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This post was written by Alison Green and published on Ask a Manager. Eloise is 20 years old (!) and was living in a shelter cage, but now she has a house of her own. This comment section is open for any non-work-related discussion you’d like to have with other readers, by popular demand. Here are the rules for the weekend posts. Book recommendation of the week: I See You’ve Called In Dead, by John Kenney. An obituary writer publishes his own obituary after drinking too much one night, then he learns his newspaper can’t fire him because their systems now list him as dead. (Amazon, Bookshop) * I earn a commission if you use those links. View the full article

The Fast Company Impact Council is an invitation-only membership community of leaders, experts, executives, and entrepreneurs who share their insights with our audience. Members pay annual dues for access to peer learning, thought leadership opportunities, events and more. The landscape of home automation has sparked numerous discussions about security and control. According to SonicWall’s comprehensive 2025 Annual Cyber Threat Report, smart home products experienced a staggering 124% increase in cyberattacks during 2024, with smart plugs emerging as particularly vulnerable targets. These vulnerabilities have ignited growing consumer concern about the safety of cloud-dependent technologies that have dominated the smart home market. As our homes become increasingly connected, the cloud-connected home automation we’ve been seeing for the past decade is being critically examined. A growing segment of consumers now seeks alternatives emphasizing local control, data privacy, and system resilience. Here we’ll examine the emerging paradigm of locally controlled smart home technologies, an approach that promises to return technological autonomy to homeowners. The current landscape of smart home technology The modern smart home ecosystem has evolved into an interconnected network predominantly reliant on cloud infrastructure. This cloud-centric approach requires constant internet connectivity, routing even the simplest commands through distant data centers thousands of miles away. While promising convenience, this model introduces vulnerabilities: A single network interruption can render home systems inoperable. Each connected device becomes a potential cybersecurity entry point. Data privacy becomes increasingly compromised as more personal information is transmitted and stored remotely. Real-world IoT and smart home security failures The most troubling aspect of cloud-dependent smart home technology is the threat of planned obsolescence. Manufacturers can shut down cloud services that power devices consumers have already purchased, rendering functional hardware useless. For example, in February 2024, Amazon announced that its Echo Connect landline adapter would cease functioning, giving users just three weeks’ notice. This transition forced vulnerable users to quickly adapt to new technologies or lose access to a potentially life-saving communication tool. The Echo Connect shutdown is far from an isolated incident. In April 2022, Insteon abruptly shut down its servers without warning, rendering thousands of connected devices instantly nonfunctional. These incidents expose a critical flaw in cloud-dependent systems: Consumers never truly own their devices. When business interests change or financial pressures mount, companies can—and sometimes must—abandon their customers. Beyond platform shutdowns, security researchers continue to uncover alarming vulnerabilities in cloud-connected devices. For example, in 2020, multiple families experienced privacy violations when their Ring security cameras were compromised, allowing strangers to speak directly to family members through the devices meant to protect them. Corporate resistance to local control Some manufacturers have actively blocked consumers from maintaining local control of purchased devices. In January 2024, appliance giant Haier issued legal threats against a developer who created Home Assistant integration plugins for the company’s smart appliances. These open-source tools allowed consumers to control their purchased devices without relying on Haier’s cloud infrastructure. Despite overwhelming community support, with users creating hundreds of backup copies of the developer’s work, Haier’s aggressive stance exemplifies how manufacturers prioritize maintaining control over their ecosystems rather than respecting consumer ownership rights. These failures underscore fundamental problems with cloud-dependent smart home technologies that consumers are increasingly recognizing: Personal security is compromised when critical home systems depend on external servers. Single points of failure make entire ecosystems vulnerable. Personal data faces unnecessary exposure and transmission risks. Manufacturers maintain excessive control over hardware consumers believe they own. There is a growing community focused on local control, like Home Assistant, where users actively discuss strategies to maintain autonomy and minimize cloud dependency. The local control revolution Locally controlled smart home technology represents a paradigm shift in home automation, offering a fundamentally different approach to device management and data processing. At its core, this approach keeps all smart device functionalities within your home’s local network, providing unprecedented levels of privacy, reliability, and user control. The key principles of local control are simple. Locally controlled smart home technology represents a paradigm shift, offering fundamentally different approaches to device management and data processing: Local processing: Devices process information directly within the home network, delivering near-instantaneous response times Network independence: Systems operate independently of internet connectivity Privacy by design: Data processing remains within the home network, creating a barrier against external data collection Platforms like Home Assistant and Hubitat have emerged as leaders in this revolution, offering robust, customizable ecosystems that prioritize user autonomy. These platforms empower tech-savvy users to build truly personalized smart home experiences that reflect their unique needs and values. The path forward The shift toward locally controlled smart home technology presents a significant opportunity for forward-thinking developers and manufacturers. As consumer demand for privacy, security, and true ownership grows, businesses that embrace this paradigm will gain competitive advantage in an increasingly crowded market. For developers and product teams, the strategy is clear: Incorporate local processing capabilities alongside cloud features, respect user autonomy through open APIs, and build trust through transparent data practices. Companies that prioritize these values aren’t just serving a niche—they’re positioning themselves at the forefront of the next evolution in smart home technology. The most successful smart home ecosystems won’t be those that lock users into vulnerable cloud dependencies, but those that empower customers with genuine control while delivering exceptional experiences. Svetlin Todorov is cofounder of Shelly and CEO of Shelly U.S.A. View the full article

Nintendo Switch 2 preorders are currently underway (if you can manage to find a store with inventory, that is). As we approach the console's June 5 launch date, it's worth getting a bit reflective: The Switch as a product line is now more than eight years old, and Nintendo has made some significant changes with this latest device. If you have a Switch and are thinking about picking up a Switch 2, you might be wondering how these two generations of consoles compare. Now, Nintendo didn't just release one console during the Switch era: It released three. There's the original Switch, the Switch OLED, and the Switch Lite. I'm taking a look at all three and comparing their specs to the new Switch 2. While we'll need to wait for reviews to directly compare the overall experience of these different devices, we can at least get a sense for them on paper. DimensionsRight off the bat, all of Nintendo's Switches feel very different. The Switch 2 is the largest, coming in at 4.5 inches tall by 10.7 inches wide by 0.55 inches thick. That's with the Joy-Con 2s attached, mind you. Nintendo says the thickness from the tip of the joysticks to the ZL/ZR buttons is 1.2 inches. It weighs 0.88 lbs on its own, or 1.18 lbs with the Joy-Cons attached. The original Switch is smaller: It's 4 inches by 9.4 inches by 0.55 inches. (The joysticks to the ZL/ZR buttons is 1.12 inches.) It also weighs a little less: 0.66 lbs without Joy-Cons, or 0.88 with. It's interesting to note that the Switch 2's display is equal to the weight of the original Switch with Joy-Cons attached. The Switch OLED is quite similar to the original Switch in footprint: It's 4 inches by 9.5 inches by 0.55 inches, with the same Joy-Con dimensions as the OG Switch. However, it's right in the middle when it comes to weight: 0.71 lbs without Joy-Cons, and 0.93 with. The Switch Lite is the smallest of all: The handheld is 3.6 inches by 8.2 inches by 0.55 (the joysticks and ZL/ZR buttons add the same 1.12 inches, despite being built into the unit) and it weighs 0.61 lbs. DisplayThe Switch 2 has the largest screen of any Nintendo device ever. It comes with a 7.9 inch LCD, with a resolution of 1920 x 1080. It supports HDR10, and has a VRR (variable refresh rate) of up to 120Hz. The original Switch also uses LCD for the screen, but its display is much smaller: The OG has a 6.2-inch screen with a resolution of 1280 x 720. There is no HDR support, and the display supports a refresh rate of 60Hz. It's the same situation with the Switch Lite, only it has an even smaller 5.5-inch LCD (this is the most portable Switch, after all). The Switch OLED, of course, has an OLED display. That means that each of the pixels on this Switch's display can be shut off individually, which allows for much deeper blacks than an LCD can reproduce. Still, the Switch OLED's display is 7 inches, nearly a full inch smaller than the Switch 2, with no HDR support. It's also the same 720p resolution as the original Switch, so you won't see as much detail as compared to Nintendo's latest console. Video output and dockNintendo limits the Switch's resolution in handheld mode, likely for battery reasons. But when docked, you can push the console further. For example, the Switch 2 supports a maximum resolution of 4K (3840 x 2160) at 60 fps when connected to a TV. If you want to boost your game's frame rate to 120 fps (assuming the game supports it) you'll need to drop the resolution to at least 1440p, but you can also use 1080p if you like. The OG Switch and Switch OLED both support the same 1080p maximum resolution when docked. The Switch Lite doesn't support video output, since it's meant to be played exclusively in handheld mode. In order to output to a TV, you need a dock. The Switch 2 dock is quite similar to the OLED Switch dock: It's slightly larger, but comes with the same dual USB 2.0 ports, as well as a LAN port. The original Switch dock came with an extra USB 2.0 port, but no LAN port. The biggest difference here, however, is the Switch 2's dock now has a fan for active cooling, which makes sense for some of those more intense game play modes. Joy-ConsThe Switch's detachable controllers are called "Joy-Cons," and they're an iconic component of this particular Nintendo era. The new Joy-Cons, called Joy-Con 2, are 4.57-inches tall, 0.56 inches wide, and 1.2 inches thick. The left Joy-Con is 2.3 ounces, while the right is 2.4 ounces. That might have something to do with the right Joy-Cons "C-Button," which you can use for the new GameChat feature. Nintendo's official spec page for its devices appears to be wrong for the original Joy-Cons, so I've sourced it from this specific Joy-Con page: The original Joy-Cons are 4.02 inches by 1.41 inches by 1.12 inches. The left Joy-Con is 1.73 ounces, while the right is 1.84 ounces. While all Joy-Cons support HD Rumble (Nintendo's brand name for haptic feedback), the new Joy-Cons support HD Rumble 2, a newer standard. Most notably, however, the Joy-Con 2s support Mouse Mode, a feature that lets you use the Joy-Cons on a flat surface like a computer mouse. You also don't connect the Joy-Con 2s to the Switch 2 the same way as you do the originals: These connect magnetically (yes, they're strong magnets.) While you don't slide the Joy-Cons into rails like you do on the OG Switch, you do still release them via buttons on the back of the controllers. All Joy-Con models use Bluetooth 3.0, support NFC, and have the same battery stats: It takes three and a half hours to fully charge them, and you get 20 hours of play time on one charge. BatterySurprisingly, the Switch 2 does not make improvements to the Switch family's battery life—despite having the largest battery of all. The Switch 2's 5220mAh battery can run anywhere from two to 6.5 hours. (Nintendo warns that these are rough estimates and that battery life depends on the specific games you play.) Compare that to the original Switch and Switch OLED, both of which have a 4310mAh battery, and can run from 4.5 hours to nine hours. The Switch Lite (3570mAh) beats it too, with a range of three to seven hours. This isn't wholly surprising: The Switch 2 is quite a bit more powerful than the original Switches, so running a high-performing game at 120 fps is going to consume much more power than a 720p game running at 60 or 30 fps, or below. All consoles charge in about three hours when they're in sleep mode. Storage and communicationsThe Switch 2's games are likely the largest Nintendo has ever made, since the console is capable of much higher resolutions and frame rates than past generations. As such, it makes sense for Nintendo to pack more internal storage here: 256GB to be exact. The OG Switch and Switch Lite, on the other hand, only ship with 32GB of internal storage, while the Switch OLED offers 64GB. If you need more space, you can expand that storage with a microSDHC or microSDXC card on these models. Switch 2 also supports expanded memory, but specifically MicroSD Express cards, which limits the flexibility here. Switch 2 supports Wi-Fi 6, a step up from Wi-Fi 5 on the original Switches. Those Switches support Bluetooth 4.1, while Nintendo says the Switch 2 supports "Bluetooth" without any additional information. It likely supports a newer standard than that, seeing as it's launching eight years after the original, but we don't know for sure at this point. The Switch 2 also has a second USB-C port on the top of the unit. This is a great change that makes it possible to charge your Switch with the kickstand out. Audio and video chatFor the first time, a Nintendo console has camera support. The Switch 2 lets you connect a webcam for use with GameChat, so you can see your friends while playing games—and they can see you. Nintendo sells a camera of its own, but you can use some third-party webcams as well. The Switch 2 also has a built-in microphone for voice chat. That way, you can talk to your friends over GameChat with or without a camera—though I'm not sure how well they'll be able to hear you if your console and TV are across the room. Speaking of audio, the Switch 2 supports "3D Audio," which the company advertises as a more immersive audio experience. Essentially, sounds should seem like they're coming from where they originate in the game. (If a Mario Kart racer is on your tail, you should hear their engine "behind" you.) GamesWhen it comes down to it, the most important element of any console is its library of games. The Switch 2, like any new console, does have exclusives, though there aren't as many as you might think—at least not at launch. Some of the notable upcoming titles you will only be able to play on Switch 2 at this time are Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, Drag X Drive, Hyrule Warriors Age of Imprisonment, Kirby Air Riders, and Elden Ring Tarnished Edition. There are also the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition titles—original Nintendo Switch games with graphical boosts thanks to the upgraded hardware. That includes both Switch Zeldas (Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom), Super Mario Part Jamboree + Jamboree TV, Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star Crossed World, Metroid Prime 4 Beyond, and Pokémon Legends ZA. If you have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, Switch 2 also supports GameCube titles. At launch, that includes The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Soulcalibur II, and F-Zero GX, but more are on the way. You can buy Switch 2 games physically or digitally, but not all physical games are going to ship with the game itself. That's because some of these titles are "game-key cards," which contain the "key" to let you download the game from the internet. Then, you can play the game—as long as you have the game-key inserted in your Switch. It's peculiar, but worth mentioning here, since the original Switch doesn't operate that way. As you might expect, the Switch 2 can play Switch 1 games, but you might not consider this truly backwards compatible. That's because the Switch 2 uses emulation to play Switch 1 games, and not all games play well via this emulation. Hopefully, Nintendo irons out the issues here, but in case they don't, you might not want to trade-in your old Switch to pay for a Switch 2 if you want to continue playing Switch 1 games. KickstandNintendo continues to advance the kickstand with each Switch model. The original features a small, skinny stand that was prone to snapping off (though easily reattached via magnets). The Switch OLED greatly improved upon this design, by making the kickstand take up the full width of the console, and support more angles. The Switch 2 has a kickstand that allows for even greater variety of play angles. It's not a huge change, but worth a nod. PriceThe Switch 2 was spared a price increase from the tariffs: The console runs for $449.99, or $499.99 if you want Mario Kart World bundled in. You probably want that deal, as the game costs $79.99 on its own. Not all Switch 2 games cost $80: Donkey Kong Bananza costs $69.99, but Nintendo is no longer the company for $60 games across the board. The original Switch retails for $299.99, while the Switch OLED goes for $349.99. The Lite originally launched for $199.99, but you can frequently find it on sale. View the full article

After years of pan frying steaks to the charming tune of Brooklyn smoke detectors, I was delighted when I finally learned about reverse searing—a cooking method where you slowly bring the steak up to temperature in the conventional oven, and sear it briefly afterward. This method keeps the billowing smoke to a minimum, cooks the protein more evenly, and can prevent overcooking. The trade off: a comparatively long cooking time. Since I’m always interested in trying to make a good thing work better for me, I set out to try and speed up the reverse searing method. I just needed something to bake gently, but faster. Luckily, there is an appliance that does exactly that—the air fryer. Not only can you reverse sear with great success in your air fryer, but you’ll save time too. Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann How the air fryer improves reverse searingThe searing part is easy—there’s nothing to be improved with a screaming hot frying pan—it’s the oven portion that needs help. Baking the steak is the first step in this method and it can take 20 to 30 minutes depending on how thick the steak is and how well you want it cooked. The air fryer manages to do the same thing, but with convection forced air speeding up the process. It’s still gentle enough to do the trick but in about half the time. Additionally, the air fryer is smaller, and arguably, more steak-sized. Why reserve your entire oven to gently heat a couple steaks when you can free up the stove and put the meat in a smaller appliance, reducing both cooking time and preheating time. Reverse searing also requires that you keep a pretty close eye on the temperature of the steak. Since you’ll be briefly searing it after it bakes, you want to cut off the baking time about 15 degrees cooler than the target temperature. That means testing it with a thermometer somewhat often. Personally, I found this much easier to do with an air fryer. The appliance is already at countertop height, so I didn’t have to contort my body to probe the steak or stick my entire arm into a hot oven. Finding the right fan speedThe tough part for me was determining which fan speed would accelerate the baking portion without overdoing it. Air fryers are extremely effective and I didn’t want to overcook the steak right off the bat. Like I mentioned before, you’d bake the steak at somewhere between 200°F to 250°F for about 20 to 30 minutes in the regular oven. I used this as a reference point and then tried each of the fan speeds on my Instant Vortex, which is my go-to air fryer (find out why in my review here). If your air fryer doesn’t have fan speeds listed plainly, they’re under names like bake, roast, and air fry. “Bake” being the lowest fan speed moving up to “air fry” as the highest fan speed. While each setting shaved some time off of the reverse searing method, I had the most success with the “air fry” setting. How to reverse sear with an air fryerI started with a salt and MSG seasoned top sirloin steak about an inch and a half thick. Much thinner than an inch thick and you might have trouble keeping the center pink. Preheat your air fryer to 250°F on the “air fry” setting. This should only take a minute or two. Put the steak onto the air fryer’s grate and let it cook for 10 minutes for a medium-rare steak. My steak was 113°F at this point, with the goal of 128°F-ish after searing. I suggest checking the temperature of the steak at the halfway point to see how it’s coming along, and again at around the eight minute mark. Air fryers differ from brand to brand and your steak will cook differently depending on its size. If you’d like to cook your steak to a different level, check the target temperatures in the picture below. Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann A few minutes before the steak is done, heat a lightly oiled frying pan over medium heat. You want the pan to be near smoking hot. Once you’re happy with the steak’s temperature, place the steak into the pan and sear each side for about 30 seconds. Let the steak rest for about five minutes before taking the temperature again and you should be in good shape. My steak reached 130°F and turned out exactly as intended with an excellent crust and a plump, juicy interior. All told, the air fryer reverse searing method should only take about 15 minutes. Decidedly an improvement from the regular oven’s 30 minutes. As a side bonus, cleaning the Instant Vortex grate is pretty damn effortless, and I hope your grate is too. Happy reverse searing, y’all. View the full article

Asana vs. Monday is a matchup made for project management professionals. Which one to choose? That’s why Monday vs. Asana is such an important battle. You can’t have both, so you want what’s best. We’ll help you pick between Asana vs. Monday. It’s difficult. Asana vs. Monday are both similar project management tools. They have features, such as project tracking, workflow automation and other standard project management software features. Let’s look at those features, pricing and other comparisons between Monday vs. Asana. Of course, you can have the best of both worlds, with more powerful features and at a price point that fits your budget. ProjectManager is award-winning project management software with workflow automation and task approvals to keep up the quality of your outputs, and it has project tracking for cost, time and resources, all with real-time data so you can make more insightful decisions. ProjectManager’s Gantt chart leaves the competition behind, with all four task dependencies to avoid delays, filtering for the critical path to identify essential tasks and a baseline to track planned progress and costs against your actual progress and costs. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. /wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Construction-Gantt-Costs-Resources-CTA-BUTTON-2.jpgLearn more Asana vs. Monday: Why Should You Choose Asana? Not convinced that ProjectManager is a superior project management tool? Fair enough. Let’s put Asana vs. Monday to the test. First, we’ll put the spotlight on Asana. What Is Asana?/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/asana-logo.svg Asana is an online project management software that has project management and task management features. The San Francisco-based company prides itself on work management, which helps users organize, track and manage their work. It’s been around since 2008 and is designed for team collaboration. Asana Pricing Personal: $0.00 user/month, billed annually Starter: $10.99 user/month, billed annually Advanced: $24.99 user/month, billed annually Asana Reviews G2 review: 4.4 / 5 Capterra review: 4.5 / 5 Highlighted Positive User Reviews “Asana is a strong choice for teams that need structure and visibility in their workflows. It’s flexible enough for different types of projects and has helped us stay organized.” Katie S – From Capterra “Three months ago, our team transitioned from paper checklists and endless email threads to Asana, and the impact has been transformative.” Alabama B – From G2 “The UI of the application is user-friendly, and it helps to identify what we are looking for with minimal effort.” Nush N – From G2 Highlighted Negative User Reviews “Asana can have its navigational challenges. There are a lot of aspects of Asana that take time and effort to learn. These components are not always intuitive.” Luke E – from Capterra “Can get a little bit overwhelming with too many tasks and notifications. Sometimes it feels like more work just managing the work.” Umut Ö – From Capterra “After our trial ended, our entire project panel was locked, with no clear notice or fallback option. We couldn’t access anything, not even to remove paid features. This brought our entire workflow to a halt.” Himanshu T – from G2 What Is Asana Used For? That’s the high-level view of the product, but in the battle of Asana vs. Monday, what is Asana being used for? Work management system that helps users by breaking down large projects into smaller, more manageable tasks Track your project and tasks to show progress Connect teams so they can better collaborate Related: Best Asana Alternatives: Free & Paid Options Ranked Who Uses Asana? In the contest of Monday vs. Asana, both have a large customer base. Asana is used by teams at companies such as Amazon, Google, Deloitte and many others. However, they’re not necessarily using them for project management, which is a distinct discipline that requires a suite of features that Asana doesn’t have. Yes, they have some project management tools, but they’re mostly a work management tool that connects teams and tracks their work. /wp-content/uploads/2023/10/asana-gantt-timeline-1.png Asana Key Features Let’s look at those features. Asana has something called My Tasks to plan your work. It’s a to-do list that you can prioritize. There’s also a list view, which is a grid-like board structure to help teams collaborate on work. Asana also has workload features to view the team’s bandwidth, calendars to see tasks and reporting features. There’s also a dashboard to view progress on real-time charts. Asana has Gantt charts, though not very powerful ones, kanban boards and calendars to view your work. Asana vs. Monday: How Is Asana Better Than Monday? That’s a fair overview of Asana, but why would you choose it over Monday? Asana is simplistic, intuitive and has a pleasing-to-look-at interface, which is great for smaller teams that have lightweight work to manage. It has task reminders and workload balancing is easy. All plans offer unlimited storage. There are custom task templates. If you’re only going to 15 or fewer users, there’s a free plan you can use. It has a free trial for its premium edition. It offers over 200 integrations, which is far more than Monday. Asana vs. Monday: How Is Asana Worse Than Monday? In the battle of Asana vs. Monday, it’s Monday that is going to attract those who are looking at costs first. While both have limited free plans, Monday has twice the number of pricing tiers. Monday also has more capabilities beyond simple project tracking. There are workflow features that serve finance, project management, marketing, creative and design processes, IT, operations, sales, construction and HR. While both have many integrations, if customers have a problem, Monday has better customer support. It’s generally a more robust software than Asana. Asana vs. Monday: Why Should You Choose Monday? Asana had its chance to shine in the Asana vs. Monday bout. Now, it’s Monday’s turn to shine. Let’s see what Monday has to offer in the Asana vs. Monday contest. What Is Monday?/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Monday_logo.png Monday is another online platform that offers project management tools. It’s been around since 2014 and specializes in work management. Just like Asana, it bills itself as project management software, but in reality, it’s built for work management and collaboration. However, it has broadened its scope to include customer relationship management, software development, human resources, marketing and more. It, like Asana, is a project management tool that’s best when used by small teams for lightweight projects. Monday.com Pricing Free: $0.00 user/month, billed annually Basic: $9.00 user/month, billed annually Standard: $12.00 user/month, billed annually Pro: $19.00 user/month, billed annually Monday.com Reviews G2 review: 4.7 / 5 Capterra review: 4.6 / 5 Highlighted Positive User Reviews “Monday.com is a project management app that I genuinely look forward to using every day because it makes creating tasks and tracking progress really easy to do.” Jonathan B – From Capterra “The system takes a little getting used to, but once everyone is onboard, they can’t work without it and use it daily.” Juan S – From G2 “A great way to track items for payroll. We use it to track our to-do’s for payroll and are able to give access to others so they can add items to our boards for each pay period and can attach any documents we need as back up for the request.” Amy M – From G2 Highlighted Negative User Reviews “I think it’s more suitable for very small businesses or scenarios where deep detailed resourcing/planning are not needed.” Jack C – from Capterra “The automations and 3rd-party integrations are not very intuitive. It is difficult to know how to manage the set-up options.” Katie E – From Capterra “As projects grow more complex, boards can become cluttered, making navigation less seamless. The pricing structure can also be a challenge for smaller teams, as some features require upgrading to higher-tier plans.” Nic J – from G2 What Is Monday Used For? Monday can be used in a lot of different industries. It has workflows for project management. That is, you can use it to: Plan and track projects if those projects aren’t too big and complicated Set deadlines, assign tasks and resources Monitor progress and track project metrics Track leads and customers, manage the sales pipeline and more Help teams plan and track sprints, manage their backlog and collaborate Useful for onboarding new employees, managing records, monitoring performance and helping implement training programs Related: Best Monday.com Alternatives: Free & Paid Options Ranked Who Uses Monday? Asana vs. Monday shares many big players in the business world as customers. For example, large corporations, such as Time Warner, Discovery Communications and Rockstar Games. Anyone looking for flexibility for work management will use Monday vs. Asana as Asana has more granular task management tools. Those who need help completing basic tasks will use Monday. It’s also used by people who need to stay connected and collaborate whether in the same office or remotely. /wp-content/uploads/2023/10/monday.com-gantt-chart-2.webp Monday Key Features Monday has many of the same features as Asana. Both have workflow automation, collaborative tools and integrations, though Monday has far fewer integrations than Asana. It’s especially attractive to those users who prefer a spreadsheet view, similar to Excel, which they are probably familiar with. There are dashboards to help you analyze and report on data and features that are helpful for efficient communication. Monday has a Gantt chart, but it’s not powerful enough, especially if you need to link dependencies. They also have time tracking, kanban boards and resource management features. Related: Monday.com Gantt Chart: How to Make a Gantt Chart With Monday.com Asana vs. Monday: How Is Monday Better Than Asana? In the battle of Asana vs. Monday, the choice isn’t immediately clear. Both project management software products have similar features, but some differences would make a user choose Monday over Asana. Both are popular with customers, let teams plan workflows, automate tasks and track projects and tasks. Monday, however, has the flexibility to serve many different industries. Monday requires less setup than Asana, with more project templates, including some for marketing and software development, and customer support. Asana vs. Monday: How Is Monday Worse Than Asana? Monday loses to Asana when it comes to task management. Asana might not have as many features for managing tasks, but it’s more focused and you can do everything you’d need to do with only the free version. While Asana vs. Monday is a tie in terms of integrations, Asana is the winner when it comes to usability. It’s an easier software to learn and use than Monday. Also, if you’re using the free version of Asana you can have up to 15 users, while Monday offers only two. Asana also has unlimited free storage. Asana vs. Monday: Pricing Comparison Asana is a bit more expensive than Monday. If you’re only looking at the bottom line with Monday vs. Asana, then you might not want to go with Asana. But the price difference isn’t great and if you like the good-looking user experience and features, then Asana is your winner. Premium plan: $10.99/user/month, billed annually Business plan: $24.99/user/month, billed annually In the Asana vs. Monday price war, there’s a clear winner. Monday is cheaper. But considering you have to have a three-seat minimum, that might not always be the case. Still, price is price, and the following are the prices for the various tiers of subscriptions offered by Monday. Basic: $8/user/month, billed annually Standard: $10/user/month, billed annually Pro: $16/user/month, billed annually 3-seat minimum ProjectManager Is Better Than Asana and Monday If you expand Asana vs. Monday to include ProjectManager, well, then you’re in a different ballpark. ProjectManager is real project management software. A lot of competitors offer Gantt charts and kanban boards, but there are differences. ProjectManager’s Gantt charts and kanban boards are more powerful and have more features than other software. Some Gantt charts track fewer details about tasks, they’ll only track task names and due dates. ProjectManager’s Gantt chart has lots of columns that allow users to track resource utilization, costs, percentage complete and more. Some kanban boards are limited, or won’t allow users to share files or messages. ProjectManager does. Use Resource Management Features That Outperform Asana and Monday Real project management software is going to have robust resource management features. In the contest of Asana vs. Monday, neither comes close to ProjectManager, which allows users to set the availability of their team to make assignments easier. That includes PTO, vacation and global holidays for remote teams. Then you can toggle over to the workload chart to view your team’s allocation and balance their workload to keep everyone working at capacity and more productive. /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Workload_Wide_Zoom-150_Reassign-hours.jpg Real-Time Tracking With Project Dashboards and Reports There’s more than one way to monitor your resources as well as your progress and performance. If you’re looking for a high-level view, use the live dashboard that automatically collects real-time data and displays it on easy-to-read graphs and charts. You can quickly see time, costs, workload and more to stay on schedule and within budget. For more information, use our customizable reports. You can quickly generate status and portfolio reports, as well as reports on variance, timesheets and workload. Plus, all reports can be shared in a variety of formats to share with stakeholders and keep them informed. /wp-content/uploads/2023/11/tab-dashboards.png Asana vs. Monday ties in with their risk register templates, but ProjectManager has real risk management features that allow you to set the likelihood of an issue arising and the impact it can make on your progress. Asana has time tracking, but neither Asana vs. Monday has secure timesheets that streamline payroll and provide a window into labor costs and more. In addition to these robust project management features, ProjecManager allows users to easily import Microsoft Project Plan files (MPP files), Excel files and CSV files so they can seamlessly switch from Asana and Microsoft Project. Related Content You’re starting to see that ProjectManager is a superior project and portfolio management software, but if you want more proof, then take a look at the many related articles on the best project management software, Asana alternatives, Monday alternatives and many more. Best Project Management Software: Rankings, Reviews & Comparisons Asana vs ProjectManager: Which Software is Better for Managing Projects? Monday.com vs. ProjectManager: Which Is Best for Project Management? Asana vs. Microsoft Project: In-Depth Comparison Asana vs. ClickUp: In-Depth Comparison ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams wherever they work, in the office, out in the field or anywhere in between. They can share files, comment at the task level and stay updated with email and in-app notifications. Join teams at Avis, Nestle and Siemens that are using our software to deliver successful projects. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. The post Asana vs. Monday: In-Depth Software Comparison appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

Donald The President ally Kevin Warsh says US central bank failed to contain worst inflationary bout in a generation View the full article

Spider, Minesweeper, and Hearts—these longtime staples of Windows (plus other familiar titles, from Solitaire to Freecell) have been missing in action since the launch of Windows 8 in 2012. Sure, you can find versions of these games in the Microsoft Store, but they're cluttered with ads and generally don't feel as good to play as the classic iterations so many of us remember. But there's a way to get the OG time-wasters back. It's not even particularly hard to do: An installer built by Winaero—a long running website that offers all kinds of system tweaking tools—makes it easy to get these classic games running on computers operating with Windows 8, 10, or 11. The games are slightly tweaked to look better on higher resolution displays, but are otherwise identical to the originals. The games included are Chess, FreeCell, Hearts, Mahjong, Minesweeper, Purble Place, Solitaire, and Spider Solitaire. (There's even support for installing the 2000s-era "Internet Games" collection, though given Microsoft shut down the server ages ago, I'm not sure why you'd bother.) Just download and run the installer, and you can choose which games you want to install. Credit: Justin Pot After running the installer you can find everything you selected in the start menu by either searching for a specific title, or opening the All tab and scrolling to the newly added Games folder. Credit: Justin Pot The games play exactly as you remember, with the Windows 7 aesthetic intact. There are no ads, no prompts to try more games, and no online leaderboards—just a few simple games you can play on your computer to give your brain a rest between tasks. Put simply: these are the best versions of these games Microsoft has ever released. It's nice to see them again. There's one hangup worth noting: The games may stop working after major Windows updates. When this happens, you'll need to run the installer again—that's per the developer. Do that, and the games will be working again in no time. View the full article

Pope Francis’ funeral mass will be held on Saturday morning in St. Peter’s Square, a large plaza in front of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Francis’ funeral will take place six days after he died of a stroke and heart failure at age 88. It comes after three days of public viewing at St. Peter’s Basilica, where tens of thousands of people flocked to pay their respects to the first Latin American pope. After the mass, the pope’s coffin will be taken to Rome and entombed at St. Mary Major Basilica, near his favorite Madonna icon, making him the first pope to be buried outside of the Vatican in over a century, according to NPR. (Leo XIII was the last pope buried outside the Vatican in 1903.) Francis wrote about his plans for a pared-down burial in his autobiography, and reportedly left instructions that future popes will also have simplified burial rites. The break with tradition is in line with “the People’s Pope’s” progressive 12-year reign as pontiff, characterized by a concern for the poor and greater inclusion in the church. Known to be humble, Francis chose to be buried in a simple wooden coffin instead of the more traditional three-nested coffins (one made of cypress, one made of lead, and one made of elm), according to CBS News. A number of heads of state from over 100 foreign delegations are expected to attend the funeral, including U.S. president Donald The President and first lady Melania The President, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy, U.K. prime minister Keir Starmer, and Prince William (on behalf of King Charles III), NPR reported. The Italian government expects as many as 200,000 people to attend in person. One notable absence: Russian president Vladimir Putin, according to Russian media reports, due to his arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) in connection with alleged war crimes in Ukraine. What time is Pope Francis’ funeral? Saturday’s funeral mass will begin at 10 a.m. local time, which is 4 a.m. ET. The Vatican said the mass will be presided over by the dean of the College of Cardinals, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. The College of Cardinals will meet in a few weeks, between May 6 and May 11, to elect a new pope, as required by the rules governing the conclave. How can I watch or stream Pope Francis’ funeral live? All networks will be covering this historic day. Traditional cable subscribers or those with an over-the-air antenna can tune in, as well as those with certain streaming service subscriptions: ABC: Coverage starts at 3:30 a.m. ET, including on Disney+ and Hulu CBS: Coverage starts at 4 a.m. ET, and concludes at about 7 a.m. NBC: Coverage is also available on Peacock+ If you cut the cord and don’t have an over-the-air antenna, you can try live TV streaming services, including: Hulu + Live TV Fubo Peacock+ YouTube TV You can also livestream coverage of the funeral and procession to St. Mary Majors on the Vatican News YouTube channel. However, coverage will stop before the burial in the Basilica. View the full article

In its latest financial stability report, the Federal Reserve found that asset prices continue to exceed underlying fundamentals and leverage levels remain high, especially by hedge funds. View the full article

What’s your favorite brand? Now ask yourself, why? Brands That Matter is Fast Company’s effort to answer that question on a broader scale. To recognize the brands that have significant cultural relevance, find unique and powerful ways to connect with audiences, and of course, drive business impact. Now, we’re calling for brands of all shapes, sizes, and stripes to apply. Tell us your story! Here are three reasons why you should apply: 1. Celebrate cultural relevance It’s what distinguishes a brand from its competitors. It’s what forges emotional connection with people. It may be a film, an event, or something that helps make our days easier or more efficient. But finding an audience and then crafting unique and meaningful ways to engage with them is one of the keys to long-term brand health. Cultural relevance is one of the most important metrics for any brand today. This is an amazing chance to show it off. 2. Spotlight on CMOs The role of the chief marketing officer is ever-evolving, and often bespoke to the company and brands with which they work. But the job has become more complicated while still being a crucial linchpin to commercial growth and success. In order to succeed, marketing execs must continuously straddle the growing collection of media and platforms to elevate their brands’ cultural resonance, and connect to audiences. This is your chance to shine a spotlight on the executives making the biggest difference at your brand. 3. Get your brand story seen Brands That Matter regularly receives more than 1,000 applications. But while only a relative handful are ultimately chosen to be recognized, for the Fast Company editors and writers judging each application, it’s also a treasure trove of potential stories and sources for the future. So what are you waiting for? Apply now! View the full article

Key Takeaways Importance of Exceptional Service: Exceptional customer service is essential for small businesses to differentiate from competitors and create loyalty among customers. Key Attributes: Key elements of outstanding service include personalization, responsiveness, empathy, consistent support, and proactive communication. Customer Retention: Prioritizing exceptional service leads to higher customer retention; retained customers tend to spend significantly more over time. Word-of-Mouth Marketing: Satisfied customers contribute to positive word-of-mouth, which is crucial for attracting new clients, as nearly 92% of consumers trust referrals. Employee Training: Investing in employee training on product knowledge, communication, and problem-solving is vital to maintain high service standards. Technology Utilization: Leveraging technology like CRM systems and live chat tools can enhance customer service efficiency and streamline operations. In today’s competitive market, exceptional customer service isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a game-changer. You’ve likely experienced the difference when a business goes above and beyond to meet your needs. Whether it’s a friendly greeting or a swift resolution to a problem, these moments leave a lasting impression and build loyalty. As you navigate through this article, you’ll discover the key elements that define outstanding customer service. From personalized interactions to proactive communication, these strategies can transform your customer experience. Let’s dive into how prioritizing exceptional service can not only satisfy your customers but also drive your business success. Understanding Exceptional Customer Service Exceptional customer service stands as a vital component for small businesses, especially in the retail environment. It shapes customer experiences and plays a direct role in building loyalty. Definition and Importance Exceptional customer service refers to the diligent effort to meet and exceed customer expectations. It encompasses personalized interactions, timely assistance, and positive engagement. For small businesses, outstanding service can differentiate your storefront from larger competitors. Customers often choose local shops not just for products, but for memorable experiences. Key Attributes of Exceptional Service Personalization: Tailor interactions to individual customer needs. Use names, remember past purchases, and offer customized recommendations. Responsiveness: Address inquiries and resolve issues quickly. Timely responses demonstrate that you value customer time and satisfaction. Empathy: Understand your customers’ feelings and viewpoints. This emotional connection fosters trust and encourages repeat visits. Consistent Support: Provide reliable service across all interactions. Consistency strengthens reputation and client relationships. Proactive Communication: Anticipate customer needs and offer solutions before problems arise. This forward-thinking approach helps prevent issues and enhances loyalty. By integrating these attributes, you ensure a memorable shopping experience that keeps customers returning to your small business. Benefits of Exceptional Customer Service Exceptional customer service provides significant advantages for small businesses in the retail space. It fosters deeper connections with customers and enhances overall business performance. Customer Retention Customer retention becomes more achievable with exceptional service. When you prioritize positive interactions, customers feel valued and are less likely to switch to competitors. You create a loyal customer base that returns to your storefront repeatedly. Retained customers typically spend 67% more than new customers over time, leading to increased revenue without the need for costly acquisition efforts. Positive Word-of-Mouth Positive word-of-mouth is a powerful marketing tool for small businesses. Satisfied customers share their experiences with friends and family, generating recommendations that attract new clientele. Nearly 92% of consumers trust word-of-mouth referrals, making it essential for you to deliver exceptional service consistently. By fostering positive experiences, you enhance your brand image and encourage organic growth through referrals. Strategies for Delivering Exceptional Customer Service Delivering exceptional customer service is essential for small businesses to thrive in a competitive retail landscape. Implementing effective strategies can enhance customer experiences and drive loyalty. Training Employees Training employees is critical for ensuring consistent service quality. Focus on these key areas: Product Knowledge: Equip your team with in-depth knowledge about products and services. This allows them to answer questions confidently and make tailored recommendations. Communication Skills: Teach active listening and clear communication techniques. This helps employees understand customer needs and respond effectively. Empathy and Engagement: Encourage employees to connect with customers on a personal level. Training that fosters empathy creates a welcoming environment that customers appreciate. Problem-Solving: Provide employees with the tools and authority to resolve issues promptly. Empowered staff can address concerns, enhancing trust and satisfaction. Utilizing Technology Leveraging technology can streamline operations and boost customer service efficiency. Consider these tools: Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems: Implement CRM software to track customer interactions. This data helps tailor experiences and follow up effectively with past purchases or inquiries. Live Chat Support: Offer live chat options on your website. Instant support can improve response times and address customer questions in real-time. Feedback Tools: Use surveys and feedback forms to gather customer insights. Analyzing this data allows you to identify areas for improvement and adapt your strategies accordingly. Social Media Engagement: Utilize social media platforms to connect with customers. Quick responses to inquiries on these platforms show commitment to service and foster community engagement. Implementing these strategies positions your small business as a leader in customer service, setting you apart in the retail sector. Measuring Exceptional Customer Service Measuring exceptional customer service involves both gathering feedback and analyzing performance metrics to ensure your small business consistently meets customer needs. Customer Feedback Mechanisms Utilizing customer feedback mechanisms allows you to understand customer experiences directly. Implement surveys following purchases to gather insights on satisfaction, areas for improvement, and suggestions. Encourage reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp; these reviews not only reflect customer opinions but also enhance your storefront’s visibility. Engage customers through social media polls and direct messages to create a two-way dialogue, fostering trust and openness. Performance Metrics Tracking performance metrics provides objective data on how effectively your small business delivers customer service. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as customer retention rates, average response times, and ticket resolution times. Analyze Net Promoter Score (NPS) to gauge customer loyalty and satisfaction levels. Investigate sales trends to assess the correlation between exceptional service and revenue growth, focusing on repeat customers. These metrics establish a clear picture of your service efficiency and areas for enhancement, allowing your retail business to adapt strategies aligned with customer expectations. Conclusion Exceptional customer service isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for your business’s success. By prioritizing personalized interactions and proactive communication, you can create memorable experiences that resonate with your customers. Remember that each positive encounter builds loyalty and trust, making your brand stand out in a crowded market. Investing in your team’s training and leveraging technology can significantly enhance your service quality. Don’t underestimate the power of customer feedback; it’s a valuable tool for continuous improvement. By focusing on these elements, you not only retain customers but also attract new ones through positive word-of-mouth. Commit to exceptional service, and watch your business thrive. Frequently Asked Questions What is exceptional customer service? Exceptional customer service refers to the outstanding effort businesses make to meet and exceed customer expectations. It involves personalized interactions, quick problem resolutions, and consistent support, helping to create positive experiences that foster customer loyalty and satisfaction. Why is customer service important for small businesses? Customer service is vital for small businesses because it helps build loyalty, fosters deeper connections, and differentiates them from larger competitors. Exceptional service increases customer retention, drives positive word-of-mouth, and ultimately leads to higher revenue without the costs associated with acquiring new customers. What are the key elements of outstanding customer service? Key elements of outstanding customer service include personalization, responsiveness, empathy, consistent support, and proactive communication. These elements work together to enhance customer satisfaction and create memorable shopping experiences, encouraging customers to return and refer others. How can small businesses improve their customer service? Small businesses can improve customer service by training employees in communication, product knowledge, and problem-solving. Implementing technology such as CRM systems, live chat, and feedback tools also enhances efficiency and allows businesses to better address customer needs. How can customer feedback be measured effectively? Customer feedback can be measured using surveys, reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp, and social media engagement. Tracking performance metrics such as customer retention rates, average response times, and the Net Promoter Score (NPS) provides insights into customer satisfaction and areas for improvement. Image Via Envato This article, "Unlocking Exceptional Customer Service to Drive Business Success and Loyalty" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Importance of Exceptional Service: Exceptional customer service is essential for small businesses to differentiate from competitors and create loyalty among customers. Key Attributes: Key elements of outstanding service include personalization, responsiveness, empathy, consistent support, and proactive communication. Customer Retention: Prioritizing exceptional service leads to higher customer retention; retained customers tend to spend significantly more over time. Word-of-Mouth Marketing: Satisfied customers contribute to positive word-of-mouth, which is crucial for attracting new clients, as nearly 92% of consumers trust referrals. Employee Training: Investing in employee training on product knowledge, communication, and problem-solving is vital to maintain high service standards. Technology Utilization: Leveraging technology like CRM systems and live chat tools can enhance customer service efficiency and streamline operations. In today’s competitive market, exceptional customer service isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a game-changer. You’ve likely experienced the difference when a business goes above and beyond to meet your needs. Whether it’s a friendly greeting or a swift resolution to a problem, these moments leave a lasting impression and build loyalty. As you navigate through this article, you’ll discover the key elements that define outstanding customer service. From personalized interactions to proactive communication, these strategies can transform your customer experience. Let’s dive into how prioritizing exceptional service can not only satisfy your customers but also drive your business success. Understanding Exceptional Customer Service Exceptional customer service stands as a vital component for small businesses, especially in the retail environment. It shapes customer experiences and plays a direct role in building loyalty. Definition and Importance Exceptional customer service refers to the diligent effort to meet and exceed customer expectations. It encompasses personalized interactions, timely assistance, and positive engagement. For small businesses, outstanding service can differentiate your storefront from larger competitors. Customers often choose local shops not just for products, but for memorable experiences. Key Attributes of Exceptional Service Personalization: Tailor interactions to individual customer needs. Use names, remember past purchases, and offer customized recommendations. Responsiveness: Address inquiries and resolve issues quickly. Timely responses demonstrate that you value customer time and satisfaction. Empathy: Understand your customers’ feelings and viewpoints. This emotional connection fosters trust and encourages repeat visits. Consistent Support: Provide reliable service across all interactions. Consistency strengthens reputation and client relationships. Proactive Communication: Anticipate customer needs and offer solutions before problems arise. This forward-thinking approach helps prevent issues and enhances loyalty. By integrating these attributes, you ensure a memorable shopping experience that keeps customers returning to your small business. Benefits of Exceptional Customer Service Exceptional customer service provides significant advantages for small businesses in the retail space. It fosters deeper connections with customers and enhances overall business performance. Customer Retention Customer retention becomes more achievable with exceptional service. When you prioritize positive interactions, customers feel valued and are less likely to switch to competitors. You create a loyal customer base that returns to your storefront repeatedly. Retained customers typically spend 67% more than new customers over time, leading to increased revenue without the need for costly acquisition efforts. Positive Word-of-Mouth Positive word-of-mouth is a powerful marketing tool for small businesses. Satisfied customers share their experiences with friends and family, generating recommendations that attract new clientele. Nearly 92% of consumers trust word-of-mouth referrals, making it essential for you to deliver exceptional service consistently. By fostering positive experiences, you enhance your brand image and encourage organic growth through referrals. Strategies for Delivering Exceptional Customer Service Delivering exceptional customer service is essential for small businesses to thrive in a competitive retail landscape. Implementing effective strategies can enhance customer experiences and drive loyalty. Training Employees Training employees is critical for ensuring consistent service quality. Focus on these key areas: Product Knowledge: Equip your team with in-depth knowledge about products and services. This allows them to answer questions confidently and make tailored recommendations. Communication Skills: Teach active listening and clear communication techniques. This helps employees understand customer needs and respond effectively. Empathy and Engagement: Encourage employees to connect with customers on a personal level. Training that fosters empathy creates a welcoming environment that customers appreciate. Problem-Solving: Provide employees with the tools and authority to resolve issues promptly. Empowered staff can address concerns, enhancing trust and satisfaction. Utilizing Technology Leveraging technology can streamline operations and boost customer service efficiency. Consider these tools: Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems: Implement CRM software to track customer interactions. This data helps tailor experiences and follow up effectively with past purchases or inquiries. Live Chat Support: Offer live chat options on your website. Instant support can improve response times and address customer questions in real-time. Feedback Tools: Use surveys and feedback forms to gather customer insights. Analyzing this data allows you to identify areas for improvement and adapt your strategies accordingly. Social Media Engagement: Utilize social media platforms to connect with customers. Quick responses to inquiries on these platforms show commitment to service and foster community engagement. Implementing these strategies positions your small business as a leader in customer service, setting you apart in the retail sector. Measuring Exceptional Customer Service Measuring exceptional customer service involves both gathering feedback and analyzing performance metrics to ensure your small business consistently meets customer needs. Customer Feedback Mechanisms Utilizing customer feedback mechanisms allows you to understand customer experiences directly. Implement surveys following purchases to gather insights on satisfaction, areas for improvement, and suggestions. Encourage reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp; these reviews not only reflect customer opinions but also enhance your storefront’s visibility. Engage customers through social media polls and direct messages to create a two-way dialogue, fostering trust and openness. Performance Metrics Tracking performance metrics provides objective data on how effectively your small business delivers customer service. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as customer retention rates, average response times, and ticket resolution times. Analyze Net Promoter Score (NPS) to gauge customer loyalty and satisfaction levels. Investigate sales trends to assess the correlation between exceptional service and revenue growth, focusing on repeat customers. These metrics establish a clear picture of your service efficiency and areas for enhancement, allowing your retail business to adapt strategies aligned with customer expectations. Conclusion Exceptional customer service isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for your business’s success. By prioritizing personalized interactions and proactive communication, you can create memorable experiences that resonate with your customers. Remember that each positive encounter builds loyalty and trust, making your brand stand out in a crowded market. Investing in your team’s training and leveraging technology can significantly enhance your service quality. Don’t underestimate the power of customer feedback; it’s a valuable tool for continuous improvement. By focusing on these elements, you not only retain customers but also attract new ones through positive word-of-mouth. Commit to exceptional service, and watch your business thrive. Frequently Asked Questions What is exceptional customer service? Exceptional customer service refers to the outstanding effort businesses make to meet and exceed customer expectations. It involves personalized interactions, quick problem resolutions, and consistent support, helping to create positive experiences that foster customer loyalty and satisfaction. Why is customer service important for small businesses? Customer service is vital for small businesses because it helps build loyalty, fosters deeper connections, and differentiates them from larger competitors. Exceptional service increases customer retention, drives positive word-of-mouth, and ultimately leads to higher revenue without the costs associated with acquiring new customers. What are the key elements of outstanding customer service? Key elements of outstanding customer service include personalization, responsiveness, empathy, consistent support, and proactive communication. These elements work together to enhance customer satisfaction and create memorable shopping experiences, encouraging customers to return and refer others. How can small businesses improve their customer service? Small businesses can improve customer service by training employees in communication, product knowledge, and problem-solving. Implementing technology such as CRM systems, live chat, and feedback tools also enhances efficiency and allows businesses to better address customer needs. How can customer feedback be measured effectively? Customer feedback can be measured using surveys, reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp, and social media engagement. Tracking performance metrics such as customer retention rates, average response times, and the Net Promoter Score (NPS) provides insights into customer satisfaction and areas for improvement. Image Via Envato This article, "Unlocking Exceptional Customer Service to Drive Business Success and Loyalty" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A new cyberattack is targeting Microsoft 365 users through Signal and WhatsApp messages, with hackers impersonating government officials in order to gain access to accounts. According to reporting from Bleeping Computer, bad actors—who are believed to be Russians pretending to be European political officials or diplomats—are contacting employees of organizations working on issues related to Ukraine and human rights. The end goal is to trick targets into clicking an OAuth phishing link leading them to authenticate their Microsoft 365 credentials. This scam, first discovered by cybersecurity firm Volexity, has focused specifically on organizations related to Ukraine, but a similar approach could be used more widely to steal user data or take over devices. How the Microsoft 365 OAuth attack worksThis attack typically begins with targets receiving a message via Signal or WhatsApp from a user posing as a political official or diplomat with an invitation to a video call or conference to discuss issues related to Ukraine. According to Volexity, attackers may claim to be from the Mission of Ukraine to the European Union, the Permanent Delegation of the Republic of Bulgaria to NATO, or the Permanent Representation of Romania to the European Union. In one variation, the campaign starts with an email sent from a hacked Ukrainian government account followed by communication via Signal and WhatsApp. Once a thread is established, bad actors send victims PDF instructions along with an OAuth phishing URL. When clicked, the user is prompted to log into Microsoft and third-party apps that utilize Microsoft 365 OAuth and redirected to a landing page with an authentication code, which they are told to share in order to enter the meeting. This code, which is valid for 60 days, gives attackers access to email and other Microsoft 365 resources, even if victims change their passwords. How to spot the Microsoft 365 OAuth attackThis attack is one of several recent threats abusing OAuth authentication, which can make it harder to identify as suspect, at least from a technical point of view. Volexity recommends setting up conditional access policies on Microsoft 365 accounts to approved devices only, as well as enabling login alerts. Users should also be wary of social engineering tactics that play on human psychology to successfully carry out phishing and other types of cyber attacks. Examples include messages that are unusual or out of character—especially for a sender you know or trust—communication that prompts an emotional response (like fear or curiosity), and requests that are urgent or offers that are too good to be true. A social engineering explainer from CSO advises a "zero-trust mindset" as well as watching out for common signs like grammar and spelling mistakes and instructions to click links or open attachments. Screenshots of the Signal and WhatsApp messages shared by Volexity show small errors that give them away as potentially fraudulent. View the full article

Ugly might be the new cute: Just look at Labubu, a “kind of ugly” plush toy that has sparked a buying frenzy across the world, especially in Asia, reported CNN. People from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur flocked to shopping malls on Friday to get the latest edition of the oh-so-collectible furry, while they quickly sold out online. Inspired by Nordic folklore, the toothy stuffed animal has high, pointy, rabbit-like ears, big round eyes, and a mischievous grin with serrated teeth. Made by Chinese toymaker Pop Mart, Labubus come in so-called “blind boxes” the size of a hand, which keep the contents a mystery until the box is opened. Pop Mart, which sells collectibles, has sold Labubus as part of its “The Monsters” series for a few years, making a staggering 3 billion yuan (or roughly $410 million in sales) last year alone, reported CNN. Meanwhile, in the U.S. on Friday, dozens of people lined up in the early morning hours in front of a Chicago Pop Mart store for the toy. By 6 a.m., a long line of fans snaked around the block. Labubu mania Celebrities from Rihanna to Lisa from Blackpink are fans of Labubu. The K-pop singer, who recently appeared in the television hit series “White Lotus,” recently proclaimed on Instagram, “Labubu is my baby.” On Wednesday, Lisa showed off her new pink-and-yellow tie-dye Labubu, from the latest collection, which is big news because she is credited in part with the toy’s extreme popularity in Southeast Asia, per CNN. According to Pop Mart’s website, illustrator Kasing Lung created a fairy tale world inspired by Nordic mythology in 2015, populating it with magical characters both good and evil, called “The Monsters”—the most prominent was Labubu, who is “kind-hearted and always wants to help, but often accidentally achieves the opposite.” Lung was born in Hong Kong but grew up in the Netherlands, and draws from both cultures, which could explain Labubu’s cross-cultural global appeal. View the full article

At least 1,500 learners had their eligibility records removed by the state department in recent weeksView the full article

Independent bookstores have long been champions of community, curiosity, and culture—and on Saturday, April 26, they get their moment in the spotlight. Independent Bookstore Day, a nationwide celebration of indie bookstores, invites readers to shop locally and support the spaces that keep storytelling vibrant. But this year, the festivities come with a wrinkle: Amazon is holding a major book sale at the same time, and many booksellers and readers aren’t having it. Independent bookstores and users on BookTok are expressing their frustration with Amazon while encouraging readers to stay off of the online shopping site and instead make the trek to their local bookstore for the day. Some are even directly calling out Amazon and another large book retailer, Barnes & Noble, for having their sales so close to Independent Bookstore Day. “So if you didn’t know—and it’s okay if you didn’t, because I feel like Amazon is working overtime to try and overshadow the whole day—this Saturday, April 26, is Independent Bookstore Day,” TikTok user torithatnerd said in a video posted Thursday. Independent Bookstore Day began as California Bookstore Day in 2013, as a take on Record Store Day, according to Samantha Schoech in the Los Angeles Review of Books. Schoech wrote that it was a way for indie bookstores to band together and encourage a celebration of all things independent bookstores have to offer the public. “Independent bookstores are not just stores—they’re community centers and locals anchors,” Schoech wrote. “They are entire universes of ideas that contain the possibility of real serendipity.” While the celebratory day started in California, sponsored by the Northern California Independent Booksellers Association, Schoech took the event nationwide in 2014. Soon after, the American Booksellers Association (ABA) began sponsoring the event, and this year a record-breaking number of stores are participating. Over 1,600 bookstores from all 50 states plan to celebrate on Saturday. Protecting books in a digital age Andy Hunter is CEO and founder of Bookshop.org, a website and business with a B Corp certification that works to acknowledge and encourage the convenience of online shopping for books while still supporting local bookshops. On the website, customers choose a bookstore they’d like to support when buying books, and the profits from orders are sent directly to the bookstore they selected. If customers opt not to choose a story, such purchases contribute to a profit-sharing pool that helps all associated bookshops affiliated with Bookshop.org. “Every independent bookstore is kind of an advocate and activist for the importance of books and reading in our society,” Hunter said. “So we want books to survive. We don’t want Amazon’s rise to be an extinction for local bookstores that are precious.” In April 2024, the ABA filed a motion to intervene in the Federal Trade Commission’s antitrust lawsuit against Amazon. The motion argues that Amazon has a monopoly power over books and can offer books at prices that independent bookstores find impossible to match. The motion, however, was eventually denied due to both the FTC and Amazon’s argument that ABA’s claims were distinct from the FTC’s allegations. For some BookTok-ers, though, the timing of Amazon’s sale feels intentional. Though Amazon’s books may be cheaper than an average independent bookstore’s prices, influencers are still encouraging their followers to avoid Amazon, or even go to their local library if independent bookstores are too far out of their price range. “It feels like an intentional kick in the face to local bookstores,” Hunter said regarding the Amazon sale. “Independent bookstores generally have to charge full price because those margins are what help them survive. Amazon engages in predatory pricing.” Amazon denied these allegations. A spokesperson said, “The overlap was unintentional. The dates for our sale were set this year to accommodate additional participating countries.” Whether intentional or not, Amazon’s sale dates seem to be callously ignoring the importance of Independent Bookstore Day, Hunter said. “Books are really important, and they’re too important to society to entrust to a single retailer, whether or not that retailer has good intentions,” he said. “Independent bookstores are fighting to keep an independent marketplace for books and ideas alive, and Independent Bookstore Day is a day that everybody who supports that effort, who wants a diverse ecosystem around books, shows their support.” View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Lots of apps are getting built-in AI features these days, and they’re often disappointing. They’ll summarize (sometimes incorrectly) the same data that’s already available in charts or graphs elsewhere in the app. But the AI advisor that was recently added to the Oura ring's app takes a different strategy, one that I’ve come to appreciate over the past few weeks since its launch. Instead of just reporting data, it asks questions. It asks you to do a little analysis, a little introspection. And I think Oura is really onto something here. Some of the questions the Oura Advisor has asked meI’ll admit that, at first, I was interested in what the Advisor could tell me. Anytime I asked it a question, it would give an answer but then bounce it back to me. How was I feeling? What things have I tried lately? These seemed like dodges, not insights. The Advisor will also pipe up with some extra questions from time to time, in a notification on your phone. "Your sedentary time has decreased to 6h 11m,” it told me one day. “How are you feeling about your movement?" If you tap on the notification, it will start a conversation with you about that topic. Here are some of the questions it’s asked me lately: (After noting some poor HRV numbers recently) “How do you feel about your recovery practices, and is there anything you’d like to adjust?” (After I told it I had been sick) “How are you feeling about your overall recovery and balance in daily routines?” (After reporting my recent stress scores) “How are you feeling about managing stress this week?” (After suggesting relaxation methods) “Do any of these resonate with you?” One day, the Advisor even explained its strategy to me. “Thinking back on the last few days, how have you felt about your sleep quality? Self-reflection can reveal insights about your priorities and help you adjust your routines. If you’re up for it, sharing your thoughts could open the door to valuable information that could enhance your rest even further.” Fine. I answered the question in good faith, telling the bot about something that I know had been affecting my sleep—that I like to have a little wind-down time in the evening, and that this has lately been turning into revenge procrastination where I try to claw back a little relaxation or enjoyment even when I know it’s eating into my sleep time. “It’s understandable to want extra relaxation time after a busy day,” it said. It then congratulated me on some small improvements I’d made, and suggested the incredibly obvious advice of starting my wind-down routine a little earlier. Then it asked me: “How does that sound to you?” I know it’s not telling me anything I couldn’t have told it. The Advisor is just restating my own concerns in a gentle, curious manner. But, goddammit, I think it’s helping. Why asking questions is so powerfulWhen we look to someone else to solve our problems—be they an app or a human being, like a therapist—we generally already have the information we need. We just need to go through the process of setting our thoughts in order. What is most important? What should we do next? What tools do we already have that can help us? Since this process doesn’t require new information, just thinking through what we already have, it doesn’t actually matter if the thing we’re talking to is a dumb robot who knows nothing about us. One of the best demonstrations of this is a program written in the 1960s, the famous chatbot Eliza. Inspired by Rogerian psychotherapy, all the Eliza bot did was turn your own statements into questions, occasionally recalling something from earlier in the conversation, and from time to time asking you if this relates to your mother. Eliza wasn’t AI in any sense of the word, just a bit of code simple enough that it could be written into a webpage or hidden as an Easter egg feature in a text editor. You can try out a simple version of Eliza here. When I studied for my personal training certification, I had to learn a lot about motivational interviewing, something that is recognized as evolving from Rogerian, person-centered techniques. The idea is to help a person with their “behavior change” (eating better, exercising more, etc.) by getting them to talk about their own motivation for making the change. You don’t tell them what to do, you just allow them to tell themselves. As long as you play along with Oura’s AI—actually answering the questions—you can have this experience anytime you want, without having to talk to an actual therapist or trainer. The advisor is more sophisticated than Eliza, remembering things you told it a few days ago, and having access to your data from the ring's sensors. But it uses data summaries as a jumping-off point, rather than expecting you to be impressed that a bot can read your data at all. Oura recognizes that the value of its Advisor is not in having all the answers, but in having plenty of good questions. 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. There hasn't been a better opportunity for Android users to get a Google Pixel Watch, provided they don't mind being a bit behind the times: Woot is currently selling the first generation GPS + Cellular Google Pixel Watch for $79.99, 76% off the original $329.99selling price. This is the cheapest the wearable has ever been, according to price tracking tools. (Note that Woot only ships to the 48 contiguous states in the U.S. If you have Amazon Prime, you get free shipping; otherwise, it’ll be $6 to ship.) Google Pixel Watch (1st Gen) (GPS + Cellular) Condition: New, Model: GPS + Cellular, Screen Size: 41mm $79.99 at Woot $329.99 Save $250.00 Get Deal Get Deal $79.99 at Woot $329.99 Save $250.00 The original Google Pixel Watch came out in 2022, so you won't be getting the latest tech (that would be the Google Pixel Watch 3). Still, it's under $100 and still pretty capable. The Pixel Watch is a stylish hybrid watch with some fitness features, but it leans more towards a smartwatch than a fitness-oriented watch, according to CNET's review. The health and fitness features use metrics from Fitbit, which Google acquired back in 2021). The watch is only available on sale in its 41mm size. Since this is the GPS + Cellular (or LTE) version, you'll be able to use its features, make calls, send texts, and use apps independently of wifi signal or being near your phone. The main downside of the Google Pixel Watch is its battery life—it lasts only a bit over a day, depending on your use. It's not the worst, since you'll be able to use it to track your sleep even after using it all day. The Pixel doesn't work with Apple phones, but any Android phone is compatible. You can read more about the features in PCMag's "excellent" review. View the full article

Before comparing PRINCE2 vs. PMP, it’s important to understand that though they’re often mentioned in the same context within project management, they serve different purposes. PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments) is a project management framework. That is, it’s a structured approach with defined principles, themes and processes. It focuses on governance, organization and clearly defined roles and responsibilities. While PMP (Project Management Professional) is a certification that validates a project manager’s experience. What Is the PMP Certification? PMP certification is a globally recognized credential awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It validates a project manager’s ability to lead and manage projects effectively, using best practices and methodologies established in the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide). The PMP certification is widely respected across industries, including IT, construction, healthcare, finance and manufacturing. It demonstrates a project manager’s competence in handling various aspects of project management, including planning, executing, monitoring and closing projects. Project management professionals obtain PMP certification to enhance their credibility and marketability as skilled project managers. It increases opportunities for career advancement and higher salary potential by giving those who get it a comprehensive knowledge of project management principles and global recognition (the certification is recognized in over 200 countries). Having a PMP certification is only the starting point. To apply that knowledge, project managers need project management software. ProjectManager is award-winning project and portfolio management software with robust Gantt charts that can schedule tasks, resources and costs. More than that, it can link all four types of task dependencies to avoid cost overruns, filter for the critical path to identify essential tasks and slack, then set a baseline to track actual progress in real time. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. /wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Gantt-CTA-2025.jpgLearn more When to Choose the PMP Certification The PMP certification is ideal for professionals managing projects across industries who need a globally recognized credential. It’s best suited for those with hands-on experience leading projects and applying diverse methodologies, including predictive, agile and hybrid approaches. PMP is widely accepted in North America, Asia and the Middle East, making it valuable for international opportunities. It emphasizes project execution, leadership and strategic thinking, making it beneficial for senior project managers and those seeking career advancement. If you work in dynamic environments where adaptability and stakeholder engagement are crucial, PMP provides the frameworks and best practices to succeed. Comparison: PMP vs. PRINCE2 Certifications PMP vs. PRINCE2 certifications are both prestigious in the project management field, but they serve different purposes. While PMP focuses on applying project management best practices, PRINCE2 provides a structured framework for project governance and control. PRINCE2 emphasizes governance, with well-defined processes, roles and responsibilities to ensure project alignment with business goals. In contrast, PMP is centered on execution and offers flexibility in managing projects using different methodologies, including agile, waterfall and hybrid approaches. Certification structures also differ. PRINCE2 has two levels: Foundation for understanding the framework and Practitioner for applying it in real-world scenarios. PMP is a single-level certification demonstrating comprehensive knowledge of project management principles and practices. In terms of industry recognition, PMP is globally respected, especially in North America and Asia. PRINCE2 is most widely adopted in the UK, Europe and Australia, particularly for government and public sector projects. The exam formats reflect their focus. PMP’s test includes 180 questions over 230 minutes, assessing project management knowledge across people, process and business domains. PRINCE2’s Foundation exam has 60 multiple-choice questions focusing on theoretical understanding, while the Practitioner exam involves scenario-based questions that test practical application. Prerequisites also vary. PMP requires extensive project management experience and formal training, whereas PRINCE2 Foundation has no prerequisites, making it accessible to beginners. However, the Practitioner level requires a Foundation certification or a relevant project management qualification. Choosing between PMP and PRINCE2 depends on your career goals. If you seek a certification that validates your practical project management skills across industries, PMP is ideal. On the other hand, if you work in a highly regulated environment that values structured governance, PRINCE2 may be a better fit. Some professionals pursue both to diversify their credentials and maximize their career potential. /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PM-101-eBook-banner-ad.jpg PMP vs. PRINCE2 Practitioner The PRINCE2 Practitioner certification is designed for project managers and professionals who want to apply the PRINCE2 framework in real-world projects. Building on the foundational knowledge from the PRINCE2 Foundation level, it focuses on how to tailor and implement the principles, themes and processes to manage projects effectively. It’s best suited for experienced professionals responsible for project delivery, particularly in environments that require structured governance. The certification involves a scenario-based exam with 68 objective questions to be completed in 150 minutes. It tests the ability to apply PRINCE2 concepts to practical situations. Certification is valid for three years and can be renewed through continuous learning or retaking the exam. While PRINCE2 is traditionally applied in predictive, waterfall-style projects, it can also be adapted for agile teams by incorporating iterative planning and flexible workflows within its structured framework. PMP vs. PRINCE2 Foundation The PRINCE2 Foundation certification introduces professionals to the PRINCE2 framework, which emphasizes a structured, process-driven approach to project management. It focuses on the principles, themes and processes that ensure projects remain well-governed and aligned with business objectives. This certification is ideal for those looking to understand the fundamentals of project management in a controlled environment. The Foundation level is suitable for beginners or team members seeking a solid understanding of project management terminology and concepts. There are no certification prerequisites, making it an accessible starting point for anyone interested in project management. The exam is scenario-based multiple choice, focusing on theoretical knowledge. Upon passing, the certification remains valid for three years, with the option to renew through continued professional development. While PRINCE2 is traditionally associated with predictive, waterfall projects, its principles can be applied in agile environments by incorporating flexible delivery methods and iterative progress monitoring. PMP vs. PRINCE2 Agile Foundation The PRINCE2 Agile Foundation certification combines the best of PRINCE2’s structured approach with the flexibility of agile methodologies. This certification focuses on how to integrate agile principles and techniques into the PRINCE2 framework, enabling project managers to tailor project delivery to be more adaptable and iterative while maintaining governance and control. It’s ideal for professionals working in environments where both structured management and agile flexibility are required. PRINCE2 Agile is valuable for organizations that require agility within a controlled project management environment. The certification is suited for project managers, team leaders and professionals in agile project settings, particularly where project scope or requirements evolve frequently. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions, and candidates must achieve a passing score within one hour. There are no strict prerequisites, although a basic understanding of project management principles is recommended. Once certified, the credential is valid for three years, after which it can be renewed through continued professional development. This certification is ideal for agile teams, as it helps integrate agile methods with PRINCE2’s structured framework, providing a practical and scalable approach for managing agile projects while ensuring control, quality and focus on delivering business value. PMP vs. PRINCE2 Agile Practitioner The PRINCE2 Agile Practitioner certification is designed for project managers and professionals who want to apply the PRINCE2 framework in agile environments. It focuses on how to effectively tailor and implement PRINCE2 principles, themes and processes while incorporating agile practices like scrum, kanban and lean. The certification equips professionals to manage projects that require both structure and flexibility. PRINCE2 Agile Practitioner is ideal for experienced project managers, agile team leaders and those responsible for managing complex projects with changing requirements. To qualify, candidates must have completed PRINCE2 Agile Foundation or hold other relevant certifications, such as PRINCE2 Foundation, PMP, or Certified ScrumMaster (CSM). The exam consists of 50 scenario-based questions to be completed in 2.5 hours, assessing the candidate’s ability to apply agile concepts within the PRINCE2 framework. Upon passing, the certification remains valid for three years and can be renewed through continuous learning or retaking the exam. PRINCE2 Agile Practitioner is particularly well-suited for agile teams. It provides practical guidance on balancing agile flexibility with structured project governance, ensuring projects remain aligned with business goals while delivering incremental value through agile iterations. PMP vs. MSP (Managing Successful Programmes) Foundation The MSP Foundation certification introduces professionals to the principles and framework of Managing Successful Programmes (MSP), which is designed to manage and coordinate multiple related projects within a program. The focus is on delivering strategic business outcomes and managing organizational change effectively. It is particularly useful for organizations undergoing large-scale transformations or complex initiatives. MSP Foundation provides a structured approach to program management, emphasizing governance, stakeholder engagement and aligning projects with broader business goals. It is widely recognized in industries where managing interconnected projects is essential, especially in the public sector and large enterprises. The certification is suitable for program managers, senior project managers and those involved in delivering strategic initiatives. Although PRINCE2 is another project management framework that focuses on the management and control of individual projects, MSP operates at a higher level, ensuring projects within a program align with long-term business strategies. While PRINCE2 supports effective project delivery, MSP Foundation ensures that the collective outcomes of multiple projects deliver sustainable benefits. PMP vs. MSP (Managing Successful Programmes) Practitioner The MSP Practitioner certification builds on the foundational knowledge of the MSP framework, focusing on the practical application of program management principles. It equips professionals to manage complex, large-scale programs that involve multiple interrelated projects, ensuring they deliver long-term business benefits. Designed for experienced program managers, senior project managers and business leaders, MSP Practitioner provides guidance on implementing governance structures, managing stakeholders and aligning program objectives with organizational strategy. The certification is globally recognized and especially valuable in industries undergoing significant transformations. While certifications like PRINCE2 focus on managing individual projects, MSP Practitioner is ideal for those overseeing multiple projects within a program, ensuring strategic goals are met effectively. PMP vs. Management of Portfolios (MoP) Foundation The MoP Foundation certification provides a comprehensive understanding of how to manage an organization’s portfolio of projects and programs to achieve strategic goals. It focuses on prioritizing investments, ensuring resources are used effectively and delivering the greatest value. MoP emphasizes governance and decision-making to balance project risks, benefits and resource demands. It is best suited for senior executives, portfolio managers and decision-makers responsible for aligning projects and programs with organizational strategy. Recognized globally, the certification is valuable in the public and private sectors where organizations manage complex portfolios. In contrast, PRINCE2 is a project management framework focused on delivering and controlling individual projects. While PRINCE2 is ideal for project managers handling day-to-day execution, MoP provides a higher-level perspective for those overseeing multiple projects to ensure they collectively achieve strategic objectives. PMP vs. Management of Portfolios (MoP) Practitioner The MoP Practitioner certification builds on the knowledge gained at the Foundation level, focusing on the practical application of portfolio management principles. It equips professionals to apply the Management of Portfolios (MoP) framework in real-world scenarios, ensuring an organization’s projects and programs are aligned with its strategic objectives. This certification is best for portfolio managers, senior executives and decision-makers responsible for prioritizing investments, managing risks and optimizing resource use. By applying MoP principles, certified practitioners contribute to delivering maximum value from an organization’s project portfolio. While PRINCE2 manages individual projects and MSP oversees programs, MoP Practitioner ensures that all projects and programs collectively drive the organization’s long-term goals. PMP vs. Management of Risk Foundation The MoR Foundation certification provides a solid understanding of the Management of Risk (MoR) framework, which focuses on identifying, assessing and managing risks across an organization. It covers principles, processes and techniques to minimize threats and maximize opportunities in project and operational environments. MoR Foundation is ideal for risk managers, project managers, business analysts and decision-makers who need to apply structured risk management practices. It is widely recognized across industries and provides a comprehensive approach to managing uncertainty at strategic, program, project and operational levels. While certifications like PRINCE2 focus on project management, MoR ensures that potential risks are proactively managed, contributing to informed decision-making and improved organizational resilience. PMP vs. Management of Risk (MoR) Practitioner The MoR Practitioner certification builds on the foundational knowledge of risk management and focuses on the practical application of the Management of Risk (MoR) framework. It enables professionals to apply risk management principles effectively across projects, programs and organizational operations to address potential risks and optimize opportunities. This certification is ideal for risk managers, project managers and senior executives who manage risks at an operational and strategic level. It emphasizes integrating risk management into decision-making processes and aligning it with organizational objectives. While the MoR Foundation provides the foundational knowledge, the Practitioner level focuses on applying this knowledge to real-world scenarios, ensuring that risks are managed proactively and comprehensively across an organization. How ProjectManager Can Help PMP and PRINCE2 Project Management Professionals PMP vs. PRINCE2 doesn’t matter when you’re tasked with delivering a project. What’s important is that you can plan, manage and track work to get it completed on time and within budget. Regardless of the certification, you’ll find project management professionals using project management software. It’s simply more efficient and effective. ProjectManager is award-winning project and portfolio management software that is flexible enough to work with any methodology or approach to project management. Our multiple project views allow users to have the tools they want, from Gantt charts for waterfall to kanban boards for agile and task lists, calendar views and more. Stay Productive With Resource Management Features Human and nonhuman resources are scheduled on Gantt charts and then, when teams are onboarded, their availability can be set to streamline the assigning of tasks. That means that the right resource is assigned to the right task at the right time, which keeps the project moving forward as planned. To view resource allocation across one or multiple projects, visit the color-coded workload chart. It makes it easy to see who is overallocated or underutilized and balances the team’s workload to keep everyone working at capacity without threatening burnout. The team page shows their activity on a daily or weekly basis and can be filtered by priority or progress. Tasks can even be updated without leaving the page. /wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Team-Light-2554x1372-1.png Monitor Cost, Progress and More on Real-Time Dashboards and Reports PMP vs. PRINCE2 doesn’t change that projects have to be delivered on time and within budget, meeting quality standards. Get a high-level overview of project metrics on our real-time project or portfolio dashboards. The easy-to-read graphs and charts display time, cost, workload and more. To get into the weeds, use the customizable reports on status, variance, timesheets, workload and more. They can be filtered to show key data points or a more general summary of progress that can be shared with stakeholders. Even our secure timesheets help by tracking labor costs to help projects stay on budget. /wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Portfolio-Summary-Dashboard-Home-Screen-Light-Mode.png Related Content PRINCE2 vs. PMP is a small, albeit important, part of project management. For readers who are interested in reading more about the subject, below are a handful of links that explore certifications, go deeper into PRINCE2 and more. Best Project Management Certifications (2025) What Is PRINCE2? Principles, Aspects, Roles & Processes Key Project Management Principles & How to Use Them Top 15 Project Management Methodologies: An Overview The 10 Project Management Knowledge Areas – (PMBOK) ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams whether they’re in the office or out in the field. They can share files, comment at the task level and stay updated with email and in-app notifications. Join teams at Avis, Nestle and Siemens who use our software to deliver successful projects. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. The post PRINCE2 vs. PMP: Which Certification Is Right for You? appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

“Meta profits, kids pay the price,” was the message delivered by dozens of grieving families at the doors of Meta’s Manhattan office on Thursday. Forty-five families traveled from across the U.S. and as far as the United Kingdom to hold a vigil outside the East Village headquarters of Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram. Holding photos of their children, they spoke about lives lost to cyberbullying, sextortion scams, and suicide-glorifying content—calling on Meta to take immediate action to protect children on its platforms. On a pile of rose bouquets, the families and demonstrators placed an open letter addressed to Mark Zuckerberg. Signed by more than 11,000 individuals and 18 safety organizations, the letter urges Meta to “end the algorithmic promotion of dangerous content to children under 18, including explicit and sexualizing content, racism and hate speech, content promoting disordered eating or self-harm, dangerous viral challenges, and content promoting drugs and alcohol.” The letter also calls for concrete steps to “prevent nefarious actors including sexual predators, sextortionists, and drug dealers from finding, meeting, and grooming children and teens across all Meta platforms,” along with faster, more transparent responses to reports of harmful content or behavior. The vigil was organized by Heat Initiative, ParentsTogether Action, and Design It for Us. Among those in attendance was Tammy Rodriguez, a mother from Connecticut, whose 11-year-old daughter died by suicide after becoming addicted to Instagram and later being groomed by men on another platform. In an effort to understand her daughter’s experience, Rodriguez created a fake Instagram account as a 12-year-old. “Within weeks the whole algorithm changed, I would never have received that on my own, just suicide content, self-harm content,” Rodriguez said, per ABC 7. Mary Rodee, another mother who lost her 15-year-old son in 2021, shared that he was coerced into sending intimate photos by a sextortion scammer on Facebook. “My kid is dead. I have nothing else to lose,” Rodee said at the vigil, according to Bloomberg. “Like so many other families, I’ve been trying to meet with Mark Zuckerberg for years on this issue, but he refuses. We’re all here to show that we’re willing to do whatever it takes.” “We know parents are concerned about their teens’ having unsafe or inappropriate experiences online,” a Meta spokesperson told Fast Company. “It’s why we significantly changed the Instagram experience for teens with Teen Accounts, which were designed to address parents’ top concerns. Teen Accounts have built-in protections that limit who can contact teens and the content they see, and 94% of parents say these are helpful. We’ve also developed safety features to help prevent abuse, like warning teens when they’re chatting to someone in another country, and recently worked with Childhelp to launch a first-of-its kind online safety curriculum, helping middle schoolers recognize potential online harm and know where to go for help.” View the full article

Asana is a popular work management software that helps teams collaborate on tasks and projects. Microsoft Project is a popular project management software that has the tools that project managers need to manage teams and projects. If you’re looking at Asana vs. Microsoft Project and trying to decide which is the right tool for you, we have the stats to help you make that decision. There are problems in the battle of Microsoft Project vs. Asana. For one, MS Project is notoriously difficult to use and expensive. Then there’s Asana, which is a great work management tool that calls itself a project management software solution, but in reality doesn’t live up to delivering the features project managers want. If you’re open to trying something besides Microsoft Project or Asana, and you need a project and portfolio management software that fosters collaboration and provides the project management features you need to deliver on time and within budget, then you want ProjectManager. The award-winning software is the best of Asana vs. MS Project without the complexity or steep price. Its Gantt chart beat both Asana and Microsoft Project, doing what there’s can do and more, such as linking all four types of task dependencies to avoid costly delays, filtering for the critical path to identify essential tasks and setting a baseline to track planned progress and costs against actual progress and cost. Plus, there’s a mobile app, which Microsoft Project doesn’t have, and the software can even seamlessly import and export Microsoft Project files. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. /wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Construction-Gantt-Costs-Resources-CTA-BUTTON-2.jpgLearn more Asana vs. Microsoft Project: Why Should You Choose Asana? Microsoft Project gets a lot of respect in the project management world, but even seasoned professionals complain of its complexity and price. Asana is a far more simple tool for work and project management. Let’s see if it measures up. What Is Asana? Asana is a web-based work management software that organizes, tracks and manages a team’s work. It was founded in San Francisco in 2008 and launched commercially in 2012. The product is very popular for both professional and personal use in managing small projects and lightweight tasks. It’s easy to use and has some project management features, though it is more focused on team and work management. Asana Pricing Personal: $0.00 user/month, billed annually Starter: $10.99 user/month, billed annually Advanced: $24.99 user/month, billed annually Asana Reviews G2 review: 4.4 / 5 Capterra review: 4.5 / 5 Highlighted Positive User Reviews “Asana is a strong choice for teams that need structure and visibility in their workflows. It’s flexible enough for different types of projects and has helped us stay organized.” Katie S – From Capterra “Three months ago, our team transitioned from paper checklists and endless email threads to Asana, and the impact has been transformative.” Alabama B – From G2 “The UI of the application is user-friendly, and it helps to identify what we are looking for with minimal effort.” Nush N – From G2 Highlighted Negative User Reviews “Asana can have its navigational challenges. There are a lot of aspects of Asana that take time and effort to learn. These components are not always intuitive.” Luke E – from Capterra “Can get a little bit overwhelming with too many tasks and notifications. Sometimes it feels like more work just managing the work.” Umut Ö – From Capterra “After our trial ended, our entire project panel was locked, with no clear notice or fallback option. We couldn’t access anything, not even to remove paid features. This brought our entire workflow to a halt.” Himanshu T – from G2 What Is Asana Used For? /wp-content/uploads/2023/05/asana-logo.svg As mentioned above, Asana is mostly used as a work management tool. It can track tasks related to your business or project and help you to complete them within a specific timeline. It keeps teams organized and helps them collaborate on their tasks and projects. Teams can exchange files, which is helpful especially when working with distributed teams. Related: Best Asana Alternatives: Free & Paid Options Ranked Whether you use it for personal work or professionally, Asana helps you break down larger work into more manageable tasks. It also reduces the time writing emails, meetings and facilitates collaborative work. This allows you to work with others more efficiently, stay on track and keep things organized so deadlines aren’t missed. Who Uses Asana? Both professionals and nonprofessionals alike use Asana to help them manage projects, work and personal tasks. However, most users of Asana are teams at a variety of businesses and organizations. You’ll find Asana at companies as varied as: Deloitte, Airbnb, Pinterest and Dropbox. It’s used across the globe because it offers light project management and strong collaborative features. /wp-content/uploads/2023/06/asana-kanban-board.webp Asana Key Features There are task management features, as you’d expect on a work management tool, which allow you to assign, group tasks, set milestones, create custom fields, track time spent on tasks and set dependencies, though its Gantt chart is very limited. There are integrations, but there are far less than you’ll find with other project management tools. Asana does have pre-built templates that can be customized to fit your projects. There’s also workload management. They also have a mobile app. Asana has work and project management features. They include the following. Tracking project progress Planning sprints Integrating with third-party application Video messaging to help teams stay in close contact Activity dashboard Kanban boards, but with limited functionality and customization Reporting features to analyze work and project data Asana vs. Microsoft Project: How Is Asana Better Than Microsoft Project? In the battle of Microsoft Project vs. Asana, there are clear advantages to using Asana. For one, Asana is a lot easier to use because it’s a much simpler project management tool. It’s also more pleasing to the eye if that’s important to you. Unlike MS Project, Asana is ideal for small teams doing lightweight task management. It’s also more personal than Microsoft Project, which can feel cold and distant. For example, Asana celebrates after the completion of a task, which can do a lot to keep team morale high. It’s also easy to create task reminders to help you stay on schedule and its workload balancing is simple to use as well. If you opt for the business edition, you can set rules to automate processes. Asana vs. Microsoft Project: How Is Asana Worse Than Microsoft Project? In the Microsoft Project vs. Asana arena, the biggest discrepancy has to be the Gantt chart, which no self-respecting project management software would do without. Asana has a timeline, but that’s not even a lightweight Gantt chart. It’s a fairly basic scheduling tool and one that is not going to please project management professionals. In fact, most of Asana’s features pale in comparison. Its kanban board is relatively limited compared to MS Project. There’s also no time tracking, which is probably a hard no for project managers when considering Asana. Even a small business that might find the stripped-down nature of Asana appealing are going to balk at the price. Asana vs. Microsoft Project: Why Should You Choose Microsoft Project? Next up in the Asana vs. Microsoft Project is MS Project. It’s the big guy in the room, for sure. First of all, it’s a Microsoft product, and they are known for being big and monopolizing whatever sector they operate in. But what is MS Project? What Is Microsoft Project?/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/int-logo-msproject.jpg Microsoft Project is a project management software for project managers and their teams that helps them create, schedule, plan and manage projects, including resources and tracking. It is part of Microsoft 365 and is one of the oldest project management tools on the market and has positioned itself as the go-to project management software for established and large organizations that are managing projects. Microsoft Project Pricing Planner Plan 1: $10.00 user/month, billed annually Planner and Project Plan 3: $30.00 user/month, billed annually Planner and Project Plan 5: $55.00 user/month, billed annually Project Standard 2024: $679.99, one-time license purchase Project Professional 2024: $1129.99, one-time license purchase Microsoft Project Reviews G2 review: 4 / 5 Capterra review: 4.4 / 5 Highlighted Positive User Reviews “The most helpful aspect of Microsoft Project & Portfolio Management (PPM) is its comprehensive project management capabilities, enabling organizations to efficiently plan, track, and manage projects from start to finish.” Tushar K – From Capterra “I really like the tie-in with every other Microsoft product we use in the office. It’s been very easy to collaborate with the other people on my team and keep everyone on track.” Jeb B – From Capterra “Most project managers across industries understand reports/project plans generated from MS Project, whether or not they have used the software before.” Alex N – From G2 Highlighted Negative User Reviews “The UI may look a bit complex to new users and the learning curve is steep as well. Also it is pricey if you are a small business.” Aviral G – from Capterra “There is a learning curve—especially for new users. It’s not as intuitive as some newer project management tools, and setting up complex projects can take some time.” Alicia B – From Capterra “The software is sophisticated and tough to master, with a steep learning curve, in my opinion. Others have pointed out restrictions in customizing possibilities and integration with other products.” Aamir A – from G2 What Is Microsoft Project Used For? In the contest between Asana vs. Microsoft Project, you’ll find MS Project is used for larger, more complex projects, due to its advanced productivity tools and resource management features. It’s used for project scheduling and has task dependencies and project timelines, which can help when using it for future project predictions. Related: Best Microsoft Project Alternatives: Free & Paid Options Ranked It helps project managers and their teams set realistic goals, distribute resources and manage budgets. MS Project also can be used to track tasks and report on project progress. It is also useful if you subscribe to the other MS projects as it integrates with them all. Who Uses Microsoft Project? As you might imagine, some big-name corporations use Microsoft Project for project and portfolio management, which is something Asana isn’t built for. They include: Lockheed Martin, the large aerospace and defense company, Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association, an insurance company and Woolworth, the retailer. It’s clear that for larger companies that have long-term and complicated projects, Microsoft Project is the preferred project management tool. However, teams within these organizations are likely using tools like Asana for task management and smaller work-related jobs. /wp-content/uploads/2023/06/microsoft-project-gantt-chart.webp Microsoft Project Key Features If you’re putting Asana vs. Microsoft Project in a features battle, the MS Project will come up on top. They have many features, which are listed below. What they don’t have is a mobile app and limited file storage, which is going to turn some potential customers away. Grid view, which is like a simplified look at the project from a task list perspective Board view, which is a kanban board for managing workflows Timeline view is a Gantt chart for scheduling tasks Insight tool and financial management Task management features Resource management tools Project roadmaps Reporting features Team dashboard for monitoring progress Microsoft Project vs. Asana: How Is Microsoft Project Better Than Asana? In Asana vs. MS Project, the choice is clear if you’re working at a large company that’s running big, complicated projects. Microsoft Project is better equipped to manage resources and timelines as well as budgets. If you’re already using other Microsoft products, then you’ll want to stick with MS Project, which integrates with them all and hundreds of other third-party tools, which is far more than Asana. If you don’t care about layouts and appearances, where Asana clearly beats Microsoft Project, then you’ll stick with MS Project, which isn’t as pretty but has a professional design. Microsoft Project vs. Asana: How Is Microsoft Project Worse Than Asana? Though Microsoft Project is considered top-tier project management software, there are enough missing parts that can send consumers looking elsewhere to manage their projects. The complexity of the tool and its steep learning curve coupled with the high cost of licensing the product is a one-two punch that will leave most customers down for the count. Even its features could use some improvement. It’s difficult to track changes in project schedules, such as project delays, and its critical path functionality isn’t always accurately identified across portfolios. If you’re into looks, this is an old-fashioned and ugly tool, but on a more practical level, it’s difficult to interact with internal and external teams. Asana vs. Microsoft Project: Pricing Comparison Asana is more expensive than many other project management tools, but it looks like a steal next to the high price tag associated with Microsoft Project, which adds up as you increase licenses. If you’re a bottom-line buyer, then that might be all you look at. Here are the pricing tiers for Asana. Premium plan: $10.99/user/month, billed annually Business plan: $24.99/user/month, billed annually In the Asana vs. Microsoft Project, there’s no competition. MS Project is the more expensive option. It does, however, have more subscription tiers and delivers more features for the user who is interested in project management over work management. Here are the pricing breakdowns for Microsoft Project. Project Plan 1: $10 user/month Project Plan 3: $30 user/month Project Plan 5: $55 user/month ProjectManager Is Better Than Asana and Microsoft Project If you’re comparing Asana vs. Microsoft Project it should be clear now that both have their advantages and disadvantages. ProjectManager, an award-winning project and portfolio management software gives you the benefits of both without the deficits. It has much stronger collaboration features and is easier to understand and use than Microsoft Project. For example, ProjectManager Gantt charts automatically update, link all four types of task dependencies, filter for the critical path, set baselines and more. It’s better than both MS Project and Asana. They have a mobile app, real-time connectivity and straightforward workflow automation tools. Unlimited file storage. Unlike Asana, there are time tracking and secure timesheets, better kanban boards with more filters and greater security features. /wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Construction-Gantt-Task-Info-1600x859.jpg Manage Project Resources and Risks If you’re looking for risk management features on Asana, good luck. ProjectManager has risk cards that can help you identify project risks and then track them until they’ve been mitigated if they show up as issues in your project. There’s also a risk matrix to show you the likelihood of the risk occurring and, if it does, the impact it’ll have on the project, which will help you plan and prioritize your response. The resource management tools are better than Asana and easier to use than MS Project. Users can set team availability, including PTO, vacation and global holidays for remote teams, which make it easier to assign tasks. A workload chart monitors team allocation. You can even balance team workload right from the chart to keep them working at capacity and stay productive. /wp-content/uploads/2023/10/tab-workload-1.jpgUse Project Portfolio Management Dashboards and Reports Asana might have some lightweight project management tools, but they can’t manage multiple projects. Microsoft Project has portfolio management features, but they’re so complicated the learning curve is too steep. ProjectManager has project and portfolio management features, such as a real-time dashboard, which unlike other tools doesn’t require difficult and time-consuming setup. It automatically collects live data and displays it on easy-to-read graphs and charts for a high-level view of time, tasks, workload and more whenever you want it. Customizable reports can quickly generate status and portfolio reports as well as reports on variance, timesheets and workload. Then share them in a variety of formats for stakeholder management. /wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Portfolio-dashboard-compressed.png In addition to these robust project management features, ProjecManager allows users to easily import Microsoft Project Plan files (MPP files), Excel files and CSV files so they can seamlessly switch from Asana and Microsoft Project. Related Content If you’re looking for more proof of why ProjectManager wins in a battle of Asana vs. Microsoft Project, we have links to several articles that rank the best project management software, Asana alternatives and MS Project alternatives. Take a look and make up your mind. Best Project Management Software: Rankings, Reviews & Comparisons Asana vs. ClickUp: In-Depth Comparison Asana vs. ProjectManager: Which Software Is Better? Asana vs. Monday: In-Depth Software Comparison ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams whether they’re working in the office, out in the field or anywhere in the world. They can share files, comment at the task level and stay updated with email and in-app notifications. Join teams at Avis, Nestle and Siemens using our software to deliver successful projects. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. The post Asana vs. Microsoft Project: In-Depth Comparison appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

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Meta introduced a small but potentially powerful tweak to its Advantage+ Catalog campaigns: dynamic overlays. Advertisers can now add price, discount, and shipping labels directly onto product images – styled like stickers – to make promotions pop in the Facebook Feed. How it works. You’ve got four label options now: Current price. A strikethrough sale price. Percentage off. Free shipping. You can turn each on or off, style them how you want, or let Meta choose what performs best. Each overlay can be toggled on or off, and you can customize the look – or let Meta decide what to show based on performance signals. The big picture. It’s a subtle update, but one that could meaningfully improve ad performance. In a crowded feed, a well-placed price tag or discount badge could be the scroll-stopper that drives a sale. Why we care. While the feature isn’t entirely new (previously known as “labels”), this update gives advertisers more flexibility and control. It also taps into Meta’s AI to automatically show the most relevant offer, helping campaigns stand out and potentially convert better. View the full article

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Key Takeaways Definition of Secret Santa: A festive gift exchange tradition that fosters camaraderie among friends, family, and coworkers by maintaining anonymity during the gift-giving process. Benefits for Businesses: Participating in Secret Santa enhances employee engagement, boosts morale, improves communication skills, and contributes to a positive workplace culture. Setting Guidelines: Establishing a budget and clear rules is essential for a smooth Secret Santa experience, ensuring fairness and inclusivity among participants. Encouraging Thoughtful Gifting: Suggesting personalized gift ideas and themes can enhance the gifting experience and ensure employees feel valued and heard. Historical Context: Understanding the rich history and evolution of Secret Santa can deepen appreciation for its role in modern workplace celebrations. Building Relationships: Engaging in Secret Santa strengthens relationships among employees, leading to improved communication, better teamwork, and enhanced overall performance. The holiday season brings a sense of joy and excitement, and one of the most beloved traditions is Secret Santa. If you’ve ever wondered what this festive practice is all about, you’re in for a treat. Secret Santa adds a delightful twist to gift-giving, encouraging camaraderie and surprise among friends, family, or coworkers. What Is Secret Santa? Secret Santa is a fun and engaging gift exchange tradition often embraced by small businesses. This practice allows employees to foster camaraderie and teamwork while getting into the festive spirit. Participants draw names from a hat to determine who will give a gift to whom, maintaining anonymity throughout the process until the gift is revealed. Incorporating Secret Santa into your workplace can boost morale, enhance communication skills, and contribute to employee development. It encourages collaboration among team members, promoting a positive work environment. When planning a Secret Santa event, establish a budget to ensure fairness and inclusivity across all participants. Setting clear expectations and deadlines for gift preparation helps manage workflow, ensuring a smooth experience for everyone involved. Secret Santa supports your business goals by enhancing employee engagement and satisfaction. It can be a strategic planning tool to boost productivity and strengthen business relationships among your team. By prioritizing fun and interaction, you strengthen your workplace culture, paving the way for improved performance reviews and team dynamics. History of Secret Santa Secret Santa’s rich history adds depth to this beloved tradition, making it a meaningful part of holiday celebrations. Understanding its origins and evolution can enhance your appreciation for this unique gift-giving practice in your small business or team environment. Origins of the Tradition The origins of Secret Santa trace back to various gift-giving customs across cultures, closely linked to festive celebrations. Evidence suggests that similar practices existed in Europe as early as the 19th century. The tradition often centers around anonymity, fostering a sense of mystery and excitement, which makes it particularly engaging for small business teams. By drawing names randomly, you create excitement and strengthen workplace bonds among employees, enhancing communication skills and teamwork. How It Evolved Over Time Over time, Secret Santa evolved from a simple gathering tradition into a structured activity embraced by many organizations. This transformation reflects a growing emphasis on employee engagement within businesses. As companies recognized the value of teamwork and collaboration, Secret Santa became a tool for enhancing morale and fostering company culture. Modern workplaces often encourage participants to provide wish lists, facilitating better decision-making for gift-givers while ensuring that employees feel valued and heard. By implementing a clear budget for Secret Santa, small businesses can promote financial planning, ensuring this festive event aligns with organizational goals and operational efficiency. How Secret Santa Works Secret Santa fosters team bonding and increases morale in small businesses during the festive season. Here’s how to implement this engaging tradition effectively. Setting the Rules Establish clear guidelines to ensure everyone understands the expectations. Set a budget limit for gifts, typically ranging from $10 to $30. Define the timeframe for gift exchanges, aiming for a date before the holiday break. When determining participants, opt for a drawing method, where each employee randomly selects another team member’s name. Encourage participation by allowing team members to anonymously express preferences to assist their Secret Santa in gift selection. Gift-Giving Guidelines Implement gift-giving guidelines to promote thoughtful gifting and enhance employee satisfaction. Suggest personalized items, such as gift cards, books, or office supplies that align with individual interests. Encourage creativity while ensuring that the gifts remain within the budget. Remind participants to maintain anonymity until the final reveal to build excitement. Consider incorporating a theme, such as ‘homemade gifts’ or ‘local items,’ to strengthen collaboration and support local businesses, which aligns with your overall business strategy and community engagement efforts. By establishing well-defined rules and guidelines, you enhance the Secret Santa experience, contributing to improved team morale and a sense of belonging within your small business. Benefits of Participating in Secret Santa Participating in Secret Santa offers numerous advantages for small businesses during the holiday season. Engaging in this tradition strengthens bonds among employees, enhances the holiday spirit, and promotes a collaborative culture that supports your business’s overall goals. Strengthening Relationships Strengthening relationships within your team leads to improved communication skills and collaboration. Participating in Secret Santa fosters a sense of camaraderie, allowing employees to learn about one another’s interests and preferences. This personal connection not only enhances workplace morale but also contributes to effective team management and performance reviews. Building relationships through shared experiences can also aid in conflict resolution, as colleagues become more empathetic towards each other. Enhancing Holiday Spirit Enhancing the holiday spirit within your small business boosts productivity and employee satisfaction. Secret Santa introduces fun and excitement, breaking the routine in office workflows. A lively atmosphere encourages creativity and teamwork, aligning with your business strategies and objectives. As employees engage in gift exchange, they foster a positive work environment that retains talent and attracts new talent through a strong employer brand. This festive interaction ultimately supports your business growth and operational efficiency, proving that a joyful workplace translates into better overall performance. Conclusion Secret Santa brings a unique blend of joy and connection to the holiday season. By participating in this tradition, you not only enhance your workplace culture but also strengthen bonds with your colleagues. The excitement of anonymity and thoughtful gift-giving fosters a sense of community that can lead to improved teamwork and morale. Implementing Secret Santa with clear guidelines and a set budget ensures everyone enjoys the experience. This festive practice goes beyond just exchanging gifts; it cultivates an environment where employees feel valued and engaged. Embrace the spirit of Secret Santa this season and watch as it transforms your workplace into a more connected and productive space. Frequently Asked Questions What is Secret Santa? Secret Santa is a holiday gift exchange tradition where participants anonymously give and receive gifts. Typically, individuals draw names to determine who they will gift, fostering surprise and camaraderie among friends, family, or coworkers. How did Secret Santa originate? The origins of Secret Santa trace back to various gift-giving customs in Europe during the 19th century. It evolved from simple gatherings into a structured activity, emphasizing anonymity and strengthening social bonds. Why is Secret Santa popular in small businesses? Secret Santa enhances teamwork and boosts morale among employees in small businesses. It promotes employee engagement, helps build relationships, and creates a festive atmosphere that contributes to a positive workplace culture. What are some rules for implementing Secret Santa? When implementing Secret Santa, establish clear rules such as budget limits (usually $10 to $30), a timeframe for gift exchanges, and guidelines for anonymity. Participants should draw names randomly and may express gift preferences. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZh5utgq3c0 What benefits does Secret Santa offer to employees? Participating in Secret Santa strengthens team relationships, enhances the holiday spirit, and promotes collaboration. It improves workplace morale, aids in conflict resolution, and fosters a positive work environment, ultimately supporting talent retention. How can organizations enhance the Secret Santa experience? Organizations can enhance the Secret Santa experience by incorporating themes like ‘homemade gifts’ or ‘local items,’ encouraging thoughtful gifting. Providing wish lists and maintaining clear communication further promote engagement and ensure employees feel valued. Image Via Envato This article, "Discover What is Secret Santa: A Fun Tradition for Joyful Gift-Giving" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article