elements plays a notable role in comprehending customer needs. By focusing on these five fundamental questions, you can greatly improve the quality of feedback you receive, leading to more informed business decisions. What might those questions look like? Key Takeaways Rate your overall satisfaction with our products/services on a scale of 1 to 5. How effectively did our customer service address your issue during your recent interaction? What specific features of the product do you appreciate the most? Do you feel our pricing reflects good value for the quality offered? Please share any additional comments or suggestions to improve your experience. General Satisfaction Questions How do general satisfaction questions help businesses comprehend their customers? These questions, often part of customer satisfaction surveys, gauge your overall perception of a company’s products or services. They typically feature a rating scale, allowing you to express your satisfaction level quantitatively. This data can then be analyzed for trends over time, helping businesses identify strengths and areas needing improvement. User satisfaction survey questions can range from simple inquiries like “How satisfied are you with our service?” to more detailed prompts about specific aspects of your experience. Including open-ended options alongside rating scales helps gather deeper qualitative insights into customer sentiments. Regularly measuring general satisfaction is essential, as it enables businesses to track changes in customer sentiment, leading to timely adjustments that improve your overall experience and loyalty. By comprehending your feedback, companies can better meet your needs and expectations. Customer Support Experience Questions Customer support experience questions play a crucial role in evaluating how effectively service representatives meet your needs. These questions help gauge the responsiveness and effectiveness of support interactions, providing valuable insights into your overall satisfaction. Consider including the following key questions in your surveys: On a scale of 1 to 5, how would you rate the responsiveness of our customer service? Were your issues resolved satisfactorily during your interaction with support? How clear was the communication from our customer service representatives? How easy was it for you to access support resources, such as FAQs or self-service options? Product Quality Assessment Questions What factors contribute to a product’s perceived quality? Product quality assessment questions are crucial for comprehending how well your product meets customer expectations. You can gauge this through metrics like durability, performance, and reliability. A common question to ask is, “How satisfied are you with the quality of our product?” using a scale from 1 to 5 to quantify feedback. Furthermore, it’s valuable to identify specific features customers appreciate, such as ease of use or effectiveness, which can guide your improvement efforts. Incorporating open-ended questions, like “What improvements would you suggest for our product?” allows for detailed responses and deeper insights into customer experiences. Analyzing the answers to these questions over time can reveal trends, helping you track improvements or declines in customer satisfaction as your product evolves. By focusing on these areas, you can refine your product’s quality and meet customer needs more effectively. Pricing and Value Perception Questions Pricing and value perception questions play a critical role in comprehending how customers view the relationship between a product’s cost and its benefits. These questions help you gauge whether customers feel that what they pay aligns with the quality they receive, which influences their overall satisfaction and loyalty. Consider including questions such as: How do you perceive the pricing of our product compared to competitors? Do you believe our product offers good value for money? What factors influence your perception of our pricing? How likely are you to recommend us based on our pricing structure? Open-Ended Feedback Questions Gathering insights through open-ended feedback questions can considerably improve your grasp of customer experiences and perceptions. These questions allow customers to express their thoughts and feelings in their own words, providing richer qualitative data often missed by structured questions. By asking open-ended questions, you can uncover unique insights, like unexpected pain points or positive experiences, which help you comprehend customer sentiment beyond just numbers. These questions encourage detailed responses, highlighting specific areas for improvement or innovation that quantitative data might overlook. Furthermore, when customers see that their opinions are valued, it nurtures engagement and loyalty for your brand. In the meantime, analyzing open-ended responses can be more complex; employing text analysis tools can assist in identifying common themes and sentiments across the feedback you receive. In the end, integrating open-ended questions into your surveys can lead to a deeper awareness of your customers and their needs. Frequently Asked Questions What Questions Should I Ask in a Customer Satisfaction Survey? In a customer satisfaction survey, you should ask questions that assess overall satisfaction, like “How satisfied are you with our product/service?” Incorporate a rating scale for clarity. Include open-ended questions, such as “What improvements would you like to see?” to gather specific feedback. Measuring customer loyalty is essential, so ask, “How likely are you to recommend us?” Additionally, inquire about ease of use: “How easy was it to navigate our website/app?” What Are the 3 C’s of Customer Satisfaction? The 3 C’s of customer satisfaction are Clarity, Consistency, and Care. Clarity guarantees you’re communicating effectively about your products and services, helping customers know exactly what to expect. Consistency means delivering the same quality and service every time, which builds trust. Care involves genuinely valuing customer feedback and addressing their needs. Together, these principles create a strong foundation for positive experiences, eventually leading to increased loyalty and retention among your customer base. What Are the Best Survey Questions for Feedback? To gather meaningful feedback, you should include specific questions in your survey. Start with a satisfaction scale, like “How satisfied are you with our product/service?” Next, ask about loyalty with, “How likely are you to recommend us?” Open-ended questions such as, “What could we improve?” are essential for detailed insights. Furthermore, consider the ease of interaction by asking, “How easy was it to resolve your issue?” Finally, demographic questions help segment responses effectively. What Is the 5 Point Scale for Customer Satisfaction Survey? The 5-point scale for customer satisfaction surveys ranges from 1, indicating very dissatisfied, to 5, representing very satisfied. This scale simplifies data collection and analysis, allowing you to easily calculate average satisfaction scores. It includes a neutral option (3), which helps reduce response bias and encourages honest feedback. Conclusion Incorporating these five crucial questions into your customer satisfaction surveys can greatly improve the feedback you receive. By addressing overall satisfaction, customer support experiences, product quality, pricing perceptions, and encouraging open-ended responses, you can gain valuable insights into customer preferences and needs. This approach not merely helps identify areas for improvement but additionally nurtures a stronger connection with your customers, ultimately leading to better service and increased loyalty. Prioritize these questions to cultivate a more effective feedback loop. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "5 Essential Questions for Customer Satisfaction Surveys to Boost Feedback" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When crafting customer satisfaction surveys, it’s vital to include specific questions that yield actionable feedback. Start by gauging overall satisfaction, then assess customer support effectiveness, product quality, pricing perceptions, and finally, encourage open-ended responses for deeper insights. Each of these elements plays a notable role in comprehending customer needs. By focusing on these five fundamental questions, you can greatly improve the quality of feedback you receive, leading to more informed business decisions. What might those questions look like? Key Takeaways Rate your overall satisfaction with our products/services on a scale of 1 to 5. How effectively did our customer service address your issue during your recent interaction? What specific features of the product do you appreciate the most? Do you feel our pricing reflects good value for the quality offered? Please share any additional comments or suggestions to improve your experience. General Satisfaction Questions How do general satisfaction questions help businesses comprehend their customers? These questions, often part of customer satisfaction surveys, gauge your overall perception of a company’s products or services. They typically feature a rating scale, allowing you to express your satisfaction level quantitatively. This data can then be analyzed for trends over time, helping businesses identify strengths and areas needing improvement. User satisfaction survey questions can range from simple inquiries like “How satisfied are you with our service?” to more detailed prompts about specific aspects of your experience. Including open-ended options alongside rating scales helps gather deeper qualitative insights into customer sentiments. Regularly measuring general satisfaction is essential, as it enables businesses to track changes in customer sentiment, leading to timely adjustments that improve your overall experience and loyalty. By comprehending your feedback, companies can better meet your needs and expectations. Customer Support Experience Questions Customer support experience questions play a crucial role in evaluating how effectively service representatives meet your needs. These questions help gauge the responsiveness and effectiveness of support interactions, providing valuable insights into your overall satisfaction. Consider including the following key questions in your surveys: On a scale of 1 to 5, how would you rate the responsiveness of our customer service? Were your issues resolved satisfactorily during your interaction with support? How clear was the communication from our customer service representatives? How easy was it for you to access support resources, such as FAQs or self-service options? Product Quality Assessment Questions What factors contribute to a product’s perceived quality? Product quality assessment questions are crucial for comprehending how well your product meets customer expectations. You can gauge this through metrics like durability, performance, and reliability. A common question to ask is, “How satisfied are you with the quality of our product?” using a scale from 1 to 5 to quantify feedback. Furthermore, it’s valuable to identify specific features customers appreciate, such as ease of use or effectiveness, which can guide your improvement efforts. Incorporating open-ended questions, like “What improvements would you suggest for our product?” allows for detailed responses and deeper insights into customer experiences. Analyzing the answers to these questions over time can reveal trends, helping you track improvements or declines in customer satisfaction as your product evolves. By focusing on these areas, you can refine your product’s quality and meet customer needs more effectively. Pricing and Value Perception Questions Pricing and value perception questions play a critical role in comprehending how customers view the relationship between a product’s cost and its benefits. These questions help you gauge whether customers feel that what they pay aligns with the quality they receive, which influences their overall satisfaction and loyalty. Consider including questions such as: How do you perceive the pricing of our product compared to competitors? Do you believe our product offers good value for money? What factors influence your perception of our pricing? How likely are you to recommend us based on our pricing structure? Open-Ended Feedback Questions Gathering insights through open-ended feedback questions can considerably improve your grasp of customer experiences and perceptions. These questions allow customers to express their thoughts and feelings in their own words, providing richer qualitative data often missed by structured questions. By asking open-ended questions, you can uncover unique insights, like unexpected pain points or positive experiences, which help you comprehend customer sentiment beyond just numbers. These questions encourage detailed responses, highlighting specific areas for improvement or innovation that quantitative data might overlook. Furthermore, when customers see that their opinions are valued, it nurtures engagement and loyalty for your brand. In the meantime, analyzing open-ended responses can be more complex; employing text analysis tools can assist in identifying common themes and sentiments across the feedback you receive. In the end, integrating open-ended questions into your surveys can lead to a deeper awareness of your customers and their needs. Frequently Asked Questions What Questions Should I Ask in a Customer Satisfaction Survey? In a customer satisfaction survey, you should ask questions that assess overall satisfaction, like “How satisfied are you with our product/service?” Incorporate a rating scale for clarity. Include open-ended questions, such as “What improvements would you like to see?” to gather specific feedback. Measuring customer loyalty is essential, so ask, “How likely are you to recommend us?” Additionally, inquire about ease of use: “How easy was it to navigate our website/app?” What Are the 3 C’s of Customer Satisfaction? The 3 C’s of customer satisfaction are Clarity, Consistency, and Care. Clarity guarantees you’re communicating effectively about your products and services, helping customers know exactly what to expect. Consistency means delivering the same quality and service every time, which builds trust. Care involves genuinely valuing customer feedback and addressing their needs. Together, these principles create a strong foundation for positive experiences, eventually leading to increased loyalty and retention among your customer base. What Are the Best Survey Questions for Feedback? To gather meaningful feedback, you should include specific questions in your survey. Start with a satisfaction scale, like “How satisfied are you with our product/service?” Next, ask about loyalty with, “How likely are you to recommend us?” Open-ended questions such as, “What could we improve?” are essential for detailed insights. Furthermore, consider the ease of interaction by asking, “How easy was it to resolve your issue?” Finally, demographic questions help segment responses effectively. What Is the 5 Point Scale for Customer Satisfaction Survey? The 5-point scale for customer satisfaction surveys ranges from 1, indicating very dissatisfied, to 5, representing very satisfied. This scale simplifies data collection and analysis, allowing you to easily calculate average satisfaction scores. It includes a neutral option (3), which helps reduce response bias and encourages honest feedback. Conclusion Incorporating these five crucial questions into your customer satisfaction surveys can greatly improve the feedback you receive. By addressing overall satisfaction, customer support experiences, product quality, pricing perceptions, and encouraging open-ended responses, you can gain valuable insights into customer preferences and needs. This approach not merely helps identify areas for improvement but additionally nurtures a stronger connection with your customers, ultimately leading to better service and increased loyalty. Prioritize these questions to cultivate a more effective feedback loop. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "5 Essential Questions for Customer Satisfaction Surveys to Boost Feedback" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Samsung’s new Galaxy S26 Ultra launches with the usual Ultra series promise: the biggest screen, the most capable cameras, and the most features in the company’s lineup. It also launches with prices that reflects that ambition ($1,299.99 to $1,799.99). That said, Samsung is running an early promotion from March 16 through April 20 that can soften the blow. Buyers can save up to $720 with an eligible instant trade-in credit, or get $150 in credit without a trade-in to use toward other eligible Samsung devices. The deal applies directly through Samsung’s store, where the phone is also available with configuration options for storage and color. Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Trade-in deal: up to $720 in instant credit at Samsung Get Deal Get Deal at Samsung The S26 Ultra builds on the formula Samsung has refined over the past few years. The phone keeps the large Ultra-style display, now using Samsung’s newest OLED panel with a high refresh rate and a peak brightness designed to stay readable in direct sunlight. Samsung also introduced a new privacy display feature that limits viewing angles so people nearby cannot easily see what’s on your screen. That feature was introduced alongside the phone during the company’s 2026 Unpacked event, and it is aimed at commuters or frequent travelers who often use their phone in public places. Samsung is also leaning heavily on the camera system this year. As we covered in our earlier look at the S26 cameras, the company appears confident about improvements to image processing and zoom performance. The Ultra line still targets people who treat their phone as their primary camera, and the hardware reflects that focus. Samsung built the S26 Ultra around a large multi-sensor camera system paired with its latest computational photography tools, aimed at users who regularly shoot photos, video, or social media content from their phone. But the device remains big and expensive even with discounts. Samsung raised prices across the S26 lineup this year, which we covered in our breakdown of the price increase. That makes the launch promotion more relevant for anyone already planning to upgrade from an older Galaxy device. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $148.99 (List Price $179.00) Samsung Galaxy S26 512GB + $100 Amazon Gift Card (Black) — $1,099.99 (List Price $1,099.99) Google Pixel 10a 128GB 6.3" Unlocked Smartphone + $100 Gift Card — $599.00 (List Price $599.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $299.00 (List Price $399.00) Amazon Fire TV Soundbar — $99.99 (List Price $119.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

This Oscar cycle’s heavyweight battle is finally over. The politically charged action comedy “One Battle After Another” just managed to outmuscle Ryan Coogler’s musically driven vampire thriller “Sinners.” It was a 3 hour and 40 minute whirl through cinema and celebration, with Michael B. Jordan winning best actor for “Sinners” and Jessie Buckley winning for “Hamnet,” making her the first Irish performer to ever win in the category. There was electricity when Autumn Durald Arkapaw became the first woman and Black person to win the cinematography award for “Sinners,” asking all the women in the Dolby Theatre to stand up because moments like this don’t happen without women “standing up for you and advocating for you.” Here were some other show highlights: The battle is over for one filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson, one of the most respected filmmakers of his generation, finally won an Oscar. Then he won another. Then he won for best picture. He first won best adapted screenplay for “One Battle After Another” and then was crowned best director. “You make a guy work hard for this,” he said. Anderson was back onstage for the night’s final award — best picture. “Let’s have a martini. This is amazing,” he said. Anderson had been nominated 14 times previously, including five times for screenplays and three times for best director. His films include “Boogie Nights,” “There Will Be Blood” and “Magnolia.” “I wrote this movie for my kids, to say sorry for the housekeeping mess that we left in this world we’re handing off to them,” Anderson said onstage after winning for his screenplay. “But also with the encouragement that they will be the generation that hopefully brings us some common sense and decency.” Even Cassandra Kulukundis, who served as the casting director on past Anderson films, hoped he would win an award himself while accepting the first new completive Oscar category in over two decades for “One Battle After Another.” She beat him to a win by just minutes. Another long wait for Oscar hardware Amy Madigan, the night’s first winner, had to wait a long time to celebrate an Oscar win. The gap between her first ever Oscar nomination and first win was 40 years — handing her the record wait for a best supporting actress. Madigan’s first Oscar nomination was for 1985’s “Twice in a Lifetime,” losing to Anjelica Huston. She won Sunday for playing an unrecognizable and utterly mesmerizing oddball aunt in “Weapons,” a supernatural thriller about missing children. Madigan had earlier picked up wins at the Critics Choice and Actor Awards. Aunt Gladys’ smeared, heavy makeup, strange hair and large glasses became a popular internet meme and was even played up by Oscars host Conan O’Brien in his opening skit, looking like Gladys as he raced through appearances in other nominated movies chased by children. On hearing her name, Madigan collapsed into the arms of her husband, actor Ed Harris. Onstage, she thanked film writer-director Zach Cregger for giving her a part in “Weapons” she could “grab by the throat.” She last thanked “my beloved Ed,” adding: “None of this would mean anything if he wasn’t by my side.” A heavy goodbye to the Reiners A stage of stars bid farewell to Rob Reiner, led by a long friend and colleague, Billy Crystal. Crystal kicked off the in memoriam section by saying he met Reiner while cast as a best friend of Reiner’s on “All in the Family” in 1975. Reiner’s movies included “This Is Spinal Tap,” “Stand By Me,” “When Harry Met Sally…,” “Misery,” “A Few Good Men” and “The Princess Bride.” “My friend Rob’s movies will last for lifetimes because they were about what makes us laugh and cry and what we aspire to be: Far better in his eyes, far kinder, far funnier and far more human,” Crystal said. Reiner was killed along with his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, in December. Their son, Nick Reiner, has been charged with two counts of murder. After Crystal’s speech, he revealed a stage filled with stars who shone in Reiner’s films, including Meg Ryan, Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, Kathy Bates, Kiefer Sutherland, Demi Moore, Jerry O’Connell, Annette Bening, Mandy Patinkin, Fred Savage and Cary Elwes. In memoriam and Redford The in memoriam section then highlighted those lost during 2025, like Catherine O’Hara, Diane Keaton, Gene Hackman, Robert Duvall, Brigitte Bardot, Michael Madsen, Terence Stamp, Diane Ladd, Sally Kirkland, Tom Stoppard, Malcolm-Jamal Warner and Val Kilmer. Barbra Streisand then stepped up to honor her co-star in “The Way We Were,” Robert Redford. “He was thoughtful and bold. I called him an intellectual cowboy who blazed his own trail, and won the Academy Award for best director, and I miss him now more than ever, even though he loved teasing me,” Streisand said. She then sang a snippet of “The Way We Were,” which she last performed during the 2013 ceremony, when she sang it as an homage to the late composer Marvin Hamlisch. Two stunning song performances The Oscars had only two musical numbers but they were Grammy-worthy. Singer-actor Miles Caton and songwriter Raphael Saadiq performed the deeply bluesy, slinky song “I Lied to You” from “Sinners,” joined by an ensemble that included Misty Copeland, Eric Gales, Buddy Guy, Brittany Howard, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Jayme Lawson, Li Jun Li, Bobby Rush, Shaboozey and Alice Smith in a tribute to the film’s visual and musical style. The camera swept in and among the writhing bodies in a rollicking, kinetic performance. “KPop Demon Hunters” later celebrated its win as best animated feature by opening its performance of “Golden” with a fusion of traditional Korean instrumentalists and dance, with dancers in gold waving golden fabric flags. Then Ejae, Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami — the singing voices behind HUNTR/X in the film — belted out “Golden” as members of the audience waved light sticks. Then “Golden” won the Oscar for best original song, a first for K-pop. The coolest part was seeing dancers from each song appear in the other’s, a kind of communication between Delta blues and Asian pop. ‘Bridesmaids’ give us a bouquet Melissa McCarthy, Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne, Kristen Wiig and Ellie Kemper celebrated 15 years after “Bridesmaids” hit theaters by showing everyone their funny bones haven’t aged. “Now, we are not good with numbers, but we figured out backstage that means we shot this movie in 1883,” Wiig joked. The group — presenting best original score and best sound — had fun at the expense of Stellan Skarsgård, Leonardo DiCaprio and Jacobi Jupe of “Hamnet.” They pretended to read messages from the crowd, including one from DiCaprio that accused Byrne of staring at him. “I have been staring at you,” Byrne replied. “I thought you were somebody else.” Rudolph leaned into her dimwit persona when she wondered: “Earlier today, when I was counting my money, I asked myself, “What is sound?” There was also a mini-“Avengers” reunion with Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr. presenting best adapted screenplay. And a “Moulin Rouge!” reunion with Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor. And there was a Pullman family reunion when Bill teamed up with son, Jack. Second time’s a charm, Conan Conan O’Brien hit almost every note on Sunday — savage, playful, heartfelt and dumb. The second-time host predicted he’d be the last human Oscar MC. “Next year, it will be a Waymo with a tux,” he joked. He also had a jab at Timothée Chalamet, who got into hot water when he seemed to call ballet and opera dying art forms. “They’re just mad you left out jazz,” O’Brien quipped. He reached for a Jeffrey Epstein joke when he noted that it was the first time since 2012 that there were no British actors nominated. “A British spokesperson said, ‘Yeah, well at least we arrest our pedophiles.'” But he also got poetic and sweet when he noted that 31 countries across six continents were represented at the Oscars. “Every film we salute is a product of thousands of people speaking different language, working hard to make something of beauty,” O’Brien said. “We pay tribute tonight, not just to film, but to the ideals of global artistry, collaboration, patience, resilience and that rarest of qualities today: optimism.” Of course, sometimes his bits fell flat, like the time he used a leaf blower onstage and a gag about memes with Leonardo DiCaprio. For more coverage of this year’s Oscars, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/academy-awards —Mark Kennedy, AP Entertainment Writer View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Sony’s WH-1000XM5 headphones are no longer the newest model in the company’s lineup, but they remain one of the easiest recommendations if you want strong noise canceling without paying flagship prices. Right now, a refurbished pair is $209.99 on Amazon, compared with $278 for a new set (and the $399.99 launch price in 2022). These are sold as Amazon Certified Refurbished units, meaning they’ve been tested and certified by the manufacturer to work like new. They also come with the original accessories and a 90-day limited hardware warranty. Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones $209.00 at Amazon $278.00 Save $69.00 Get Deal Get Deal $209.00 at Amazon $278.00 Save $69.00 PCMag named them the best headphones of 2022 and gave them an “outstanding” review, largely for how well Sony balanced sound quality with noise cancellation. The XM5 uses 30mm carbon-fiber drivers paired with Sony’s Integrated Processor V1, and the combination still holds up in 2025. Music sounds full without becoming muddy. Bass-heavy tracks have weight, but vocals remain clear, and instruments don’t disappear into the background. The active noise cancellation is also effective at blocking out low-frequency sounds like airplane engines, traffic, or the general rumble of public spaces. Audio quality remains consistent with ANC enabled, unlike many cheaper headphones. For wireless listening, Bluetooth 5.2 supports AAC, SBC, and LDAC codecs, and multipoint pairing makes it easy to switch between devices, such as a laptop and a phone, without reconnecting each time. The XM5 has a lightweight frame and soft synthetic-leather earcups that stay comfortable during long listening sessions. That makes them practical for commuting, long flights, or simply wearing through a full workday. Controls are handled through touch gestures on the earcups—swipe up or down for volume and tap to pause or play. It takes a little time to get used to the gestures, but they work reliably once you learn them. Sony’s Sound Connect app adds more control, letting you tweak the EQ, adjust noise-canceling levels, and change a few listening settings depending on your environment. Battery life is rated at about 30 hours with noise canceling enabled, which is enough for several days of regular use before needing to recharge. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $148.99 (List Price $179.00) Samsung Galaxy S26 512GB + $100 Amazon Gift Card (Black) — $1,099.99 (List Price $1,099.99) Google Pixel 10a 128GB 6.3" Unlocked Smartphone + $100 Gift Card — $599.00 (List Price $599.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $299.00 (List Price $399.00) Amazon Fire TV Soundbar — $99.99 (List Price $119.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

The prices of memory chip stocks are once again on the rise as a global shortage in random access memory (RAM) continues. Over the past five days alone, the share prices of the four largest memory makers traded on U.S. markets have risen significantly. And today, those same stocks are off to another good start. Here’s what you need to know. Why is there a memory shortage? Since the latter half of 2025, analysts and industry insiders have warned of a looming memory chip shortage coming in 2026—and it’s one of the few tech predictions that have been right. This year, the world is in a full-blown memory crisis. There isn’t enough computer memory to go around, and that scarcity is leading to surging demand—and surging RAM prices. The driving force behind the memory chip shortage is artificial intelligence. But not the AI itself. Rather, the hardware companies need to run their AI systems. An artificial intelligence system like ChatGPT or Google’s Gemini requires massive data centers to run on and compute the billions of requests these chatbots get every day. Those data centers, in turn, need servers, and those servers need memory to carry out the AI tasks. The world is currently in the middle of an AI data center build-out boom, and that massive data center expansion is leading to a surge in memory demand the likes of which the industry has never seen. When memory makers are unable to keep up with demand, a shortage arises, which is exactly where we are today. Micron and Sandisk stocks are skyrocketing There are four major memory makers traded on the U.S. markets: Micron Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: MU) Sandisk Corporation (Nasdaq: SNDK) Western Digital Corporation (Nasdaq: WDC) Seagate Technology Holdings (Nasdaq: STX) Of those four, Micron and Sandisk are the two firms that primarily make short-term computer memory, which is designed to temporarily store information and help carry out tasks at lightning speed. This kind of memory is seeing the worst shortages. Western Digital and Seagate primarily make long-term computer memory, such as for SSDs, used to retain your documents and photos for a long time. Given that all four of these companies are seeing demand for their memory products soar, it’s little surprise their stock prices have been soaring as of late, too. In the past five days alone, as of Friday’s closing bell, the share prices of all four companies have risen significantly. Over the previous five-day period: Micron stock has risen 15% Sandisk stock has soared 25% Western Digital is up 11% Seagate is up nearly 9% And today, those memory makers are seeing their share prices rise even further. As of this writing, in premarket trading, MU shares are up 4.3%, SNDK shares are up nearly 3%, WDC shares are up 3.3%, and STX shares are up over 2.5%. These continued stock price gains can primarily be attributed to the global memory shortage. How will skyrocketing memory prices affect me? Of course, while investors in the four big memory companies may be quietly cheering on the global memory shortage that is driving their stock prices higher, that shortage is bad for anyone else planning to buy a computer or smartphone this year. While the memory used in AI data centers and that used in laptops and smartphones are different, many memory makers are diverting production resources away from making the “consumer” type of memory bound for smartphones and laptops to making the higher-end memory that AI giants need (because that type of memory is more profitable). This, in turn, means less consumer memory is being made that is suitable for personal devices, so the makers of those devices have to pay more to get their hands on whatever they can. When smartphone and laptop makers pay more for components, they usually don’t just absorb the increased costs; instead, they pass them on to consumers. If you’ve recently shopped for memory or even SSD hard drives online, you’ll probably have seen that prices are much higher than they were last year. And as 2026 progresses, those higher prices will also translate into higher prices for laptops and smartphones, and the memory shortage worsens. Most industry analysts do not expect the memory shortage to get better until sometime in 2027 at the earliest. What to look for next When it comes to the global memory shortage and memory chip maker stocks, the next big thing to look for is Micron Technology’s second-quarter fiscal 2026 earnings results, which will take place this Wednesday, March 18. Analysts will closely dissect the language used by Micron executives to glean insights into how memory demand is changing and whether production capacity is increasing. After Micron’s earnings on Wednesday, the next event to keep an eye on will happen in early May, which is when Sandisk, Western Digital, and Seagate are expected to announce their next results. Memory chip stocks are far outperforming the Nasdaq What’s especially remarkable about Micron, Sandisk, Western Digital, and Seagate’s run lately is that their stock prices have not been significantly impacted by the broader pullback of the Nasdaq on which they trade. While the four memory companies have seen their stock prices rise by nearly 9% to 25% over the prior five trading days, the Nasdaq Composite has declined 1.6% over the same period, largely due to uncertainties about the war in Iran. Year-to-date, the gap between the four memory makers and the Nasdaq Composite is even starker. Since the year began, the Nasdaq Composite is down 4.2%. But in the same timeframe, Micron is up 49%, Western Digital is up 58%, Seagate is up 39%, and Sandisk is up a staggering 178%. View the full article

Metrics can tell you if you’re going the right direction or not. They can also be a waste of time if the metrics are noise instead of strong signals. There is no one right answer to which metrics to use, but understanding how others use them can turn on a light bulb for new ideas. We asked our Fast Company Impact Council members what metrics they track obsessively—and why— and the answers we share may have you rethinking your own tracking. 1. CONVERSION AND RETENTION I track a lot of metrics and it’s easy to get lost in the minutiae of the business, but as a subscription business the metrics of conversion and retention are my twin North Stars. What percentage of visitors in trial are going to become paid subscribers, and what percentage of them will remain paid subscribers in three months? Really these metrics are a reflection of the benefit customers get from our products showing they are valuable enough for someone to pay us and that they are valuable enough for them to stick around. Nearly all of the other metrics that I obsessively check flow from these two. — Tony Grimminck, Scribd, Inc. 2. ORGANIC GOOGLE SEARCH I track organic Google search above almost everything. You can buy impressions, but you can’t buy someone typing your brand name unprompted. It’s the cleanest signal of real demand. I also monitor inbound pull—which partners, retailers, or creators are reaching out to us. When serious brands want proximity, it means you’re culturally relevant. If search and inbound drop when spend drops, you’re renting attention, not building equity. And then there’s the quiet test: What happens when we ease off spend? Do we disappear or are we building something worthy of the space we’ve been given? — Emily Kortlang, Yerba Madre 3. EBITDA I track EBITDA because it tells me, without any spin, whether our core business is creating the level of profitability that powers reinvestment and growth for our employee owners. I track labor as a percentage of net revenue, staff churn, and our employee culture index scores because they tell me how efficiently we’re deploying our talent and how engaged our people are in building a career here. — Steven McKay, DLR Group 4. HOW CLIENTS RANK IN AI PROMPTS Right now, we’re obsessively tracking how our clients rank in prompts across ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude. It’s a new metric for us, but an important one. We want to see how clients show up next to competitors and what narratives or keywords are driving visibility. We layer that with media coverage and domain authority to understand how those stories are performing in the real world. — Kalie Moore, High Vibe PR 5. CONTENT AND PRODUCTS We measure content and products to see how they drive behavior change, build confidence, and turn users into advocates for themselves. Engagement matters, but for us the real signal of success is when people feel empowered to act. As we build for people with real, timely needs, we track both quantitative and qualitative insights to ensure we’re solving the right problems, not guessing. That requires constant testing, learning, and refining. Across industries, leaders have to stay close to the people they serve to ensure they’re truly advancing the mission they set out to achieve. — Nathan Friedman, Understood.org 6. INTERNAL ALIGNMENT AND EXTERNAL TRACTION I track two buckets: internal alignment and external traction. Internally, we run on objectives and key results because it forces clarity. Everyone knows what they’re responsible for and how it ties to business impact. When that breaks, you feel it. When it works, things move fast. Externally, I watch streaming and radio. Streaming shows what’s happening right now, which cities are reacting, whether a record is moving culturally. Radio signals longevity. It’s slower, but it shows real staying power. Together, they tell me if we’re seeing noise or building something durable. You need both. — Logan Mulvey, GoDigital Music 7. CUSTOMER METRICS As CEO, I obsess over daily and weekly metrics like monthly recurring revenue growth, subscription churn, data-plan attach rate, NPS, transmission success rate, and early field reliability (battery life, zero-transmission failures), because recurring revenue powers the business. Any drop in trust kills referrals fast. If customer metrics are healthy so is our business. — Jeff Peel, Tactacam 8. RETENTION AND SAVINGS We track retention of our members, as we offer a lifelong commitment to our C-suite women leaders to provide them with one-on-one peer mentoring for life. This commitment increases our retention to 99%. We also track the mentor/mentee relationship. Lastly, we track our savings, which annually exceed $500,000. — Larraine Segil, Exceptional Women Alliance 9. ENGAGEMENT AND CUSTOMER SATISFACTION We track engagement and customer satisfaction obsessively. For us, engagement isn’t just a usage metric, it’s a signal of trust. When someone actively redeems and returns to our platform, that tells us the experience is resonating. Customer satisfaction is even more important. If people feel valued rather than marketed to, long-term relationships follow—and so does durable revenue for our partners. — Elery Pfeffer, Nift 10. WHERE OUR BUSINESS IS GOING When reviewing metrics, I’m looking for information about where our business is going, not lagging indicators of where we’ve been, and early warning signs of issues that may be developing. For growth, I look at pipeline coverage and conversion. For execution, I review forecast accuracy and time to revenue. For customer value, it’s our net retention rate and advocacy score. Looking at these numbers gives me a good idea of not only how we’re performing, but how efficiently we’re executing and what areas need extra attention. — Steve Holdridge, Dayforce 11. JOBS AND ECONOMICS REPORTS I obsessively track LinkedIn’s Jobs on the Rise reports and LinkedIn’s Economic Graph workforce data and research; they are great reads and provide ongoing snapshots on where the labor market, productivity and future of work are moving broadly. I also track the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Productivity and Costs report, to understand where workplace productivity is heading. It’s an excellent dashboard across key indicators and in recent years can be a strong signal on how technology, automation, and operating‑model changes are actually changing worker productivity at scale. — Alice Mann, Mann Partners 12. PROGRESS Progress against the big rocks we established. Setting broad, strategic yet outcome-based goals align the entire organization and drive results. — Michael Tannenbaum, Figure 13. ENGAGEMENT, FRICTION, AND CLIENT IMPACT I think about performance in three pillars: people, process, and product. Some of it is measurable. Some of it you feel. Both matter. On people, I track engagement, retention of top talent, and how often we promote from within. If the bench isn’t deep, nothing scales. On process, I look at friction. How fast do we decide? Is delivery predictable? The best strategy collapses without operational clarity. On product, I focus on client impact, repeat business, and quality. We have a Slack channel devoted to verbatim client praise. Data matters. But when you’re the first call a client makes on their hardest day, that’s the clearest signal of all. — Peter Smart, Fantasy 14. THE FUNNEL For Scribbly, my D2C business, I use every tiny tracking pixel in my funnel. I built a custom dashboard for myself and trained an AI agent to analyze the data just the way I want it—way better than those messy SaaS analytics dashboards that are impossible to decipher. — Lindsey Witmer Collins, WLCM Studio 15. NON-CUMULATIVE DATA Cumulative data is meaningful, but only non-cumulative data holds you accountable. For us, one such metric is how many of the Solvers selected over the past five years are still operational. We’re at 96%. That tells me our selection methods and support programs have a real impact, given that industry averages hover around 70-80%. Something else a company can track is instead of asking “where are you now?” ask “how far have you come?” That’s harder to quantify than dollars raised or media hits, but it’s the only number that tells me whether we’re doing our job. Revenue, employees, money raised—those keep the lights on. But the distance traveled keeps us honest about the mission. — Hala Hanna, MIT Solve 16. BOOMERANGS AND EMPLOYEE DEPARTURES We’ve been focused on people-centric workplace data since we started building a center of gravity for brilliant minds almost three decades ago. We regard the percentage of boomerangs in a company as a leading indicator of having a positive, thriving culture that people value and want to be part of. At the other end of the spectrum, the rate of regrettable departures usually signals when there are culture issues that must be addressed. — Leerom Segal, Klick Health 17. ENGAGEMENT QUALITY, AUDIENCE SENTIMENT, AND BRAND LIFT We prioritize engagement quality, audience sentiment, and brand lift because they tie directly to real business outcomes, not vanity metrics. We trademarked “true human influence” to make influencer marketing more measurable, backing it with proprietary technology and trusted measurement partners to ensure we deliver against brand KPIs. And with AI driving the convergence of creator and affiliate marketing, we can now connect authentic storytelling to commerce at scale. — Ben Jeffries, Influencer View the full article

Gorin explains Expedia’s three-part AI strategy, from improving travel products to giving employees “superpowers.” View the full article

Iran has shown that control of the strait gives it a stranglehold over the world economyView the full article