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I'm always a little surprised any time I hit a dead zone. It's 2026; we've had cell phones since the '80s; modern 5G connections can rival home internet speeds; and yet, there are still way too many parts of this country that aren't covered by cellular networks. While those cellular networks might not necessarily expand to cover the entire country any time soon, it is possible that, in the near future, you'll be hard-pressed to find a part of the U.S. where you can't make a phone call. These carriers are working to end dead zones in AmericaOn Thursday, Verizon published a press release featuring a pretty significant announcement: The big three cellular networks (AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon) are pooling their resources to try to end dead zones in America. The idea is to expand satellite communications across all three networks to directly address coverage gaps across the country, especially in "unserved and underserved communities." That's particularly important for remote areas of the States where there is little to no traditional cell service. While the press release shies away from saying the joint venture will end dead zones entirely, it does stress that the plan is to "nearly eliminate" them in the U.S. But the goal goes beyond coverage gaps, too. By increasing satellite communications and, therefore, increasing redundancy in coverage, the networks believe they'll improve reliability in emergencies: When everyone is trying to call and text across cell networks at once, they slow down or stop working entirely. By rolling out a more robust satellite network, there will be another means of communication during these high-demand situations. According to the press release, the networks will also work with rural mobile network operators to expand services to their customer bases. Satellite communications are all the rage right now. Cellular networks, as well as smartphone manufacturers, have been rolling out expanded support in recent years. Apple, for example, now lets iPhone users text their contacts over satellite when they have no cell service, while T-Mobile offers similar services for its customers via Starlink. Of course, satellite service isn't necessarily the same as cellular service: Because the signal needs to travel all the way up to a satellite orbiting the Earth, it takes a lot longer than your standard cell signal. As such, I'm not sure that somebody tapping into satellite coverage in a rural area of the U.S. is going to have as reliable an experience as another user connecting through 4G or 5G networks. Still, satellite communications have literally saved lives in situations where cell service was not available. If the networks want to band together to create a dedicated network of satellite communications, I'm certainly not opposed. View the full article

First-time buyer ages and declining homeownership rates demand bold federal action on taxes, condos and financial literacy, according to the head of the CHLA. View the full article

Crypto investors are making a mad dash to Zcash. Zcash (ZEC) has become something of a darling of crypto markets lately, with the token up more than 1,200% over the past year. As of Friday morning, it was trading at around $530. Bitcoin, on the other hand, is down more than 21% over the past year, and Ethereum is down around 12%. Zcash has also gained more widespread adoption—Robinhood, for example, recently added it to its platform. What’s behind the rise of Zcash? It’s difficult to point to one specific factor for the recent rise in popularity. Zcash did see its initial large-scale push during the fall of 2025, even though it had been on the market since 2016. Zcash’s value was more or less stagnant until September of last year, when it increased from roughly $50 and peaked at around $700 in November. It’s experienced volatility since then, but as of mid-May, has breached the $600 mark again. That strong price action has likely attracted many traders, but Zcash’s main draw is that it’s a privacy-focused coin that was developed by researchers at MIT and Johns Hopkins University. Like many other so-called altcoins, it’s also derived from Bitcoin, but Zcash utilizes “zero-knowledge proofs,” incorporating more encryption and protection for users. Generally, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin detail transactions and coin usage on public ledgers—the blockchain. But Zcash goes a bit further, shielding wallet addresses, making it more difficult to discern who or what is behind a given transaction. In other words, Zcash transactions are less transparent than Bitcoin’s, and that may be of interest to some crypto users. The new cool kid on the blockchain? Given its privacy-focused roots, Zcash may be benefiting from renewed concerns about surveillance and data harvesting efforts from both large tech companies (looking to suck up anything and everything to train AI models) or the federal government. Add in more points of access (such as its availability on platforms like Robinhood), and more traders or investors can now get their hands on it—adding liquidity to the market. Other analysts point to the “institutionalization” of Bitcoin as a factor. “Bitcoin is no longer rebellious. The vibes aren’t really cypherpunk anymore. Bitcoin is no longer for escaping government debasement, rather it’s for improving the sharpe ratio of boomers retirement portfolios,” writes David Hoffman, cofounder of crypto-focused media platform Bankless. “Zcash has been on the frontier of applied cryptography, and Zcash culture has been privacy-first since inception,” he adds. “Today Zcash essentially has a monopoly on privacy.” Matt Hougan, CIO at Bitwise, concurs. “As suitcoiners drag bitcoin into the mainstream, it makes space for things like ZEC. I suspect this narrative grows over time,” he recently wrote on X. View the full article

Brian Galardo, Program and Project Manager at Salesforce, shares how AI is transforming project delivery — not by replacing human judgment, but through practical workflows that move teams from experimentation to real adoption. The post The Salesforce PM rewriting how enterprise teams use AI in project delivery appeared first on The Digital Project Manager. View the full article

Every four years, the men’s World Cup delivers some certainties. The pitch dimensions are tightly regulated, offside is signaled with a flag, and referees end the match with a blast of a whistle. But one key piece of equipment is changed on purpose: the ball. Adidas, which has supplied World Cup soccer balls since 1970, introduces a new match ball for every tournament, and with that comes fresh aerodynamic calculations for players. How will it fly through the air, weave and dip? For the past 20 years, my engineering colleagues in Japan and England and I have put the new balls through their paces, investigating soccer ball aerodynamics. Our work begins by putting balls in wind tunnels to measure drag, side and lift forces. We use the measurements from these tests in trajectory simulations that tell us how the ball will behave in a real-game setting. Putting the 2026 World Cup ball through the wind tunnel test. That may all sound a little academic, and we do produce an academic paper on our findings. But what our data indicates could mean the difference between a goal or a miss for strikers, a save or a blunder for goalkeepers, and jubilation or heartache for fans. At the World Cup, the ball is the most important piece of equipment in the biggest tournament of the world’s most popular sport. This year’s ball, the Trionda, is especially interesting. When FIFA and Adidas unveiled it in fall 2025, the first thing many people noticed was the color and the paneling. The ball’s red, blue and green graphics correspond to the three host countries, with maple leaf, star and eagle motifs representing Canada, the United States and Mexico. And for the first time in men’s World Cup history, matches will be played with a four-panel ball. But with so few panels, has Adidas made the ball too smooth? That is the trap engineers fell into with the Jabulani ball used at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa that became notorious for sudden dips and swerves, which made goalkeepers’ lives far trickier. You do not want the World Cup ball to feel like the start of a science experiment once it is in the air. And if it behaves strangely, players and goalkeepers notice immediately. The evolution of soccer balls World Cup balls have come a long way over the decades. If you go back to 1930, the ball looked very different. The first World Cup final used two different leather balls: Argentina’s Tiento in the first half and Uruguay’s T-Model in the second. Both were hand-sewn, multipaneled balls, inflated through a bladder opening that had to be tied off and tucked back beneath the laces. In damp conditions, the leather absorbed water, making the ball heavier and less predictable in play. By 1994—when the United States last hosted the men’s tournament—the official ball, Adidas’ Questra, had evolved into a foam-based design. The modern World Cup ball is no longer just stitched leather. It is an engineered aerodynamic surface. Trionda pushes that evolution further. It has only four panels, the fewest in men’s World Cup history, which have been thermally bonded—melded together using heat and adhesive. Fewer panels might suggest less total seam length and therefore a smoother ball. And smoothness matters because the thin boundary layer of air clinging to the ball determines where the flow separates, how large a wake forms, and how much drag the ball experiences. The Trionda has intentionally deep seams, three pronounced grooves on each panel and fine surface texturing. But will these textures and grooves do the trick? To find that out, my colleagues and I measured the ball’s seam geometry and overall aerodynamic behavior. We compared it with Trionda’s four predecessors: 2022’s Al Rihla, 2018’s Telstar 18, the Brazuca used in 2014 and the Jabulani in 2010. What the measurements show In our wind tunnel tests at the University of Tsukuba, we measured something called the drag coefficient, which is a way of describing how much air resistance a ball experiences as it moves. Using this data, we gained insights into how the airflow changes around the ball after it is kicked. The tests helped identify the drag crisis, the speed range in which changes in the boundary layer and flow separation produce a sharp change in drag, which can alter the ball’s acceleration, trajectory and range. We found that the Trionda is effectively rougher than those predecessors. Trionda reaches its drag crisis at a lower speed, at about 27 mph (43 kph). That is below the roughly 31-40 mph (50-65 kph) range for Al Rihla, Telstar 18 and Brazuca, and far below Jabulani’s roughly 49-60 mph (79-97 kph) range, depending on orientation. Why does all that matter? Because a ball can feel ordinary off the boot and still behave differently in flight. When the drag crisis occurs in the middle of game-relevant speeds, small changes in launch speed, orientation or spin can shift the ball from one aerodynamic regime to another. That was Jabulani’s problem. Once kicked with little spin, it had a tendency to slow down too much as it passed through its critical-speed range. Trionda does not look like that kind of ball. It has a more steady and consistent drag coefficient in the range of speeds associated with corner kicks and free kicks. But there is a trade-off. Our measurements also showed that once Trionda enters the higher-speed, turbulent-flow regime, its drag coefficients are somewhat larger than those of Brazuca, Telstar 18 and Al Rihla. In plain language, that suggests a hard-hit long ball may lose a little range. In our simulations, the difference is not huge. But it is large enough that players may notice long kicks coming up a few meters short. It is also important to note that we tested a nonspinning ball. As such, our results do not provide a prediction of every pass, clearance or free kick fans will see this summer. Balls in flight often spin due to off-center kicks. That, along with altitude, humidity, temperature and air pressure all influence how a ball flies through the air once kicked. The big test yet to come Fewer panels and more texturing aren’t the only differences with the new ball. Trionda also carries technology that has little to do with its flight and a great deal to do with officiating. Like Al Rihla, Trionda includes “connected-ball technology” that lets computers know when the ball is kicked, helping with offside decisions. But the architecture has changed. In 2022, the measurement unit was suspended at the center of the ball. With Trionda, it sits in a specially created layer inside one panel, with counterbalancing weights in the other three panels. The chip sends data to the video assistant referee, or VAR, system and the tournament’s semi-automated offside system. That tweak will help referees, but will the new ball in general help or hinder players? The evidence from our tests suggests that the ball won’t be behaving in a way that leads to baffling and erratic flight. But the more intriguing possibilities are subtler and outside the scope of our tests. Will the grooves on Trionda help players generate more backspin on the ball, generating more lift and possibly offsetting Trionda’s somewhat larger high-speed drag coefficient? That is why I keep studying World Cup balls both in the lab and through their behavior in play. Every four years, a new design offers a fresh way to watch physics enter the game, not in theory, but in the movement of an object in which every player on the soccer field must place their trust. John Eric Goff is a visiting assistant professor of physics at the University of Puget Sound. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. View the full article

Google's new AI Search guide says AEO and GEO are still SEO and names tactics site owners can ignore, including llms.txt, chunking, and special schema. The post Google’s New AI Search Guide Calls AEO And GEO ‘Still SEO’ appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

Incident is latest example of professional services firm being led astray by new technology View the full article

Use behavioral finance to guide decisions. By Rory Henry The Holistic Guide to Wealth Management Go PRO for members-only access to more Rory Henry. View the full article

Use behavioral finance to guide decisions. By Rory Henry The Holistic Guide to Wealth Management Go PRO for members-only access to more Rory Henry. View the full article

When you share your location data with an app or service, you may assume you're sharing your exact coordinates. But that's not necessarily the case. While "precise location" sharing does indeed broadcast your literal whereabouts, "approximate location" sharing only submits your general position. It's the difference between an app knowing your home address versus seeing the neighborhood you're in, or perhaps even the town or city itself. It's a great way to balance privacy and utility: Apps that don't need all that extra location information to function simply won't get it. Back in January, Apple introduced a new privacy setting for iPhone: Limit Precise Location. While that might sound like the existing option detailed above, this new setting lets you hide this location information from your cell carriers, too. That way, you can totally control how you share your location data from your iPhone: Apps that need precise coordinates, like your navigation app, can have it, while apps that may only need your approximate location can have that instead—including, now, your carrier. Unfortunately, at the time of launch, support for Limit Precise Location was extremely limited. Apple only opened this option to iPhones that have its proprietary C1 or C1X chip, including the iPhone Air, iPhone 16e, and the cellular model of the M5 iPad Pro. What's more, only Boost Mobile users had access in the U.S., meaning a very small fraction of iPhone users in the States have been able to take advantage of this new privacy measure. Apple expanded Limit Precise Location support with iOS 26.5That changed with iOS 26.5, which Apple released this week. While the feature still only works for Boost Mobile customers in the U.S., Apple added the iPhone 17e to the list of supported devices. If you don't live in the U.S., however, the expansion is a little more generous. Apple is including another handful of carriers here, expanding the list to the following: Austria: A1 Denmark: YouSee Germany: Telekom Ireland: Sky Thailand: AIS and True United Kingdom: EE, BT, and Sky United States: Boost Mobile Limit Precise Location is enabled by default for all supported iPhones with these carriers. If you live in the EU or UK, however, and you have one of these iPhones, you likely have the feature—even if your carrier isn't listed here. Apple says that with a SIM from an EU or UK carrier, you have the option to turn this feature on. Rumor has it that Apple is planning on rolling out its next-gen cellular modem, the C2, to the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Ultra. By the end of this year, the list of iPhones that support this feature should be a bit larger. How to manage Limit Precise LocationIf you have the right combination of iPhone and cellular carrier, this feature is enabled by default. However, you'll find the option in Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Limit Precise Location. View the full article

Are you bringing in the right people? By Jody Grunden Building the Virtual CFO Firm in the Cloud Go PRO for members-only access to more Jody Grunden. View the full article

Are you bringing in the right people? By Jody Grunden Building the Virtual CFO Firm in the Cloud Go PRO for members-only access to more Jody Grunden. View the full article

There’s a popular narrative around starting a solo business: quit your job, take the leap, figure it out along the way. It sounds bold. It also ignores what many successful solopreneurs actually do: start while they still have a paycheck, figure it out, and then quit. I freelanced alongside my 9–5 for two full years before going solo full-time. That runway gave me time to figure out my offer and ideal clients, build a portfolio, and develop the confidence that I could make it work. As a result, the transition didn’t feel like a free fall. If you’re thinking about solopreneurship, a side hustle might be a smart way to get started. The 9–5 is your (temporary) safety net A side hustle while you’re still employed gives you something incredibly valuable: the ability to experiment without risking your livelihood. You can determine what services you plan to offer and validate whether there’s demand. You can pitch potential clients, test different pricing, and figure out what “sticks”—all while a steady paycheck covers your bills. You’re also building proof that you can do the work. Future clients want to see what you’ve already done, not what you plan to do. A portfolio and a few client testimonials go a long way when you’re ready to announce that you’re open for business full-time. The tough part is juggling both. I had a lot of late nights and weekends when I took on freelance work alongside my 9–5 job. But I knew it wasn’t forever, so it was worth the period of overlap. Know your number before you leap Before you quit, you need to know how much you need to earn—and have some evidence that you can get there. Start by calculating the minimum you need to cover your business expenses, taxes, and your cost of living. This is your baseline, and it’s more useful than a salary comparison because it accounts for the realities of self-employment: quarterly tax payments, software subscriptions, and the fact that you’re now paying for things your employer used to cover. The day I went solo full-time, I knew what I needed to earn. I didn’t need to replace my 9–5 salary right away (though that was certainly the goal). I also knew how much more work and how many more clients I needed to get from side-hustle status to running-a-business mode. A side hustle with a paycheck is also the easiest time to build an emergency fund. Set aside your side hustle earnings while your 9–5 covers your day-to-day expenses. By doing this, you can afford to earn less when you initially go full-time as a solopreneur, because you can draw from your savings. Build your operational foundation Side-hustle time is when you set up the systems that will run your business. Contracts. Invoicing. A basic website. Pricing. All of these things are easier to figure out when your income doesn’t depend on getting it right the first time. You’ll also start learning how to manage client relationships on a much smaller scale—like communication and setting expectations around project scope. When you make the switch, you’re able to scale up much more easily. The jump gets smaller Starting a side hustle shrinks the gap between employed and self-employed. By the time you leave your 9–5, you’ve already started your business. Not everyone has the luxury of a gradual transition. Sometimes, a layoff or life circumstances force the issue. But if you have the option, use it. View the full article

When you’re considering investing in a small business franchise, it’s crucial to understand the various options available that cater to today’s market demands. Franchises like fitness centers, home services, and pet care are gaining traction because of their lower startup costs and high profit potential. Evaluating different niches and their support structures can greatly influence your success. As you explore these opportunities, you’ll want to know what factors can make or break your investment. Key Takeaways Fitness franchises, like PickleRage, offer a booming membership-based revenue model with strong demand. Home service franchises, such as cleaning and landscaping, provide flexibility and cater to ongoing consumer needs. Food and beverage franchises benefit from established brand recognition and strong customer loyalty, leading to higher profits. Pet service franchises tap into the growing spending on pet care, making them a lucrative investment option. Education and tutoring franchises focusing on STEM programs provide stability and positively impact the community. Understanding the Benefits of Franchising When considering a business venture, comprehension of the benefits of franchising can be crucial for your decision-making process. Franchising typically boasts an impressive 80-90% success rate, making it a safer investment than starting an independent business. With established brand recognition, you can attract a customer base more quickly, leading to higher initial profits. The International Franchise Association projects a stable market, expecting a 2.5% growth in franchising by 2025. Furthermore, franchisees often encounter lower startup costs compared to independent businesses, with initial fees ranging from $10,000 to several tens of thousands. If you’re exploring the best franchises to own for beginners, consider good franchises for small towns, as they may provide lucrative opportunities in less saturated markets. Top Franchise Niches for Beginner Investors Exploring franchise opportunities can lead you to various niches that are particularly suited for beginner investors. The fitness industry, with franchises like PickleRage, is booming, offering membership-based revenue models. For lower startup costs, consider home service franchises such as cleaning and landscaping; they provide flexibility and cater to ongoing consumer needs. Food and beverage franchises, like coffee shops and smoothie bars, benefit from built-in demand and strong support from franchisors, making them ideal for novices. Pet service franchises, including dog grooming and boarding, tap into high spending on pet care, ensuring loyalty and recurring revenue. Finally, education and tutoring franchises focusing on STEM programs offer stability and a significant community impact, representing some of the best franchises for small towns and the fastest growing franchises in Texas. Criteria for Choosing the Right Franchise When choosing the right franchise, it’s essential to align your personal interests with the business model to guarantee you’ll stay motivated and engaged. You should additionally assess the financial viability of potential franchises by examining their revenue growth, profit margins, and initial investment costs. Personal Interests Alignment Choosing a franchise that aligns with your personal interests is crucial for long-term success, as this alignment can greatly boost your motivation and engagement. When you’re passionate about the industry, whether it’s fitness, food, or education, you’re more likely to enjoy the work and excel at it. Consider your skills in customer service or management, as these can improve your operational efficiency. Great franchises for small towns often cater to specific community needs, allowing you to create a positive local impact. Furthermore, researching the top franchises in Texas can offer valuable insights into opportunities that resonate with your interests. By defining your objectives and preferences, you can select a franchise that supports both your personal values and professional aspirations. Financial Viability Assessment Aligning your personal interests with a franchise is just the beginning; reviewing the financial viability of your chosen franchise is equally important for guaranteeing long-term success. Start by analyzing the total initial investment, including franchise fees and startup costs, to verify it fits your financial capacity. Next, examine ongoing fees like royalty and advertising costs, as they can greatly affect profit margins. Review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) closely to understand financial performance representations and the franchisor’s financial health. Furthermore, consider the franchise’s historical performance and failure rates; franchises with low failure rates typically offer better sustainability. Finally, evaluate the brand’s market presence and growth potential, as established franchises with a strong reputation tend to yield long-term financial success. Low Startup Cost Franchises With High Profit Margins Investing in low startup cost franchises can be a smart move for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to maximize their financial potential. These franchises typically require an initial investment ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, making them accessible for many. Brands like Kumon and Dunkin’ Donuts offer high profit margins, with returns notably exceeding initial investments. Franchises such as Anytime Fitness and Supercuts combine low startup costs with extensive training and support, enhancing profitability. Moreover, ongoing fees remain manageable, often between 2% and 6%, which helps maintain sustainable profit margins. Strong brand recognition and customer loyalty further reduce risks associated with new ventures. Franchise Initial Investment Kumon $10,000 – $30,000 Dunkin’ Donuts $30,000 – $50,000 Anytime Fitness $30,000 – $50,000 Supercuts $15,000 – $30,000 7-Eleven $37,000 – $50,000 Franchises in Emerging Industries Franchises in emerging industries are capturing attention as they introduce innovative business models that align with current market trends. With a growing focus on health, sustainability, and technology, these franchises offer unique opportunities for investment in sectors like eco-friendly services and pet care. Innovative Business Models As the terrain of business evolves, innovative models in emerging industries present exciting opportunities for potential franchise owners. Health and wellness franchises, such as boutique gyms, are thriving because of a growing focus on fitness. Self-pour beverage concepts, like Tapville Social Eatery, are enhancing customer experiences in food and beverage. The pet services sector is flourishing, driven by high spending on grooming and training. Moreover, technology integration in education franchises supports online learning platforms. Eco-friendly franchises are gaining popularity as consumers prioritize sustainability, offering services like green cleaning and energy-efficient solutions. Industry Opportunity Health & Wellness Boutique gyms and wellness centers Food & Beverage Self-pour beverage concepts Pet Services Grooming and training services Market Trends Analysis In today’s dynamic business environment, grasping market trends is crucial for anyone considering entering the franchise sector, especially in emerging industries. The franchise industry is set to grow by 2.5% by 2025, highlighting numerous opportunities. Health and wellness franchises, particularly boutique gyms and personal training studios, thrive as consumers increasingly prioritize fitness. Furthermore, the pet services sector is booming, fueled by rising pet ownership and a demand for grooming and training. Educational franchises focusing on STEM programs and tutoring likewise see growth, as parents seek quality support for their children. Finally, home service franchises, like cleaning and landscaping, remain resilient, offering lower startup costs and steady consumer demand across various economic cycles. Financial Performance Indicators to Consider When evaluating a potential franchise investment, comprehension of financial performance indicators is fundamental for making informed decisions. Key metrics like revenue growth rates reveal profitability potential, with top franchises often showing strong increases annually. Moreover, low failure rates—less than 10% for franchise owners—indicate financial stability compared to independent businesses. Profit margins vary, with food and beverage franchises typically enjoying higher margins, whereas service franchises benefit from steady recurring income. Initial investment costs and ongoing fees, including royalties, can greatly impact net profits, so evaluating these thoroughly is pivotal. Analyzing the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), especially Item 19, provides crucial financial information to help you gauge potential earnings. Indicator Importance Considerations Revenue Growth Rates Indicates profitability Compare year-over-year growth Failure Rates Financial stability Lower rates suggest better support Profit Margins Income potential Industry-specific variations Initial Investment & Fees Net profit impact Assess all costs upfront Importance of Brand Recognition in Franchising Evaluating financial performance indicators provides valuable insights, but comprehending the importance of brand recognition in franchising can be just as essential. Established brands tend to lead in consumer trust, nurturing loyalty that considerably contributes to franchisee success. When you invest in a franchise with strong brand recognition, you’re likely to benefit from robust marketing strategies, including national and local advertising that improves visibility and attracts customers. High brand loyalty can lead to increased sales and repeat business, as consumers often prefer familiar brands over lesser-known options. Moreover, franchises with established brand equity offer owners the advantage of a loyal customer base, resulting in lower customer acquisition costs and better return on investment potential compared to unbranded competitors. Evaluating Franchise Support and Training Programs How do you determine if a franchise offers adequate support and training programs? Evaluating these aspects is essential for your success as a franchisee. Here are four key factors to take into account: Comprehensive Training: Make sure the franchise provides extensive initial training covering operational procedures and brand standards. Ongoing Support: Look for ongoing assistance, including marketing guidance and operational advice, which can improve your performance. Peer Networks: Check if the franchise offers peer support networks, allowing you to connect with other franchisees for shared experiences. Satisfaction Surveys: Review franchisee satisfaction surveys to gauge how well the support and training meet franchisee needs and contribute to long-term success. Thoroughly evaluating these elements can greatly impact your franchise’s profitability and sustainability. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Investing in a Franchise Investing in a franchise can be a promising venture, but it’s vital to avoid common pitfalls that can jeopardize your success. Many potential franchisees underestimate total startup costs, which include not just franchise fees but also expenses for real estate, equipment, and initial inventory. Failing to research the franchise’s history, financial performance, and reputation can lead to poor decisions. Don’t overlook the importance of franchisor support and training; inadequate guidance can hinder your management effectiveness. Furthermore, choosing a franchise based solely on brand recognition, without considering your interests and skills, may lead to dissatisfaction. Finally, comprehending the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) is critical, as it provides insights into the franchise’s operations, financial health, and potential risks. Steps to Get Started With Your Franchise Investment Before plunging into the domain of franchise investment, it’s crucial to follow a structured approach that sets you up for success. Here are the steps to get you started: Research Opportunities: Identify franchises that align with your interests and financial capacity, increasing your chances of success. Evaluate Finances: Determine your total investment potential, including franchise fees and startup costs, which can vary greatly. Complete Application: Confirm you meet the franchisor’s minimum qualifications, such as financial stability and relevant experience, before applying. Sign Agreement: Review the franchise agreement carefully, fulfill all obligations, and attend training sessions to understand operational processes. Long-Term Success Factors for Franchise Owners Achieving long-term success as a franchise owner requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses strong leadership, continuous innovation, and exceptional customer relations. Strong leadership creates a culture of quality and service, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. It’s essential to embrace continuous innovation, allowing your franchise to adapt to shifting market trends and consumer preferences. Building strong relationships with customers is also fundamental; positive experiences lead to repeat business and referrals. Moreover, a focus on sustainability and ethical practices appeals to socially conscious consumers and bolsters your franchise’s reputation. Finally, commitment to thorough training and ongoing support from your franchisor empowers you to manage operations effectively and navigate challenges, ultimately enhancing your overall business performance. Frequently Asked Questions What Franchise Business Is the Most Profitable? Determining the most profitable franchise business depends on various factors like industry demand and operational efficiency. Food and beverage franchises often rank high because of strong consumer interest and high margins. Fitness franchises combine low startup costs with ongoing revenue potential. Home services and beauty franchises benefit from consistent need and repeat customers, whereas emerging sectors like pet services and senior care show significant growth opportunities. Analyze these factors to find the best option for you. Which Franchise Is Best for Small Business? When considering which franchise is best for small business, you should evaluate options with low startup costs and strong market demand. Look for franchises in growing sectors like fitness, food service, or home services. Established brands often provide valuable support and recognition, increasing your chances of profitability. Furthermore, assess the training and resources offered by franchisors, as ongoing support can greatly improve your operational success and overall satisfaction as a franchisee. What’s the Cheapest Franchise to Invest In? If you’re looking for the cheapest franchise to invest in, consider options like Kumon, with a low franchise fee of $2,000 and minimal startup costs. The Maids offers a competitive fee during being a leading residential cleaning franchise. Tumbles provides a budget-friendly entry into the fitness sector, and Hard Bean Coffee presents a turnkey café model. Furthermore, franchises like N Zone Sports and Five Star Painting typically require initial investments under $50,000, broadening your choices. Why Does It Only Cost $10k to Own a Chick-Fil-A Franchise? It costs only $10,000 to own a Chick-Fil-A franchise because of the company’s unique operational model. Chick-Fil-A retains ownership of the property and equipment, so franchisees don’t need to invest in real estate. Instead, they focus on managing the restaurant’s operations. This low initial fee, combined with extensive training and support, helps maintain high profitability, ensuring franchisees are motivated to succeed as they adhere to the company’s strong operational standards. Conclusion In conclusion, investing in a franchise can be a strategic move for aspiring business owners. By comprehending the benefits of franchising, selecting the right niche, and evaluating support programs, you can improve your chances of success. Consider low startup cost franchises with high profit margins and emerging industries, as you avoid common pitfalls. By following these guidelines and focusing on long-term success factors, you can build a rewarding franchise business that meets your financial goals. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Best Small Business Franchises to Invest In" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When you’re considering investing in a small business franchise, it’s crucial to understand the various options available that cater to today’s market demands. Franchises like fitness centers, home services, and pet care are gaining traction because of their lower startup costs and high profit potential. Evaluating different niches and their support structures can greatly influence your success. As you explore these opportunities, you’ll want to know what factors can make or break your investment. Key Takeaways Fitness franchises, like PickleRage, offer a booming membership-based revenue model with strong demand. Home service franchises, such as cleaning and landscaping, provide flexibility and cater to ongoing consumer needs. Food and beverage franchises benefit from established brand recognition and strong customer loyalty, leading to higher profits. Pet service franchises tap into the growing spending on pet care, making them a lucrative investment option. Education and tutoring franchises focusing on STEM programs provide stability and positively impact the community. Understanding the Benefits of Franchising When considering a business venture, comprehension of the benefits of franchising can be crucial for your decision-making process. Franchising typically boasts an impressive 80-90% success rate, making it a safer investment than starting an independent business. With established brand recognition, you can attract a customer base more quickly, leading to higher initial profits. The International Franchise Association projects a stable market, expecting a 2.5% growth in franchising by 2025. Furthermore, franchisees often encounter lower startup costs compared to independent businesses, with initial fees ranging from $10,000 to several tens of thousands. If you’re exploring the best franchises to own for beginners, consider good franchises for small towns, as they may provide lucrative opportunities in less saturated markets. Top Franchise Niches for Beginner Investors Exploring franchise opportunities can lead you to various niches that are particularly suited for beginner investors. The fitness industry, with franchises like PickleRage, is booming, offering membership-based revenue models. For lower startup costs, consider home service franchises such as cleaning and landscaping; they provide flexibility and cater to ongoing consumer needs. Food and beverage franchises, like coffee shops and smoothie bars, benefit from built-in demand and strong support from franchisors, making them ideal for novices. Pet service franchises, including dog grooming and boarding, tap into high spending on pet care, ensuring loyalty and recurring revenue. Finally, education and tutoring franchises focusing on STEM programs offer stability and a significant community impact, representing some of the best franchises for small towns and the fastest growing franchises in Texas. Criteria for Choosing the Right Franchise When choosing the right franchise, it’s essential to align your personal interests with the business model to guarantee you’ll stay motivated and engaged. You should additionally assess the financial viability of potential franchises by examining their revenue growth, profit margins, and initial investment costs. Personal Interests Alignment Choosing a franchise that aligns with your personal interests is crucial for long-term success, as this alignment can greatly boost your motivation and engagement. When you’re passionate about the industry, whether it’s fitness, food, or education, you’re more likely to enjoy the work and excel at it. Consider your skills in customer service or management, as these can improve your operational efficiency. Great franchises for small towns often cater to specific community needs, allowing you to create a positive local impact. Furthermore, researching the top franchises in Texas can offer valuable insights into opportunities that resonate with your interests. By defining your objectives and preferences, you can select a franchise that supports both your personal values and professional aspirations. Financial Viability Assessment Aligning your personal interests with a franchise is just the beginning; reviewing the financial viability of your chosen franchise is equally important for guaranteeing long-term success. Start by analyzing the total initial investment, including franchise fees and startup costs, to verify it fits your financial capacity. Next, examine ongoing fees like royalty and advertising costs, as they can greatly affect profit margins. Review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) closely to understand financial performance representations and the franchisor’s financial health. Furthermore, consider the franchise’s historical performance and failure rates; franchises with low failure rates typically offer better sustainability. Finally, evaluate the brand’s market presence and growth potential, as established franchises with a strong reputation tend to yield long-term financial success. Low Startup Cost Franchises With High Profit Margins Investing in low startup cost franchises can be a smart move for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to maximize their financial potential. These franchises typically require an initial investment ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, making them accessible for many. Brands like Kumon and Dunkin’ Donuts offer high profit margins, with returns notably exceeding initial investments. Franchises such as Anytime Fitness and Supercuts combine low startup costs with extensive training and support, enhancing profitability. Moreover, ongoing fees remain manageable, often between 2% and 6%, which helps maintain sustainable profit margins. Strong brand recognition and customer loyalty further reduce risks associated with new ventures. Franchise Initial Investment Kumon $10,000 – $30,000 Dunkin’ Donuts $30,000 – $50,000 Anytime Fitness $30,000 – $50,000 Supercuts $15,000 – $30,000 7-Eleven $37,000 – $50,000 Franchises in Emerging Industries Franchises in emerging industries are capturing attention as they introduce innovative business models that align with current market trends. With a growing focus on health, sustainability, and technology, these franchises offer unique opportunities for investment in sectors like eco-friendly services and pet care. Innovative Business Models As the terrain of business evolves, innovative models in emerging industries present exciting opportunities for potential franchise owners. Health and wellness franchises, such as boutique gyms, are thriving because of a growing focus on fitness. Self-pour beverage concepts, like Tapville Social Eatery, are enhancing customer experiences in food and beverage. The pet services sector is flourishing, driven by high spending on grooming and training. Moreover, technology integration in education franchises supports online learning platforms. Eco-friendly franchises are gaining popularity as consumers prioritize sustainability, offering services like green cleaning and energy-efficient solutions. Industry Opportunity Health & Wellness Boutique gyms and wellness centers Food & Beverage Self-pour beverage concepts Pet Services Grooming and training services Market Trends Analysis In today’s dynamic business environment, grasping market trends is crucial for anyone considering entering the franchise sector, especially in emerging industries. The franchise industry is set to grow by 2.5% by 2025, highlighting numerous opportunities. Health and wellness franchises, particularly boutique gyms and personal training studios, thrive as consumers increasingly prioritize fitness. Furthermore, the pet services sector is booming, fueled by rising pet ownership and a demand for grooming and training. Educational franchises focusing on STEM programs and tutoring likewise see growth, as parents seek quality support for their children. Finally, home service franchises, like cleaning and landscaping, remain resilient, offering lower startup costs and steady consumer demand across various economic cycles. Financial Performance Indicators to Consider When evaluating a potential franchise investment, comprehension of financial performance indicators is fundamental for making informed decisions. Key metrics like revenue growth rates reveal profitability potential, with top franchises often showing strong increases annually. Moreover, low failure rates—less than 10% for franchise owners—indicate financial stability compared to independent businesses. Profit margins vary, with food and beverage franchises typically enjoying higher margins, whereas service franchises benefit from steady recurring income. Initial investment costs and ongoing fees, including royalties, can greatly impact net profits, so evaluating these thoroughly is pivotal. Analyzing the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), especially Item 19, provides crucial financial information to help you gauge potential earnings. Indicator Importance Considerations Revenue Growth Rates Indicates profitability Compare year-over-year growth Failure Rates Financial stability Lower rates suggest better support Profit Margins Income potential Industry-specific variations Initial Investment & Fees Net profit impact Assess all costs upfront Importance of Brand Recognition in Franchising Evaluating financial performance indicators provides valuable insights, but comprehending the importance of brand recognition in franchising can be just as essential. Established brands tend to lead in consumer trust, nurturing loyalty that considerably contributes to franchisee success. When you invest in a franchise with strong brand recognition, you’re likely to benefit from robust marketing strategies, including national and local advertising that improves visibility and attracts customers. High brand loyalty can lead to increased sales and repeat business, as consumers often prefer familiar brands over lesser-known options. Moreover, franchises with established brand equity offer owners the advantage of a loyal customer base, resulting in lower customer acquisition costs and better return on investment potential compared to unbranded competitors. Evaluating Franchise Support and Training Programs How do you determine if a franchise offers adequate support and training programs? Evaluating these aspects is essential for your success as a franchisee. Here are four key factors to take into account: Comprehensive Training: Make sure the franchise provides extensive initial training covering operational procedures and brand standards. Ongoing Support: Look for ongoing assistance, including marketing guidance and operational advice, which can improve your performance. Peer Networks: Check if the franchise offers peer support networks, allowing you to connect with other franchisees for shared experiences. Satisfaction Surveys: Review franchisee satisfaction surveys to gauge how well the support and training meet franchisee needs and contribute to long-term success. Thoroughly evaluating these elements can greatly impact your franchise’s profitability and sustainability. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Investing in a Franchise Investing in a franchise can be a promising venture, but it’s vital to avoid common pitfalls that can jeopardize your success. Many potential franchisees underestimate total startup costs, which include not just franchise fees but also expenses for real estate, equipment, and initial inventory. Failing to research the franchise’s history, financial performance, and reputation can lead to poor decisions. Don’t overlook the importance of franchisor support and training; inadequate guidance can hinder your management effectiveness. Furthermore, choosing a franchise based solely on brand recognition, without considering your interests and skills, may lead to dissatisfaction. Finally, comprehending the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) is critical, as it provides insights into the franchise’s operations, financial health, and potential risks. Steps to Get Started With Your Franchise Investment Before plunging into the domain of franchise investment, it’s crucial to follow a structured approach that sets you up for success. Here are the steps to get you started: Research Opportunities: Identify franchises that align with your interests and financial capacity, increasing your chances of success. Evaluate Finances: Determine your total investment potential, including franchise fees and startup costs, which can vary greatly. Complete Application: Confirm you meet the franchisor’s minimum qualifications, such as financial stability and relevant experience, before applying. Sign Agreement: Review the franchise agreement carefully, fulfill all obligations, and attend training sessions to understand operational processes. Long-Term Success Factors for Franchise Owners Achieving long-term success as a franchise owner requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses strong leadership, continuous innovation, and exceptional customer relations. Strong leadership creates a culture of quality and service, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. It’s essential to embrace continuous innovation, allowing your franchise to adapt to shifting market trends and consumer preferences. Building strong relationships with customers is also fundamental; positive experiences lead to repeat business and referrals. Moreover, a focus on sustainability and ethical practices appeals to socially conscious consumers and bolsters your franchise’s reputation. Finally, commitment to thorough training and ongoing support from your franchisor empowers you to manage operations effectively and navigate challenges, ultimately enhancing your overall business performance. Frequently Asked Questions What Franchise Business Is the Most Profitable? Determining the most profitable franchise business depends on various factors like industry demand and operational efficiency. Food and beverage franchises often rank high because of strong consumer interest and high margins. Fitness franchises combine low startup costs with ongoing revenue potential. Home services and beauty franchises benefit from consistent need and repeat customers, whereas emerging sectors like pet services and senior care show significant growth opportunities. Analyze these factors to find the best option for you. Which Franchise Is Best for Small Business? When considering which franchise is best for small business, you should evaluate options with low startup costs and strong market demand. Look for franchises in growing sectors like fitness, food service, or home services. Established brands often provide valuable support and recognition, increasing your chances of profitability. Furthermore, assess the training and resources offered by franchisors, as ongoing support can greatly improve your operational success and overall satisfaction as a franchisee. What’s the Cheapest Franchise to Invest In? If you’re looking for the cheapest franchise to invest in, consider options like Kumon, with a low franchise fee of $2,000 and minimal startup costs. The Maids offers a competitive fee during being a leading residential cleaning franchise. Tumbles provides a budget-friendly entry into the fitness sector, and Hard Bean Coffee presents a turnkey café model. Furthermore, franchises like N Zone Sports and Five Star Painting typically require initial investments under $50,000, broadening your choices. Why Does It Only Cost $10k to Own a Chick-Fil-A Franchise? It costs only $10,000 to own a Chick-Fil-A franchise because of the company’s unique operational model. Chick-Fil-A retains ownership of the property and equipment, so franchisees don’t need to invest in real estate. Instead, they focus on managing the restaurant’s operations. This low initial fee, combined with extensive training and support, helps maintain high profitability, ensuring franchisees are motivated to succeed as they adhere to the company’s strong operational standards. Conclusion In conclusion, investing in a franchise can be a strategic move for aspiring business owners. By comprehending the benefits of franchising, selecting the right niche, and evaluating support programs, you can improve your chances of success. Consider low startup cost franchises with high profit margins and emerging industries, as you avoid common pitfalls. By following these guidelines and focusing on long-term success factors, you can build a rewarding franchise business that meets your financial goals. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Best Small Business Franchises to Invest In" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Google has published a new guide on how to optimize for Google’s generative AI features, like AI Mode, AI Overviews and more. A lot of this content is put together from previous communication from Google but all in a neat new help document named Optimizing your website for generative AI features on Google Search. What’s in the document. The document covers the following topics: SEO is relevant for generative AI search, follow Google’s best practices for SEO. Create valuable, non-commodity content for your audience Provide a unique point of view Create non-commodity content that’s helpful, reliable and people-first Organize content in a way that helps your readers Add high-quality images and video Focus on what your users want, and avoid overdoing it Make sure your AI tools you use follow Google’s guidelines and best practices Build and maintain a clear technical structure Meet the search technical requirements Follow crawling best practices When it comes to semantic HTML, focus on human readability, not code JavaScript should follow Google’s best practices as well Provide a good page experience Reduce duplicate content Optimize your local business and ecommerce details Mythbusting – what you don’t need to do You don’t need LLMS.txt files You don’t need other special markup You don’t need to “Chunk” content You don’t need to rewrite content for AI systems You don’t need to seek inauthentic mentions You shouldn’t overfocus on structured data Explore agentic experiences Next steps Why we care. This document sums up a lot of the advice Google has posted on its blogs, videos, spoken about at in-person events and more. It is a good document to see how Google thinks site owners should optimize their sites for AI-generative engines. Check out the document over here. View the full article

Yorkville seeks investment to capitalise on improving ‘commercial conditions’ in Latin AmericaView the full article

The rise of renewable diesel in the U.S. market offers small business owners a significant opportunity to explore cleaner energy options and potentially enhance their bottom lines. In a recent update from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the country has seen a robust increase in exports of renewable diesel and other biofuels, reaching nearly 50,000 barrels per day in the second half of 2025. This boom highlights a growing trend that small businesses should consider: the movement toward renewable energy sources. The surge in exports is noteworthy, with Canada receiving the bulk—over half—of the renewable diesel shipments. The Netherlands accounted for around a third of the exports, while other European destinations made up the remainder. This dynamic demonstrates not only a domestic demand for renewable energy but also an international market hungry for sustainable solutions. Small business owners can leverage this trend in various practical ways. For those in transportation, fuel retail, or logistics, incorporating renewable diesel into their operations might streamline costs and reduce carbon footprints. Additionally, businesses focused on sustainability can appeal to environmentally conscious consumers by showcasing their commitment to using renewable energy sources, potentially driving customer loyalty and attracting new clients. Another practical application lies in the manufacturing sector. Companies that rely on freight transport or have considerable energy consumption can consider partnerships with suppliers of renewable diesel, possibly reaping financial benefits from lower prices or incentives associated with sustainable practices. For those involved in technology or bioengineering fields, there are emerging opportunities to invest in or develop technologies that enhance biofuel production. While the potential benefits are clear, challenges do exist. With production levels fluctuating—exports averaged less than 35,000 barrels per day in early 2026, down from nearly 50,000—small business owners need to be cautious. Many renewable diesel producers are currently idling capacity due to uncertain blending targets under the Renewable Fuel Standard, which can lead to supply inconsistencies. Business owners must weigh the current availability and potential price volatility when considering renewable diesel for their operations. Moreover, the regulatory landscape around renewable fuels can change rapidly, meaning businesses should stay informed about any shifts that might impact their costs or operational capacity. These factors could dictate whether making a switch to renewable diesel is a sound financial decision or if waiting for the market to stabilize might serve them better. In terms of environmental impact, the burgeoning market for renewable fuels aligns with growing consumer awareness and governmental policies aimed at curbing carbon emissions. However, business owners must act responsibly; marketing claims surrounding ‘green’ initiatives must be substantiated to avoid potential backlash and reputational damage. Key takeaways from the EIA’s report include the importance of understanding exports as part of the renewable diesel consumption landscape and the need for small business owners to stay updated on market trends and regulatory changes. This is especially relevant for those looking to position themselves competitively in an increasingly sustainability-conscious world. As discussions around renewable resources continue to evolve, small business owners who adapt can find themselves not only increasing their operational efficiency but also contributing positively to an overarching goal of environmental sustainability. The landscape is shifting, and those prepared to transition toward renewable options may find themselves at the forefront of a green revolution in energy sourcing. For more detailed insights and to track developments in renewable diesel exports, visit the original EIA report at EIA.gov. Image via Google Gemini This article, "U.S. Renewable Diesel Exports Surged to Nearly 50,000 Barrels Per Day" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The rise of renewable diesel in the U.S. market offers small business owners a significant opportunity to explore cleaner energy options and potentially enhance their bottom lines. In a recent update from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the country has seen a robust increase in exports of renewable diesel and other biofuels, reaching nearly 50,000 barrels per day in the second half of 2025. This boom highlights a growing trend that small businesses should consider: the movement toward renewable energy sources. The surge in exports is noteworthy, with Canada receiving the bulk—over half—of the renewable diesel shipments. The Netherlands accounted for around a third of the exports, while other European destinations made up the remainder. This dynamic demonstrates not only a domestic demand for renewable energy but also an international market hungry for sustainable solutions. Small business owners can leverage this trend in various practical ways. For those in transportation, fuel retail, or logistics, incorporating renewable diesel into their operations might streamline costs and reduce carbon footprints. Additionally, businesses focused on sustainability can appeal to environmentally conscious consumers by showcasing their commitment to using renewable energy sources, potentially driving customer loyalty and attracting new clients. Another practical application lies in the manufacturing sector. Companies that rely on freight transport or have considerable energy consumption can consider partnerships with suppliers of renewable diesel, possibly reaping financial benefits from lower prices or incentives associated with sustainable practices. For those involved in technology or bioengineering fields, there are emerging opportunities to invest in or develop technologies that enhance biofuel production. While the potential benefits are clear, challenges do exist. With production levels fluctuating—exports averaged less than 35,000 barrels per day in early 2026, down from nearly 50,000—small business owners need to be cautious. Many renewable diesel producers are currently idling capacity due to uncertain blending targets under the Renewable Fuel Standard, which can lead to supply inconsistencies. Business owners must weigh the current availability and potential price volatility when considering renewable diesel for their operations. Moreover, the regulatory landscape around renewable fuels can change rapidly, meaning businesses should stay informed about any shifts that might impact their costs or operational capacity. These factors could dictate whether making a switch to renewable diesel is a sound financial decision or if waiting for the market to stabilize might serve them better. In terms of environmental impact, the burgeoning market for renewable fuels aligns with growing consumer awareness and governmental policies aimed at curbing carbon emissions. However, business owners must act responsibly; marketing claims surrounding ‘green’ initiatives must be substantiated to avoid potential backlash and reputational damage. Key takeaways from the EIA’s report include the importance of understanding exports as part of the renewable diesel consumption landscape and the need for small business owners to stay updated on market trends and regulatory changes. This is especially relevant for those looking to position themselves competitively in an increasingly sustainability-conscious world. As discussions around renewable resources continue to evolve, small business owners who adapt can find themselves not only increasing their operational efficiency but also contributing positively to an overarching goal of environmental sustainability. The landscape is shifting, and those prepared to transition toward renewable options may find themselves at the forefront of a green revolution in energy sourcing. For more detailed insights and to track developments in renewable diesel exports, visit the original EIA report at EIA.gov. Image via Google Gemini This article, "U.S. Renewable Diesel Exports Surged to Nearly 50,000 Barrels Per Day" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Google is phasing out offline conversion imports through the Google Ads API for some developers starting June 15th. Advertisers and martech providers that rely on offline conversion imports, including enhanced conversions for leads, will need to migrate workflows to the Data Manager API to avoid disruptions. Details. Google notified developers that offline conversion imports using the UploadClickConversions request will stop working after June 15, for accounts that have not used the functionality in the last 180 days. The change applies to offline conversion imports and enhanced conversions for leads. Other Google Ads API operations will continue functioning normally. Google says affected developers should move those workflows to the Data Manager API going forward. Why we care. Offline conversion imports are critical for measuring leads, sales, and other actions that happen outside the web journey. If integrations are not migrated in time, conversion data could stop flowing into Google Ads, which may impact reporting, attribution, and automated bidding performance. The update also signals Google’s continued shift toward centralized, AI-driven data infrastructure tied more closely to first-party data and automation. The bigger picture. The move is part of Google’s broader push toward centralized data ingestion and automated measurement infrastructure. Google describes the Data Manager API as a unified ingestion system for sending advertiser data into Google Ads, including Customer Match and conversion imports. The company also says the newer API offers a better developer experience and additional functionality not available in the existing workflow. Between the lines. As attribution becomes more privacy-focused and increasingly dependent on first-party data, Google continues consolidating advertiser tools into fewer systems that are more tightly connected to automation and AI-driven campaign products. For developers and platforms, the migration may require updating integrations, rebuilding import processes, and testing new ingestion workflows ahead of the deadline. What’s next. Developers can continue using the Google Ads API for all non-offline conversion operations. However, any workflows involving offline conversion imports should be migrated to the Data Manager API before June 15th, when the existing functionality begins failing for affected accounts. First spotted. This update was spotted by PPC Specialist Arpan Banerjee who shared the comms he received on LinkedIn. View the full article

It’s the Friday open thread! The comment section on this post is open for discussion with other readers on any work-related questions that you want to talk about (that includes school). If you want an answer from me, emailing me is still your best bet*, but this is a chance to take your questions to other readers. * If you submitted a question to me recently, please do not repost it here, as it may be in my queue to answer. The post open thread – May 15, 2026 appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

We spent six months testing custom visual assets across 47 articles on a client’s high-traffic accounting education website to find out which design investments actually improved SEO performance. The experiment included featured images, infographics, and video across both new and existing content. Some visual assets consistently increased organic traffic. Others turned out to be a poor use of time and budget despite requiring far more production effort. The goal wasn’t to prove that any image helps. Basic visuals are already table stakes. Instead, the focus was on the ROI of bespoke design and which visual assets consistently improved organic traffic. The clearest winner was infographics. Across the articles tested, infographic additions produced an average 110% increase in organic traffic. The broader takeaway was just as important: Custom visuals worked best on pages that already had search demand. Design amplified strong content, but it didn’t revive declining pages or create interest where none existed. An article pre- (left) and post-publishing (right) of our custom design assets The 47-page custom design experiment’s structure The experiment tested featured images, infographics, and video across two content groups: Custom featured images on existing pages: The first group included existing content that needed a refresh. Each page received only a custom featured image. Total: 41 articles New content with three types of design assets: The second group included brand-new articles published on the website, with featured images, infographics, and videos added at different stages. Total: Six articles The second group also made it possible to test whether visual elements performed differently depending on when they were added. Some articles launched with only a featured image. Infographics were added later, followed by video on a smaller subset of articles. Your customers search everywhere. Make sure your brand shows up. The SEO toolkit you know, plus the AI visibility data you need. Start Free Trial Get started with How the project’s success was measured Success was measured using monthly page visits, specifically the change in organic traffic before and after each design element was added. Two time periods were compared: The month before implementation. The average of the implementation month and the following month to create a more transparent comparison. (For example, April versus the average of May and June). This approach created a cleaner picture because some designs went live toward the end of the month. Phase 1: Testing custom featured images on 39 existing pages (+13% organic traffic) The experiment started with content that already had organic traffic, making it easier to compare performance before and after adding custom designs. Custom featured images were added to 39 existing articles. Results across all 39 pages showed a 13% average increase in organic traffic. Some pages saw much larger jumps in monthly visits: QuickBooks ProAdvisor Academy: +379% The CAS page: +100% Build a CAS team: +73% The IES product launch: +60% ProAdvisor certification: +58% Financial storytelling: +46% Pricing strategy: +42% The takeaway was clear: Pages with existing demand responded best. Design amplified visibility where interest already existed. Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. See terms. Phase 2: Testing custom designs on brand-new articles The second phase focused on six newly created articles published on the website. Because these articles were brand new, there was no pre-design baseline to measure against since the content and visuals were published together or layered in over time. Performance could still be analyzed based on how the assets were layered. Across these articles, 63% of all design additions had a positive impact on organic traffic. Here’s how each design asset affected the new articles. Custom featured images Every new article launched with a custom featured image, so there was no way to measure pre-image versus post-image performance. Featured images appeared to function as a baseline performance enhancer. They weren’t a growth hack, but they did support credibility and improve presentation early on. Custom infographics were the clear winner (+110%) Five out of six infographic additions resulted in a strong positive traffic lift, with an average increase of 110%. Infographics were the most reliable asset type across the entire experiment: Five out of six infographics increased organic traffic. 110% average increase in page visits. Infographics worked especially well because they: Improved clarity. Broke up dense educational content. Increased time on page. Encouraged sharing. If there was one asset type to prioritize for new content, especially evergreen content, it was infographics. Here’s an example of a custom infographic created for the accounting blog: Video had the biggest potential Video was the most resource-intensive lever tested, so it was used selectively. One video: +292% increase in organic page visits Two videos: Minimal impact on on-site traffic despite approximately 500 YouTube views each The standout example was the AI financial modeling video, which ranked in Google’s video results and reached the first page of YouTube for “AI financial modeling.” This revealed something important: Video created a second visibility layer beyond traditional organic listings, but the outcome wasn’t guaranteed. Video worked best when: The topic had strong search demand. There was clear alignment between search intent and video consumption. Key takeaways from all 47 pages Several patterns stood out across both phases of the experiment: Infographics were the most reliable growth tool: They consistently delivered the strongest organic traffic gains. Layering visuals amplified organic performance: Combining featured images, infographics, and video improved performance where demand already existed. Evergreen educational content performed best: How-to guides and advisory-focused pages responded particularly well to design additions. Custom design worked best on content that already had attention: Adding custom visuals to pages with existing traffic made strong pages even stronger. This context matters more than ever. With Google AI Overviews now reducing organic search clicks by as much as 42%, static articles alone are no longer enough to hold traffic. That’s why interactive calculators built with vibe coding have become part of the strategy for the same client. These tools give users a reason to engage, return, and convert in ways AI-generated answers can’t replicate. Every calculator landing page launches with a custom featured image designed to match the brand’s visual identity. Where design failed to move the needle What didn’t work was just as important as what did: Design didn’t revive declining content. If search demand was decreasing, visuals alone couldn’t reverse the trend. Overinvesting in low-demand topics was a mistake because no visual asset can manufacture interest where none exists. The lesson was clear: Design supports performance. It doesn’t replace strong content and demand. See the complete picture of your search visibility. Track, optimize, and win in Google and AI search from one platform. Start Free Trial Get started with Our ‘cheat sheet’ moving forward The results made our next steps clear. For new contentFor existing contentMandatory featured images: All new content must launch with a custom hero image to establish early credibility.Target high-performing pages: Prioritize design enhancements for pages that already have established organic traffic.Prioritize infographics: These are the primary growth lever and should be the first choice for evergreen educational content.Lead with infographics: Use infographics on existing high-traffic pages to achieve an even higher return on investment.Layer video selectively: Only invest in video for high-demand, high-impact topics where video consumption intent is clear.Pause on declining pages: Avoid adding visuals to declining pages until underlying content issues are resolved first. For new content Start with a custom featured image. This is non-negotiable for establishing early credibility. Prioritize infographics. They proved to be the strongest growth lever for evergreen educational content. Add video selectively for high-demand, high-impact topics where video consumption intent is clear. For existing content Focus design enhancements on pages that already have established organic traffic. Lead with infographics on high-performing pages to maximize return on investment. Avoid adding visuals to declining pages until underlying content issues are resolved. The biggest takeaway from the experiment was simple: Custom visuals work best where demand already exists and can amplify it further. View the full article

As if college students didn’t have enough to worry about, now undergrads at Harvard University may see their A grades go up in smoke. With over 60% of Harvard students getting A’s in the mid-2025 academic year, faculty are currently weighing a proposal that would cap that to no more than 20% of the class, plus four students. (A more detailed breakdown: 66% of undergraduates earned A’s, and 84% earned an A or A-minus in the 2024–25 academic year.) “The Student Handbook recognizes an A grade as one reserved for work of ‘extraordinary distinction.’ We recommend returning to this definition,” the February 2026 proposal reads. “While any changes to grading policies may raise concerns about fostering a competitive culture, we believe that these recommendations take critical steps toward the College’s goal to re-center academics, restoring confidence in the College’s grading system, and better aligning incentives with pedagogical goals.” Just for context, less than half of the Ivy’s student body earned an A back in 2006. Also, as the administration clamped down on grade inflation during the fall 2025 semester, the number fell to 53%. “It’s kind of nutty,” Steven Levitsky, a Latin American studies professor at Harvard, told Inside Higher Ed. “We’ve completely erased the distinction between an A and A-minus,” he said, adding that the proposal is the “least bad solution.” Faculty are voting on the measure this week, with results due next Wednesday, May 20. It’s unclear whether it will pass, as students—already dealing with a weak job market and skyrocketing tuition costs (now surpassing $80,000)—are said to be furious, with some 85% opposing the cap, per the Harvard Crimson. Grade inflation isn’t anything new Of course, grade inflation at Harvard, and other U.S. colleges, isn’t anything new. It can be traced back to the Vietnam War, when professors used it to protect students from being drafted. More recently, from 1990–2020, grade point averages (GPAs) at four-year colleges increased more than 16%, according to a post by the U.S. Department of Education. It cited students’ “consumer demand” for higher grades, and the rating of professors, in driving the trend. “It’s true that grades always seem to be rising [at Harvard] . . . and has become extreme in recent years,” says a 2025 report about grading trends at Harvard from Dean of Undergraduate Education Amanda Claybaugh. “A slow rise in the early 2010s, continuous with longstanding trends, followed by a more rapid rise in the late 2010s, then an additional spike during the year of remote instruction and a flattening out after that.” As students await a decision, one thing to note: Recent attempts at Princeton University and Wellesley College to rein in runaway grade inflation failed, Bloomberg reported. View the full article

Starbucks Corporation has announced that it will lay off 300 corporate employees in the United States. The layoffs represent the third round of job cuts that the coffee chain has initiated in the last 15 months. They come as the company is in the midst of efficiency and cost-cutting measures under the leadership of CEO Brian Niccol, who assumed the role in 2024. Here’s what you need to know about the latest Starbucks layoffs. Starbucks to cut 300 corporate jobs in the U.S. On Friday, Starbucks confirmed that it was cutting 300 corporate jobs in the United States. The news was first reported by CNBC. The job cuts will not impact the majority of the company’s workforce, which consists primarily of its retail workers who are employed in the chain’s thousands of coffee shops across the globe. Instead, the job cuts will impact the company’s roughly 19,000-strong U.S. corporate workforce. Starbucks employs an additional 5,000 non-retail employees across the globe. When reached for comment, a Starbucks spokesperson told Fast Company that the layoffs consisted of “300 U.S. support roles” and that the company was reviewing its international support organization and that it expects “additional role impacts outside the U.S.” Starbucks also said that it was streamlining its real estate footprint, which includes a consolidation of U.S. regional office space. Why is Starbucks cutting workers? The layoffs announced this morning are a direct result of the retail chain’s “Back to Starbucks” strategy, which involves streamlining operations, enhancing customer experiences, and redesigning its shops to feel less soulless and more like a comfortable place to hang out and enjoy a coffee. The job cuts announced today are being made to support the streamlining operations pillar of the company’s Back to Starbucks initiative. “We are taking further action under the Back to Starbucks strategy, building on our strong business momentum and working to return the company to durable, profitable growth,” a company spokesperson said in an emailed statement. The third round of corporate layoffs to hit Starbucks Unfortunately, this is not the first time Starbucks has laid off workers since Niccol took the helm in 2024. In February 2025, Starbucks announced 1,100 layoffs while also eliminating hundreds of unfilled positions. At the time, Niccol said the cuts were designed “to create smaller, more nimble teams.” “We believe it’s a necessary change to position Starbucks for future success,” Niccol said in a memo at the time. “Our intent is to operate more efficiently, increase accountability, reduce complexity, and drive better integration.” Just seven months later, in September 2025, Starbucks announced more layoffs. These layoffs consisted of 900 non-retail job cuts. In addition, the company said it would close about 1% of its North American coffeehouses. “Our goal is for every coffeehouse to deliver a warm and welcoming space with a great atmosphere and a seat for every occasion,” the CEO wrote in a public letter at the time. “[We] identified coffeehouses where we’re unable to create the physical environment our customers and partners expect, or where we don’t see a path to financial performance, and these locations will be closed.” Starbucks sees sales and stock price growth While the layoffs under Niccol’s leadership are now doubt unpopular with the majority of Starbucks’s corporate workforce, they are part of his broader Back to Starbucks turnaround plan, and that plan does seem to be working. As CNBC reported at the time, Starbucks in April posted its second straight quarter of traffic growth at U.S. locations. That growth led to a 7.1% increase in same-store sales. Investors have also rewarded the company’s stock price recently. As of this writing, Starbucks shares (Nasdaq: SBUX) are hovering around $105. That’s a more than 26% increase since the year began. Over the past 12 months, Starbucks shares are up nearly 23%. View the full article

Chancellor wary about the ‘social climate developing there’ as relations with Donald The President hit new lowView the full article